In an "almost too good to be true" picture, the bulk of the coaching staff returns as well. Coach Brad Childress is not beloved by the Minnesota faithful (Childress's personality is about as warm as The Lake of the Woods in January). But the reality is the man won six games in his first season, eight games in his second, 10 games in his third and 12 in his fourth. According to this pattern, the Vikings jerseys will go undefeated as soon as the N.F.L. officially oversaturates fans with an 18-game schedule (2012).
In addition to Childress, offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell is back for a fifth season, and defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier – one of the league's perennial head coaching bridesmaids – returns for a fourth. In the front office, owner Zygi Wilf is an effective delegator, which has allowed VP for player personnel Rick Spielman (now in his fifth season) to flourish.
So, again, it's pretty simple. Given the talent, experience and continuity, we're looking at a Super Bowl club…right?
But what if we're actually looking at a wild-card team? What if the devastating title game loss is not a sign that this team is close, but rather, a sign that this team has already peaked?
Favre had a magical season in '09. But, for the second time in Jared Allen three years, his season ended with a costly interception late in an N.F.C. championship game overtime loss. In other words, the sprinkle of "bad" you get with Favre ultimately prevailed over his bundles of "good." But never mind how the season ended – do you really think Favre can match his '09 performance in 2010? This isn't about age; by now we should all know better than to doubt the spryness of the soon-to-be 41-year-old (who, by the way, became a grandpa in the off-season). And this isn't about health (Favre's surgically repaired ankle will almost certainly be a non-issue come September). This is about the simple improbability of any quarterback posting 4,202 yards, a 68.4 completion percentage, 33 touchdowns and only 7 interceptions.
You might think the Vikings football jerseys won't need Favre to top his '09 performance. After all, Adrian Peterson is the best running back in the N.F.C. (when he's not fumbling). But one of the driving forces behind Minnesota's late-season decline – three of their four losses came in December – was the offense's inability to run the ball. The stagnation of the ground game was the product of a soft, methodical front five. That line was not upgraded in the off-season.
Another driving force behind the decline was the loss of middle linebacker E.J. Henderson, who suffered a horrific femur fracture in Week 13. Henderson hopes to be back in 2010, but the cold truth is he'll probably never be the same. The defense could also be without top cornerback Cedric Griffin – at least early on – because of an ACL tear in the title game. If 12th-year corner Antoine Winfield is as banged up and vulnerable as he was down the stretch in '09, this pass defense will be in serious trouble.
Sprinkle in little side concerns about Peterson, Shiancoe and budding outside linebacker Chad Greenway wanting new contracts; Percy Harvin still battling migraines; Sidney Rice being criticized by Cris Carter in the off-season for taking his foot off the gas in workouts; the offensive line losing top veteran backup Artis Hicks; and this team no longer flying near the bottom of everyone's radar as it did last September. What does all this point to? A great team dangerously close to becoming "very good."
Full Throttle Productions, a promotions company, and Formula One World Championship Ltd. announced in May that they would be building a track in Austin because of its locale and status as an advanced technology city.
The track's promoters and developers say it will run for at least 10 years in the city.
The 900-acre site near Elroy in southeastern Travis County will be a multipurpose facility, for music, athletic events and possibly a research center for universities, said Tavo Hellmund, a Full Throttle managing partner.
McCombs of San Antonio, who made his fortune in car dealerships, said a Formula One event is akin of hosting a Super Bowl, bringing "substantial economic benefit" to the state.
The state has pledged $25 million to support the event its first year, and the comptroller's office estimates the F1 race could generate at least that much in local and state revenue.
Others investors include Prophet Capital Management, an Austin-based private investment firm, and motorcycle champion Kevin Schwantz.
Austin's track will be the first built in the U.S. specifically for a Formula One Grand Prix event. German firm Tilke will design the venue.
Formula One hasn't raced in the U.S. since an eight-year run at Indianapolis Motor Speedway ended in 2007.
Efforts to establish the event in other U.S. cities have faltered, mostly because they lacked permanent facilities designed for F1 racing.
He may be somewhat quiet and reserved off the field, but when he puts the pads on, Brinkley is a different guy. In his rookie season, thanks to an injury Brinkley started five games late in the year including both the Viking playoff games. While he learned a lot, he knows there's still plenty to be done before he's recognized as a force on the field.
