It is finally time to take a look at the Super Bowl. The 12-4 Pittsburgh Steelers will be taking on the 9-7 Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals have shocked the sports world by making an improbable run to win the NFC. Can they keep it up and actually win the Super Bowl? Lets break down the game.
The Steelers are a defensive machine. They only gave up 13.9 ppg, 237 ypg, and had 51 sacks this season. The Cardinals can put up points in a hurry with their vaunted passing attack. They average 26.6 ppg and 292 ypg through the air on offense. It comes down to the old cliche, Offense vs Defense.
Keys to the game:
The big advantage for the Cardinals is that the Steelers biggest strength (Run Defense) is also the Cardinals biggest weakness (Run Offense). This means that the Cardinals probably won't try and run the ball often early, which will get the Steelers out of their base 3-4 defense. The Cardinals need to spread the field and get the Steelers in nickel and dime defenses. Advantage: Cardinals
Cardinals Head Coach Ken Whisenhunt knows the Steelers personnel inside and out. He went up against their defense every day in practice as their Offensive Coordinator. He knows the weaknesses and where to attack them. He also knows Ben Roethlisberger really well. He will know how to make him uncomfortable. Advantage: Cardinals
Injuries will play a big part in the game. The news that Big Ben had his ribs X-rayed yesterday shows that he is a little uncomfortable right now. A couple of big hits and he could be out of the game. Hines Ward did practice yesterday but it remains to be seen how effective he can be. If he can't play or get open it will be a serious problem for the Steelers offense as he is the guy they look to for big 3rd down catches. Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin looks to be healthy after getting two weeks to rest his hamstring. Advantage: Cardinals
Larry Fitzgerald needs to continue his out-of-this world play if the Cardinals have a chance to win. If the Steelers decide to double team Fitzgerald all game, Anquan Boldin will eat them alive. Boldin is a beast and actually led the team in TD's in the regular season despite missing 2 games with a broken face. Advantage: Cardinals
So it appears that I am leaning towards the Cardinals in this one. The answer is yes and no. They should have some knowledge and parts to exploit the Steelers weaknesses. Even if they jump out to a lead, it will be hard for them to run the ball and keep the Steelers offense off the field. Big Ben can make plays when everything breaks down and somehow win games they shouldn't. It should be a great game. I just think their is a TD difference between the way both teams are playing right now. It seems more like a FG game to me. I think all the parts are their for a Cardinals win, but it is hard to pick a team that has lost games by 40, 28, 21, and 21. It is hard to imagine a Super Bowl Winner losing 4 games this year by 21+ points.
My Predictions
Arizona +7
Steelers 27, Cardinals 24
Friday, January 30, 2009
NBA All-Stars
With the NBA All-Star reserves announced, lets look at how I did. My predictions (bold on correct picks):
West
G Brandon Roy
G Steve Nash
G Chauncey Billups
F Dirk Nowitzki
F Pau Gasol
F Kevin Durant
C Al Jefferson
I missed on a whopping 3 picks in the West. Tony Parker, David West, and Shaquille O'Neal will play in the game. I dont think any of the 3 belong there. I will start with Shaq. I know he is an all-time great and playing better this year, but he isn't a better player than Al Jefferson right now. I believe this is the biggest snub of any because it also keeps Nash off the team. The game is in Phoenix and their best player and 2 time MVP wont be playing. The NBA should be ashamed of itself. While I dont have a big problem with Parker being selected ahead of Nash, there is no way the Suns were getting 3 players and Shaq bumps Nash. Also, David West over Kevin Durant is an absolute travesty. Durant is a much better player, he just doesn't have Chris Paul on his team. This one is baffling. I understand winning matters, but Durant vs West is a slam dunk.
East
G Devin Harris
G Danny Granger
G Joe Johnson
F Chris Bosh
F Paul Pierce
F Rashard Lewis
C David Lee
My only miss was the coaches selecting Jameer Nelson over David Lee. They put Chris Bosh at C which left David Lee off the team. I am not a fan of this choice. I think there are other players that deserve it more than Nelson. In fact, I would have chosen Ray Allen, Mo Williams, Derrick Rose or Rajon Rondo over Nelson. Not sure how the Magic got 3 players (most of any team in NBA).
West
G Brandon Roy
G Steve Nash
G Chauncey Billups
F Dirk Nowitzki
F Pau Gasol
F Kevin Durant
C Al Jefferson
I missed on a whopping 3 picks in the West. Tony Parker, David West, and Shaquille O'Neal will play in the game. I dont think any of the 3 belong there. I will start with Shaq. I know he is an all-time great and playing better this year, but he isn't a better player than Al Jefferson right now. I believe this is the biggest snub of any because it also keeps Nash off the team. The game is in Phoenix and their best player and 2 time MVP wont be playing. The NBA should be ashamed of itself. While I dont have a big problem with Parker being selected ahead of Nash, there is no way the Suns were getting 3 players and Shaq bumps Nash. Also, David West over Kevin Durant is an absolute travesty. Durant is a much better player, he just doesn't have Chris Paul on his team. This one is baffling. I understand winning matters, but Durant vs West is a slam dunk.
