The Buffalo Bills are hoping they have made the correct moves to revamp a defence that ranked dead last against the run in 2010.
Those moves will be put to the test in a big way this Sunday when they travel to Kansas City.
Head Coach Chan Gailey will bring his Bills into Arrowhead Stadium for a 1 p.m. ET kickoff with the Chiefs, the team that fired him before the 2009 season.
“I want to win them all,” Gailey told reporters Wednesday. “But when you’ve been somewhere and they’ve fired you? Yeah, if you said it didn’t mean a little more you’d be lying.”
The team’s off-season moves were made to beat teams like the Chiefs. Gone are former high draft picks Aaron Maybin and Paul Posluszny. In are Kirk Morrison, Nick Barnett and third-overall draft pick Marcell Dareus.
Though Bills fans haven’t had much to be excited about for the past three losing seasons in Orchard Park, the six-foot-three, 340 pound Dareus gives them hope.
Mike Mayock, the NBC College Football analyst and NFL Draft guru, rated the defensive lineman out of the University of Alabama his No. 1 defensive player in this past year’s draft class.
Dareus’s athleticism and size allow him to play anywhere on the line of the Bills 3-4 defence.
“He’s exactly what we thought we were going to get,” Gailey said. “He’s a big strong individual who plays with an edge … I think he’s going to be a very good football player for a long time in this league.”
Dareus will join with Kyle Williams and Dwan Edwards to be much more stout at the point of attack, hopefully clogging the running lanes for the Chiefs’ Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones, who combined to rush for a league-best 2,363 yards last season.
“You have to get where you’re supposed to be, and you gotta get there fast with this guy,” Williams said about Charles. “If he gets a step, nobody’s gonna catch him.”
Charles primary concern
In his third season, Charles accumulated 1,467 yards on the ground, and another 468 through the air. He is most certainly the primary concern for the Bills defence.
They must also be conscious of the Chiefs’ passing attack, a unit led by quarterback Matt Cassel and his number-one wide out Dwayne Bowe.
The two hooked up on a franchise-record 15 touchdown passes last year, the best combination in the NFL, and added a proven receiver in Steve Breaston.
One way to disrupt the passing attack is with an effective pass rush, and that’s where the Bills’ rejuvenated Shawne Merriman expects to make an impact.
“Lights Out” went to the Pro Bowl in each of his first three years of his career, accumulating 39 1/2 sacks with the San Diego Chargers. But he suffered a season-ending knee injury early in 2008, and it has plagued him ever since.
The 27-year-old has totaled just four sacks over 18 games the past three years.
But with apparent good health and a strong pre-season under his belt, Merriman may be primed to wreak havoc on Cassel, who was rumoured to have fractured a rib in the final pre-season contest, but has said he will play regardless.
On the other side of the ball for the Bills, quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick will have to keep a keen eye on Chiefs linebacker Tamba Hali, whose 14 1/2 sacks were second in the league last year.
Many are anxious to see how two young stars develop in the new season.
Fourth-year receiver Stevie Johnson came into his own in 2010, hauling in 1,073 yards and 10 majors. Running back CJ Spiller had a quiet rookie season after getting drafted ninth overall in 2010, but appeared to make strides late in the season.
Combined with veteran Fred Jackson, the Bills may have a dynamic back field duo of their own in the making.
What to watch for on offence: Will Donald Jones be able to fill the void left by the trade of Lee Evans?
What to watch for on defence: If the front seven holds up against the Chiefs running attack, how will the secondary play when tested?
Last Meeting: Chiefs kicker Ryan Succop made a 35-yard field goal with the clock showing zeros in overtime, giving Kansas City a 13-10 win in Week 8 last year. Charles ran for 177 yards in a game that saw both Succop and Bills kicker Rian Lindell miss potential game-winning kicks in OT.
Buffalo Bills Blitz Prediction: Bills 17, Chiefs 21.
Showing posts with label nfl. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nfl. Show all posts
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Buffalo Bills @ Kansas City Chiefs Free Pick Sunday Sept 11, 2011
Buffalo Bills @ Kansas City Chiefs NFL Free Pick: This game has really jumped around. I believe it opened at -7 then went down as far as -5, maybe even 4.5 – I got it when it was -5 at each book that I follow, and I thought that was really right on the money. The Buffalo Bills couldn’t really stop any kind of rushing attack last season and the Chiefs just ran the ball on anybody and everybody they lined up against on Sunday. Jamaal Charles had an amazing season, averaging over 6 yards per rush and breaking big play after big play.
But has their been some sense of “fat and happy-ness” going on with the Chiefs? Nobody expected them to do anything last year and suddenly they’re in the playoffs. It didn’t go so well from there, but regardless, making it to the playoffs is definitely success. This preseason, they’ve been playing like a team that already won, and therefore they’ve been garbage. They were so bad that their head coach played them the entire 4th preseason game, a contest where most starters hardly play, if at all.
The Bills may not have a chance to win 10 games this season, but they’ve been fighters for a while now. Still, I went with the Chiefs because of their impressive home field advantage, and their solid running game against a bad run defense. But I’m far from cashing this check before I watch the entire game.
But has their been some sense of “fat and happy-ness” going on with the Chiefs? Nobody expected them to do anything last year and suddenly they’re in the playoffs. It didn’t go so well from there, but regardless, making it to the playoffs is definitely success. This preseason, they’ve been playing like a team that already won, and therefore they’ve been garbage. They were so bad that their head coach played them the entire 4th preseason game, a contest where most starters hardly play, if at all.
The Bills may not have a chance to win 10 games this season, but they’ve been fighters for a while now. Still, I went with the Chiefs because of their impressive home field advantage, and their solid running game against a bad run defense. But I’m far from cashing this check before I watch the entire game.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Detroit Lions Run Over Buffalo Bills 16-6
ORCHARD PARK -- Jerome Harrison ran for 72 yards and set up a pair of scores in helping the Detroit Lions complete a perfect preseason with a 16-6 victory over the Buffalo Bills on Thursday night.
Harrison's 47-yard run led to Maurice Stovall's 16-yard touchdown catch from Shaun Hill. And his 17-yard run set up Jason Hanson's 44-yard field goal that put the Lions up 10-0 late in the first half. The Lions went 4-0 in the preseason for the first time since 2008, though that's not a reason to get excited. Detroit then proceeded to become the first NFL team to lose all 16 regular-season games.
The Bills (1-3) got a solid outing from linebacker Shawne Merriman, who had three tackles in his first game since missing the past two with a groin injury.
Merriman burst into the backfield to pull down Best from behind for a 1-yard loss on the Lions first series. On the next series, Merriman ran down Brown from behind to trip him up and limit him to a 10-yard gain on third-and-12.
Bruce Hall scored on a 1-yard plunge late in the fourth quarter, but the Bills failed on a 2-point conversion.
Titans: Tennessee and Chris Johnson have agreed to terms on a four-year contract extension ending the three-time Pro Bowl running back's holdout. Johnson has led the NFL in yards rushing the past three seasons and refused to report to the camp without a new deal. Now he will be under contract for the next six years through 2016, and the revised deal is worth $53.5 million with $30 million guaranteed, according to a person familiar with the contract.
Jaguars: Running back Fred Taylor is retiring from the NFL after 13 seasons and nearly 12,000 yards. Taylor will sign a one-day contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars on Friday so he can retire with the team that drafted him ninth overall in 1998. The former Florida star spent 11 seasons in Jacksonville and remains the franchise's leading rusher with 11,271 yards.
Falcons: Atlanta beefed up its secondary depth by signing cornerback Kelvin Hayden and confirming ar deal with safety James Sanders. Hayden spent the last six years with Indianapolis before being cut in a salary cap move. Sanders started 49 games for New England over the last six years.
Harrison's 47-yard run led to Maurice Stovall's 16-yard touchdown catch from Shaun Hill. And his 17-yard run set up Jason Hanson's 44-yard field goal that put the Lions up 10-0 late in the first half. The Lions went 4-0 in the preseason for the first time since 2008, though that's not a reason to get excited. Detroit then proceeded to become the first NFL team to lose all 16 regular-season games.
The Bills (1-3) got a solid outing from linebacker Shawne Merriman, who had three tackles in his first game since missing the past two with a groin injury.
Merriman burst into the backfield to pull down Best from behind for a 1-yard loss on the Lions first series. On the next series, Merriman ran down Brown from behind to trip him up and limit him to a 10-yard gain on third-and-12.
Bruce Hall scored on a 1-yard plunge late in the fourth quarter, but the Bills failed on a 2-point conversion.
Titans: Tennessee and Chris Johnson have agreed to terms on a four-year contract extension ending the three-time Pro Bowl running back's holdout. Johnson has led the NFL in yards rushing the past three seasons and refused to report to the camp without a new deal. Now he will be under contract for the next six years through 2016, and the revised deal is worth $53.5 million with $30 million guaranteed, according to a person familiar with the contract.
Jaguars: Running back Fred Taylor is retiring from the NFL after 13 seasons and nearly 12,000 yards. Taylor will sign a one-day contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars on Friday so he can retire with the team that drafted him ninth overall in 1998. The former Florida star spent 11 seasons in Jacksonville and remains the franchise's leading rusher with 11,271 yards.
Falcons: Atlanta beefed up its secondary depth by signing cornerback Kelvin Hayden and confirming ar deal with safety James Sanders. Hayden spent the last six years with Indianapolis before being cut in a salary cap move. Sanders started 49 games for New England over the last six years.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Buffalo Bills Trade Lee Evans To Ravens Fourth Round Draft Pick
After saying goodbye to WRs Derrick Mason, T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Donte' Stallworth and TE Todd Heap this offseason, the Ravens imported more experience at the position Friday, acquiring Lee Evans from the Bills.
He offered an upfront view of his talents last October, burning the Ravens for 105 yards (on six catches) and three TDs in Baltimore.
Evans had spent his entire seven-year career in Buffalo after being a first-round pick in 2004. He has two 1,000-yard receiving seasons to his credit but comes off his least productive campaign in 2010 (37 rec., 578 yards, 4 TDs). He also missed action for the first time in the NFL, going on IR with three games to go after suffering an ankle injury.
But Evans could be just what the doctor ordered in Baltimore. He's a deep threat (career average of 15.7 yards per reception) that should provide a nice complement to bruising WR Anquan Boldin, RB Ray Rice and a young group of tight ends. QB Joe Flacco really had no one to stretch the field last year with speedy Stallworth seeing very limited action.
Evans' departure leaves Stevie Johnson as the clear-cut No. 1 wideout in Buffalo and opens up a starting spot for Marcus Easley, David Nelson, Roscoe Parrish or Brad Smith
He offered an upfront view of his talents last October, burning the Ravens for 105 yards (on six catches) and three TDs in Baltimore.
Evans had spent his entire seven-year career in Buffalo after being a first-round pick in 2004. He has two 1,000-yard receiving seasons to his credit but comes off his least productive campaign in 2010 (37 rec., 578 yards, 4 TDs). He also missed action for the first time in the NFL, going on IR with three games to go after suffering an ankle injury.
But Evans could be just what the doctor ordered in Baltimore. He's a deep threat (career average of 15.7 yards per reception) that should provide a nice complement to bruising WR Anquan Boldin, RB Ray Rice and a young group of tight ends. QB Joe Flacco really had no one to stretch the field last year with speedy Stallworth seeing very limited action.
Evans' departure leaves Stevie Johnson as the clear-cut No. 1 wideout in Buffalo and opens up a starting spot for Marcus Easley, David Nelson, Roscoe Parrish or Brad Smith
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Steelers LB Harrision To Magazine: Roger Goodell A 'Devil"
NEW YORK — Heavily fined Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison calls NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell a "crook" and a "devil," among other insults, in a magazine article.
The 2008 AP Defensive Player of the Year hasn't been shy about ripping the league after he was docked $100,000 for illegal hits last season. In the August issue of Men's Journal, his rants against Goodell reach another level of wrath.
"If that man was on fire and I had to piss to put him out, I wouldn't do it," Harrison told the magazine. "I hate him and will never respect him."
His other descriptions of the commissioner include an anti-gay slur, "stupid," "puppet" and "dictator."
If the Steelers had defeated the Green Bay Packers in the Super Bowl, Harrison said, he would have whispered in Goodell's ear during the trophy ceremony: "Why don't you quit and do something else, like start your own league in flag football?"
Harrison also criticizes other NFL execs, Patriots-turned-commentators Rodney Harrison and Tedy Bruschi ("clowns"), Houston's Brian Cushing ("juiced out of his mind") - and even teammates Rashard Mendenhall and Ben Roethlisberger for their performances in the Super Bowl loss.
Harrison calls the running back a "fumble machine" for his fourth-quarter turnover. Mendenhall said on Twitter on Wednesday he didn't have a problem with what Harrison said "because I know him." But he also included a link to his stats from last season, which show he didn't have a pattern of fumbling.
Of the quarterback's two interceptions, Harrison says: "Hey, at least throw a pick on their side of the field instead of asking the D to bail you out again. Or hand the ball off and stop trying to act like Peyton Manning. You ain't that and you know it, man; you just get paid like he does."
Steelers President Art Rooney II said in a statement that he hadn't seen the article or talked to Harrison.
"We will discuss the situation at the appropriate time, when permitted once the labor situation is resolved," he said.
Harrison also questions whether a black player is punished more for a hard hit on a white player than the opposite. Beyond the insults, Harrison makes some serious points about what he believes are the league's misguided attempts to increase safety.
He explains how non-guaranteed contracts make players more likely to hit high, because in the short term, a torn knee ligament is more costly than a concussion.
Harrison suggests the real way to prevent head injuries is to shorten the season to 14 games, start offseason workouts later and trim the length of training camp so "we're not bangin' heads so much in August; that's where the brain trauma comes from."
The 2008 AP Defensive Player of the Year hasn't been shy about ripping the league after he was docked $100,000 for illegal hits last season. In the August issue of Men's Journal, his rants against Goodell reach another level of wrath.
"If that man was on fire and I had to piss to put him out, I wouldn't do it," Harrison told the magazine. "I hate him and will never respect him."
His other descriptions of the commissioner include an anti-gay slur, "stupid," "puppet" and "dictator."
If the Steelers had defeated the Green Bay Packers in the Super Bowl, Harrison said, he would have whispered in Goodell's ear during the trophy ceremony: "Why don't you quit and do something else, like start your own league in flag football?"
Harrison also criticizes other NFL execs, Patriots-turned-commentators Rodney Harrison and Tedy Bruschi ("clowns"), Houston's Brian Cushing ("juiced out of his mind") - and even teammates Rashard Mendenhall and Ben Roethlisberger for their performances in the Super Bowl loss.
Harrison calls the running back a "fumble machine" for his fourth-quarter turnover. Mendenhall said on Twitter on Wednesday he didn't have a problem with what Harrison said "because I know him." But he also included a link to his stats from last season, which show he didn't have a pattern of fumbling.
Of the quarterback's two interceptions, Harrison says: "Hey, at least throw a pick on their side of the field instead of asking the D to bail you out again. Or hand the ball off and stop trying to act like Peyton Manning. You ain't that and you know it, man; you just get paid like he does."
Steelers President Art Rooney II said in a statement that he hadn't seen the article or talked to Harrison.
"We will discuss the situation at the appropriate time, when permitted once the labor situation is resolved," he said.
Harrison also questions whether a black player is punished more for a hard hit on a white player than the opposite. Beyond the insults, Harrison makes some serious points about what he believes are the league's misguided attempts to increase safety.
He explains how non-guaranteed contracts make players more likely to hit high, because in the short term, a torn knee ligament is more costly than a concussion.
Harrison suggests the real way to prevent head injuries is to shorten the season to 14 games, start offseason workouts later and trim the length of training camp so "we're not bangin' heads so much in August; that's where the brain trauma comes from."
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
2011 NFL Mock Draft Buffalo Bills: Todd McShay Picks LB Vonn Miller
Zachary D. Rymer - Todd McShay's 2011 NFL Mock Draft Has the Bills Setting Their Sights on Miller
Sure, they finished the year 4-12, but I've been saying for a while now that the Buffalo Bills were not as bad as their 2010 record would indicate. They lost a couple games they probably should have won, one of which could have been had if the man upstairs had been watching out for Steve Johnson.
