The Boston Garden will be the center of the New England hockey world tonight as the Bruins will try one more time to eliminate the Buffalo Sabres from the Stanley Cup Tournament.
This series was and in most respects still is the Bruins to lose. After ripping off three straight wins to grab a 3-1 series lead, the Bruins lost 4-1 on Friday night in Buffalo.
Certainly no big surprise as the Sabres were considered by many to be the favorites to win this opening round series.
So now tonight's Game 6 at Boston Garden seems to be almost as much about who may or may not play as it is about who is playing.
Starting with the Bruins, all eyes will be on Marc Savard to see if he is indeed ready to resume his hockey career after a near career ending check by Pittsburgh's Matt Cooke back on March 7..
Doctors must not only give Savard the go ahead to play, but he must also decide if it's worth coming back for the Bruins playoff run, or counting his blessings and taking the rest of the year off.
Savard's status will be evaluated following the team's pregame skate later this morning and a neuro-evaluation on Monday afternoon. Savard does not have clearence from doctors to play hockey ... yet.
Thomas Vanek and Lindy Ruff on Vanek's status for Game 6
The Buffalo Sabres also have a big question mark for tonight's Game 6. Will Thomas Vanek play in Game 6 tonight.
Vanek, the Sabres' leading goal scorer, hasn't played since injuring his left ankle in the first period of the second game of the series.
Take a close look at Vanek's face in the above video. He is clearly in pain, and even if he does play he will certainly not be the force he's been all season.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Buffalo Bills 1st. Round Pick In 2010 NFL Draft C.J. Spiller of Clemson
Spiller is not the kind of back who can carry a team by rushing 20-25 times a game over the course of a 16-game season. Like a Reggie Bush or Felix Jones, though, he can be a situational player who gives the offense big-play capability out of the backfield. He has a rare burst through the hole, and not many safeties can run him down once they lose the angle on him. He is a competitive runner who will fight for yards and has balance to bounce off hits and keep his feet to gain more yards. Spiller is apt to be the first back taken in the draft in spite of his lack of power and bulk. This is a great pick. The Bills will be a exciting football
Buffalo Bills Blitz 2010 NFL MOCK DRAFT April 22
1. STL: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
The Rams have cut Marc Bulger which will jump-start the Sam Bradford era in St. Louis.
Vote and Debate on who the Rams will draft
2. DET: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
Apparently, Ndamukong Suh is a better fit for the Lions than McCoy, according to the Draft experts out there.
Vote and Debate on who the Lions will draft
3. TB: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
McCoy will be the best DT the Bucs have had since Warren Sapp.
Vote and Debate on who the Buccaneers will draft
4. WAS: Russell Okung, T, Oklahoma St.
The Redskins have their QB in McNabb and now they get the best OT to protect him.
Vote and Debate on who the Redskins will draft
5. KC: Trent Williams, T, Oklahoma
This may be too high for a safety, so the Chiefs go for the fast riser in Trent Williams to solidify their offensive line.
Vote and Debate on who the Chiefs will draft
6. SEA: Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
The retirement of Patrick Kerney leaves them very thin at the defensive end position. They consider Anthony Davis and Bulaga here but both of them have their flaws.
Vote and Debate on who the Seahawks will draft
7. CLE: Eric Berry, FS, Tennessee
This is by far the best player available and the Browns waste no time getting their pick into the podium
Vote and Debate on who the Browns will draft
8. OAK: Anthony Davis, T, Rutgers
The Raiders get a bruiser to lead the way for McFadden and Bush. I'm sure they will consider Campbell here but the smart choice would be Davis or Bulaga.
Vote and Debate on who the Raiders will draft
9. BUF: Dan Williams, NT, Tennessee
The Bills get the best NT in this draft. Bulaga is tempting here but he may not be suitable to play LT for them due to his short arms.
Vote and Debate on who the Bills will draft
10. JAX: Earl Thomas, S, Texas
Thomas is quickly rising up the draft boards. The Jaguars are trying to trade down so it would not surprise me to see the Eagles trade up to nab him here.
Vote and Debate on who the Jaguars will draft
11. DEN (from CHI): Bryan Bulaga, T/G, Iowa
Bulaga will step in and play LG for the Broncos and could be the top back-up for oft injured Ryan Harris at RT.
Vote and Debate on who the Broncos will draft
12. MIA: Jason Pierre-Paul, OLB, South Florida
Bill Parcells gets his massive rush OLB.
Vote and Debate on who the Dolphins will draft
13. SF: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
People are talking that if Clausen makes it this far the Niners will take him. This team is really close to competing for the division title this year and taking a rookie QB seems a bit overkill with Carr and Smith already on the team.
Vote and Debate on who the 49ers will draft
14. SEA (from DEN): Charles Brown, T, USC
Walter Jones retired and they need someone to man the left side. This may seem like a reach for the Seahawks but it is someone Carroll is familiar with.
Vote and Debate on who the Seahawks will draft
15. NYG: Rolando McClain, MLB, Alabama
They need somebody to take over for Antonio Pierce.
Vote and Debate on who the Giants will draft
16. TEN: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
The Titans get the best corner in the draft and he will start right away.
Vote and Debate on who the Titans will draft 17. SF (from CAR): C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
Frank Gore is good but he needs a speed compliment, and Spiller is the BPA.
Vote and Debate on who the 49ers will draft
18. PIT: Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma St.
Hines Ward is not getting any younger and they just handed Santonio Holmes to the Jets.
Vote and Debate on who the Steelers will draft
19. ATL: Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan
The Falcons need someone who can provide a rush opposite John Abraham
Vote and Debate on who the Falcons will draft
20. HOU: Mike Iupati, G, Idaho
The Texans get the best interior lineman in the draft. Corner was a need here but they can get a quality one in the 2nd round.
Vote and Debate on who the Texans will draft
21. CIN: Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma
The Bengals cannot keep putting off getting a quality TE.
Vote and Debate on who the Bengals will draft
22. NE: Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas
Tully Banta-Cain is solid but not dominant, Kindle is the difference maker the Patriots need from the outside.
Vote and Debate on who the Patriots will draft
23. GB: Bruce Campbell, T, Maryland
Tony Mandarich #2, not really, but he has not really played up to this draft slot.
Vote and Debate on who the Packers will draft
24. PHI: Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
Pouncey can play either C or G for the Eagles.
Vote and Debate on who the Eagles will draft
25. BAL: Jared Odrick, DE, Penn St.
The Ravens lost a ton of depth this offseason (Justin Bannan and Dwan Edwards) and Pryce and Gregg are aging.
Vote and Debate on who the Ravens will draft
26. ARI: Sean Weatherspoon, ILB, Missouri
They need to replace Dansby, and Weatherspoon has the potential to be a very good player.
Vote and Debate on who the Cardinals will draft
27. DAL: Taylor Mays, S, USC
Taylor Mays is an amazing athlete, whether or not that translate to the Pro level is yet to be seen.
Vote and Debate on who the Cowboys will draft
28. SD: Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno St.
LT's replacement. Mathews and Sproles should compliment each other perfectly.
Vote and Debate on who the Chargers will draft
29. NYJ: Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama
The defense continues to get even better. Cody is their NT of the future. This team is sure starting to look scary.
Vote and Debate on who the Jets will draft
30. MIN: Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise St.
Winfield is as solid as they come but he cannot play forever. Wilson would easily beat out Benny Sapp for the nickel corner right away.
Vote and Debate on who the Vikings will draft
31. IND: Brian Price, DT, UCLA
Price is the BPA at a position of need for the Colts
Vote and Debate on who the Colts will draft
32. NO: Everson Griffen, DE, USC
Griffen is flying up the draft boards and will probably go higher than this to a 3-4 team looking to play him at OLB
The Rams have cut Marc Bulger which will jump-start the Sam Bradford era in St. Louis.
Vote and Debate on who the Rams will draft
2. DET: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
Apparently, Ndamukong Suh is a better fit for the Lions than McCoy, according to the Draft experts out there.
Vote and Debate on who the Lions will draft
3. TB: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
McCoy will be the best DT the Bucs have had since Warren Sapp.
Vote and Debate on who the Buccaneers will draft
4. WAS: Russell Okung, T, Oklahoma St.
The Redskins have their QB in McNabb and now they get the best OT to protect him.
Vote and Debate on who the Redskins will draft
5. KC: Trent Williams, T, Oklahoma
This may be too high for a safety, so the Chiefs go for the fast riser in Trent Williams to solidify their offensive line.
Vote and Debate on who the Chiefs will draft
6. SEA: Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
The retirement of Patrick Kerney leaves them very thin at the defensive end position. They consider Anthony Davis and Bulaga here but both of them have their flaws.
Vote and Debate on who the Seahawks will draft
7. CLE: Eric Berry, FS, Tennessee
This is by far the best player available and the Browns waste no time getting their pick into the podium
Vote and Debate on who the Browns will draft
8. OAK: Anthony Davis, T, Rutgers
The Raiders get a bruiser to lead the way for McFadden and Bush. I'm sure they will consider Campbell here but the smart choice would be Davis or Bulaga.
Vote and Debate on who the Raiders will draft
9. BUF: Dan Williams, NT, Tennessee
The Bills get the best NT in this draft. Bulaga is tempting here but he may not be suitable to play LT for them due to his short arms.
Vote and Debate on who the Bills will draft
10. JAX: Earl Thomas, S, Texas
Thomas is quickly rising up the draft boards. The Jaguars are trying to trade down so it would not surprise me to see the Eagles trade up to nab him here.
Vote and Debate on who the Jaguars will draft
11. DEN (from CHI): Bryan Bulaga, T/G, Iowa
Bulaga will step in and play LG for the Broncos and could be the top back-up for oft injured Ryan Harris at RT.
Vote and Debate on who the Broncos will draft
12. MIA: Jason Pierre-Paul, OLB, South Florida
Bill Parcells gets his massive rush OLB.
Vote and Debate on who the Dolphins will draft
13. SF: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
People are talking that if Clausen makes it this far the Niners will take him. This team is really close to competing for the division title this year and taking a rookie QB seems a bit overkill with Carr and Smith already on the team.
Vote and Debate on who the 49ers will draft
14. SEA (from DEN): Charles Brown, T, USC
Walter Jones retired and they need someone to man the left side. This may seem like a reach for the Seahawks but it is someone Carroll is familiar with.
Vote and Debate on who the Seahawks will draft
15. NYG: Rolando McClain, MLB, Alabama
They need somebody to take over for Antonio Pierce.
Vote and Debate on who the Giants will draft
16. TEN: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
The Titans get the best corner in the draft and he will start right away.
Vote and Debate on who the Titans will draft 17. SF (from CAR): C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
Frank Gore is good but he needs a speed compliment, and Spiller is the BPA.
Vote and Debate on who the 49ers will draft
18. PIT: Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma St.
Hines Ward is not getting any younger and they just handed Santonio Holmes to the Jets.
Vote and Debate on who the Steelers will draft
19. ATL: Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan
The Falcons need someone who can provide a rush opposite John Abraham
Vote and Debate on who the Falcons will draft
20. HOU: Mike Iupati, G, Idaho
The Texans get the best interior lineman in the draft. Corner was a need here but they can get a quality one in the 2nd round.
Vote and Debate on who the Texans will draft
21. CIN: Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma
The Bengals cannot keep putting off getting a quality TE.
Vote and Debate on who the Bengals will draft
22. NE: Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas
Tully Banta-Cain is solid but not dominant, Kindle is the difference maker the Patriots need from the outside.
Vote and Debate on who the Patriots will draft
23. GB: Bruce Campbell, T, Maryland
Tony Mandarich #2, not really, but he has not really played up to this draft slot.
Vote and Debate on who the Packers will draft
24. PHI: Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
Pouncey can play either C or G for the Eagles.
Vote and Debate on who the Eagles will draft
25. BAL: Jared Odrick, DE, Penn St.
The Ravens lost a ton of depth this offseason (Justin Bannan and Dwan Edwards) and Pryce and Gregg are aging.
Vote and Debate on who the Ravens will draft
26. ARI: Sean Weatherspoon, ILB, Missouri
They need to replace Dansby, and Weatherspoon has the potential to be a very good player.
Vote and Debate on who the Cardinals will draft
27. DAL: Taylor Mays, S, USC
Taylor Mays is an amazing athlete, whether or not that translate to the Pro level is yet to be seen.
Vote and Debate on who the Cowboys will draft
28. SD: Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno St.
LT's replacement. Mathews and Sproles should compliment each other perfectly.
Vote and Debate on who the Chargers will draft
29. NYJ: Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama
The defense continues to get even better. Cody is their NT of the future. This team is sure starting to look scary.
Vote and Debate on who the Jets will draft
30. MIN: Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise St.
Winfield is as solid as they come but he cannot play forever. Wilson would easily beat out Benny Sapp for the nickel corner right away.
Vote and Debate on who the Vikings will draft
31. IND: Brian Price, DT, UCLA
Price is the BPA at a position of need for the Colts
Vote and Debate on who the Colts will draft
32. NO: Everson Griffen, DE, USC
Griffen is flying up the draft boards and will probably go higher than this to a 3-4 team looking to play him at OLB
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Buffalo Sabres-Boston Bruins Game 4 Preview "A Must Win For Buffalo"
The Boston Bruins have been able to come from behind, and now they have the lead in their first-round playoff series against the Buffalo Sabres.
The Bruins took a 2-1 lead over the Sabres in the best-of-seven series, winning two straight despite allowing the first goal in all three games.
"Obviously, we want to have a better start than we’ve had the first three games," defenseman Matt Hunwick said. "But there’s no panic if we do go down a goal or two. We know if we stick to our game plan and keep plugging away a bit we’re going to have opportunities and eventually we’ll score."
Game 4 is tonight in Boston.
"We win that game, we’re back in our own building with momentum," Sabres coach Lindy Ruff said.
The Bruins improved to 6-3 this season against Buffalo, which had 100 points to win the Northeast Division and earn a No. 3 seed in the playoffs. But on Monday night, Dennis Wideman scored and then assisted on Patrice Bergeron’s winner to help sixth-seeded Boston rally from another 1-0 deficit and steal home-ice advantage.
"Although we’ve been scored on first every game, we’ve stuck with our game plan. We haven’t panicked, we’ve played well and we’ve gotten ourselves back in the game," Bruins coach Claude Julien said. "It’s certainly not
the situation we want to be in."