"I've definitely been working on my hips and being more fluent in my drops" said Jasper Brinkley "In the past everyone knows I'm a thumper and down hill type of guy and my coverage skills have always been a question mark. So that's something I've been working in the off season on. I had an opportunity to work with Larry Fitzgerald (Arizona Cardinals) up in Minnesota, at his camp."
2010年7月28日星期三
2010年7月25日星期日
NFL draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers
Following her death after a private battle with cancer, Kaye Cowher is being remembered for her love of family.
She instilled the competitive fire in her three athletically-gifted daughters.
Kaye Cowher was a talented athlete herself, who loved the game of basketball. She helped bring out the best in her daughters, two of whom play at Princeton University.
Duquesne University basketball coach Suzie McConnell-Serio remembered Ike Taylor Kaye Cowher today.
"Obviously, she's always been very supportive of her daughters. She's been at all of the games when her daughters were playing, and I would see her at all of their tournaments … just very encouraging, very supportive," said McConnell-Serio. "Obviously, her family meant a great deal to her and she's been all about her daughters. I respect that a great deal."
While she loved her own family, Kaye Cowher also loved all children Hines Ward and families, as evidenced from her work with Family Resources of Pennsylvania, a non-profit child abuse prevention agency.
"She dedicated herself, her energy to this mission and we who do this work are all very passionate about it," said Andy Fishhoff, of the Family Resources group. "She joined us, in that passion."
Fischhoff says Kaye Cowher and her husband backed their words with action. They donated money to build an all-purpose football field and basketball court at the agency's retreat in North Hills.
"She was a very private person, and she gave a lot," Fischhoff said. "She put a lot of energy into what she believed, but I don't think she really sought the limelight."
But when the Steelers jerseys won their fifth Super Bowl, Kaye Cowher was in the limelight, joining her husband and their daughters on the field to celebrate.
Burnett, originally from Eustis, became the most prolific cornerback and punt returner in school history. He was taken in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Burnett intercepted six passes in 2007, the second-highest total in school Lawrence Timmons history. He holds the school record for career interceptions (16) and a Conference USA record for career punt-return yards
She instilled the competitive fire in her three athletically-gifted daughters.
Kaye Cowher was a talented athlete herself, who loved the game of basketball. She helped bring out the best in her daughters, two of whom play at Princeton University.
Duquesne University basketball coach Suzie McConnell-Serio remembered Ike Taylor Kaye Cowher today.
"Obviously, she's always been very supportive of her daughters. She's been at all of the games when her daughters were playing, and I would see her at all of their tournaments … just very encouraging, very supportive," said McConnell-Serio. "Obviously, her family meant a great deal to her and she's been all about her daughters. I respect that a great deal."
While she loved her own family, Kaye Cowher also loved all children Hines Ward and families, as evidenced from her work with Family Resources of Pennsylvania, a non-profit child abuse prevention agency.
"She dedicated herself, her energy to this mission and we who do this work are all very passionate about it," said Andy Fishhoff, of the Family Resources group. "She joined us, in that passion."
Fischhoff says Kaye Cowher and her husband backed their words with action. They donated money to build an all-purpose football field and basketball court at the agency's retreat in North Hills.
"She was a very private person, and she gave a lot," Fischhoff said. "She put a lot of energy into what she believed, but I don't think she really sought the limelight."
But when the Steelers jerseys won their fifth Super Bowl, Kaye Cowher was in the limelight, joining her husband and their daughters on the field to celebrate.
Burnett, originally from Eustis, became the most prolific cornerback and punt returner in school history. He was taken in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Burnett intercepted six passes in 2007, the second-highest total in school Lawrence Timmons history. He holds the school record for career interceptions (16) and a Conference USA record for career punt-return yards
2010年7月21日星期三
Pittsburgh Steelers in this year's NFL draft
Pouncey, who was drafted 18th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers in James Harrison this year's NFL draft, allegedly took the money between the Southeastern Conference title game on Dec. 6 and the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 1, according to
He denied the allegations in a statement Wednesday through his attorney, Stephen Stanfield.
"I did not accept $100,000; it is an absolutely ridiculous claim," Pouncey said. "I have completely cooperated with the investigation and answered any and all questions put to me."
An internal investigation by University of Florida and an outside investigation by the University Police Department are also taking place in relation to the allegations.
