Chris Graythen/Getty ImagesThe Orlando Magic handed the Chicago Bulls their most lopsided preseason loss in a 107- 67 rout that was marked a Bulls team that had little answers for the Magic’s offense. While a Bulls win against the Magic was unlikely, given that there starting power forward Carlos Boozer continued to be missed in the lineup due to injury compared to a relatively healthy Magic team, what seemed most apparent is that the team had little in the tank and it was evident from the opening tip off. Throughout the game, Bulls players almost universally shot poorly. After coming off a closely contested loss against the Dallas Mavericks, which probably drained the Bulls both emotionally and physically, the team reportedly flew into Orlando at 4am the next morning Houston Texans jersey
for their same day confrontation with Orlando. Regardless, there were some factors throughout the game that fatigued or not perhaps could have been managed better.The Bulls defense allowed perimeter scoring from Orlando to open up an early lead that the Bulls could not recover. As was exemplified in the Dallas game prior, the Bulls may have been better off utilizing a zone defense which was used effectively against the Bulls by the Mavericks. While the Bulls may have chosen not to do so against Orlando for fear of Dwight Howard beating them on inside feeds, given the back to back schedule, the Bulls might have considered going with a slower tempo game to conserve energy and challenge Howard to beat them. Orlando spread the floor so much that Bulls players were running around after balls and getting even more tired doing so. The lack of energy for the Bulls was pronounced as many players were late rotating to defensive assignments. On one play, Magic backup center Marcin Gortat got behind the Bulls defense for an easy score which was somewhat of a repeat of lapses seen in previous games. Towards the end of the third quarter, Orlando was almost scoring at will. On offense, while the Bulls got many good looks; execution was a problem. The Bulls bench players came into the game early and played heavy minutes.While hard to see, the Bulls did have some bright spots in the game and can hopefully utilize that as a learning experience that can lead to the team adding another dimension to their game. The Bulls were actually able to execute their offense, again, it seemed as though it was more a matter of converting as opposed to giving themselves opportunities to score, as the Bulls shot only 31% from the field. Also the projected bench players did provided solid post defense in the first half of the game as opposed to perimeter defense which was what put them in a deep hole by the end of the half. There was also still good hustle by the Bulls on defense, even if with less energy, it continues to be an improvement over last year. They were able to force turnovers.As for individual play, most of the team shot the ball poorly except for Derrick Rose who scored the only points for the starting lineup in the first half. Rose finished with seven points in limited minutes. C. J. Watson was perhaps the only Bull who had a good game providing the only real somewhat consistent offensive effort. Watson had a nice drive and layup to end the Indianapolis Colts jersey
first quarter. He also contributed on the defensive end especially late in the first quarter which led to a forced turnover and he took a hard charge at the beginning of the third quarter. He ended the game with 13 points and 4 assists. Luol Deng had a long night not connecting with his shots. He only found a bit of success driving to the hole and drawing fouls. James Johnson also struggled connecting but he ended the game with 10 points and 5 rebounds. There were some offensive successes that were somewhat effective, what was unclear is why they were not fully utilized. An area where the Bulls may refocus their effort includes the ability of several of their players to drive the ball. What the Bulls can build on is that on the occasions they took the ball strong to the basket, they found some pay dirt, getting to the foul line and even converting three point plays. Thus far the Bulls have seemed like a one dimensional team (although in fairness that is partly the result of injuries to key players). However, if the limited scoring was successful when they put the ball on the floor then it may make sense to explore using that more often. Some of these flashes of small victories came when Joakim Noah drove to the basket and drew a third personal on Dwight Howard; Ronnie Brewer driving to the rim got him to the free throw line; Luol Deng who struggled all night converted on a three point play on a drive in the third quarter and even Roger Powell’s drive and dunk at the end of the game provided a nice symbolic “refuse to quit” moment for the team. The Bulls seemed more consistent driving to the rim, which should be a message to the team to make this a more permanent part to their offensive repertoire. Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
While this loss to the Magic is embarrassing more so in a emblematic way, the Magic may have also provided the blueprint for how the Bulls can be successful, by mixing up their offensive sets and utilizing the additional talents of their players, specifically their ability to penetrate a defense which we have not seen much of thus far. This may be an instance where coaching should work to make the Bulls more than the one dimensional team they have been thus far in the preseason.For the game, I would grade the Bulls defense a C+, and the offense a C, coaching a B and the team overall a C.
