If Notre Dame is no longer a collge football power, why do voters still put such value in beating the Irish?Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesWhen it comes to Notre Dame, there is great disconnect in the media between how theysee theFighting Irish program and what beating Notre Dame means.The Green Bay Packers jersey
prevailing view of Notre Dame if that of a former powerhouse that is living off its past glories andcan no longerrecruit the kind of talent needed to compete with the top schools in the BCS conferences.Manycollege football pundits believe first-year head coach Brian Kelly is the man to return Notre Dame to national championship contenders (didn't they also say that about Tyrone Willingham and Charlie Weis?), butnobody thinks it will happen this year. That's why the Irish started the season unranked.Still, in the past three weeks, victories over Notre Dame have catapulted Michigan, Michigan State, and Stanford up the AP Top 25 Poll.The Wolverines and Spartans wereunranked before last-minute comeback wins against the Irishmoved them to 20th and 25th, respectively, in the AP Poll. Houston Texans jersey
The Cardinal jumped from 16th to ninth after a 23-point win over Notre Damelast week.IfNotre Dame(1-3) is such a fallen program, whydo the 60 AP voters stillconsider a win overthe Irisha reliable barometer of how good these teams are?Stanford's ascension is particularly troubling. AP voters moved themup seven spots and ahead offour other 4-0 teams they were previously behind: LSU, Utah, Arizona, and Wisconsin. Is defeating Notre Dame really worth that much?Michigan needed one the greatest individual performances in college football history from QB Denard Robinson (502 total yards and three touchdowns) for its 28-24 win.Michigan State needed a touchdown pass on a fake field-goalin overtime that should not have counted (the play clock expired before the ball was snapped) for Indianapolis Colts jersey
its 34-31 win.If either those victories had come against any other unranked team with a losing record, there is no way they would put ina Top 25 poll.The Irish are a 2.5-point favorite over the Boston College Eagles on Saturday at Alumni Stadium. If the Eagles (coming off a 19-0 loss to Virginia Tech last week) should prevail, will they too find themselves catapulted into the next Top 25 poll?The way AP voters are ranking teams, you never know.
2011年1月22日星期六
22 Jan 11 Nebraska Football: Reviewing the Cornhuskers' 56-21 Win Over Washington
Otto Greule Jr/Getty ImagesT-Magic: Fine. I give up. Yes, it's a silly nickname. Yes, he gave it to himself, or at least signs his text messages with it. But if Nebraska quarterback Taylor Martinez can run for 137 yards and three touchdowns, throw 7-for-11 for 150 yards and a touchdown, and read a defense and make adjustments in his first road start, he can call himself the Queen of Belgium for all I care. If there's been a more impressive road opener for a freshman quarterback, I don't know what it was.Locking Down Locker: Remember Jake Locker? The first overall pick in Arizona Cardinals jersey
the NFL Draft and darkhorse Heisman candidate? Yeah, that guy went 4-for-20 for 71 yards and two interceptions, including one on his first pass. Nebraska's secondary, particularly cornerbacks Prince Amukamura and Alfonzo Dennard, gave Locker no place to go and rattled his confidence. Head coach Bo Pelini's defense impressively took away what is likely the most talented quarterback Nebraska will face this season.Hey, Remember Us?: Poor Roy Helu and Rex Burkhead. Both running backs had great days against a BCS opponent on their home field, getting over 100 yards and scoring. And their performance has been completely overshadowed by (sigh) T-Magic and his wizardry. But keep in mind that the threat Helu and Burkhead pose is part of why Martinez is so effective. Without a danger from the tailback, defenses could focus on Martinez and significantly limit his effectiveness. Now, they have to pick their poison.The Bad ...Blue Green: Nebraska backup quarterback Cody Green is, by all accounts, a bright and charming young man with a tremendous amount of physical talent. Offensive coordinator Shawn Watson wouldn't continue to get him a series in the first half if he didn't think it was important to get him ready to play. But Green fumbled his first two snaps, setting up a Washington score. As important as it is to have a backup quarterback ready to go, it's hard to see how Green's continued insertion into games is going to continue.Cutback Conundrum: When Washington did have success, it was running right at the Nebraska defense. Much of that success took a page from what Western Kentucky and Idaho did, which was to get the NU defensive line moving laterally and have the tailback hit a gap on the back side. Admittedly, NU's defensive gameplan was focused on Locker and not the running game, Atlanta Falcons jersey
which was part of the reason for their successes on the ground. But NU will be facing sterner, power running teams (see Kansas State) and will have to show they can stop it.Unstretchy: While in the category of a "good problem," Nebraska jumping on Washington early meant they never had to rely on a passing attack to move the ball and score. While Martinez was efficient and effective with most of his throws, NU has yet to put that air attack to a real test. At some point this season, Martinez will have to win a game with his arm, not his legs.... And the Passed TestApparently those guys were ready to go on the road. NU was up 14-0 less than five minutes into the first quarter, and was never in serious danger for the rest of the game. While we have yet to learn exactly how good the win over Washington is, it's clear that Nebraska was ready for the threat posed by the Huskies and able to respond. For the first time in his NU career, Pelini's team won their challenging non-conference game. With that hurdle cleared, the ceiling for this year's season just got raised.The Big PictureWelcome to the bright spotlight of national attention, Nebraska. After lackluster performances by a number of Top 10 teams, Nebraska's annihilation of Washington at home will catapult NU into a short list of teams that can be considered legitimate national title contenders. At times in the past, Pelini's Cornhuskers have not handled success well. From here going forward, Nebraska will have to handle the pressure of being the hunted, rather than the hunters. Pelini's challenge will be to get his team ready for that new role.The Next GameSouth Dakota State at Nebraska (September 25, 6:00 p.m., PPV): The Jackrabbits come to Lincoln bringing a DIvision I-FCS national ranking in a season where FCS teams have won in BCS conference stadiums. Baltimore Ravens jersey
The Jacks will...oh, this isn't kidding anyone.The Jackrabbits are 0-2 coming to Lincoln against a hyper-confident Nebraska team. There is a possibility that NU could overlook South Dakota State in preparation for a trip to Manhattan to face Kansas State, but Nebraska's talent level is so superior that such a result is almost unimaginable. At least Cody Green should get a chance for some redemption.Like this article? Please LIKE the article here and on Facebook, and follow me on Twitter @law_talking_guy to receive updates of new articles and to read my observations during Nebraska games. Thanks for the read!