Oh well. The Bills earned the No. 3 pick in the draft for their, ahem, efforts, so things could be worse. They're going to have their options, but ESPN's Todd McShay has them taking Texas A&M outside linebacker Von Miller with the third overall pick in his most recent 2011 NFL Mock Draft (can only be accessed with ESPN Insider).
As McShay explains it, Miller will be something of a bittersweet pick:
Miller is the premier pass-rusher in this class and fits perfectly at outside linebacker in Buffalo's 3-4 defense. This is the smart pick, but still a tough pill to swallow given the lack of production the Bills have gotten from 2009 first-rounder Aaron Maybin.
To give you an idea of what McShay is talking about, Maybin has yet to record a sack in 27 NFL games. Miller totaled 17 sacks in 2009 alone. Advantage: Miller.
MUST READ: 2011 NFL Mock Draft: Complete First Round Mock with Team Needs and Video
It's hard to argue the point that Miller would be a great pick for the Bills. Like the Denver Broncos, the Bills struggled to stuff the run and rush the passer last season, allowing nearly 170 rush yards a game and recording just 27 sacks all season. Miller will help improve both those numbers.
Grade: A
My Pick: Marcell Dareus
The only reason I have the Bills taking Dareus in my latest mock is because I think there's a chance the Broncos will go for Miller. If they do, and Dareus is available, I don't think the Bills will pass on him.
Sure, they finished the year 4-12, but I've been saying for a while now that the Buffalo Bills were not as bad as their 2010 record would indicate. They lost a couple games they probably should have won, one of which could have been had if the man upstairs had been watching out for Steve Johnson.
Oh well. The Bills earned the No. 3 pick in the draft for their, ahem, efforts, so things could be worse. They're going to have their options, but ESPN's Todd McShay has them taking Texas A&M outside linebacker Von Miller with the third overall pick in his most recent 2011 NFL Mock Draft (can only be accessed with ESPN Insider).
As McShay explains it, Miller will be something of a bittersweet pick:
Miller is the premier pass-rusher in this class and fits perfectly at outside linebacker in Buffalo's 3-4 defense. This is the smart pick, but still a tough pill to swallow given the lack of production the Bills have gotten from 2009 first-rounder Aaron Maybin.
To give you an idea of what McShay is talking about, Maybin has yet to record a sack in 27 NFL games. Miller totaled 17 sacks in 2009 alone. Advantage: Miller.
MUST READ: 2011 NFL Mock Draft: Complete First Round Mock with Team Needs and Video
It's hard to argue the point that Miller would be a great pick for the Bills. Like the Denver Broncos, the Bills struggled to stuff the run and rush the passer last season, allowing nearly 170 rush yards a game and recording just 27 sacks all season. Miller will help improve both those numbers.
Grade: A
My Pick: Marcell Dareus
The only reason I have the Bills taking Dareus in my latest mock is because I think there's a chance the Broncos will go for Miller. If they do, and Dareus is available, I don't think the Bills will pass on him.
2011 NFL Draft Rumors: Andy Dalton To Titans, Falcons Bucs, Steelers Looking For Trade
Yesterday we got the report from Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network that the Titans were considering spending the 8th pick in the draft on Andy Dalton. Wes Bunting of the National Football Post said in his chat today that he isn't buying that. I have also heard that the people inside the Titans draft room had a good laugh when they saw that report.
I know Dalton has become a hot name over the last couple of months, but he isn't worth the 8th pick in this draft for the Titans. I would be all for them making a move to trade down 10-12 picks to take him but not at 8. That is just my opinion, and SuperHorn wrote an article that will post a little later on why the Titans should take Dalton at 8.
This team has so many needs, and I just don't think they can afford to take Dalton, or any other quarterback for that matter, with the 8th pick. They needs to build a foundation for the franchise for years to come. Taking a quarterback with that pick puts all of the eggs in one basket. Sure it will be the best pick ever if the guy ends up being a star, but if he isn't the Titans will be back in the same spot this time next year.
If they do trade back and pick up and extra second and third, they could pick Dalton and still add quality defensive players in the second and third because this draft has a lot of depth at defensive lineman and a lot of linebackers that have second round(ish) grades. Peter King of SI claims that the Atlanta Falcons may try to trade up in the draft for a wide receiver. The targets for the Atlanta Falcons are obviously Julio Jones and A.J. Green. The Falcons would likely need to give up the farm for A.J. Green, but someone like Julio Jones is a realistic shot, as the Falcons would likely just need to leapfrog the St. Louis Rams at pick 14. That doesn't effect the Jaguars too much, but another need for the Falcons is a defensive end and they could look to jump into the mid-teens to get one of the top tier defensive ends. Depending on if Gene Smith is targeting a quarterback in Round 1, it could be beneficial for the Jaguars to be in play there.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Mark Dominik was on the Pete Prisco show yesterday afternoon and mentioned they're not afraid to move around in the first round to get who they have targeted. A few minutes after making that comment, he mentioned that he'd been on the phone with Jaguars general manager Gene Smith earlier in the week. Reading way too much into it, it could be setup for a draft day trade if a certain player falls to pick 16. Gene Smith has also mentioned their looking to move around in the draft, up or down.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are rumored to want to pair up Maurkice Pouncey with his twin brother Mike Pouncey. The Steelers currently have the 31st overall pick, so in order to make that a reality they'd need to move up into the mid-teens. It's likely they'd have to get ahead of the Miami Dolphins at pick 15, but he could potentially be available at pick 16 as well. A trade like that, coming from 30 to 16, could net the Jaguars potentially an extra second round pick, but likely a 3rd round pick and potentially a later pick. The Steelers don't really strike me as the type of team who trades up, however.
I know Dalton has become a hot name over the last couple of months, but he isn't worth the 8th pick in this draft for the Titans. I would be all for them making a move to trade down 10-12 picks to take him but not at 8. That is just my opinion, and SuperHorn wrote an article that will post a little later on why the Titans should take Dalton at 8.
This team has so many needs, and I just don't think they can afford to take Dalton, or any other quarterback for that matter, with the 8th pick. They needs to build a foundation for the franchise for years to come. Taking a quarterback with that pick puts all of the eggs in one basket. Sure it will be the best pick ever if the guy ends up being a star, but if he isn't the Titans will be back in the same spot this time next year.
If they do trade back and pick up and extra second and third, they could pick Dalton and still add quality defensive players in the second and third because this draft has a lot of depth at defensive lineman and a lot of linebackers that have second round(ish) grades. Peter King of SI claims that the Atlanta Falcons may try to trade up in the draft for a wide receiver. The targets for the Atlanta Falcons are obviously Julio Jones and A.J. Green. The Falcons would likely need to give up the farm for A.J. Green, but someone like Julio Jones is a realistic shot, as the Falcons would likely just need to leapfrog the St. Louis Rams at pick 14. That doesn't effect the Jaguars too much, but another need for the Falcons is a defensive end and they could look to jump into the mid-teens to get one of the top tier defensive ends. Depending on if Gene Smith is targeting a quarterback in Round 1, it could be beneficial for the Jaguars to be in play there.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Mark Dominik was on the Pete Prisco show yesterday afternoon and mentioned they're not afraid to move around in the first round to get who they have targeted. A few minutes after making that comment, he mentioned that he'd been on the phone with Jaguars general manager Gene Smith earlier in the week. Reading way too much into it, it could be setup for a draft day trade if a certain player falls to pick 16. Gene Smith has also mentioned their looking to move around in the draft, up or down.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are rumored to want to pair up Maurkice Pouncey with his twin brother Mike Pouncey. The Steelers currently have the 31st overall pick, so in order to make that a reality they'd need to move up into the mid-teens. It's likely they'd have to get ahead of the Miami Dolphins at pick 15, but he could potentially be available at pick 16 as well. A trade like that, coming from 30 to 16, could net the Jaguars potentially an extra second round pick, but likely a 3rd round pick and potentially a later pick. The Steelers don't really strike me as the type of team who trades up, however.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Final Buffalo Bills Blitz 2011 NFL Mock Draft: 1st Round
Ashto 12 - With the 2011 NFL Draft just around the corner and with visits and personal workouts complete, I present my completed 1st round mock draft, which includes projected trades (a surprise trade up) and one or two notable players who fall out of the first round, which will put the Patriots in a strong trading position with the 33rd pick. As always feedback is welcomed...
Star-divide
1. Carolina Panthers (2-14) Cam Newton (6'5 - 250lbs) QB Auburn
With all the offensive talent developing in the NFC South, the Carolina Panthers must do something to keep pace and improve their offense. The Panthers took Jimmy Clausen in the 2nd Round of the 2010 Draft but his less than stellar rookie year has many in the Panther organization clamoring for Newton. Despite character concerns, the Panthers seem to becoming more comfortable with Newton as their franchise quarterback. He will inject some excitement into their fan base, and by all accounts, will work very hard to improve his game.
2. Denver Broncos (4-12) Marcell Dareus (6'3 - 306lbs) DL Alabama
Resigning Champ Bailey negates their need at cornerback somewhat. Defensively, Denver is an aging team with so many holes but John Fox believes in building from the lines out and so will look to strengthen the Denver defensive line. Marcel Dareus is as clean a prospect as you can find in this draft - solid production, great all around game and comes from a pro style defense. He would be a terrific starter for the Broncos for the next 10 years.
3. Buffalo Bills (4-12) Von Miller (6'3 - 243lbs) OLB Texas A&M
Buddy Nix and Chan Gailey really wanted Cam Newton to fall into their waiting arms but it did not work out. Despite Blaine Gabbert still on the board, they take perhaps the most talented player in the draft in Miller to inject some much needed pass rush. Whilst not the biggest, Miller has awesome quickness and an array of rush moves which helped him rack up a nation leading 17 sacks in 2009 and 11 sacks in his senior year. They also need another lineman to help Kyle Williams but with a deep draft in this area, the Bills know quality defensive linemen will be available in the second round.
4. Cincinnati Bengals (4-12) Blaine Gabbert (6'5 - 240lbs) QB Missouri
Although Mike Brown appears intent on keeping Carson Palmer in Cincinnati, trading Palmer would be a very good option for the Bengals. Not only do they find his replacement in Gabbert but they could acquire a 2nd round pick with which to add more defensive or receiver help (although this would hinge on a CBA agreement which appears unlikely). Gabbert is plenty talented, with the arm strength and accuracy of a first round pick. He has great size and intangibles. The only real knock on him is that he comes from a spread attack and without the correct tutelage could really struggle in the league, particularly facing some of those AFC North Defenses.
5. Arizona Cardinals (5-11) Patrick Peterson (6'1 - 222lbs) CB LSU
The Cardinals biggest need is at QB but since the top rated QBs are off the board, they will have to pick one up later in the draft or in free agency. Not all is lost however - the Cardinals can console themselves with the most talented defensive back in the draft. Peterson has terrific size and speed and would star opposite of Dominique Rogers-Cromartie to provide the Cardinals with outstanding outside coverage in the offensive orientated NFC.
6. Cleveland Browns (5-11) AJ Green (6'4 - 211lbs) WR Georgia
Arguably the most talented player in the draft falls right into the Browns' lap. Cleveland needs explosive players at the wide receiver position. Colt McCoy showed promise in 2010 and Cleveland really needs to examine what they have in McCoy. Giving him AJ Green to throw to would elevate his game, as well as taking some pressure off the Cleveland running game. Green is a special talent and although not as dominant as Calvin Johnson, has the talent and poise to really dominate defensive backs in the NFL.
7. San Francisco 49ers (6-10) Robert Quinn (6'5 - 268lbs) DE/OLB North Carolina
The 49ers would have loved Gabbert to fall to them, but since he's gone, they look to add a QB in the second round. Quinn lit it up at his pro day posting a 4.59 40 yard dash, 4.26 short shuttle and 24 reps on the bench, seemingly proving he's been hard at work whilst suspended in 2010. While some question his production against better opponents, Quinn has all the physical tools to excel in the 49ers talented defense.
8. Tennessee Titans (6-10) Nick Fairley (6'3 - 291lbs) DT Auburn
Whilst the Titans are in need of a QB of the future, the only quarterbacks who carry value here are already gone. The Titans therefore look to address their defensive line. The Titans accumulated 40 sacks and drafted promising rookie DE Derrick Morgan in the 1st round of the 2010 Draft. When Fairley is on his game, he plays with an energy and mean streak Titan fans will love. The Titans face a couple of prolific passers in the AFC South in Peyton Manning and Matt Schaub - adding Fairley will help them combat these passers.
TRADE: Dallas Cowboys trade the 9th pick to the St. Louis Rams in exchange for the 14th& 78th picks.
9. St. Louis Rams (7-9) Julio Jones (6'4 - 220lbs) WR Alabama
Jerry Jones feels he can find better value in the middle of this draft and so decides to move down while the Rams surprise everyone and make a very bold move and jump up ahead of the waiting Redskins and no one is happier than Sam Bradford. Jones has elevated his game in the past two years. He has the size and speed to be a number 1 receiver in the NFL, has solid character and would help elevate Bradford's game above the impressive standard he set for himself in his rookie year.
10. Washington Redskins (14-2) J.J. Watt (6'6 - 292lbs) DE Wisconsin
Since Julio Jones is off the board, the Redskins opt for a cornerstone piece to their 3-4 defense in the highest rated five technique defensive end in the draft in J.J. Watt. He is an outstanding talent, with the character and work ethic Mike Shanahan is looking for. He would instantly upgrade the pass rush and could move inside or stay on the edge in sub-packages. Watt would pair up with Brian Orakpo on the edge to form a fierce pass rushing duo.
11. Houston Texans (6-10) Cameron Jordan (6'4 - 283lbs) DE California
The Texans are changing schemes from a 4-3 to a 3-4 and as such, need to acquire talent to fit their one-gap, attacking scheme. With Brian Cushing projecting to slide inside with DeMeco Ryans, the Texans will be looking to add OLB help to get to the QB in order to improve their 32nd ranked pass defense but with Robert Quinn the only value at this point in the draft, the Texans address their defensive line. Jordan has the size and speed to play defensive end, but has the versatility to move inside on obvious passing downs in a 4 man line and even flip outside to linebacker.
12. Minnesota Vikings (6-10) Corey Liuget (6'3 - 298lbs) DT Illinois
The Vikings wait to address their quarterback need until the 2nd round. Ray Edwards is likely done in Minnesota and Pat Williams may well retire, so the Vikings will need to give themselves some security along the defensive line. Liuget is a clean prospect who will thrive in Minnesota's attacking defensive front. Liuget is a solid presence against the run - a prerequisite in the Viking defense, and can rush the passer very well. He will work alongside Kevin Williams to terrorise the talented quarterbacks in the NFC North.
13. Detroit Lions (6-10) Prince Amukamara (6'1 - 205lbs) CB Nebraska
The Lions find great value by taking Amukamara with the thirteenth pick. The Lions are improving each year but their defense is in need of a shutdown presence in the secondary. Their defensive line generated plenty of pressure last year led by Ndamukong Suh - now the Lions need somebody to take advantage of rushed throws in the secondary. Amukamara would bring his outstanding cover skills to give a real edge to the defense that Jim Schwartz is building in Detroit.
14. Dallas Cowboys (6-10) Jimmy Smith (6'2 - 210lbs) CB Colorado
Jerry Jones just doesn't like to take offensive linemen in the first round particularly this high in the draft. Jones does like to draft star talent and is not deterred by character concerns (see Bryant, Dez). Jimmy Smith has raised red flags for many teams in the buildup to the 2011 Draft but many scouts feel that when all is said and done, Smith could well be considered the best cornerback from the 2011 draft class. He is a shutdown corner with terrific size who will allow the Dallas pass rush to return to its former glory.
TRADE: Miami Dolphins trade the 15th pick to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in exchange for the 20th & 84th picks.
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-6) Da'Quan Bowers (6'4 - 280lbs) DE Clemson
The Bucs make a bold move by deciding to move up to get their man since the Jaguars, Patriots and Chargers are potentially in the market for defensive end talent. In recent weeks, no player is seeing his stock drop quite as much as Bowers due to his recent knee surgery and substandard pro day workout. Scouts also question the fact he only had one outstanding year of production, but at this stage of the draft, he represents great value for the Bucs who halt his freefall.