2010年12月23日星期四
Anyone who considers the comparison laughable did not watch Bonner drill seven consecutive treysin Oklahoma City a week ago
The Spurs owe that paramount road victory to second-half defense and his shooting.Lakers starting center Andrew Bynum has not played in a game since June 17, and when healthy, he can demolish pillow-soft frontlines by himself. The Hornets overcame uncertainty and a front office upheaval in speeding to an 11-1 record. Did anyone expect a lineup with Emeka Okafor, who looked washed up and disengagedat times last season, and Smith, Belinelli and Willie Green to win at a pace that portends more than 55 victories?The Nuggets limped into Houston Oct. 30with key big menChris Anderson and Kenyon Martin out until January. Harrington, who dropped 28 points, had been playing through discomfort and some minor injuries.The Rockets, much like the Portland Trail Blazers, could Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
compare their luck over the last five years to Hurley from the now defunct TV dramaLost. No matter how many times Morey seems to win the lottery in a trade or with a draft pick, the house keeps falling down just after his pants do. Forgive him if he feels like the emperor with no clothes or Clarice Starling battling a sicker, cruelerenemy than Hannibal Lecter.Beyond the caustic defense, other obvious issues have plagued this last-place outfit. Chase Budinger, the team's best spot-up shooter and dunker, is hitting just 15 percent of his three-pointers and has thrown it down just four times. He was scoreless Friday in his return from injury. What is it with the Rockets and left ankle sprains?Kyle Lowry established himself as one of the league's best change-of-pace point guards last season. He took charges and made remarkable hustle plays. Now, he's just taking bad shots and making 29 percent of them. Back spasms and similar ankle issues do not excuse his paltry selection.Fans groaned when referees removed his lateoff-balance trey and leaner in Wednesday's loss. Replays showed the ball was still in his hands when the shot clock expired and the red light appeared. Instead of berating blatant calls, the Rockets' faithfulshould have bemoaned an offense that could not muster better attempts.Good luck winning with those numbers.Shane Battier and Chuck Hayes can still administer brutish, intelligent and admirable defensive performances, but they still can't score with a pencil. Budinger would merit more praise Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
for thetime hespent working on defensive fundamentals if he was not abusing the rims. Then again, Raptors forwardLinas Kleiza beat him to a pulp and treated himlike a rag doll in Friday's loss. Courtney Lee's minute ration is not the only thing in fluctuation. His game alsocomes and goes. Adelman needs a lot more from Lee than he's getting.Jordan Hillhaslooked like a lost mountain climber in need of a Sherpa. Ishmael Smithhasheart and grit, not to mention superb court vision,but he would not have gone undrafted if he was destined to take over fourth quarters the way Rose did during the Bulls 18-0 spurt toopen Wednesday's final period. Brad Miller has given Adelman everything he could want as a role player who can pass and knock down uncontested jumpshots, butgiving himstarter's minutes exposes his flaws. His ability to protect the rim has not aged gracefully.Martin earns nine free throw attempts a game, a fabulous number on paper, but hecannot manufacture enough points when the pressure-packed moments arrive. If Kobe Bryant is the NBA's best looking bride in the clutch, Martin is its mostperplexing example of a bridesmaid posing as the wedding'sstar attraction.Heimpresses during the rehearsal dinner andinterlude, but when it comes time to walk down the aisle and say "I do," you might as well sing "Here comes the brick."Scola, who still has not located Harrington, gets by on effort much more than talent. He has been the best and most consistent Rocket thus far, and that is another problem. The best teams boast No. 1 options who can slack off and still rank asplus players. Scola would be nothing more than a benchwarming body if hiscompetitive juices did not fuel him so.Sheer talent beats depth in a head-to-head race. Morey thought he had assembled a roster with plenty of both. Instead, the guys with the finest physical gifts too often appear sluggish and disinterested, and the workhorses cannot jump any higher or move any quicker.Few in Houston, including this writer, ever imagined the Rockets would start 3-9. Now, many once jubilant fanswonder if the team will ever win again. Houston did not roar out of the gates when Brooks and Yao started. No one can expect the future re-additions to the lineup to transform this defense into an adequate one, especially when Yao's peak abilities following reconstructive foot surgery remain unknown.Brooks and Yao, 20 points-per-game scorers at their best, can help the offense late in Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
games, but can either approximate a superstar?So much for liftoff.The Rockets were supposed to fall into the NBA's abyss in the 2009-2010 campaign sans Yao's interior presence. They would take that 6-4 start in a heartbeat now.The atrociousdefense has beenthe worst of the myriadproblems. If they want to stop a painful slide tonight, they must first stop somebody on the Sunswith the game on the line.After that, all Morey and Adelman have to do is worry about everything else. Forget lift-off. Mere engine noise in Houston might pass for beautiful music these days.
