The death knells of imminent doom are being sounded from coast to coast for a team that COULD win 60 games, have (as of this writing) a five game lead over the Mavs and Suns for the best record in the West with six games remaining, and will likely wind up with the second best record in the NBA. But yet...they suck? Perception is reality...if you're not properly evaluating reality. The popular perception of the Lakers stems from one fact: they haven't played well since the All-Star break. Therefore, conventional sports wisdom says that momentum thing that most everyone harps on heading into the playoffs, but then forgets because it doesn't matter once the playoffs begin, says the Lakers are doomed. Reality, however, imparts the following, more pertinent facts: New England Patriots jersey
-Phil Jackson is a genius, one who knows that the way-too-long NBA regular season will pound a team into the ground if achieving regular-season greatness becomes a team's No. 1 goal. So, while he's publicly complaining about his team's performance, deep down, he's not been really pushing them to excel beyond securing a high seed in the West. -The Lakers haven't been healthy. Despite averaging 27.3 points/game, the "new $90 Million Man" has played most of the season with a myriad of injuries, including a broken finger on his shooting hand. They haven't "seen" Andrew Bynum for weeks. "Son of a Bill" Walton has been in the broadcast booth and on "The Young the Restless", among other non-playing places since...well...before the Republicans vowed that Health Reform would never pass.Bynum and his 15 points/game and defensive presence (and his foul-proneness), despite the mind games that The Zen Master is playing with the media, will be back for the playoffs. Walton and his "whopping" 2.4 points/game will beNew Orleans Saints jersey
back tomorrow (Sunday) for the Spurs' game. -Pre-infirmary-releases, the Lakers' is terrible. Right now, Phil has to actually play Mbenga and Powell in non-blowouts. Meanwhile, Sasha "The Mouth" Vujacic has been in Phil's "You're not playing, regardless of the score of game" doghouse. Bynum's return will mean Gasol can move from center (and off "CSI: Miami"), where he's a whiny flopper, back to power forward where he's an All-Star matchup nightmare for opponents. Lamar Odom can move back to the bench where he's arguably the best sixth man in the NBA. "Son of Bill" simply provides a body with good defensive energy who also understands Phil's complicated "Triangle" offense and gives the starting bigs quality rest without needing to use Mbenga or Powell, .neither of which should even be in the D League. Whether Vujacic quits arguing with the coaches and gets back to playing his little bit remains to be seen. Regardless, the Lakers' playoff bench will be a great deal more effective than has been their late-regular season bench. -The new $90 Million Man aka The Black Mamba,.is pissed. No, not at his new contract extension, but at the way he and, more so, his teammates are playing. Kobe isn't MJ, but they share many of the same qualities. One of New York Giants jersey
those qualities is that when they're pissed approaching the playoffs, they and their teams mysteriously play well during the playoffs. It's called "Leadership of an Assassin". As "Bron Bron" will do in Cleveland, Kobe will put his team on his (aching) back and carry them to the NBA Finals. Lights on, subject closed, until June anyway.
2010年12月30日星期四
2010年12月29日星期三
29 Dec 10 NBA Playoff Preview: Boston Celtics Vs. Miami Heat
Elsa/Getty ImagesNow that the playoffs are here, the Boston Celtics have run out of excuses. The second season begins Saturday, and the Miami Heat are looking to take advantage oftheirlate season run. The Celtics have not fared well at home. In fact, it seemed like the road was a better option. Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
Opponents would come into the Garden and summarily smash the Celtics in the mouth, and not one of them would fight back. They became the bullies that everyone had been whispering that they had been in the last two years. Kevin Garnett, the resident alpha-dog of trash talking went gently into the night when Brandon Jennings of the Milwaukee Bucks chirped at him after a Celtic loss.They ended the regular season with what elsea home loss.That's okay, Boston can start to erase the nasty taste of 2009-2010 by beating Miami.The Miami Heat have the advantage of having a younger superstar and a younger benchthose are two things the Celtics have continuously struggled with.Dwayne Wade vs. Ray/Tony Allen: Ray is not exactly known for hisdefense; however, he can slow Wade by running him off of screens. In theory this would affecthislegs in the fourth quarter. Tony's defense is more honest; he has the foot quickness to stay with Wade. It is his mind set that will determine how effective he is.Advantage: WadeQuentin Richardson vs. Paul Pierce: Richardson's offense has been a little enigmatic this season. His three-point shot has not been as reliable, and he is just now gaining some confidence in his game. It is his defense on Paul Pierce that the Heat will rely on. Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
Pierce likes to post up and Richardson has just enough girth to make it difficult for "The Truth" in the post.Advantage: Pierce Michael Beasley vs. Kevin Garnett: This has not been a great season for either one of these forwards. Beasley'sinability to be Dwayne Wade's second has the team concerned. This postseason will tell if Beasley will be part of the Heat's future, but for now, he must guard the recently rejuvenated Garnett. Garnett has shown signs of his offensive game returning, and this will make it a very quickcomeuppance for Beasley.Advantage: GarnettCarlos Arroyo/Mario Chalmers vs. Rajon Rondo: By all accounts Rondo should be able to handle both of these players without any problems. Arroyo is not quick enough to stay with Rondo, and Doc Rivers might just use him in the low post against Chalmers.Advantage: RondoJoel Anthony vs. Kendrick Perkins: Miami won't be running any plays for Anthony, but his willingness to attack the boards and his shot blocking ability are all they need.Perkins has a tendency to fake too much when heencountersa shot blocker; this either causes a travelling violation or a rushed shot. He has also been having issues with his knees. Its a good thing there are no back-to-back games in the playoffs, because Perk will have to keep a close eye on Mr. Anthony.Advantage:Perkins, onlybecausehe has more playoff experience.Summary: Miami had an 11-game win streak, but the quality of their opponents was somewhat questionable. Udonis Haslem, Dorrell Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
Wright and their buddies coming off the bench doesn't exactly imply a major game plan, but it would be in the Celtics best interest to not give them a notion of having a big game.Boston has added Nate Robinson, Michael Finley, Rasheed Wallace, Marquis Daniels. The only ones that Doc Rivers can count on are Michael Finley and the man-of-a-thousand-NBA-lives himself, Tony Allen. Allen may just be that X-factor the Celtics have been looking for.Shelden Williams and Glen Davis will battle for the minutes that Rasheed Wallace will mostdefinitelyleave on the table.Winner : Boston Celtics in six games
Opponents would come into the Garden and summarily smash the Celtics in the mouth, and not one of them would fight back. They became the bullies that everyone had been whispering that they had been in the last two years. Kevin Garnett, the resident alpha-dog of trash talking went gently into the night when Brandon Jennings of the Milwaukee Bucks chirped at him after a Celtic loss.They ended the regular season with what elsea home loss.That's okay, Boston can start to erase the nasty taste of 2009-2010 by beating Miami.The Miami Heat have the advantage of having a younger superstar and a younger benchthose are two things the Celtics have continuously struggled with.Dwayne Wade vs. Ray/Tony Allen: Ray is not exactly known for hisdefense; however, he can slow Wade by running him off of screens. In theory this would affecthislegs in the fourth quarter. Tony's defense is more honest; he has the foot quickness to stay with Wade. It is his mind set that will determine how effective he is.Advantage: WadeQuentin Richardson vs. Paul Pierce: Richardson's offense has been a little enigmatic this season. His three-point shot has not been as reliable, and he is just now gaining some confidence in his game. It is his defense on Paul Pierce that the Heat will rely on. Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
Pierce likes to post up and Richardson has just enough girth to make it difficult for "The Truth" in the post.Advantage: Pierce Michael Beasley vs. Kevin Garnett: This has not been a great season for either one of these forwards. Beasley'sinability to be Dwayne Wade's second has the team concerned. This postseason will tell if Beasley will be part of the Heat's future, but for now, he must guard the recently rejuvenated Garnett. Garnett has shown signs of his offensive game returning, and this will make it a very quickcomeuppance for Beasley.Advantage: GarnettCarlos Arroyo/Mario Chalmers vs. Rajon Rondo: By all accounts Rondo should be able to handle both of these players without any problems. Arroyo is not quick enough to stay with Rondo, and Doc Rivers might just use him in the low post against Chalmers.Advantage: RondoJoel Anthony vs. Kendrick Perkins: Miami won't be running any plays for Anthony, but his willingness to attack the boards and his shot blocking ability are all they need.Perkins has a tendency to fake too much when heencountersa shot blocker; this either causes a travelling violation or a rushed shot. He has also been having issues with his knees. Its a good thing there are no back-to-back games in the playoffs, because Perk will have to keep a close eye on Mr. Anthony.Advantage:Perkins, onlybecausehe has more playoff experience.Summary: Miami had an 11-game win streak, but the quality of their opponents was somewhat questionable. Udonis Haslem, Dorrell Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers #86 Hines Ward Realtree camo Jersey
Wright and their buddies coming off the bench doesn't exactly imply a major game plan, but it would be in the Celtics best interest to not give them a notion of having a big game.Boston has added Nate Robinson, Michael Finley, Rasheed Wallace, Marquis Daniels. The only ones that Doc Rivers can count on are Michael Finley and the man-of-a-thousand-NBA-lives himself, Tony Allen. Allen may just be that X-factor the Celtics have been looking for.Shelden Williams and Glen Davis will battle for the minutes that Rasheed Wallace will mostdefinitelyleave on the table.Winner : Boston Celtics in six games
2010年12月28日星期二
28 Dec 10 Note To NBA: Start Paying Attention to the Orlando Magic, They're for Real
Are you kidding me? How are people and the national media not seeing this? All we keep hearing about as far as title contention is Kobe in Los Angeles, Lebron elbow and how healthy he is, and the Celtics and the experience they have.You don hear a thing about the Orlando Magic yet. And it an absolute joke. Even tonight when they destroyed Atlanta, 114-71, it was because Atlanta was tired and Orlando had rest. Yes that is a reason, but it is also because Orlando is the vastly superior team.The NBA is an individual driven Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
sport, I think we all realize that. From Wilt to Kareem, from Jordan to Kobe, the NBA markets individual athletes as their main attraction. But how are the Orlando Magic not amongst the favorites to win the Ship this year?Because Dwight Howard couldn stay out of foul trouble in the first round? Because they don have Lebron? Because they don have Kobe?You need a team to win a championship, and theyre the best team in the league. Yeah, I said it, and they are. Theyre the best team, but they don have the best player. I have been saying since March that the Orlando magic were probably going to be one of the toughest teams to beat in the playoffs. Perhaps people will now take note.The playoffs are all about matchups and Orlando provides a tough matchup for any style of team playing against them.Theyre better than Boston. Theyre better than Los Angeles, and yesbetter than Lebron and Cleveland.The Beauty of Inside-Outside BasketballThe inside-outside game that Orlando runs on offense with their dribble-drive and three-point shooting, combined with the most physically dominating center in the league, is impossible to defend when executed properly.It really simplistic basketball when you watch them play. Throw a beast in Dwight Howard down low who commands a double team, surround him with shooters and space the floor, and watch the offense play pick-your-poison and exploit mismatches. Then you have their versatile players that bring unique components to the game, and you have an extremely dangerous team.Do I have to mention their pick-and-roll/pop game?During tonight game with Atlanta, the game was tied in the second quarter before Orlando went on a 64-20 run and broke the game wide-open. You read that correctlya 64-20 run. It what they do, and they do it well. You pick what you want to take away on offense, and with the amount of playmakers they have, they take what you give them, and allow everyone else to beat you.They swept the Charlotte Bobcats with their best player playing 26 minutes per night, and Vince Carter playing like he was a rookie again.Versatile Players Create Mismatches Rashard Lewis gives teams fits as ifReebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
you play him small, he has enough of a post game and rebounding presence to do work down low, but where he really shines is his ability to stretch the floor and rain treys, therefore opening up things for Howard underneath.Lewis was the X-Factor last year in the Cleveland series, and they had no answer for him. You must respect his shot, yet he is still athletic enough to put the ball on the floor and get to the basket.Jameer Nelson is one of the best scoring point guards in the league, and is playing with the utmost confidence right now. But he is also an underrated passer who can make the right decision regarding shoot or pass and will find the open man. Vince Carter has the athletic ability to create shots and offense for other teammates, and plays the role of closer in tight games.Matt Barnes and Mickael Peitrius are good perimeter defenders who are scrappy energy players. Peitrius is also more than capable of stepping out and hitting shots from deep, although does not offer much when trying to create his own shot.Ryan Anderson, Marcin Gortat, Jason Williams, and J.J. Reddick give the Magic a quality bench, and both Williams and Reddick can hit the trey along with the rest of the team. Ryan Anderson is the absolute perfect fit for the Magic, as he was thrown into the trade from New Jersey that sent VC to Orlando this past offseason. Orlando did not look at him as throw-in at all. They saw yet another big man who was able to step out and hit the three ball to offer matchup problems to fit their gamestyle.Gortat is a perfect backup to Howard, as he provides energy and hustle, while also providing great effort on the boards and in the low post.Howard may not be the best offensive center in the game, but he is the most dominant. He is too strong to be bodied up down low by anyone his size or smaller, yet when you put a big body on him, he has quick enough feet to face the basket and make a move. It is why the signing of Shaq didn make as much Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
sense to me as it did everyone else.Cleveland lost the playoff series last season to the Magic because they had no answer for Rashard Lewis, or Dwight Howard. Rashard was stepping out and draining threes and Dwight was doing work against Cleveland bigs, especially against Zydrunas Ilgauskas, who was not fleet-footed enough to stay with Dwight.Shaq is not going to be able to stay with Dwight Howard either when he faces the basket, and Hickson and Anderson Varejao are not strong enough to stop him down low. The only thing that changed was getting Antawn Jamison to match up against Rashard Lewis, but he is hardly known for his defense.Last but certainly not least, is they have a great coach in Stan Van Gundy, who is looking for gritty defensive effort first and foremost, and unselfish basketball on the offensive end. On defense, the Magic play terrific help defense, and funnel everything to Howard, the league Defensive Player of the Year, who led the league in blocks.Howard is usually waiting in the paint to defend the basket and swat the shot into the stands. When you combine the demanding nature of Van Gundy as a coach and what he wants his team to do, the personnel the Magic have, and the style of game they play, you have a recipe for an extremely Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
dangerous team that can play different styles of basketball.The Magic have the defensive ability to play a slow-it-down style, they can definitely get out and run, and they can play guard oriented ball, post oriented ball, or always fall back on the pick and roll to Dwight.Yes, Cleveland has Lebron and Los Angeles has Kobe, who are able to singlehandedly take over games and series, but they are going to need plenty of help from their teammates to stop the diverse and potent offensive attack
sport, I think we all realize that. From Wilt to Kareem, from Jordan to Kobe, the NBA markets individual athletes as their main attraction. But how are the Orlando Magic not amongst the favorites to win the Ship this year?Because Dwight Howard couldn stay out of foul trouble in the first round? Because they don have Lebron? Because they don have Kobe?You need a team to win a championship, and theyre the best team in the league. Yeah, I said it, and they are. Theyre the best team, but they don have the best player. I have been saying since March that the Orlando magic were probably going to be one of the toughest teams to beat in the playoffs. Perhaps people will now take note.The playoffs are all about matchups and Orlando provides a tough matchup for any style of team playing against them.Theyre better than Boston. Theyre better than Los Angeles, and yesbetter than Lebron and Cleveland.The Beauty of Inside-Outside BasketballThe inside-outside game that Orlando runs on offense with their dribble-drive and three-point shooting, combined with the most physically dominating center in the league, is impossible to defend when executed properly.It really simplistic basketball when you watch them play. Throw a beast in Dwight Howard down low who commands a double team, surround him with shooters and space the floor, and watch the offense play pick-your-poison and exploit mismatches. Then you have their versatile players that bring unique components to the game, and you have an extremely dangerous team.Do I have to mention their pick-and-roll/pop game?During tonight game with Atlanta, the game was tied in the second quarter before Orlando went on a 64-20 run and broke the game wide-open. You read that correctlya 64-20 run. It what they do, and they do it well. You pick what you want to take away on offense, and with the amount of playmakers they have, they take what you give them, and allow everyone else to beat you.They swept the Charlotte Bobcats with their best player playing 26 minutes per night, and Vince Carter playing like he was a rookie again.Versatile Players Create Mismatches Rashard Lewis gives teams fits as ifReebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
you play him small, he has enough of a post game and rebounding presence to do work down low, but where he really shines is his ability to stretch the floor and rain treys, therefore opening up things for Howard underneath.Lewis was the X-Factor last year in the Cleveland series, and they had no answer for him. You must respect his shot, yet he is still athletic enough to put the ball on the floor and get to the basket.Jameer Nelson is one of the best scoring point guards in the league, and is playing with the utmost confidence right now. But he is also an underrated passer who can make the right decision regarding shoot or pass and will find the open man. Vince Carter has the athletic ability to create shots and offense for other teammates, and plays the role of closer in tight games.Matt Barnes and Mickael Peitrius are good perimeter defenders who are scrappy energy players. Peitrius is also more than capable of stepping out and hitting shots from deep, although does not offer much when trying to create his own shot.Ryan Anderson, Marcin Gortat, Jason Williams, and J.J. Reddick give the Magic a quality bench, and both Williams and Reddick can hit the trey along with the rest of the team. Ryan Anderson is the absolute perfect fit for the Magic, as he was thrown into the trade from New Jersey that sent VC to Orlando this past offseason. Orlando did not look at him as throw-in at all. They saw yet another big man who was able to step out and hit the three ball to offer matchup problems to fit their gamestyle.Gortat is a perfect backup to Howard, as he provides energy and hustle, while also providing great effort on the boards and in the low post.Howard may not be the best offensive center in the game, but he is the most dominant. He is too strong to be bodied up down low by anyone his size or smaller, yet when you put a big body on him, he has quick enough feet to face the basket and make a move. It is why the signing of Shaq didn make as much Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
sense to me as it did everyone else.Cleveland lost the playoff series last season to the Magic because they had no answer for Rashard Lewis, or Dwight Howard. Rashard was stepping out and draining threes and Dwight was doing work against Cleveland bigs, especially against Zydrunas Ilgauskas, who was not fleet-footed enough to stay with Dwight.Shaq is not going to be able to stay with Dwight Howard either when he faces the basket, and Hickson and Anderson Varejao are not strong enough to stop him down low. The only thing that changed was getting Antawn Jamison to match up against Rashard Lewis, but he is hardly known for his defense.Last but certainly not least, is they have a great coach in Stan Van Gundy, who is looking for gritty defensive effort first and foremost, and unselfish basketball on the offensive end. On defense, the Magic play terrific help defense, and funnel everything to Howard, the league Defensive Player of the Year, who led the league in blocks.Howard is usually waiting in the paint to defend the basket and swat the shot into the stands. When you combine the demanding nature of Van Gundy as a coach and what he wants his team to do, the personnel the Magic have, and the style of game they play, you have a recipe for an extremely Reebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
dangerous team that can play different styles of basketball.The Magic have the defensive ability to play a slow-it-down style, they can definitely get out and run, and they can play guard oriented ball, post oriented ball, or always fall back on the pick and roll to Dwight.Yes, Cleveland has Lebron and Los Angeles has Kobe, who are able to singlehandedly take over games and series, but they are going to need plenty of help from their teammates to stop the diverse and potent offensive attack