East
G Devin Harris
G Danny Granger
G Joe Johnson
F Chris Bosh
F Paul Pierce
F Rashard Lewis
C David Lee
My only miss was the coaches selecting Jameer Nelson over David Lee. They put Chris Bosh at C which left David Lee off the team. I am not a fan of this choice. I think there are other players that deserve it more than Nelson. In fact, I would have chosen Ray Allen, Mo Williams, Derrick Rose or Rajon Rondo over Nelson. Not sure how the Magic got 3 players (most of any team in NBA).
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
NFL Mock Draft 21-32
Here is the final third of the first round.
21. Philadelphia - Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State. The Eagles were atrocious in short yardage situations and Brian Westbrook is starting to show signs of slowing down. Wells is a big back with some wheels that can come in and take some pressure of the offense. While RB isn't a glaring need for the Eagles, the talent of Wells will be too much to pass up.
22. Minnesota - Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina. The Vikings need to get a WR that can move the chains. Bernard Berrian is more of a deep threat that isn't a good route runner or has the hands to make tough catches in traffic. Anyone who watched Nicks against West Virginia in the bowl game, knows he can make catches with people all over him. Nicks would be a perfect fit in their offense, assuming they stick with a QB.
23. New England - Brian Cushing, OLB, USC. The Patriots always seem to pick a player that produced at a high level that might be a little overlooked. Cushing at times was the best player on the field for the top rated Trojan defense. He played DE early in his career before switching to OLB when the team went to a 3-4. He is very versatile and will provide the team with some much needed youth at OLB after the Pats were forced to re-sign Junior Seau and Roosevelt Colvin late in the year.
24. Atlanta - Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State. The Falcons hit it big last year with QB Matt Ryan and now will give him another weapon. Pettigrew might not be the fastest TE in the class, but he is by far the most complete. He is a very good run blocker which is necessary in the Falcons offense. He also possesses prototypical size and good hands for the position.
25. Miami - Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU Bill Parcells has proven in the past that he loves big defenders with his first round picks. Jackson fits the bill for a 3-4 DE with his 6'4" 295 frame. He might remind The Tuna of another LSU DE he drafted with the Cowboys in Marcus Spears. The Dolphins could use an athletic rush LB, but with Cushing gone look for the Dolphins to improve their front seven with a run stuffing DE.
26. Baltimore - Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest. The Ravens could potentially lose 3 All-Pro LBs through free agency in Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, and Bart Scott. The feeling is that they will probably sign 2 of them back so LB isn't going to be their biggest need. The Ravens are getting old at CB and having a tough time keeping Chris McAllister and Samari Rolle on the field. Smith is a little bit short for a front line corner, but he fits the Ravens ball hawking defense as he had 15 interceptions in the last 2 years in college.
27. Indianapolis - Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois. The Colts could have a huge need at CB is Kelvin Hayden leaves as a free agent. Davis has good size/speed ratio 5'11" 205 lbs and 4.47. He has been inconsistent in the past and playing in a Tampa 2 system could play to his advantage. He also has good bloodlines as he is the brother of 49er TE Vernon Davis.
28. Philadephia - Eben Britton, OT, Arizona. The Eagles had success last year in the first round with a PAC-10 player and might go back there with the top rated OL left on the board. Both of the Eagles starting tackles are over 34 and Britton would allow them to add much needed depth on the OL. Britton is more of a pass blocker which also lends itself to the Eagles style of offense.
29. New York Giants - Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland. The Giants could use anoter big play WR assuming Plexico Burress isn't on the team in 2009. The Giants really struggled without a WR that demanded a double team down the stretch. Heyward-Bey is a world class athlete at 6'2" 205 lbs and has allegedly run a 4.23 40. The production wouldn't tell you the story of a potential #1 WR in the NFL, but the QB play at Maryland wasn't the greatest during his tenure at the school.
30. Tennessee - Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech. The Titans don't have any real needs so they could take the most intriguing player left on the board. Johnson has ideal size for a 4-3 weakside end at 6'7" 259 lbs. Johnson looks like Tarzan but hasn't played like it in his college career. The Titans have some leaders on defense and they might be able to turn on a switch with Johnson and unleash Pro-Bowl potential. A high risk, high reward pick.
31. Arizona - LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh. The Cardinals are in need of a playmaer at RB with Edgerrin James likely out the door. Tim Hightower was given a chance to cement himself as the feature back, but he didn't show anything to convince the Cardinals he is the answer. McCoy is super athletic and has the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. He could be another Brian Westbrook type creating mismatches against LBs. His only glaring weakness could be short yardage situations, but Hightower has proven he can handle those duties.
32. Pittsburgh - Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma. The Steelers always seem to pick productive players from high profile programs. They also are in need of some depth on the OL. Robinson is a mammoth guard at 6'5" 345 and could bring the Steelers run game back into prominance. He has some trouble with speed, but his talent and value at this point will be too much for the Steelers to pass up.