the NFL Draft and darkhorse Heisman candidate? Yeah, that guy went 4-for-20 for 71 yards and two interceptions, including one on his first pass. Nebraska's secondary, particularly cornerbacks Prince Amukamura and Alfonzo Dennard, gave Locker no place to go and rattled his confidence. Head coach Bo Pelini's defense impressively took away what is likely the most talented quarterback Nebraska will face this season.Hey, Remember Us?: Poor Roy Helu and Rex Burkhead. Both running backs had great days against a BCS opponent on their home field, getting over 100 yards and scoring. And their performance has been completely overshadowed by (sigh) T-Magic and his wizardry. But keep in mind that the threat Helu and Burkhead pose is part of why Martinez is so effective. Without a danger from the tailback, defenses could focus on Martinez and significantly limit his effectiveness. Now, they have to pick their poison.The Bad ...Blue Green: Nebraska backup quarterback Cody Green is, by all accounts, a bright and charming young man with a tremendous amount of physical talent. Offensive coordinator Shawn Watson wouldn't continue to get him a series in the first half if he didn't think it was important to get him ready to play. But Green fumbled his first two snaps, setting up a Washington score. As important as it is to have a backup quarterback ready to go, it's hard to see how Green's continued insertion into games is going to continue.Cutback Conundrum: When Washington did have success, it was running right at the Nebraska defense. Much of that success took a page from what Western Kentucky and Idaho did, which was to get the NU defensive line moving laterally and have the tailback hit a gap on the back side. Admittedly, NU's defensive gameplan was focused on Locker and not the running game, Atlanta Falcons jersey
which was part of the reason for their successes on the ground. But NU will be facing sterner, power running teams (see Kansas State) and will have to show they can stop it.Unstretchy: While in the category of a "good problem," Nebraska jumping on Washington early meant they never had to rely on a passing attack to move the ball and score. While Martinez was efficient and effective with most of his throws, NU has yet to put that air attack to a real test. At some point this season, Martinez will have to win a game with his arm, not his legs.... And the Passed TestApparently those guys were ready to go on the road. NU was up 14-0 less than five minutes into the first quarter, and was never in serious danger for the rest of the game. While we have yet to learn exactly how good the win over Washington is, it's clear that Nebraska was ready for the threat posed by the Huskies and able to respond. For the first time in his NU career, Pelini's team won their challenging non-conference game. With that hurdle cleared, the ceiling for this year's season just got raised.The Big PictureWelcome to the bright spotlight of national attention, Nebraska. After lackluster performances by a number of Top 10 teams, Nebraska's annihilation of Washington at home will catapult NU into a short list of teams that can be considered legitimate national title contenders. At times in the past, Pelini's Cornhuskers have not handled success well. From here going forward, Nebraska will have to handle the pressure of being the hunted, rather than the hunters. Pelini's challenge will be to get his team ready for that new role.The Next GameSouth Dakota State at Nebraska (September 25, 6:00 p.m., PPV): The Jackrabbits come to Lincoln bringing a DIvision I-FCS national ranking in a season where FCS teams have won in BCS conference stadiums. Baltimore Ravens jersey
The Jacks will...oh, this isn't kidding anyone.The Jackrabbits are 0-2 coming to Lincoln against a hyper-confident Nebraska team. There is a possibility that NU could overlook South Dakota State in preparation for a trip to Manhattan to face Kansas State, but Nebraska's talent level is so superior that such a result is almost unimaginable. At least Cody Green should get a chance for some redemption.Like this article? Please LIKE the article here and on Facebook, and follow me on Twitter @law_talking_guy to receive updates of new articles and to read my observations during Nebraska games. Thanks for the read!
2011年1月18日星期二
18 Jan 11 LSU Football: Why The Tiger Defense Will Dominate West Virginia Mountaineers
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesThis Saturday will see a match up of ranked teams as No. 23 West Virginia travels to Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge to take on No. 15 LSU. The story of this game will be the high-powered offense of West Virginia against the relentless defense of LSU. The Mountaineers are averaging over 150 yards rushing and 250 yards passing per game. The LSU defense is tied for third in the nation in sacks with 11 and ninth in interceptions with five. Overall, the LSU defense has been stout, ranked fifth in the nation. West Virginiaoffense is undoubtedly good with Denver Broncos jersey
tons of speed and experience. However, they have not seen anything remotely close to LSUdefense this season and will be in for a real surprise when they see linebackers that run like corners and defensive lineman that blow up offensive lineman. The Tiger defense is built for the SEC and high caliber offenses. Defensive coordinator John Chavis is doing a good job, with the exception of the second half of the UNC game, of sending different looks and blitz packages to keep offenses scrambling. Tiger defensive linemen are living in opposing teams backfields and causing mass destruction. Chavis is also not afraid to send a corner or safety blitz on third down and other key moments. West Virginia running back Noel Devine is averaging 118 rushing yards per game, but that is against Coastal Carolina, Marshall and Maryland. No disrespect to those institutions, but they do not compare to what Devine will see on Saturday night. With the game starting at 8:00pm central time, the LSU fans will have two extra hours of partying under their belts by kickoff. The already loud and rowdyDetroit Lions
crowd will be at another level when the Mountaineers take the field. Again, no disrespect to the Big East, but West Virginia has not experienced the deafening volume of crowd noise that will be present on Saturday night in Tiger Stadium. This should be an absolute rout if the Tiger offense can finish drives like they did in the second half versus Mississippi State last Saturday. Prediction: LSU 35 WVU 13
tons of speed and experience. However, they have not seen anything remotely close to LSUdefense this season and will be in for a real surprise when they see linebackers that run like corners and defensive lineman that blow up offensive lineman. The Tiger defense is built for the SEC and high caliber offenses. Defensive coordinator John Chavis is doing a good job, with the exception of the second half of the UNC game, of sending different looks and blitz packages to keep offenses scrambling. Tiger defensive linemen are living in opposing teams backfields and causing mass destruction. Chavis is also not afraid to send a corner or safety blitz on third down and other key moments. West Virginia running back Noel Devine is averaging 118 rushing yards per game, but that is against Coastal Carolina, Marshall and Maryland. No disrespect to those institutions, but they do not compare to what Devine will see on Saturday night. With the game starting at 8:00pm central time, the LSU fans will have two extra hours of partying under their belts by kickoff. The already loud and rowdyDetroit Lions
crowd will be at another level when the Mountaineers take the field. Again, no disrespect to the Big East, but West Virginia has not experienced the deafening volume of crowd noise that will be present on Saturday night in Tiger Stadium. This should be an absolute rout if the Tiger offense can finish drives like they did in the second half versus Mississippi State last Saturday. Prediction: LSU 35 WVU 13
2011年1月15日星期六
15 Jan 11 St. Louis Rams signed DE Jay Williams to 3 year deal March 30 2005
The St. Louis Rams signed veteran defensive end Jay Williams to a 3 year contract. Williams recorded 37 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 interception, 2 deflected passes and 2 forced fumbles in 2004 with the Miami Dolphins.The 6'3", 270 lbs. product of Wake Forest University began his career with the Los Angeles Rams in 1994. Williams stayed with the Rams when they moved to St. Louis until 1999, before playing for the Carolina Panthers (2000-2001) and the Dolphins (2002-2004). He has amassed 178 tackles, 23.5 sacks, 2 INTs, 4 deflected passes, 4 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries in 137 games over 11 seasons. (0) What has been a mighty roar for some time in Detroit Lions land is a whisper in the winds everywhere: "Fire Millen," it implores, "please, for the love of God, fire Millen."With the Lions eliminated from playoff contention for New York Jets jersey