compare their luck over the last five years to Hurley from the now defunct TV dramaLost. No matter how many times Morey seems to win the lottery in a trade or with a draft pick, the house keeps falling down just after his pants do. Forgive him if he feels like the emperor with no clothes or Clarice Starling battling a sicker, cruelerenemy than Hannibal Lecter.Beyond the caustic defense, other obvious issues have plagued this last-place outfit. Chase Budinger, the team's best spot-up shooter and dunker, is hitting just 15 percent of his three-pointers and has thrown it down just four times. He was scoreless Friday in his return from injury. What is it with the Rockets and left ankle sprains?Kyle Lowry established himself as one of the league's best change-of-pace point guards last season. He took charges and made remarkable hustle plays. Now, he's just taking bad shots and making 29 percent of them. Back spasms and similar ankle issues do not excuse his paltry selection.Fans groaned when referees removed his lateoff-balance trey and leaner in Wednesday's loss. Replays showed the ball was still in his hands when the shot clock expired and the red light appeared. Instead of berating blatant calls, the Rockets' faithfulshould have bemoaned an offense that could not muster better attempts.Good luck winning with those numbers.Shane Battier and Chuck Hayes can still administer brutish, intelligent and admirable defensive performances, but they still can't score with a pencil. Budinger would merit more praise Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
for thetime hespent working on defensive fundamentals if he was not abusing the rims. Then again, Raptors forwardLinas Kleiza beat him to a pulp and treated himlike a rag doll in Friday's loss. Courtney Lee's minute ration is not the only thing in fluctuation. His game alsocomes and goes. Adelman needs a lot more from Lee than he's getting.Jordan Hillhaslooked like a lost mountain climber in need of a Sherpa. Ishmael Smithhasheart and grit, not to mention superb court vision,but he would not have gone undrafted if he was destined to take over fourth quarters the way Rose did during the Bulls 18-0 spurt toopen Wednesday's final period. Brad Miller has given Adelman everything he could want as a role player who can pass and knock down uncontested jumpshots, butgiving himstarter's minutes exposes his flaws. His ability to protect the rim has not aged gracefully.Martin earns nine free throw attempts a game, a fabulous number on paper, but hecannot manufacture enough points when the pressure-packed moments arrive. If Kobe Bryant is the NBA's best looking bride in the clutch, Martin is its mostperplexing example of a bridesmaid posing as the wedding'sstar attraction.Heimpresses during the rehearsal dinner andinterlude, but when it comes time to walk down the aisle and say "I do," you might as well sing "Here comes the brick."Scola, who still has not located Harrington, gets by on effort much more than talent. He has been the best and most consistent Rocket thus far, and that is another problem. The best teams boast No. 1 options who can slack off and still rank asplus players. Scola would be nothing more than a benchwarming body if hiscompetitive juices did not fuel him so.Sheer talent beats depth in a head-to-head race. Morey thought he had assembled a roster with plenty of both. Instead, the guys with the finest physical gifts too often appear sluggish and disinterested, and the workhorses cannot jump any higher or move any quicker.Few in Houston, including this writer, ever imagined the Rockets would start 3-9. Now, many once jubilant fanswonder if the team will ever win again. Houston did not roar out of the gates when Brooks and Yao started. No one can expect the future re-additions to the lineup to transform this defense into an adequate one, especially when Yao's peak abilities following reconstructive foot surgery remain unknown.Brooks and Yao, 20 points-per-game scorers at their best, can help the offense late in Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
games, but can either approximate a superstar?So much for liftoff.The Rockets were supposed to fall into the NBA's abyss in the 2009-2010 campaign sans Yao's interior presence. They would take that 6-4 start in a heartbeat now.The atrociousdefense has beenthe worst of the myriadproblems. If they want to stop a painful slide tonight, they must first stop somebody on the Sunswith the game on the line.After that, all Morey and Adelman have to do is worry about everything else. Forget lift-off. Mere engine noise in Houston might pass for beautiful music these days.