The offense-challenged Bruins -- they’ve scored the second-fewest goals in the league this year, and the fewest of any playoff team -- have been able to stay in games thanks to their goaltending. Tuukka Rask, who won the starting job from U.S. Olympic backup Tim Thomas, has allowed 14 goals in 10 games since March 27, losing just twice in regulation.
That’s allowed the Bruins to stay with Buffalo, which has U.S. Olympic starter Ryan Miller in net and was expected to have the goaltending advantage.
"There are a few goalies in this league that you know are going to keep their team in it every night and he is one of them. There is no sense getting frustrated at all," said Bruins forward Mark Recchi, who made the pass that set up Bergeron’s game-winner.
"We are making mistakes and we have Tuukka making huge saves for us. We have been in these close games for a long stretch now, and have been playing playoff hockey for over a month."
Buffalo has struggled to make up for the loss of top scorer Thomas Vanek, who had 28 goals in the regular season.
The Bruins took a 2-1 lead over the Sabres in the best-of-seven series, winning two straight despite allowing the first goal in all three games.
"Obviously, we want to have a better start than we’ve had the first three games," defenseman Matt Hunwick said. "But there’s no panic if we do go down a goal or two. We know if we stick to our game plan and keep plugging away a bit we’re going to have opportunities and eventually we’ll score."
Game 4 is tonight in Boston.
"We win that game, we’re back in our own building with momentum," Sabres coach Lindy Ruff said.
The Bruins improved to 6-3 this season against Buffalo, which had 100 points to win the Northeast Division and earn a No. 3 seed in the playoffs. But on Monday night, Dennis Wideman scored and then assisted on Patrice Bergeron’s winner to help sixth-seeded Boston rally from another 1-0 deficit and steal home-ice advantage.
"Although we’ve been scored on first every game, we’ve stuck with our game plan. We haven’t panicked, we’ve played well and we’ve gotten ourselves back in the game," Bruins coach Claude Julien said. "It’s certainly not
the situation we want to be in."
The offense-challenged Bruins -- they’ve scored the second-fewest goals in the league this year, and the fewest of any playoff team -- have been able to stay in games thanks to their goaltending. Tuukka Rask, who won the starting job from U.S. Olympic backup Tim Thomas, has allowed 14 goals in 10 games since March 27, losing just twice in regulation.
That’s allowed the Bruins to stay with Buffalo, which has U.S. Olympic starter Ryan Miller in net and was expected to have the goaltending advantage.
"There are a few goalies in this league that you know are going to keep their team in it every night and he is one of them. There is no sense getting frustrated at all," said Bruins forward Mark Recchi, who made the pass that set up Bergeron’s game-winner.
"We are making mistakes and we have Tuukka making huge saves for us. We have been in these close games for a long stretch now, and have been playing playoff hockey for over a month."
Buffalo has struggled to make up for the loss of top scorer Thomas Vanek, who had 28 goals in the regular season.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
BUFFALO BILLS BLITZ 2010 NFL MOCK DRAFT APRIL 20
1 Saint Louis Rams- Sam Bradford QB- Oklahoma
The Rams are going to select Sam Bradford with the first pick in the 2010 NFL draft, so he will join other quarterbacks taken with the first overall pick. I think Bradford will be thrown to the wolves as the Rams only have journeyman A.J. Feely and young quarterbacks Keith Null and Mike Reilly on their roster.
2 Detroit Lions- Ndamukong Suh DT- Nebraska
This pick differs from my previous 2010 NFL Mock Draft. Suh may be the best player in the game, and the Lions need line help in a bad way. Suh is a solid pick at number two for the Detroit Lions.
3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Gerald McCoy DT-Oklahoma
Gerald McCoy is a great pick for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with the 3rd selection in the 2010 NFL draft. McCoy may make the Buc's fans start to forget about Warren Sapp.
4 Washington Redskins- Russell Okrung OT- Oklahoma State
The Redskins traded for Donovan McNabb which means they think they can win now. The addition of Russell Okrung addresses a pitiful offensive line for the Redskins.
5 Kansas City Chiefs- Bryan Bulaga, T- Iowa
The Chiefs may be tempted to take Clausen or Eric Berry here but their offensive line needs to be addressed. Bryan Bulaga perhaps is better suited to play right tackle in the NFL but he will still fill a need for the Chiefs. He makes the most sense here in my 2010 NFL mock draft.
6 Seattle Seahawks- Eric Berry S- Tennessee
The Seahawks have many needs but Eric Berry gives them a dynamic playmaker in the defensive backfield that comes from a tough college football division.
7 Cleveland Browns- Jimmy Clausen QB- Notre Dame
The Browns are happy to get Jimmy Clausen here, who I had ranked as the top quarterback in the 2010 NFL draft.
8 Oakland Raiders- Joe Haden CB- FloridaThe Raiders have so many needs that the best player on the board will be taken in this 2010 NFL mock draft. Haden adds some pop to what may be a decent defense in 2010.
9 Buffalo Bills-Trent Williams OT- Oklahoma
If Clausen drops this far then the Bills will jump on him. But I think they go for Trent Williams with the 9th pick.
10 Jacksonville Jaguars- Bruce Campbell OT- Maryland
Campbell helps a below average offensive line here for the Jaguars.
11 Denver Broncos- Rolando McClain ILB- Alabama
McClain is the best inside linebacker in the draft, and the Broncos need defense badly. It is possible Dez Bryant goes here, but I think it will be McClain.
12 Miami Dolphins- Derrick Morgan DE-Georgia Tech
The Dolphins help a slow defense with the pass rush Morgan can provide. I wouldn't faint if they took Spiller here to replace Ronnie Brown, but I am going with Morgan in this 2010 NFL draft.
13 San Francisco 49ers-Anthony Davis OT-Rutgers
Davis needs to work on his weight and possibly his attitude but the 49ers grab him here.
14 Seattle Seahawks- Jason Pierre Paul DE-USF
Jason Pierre Paul is a freak of nature with very little playing experience and will make or break the 2010 NFL draft for the Seahawks.
15 New York Giants-Brandon Spikes LB-Florida
The Giants would love McClain but will settle for Brandon Spikes in their most needed position.
16 Tennessee Titans- Dan Williams D-Tennessee
The Titans are still trying to replace Albert Haynesworth and barring a trade for Haynesworth (which is possible) they will grab Williams here.
17 San Francisco 49ers C.J. Spiller RB-Clemson
I have Spiller ranked as the number one running back in the 2010 draft as you can see here. C.J. Spiller as a 49er will spell Gore and give the team some pop as a kick returner along with Ted Ginn Jr.
18 Pittsburgh Steelers- Kyle Wilson CB- Boise State
The Steelers will grab Wilson who is the best CB on the board at this point.
19 Atlanta Falcons- Taylor Mays FS- Southern California
The Falcons keep tweaking their secondary and Mays will be a welcome addition.
20 Houston Texans- Dez Bryant WR- Oklahoma State
Bryant is a risk due to attitude issues, but it worth a shot to give the Texans some more pop in the passing game.
21 Cincinnati Bengals- Earl Thomas S-Texas
If Thomas is still on the board, the Bengals will jump on him quickly here22 New England Patriots- Brandon Graham OLB/DE-Michigan
The Patriots will take the best lineman/linebacker available here who can help the pass rush.
23 Green Bay Packers- Charles Brown OT-USC
Brown gives the Packers the best option at this point to help an aging and poorly playing offensive line.
24 Philadelphia Eagles- Mike Iupati G-Idaho
This could be a reach, but the Eagles have an explosive offense in place that can only get better with some line help. Now that McNabb and Westbrook are gone the Eagles need some stability on the line to help their replacements.
25 Baltimore Ravens- Golden Tate WR-Notre Dame
Tate can be the 3rd or 4th option for a year and learn from Mason and Boldin. The Ravens may take a tight end here but I think that will come later.
26 Arizona Cardinals-Sean Weatherspoon LB- Missouri
If somehow Dez Bryant falls this far the Cardinals would be tempted, but I think they go LB here.
27 Dallas Cowboys- Dallas Cowboys-Markuis Pouncey, C/G, Florida
Pouncey can play guard or center and this ability can some in handy for America's team.
28 San Diego Chargers- Ryan Matthews RB- Fresno State
Matthews can replace LaDainian Tomlinson and help out Sproles in the Charger backfield.
29 New York Jets- Terrance Cody DT-Alabama
Cody can help Jenkins or replace him at plugging up the middle.
30 Minnesota Vikings Brian Price DT-UCLA
The Vikings may go defensive back here, but I think they need to address the age of their defensive tackles.
31 New Orleans Saints- Greg Hardy DE-Ole Miss
Hardy addresses their biggest need, but this team could also go DB if one falls that they like.
32 Indianapolis Colts-Chad Jones S-LSU
Jones can address the weakness in the Colts secondary.
That concludes the first round of my 2010 NFL Mock Draft. Feel free to leave comments or questions in the section below.
The Rams are going to select Sam Bradford with the first pick in the 2010 NFL draft, so he will join other quarterbacks taken with the first overall pick. I think Bradford will be thrown to the wolves as the Rams only have journeyman A.J. Feely and young quarterbacks Keith Null and Mike Reilly on their roster.
2 Detroit Lions- Ndamukong Suh DT- Nebraska
This pick differs from my previous 2010 NFL Mock Draft. Suh may be the best player in the game, and the Lions need line help in a bad way. Suh is a solid pick at number two for the Detroit Lions.
3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Gerald McCoy DT-Oklahoma
Gerald McCoy is a great pick for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with the 3rd selection in the 2010 NFL draft. McCoy may make the Buc's fans start to forget about Warren Sapp.
4 Washington Redskins- Russell Okrung OT- Oklahoma State
The Redskins traded for Donovan McNabb which means they think they can win now. The addition of Russell Okrung addresses a pitiful offensive line for the Redskins.
5 Kansas City Chiefs- Bryan Bulaga, T- Iowa
The Chiefs may be tempted to take Clausen or Eric Berry here but their offensive line needs to be addressed. Bryan Bulaga perhaps is better suited to play right tackle in the NFL but he will still fill a need for the Chiefs. He makes the most sense here in my 2010 NFL mock draft.
6 Seattle Seahawks- Eric Berry S- Tennessee
The Seahawks have many needs but Eric Berry gives them a dynamic playmaker in the defensive backfield that comes from a tough college football division.
7 Cleveland Browns- Jimmy Clausen QB- Notre Dame
The Browns are happy to get Jimmy Clausen here, who I had ranked as the top quarterback in the 2010 NFL draft.
8 Oakland Raiders- Joe Haden CB- FloridaThe Raiders have so many needs that the best player on the board will be taken in this 2010 NFL mock draft. Haden adds some pop to what may be a decent defense in 2010.
9 Buffalo Bills-Trent Williams OT- Oklahoma
If Clausen drops this far then the Bills will jump on him. But I think they go for Trent Williams with the 9th pick.
10 Jacksonville Jaguars- Bruce Campbell OT- Maryland
Campbell helps a below average offensive line here for the Jaguars.
11 Denver Broncos- Rolando McClain ILB- Alabama
McClain is the best inside linebacker in the draft, and the Broncos need defense badly. It is possible Dez Bryant goes here, but I think it will be McClain.
12 Miami Dolphins- Derrick Morgan DE-Georgia Tech
The Dolphins help a slow defense with the pass rush Morgan can provide. I wouldn't faint if they took Spiller here to replace Ronnie Brown, but I am going with Morgan in this 2010 NFL draft.
13 San Francisco 49ers-Anthony Davis OT-Rutgers
Davis needs to work on his weight and possibly his attitude but the 49ers grab him here.
14 Seattle Seahawks- Jason Pierre Paul DE-USF
Jason Pierre Paul is a freak of nature with very little playing experience and will make or break the 2010 NFL draft for the Seahawks.
15 New York Giants-Brandon Spikes LB-Florida
The Giants would love McClain but will settle for Brandon Spikes in their most needed position.
16 Tennessee Titans- Dan Williams D-Tennessee
The Titans are still trying to replace Albert Haynesworth and barring a trade for Haynesworth (which is possible) they will grab Williams here.
17 San Francisco 49ers C.J. Spiller RB-Clemson
I have Spiller ranked as the number one running back in the 2010 draft as you can see here. C.J. Spiller as a 49er will spell Gore and give the team some pop as a kick returner along with Ted Ginn Jr.
18 Pittsburgh Steelers- Kyle Wilson CB- Boise State
The Steelers will grab Wilson who is the best CB on the board at this point.
19 Atlanta Falcons- Taylor Mays FS- Southern California
The Falcons keep tweaking their secondary and Mays will be a welcome addition.
20 Houston Texans- Dez Bryant WR- Oklahoma State
Bryant is a risk due to attitude issues, but it worth a shot to give the Texans some more pop in the passing game.
21 Cincinnati Bengals- Earl Thomas S-Texas
If Thomas is still on the board, the Bengals will jump on him quickly here22 New England Patriots- Brandon Graham OLB/DE-Michigan
The Patriots will take the best lineman/linebacker available here who can help the pass rush.
23 Green Bay Packers- Charles Brown OT-USC
Brown gives the Packers the best option at this point to help an aging and poorly playing offensive line.
24 Philadelphia Eagles- Mike Iupati G-Idaho
This could be a reach, but the Eagles have an explosive offense in place that can only get better with some line help. Now that McNabb and Westbrook are gone the Eagles need some stability on the line to help their replacements.
25 Baltimore Ravens- Golden Tate WR-Notre Dame
Tate can be the 3rd or 4th option for a year and learn from Mason and Boldin. The Ravens may take a tight end here but I think that will come later.
26 Arizona Cardinals-Sean Weatherspoon LB- Missouri
If somehow Dez Bryant falls this far the Cardinals would be tempted, but I think they go LB here.
27 Dallas Cowboys- Dallas Cowboys-Markuis Pouncey, C/G, Florida
Pouncey can play guard or center and this ability can some in handy for America's team.
28 San Diego Chargers- Ryan Matthews RB- Fresno State
Matthews can replace LaDainian Tomlinson and help out Sproles in the Charger backfield.
29 New York Jets- Terrance Cody DT-Alabama
Cody can help Jenkins or replace him at plugging up the middle.
30 Minnesota Vikings Brian Price DT-UCLA
The Vikings may go defensive back here, but I think they need to address the age of their defensive tackles.
31 New Orleans Saints- Greg Hardy DE-Ole Miss
Hardy addresses their biggest need, but this team could also go DB if one falls that they like.