2010年12月27日星期一
27 Dec 10 2010 NBA Draft: Weighing in on the No. 1 Overall Pick: Evan Turner or John Wall?
Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images The NBA Lottery is over. The order is set and the new mock drafts are flooding the web walls. In just about everyone's, John Wall is theprospective No. 1 overall pick.I also have seen Chad Ford break down and explain how much the Washington Wizards need a point guard like Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
Wall, to push Gilbert Arenas to his more comfortable position at the 2. Then after that, wait until the last pick in the first round to attack the frontcourt, or add some three-point shooting on the wings.Sounds great, right? There has been speculation that the Wizards could deal their first-round pick, nobody said anything of itthat's until today, at least.Head coach Flip Saunders was interviewed yesterday by Reggie Miller. In that interview, when asked about the team's reaction to getting the No. 1 pick, he stated, We looked like a bunch of Little League players jumping all over each other, getting ready to go to Dairy Queen.Then asked about the possibility of trading the pick, he said, Were not going to trade the pick. Were not entertaining that. "That isn an option for us. Were sold on keeping the pick and were not trading it.Finally, Miller asked the question everybody wants to know: John Wall or Evan Turner? In reply Saunders stated, I personally like Evan Turner more, but I know John Wall is the consensus No. 1 pick. "Maybe you try and trade Gilbert Arenas and get some other things Washington needs. When healthy, hell give you 25 to 30 points. They have options."So with that in mind, how good should you feel if your team selects John Wall? Flip Saunders said, "Were going to get a player with character, talent, and can be with us a long time.So how would you feel right now if you were John Wall? Either he or Turner can go to the Wizards, but Wall is definitely not a lock. There are some possibilities of taking each Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
player and here they are:Selecting John Wall No. 1 Overall You heard Flip Saunders, maybe if they draft John Wall the organization will make a deal for Arenas....Hold on just a second. Arenas has one of the richest contracts in the NBA with $80 million dollars left on it.I don't know about you, but if I were an NBA team I definitely wouldn't risk my money for a player that is in a legal dispute as well as facing crucial knee injuries in the past.However, Ive heard of them possibly shifting Arenas to the 2 position, where he can work off the ball, where he has been more comfortable at in his career. Also the team has high hopes for them to play together. Imagine this: a dynamic point guard like Wall, and a superstar player in Arenasin the same backcourt? I like that scenario a lot.Just think: John Wall, Gilbert Arenas, Josh Howard, Al Thornton, and Andray Blatche.Selecting Evan Turner No. 1 Overall Just this year the Wizards traded away Antawn Jamison, Brenden Haywood, and Caron Butler. That was over half of their production. Not to mention, Jamison was the leader of this team while Arenas was injured and he carried them on his back for the most part, even when Arenas was healthy.So they need a wingman and a post presence as well. If you draft by need, you take Evan Turner here. Turner and Arenas would be the perfect duo. Turner can play the role of the great wingman, Arenasthe dynamic point guard, and Andray Blatche could work as their frontier force. Not to mention, taking Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
Turner here could possibly open up the door for them to attack the front court later in the draft.Just think: Gilbert Arenas, Evan Turner, Josh Howard, Andray Blatche, and a possible later draftee like Gani Lawal, or Craig Brackins.In my opinion, I like the Turner gig more. He can give you that scoring from the shooting guard position and even move to the 3 if Howard was to face an injury. If the Wizards want versatility and leadership on their roster, Evan Turner is the correct pick!
Wall, to push Gilbert Arenas to his more comfortable position at the 2. Then after that, wait until the last pick in the first round to attack the frontcourt, or add some three-point shooting on the wings.Sounds great, right? There has been speculation that the Wizards could deal their first-round pick, nobody said anything of itthat's until today, at least.Head coach Flip Saunders was interviewed yesterday by Reggie Miller. In that interview, when asked about the team's reaction to getting the No. 1 pick, he stated, We looked like a bunch of Little League players jumping all over each other, getting ready to go to Dairy Queen.Then asked about the possibility of trading the pick, he said, Were not going to trade the pick. Were not entertaining that. "That isn an option for us. Were sold on keeping the pick and were not trading it.Finally, Miller asked the question everybody wants to know: John Wall or Evan Turner? In reply Saunders stated, I personally like Evan Turner more, but I know John Wall is the consensus No. 1 pick. "Maybe you try and trade Gilbert Arenas and get some other things Washington needs. When healthy, hell give you 25 to 30 points. They have options."So with that in mind, how good should you feel if your team selects John Wall? Flip Saunders said, "Were going to get a player with character, talent, and can be with us a long time.So how would you feel right now if you were John Wall? Either he or Turner can go to the Wizards, but Wall is definitely not a lock. There are some possibilities of taking each Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
player and here they are:Selecting John Wall No. 1 Overall You heard Flip Saunders, maybe if they draft John Wall the organization will make a deal for Arenas....Hold on just a second. Arenas has one of the richest contracts in the NBA with $80 million dollars left on it.I don't know about you, but if I were an NBA team I definitely wouldn't risk my money for a player that is in a legal dispute as well as facing crucial knee injuries in the past.However, Ive heard of them possibly shifting Arenas to the 2 position, where he can work off the ball, where he has been more comfortable at in his career. Also the team has high hopes for them to play together. Imagine this: a dynamic point guard like Wall, and a superstar player in Arenasin the same backcourt? I like that scenario a lot.Just think: John Wall, Gilbert Arenas, Josh Howard, Al Thornton, and Andray Blatche.Selecting Evan Turner No. 1 Overall Just this year the Wizards traded away Antawn Jamison, Brenden Haywood, and Caron Butler. That was over half of their production. Not to mention, Jamison was the leader of this team while Arenas was injured and he carried them on his back for the most part, even when Arenas was healthy.So they need a wingman and a post presence as well. If you draft by need, you take Evan Turner here. Turner and Arenas would be the perfect duo. Turner can play the role of the great wingman, Arenasthe dynamic point guard, and Andray Blatche could work as their frontier force. Not to mention, taking Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
Turner here could possibly open up the door for them to attack the front court later in the draft.Just think: Gilbert Arenas, Evan Turner, Josh Howard, Andray Blatche, and a possible later draftee like Gani Lawal, or Craig Brackins.In my opinion, I like the Turner gig more. He can give you that scoring from the shooting guard position and even move to the 3 if Howard was to face an injury. If the Wizards want versatility and leadership on their roster, Evan Turner is the correct pick!
2010年12月26日星期日
26 Dec 10 Orlando Magic Must Now Deal With the Future
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesThe Orlando Magic's Game 3 nose-dive pushed the countdown button on looking forward to the upcoming summer.In the recesses of general manager Otis Smith's mind, games four through six became an on-the-job tryout.The tryouts ended Friday night, and now the off-season officially launches.Smith made drastic roster changes last off-season. Six new names joined the Magic roster at the beginning of 2009.The make-up of the franchise had shifted to emphasize the inside aspect, of the team's inside-out offensive approach.The Magic worked through some early season growing pains, to find their stride the last third of the season. The Magic continued to dominate in the post-season, sweeping the Charlotte Bobcats and the Atlanta Hawks in the first two rounds ofTennessee Titans jersey
the playoffs.Then the Magic faced the test of defeating a championship team. Literally the same starting five that won the 2008 NBA Championship.Orlando failed the test.Now Smith must determine the Magic's path forward, in the team's self-described"mission" for an NBA championship.Some decisions will be made for him. Others will require weighing risk versus reward.Below I've analyzed three initial questions facing Smith, as his team heads into the off-season.Go More Traditional or Stay With the Threes?This may be one of the most intriguing questions going into the summer. I personally hate the three-point oriented offense. Others think it gives a team an added advantage.For the Magic, it led to two playoff series ending with the Magic being dominated when long-range jumpers stopped falling.After demonstrating his readiness to have a greater impact on the offense during the Eastern Conference Finals, Dwight Howard definitely needs more touches.Head coach Stan Van Gundy must figure out how to reconcile Howard's need to get touches, against his propensity for the three point shot.Adding a more effective threat from the four position would create more offensive opportunities, both in the paint and for shooters. Again, these types of moves require some concession from Van Gundy.Staying with the three would mean finding better play-makers. Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals came down to Boston making shots and the Magic's inability to do so.In order to win a title, someone will have to make plays other than Dwight Howard.Who Constitutes Your Core?During the post-game trophy presentation, Celtics head coach Doc Rivers noted that his starting five had already won an NBA Championship. Rivers believes Boston's starting five can do it again.Doc knows in the history of the NBA Finalsthe better team, not the team with the best players, takes home the gold ball. It takes time to develop a team good enough to win a title. But you have to start somewhere. Washington Redskins jersey
My picks for the Magic's "Untouchables" list, would be Dwight Howard, Jameer Nelson, J.J. Redick, Ryan Anderson, Brandon Bass, Matt Barnes, and Jason Williams.Everyone else could be available for the right deal. That doesn't mean Smith would actively seek to trade those not on the list.You do have to believe that Vince Carter seems susceptible to being expendable more than any other Magic starter. He could be attractive to a team looking to dump some salary.Matt Barnes possesses a player option. J.J. Redick enters restricted free-agency. So finances play a part in personnel decisions.In the end, Smith may determine that change is not what his team needs. A great deal will depend on how much faith he places in Anderson and Bass improving.Can the Magic Improve With a Sign and Trade Deal?Most of the discussion surrounding free-agency evolves around the teams with room to sign max-contract players.Teams at risk of losing those super free-agents will be looking to cut their losses. Getting something in return makes more sense than simply letting go of your best player.Marcin Gortat creates opportunities for the Magic. All NBA franchises have some level of interest in a reliable 7-foot center. How much interest remains to be seen.A multiplayer deal involving Gortat packaged with say Lewis might be persuasive. Toronto could make good on a bad situation by trading Chris Bosh to Orlando.A sign-and-trade with Gortat and Lewis would put Bosh in the $20 to $25 million dollar salary range.How much would the Magic be willing to give up in terms of talent to work a deal for Dwayne Wade?It's a long shot yes. But up to this point, Wade has been less than specific as to what will keep him in Miami. He knows the benefits of playing with a dominate big man.In the end, there is only one LeBron James, and only so many quality players to go around.Finding an already established contender may become more attractive than starting over with a rebuilt roster.No One Really KnowsOne Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
thing we do know, is that we don't know. Smith keeps his intentions very private, most times in total secrecy until the deal is inked.It will take more than just roster moves to get Orlando over the hump. That said, Howard needs more people to make plays.Unlike many other teams, the Magic have a legitimate superstar in Howard. And they have a good set of quality players. One or two more critical pieces could be enough
the playoffs.Then the Magic faced the test of defeating a championship team. Literally the same starting five that won the 2008 NBA Championship.Orlando failed the test.Now Smith must determine the Magic's path forward, in the team's self-described"mission" for an NBA championship.Some decisions will be made for him. Others will require weighing risk versus reward.Below I've analyzed three initial questions facing Smith, as his team heads into the off-season.Go More Traditional or Stay With the Threes?This may be one of the most intriguing questions going into the summer. I personally hate the three-point oriented offense. Others think it gives a team an added advantage.For the Magic, it led to two playoff series ending with the Magic being dominated when long-range jumpers stopped falling.After demonstrating his readiness to have a greater impact on the offense during the Eastern Conference Finals, Dwight Howard definitely needs more touches.Head coach Stan Van Gundy must figure out how to reconcile Howard's need to get touches, against his propensity for the three point shot.Adding a more effective threat from the four position would create more offensive opportunities, both in the paint and for shooters. Again, these types of moves require some concession from Van Gundy.Staying with the three would mean finding better play-makers. Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals came down to Boston making shots and the Magic's inability to do so.In order to win a title, someone will have to make plays other than Dwight Howard.Who Constitutes Your Core?During the post-game trophy presentation, Celtics head coach Doc Rivers noted that his starting five had already won an NBA Championship. Rivers believes Boston's starting five can do it again.Doc knows in the history of the NBA Finalsthe better team, not the team with the best players, takes home the gold ball. It takes time to develop a team good enough to win a title. But you have to start somewhere. Washington Redskins jersey
My picks for the Magic's "Untouchables" list, would be Dwight Howard, Jameer Nelson, J.J. Redick, Ryan Anderson, Brandon Bass, Matt Barnes, and Jason Williams.Everyone else could be available for the right deal. That doesn't mean Smith would actively seek to trade those not on the list.You do have to believe that Vince Carter seems susceptible to being expendable more than any other Magic starter. He could be attractive to a team looking to dump some salary.Matt Barnes possesses a player option. J.J. Redick enters restricted free-agency. So finances play a part in personnel decisions.In the end, Smith may determine that change is not what his team needs. A great deal will depend on how much faith he places in Anderson and Bass improving.Can the Magic Improve With a Sign and Trade Deal?Most of the discussion surrounding free-agency evolves around the teams with room to sign max-contract players.Teams at risk of losing those super free-agents will be looking to cut their losses. Getting something in return makes more sense than simply letting go of your best player.Marcin Gortat creates opportunities for the Magic. All NBA franchises have some level of interest in a reliable 7-foot center. How much interest remains to be seen.A multiplayer deal involving Gortat packaged with say Lewis might be persuasive. Toronto could make good on a bad situation by trading Chris Bosh to Orlando.A sign-and-trade with Gortat and Lewis would put Bosh in the $20 to $25 million dollar salary range.How much would the Magic be willing to give up in terms of talent to work a deal for Dwayne Wade?It's a long shot yes. But up to this point, Wade has been less than specific as to what will keep him in Miami. He knows the benefits of playing with a dominate big man.In the end, there is only one LeBron James, and only so many quality players to go around.Finding an already established contender may become more attractive than starting over with a rebuilt roster.No One Really KnowsOne Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
thing we do know, is that we don't know. Smith keeps his intentions very private, most times in total secrecy until the deal is inked.It will take more than just roster moves to get Orlando over the hump. That said, Howard needs more people to make plays.Unlike many other teams, the Magic have a legitimate superstar in Howard. And they have a good set of quality players. One or two more critical pieces could be enough
2010年12月25日星期六
25 Dec 10 Overhyping Durant
Don get me wrong: Durant is anexciting young prospect and I'm not trying to demean hisaccomplishments. He one of the most humble and mature superstars in the NBA, and handled his newfound attention and fame very well. It is very probable he will be a future MVP and NBA champion. However, the media has been overrating and overhyping him like no other. I acknowledge he is the future of the NBA, but he not just being compared to, but surpassing Wade or any other elite or complete player in the NBA for that matter. Durant is aware of his limitations, Detroit Lions
as he tweeted at Kenny smith comments of "praise" that he "better" than Dwyane Wade, To be honest I appreciate Kenny smith comments but I'm not on dwade melo dirk Paul p level, I ain't done nothing yet...but stay tuned! I'll keep it simple: Kenny Smith is wrong and Durant is right. Here's an in-depth comparison.Wade is superior to Durant in almost every facet of the game, and those in which Durant has the advantage, the disparity is slight. I look at production in each category, in terms ofconsistent, versatile,efficient, dominantproduction in accordance tominutes,athleticism,height, teamsystem, and role. Ranked in order of importance:Defense: Wade is an all NBA-caliber defender and arguably the best shot-blocking guard in NBA history. Durant is an average defender despite better physical tools, lacking proper awareness. Wade has the best body control in the NBA as well. And if that ins't enough, Wade is a top pickpocket in the NBA. Wade wins in a landslide.Leadership: No question here, Wade is a top tier leader in the NBA. When Wade was in his third season, he was singlehandedly crushing the Mavericks in the Finals. He is an established leader in the NBA, and has always risen to the challenge when he had to compete with the best of them.No knock on Durant, I expect him to be a very good Duncan-esqe leader as well. Still, another blowout by Wade.Scoring: Durant gets a ridiculous amount of one-on-one isolations, while Wade has to create his own shot. Wade has a more developed scoring arsenal. Still, Durant scores more and more efficiently, and has become the youngest player to win ascoringtitle in the NBA. Not fair to compare Wade in his third season because they had other very capable scorers and they did not set up THAT many plays Green Bay Packers jersey