roughly the last nine weeks, stories and speculation regarding the Honolulu blue-and-silver is all about one man, the guy hired to turn around a 9-7 franchise.(And no, nothing changes after a hard-fought, seven-point loss to the New England Patriots. When your most notable games of the year are a loss to the defending NFC champions and a loss to the Super Bowl champions of two seasons ago, things are just plain ill.)The free-for-all probably officially began with Millen's fine quote dated the Monday following the Kitty Cats' defining 17-10 loss at the Arizona Cardinals. "I don't even know what you're talking about," ran the man's line as reported by Steve Pate of the Oakland Press. "Don't even ask that."While the question begging this response could have related to really any subject from his plan for the No. 1 pick in the 2007 draft to offensive coordinator Mike Martz's future, it actually regarded whether "he had given any thought at all to stepping down as club president."Again, Millen's answer: "I don't even know what you're talking about. Don't even ask that."Meanwhile ESPN wag Bill Simmons threw in his pithy two cents with "Here's the week when Lions fans stop asking each other, 'Why the hell haven't they fired Millen yet?' and start asking, 'Wait, do you realize we could have taken Leinart last April ... why the hell haven't we fired Millen yet?'" Sports Illustrated online edition ran a tiny item from Philadelphia sportswriter Paul Domowitch. SI.com essentially ran the entire seemingly unsubstantiated rumor: "Matt Millen's wretched 6-year tenure as the Lions' general manager appears to be close to an end. Millen will sit down with owner William Clay Ford after the season, and that meeting is expected to result in Millen finally stepping down/getting fired."Aside from coming out of Philly, a distinctly non-Lions market, Domowitch's reportage feels a bit strange by dint of the fact that no one else has reported on this particular meeting. While an off-season meeting between Millen and Ford may actually happen, there is nothing to suggest that Millen will in fact find himself unemployed in 2007. (Except of course, status as the 31st or 32nd best team in the NFL - a fact that has yet to hurt Millen's standing with The Boss to this point.)Heck, the guys in the Motor City paid to watch this stuff (where "stuff" is a loose synonym for "Detroit Lions football") on a daily basis seemingly wouldn't believe a word suggesting Millen's going through the out door even if it made every non-Michigan headline in the country.Poor cynical Free-Press sportswriter Drew Sharp believes that Ford the Elder looks upon Millen as the son he never had. While vice chairman Bill Ford Jr. may know what's best for the football team, Daddy Ford values Millen's stubborn loyalty (And who wouldn't be loyal to a Oakland Raiders jersey
guy who distributes six-figure checks for incompetence?) more than Junior's business head.Sharp's colleague Nicholas J. Costonika goes so far as to suggest that it's simply too late to fire Millen in article that might have caused a wave of subscription cancellations had not most of Detroit tuned out Lions news long ago. Incredibly writes Costonika, "Like it or not, this is the reality: Millen has to remain with the Lions long enough to give [head coach Rod Marinelli] a fair shot to turn things around."Really? The reality as this writer sees it is simply that, keeping Marinelli firing Millen tomorrow will do nothing to erase the influence the guy will continue to have over this team for the remainder of this decade. Mike Williams, a.k.a. The Most Useless Player In The NFL, is merely the poster boy for a clump of moves made under Millen's jurisdiction that will affect the team's ability to dig itself out of holy mess it's in. among them. Williams holds a contract of $13.5 million with $9.5 million guaranteed; he's signed through 2009. Also signed through that season is Charles Rogers, who was thrown $14.5 million in signing bonus alone on a contract worth up to $55 million. Upon cutting Rogers, Millen was quoted in the Associated Press as stating "Maybe this is just one of those wrong-place, wrong-time things." Hmmm, maybe.Joey Harrington, currently giving Miami Dolphins fans hope for a mad dash at the playoffs, was signed for six years (through 2008) for $36.5 million. Harrington was iced from the roster by Marinelli after being forced to try and adapt to game plans from three different head coaches. At least Millen saved the team the $4 million roster bonus Harrington would have made in 2007. Surely, it will all have been worth it for that crucial sixth-round pick.The Lions are still throwing money out the window due to Dan Wilkinson's contract. And would you believe Steve Mariucci is still on the Detroit payroll for this year?One rumor regarding the Houston Texans', um, interesting choice of Mario Williams at No. 1 says that team officials, after meeting with Reggie Bush and his agent, simply decided they didn't want to pay the contract Bush could command as top pick. Ergo, the slightly cheaper Williams. Putting the Lions in the top spot on the draft board, even if Millen can show restraint for overhyped star talent as he did this year, guarantees nothing. Could Detroit pay a No. 1 pick enough? Marinelli has stated that Jon Kitna is the quarterback he wants for his system, but does this truly indicate that Troy Smith and/or Brady Quinn will be spared the title of Lions savior? And hasn't it been a while since the potential No. 1 pick publicly stated his refusal to play for the league's beatdogs, a la John Elway?There is exactly one compelling argument against firing Millen. Philadelphia Eagles jersey
Ford Sr. is the guy that ultimately approved Millen's hire and will be the rubber stamp for the new president and/or general manager of the Lions. Can he be trusted? After all, Isaiah Thomas should be looking for a new gig by Draft Day..."Fire Millen?" The proponents of this argument rhetorically ask, "What's the point?"RealFootball365.com: perpetually firing Millen from the Detroit Lions. (4)
roughly the last nine weeks, stories and speculation regarding the Honolulu blue-and-silver is all about one man, the guy hired to turn around a 9-7 franchise.(And no, nothing changes after a hard-fought, seven-point loss to the New England Patriots. When your most notable games of the year are a loss to the defending NFC champions and a loss to the Super Bowl champions of two seasons ago, things are just plain ill.)The free-for-all probably officially began with Millen's fine quote dated the Monday following the Kitty Cats' defining 17-10 loss at the Arizona Cardinals. "I don't even know what you're talking about," ran the man's line as reported by Steve Pate of the Oakland Press. "Don't even ask that."While the question begging this response could have related to really any subject from his plan for the No. 1 pick in the 2007 draft to offensive coordinator Mike Martz's future, it actually regarded whether "he had given any thought at all to stepping down as club president."Again, Millen's answer: "I don't even know what you're talking about. Don't even ask that."Meanwhile ESPN wag Bill Simmons threw in his pithy two cents with "Here's the week when Lions fans stop asking each other, 'Why the hell haven't they fired Millen yet?' and start asking, 'Wait, do you realize we could have taken Leinart last April ... why the hell haven't we fired Millen yet?'" Sports Illustrated online edition ran a tiny item from Philadelphia sportswriter Paul Domowitch. SI.com essentially ran the entire seemingly unsubstantiated rumor: "Matt Millen's wretched 6-year tenure as the Lions' general manager appears to be close to an end. Millen will sit down with owner William Clay Ford after the season, and that meeting is expected to result in Millen finally stepping down/getting fired."Aside from coming out of Philly, a distinctly non-Lions market, Domowitch's reportage feels a bit strange by dint of the fact that no one else has reported on this particular meeting. While an off-season meeting between Millen and Ford may actually happen, there is nothing to suggest that Millen will in fact find himself unemployed in 2007. (Except of course, status as the 31st or 32nd best team in the NFL - a fact that has yet to hurt Millen's standing with The Boss to this point.)Heck, the guys in the Motor City paid to watch this stuff (where "stuff" is a loose synonym for "Detroit Lions football") on a daily basis seemingly wouldn't believe a word suggesting Millen's going through the out door even if it made every non-Michigan headline in the country.Poor cynical Free-Press sportswriter Drew Sharp believes that Ford the Elder looks upon Millen as the son he never had. While vice chairman Bill Ford Jr. may know what's best for the football team, Daddy Ford values Millen's stubborn loyalty (And who wouldn't be loyal to a Oakland Raiders jersey