Jason La Canfora of NFL Network is reporting that the new Pittsburgh Steelers jerseys and the Indianapolis Colts were the only two teams to visit Chester Pitts workout in Arizona today. Pitts also scheduled another workout for next week.
Pitts has gained interest from the Minnesota Vikings, Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, and Detroit Lions earlier this off season.
The Steelers would be interested in Pitts because of the loss of Willie Colon, which forces Trai Essex to move to offensive tackle.
Pitts would probably compete with Kyle DeVan and Mike Pollack James Farrior to start at either guard spot. Signing Pitts would be bad news for holdover Tony Ugoh, who is trying to move from tackle to guard this off season.
Then came news that top draft choice Maurkice Pouncey, a natural center expected to start at right guard, is the focus of an NCAA investigation of the Florida football program. That won't affect Pouncey's NFL career, of course, but it piled on the bad news for a franchise that has declined steadily since winning the Super Bowl in the 2008 season.
At a youth football camp in Pittsburgh last week, Kevin Colbert, the Steelers' director of football operations, said: "We know we have a huge challenge ahead of us. We didn't have the type of off-season that we're proud of."
Roethlisberger may have his suspension lifted after four games. In his place, the Steelers plan to use Byron Leftwich, who appeared in five games for them in their most recent Super Bowl year. Leftwich was immobile when he was 24 -- six years ago. His effectiveness behind an offensive line in disrepair is a huge question mark.
He denied the allegations in a statement Wednesday through his attorney, Stephen Stanfield.
"I did not accept $100,000; it is an absolutely ridiculous claim," Pouncey said. "I have completely cooperated with the investigation and answered any and all questions put to me."
An internal investigation by University of Florida and an outside investigation by the University Police Department are also taking place in relation to the allegations.
Jason La Canfora of NFL Network is reporting that the new Pittsburgh Steelers jerseys and the Indianapolis Colts were the only two teams to visit Chester Pitts workout in Arizona today. Pitts also scheduled another workout for next week.
Pitts has gained interest from the Minnesota Vikings, Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, and Detroit Lions earlier this off season.
The Steelers would be interested in Pitts because of the loss of Willie Colon, which forces Trai Essex to move to offensive tackle.
Pitts would probably compete with Kyle DeVan and Mike Pollack James Farrior to start at either guard spot. Signing Pitts would be bad news for holdover Tony Ugoh, who is trying to move from tackle to guard this off season.
Then came news that top draft choice Maurkice Pouncey, a natural center expected to start at right guard, is the focus of an NCAA investigation of the Florida football program. That won't affect Pouncey's NFL career, of course, but it piled on the bad news for a franchise that has declined steadily since winning the Super Bowl in the 2008 season.
At a youth football camp in Pittsburgh last week, Kevin Colbert, the Steelers' director of football operations, said: "We know we have a huge challenge ahead of us. We didn't have the type of off-season that we're proud of."
Roethlisberger may have his suspension lifted after four games. In his place, the Steelers plan to use Byron Leftwich, who appeared in five games for them in their most recent Super Bowl year. Leftwich was immobile when he was 24 -- six years ago. His effectiveness behind an offensive line in disrepair is a huge question mark.
2010年7月19日星期一
Pittsburgh Steelers' first-round draft choice this past April
Not that this would necessarily have much, if any effect on his life in the National Football Laegue, but reports surfaced Monday alleging that the NCAA and Florida officials are investigating a potential rules violation by Maurkice Pouncey, the new Pittsburgh Steelers jerseys first-round draft choice this past April, while he was a member of the Florida Gators.
From the ESPN report:
Florida is internally investigating what sources described as an allegation that a representative of an agent paid Pouncey $100,000 between the Gators' loss to Alabama in the Southeastern Conference championship game to Alabama and their season-ending Sugar Bowl victory over Cincinnati. Florida apprised the NCAA of the allegation after it became aware of it.
Don't expect any resolution or final verdict any time soon (see: Reggie Bush scandal), but stay tuned to see if the Gators might potentially have to forfeit any of their myriad team accomplishments.