16. Jacksonville Jaguars (8-8) Ryan Kerrigan (6'4 - 263lbs) DE Purdue
In the 2010 Draft, the Jaguars added a high motor pass rusher in Tyson Alualu. In 2011, they decide to add another. Kerrigan has a motor that will not quit and the type of character which will appeal to Gene Smith. Pairing Kerrigan with Aaron Kampman would provide fearsome outside rush for the Jaguars with Alyualu anchoring the middle of the line. In the past few years Peyton Manning has had his way with the Jaguars - adding Kerrigan would certainly give Manning something extra to think about.
17. New England Patriots (14-2) Anthony Castonzo (6'7 - 308lbs) OT Boston College
The Patriots will think long and hard about trading back from 17 into the twenties and trying to pick up a 2nd rounder in the process but they doubt Castonzo will make it past the Giants. Dante Scarneccia already worked with Castonzo at the Boston College Pro Day, so will have first hand input into his suitability to the Patriot system. Like Sebastian Vollmer, Castonzo can play either tackle position, and is a talented pass protector and run blocker. While he has a little trouble with speed rushers, he will learn his craft under the best line coach in the league and form a dominating bookend tackle combination.
18. San Diego Chargers (9-7) Muhammad Wilkerson (6'5 - 305lbs) DE Temple
The Chargers could just as easily go OLB here but they need to give former first rounder Larry English an opportunity to prove himself. Instead they add the rising Wilkerson, who already has 3-4 experience and terrific run stuffing and pass rushing skills. He has prototypical size for the five technique role and would instantly upgrade the Charger front for some of the awesome rushing attacks in their division.
19. New York Giants (10-6) Tyron Smith (6'5 - 307lbs) OT USC
Eli Manning's very high interception total in 2010 was in part due to the heavy pressure he was consistently put under. Adding Smith will help the Giants counter some of the tremendous pass rushers in the NFC East, whilst allowing their offensive line to return to the dominant force it has been in recent years. Smith is a very good pass protector and run blocker and he brings versatility to the Giants in that he can play right tackle from day one but could develop into a star left tackle for the future.
20. Miami Dolphins (7-9) Ryan Mallett (6'6 - 238lbs) QB Arkansas
Mallett is arguably the most talented quarterback in this years draft but his stock is not high due to lingering concerns about his leadership skills. Miami is a team in dire need of a playoff run and they seem to have lost confidence in Chad Henne. Miami has already conducted two private workouts with Mallett so appear to be persuaded by him as a prospect. Mallett's football acumen and ability would appease the concerns of owner Stephen Ross about the direction the franchise is headed.
21. Kansas City Chiefs (10-6) Aldon Smith (6'4 - 258lbs) DE Missouri
With recent health questions about Phil Taylor, Scott Pioli looks to address the Chiefs pass rush by adding outside linebacking prospect Aldon Smith to star opposite Tamba Hali in the Chiefs improving defense. Smith will need time to develop as an outside linebacker but will be tutored well under Romeo Crennel. Smith is an explosive outside rusher with excellent length for the position. He will be another talented piece in the Chiefs ever-improving defense.
22. Indianapolis Colts (10-6) Mike Pouncey (6'5 - 303lbs) OG/C Florida
The Colts have a need all across their offensive line so can take the highest rated offensive lineman on the board. They would have liked Castonzo or Tyron Smith to fall this far but settle for the highly regarded Florida Gator. Pouncey is a really good pass protector, but importantly for the Colts, could bring a nastiness to their run game that has been absent for too long. Pouncey will start at guard from day one and could also be a long term successor to Jeff Saturday and Center.
23. Philadelphia Eagles (10-6) Gabe Carimi (6'7 - 327lbs) OT Wisconsin
Anyone who saw what Clay Matthews did to Winston Justice in the Wild Card Round of the playoffs will not need to question this pick. Carimi can come in from day one and claim the right tackle spot (the blind side for the left handed Michael Vick), where he will play with a mean streak and inject some attitude into the Philly offensive line as well as provide better protection for the oft injured Vick.
24. New Orleans Saints (11-5) Adrian Clayborn (6'4 - 285lbs) DE Iowa
The Saints need to address their pass rush as well as their line backing positions. However, at 24 they take the best available in a position of need in Adrian Clayborn. Some have voiced concerns after Clayborn's lackluster senior year and a physical condition has seen his stock drop some but what the Saints will get is a solid pass rusher who can get after some of the promising passers in the NFC South. Clayborn has a great work ethic and solid leadership qualities and will be a good fit for Greg Williams' attacking defense.
TRADE: Seattle Seahawks trade the 25th pick to the New England Patriots in exchange for the 28th & 125th picks.
25. New England Patriots (14-2) Cameron Heyward (6'5 - 294lbs) DE Ohio State
The Patriots cannot afford to wait their turn to get their right defensive end since they know Baltimore will be interested as will the Jets and Packers. Therefore, they move up to select the Ohio State product who draws many comparisons to Richard Seymour. Heyward has ideal size and strength to hold up against double teams in the Patriots two gap system and has tremendous pass rush ability. He has faced top competition in his career and has flashed dominance. He will need to improve his consistency but could thrive under Bill Belichick.
TRADE: Baltimore Ravens trade the 26th pick to the Washington Redskins in exchange for the 41st and 2012 2nd round pick.
26. Washington Redskins (6-10) Jake Locker (6'3 - 230lbs) QB Washington
The Ravens trade out of the first round and gain a second round pick in 2012 in the process, since the Redskins have no 3rd round pick in 2011 to offer as part of any deal. Locker will thrive in Mike Shanahan's version of the west coast offense since it will play to his strengths - movement out of the pocket and arm strength. Locker can sit and learn behind Rex Grossman but I think Shanahan will want Locker in there as soon as possible to allow him to develop game experience.
27. Atlanta Falcons (13-3) Torrey Smith (6'1 - 205lbs) WR Maryland
The Falcons need to address their pass rush but know they stand a very good chance at landing a solid pass rusher at the end of the 2nd round. They also need to think about a replacement for Tony Gonzalez but I think they will wait for a stronger tight end class next year to address that position. Here, they take the speedy Smith, who will stretch the field opposite Roddy White and, given his talent for running routes, should fit in with the Falcons timing based offense.
28. Seattle Seahawks (7-9) Danny Watkins (6'4 - 310lbs) OG Baylor
I just don't buy the whole Jake Locker to the Seahawks thing, hence the reason the Seahawks trade down with the Patriots. Here, they look to improve their offensive line in the first round once again in 2011 with the addition of Danny Watkins. Seahawks fans will love the blue collar approach Watkins brings to the game. He is a punishing blocker who excels in both pass protection and in the run game.
29. Chicago Bears (11-5) Nate Solder (6'9 - 315lbs) OT Colorado
Sitting at 29 in the draft, the Bears could opt to go with Derek Sherrod, however they go with Solder who has huge upside at left tackle for the Bears who desperately need to upgrade their line play. In Mike Martz's complex offense, the quarterback needs time to throw as receiver routes take time to develop. Adding Solder would greatly reduce the sack count that Jay Cutler took last season, including being knocked out of games.
30. New York Jets (11-5) Jabaal Sheard (6'4 - 260lbs) OLB Pittsburgh
Jabaal Sheard has been shooting up draft boards recently. The Jets pass rush is in need of an infusion of youth and power and the technically sound Sheard will provide just that. Sheard has been very consistent in his career at Pittsburgh but really stepped up last year when Greg Romeus went down to injury. Although the Jets could use help on the defensive line and offensive line, they will look to address this need later in the draft and instead opt for the Pitt product who will remind Rex Ryan of Terrell Suggs.
31. Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4) Brandon Harris (5'11 - 195lbs) CB Miami
Although the Steelers could use more help on the offensive line, cornerback is their biggest need, as the Steeler defense can sometimes be exposed when spread out with 3 or 4 wide receivers. Harris is a Steeler kind of player: talented, smart and a student of the game. Harris has good speed and a nose for the ball as well as being a sound tackler. He will thrive in Dick LeBeau's defense.
32. Green Bay Packers (10-6) Mark Ingram (5'10 - 223lbs) RB Alabama
The Packers were recently dealt a blow with the idiocy of defensive lineman Johnny Jolly being again caught with Codeine and a likely suspension to boot! However, despite their defensive end need, the only talent representing value to the Packers here is Ingram and he is simply too good to pass up. Ingram is a complete back and will fit in well with the explosive Packer offense. Ryan Grant is coming back from a season ending injury and may be surplus to requirements in Green Bay - Ingram will progress their running game to the next level.
Star-divide
1. Carolina Panthers (2-14) Cam Newton (6'5 - 250lbs) QB Auburn
With all the offensive talent developing in the NFC South, the Carolina Panthers must do something to keep pace and improve their offense. The Panthers took Jimmy Clausen in the 2nd Round of the 2010 Draft but his less than stellar rookie year has many in the Panther organization clamoring for Newton. Despite character concerns, the Panthers seem to becoming more comfortable with Newton as their franchise quarterback. He will inject some excitement into their fan base, and by all accounts, will work very hard to improve his game.
2. Denver Broncos (4-12) Marcell Dareus (6'3 - 306lbs) DL Alabama
Resigning Champ Bailey negates their need at cornerback somewhat. Defensively, Denver is an aging team with so many holes but John Fox believes in building from the lines out and so will look to strengthen the Denver defensive line. Marcel Dareus is as clean a prospect as you can find in this draft - solid production, great all around game and comes from a pro style defense. He would be a terrific starter for the Broncos for the next 10 years.
3. Buffalo Bills (4-12) Von Miller (6'3 - 243lbs) OLB Texas A&M
Buddy Nix and Chan Gailey really wanted Cam Newton to fall into their waiting arms but it did not work out. Despite Blaine Gabbert still on the board, they take perhaps the most talented player in the draft in Miller to inject some much needed pass rush. Whilst not the biggest, Miller has awesome quickness and an array of rush moves which helped him rack up a nation leading 17 sacks in 2009 and 11 sacks in his senior year. They also need another lineman to help Kyle Williams but with a deep draft in this area, the Bills know quality defensive linemen will be available in the second round.
4. Cincinnati Bengals (4-12) Blaine Gabbert (6'5 - 240lbs) QB Missouri
Although Mike Brown appears intent on keeping Carson Palmer in Cincinnati, trading Palmer would be a very good option for the Bengals. Not only do they find his replacement in Gabbert but they could acquire a 2nd round pick with which to add more defensive or receiver help (although this would hinge on a CBA agreement which appears unlikely). Gabbert is plenty talented, with the arm strength and accuracy of a first round pick. He has great size and intangibles. The only real knock on him is that he comes from a spread attack and without the correct tutelage could really struggle in the league, particularly facing some of those AFC North Defenses.
5. Arizona Cardinals (5-11) Patrick Peterson (6'1 - 222lbs) CB LSU
The Cardinals biggest need is at QB but since the top rated QBs are off the board, they will have to pick one up later in the draft or in free agency. Not all is lost however - the Cardinals can console themselves with the most talented defensive back in the draft. Peterson has terrific size and speed and would star opposite of Dominique Rogers-Cromartie to provide the Cardinals with outstanding outside coverage in the offensive orientated NFC.
6. Cleveland Browns (5-11) AJ Green (6'4 - 211lbs) WR Georgia
Arguably the most talented player in the draft falls right into the Browns' lap. Cleveland needs explosive players at the wide receiver position. Colt McCoy showed promise in 2010 and Cleveland really needs to examine what they have in McCoy. Giving him AJ Green to throw to would elevate his game, as well as taking some pressure off the Cleveland running game. Green is a special talent and although not as dominant as Calvin Johnson, has the talent and poise to really dominate defensive backs in the NFL.
7. San Francisco 49ers (6-10) Robert Quinn (6'5 - 268lbs) DE/OLB North Carolina
The 49ers would have loved Gabbert to fall to them, but since he's gone, they look to add a QB in the second round. Quinn lit it up at his pro day posting a 4.59 40 yard dash, 4.26 short shuttle and 24 reps on the bench, seemingly proving he's been hard at work whilst suspended in 2010. While some question his production against better opponents, Quinn has all the physical tools to excel in the 49ers talented defense.
8. Tennessee Titans (6-10) Nick Fairley (6'3 - 291lbs) DT Auburn
Whilst the Titans are in need of a QB of the future, the only quarterbacks who carry value here are already gone. The Titans therefore look to address their defensive line. The Titans accumulated 40 sacks and drafted promising rookie DE Derrick Morgan in the 1st round of the 2010 Draft. When Fairley is on his game, he plays with an energy and mean streak Titan fans will love. The Titans face a couple of prolific passers in the AFC South in Peyton Manning and Matt Schaub - adding Fairley will help them combat these passers.
TRADE: Dallas Cowboys trade the 9th pick to the St. Louis Rams in exchange for the 14th& 78th picks.
9. St. Louis Rams (7-9) Julio Jones (6'4 - 220lbs) WR Alabama
Jerry Jones feels he can find better value in the middle of this draft and so decides to move down while the Rams surprise everyone and make a very bold move and jump up ahead of the waiting Redskins and no one is happier than Sam Bradford. Jones has elevated his game in the past two years. He has the size and speed to be a number 1 receiver in the NFL, has solid character and would help elevate Bradford's game above the impressive standard he set for himself in his rookie year.
10. Washington Redskins (14-2) J.J. Watt (6'6 - 292lbs) DE Wisconsin
Since Julio Jones is off the board, the Redskins opt for a cornerstone piece to their 3-4 defense in the highest rated five technique defensive end in the draft in J.J. Watt. He is an outstanding talent, with the character and work ethic Mike Shanahan is looking for. He would instantly upgrade the pass rush and could move inside or stay on the edge in sub-packages. Watt would pair up with Brian Orakpo on the edge to form a fierce pass rushing duo.
11. Houston Texans (6-10) Cameron Jordan (6'4 - 283lbs) DE California
The Texans are changing schemes from a 4-3 to a 3-4 and as such, need to acquire talent to fit their one-gap, attacking scheme. With Brian Cushing projecting to slide inside with DeMeco Ryans, the Texans will be looking to add OLB help to get to the QB in order to improve their 32nd ranked pass defense but with Robert Quinn the only value at this point in the draft, the Texans address their defensive line. Jordan has the size and speed to play defensive end, but has the versatility to move inside on obvious passing downs in a 4 man line and even flip outside to linebacker.
12. Minnesota Vikings (6-10) Corey Liuget (6'3 - 298lbs) DT Illinois
The Vikings wait to address their quarterback need until the 2nd round. Ray Edwards is likely done in Minnesota and Pat Williams may well retire, so the Vikings will need to give themselves some security along the defensive line. Liuget is a clean prospect who will thrive in Minnesota's attacking defensive front. Liuget is a solid presence against the run - a prerequisite in the Viking defense, and can rush the passer very well. He will work alongside Kevin Williams to terrorise the talented quarterbacks in the NFC North.
13. Detroit Lions (6-10) Prince Amukamara (6'1 - 205lbs) CB Nebraska
The Lions find great value by taking Amukamara with the thirteenth pick. The Lions are improving each year but their defense is in need of a shutdown presence in the secondary. Their defensive line generated plenty of pressure last year led by Ndamukong Suh - now the Lions need somebody to take advantage of rushed throws in the secondary. Amukamara would bring his outstanding cover skills to give a real edge to the defense that Jim Schwartz is building in Detroit.
14. Dallas Cowboys (6-10) Jimmy Smith (6'2 - 210lbs) CB Colorado
Jerry Jones just doesn't like to take offensive linemen in the first round particularly this high in the draft. Jones does like to draft star talent and is not deterred by character concerns (see Bryant, Dez). Jimmy Smith has raised red flags for many teams in the buildup to the 2011 Draft but many scouts feel that when all is said and done, Smith could well be considered the best cornerback from the 2011 draft class. He is a shutdown corner with terrific size who will allow the Dallas pass rush to return to its former glory.
TRADE: Miami Dolphins trade the 15th pick to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in exchange for the 20th & 84th picks.