32 Indianapolis Colts-Chad Jones S-LSU
Jones can address the weakness in the Colts secondary.
That concludes the first round of my 2010 NFL Mock Draft. Feel free to leave comments or questions in the section below.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Buffalo Sabres-Boston Bruins Game 3 Preview "Vanek Doubtful"
Injured Sabres left wing Thomas Vanek will likely miss Game 3 of Buffalo's Eastern Conference playoff series against the Boston Bruins.
The Sabres are the higher seed, but the Bruins won the regular-season series 4-2. Who will advance from this Northeast Division showdown? Follow the matchup from Day 1 on ESPN.com. Series page
Vanek, however, didn't rule himself out of the series tied at a game apiece.
Sabres defenseman Steve Montador expects the team to stick with the same system without Vanek.
"Thomas is hard to replace, but one player doesn't make a team, and you can say that about any one guy in our lineup," Montador said. "We want to continue to play hard, play our system and we'll get the chances that we need if we continue to work."
Buffalo's top goal scorer was injured after he was hooked and slashed by Boston's Johnny Boychuk during a partial breakaway with under 7 minutes left in the opening period of the Bruins' Game 2 win Saturday.
Vanek slid hard into the end boards and had difficulty putting weight on his left foot.
After the game, Sabres coach Lindy Ruff called the play into question by characterizing Boychuk's action as a "two-hander." After an off-ice workout Sunday in Boston, Boychuk said he had no intent to injure on the play.
"I was just trying to lift his stick on the one side because it was kind of like a breakaway," he said. "And then I couldn't get to it, so I went to the other side and tried to hit his stick. I didn't even know I actually slashed him."
In Vanek's absence, first-line center Tim Connolly becomes more important to the Sabres. Buffalo's second leading scorer, Connolly missed the last nine games of the regular season with a foot injury but played in both postseason games.
"I definitely can play better," he said. "The first couple of games I didn't get a lot accomplished out there, especially offensively.
"It's good sometimes to get on the road during the playoffs. You can really just go there and focus on playing the game. There's nothing else going on. I personally like playing on the road, especially in the playoffs."
Right wing Drew Stafford, meanwhile, will undergo tests Sunday to determine whether he can return for Game 3 on Monday. He has been sidelined with a concussion sustained in the second-to-last game of the regular season against Ottawa.
The Sabres are the higher seed, but the Bruins won the regular-season series 4-2. Who will advance from this Northeast Division showdown? Follow the matchup from Day 1 on ESPN.com. Series page
Vanek, however, didn't rule himself out of the series tied at a game apiece.
Sabres defenseman Steve Montador expects the team to stick with the same system without Vanek.
"Thomas is hard to replace, but one player doesn't make a team, and you can say that about any one guy in our lineup," Montador said. "We want to continue to play hard, play our system and we'll get the chances that we need if we continue to work."
Buffalo's top goal scorer was injured after he was hooked and slashed by Boston's Johnny Boychuk during a partial breakaway with under 7 minutes left in the opening period of the Bruins' Game 2 win Saturday.
Vanek slid hard into the end boards and had difficulty putting weight on his left foot.
After the game, Sabres coach Lindy Ruff called the play into question by characterizing Boychuk's action as a "two-hander." After an off-ice workout Sunday in Boston, Boychuk said he had no intent to injure on the play.
"I was just trying to lift his stick on the one side because it was kind of like a breakaway," he said. "And then I couldn't get to it, so I went to the other side and tried to hit his stick. I didn't even know I actually slashed him."
In Vanek's absence, first-line center Tim Connolly becomes more important to the Sabres. Buffalo's second leading scorer, Connolly missed the last nine games of the regular season with a foot injury but played in both postseason games.
"I definitely can play better," he said. "The first couple of games I didn't get a lot accomplished out there, especially offensively.
"It's good sometimes to get on the road during the playoffs. You can really just go there and focus on playing the game. There's nothing else going on. I personally like playing on the road, especially in the playoffs."
Right wing Drew Stafford, meanwhile, will undergo tests Sunday to determine whether he can return for Game 3 on Monday. He has been sidelined with a concussion sustained in the second-to-last game of the regular season against Ottawa.
BUFFALO BILLS BLITZ 2010 NFL MOCK DRAFT APRIL 19
1 St. Louis Sam Bradford* QB Oklahoma 6' 4" 236
2 Detroit Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska 6' 4" 305
3 Tampa Bay Gerald McCoy* DT Oklahoma 6' 4" 295
4 Washington Russell Okung OT Oklahoma State 6' 5" 298
5 Kansas City Eric Berry* S Tennessee 5' 11" 211
6 Seattle Brian Bulaga* OT Iowa 6' 6" 312
7 Cleveland C.J. Spiller RB Clemson 5' 11" 195
8 Oakland Trent Williams OT Oklahoma 6' 5" 320
9 Buffalo Jimmy Clausen* QB Notre Dame 6' 3" 208
10 Jacksonville Rolando McClain* ILB Alabama 6' 4" 248
11 Denver Mike Iupati OG Idaho 6' 6" 330
12 Miami Dan Williams DT Tennessee 6' 3" 312
13 San Francisco Joe Haden* CB Florida 5' 11" 195
14 Seattle Derrick Morgan* DE Georgia Tech 6' 4" 270
15 NY Giants Bruce Campbell* OT Maryland 6' 7" 310
16 Tennessee Jason Pierre-Paul* DE South Florida 6' 6" 260
17 San Francisco Tim Tebow QB Florida 6' 3" 235
18 Pittsburgh Earl Thomas** S Texas 5' 10" 197
19 Atlanta Taylor Mays S USC 6' 4" 225
20 Houston Jared Odrick DT Penn State 6' 5" 306
21 Cincinnati Jermaine Gresham TE Oklahoma 6' 6" 248
22 New England Dez Bryant* WR Oklahoma State 6' 2" 210
23 Green Bay Anthony Davis* OT Rutgers 6' 6" 330
24 Philadelphia Brandon Graham DE Michigan 6' 2" 270
25 Baltimore Terrence Cody DT Alabama 6' 5" 378
26 Arizona Maurkice Pouncey* OC Florida 6' 5" 312
27 Dallas Charles Brown OT USC 6' 6" 298
28 San Diego Ryan Mathews* RB Fresno State 5' 11" 220
29 NY Jets Sergio Kindle OLB Texas 6' 4" 238
30 Minnesota Colt McCoy QB Texas 6' 3" 205
31 Indianapolis Sean Weatherspoon OLB Missouri 6' 1" 232
32 New Orleans Brian Price* DT UCLA 6' 2" 295
2 Detroit Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska 6' 4" 305
3 Tampa Bay Gerald McCoy* DT Oklahoma 6' 4" 295
4 Washington Russell Okung OT Oklahoma State 6' 5" 298
5 Kansas City Eric Berry* S Tennessee 5' 11" 211
6 Seattle Brian Bulaga* OT Iowa 6' 6" 312
7 Cleveland C.J. Spiller RB Clemson 5' 11" 195
8 Oakland Trent Williams OT Oklahoma 6' 5" 320
9 Buffalo Jimmy Clausen* QB Notre Dame 6' 3" 208
10 Jacksonville Rolando McClain* ILB Alabama 6' 4" 248
11 Denver Mike Iupati OG Idaho 6' 6" 330
12 Miami Dan Williams DT Tennessee 6' 3" 312
13 San Francisco Joe Haden* CB Florida 5' 11" 195
14 Seattle Derrick Morgan* DE Georgia Tech 6' 4" 270
15 NY Giants Bruce Campbell* OT Maryland 6' 7" 310
16 Tennessee Jason Pierre-Paul* DE South Florida 6' 6" 260
17 San Francisco Tim Tebow QB Florida 6' 3" 235
18 Pittsburgh Earl Thomas** S Texas 5' 10" 197
19 Atlanta Taylor Mays S USC 6' 4" 225
20 Houston Jared Odrick DT Penn State 6' 5" 306
21 Cincinnati Jermaine Gresham TE Oklahoma 6' 6" 248
22 New England Dez Bryant* WR Oklahoma State 6' 2" 210
23 Green Bay Anthony Davis* OT Rutgers 6' 6" 330
24 Philadelphia Brandon Graham DE Michigan 6' 2" 270
25 Baltimore Terrence Cody DT Alabama 6' 5" 378
26 Arizona Maurkice Pouncey* OC Florida 6' 5" 312
27 Dallas Charles Brown OT USC 6' 6" 298
28 San Diego Ryan Mathews* RB Fresno State 5' 11" 220
29 NY Jets Sergio Kindle OLB Texas 6' 4" 238
30 Minnesota Colt McCoy QB Texas 6' 3" 205
31 Indianapolis Sean Weatherspoon OLB Missouri 6' 1" 232
32 New Orleans Brian Price* DT UCLA 6' 2" 295
Saturday, April 17, 2010
BUFFALO BILLS BLITZ 2010 NFL MOCK DRAFT TOP 32 PLAYERS APRIL 17
1. DT Ndamukong Suh, Nebraska Suh is unanimously considered the best player in the draft.
The Rams will be tempted to draft a franchise QB with the first pick, but passing on Suh would be a huge mistake. Suh might be the most dominant prospect to ever enter the NFL Draft.
2. DT Gerald McCoy, Oklahoma (JR) Very active and nice size (6' 4" 305 lbs), he can be a force on the inside.
Not on the same level as Nebraska's Suh, but he will still be a top five pick for the 2010 NFL Draft.
3. OT Russell Okung, OK State Okung can come in right away and start at left tackle. He plays with an attitude.
Okung is a mauler and really sustains his blocks. He has NFL size and is the best offensive tackle on the board. At the combine weighed in at 6' 5" 307 pounds with 36-inch arms.
4. QB Sam Bradford, Oklahoma Yes they now have McNabb, but he isn't the long term answer.
With Okung gone Bradford was the best player available. McNabb is getting old and his skills have diminished or else why would the Eagles have dumped him? Bradford will now have the luxury of being developed slowly.
5. S Eric Berry, Tennessee (JR) Berry is the best safety to enter the draft since former Redskin's Sean Taylor.
The Chiefs will focus on their offensive line in the second round where they have two selections.
6. QB Jimmy Clausen, Notre Dame (JR) Matt Hasselbeck is getting old and has had durability issues.
Clausen has NFL size (6' 3" 222 lbs) and arm strength. Developed by offensive guru Charlie Weis and playing in a pro style offense will help him in the NFL. Small, 9" hands might be a concern. Bradford (6' 4" 235 lbs) is the most accurate passer in college football.
7. CB Joe Haden, Florida (JR) Haden is a ball hawk and can also come up an make the spectacular tackle.
Haden (5' 11" 195 lbs) looks like the best corner in a very weak cornerback class. Teamed up with Eric Wright the Browns could have the best cornerback tandem in the league.
8. DT Brian Price, UCLA (JR) Price (6' 2" 300 lbs) has recorded an amazing 22.5 TFL and seven sacks this season.
Very strong, quick and disruptive on the inside. A true playmaker. Price reminds me of Warren Sapp.
9. OT Anthony Davis, Rutgers (JR) This 6' 5" 322 pound offensive lineman is flying up the draft boards.
After he got healthy he started dominating his opponents this year. This is a little early for Davis, but the Bills pull the trigger because of need.
10. WR Dez Bryant, Oklahoma State (JR) A big play receiver, but he was suspended for 2009 due to NCAA violations.
Missing the season shouldn't hurt him, but he is going to miss the combine and his pro day on March 10th due to a tweaked hamstring.
11. ILB Rolando McCLain, Alabama (JR) From Bears: McCLain (6' 4" 254 lbs) was a major force on the inside for the Tide.
For his size, his speed in unprecedented.The young McClain is fast and strong, he is one of the only linebackers that I have seen run down Florida QB Tim Tebow from behind.
12. DE Jason Pierre-Paul, South Florida (JR) A perfect fit, at 6' 6" 257, he is a supreme pass rusher and has the ability to drop back into coverage.
This season, Pierre-Paul recorded 14.5 TFLs and 5.5 sacks.
13. DT Dan Williams, Tennessee Very strong, athletic and disruptive. At 6' 3" 327 pounds Williams is a beast.
Williams is still improving and seems to get better each game, very athletic and has very good upside.
14. RB CJ Spiller, Clemson From Denver: Blazing fast, Spiller can also return kicks and punts and is a heck of a receiver.
Spiller has Chris Johnson type skills. A human highlight film, he is a threat to score every time he touches the ball and is the type of player you can build your offense around.
15. DE Everson Griffin, USC (JR) At 6' 3" 282 pounds, Griffen will instantly improve the Giants pass rush.
Griffen really stepped up his play this year and has the size and athletic ability to be a elite NFL defensive end. The G-men really need a linebacker but their isn't one worthy of this high of a pick.
16. WR Golden Tate, Notre Dame Ultra productive former running back recorded 1,496 receiving yards and 15 TDs in 2009.
Had a fantastic combine where he ran a 4.42 forty. He reminds me of the Vikings Percy Harvin.
17. OT Trent Williams, Oklahoma From Carolina: The prototype right tackle, Williams can anchor well and plays great technique.
18. WR Arrelious Benn, Illinois (JR) Incredible size and speed (6' 2" 220 lbs). His upside is off the charts.
Trading Santonio Holmes to the Jets left them thin at receiver. Due to mediocre quarterback play he (Benn) didn't have great stats, but his talent is unmistakable, he ran a nice 4.48 forty at the combine.
19. OLB/DE Brandon Graham, Michigan At 6' 1" 272 pounds, Graham doesn't have prototype size, but he is extremely explosive.
Graham has been super productive this year, ranked #1 in the nation with 26 tackles for loss (TFL) and 10.5 sacks.
20. S Earl Thomas (Soph) This player is fantastic, a ball hawk that can up up and tackle in a flash.
This eligible sophomore recorded 6 interception last year. He possesses terrific ball skills.
21. OG Mike Iupati, Idaho Iupati is a mammoth (6' 5" 330 lbs) road grader.
Iupati has great feet and uses his hands very well. Might be moved to tackle because he has long arms.
22. RB Jahvid Best, California (JR) Best (5' 10" 199 lbs) is extremely productive, strong and fast.
The Patriots need a franchise type running back and Best could be the guy. The fastest running back at the combine: 4.35
23. OT Bryan Bulaga, Iowa (JR) Bulaga (6' 6" 312 lbs) is a very good technician, has great feet and uses superior leverage.