ProFootballFocus has ranked the performance of all 32 offensive lines from a year ago. It's a fairly solid list actually, and I don't disagree with where they placed the Steelers or most of the other 31 teams around the league. Here's what they had to say about Pittsburgh, the 24th ranked unit in '09 in their estiman
No. 24 -- Pittsburgh Steelers (Run No. 27, Pass No. 18, Penalties No. 17)
Things seemed to be moving in the right direction, with three of five starting positions playing at least reasonably well, until Willie Colon suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in offseason workouts. The grades are dragged down massively by center Justin Hartwig, RG Trai Essex and backup Ramon Foster.
Best Player: Unfortunately for the Steelers, RT Colon is one of the most underrated Byron Leftwich players in the game. His pass protection is as good as there is but he needed to work on reducing his penalties (nine).
Biggest Concern: Maurkice Pouncey was brought in to address Hartwig's poor play, but Essex remains as probably the least-effective starting RG around.
Regardless of what last year's unit did, I'm confident that this year's line will be better than last year's and decidedly better than the one that took the field in '08. Yes, even without Willie Colon who's been lost for the year. I say that because I'm personally so high on new offensive line coach Sean Kugler. Dale Lolley, the veteran beat reporter who also authors the blog NFL From The Sidelines, wrote a profile about Kugler and his early work with the line in this year's version of the MSP Steelers Annual, which actually will be in stock and available for purchase online beginning on Wednesday. Not sure yet when it will be available in retail outlets in the western PA, Ohio and Washington D.C. areas, but soon enough and I'll be sure to pass along any information when I get it.
A contributing author at the new SB Nation Pittsburgh regional site weights in on the Steelers' 2010 schedule. I diverge in places with my opinions, but it's a nice comprehensive read with some good stuff in it.
Star-divide
You made the right choice, my man. Antwaan Randle El Brett Keisel claims that he strongly considered joining the Baltimore Ravens this offseason when mulling where he'd like to play the third leg of his professional career.
Former Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Ken Anderson, who coached the Steelers' quarterbacks the past three seasons, remembers his long career in the NFL. Cincy Jungle, SB Nation's Bengals blog, also writes about Anderson's career
The third year running back will be a focal point of the Steelers offense, particularly at the start of the 2010 season while Pittsburgh is without Ben Roethlisberger.
After being the first running back that the Steelers have taken in the first round (23rd overall) since Tim Worley in 1989, there were high expectations for Mendenhall even as a rookie.
However, after a lackluster preseason, there were concerns regarding Mendenhall and he did not do much to disprove these in rushing for only 58 yards on 19 carries in the four games he played as a rookie.
The disappointing season came to an early end as Mendenhall suffered a shoulder injury against Baltimore in his first career start.
Mendenhall needed a fresh start in 2009, but did not fair much better. In Week Three, Mendenhall was benched because he did not know his assignments.
What could have been a major setback, Mendenhall took as motivation.
"It's a learning experience…I just look forward to getting an opportunity to play and show the fans and my teammates what I can do."
From the ESPN report:
Florida is internally investigating what sources described as an allegation that a representative of an agent paid Pouncey $100,000 between the Gators' loss to Alabama in the Southeastern Conference championship game to Alabama and their season-ending Sugar Bowl victory over Cincinnati. Florida apprised the NCAA of the allegation after it became aware of it.
Don't expect any resolution or final verdict any time soon (see: Reggie Bush scandal), but stay tuned to see if the Gators might potentially have to forfeit any of their myriad team accomplishments.
ProFootballFocus has ranked the performance of all 32 offensive lines from a year ago. It's a fairly solid list actually, and I don't disagree with where they placed the Steelers or most of the other 31 teams around the league. Here's what they had to say about Pittsburgh, the 24th ranked unit in '09 in their estiman
No. 24 -- Pittsburgh Steelers (Run No. 27, Pass No. 18, Penalties No. 17)
Things seemed to be moving in the right direction, with three of five starting positions playing at least reasonably well, until Willie Colon suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in offseason workouts. The grades are dragged down massively by center Justin Hartwig, RG Trai Essex and backup Ramon Foster.
Best Player: Unfortunately for the Steelers, RT Colon is one of the most underrated Byron Leftwich players in the game. His pass protection is as good as there is but he needed to work on reducing his penalties (nine).
Biggest Concern: Maurkice Pouncey was brought in to address Hartwig's poor play, but Essex remains as probably the least-effective starting RG around.