21. Philadelphia - Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State. The Eagles were atrocious in short yardage situations and Brian Westbrook is starting to show signs of slowing down. Wells is a big back with some wheels that can come in and take some pressure of the offense. While RB isn't a glaring need for the Eagles, the talent of Wells will be too much to pass up.
22. Minnesota - Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina. The Vikings need to get a WR that can move the chains. Bernard Berrian is more of a deep threat that isn't a good route runner or has the hands to make tough catches in traffic. Anyone who watched Nicks against West Virginia in the bowl game, knows he can make catches with people all over him. Nicks would be a perfect fit in their offense, assuming they stick with a QB.
23. New England - Brian Cushing, OLB, USC. The Patriots always seem to pick a player that produced at a high level that might be a little overlooked. Cushing at times was the best player on the field for the top rated Trojan defense. He played DE early in his career before switching to OLB when the team went to a 3-4. He is very versatile and will provide the team with some much needed youth at OLB after the Pats were forced to re-sign Junior Seau and Roosevelt Colvin late in the year.
24. Atlanta - Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State. The Falcons hit it big last year with QB Matt Ryan and now will give him another weapon. Pettigrew might not be the fastest TE in the class, but he is by far the most complete. He is a very good run blocker which is necessary in the Falcons offense. He also possesses prototypical size and good hands for the position.
25. Miami - Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU Bill Parcells has proven in the past that he loves big defenders with his first round picks. Jackson fits the bill for a 3-4 DE with his 6'4" 295 frame. He might remind The Tuna of another LSU DE he drafted with the Cowboys in Marcus Spears. The Dolphins could use an athletic rush LB, but with Cushing gone look for the Dolphins to improve their front seven with a run stuffing DE.
26. Baltimore - Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest. The Ravens could potentially lose 3 All-Pro LBs through free agency in Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, and Bart Scott. The feeling is that they will probably sign 2 of them back so LB isn't going to be their biggest need. The Ravens are getting old at CB and having a tough time keeping Chris McAllister and Samari Rolle on the field. Smith is a little bit short for a front line corner, but he fits the Ravens ball hawking defense as he had 15 interceptions in the last 2 years in college.
27. Indianapolis - Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois. The Colts could have a huge need at CB is Kelvin Hayden leaves as a free agent. Davis has good size/speed ratio 5'11" 205 lbs and 4.47. He has been inconsistent in the past and playing in a Tampa 2 system could play to his advantage. He also has good bloodlines as he is the brother of 49er TE Vernon Davis.
28. Philadephia - Eben Britton, OT, Arizona. The Eagles had success last year in the first round with a PAC-10 player and might go back there with the top rated OL left on the board. Both of the Eagles starting tackles are over 34 and Britton would allow them to add much needed depth on the OL. Britton is more of a pass blocker which also lends itself to the Eagles style of offense.
29. New York Giants - Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland. The Giants could use anoter big play WR assuming Plexico Burress isn't on the team in 2009. The Giants really struggled without a WR that demanded a double team down the stretch. Heyward-Bey is a world class athlete at 6'2" 205 lbs and has allegedly run a 4.23 40. The production wouldn't tell you the story of a potential #1 WR in the NFL, but the QB play at Maryland wasn't the greatest during his tenure at the school.
30. Tennessee - Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech. The Titans don't have any real needs so they could take the most intriguing player left on the board. Johnson has ideal size for a 4-3 weakside end at 6'7" 259 lbs. Johnson looks like Tarzan but hasn't played like it in his college career. The Titans have some leaders on defense and they might be able to turn on a switch with Johnson and unleash Pro-Bowl potential. A high risk, high reward pick.
31. Arizona - LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh. The Cardinals are in need of a playmaer at RB with Edgerrin James likely out the door. Tim Hightower was given a chance to cement himself as the feature back, but he didn't show anything to convince the Cardinals he is the answer. McCoy is super athletic and has the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. He could be another Brian Westbrook type creating mismatches against LBs. His only glaring weakness could be short yardage situations, but Hightower has proven he can handle those duties.
32. Pittsburgh - Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma. The Steelers always seem to pick productive players from high profile programs. They also are in need of some depth on the OL. Robinson is a mammoth guard at 6'5" 345 and could bring the Steelers run game back into prominance. He has some trouble with speed, but his talent and value at this point will be too much for the Steelers to pass up.
NFL Mock Draft 11-20
Back by popular demand, the second installment of my first round Mock Draft. Here we go:
11. Buffalo - Everette Brown, DE, Florida State. The Bills need to find a way to get pressure on the QB. Brown not only has the ability to disrupt the passing game, he is decent against the run as well. He could put on a little more weight and become a beast.
12. Denver - Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC. The Broncs were atrocious last year on defense. The return of a healthy Champ Bailey should help against the pass, but they still need help against the run. Enter Rey Maualuga. He can overpursue and be too aggressive sometimes, but he is an impact type of guy who will create turnovers. He would allow DJ Williams to return to his natural WLB spot and instantly upgrade the Broncos defense.