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-6) Da'Quan Bowers (6'4 - 280lbs) DE Clemson
The Bucs make a bold move by deciding to move up to get their man since the Jaguars, Patriots and Chargers are potentially in the market for defensive end talent. In recent weeks, no player is seeing his stock drop quite as much as Bowers due to his recent knee surgery and substandard pro day workout. Scouts also question the fact he only had one outstanding year of production, but at this stage of the draft, he represents great value for the Bucs who halt his freefall.
16. Jacksonville Jaguars (8-8) Ryan Kerrigan (6'4 - 263lbs) DE Purdue
In the 2010 Draft, the Jaguars added a high motor pass rusher in Tyson Alualu. In 2011, they decide to add another. Kerrigan has a motor that will not quit and the type of character which will appeal to Gene Smith. Pairing Kerrigan with Aaron Kampman would provide fearsome outside rush for the Jaguars with Alyualu anchoring the middle of the line. In the past few years Peyton Manning has had his way with the Jaguars - adding Kerrigan would certainly give Manning something extra to think about.
17. New England Patriots (14-2) Anthony Castonzo (6'7 - 308lbs) OT Boston College
The Patriots will think long and hard about trading back from 17 into the twenties and trying to pick up a 2nd rounder in the process but they doubt Castonzo will make it past the Giants. Dante Scarneccia already worked with Castonzo at the Boston College Pro Day, so will have first hand input into his suitability to the Patriot system. Like Sebastian Vollmer, Castonzo can play either tackle position, and is a talented pass protector and run blocker. While he has a little trouble with speed rushers, he will learn his craft under the best line coach in the league and form a dominating bookend tackle combination.
18. San Diego Chargers (9-7) Muhammad Wilkerson (6'5 - 305lbs) DE Temple
The Chargers could just as easily go OLB here but they need to give former first rounder Larry English an opportunity to prove himself. Instead they add the rising Wilkerson, who already has 3-4 experience and terrific run stuffing and pass rushing skills. He has prototypical size for the five technique role and would instantly upgrade the Charger front for some of the awesome rushing attacks in their division.
19. New York Giants (10-6) Tyron Smith (6'5 - 307lbs) OT USC
Eli Manning's very high interception total in 2010 was in part due to the heavy pressure he was consistently put under. Adding Smith will help the Giants counter some of the tremendous pass rushers in the NFC East, whilst allowing their offensive line to return to the dominant force it has been in recent years. Smith is a very good pass protector and run blocker and he brings versatility to the Giants in that he can play right tackle from day one but could develop into a star left tackle for the future.
20. Miami Dolphins (7-9) Ryan Mallett (6'6 - 238lbs) QB Arkansas
Mallett is arguably the most talented quarterback in this years draft but his stock is not high due to lingering concerns about his leadership skills. Miami is a team in dire need of a playoff run and they seem to have lost confidence in Chad Henne. Miami has already conducted two private workouts with Mallett so appear to be persuaded by him as a prospect. Mallett's football acumen and ability would appease the concerns of owner Stephen Ross about the direction the franchise is headed.
21. Kansas City Chiefs (10-6) Aldon Smith (6'4 - 258lbs) DE Missouri
With recent health questions about Phil Taylor, Scott Pioli looks to address the Chiefs pass rush by adding outside linebacking prospect Aldon Smith to star opposite Tamba Hali in the Chiefs improving defense. Smith will need time to develop as an outside linebacker but will be tutored well under Romeo Crennel. Smith is an explosive outside rusher with excellent length for the position. He will be another talented piece in the Chiefs ever-improving defense.
22. Indianapolis Colts (10-6) Mike Pouncey (6'5 - 303lbs) OG/C Florida
The Colts have a need all across their offensive line so can take the highest rated offensive lineman on the board. They would have liked Castonzo or Tyron Smith to fall this far but settle for the highly regarded Florida Gator. Pouncey is a really good pass protector, but importantly for the Colts, could bring a nastiness to their run game that has been absent for too long. Pouncey will start at guard from day one and could also be a long term successor to Jeff Saturday and Center.
23. Philadelphia Eagles (10-6) Gabe Carimi (6'7 - 327lbs) OT Wisconsin
Anyone who saw what Clay Matthews did to Winston Justice in the Wild Card Round of the playoffs will not need to question this pick. Carimi can come in from day one and claim the right tackle spot (the blind side for the left handed Michael Vick), where he will play with a mean streak and inject some attitude into the Philly offensive line as well as provide better protection for the oft injured Vick.
24. New Orleans Saints (11-5) Adrian Clayborn (6'4 - 285lbs) DE Iowa
The Saints need to address their pass rush as well as their line backing positions. However, at 24 they take the best available in a position of need in Adrian Clayborn. Some have voiced concerns after Clayborn's lackluster senior year and a physical condition has seen his stock drop some but what the Saints will get is a solid pass rusher who can get after some of the promising passers in the NFC South. Clayborn has a great work ethic and solid leadership qualities and will be a good fit for Greg Williams' attacking defense.
TRADE: Seattle Seahawks trade the 25th pick to the New England Patriots in exchange for the 28th & 125th picks.
25. New England Patriots (14-2) Cameron Heyward (6'5 - 294lbs) DE Ohio State
The Patriots cannot afford to wait their turn to get their right defensive end since they know Baltimore will be interested as will the Jets and Packers. Therefore, they move up to select the Ohio State product who draws many comparisons to Richard Seymour. Heyward has ideal size and strength to hold up against double teams in the Patriots two gap system and has tremendous pass rush ability. He has faced top competition in his career and has flashed dominance. He will need to improve his consistency but could thrive under Bill Belichick.
TRADE: Baltimore Ravens trade the 26th pick to the Washington Redskins in exchange for the 41st and 2012 2nd round pick.
26. Washington Redskins (6-10) Jake Locker (6'3 - 230lbs) QB Washington
The Ravens trade out of the first round and gain a second round pick in 2012 in the process, since the Redskins have no 3rd round pick in 2011 to offer as part of any deal. Locker will thrive in Mike Shanahan's version of the west coast offense since it will play to his strengths - movement out of the pocket and arm strength. Locker can sit and learn behind Rex Grossman but I think Shanahan will want Locker in there as soon as possible to allow him to develop game experience.
27. Atlanta Falcons (13-3) Torrey Smith (6'1 - 205lbs) WR Maryland
The Falcons need to address their pass rush but know they stand a very good chance at landing a solid pass rusher at the end of the 2nd round. They also need to think about a replacement for Tony Gonzalez but I think they will wait for a stronger tight end class next year to address that position. Here, they take the speedy Smith, who will stretch the field opposite Roddy White and, given his talent for running routes, should fit in with the Falcons timing based offense.
28. Seattle Seahawks (7-9) Danny Watkins (6'4 - 310lbs) OG Baylor
I just don't buy the whole Jake Locker to the Seahawks thing, hence the reason the Seahawks trade down with the Patriots. Here, they look to improve their offensive line in the first round once again in 2011 with the addition of Danny Watkins. Seahawks fans will love the blue collar approach Watkins brings to the game. He is a punishing blocker who excels in both pass protection and in the run game.
29. Chicago Bears (11-5) Nate Solder (6'9 - 315lbs) OT Colorado
Sitting at 29 in the draft, the Bears could opt to go with Derek Sherrod, however they go with Solder who has huge upside at left tackle for the Bears who desperately need to upgrade their line play. In Mike Martz's complex offense, the quarterback needs time to throw as receiver routes take time to develop. Adding Solder would greatly reduce the sack count that Jay Cutler took last season, including being knocked out of games.
30. New York Jets (11-5) Jabaal Sheard (6'4 - 260lbs) OLB Pittsburgh
Jabaal Sheard has been shooting up draft boards recently. The Jets pass rush is in need of an infusion of youth and power and the technically sound Sheard will provide just that. Sheard has been very consistent in his career at Pittsburgh but really stepped up last year when Greg Romeus went down to injury. Although the Jets could use help on the defensive line and offensive line, they will look to address this need later in the draft and instead opt for the Pitt product who will remind Rex Ryan of Terrell Suggs.
31. Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4) Brandon Harris (5'11 - 195lbs) CB Miami
Although the Steelers could use more help on the offensive line, cornerback is their biggest need, as the Steeler defense can sometimes be exposed when spread out with 3 or 4 wide receivers. Harris is a Steeler kind of player: talented, smart and a student of the game. Harris has good speed and a nose for the ball as well as being a sound tackler. He will thrive in Dick LeBeau's defense.
32. Green Bay Packers (10-6) Mark Ingram (5'10 - 223lbs) RB Alabama
The Packers were recently dealt a blow with the idiocy of defensive lineman Johnny Jolly being again caught with Codeine and a likely suspension to boot! However, despite their defensive end need, the only talent representing value to the Packers here is Ingram and he is simply too good to pass up. Ingram is a complete back and will fit in well with the explosive Packer offense. Ryan Grant is coming back from a season ending injury and may be surplus to requirements in Green Bay - Ingram will progress their running game to the next level.
2011 NFL Mock Draft: What The Buffalo Bills Need?
Strange Choice From King In 2011 NFL Mock Draft
Peter King's Pick: Von Miller, OLB/DE, Texas A&M
Who King Thinks They Should Take: Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
King's Explanation:
Buffalo's biggest needs are a left tackle and a run stopper, but those will be addressed in later rounds, because Miller's potential is so great. He has the chance to be a double-digit sacker, the guy '09 first-rounder Aaron Maybin hasn't become. But projecting pass rushers is always risky. For a team whose QB was hit way too much last year, I'd rather have a Day One left tackle. Castonzo started 54 games at BC and was never overmatched.
Critiquing a mock draft is tough because one pick can change everything. That's why I disagree with King's pick for the Bills. I see the Broncos taking Von Miller, leaving Marcell Dareus to go right to the Bills, who certainly need a stout defensive tackle.
So I can't really give King poor marks for this choice. But I can for his "should pick."
Maybe Castonzo will become the best offensive tackle in this draft. But with Tyron Smith, Gabe Carimi, and Nate Solder, the chances of that are hazy at best.
More to the point, the Bills defense--besides finishing dead last against the run, they allowed 30-plus points nine times last year--needs attention first. This draft is too good not to take a player like Dareus or Miller or Robert Quinn or even Patrick Peterson before taking an offensive tackle.
Grade: D
For More Draft Coverage, Check Out Our 2011 NFL Draft Page 1. Carolina Panthers: Cam Newton, QB
2. Denver Broncos: Marcell Dareus, DT
3. Buffalo Bills: Von Miller, DE/OLB
4. Cincinnati Bengals: Blaine Gabbert, QB 17. New England Patiriots: Mike Pouncey, OG
18. San Diego Chagers: Cameron Jordan, DE
19. New York Giants: Anthony Castonzo, OT
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Aldon Smith, OLB
5. Arizona Cardinals: A.J. Green, WR
6. Cleveland Browns: Julio Jones, WR
7. Houston Texans: Patrick Peterson, CB*
8. Tennessee Titans: Nick Fairley, DT 21. Kansans City Chiefs: Gabe Carimi, OT
22. Indianapolis Colts: Nate Solder, OT
23. Philadelphia Eagles: Danny Watkins, OG
24. New Orleans Saints: Adrian Clayborn, DE
9. Dallas Cowboys: Tyron Smith, OT
10. Washington Redskins: Robert Quinn, DE/OLB
11. San Francisco 49ers: Prince Amukamara, CB
12. Minnesota Vikings: Jake Locker, QB
25. Seattle Seahawks: Marvin Austin, DT
26. Baltimore Ravens: Jimmy Smith, CB
27. Atlanta Falcons: J.J. Watt, DE
28. Tennessee Titans**: Christian Ponder, QB**
13. Detroit Lions: Da'Quan Bowers, DE
14. St. Louis Rams: Corey Luiget, DT
15. Miami Dolphins: Andy Dalton, QB
16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan, DE
29. Chicago Bears: Derek Sherrod, OT
30. New York Jets: Muhammad Wilkerson, DT/DE
31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Brandon Harris, CB
32. Green Bay Packers: Cameron Heyward, DE
Peter King's Pick: Von Miller, OLB/DE, Texas A&M
Who King Thinks They Should Take: Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
King's Explanation:
Buffalo's biggest needs are a left tackle and a run stopper, but those will be addressed in later rounds, because Miller's potential is so great. He has the chance to be a double-digit sacker, the guy '09 first-rounder Aaron Maybin hasn't become. But projecting pass rushers is always risky. For a team whose QB was hit way too much last year, I'd rather have a Day One left tackle. Castonzo started 54 games at BC and was never overmatched.
Critiquing a mock draft is tough because one pick can change everything. That's why I disagree with King's pick for the Bills. I see the Broncos taking Von Miller, leaving Marcell Dareus to go right to the Bills, who certainly need a stout defensive tackle.
So I can't really give King poor marks for this choice. But I can for his "should pick."
Maybe Castonzo will become the best offensive tackle in this draft. But with Tyron Smith, Gabe Carimi, and Nate Solder, the chances of that are hazy at best.
More to the point, the Bills defense--besides finishing dead last against the run, they allowed 30-plus points nine times last year--needs attention first. This draft is too good not to take a player like Dareus or Miller or Robert Quinn or even Patrick Peterson before taking an offensive tackle.
Grade: D
For More Draft Coverage, Check Out Our 2011 NFL Draft Page 1. Carolina Panthers: Cam Newton, QB
2. Denver Broncos: Marcell Dareus, DT
3. Buffalo Bills: Von Miller, DE/OLB
4. Cincinnati Bengals: Blaine Gabbert, QB 17. New England Patiriots: Mike Pouncey, OG
18. San Diego Chagers: Cameron Jordan, DE
19. New York Giants: Anthony Castonzo, OT
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Aldon Smith, OLB
5. Arizona Cardinals: A.J. Green, WR
6. Cleveland Browns: Julio Jones, WR
7. Houston Texans: Patrick Peterson, CB*
8. Tennessee Titans: Nick Fairley, DT 21. Kansans City Chiefs: Gabe Carimi, OT
22. Indianapolis Colts: Nate Solder, OT
23. Philadelphia Eagles: Danny Watkins, OG
24. New Orleans Saints: Adrian Clayborn, DE
9. Dallas Cowboys: Tyron Smith, OT
10. Washington Redskins: Robert Quinn, DE/OLB
11. San Francisco 49ers: Prince Amukamara, CB
12. Minnesota Vikings: Jake Locker, QB
25. Seattle Seahawks: Marvin Austin, DT
26. Baltimore Ravens: Jimmy Smith, CB
27. Atlanta Falcons: J.J. Watt, DE
28. Tennessee Titans**: Christian Ponder, QB**
13. Detroit Lions: Da'Quan Bowers, DE
14. St. Louis Rams: Corey Luiget, DT
15. Miami Dolphins: Andy Dalton, QB
16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ryan Kerrigan, DE
29. Chicago Bears: Derek Sherrod, OT
30. New York Jets: Muhammad Wilkerson, DT/DE
31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Brandon Harris, CB
32. Green Bay Packers: Cameron Heyward, DE
Sunday, April 24, 2011
NFL Draft 2011: Top Defensive Linemen
Zack Berman - The position with the most potential impact players in this draft is defensive line. The group has different types of players whose importance will fluctuate based on different team’s systems.
Alabama’s Marcell Dareus and Auburn’s Nick Fairley are major prospects at defensive tackle, a position that has increased in value, as evidenced by two of the first three picks in last season’s draft. An injury risk is all that prevents Clemson’s Da’Quan Bowers from becoming a candidate for the No. 1 pick.
Teams looking for a 3-4 pass-rusher can convert defensive ends such as North Carolina’s Robert Quinn, Missouri’s Aldon Smith, Purdue’s Ryan Kerrigan and Arizona’s Brooks Reed. There are also 4-3 ends that can play end in the 3-4, such as Wisconsin’s J.J. Watt and California’s Cameron Jordan. And defensive tackles such as Temple’s Muhammad Wilkerson (Linden High School) and Baylor’s Phil Taylor can play nose tackle in the 3-4.