guy who distributes six-figure checks for incompetence?) more than Junior's business head.Sharp's colleague Nicholas J. Costonika goes so far as to suggest that it's simply too late to fire Millen in article that might have caused a wave of subscription cancellations had not most of Detroit tuned out Lions news long ago. Incredibly writes Costonika, "Like it or not, this is the reality: Millen has to remain with the Lions long enough to give [head coach Rod Marinelli] a fair shot to turn things around."Really? The reality as this writer sees it is simply that, keeping Marinelli firing Millen tomorrow will do nothing to erase the influence the guy will continue to have over this team for the remainder of this decade. Mike Williams, a.k.a. The Most Useless Player In The NFL, is merely the poster boy for a clump of moves made under Millen's jurisdiction that will affect the team's ability to dig itself out of holy mess it's in. among them. Williams holds a contract of $13.5 million with $9.5 million guaranteed; he's signed through 2009. Also signed through that season is Charles Rogers, who was thrown $14.5 million in signing bonus alone on a contract worth up to $55 million. Upon cutting Rogers, Millen was quoted in the Associated Press as stating "Maybe this is just one of those wrong-place, wrong-time things." Hmmm, maybe.Joey Harrington, currently giving Miami Dolphins fans hope for a mad dash at the playoffs, was signed for six years (through 2008) for $36.5 million. Harrington was iced from the roster by Marinelli after being forced to try and adapt to game plans from three different head coaches. At least Millen saved the team the $4 million roster bonus Harrington would have made in 2007. Surely, it will all have been worth it for that crucial sixth-round pick.The Lions are still throwing money out the window due to Dan Wilkinson's contract. And would you believe Steve Mariucci is still on the Detroit payroll for this year?One rumor regarding the Houston Texans', um, interesting choice of Mario Williams at No. 1 says that team officials, after meeting with Reggie Bush and his agent, simply decided they didn't want to pay the contract Bush could command as top pick. Ergo, the slightly cheaper Williams. Putting the Lions in the top spot on the draft board, even if Millen can show restraint for overhyped star talent as he did this year, guarantees nothing. Could Detroit pay a No. 1 pick enough? Marinelli has stated that Jon Kitna is the quarterback he wants for his system, but does this truly indicate that Troy Smith and/or Brady Quinn will be spared the title of Lions savior? And hasn't it been a while since the potential No. 1 pick publicly stated his refusal to play for the league's beatdogs, a la John Elway?There is exactly one compelling argument against firing Millen. Philadelphia Eagles jersey
Ford Sr. is the guy that ultimately approved Millen's hire and will be the rubber stamp for the new president and/or general manager of the Lions. Can he be trusted? After all, Isaiah Thomas should be looking for a new gig by Draft Day..."Fire Millen?" The proponents of this argument rhetorically ask, "What's the point?"RealFootball365.com: perpetually firing Millen from the Detroit Lions. (4)
2011年1月13日星期四
14 Jan 11 Seattle Seahawks "David Greene's progress worth watching"
The Seattle Seahawks have forever talked about getting Seneca Wallace on the field in a capacity other than quarterback, but circumstances have always conspired against the possibility.Wallace has elite athleticism, but you can count on one hand the number of times the Seahawks have tried to use it. A fourth-round pick in 2003, Wallace never got on the field in his first two seasons as he focused on learning how to play quarterback in the Seahawks' complicated West Coast scheme. Then the Hawks traded backup quarterback Trent Dilfer after the 2004 season, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
giving the No. 2 spot to Wallace heading into 2005. Since then, the team has been hesitant to use Wallace elsewhere because it didn't want to leave itself short at quarterback if he were to get injured. Head coach Mike Holmgren did put Wallace in a few times during the 2005 playoffs, and he even made a great catch against Carolina; but with no other backup options, Holmgren has been hesitant to use Wallace much more than that.The need to keep Wallace at quarterback was proven last season when Matt Hasselbeck missed four games with a sprained knee, and, because the Seahawks again did not sign a veteran this offseason, it appears Wallace's athleticism will wallow on the bench once more. That is, unless David Greene makes strides in his third year. A third-round pick out of Georgia in 2005, Greene looked completely lost in the offense as a rookie. He didn't look a whole lot better in the 2006 exhibition season, so the Seahawks are counting on him to show them something this year. If he can demonstrate some mastery of the offense in August, it could Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
give Seattle some comfort in knowing it has three guys who can play the position.With Hasselbeck limited as he recovers from shoulder surgery, Greene took a lot of snaps in the minicamp earlier this month. And the young QB probably will continue to get ample reps in the next minicamp, which begins June 4, and perhaps at the start of training camp as well.With Wallace a free agent after the 2007 season, the Seahawks really need to find out what they have in Greene so they have choices next offseason. Wallace will not be offered a starting gig by anyone, but some team might pursue him to be its No. 2. And the Seahawks need to have a backup plan for their backup plan. The team will have Greene for at least one more season because he will be merely a restricted free agent next offseason.Before the recent NFL draft, team president Tim Ruskell said the Seahawks are confident Greene can take the next step in the steep learning progression of the West Coast offense."He made some progress last year. This year he'll have to continue that and do more," Ruskell said. "It's a very hard system to develop in, and so it takes a little bit of time ... so you want to want to be patient with these guys. You do not want to have a quick trigger and pull the plug too early. We're not down on David. We like David. Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
We're excited about David."This summer, Seahawks fans will see whether Greene does enough to keep them excited -- and perhaps to put the athletic, playmaking potential of Wallace on the field at a spot other than quarterback.
giving the No. 2 spot to Wallace heading into 2005. Since then, the team has been hesitant to use Wallace elsewhere because it didn't want to leave itself short at quarterback if he were to get injured. Head coach Mike Holmgren did put Wallace in a few times during the 2005 playoffs, and he even made a great catch against Carolina; but with no other backup options, Holmgren has been hesitant to use Wallace much more than that.The need to keep Wallace at quarterback was proven last season when Matt Hasselbeck missed four games with a sprained knee, and, because the Seahawks again did not sign a veteran this offseason, it appears Wallace's athleticism will wallow on the bench once more. That is, unless David Greene makes strides in his third year. A third-round pick out of Georgia in 2005, Greene looked completely lost in the offense as a rookie. He didn't look a whole lot better in the 2006 exhibition season, so the Seahawks are counting on him to show them something this year. If he can demonstrate some mastery of the offense in August, it could Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
give Seattle some comfort in knowing it has three guys who can play the position.With Hasselbeck limited as he recovers from shoulder surgery, Greene took a lot of snaps in the minicamp earlier this month. And the young QB probably will continue to get ample reps in the next minicamp, which begins June 4, and perhaps at the start of training camp as well.With Wallace a free agent after the 2007 season, the Seahawks really need to find out what they have in Greene so they have choices next offseason. Wallace will not be offered a starting gig by anyone, but some team might pursue him to be its No. 2. And the Seahawks need to have a backup plan for their backup plan. The team will have Greene for at least one more season because he will be merely a restricted free agent next offseason.Before the recent NFL draft, team president Tim Ruskell said the Seahawks are confident Greene can take the next step in the steep learning progression of the West Coast offense."He made some progress last year. This year he'll have to continue that and do more," Ruskell said. "It's a very hard system to develop in, and so it takes a little bit of time ... so you want to want to be patient with these guys. You do not want to have a quick trigger and pull the plug too early. We're not down on David. We like David. Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
We're excited about David."This summer, Seahawks fans will see whether Greene does enough to keep them excited -- and perhaps to put the athletic, playmaking potential of Wallace on the field at a spot other than quarterback.