for him. As for the present, I'd call it a wash or the slight edge to Durant. Clutchness: This is probably Durant's biggest downfall. He really doesn't hit the big shots. It'll some with experience. It's not fair to judge him now, so let's discount this one. I also consider cliquishness ability to step up to the occasion. You can compare Wade vs. Durant in the post season of their respective third NBA years: Durant's first round or Wade's aforementioned outing against the Mavs in the finals? Passing: Wade is somewhat of a PG so it's not completely fair to judge, but he averages 7.5 apg (with scoring more than Durant) with a mediocre surrounding cast and not very many decent options to pass to. Unfair to compare, still.Rebounding: Note that both Miami's 05-06 team and OKC 09-10 averages around a total of 43 rebounds per game. Durant is six inches taller and has a five in longer wingspan. Still, Wade averaged 5.7 rpg in his third season (was playing with Mourning and Shaq) in comparison to Durant's 7.6 rebounds. I'll call it a wash.Basically, Wade takes the cake in all but one category, including two of the biggest ones by a LARGE margin. The only thing category Durant wins at is arguable actually, and scoring is VASTLY overrated. I have no idea how Durant can possibly be better or in the same conversation right at this moment. Once he gains better awareness, his defense and decision making will improve greatly (will come with experience) and so will all his facets of his game. Lots of time to develop. He has literally infinite potential, but IHouston Texans jersey
fear these heightened expectations and unitary pressure will hinder his development from one of the leagues brightest young stars to a true competitor and a MVP-caliber basketball player. Right now he have to stick to borderline top ten player in the NBA, like most of the stars today when they were in their third season. So, like Durant himself said, "Stay tuned!"But wait, there's more. I'll compare him to Rondo and Gasol here.Feedback isappreciated.This article is also featured onNBA Blog
as he tweeted at Kenny smith comments of "praise" that he "better" than Dwyane Wade, To be honest I appreciate Kenny smith comments but I'm not on dwade melo dirk Paul p level, I ain't done nothing yet...but stay tuned! I'll keep it simple: Kenny Smith is wrong and Durant is right. Here's an in-depth comparison.Wade is superior to Durant in almost every facet of the game, and those in which Durant has the advantage, the disparity is slight. I look at production in each category, in terms ofconsistent, versatile,efficient, dominantproduction in accordance tominutes,athleticism,height, teamsystem, and role. Ranked in order of importance:Defense: Wade is an all NBA-caliber defender and arguably the best shot-blocking guard in NBA history. Durant is an average defender despite better physical tools, lacking proper awareness. Wade has the best body control in the NBA as well. And if that ins't enough, Wade is a top pickpocket in the NBA. Wade wins in a landslide.Leadership: No question here, Wade is a top tier leader in the NBA. When Wade was in his third season, he was singlehandedly crushing the Mavericks in the Finals. He is an established leader in the NBA, and has always risen to the challenge when he had to compete with the best of them.No knock on Durant, I expect him to be a very good Duncan-esqe leader as well. Still, another blowout by Wade.Scoring: Durant gets a ridiculous amount of one-on-one isolations, while Wade has to create his own shot. Wade has a more developed scoring arsenal. Still, Durant scores more and more efficiently, and has become the youngest player to win ascoringtitle in the NBA. Not fair to compare Wade in his third season because they had other very capable scorers and they did not set up THAT many plays Green Bay Packers jersey
for him. As for the present, I'd call it a wash or the slight edge to Durant. Clutchness: This is probably Durant's biggest downfall. He really doesn't hit the big shots. It'll some with experience. It's not fair to judge him now, so let's discount this one. I also consider cliquishness ability to step up to the occasion. You can compare Wade vs. Durant in the post season of their respective third NBA years: Durant's first round or Wade's aforementioned outing against the Mavs in the finals? Passing: Wade is somewhat of a PG so it's not completely fair to judge, but he averages 7.5 apg (with scoring more than Durant) with a mediocre surrounding cast and not very many decent options to pass to. Unfair to compare, still.Rebounding: Note that both Miami's 05-06 team and OKC 09-10 averages around a total of 43 rebounds per game. Durant is six inches taller and has a five in longer wingspan. Still, Wade averaged 5.7 rpg in his third season (was playing with Mourning and Shaq) in comparison to Durant's 7.6 rebounds. I'll call it a wash.Basically, Wade takes the cake in all but one category, including two of the biggest ones by a LARGE margin. The only thing category Durant wins at is arguable actually, and scoring is VASTLY overrated. I have no idea how Durant can possibly be better or in the same conversation right at this moment. Once he gains better awareness, his defense and decision making will improve greatly (will come with experience) and so will all his facets of his game. Lots of time to develop. He has literally infinite potential, but IHouston Texans jersey
fear these heightened expectations and unitary pressure will hinder his development from one of the leagues brightest young stars to a true competitor and a MVP-caliber basketball player. Right now he have to stick to borderline top ten player in the NBA, like most of the stars today when they were in their third season. So, like Durant himself said, "Stay tuned!"But wait, there's more. I'll compare him to Rondo and Gasol here.Feedback isappreciated.This article is also featured onNBA Blog
2010年12月24日星期五
24 Dec 10 Erick Blasco's NBA Atlantic Division Preview
Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesDue to the events that transpired this offseason, to the average fan the NBA has evolved into a dichotomy: the forces of evil (Miami) versus the forces of lesser evil (everyone else), with the Celtics and Lakers operating in the hazy limbo space between each region. However, despite all the big names changing zip codes, the composition of the Atlantic Division remains relatively unchanged. The Celtics are a potential title contender and perhaps the East’s best bet to quash the title Green Bay Packers jersey
hopes of Miami’s unholy trio. The rest of the division ranges from the mediocre to the downright deplorable—the same way it’s been in the Atlantic for three years. 1) Boston CelticsThe Celtics beefed up their frontcourt as they make perhaps one final run for a ring, but this season’s edition appears to be the worst of the Boston Three Party era.Sure, word on the street is that Kevin Garnett is looking as fluid as he was before blowing out his knee in 2009, but an explosive Garnett isn’t Boston’s main priority. After all, a slightly limited Garnett still played belligerent and intelligent defense during last season’s playoff run, and Garnett’s passive nature and disinclination to attack with the game on the line won’t metamorphosize due to a return to better health. If Kevin Garnett habitually failed in key stretches of playoff games when he was in his prime, then the revitalization of his knee won’t turn him into the prime-time end-game scorer the Celtics will need if they want to capture a ring.No, this Celtics edition is worse because Ray Allen and Paul Pierce are worse. Allen’s always primarily been best as a spot-up shooter, but he’s also been underrated at using the threat of the jumper to get to the rim and score. Watching him struggle to finish at the rim last season, particularly against the Lakers, indicates just how far Allen has dropped. His shooting will still come and go, but he’s increasingly one-dimensional.Pierce has also lost at least a step. He’s still strong enough and smart enough to dissect poor defensive opponents, but might-sized defenders can hang with Pierce and keep him from bulling his way to the paint. Without the threat of the drive, his step-back jumpers from the top of the key aren’t nearly as effective. Look at how much Pierce struggled last postseason against LeBron James and Ron Artest. Unfortunately for Boston, those two play for Boston’s toughest competition this season.Rajon Rondo is amazingly nimble, has terrific court vision and is a falcon on loose balls, but he still can’t shoot which makes it easier for defenses to stymie Boston’s screen/roll game. He Houston Texans jersey
still struggles with making metagame decisions (like constantly walking the ball up against the Lakers when Boston’s offense stagnated and transition opportunities presented themselves). On play-making ability alone, Rondo is a top-five point guard, but these minute blemishes add up against opponents with the talent to match Boston’s and the coaching to take advantage of that.With Kendrick Perkins injured to start the season, Boston will use Shaquille O’Neal and Jermaine O’Neal in the interim. Shaq is still a load to handle in the low post and can still bang around post scorers near the basket. But his inability to defend in space or make adequate and alert defensive rotations goes against Boston’s defensive mantra. Jermaine O’Neal has much more range on defense, can knock down mid-range jumpers and is still able to face and go, but he’s too frail, can’t rebound and has been dreadful in the postseason over the course of his career. As separate entities, each O’Neal is worse than Rasheed Wallace.Over time, Kendrick Perkins should return and provide exceptional interior defense, but he’s only an average rebounder and will certainly be hindered by the lingering effects of his torn ACL.Off the bench, Glen Davis can hit mid-range jumpers and finish using his wide body, and he’s surprisingly fleet on defense, but his lack of size, hops and focus prevent him from being a consistent producer.Nate Robinson hasn’t been completely tamed and is a wild card that can shoot the Celtics into wins as often as his unchecked recklessness will drive the Celtics into losses. When Delonte West is right, he’s a gutsy defender, who can drive, shoot, post up, rebound and make good decisions. But he hasn’t been right since his 2009 gun incident and admittance of Bipolar disorder.Von Wafer can sometimes score in a pinch, but he has no concept of team offense.Marquise Daniels hasn’t been the defender he was brought aboard to be.That, perhaps, is Boston’s biggest downgrade. With Tony Allen’s exceptional defensive skills now employed by the Memphis Grizzlies, the Celtics don’t have any defensive stopper, especially as Paul Pierce has to shoulder much of the end-game load as Boston’s most creative and dependable offensive scorer. The defensive drop off from Allen to Daniels is steep, and Daniels and Wafer Indianapolis Colts jersey
aren’t good enough scorers to compensate.Still, despite the criticisms, it isn’t all doom and gloom for the Celtics.Among Boston’s strengths They have a disciplined, creative, and balanced offensive approach which plays to the collective talent of the roster. They play extremely physical and well-coordinated defense. Overall, Boston’s collective basketball intelligence is off the charts. The Celtics play completely unselfish basketball, another testament to their basketball IQ. The Celtics are well-coached, with creative game planning that can neutralize an opponent over a long series. With the big four healthy, Boston has the offensive firepower to overwhelm most teams on sheer talent alone. But in the high-stakes world of the Conference Finals and NBA Finals, every minor weakness is a chance for an opponent to leave a team in tatters. Right now, like last season, the Celtics' holes are a bit more glaring than the Lakers', plus the Celtics at their peak don’t project to have more talent than Miami at their peak.At least we know the Celtics are a proven playoff winner, while the Heat’s moxie will be a mystery until late May.2) New York KnicksThe New York Knicks won’t be any kind of championship contender, but their solid mediocrity might be cause for a tickertape parade for relevance-starved Knicks’ fans.Amare Stoudemire is a dynamic scorer and roll man in screen/roll situations, though he no longer has Steve Nash to feed him the cookies. Still, Stoudemire is a load to handle, especially with the sheer number of sad-sack defenses that inhabit the Eastern Conference. Defense and rebounding have never been Stoudemire’s forte.Danilo Gallinari is a solid two-way player and an excellent shooter. Anthony Randolph is a sprightly athlete, with no strength, defensive skills or basketball IQ. Wilson Chandler can do a little bit of everything but isn’t an iso scorer. The most important player on the Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
Knicks will be Raymond Felton, though. The Knicks' most crippling weakness last season was Chris Duhon’s three-point shooting. When he was going well, teams would have to respect his jump shot and defend him on ball screens. When he wasn’t doing well, defenses would go under Knicks’ ball-screens and the offense would stagnate.If Felton can keep defenses honest with his shooting, it will only increase the rolling lanes and spacing for Amare Stoudemire to attack defenses. If Felton isn’t shooting well, defenses will sag off him, crippling New York’s screen/roll game and limiting the Knicks’ interior driving lanes.Off the bench, Ronny Turiaf is low on skill but big on effort and foul trouble, Roger Mason Jr. is a shooter coming off a disastrous season with the Spurs, Bill Walker is a high flyer still learning the game, while Toney Douglas is an attacking point guard, not a play-making one.The Knicks have the pieces to play an effective full-throttle game plan, and Stoudemire alone could give the Knicks a ticket to the playoffs. However, the Knicks are still short on defenders, rebounders, and wing talent to make an impact postseason run.3) Philadelphia 76ersAnother year without a top notch point guard will mean another fruitless season for the Sixers. Jrue Holliday can someday be that caliber point guard, but he’s still extremely young and learning on the job. Lou Williams is quick and athletic, but he’s more of a change-of-pace backup than a reliable, decision-making starter. Getting rid of Samuel Dalembert will open up a logjam in the frontcourt. Elton Brand can still score from the high post, but his days of being a dominant low post scorer and rebounder are over. Marreese Speights has the talent to dominate on both sides of the court but doesn’t put the work in. As such, his hints of stardom appear in glimpses and glimmers, while observers are still searching for his hints of Kansas City Chiefs jersey
defense.Thaddeus Young can run the floor with anybody, is an explosive finisher on the break or the baseline and is an active, energetic defender. He’s too lean to play power forward without a sturdy low-post defender and rebounder at center, and he doesn’t shoot well enough to play the three without a pair of sharp-shooting guards. Because of Philadelphia’s roster limitations, he’s best off as the first forward off the bench.Spencer Hawes lacks the talent to be a game-changer and is strictly a backup, while Darius Songaila is a hustling, working scrapper who’d be better off on a more veteran team.At the wing, Andre Iguodala can do everything except create his own jump shot, which keeps him off the first tier of elite wings. Jason Kapono is a one-dimensional shooting backup, while Andres Noccioni will play with abandon and knock down an occasional three but is on the wrong side of his career.Because of Philadelphia’s unbalanced roster, Evan Turner better be able to create for himself, shoot and pass, but there have been concerns about his handle and athleticism. In a deeper Eastern Conference, the Sixers won’t be able to take the next step until/unless Holliday and Turner reach their potential, or Brand’s dead-weight contract comes off the books.4) New Jersey NetsThe Nets made wholesale roster changes, but in the grand scheme of things, none of their new additions will matter.Devin Harris flat out quit last season, plus he still can’t shoot, play focused defense or make good decisions with the ball. Jordan Farmar is a decent backup who can make plays in a broken field but tends to be out of control and undisciplined.Terrence Williams is completely raw, but he oozes play-making talent. Still, he’s several seasons away from completely harnessing his natural abilities. Travis Outlaw has perfected a step-back jumper going left, but he only wants to shoot. Anthony Morrow is a one-dimensional three-point shooter. None of the trio play much defense.Troy Murphy will help the Nets on the boards, a major weakness last season. He can also shoot the three, which will help provide spacing, particularly on Devin Harris screen/fades, or on weak-side combo screens. Kris Humphries is another solid rebounder with surprising athleticism.Brook Lopez’s big body and soft touch make him a legit weapon down in the low block, but he’s too slow to consistently overwhelm opponents or beat double teams. He and Murphy also form one of the slowest interior defense tandems in professional basketball.The Nets should get enough rebounding to fuel a decent fast break and early transition game, but their defense won’t get enough stops to consistently get out and go. The Nets also lack players who can create their own shot while making good decisions for others. As a result, the Nets won’t quite be as bad as last year but should still be one of Miami Dolphins jersey
the league’s dregs.5) Toronto RaptorsLook out below!With Chris Bosh and Hedo Turkoglu no longer around, the Raptors look like one of the league’s two or three worst teams. Andrea Bargnani will find the going tough as the focal point of opposing defenses, and he has neither the strength nor the smarts to adapt. Amir Johnson is a solid defensive forward with no offensive game. Also, neither player is an adequate defensive rebounder , so teams will simply carve the Raptors up on the offensive boards.Off the bench, Reggie Evans will be pressed into duty for his rebounding and ruggedness, but he’s always in foul trouble and can’t score in a video game. The other backup big, David Andersen, is strictly a long-range shooter.DeMarr Derozan is a mistake player at one wing, while Leandro Barbosa plays with zero court vision at the other wing and can only succeed in a full-throttle system. Too bad the Raptors won’t get enough stops to fuel any kind of effective running game. Julian Wright is lost in space, while Sonny Weems is extremely unpolished. In fact, Linas Kleiza is the Raptors’ best wing. He’s athletic enough to score in an open field or on isolations, and he’s a good finisher because of his wide body. Plus he triples as an excellent range shooter.Jose Calderon makes good decisions and can hit mid-range jumpers but lacks imagination, creativity and defense. Jarrett Jack plays with smarts and heart, but there’s only one of him on the roster.The Raptors lack talent, toughness and an identity. They won’t lack a early draft pick next June.