Once Bulaga gets into the weight room and gets a little stronger, he could be a dominating NFL offensive lineman.
24. S Taylor Mays, USC A hard hitting safety that might be moved to linebacker in the NFL.
At 6' 3" 235 pounds Mays hits like a linebacker but runs like a cornerback. Not great in coverage though, to busy looking for the highlight reel collision.
25. OLB Sergio Kindle, Texas At 6' 3" 250 pounds, he figures to be an ideal outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense
Kindle can really come off the edge and get to the quarterback.
26. OT Bruce Campbell, Maryland (JR) At 6' 6" 312 pounds he is the prototypical left tackle in the NFL with superior athletic ability.
Campbell ran an official 4.85-second 40-yard dash, turned in a 32-inch vertical jump and put up 34 repetitions on the standard 225-pound bench press.
27. OG/C Maurkice Pouncey, Florida (JR) Pouncey (6' 4" 304 lbs) is flying up the draft boards and can play center or guard.
They need a left tackle but the top prospects will lkely be gone by the time the Cowboys pick in round one, plus they think Doug Free can play left tackle. Pouncey would be a major upgrade over Kyle Kosier.
28. RB Ryan Mathews, Fresno State After losing LT and probably Sproles the Chargers are in dire need of a running back.
At 6' 0" 218 pounds Mathews could give the Bolts a power running game that they haven't had in a while. He was the nations leading rusher in 2009 with 1,808 yards and 19 TDs and he recently ran a 4.45 second forty at the 2010 NFL Scouting Combine.
29. CB Devin McCourty, Rutgers A late riser up the draft boards, McCourty is 5' 10" 190 pounds and blazing fast.
Teamed up with Pro Bowl corner Daryl Revis, the Jets could have a pair of shut down corners. The addition of Santonio Holmes bolsters their receiving corps.
30. CB Kyle Wilson, Boise State Wilson is a fast riser after an excellent Senior Bowl. Should run a fast 40 at the combine.
The Vikings are a deep, talented team but are a little thin at cornerback and Antoine Winfield has been injured and is getting a little old.
31. LB Sean Weatherspoon, Missouri The Spoon shows great range and can upgrade their linebacking corps.
Decent size (6' 2" 242 lbs) and great production. This year he has recorded 104 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss and 4 sacks.
32. DE Derrick Morgan, Georgia Tech (JR) Morgan (6' 4" 275 lbs), recorded 12.5 sacks and 18 TFLs last year.
Got outplayed by Iowa defensive end Adrian Clayborne in the Orange Bowl, but that doesn't take away from his great season.
The Rams will be tempted to draft a franchise QB with the first pick, but passing on Suh would be a huge mistake. Suh might be the most dominant prospect to ever enter the NFL Draft.
2. DT Gerald McCoy, Oklahoma (JR) Very active and nice size (6' 4" 305 lbs), he can be a force on the inside.
Not on the same level as Nebraska's Suh, but he will still be a top five pick for the 2010 NFL Draft.
3. OT Russell Okung, OK State Okung can come in right away and start at left tackle. He plays with an attitude.
Okung is a mauler and really sustains his blocks. He has NFL size and is the best offensive tackle on the board. At the combine weighed in at 6' 5" 307 pounds with 36-inch arms.
4. QB Sam Bradford, Oklahoma Yes they now have McNabb, but he isn't the long term answer.
With Okung gone Bradford was the best player available. McNabb is getting old and his skills have diminished or else why would the Eagles have dumped him? Bradford will now have the luxury of being developed slowly.
5. S Eric Berry, Tennessee (JR) Berry is the best safety to enter the draft since former Redskin's Sean Taylor.
The Chiefs will focus on their offensive line in the second round where they have two selections.
6. QB Jimmy Clausen, Notre Dame (JR) Matt Hasselbeck is getting old and has had durability issues.
Clausen has NFL size (6' 3" 222 lbs) and arm strength. Developed by offensive guru Charlie Weis and playing in a pro style offense will help him in the NFL. Small, 9" hands might be a concern. Bradford (6' 4" 235 lbs) is the most accurate passer in college football.
7. CB Joe Haden, Florida (JR) Haden is a ball hawk and can also come up an make the spectacular tackle.
Haden (5' 11" 195 lbs) looks like the best corner in a very weak cornerback class. Teamed up with Eric Wright the Browns could have the best cornerback tandem in the league.
8. DT Brian Price, UCLA (JR) Price (6' 2" 300 lbs) has recorded an amazing 22.5 TFL and seven sacks this season.
Very strong, quick and disruptive on the inside. A true playmaker. Price reminds me of Warren Sapp.
9. OT Anthony Davis, Rutgers (JR) This 6' 5" 322 pound offensive lineman is flying up the draft boards.
After he got healthy he started dominating his opponents this year. This is a little early for Davis, but the Bills pull the trigger because of need.
10. WR Dez Bryant, Oklahoma State (JR) A big play receiver, but he was suspended for 2009 due to NCAA violations.
Missing the season shouldn't hurt him, but he is going to miss the combine and his pro day on March 10th due to a tweaked hamstring.
11. ILB Rolando McCLain, Alabama (JR) From Bears: McCLain (6' 4" 254 lbs) was a major force on the inside for the Tide.
For his size, his speed in unprecedented.The young McClain is fast and strong, he is one of the only linebackers that I have seen run down Florida QB Tim Tebow from behind.
12. DE Jason Pierre-Paul, South Florida (JR) A perfect fit, at 6' 6" 257, he is a supreme pass rusher and has the ability to drop back into coverage.
This season, Pierre-Paul recorded 14.5 TFLs and 5.5 sacks.
13. DT Dan Williams, Tennessee Very strong, athletic and disruptive. At 6' 3" 327 pounds Williams is a beast.
Williams is still improving and seems to get better each game, very athletic and has very good upside.
14. RB CJ Spiller, Clemson From Denver: Blazing fast, Spiller can also return kicks and punts and is a heck of a receiver.
Spiller has Chris Johnson type skills. A human highlight film, he is a threat to score every time he touches the ball and is the type of player you can build your offense around.
15. DE Everson Griffin, USC (JR) At 6' 3" 282 pounds, Griffen will instantly improve the Giants pass rush.
Griffen really stepped up his play this year and has the size and athletic ability to be a elite NFL defensive end. The G-men really need a linebacker but their isn't one worthy of this high of a pick.
16. WR Golden Tate, Notre Dame Ultra productive former running back recorded 1,496 receiving yards and 15 TDs in 2009.
Had a fantastic combine where he ran a 4.42 forty. He reminds me of the Vikings Percy Harvin.
17. OT Trent Williams, Oklahoma From Carolina: The prototype right tackle, Williams can anchor well and plays great technique.
18. WR Arrelious Benn, Illinois (JR) Incredible size and speed (6' 2" 220 lbs). His upside is off the charts.
Trading Santonio Holmes to the Jets left them thin at receiver. Due to mediocre quarterback play he (Benn) didn't have great stats, but his talent is unmistakable, he ran a nice 4.48 forty at the combine.
19. OLB/DE Brandon Graham, Michigan At 6' 1" 272 pounds, Graham doesn't have prototype size, but he is extremely explosive.
Graham has been super productive this year, ranked #1 in the nation with 26 tackles for loss (TFL) and 10.5 sacks.
20. S Earl Thomas (Soph) This player is fantastic, a ball hawk that can up up and tackle in a flash.
This eligible sophomore recorded 6 interception last year. He possesses terrific ball skills.
21. OG Mike Iupati, Idaho Iupati is a mammoth (6' 5" 330 lbs) road grader.
Iupati has great feet and uses his hands very well. Might be moved to tackle because he has long arms.
22. RB Jahvid Best, California (JR) Best (5' 10" 199 lbs) is extremely productive, strong and fast.
The Patriots need a franchise type running back and Best could be the guy. The fastest running back at the combine: 4.35
23. OT Bryan Bulaga, Iowa (JR) Bulaga (6' 6" 312 lbs) is a very good technician, has great feet and uses superior leverage.
Once Bulaga gets into the weight room and gets a little stronger, he could be a dominating NFL offensive lineman.
24. S Taylor Mays, USC A hard hitting safety that might be moved to linebacker in the NFL.
At 6' 3" 235 pounds Mays hits like a linebacker but runs like a cornerback. Not great in coverage though, to busy looking for the highlight reel collision.
25. OLB Sergio Kindle, Texas At 6' 3" 250 pounds, he figures to be an ideal outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense
Kindle can really come off the edge and get to the quarterback.
26. OT Bruce Campbell, Maryland (JR) At 6' 6" 312 pounds he is the prototypical left tackle in the NFL with superior athletic ability.
Campbell ran an official 4.85-second 40-yard dash, turned in a 32-inch vertical jump and put up 34 repetitions on the standard 225-pound bench press.
27. OG/C Maurkice Pouncey, Florida (JR) Pouncey (6' 4" 304 lbs) is flying up the draft boards and can play center or guard.
They need a left tackle but the top prospects will lkely be gone by the time the Cowboys pick in round one, plus they think Doug Free can play left tackle. Pouncey would be a major upgrade over Kyle Kosier.
28. RB Ryan Mathews, Fresno State After losing LT and probably Sproles the Chargers are in dire need of a running back.
At 6' 0" 218 pounds Mathews could give the Bolts a power running game that they haven't had in a while. He was the nations leading rusher in 2009 with 1,808 yards and 19 TDs and he recently ran a 4.45 second forty at the 2010 NFL Scouting Combine.
29. CB Devin McCourty, Rutgers A late riser up the draft boards, McCourty is 5' 10" 190 pounds and blazing fast.
Teamed up with Pro Bowl corner Daryl Revis, the Jets could have a pair of shut down corners. The addition of Santonio Holmes bolsters their receiving corps.
30. CB Kyle Wilson, Boise State Wilson is a fast riser after an excellent Senior Bowl. Should run a fast 40 at the combine.
The Vikings are a deep, talented team but are a little thin at cornerback and Antoine Winfield has been injured and is getting a little old.
31. LB Sean Weatherspoon, Missouri The Spoon shows great range and can upgrade their linebacking corps.
Decent size (6' 2" 242 lbs) and great production. This year he has recorded 104 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss and 4 sacks.
32. DE Derrick Morgan, Georgia Tech (JR) Morgan (6' 4" 275 lbs), recorded 12.5 sacks and 18 TFLs last year.
Got outplayed by Iowa defensive end Adrian Clayborne in the Orange Bowl, but that doesn't take away from his great season.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Buffalo Sabres-Boston Bruins Game 1 Preview
After a full 82 games composed of highs & lows, injuries & late additions, and joy & (mostly) anger, the Boston Bruins managed to do what some felt was impossible at some points during the season: make the playoffs. Despite scoring the second-fewest goals in the entire league (206 to squeeze by the Calgary Flames’ 204), the B’s clinched the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference to set up a first-round series against the Northeast-Division-winning Buffalo Sabres, a fairly well-known and – shockingly – favorable opponent.
Season Series Review
The Bruins and Sabres haven’t played against each other in the playoffs since 1999, when Buffalo won the series, but this season they faced each other six times over the course of the season, as division opponents always do, with Boston going 4-2-0 for eight out of a possible 12 points. Their most recent game was last week, when Dennis Wideman showed up to play in the Bruins’ 3-1 victory. Over the course of the teams’ six games, they combined for only 26 goals, which is hardly a surprise coming from two very defensively-minded teams with exceptional goaltending, and it is unlikely much will change in the playoffs.
Goaltending
This series will feature the top two league leaders in both goals against average and save percentage; some might be surprised to find out that US Olympian, recent silver medal winner, and Vezina Trophy candidate Ryan Miller of the Sabres is second in both of those categories to Boston’s very own Tuukka Rask, who wasn’t even selected by Finland to play in last February’s Winter Olympics. Rask, with a 1.97 GAA and a .931 save percentage this season, played exceptionally well against the Sabres, posting 1.43 GAA, a .954 save percentage and a 4-1-0 record. There’s no question that he will start in place of Miller’s Team USA backup, Tim Thomas, but Rask has never played in the playoffs and posted such incredible stats starting only 39 games (22-12-5), as opposed to Miller’s 2.22 GAA and .929 save percentage over the course of 68 starts. Additionally, in two of Boston’s wins against the Sabres, Miller’s backups, Patrick Lalime and Jhonas Enroth were playing; Miller never allowed more than two goals against the Bruins. For Boston to win this series, Rask will need to keep his cool, which simply translates to not doing this.
Defense
Part of the reason Rask’s statistics are so impressive and one of the two reasons the Bruins even made the playoffs (Rask being the other) is the team’s defense. They allowed only 200 goals, second fewest behind only Marty Brodeur’s New Jersey Devils. Buffalo’s defense only allowed seven more than the Bruins and actually finished ahead of Boston’s well-known penalty kill by two-tenths of a percent (86.6% to 84.4%). Because both teams are essentially even on the blue line, the keys to the defensive battle will come down to injuries (see below) and endurance. With such low scoring teams, it’s likely a fair number of these games will be decided by overtime (and only overtime since there are no shootouts). As many fans will remember, Boston’s tired defense blew last season’s Eastern Conference semi-finals against the Carolina Hurricanes, which cannot happen this year if the Bruins want to upset the Sabres.
Forwards
In addition to staying awake, the Bruins will need to score goals in order to win. Their offense managed only 15 goals against the Sabres during the season and, as if fans needed reminding, got only 191 other pucks to touch the back of the net. Buffalo’s offense clicked well enough throughout the season to score 235 goals (11th in the entire league), which is only 29 more than the Bruins, but still a huge difference when the series is going to be a defensive battle. The Bruins deserve kudos for still simply scoring without Phil Kessel and Marc Savard, but kudos don’t win playoff games.
Injuries
Throughout the season, the Bruins were hindered by injuries, none more so than Marc Savard’s, but the team did not get much healthier as they entered the playoffs. Joining Savard (concussion) on the injured list will be Dennis Seidenburg (wrist), who is out for eight weeks (and, therefore, essentially the season), and Mark Stuart (pinkie). Andrew Ference, who is expected to play after missing nine games after another groin injury, is a welcome return, but the Bruins cannot rely on someone who requires off-season surgery to replace both Seidenburg and Stuart.