13. Washington - Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss. The Redskins are getting old at OT with Chris Samuels and Jon Jansen winding down their careers. Jansen actually lost his job half-way thru the season only to get it back due to an injury. Oher is a physical and skillfull OL that can play either LT or RT. He should be able to contribute right away and keep the ground game running.
14. New Orleans Saints - DJ Moore, CB, Vanderbilt. Offense is not the problem for the Saints. They spent a ton of money to upgrade the defense last offseason, but CB Jason David was a complete bust. Moore is playmaker and possess the speed to matchup with the best at the next level. He is a little light, but is a great athlete. Played some WR and returned kicks as well at Vanderbilt.
15. Houston Texans - Aaron Maybin, OLB, Penn State. The Texans could use some pass rush help to take some pressure off Mario Williams. Maybin is a little undersized but he is the best pass rusher available at this point. He could create terror off the edge opposite of Williams. Teams will have to double team Super Mario, leaving Maybin the opportunity to pressure the QB.
16. San Diego Chargers - Knowshown Moreno, RB, Georgia. The Chargers need defensive help, but there is no denying the problems coming from San Diego regarding the RB situation. GM AJ Smith and LaDainian Tomlinson are having their issues and LT turns 30 this year. Backup RB Darren Sproles is also an unrestricted free agent. Moreno is a potential franchise back (40 time will help him a lot if he runs in the 4.4 range) and can contribute right away if LT leaves.
17. New York Jets - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri. The Jets could use some help at LB, but Rex Ryan could elect to sign one of his Ravens as a FA or actually get something out of Vernon Gholston. The Jets do need some help on offense as they are anything but explosive. Laverneous Coles is slowing down and becoming a possesion WR. Jerricho Cotchery is also a possession WR. Maclin would provide the Jets with instant athleticism on the perimeter. He is the deep threat they desperately need to open up the offense.
18. Chicago Bears - Percy Harvin, WR/RB, Florida. The Bears lack weapons on the offensive side of the ball. Devin Hester is starting to become a decent WR, but is nowhere near a #1 type of guy. Harvin can lineup in the slot or out of the backfield and create havoc. Matt Forte has shown the ability to split out wide and catch the ball. Harvin, Hester, and Forte on the field should get someone on a LB or S and give the Bears an easy advantage to exploit. Harvin won't be an everydown RB or #1 WR, but he can be a playmaker and move the chains.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss. The Buccaneers need to get younger and more explosive along the defensive line. Jerry shined at the Senior Bowl and is rising up the draft boards. He has the size (6'3" 310 lbs) and dominated as a senior. He should fit in nicely as a penetrating 3 technique DT for the Bucs but isnt in the athletic class of Warren Sapp.
20. Detroit Lions - James Laurinaitis, MLB, Ohio State. The Lions definitely need to upgrade the front seven on defense. Laurinaitis should be able to step in and give the Lions a physical pressence in the middle. Ernie Sims already is a star in the making at OLB and Laurinaitis should take some of the pressure off of him. He has seen his stock drop recently due to dropping out of the Senior Bowl, but he is the second best ILB prospect in the draft and a strong showing at the combine could easily see him rise back up since his production in college was off the charts.
Tomorrow picks 21-32.
11. Buffalo - Everette Brown, DE, Florida State. The Bills need to find a way to get pressure on the QB. Brown not only has the ability to disrupt the passing game, he is decent against the run as well. He could put on a little more weight and become a beast.
12. Denver - Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC. The Broncs were atrocious last year on defense. The return of a healthy Champ Bailey should help against the pass, but they still need help against the run. Enter Rey Maualuga. He can overpursue and be too aggressive sometimes, but he is an impact type of guy who will create turnovers. He would allow DJ Williams to return to his natural WLB spot and instantly upgrade the Broncos defense.
13. Washington - Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss. The Redskins are getting old at OT with Chris Samuels and Jon Jansen winding down their careers. Jansen actually lost his job half-way thru the season only to get it back due to an injury. Oher is a physical and skillfull OL that can play either LT or RT. He should be able to contribute right away and keep the ground game running.
14. New Orleans Saints - DJ Moore, CB, Vanderbilt. Offense is not the problem for the Saints. They spent a ton of money to upgrade the defense last offseason, but CB Jason David was a complete bust. Moore is playmaker and possess the speed to matchup with the best at the next level. He is a little light, but is a great athlete. Played some WR and returned kicks as well at Vanderbilt.
15. Houston Texans - Aaron Maybin, OLB, Penn State. The Texans could use some pass rush help to take some pressure off Mario Williams. Maybin is a little undersized but he is the best pass rusher available at this point. He could create terror off the edge opposite of Williams. Teams will have to double team Super Mario, leaving Maybin the opportunity to pressure the QB.