hopes of Miami’s unholy trio. The rest of the division ranges from the mediocre to the downright deplorable—the same way it’s been in the Atlantic for three years. 1) Boston CelticsThe Celtics beefed up their frontcourt as they make perhaps one final run for a ring, but this season’s edition appears to be the worst of the Boston Three Party era.Sure, word on the street is that Kevin Garnett is looking as fluid as he was before blowing out his knee in 2009, but an explosive Garnett isn’t Boston’s main priority. After all, a slightly limited Garnett still played belligerent and intelligent defense during last season’s playoff run, and Garnett’s passive nature and disinclination to attack with the game on the line won’t metamorphosize due to a return to better health. If Kevin Garnett habitually failed in key stretches of playoff games when he was in his prime, then the revitalization of his knee won’t turn him into the prime-time end-game scorer the Celtics will need if they want to capture a ring.No, this Celtics edition is worse because Ray Allen and Paul Pierce are worse. Allen’s always primarily been best as a spot-up shooter, but he’s also been underrated at using the threat of the jumper to get to the rim and score. Watching him struggle to finish at the rim last season, particularly against the Lakers, indicates just how far Allen has dropped. His shooting will still come and go, but he’s increasingly one-dimensional.Pierce has also lost at least a step. He’s still strong enough and smart enough to dissect poor defensive opponents, but might-sized defenders can hang with Pierce and keep him from bulling his way to the paint. Without the threat of the drive, his step-back jumpers from the top of the key aren’t nearly as effective. Look at how much Pierce struggled last postseason against LeBron James and Ron Artest. Unfortunately for Boston, those two play for Boston’s toughest competition this season.Rajon Rondo is amazingly nimble, has terrific court vision and is a falcon on loose balls, but he still can’t shoot which makes it easier for defenses to stymie Boston’s screen/roll game. He Houston Texans jersey
still struggles with making metagame decisions (like constantly walking the ball up against the Lakers when Boston’s offense stagnated and transition opportunities presented themselves). On play-making ability alone, Rondo is a top-five point guard, but these minute blemishes add up against opponents with the talent to match Boston’s and the coaching to take advantage of that.With Kendrick Perkins injured to start the season, Boston will use Shaquille O’Neal and Jermaine O’Neal in the interim. Shaq is still a load to handle in the low post and can still bang around post scorers near the basket. But his inability to defend in space or make adequate and alert defensive rotations goes against Boston’s defensive mantra. Jermaine O’Neal has much more range on defense, can knock down mid-range jumpers and is still able to face and go, but he’s too frail, can’t rebound and has been dreadful in the postseason over the course of his career. As separate entities, each O’Neal is worse than Rasheed Wallace.Over time, Kendrick Perkins should return and provide exceptional interior defense, but he’s only an average rebounder and will certainly be hindered by the lingering effects of his torn ACL.Off the bench, Glen Davis can hit mid-range jumpers and finish using his wide body, and he’s surprisingly fleet on defense, but his lack of size, hops and focus prevent him from being a consistent producer.Nate Robinson hasn’t been completely tamed and is a wild card that can shoot the Celtics into wins as often as his unchecked recklessness will drive the Celtics into losses. When Delonte West is right, he’s a gutsy defender, who can drive, shoot, post up, rebound and make good decisions. But he hasn’t been right since his 2009 gun incident and admittance of Bipolar disorder.Von Wafer can sometimes score in a pinch, but he has no concept of team offense.Marquise Daniels hasn’t been the defender he was brought aboard to be.That, perhaps, is Boston’s biggest downgrade. With Tony Allen’s exceptional defensive skills now employed by the Memphis Grizzlies, the Celtics don’t have any defensive stopper, especially as Paul Pierce has to shoulder much of the end-game load as Boston’s most creative and dependable offensive scorer. The defensive drop off from Allen to Daniels is steep, and Daniels and Wafer Indianapolis Colts jersey
aren’t good enough scorers to compensate.Still, despite the criticisms, it isn’t all doom and gloom for the Celtics.Among Boston’s strengths They have a disciplined, creative, and balanced offensive approach which plays to the collective talent of the roster. They play extremely physical and well-coordinated defense. Overall, Boston’s collective basketball intelligence is off the charts. The Celtics play completely unselfish basketball, another testament to their basketball IQ. The Celtics are well-coached, with creative game planning that can neutralize an opponent over a long series. With the big four healthy, Boston has the offensive firepower to overwhelm most teams on sheer talent alone. But in the high-stakes world of the Conference Finals and NBA Finals, every minor weakness is a chance for an opponent to leave a team in tatters. Right now, like last season, the Celtics' holes are a bit more glaring than the Lakers', plus the Celtics at their peak don’t project to have more talent than Miami at their peak.At least we know the Celtics are a proven playoff winner, while the Heat’s moxie will be a mystery until late May.2) New York KnicksThe New York Knicks won’t be any kind of championship contender, but their solid mediocrity might be cause for a tickertape parade for relevance-starved Knicks’ fans.Amare Stoudemire is a dynamic scorer and roll man in screen/roll situations, though he no longer has Steve Nash to feed him the cookies. Still, Stoudemire is a load to handle, especially with the sheer number of sad-sack defenses that inhabit the Eastern Conference. Defense and rebounding have never been Stoudemire’s forte.Danilo Gallinari is a solid two-way player and an excellent shooter. Anthony Randolph is a sprightly athlete, with no strength, defensive skills or basketball IQ. Wilson Chandler can do a little bit of everything but isn’t an iso scorer. The most important player on the Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
Knicks will be Raymond Felton, though. The Knicks' most crippling weakness last season was Chris Duhon’s three-point shooting. When he was going well, teams would have to respect his jump shot and defend him on ball screens. When he wasn’t doing well, defenses would go under Knicks’ ball-screens and the offense would stagnate.If Felton can keep defenses honest with his shooting, it will only increase the rolling lanes and spacing for Amare Stoudemire to attack defenses. If Felton isn’t shooting well, defenses will sag off him, crippling New York’s screen/roll game and limiting the Knicks’ interior driving lanes.Off the bench, Ronny Turiaf is low on skill but big on effort and foul trouble, Roger Mason Jr. is a shooter coming off a disastrous season with the Spurs, Bill Walker is a high flyer still learning the game, while Toney Douglas is an attacking point guard, not a play-making one.The Knicks have the pieces to play an effective full-throttle game plan, and Stoudemire alone could give the Knicks a ticket to the playoffs. However, the Knicks are still short on defenders, rebounders, and wing talent to make an impact postseason run.3) Philadelphia 76ersAnother year without a top notch point guard will mean another fruitless season for the Sixers. Jrue Holliday can someday be that caliber point guard, but he’s still extremely young and learning on the job. Lou Williams is quick and athletic, but he’s more of a change-of-pace backup than a reliable, decision-making starter. Getting rid of Samuel Dalembert will open up a logjam in the frontcourt. Elton Brand can still score from the high post, but his days of being a dominant low post scorer and rebounder are over. Marreese Speights has the talent to dominate on both sides of the court but doesn’t put the work in. As such, his hints of stardom appear in glimpses and glimmers, while observers are still searching for his hints of Kansas City Chiefs jersey
defense.Thaddeus Young can run the floor with anybody, is an explosive finisher on the break or the baseline and is an active, energetic defender. He’s too lean to play power forward without a sturdy low-post defender and rebounder at center, and he doesn’t shoot well enough to play the three without a pair of sharp-shooting guards. Because of Philadelphia’s roster limitations, he’s best off as the first forward off the bench.Spencer Hawes lacks the talent to be a game-changer and is strictly a backup, while Darius Songaila is a hustling, working scrapper who’d be better off on a more veteran team.At the wing, Andre Iguodala can do everything except create his own jump shot, which keeps him off the first tier of elite wings. Jason Kapono is a one-dimensional shooting backup, while Andres Noccioni will play with abandon and knock down an occasional three but is on the wrong side of his career.Because of Philadelphia’s unbalanced roster, Evan Turner better be able to create for himself, shoot and pass, but there have been concerns about his handle and athleticism. In a deeper Eastern Conference, the Sixers won’t be able to take the next step until/unless Holliday and Turner reach their potential, or Brand’s dead-weight contract comes off the books.4) New Jersey NetsThe Nets made wholesale roster changes, but in the grand scheme of things, none of their new additions will matter.Devin Harris flat out quit last season, plus he still can’t shoot, play focused defense or make good decisions with the ball. Jordan Farmar is a decent backup who can make plays in a broken field but tends to be out of control and undisciplined.Terrence Williams is completely raw, but he oozes play-making talent. Still, he’s several seasons away from completely harnessing his natural abilities. Travis Outlaw has perfected a step-back jumper going left, but he only wants to shoot. Anthony Morrow is a one-dimensional three-point shooter. None of the trio play much defense.Troy Murphy will help the Nets on the boards, a major weakness last season. He can also shoot the three, which will help provide spacing, particularly on Devin Harris screen/fades, or on weak-side combo screens. Kris Humphries is another solid rebounder with surprising athleticism.Brook Lopez’s big body and soft touch make him a legit weapon down in the low block, but he’s too slow to consistently overwhelm opponents or beat double teams. He and Murphy also form one of the slowest interior defense tandems in professional basketball.The Nets should get enough rebounding to fuel a decent fast break and early transition game, but their defense won’t get enough stops to consistently get out and go. The Nets also lack players who can create their own shot while making good decisions for others. As a result, the Nets won’t quite be as bad as last year but should still be one of Miami Dolphins jersey
the league’s dregs.5) Toronto RaptorsLook out below!With Chris Bosh and Hedo Turkoglu no longer around, the Raptors look like one of the league’s two or three worst teams. Andrea Bargnani will find the going tough as the focal point of opposing defenses, and he has neither the strength nor the smarts to adapt. Amir Johnson is a solid defensive forward with no offensive game. Also, neither player is an adequate defensive rebounder , so teams will simply carve the Raptors up on the offensive boards.Off the bench, Reggie Evans will be pressed into duty for his rebounding and ruggedness, but he’s always in foul trouble and can’t score in a video game. The other backup big, David Andersen, is strictly a long-range shooter.DeMarr Derozan is a mistake player at one wing, while Leandro Barbosa plays with zero court vision at the other wing and can only succeed in a full-throttle system. Too bad the Raptors won’t get enough stops to fuel any kind of effective running game. Julian Wright is lost in space, while Sonny Weems is extremely unpolished. In fact, Linas Kleiza is the Raptors’ best wing. He’s athletic enough to score in an open field or on isolations, and he’s a good finisher because of his wide body. Plus he triples as an excellent range shooter.Jose Calderon makes good decisions and can hit mid-range jumpers but lacks imagination, creativity and defense. Jarrett Jack plays with smarts and heart, but there’s only one of him on the roster.The Raptors lack talent, toughness and an identity. They won’t lack a early draft pick next June.
2010年12月23日星期四
23 Dec 10Abracadabra Holmes: Miami Heat in Need of Some Serious Anti-Curse Magic
SATIRE — "I don't practice Santeria and I ain't got no crystal ball", but the Miami Heat need a Voodoo priest or witch doctor in a major way. Dwyane Wade is out yet again, Udonis Haslem was carried off the court on what appeared to be soft contact and Eric Spoelstra was making horrible Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
substitutions in the last quarter. As if that wasn't enough, Rudy Gay hit a buzzer beater over LeBron James to hand the Heat a gut-wrenching 97-95 loss. The icing was the stupid staredown Gay gave the Heat bench after nailing the winner. Someone on the Heat bench (Jamaal Magloire) should have grabbed Gay by the neck and walked him back to his coach, while reminding Gay that he's on a losing team and has yet to win anything in the league. Yes, it was a perfect "sh*t" storm unleashing itself on the Heat. In reality Miami should feel fortunate to be sneaking out of Dodge without sustaining further damage, as both James and Chris Bosh seemed to be taking and delivering a lot of contact in what was a very hard-fought game. At one point James suffered a hard fall, and for a moment things seemed like they were going to get really scary. Luckily James bounced back up and ran down the court, allowing Heat fans everywhere to breathe a little bit easier. Could Dan Gilbert's "Curse" be starting before our very eyes? He does have that look that he may have come from Gypsies.Great we’ve been “Gypsy Cursed.”“Don’t you put that evil on us Dan Gilbert, don’t you put that on us.”Does Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
anyone know if Cuban Santeria or Haitian Voodoo trumps Gypsy curses? Is it like a paper, scissor, rock thing? If so, Miami could be in luck, as plenty of Heat fans probably practice the "dark magic" around these parts. Come on South Florida, start cracking some coconuts and chopping off some chicken heads. We need to "exorcise the demons" before the curse sets in for good. Instead of the "Mistake by the Lake," we would be known as the "Disarray on the Bay." We can't let that happen, so it looks like it's time to pour "Jobu" a refill and ask that he remove this curse before Christmas Day.
substitutions in the last quarter. As if that wasn't enough, Rudy Gay hit a buzzer beater over LeBron James to hand the Heat a gut-wrenching 97-95 loss. The icing was the stupid staredown Gay gave the Heat bench after nailing the winner. Someone on the Heat bench (Jamaal Magloire) should have grabbed Gay by the neck and walked him back to his coach, while reminding Gay that he's on a losing team and has yet to win anything in the league. Yes, it was a perfect "sh*t" storm unleashing itself on the Heat. In reality Miami should feel fortunate to be sneaking out of Dodge without sustaining further damage, as both James and Chris Bosh seemed to be taking and delivering a lot of contact in what was a very hard-fought game. At one point James suffered a hard fall, and for a moment things seemed like they were going to get really scary. Luckily James bounced back up and ran down the court, allowing Heat fans everywhere to breathe a little bit easier. Could Dan Gilbert's "Curse" be starting before our very eyes? He does have that look that he may have come from Gypsies.Great we’ve been “Gypsy Cursed.”“Don’t you put that evil on us Dan Gilbert, don’t you put that on us.”Does Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
anyone know if Cuban Santeria or Haitian Voodoo trumps Gypsy curses? Is it like a paper, scissor, rock thing? If so, Miami could be in luck, as plenty of Heat fans probably practice the "dark magic" around these parts. Come on South Florida, start cracking some coconuts and chopping off some chicken heads. We need to "exorcise the demons" before the curse sets in for good. Instead of the "Mistake by the Lake," we would be known as the "Disarray on the Bay." We can't let that happen, so it looks like it's time to pour "Jobu" a refill and ask that he remove this curse before Christmas Day.
2010年12月22日星期三
Report: Cavs' Officials Expect LeBron James To Return, No Deal For Chris Bosh
Elsa/Getty ImagesAfter years of anticipation and uncertainty, there are growing indications that LeBron James is staying home. Yahoo’s Adrian Wojnarowski used Twitter to report that Cleveland Cavalier officials are confident that Chris Bosh won’t be playing for the Cavs next season, but Atlanta Falcons jersey
LeBron James will. Wojnarowski cited multiple sources in direct contact with Cavaliers officials. Wojnarowski’s tweet came amidst growing speculation that James spent the morning talking to Bosh in an effort to lure him to Cleveland.Bosh reportedly has interest in playing alongside LeBron, but not if doing so means a sign-and-trade that would send him to Cleveland.Tuesday's news presumably eliminates the Cavaliers from the Bosh sweepstakes while leaving the door open for a Wade-Bosh marriage in either Chicago or Miami. Earlier Tuesday afternoon, Yahoo reported that despite some reports to the contrary, the Raptors hadn’t spoken to Bosh since last week. Wojnarowski reported that although the Raptors had held preliminary discussions with the Cavaliers, no specific pieces as part of a potential trade were ever discussed. James was absent from his basketball camp in Akron Tuesday morning but arrived early in the afternoon without making any statements to reporters. James debuted his Twitter account, @kingjames, Tuesday morning tweeting, “Hello World, the Real King James is in the Building.” An official non-Twitter announcement regarding James’s future could come as soon as tomorrow. Expecting word Thursday or Friday appears to be more realistic at this point.
LeBron James will. Wojnarowski cited multiple sources in direct contact with Cavaliers officials. Wojnarowski’s tweet came amidst growing speculation that James spent the morning talking to Bosh in an effort to lure him to Cleveland.Bosh reportedly has interest in playing alongside LeBron, but not if doing so means a sign-and-trade that would send him to Cleveland.Tuesday's news presumably eliminates the Cavaliers from the Bosh sweepstakes while leaving the door open for a Wade-Bosh marriage in either Chicago or Miami. Earlier Tuesday afternoon, Yahoo reported that despite some reports to the contrary, the Raptors hadn’t spoken to Bosh since last week. Wojnarowski reported that although the Raptors had held preliminary discussions with the Cavaliers, no specific pieces as part of a potential trade were ever discussed. James was absent from his basketball camp in Akron Tuesday morning but arrived early in the afternoon without making any statements to reporters. James debuted his Twitter account, @kingjames, Tuesday morning tweeting, “Hello World, the Real King James is in the Building.” An official non-Twitter announcement regarding James’s future could come as soon as tomorrow. Expecting word Thursday or Friday appears to be more realistic at this point.
2010年12月21日星期二
Cliff Lee, Philadelphia Phillies Agree to Deal: Greatest Rotation Ever?
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesIf you thought Carl Crawford to the Red Sox was stunning, listen to this: Cliff Lee is returning to Philadelphia.The news comes as a jaw-dropping conclusion to the Cliff Lee saga, slamming the door on months of widely accepted speculation that the New York Yankees and Texas Rangers were the only two realistic landing spots for the former Cy Young winner.The deal is reportedly for five-years and $120 million—one year and $18 million less than the six-year, $138 milliondeal (with a player option for a seventh year) offered by Texas, and two Detroit Lions
years and $30 million less than the seven-year, $150 milliondeal reportedly offered by New York.Clearly,Lee's decisionwas notaboutthe money,ashe lefttens of millions of dollarson the table by returning to the team he led to the 2009 World Series.Lee's five-year deal establishes some much-needed stability for a man who's played for four different teams over the past two years. Originally acquired by Philadelphia at the 2009 trading deadline, Lee carried the Fightin' Phils to the pennant, going 7-4 with a 3.39 ERA down the stretch, and then topping that with one of the greatest postseason performances in Major League history, going 4-0 with a 1.56 ERA with two complete games.Following Philadelphia's loss to New York in the Fall Classic, and after failing to sign Lee to a contract extension, Phillies' GM Ruben Amaro Jr. shipped the lefty to Seattle in a three-team mega-deal that brought 2010 Cy Young award winner Roy Halladay to Philly (it all seems worth it now, doesn't it?).Which Pitching Rotation Would You Prefer?Which Pitching Rotation Would You Prefer?2011 Philadelphia Phillies79.3%Mid-90's Atlanta Braves10.3%Early-70's Baltimore Orioles10.3%Mid-60's Los Angeles Dodgers0.0%Total votes: 58One of the lone stars on a struggling Mariners team, Lee was traded again on July Green Bay Packers jersey
9 to the Texas Rangers—only after a deal to send Lee to the Yankees fell through at the last minute.Lee promptly led his new club to the pennant for the second year in a row while putting together another masterful postseason performance, going 3-0 while sporting an ERA under one in the ALDS and ALCS en route to the Rangers' first pennant in franchise history.Although he did struggle in the World Series—losing both starts to the Giants while garnering a 6.94 ERA—Lee is deservedly creditedas one of the best postseason pitchers of all-time for his efforts in the past two Octobers.Lee will now join an already formidable Philadelphia rotation, which already features Roy Halladay,Roy Oswalt and Cole Hamels,to create what is the most dominant rotation in recent baseball history— Houston Texans jersey
with the potential to be one of the best in baseball history.If all four pitchers continue pitching to their recent standards, it will surely rival the pitching staffs of the mid-'90s Atlanta Braves, early-'70s Baltimore Orioles and mid-'60s Los Angeles Dodgers.Look out, Major League Baseball—pitching wins championships, andthePhiladelphia Phillieslook primed for success for years to come.
years and $30 million less than the seven-year, $150 milliondeal reportedly offered by New York.Clearly,Lee's decisionwas notaboutthe money,ashe lefttens of millions of dollarson the table by returning to the team he led to the 2009 World Series.Lee's five-year deal establishes some much-needed stability for a man who's played for four different teams over the past two years. Originally acquired by Philadelphia at the 2009 trading deadline, Lee carried the Fightin' Phils to the pennant, going 7-4 with a 3.39 ERA down the stretch, and then topping that with one of the greatest postseason performances in Major League history, going 4-0 with a 1.56 ERA with two complete games.Following Philadelphia's loss to New York in the Fall Classic, and after failing to sign Lee to a contract extension, Phillies' GM Ruben Amaro Jr. shipped the lefty to Seattle in a three-team mega-deal that brought 2010 Cy Young award winner Roy Halladay to Philly (it all seems worth it now, doesn't it?).Which Pitching Rotation Would You Prefer?Which Pitching Rotation Would You Prefer?2011 Philadelphia Phillies79.3%Mid-90's Atlanta Braves10.3%Early-70's Baltimore Orioles10.3%Mid-60's Los Angeles Dodgers0.0%Total votes: 58One of the lone stars on a struggling Mariners team, Lee was traded again on July Green Bay Packers jersey
9 to the Texas Rangers—only after a deal to send Lee to the Yankees fell through at the last minute.Lee promptly led his new club to the pennant for the second year in a row while putting together another masterful postseason performance, going 3-0 while sporting an ERA under one in the ALDS and ALCS en route to the Rangers' first pennant in franchise history.Although he did struggle in the World Series—losing both starts to the Giants while garnering a 6.94 ERA—Lee is deservedly creditedas one of the best postseason pitchers of all-time for his efforts in the past two Octobers.Lee will now join an already formidable Philadelphia rotation, which already features Roy Halladay,Roy Oswalt and Cole Hamels,to create what is the most dominant rotation in recent baseball history— Houston Texans jersey
with the potential to be one of the best in baseball history.If all four pitchers continue pitching to their recent standards, it will surely rival the pitching staffs of the mid-'90s Atlanta Braves, early-'70s Baltimore Orioles and mid-'60s Los Angeles Dodgers.Look out, Major League Baseball—pitching wins championships, andthePhiladelphia Phillieslook primed for success for years to come.