Buffalo managed to do the opposite of Boston and actually get healthy as the season ended. While the Sabres lost Jochen Hecht (upper body) and Drew Stafford (concussion, questionable to play), they regained the services of Tim Connelly, Thomas Vanek, Raffi Torres, and Patrick Kaleta as the season ended. Vanek, who scored four goals against the Ottawa Senators on Saturday to finish with 28 on the season, will certainly factor in as an impact player for the Sabres.
Coaching
Behind the bench, the coaches, too, are evenly matched. Both Claude Julien of the Bruins and Lindy Ruff of the Sabres are Jack Adams Award-winners and both former defensemen in the NHL, which explains their strong defense-first systems. While Julien is in only his third season with the Bruins, Ruff has been at the helm of Buffalo for 14 years, having been a Stanley Cup finalist once (1999) and an Eastern Conference finalist three times (1998, 2006, 2007). Clearly Ruff, who also won a gold medal as one of Team Canada’s associate coaches in Vancouver, has the edge in experience, but he’s never been able to quite make it all of the way. Brett Hull had something to do with that, but maybe Ruff just isn’t quite lucky enough to win it all.
X-Factors
Clearly goaltending, injuries, and endurance will all factor into this matchup, but experience may as well. While Rask has no playoff experience, he has four Stanley Cup rings in front of him: Mark Recchi (two), Miroslav Satan, and Shawn Thornton. Comparatively, Miller has zero.
Additionally, the Sabres are from Buffalo, one of the most cursed cities in all of major league sports. How many straight Super Bowls did the city lose during the 1990s? Four. How did they end the decade? Losing in the Stanley Cup Finals on an erroneous call. Then again, the Bruins haven’t won the Stanley Cup since the Jacobs family bought the team.
Season Series Review
The Bruins and Sabres haven’t played against each other in the playoffs since 1999, when Buffalo won the series, but this season they faced each other six times over the course of the season, as division opponents always do, with Boston going 4-2-0 for eight out of a possible 12 points. Their most recent game was last week, when Dennis Wideman showed up to play in the Bruins’ 3-1 victory. Over the course of the teams’ six games, they combined for only 26 goals, which is hardly a surprise coming from two very defensively-minded teams with exceptional goaltending, and it is unlikely much will change in the playoffs.
Goaltending
This series will feature the top two league leaders in both goals against average and save percentage; some might be surprised to find out that US Olympian, recent silver medal winner, and Vezina Trophy candidate Ryan Miller of the Sabres is second in both of those categories to Boston’s very own Tuukka Rask, who wasn’t even selected by Finland to play in last February’s Winter Olympics. Rask, with a 1.97 GAA and a .931 save percentage this season, played exceptionally well against the Sabres, posting 1.43 GAA, a .954 save percentage and a 4-1-0 record. There’s no question that he will start in place of Miller’s Team USA backup, Tim Thomas, but Rask has never played in the playoffs and posted such incredible stats starting only 39 games (22-12-5), as opposed to Miller’s 2.22 GAA and .929 save percentage over the course of 68 starts. Additionally, in two of Boston’s wins against the Sabres, Miller’s backups, Patrick Lalime and Jhonas Enroth were playing; Miller never allowed more than two goals against the Bruins. For Boston to win this series, Rask will need to keep his cool, which simply translates to not doing this.
Defense
Part of the reason Rask’s statistics are so impressive and one of the two reasons the Bruins even made the playoffs (Rask being the other) is the team’s defense. They allowed only 200 goals, second fewest behind only Marty Brodeur’s New Jersey Devils. Buffalo’s defense only allowed seven more than the Bruins and actually finished ahead of Boston’s well-known penalty kill by two-tenths of a percent (86.6% to 84.4%). Because both teams are essentially even on the blue line, the keys to the defensive battle will come down to injuries (see below) and endurance. With such low scoring teams, it’s likely a fair number of these games will be decided by overtime (and only overtime since there are no shootouts). As many fans will remember, Boston’s tired defense blew last season’s Eastern Conference semi-finals against the Carolina Hurricanes, which cannot happen this year if the Bruins want to upset the Sabres.
Forwards
In addition to staying awake, the Bruins will need to score goals in order to win. Their offense managed only 15 goals against the Sabres during the season and, as if fans needed reminding, got only 191 other pucks to touch the back of the net. Buffalo’s offense clicked well enough throughout the season to score 235 goals (11th in the entire league), which is only 29 more than the Bruins, but still a huge difference when the series is going to be a defensive battle. The Bruins deserve kudos for still simply scoring without Phil Kessel and Marc Savard, but kudos don’t win playoff games.
Injuries
Throughout the season, the Bruins were hindered by injuries, none more so than Marc Savard’s, but the team did not get much healthier as they entered the playoffs. Joining Savard (concussion) on the injured list will be Dennis Seidenburg (wrist), who is out for eight weeks (and, therefore, essentially the season), and Mark Stuart (pinkie). Andrew Ference, who is expected to play after missing nine games after another groin injury, is a welcome return, but the Bruins cannot rely on someone who requires off-season surgery to replace both Seidenburg and Stuart.
Buffalo managed to do the opposite of Boston and actually get healthy as the season ended. While the Sabres lost Jochen Hecht (upper body) and Drew Stafford (concussion, questionable to play), they regained the services of Tim Connelly, Thomas Vanek, Raffi Torres, and Patrick Kaleta as the season ended. Vanek, who scored four goals against the Ottawa Senators on Saturday to finish with 28 on the season, will certainly factor in as an impact player for the Sabres.
Coaching
Behind the bench, the coaches, too, are evenly matched. Both Claude Julien of the Bruins and Lindy Ruff of the Sabres are Jack Adams Award-winners and both former defensemen in the NHL, which explains their strong defense-first systems. While Julien is in only his third season with the Bruins, Ruff has been at the helm of Buffalo for 14 years, having been a Stanley Cup finalist once (1999) and an Eastern Conference finalist three times (1998, 2006, 2007). Clearly Ruff, who also won a gold medal as one of Team Canada’s associate coaches in Vancouver, has the edge in experience, but he’s never been able to quite make it all of the way. Brett Hull had something to do with that, but maybe Ruff just isn’t quite lucky enough to win it all.
X-Factors
Clearly goaltending, injuries, and endurance will all factor into this matchup, but experience may as well. While Rask has no playoff experience, he has four Stanley Cup rings in front of him: Mark Recchi (two), Miroslav Satan, and Shawn Thornton. Comparatively, Miller has zero.
Additionally, the Sabres are from Buffalo, one of the most cursed cities in all of major league sports. How many straight Super Bowls did the city lose during the 1990s? Four. How did they end the decade? Losing in the Stanley Cup Finals on an erroneous call. Then again, the Bruins haven’t won the Stanley Cup since the Jacobs family bought the team.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
BUFFALO SABRES WIILL DEFEAT THE BOSTON BRUINS IN 6 GAMES
This is what everyone loves to do as we gear up for the first of four rounds of playoff hockey: throw a dart at the wall and hope we can come close to predicting the outcomes of each series.
So we are, Buffalo Bills Blitz predictions for 2010 NHL Conference Quarterfinals:
(1) Washington Capitals vs. (8) Montreal Canadiens
Season series (Tied 2-2)
Nov. 20: Montreal 3 @ Washington 2
Nov. 28: Washington 4 @ Montreal 3 (SO)
Jan. 5: Montreal 2 @ Washington 4
Feb. 10: Washington 5 @ Montreal 6 (OT)
Brandon: You have to feel bad for the Canadiens, who have a decent shot of scaring the Capitals. But Washington is too hungry and too talented. Washington in 5.
James: I have to admit that I'm surprised so many people are picking the Habs. Is this just for attention? Did someone not get hugged enough growing up? Washington in 5.
Joe: This will be Washington's test, at team that has great goaltending, a semi-adherence to defensive hockey and some scoring touch. Caps will still win but it'll be annoying for them. Washington in 6.
(2) New Jersey Devils vs. (7) Philadelphia Flyers
Season series (Philadelphia won 5-1)
Oct. 3: Philadelphia 5 @ New Jersey 2
Nov. 16: New Jersey 2 @ Philadelphia 3
Dec. 12: Philadelphia 1 @ New Jersey 4
Feb. 8: New Jersey 2 @ Philadelphia 3
Feb. 10: Philadelphia 3 @ New Jersey 2 (OT)
March 28: New Jersey 1 @ Philadelphia 5
Brandon: If the Flyers had any sort of reliable goaltending, I'd be seriously tempted to go with the fellas from Broad St. Yet Boucher has been too inconsistent; is Michael Leighton better? New Jersey in 6.
James: The Devils haven't been a great playoff team since the lockout, but thankfully the Flyers are an absolute mess. That being said, don't discount the Flyers' overall talent in this one. New Jersey in 6.
Joe: I don't trust Brian Boucher in the playoffs, but I do think he can steal a couple of games. New Jersey in 6.
More after the jump.
(3) Buffalo Sabres vs (6) Boston Bruins
Season series (Boston won 4-2)
Nov. 7: Buffalo 2 @ Boston 4
Nov. 20: Boston 2 @ Buffalo 1
Jan. 29: Boston 1 @ Buffalo 2
Feb. 9: Boston 3 @ Buffalo 2
March 29: Buffalo 3 @ Boston 2
April 8: Buffalo 1 @ Boston 3
Brandon: Of all the teams for the Sabres to get, it had to be Boston. The Bruins match up perfectly with Buffalo, in what will be an extremely low scoring series. Buffalo in 7.
James: Nothing makes more sense to me than the Bruins ending their season at home; they barely went over .500 in Beantown (18-17-6). People assume that the Sabres lack firepower because they don't have a big name star, but they have too much offensive depth for Boston. Buffalo in 6.
Joe: This will be a slow, bleeding death for the Sabres against a dreadfully boring team that can get by with one or two goals a game. Unless Olympics Ryan Miller shows up, the Sabres are going to struggle. Boston in 7.
(4) Pittsburgh Penguins vs. (5) Ottawa Senators
Season series (Tied 2-2)
Oct. 12: Pittsburgh 4 @ Ottawa 1
Nov. 19: Pittsburgh 2 @ Ottawa 6
Dec. 23: Ottawa 2 @ Pittsburgh 8
Jan. 28: Ottawa 4 @ Pittsburgh 1
Brandon: Upset special! The Penguins were too inconsistent at the end of the season, while the Senators finally pulled it together in front of Brian Elliott. The Senators get first round revenge for 2008, against a tired and pressured Penguins team. Ottawa in 7.
James: If I were to pick an upset in the East, it would be this. The Senators are frisky and the Penguins are tired. That being said, Evgeni Malkin hasn't been right all year (dropping from 113 points to 77 points), so if he gets things together the Penguins are dangerous. Again. Pittsburgh in 6.
Joe: Everyone that wants to pick a sweep never does and says it'll end in five games. Screw that noise. Pens in four over a brutally over matched Sens team. Pittsburgh in 4.
So we are, Buffalo Bills Blitz predictions for 2010 NHL Conference Quarterfinals:
(1) Washington Capitals vs. (8) Montreal Canadiens
Season series (Tied 2-2)
Nov. 20: Montreal 3 @ Washington 2
Nov. 28: Washington 4 @ Montreal 3 (SO)
Jan. 5: Montreal 2 @ Washington 4
Feb. 10: Washington 5 @ Montreal 6 (OT)
Brandon: You have to feel bad for the Canadiens, who have a decent shot of scaring the Capitals. But Washington is too hungry and too talented. Washington in 5.
James: I have to admit that I'm surprised so many people are picking the Habs. Is this just for attention? Did someone not get hugged enough growing up? Washington in 5.
Joe: This will be Washington's test, at team that has great goaltending, a semi-adherence to defensive hockey and some scoring touch. Caps will still win but it'll be annoying for them. Washington in 6.
(2) New Jersey Devils vs. (7) Philadelphia Flyers
Season series (Philadelphia won 5-1)
Oct. 3: Philadelphia 5 @ New Jersey 2
Nov. 16: New Jersey 2 @ Philadelphia 3
Dec. 12: Philadelphia 1 @ New Jersey 4
Feb. 8: New Jersey 2 @ Philadelphia 3
Feb. 10: Philadelphia 3 @ New Jersey 2 (OT)
March 28: New Jersey 1 @ Philadelphia 5
Brandon: If the Flyers had any sort of reliable goaltending, I'd be seriously tempted to go with the fellas from Broad St. Yet Boucher has been too inconsistent; is Michael Leighton better? New Jersey in 6.
James: The Devils haven't been a great playoff team since the lockout, but thankfully the Flyers are an absolute mess. That being said, don't discount the Flyers' overall talent in this one. New Jersey in 6.
Joe: I don't trust Brian Boucher in the playoffs, but I do think he can steal a couple of games. New Jersey in 6.
More after the jump.
(3) Buffalo Sabres vs (6) Boston Bruins
Season series (Boston won 4-2)
Nov. 7: Buffalo 2 @ Boston 4
Nov. 20: Boston 2 @ Buffalo 1
Jan. 29: Boston 1 @ Buffalo 2
Feb. 9: Boston 3 @ Buffalo 2
March 29: Buffalo 3 @ Boston 2
April 8: Buffalo 1 @ Boston 3
Brandon: Of all the teams for the Sabres to get, it had to be Boston. The Bruins match up perfectly with Buffalo, in what will be an extremely low scoring series. Buffalo in 7.
James: Nothing makes more sense to me than the Bruins ending their season at home; they barely went over .500 in Beantown (18-17-6). People assume that the Sabres lack firepower because they don't have a big name star, but they have too much offensive depth for Boston. Buffalo in 6.
Joe: This will be a slow, bleeding death for the Sabres against a dreadfully boring team that can get by with one or two goals a game. Unless Olympics Ryan Miller shows up, the Sabres are going to struggle. Boston in 7.
(4) Pittsburgh Penguins vs. (5) Ottawa Senators
Season series (Tied 2-2)
Oct. 12: Pittsburgh 4 @ Ottawa 1
Nov. 19: Pittsburgh 2 @ Ottawa 6
Dec. 23: Ottawa 2 @ Pittsburgh 8
Jan. 28: Ottawa 4 @ Pittsburgh 1
Brandon: Upset special! The Penguins were too inconsistent at the end of the season, while the Senators finally pulled it together in front of Brian Elliott. The Senators get first round revenge for 2008, against a tired and pressured Penguins team. Ottawa in 7.