PROTOTYPES
The defensive ends all 4-3 teams want are Chicago’s Julius Peppers and Houston’s Mario Williams, elite athletes who look like power forwards rushing the passer. Both were among the top two picks in their respective drafts. Last year’s No. 2 overall pick, Ndamukong Suh, looks like he’ll develop into the league’s best 4-3 defensive tackle.
The requirements are entirely different in a 3-4 system, where linemen must occupy blockers and play in different gaps. Pittsburgh’s Aaron Smith and Oakland’s Richard Seymour are the prototypical 3-4 defensive ends, while New England’s Vince Wilfork and Baltimore’s Haloti Ngata are the space-eating nose tackles defensive coordinators crave.
THE TOP FIVE
(Rank, Position, Player, College, Height, Weight, 40-yard dash time)
More coverage:
• NFL Draft 2011: Analysis of the offensive linemen
• NFL Draft 2011: Analysis of the wide receivers and tight ends
• NFL Draft 2011: Analysis of the running backs
• NFL Draft 2011: Analysis of the quarterbacks
1. DT Marcell Dareus, Alabama, 6-3, 319, 4.94
Because Dareus played in a 3-4 for Nick Saban, teams who utilize the system have witnessed Dareus fill the difficult defensive end spot. He also has the size and skill set to transition into a 4-3 defensive tackle, meaning Dareus is a system-proof lineman. He is strong against the run, improving against the pass and comes from one of college football’s most respected programs. The only knock on Dareus is that he was not a three-down player at Alabama.
2. DE Da’Quan Bowers, Clemson, 6-3, 280, 4.7
There are few players in the draft with more potential than Bowers, who led the nation with 15½ sacks and added 26 tackles for a loss. The red flag on the 21-year-old is a knee injury that required arthroscopic surgery. If teams are satisfied with his health, Bowers has the talent to be a complete defensive end and one of the true impact players in the draft.
3. DT Nick Fairley, Auburn, 6-4, 298, 4.86
Anyone who watched the national championship game saw how disruptive Fairley can be on the interior. Fairley registered a sack, a forced fumble and three tackles for a loss. He also had two sacks against rival Alabama. But Fairley only excelled for one season with the Tigers, so there are justifiable questions about his inexperience.
4. DE Robert Quinn, North Carolina, 6-4, 265, 4.66
Quinn missed his entire junior season because of an NCAA suspension stemming from involvement with an agent. Had he played, Quinn might have topped this list. He recorded 11 sacks as a sophomore in 2009 and could be a dominant pass-rusher as a 4-3 defensive end or 3-4 outside linebacker. The difficult part to gauge is how a year away from football affected him.
5. DE J.J. Watt, Wisconsin, 6-5, 290, 4.85
Watt’s advantage is his versatility. He has proven capable in a 4-3 alignment but also has the size and skills to thrive as a 3-4 end, which is a difficult position to plug. Watt won’t accumulate significant sack totals, but he is tough against the run and appeared in every game during three seasons at Wisconsin. Watt also blocked two field goals and two extra points in his career.
BEST OF THE REST
DE Adrian Clayborn Iowa, 6-2 1/2, 283, 4.82
DT Corey Liuget Illinois, 6-2, 300, 5.00
DE Cameron Jordan, California, 6-4, 287, 4.76
DE/OLB Aldon Smith, Missouri, 6-4 1/2, 263, 4.78
DT Muhammad Wilkerson, Temple, 6-4 1/2, 315, 4.99
IMPACT ON THE DRAFT
There may be as many as 13 defensive linemen taken in the first round, including college ends who will play as 3-4 outside linebackers. Pay attention to Bowers, who could slip deep into the first round if concerns about his knee are legitimate. Quinn and college teammate Marvin Austin are curious cases after missing all of last season, although both have enough talent to warrant a high grade. As strong as this class is, though, the talent drops off in the middle rounds.
GIANTS
The Giants, as always, have plenty of depth at end - or at least it would seem that way. Justin Tuck is as consistent, reliable and well-rounded as they come, while last year’s first-round pick Jason Pierre-Paul was impressive in spurts as a rookie. Here’s where it gets interesting, though: Osi Umenyiora set an NFL record with 10 forced fumbles last season, which might make for a convenient time to take a hard stance with his contract. And Mathias Kiwanuka’s situation is uncertain as he’s a free agent and is recovering from a serious neck issue.
Inside, the Giants could use help. Barry Cofield is a free agent and last year’s second-rounder Linval Joseph didn’t get much playing time as a rookie.
— Mike Garafolo
JETS
The front seven is the greatest area of need for the Jets. Last year, they suited up several defensive linemen on the wrong side of 30: Shaun Ellis (33), Trevor Pryce (35) and Sione Pouha (32). Getting younger here is of prime importance, and they could invest their first-round pick to do so.
Releasing Kris Jenkins, who is rehabbing from his second straight ACL tear, means support at nose tackle is needed on the depth chart and in coach Rex Ryan’s scheme. Pouha and Mike DeVito played well last season, and the Jets are looking for Marcus Dixon and Ropati Pitoitua to emerge, but the team will need to address this unit in the draft.
Alabama’s Marcell Dareus and Auburn’s Nick Fairley are major prospects at defensive tackle, a position that has increased in value, as evidenced by two of the first three picks in last season’s draft. An injury risk is all that prevents Clemson’s Da’Quan Bowers from becoming a candidate for the No. 1 pick.
Teams looking for a 3-4 pass-rusher can convert defensive ends such as North Carolina’s Robert Quinn, Missouri’s Aldon Smith, Purdue’s Ryan Kerrigan and Arizona’s Brooks Reed. There are also 4-3 ends that can play end in the 3-4, such as Wisconsin’s J.J. Watt and California’s Cameron Jordan. And defensive tackles such as Temple’s Muhammad Wilkerson (Linden High School) and Baylor’s Phil Taylor can play nose tackle in the 3-4.
PROTOTYPES
The defensive ends all 4-3 teams want are Chicago’s Julius Peppers and Houston’s Mario Williams, elite athletes who look like power forwards rushing the passer. Both were among the top two picks in their respective drafts. Last year’s No. 2 overall pick, Ndamukong Suh, looks like he’ll develop into the league’s best 4-3 defensive tackle.
The requirements are entirely different in a 3-4 system, where linemen must occupy blockers and play in different gaps. Pittsburgh’s Aaron Smith and Oakland’s Richard Seymour are the prototypical 3-4 defensive ends, while New England’s Vince Wilfork and Baltimore’s Haloti Ngata are the space-eating nose tackles defensive coordinators crave.
THE TOP FIVE
(Rank, Position, Player, College, Height, Weight, 40-yard dash time)
More coverage:
• NFL Draft 2011: Analysis of the offensive linemen
• NFL Draft 2011: Analysis of the wide receivers and tight ends
• NFL Draft 2011: Analysis of the running backs
• NFL Draft 2011: Analysis of the quarterbacks
1. DT Marcell Dareus, Alabama, 6-3, 319, 4.94
Because Dareus played in a 3-4 for Nick Saban, teams who utilize the system have witnessed Dareus fill the difficult defensive end spot. He also has the size and skill set to transition into a 4-3 defensive tackle, meaning Dareus is a system-proof lineman. He is strong against the run, improving against the pass and comes from one of college football’s most respected programs. The only knock on Dareus is that he was not a three-down player at Alabama.
2. DE Da’Quan Bowers, Clemson, 6-3, 280, 4.7
There are few players in the draft with more potential than Bowers, who led the nation with 15½ sacks and added 26 tackles for a loss. The red flag on the 21-year-old is a knee injury that required arthroscopic surgery. If teams are satisfied with his health, Bowers has the talent to be a complete defensive end and one of the true impact players in the draft.
3. DT Nick Fairley, Auburn, 6-4, 298, 4.86
Anyone who watched the national championship game saw how disruptive Fairley can be on the interior. Fairley registered a sack, a forced fumble and three tackles for a loss. He also had two sacks against rival Alabama. But Fairley only excelled for one season with the Tigers, so there are justifiable questions about his inexperience.
4. DE Robert Quinn, North Carolina, 6-4, 265, 4.66
Quinn missed his entire junior season because of an NCAA suspension stemming from involvement with an agent. Had he played, Quinn might have topped this list. He recorded 11 sacks as a sophomore in 2009 and could be a dominant pass-rusher as a 4-3 defensive end or 3-4 outside linebacker. The difficult part to gauge is how a year away from football affected him.
5. DE J.J. Watt, Wisconsin, 6-5, 290, 4.85
Watt’s advantage is his versatility. He has proven capable in a 4-3 alignment but also has the size and skills to thrive as a 3-4 end, which is a difficult position to plug. Watt won’t accumulate significant sack totals, but he is tough against the run and appeared in every game during three seasons at Wisconsin. Watt also blocked two field goals and two extra points in his career.
BEST OF THE REST
DE Adrian Clayborn Iowa, 6-2 1/2, 283, 4.82
DT Corey Liuget Illinois, 6-2, 300, 5.00
DE Cameron Jordan, California, 6-4, 287, 4.76
DE/OLB Aldon Smith, Missouri, 6-4 1/2, 263, 4.78
DT Muhammad Wilkerson, Temple, 6-4 1/2, 315, 4.99
IMPACT ON THE DRAFT
There may be as many as 13 defensive linemen taken in the first round, including college ends who will play as 3-4 outside linebackers. Pay attention to Bowers, who could slip deep into the first round if concerns about his knee are legitimate. Quinn and college teammate Marvin Austin are curious cases after missing all of last season, although both have enough talent to warrant a high grade. As strong as this class is, though, the talent drops off in the middle rounds.
GIANTS
The Giants, as always, have plenty of depth at end - or at least it would seem that way. Justin Tuck is as consistent, reliable and well-rounded as they come, while last year’s first-round pick Jason Pierre-Paul was impressive in spurts as a rookie. Here’s where it gets interesting, though: Osi Umenyiora set an NFL record with 10 forced fumbles last season, which might make for a convenient time to take a hard stance with his contract. And Mathias Kiwanuka’s situation is uncertain as he’s a free agent and is recovering from a serious neck issue.
Inside, the Giants could use help. Barry Cofield is a free agent and last year’s second-rounder Linval Joseph didn’t get much playing time as a rookie.
— Mike Garafolo
JETS
The front seven is the greatest area of need for the Jets. Last year, they suited up several defensive linemen on the wrong side of 30: Shaun Ellis (33), Trevor Pryce (35) and Sione Pouha (32). Getting younger here is of prime importance, and they could invest their first-round pick to do so.
Releasing Kris Jenkins, who is rehabbing from his second straight ACL tear, means support at nose tackle is needed on the depth chart and in coach Rex Ryan’s scheme. Pouha and Mike DeVito played well last season, and the Jets are looking for Marcus Dixon and Ropati Pitoitua to emerge, but the team will need to address this unit in the draft.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
2011 NFL Mock Draft:Top 5 Picks
Tood McShay - The 2011 NFL draft is just over a week away and all kinds of rumors, buzz and innuendo are swirling around players and teams up and down the board.
That means it's time for my annual scenario-based mock draft, which includes backup plans for all 32 picks. The first scenario will explain the player each team was given as the board unfolded, with the second and third breaking down further options in terms of prospects and possible trades.
Here's how I see things shaking down at this point and how each team could be affected by decisions made in the spots ahead of it.
Carolina Panthers
Record: 2-14 | Needs: QB, DT, CB, OLB, TE
Cam Newton, QB, Auburn
Scenario 1: The information I'm hearing about this pick is not changing, so for now I'm working with the assumption that Newton is the pick.
Scenario 2: Address a pressing need at defensive tackle with Alabama's Marcell Dareus, who I believe is the best player in this class.
Scenario 3: Go with Missouri's Blaine Gabbert -- who I rate 10 spots higher than Newton -- at quarterback. Note: I'm hearing things about LSU CB Patrick Peterson and Georgia WR A.J. Green, but based on positional value, it's hard to believe the Panthers would go in either of those directions.
Denver Broncos
Record: 4-12 | Needs: DT, ILB, TE, S, QB
Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama
Scenario 1: Dareus remains the likely choice here. There is no better match between need and value in the first round.
Scenario 2: If Dareus is gone, Texas A&M OLB Von Miller is the pick for a team looking to upgrade on defense.
Scenario 3: Taking a quarterback is the wild card here. Vice president of football operations John Elway has given no indication he's in love with either of the top two signal-callers, but we continue to hear the organization does not believe 2010 first-rounder Tim Tebow is the long-term answer.
Buffalo Bills
Record: 4-12 | Needs: LOT, OLB, QB, DE, TE
Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M
Scenario 1: Miller is the premier pass-rusher in this class and fits perfectly at outside linebacker in Buffalo's 3-4 defense. This is the smart pick, but still a tough pill to swallow given the lack of production the Bills have gotten from 2009 first-rounder Aaron Maybin.
Scenario 2: Use this pick on one of the quarterbacks, likely Newton if he's on the board.
Scenario 3: The only other player I'm hearing even whispers about is Peterson.
Cincinnati Bengals
Record: 4-12 | Needs: QB, WR, DT, OT, RB
A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
Scenario 1: There are reports that the Bengals think Alabama's Julio Jones is a better fit in their version of the West Coast offense, but I think Green is on another level in terms of explosiveness and ball skills.
Scenario 2: Take Jones if he truly is the better player for their system.
Scenario 3: There are conflicting rumors about whether the Bengals are ready to move on from the Carson Palmer era and I've heard offensive coordinator Jay Gruden likes both Newton and Gabbert, so quarterback is not out of the question. I'm also hearing they are high on TCU's Andy Dalton, so keep an eye out for a trade back into the late first round.
Arizona Cardinals
Record: 5-11 | Needs: QB, OLB, OT/OG, TE, CB
Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
Scenario 1: The Cardinals need an upgrade at quarterback, and while I've been told they are not that crazy about Gabbert or Newton, my gut feeling is that they will take the QB who's available.
Scenario 2: If it's not a quarterback, then the pass rush becomes a priority, and North Carolina DE/OLB Quinn becomes the pick.
Scenario 3: Peterson does not fill a pressing need but would be a value pick even at this spot.
That means it's time for my annual scenario-based mock draft, which includes backup plans for all 32 picks. The first scenario will explain the player each team was given as the board unfolded, with the second and third breaking down further options in terms of prospects and possible trades.
Here's how I see things shaking down at this point and how each team could be affected by decisions made in the spots ahead of it.
Carolina Panthers
Record: 2-14 | Needs: QB, DT, CB, OLB, TE
Cam Newton, QB, Auburn
Scenario 1: The information I'm hearing about this pick is not changing, so for now I'm working with the assumption that Newton is the pick.
Scenario 2: Address a pressing need at defensive tackle with Alabama's Marcell Dareus, who I believe is the best player in this class.
Scenario 3: Go with Missouri's Blaine Gabbert -- who I rate 10 spots higher than Newton -- at quarterback. Note: I'm hearing things about LSU CB Patrick Peterson and Georgia WR A.J. Green, but based on positional value, it's hard to believe the Panthers would go in either of those directions.
Denver Broncos
Record: 4-12 | Needs: DT, ILB, TE, S, QB
Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama
Scenario 1: Dareus remains the likely choice here. There is no better match between need and value in the first round.
Scenario 2: If Dareus is gone, Texas A&M OLB Von Miller is the pick for a team looking to upgrade on defense.
Scenario 3: Taking a quarterback is the wild card here. Vice president of football operations John Elway has given no indication he's in love with either of the top two signal-callers, but we continue to hear the organization does not believe 2010 first-rounder Tim Tebow is the long-term answer.
Buffalo Bills
Record: 4-12 | Needs: LOT, OLB, QB, DE, TE
Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M
Scenario 1: Miller is the premier pass-rusher in this class and fits perfectly at outside linebacker in Buffalo's 3-4 defense. This is the smart pick, but still a tough pill to swallow given the lack of production the Bills have gotten from 2009 first-rounder Aaron Maybin.
Scenario 2: Use this pick on one of the quarterbacks, likely Newton if he's on the board.
Scenario 3: The only other player I'm hearing even whispers about is Peterson.