2010年12月19日星期日
20 Dec 10 Dear Fullback, Please Accept Our Sincere Apology
Jim McIsaac/Getty ImagesSATIRE ; Dear Fullback,We, the National Football League, humbly ask for your forgiveness. We’ve finally realized how important you are to us and we’re sorry that we have taken you for granted. We’ve taken off the blinders and we can Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
see the light. We know now that we could not possibly be where we are without you forging the way, leading the charge.You were once the king of the gridiron, the leader of the pack, the epitome of what a football player should be. Within your ranks dwell the most immortal of names; Jim Brown, Franco Harris, Larry Csonka—just to name a few of the NFL’s greatest players who have taken their proud place on the line at your storied position.You are truly the most valuable player on your team. You’re not afraid to throw yourself into harm’s way, risking life and limb at the hands of a 300 pound behemoth all so your team can gain that extra yard. You are the consummate team player, selflessly giving up personal accolades for the better of your organization.Yes, your backfield mate will get all the headlines, but he couldn’t have done it without your sacrifice. Take pride in knowing that, although you are paid a lower salary, will spend six days a week in an ice bath and have almost no Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
chance of being inducted into the Hall of Fame, you will always be a fan favorite.You always come through when we need you. Your versatility is why you were chosen with a fourth round pick. We know we can count on you to provide that key block, catch out of the backfield or crucial goal line push. When we need a fill-in starter at tailback, there you stand.We watch, puzzled, that despite your slow 40 yard dash time and lack of wiggle you still out-produce every other running back ahead of you on the depth chart. We are sincere when we tell you that if production was more important to us than perceived potential, you would be our primary ball carrier. Please understand, it’s not you, it’s us.Fullback, please forgive us. We could never have gotten this far without you and we all know it. Never mind that we have phased you out as primary runners and are trying to phase you out as blockers with the two tight-end set. We really do appreciate all that you have accomplished for this league.Your glory was Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
solidified in the past and will always be remembered thanks to NFL films. No matter what the future holds, know this: you led the way with Jim Brown and Marion Motley; you accepted a new role for Walter Payton and Emmitt Smith. You may have ended with Lorenzo Neal and Mike Alstott, but no matter what, it was you who paved the way for all.Regards and Respect,The NFL.PS: Thank you for giving us Peyton Hillis.
see the light. We know now that we could not possibly be where we are without you forging the way, leading the charge.You were once the king of the gridiron, the leader of the pack, the epitome of what a football player should be. Within your ranks dwell the most immortal of names; Jim Brown, Franco Harris, Larry Csonka—just to name a few of the NFL’s greatest players who have taken their proud place on the line at your storied position.You are truly the most valuable player on your team. You’re not afraid to throw yourself into harm’s way, risking life and limb at the hands of a 300 pound behemoth all so your team can gain that extra yard. You are the consummate team player, selflessly giving up personal accolades for the better of your organization.Yes, your backfield mate will get all the headlines, but he couldn’t have done it without your sacrifice. Take pride in knowing that, although you are paid a lower salary, will spend six days a week in an ice bath and have almost no Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
chance of being inducted into the Hall of Fame, you will always be a fan favorite.You always come through when we need you. Your versatility is why you were chosen with a fourth round pick. We know we can count on you to provide that key block, catch out of the backfield or crucial goal line push. When we need a fill-in starter at tailback, there you stand.We watch, puzzled, that despite your slow 40 yard dash time and lack of wiggle you still out-produce every other running back ahead of you on the depth chart. We are sincere when we tell you that if production was more important to us than perceived potential, you would be our primary ball carrier. Please understand, it’s not you, it’s us.Fullback, please forgive us. We could never have gotten this far without you and we all know it. Never mind that we have phased you out as primary runners and are trying to phase you out as blockers with the two tight-end set. We really do appreciate all that you have accomplished for this league.Your glory was Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
solidified in the past and will always be remembered thanks to NFL films. No matter what the future holds, know this: you led the way with Jim Brown and Marion Motley; you accepted a new role for Walter Payton and Emmitt Smith. You may have ended with Lorenzo Neal and Mike Alstott, but no matter what, it was you who paved the way for all.Regards and Respect,The NFL.PS: Thank you for giving us Peyton Hillis.
19 Dec 10 Larry Fitzgerald Goes From Stud To Dud: Has Fitz Really Fallen From Glory?
Frustrated, Fitzgerald has not looked like the elite receiver we know he is in 2010.Jeff Gross/Getty ImagesFootball is a team sport.Of course, we all know this to be true, and yet, more often than not, we tend to think of it in terms of individual achievements.We highlight a few stars, place them on a pedestal, send them to the Pro Bowl and forget about the other men who make them great.Never has this been more obvious than right now.Take Larry Fitzgerald. The very definition of stud receiver. For a time, it seemed that everything he touched turned to gold. Screen passes became 80-yard touchdown runs, wayward throws, far beyond the reach of normal men, would be brought in, single-handed in the corner of the end zone, while tapping both feet in bounds.These superstar Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
performances were normal occurrences for Fitz.Since his league debut in 2004, Larry Fitzgerald has only failed to go below 1,000 yards in a season twice, once in 2004, and again in 2006, where he missed three games to injury, and still missed his target by just 54 yards.He is also a four-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time First-Team All-Pro. In 2009, he won the Pro Bowl MVP award.He is one of only a handful of players to beat the Madden curse, starting all 16 of his 2009 regular season games, both playoff games, making the Pro Bowl and setting a career-high, NFL-leading 13 TDs, unlike cover-mate Troy Polamalu who's season was dogged with injury and inconsistency.Fitzgerald makes a trademark, stunning grab. But catches like this have been much fewer, with Derek Anderson and Max Hall under CentreStephen Dunn/Getty ImagesWith someone as prodigiously talented as Larry Fitzgerald, it shouldn't matter who is throwing him the ball. If the commentators and statistician were to be believed, all a QB needed to do was get it somewhere near him, and he'll find a way to catch it.Alas, if only that was the case.I have alreadywritten at length about what I think Arizona needs to do at QB, but that doesn't change the fact that in 2010, Larry Fitzgerald doesn't look like himself.The problem is that in doing so, he has missed as many catches he has made. He has not looked as sure-handed as he has been in the past, and his yards after the catch are nothing like what we are used to.As I watch our No. 11, I see a player who is no longer sure of his ability to haul in the catches, and make a run. I see a man unsure when or where his next pass is coming, and that is certainly affecting him.It is easy to remember games like their last postseason win against Green Bayand paint Kurt Warner as the most accurate QB of his generation, but in reality, he had his fair share of miscues and errant passed. The difference, of course, is that Warner and Fitzgerald trusted one another.Fitz would be able to predict when, and where, errant passes would end up, almost telepathically. Fitz would know when a pass was coming and begin planning his run. With Anderson and Hall, the same can not be said.Derek Anderson (pictured) and Max Hall have had difficulty delivering catchable balls to their receivers.Harry How/Getty ImagesOne of Larry Fitzgerald's biggest skills was making difficult catches look effortless; now, even the most simple pass is a huge effort, both physically Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
and mentally.Yes, he has 601 yards on 49 receptions in his 10 games this season, and with six games to play against some weak passing teams, he may still top the 1,000-yard mark again.The problem is, however, that this year should have been Larry's year. In the past two years, Fitzgerald was one of three stud receivers, all of whom went above 1,000 yards in 2008, only the fifth trio ever to do so, being thrown to by an experienced, knowledgeable QB who could complete passes to anyone.This year, Fitz and Breaston should have been the only real outlets for an inexperienced and less talented QB to unload the ball to, and with Steve Breaston missing several games to injury, Larry Fitzgerald should be well on his way to a career season.He is not. And that concerns me.On the one hand, he must see former partner Anquan Boldin and remind himself that moving away doesn't automatically result in improved numbers, but on the other hand, it's hard not to question your future with an organization, when you see your potential capped by the performance of others.He remains under contract until 2011, and has shown no signs that he won't, at very least, return to the bargaining table if and when the Arizona Cardinals look to extend his contract, something they should be looking to do no later than this offseason.Larry Fitzgerald is still an immensely talented player, and has shown glimpses of that throughout the season.Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesHe is also clearly very loyal to the Arizona Cardinals. He offered to restructure his contract once more to free up space to keep his friend Anquan Boldin on the team. He included a No Trade clause in his 2008 contract renegotiation, and works hard to ensure that he is a positive influence on the team.But he is also visibly frustrated."I'm human," he told Paola Boivin of the Arizona Republic. "I want to be successful. I have a burning desire to be great, not just as a player, but as a team, and sometimes my emotions flow over.""But as a captain, I have to keep an even keel. I don't want to give bad body language so my teammates don't think I'm not on the same page."It looks unlikely that Fitz will even set any personal records this season, let alone league ones. His fourthReebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
consecutive, fifth-overall Pro Bowl selection looks doubtful at this point, and even winning games, let alone divisions, is no longer a simple task for the man.He is surely a superstar, and will surely return to his former glory, but it is so frustrating to watch him try to do so under such difficult circumstances
performances were normal occurrences for Fitz.Since his league debut in 2004, Larry Fitzgerald has only failed to go below 1,000 yards in a season twice, once in 2004, and again in 2006, where he missed three games to injury, and still missed his target by just 54 yards.He is also a four-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time First-Team All-Pro. In 2009, he won the Pro Bowl MVP award.He is one of only a handful of players to beat the Madden curse, starting all 16 of his 2009 regular season games, both playoff games, making the Pro Bowl and setting a career-high, NFL-leading 13 TDs, unlike cover-mate Troy Polamalu who's season was dogged with injury and inconsistency.Fitzgerald makes a trademark, stunning grab. But catches like this have been much fewer, with Derek Anderson and Max Hall under CentreStephen Dunn/Getty ImagesWith someone as prodigiously talented as Larry Fitzgerald, it shouldn't matter who is throwing him the ball. If the commentators and statistician were to be believed, all a QB needed to do was get it somewhere near him, and he'll find a way to catch it.Alas, if only that was the case.I have alreadywritten at length about what I think Arizona needs to do at QB, but that doesn't change the fact that in 2010, Larry Fitzgerald doesn't look like himself.The problem is that in doing so, he has missed as many catches he has made. He has not looked as sure-handed as he has been in the past, and his yards after the catch are nothing like what we are used to.As I watch our No. 11, I see a player who is no longer sure of his ability to haul in the catches, and make a run. I see a man unsure when or where his next pass is coming, and that is certainly affecting him.It is easy to remember games like their last postseason win against Green Bayand paint Kurt Warner as the most accurate QB of his generation, but in reality, he had his fair share of miscues and errant passed. The difference, of course, is that Warner and Fitzgerald trusted one another.Fitz would be able to predict when, and where, errant passes would end up, almost telepathically. Fitz would know when a pass was coming and begin planning his run. With Anderson and Hall, the same can not be said.Derek Anderson (pictured) and Max Hall have had difficulty delivering catchable balls to their receivers.Harry How/Getty ImagesOne of Larry Fitzgerald's biggest skills was making difficult catches look effortless; now, even the most simple pass is a huge effort, both physically Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
and mentally.Yes, he has 601 yards on 49 receptions in his 10 games this season, and with six games to play against some weak passing teams, he may still top the 1,000-yard mark again.The problem is, however, that this year should have been Larry's year. In the past two years, Fitzgerald was one of three stud receivers, all of whom went above 1,000 yards in 2008, only the fifth trio ever to do so, being thrown to by an experienced, knowledgeable QB who could complete passes to anyone.This year, Fitz and Breaston should have been the only real outlets for an inexperienced and less talented QB to unload the ball to, and with Steve Breaston missing several games to injury, Larry Fitzgerald should be well on his way to a career season.He is not. And that concerns me.On the one hand, he must see former partner Anquan Boldin and remind himself that moving away doesn't automatically result in improved numbers, but on the other hand, it's hard not to question your future with an organization, when you see your potential capped by the performance of others.He remains under contract until 2011, and has shown no signs that he won't, at very least, return to the bargaining table if and when the Arizona Cardinals look to extend his contract, something they should be looking to do no later than this offseason.Larry Fitzgerald is still an immensely talented player, and has shown glimpses of that throughout the season.Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesHe is also clearly very loyal to the Arizona Cardinals. He offered to restructure his contract once more to free up space to keep his friend Anquan Boldin on the team. He included a No Trade clause in his 2008 contract renegotiation, and works hard to ensure that he is a positive influence on the team.But he is also visibly frustrated."I'm human," he told Paola Boivin of the Arizona Republic. "I want to be successful. I have a burning desire to be great, not just as a player, but as a team, and sometimes my emotions flow over.""But as a captain, I have to keep an even keel. I don't want to give bad body language so my teammates don't think I'm not on the same page."It looks unlikely that Fitz will even set any personal records this season, let alone league ones. His fourthReebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
consecutive, fifth-overall Pro Bowl selection looks doubtful at this point, and even winning games, let alone divisions, is no longer a simple task for the man.He is surely a superstar, and will surely return to his former glory, but it is so frustrating to watch him try to do so under such difficult circumstances
2010年12月18日星期六
18 Dec 10 NFL AFC East: Are The Jets the Team to Beat in The AFC? Not So Fast
Chris McGrath/Getty ImagesJ-E-T-S JETS, JETS, JETS!A lot of believers in New York and across the football world were claiming an AFC Championship after their 7-2 start but I will tell you why the New England Patriots are going to come out of the AFC this year.The Jets have no doubt had a great start with their 7-2 record, but lets take a look at who they beat and who they have ahead of them.Out of their seven wins, only two of them have come against a team with a winning record!So although they are sitting at 7-2, if they weren't Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
sitting at 7-2 then there would be something wrong with that because they have not faced many good teams.The only reason the Jets are sitting atop of the AFC East right now is because one of those two teams with a winning record that they beat just happened to be the New England Patriots and the other is the Miami Dolphins, both in the AFC East.This will all change when the Jets go to New England on Monday Night Football on Dec. 6, where the Patriots have not lost in nearly four years in the regular season.The Patriots will win that game and take over first place in the AFC East for good. Plain and simply put, who would you want behind center of your team: Mark Sanchez, who has been shaky at times and will ultimately have the game on his shoulders at Gillette Stadium in New England on Monday Night Football, or Tom Brady, who has been lights out his whole career and rarely ever makes a mistake with the game on the line?Who will win the AFC East?Who will win the AFC East?New York Jets29.9%New England Patriots66.4%Miami Dolphins3.7%Total votes: 241I don't know about you, but I would, and maybe even some NY Jets fans would much rather have Tom Brady down the stretch.If having Brady behind center isn't a good enough reason how Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
about having the best coach on your sidelines? I know Rex Ryan is getting a lot of hype around the league and he is doing a great job, but yet again I don't think he could hold Bill Belichick's jockstrap on Sundays.What BB has done with this defense that started four rookies last night in Sunday Night Football in Pittsburgh was simply amazing.The Patriots defense allowed just three points in the first three quarters before sitting back in the prevent which eventually allowed the Steelers to throw up some numbers. The Patriots added four sacks and an interceptions for a touchdown to seal the deal.Belichick is simply the best defensive mind in football and with Tom Brady running your offense, that allows BB to just focus on the defense all the time.The Patriots are simply too good at home and too well disciplined to not win the AFC East this year.I know that the Jets are perfect on the road this season, but the Patriots, so far, are perfect at home too, and I think that the Patriots' streak will last a whole lot longer than the Jets streak.Coming down the stretch, the Jets' toughest three games are coming on the road in New England, in Pittsburgh and in Chicago. These are going to be tough tasks for a young QB to go in and win, and I personally don't know if Sanchez can come out of these last three road games with a winning record.A 2-1 record will be almost impossible for Sanchez and the Jets, and 1-2 seems much more likely. On the other side, the Patriots' toughest road game will be in Chicago and their toughest games are coming against the Jets, Colts and Packers in Gillette, where it seems like the Patriots just don't lose.Coming down the stretch, there is a clear opportunity for the Patriots to pull away in the AFC East. Especially with Tom Brady Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
running the offense, a young defense that is really starting to mold together well, and, oh yeah, don't forget about the Hall of Fame coach, Belichick, pulling the strings.Not only do the Patriots win the AFC East, but I think they represent the AFC in the Super Bowl come February.
sitting at 7-2 then there would be something wrong with that because they have not faced many good teams.The only reason the Jets are sitting atop of the AFC East right now is because one of those two teams with a winning record that they beat just happened to be the New England Patriots and the other is the Miami Dolphins, both in the AFC East.This will all change when the Jets go to New England on Monday Night Football on Dec. 6, where the Patriots have not lost in nearly four years in the regular season.The Patriots will win that game and take over first place in the AFC East for good. Plain and simply put, who would you want behind center of your team: Mark Sanchez, who has been shaky at times and will ultimately have the game on his shoulders at Gillette Stadium in New England on Monday Night Football, or Tom Brady, who has been lights out his whole career and rarely ever makes a mistake with the game on the line?Who will win the AFC East?Who will win the AFC East?New York Jets29.9%New England Patriots66.4%Miami Dolphins3.7%Total votes: 241I don't know about you, but I would, and maybe even some NY Jets fans would much rather have Tom Brady down the stretch.If having Brady behind center isn't a good enough reason how Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
about having the best coach on your sidelines? I know Rex Ryan is getting a lot of hype around the league and he is doing a great job, but yet again I don't think he could hold Bill Belichick's jockstrap on Sundays.What BB has done with this defense that started four rookies last night in Sunday Night Football in Pittsburgh was simply amazing.The Patriots defense allowed just three points in the first three quarters before sitting back in the prevent which eventually allowed the Steelers to throw up some numbers. The Patriots added four sacks and an interceptions for a touchdown to seal the deal.Belichick is simply the best defensive mind in football and with Tom Brady running your offense, that allows BB to just focus on the defense all the time.The Patriots are simply too good at home and too well disciplined to not win the AFC East this year.I know that the Jets are perfect on the road this season, but the Patriots, so far, are perfect at home too, and I think that the Patriots' streak will last a whole lot longer than the Jets streak.Coming down the stretch, the Jets' toughest three games are coming on the road in New England, in Pittsburgh and in Chicago. These are going to be tough tasks for a young QB to go in and win, and I personally don't know if Sanchez can come out of these last three road games with a winning record.A 2-1 record will be almost impossible for Sanchez and the Jets, and 1-2 seems much more likely. On the other side, the Patriots' toughest road game will be in Chicago and their toughest games are coming against the Jets, Colts and Packers in Gillette, where it seems like the Patriots just don't lose.Coming down the stretch, there is a clear opportunity for the Patriots to pull away in the AFC East. Especially with Tom Brady Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
running the offense, a young defense that is really starting to mold together well, and, oh yeah, don't forget about the Hall of Fame coach, Belichick, pulling the strings.Not only do the Patriots win the AFC East, but I think they represent the AFC in the Super Bowl come February.