2011年1月12日星期三
13 Jan 11 Remembering the Three J's: Dallas' Young and Exciting Trio of the 1990s
Building through the draft has proven to be an effective way to build an NBA championship-winning team.The Dallas Mavericks took that approach in the 1990s as they used top-five picks in three consecutive years on talented youngsters Jim Jackson, Jamal Mashburn, and Jason Kidd.DubbedReebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
the "Three J's," the trio appeared to be the perfect pieces to rebuild around. Jackson and Mashburn were dangerous wing scorers, while Kidd was the ultimate pass-first point guard who could make everyone around him better. Kidd's rookie year, 1994-95, was the first season the trio played together and each player made valuable contributions.Kidd led the league in triple-doubles and ended up sharing Rookie of the Year honors with Grant Hill.Jackson and Mashburn formed one of the league's highest scoring duos as they both averaged over 24 points per game. They both had 50-point games that season as well.But more importantly, the Mavs finished with a 36-46 record, which was a 23-win improvement from the previous season.The next season everything would fall apart.Mashburn appeared in only 18 games, Jackson saw his scoring average drop to 19.6 ppg, and the Mavericks floundered to a lousy 26-56 record.Kidd and Jackson then began to fight with one another. According to rumors, the two feuded over RB singer Toni Braxton after Braxton went to pick up Kidd for a date at an Atlanta hotel and left with Jackson instead.The Three Js' tenure in Dallas would then come to an end during the 1996-97 season as all three members were traded out of town.Kidd was dealt to the Phoenix Suns on the day after Christmas in a package that included future Mavs star Michael Finley.Then in February, Mashburn was sent to the Miami Heat and Jackson wound up heading to the New Jersey Nets in a huge nine-player trade.The Three J's experiment had failed miserably, but all three members went on to have successful careers.Kidd emerged as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history. The nine-time All-Star was named to six All-NBA teams, nine All-Defensive teams, and became the second all-time Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
assist leader.Mashburn continued to be hampered with injuries, but became an All-Star with the New Orleans Hornets in 2003.And Jackson turned into the ultimate journeyman playing for 10 other teams. However, he proved to be a solid reserve for many years. The Three J's never led the Mavericks to a championship or a playoff berth, but they sure were fun to watch when they were healthy and not bickering with one another.
the "Three J's," the trio appeared to be the perfect pieces to rebuild around. Jackson and Mashburn were dangerous wing scorers, while Kidd was the ultimate pass-first point guard who could make everyone around him better. Kidd's rookie year, 1994-95, was the first season the trio played together and each player made valuable contributions.Kidd led the league in triple-doubles and ended up sharing Rookie of the Year honors with Grant Hill.Jackson and Mashburn formed one of the league's highest scoring duos as they both averaged over 24 points per game. They both had 50-point games that season as well.But more importantly, the Mavs finished with a 36-46 record, which was a 23-win improvement from the previous season.The next season everything would fall apart.Mashburn appeared in only 18 games, Jackson saw his scoring average drop to 19.6 ppg, and the Mavericks floundered to a lousy 26-56 record.Kidd and Jackson then began to fight with one another. According to rumors, the two feuded over RB singer Toni Braxton after Braxton went to pick up Kidd for a date at an Atlanta hotel and left with Jackson instead.The Three Js' tenure in Dallas would then come to an end during the 1996-97 season as all three members were traded out of town.Kidd was dealt to the Phoenix Suns on the day after Christmas in a package that included future Mavs star Michael Finley.Then in February, Mashburn was sent to the Miami Heat and Jackson wound up heading to the New Jersey Nets in a huge nine-player trade.The Three J's experiment had failed miserably, but all three members went on to have successful careers.Kidd emerged as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history. The nine-time All-Star was named to six All-NBA teams, nine All-Defensive teams, and became the second all-time Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
assist leader.Mashburn continued to be hampered with injuries, but became an All-Star with the New Orleans Hornets in 2003.And Jackson turned into the ultimate journeyman playing for 10 other teams. However, he proved to be a solid reserve for many years. The Three J's never led the Mavericks to a championship or a playoff berth, but they sure were fun to watch when they were healthy and not bickering with one another.
12 Jan 11 Two Philadelphia 76ers A.I. All-Stars? Andre Iguodala's Case for Consideration
Chris Chambers/Getty ImagesThe Philadelphia 76ers will already be sending one player with the initials A.I. to the NBA All-Star Game in Dallas next month. Surely, it is not the one fans would have imagined at the beginning of the season, as Allen Iverson improbably returned in December. No, this isReebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
concerning Andre Iguodala, a frustrating yet extremely talented player, and his case for All-Star recognition.All last season, Sixers fans heard then-head coach Tony DiLeo proclaim it would be Iguodala's last year taking vacation time during All-Star Weekend. Even before this season, Iguodala could have been expected to elevate his game to the next level. Now in his sixth season, Iguodala has provided many with jaw-dropping athleticism yet failure to conjure up a dominant game. With a contract worth over $80 million, you damn well should be an All-Star caliber player.Well, based on performances thus far, Iguodala is an All-Star this year. No, Andre will not impress you with the smoothness of his jumper or his post-game interviews. However, he will provide one of the most well-rounded games in the NBA.An extremely durable player, Iguodala has only missed six games in his career and started every one that he has played in, including 44 this season. In 2009-2010 he is averaging 17.6 PPG, above his career average of 15.8. Simple-minded fans would glance at this respectable but not amazing stat and pass on Iguodala's credentials. Don't do this. After spending a lot of time early in the season handling the ball, he has racked up 5.7 APG while creating countless opportunities for his teammates. Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
For most, basketball stops there on the offensive end. This unfortunately hurts the argument for Iggy even more, as he may be best on the defensive side of things.On a given night, (imbecile) head coach Eddie Jordan may require Andre to guard up to four different positions, and he does it well. Even as a two or a three, Iguodala manages to pull down 6.9 RPG, adding 1.9 SPG. If you have Andre Iguodala on your fantasy basketball team, you are probably pleasantly surprised.But does that make him an All-Star?We know LeBron James, Kevin Garnett, Dwayne Wade, Dwight Howard, and Iverson will start for the Eastern Conference squad. That leaves seven open spots for some good players worthy of a great honor. Chris Bosh has to be the first man off the bench. Based on his incredible statistical production, Gerald Wallace should earn his first berth. Joe Johnson and Josh Smith should be awarded a spot in the Big D due to their contributions to the surprising Atlanta Hawks. Rajon Rondo finally seems to be bursting into the "Big Three" bubble, outlasting teammates Paul Pierce and Ray Allen.Two spots remain. Pierce and Allen could be considered as well as Derrick Rose, David Lee, Antawn Jamison, and Steven Jackson. It would be easier if Allen Iverson wasn't in the picture, but hey, I'm not complaining. Boston has their two stars, the Wizards are too much of a mess to consider Jamison, and the Bobcats will definitely not have two, after never having any representatives.When he was drafted No. 9 overall in the 2004 Draft, the Sixers Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
organization and fans alike did not know what they were getting with Andre Iguodala. Surely we knew about the athletic, unproven player. Still six years later, I feel the same way. Iguodala has displayed immense talent but has remained unrecognized vastly among media and his peers.An All-Star berth would be a wise choice for A.I. No. 2.