Cincinnati Bengals
Record: 4-12 | Needs: QB, WR, DT, OT, RB
A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
Scenario 1: There are reports that the Bengals think Alabama's Julio Jones is a better fit in their version of the West Coast offense, but I think Green is on another level in terms of explosiveness and ball skills.
Scenario 2: Take Jones if he truly is the better player for their system.
Scenario 3: There are conflicting rumors about whether the Bengals are ready to move on from the Carson Palmer era and I've heard offensive coordinator Jay Gruden likes both Newton and Gabbert, so quarterback is not out of the question. I'm also hearing they are high on TCU's Andy Dalton, so keep an eye out for a trade back into the late first round.
Arizona Cardinals
Record: 5-11 | Needs: QB, OLB, OT/OG, TE, CB
Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
Scenario 1: The Cardinals need an upgrade at quarterback, and while I've been told they are not that crazy about Gabbert or Newton, my gut feeling is that they will take the QB who's available.
Scenario 2: If it's not a quarterback, then the pass rush becomes a priority, and North Carolina DE/OLB Quinn becomes the pick.
Scenario 3: Peterson does not fill a pressing need but would be a value pick even at this spot.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
2011-12 NFL Scheduled: Buffalo Bills Open The Season At K.C
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — The Buffalo Bills will host the Washington Redskins in Toronto in the fourth instalment of their five-year series of playing annual home games at Rogers Centre.
The game will be played Oct. 30 in a scheduled released by the NFL on Tuesday and has Buffalo opening the season on the road at Kansas City on Sept. 11. The schedule is dependent on whether the labour dispute between the league and its players does not delay the start of the season.
The game at Rogers Centre will be played in Week 8 of the season, marking the earliest of any of the three previous games the Bills have played in Toronto. The early date is regarded as the team's latest bid to increase interest in the Bills across southern Ontario, which is part of the franchise's market.
Last year's game in Toronto had difficulty selling out after the Bills opened the season 0-7 and were all but mathematically eliminated from playoff contention when they played Chicago on Nov. 7. The first two games of the series were both played in December and also had difficulty selling out.
The so-called Bills-In-Toronto series began in 2008, in which Buffalo became the NFL's first team to play annual regular season games outside of the United States. Toronto-based Rogers Communication is paying the Bills US$78 million to have them play eight games — including three pre-season — in a deal that runs through next year.
In light of the labour dispute, Toronto series organizers announced fans can reserve tickets for $25, and will receive a refund if the game is not played.
"We, like the fans, are closely monitoring the current situation," Rogers Centre executive Silvio D'Addario said. "We are hopeful for a quick resolution as we are thrilled with this year's matchup."
In other highlights of the Bills schedule, they'll play their home-opener in the second week against Oakland on Sept. 18. A week later, they'll host New England in their first game against an AFC East rival.
Of Buffalo's 16 games, 15 will be played on Sunday. The only exception is a home game against Denver on Saturday, Dec. 24. The Bills will close their season at New England on Jan. 1.
The Bills bye week off will come in Week 7. Five of their eight home games, will be played by Nov. 6, when the Buffalo hosts the New York Jets.
In having missed the playoffs for 11 straight years, the Bills have had difficulty attracting fans to Ralph Wilson Stadium once the weather turns cold.
The Bills regular-season schedule is (all times Eastern):
Sept. 11 at Kansas City, 1 p.m.
Sept. 18 Oakland, 1 p.m.
Sept. 25 New England, 1 p.m.
Oct. 2 at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.
Oct. 9 Philadelphia, 1 p.m.
Oct. 16 at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m.
Oct. 30 Washington, 4:05 p.m.
Nov. 6 N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m.
Nov. 13 at Dallas, 1 p.m.
Nov. 20 at Miami, 1 p.m.
Nov. 27 at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m.
Dec. 4 Tennessee, 1 p.m.
Dec. 11 at San Diego, 4:15 p.m.
Dec. 18 Miami, 1 p.m.
Dec. 24 Denver, 1 p.m.
Jan. 1 at New England, 1 p.m.
The game will be played Oct. 30 in a scheduled released by the NFL on Tuesday and has Buffalo opening the season on the road at Kansas City on Sept. 11. The schedule is dependent on whether the labour dispute between the league and its players does not delay the start of the season.
The game at Rogers Centre will be played in Week 8 of the season, marking the earliest of any of the three previous games the Bills have played in Toronto. The early date is regarded as the team's latest bid to increase interest in the Bills across southern Ontario, which is part of the franchise's market.
Last year's game in Toronto had difficulty selling out after the Bills opened the season 0-7 and were all but mathematically eliminated from playoff contention when they played Chicago on Nov. 7. The first two games of the series were both played in December and also had difficulty selling out.
The so-called Bills-In-Toronto series began in 2008, in which Buffalo became the NFL's first team to play annual regular season games outside of the United States. Toronto-based Rogers Communication is paying the Bills US$78 million to have them play eight games — including three pre-season — in a deal that runs through next year.
In light of the labour dispute, Toronto series organizers announced fans can reserve tickets for $25, and will receive a refund if the game is not played.
"We, like the fans, are closely monitoring the current situation," Rogers Centre executive Silvio D'Addario said. "We are hopeful for a quick resolution as we are thrilled with this year's matchup."
In other highlights of the Bills schedule, they'll play their home-opener in the second week against Oakland on Sept. 18. A week later, they'll host New England in their first game against an AFC East rival.
Of Buffalo's 16 games, 15 will be played on Sunday. The only exception is a home game against Denver on Saturday, Dec. 24. The Bills will close their season at New England on Jan. 1.
The Bills bye week off will come in Week 7. Five of their eight home games, will be played by Nov. 6, when the Buffalo hosts the New York Jets.
In having missed the playoffs for 11 straight years, the Bills have had difficulty attracting fans to Ralph Wilson Stadium once the weather turns cold.
The Bills regular-season schedule is (all times Eastern):
Sept. 11 at Kansas City, 1 p.m.
Sept. 18 Oakland, 1 p.m.
Sept. 25 New England, 1 p.m.
Oct. 2 at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.
Oct. 9 Philadelphia, 1 p.m.
Oct. 16 at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m.
Oct. 30 Washington, 4:05 p.m.
Nov. 6 N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m.
Nov. 13 at Dallas, 1 p.m.
Nov. 20 at Miami, 1 p.m.
Nov. 27 at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m.
Dec. 4 Tennessee, 1 p.m.
Dec. 11 at San Diego, 4:15 p.m.
Dec. 18 Miami, 1 p.m.
Dec. 24 Denver, 1 p.m.
Jan. 1 at New England, 1 p.m.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
2011 NFL Draft: Why Ryan Fitzpatrick Should Be The Buffalo Bills Strating QB in 2011
Jeff Kayer - The ball was snapped on a November afternoon at Orchard Park in an overtime clash between the Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Having rallied his team from 13 points down and extending his touchdown streak to 12 games, the longest such streak by a Bills quarterback since Doug Flutie in 1999, Ryan Fitzpatrick took the snap from his center and immediately saw something.
New standout receiver Steve Johnson had made a break on his opponent and was wide open going for the endzone. Fitzpatrick threw a perfect 40-yard pass to his streaking receiver who was about to extend the Bills winning streak to three games and get a clutch victory against one of the NFL's best teams.
But as Fitzpatrick had his arms already extended in victory, Johnson, a normally sure handed receiver, inexplicably dropped the ball. The Steelers went on to win the game 19-16.
While this was one of the low points of a 4-12 season for the Bills, it did prove one thing to many people—Ryan Fitzpatrick has game.
The Bills are currently at an all too familiar spot as they approach the draft—an early draft position after another failed campaign. The Bills have not been in the post season since 1999 in which they lost in spectacular fashion to the Music City Miracle.
Since then the team has gone through a long line of coaches, each bringing different philosophies and game plans and, simply put, none of it has worked. As any fan can attest to, it takes time for a new coach to implement his system, especially when he lacks talent. When you see that the team has had six coaches since 2000, it shouldn't surprise many the team has struggled.
That is where we are now with the Bills who pick third in the draft. Though the team is in need of fresh talent in almost every position, many analysts believe the Bills are looking to draft a quarterback, most notably Auburn's Cam Newton or Missouri's Blaine Gabbert.
While both quarterbacks have a chance to become a very strong foundation for a team, the Bills should realize they already have their man for 2011 in Ryan Fitzpatrick.
The Bills did go 4-12 last year but Fitzpatrick guided an offense that showed a ton of promise. Though the Bills ranked 24th in the NFL with 197 passing yards per game, one has to understand that Trent Edwards started the first two games with 139 and 102 yards passing respectively with Brian Brohm starting for an injured Fitzpatrick in week 17, in which he threw for a blistering 106 yards.
Despite not starting three games, Fitzpatrick was tied for 13th in the league with a very respectable 23 passing touchdowns, tying him with Jay Cutler and David Garrard. He threw for 3000 yards with an average of 231 yards per game, ranking him ahead of players like Joe Flacco, Cutler, Josh Freeman, Matt Cassell and Mark Sanchez. He also helped stretch the field with 269 rushing yards.
Is Ryan Fitzpatrick the next Tom Brady? Absolutely not, though neither is Cam Newton or Blaine Gabbert.
The Bills have a quarterback who has the talent to throw for over 300 yards per game, which he accomplished that feat on several occasions, the best coming against the Baltimore Ravens in which he torched a top defense for 382 yards and four touchdowns.
We've talked a lot about why Fitzpatrick has proven his worth. Let's now look at other components of the Bills team.
Consider the fact they had the worst rushing defense in the league, giving up nearly 170 yards per game. They gave up the fifth most points in the NFL, had the fourth fewest sacks and tied for the third fewest interceptions.
On offense the team was marginally good rushing the ball at 18th in the league and was 18th at sacks allowed. Their receiving corps got a large boost with the emergence of Stevie Johnson to compliment Lee Evans and Roscoe Parish.
Looking at the stats, it's abundantly clear this team needs to focus on the defensive side of the ball. When you can't stop the run, put pressure on the opponent's quarterback or scare him with quality cornerbacks, you're not going to win games, no matter who your quarterback is.
This why the Bills need to target players like linebacker Von Miller or cornerback Patrick Peterson.
No one is going to argue that Ryan Fitzpatrick is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. But for 13 games, he put up numbers that were more than adequate and if it wasn't for some bad breaks—and failures by other parts his team—the Bills could have won eight games, as they lost four games to 2010 playoff teams by a combined 12 points, two of which in overtime.
Drafting Cam Newton or Blaine Gabbert may attract some headlines, which some may argue is even more important for this struggling franchise than actually drafting someone at a bigger need. But for the long term and short term success of the Bills, they need to let Fitzpatrick and the hopeful return of his beard to lead this team next season.
Having rallied his team from 13 points down and extending his touchdown streak to 12 games, the longest such streak by a Bills quarterback since Doug Flutie in 1999, Ryan Fitzpatrick took the snap from his center and immediately saw something.
New standout receiver Steve Johnson had made a break on his opponent and was wide open going for the endzone. Fitzpatrick threw a perfect 40-yard pass to his streaking receiver who was about to extend the Bills winning streak to three games and get a clutch victory against one of the NFL's best teams.
But as Fitzpatrick had his arms already extended in victory, Johnson, a normally sure handed receiver, inexplicably dropped the ball. The Steelers went on to win the game 19-16.
While this was one of the low points of a 4-12 season for the Bills, it did prove one thing to many people—Ryan Fitzpatrick has game.
The Bills are currently at an all too familiar spot as they approach the draft—an early draft position after another failed campaign. The Bills have not been in the post season since 1999 in which they lost in spectacular fashion to the Music City Miracle.
Since then the team has gone through a long line of coaches, each bringing different philosophies and game plans and, simply put, none of it has worked. As any fan can attest to, it takes time for a new coach to implement his system, especially when he lacks talent. When you see that the team has had six coaches since 2000, it shouldn't surprise many the team has struggled.
That is where we are now with the Bills who pick third in the draft. Though the team is in need of fresh talent in almost every position, many analysts believe the Bills are looking to draft a quarterback, most notably Auburn's Cam Newton or Missouri's Blaine Gabbert.
While both quarterbacks have a chance to become a very strong foundation for a team, the Bills should realize they already have their man for 2011 in Ryan Fitzpatrick.
The Bills did go 4-12 last year but Fitzpatrick guided an offense that showed a ton of promise. Though the Bills ranked 24th in the NFL with 197 passing yards per game, one has to understand that Trent Edwards started the first two games with 139 and 102 yards passing respectively with Brian Brohm starting for an injured Fitzpatrick in week 17, in which he threw for a blistering 106 yards.
Despite not starting three games, Fitzpatrick was tied for 13th in the league with a very respectable 23 passing touchdowns, tying him with Jay Cutler and David Garrard. He threw for 3000 yards with an average of 231 yards per game, ranking him ahead of players like Joe Flacco, Cutler, Josh Freeman, Matt Cassell and Mark Sanchez. He also helped stretch the field with 269 rushing yards.
Is Ryan Fitzpatrick the next Tom Brady? Absolutely not, though neither is Cam Newton or Blaine Gabbert.
The Bills have a quarterback who has the talent to throw for over 300 yards per game, which he accomplished that feat on several occasions, the best coming against the Baltimore Ravens in which he torched a top defense for 382 yards and four touchdowns.
We've talked a lot about why Fitzpatrick has proven his worth. Let's now look at other components of the Bills team.
Consider the fact they had the worst rushing defense in the league, giving up nearly 170 yards per game. They gave up the fifth most points in the NFL, had the fourth fewest sacks and tied for the third fewest interceptions.
On offense the team was marginally good rushing the ball at 18th in the league and was 18th at sacks allowed. Their receiving corps got a large boost with the emergence of Stevie Johnson to compliment Lee Evans and Roscoe Parish.
Looking at the stats, it's abundantly clear this team needs to focus on the defensive side of the ball. When you can't stop the run, put pressure on the opponent's quarterback or scare him with quality cornerbacks, you're not going to win games, no matter who your quarterback is.
This why the Bills need to target players like linebacker Von Miller or cornerback Patrick Peterson.
No one is going to argue that Ryan Fitzpatrick is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. But for 13 games, he put up numbers that were more than adequate and if it wasn't for some bad breaks—and failures by other parts his team—the Bills could have won eight games, as they lost four games to 2010 playoff teams by a combined 12 points, two of which in overtime.
Drafting Cam Newton or Blaine Gabbert may attract some headlines, which some may argue is even more important for this struggling franchise than actually drafting someone at a bigger need. But for the long term and short term success of the Bills, they need to let Fitzpatrick and the hopeful return of his beard to lead this team next season.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
NFL 2011 Mock Draft 1st Round Pick Buffalo Bills
With the Third Overall selection in the 2011 NFL Draft, the Buffalo Bills select Von Miller of Texas A&M.
The Arizona Cardinals will not be happy about this pick. They have had their sights on Von Miller from Texas A&M since the NFL Combine. However, the only need the Bills have that is more dire is at offensive tackle, and no one at that position is worth this high of a pick.
Von Miller can play the pass rush, run and drop back in coverage better than anyone in the last few draft classes and will be a great addition to the Bills' front seven.
For More Draft Coverage, Check Out Our 2011 NFL Draft Page.1. Carolina Panthers: Cam Newton, QB, Auburn
2. Denver Broncos: Marcell Dareus, DT,
3. Buffalo Bills: Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M
The Arizona Cardinals will not be happy about this pick. They have had their sights on Von Miller from Texas A&M since the NFL Combine. However, the only need the Bills have that is more dire is at offensive tackle, and no one at that position is worth this high of a pick.
Von Miller can play the pass rush, run and drop back in coverage better than anyone in the last few draft classes and will be a great addition to the Bills' front seven.
For More Draft Coverage, Check Out Our 2011 NFL Draft Page.1. Carolina Panthers: Cam Newton, QB, Auburn
2. Denver Broncos: Marcell Dareus, DT,
3. Buffalo Bills: Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Buffalo Bills vs Cleveland Browns Preview
A pair of last-second victories have appeared to boost the spirits of the Cleveland Browns, who were on the wrong end of a number of close games during their slow start.
Their next opponent knows what it's like to endure those kinds of defeats.