2010年12月17日星期五
17 Dec 10 Oakland Raiders: Without a Redzone QB, the Team Fails Horribly in Pittsburgh
Defensive lineman Richard Seymour fined 25K for jab at QB Ben RoethlesbergEzra Shaw/Getty ImagesIt appeared that defensive lineman Richard Seymour was just as disgusted as the millions of Oakland Raiders fans were this past Sunday. Seymour was offended when QB Ben Rothlesberg made a derogatory statement against the Silver and Black and was rewarded by a jab to the face because of it. This was pretty much the highlight of the game and the defensive nature of the game with a huge amount of penalties.I hate to Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
say I told you so, but I knew that quarterback Jason Campbell could not face off against a team that would put his throwing skills to the test. Simply put: The Oakland Raiders cannot compete without a QB that cannot score TDs in the Red Zone. Jason Campbell looked awful in Pittsburgh and his game was reminiscent of what happened to him in San Francisco. Jason Campbell was totally out of it and his play showed it. Almost like he didn't get any sleep the night before. Jason, word of advice, " You are no Stabler" It was predicted that the Oakland Raiders would lose because they didn't have the QB skills like the Patriots' Tom Brady, who defeated the Steelers last week. It would appear that the analyst were correct: The Pittsburgh Steelers threw all over the field and even Ben Rothlesberger was able to run in for the TD. It was a huge disappointment for the Oakland Raiders and the Raidernation to see the team defeated in this manner. Who should be the quarterback against the Miami Dolphins?Who should be the quarterback against the Miami Dolphins?Stay with Jason Campbell42.2%Bruce Gradkowski57.8%Total votes: 223There has been a huge followingand rooting for Campbell. There were many fans satisfied with Jason Campbellbecause he won games. However, it appeared that Campbell was riding on the running skills of RB Darren McFadden. Once Darren McFadden was stopped by a strong defensive line, he was unable to perform. Campbell wasthen allowed to do the most horrible throwing I have seen in years; so bad in fact, that coach Tom Cable brought in QB Bruce Gradkowski to see if the game would pick up in the third quarter. It never happened. The damage was already done: Jason Campbell had already given the Pittburgh Steelers six free points with an interception that was run back for a TD. So what options are available for the Oakland Raiders? Should Gradkowski be given the reins? If anything, what does this say about the Oakland Raider offensive line? Right off the bat, get some practice between Campbell and the WRs of Oakland. Campbell threw a horrible game, not mention that he is docile the majority of the time. It also appears that the Oakland Raiders are in dire need of Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
a QB: Gradkowski is a decent option; however, he is too sporadic and although he brings heart to the game, he should have been allowed to play from the start. He was given the opportunity to defeat the Steelerstoo late into the game. Is Jason Campbell good enough to get the Oakland Raiders to the playoffs?Is Jason Campbell good enough to get the Oakland Raiders to the playoffs?No53.3%Yes22.8%It looks like the talents of the two QBs may get them there.23.9%Total votes: 92Had Bruce Gradkowskibeen brought in from the start, the Raiders could easily have won this game, as it was basically defense. There is no speculation here as Bruce Gradkowski is basically a "pigskin slinger ", Bruce has the fast release so Pittburgh can blitz all day. More than likely Bruce Gradkowski would have got the ball to McFadden, Bush or Marcel Reece. Another weakness for the Oakland Raiders is playing football without CB Nnamdi Asomugha.The Raiders had beenstoppingthe run, but without CB Nnamdi Asomugha, the WRs had a little more play and it was not as tight as it should have been. CB Chris Johnson has been burned in recent games and is nowhere close to the matching the skills of Asomugha. In fact, why haven't the Raiders found a replacement for Chris Johnson? So now what lies in the future of the Oakland Raiders? Who will be the starting QB? I believe that Gradkowski has always been the starting QB. The Oakland Raiders have wasted literally millions on the arms of both JaMarcus Russell and Jason Campbell. These two QBs are nowhere near the level of QB that the Oakland Raiders are in need of. In fact let me say that they suck. Pretty harsh but I would take an aging Rich Gannon over Jason Campbell Oakland also had a chance to pick up Michael Vick and he would have played well with RB DarrenMcFadden and TE Zach Miller. The Oakland Raiders need to just stick with Bruce Gradkowski. Let him finish out the season then start searching for a Red Zone QB. Trade Jason Campbell for a pick,keep Bruce Gradkowski as second string and then lets get some more wins. Which rookie QB would you throw in if needed and if on Raiders roster?Which rookie QB would you throw in if needed and if on Raiders roster?Tim Tebow9.4%Colt McCoy25.9%Sam Bradford64.7%Total votes: 85If the Oakland Raiders want to be a Superbowl team then they need a Superbowl quarterback and no matter how many games Jason Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
Campbell has won, he lost an important game for the Silver and Black.Not to mention the guy was emotionless. I guess Jason Campbell keeps looking at his paycheck, new car, new home. All furnished by Al Davis and the Raidernation. In return to Al, here's a loss in Pittsburgh with a rested team, I am gonna throw the football like a little girl.A loss like this could be damaging to team morale. I hope not, but it was a miserable loss and nowhere near the play millions of fans expected. Particularly myself. This matchup wasn owhere near what Al Davis or Tom Cable expected. I expect heads to roll in the Raider locker room. As for Richard Seymour, I would have let out my frustration in same manner.Some times enough is enough.
say I told you so, but I knew that quarterback Jason Campbell could not face off against a team that would put his throwing skills to the test. Simply put: The Oakland Raiders cannot compete without a QB that cannot score TDs in the Red Zone. Jason Campbell looked awful in Pittsburgh and his game was reminiscent of what happened to him in San Francisco. Jason Campbell was totally out of it and his play showed it. Almost like he didn't get any sleep the night before. Jason, word of advice, " You are no Stabler" It was predicted that the Oakland Raiders would lose because they didn't have the QB skills like the Patriots' Tom Brady, who defeated the Steelers last week. It would appear that the analyst were correct: The Pittsburgh Steelers threw all over the field and even Ben Rothlesberger was able to run in for the TD. It was a huge disappointment for the Oakland Raiders and the Raidernation to see the team defeated in this manner. Who should be the quarterback against the Miami Dolphins?Who should be the quarterback against the Miami Dolphins?Stay with Jason Campbell42.2%Bruce Gradkowski57.8%Total votes: 223There has been a huge followingand rooting for Campbell. There were many fans satisfied with Jason Campbellbecause he won games. However, it appeared that Campbell was riding on the running skills of RB Darren McFadden. Once Darren McFadden was stopped by a strong defensive line, he was unable to perform. Campbell wasthen allowed to do the most horrible throwing I have seen in years; so bad in fact, that coach Tom Cable brought in QB Bruce Gradkowski to see if the game would pick up in the third quarter. It never happened. The damage was already done: Jason Campbell had already given the Pittburgh Steelers six free points with an interception that was run back for a TD. So what options are available for the Oakland Raiders? Should Gradkowski be given the reins? If anything, what does this say about the Oakland Raider offensive line? Right off the bat, get some practice between Campbell and the WRs of Oakland. Campbell threw a horrible game, not mention that he is docile the majority of the time. It also appears that the Oakland Raiders are in dire need of Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
a QB: Gradkowski is a decent option; however, he is too sporadic and although he brings heart to the game, he should have been allowed to play from the start. He was given the opportunity to defeat the Steelerstoo late into the game. Is Jason Campbell good enough to get the Oakland Raiders to the playoffs?Is Jason Campbell good enough to get the Oakland Raiders to the playoffs?No53.3%Yes22.8%It looks like the talents of the two QBs may get them there.23.9%Total votes: 92Had Bruce Gradkowskibeen brought in from the start, the Raiders could easily have won this game, as it was basically defense. There is no speculation here as Bruce Gradkowski is basically a "pigskin slinger ", Bruce has the fast release so Pittburgh can blitz all day. More than likely Bruce Gradkowski would have got the ball to McFadden, Bush or Marcel Reece. Another weakness for the Oakland Raiders is playing football without CB Nnamdi Asomugha.The Raiders had beenstoppingthe run, but without CB Nnamdi Asomugha, the WRs had a little more play and it was not as tight as it should have been. CB Chris Johnson has been burned in recent games and is nowhere close to the matching the skills of Asomugha. In fact, why haven't the Raiders found a replacement for Chris Johnson? So now what lies in the future of the Oakland Raiders? Who will be the starting QB? I believe that Gradkowski has always been the starting QB. The Oakland Raiders have wasted literally millions on the arms of both JaMarcus Russell and Jason Campbell. These two QBs are nowhere near the level of QB that the Oakland Raiders are in need of. In fact let me say that they suck. Pretty harsh but I would take an aging Rich Gannon over Jason Campbell Oakland also had a chance to pick up Michael Vick and he would have played well with RB DarrenMcFadden and TE Zach Miller. The Oakland Raiders need to just stick with Bruce Gradkowski. Let him finish out the season then start searching for a Red Zone QB. Trade Jason Campbell for a pick,keep Bruce Gradkowski as second string and then lets get some more wins. Which rookie QB would you throw in if needed and if on Raiders roster?Which rookie QB would you throw in if needed and if on Raiders roster?Tim Tebow9.4%Colt McCoy25.9%Sam Bradford64.7%Total votes: 85If the Oakland Raiders want to be a Superbowl team then they need a Superbowl quarterback and no matter how many games Jason Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
Campbell has won, he lost an important game for the Silver and Black.Not to mention the guy was emotionless. I guess Jason Campbell keeps looking at his paycheck, new car, new home. All furnished by Al Davis and the Raidernation. In return to Al, here's a loss in Pittsburgh with a rested team, I am gonna throw the football like a little girl.A loss like this could be damaging to team morale. I hope not, but it was a miserable loss and nowhere near the play millions of fans expected. Particularly myself. This matchup wasn owhere near what Al Davis or Tom Cable expected. I expect heads to roll in the Raider locker room. As for Richard Seymour, I would have let out my frustration in same manner.Some times enough is enough.
2010年12月16日星期四
16 Dec 10 Fantasy Football Week 12 Rankings: Top 60 Wide Receivers
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesMany considered Randy Moss, Brandon Marshall and Steve Smith among the best wide receivers in the league prior to 2011. Now, none of them are considered usable, even in three-wide receiver formats.Of course, others have taken their place near the top, but that is no condolence for fantasy owners who drafted them, now is it?With that said, let’s take a look at how the rankings currently look for Week 12:Calvin Johnson – Detroit Lions – vs. New EnglandGreg Jennings – Green Bay Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
Packers – at AtlantaAndre Johnson – Houston Texans – vs. TennesseeMike Wallace – Pittsburgh Steelers – at BuffaloRoddy White – Atlanta Falcons – vs. Green BayReggie Wayne – Indianapolis Colts – vs. San DiegoDwayne Bowe – Kansas City Chiefs – at SeattleBrandon Lloyd – Denver Broncos – vs. St. LouisDeSean Jackson – Philadelphia Eagles – at ChicagoMarques Colston – New Orleans Saints – at DallasLarry Fitzgerald – Arizona Cardinals – vs. San FranciscoMario Manningham – New York Giants – vs. JacksonvilleSantonio Holmes – New York Jets – vs. CincinnatiPercy Harvin – Minnesota Vikings – at WashingtonWes Welker – New England Patriots – at DetroitTerrell Owens – Cincinnati Bengals – at New York JetsDez Bryant – Dallas Cowboys – vs. New OrleansSteve Johnson – Buffalo Bills – vs. PittsburghAnquan Boldin – Baltimore Ravens – vs. Tampa BayChad Ochocinco – Cincinnati Bengals – at New York JetsJeremy Maclin – Philadelphia Eagles – at ChicagoMiles Austin – Dallas Cowboys – vs. New OrleansNate Burleson – Detroit Lions – vs. New EnglandPierre Garcon – Indianapolis Colts – vs. San DiegoBraylon Edwards – New York Jets – vs. CincinnatiMichael Crabtree – San Francisco 49ers – at ArizonaMike Williams – Tampa Bay Buccaneers – at BaltimoreSantana Moss – Washington Redskins – vs. MinnesotaVincent Jackson – San Diego Chargers – at IndianapolisHines Ward – Pittsburgh Steelers – at BuffaloMike Thomas – Jacksonville Jaguars – at New York GiantsJohnny Knox – Chicago Bears – vs. PhiladelphiaSteve Breaston – Arizona Cardinals – vs. San FranciscoMike Williams – Seattle Seahawks – vs. Kansas CityDonald Driver – Green Bay Packers – at AtlantaDeion Branch – New England Patriots – at DetroitBrandon Marshall – Miami Dolphins – at OaklandDanny Woodhead – New England Patriots – at DetroitDavone Bess – Miami Dolphins – at OaklandNate Washington – Tennessee Titans – at HoustonSidney Rice – Minnesota Vikings – at WashingtonRobert Meachem – New Orleans Saints – at DallasJames Jones – Green Bay Packers – at AtlantaLance Moore – New Orleans Saints – at DallasSteve Smith – Carolina Panthers – at ClevelandLee Evans – Buffalo Bills – vs. PittsburghDerek Hagan – New York Giants – vs. JacksonvilleRandy Moss – Tennessee Titans – at HoustonDerrick Mason – Baltimore Ravens – vs. Tampa BayLouis Murphy – Oakland Raiders – vs. MiamiJabar Gaffney – Denver Broncos – vs. St. LouisKevin Walter – Houston Texans – vs. TennesseeDanny Amendola – St. Louis Rams – at DenverRoy Williams – Dallas Cowboys – vs. New Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
OrleansMohamed Massaquoi – Cleveland Browns – vs. CarolinaEddie Royal – Denver Broncos – vs. St. LouisDeon Butler – Seattle Seahawks – vs. Kansas CityJacoby Ford – Oakland Raiders – vs. MiamiDevin Hester – Chicago Bears – vs. PhiladelphiaT.J. Houshmandzadeh – Baltimore Ravens – vs. Tampa Bay Steve Smith is still out and now comes word that Hakeem Nicks will miss at least three weeks and possibly more. The once-vaunted Giants passing attack will now be led by Mario Manningham, clearly not an optimal scenario. You have to think that we may get a bigger dose of Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs this week.Does anyone remember Greg Jennings’ slow start? Over the past five weeks, his worst game was 74 yards (and has games of 133 and 152). He has six TDs over that span, as well as 32 catches. There’s little not to like and he clearly has reestablished himself among the elite in the game.Roddy White vs. Charles Woodson is one of the more intriguing matchups this week. Considering his 79 receptions for 1,017 yards and 7 TD through 10 games it’s impossible to rank White outside the Top 10, but the matchup does pull him just outside the Top 5.In the last three games, Mike Wallace has had 362 yards and four touchdowns. He draws a defense that has allowed 20 passing TDs on the season. It certainly has the makings for a big day for the Steelers' big-play threat, doesn’t it?Wes Welker finally appears to be getting healthy, though he’s not quite there yet. Consider him a WR2, but realize that he has the potential to produce like a WR1 moving forward.Dwayne Bowe has come alive, now with 45 receptions for 715 yards and 11 TD. He has scored touchdowns in six straight games, with 10 TDs over that span (including four two touchdown games). This week the Chiefs get a Seahawks team that has allowed 283.2 passing yards per game and 16 passing TDs. You have to like the matchup.Originally the talk was that Darrelle Revis would shadow Terrell Owens. Now, that may not be the case. Either way, you have to downgrade him and Chad Ochocinco slightly.Still think Santonio Holmes can only produce in overtime? He’s coming off a seven reception, 126 yard, two touchdown performance and clearly has developed a great rapport with Mark Sanchez. Consider him a WR2, especially after the performance Steve Johnson and Ryan Fitzpatrick put on against the Bengals in Week 11 (8 catches, 137 yards, 3 TD).Anquan Boldin has struggled for three straight weeks, with just 10 receptions for 107 yards and a touchdown over that span. He’s still a WR2, but you clearly would like to see more before trusting him.Vincent Jackson is going to play and early word is that he is going to quickly play a major factor in the Chargers offense. Malcolm Floyd & Antonio Gates are no sure thing and Patrick Crayton is most likely out for Week 12. The Chargers need a threat on the outside and remember, Jackson has been practicing and was not out due to injury, just a holdout. He’s a borderline WR2, but definitely a usable option in three-receiver formats.Does anyone want to trust Brandon Marshall at this point (even if he plays)? He’s only borderline usable as a WR3. The same can be said for Randy Moss and Steve Smith. Would anyone have expected these three big-name receivers to be left virtually unusable?Sidney Rice may have had just three receptions for 56 yards, but the more telling number is the 10 targets he had. That led the team by a wide margin and shows that Brett Favre desperately wants to get him significantly involved in the offense. Obviously, we want to see him perform before trusting him, but he easily could become a viable option before long.Robert Meachem may be coming off aReebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
big game, but he was targeted just three times and hasn’t had more than 76 yards in a game all season. The Saints have too many options to consider him viable outside of deeper formats.What are your thoughts on these rankings? Who's too high? Who's too low?Make sure to check out Rotoprofessor’s Week 12 Rankings:Top 25 QuarterbacksTop 40 Running BacksTop 20 Tight Ends(coming soon) Top 15 Kickers(coming soon) Top 15 Defenses (coming soon) Waiver WorthyStart ‘Em or Sit ‘Em (coming soon) Sunday Sleepers (coming soon) THIS ARTICLE IS ALSO FEATURED ON WWW.ROTOPROFESSOR.COM/FOOTBALL
Packers – at AtlantaAndre Johnson – Houston Texans – vs. TennesseeMike Wallace – Pittsburgh Steelers – at BuffaloRoddy White – Atlanta Falcons – vs. Green BayReggie Wayne – Indianapolis Colts – vs. San DiegoDwayne Bowe – Kansas City Chiefs – at SeattleBrandon Lloyd – Denver Broncos – vs. St. LouisDeSean Jackson – Philadelphia Eagles – at ChicagoMarques Colston – New Orleans Saints – at DallasLarry Fitzgerald – Arizona Cardinals – vs. San FranciscoMario Manningham – New York Giants – vs. JacksonvilleSantonio Holmes – New York Jets – vs. CincinnatiPercy Harvin – Minnesota Vikings – at WashingtonWes Welker – New England Patriots – at DetroitTerrell Owens – Cincinnati Bengals – at New York JetsDez Bryant – Dallas Cowboys – vs. New OrleansSteve Johnson – Buffalo Bills – vs. PittsburghAnquan Boldin – Baltimore Ravens – vs. Tampa BayChad Ochocinco – Cincinnati Bengals – at New York JetsJeremy Maclin – Philadelphia Eagles – at ChicagoMiles Austin – Dallas Cowboys – vs. New OrleansNate Burleson – Detroit Lions – vs. New EnglandPierre Garcon – Indianapolis Colts – vs. San DiegoBraylon Edwards – New York Jets – vs. CincinnatiMichael Crabtree – San Francisco 49ers – at ArizonaMike Williams – Tampa Bay Buccaneers – at BaltimoreSantana Moss – Washington Redskins – vs. MinnesotaVincent Jackson – San Diego Chargers – at IndianapolisHines Ward – Pittsburgh Steelers – at BuffaloMike Thomas – Jacksonville Jaguars – at New York GiantsJohnny Knox – Chicago Bears – vs. PhiladelphiaSteve Breaston – Arizona Cardinals – vs. San FranciscoMike Williams – Seattle Seahawks – vs. Kansas CityDonald Driver – Green Bay Packers – at AtlantaDeion Branch – New England Patriots – at DetroitBrandon Marshall – Miami Dolphins – at OaklandDanny Woodhead – New England Patriots – at DetroitDavone Bess – Miami Dolphins – at OaklandNate Washington – Tennessee Titans – at HoustonSidney Rice – Minnesota Vikings – at WashingtonRobert Meachem – New Orleans Saints – at DallasJames Jones – Green Bay Packers – at AtlantaLance Moore – New Orleans Saints – at DallasSteve Smith – Carolina Panthers – at ClevelandLee Evans – Buffalo Bills – vs. PittsburghDerek Hagan – New York Giants – vs. JacksonvilleRandy Moss – Tennessee Titans – at HoustonDerrick Mason – Baltimore Ravens – vs. Tampa BayLouis Murphy – Oakland Raiders – vs. MiamiJabar Gaffney – Denver Broncos – vs. St. LouisKevin Walter – Houston Texans – vs. TennesseeDanny Amendola – St. Louis Rams – at DenverRoy Williams – Dallas Cowboys – vs. New Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