16. San Diego Chargers - Knowshown Moreno, RB, Georgia. The Chargers need defensive help, but there is no denying the problems coming from San Diego regarding the RB situation. GM AJ Smith and LaDainian Tomlinson are having their issues and LT turns 30 this year. Backup RB Darren Sproles is also an unrestricted free agent. Moreno is a potential franchise back (40 time will help him a lot if he runs in the 4.4 range) and can contribute right away if LT leaves.
17. New York Jets - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri. The Jets could use some help at LB, but Rex Ryan could elect to sign one of his Ravens as a FA or actually get something out of Vernon Gholston. The Jets do need some help on offense as they are anything but explosive. Laverneous Coles is slowing down and becoming a possesion WR. Jerricho Cotchery is also a possession WR. Maclin would provide the Jets with instant athleticism on the perimeter. He is the deep threat they desperately need to open up the offense.
18. Chicago Bears - Percy Harvin, WR/RB, Florida. The Bears lack weapons on the offensive side of the ball. Devin Hester is starting to become a decent WR, but is nowhere near a #1 type of guy. Harvin can lineup in the slot or out of the backfield and create havoc. Matt Forte has shown the ability to split out wide and catch the ball. Harvin, Hester, and Forte on the field should get someone on a LB or S and give the Bears an easy advantage to exploit. Harvin won't be an everydown RB or #1 WR, but he can be a playmaker and move the chains.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss. The Buccaneers need to get younger and more explosive along the defensive line. Jerry shined at the Senior Bowl and is rising up the draft boards. He has the size (6'3" 310 lbs) and dominated as a senior. He should fit in nicely as a penetrating 3 technique DT for the Bucs but isnt in the athletic class of Warren Sapp.
20. Detroit Lions - James Laurinaitis, MLB, Ohio State. The Lions definitely need to upgrade the front seven on defense. Laurinaitis should be able to step in and give the Lions a physical pressence in the middle. Ernie Sims already is a star in the making at OLB and Laurinaitis should take some of the pressure off of him. He has seen his stock drop recently due to dropping out of the Senior Bowl, but he is the second best ILB prospect in the draft and a strong showing at the combine could easily see him rise back up since his production in college was off the charts.
Tomorrow picks 21-32.
Monday, January 26, 2009
NBA All-Star Reserves
Yes, 2 blogs in one day. Can you believe it? For those of you who follow the NBA, lets look at who should be reserves for the NBA All-Star Game. I am using the format that each roster will consist of 12 players (5 starters already announced, so that leaves 7 reserves). These 12 players will consist of 5 Guards, 5 Forwards, and 2 Centers (unless there really is no one and I can make a case for a PF).
West Starters
G Chris Paul
G Kobe Bryant
F Tim Duncan
F Amare Stoudemire
C Yao Ming
Reserves
Brandon Roy, SG, Trailblazers. This guy should be a slam dunk as a reserve guard as he is averaging 22.3 ppg, 4.7 rpg, and 5.3 apg on a team that is currently sitting 6th in the West.
Steve Nash, PG, Suns. The game is in Phoenix and Nash is 3rd in the league in assists at 9.2 per game. He is shooting better from the floor, 3 point line, and free throw line than Deron Williams or Chauncey Billups. He is a 2 time MVP so he will get consideration ahead of some other guys. His numbers are down with Mike D'Antoni but he is still the 2nd best PG in the West.
Chauncey Billups, PG, Nuggets. One of the toughest calls will be the 3rd reserve guard. It should come down to Billups and Deron Williams. Billups has pushed the Nuggets to first place in the Northwest Division and 3rd overall will consistent play since his arrival from Detroit. The fact that he has done it for the most part without Carmelo Anthony is shocking. Billups gets the nod. He is averaging 19.7 ppg and 6.7 apg.
Kevin Durant, SF, Thunder. He will be an interesting case. He is on the worst team in the league, but his numbers scream superstar in the making. He is averaging 24.6 ppg (3rd in West) while shooting 47% from the floor, 42% behind the arc, and 86% from the charity stripe. He might not make it, but he should.
Dirk Nowitzki, PF, Mavericks. The Diggler is averaging 25.8 ppg (2nd in the West) and grabbing 8.5 rpg. He is second in FT% to Nash in the West. He should be an easy choice.
Pau Gasol, PF, Lakers. The Spanish Fly has transformed the Lakers to the power in the West. His numbers aren't eye-popping but they are the consistent threat Kobe needs to elevate the Lakers. Gasol is averaging 17.5 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 3.4 apg, and shooting 56% from the floor. He should edge out this spot on helping the Lakers get to the #1 seed in the West.
Al Jefferson, C, Timberwolves. Big Al is averaging 22.6 ppg (4th in West) and 10.6 rbg (3rd in West). His team isn't playoff bound which will hurt his cause, but his numbers are too strong to leave him out. Shaq will get some sympathy because he is playing better and the game is in Phoenix, but his time has past.