Regardless of what last year's unit did, I'm confident that this year's line will be better than last year's and decidedly better than the one that took the field in '08. Yes, even without Willie Colon who's been lost for the year. I say that because I'm personally so high on new offensive line coach Sean Kugler. Dale Lolley, the veteran beat reporter who also authors the blog NFL From The Sidelines, wrote a profile about Kugler and his early work with the line in this year's version of the MSP Steelers Annual, which actually will be in stock and available for purchase online beginning on Wednesday. Not sure yet when it will be available in retail outlets in the western PA, Ohio and Washington D.C. areas, but soon enough and I'll be sure to pass along any information when I get it.
A contributing author at the new SB Nation Pittsburgh regional site weights in on the Steelers' 2010 schedule. I diverge in places with my opinions, but it's a nice comprehensive read with some good stuff in it.
Star-divide
You made the right choice, my man. Antwaan Randle El Brett Keisel claims that he strongly considered joining the Baltimore Ravens this offseason when mulling where he'd like to play the third leg of his professional career.
Former Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Ken Anderson, who coached the Steelers' quarterbacks the past three seasons, remembers his long career in the NFL. Cincy Jungle, SB Nation's Bengals blog, also writes about Anderson's career
The third year running back will be a focal point of the Steelers offense, particularly at the start of the 2010 season while Pittsburgh is without Ben Roethlisberger.
After being the first running back that the Steelers have taken in the first round (23rd overall) since Tim Worley in 1989, there were high expectations for Mendenhall even as a rookie.
However, after a lackluster preseason, there were concerns regarding Mendenhall and he did not do much to disprove these in rushing for only 58 yards on 19 carries in the four games he played as a rookie.
The disappointing season came to an early end as Mendenhall suffered a shoulder injury against Baltimore in his first career start.
Mendenhall needed a fresh start in 2009, but did not fair much better. In Week Three, Mendenhall was benched because he did not know his assignments.
What could have been a major setback, Mendenhall took as motivation.
"It's a learning experience…I just look forward to getting an opportunity to play and show the fans and my teammates what I can do."
2010年7月16日星期五
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback
Ongoing labor headaches and the first year without a salary cap since 1993 meant this off-season was destined to be different for the Steelers' director of football operations. Couple the ongoing labor headaches and contract restrictions with the desire to rebound after a disappointing 9-7 season and with the off-field distractions, and it's easy to understand why Colbert and the rest of the Steelers are ready for training camp to begin on July 30.
"I think we're all excited to start the season. We know we have a huge challenge ahead of us," Colbert said after speaking to 200 youth football players Thursday at the Homeboys Football Camp at Ambridge High School.
"We didn't have the type of off-season that we're proud of and we're anxious to get back on the field and have a team that competes for a championship and have a team that our fans can be proud to call their team."
Colbert was invited to speak at the camp by founder Tyrone Dixon, an Aliquippa native and Center High graduate. Dixon and Colbert have known each other since 1993, when Colbert met him through family and coaching ties at James Madison University.
"I consider him a player off the field," Dixon said. "He's a guy from an Hines Ward administrative point of view who can come in and say, 'Hey, this is what it takes to be successful.' "
Golfers, volunteers and tournament officials didn't have much to say about the two football stars that have made headlines over the past year.
"We are immune to it because there are so many great players that don't get themselves Heath Miller in trouble," said Joe Theismann, an all-pro quarterback whose career was ended when Taylor broke his leg.
"It doesn't affect the amount of work that is done out here for charity," he said. "The greatest thing about this tournament is for every star that is out here there are 50 that would take their place, so if someone isn't here it's not obvious."
See photos from the links Thursday at the ACC - Jordan, Romo and more
No one talked about the charges against Roethlisberger by a new Pittsburgh Steelers jerseys Tahoe hotel employee who said she was attacked by the quarterback when he stayed at Harrah's during the 2008 celebrity golf tournament.
Media officials looked puzzled when asked if the tournament had changed because of her allegations.
Theismann said he hoped Roethlisberger and Taylor learned lessons and could do some good in the world.
It almost seems as if sports stars are realizing they are being watched more closely for antics James Farrior off the playing field, something actors have encountered for years.
No one wants to be the next Tiger Woods.
"I think we're all excited to start the season. We know we have a huge challenge ahead of us," Colbert said after speaking to 200 youth football players Thursday at the Homeboys Football Camp at Ambridge High School.