concerning Andre Iguodala, a frustrating yet extremely talented player, and his case for All-Star recognition.All last season, Sixers fans heard then-head coach Tony DiLeo proclaim it would be Iguodala's last year taking vacation time during All-Star Weekend. Even before this season, Iguodala could have been expected to elevate his game to the next level. Now in his sixth season, Iguodala has provided many with jaw-dropping athleticism yet failure to conjure up a dominant game. With a contract worth over $80 million, you damn well should be an All-Star caliber player.Well, based on performances thus far, Iguodala is an All-Star this year. No, Andre will not impress you with the smoothness of his jumper or his post-game interviews. However, he will provide one of the most well-rounded games in the NBA.An extremely durable player, Iguodala has only missed six games in his career and started every one that he has played in, including 44 this season. In 2009-2010 he is averaging 17.6 PPG, above his career average of 15.8. Simple-minded fans would glance at this respectable but not amazing stat and pass on Iguodala's credentials. Don't do this. After spending a lot of time early in the season handling the ball, he has racked up 5.7 APG while creating countless opportunities for his teammates. Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
For most, basketball stops there on the offensive end. This unfortunately hurts the argument for Iggy even more, as he may be best on the defensive side of things.On a given night, (imbecile) head coach Eddie Jordan may require Andre to guard up to four different positions, and he does it well. Even as a two or a three, Iguodala manages to pull down 6.9 RPG, adding 1.9 SPG. If you have Andre Iguodala on your fantasy basketball team, you are probably pleasantly surprised.But does that make him an All-Star?We know LeBron James, Kevin Garnett, Dwayne Wade, Dwight Howard, and Iverson will start for the Eastern Conference squad. That leaves seven open spots for some good players worthy of a great honor. Chris Bosh has to be the first man off the bench. Based on his incredible statistical production, Gerald Wallace should earn his first berth. Joe Johnson and Josh Smith should be awarded a spot in the Big D due to their contributions to the surprising Atlanta Hawks. Rajon Rondo finally seems to be bursting into the "Big Three" bubble, outlasting teammates Paul Pierce and Ray Allen.Two spots remain. Pierce and Allen could be considered as well as Derrick Rose, David Lee, Antawn Jamison, and Steven Jackson. It would be easier if Allen Iverson wasn't in the picture, but hey, I'm not complaining. Boston has their two stars, the Wizards are too much of a mess to consider Jamison, and the Bobcats will definitely not have two, after never having any representatives.When he was drafted No. 9 overall in the 2004 Draft, the Sixers Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
organization and fans alike did not know what they were getting with Andre Iguodala. Surely we knew about the athletic, unproven player. Still six years later, I feel the same way. Iguodala has displayed immense talent but has remained unrecognized vastly among media and his peers.An All-Star berth would be a wise choice for A.I. No. 2.
2011年1月10日星期一
10 Jan 11 Lebron will prove he's better than Kobe when he beats the Lakers in June
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesThe Cleveland Cavaliers acquired two-time All-Star Antawn Jamison in a three-team trade Wednesday night.Cleveland, which has won 11 consecutive games and owns the best record in the league at 43-11, only squandered Zydrunas Ilgauskas and their first-round pick to obtain Jamison. Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
Jamison, 33, the fourth overall selection in the 1998 NBA Draft out of the University of North Carolina, is a skilled and rugged power forward who was averaging an impressive 20.5 points for the Washington Wizards prior to last night transaction.At this juncture, barring an injury to superstar LeBron James, the Cavaliers seem destined to easily waltz through the Eastern Conference and into the NBA Finals in June.James, 25, a three-time All-NBA First Team selection and the 2009 MVP, is indisputably the best player in the world today.Ever since he made his professional debut with Cleveland in 2003, James hasn been surrounded with enough talent to capture a title.However, with legendary center Shaquille ONeal, 2009 All-Star point guard Mo Williams, and Jamison, James now has the type of teammates that can help him win the Larry OBrien Championship Trophy.Presently, the only squads that are even remotely capable of competing with Cleveland are the Boston Celtics (33-18), the Orlando Magic (37-18), the San Antonio Spurs (31-21), and the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers (42-13).The Celtics, Magic, and Spurs are all very solid teams.Nevertheless, in actuality, not one of those three teams can genuinely topple the Cavs.It is virtually inevitable that NBA Commissioner David Stern will Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
realize his ultimate fantasy this summer and he will be blessed with a showdown pitting James and the Cavs versus the Lakers and Kobe Bryant for the crown.The Lakers are extremely formidable and they currently have an even better cast of players on their roster than they did last year.Still, in approximately four months, expect a sports team based in the city of Cleveland to become champions for the first time since the Lyndon B. Johnson administration.
Jamison, 33, the fourth overall selection in the 1998 NBA Draft out of the University of North Carolina, is a skilled and rugged power forward who was averaging an impressive 20.5 points for the Washington Wizards prior to last night transaction.At this juncture, barring an injury to superstar LeBron James, the Cavaliers seem destined to easily waltz through the Eastern Conference and into the NBA Finals in June.James, 25, a three-time All-NBA First Team selection and the 2009 MVP, is indisputably the best player in the world today.Ever since he made his professional debut with Cleveland in 2003, James hasn been surrounded with enough talent to capture a title.However, with legendary center Shaquille ONeal, 2009 All-Star point guard Mo Williams, and Jamison, James now has the type of teammates that can help him win the Larry OBrien Championship Trophy.Presently, the only squads that are even remotely capable of competing with Cleveland are the Boston Celtics (33-18), the Orlando Magic (37-18), the San Antonio Spurs (31-21), and the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers (42-13).The Celtics, Magic, and Spurs are all very solid teams.Nevertheless, in actuality, not one of those three teams can genuinely topple the Cavs.It is virtually inevitable that NBA Commissioner David Stern will Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
realize his ultimate fantasy this summer and he will be blessed with a showdown pitting James and the Cavs versus the Lakers and Kobe Bryant for the crown.The Lakers are extremely formidable and they currently have an even better cast of players on their roster than they did last year.Still, in approximately four months, expect a sports team based in the city of Cleveland to become champions for the first time since the Lyndon B. Johnson administration.