2010年12月22日星期三
Fresh Link Tachos
Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesI've been trying to come up with a better name for a links post than the excellent "Pick and Scroll " in use by our man CHOBB (pronounced like "GOB ," ask him for details) over at Portland Roundball Society.In my impossible (?) quest I ended up using the name for Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
a particularly disgusting dish that tore up my digestive system for a week. Tachos are a menace and they must be stopped. I also love eating them, but am finding that they are rare outside of Portland. Minneapolis, you of all people should be on board with this.To those that entered our little free agent contest , you are playing for this spectacular prize:The three people who get the reference might smile a little. In a couple months nobody will understand it at all, but at least you will have a shirt to wear while working out, painting the house, or eating burritos. You can buy it on the cheap here . Thanks to Squirrelevant for setting that up.Now, here are some tachos:CHOBB got jobbed by a Danny Ferry imposter .Ben with a little context on Portland GM candidateKiki Vandeweghe . Dave tells us what to expect and look out for during summer league, yet I'm still somehow excited about the thing. I'll be in Las Vegas soaking up the Luke Schenscher. If you want to go see Fat Elvis contact me immediately.Coup walks us through his and Martell Webster's time together . Also, on principle I would like to remind you that Rip City Project owes a debt to Bust a Bucket that has yet to be paid. The juice is running boys.The genius blog DeceptivelyQuick has an exclusive with Jamaican National Team point guard and Finnish League superstar Akeem Scott.Super old by internet standards, but I hope you won't mind checking out this Billy Ray Bates story again.KneeJerkNBA has some thoughts on Rasheed WallaceKansas City Chiefs jersey
that are worth your time.Timberwolves fans are trying to be optimistic . If you want to feel better about Portland's situation all you have to do is spend some time over at TWolves Blog. I've been checking them out a lot lately.*****sethjonstn[at]gmailmy twitter
a particularly disgusting dish that tore up my digestive system for a week. Tachos are a menace and they must be stopped. I also love eating them, but am finding that they are rare outside of Portland. Minneapolis, you of all people should be on board with this.To those that entered our little free agent contest , you are playing for this spectacular prize:The three people who get the reference might smile a little. In a couple months nobody will understand it at all, but at least you will have a shirt to wear while working out, painting the house, or eating burritos. You can buy it on the cheap here . Thanks to Squirrelevant for setting that up.Now, here are some tachos:CHOBB got jobbed by a Danny Ferry imposter .Ben with a little context on Portland GM candidateKiki Vandeweghe . Dave tells us what to expect and look out for during summer league, yet I'm still somehow excited about the thing. I'll be in Las Vegas soaking up the Luke Schenscher. If you want to go see Fat Elvis contact me immediately.Coup walks us through his and Martell Webster's time together . Also, on principle I would like to remind you that Rip City Project owes a debt to Bust a Bucket that has yet to be paid. The juice is running boys.The genius blog DeceptivelyQuick has an exclusive with Jamaican National Team point guard and Finnish League superstar Akeem Scott.Super old by internet standards, but I hope you won't mind checking out this Billy Ray Bates story again.KneeJerkNBA has some thoughts on Rasheed WallaceKansas City Chiefs jersey
that are worth your time.Timberwolves fans are trying to be optimistic . If you want to feel better about Portland's situation all you have to do is spend some time over at TWolves Blog. I've been checking them out a lot lately.*****sethjonstn[at]gmailmy twitter
2010年12月21日星期二
Philadelphia Phillies Top Prospect Domonic Brown Setback in Winter Ball
Domonic Brown takes batting practice.The Philadelphia Phillies top prospect Domonic Brown has suffered a peculiar setback in winter ball in the Dominican Republic. The outfielder was not hurt, he is not in a slump, he hasn't even struggled against left-handed pitchers. His setback comes from San Francisco 49ers jersey