"We didn't have the type of off-season that we're proud of and we're anxious to get back on the field and have a team that competes for a championship and have a team that our fans can be proud to call their team."
Colbert was invited to speak at the camp by founder Tyrone Dixon, an Aliquippa native and Center High graduate. Dixon and Colbert have known each other since 1993, when Colbert met him through family and coaching ties at James Madison University.
"I consider him a player off the field," Dixon said. "He's a guy from an Hines Ward administrative point of view who can come in and say, 'Hey, this is what it takes to be successful.' "
Golfers, volunteers and tournament officials didn't have much to say about the two football stars that have made headlines over the past year.
"We are immune to it because there are so many great players that don't get themselves Heath Miller in trouble," said Joe Theismann, an all-pro quarterback whose career was ended when Taylor broke his leg.
"It doesn't affect the amount of work that is done out here for charity," he said. "The greatest thing about this tournament is for every star that is out here there are 50 that would take their place, so if someone isn't here it's not obvious."
See photos from the links Thursday at the ACC - Jordan, Romo and more
No one talked about the charges against Roethlisberger by a new Pittsburgh Steelers jerseys Tahoe hotel employee who said she was attacked by the quarterback when he stayed at Harrah's during the 2008 celebrity golf tournament.
Media officials looked puzzled when asked if the tournament had changed because of her allegations.
Theismann said he hoped Roethlisberger and Taylor learned lessons and could do some good in the world.
It almost seems as if sports stars are realizing they are being watched more closely for antics James Farrior off the playing field, something actors have encountered for years.
No one wants to be the next Tiger Woods.
2010年7月14日星期三
San Diego Chargers unsigned wide receiver Vincent Jackson
In Jackson's case, those "additional restrictions" could loom large, as the Chargers could still place him on a "roster exempt" list for three games after he signs under certain circumstances, keeping him without pay and without earning any service time toward an accrued season in that span. A player must be on a team's active, inactive, IR or PUP list for at least six regular-season games to earn an accrued season toward free agency, which is why many surmised Jackson would sign his $583,000 tender in Week 10.
According to the Roster Exemption rules in the CBA, if Jackson Phillip Rivers does not report to the Chargers by at least the day before their fourth preseason game, then, whenever he does sign, he could still be placed on the roster exempt list for an additional three games -- without pay. The Chargers, who have lowered his tender already and are locked in a bitter feud with the Pro Bowl receiver, would have to notify Jackson and the NFL Players Union of their intent to place him on roster exempt at least five days prior to the team's second preseason game
Turner is a run-first coach. Look at the Chargers' last five regular season games and the three playoff games in 2007.
The Bolts averaged 176 yards per game on the ground and 159 through the air in the last five games of the 2007 regular season.
When they faced stiffer competition that could stuff the run in the 2007 playoffs, they new San Diego Chargers jerseys turned to the air attack, passed for 267 yards per game, and ran for 90 yards per game.
Earlier in the season, however, the Chargers could not run the ball at all. They were stuffed at every turn, until LaDainian Tomlinson finally got his legs back in those last five or six games of the season.
Just like in 2007, when the Chargers found out they couldn't run the ball last season, Norv Antonio Gates commanded Philip Rivers to chuck it all over the field. This time, however, LT never got his legs under him.
That, like Buddy Ryan (yes, Rex Ryan's daddy) preached, is Darren Sproles not the key to winning against playoff teams and Turner knows it.
2010年7月12日星期一
Initial trip to see Ravens made in enemy colors
Our friends from church had two extra tickets. Seeing it was my two favorite teams going up against each other and the first time the two teams met since that divisional playoff game, my mom and I decided to go.
And I went as a Tennessee Titans fan, wearing my McNair jersey, while my mom went dressed in purple. We first went down for tailgating beforehand, and let's just say with it being my first-ever experience tailgating outside an NFL stadium, I loved it. I ate more in those couple hours than I had ever eaten at any meal in my lifetime. (And this coming from someone who puked at one of his first Orioles games after discovering a club-level feast at Camden Yards).
I went back and forth with the Ravens fans there about how the Tennessee Titans Titans were going to come out on top. I will admit the Ravens fans respected my choice in team, and I do respect them for that.