James: If I were to pick an upset in the East, it would be this. The Senators are frisky and the Penguins are tired. That being said, Evgeni Malkin hasn't been right all year (dropping from 113 points to 77 points), so if he gets things together the Penguins are dangerous. Again. Pittsburgh in 6.
Joe: Everyone that wants to pick a sweep never does and says it'll end in five games. Screw that noise. Pens in four over a brutally over matched Sens team. Pittsburgh in 4.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Buffalo Sabres Could Win The Eastern Conference
Capitals will be healthiest after opening round
The Conference Quarter Finals offer up a couple of brutal match-ups. The Devils lost the season series with the Flyers 5 games to 1 but as the #2 seed still go in as provisional favorites to progress. There’s always at least one upset in the early rounds and none in the East look as good for a low seed as this one, Philadelphia will get through in six games. Buffalo look well-set against a Boston team that rode some late-season momentum into the sixth seed, momentum that will likely burn out in five games against the more playoff-ready Sabres.
Ottawa and Pittsburgh offer up a solid clash in the #4 vs #5 seed clash. The pair split the season series but haven’t met since January. With the core of last year’s Stanley Cup champions still in place I have to give the edge to the Penguins in six. One team will cruise through the opening round, namely the Washington Capitals who should sweep the faltering Montreal Canadiens.
Brutal tests to continue for the Penguins
If Pittsburgh is to retain the Stanley Cup it will do so the hard way, as based on my first round predictions the Pens would be up against the Sabres in the Conference Semi Finals. Sidney Crosby may be the most exciting player in the game but Ryan Miller has been a revelation this season in front of goal for Buffalo. Expect the Olympic rematch comparisons to be made no end in clash which will be tough to call in NHL betting. I expect it to go the full seven games with Pittsburgh to just about prevail. The Capitals will find Philadelphia to be made of sterner stuff than the Canadiens but the Flyers will still be no match for Ovechkin and company. Washington to progress in six.
Battle hardened Penguins will fall short
After being well tested by Ottawa and pushed to the edge by Buffalo, Pittsburgh will be hold the competitive edge over the Capitals at the start of the Eastern Conference Finals. Endurance matters however and while the Penguins might get off to an early start, possibly winning the opening game, I expect Washington to come strong and win over six gruelling encounters to win the Eastern Conference title.
The Conference Quarter Finals offer up a couple of brutal match-ups. The Devils lost the season series with the Flyers 5 games to 1 but as the #2 seed still go in as provisional favorites to progress. There’s always at least one upset in the early rounds and none in the East look as good for a low seed as this one, Philadelphia will get through in six games. Buffalo look well-set against a Boston team that rode some late-season momentum into the sixth seed, momentum that will likely burn out in five games against the more playoff-ready Sabres.
Ottawa and Pittsburgh offer up a solid clash in the #4 vs #5 seed clash. The pair split the season series but haven’t met since January. With the core of last year’s Stanley Cup champions still in place I have to give the edge to the Penguins in six. One team will cruise through the opening round, namely the Washington Capitals who should sweep the faltering Montreal Canadiens.
Brutal tests to continue for the Penguins
If Pittsburgh is to retain the Stanley Cup it will do so the hard way, as based on my first round predictions the Pens would be up against the Sabres in the Conference Semi Finals. Sidney Crosby may be the most exciting player in the game but Ryan Miller has been a revelation this season in front of goal for Buffalo. Expect the Olympic rematch comparisons to be made no end in clash which will be tough to call in NHL betting. I expect it to go the full seven games with Pittsburgh to just about prevail. The Capitals will find Philadelphia to be made of sterner stuff than the Canadiens but the Flyers will still be no match for Ovechkin and company. Washington to progress in six.
Battle hardened Penguins will fall short
After being well tested by Ottawa and pushed to the edge by Buffalo, Pittsburgh will be hold the competitive edge over the Capitals at the start of the Eastern Conference Finals. Endurance matters however and while the Penguins might get off to an early start, possibly winning the opening game, I expect Washington to come strong and win over six gruelling encounters to win the Eastern Conference title.
Jimmy Clausen The Buffalo Billls Next Quaterback?
After Jimmy Clausen finished his pro day on Friday, he reached the height of wonder amongst Bills fans when he announced to ESPN's Todd McShay that he had plans to visit One Bills Drive in the near future.
Since Donovan McNabb was traded to the Redskins, Clausen's candidacy to become a Buffalo Bill at the ninth overall pick has skyrocketed.
Some love him, some hate him. Some think he's the next Joe Montana, some see a reincarnation of J.P. Losman, another California kid.
Several football rumor-generating sites say the Bills are interested and will take Clausen, with seemingly no other place for him to land in the top eight spots.
Analysts on other dot-com's cite "reliable sources" when they say Buffalo will start Clausen's slide down the first round, when they pass on him at number nine.
So it's really where you look.
To shed much-needed light on the draft prospectus of Jimmy Clausen, here are the unbiased truths on the young signal caller. After you read, you can form your opinions accordingly...
To begin, Jimmy is the brother of two former Tennessee Volunteer quarterbacks, Rick and Casey Clausen. If you like that draft buzz phrase "has good bloodlines," Jimmy has decent ones.
During his days as a high school quarterback, it's safe to say Jimmy owned the state of California. Clausen never lost a game at Oaks Christian Academy (42-0) and led the Lions to a state title in 2006. He owns the records for career touchdowns (146) and threw for a eye-popping 10,677 yards.
Clausen strolled onto Notre Dame's campus as the nation's top high school player, top offensive guy, best quarterback....you get the idea. If you like a player that's been a top- tier prospect since ninth grade, Jimmy's your guy.
During his three years as a Golden Domer, Clausen didn't quite match the buzz he created as a decorated prep school star.
No bias here, ask any ND crazy.
He split time with Evan Sharpley in 2007, when Notre Dame lost a school-record nine games. With a porous offensive line and essentially no defense, there wasn't much the freshman Clausen could do. He was sacked 35 times in his 10 appearances during the year.
Clausen's numbers as a freshman: 138 for 245 (56.3% comp.) 1,254 yards with seven touchdowns and six interceptions.
In 2008, Notre Dame finished 6-6. They beat rival Michigan, but lost to Syracuse at home. Clausen, as the entrenched starter with a year of experience under his belt, demonstrated his skills and poise in the pocket as quarterback. His notable games: in a win against Stanford completed 29 of 40 of his passes and totaled 347 yards with three scores. Against the Eagles of Boston College, in a 17-0 loss, Clausen accumulated 224 yards through the air, but was intercepted four times.
Because the Fighting Irish got to the six win mark, they were awarded a trip to a bowl game. In the Hawaii Bowl against the hosting Hawaii Warriors, Clausen completed 85 percent of his passes and found the end zone five times in their 49-21 trouncing.
Last year in Clausen's third and final season with Notre Dame, the Irish again finished at 6-6. After beginning the year 6-2, they ended on a disappointing four game losing streak.
Clausen bettered his sophomore campaign, throwing 28 touchdowns to only four interceptions. He topped the 300 yard mark seven times, and reached 400 yards passing twice. If you like dramatic statistical improvement, Jimmy might be your guy.
ND Totals: 8,148 yards, 60 TDs 27 INTs
Here's a comprehensive look at Clausen's career at ND, outside the numbers:
Big/Quality Wins: Freshman Year - @ UCLA (20-6). Sophomore Year - Purdue (38-21), Hawaii Bowl (49-21). Junior Year - Michigan State (33-30), Boston College (20-16)
If you like a quarterback who's willed his team several huge victories, Clausen is probably NOT your guy.
After dissecting his career, it makes sense to analyze Clausen's quarterback skill set. This is when bias usually sneaks its way in, but I'll try to be as non-partisan as possible.
Clausen initially gets a plus for his experience in a pro-style offense. Guys like Sam Bradford, Colt McCoy, and Tim Tebow all operated in the spread. He's studied how to read coverages, and has taken his fair share of snaps under center.
Clausen's got a good arm. Not a great one. From what I've gathered, he's superb making the far hash to sideline throw and is great working underneath, but gets in trouble when looking across the deep middle.
His release is the polar opposite of Tebow's in that it's very quick. He properly holds the ball close to his head, which leads to it rocketing out out of his hands—something that's been ingrained in him since his early days in California. If you like a player that possesses a good amount of natural ability, Clausen's your guy.
He stands 6'3'' and weighs about 225 lbs—no size issues.
Some say he's a little arrogant, some say he's shown great maturity and professionalism in this ultra-hyped draft processes. No one knows for sure, but with his immense talent, Clausen surely isn't the most humble guy in this year's class.
Would he fit in Buffalo, driving the ball through the December winds? Will he finally materialize into the All-World quarterback many believed he'd be upon entering college? His time under Charlie Weis, coupled with his stellar arm and live release, could lead you to believe so.
Or does the fact that he never won the big game (ND schedules many) scare you? What about his pedestrian 2:1 touchdown to interception ratio?
After all this, is Clausen your guy?
Since Donovan McNabb was traded to the Redskins, Clausen's candidacy to become a Buffalo Bill at the ninth overall pick has skyrocketed.
Some love him, some hate him. Some think he's the next Joe Montana, some see a reincarnation of J.P. Losman, another California kid.
Several football rumor-generating sites say the Bills are interested and will take Clausen, with seemingly no other place for him to land in the top eight spots.
Analysts on other dot-com's cite "reliable sources" when they say Buffalo will start Clausen's slide down the first round, when they pass on him at number nine.
So it's really where you look.
To shed much-needed light on the draft prospectus of Jimmy Clausen, here are the unbiased truths on the young signal caller. After you read, you can form your opinions accordingly...
To begin, Jimmy is the brother of two former Tennessee Volunteer quarterbacks, Rick and Casey Clausen. If you like that draft buzz phrase "has good bloodlines," Jimmy has decent ones.
During his days as a high school quarterback, it's safe to say Jimmy owned the state of California. Clausen never lost a game at Oaks Christian Academy (42-0) and led the Lions to a state title in 2006. He owns the records for career touchdowns (146) and threw for a eye-popping 10,677 yards.
Clausen strolled onto Notre Dame's campus as the nation's top high school player, top offensive guy, best quarterback....you get the idea. If you like a player that's been a top- tier prospect since ninth grade, Jimmy's your guy.
During his three years as a Golden Domer, Clausen didn't quite match the buzz he created as a decorated prep school star.
No bias here, ask any ND crazy.
He split time with Evan Sharpley in 2007, when Notre Dame lost a school-record nine games. With a porous offensive line and essentially no defense, there wasn't much the freshman Clausen could do. He was sacked 35 times in his 10 appearances during the year.
Clausen's numbers as a freshman: 138 for 245 (56.3% comp.) 1,254 yards with seven touchdowns and six interceptions.
In 2008, Notre Dame finished 6-6. They beat rival Michigan, but lost to Syracuse at home. Clausen, as the entrenched starter with a year of experience under his belt, demonstrated his skills and poise in the pocket as quarterback. His notable games: in a win against Stanford completed 29 of 40 of his passes and totaled 347 yards with three scores. Against the Eagles of Boston College, in a 17-0 loss, Clausen accumulated 224 yards through the air, but was intercepted four times.
Because the Fighting Irish got to the six win mark, they were awarded a trip to a bowl game. In the Hawaii Bowl against the hosting Hawaii Warriors, Clausen completed 85 percent of his passes and found the end zone five times in their 49-21 trouncing.
Last year in Clausen's third and final season with Notre Dame, the Irish again finished at 6-6. After beginning the year 6-2, they ended on a disappointing four game losing streak.
Clausen bettered his sophomore campaign, throwing 28 touchdowns to only four interceptions. He topped the 300 yard mark seven times, and reached 400 yards passing twice. If you like dramatic statistical improvement, Jimmy might be your guy.
ND Totals: 8,148 yards, 60 TDs 27 INTs
Here's a comprehensive look at Clausen's career at ND, outside the numbers:
Big/Quality Wins: Freshman Year - @ UCLA (20-6). Sophomore Year - Purdue (38-21), Hawaii Bowl (49-21). Junior Year - Michigan State (33-30), Boston College (20-16)
If you like a quarterback who's willed his team several huge victories, Clausen is probably NOT your guy.
After dissecting his career, it makes sense to analyze Clausen's quarterback skill set. This is when bias usually sneaks its way in, but I'll try to be as non-partisan as possible.
Clausen initially gets a plus for his experience in a pro-style offense. Guys like Sam Bradford, Colt McCoy, and Tim Tebow all operated in the spread. He's studied how to read coverages, and has taken his fair share of snaps under center.
Clausen's got a good arm. Not a great one. From what I've gathered, he's superb making the far hash to sideline throw and is great working underneath, but gets in trouble when looking across the deep middle.
His release is the polar opposite of Tebow's in that it's very quick. He properly holds the ball close to his head, which leads to it rocketing out out of his hands—something that's been ingrained in him since his early days in California. If you like a player that possesses a good amount of natural ability, Clausen's your guy.
He stands 6'3'' and weighs about 225 lbs—no size issues.
Some say he's a little arrogant, some say he's shown great maturity and professionalism in this ultra-hyped draft processes. No one knows for sure, but with his immense talent, Clausen surely isn't the most humble guy in this year's class.
Would he fit in Buffalo, driving the ball through the December winds? Will he finally materialize into the All-World quarterback many believed he'd be upon entering college? His time under Charlie Weis, coupled with his stellar arm and live release, could lead you to believe so.
Or does the fact that he never won the big game (ND schedules many) scare you? What about his pedestrian 2:1 touchdown to interception ratio?
After all this, is Clausen your guy?
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Buffalo Bills Mock NFL Draft Pick #9 for April 8
Bryan Bulaga - OT, Iowa
So with my first ever attempt at a mock draft it would of maybe helped to try this before. It doesn’t help at all that when I started writing this thing BREAKING NEWS came out that our own QB was traded to a division rival. Talk about bad timing. When I volunteered I didn’t think it was going to be that hard of a task. Then I received the Buffalo Bills. With glaring holes at basically every position it really was quite a headache to come up with a sure fire lock at the number 9 pick. I thought about the BPA scenario which I def think the Bills may consider, but personally I believe that ever since they traded us their starting LT its been their biggest need. I believe Bryan Bulaga out of Iowa would be the best bet to lock up that LT spot for years to come.