Cleveland will attempt to earn a season-high third straight win by sending the Buffalo Bills to their third consecutive defeat Sunday at Ralph Wilson Stadium.
The Browns were 1-5 in games decided by seven points or fewer during their 3-7 start, but they've won the past two by a combined four points.
Cleveland got a break in the first of those wins Nov. 28 when Carolina's field goal attempt grazed off the left upright on the final play.
After that 24-23 victory, the Browns (5-7) created their own luck in last week's 13-10 win at Miami when safety Mike Adams' interception in the final minute helped set up Phil Dawson's 23-yard field goal as time expired.
"It's about time for us to win some games like that," Adams said. "Two years ago, or even last year, you can remember us losing a game like that. Fortunately, this year, it's turning our way. So a win is a win."
The Bills would probably love to get any kind of win after seeming to regress over the past two weeks.
Buffalo endured three consecutive three-point defeats at the end of its 0-8 start but rebounded for wins over Detroit and Cincinnati last month. The Bills then suffered their third overtime loss this season to Pittsburgh on Nov. 28 before falling 38-14 last week in Minnesota.
Buffalo (2-10) committed a season-high five turnovers and three personal foul penalties against the Vikings. The Bills also lost center Geoff Hangartner and right guard Kraig Urbik to knee injuries.
Starting right guard Eric Wood is expected to return after missing two games because of an ankle injury and take over for Hangartner. Ed Wang and Cordaro Howard are slated to split time at right guard in place of Urbik.
"It's no fun to try to create continuity in a situation where there is none," coach Chan Gailey said. "You can't do it in a short period of time. We're just going to have to work and do the best we can to patch a group together that can go play."
Browns rookie quarterback Colt McCoy will likely miss a third straight game with an ankle injury, giving Jake Delhomme another start. The veteran could get some help from running back Peyton Hillis, who is 38 yards shy of his first 1,000-yard season.
Hillis will face a Buffalo defense that's giving up a league-worst 170.9 yards per game on the ground and has allowed at least 200 in each of the past two defeats.
Delhomme has completed 69.6 percent of his passes for 462 yards in McCoy's absence. He didn't throw an interception for the first time this season last week after having two passes picked off in three consecutive games.
Delhomme also had a touchdown to tight end Benjamin Watson, who had a career-high 10 receptions while reaching 100 yards for the first time with Cleveland.
Delhomme threw for 325 yards last season against Buffalo but also three interceptions in a 20-9 loss for the Panthers.
Buffalo's Ryan Fitzpatrick hasn't faced the Browns since going 1-1 in two starts for Cincinnati in 2008. He had 211 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions in those games, including a career-low 55 yards as a starter in a 14-0 win at Cleveland.
The Bills couldn't get past Cleveland for the third time in as many seasons in 2009, falling 6-3 at home as former Brown Billy Cundiff kicked an 18-yard field goal with 23 seconds left.
The previous season, Dawson converted a 56-yarder with 1:39 to lift the Browns to a 29-27 road victory.
Cleveland has won 10 of 15 all-time meetings, going 5-2 in Buffalo.
Their next opponent knows what it's like to endure those kinds of defeats.
Cleveland will attempt to earn a season-high third straight win by sending the Buffalo Bills to their third consecutive defeat Sunday at Ralph Wilson Stadium.
The Browns were 1-5 in games decided by seven points or fewer during their 3-7 start, but they've won the past two by a combined four points.
Cleveland got a break in the first of those wins Nov. 28 when Carolina's field goal attempt grazed off the left upright on the final play.
After that 24-23 victory, the Browns (5-7) created their own luck in last week's 13-10 win at Miami when safety Mike Adams' interception in the final minute helped set up Phil Dawson's 23-yard field goal as time expired.
"It's about time for us to win some games like that," Adams said. "Two years ago, or even last year, you can remember us losing a game like that. Fortunately, this year, it's turning our way. So a win is a win."
The Bills would probably love to get any kind of win after seeming to regress over the past two weeks.
Buffalo endured three consecutive three-point defeats at the end of its 0-8 start but rebounded for wins over Detroit and Cincinnati last month. The Bills then suffered their third overtime loss this season to Pittsburgh on Nov. 28 before falling 38-14 last week in Minnesota.
Buffalo (2-10) committed a season-high five turnovers and three personal foul penalties against the Vikings. The Bills also lost center Geoff Hangartner and right guard Kraig Urbik to knee injuries.
Starting right guard Eric Wood is expected to return after missing two games because of an ankle injury and take over for Hangartner. Ed Wang and Cordaro Howard are slated to split time at right guard in place of Urbik.
"It's no fun to try to create continuity in a situation where there is none," coach Chan Gailey said. "You can't do it in a short period of time. We're just going to have to work and do the best we can to patch a group together that can go play."
Browns rookie quarterback Colt McCoy will likely miss a third straight game with an ankle injury, giving Jake Delhomme another start. The veteran could get some help from running back Peyton Hillis, who is 38 yards shy of his first 1,000-yard season.
Hillis will face a Buffalo defense that's giving up a league-worst 170.9 yards per game on the ground and has allowed at least 200 in each of the past two defeats.
Delhomme has completed 69.6 percent of his passes for 462 yards in McCoy's absence. He didn't throw an interception for the first time this season last week after having two passes picked off in three consecutive games.
Delhomme also had a touchdown to tight end Benjamin Watson, who had a career-high 10 receptions while reaching 100 yards for the first time with Cleveland.
Delhomme threw for 325 yards last season against Buffalo but also three interceptions in a 20-9 loss for the Panthers.
Buffalo's Ryan Fitzpatrick hasn't faced the Browns since going 1-1 in two starts for Cincinnati in 2008. He had 211 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions in those games, including a career-low 55 yards as a starter in a 14-0 win at Cleveland.
The Bills couldn't get past Cleveland for the third time in as many seasons in 2009, falling 6-3 at home as former Brown Billy Cundiff kicked an 18-yard field goal with 23 seconds left.
The previous season, Dawson converted a 56-yarder with 1:39 to lift the Browns to a 29-27 road victory.
Cleveland has won 10 of 15 all-time meetings, going 5-2 in Buffalo.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Dropped Pass Not God's Fault, Bills Receiver Steve Johnson Hands
Buffalo Bills receiver Steve Johnson’s T-shirt said it all.
Walking to the microphone before practice Wednesday, Johnson sported a shirt with the words “It’s all good” emblazoned across the chest.
“Yeah I’ve been able to put it behind me,” Johnson said. “I haven’t forgotten about it, but I’m ready to move on from it.”
The “it” Johnson was referring to was his costly end-zone drop in overtime Sunday that prevented the Bills from upsetting the Pittsburgh Steelers. “It” also refers to the public storm that engulfed him after the game when he posted a message on his Twitter account, wondering how God could do this to him.
An upbeat Johnson talked candidly Wednesday about the drop and his controversial tweet.
“God is everything,” he said. “I feel like he’s the Creator, and he’s 100 per cent good. I simply just asked ‘Why?’ I was not blaming him or any of that. Why would I? But it happened, and the way people took it, is the way they took it. They can say what they want, it’s fine with me. I’m still going to keep doing what I have to do to keep being a good receiver.”
Johnson’s been much more than a good receiver for the Bills. He’s emerged as quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick’s go-to guy, and he leads the team with 59 receptions, 796 yards and nine touchdowns.
But it’s the would-be 10th touchdown falling out of his grasp that’s taught Johnson that sometimes he isn’t in the driver’s seat with what transpires on the field.
“When plays are called, I just felt like I was in control,” he said. “But when it came down to (making the play), I didn’t. So I’m not in control of that.”
Though the drop has been on countless highlight shows over the last couple of days, Johnson said he hasn’t seen it on television.
“I didn’t try to avoid it,” he said. “I was in the play, so I know exactly what happened.”
Johnson said he’s been getting a tremendous amount of support from his teammates, friends, family, and even Buffalo’s all-time leading receiver, Andre Reed, who called him on Tuesday.
“He just said it happens to the best of us,” Johnson said.
Fitzpatrick once again rallied around Johnson and said he’s confident the 2008 seventh-round draft pick will show no ill-effects Sunday when Buffalo (2-9) plays at the Minnesota Vikings (4-7).
“In the NFL, you can’t get too high and you can’t get too low,” Fitzpatrick said. “I think the message that everybody has tried to give to him and the message in general to the team is move on, and that’s what we’re going to do.”
This is the second instance where controversy swirled around a tweet made by a Bill. Rookie running back C.J. Spiller apologized for using a derogatory term toward gays that he posted on his Twitter account last month.
Johnson said he didn’t regret posting his tweet, but he understands that public figures have become more public with social networking.
“We’re an internet generation now, and maybe I shouldn’t have done it,” he said. “It’ll take a while for me to get back into it, but I’ll still be the same person.”
The Bills hope he’s the same receiver that’s been posting big numbers on the field.
Walking to the microphone before practice Wednesday, Johnson sported a shirt with the words “It’s all good” emblazoned across the chest.
“Yeah I’ve been able to put it behind me,” Johnson said. “I haven’t forgotten about it, but I’m ready to move on from it.”
The “it” Johnson was referring to was his costly end-zone drop in overtime Sunday that prevented the Bills from upsetting the Pittsburgh Steelers. “It” also refers to the public storm that engulfed him after the game when he posted a message on his Twitter account, wondering how God could do this to him.
An upbeat Johnson talked candidly Wednesday about the drop and his controversial tweet.
“God is everything,” he said. “I feel like he’s the Creator, and he’s 100 per cent good. I simply just asked ‘Why?’ I was not blaming him or any of that. Why would I? But it happened, and the way people took it, is the way they took it. They can say what they want, it’s fine with me. I’m still going to keep doing what I have to do to keep being a good receiver.”
Johnson’s been much more than a good receiver for the Bills. He’s emerged as quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick’s go-to guy, and he leads the team with 59 receptions, 796 yards and nine touchdowns.
But it’s the would-be 10th touchdown falling out of his grasp that’s taught Johnson that sometimes he isn’t in the driver’s seat with what transpires on the field.
“When plays are called, I just felt like I was in control,” he said. “But when it came down to (making the play), I didn’t. So I’m not in control of that.”
Though the drop has been on countless highlight shows over the last couple of days, Johnson said he hasn’t seen it on television.
“I didn’t try to avoid it,” he said. “I was in the play, so I know exactly what happened.”
Johnson said he’s been getting a tremendous amount of support from his teammates, friends, family, and even Buffalo’s all-time leading receiver, Andre Reed, who called him on Tuesday.
“He just said it happens to the best of us,” Johnson said.
Fitzpatrick once again rallied around Johnson and said he’s confident the 2008 seventh-round draft pick will show no ill-effects Sunday when Buffalo (2-9) plays at the Minnesota Vikings (4-7).
“In the NFL, you can’t get too high and you can’t get too low,” Fitzpatrick said. “I think the message that everybody has tried to give to him and the message in general to the team is move on, and that’s what we’re going to do.”
This is the second instance where controversy swirled around a tweet made by a Bill. Rookie running back C.J. Spiller apologized for using a derogatory term toward gays that he posted on his Twitter account last month.
Johnson said he didn’t regret posting his tweet, but he understands that public figures have become more public with social networking.
“We’re an internet generation now, and maybe I shouldn’t have done it,” he said. “It’ll take a while for me to get back into it, but I’ll still be the same person.”
The Bills hope he’s the same receiver that’s been posting big numbers on the field.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Buffalo Bills vs. Minnestoa Vikings Preview Dec 5, 2010
The Buffalo Bills will travel to Minnesota to take on Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings on December 5th. The Buffalo Bills are coming off a gutting
loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers who squeaked out a win over the pesky Buffalo Bills in Buffalo. The Minnesota Vikings scored just enough to take down a tough home team in the Washington Redskins to bring their win total to four wins and seven losses heading into this important home game.
Minnesota Vikings Offense vs Buffalo Bills Defense
Brett Favre and his Minnesota Vikings offense did not flourish against a weak Washington Redskins defense. Now they come up against a Buffalo Bills team that has won two of their last three and they took one of the best defensive teams in the NFL, the Pittsburgh Steelers to a late overtime loss.
The Minnesota Vikings offense looks to be reinventing itself after the departure of Brad Childress but Brett Favre did look more comfortable to improvise during the game against the Washington Redskins. An injury to Adrian Peterson may be an issue later in the week and the number on this game could be affected. Sidney Rice has returned to the fold but he has not earned Brett Favre's trust yet as Visanthe Schiancoe was the go to receiver when the game was on the line.
The Buffalo Bills pass defense continues to be their strong suit. They are limiting the opposing offenses to just under 210 yards per game but they are also giving up 163 yards on the ground. If Adrian Peterson is healthy for this game it could be his biggest game of the year. The Minnesota Vikings offense has the edge over the Buffalo Bills defense.
Minnesota Vikings Defense vs Buffalo Bills Offense
Jared Allen and the Minnesota Vikings defense have been playing below their high level of intensity in the 2009 NFL season. They are still holding opposing quarterbacks below 220 yards passing per game but they are prone to giving up the big play every game. Mental lapses have done them in several games this year. Run defense for the Minnesota Vikings is still holding opposing rushers under 100 yards per game but they are not intimidating the opposition as they did last season. The defensive line is still one of the
best aspects of the Minnesota defense and they should be able to control the Buffalo Bills run game.
Buffalo Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick is playing at a level that could make him a top 10 NFL quarterback. Fitzpatrick has created an an attitude with the offense that gives them a confidence that they can score at will as they did against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Their game against the Pittsburgh Steelers was won until Buffalo Bills wide out Steve Johnson dropped the touchdown ball that would have won the game. Fitzpatrick is the wild card in this game and he could be the man do officially finish Brett Favre's career. The Buffalo Bills offense has a slight edge over the Minnesota Vikings defense.
The Las Vegas Hilton Superbook has made the Minnesota Vikings a six point home team favorite over the Buffalo Bills in a must win game for Minnesota. This game will be down to the wire but in the end it will come down to luck. It is never a good practice to bet on a game that will come down to the last second so when making a play on this only include it on office pools. Take the Minnesota Vikings -6 over the Buffalo Bills. Vikings 34 - Bills 20
loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers who squeaked out a win over the pesky Buffalo Bills in Buffalo. The Minnesota Vikings scored just enough to take down a tough home team in the Washington Redskins to bring their win total to four wins and seven losses heading into this important home game.
Minnesota Vikings Offense vs Buffalo Bills Defense
Brett Favre and his Minnesota Vikings offense did not flourish against a weak Washington Redskins defense. Now they come up against a Buffalo Bills team that has won two of their last three and they took one of the best defensive teams in the NFL, the Pittsburgh Steelers to a late overtime loss.
The Minnesota Vikings offense looks to be reinventing itself after the departure of Brad Childress but Brett Favre did look more comfortable to improvise during the game against the Washington Redskins. An injury to Adrian Peterson may be an issue later in the week and the number on this game could be affected. Sidney Rice has returned to the fold but he has not earned Brett Favre's trust yet as Visanthe Schiancoe was the go to receiver when the game was on the line.
The Buffalo Bills pass defense continues to be their strong suit. They are limiting the opposing offenses to just under 210 yards per game but they are also giving up 163 yards on the ground. If Adrian Peterson is healthy for this game it could be his biggest game of the year. The Minnesota Vikings offense has the edge over the Buffalo Bills defense.
Minnesota Vikings Defense vs Buffalo Bills Offense
Jared Allen and the Minnesota Vikings defense have been playing below their high level of intensity in the 2009 NFL season. They are still holding opposing quarterbacks below 220 yards passing per game but they are prone to giving up the big play every game. Mental lapses have done them in several games this year. Run defense for the Minnesota Vikings is still holding opposing rushers under 100 yards per game but they are not intimidating the opposition as they did last season. The defensive line is still one of the
best aspects of the Minnesota defense and they should be able to control the Buffalo Bills run game.
Buffalo Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick is playing at a level that could make him a top 10 NFL quarterback. Fitzpatrick has created an an attitude with the offense that gives them a confidence that they can score at will as they did against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Their game against the Pittsburgh Steelers was won until Buffalo Bills wide out Steve Johnson dropped the touchdown ball that would have won the game. Fitzpatrick is the wild card in this game and he could be the man do officially finish Brett Favre's career. The Buffalo Bills offense has a slight edge over the Minnesota Vikings defense.