East Starters
G Dwayne Wade
G Allen Iverson
F Lebron James
F Kevin Garnett
C Dwight Howard
Reserves
Devin Harris, PG, Nets. Tough call between Harris and Jose Calderon, but Harris has been the better player this year. He is averaging 21.8 ppg while dishing out 6.4 apg. He is also swiping 1.6 steals per game which is 10th in the East.
Danny Granger, SG, Pacers. The only question for Granger making the team is what position is he going to be named at. He has been played a lot of SG this year and I think he makes the most sense there. He is averaging 26.2 ppg (3rd in the East) and getting 5.1 rpg.
Joe Johnson, SG, Hawks. The Hawks should have a representative based on the season they are having and Johnson is the best candidate. He has been an All-Star before and it would be nice for him to return to Phoenix as one this year. He is quietly averaging 21.6 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 6.2 apg. Solid numbers across the board for a player whose team currently sits 4th in the East.
Paul Pierce, SF, Celtics. The reigning Finals MVP is having another solid year for the defending champs. He is averaging 19.1 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 3.7 apg and providing solid leadership and clutch plays for the C's.
Chris Bosh, PF, Raptors. Bosh is shoe-in for a spot on the team this year. He is averaging 23.3 ppg (4th in the East) and 9.8 rpg (6th in East). He shouldn't have to run anymore Youtube campaigns as he is a legitimate All-Star for years to come.
Rashard Lewis, PF, Magic. This was a tough call between Lewis and teammate Hedo Turkoglu. The Magic should have 2 All-Stars based on their emergence in the East (sorry Cavs are Lebron only this year in the All-Star department). Lewis is averaging 19.2 ppg and 6.1 rpg. He is also hitting 3 three pointers a game while shooting 42% behind the arc.
David Lee, C, Knicks. Tough to find a backup center in the East, but Lee does play a lot at that position for the Knicks. While not a prototypical big man, he has been a beast on the boards this year for the Knickerbockers. Lee is averaging 15.7 ppg and 11.5 rpg (3rd in the East) while shooting 57% from the floor.
I am sure some of you will have some guys that I left off the team. Lets hear who should be on the team and who they should replace.
West Starters G Chris Paul
G Kobe Bryant
F Tim Duncan
F Amare Stoudemire
C Yao Ming
Reserves
Brandon Roy, SG, Trailblazers. This guy should be a slam dunk as a reserve guard as he is averaging 22.3 ppg, 4.7 rpg, and 5.3 apg on a team that is currently sitting 6th in the West.
Steve Nash, PG, Suns. The game is in Phoenix and Nash is 3rd in the league in assists at 9.2 per game. He is shooting better from the floor, 3 point line, and free throw line than Deron Williams or Chauncey Billups. He is a 2 time MVP so he will get consideration ahead of some other guys. His numbers are down with Mike D'Antoni but he is still the 2nd best PG in the West.
Chauncey Billups, PG, Nuggets. One of the toughest calls will be the 3rd reserve guard. It should come down to Billups and Deron Williams. Billups has pushed the Nuggets to first place in the Northwest Division and 3rd overall will consistent play since his arrival from Detroit. The fact that he has done it for the most part without Carmelo Anthony is shocking. Billups gets the nod. He is averaging 19.7 ppg and 6.7 apg.
Kevin Durant, SF, Thunder. He will be an interesting case. He is on the worst team in the league, but his numbers scream superstar in the making. He is averaging 24.6 ppg (3rd in West) while shooting 47% from the floor, 42% behind the arc, and 86% from the charity stripe. He might not make it, but he should.
Dirk Nowitzki, PF, Mavericks. The Diggler is averaging 25.8 ppg (2nd in the West) and grabbing 8.5 rpg. He is second in FT% to Nash in the West. He should be an easy choice.
Pau Gasol, PF, Lakers. The Spanish Fly has transformed the Lakers to the power in the West. His numbers aren't eye-popping but they are the consistent threat Kobe needs to elevate the Lakers. Gasol is averaging 17.5 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 3.4 apg, and shooting 56% from the floor. He should edge out this spot on helping the Lakers get to the #1 seed in the West.
Al Jefferson, C, Timberwolves. Big Al is averaging 22.6 ppg (4th in West) and 10.6 rbg (3rd in West). His team isn't playoff bound which will hurt his cause, but his numbers are too strong to leave him out. Shaq will get some sympathy because he is playing better and the game is in Phoenix, but his time has past.
East Starters
G Dwayne Wade
G Allen Iverson
F Lebron James
F Kevin Garnett
C Dwight Howard
Reserves
Devin Harris, PG, Nets. Tough call between Harris and Jose Calderon, but Harris has been the better player this year. He is averaging 21.8 ppg while dishing out 6.4 apg. He is also swiping 1.6 steals per game which is 10th in the East.
Danny Granger, SG, Pacers. The only question for Granger making the team is what position is he going to be named at. He has been played a lot of SG this year and I think he makes the most sense there. He is averaging 26.2 ppg (3rd in the East) and getting 5.1 rpg.