2011年1月9日星期日
9 Jan 11 Atlanta Coach Mike Woodson Case of Mistaken Identity, Mavs Beat Hawks
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesYoure the head coach of the Atlanta Hawks and were up by as much as 15 points with only eight minutes left in the game when your opponent begins clawing their way back into the game.Your opponent is also one of the best teams in the NBA, the Dallas Mavericks, with one of the best players Seattle Seahawks jersey
in the league, Dirk Nowitzki.In a back-and-forth type of contest where your team has come back from a 14-point deficit, and is starting to unravel and appear to be on their way to letting a sure win fall through the cracks, doesn't a timeout seem like the most appropriate thing to do if you are the head coach? Not if you are Mike Woodson.No, instead, you do your best impression of the great Zen master Phil Jackson and let your team figure out how to dig themselves out of the hole.Only one problemyou are not one of the league all-time best coaches, and your team is not one of the league all-time greatest franchises in the Los Angeles Lakers.Instead of calling a timeout and helping his players figure out how to break through the Mavericks zone defense, Woodson just stood there on the sideline with his arms folded across his chest.Not only did he just stand there looking like a leaf on a log, he was so unaware of what was going around him that he gave Jason Kidd an opportunity to make him look like a complete fool.With under two minutes left in the game, the Hawks, still with a two-point lead, watched as their head coach made his attempt at making SportsCenter not Top Ten list.Kidd was pushing the ball up the court when he noticed that Woodson was a little too far out on the court than he should be. Kidd, being the St. Louis Rams jersey
veteran that he is, ran right towards Woodson, and the two shared a small nudge.The impact was enough to knock Woodson off balance, and enough for the officials to issue a technical foul on Woodson for interference. That sent Nowitzki to the foul line, where he made the free-throw attempt, and, seconds later, Kidd nailed a three to give the Mavericks back the lead.From here, the game did go into overtime, so Woodson mishap did not cost his team yet, but it clearly gave the Mavericks back the momentum.Also, it was like Woodson and the Hawks were suddenly frozen in a dazed and confused state of mind, while Dallas outscored the Hawks 12-4 in the overtime and left Atlanta with the win.Kidd was a Hawks-killer in more ways than one. He finished with his first triple double this season19 points, 16 rebounds, and 17 assiststo lead his team to victory.The Mavericks were able to get back into the game when they switched to a zone on defense in the fourth quarter, and outscored the Hawks 34-23 in the period. Atlanta could not penetrate through the Mavericks zone, and Tennessee Titans jersey
was forced to keep settling for outside shots. They didn fall.Maybe if Woodson had decided to call even a quick 20-second timeout the Hawks could have at least tried to figure out how to get through the zone defense. Instead, he let his team keep throwing up bricks while on their way to letting a big win slip away.Thanks Mike. I only wonder what you will do next for an encore.
in the league, Dirk Nowitzki.In a back-and-forth type of contest where your team has come back from a 14-point deficit, and is starting to unravel and appear to be on their way to letting a sure win fall through the cracks, doesn't a timeout seem like the most appropriate thing to do if you are the head coach? Not if you are Mike Woodson.No, instead, you do your best impression of the great Zen master Phil Jackson and let your team figure out how to dig themselves out of the hole.Only one problemyou are not one of the league all-time best coaches, and your team is not one of the league all-time greatest franchises in the Los Angeles Lakers.Instead of calling a timeout and helping his players figure out how to break through the Mavericks zone defense, Woodson just stood there on the sideline with his arms folded across his chest.Not only did he just stand there looking like a leaf on a log, he was so unaware of what was going around him that he gave Jason Kidd an opportunity to make him look like a complete fool.With under two minutes left in the game, the Hawks, still with a two-point lead, watched as their head coach made his attempt at making SportsCenter not Top Ten list.Kidd was pushing the ball up the court when he noticed that Woodson was a little too far out on the court than he should be. Kidd, being the St. Louis Rams jersey
veteran that he is, ran right towards Woodson, and the two shared a small nudge.The impact was enough to knock Woodson off balance, and enough for the officials to issue a technical foul on Woodson for interference. That sent Nowitzki to the foul line, where he made the free-throw attempt, and, seconds later, Kidd nailed a three to give the Mavericks back the lead.From here, the game did go into overtime, so Woodson mishap did not cost his team yet, but it clearly gave the Mavericks back the momentum.Also, it was like Woodson and the Hawks were suddenly frozen in a dazed and confused state of mind, while Dallas outscored the Hawks 12-4 in the overtime and left Atlanta with the win.Kidd was a Hawks-killer in more ways than one. He finished with his first triple double this season19 points, 16 rebounds, and 17 assiststo lead his team to victory.The Mavericks were able to get back into the game when they switched to a zone on defense in the fourth quarter, and outscored the Hawks 34-23 in the period. Atlanta could not penetrate through the Mavericks zone, and Tennessee Titans jersey
was forced to keep settling for outside shots. They didn fall.Maybe if Woodson had decided to call even a quick 20-second timeout the Hawks could have at least tried to figure out how to get through the zone defense. Instead, he let his team keep throwing up bricks while on their way to letting a big win slip away.Thanks Mike. I only wonder what you will do next for an encore.
2011年1月8日星期六
8 Jan 11 The Golden State Warriors Shouldn't Panic...Yet
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesI don't need to recap this season. We all know that watching the Warriors has often been like watching amateur erotic theatreoccasionally brilliant, occasionally frustrating, but nearly always painful as they find a way to mess things up. (This is not meant to disparage hard-working amateur erotic theatre performers or their fans.)Having said that, we all know what the brightest G-spots in the sea of flesh and premature ejaculations has been: the rapid development of Stephen Curry and the consistent scoring of Monta Ellis.(Okay, I'll stop Washington Redskins jersey
the erotic theatre references now.)After watching the last game against the Raptors, I was further convinced that Warriors management have to give Monta and Steph a full year to develop. Already, despite the Monta-Curry compatibility issue, they're the most dynamic backcourt in the league.Sure, they're a little lacking on defense, but if the Dubs re-sign Raja Bell, they can bring him off the bench if Monta or Steph are getting blown away on a particular night. We don't need them to be absolute lockdown guys.Having said that, I do believe there are some things management and the team needs to do for us to finally return to the playoffs.1) Andris Biedrins Needs To Develop a Post GameA lot of people have already given up on Biedrins and are calling for him to be shipped out this offseason for a post player. And I'm acquainted with his flaws, namely that he can't shoot to save his life, he has very little post game, and isn't that great a stopper in the paint.However, guys with his mobility, rebounding, and blocking ability, and more importantly bigs with his price tag, don't come around every day.That's why I believe that they need to develop Biedrins rather than give up on him.In a decent system, he would have developed some post moves by now. Since he's only human and isn't going to magically develop them out of thin air, they need to get someone in to help him learn.I hear there's a bloke called Hakeem Olajuwon out there who might be keen to help for the right price. Why haven't they called him in yet?Developing a post game at both ends will take Biedrins closer to being the dominant center he has the potential to become, which means we won't need to trade for a big man.2) Get Rid of Maggette by Any Means NecessaryLook, I'm sure Corey Maggette is a nice bloke. And he is a good scorer and one of the best in the league at drawing fouls. But he can't play anything resembling defense, he can't shoot threes, and he's making $10 million a year.This offseason, the Dubs need to work the phones of every team that needs a scorer and is willing to take on his contract. If we have to take scraps for him, so be it. Hell, I'd seriously consider taking DeShawn Stevenson for him (hint, hint, Mark Cuban).Even if it means we have to trade our first-round pick, it might be a necessary evil to save Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