sitting on the bench.The Phillies sent Brown to winter ball in hopes that he would get at bats and make up for the time he spent on the bench after he was promoted and Shane Victorino returned from his injury. That has not happened. The Phillies and his agent, Scott Boras (say it isn't so), both wanted Domonic to play for the Escogido Lions. Still, he has seen no action.The team is managed by...read more
sitting on the bench.The Phillies sent Brown to winter ball in hopes that he would get at bats and make up for the time he spent on the bench after he was promoted and Shane Victorino returned from his injury. That has not happened. The Phillies and his agent, Scott Boras (say it isn't so), both wanted Domonic to play for the Escogido Lions. Still, he has seen no action.The team is managed by...read more
2010年12月19日星期日
20 Dec 10 Cleveland Browns by the Numbers: Get TE Evan Moore the Ball More
Matt Sullivan/Getty ImagesThe Cleveland Browns are the talk of the NFL after defeating two top-tier teams in two straight games against the New Orleans Saints and the New England Patriots. They have done this with a combination of trickery, a solid running game behind Peyton Hillis and Reebok Baltimore Ravens #27 Ray Rice Realtree camo Jersey
consistent quarterback play by Colt McCoy. One thing that still stands out is their passing game. Tight end Benjamin Watson leads the team in receptions and yards followed closely by Hillis in second. Their top wide receiver is not even a starter in Chansi Stuckey. Consistent quarterback play by McCoy should help the receivers develop throughout the remainder of this season, but as of right now the Browns only have one deep threat at receiver and that is backup tight end Evan Moore. Moore is a converted college receiver due to his size at 6'6" and 247-pound frame. Receivers are not traditionally that big, but Moore's size poses a heavy advantage over the average height of defensive backs, which is 5'11". McCoy can literally just throw the ball up in the year and let Moore use his height to his advantage as was seen on Moore's lone reception in the victory over the Patriots where he went up for a sideline pass and came down with it inside the opposing 5-yard line. In his first game back from sustaining a concussion in Week 6 against the Steelers, Mohamed Massaquoi hauled in four passes for 58 yards and looks to be benefiting from consistent QB play with Colt McCoy.Matt Sullivan/Getty ImagesCurrently, Moore has 10 receptions for 219 yards and one Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
touchdown. That is a blistering 21.9 yard per catch average which ranks second in the NFL among all other receivers who have 10 catches or more. Also, of his 10 receptions, eight of those have gone for over 20-plus yards which means that 80 percent of his catches have stretched the football field vertically. The Browns do not have much of a vertical threat on offense right now, but Moore is their best weapon in that department and that should be utilized more often in order to keep the defense honest and to not stack the box trying to prevent Hillis from running the ball. With what seems to be a consistent quarterback, in McCoy, in place perhaps receivers like Mohamed Massaquoi and Josh Cribbs (who was just announced to be starting opposite of Massaquoi now) can Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
further develop their games. In the meantime, Moore should be placed on the outside as a receiver to give the Browns a vertical threat mismatch for the last half of the NFL season. Follow Bleacher Report's 2010 NFL coverage on Twitter by clicking here.(Also posted on Dawg Scooper: THE Cleveland Browns Blog)
consistent quarterback play by Colt McCoy. One thing that still stands out is their passing game. Tight end Benjamin Watson leads the team in receptions and yards followed closely by Hillis in second. Their top wide receiver is not even a starter in Chansi Stuckey. Consistent quarterback play by McCoy should help the receivers develop throughout the remainder of this season, but as of right now the Browns only have one deep threat at receiver and that is backup tight end Evan Moore. Moore is a converted college receiver due to his size at 6'6" and 247-pound frame. Receivers are not traditionally that big, but Moore's size poses a heavy advantage over the average height of defensive backs, which is 5'11". McCoy can literally just throw the ball up in the year and let Moore use his height to his advantage as was seen on Moore's lone reception in the victory over the Patriots where he went up for a sideline pass and came down with it inside the opposing 5-yard line. In his first game back from sustaining a concussion in Week 6 against the Steelers, Mohamed Massaquoi hauled in four passes for 58 yards and looks to be benefiting from consistent QB play with Colt McCoy.Matt Sullivan/Getty ImagesCurrently, Moore has 10 receptions for 219 yards and one Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