Joe Johnson, SG, Hawks. The Hawks should have a representative based on the season they are having and Johnson is the best candidate. He has been an All-Star before and it would be nice for him to return to Phoenix as one this year. He is quietly averaging 21.6 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 6.2 apg. Solid numbers across the board for a player whose team currently sits 4th in the East.
Paul Pierce, SF, Celtics. The reigning Finals MVP is having another solid year for the defending champs. He is averaging 19.1 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 3.7 apg and providing solid leadership and clutch plays for the C's.
Chris Bosh, PF, Raptors. Bosh is shoe-in for a spot on the team this year. He is averaging 23.3 ppg (4th in the East) and 9.8 rpg (6th in East). He shouldn't have to run anymore Youtube campaigns as he is a legitimate All-Star for years to come.
Rashard Lewis, PF, Magic. This was a tough call between Lewis and teammate Hedo Turkoglu. The Magic should have 2 All-Stars based on their emergence in the East (sorry Cavs are Lebron only this year in the All-Star department). Lewis is averaging 19.2 ppg and 6.1 rpg. He is also hitting 3 three pointers a game while shooting 42% behind the arc.
David Lee, C, Knicks. Tough to find a backup center in the East, but Lee does play a lot at that position for the Knicks. While not a prototypical big man, he has been a beast on the boards this year for the Knickerbockers. Lee is averaging 15.7 ppg and 11.5 rpg (3rd in the East) while shooting 57% from the floor.
I am sure some of you will have some guys that I left off the team. Lets hear who should be on the team and who they should replace.
Early NFL Mock Draft
Sorry, I have been a little lazy since the New Year. Lets start off with my Top 10 of my NFL Mock Draft.
1. Detroit - Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia. I don't think a QB is a slam dunk, but I think they will lean towards Stafford due to his big arm and ability to get the ball down field to Calvin Johnson. Johnson has shown he has the ability to be a great one and getting a QB that can get the ball down field should be a priority. They also have the 20th pick in the first round and will have the chance to shore up some other holes. I am sure they would love to trade the pick, but teams haven't been willing to jump up in the last half decade.
2. St. Louis - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama. The Rams desperately need to upgrade their OL and protect Marc Bulger. Andre Smith can play RT while Orlando Pace is still around and then move to LT when he retires. Smith has some issues with dealing with agents and getting suspended for the Sugar Bowl, but his overall skills will be hard to pass up for a team that needs to get better on the OL. They might also look hard at Michael Crabtree with Torry Holt slowing down and wanting out of town.
3. Kansas City - Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest. New GM Scott Pioli has learned from his Patroit days, that drafted a QB high isn't the only way to survive in the NFL. Tyler Thigpen played well enough to get another shot next year, before Matt Cassell becomes available in the near future. Also, I assume that they will move from a 4-3 formation to a 3-4 with Pioli and rumored new head coach Todd Haley. They will need someone to get after the QB in that system and Curry can give them that.
4. Seattle - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech. The Seahawks desperately need a playmaker at WR to give Matt Hasselbeck a chance to get them back among the elite in the NFC. Deion Branch showed that he has a chance to return to being a very good player, but he is too small to be considered a true #1 WR. Crabtree is the best WR in the draft and can be a nightmare for DB's with his ability to shield defenders with his body and make acrobatic catches. While not a burner, he can get separation with his quickness and burst.
5. Cleveland - Michael Jenkins, CB, Ohio State. The Browns could really use a franchise back, but none are rated as high as Jenkins. New head coach Eric Mangini is a defensive guy and the Browns need to shore up a bad pass defense. Jenkins has NFL prototype size for a CB and played at a big time program. The locals should also love this pick with a Buckeye staying home.
6. Cincinnati - BJ Raji, DT, Boston College. The Bengals desperately need to upgrade the DL and Raji was the talk of the Senior Bowl. Last year they desperately wanted USC DT Sedrick Ellis and some believe Raji can be even better because he is bigger. Raji was unblockable by almost all accounts at the Senior Bowl. He is rising and at the combine can really cement himself in the Top 10.
7. Oakland - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia. The Raiders need to get better at LT and Monroe is a natural fit. Monroe was so good in college that Brandon Albert, Chiefs LT that was a first rounder last year, had to play G for the Cavaliers. The Raiders need to upgrade their pass rush and Al Davis loves speed, but LT was a major problem area last year and Monroe is the best player on the board.
8. Jacksonville - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor. The Jaguars had all kinds of problems on the OL last year and Smith would help them out greatly. Jack Del Rio loves to run the ball and getting a player like Smith would allow him to continue that. This pick would make 3 OL in the Top 8.
9. Green Bay - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas. The Packers need to get better at rushing the passer. Aaron Kampman is a beast, but outside of him, no one has shown the ability to consistently get to the qb. The release of Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila during the season only makes this spot more urgent to fill. A good secondary would only get better if the pass rush improves.