At 6’6 and weighing 314 lbs Bulaga is a force. Whoever the Bills start at their turnstile QB position it doesn’t matter unless you can keep him on his feet. Bulaga had a hell of a junior year being named the Big Ten Offensive lineman of the year. He had an impressive Hawkeye’s Orange Bowl victory holding Georgia Tech’s all-star DE Derrick Morgan in check. Bulaga’s run blocking is exceptional. A thyroid problem cause him to miss 3 games but many teams aren’t too worried about his after seeing his medical reports. Some may argue that pick number 9 is too high for Bulaga but I believe that it’s a major hole on this team that needs a immediate fix and can help new head coach Chan Gailey establish himself in Buffalo.
So with my first ever attempt at a mock draft it would of maybe helped to try this before. It doesn’t help at all that when I started writing this thing BREAKING NEWS came out that our own QB was traded to a division rival. Talk about bad timing. When I volunteered I didn’t think it was going to be that hard of a task. Then I received the Buffalo Bills. With glaring holes at basically every position it really was quite a headache to come up with a sure fire lock at the number 9 pick. I thought about the BPA scenario which I def think the Bills may consider, but personally I believe that ever since they traded us their starting LT its been their biggest need. I believe Bryan Bulaga out of Iowa would be the best bet to lock up that LT spot for years to come.
At 6’6 and weighing 314 lbs Bulaga is a force. Whoever the Bills start at their turnstile QB position it doesn’t matter unless you can keep him on his feet. Bulaga had a hell of a junior year being named the Big Ten Offensive lineman of the year. He had an impressive Hawkeye’s Orange Bowl victory holding Georgia Tech’s all-star DE Derrick Morgan in check. Bulaga’s run blocking is exceptional. A thyroid problem cause him to miss 3 games but many teams aren’t too worried about his after seeing his medical reports. Some may argue that pick number 9 is too high for Bulaga but I believe that it’s a major hole on this team that needs a immediate fix and can help new head coach Chan Gailey establish himself in Buffalo.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Marshawn Lynch Trade Request Out Of Buffalo?
2009 was not the best of years for Marshawn Lynch.
The season started with a three-game suspension for an arrest and subsequent guilty plea to a weapons charge. The veteran running back followed that up by losing his starting job to Fred Jackson midway through the season.
All in all, Lynch rushed for a career-low 450 yards and two touchdowns in just six starts for the Bills in 2009.
So it comes as no surprise that the troubled running back may want out of Buffalo.
Per a report from Mark Gaughan of the Buffalo News, the word around the Bills locker room is that the 23-year-old Lynch wouldn’t be upset if he was traded to another team.
Sure, Lynch is a talented, dual-threat running back with only 41 career games under his belt. We all know that this guy has the ability to make plays on Sunday.
But with a draft class stocked with a wide variety of skilled rushers, which NFL team is going to want to trade with the Bills for a guy who can’t stay out of trouble and who wasn’t talented enough to start for a team that scored just six rushing touchdowns in 2009?
Or more importantly, how high of an offer will it take to be worth it for the Bills?
The season started with a three-game suspension for an arrest and subsequent guilty plea to a weapons charge. The veteran running back followed that up by losing his starting job to Fred Jackson midway through the season.
All in all, Lynch rushed for a career-low 450 yards and two touchdowns in just six starts for the Bills in 2009.
So it comes as no surprise that the troubled running back may want out of Buffalo.
Per a report from Mark Gaughan of the Buffalo News, the word around the Bills locker room is that the 23-year-old Lynch wouldn’t be upset if he was traded to another team.
Sure, Lynch is a talented, dual-threat running back with only 41 career games under his belt. We all know that this guy has the ability to make plays on Sunday.
But with a draft class stocked with a wide variety of skilled rushers, which NFL team is going to want to trade with the Bills for a guy who can’t stay out of trouble and who wasn’t talented enough to start for a team that scored just six rushing touchdowns in 2009?
Or more importantly, how high of an offer will it take to be worth it for the Bills?
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Buffalo Bills Blitz 2010 Mock NFL Draft
1. St. Louis Rams - Sam Bradford (QB) Oklahoma
- So, after rave reviews after his pro day, Bradford seems to be the guy at #1. This is pending the ability of the Rams to sign him before the draft. If they can’t, this could become an ugly and tenuous situation. But, for now, it Bradford.
2. Detroit Lions - Ndamukong Suh (DT) Nebraska
- For the second time in four years, the Lions will garner the best player in the draft from the second pick. Suh will immediately pay dividends and should have coach Jim Schwartz streaming tears of joy from the sound of his name.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Gerald McCoy (DT) Oklahoma
- This seems to be the perfect fit. McCoy will be allowed to play the run on his way to the QB in the Tampa 2 scheme. While not as consistently dominant as Suh, McCoy will thrive in this defense and have a chance to be a star.
4. Washington Redskins - Russell Okung (OT) Oklahoma State
- With Bradford off the board, it remains to be seen how impressed the Skins are with Jimmy Clausen. Even if they love him, this offensive line needs major work. Okung will have big shoes to fill, replacing Chris Samuels, but he has the talent to be just as good in the long run.
5. Kansas City Chiefs - Eric Berry (S) Tennessee
- There is word that Scott Pioli has a general rule against drafting safeties in round one. I’m not sure he’s ever had the opportunity to acquire a safety with the potential of Berry. Offensive tackle could be an option here as well.
6. Seattle Seahawks - Bryan Bulaga (OT) Iowa
- Now that it is an accepted conclusion that Walter Jones is done, I don’t think Pete Carroll wants to begin his tenure with Sean Locklear protecting a fragile and old Matt Hasselbeck. Bulaga is technically sound and could step in right away and stay for the next decade.
7. Cleveland Browns - Joe Haden (CB) Florida
- With all the talk about Haden falling after the combine, the Browns have consistently shown interest. If paired with Eric Wright, Haden could be the perfect fit in the increasingly pass-happy AFC North.
8. Oakland Raiders - Trent Williams (OT) Oklahoma
- It may be the trendy thing to place Bruce Campbell in this slot, but I don’t think even Al Davis is that inept. Williams has shown solid athleticism and has shown this offseason that he’s in shape and ready to contribute.
9. Buffalo Bills - Jimmy Clausen (QB) Notre Dame
- I, personally, like Clausen more than Bradford as a professional QB. But, there is little chance he leapfrogs Bradford in the Rams’ eyes before the draft. Clausen is better prepared to play from day one, and may have to in Buffalo.
10. Jacksonville Jaguars - Rolando McClain (MLB) Alabama
- The signing of Aaron Kampman means the Jags have an inordinate amount of money tied into the DE position. Adding Pierre-Paul would only increase that issue. McClain would allow Justin Durant to move back to his more natural OLB spot and also give the defense a rock in the middle.
11. Denver Broncos (from Chicago) - Dan Williams (DT) Tennessee
- The signing of Jamal Williams will give the Broncos a stop gap for a year or two, regardless of how dominant Jamal is after injury. Dan Williams would give them the long term answer at the most important (and most difficult to fill) position in the 3-4 defense.
12. Miami Dolphins - Derrick Morgan (DE) Georgia Tech
- Morgan doesn’t seem like a natural fit at OLB to me, but what do I know? Bill Parcells has taken a ton of interest in Morgan. And let’s face it, Morgan is a better fit at OLB than anyone the Dolphins currently have on the roster.
13. San Francisco 49ers - C.J. Spiller (RB) Clemson
- Spiller could have a transforming effect on this offense. Pairing him with Frank Gore would benefit both players by maximizing Spillers big play ability and lengthening Gore’s career.
14. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver) - Dez Bryant (WR) Oklahoma State
- Some talk has been made that Bryant could fall into the bottom of round one. If he does, teams will regret it for years to come. There is no way Pete Carroll allows Bryant to get past him here.
15. New York Giants - Jason Pierre-Paul (DE) South Florida
- With McClain of the board, the Giants address the once dominant defensive line. JPP is raw, but so Osi Umenyiora and Tuck when they were drafted. JPP can fit into the rotation until his time comes to be a full time player.
16. Tennessee Titans - Jared Odrick (DT) Penn State
- Odrick has become a riser as of late and would be a great fit in this attacking scheme in Tennessee. Odrick would be the first brick in the rebuilding of the Titans defensive line.
17. San Francisco 49ers (from Carolina) - Anthony Davis (OT) Rutgers
- Davis and Joe Staley could be a terrific set of bookends for a long time. The fact that the Niners signed Marvel Smith before last season, means they are desperately searching for a quality upgrade at RT.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers - Kyle Wilson (CB) Boise State
- For the first time in years, I have absolutely no idea what the Steelers priorities are heading into the draft. Wilson is the most logical choice right now, plus he would be a great fit across from Ike Taylor.
19. Atlanta Falcons - Sean Weatherspoon (OLB) Missouri
- The Falcons have a few needs on the defensive side of the ball. Weatherspoon would lend much needed athleticism and intensity to this underachieving unit. Teamed with rising star, Curtis Lofton, the LB corps could be a strength of the team.
20. Houston Texans - Earl Thomas (S) Texas
- This could be the steal of the first round, as Thomas may have as much upside as Berry. He can run, cover, tackle and is highly instinctive. Another benefit of adding Thomas is his ability to line up as a CB.
21. Cincinnati Bengals - Rob Gronkowski (TE) Arizona
- The Bengals have had a need for a playmaking TE for over a decade now. Gronkowski is the most well rounded TE in this class and could become a star. He would also help resurrect the career of Carson Palmer.
22. New England Patriots - Sergio Kindle (OLB) Texas
- It has been stated over and over that the Pats need a legit pass rusher. Kindle has work to do as far as being a coverage LB, but he won’t be asked to do much of that, especially early. Bill Bellichick can breathe a sigh of relief.
23. Green Bay Packers - Mike Iupati (OG) Idaho
- I’m not as big of a Iupati fan as most, but this is solid value for him. The Packers need help along the offensive line and Iupati can provide it. He’d be an immediate upgrade at OG and can slide out to RT eventually.
24. Philadelphia Eagles - Brandon Graham (DE) Michigan
- The Eagles are another team who could go in many directions on draft day. If the board plays out like this and Graham is available, I can’t see them passing him by. Graham fits what the Eagles do perfectly.
25. Baltimore Ravens - Terrence Cody (DT) Alabama
- The addition of Cody could make this dominant defense that much more dangerous. Cody would allow Haloti Ngata more flexibility and allow Kelly Gregg to be more of a rotational player. Ray Lewis could practically go untouched by blockers for games at a time.
26. Arizona Cardinals - Bruce Campbell (OT) Maryland
- Someone eventually has to draft Campbell. Not the he’s a bad prospect, but he’s nowhere near ready to play as a rookie. Given time to develop, he has the tools to be special.
27. Dallas Cowboys - Demaryius Thomas (WR) Georgia Tech
- Jerry Jones will be chomping at the bit to select Thomas if he’s available at 27, unless one of the elite OT’s falls. Thomas is also solid insurance in case the Cowboys can’t sign Mile Austin to a long term deal.
28. San Diego Chargers - Ryan Mathews (RB) Fresno State
- Mathews is a much needed addition to this offense. If there is no legit rushing option on a down in and down out basis, this offense will struggle through the air. Even the great Phillip Rivers can’t overcome the lack of a running game for an entire year.
29. New York Jets - Golden Tate (WR) Notre Dame
- The Jets’ offense is currently lacking a matchup problem for defenses. Tate can line up outside or in the slot and stretch the field for Mark Sanchez.
30. Minnesota Vikings - Colt McCoy (QB) Texas
- After his pro day, McCoy may not be available here. But we don’t account for trades in the mock, and that’s probably what it will take for a QB needy team to draft McCoy. If he’s available at 30, Minnesota will not hesitate.
31. Indianapolis Colts - Devin McCourty (CB) Rutgers
- The Colts usually wait until the middle rounds to address the CB spot. But McCourty is an ideal fit here and is an immediate upgrade over the status quo. McCourty also gives the Colts a special teams demon.
32. New Orleans Saints - Carlos Dunlap (DE) Florida
- With Charles Grant out of the picture, there is a hole at one DE spot and Bobby McCray is not a starter. Dunlap is the type of big, athletic DE the Colts love.
- So, after rave reviews after his pro day, Bradford seems to be the guy at #1. This is pending the ability of the Rams to sign him before the draft. If they can’t, this could become an ugly and tenuous situation. But, for now, it Bradford.
2. Detroit Lions - Ndamukong Suh (DT) Nebraska
- For the second time in four years, the Lions will garner the best player in the draft from the second pick. Suh will immediately pay dividends and should have coach Jim Schwartz streaming tears of joy from the sound of his name.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Gerald McCoy (DT) Oklahoma
- This seems to be the perfect fit. McCoy will be allowed to play the run on his way to the QB in the Tampa 2 scheme. While not as consistently dominant as Suh, McCoy will thrive in this defense and have a chance to be a star.
4. Washington Redskins - Russell Okung (OT) Oklahoma State
- With Bradford off the board, it remains to be seen how impressed the Skins are with Jimmy Clausen. Even if they love him, this offensive line needs major work. Okung will have big shoes to fill, replacing Chris Samuels, but he has the talent to be just as good in the long run.
5. Kansas City Chiefs - Eric Berry (S) Tennessee
- There is word that Scott Pioli has a general rule against drafting safeties in round one. I’m not sure he’s ever had the opportunity to acquire a safety with the potential of Berry. Offensive tackle could be an option here as well.
6. Seattle Seahawks - Bryan Bulaga (OT) Iowa
- Now that it is an accepted conclusion that Walter Jones is done, I don’t think Pete Carroll wants to begin his tenure with Sean Locklear protecting a fragile and old Matt Hasselbeck. Bulaga is technically sound and could step in right away and stay for the next decade.
7. Cleveland Browns - Joe Haden (CB) Florida
- With all the talk about Haden falling after the combine, the Browns have consistently shown interest. If paired with Eric Wright, Haden could be the perfect fit in the increasingly pass-happy AFC North.
8. Oakland Raiders - Trent Williams (OT) Oklahoma
- It may be the trendy thing to place Bruce Campbell in this slot, but I don’t think even Al Davis is that inept. Williams has shown solid athleticism and has shown this offseason that he’s in shape and ready to contribute.
9. Buffalo Bills - Jimmy Clausen (QB) Notre Dame
- I, personally, like Clausen more than Bradford as a professional QB. But, there is little chance he leapfrogs Bradford in the Rams’ eyes before the draft. Clausen is better prepared to play from day one, and may have to in Buffalo.