OrleansMohamed Massaquoi – Cleveland Browns – vs. CarolinaEddie Royal – Denver Broncos – vs. St. LouisDeon Butler – Seattle Seahawks – vs. Kansas CityJacoby Ford – Oakland Raiders – vs. MiamiDevin Hester – Chicago Bears – vs. PhiladelphiaT.J. Houshmandzadeh – Baltimore Ravens – vs. Tampa Bay Steve Smith is still out and now comes word that Hakeem Nicks will miss at least three weeks and possibly more. The once-vaunted Giants passing attack will now be led by Mario Manningham, clearly not an optimal scenario. You have to think that we may get a bigger dose of Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs this week.Does anyone remember Greg Jennings’ slow start? Over the past five weeks, his worst game was 74 yards (and has games of 133 and 152). He has six TDs over that span, as well as 32 catches. There’s little not to like and he clearly has reestablished himself among the elite in the game.Roddy White vs. Charles Woodson is one of the more intriguing matchups this week. Considering his 79 receptions for 1,017 yards and 7 TD through 10 games it’s impossible to rank White outside the Top 10, but the matchup does pull him just outside the Top 5.In the last three games, Mike Wallace has had 362 yards and four touchdowns. He draws a defense that has allowed 20 passing TDs on the season. It certainly has the makings for a big day for the Steelers' big-play threat, doesn’t it?Wes Welker finally appears to be getting healthy, though he’s not quite there yet. Consider him a WR2, but realize that he has the potential to produce like a WR1 moving forward.Dwayne Bowe has come alive, now with 45 receptions for 715 yards and 11 TD. He has scored touchdowns in six straight games, with 10 TDs over that span (including four two touchdown games). This week the Chiefs get a Seahawks team that has allowed 283.2 passing yards per game and 16 passing TDs. You have to like the matchup.Originally the talk was that Darrelle Revis would shadow Terrell Owens. Now, that may not be the case. Either way, you have to downgrade him and Chad Ochocinco slightly.Still think Santonio Holmes can only produce in overtime? He’s coming off a seven reception, 126 yard, two touchdown performance and clearly has developed a great rapport with Mark Sanchez. Consider him a WR2, especially after the performance Steve Johnson and Ryan Fitzpatrick put on against the Bengals in Week 11 (8 catches, 137 yards, 3 TD).Anquan Boldin has struggled for three straight weeks, with just 10 receptions for 107 yards and a touchdown over that span. He’s still a WR2, but you clearly would like to see more before trusting him.Vincent Jackson is going to play and early word is that he is going to quickly play a major factor in the Chargers offense. Malcolm Floyd & Antonio Gates are no sure thing and Patrick Crayton is most likely out for Week 12. The Chargers need a threat on the outside and remember, Jackson has been practicing and was not out due to injury, just a holdout. He’s a borderline WR2, but definitely a usable option in three-receiver formats.Does anyone want to trust Brandon Marshall at this point (even if he plays)? He’s only borderline usable as a WR3. The same can be said for Randy Moss and Steve Smith. Would anyone have expected these three big-name receivers to be left virtually unusable?Sidney Rice may have had just three receptions for 56 yards, but the more telling number is the 10 targets he had. That led the team by a wide margin and shows that Brett Favre desperately wants to get him significantly involved in the offense. Obviously, we want to see him perform before trusting him, but he easily could become a viable option before long.Robert Meachem may be coming off aReebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
big game, but he was targeted just three times and hasn’t had more than 76 yards in a game all season. The Saints have too many options to consider him viable outside of deeper formats.What are your thoughts on these rankings? Who's too high? Who's too low?Make sure to check out Rotoprofessor’s Week 12 Rankings:Top 25 QuarterbacksTop 40 Running BacksTop 20 Tight Ends(coming soon) Top 15 Kickers(coming soon) Top 15 Defenses (coming soon) Waiver WorthyStart ‘Em or Sit ‘Em (coming soon) Sunday Sleepers (coming soon) THIS ARTICLE IS ALSO FEATURED ON WWW.ROTOPROFESSOR.COM/FOOTBALL
2010年12月15日星期三
Chicago Bears Deserve Respect, Whether They Like It or Not
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesThe team that thrived on thelack of respect it has received will just have to live with some.Throughout coach Lovie Smith's tenure, the Bears have had the clicheus-against-the-world mentality. This year in particular they've been able to take the lack of 43 Polamalu black jersey
respect mantra even further than Rodney Dangerfield did.There can be no doubt about the legitimacy of the Bears' playoff or even Super Bowl candidacy following a 31-26 win over Philadelphia and Michael Vick. The final score came nowhere near indicating the severity of the beating the Bears dished out to an Eagles team being hailed as the league's best ever since its 59-28 whipping of the moribund Washington Redskins.Before the Bears chased Vick out of Dodge Sunday, they had usually been voted the team most likely to fall by the wayside when Howie, Terry, Jimmy, Boomer, Bill Cowher, Dan Marino, Michael Strahan and their ilk quit playing around on their miniature football fields long enough to talk about the sport."We’ve got tons of pride and we’ve got a lot of pride walking off that field in front of our home crowd having beaten a good team," tight end Greg Olsen said Sunday. "To us, that is more important than whatever any pregame show says about us."So now that they have some respect, the Bears say they don't care about it.What's the average football skeptic to do?Which NFC team is most likely to get left out of the playoffs?Which NFC team is most likely to get left out of the playoffs?A) New Orleans9.0%B) Atlanta1.3%c) Chicago8.7%D) Green Bay25.6%E) Philadelphia6.3%F) New York Giants49.1%Total votes: 446To be certain, there was reason to doubt the Bears. After all, of their seven wins before Sunday, only their 20-17 win over Green Bay came against a team which currently has a winning record.In fact, beating up Carolina, Buffalo, Minnesota, Detroit, Dallas and a Miami team that had a third-string quarterback probably qualifies as a professional football version of the typicalNotre Dame schedule.But the Bears have no say in who is on their schedule; they can only play who they play. Coming into the season, their schedule actuallyrated among the toughest in the league based on last year's records.Even after Sunday, there will be those who question their legitimacy based on the fact that NFL interception leader Asante Samuel couldn't play against them due to a knee injury."He’s a great player and sooner or later we’re probably 4 Brett Favre White jersey
gonna miss a player here and there," said quarterback Jay Cutler. "I’ve missed a game, Lance (Briggs) has missed a game and that’s the NFL."Very rarely are your guys going to be able to play 16 straight games."Pity is a difficult commodity to find in the NFL. No one around the league felt it for the Bears last year when they lost starting linebackers Brian Urlacher and Pisa Tinoisamoa for almost the entire season. So the Bears will take the fact that they have been possibly the healthiest team in the NFL and run with it."We knew that this was a big game and whether we’ve gotten enough respect or not, none of that really matters either," coach Lovie Smith said. "Just with us, with our schedule, we get a chance to play the best, supposedly the best teams out there, and of course they stood up today.”Facing the JetsandPatriots at home and Minnesota, Green Bay and Detroit on the road over the final five weeks will make certain no one calls the Bears' schedule soft the rest of the way.When they can roll up a season-high in points scored, Cutler can match a career-high for touchdown passes (four) and set a high for single-game passer rating (146.2), and Matt Forte can gain more rushing yards (117) than any back has against the Eagles' eighth-ranked defense, there can be little doubt the Bears' offense is finally starting to pull itself up to the level where their own defense and special teams have been all year."By no means are we a finished product, but if we continue to take steps each week we'll be in every game," Olsen said.A few weeks ago no one would have thought that possible, especially before the bye week when they came home 4-1 and lost to Seattle and Washington. More so 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
than the wins over easier opponents, those two defeats probably led tomost of the disrespect."We kind of stumbled there in the middle of the season with those two home games we lost, and have won four in a row since then," Urlacher said. "We're where we want to be, leading our division. That's where we've wanted to be all season long."They've also put themselves at a higher level in the eyes of observers, even if they now claim it means nothing.__________________________________________________________________________Gene Chamberlain is a RapidReporter for CBS Sports.com and long-time beat writer covering the Chicago Bears.________________
respect mantra even further than Rodney Dangerfield did.There can be no doubt about the legitimacy of the Bears' playoff or even Super Bowl candidacy following a 31-26 win over Philadelphia and Michael Vick. The final score came nowhere near indicating the severity of the beating the Bears dished out to an Eagles team being hailed as the league's best ever since its 59-28 whipping of the moribund Washington Redskins.Before the Bears chased Vick out of Dodge Sunday, they had usually been voted the team most likely to fall by the wayside when Howie, Terry, Jimmy, Boomer, Bill Cowher, Dan Marino, Michael Strahan and their ilk quit playing around on their miniature football fields long enough to talk about the sport."We’ve got tons of pride and we’ve got a lot of pride walking off that field in front of our home crowd having beaten a good team," tight end Greg Olsen said Sunday. "To us, that is more important than whatever any pregame show says about us."So now that they have some respect, the Bears say they don't care about it.What's the average football skeptic to do?Which NFC team is most likely to get left out of the playoffs?Which NFC team is most likely to get left out of the playoffs?A) New Orleans9.0%B) Atlanta1.3%c) Chicago8.7%D) Green Bay25.6%E) Philadelphia6.3%F) New York Giants49.1%Total votes: 446To be certain, there was reason to doubt the Bears. After all, of their seven wins before Sunday, only their 20-17 win over Green Bay came against a team which currently has a winning record.In fact, beating up Carolina, Buffalo, Minnesota, Detroit, Dallas and a Miami team that had a third-string quarterback probably qualifies as a professional football version of the typicalNotre Dame schedule.But the Bears have no say in who is on their schedule; they can only play who they play. Coming into the season, their schedule actuallyrated among the toughest in the league based on last year's records.Even after Sunday, there will be those who question their legitimacy based on the fact that NFL interception leader Asante Samuel couldn't play against them due to a knee injury."He’s a great player and sooner or later we’re probably 4 Brett Favre White jersey
gonna miss a player here and there," said quarterback Jay Cutler. "I’ve missed a game, Lance (Briggs) has missed a game and that’s the NFL."Very rarely are your guys going to be able to play 16 straight games."Pity is a difficult commodity to find in the NFL. No one around the league felt it for the Bears last year when they lost starting linebackers Brian Urlacher and Pisa Tinoisamoa for almost the entire season. So the Bears will take the fact that they have been possibly the healthiest team in the NFL and run with it."We knew that this was a big game and whether we’ve gotten enough respect or not, none of that really matters either," coach Lovie Smith said. "Just with us, with our schedule, we get a chance to play the best, supposedly the best teams out there, and of course they stood up today.”Facing the JetsandPatriots at home and Minnesota, Green Bay and Detroit on the road over the final five weeks will make certain no one calls the Bears' schedule soft the rest of the way.When they can roll up a season-high in points scored, Cutler can match a career-high for touchdown passes (four) and set a high for single-game passer rating (146.2), and Matt Forte can gain more rushing yards (117) than any back has against the Eagles' eighth-ranked defense, there can be little doubt the Bears' offense is finally starting to pull itself up to the level where their own defense and special teams have been all year."By no means are we a finished product, but if we continue to take steps each week we'll be in every game," Olsen said.A few weeks ago no one would have thought that possible, especially before the bye week when they came home 4-1 and lost to Seattle and Washington. More so 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
than the wins over easier opponents, those two defeats probably led tomost of the disrespect."We kind of stumbled there in the middle of the season with those two home games we lost, and have won four in a row since then," Urlacher said. "We're where we want to be, leading our division. That's where we've wanted to be all season long."They've also put themselves at a higher level in the eyes of observers, even if they now claim it means nothing.__________________________________________________________________________Gene Chamberlain is a RapidReporter for CBS Sports.com and long-time beat writer covering the Chicago Bears.________________
2010年12月13日星期一
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Houston Texans: Quick Reactions From Week 13 Win
Al Bello/Getty Images-- For the most part, Michael Vick's decision-making was pretty good. He did get picked on an underthrown ball and almost got picked because he stared down a receiver, but other than that he was hitting the open guy and allowing his receivers to make plays. Vick threw for 300 yards for the third time this season and continues to look like a real quarterback.-- LeSean McCoy was, once again, under-utilized. At an embarrassing 12 carries, head coach Andy Reid continues to ignore McCoy's value as a runner. At one point, McCoy was well 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
over five yards per carry, but carries in garbage time into a Texans' defense expecting it dropped his average to under four per carry. He did, however, have eight receptions for 86 yards and one touchdown.-- He still has yet to carry the ball even once, but Owen Schmitt chipped in with his first touchdown reception as an Eagle. Schmitt continues to be a great blocker and a reliable option out of the backfield.-- Like McCoy, Jerome Harrison was disgustingly under-used. Three carries. That's it. If he was upset about his playing time in Cleveland he's got to be fuming now.-- The big story this week was DeSean Jackson. Even though he didn't have the big game everyone expected, he chipped in with three receptions for 84 yards. It doesn't sound like a lot, but they were all big catches that kept the offense moving. The team will still look for more out of him, but it was better than what they got last week.-- With five catches for 68 yards, Jeremy Maclin actually had a down game. He's been red-hot as of late but, like Jackson, most of Maclin's receptions were key within the drive in which they occurred. He also turned and went straight up-field for once. So, three cheers for Maclin.-- What is going on with Jason Avant? He had another dropped touchdown pass. Even one is a lot for a guy like Avant, and this recent one was almost as bad as his drop against the Giants.-- Brent Celek made the best play of the night with his key first down on third-and-long. The awareness to understand that he was not down because he was on top of a defender and make one last reach for the sticks was worth applauding. Unfortunately, it only canceled out a dropped touchdown catch of his own.-- Chad Hall, playing in place of the injured Riley Cooper, only accounted for three yards on three carries, but accounted for a first down along the way. I, like most Eagles fans, believe Cooper has a bright future, but right now Hall is more valuable player because of his versatility.-- The offensive line was just short of spectacular. They had a couple breakdowns that forced Vick to move out of the pocket, but more often than not they were man-handling the Texans' defensive line and giving Vick tons of time. They just have to cut down on the random mental lapses and they might turn into a very good unit.-- Even King Dunlap was impressive in limited time while filling in for an injured Winston Justice (who, by the way, is said to have a sprained MCL and will have an MRI Friday).-- The play-calling was suspect at best. Reid and Marty Mornhinweg are still calling far too much play-action without actually establishing the run first. I would love to ask them what they think that's going to accomplish. And the designed runs with Vick are just going to get him hurt. It's time to seriously cut back on those and just starting handing the ball to McCoy instead.-- For the fourth time this season, Trent Cole was held without a sack. He got some good pressure and chipped in with three tackles, but overall it was a disappointing game for the Pro Bowl defensive end.-- Antonio Dixon, once again, was monumental in containing the running game. Arian Foster is the league's leading rusher and was held to 83 yards on 22 carries. Dixon's ability to play two gaps at a time is a huge reason for the defense's recent ability to stop the run.-- Mike Patterson chipped in with a sack, and Brodrick Bunkley did a good job of controlling the line in limited action. It seems like the team is trying too hard to turn Bunkley into a two-gap player like Dixon. He's a guy who belongs in the three technique and shooting a gap, not trying to eat up blockers.-- In his fifth start of the season, Brandon Graham was basically invisible. Were it not for his ability to do all the little things, his rookie season would be a pretty big disappointment. Juqua Parker should easily re-take his job when healthy.-- There is not a happier man on this earth than Trevor Laws. Coming down with Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
that interception had to be the greatest feeling of his young career and is just another positive step forward for the former second-round pick. Now all they need to do is teach him how to hold onto the football.-- I'm not sure what to say about Darryl Tapp or Daniel Te'o-Nesheim anymore. Neither one did anything worth while until Tapp recovered Matt Schaub's late fumble. Both look completely inept. This is looking like a miss on the trade for Tapp and drafting Te'o-Nesheim in the third when most scouts graded him around the sixth round.-- For the first time since all year, Stewart Bradley looked like a middle linebacker this defense could build around. He was blitzing well, reading plays very well, and even making tackles and finishing plays. Hopefully he's starting to get healthy and this is the Bradley we'll see moving forward.-- Ernie Sims continues to be a disappointment in my eyes. I haven't seen the speed when it really counts. The only time it seems to show up is when he's running past a play. He doesn't seem able to control himself and might be another linebacker rental.-- Not much to report on Moise Fokou. There weren't any spectacular plays, but he did a very good job of forcing Foster back to the middle and not allowing him to hit the edges.-- The secondary could not stop Andre Johnson. But then again, few can. We saw Joselio Hanson get beat a couple times again, but he was much better than last week. I did take notice that Trevard Lindley played most of the game on the outside while Hanson stayed on the inside in nickel situations. That's what I was yelling for last week, and it worked this week.-- The more I see of Dimitri Patterson, the more he starts to look like Sheldon Brown.-- Rookie safety Nate Allen got ran over in the endzone by Foster early in the game, but made up for it with a late strip-sack of Schaub. Overall, Allen is looking like an absolute steal in the second round.-- Quintin Mikell was clearly sick of hearing the talk about his demise. He nearly had a couple sacks, would have had an interception were it not for his stone hands, and would flying around the field all night long. It hasn't been a great year for him, but he picked it up against the Texans.-- Was I the only one who saw the graphic showing that the Eagles' defense is the worst in the redzone since the 1988 Houston Oilers? That's a direct result of Sean McDermott's soft play-calling and the soft way he calls a game in general. I'm still on board to see him fired.-- I'm officially a fan of Colt Anderson. I would be lying if I told you I knew who he was coming off the Minnesota Vikings practice squad, but he keeps making big plays on special teams and has proven to be a good under-the-radar pick-up.-- Following Anderson, the coverage for both kicks and punts was very good. It was great to see after a complete breakdown against the Bears last week. Bobby April should stop Reid's streak of firing special teams coordinators.-- Nothing to report in terms of Steelers 10 Santonio Holmes jersey