I also found it interesting how a quick bond was created whenever I saw someone in dark blue, like me. We would shout to each other and recognize each other's support for the Tennessee Titans. I had never seen that kind of connection before from complete strangers.
When it came time to go into the stadium, it was absolutely amazing. I had only watched a few Ravens games in my short sports fanatic career, but when I saw the field in real time, it was a sight to see to say the least. Our seats were three throws from the top, but I didn't care. I was at an NFL game for the first time.
My hopes started to fade, though, for several reasons. For one, the Titans really came out flat on a day Jeff Fisher had told his players to go hit the Ravens with a "2x4." Instead, the Titans didn't cross the 50-yard line till the end of the first half and had only a couple first downs.
Will Witherspoon (82 overall rating) (-4 pts from 2010): A slight drop off could be explained by Witherspoon's increasing age, he turns 30 in August, however he is hardly a replacement for Keith Bulluck's perennial status amongst the top outside linebackers. If this is any indication of how things will go in real life, expect a void in our defense the size of Albert Haynesworth's pants size.
David Thornton (79) (-2): Watching Thornton deteriorate each year in Madden has almost been as painful to watch as his falloff in play on the real LP Field. Unfortunately, I expect more than just overall rating points to evaporate before our eyes this year.
Stephen Tulloch (77) (+4): Honestly, I was a little disappointed with his rating. Only 12 players in the NFL had more tackles than him last season. I'm not asking for him to be in the 90s, but an 80-85 overall rating seems more appropriate given his consistent play over the last 2 seasons.
Gerald McRath (73) (+9): Every Titan fan should be encouraged with this rating. Coupled with his fill-in work for Thornton, I expect him to bounce back from this sketchy suspension and assume an outside linebacker role that will be his for the keeping.
Defensive Line:
Derrick Morgan (79) (Rookie): Only 8 rookies were listed with higher overall ratings than Morgan and his low awareness rating seems to be the only thing standing between him and an overall rating in the mid-80s. I think this is a promising endorsement from the people at EA about our first round pick.
Jason Jones (77) (+2): Another encouragement for all Titan fans. He missed most of the season and still received a modest boost in overall rating. J.J. is poised for a breakout season.
William Hayes (71) (N/A): This low rating is confusing given his 4 sacks last year (more than Richard Seymour, Kyle Vanden Bosch, and Marcus Spears). Again, I'm not asking for a rating in the 90s, but somewhere in the high 70s would have been more appropriate.
2010年7月7日星期三
Who the fastest player on the Carolina Panthers was?
I also got a trophy for fastest lap just like the one they give the winner of the Coca-Cola 600, except mine was about 1/100th the size and weight, it was gold-painted plastic instead of gold-plated metal and it broke into three pieces when I dropped it on the concrete instead of cracking the concrete.
But racing wasn't as easy as it looks from the press box.
As instructor Rudy Zeck said just outside of Turn 3 after I completed the last of my three 10-lap sessions around the 1/5-mile track, "You did really well, but if you were in a race I wouldn't worry about you cause you'd take yourself out."
I don't think that was a compliment.
But it was fun and it gave the six media members brave enough to accept this challenge insight into how Sprint Cup stars such as Joey Logano, David Ragan and Earnhardt got their start.
It also gave us insight into what to expect July 15-17 when more than 250 drivers compete in the Legends Million event at CMS. Among the participants will be 12-year-old Gray Gaulding of nearby Statesville, N.C.
So, Gray, I asked after class, what did you learn from my laps that will help you win the $250,000 first-place prize?respond to a question asked by a camper. The camper asked, "Who the fastest player on the Carolina Panthers jerseys was?"
Stewart said he hopes to have this camp every year in Lacey.
"It's always something I've wanted to do," Stewart said. "With me growing up, I never had anything like this. … (Lacey) means a lot. This is where I started."
The campers had some noteworthy instructors. Stewart brought along some of his NFL teammates that include running back DeAngelo Williams, tight end Dante Rosario and wide receiver Kenny Moore, along with former college teammates Dennis Dixon (Pittsburgh Stealers) and Jairus Byrd
But racing wasn't as easy as it looks from the press box.
As instructor Rudy Zeck said just outside of Turn 3 after I completed the last of my three 10-lap sessions around the 1/5-mile track, "You did really well, but if you were in a race I wouldn't worry about you cause you'd take yourself out."