10. Jacksonville Jaguars - Rolando McClain (MLB) Alabama
- The signing of Aaron Kampman means the Jags have an inordinate amount of money tied into the DE position. Adding Pierre-Paul would only increase that issue. McClain would allow Justin Durant to move back to his more natural OLB spot and also give the defense a rock in the middle.
11. Denver Broncos (from Chicago) - Dan Williams (DT) Tennessee
- The signing of Jamal Williams will give the Broncos a stop gap for a year or two, regardless of how dominant Jamal is after injury. Dan Williams would give them the long term answer at the most important (and most difficult to fill) position in the 3-4 defense.
12. Miami Dolphins - Derrick Morgan (DE) Georgia Tech
- Morgan doesn’t seem like a natural fit at OLB to me, but what do I know? Bill Parcells has taken a ton of interest in Morgan. And let’s face it, Morgan is a better fit at OLB than anyone the Dolphins currently have on the roster.
13. San Francisco 49ers - C.J. Spiller (RB) Clemson
- Spiller could have a transforming effect on this offense. Pairing him with Frank Gore would benefit both players by maximizing Spillers big play ability and lengthening Gore’s career.
14. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver) - Dez Bryant (WR) Oklahoma State
- Some talk has been made that Bryant could fall into the bottom of round one. If he does, teams will regret it for years to come. There is no way Pete Carroll allows Bryant to get past him here.
15. New York Giants - Jason Pierre-Paul (DE) South Florida
- With McClain of the board, the Giants address the once dominant defensive line. JPP is raw, but so Osi Umenyiora and Tuck when they were drafted. JPP can fit into the rotation until his time comes to be a full time player.
16. Tennessee Titans - Jared Odrick (DT) Penn State
- Odrick has become a riser as of late and would be a great fit in this attacking scheme in Tennessee. Odrick would be the first brick in the rebuilding of the Titans defensive line.
17. San Francisco 49ers (from Carolina) - Anthony Davis (OT) Rutgers
- Davis and Joe Staley could be a terrific set of bookends for a long time. The fact that the Niners signed Marvel Smith before last season, means they are desperately searching for a quality upgrade at RT.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers - Kyle Wilson (CB) Boise State
- For the first time in years, I have absolutely no idea what the Steelers priorities are heading into the draft. Wilson is the most logical choice right now, plus he would be a great fit across from Ike Taylor.
19. Atlanta Falcons - Sean Weatherspoon (OLB) Missouri
- The Falcons have a few needs on the defensive side of the ball. Weatherspoon would lend much needed athleticism and intensity to this underachieving unit. Teamed with rising star, Curtis Lofton, the LB corps could be a strength of the team.
20. Houston Texans - Earl Thomas (S) Texas
- This could be the steal of the first round, as Thomas may have as much upside as Berry. He can run, cover, tackle and is highly instinctive. Another benefit of adding Thomas is his ability to line up as a CB.
21. Cincinnati Bengals - Rob Gronkowski (TE) Arizona
- The Bengals have had a need for a playmaking TE for over a decade now. Gronkowski is the most well rounded TE in this class and could become a star. He would also help resurrect the career of Carson Palmer.
22. New England Patriots - Sergio Kindle (OLB) Texas
- It has been stated over and over that the Pats need a legit pass rusher. Kindle has work to do as far as being a coverage LB, but he won’t be asked to do much of that, especially early. Bill Bellichick can breathe a sigh of relief.
23. Green Bay Packers - Mike Iupati (OG) Idaho
- I’m not as big of a Iupati fan as most, but this is solid value for him. The Packers need help along the offensive line and Iupati can provide it. He’d be an immediate upgrade at OG and can slide out to RT eventually.
24. Philadelphia Eagles - Brandon Graham (DE) Michigan
- The Eagles are another team who could go in many directions on draft day. If the board plays out like this and Graham is available, I can’t see them passing him by. Graham fits what the Eagles do perfectly.
25. Baltimore Ravens - Terrence Cody (DT) Alabama
- The addition of Cody could make this dominant defense that much more dangerous. Cody would allow Haloti Ngata more flexibility and allow Kelly Gregg to be more of a rotational player. Ray Lewis could practically go untouched by blockers for games at a time.
26. Arizona Cardinals - Bruce Campbell (OT) Maryland
- Someone eventually has to draft Campbell. Not the he’s a bad prospect, but he’s nowhere near ready to play as a rookie. Given time to develop, he has the tools to be special.
27. Dallas Cowboys - Demaryius Thomas (WR) Georgia Tech
- Jerry Jones will be chomping at the bit to select Thomas if he’s available at 27, unless one of the elite OT’s falls. Thomas is also solid insurance in case the Cowboys can’t sign Mile Austin to a long term deal.
28. San Diego Chargers - Ryan Mathews (RB) Fresno State
- Mathews is a much needed addition to this offense. If there is no legit rushing option on a down in and down out basis, this offense will struggle through the air. Even the great Phillip Rivers can’t overcome the lack of a running game for an entire year.
29. New York Jets - Golden Tate (WR) Notre Dame
- The Jets’ offense is currently lacking a matchup problem for defenses. Tate can line up outside or in the slot and stretch the field for Mark Sanchez.
30. Minnesota Vikings - Colt McCoy (QB) Texas
- After his pro day, McCoy may not be available here. But we don’t account for trades in the mock, and that’s probably what it will take for a QB needy team to draft McCoy. If he’s available at 30, Minnesota will not hesitate.
31. Indianapolis Colts - Devin McCourty (CB) Rutgers
- The Colts usually wait until the middle rounds to address the CB spot. But McCourty is an ideal fit here and is an immediate upgrade over the status quo. McCourty also gives the Colts a special teams demon.
32. New Orleans Saints - Carlos Dunlap (DE) Florida
- With Charles Grant out of the picture, there is a hole at one DE spot and Bobby McCray is not a starter. Dunlap is the type of big, athletic DE the Colts love.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Donavan McNabb Squash Trade To Buffalo Bills
To the surprise of almost no one, the Eagles pulled the trigger Sunday on the long-anticipated trade of quarterback Donovan McNabb.
You knew the Eagles wouldn’t let the Phillies open their season Monday without a major announcement, right?
The shocker was dealing McNabb to the NFC East rival Washington Redskins, not the Oakland Raiders or the Buffalo Bills, the teams he apparently vetoed according to sources and reports.
When all was said and done, Eagles got the Skins second round pick this year, No. 37 overall, and either a third or fourth-rounder in 2011.
Kevin Kolb is the starting quarterback, according to Eagles head coach Andy Reid. Michael Vick is the backup – for now, at least.
In Washington, where the Phillies begin defense of their National League pennant, McNabb will take orders from newly hired head coach Mike Shanahan. Throughout his career McNabb has been compared to John Elway, the Hall of Fame quarterback who at age 38 won the first of back-to-back Super Bowls with Shanahan and the Denver Broncos. That makes the deal all the more puzzling.
“I’m going to sit here and tell you that he’s going to help the Redskins be a better football team,” Reid said. “And then time will tell on the rest. We’ll just see how things go as time goes on.
“I’m pretty confident that this is the right thing to do.”
Details weren’t immediately available but privately the Eagles have a reasonable chance of getting a third-rounder in 2011, indicating the deal is reliant on McNabb signing a contract extension with the free-spending Redskins. McNabb has one year left on his contract.
Reid called the trade a collective decision by himself, owner Jeffrey Lurie, president Joe Banner and general manager Howie Roseman.
Reid denied McNabb handpicked his team but conceded the 33-year-old veteran was “happy” about the destination. Without naming teams Reid also intimated the Birds turned down better offers for McNabb.
“You’ve seen things like this throughout the league,” Reid said on a conference call. “You’ve seen other quarterbacks who have moved on to one team where the compensation wasn’t as good and they ended up where they wanted to be. You’ve seen Drew Bledsoe leave the Patriots and wind up with the Buffalo Bills. I just felt that this was best for us and best for Donovan. And that’s really what it came down to.
“I do know that Donovan is happy about this. I just know that he was fine with going to the Redskins and he’ll do a fine job with them.”
Lurie, Banner and Roseman addressed the McNabb trade in statements.
“Donovan McNabb was more than a franchise quarterback for this team,” Lurie said. “He truly embodied all of the attributes of a great quarterback and of a great person. He has been an excellent representative of this organization and the entire NFL both on and off the field. I look forward to honoring him as of the greatest Eagles of all-time and hopefully see in enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton one day. I wish Donovan and his beautiful family great health and joy for many, many years to come.”
Banner described McNabb as “the ultimate professional.
“He has an incredible work ethic and has been an integral part of our success,” Banner said. “Over the years, Donovan has always carried himself with a great deal of dignity. He’s an excellent role model for young men and women from across the region. In my mind, he’ll always be remembered as one of the greatest Eagles of all time.”
The move paves the way for the Eagles to extend the contract of quarterback Kolb, also in his last year. That might have to wait a bit while the NFL and the NFL Players Association sorts out its labor dispute.
The Redskins starter is Jason Campbell, who last season threw for 20 touchdowns and 15 interceptions leading the Redskins to a 4-12 record. Campbell could be on his way out, as the Skins are scheduled to meet this week with draftable quarterback Casey Clausen.
McNabb has been the Eagles’ starting quarterback the past 11 seasons. He threw 22 TD passes and was intercepted 10 times in his last season with the Birds.
In his career McNabb has completed 59 percent of his passes for 32,873 yards, 216 TD’s, 100 interceptions and an 86.5 passer rating.
The Eagles have five of the first 87 picks in the April 22-24 draft, and 11 overall.
“The fifth pick in the second round, that’s not a bad pick,” Reid said of the second-rounder from the Redskins. “Particularly the way the draft is setup now where you can kind of take a breath after the first day and evaluate who’s left.”
All of that said, it was fairly obvious Reid’s bond with his first-ever draft pick – the second overall choice in the 1999 draft – impacted the trade. It almost was as if Reid didn’t want McNabb to get too far away. Except for the fourth-and-26 completion that defeated the Green Bay Packers in the playoffs, Reid had too many McNabb memories to list.
“Every year was a great year, that’s what I know,” Reid said. “And every day was a great day. He was a heck of a kid – and he still is. He’s not going to change. Great person. Always fun to be around and he made everyone around him better.”
You knew the Eagles wouldn’t let the Phillies open their season Monday without a major announcement, right?
The shocker was dealing McNabb to the NFC East rival Washington Redskins, not the Oakland Raiders or the Buffalo Bills, the teams he apparently vetoed according to sources and reports.
When all was said and done, Eagles got the Skins second round pick this year, No. 37 overall, and either a third or fourth-rounder in 2011.
Kevin Kolb is the starting quarterback, according to Eagles head coach Andy Reid. Michael Vick is the backup – for now, at least.
In Washington, where the Phillies begin defense of their National League pennant, McNabb will take orders from newly hired head coach Mike Shanahan. Throughout his career McNabb has been compared to John Elway, the Hall of Fame quarterback who at age 38 won the first of back-to-back Super Bowls with Shanahan and the Denver Broncos. That makes the deal all the more puzzling.
“I’m going to sit here and tell you that he’s going to help the Redskins be a better football team,” Reid said. “And then time will tell on the rest. We’ll just see how things go as time goes on.
“I’m pretty confident that this is the right thing to do.”
Details weren’t immediately available but privately the Eagles have a reasonable chance of getting a third-rounder in 2011, indicating the deal is reliant on McNabb signing a contract extension with the free-spending Redskins. McNabb has one year left on his contract.
Reid called the trade a collective decision by himself, owner Jeffrey Lurie, president Joe Banner and general manager Howie Roseman.
Reid denied McNabb handpicked his team but conceded the 33-year-old veteran was “happy” about the destination. Without naming teams Reid also intimated the Birds turned down better offers for McNabb.
“You’ve seen things like this throughout the league,” Reid said on a conference call. “You’ve seen other quarterbacks who have moved on to one team where the compensation wasn’t as good and they ended up where they wanted to be. You’ve seen Drew Bledsoe leave the Patriots and wind up with the Buffalo Bills. I just felt that this was best for us and best for Donovan. And that’s really what it came down to.
“I do know that Donovan is happy about this. I just know that he was fine with going to the Redskins and he’ll do a fine job with them.”
Lurie, Banner and Roseman addressed the McNabb trade in statements.
“Donovan McNabb was more than a franchise quarterback for this team,” Lurie said. “He truly embodied all of the attributes of a great quarterback and of a great person. He has been an excellent representative of this organization and the entire NFL both on and off the field. I look forward to honoring him as of the greatest Eagles of all-time and hopefully see in enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton one day. I wish Donovan and his beautiful family great health and joy for many, many years to come.”
Banner described McNabb as “the ultimate professional.
“He has an incredible work ethic and has been an integral part of our success,” Banner said. “Over the years, Donovan has always carried himself with a great deal of dignity. He’s an excellent role model for young men and women from across the region. In my mind, he’ll always be remembered as one of the greatest Eagles of all time.”
The move paves the way for the Eagles to extend the contract of quarterback Kolb, also in his last year. That might have to wait a bit while the NFL and the NFL Players Association sorts out its labor dispute.
The Redskins starter is Jason Campbell, who last season threw for 20 touchdowns and 15 interceptions leading the Redskins to a 4-12 record. Campbell could be on his way out, as the Skins are scheduled to meet this week with draftable quarterback Casey Clausen.
McNabb has been the Eagles’ starting quarterback the past 11 seasons. He threw 22 TD passes and was intercepted 10 times in his last season with the Birds.
In his career McNabb has completed 59 percent of his passes for 32,873 yards, 216 TD’s, 100 interceptions and an 86.5 passer rating.
The Eagles have five of the first 87 picks in the April 22-24 draft, and 11 overall.
“The fifth pick in the second round, that’s not a bad pick,” Reid said of the second-rounder from the Redskins. “Particularly the way the draft is setup now where you can kind of take a breath after the first day and evaluate who’s left.”
All of that said, it was fairly obvious Reid’s bond with his first-ever draft pick – the second overall choice in the 1999 draft – impacted the trade. It almost was as if Reid didn’t want McNabb to get too far away. Except for the fourth-and-26 completion that defeated the Green Bay Packers in the playoffs, Reid had too many McNabb memories to list.
“Every year was a great year, that’s what I know,” Reid said. “And every day was a great day. He was a heck of a kid – and he still is. He’s not going to change. Great person. Always fun to be around and he made everyone around him better.”
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