10. San Francisco - Mark Sanchez, QB, USC. The 49ers need a franchise QB to make people forget about the Alex Smith project. Sanchez would fit perfectly in a West Coast Offense with his accuracy and ability to move around in the pocket. It will be interesting to see who Mike Singletary chooses as his Offensive Coordinator. Sanchez only started 16 games in his college career and will need to sit and learn for at least a year. The 49ers should be able to allow that with Shaun Hill showing late last year he is an adequate stopgap type.
Tomorrow picks 11-20.
1. Detroit - Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia. I don't think a QB is a slam dunk, but I think they will lean towards Stafford due to his big arm and ability to get the ball down field to Calvin Johnson. Johnson has shown he has the ability to be a great one and getting a QB that can get the ball down field should be a priority. They also have the 20th pick in the first round and will have the chance to shore up some other holes. I am sure they would love to trade the pick, but teams haven't been willing to jump up in the last half decade.
2. St. Louis - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama. The Rams desperately need to upgrade their OL and protect Marc Bulger. Andre Smith can play RT while Orlando Pace is still around and then move to LT when he retires. Smith has some issues with dealing with agents and getting suspended for the Sugar Bowl, but his overall skills will be hard to pass up for a team that needs to get better on the OL. They might also look hard at Michael Crabtree with Torry Holt slowing down and wanting out of town.
3. Kansas City - Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest. New GM Scott Pioli has learned from his Patroit days, that drafted a QB high isn't the only way to survive in the NFL. Tyler Thigpen played well enough to get another shot next year, before Matt Cassell becomes available in the near future. Also, I assume that they will move from a 4-3 formation to a 3-4 with Pioli and rumored new head coach Todd Haley. They will need someone to get after the QB in that system and Curry can give them that.
4. Seattle - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech. The Seahawks desperately need a playmaker at WR to give Matt Hasselbeck a chance to get them back among the elite in the NFC. Deion Branch showed that he has a chance to return to being a very good player, but he is too small to be considered a true #1 WR. Crabtree is the best WR in the draft and can be a nightmare for DB's with his ability to shield defenders with his body and make acrobatic catches. While not a burner, he can get separation with his quickness and burst.
5. Cleveland - Michael Jenkins, CB, Ohio State. The Browns could really use a franchise back, but none are rated as high as Jenkins. New head coach Eric Mangini is a defensive guy and the Browns need to shore up a bad pass defense. Jenkins has NFL prototype size for a CB and played at a big time program. The locals should also love this pick with a Buckeye staying home.
6. Cincinnati - BJ Raji, DT, Boston College. The Bengals desperately need to upgrade the DL and Raji was the talk of the Senior Bowl. Last year they desperately wanted USC DT Sedrick Ellis and some believe Raji can be even better because he is bigger. Raji was unblockable by almost all accounts at the Senior Bowl. He is rising and at the combine can really cement himself in the Top 10.
7. Oakland - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia. The Raiders need to get better at LT and Monroe is a natural fit. Monroe was so good in college that Brandon Albert, Chiefs LT that was a first rounder last year, had to play G for the Cavaliers. The Raiders need to upgrade their pass rush and Al Davis loves speed, but LT was a major problem area last year and Monroe is the best player on the board.
8. Jacksonville - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor. The Jaguars had all kinds of problems on the OL last year and Smith would help them out greatly. Jack Del Rio loves to run the ball and getting a player like Smith would allow him to continue that. This pick would make 3 OL in the Top 8.
9. Green Bay - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas. The Packers need to get better at rushing the passer. Aaron Kampman is a beast, but outside of him, no one has shown the ability to consistently get to the qb. The release of Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila during the season only makes this spot more urgent to fill. A good secondary would only get better if the pass rush improves.
10. San Francisco - Mark Sanchez, QB, USC. The 49ers need a franchise QB to make people forget about the Alex Smith project. Sanchez would fit perfectly in a West Coast Offense with his accuracy and ability to move around in the pocket. It will be interesting to see who Mike Singletary chooses as his Offensive Coordinator. Sanchez only started 16 games in his college career and will need to sit and learn for at least a year. The 49ers should be able to allow that with Shaun Hill showing late last year he is an adequate stopgap type.
Tomorrow picks 11-20.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Wake Forest...Final Four Bound?
After Wake Forest beat North Carolina on Sunday, it appears more than ever that they are a team that will make a serious run at the school's second Final Four in school history (1962). Wake Forest boasts a talented and tall front court (5 players in the rotation that are 6'9" or taller) to go along with a killer PG in All-American candidate Jeff Teague (2nd in ACC in scoring, 7th in assists, 1st in 3PT%). They are extremely athletic at every position. All-everything freshman Al-Farouq Aminu is proving to be the real deal chipping in 12.7 ppg while cleaning the glass at 8.7 rbg (7th in ACC). They only potential roadblock to the Final Four is that they don't have a senior in their starting lineup (2 JR's, 2 SO's, and 1 FR). Look for Wake Forest to get a #1 or #2 seed and make a serious run in March. It should be exciting to watch this squad grow and get better and see if they can do something Tim Duncan and Randolph Childress couldn't do. I think they can and will do it.
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