touchdown. That is a blistering 21.9 yard per catch average which ranks second in the NFL among all other receivers who have 10 catches or more. Also, of his 10 receptions, eight of those have gone for over 20-plus yards which means that 80 percent of his catches have stretched the football field vertically. The Browns do not have much of a vertical threat on offense right now, but Moore is their best weapon in that department and that should be utilized more often in order to keep the defense honest and to not stack the box trying to prevent Hillis from running the ball. With what seems to be a consistent quarterback, in McCoy, in place perhaps receivers like Mohamed Massaquoi and Josh Cribbs (who was just announced to be starting opposite of Massaquoi now) can Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
further develop their games. In the meantime, Moore should be placed on the outside as a receiver to give the Browns a vertical threat mismatch for the last half of the NFL season. Follow Bleacher Report's 2010 NFL coverage on Twitter by clicking here.(Also posted on Dawg Scooper: THE Cleveland Browns Blog)
19 Dec 10 NFL Fantasy Football Week 11 RB Rankings: Rashard Mendenhall Headlines List
Matthew Sharpe/Getty ImagesMy Week 11 Running Back Rankings 1. Rashard Mendenhall vs. Oakland2. Frank Gore vs. Tampa Bay3. Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Cleveland4. Arian Foster New York Jets5. Adrian Peterson vs. Green Bay6. Chris Johnson vs. Washington7. Michael Turner St. Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
Louis8. Ray Rice Carolina9. Cedric Benson vs. Buffalo10. Jamaal Charles vs. Arizona11. Peyton Hillis Jacksonville12. LeSeanMcCoy vs. New York Giants13. Ahmad Bradshaw Philadelphia14. Darren McFadden Pittsburgh15. Jahvid Best Dallas16. Steven Jackson vs. Atlanta17. LeGarrette Blount San Francisco18. Fred Jackson Cincinnati19. LaDainian Tomlinson vs. Houston20. Matt Forte Miami21. Felix Jones vs. Detroit22. BenJarvus Green-Ellis vs. Indianapolis23. Thomas Jones vs. Arizona24. Keiland Williams Tennessee25. Shonn Greene vs. Houston26. Tim Hightower Kansas City27. Knowshon Moreno San Diego28. Brandon Jackson Minnesota29. Marshawn Lynch New Orleans30. Michael Bush Pittsburgh31. Ryan Mathews vs. Denver32. Ronnie Brown vs. Chicago33. Mike Tolbert vs. Denver34. Mike Goodson vs. Baltimore35. Justin Forsett New Orleans Chris McGrath/Getty ImagesInside the Numbers Oakland ranks 25th with 124.8 rushing yards allowed. After Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
Mendenhall's relatively quiet game against New England, look for him to explode against the Raiders. Tampa Bay is better, but they are still yielding 143.8 yards per game on the ground. Frank Gore should dominate. The concerns about MJD’s knee are a thing of the past after three consecutive great performances. Adrian Peterson averages 126.3 total yards with five touchdowns in seven games against Green Bay. Michael Turner and Ray Rice make exceptional plays after the extra rest from not playing in the Thursday game. Cedric Benson could top the 100-yard mark for the second time this year as he faces Buffalo’s league-worst run defense (166.9 ypg). Keiland Williams had a coming-out party against the Eagles, but Ryan Torain and Clinton Portis could get Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
some work next week. Also Check Out Sneaky Week 11 Fantasy Football Pick-Ups Week 11 Get ‘Em or Don’t Sweat ‘Em Waiver Wire Advice Week 11 Fantasy QB Rankings Week 11 Fantasy WR Rankings Week 11 Fantasy TE RankingsWeek 11 Fantasy K RankingsWeek 11 Fantasy DEF RankingsWeek 11 Fantasy IDP RankingsWeek 11 Start/Sit AdviceWeek 11 Fantasy Sleepers