some money.If all else fails, I might be able to negotiate a trade with the Wollongong Hawks of the Australian NBL.3) Give Steph and Monta Tickets to Vegas This OffseasonOkay, I imagine you're thinking something along the lines of "What?!" Hear me out.A few years ago, my favourite rugby team brought in a new star who had to combine with our stud second-year player who had been injured for most of his rookie year. For the first half of the season, we struggled along outside the playoff race, and they never managed to form the combination good teams need in their positions.When the team had a two-week break around midseason, the coach called them into his office, gave them 10 days off practice and two tickets to Bali, and had them stay in one hotel room.Once they got back from their trip, we didn't lose another game that season and went on to win our first title since 1969.Personal chemistry is a quality that's extremely underrated in pro sports these days. But does anyone doubt that part of the reason the Cavaliers are the favourites for this year's title, despite being primarily made up of LeBron, one guy whose best days are behind him and a bunch of scrubs, is because they all seem to be best mates? Or, for the same reason, that the Thunder are the team everyone fears in the future?Monta and Steph don't seem to have any personal chemistry at all. Maybe their problems co-existing could be simply down to this? A trip to Vegas can make any two men best friends if you experience the highs and lows together. (Or so I've heard.)4) Nellie Boy Has To GoI've been a strident critic of Don Nelson in the past, but anyone can tell his heart isn't in coaching anymore just by watching him on the bench.Why does he stick around? Because he's only seven games away from the NBA win record for a coach.Whatever I may say about him, he's won 1,326 more games as an NBA coach than I have. Therefore, I reckon he deserves to at least get his record and retire to Hawaii in peace.In the meantime, management should start making a succession planline up Avery Johnson, Byron Scott, whoever. Hell, get Larry Brown inif anyone can teach these guys defense, he can. Which leads me to...5) Improve Team DefenseThe main flaw this season has been our defense. Well, duh, you say. Our guys can't defend.However, our problem isn't just that Monta and Steph can't lockdown their men. It's that we don't have anything resembling team D.Once again, I cite the Cavs. Antawn Jamison can't defend physical big men, and Mo Williams can't defend anything. Why doesn't this hurt them? Because they have a fantastic help defensive scheme.The Warriors don't have anything resembling the conceptwe rely almost totally on man-to-man D. And even if you had Batman defending against Kobe, Brandon Roy, Joe Johnson, etc., he's not going to be able to consistently lock them down if he gives up several inches in height.We need to develop a team defense. This ties into point four: Don Nelson won't (or can't) teach it. So we need a Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
coach who can.If you look at it, these are all little things. I don't believe we need to panic and blow up the roster by any meansin fact, I firmly believe that we have a terrific young nucleus who can lead us into the playoffs sooner rather than later. Even if our management are incompetent, these moves don't require rocket scientists at the helm. They mostly require a little common sense, a cool head, and some initiative.Unfortunately, it seems all the initiative in the Bay Area belongs to the fans right now.
the erotic theatre references now.)After watching the last game against the Raptors, I was further convinced that Warriors management have to give Monta and Steph a full year to develop. Already, despite the Monta-Curry compatibility issue, they're the most dynamic backcourt in the league.Sure, they're a little lacking on defense, but if the Dubs re-sign Raja Bell, they can bring him off the bench if Monta or Steph are getting blown away on a particular night. We don't need them to be absolute lockdown guys.Having said that, I do believe there are some things management and the team needs to do for us to finally return to the playoffs.1) Andris Biedrins Needs To Develop a Post GameA lot of people have already given up on Biedrins and are calling for him to be shipped out this offseason for a post player. And I'm acquainted with his flaws, namely that he can't shoot to save his life, he has very little post game, and isn't that great a stopper in the paint.However, guys with his mobility, rebounding, and blocking ability, and more importantly bigs with his price tag, don't come around every day.That's why I believe that they need to develop Biedrins rather than give up on him.In a decent system, he would have developed some post moves by now. Since he's only human and isn't going to magically develop them out of thin air, they need to get someone in to help him learn.I hear there's a bloke called Hakeem Olajuwon out there who might be keen to help for the right price. Why haven't they called him in yet?Developing a post game at both ends will take Biedrins closer to being the dominant center he has the potential to become, which means we won't need to trade for a big man.2) Get Rid of Maggette by Any Means NecessaryLook, I'm sure Corey Maggette is a nice bloke. And he is a good scorer and one of the best in the league at drawing fouls. But he can't play anything resembling defense, he can't shoot threes, and he's making $10 million a year.This offseason, the Dubs need to work the phones of every team that needs a scorer and is willing to take on his contract. If we have to take scraps for him, so be it. Hell, I'd seriously consider taking DeShawn Stevenson for him (hint, hint, Mark Cuban).Even if it means we have to trade our first-round pick, it might be a necessary evil to save Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
some money.If all else fails, I might be able to negotiate a trade with the Wollongong Hawks of the Australian NBL.3) Give Steph and Monta Tickets to Vegas This OffseasonOkay, I imagine you're thinking something along the lines of "What?!" Hear me out.A few years ago, my favourite rugby team brought in a new star who had to combine with our stud second-year player who had been injured for most of his rookie year. For the first half of the season, we struggled along outside the playoff race, and they never managed to form the combination good teams need in their positions.When the team had a two-week break around midseason, the coach called them into his office, gave them 10 days off practice and two tickets to Bali, and had them stay in one hotel room.Once they got back from their trip, we didn't lose another game that season and went on to win our first title since 1969.Personal chemistry is a quality that's extremely underrated in pro sports these days. But does anyone doubt that part of the reason the Cavaliers are the favourites for this year's title, despite being primarily made up of LeBron, one guy whose best days are behind him and a bunch of scrubs, is because they all seem to be best mates? Or, for the same reason, that the Thunder are the team everyone fears in the future?Monta and Steph don't seem to have any personal chemistry at all. Maybe their problems co-existing could be simply down to this? A trip to Vegas can make any two men best friends if you experience the highs and lows together. (Or so I've heard.)4) Nellie Boy Has To GoI've been a strident critic of Don Nelson in the past, but anyone can tell his heart isn't in coaching anymore just by watching him on the bench.Why does he stick around? Because he's only seven games away from the NBA win record for a coach.Whatever I may say about him, he's won 1,326 more games as an NBA coach than I have. Therefore, I reckon he deserves to at least get his record and retire to Hawaii in peace.In the meantime, management should start making a succession planline up Avery Johnson, Byron Scott, whoever. Hell, get Larry Brown inif anyone can teach these guys defense, he can. Which leads me to...5) Improve Team DefenseThe main flaw this season has been our defense. Well, duh, you say. Our guys can't defend.However, our problem isn't just that Monta and Steph can't lockdown their men. It's that we don't have anything resembling team D.Once again, I cite the Cavs. Antawn Jamison can't defend physical big men, and Mo Williams can't defend anything. Why doesn't this hurt them? Because they have a fantastic help defensive scheme.The Warriors don't have anything resembling the conceptwe rely almost totally on man-to-man D. And even if you had Batman defending against Kobe, Brandon Roy, Joe Johnson, etc., he's not going to be able to consistently lock them down if he gives up several inches in height.We need to develop a team defense. This ties into point four: Don Nelson won't (or can't) teach it. So we need a Reebok Baltimore Ravens #5 Joe Flacco Realtree camo Jersey
coach who can.If you look at it, these are all little things. I don't believe we need to panic and blow up the roster by any meansin fact, I firmly believe that we have a terrific young nucleus who can lead us into the playoffs sooner rather than later. Even if our management are incompetent, these moves don't require rocket scientists at the helm. They mostly require a little common sense, a cool head, and some initiative.Unfortunately, it seems all the initiative in the Bay Area belongs to the fans right now.
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