The Las Vegas Hilton Superbook has made the Minnesota Vikings a six point home team favorite over the Buffalo Bills in a must win game for Minnesota. This game will be down to the wire but in the end it will come down to luck. It is never a good practice to bet on a game that will come down to the last second so when making a play on this only include it on office pools. Take the Minnesota Vikings -6 over the Buffalo Bills. Vikings 34 - Bills 20
Monday, November 29, 2010
Buffalo Bills Wide Receiver Steve Johnson Blames dropped Pass On God
Fox News - Buffalo Bills wide receiver Steve Johnson blamed God for dropping a game-winning touchdown in a 19-16 overtime loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.
The Bills outscored the Steelers 16-3 in the second half to force the overtime, but let the victory slip through their fingers, literally, as Johnson dropped a wide-open pass in the end zone.
Buffalo quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick could only watch as Johnson dropped the sure touchdown and Pittsburgh drove 80 yards on the game's next series to set up the game-winning 41-yard field goal by Shaun Suisham.
Johnson was reluctant to accept responsibility for the gaffe, posting on his Twitter account post-game that it was in fact God's fault.
"I PRAISE YOU 24/7!!!!!! AND THIS HOW YOU DO ME!!!!! YOU EXPECT ME TO LEARN FROM THIS??? HOW???!!! ILL NEVER FORGET THIS!! EVER!!! THX THO...," Johnson tweeted.
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Fitzpatrick finished the day completing 23 of 45 passes for 265 yards in the loss.
Suisham, who was brought in earlier this month after the Steelers waived long-time kicker Jeff Reed, provided the bulk of Pittsburgh’s points, converting four of four field goals at Ralph Wilson Stadium.
Steelers running back Rashard Mendenall ran for 151 yards and one touchdown on 36 attempts to help keep Pittsburgh in position to win the tight game on the road.
Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger threw for 246 yards, completing 20 of 33 passes.
The result snapped Buffalo's two-game winning streak after a miserable 0-8 start to the season.
The team now travels to Minnesota to take on the Vikings, who are 4-7 coming off a win over the Washington Redskins.
Pittsburgh, 8-3, heads to Baltimore next Sunday night to square off against AFC North rivals the Ravens.
Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2010/11/29/buffalo-bills-wide-receiver-blames-dropped-pass-god/#ixzz16hHbJMWl
The Bills outscored the Steelers 16-3 in the second half to force the overtime, but let the victory slip through their fingers, literally, as Johnson dropped a wide-open pass in the end zone.
Buffalo quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick could only watch as Johnson dropped the sure touchdown and Pittsburgh drove 80 yards on the game's next series to set up the game-winning 41-yard field goal by Shaun Suisham.
Johnson was reluctant to accept responsibility for the gaffe, posting on his Twitter account post-game that it was in fact God's fault.
"I PRAISE YOU 24/7!!!!!! AND THIS HOW YOU DO ME!!!!! YOU EXPECT ME TO LEARN FROM THIS??? HOW???!!! ILL NEVER FORGET THIS!! EVER!!! THX THO...," Johnson tweeted.
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Fitzpatrick finished the day completing 23 of 45 passes for 265 yards in the loss.
Suisham, who was brought in earlier this month after the Steelers waived long-time kicker Jeff Reed, provided the bulk of Pittsburgh’s points, converting four of four field goals at Ralph Wilson Stadium.
Steelers running back Rashard Mendenall ran for 151 yards and one touchdown on 36 attempts to help keep Pittsburgh in position to win the tight game on the road.
Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger threw for 246 yards, completing 20 of 33 passes.
The result snapped Buffalo's two-game winning streak after a miserable 0-8 start to the season.
The team now travels to Minnesota to take on the Vikings, who are 4-7 coming off a win over the Washington Redskins.
Pittsburgh, 8-3, heads to Baltimore next Sunday night to square off against AFC North rivals the Ravens.
Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2010/11/29/buffalo-bills-wide-receiver-blames-dropped-pass-god/#ixzz16hHbJMWl
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Buffalo Bills vs. Cincinnati Bengals - Gameday Preview Nov 21, 2010
The Chan Gailey era has finally begun in Buffalo as the Bills are coming off their first win of the season and it only took them 10 weeks to get the job done. Buffalo was able to fend off the Lions in the fourth quarter of a tight football game to become the last team to register a win this season. The Cincinnati Bengals are starting to feel like the Bills as they have lost the last six games they've played. Last season's Cardiac Cats have returned, but this year they haven't been able to get that final score in regulation to either tie the game or get the win. In six of the Bengals seven losses this season they lost by one score or less with the latest being a six point loss to the Colts in which they came back and had the ball with a chance to take the lead had they scored a late touchdown.
With Chan Gailey finally in the winners column he is now focused on starting a win streak. This week against the Bengals is as good a chance as any to get the Bills second win of the season. Last game the Bills were paced by running back Fred Jackson who ran 25 times for 133 yards and a touchdown. Jackson also caught six passes for 37 yards including a 16-yard pass that resulted in a touchdown from QB Ryan Fitzpatrick. While Fitzpatrick only completed 12 of his 24 passes for under 150 yards it was enough as the Bills were able to control the ball and move on with a win. Buffalo's defense allowed Lions QB Shaun Hill to throw for 323 yards, but were able to give up only 76 yards on the ground. The turning point in the game came late in the fourth quarter when the Lions were stopped on a 2-pt conversion try that would have tied the game, but instead gave the Bills their first win of the season. This week, the Bills will look to do more of the same against the Bengals in their gameplan. Fred Jackson will be a large part of the offense this week most likely carrying the ball 25 times again. Star receiver Lee Evans will need to step up in this one and make a few big plays as well. Evans talent has always drawn plenty of attention from opposing defenses and it has caused him to have few opportunities a game. However, it was also allowed fellow receiver Steve Johnson to step up this season into the role of the top receiver for this Bills team as he leads the team with 44 receptions for 591 yards and 6 touchdowns. The defense is going to need to focus on being successful against the run this week just like they were last week allowing those 76 yards on 26 carries and no touchdowns. Through the air it will Owens who will be shadowed as he is having one of the best years he's had in a while, and he is also playing his former team.
With Terrell Owens playing against another former team of his it should be interesting to see how he treats them in between plays, but during plays the Bengals expect him to be making big ones. In recent weeks T.O. has overshadowed fellow teammate and received Chad Ochocinco and it is apparent Chad is not happy about the recent developments of the ball sharing situation. Carson Palmer has developed a liking for throwing to T.O. since he has done pretty much everything with the ball so far this season catching 59 passes for 834 yards and seven scores. Ochocinco has only caught 47 passes for 559 yards and three scores and he is not too happy about that differential, especially since his team has only two wins. Aside from the WR issues this team has failed to close out a game that was close this season since week two and it has cost them arguably up to six wins. If the fourth quarter were to go a little differently for this team it would be a completely different season, but right now it hasn't and the Bengals are staring at a 2-9 start if they can't work together against the Bills who are coming into this game hungry for another win. While Palmer has thrown 16 touchdowns he has also thrown 11 interceptions and some of them have been costly. Against the Bills, the Bengals plan will most likely be to pound the ball with Cedric Benson or see if Owens can slice up the Bills DB's. With Ochocinco's head sometimes out of the game it will be interesting to see how big a role he plays in this game, especially when it gets down to the end. While the Bengals have struggled this season they still have the talent on both sides of the ball to get big wins, and even though they are playing the 1-8 Buffalo Bills this would be a big confidence win for the team.
The Buffalo Bills played scrappy in their last game and it got them the win. The Cincinnati Bengals have scrapped away more wins this season then they would like to remember. As the season gets into the second half teams start to realize that they aren't in playoff contention and for some of them that takes their heads out of the game. Bengals 31 - Bills20
With Chan Gailey finally in the winners column he is now focused on starting a win streak. This week against the Bengals is as good a chance as any to get the Bills second win of the season. Last game the Bills were paced by running back Fred Jackson who ran 25 times for 133 yards and a touchdown. Jackson also caught six passes for 37 yards including a 16-yard pass that resulted in a touchdown from QB Ryan Fitzpatrick. While Fitzpatrick only completed 12 of his 24 passes for under 150 yards it was enough as the Bills were able to control the ball and move on with a win. Buffalo's defense allowed Lions QB Shaun Hill to throw for 323 yards, but were able to give up only 76 yards on the ground. The turning point in the game came late in the fourth quarter when the Lions were stopped on a 2-pt conversion try that would have tied the game, but instead gave the Bills their first win of the season. This week, the Bills will look to do more of the same against the Bengals in their gameplan. Fred Jackson will be a large part of the offense this week most likely carrying the ball 25 times again. Star receiver Lee Evans will need to step up in this one and make a few big plays as well. Evans talent has always drawn plenty of attention from opposing defenses and it has caused him to have few opportunities a game. However, it was also allowed fellow receiver Steve Johnson to step up this season into the role of the top receiver for this Bills team as he leads the team with 44 receptions for 591 yards and 6 touchdowns. The defense is going to need to focus on being successful against the run this week just like they were last week allowing those 76 yards on 26 carries and no touchdowns. Through the air it will Owens who will be shadowed as he is having one of the best years he's had in a while, and he is also playing his former team.
With Terrell Owens playing against another former team of his it should be interesting to see how he treats them in between plays, but during plays the Bengals expect him to be making big ones. In recent weeks T.O. has overshadowed fellow teammate and received Chad Ochocinco and it is apparent Chad is not happy about the recent developments of the ball sharing situation. Carson Palmer has developed a liking for throwing to T.O. since he has done pretty much everything with the ball so far this season catching 59 passes for 834 yards and seven scores. Ochocinco has only caught 47 passes for 559 yards and three scores and he is not too happy about that differential, especially since his team has only two wins. Aside from the WR issues this team has failed to close out a game that was close this season since week two and it has cost them arguably up to six wins. If the fourth quarter were to go a little differently for this team it would be a completely different season, but right now it hasn't and the Bengals are staring at a 2-9 start if they can't work together against the Bills who are coming into this game hungry for another win. While Palmer has thrown 16 touchdowns he has also thrown 11 interceptions and some of them have been costly. Against the Bills, the Bengals plan will most likely be to pound the ball with Cedric Benson or see if Owens can slice up the Bills DB's. With Ochocinco's head sometimes out of the game it will be interesting to see how big a role he plays in this game, especially when it gets down to the end. While the Bengals have struggled this season they still have the talent on both sides of the ball to get big wins, and even though they are playing the 1-8 Buffalo Bills this would be a big confidence win for the team.
The Buffalo Bills played scrappy in their last game and it got them the win. The Cincinnati Bengals have scrapped away more wins this season then they would like to remember. As the season gets into the second half teams start to realize that they aren't in playoff contention and for some of them that takes their heads out of the game. Bengals 31 - Bills20
Monday, November 8, 2010
Buffalo Bills Or Dallas Cowboys: Who's Worst Team In The NFL
Once upon a time this was an easy question to answer but now due to the obvious circumstances it takes some serious thought as to who is worse, the Buffalo Bills or Dallas Cowboys.
To think that 16 years ago both of these teams represented their divisions in the Super Bowl for the second consecutive season seems like a distant and insane memory.
The Buffalo Bills are a young and inexperienced team that doesn't possess much talent and is still currently without a win in the 2010 NFL season. As for the Dallas Cowboys, they are a team loaded with talent that many picked as a Super Bowl favorite and currently sit at the bottom of the NFC East at 1-7.
On paper the Dallas Cowboys are worlds above the lowly Buffalo Bills. They are above the rest with their new Cowboy's Stadium, bringing in revenue, and marketability. As for the Bills they are one of the small market NFL teams and they have to travel to Canada just to bring in double the amount of revenue that they would playing at Ralph Wilson Stadium.
Just take a look at an NFL store catalog or any NFL catalog and try to find that awesome pillow that comes representing the Dallas Cowboys, but not for the Buffalo Bills. Sadly the market isn't there and neither is the popularity that the Dallas Cowboys have.
The Buffalo Bills may be 0-8 but have made strides and improvements to a struggling team. Ralph Wilson, the 92-year-old owner of the Bills, has entrusted his faith in Chan Gailey and Buddy Nix who have moved RB Marshawn Lynch, rid themselves of QB Trent Edwards, and picked up LB Shawne Merriman and are trying to do something to help the Buffalo Bills win.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones hasn't done a thing to improve the Dallas Cowboys since the beginning of the season and is watching his team fall apart and hit new lows that Dallas is unaccustomed to.
The Cowboys are playing the worst football possibly anyone has seen and it all starts from the top. This time the dysfunction of the Cowboys can't be blamed on Terrell Owens as Wade Phillips can't get this team to actually give a damn.
Who would have thought that the Cowboys could get any lower than their performance against Jacksonville last week only to be crushed by the Packers 45-7? It's pathetic to see this team miss tackles, not continue on plays, and actually just give up. Watch the Dallas Cowboys play and tell me they are giving 100 percent?
One the other hand the Buffalo Bills have done everything they possibly can to win the last three games. Both games against Kansas City and Baltimore went into overtime and it took everything Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears had to knock them off in Canada. The Bills play with their heart on their sleeve and refuse to give up each and every Sunday.
While the records of the two teams might be somewhat similar they are two completely different teams. The Buffalo Bills fans can at least hold their heads up high knowing that they aren't quitting each and ever week and that when you go against Buffalo you better be prepared for a fight.
The Dallas Cowboys may be dubbed "America's Team" but the Buffalo Bills, as the struggling underdog, represent "America" much better than a quitter.
To think that 16 years ago both of these teams represented their divisions in the Super Bowl for the second consecutive season seems like a distant and insane memory.
The Buffalo Bills are a young and inexperienced team that doesn't possess much talent and is still currently without a win in the 2010 NFL season. As for the Dallas Cowboys, they are a team loaded with talent that many picked as a Super Bowl favorite and currently sit at the bottom of the NFC East at 1-7.
On paper the Dallas Cowboys are worlds above the lowly Buffalo Bills. They are above the rest with their new Cowboy's Stadium, bringing in revenue, and marketability. As for the Bills they are one of the small market NFL teams and they have to travel to Canada just to bring in double the amount of revenue that they would playing at Ralph Wilson Stadium.
Just take a look at an NFL store catalog or any NFL catalog and try to find that awesome pillow that comes representing the Dallas Cowboys, but not for the Buffalo Bills. Sadly the market isn't there and neither is the popularity that the Dallas Cowboys have.
The Buffalo Bills may be 0-8 but have made strides and improvements to a struggling team. Ralph Wilson, the 92-year-old owner of the Bills, has entrusted his faith in Chan Gailey and Buddy Nix who have moved RB Marshawn Lynch, rid themselves of QB Trent Edwards, and picked up LB Shawne Merriman and are trying to do something to help the Buffalo Bills win.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones hasn't done a thing to improve the Dallas Cowboys since the beginning of the season and is watching his team fall apart and hit new lows that Dallas is unaccustomed to.
The Cowboys are playing the worst football possibly anyone has seen and it all starts from the top. This time the dysfunction of the Cowboys can't be blamed on Terrell Owens as Wade Phillips can't get this team to actually give a damn.
Who would have thought that the Cowboys could get any lower than their performance against Jacksonville last week only to be crushed by the Packers 45-7? It's pathetic to see this team miss tackles, not continue on plays, and actually just give up. Watch the Dallas Cowboys play and tell me they are giving 100 percent?
One the other hand the Buffalo Bills have done everything they possibly can to win the last three games. Both games against Kansas City and Baltimore went into overtime and it took everything Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears had to knock them off in Canada. The Bills play with their heart on their sleeve and refuse to give up each and every Sunday.
While the records of the two teams might be somewhat similar they are two completely different teams. The Buffalo Bills fans can at least hold their heads up high knowing that they aren't quitting each and ever week and that when you go against Buffalo you better be prepared for a fight.
The Dallas Cowboys may be dubbed "America's Team" but the Buffalo Bills, as the struggling underdog, represent "America" much better than a quitter.
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