DeSean Jackson returning punts. He called a fair catch and let the ball roll another time on both of Matt Turk's punts. Jorrick Calvin had a 102-yard kick return, but it was called back by a questionable holding call. I think, before the season is out, Calvin will have a return that actually counts.-- At 8-4, this team controls its own destiny. All they have to do is keep winning and they'll take the NFC East for the sixth time in the Reid era. But with two games against the Dallas Cowboys, one more against the New York Giants, and a potential trap game against the Minnesota Vikings, that's easier said than done.This article is also featured on2 Minutes to Midnight Green
over five yards per carry, but carries in garbage time into a Texans' defense expecting it dropped his average to under four per carry. He did, however, have eight receptions for 86 yards and one touchdown.-- He still has yet to carry the ball even once, but Owen Schmitt chipped in with his first touchdown reception as an Eagle. Schmitt continues to be a great blocker and a reliable option out of the backfield.-- Like McCoy, Jerome Harrison was disgustingly under-used. Three carries. That's it. If he was upset about his playing time in Cleveland he's got to be fuming now.-- The big story this week was DeSean Jackson. Even though he didn't have the big game everyone expected, he chipped in with three receptions for 84 yards. It doesn't sound like a lot, but they were all big catches that kept the offense moving. The team will still look for more out of him, but it was better than what they got last week.-- With five catches for 68 yards, Jeremy Maclin actually had a down game. He's been red-hot as of late but, like Jackson, most of Maclin's receptions were key within the drive in which they occurred. He also turned and went straight up-field for once. So, three cheers for Maclin.-- What is going on with Jason Avant? He had another dropped touchdown pass. Even one is a lot for a guy like Avant, and this recent one was almost as bad as his drop against the Giants.-- Brent Celek made the best play of the night with his key first down on third-and-long. The awareness to understand that he was not down because he was on top of a defender and make one last reach for the sticks was worth applauding. Unfortunately, it only canceled out a dropped touchdown catch of his own.-- Chad Hall, playing in place of the injured Riley Cooper, only accounted for three yards on three carries, but accounted for a first down along the way. I, like most Eagles fans, believe Cooper has a bright future, but right now Hall is more valuable player because of his versatility.-- The offensive line was just short of spectacular. They had a couple breakdowns that forced Vick to move out of the pocket, but more often than not they were man-handling the Texans' defensive line and giving Vick tons of time. They just have to cut down on the random mental lapses and they might turn into a very good unit.-- Even King Dunlap was impressive in limited time while filling in for an injured Winston Justice (who, by the way, is said to have a sprained MCL and will have an MRI Friday).-- The play-calling was suspect at best. Reid and Marty Mornhinweg are still calling far too much play-action without actually establishing the run first. I would love to ask them what they think that's going to accomplish. And the designed runs with Vick are just going to get him hurt. It's time to seriously cut back on those and just starting handing the ball to McCoy instead.-- For the fourth time this season, Trent Cole was held without a sack. He got some good pressure and chipped in with three tackles, but overall it was a disappointing game for the Pro Bowl defensive end.-- Antonio Dixon, once again, was monumental in containing the running game. Arian Foster is the league's leading rusher and was held to 83 yards on 22 carries. Dixon's ability to play two gaps at a time is a huge reason for the defense's recent ability to stop the run.-- Mike Patterson chipped in with a sack, and Brodrick Bunkley did a good job of controlling the line in limited action. It seems like the team is trying too hard to turn Bunkley into a two-gap player like Dixon. He's a guy who belongs in the three technique and shooting a gap, not trying to eat up blockers.-- In his fifth start of the season, Brandon Graham was basically invisible. Were it not for his ability to do all the little things, his rookie season would be a pretty big disappointment. Juqua Parker should easily re-take his job when healthy.-- There is not a happier man on this earth than Trevor Laws. Coming down with Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
that interception had to be the greatest feeling of his young career and is just another positive step forward for the former second-round pick. Now all they need to do is teach him how to hold onto the football.-- I'm not sure what to say about Darryl Tapp or Daniel Te'o-Nesheim anymore. Neither one did anything worth while until Tapp recovered Matt Schaub's late fumble. Both look completely inept. This is looking like a miss on the trade for Tapp and drafting Te'o-Nesheim in the third when most scouts graded him around the sixth round.-- For the first time since all year, Stewart Bradley looked like a middle linebacker this defense could build around. He was blitzing well, reading plays very well, and even making tackles and finishing plays. Hopefully he's starting to get healthy and this is the Bradley we'll see moving forward.-- Ernie Sims continues to be a disappointment in my eyes. I haven't seen the speed when it really counts. The only time it seems to show up is when he's running past a play. He doesn't seem able to control himself and might be another linebacker rental.-- Not much to report on Moise Fokou. There weren't any spectacular plays, but he did a very good job of forcing Foster back to the middle and not allowing him to hit the edges.-- The secondary could not stop Andre Johnson. But then again, few can. We saw Joselio Hanson get beat a couple times again, but he was much better than last week. I did take notice that Trevard Lindley played most of the game on the outside while Hanson stayed on the inside in nickel situations. That's what I was yelling for last week, and it worked this week.-- The more I see of Dimitri Patterson, the more he starts to look like Sheldon Brown.-- Rookie safety Nate Allen got ran over in the endzone by Foster early in the game, but made up for it with a late strip-sack of Schaub. Overall, Allen is looking like an absolute steal in the second round.-- Quintin Mikell was clearly sick of hearing the talk about his demise. He nearly had a couple sacks, would have had an interception were it not for his stone hands, and would flying around the field all night long. It hasn't been a great year for him, but he picked it up against the Texans.-- Was I the only one who saw the graphic showing that the Eagles' defense is the worst in the redzone since the 1988 Houston Oilers? That's a direct result of Sean McDermott's soft play-calling and the soft way he calls a game in general. I'm still on board to see him fired.-- I'm officially a fan of Colt Anderson. I would be lying if I told you I knew who he was coming off the Minnesota Vikings practice squad, but he keeps making big plays on special teams and has proven to be a good under-the-radar pick-up.-- Following Anderson, the coverage for both kicks and punts was very good. It was great to see after a complete breakdown against the Bears last week. Bobby April should stop Reid's streak of firing special teams coordinators.-- Nothing to report in terms of Steelers 10 Santonio Holmes jersey
DeSean Jackson returning punts. He called a fair catch and let the ball roll another time on both of Matt Turk's punts. Jorrick Calvin had a 102-yard kick return, but it was called back by a questionable holding call. I think, before the season is out, Calvin will have a return that actually counts.-- At 8-4, this team controls its own destiny. All they have to do is keep winning and they'll take the NFC East for the sixth time in the Reid era. But with two games against the Dallas Cowboys, one more against the New York Giants, and a potential trap game against the Minnesota Vikings, that's easier said than done.This article is also featured on2 Minutes to Midnight Green
2010年12月12日星期日
Florida Gator Alumnus and Denver Broncos Quarterback Tim Tebow's Brand Value
Jamie Squire/Getty ImagesTim Tebow appears to be one of Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
the most marketable sports icons. Tebow is not only an athlete that you admire on the field, off the field he is a human being you wish to model your own life after. On the gridiron he has won a high school state title, two national championships at the collegiate level, countless awards including a Heisman Trophy, set numerous records and was a first-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. Off of the field Tebow has done a great deal of missionary work and community service including visiting inmates, volunteering at hospitals and helping poor villages. He has even established his ownfoundation. Through all of his success he has carried himself in a humble and dignified manner and presented himself in an unheralded authentic fashion. You would be hard pressed to find an individual as honest and hard working as Tebow as represented by his infamouspress conferencefollowing a loss to Ole Miss. It is no surprise that Tebow’s brand equity is so high. Despite only playing a hand full of downs in the NFL, he has the league's4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
top selling jersey. He currently has endorsement deals with Nike, EA Sports and Jockey. It has actually been reported that Tebow has turned down several other seven-figure deals because he thought they would be a distraction from football. The Davie-Brown Index, an independent marketing research tool, found Tebow to be more appealing and more of a trendsetter than Tom Brady, Brett Favre and Tony Romo. As far as future endorsements go, don’t expect to see Tebow associated with brands such as Budweiser or Go Daddy.“I’m very relational based,” says Tebow. “So if I feel great with the people that I’m working with, if I feel that we’re on the same page and that they have the same interests as me, that they’re Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
high character, that they’re loyal and they believe in a positive message, then that’s the type of people that I want to work with.” It would be more likely to see Tebow appear on the front of a Wheaties box or in an ASPCA commercial.
the most marketable sports icons. Tebow is not only an athlete that you admire on the field, off the field he is a human being you wish to model your own life after. On the gridiron he has won a high school state title, two national championships at the collegiate level, countless awards including a Heisman Trophy, set numerous records and was a first-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. Off of the field Tebow has done a great deal of missionary work and community service including visiting inmates, volunteering at hospitals and helping poor villages. He has even established his ownfoundation. Through all of his success he has carried himself in a humble and dignified manner and presented himself in an unheralded authentic fashion. You would be hard pressed to find an individual as honest and hard working as Tebow as represented by his infamouspress conferencefollowing a loss to Ole Miss. It is no surprise that Tebow’s brand equity is so high. Despite only playing a hand full of downs in the NFL, he has the league's4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
top selling jersey. He currently has endorsement deals with Nike, EA Sports and Jockey. It has actually been reported that Tebow has turned down several other seven-figure deals because he thought they would be a distraction from football. The Davie-Brown Index, an independent marketing research tool, found Tebow to be more appealing and more of a trendsetter than Tom Brady, Brett Favre and Tony Romo. As far as future endorsements go, don’t expect to see Tebow associated with brands such as Budweiser or Go Daddy.“I’m very relational based,” says Tebow. “So if I feel great with the people that I’m working with, if I feel that we’re on the same page and that they have the same interests as me, that they’re Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
high character, that they’re loyal and they believe in a positive message, then that’s the type of people that I want to work with.” It would be more likely to see Tebow appear on the front of a Wheaties box or in an ASPCA commercial.
2010年12月11日星期六
Pittsburgh Steelers Ben Roethlisberger Willie Parker
If the Houston Texans wanted the Pittsburgh Steelers to be hot at Reliant Stadium, by forcing them to wear their dark colors, it worked. The Steelers were not only hot, they were on fire from the first drive of the game, defeating the Texans 27-7.It had been in question earlier this week, Dallas Cowboys jersey
whether or not quarterback Ben Roethlisberger would play in the game against the Texans, as he was nursing a bruised knee. Despite the injury, Roethlisberger played very well completing 14 of 21passes for 254 yards with two touchdowns. He now has a record of 16-0 in regular season games.Regular running backs Deuce Staley and Jerome Bettis watched the game from the sidelines, both recovering from injuries of their own. Second year running back Willie Parker got his second start of the season, carrying the ball 25 times for 111 yards with one touchdown.Kicker Jeff Reed continued to show his skill, as well, when he added two field goals of 35 yards and 37 yards, giving him the team record of 21made field goals in a row.Wide receiver Hines Ward added his contribution to the game, as he racked up a total of 84 receiving yards with two touchdowns. His longest catch was for 21 yards.The defense showed their stuff, as they dominated the Texans. Houston quarterback David Carr did not know what hit him. Carr threw 26 passes for 167 yards, resulting in only one touchdown near the end of the game. He was sacked 8 times during the game, 3 of them by strong safety Troy Polamalu.The Pittsburgh Steelers have played strong in 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
week one and week two, but I think their first real test will be their week three against the New England Patriots. What I think it will boil down to is who has the strongest defense, and who can force more turnovers. In my opinion, whichever team can cause more turnovers will come out the victor.
whether or not quarterback Ben Roethlisberger would play in the game against the Texans, as he was nursing a bruised knee. Despite the injury, Roethlisberger played very well completing 14 of 21passes for 254 yards with two touchdowns. He now has a record of 16-0 in regular season games.Regular running backs Deuce Staley and Jerome Bettis watched the game from the sidelines, both recovering from injuries of their own. Second year running back Willie Parker got his second start of the season, carrying the ball 25 times for 111 yards with one touchdown.Kicker Jeff Reed continued to show his skill, as well, when he added two field goals of 35 yards and 37 yards, giving him the team record of 21made field goals in a row.Wide receiver Hines Ward added his contribution to the game, as he racked up a total of 84 receiving yards with two touchdowns. His longest catch was for 21 yards.The defense showed their stuff, as they dominated the Texans. Houston quarterback David Carr did not know what hit him. Carr threw 26 passes for 167 yards, resulting in only one touchdown near the end of the game. He was sacked 8 times during the game, 3 of them by strong safety Troy Polamalu.The Pittsburgh Steelers have played strong in 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
week one and week two, but I think their first real test will be their week three against the New England Patriots. What I think it will boil down to is who has the strongest defense, and who can force more turnovers. In my opinion, whichever team can cause more turnovers will come out the victor.
2010年12月9日星期四
San Francisco 49ers Alex Smith
San Francisco 49ers rookie quarterback Alex Smith had one of the roughest seasons ever endured by a rookie quarterback. He missed a handful of games due to a sprained right knee, he only completed half of the passes he attempted, and he didn't throw a touchdown pass until the final game of Vikings Brett Favre jersey
the season. Still, Smith finished the season with two straight victories and offered 49ers fans a glimpse of what could be a very promising future.After losing the preseason competition for starting quarterback, Alex Smith was forced to watch from the sidelines until week 4 when he replaced an ineffective Tim Rattay. He was actually half-decent in that game, completing 6 of 10 passes for 34 yards with no interceptions.His next two outings, both blowout losses, where not quite as promising. He failed to reach the 100-yard plateau in both games and was intercepted five times. He also suffered a knee injury in the second contest, against Washington, and was forced to miss the next five games.After a close 17-10 loss against the Cardinals, in which Smith threw for nearly 200 yards and completed 66.7% of his passes but was also intercepted three times, the young signal caller offered up his two worst performances of the season. In weeks 14 and 15, albeit against two playoff bound opponents, Smith completed 40.3 percent of his passes (against the Seahawks) and then 33.3 of his passes (against the Jaguars). Although he only threw two combined interceptions in those two games he somehow posted a quarterback rating of under 35 in both games.Then things finally started to go in the right direction. Smith posted his best quarterback rating of the season in a Week 16 win against the St. Louis Rams (98.7). He then threw his first touchdown of his young career in Week 17 against the lowly Houston Texans, leading the 49ers to an overtime victory and a 4-win season (twice as many wins as last year).Smith will definitely have to improve on his touchdown to interception ratio (1:11), and it doesn't help to be sacked 29 times in 7 1/2 games. If 4 Brett Favre White jersey
Smith and his offensive teammates - especially Frank Gore and Brandon Lloyd - can come together and find their niche, the San Francisco 49ers could finally come out of the offensive funk that they have been enduring for the past two seasons.
the season. Still, Smith finished the season with two straight victories and offered 49ers fans a glimpse of what could be a very promising future.After losing the preseason competition for starting quarterback, Alex Smith was forced to watch from the sidelines until week 4 when he replaced an ineffective Tim Rattay. He was actually half-decent in that game, completing 6 of 10 passes for 34 yards with no interceptions.His next two outings, both blowout losses, where not quite as promising. He failed to reach the 100-yard plateau in both games and was intercepted five times. He also suffered a knee injury in the second contest, against Washington, and was forced to miss the next five games.After a close 17-10 loss against the Cardinals, in which Smith threw for nearly 200 yards and completed 66.7% of his passes but was also intercepted three times, the young signal caller offered up his two worst performances of the season. In weeks 14 and 15, albeit against two playoff bound opponents, Smith completed 40.3 percent of his passes (against the Seahawks) and then 33.3 of his passes (against the Jaguars). Although he only threw two combined interceptions in those two games he somehow posted a quarterback rating of under 35 in both games.Then things finally started to go in the right direction. Smith posted his best quarterback rating of the season in a Week 16 win against the St. Louis Rams (98.7). He then threw his first touchdown of his young career in Week 17 against the lowly Houston Texans, leading the 49ers to an overtime victory and a 4-win season (twice as many wins as last year).Smith will definitely have to improve on his touchdown to interception ratio (1:11), and it doesn't help to be sacked 29 times in 7 1/2 games. If 4 Brett Favre White jersey
Smith and his offensive teammates - especially Frank Gore and Brandon Lloyd - can come together and find their niche, the San Francisco 49ers could finally come out of the offensive funk that they have been enduring for the past two seasons.
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