I don't think that was a compliment.
But it was fun and it gave the six media members brave enough to accept this challenge insight into how Sprint Cup stars such as Joey Logano, David Ragan and Earnhardt got their start.
It also gave us insight into what to expect July 15-17 when more than 250 drivers compete in the Legends Million event at CMS. Among the participants will be 12-year-old Gray Gaulding of nearby Statesville, N.C.
So, Gray, I asked after class, what did you learn from my laps that will help you win the $250,000 first-place prize?respond to a question asked by a camper. The camper asked, "Who the fastest player on the Carolina Panthers jerseys was?"
Stewart said he hopes to have this camp every year in Lacey.
"It's always something I've wanted to do," Stewart said. "With me growing up, I never had anything like this. … (Lacey) means a lot. This is where I started."
The campers had some noteworthy instructors. Stewart brought along some of his NFL teammates that include running back DeAngelo Williams, tight end Dante Rosario and wide receiver Kenny Moore, along with former college teammates Dennis Dixon (Pittsburgh Stealers) and Jairus Byrd
2010年7月6日星期二
In this fourth edition of Cleveland’s positional rankings
Brodney Pool and Abe Elam manned the safety positions for most of the season, with Adams seeing plenty of time as well. Pool has since moved on to the New York Jets. Elam, who had no interceptions in 16 starts, returns.
The new Cleveland Browns jerseys made it very clear they were not pleased with last year's play in the secondary by taking a corner and two safeties in this year's draft. Cleveland also made a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles for veteran cornerback Sheldon Brown.
Competition should be fierce between rookie first round pick Joe Haden and veterans Brown, Wright, and McDonald for the starting corner spots. Second year player Coye Francies is also in the picture.
Francies didn't see much action last year, but is very aggressive with nice size. Don't count him out.
Whoever emerges as the starters at the cornerback positions, the Browns jerseys should be better off than they were last season. Cleveland should be deep and talented at the corners.
Cleveland had very little depth at the safety position last year. This year should be different. Rookies T.J.Ward and Larry Asante will join Elam, Adams, and Ray Ventrone in what should be a competition to watch.
Through a position change, Bowens football jerseys played his tail off and earned himself a very high ranking. Overall, Jackson played pretty well before his injury, and Barton was below-average. It's a very small sample size for Barton, so don't look too far into it.
What's alarming is that Bowens actually played better than Jackson during his time at ILB.
Chalk it up to Maiava being a rookie. For comparison's sake, he didn't do much worse than Channing Crowder, Dhani Jones, or Jerod Mayo in 2009, so there's only room to improve as last year was his rookie campaign.
Also, his best game far and away was at home against Pittsburgh. That's also a good thing. Although, if he doesn't continue to improve next year on his overall game, the Browns probably won't rely on him to be a starter in the future.
The new Cleveland Browns jerseys made it very clear they were not pleased with last year's play in the secondary by taking a corner and two safeties in this year's draft. Cleveland also made a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles for veteran cornerback Sheldon Brown.
Competition should be fierce between rookie first round pick Joe Haden and veterans Brown, Wright, and McDonald for the starting corner spots. Second year player Coye Francies is also in the picture.
Francies didn't see much action last year, but is very aggressive with nice size. Don't count him out.
Whoever emerges as the starters at the cornerback positions, the Browns jerseys should be better off than they were last season. Cleveland should be deep and talented at the corners.
Cleveland had very little depth at the safety position last year. This year should be different. Rookies T.J.Ward and Larry Asante will join Elam, Adams, and Ray Ventrone in what should be a competition to watch.
Through a position change, Bowens football jerseys played his tail off and earned himself a very high ranking. Overall, Jackson played pretty well before his injury, and Barton was below-average. It's a very small sample size for Barton, so don't look too far into it.
What's alarming is that Bowens actually played better than Jackson during his time at ILB.
Chalk it up to Maiava being a rookie. For comparison's sake, he didn't do much worse than Channing Crowder, Dhani Jones, or Jerod Mayo in 2009, so there's only room to improve as last year was his rookie campaign.
Also, his best game far and away was at home against Pittsburgh. That's also a good thing. Although, if he doesn't continue to improve next year on his overall game, the Browns probably won't rely on him to be a starter in the future.
订阅：
博文 (Atom)