Louis8. Ray Rice Carolina9. Cedric Benson vs. Buffalo10. Jamaal Charles vs. Arizona11. Peyton Hillis Jacksonville12. LeSeanMcCoy vs. New York Giants13. Ahmad Bradshaw Philadelphia14. Darren McFadden Pittsburgh15. Jahvid Best Dallas16. Steven Jackson vs. Atlanta17. LeGarrette Blount San Francisco18. Fred Jackson Cincinnati19. LaDainian Tomlinson vs. Houston20. Matt Forte Miami21. Felix Jones vs. Detroit22. BenJarvus Green-Ellis vs. Indianapolis23. Thomas Jones vs. Arizona24. Keiland Williams Tennessee25. Shonn Greene vs. Houston26. Tim Hightower Kansas City27. Knowshon Moreno San Diego28. Brandon Jackson Minnesota29. Marshawn Lynch New Orleans30. Michael Bush Pittsburgh31. Ryan Mathews vs. Denver32. Ronnie Brown vs. Chicago33. Mike Tolbert vs. Denver34. Mike Goodson vs. Baltimore35. Justin Forsett New Orleans Chris McGrath/Getty ImagesInside the Numbers Oakland ranks 25th with 124.8 rushing yards allowed. After Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
Mendenhall's relatively quiet game against New England, look for him to explode against the Raiders. Tampa Bay is better, but they are still yielding 143.8 yards per game on the ground. Frank Gore should dominate. The concerns about MJD’s knee are a thing of the past after three consecutive great performances. Adrian Peterson averages 126.3 total yards with five touchdowns in seven games against Green Bay. Michael Turner and Ray Rice make exceptional plays after the extra rest from not playing in the Thursday game. Cedric Benson could top the 100-yard mark for the second time this year as he faces Buffalo’s league-worst run defense (166.9 ypg). Keiland Williams had a coming-out party against the Eagles, but Ryan Torain and Clinton Portis could get Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
some work next week. Also Check Out Sneaky Week 11 Fantasy Football Pick-Ups Week 11 Get ‘Em or Don’t Sweat ‘Em Waiver Wire Advice Week 11 Fantasy QB Rankings Week 11 Fantasy WR Rankings Week 11 Fantasy TE RankingsWeek 11 Fantasy K RankingsWeek 11 Fantasy DEF RankingsWeek 11 Fantasy IDP RankingsWeek 11 Start/Sit AdviceWeek 11 Fantasy Sleepers
2010年12月18日星期六
18 Dec 10 Donovan McNabb: 5 Very Strong Opinions About McNabb's Career
Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesMake no mistake, I have the utmost respect for Donovan McNabb. I have spent countless hours arguing on his behalf on Bleacher Report and other sports websites, as well as with friends and fans of other teams.I was also a little biased because I am a passionate Eagles fan. Now that Donovan is gone, I understand his career more completely. I've learned a lot about his career that was difficult to comprehend during his time with the Eagles.1. He was a very good but not great quarterback in the regular season throughout his career.McNabb played 12 seasons, including 2010, and turned in six Pro Bowl seasons.He ranks third in NFL history in interception percentage and is one of the ten best scramblers ever.But he was never a great quarterback for more than a year or two. McNabb's biggest strength--his ability to not throw interceptions--was also one of his biggest weaknesses. His tendency to bounce passes is well documented, and he frequently threw passes so receivers would have to dive for the catch instead of leading them for a potential touchdown.McNabb was consistently good throughout his career. He'd get you 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions, with a passer rating in the mid 80s. But he wouldn't toss 26 touchdowns Reebok New Orleans Saints #9 Drew Brees Realtree camo Jersey
with a passer rating in the mid 90s.Will Donovan McNabb make the Hall of Fame?Will Donovan McNabb make the Hall of Fame?Yes35.9%No48.7%Needs a few more seasons15.4%Total votes: 392. He had no idea what he was doing in the final two minutes of a game (or a half). I can't deny this. Nobody can.He hasn't thrown a game-winning touchdown pass in the final two minutes of a game since 2003, when his six-yard touchdown pass to Todd Pinkston gave the Eagles a 17-14 victory over the Green Bay Packers on Monday Night Football.When the Eagles trailed by four with three minutes left in the game, you knew McNabb wasn't going to get it done. He usually wouldn't throw an interception. He rarely did. But he'd lead the Eagles for 20 yards and then the drive would stall with two incompletions, a sack, and a fourth down incompletion.He's had his share of fourth quarter comebacks, but they're the type where the Eagles trail 17-14 entering the fourth and win 28-17. He never put the Eagles on his back with the game on the line. Never.People wonder why McNabb wasn't more popular during his time in Philly. This is a large reason why.3. He played his heart out during Super Bowl XXXIX.In Super Bowl XXXIX, Brian Westbrook was shut down. He rushed 15 times for 44 yards.The offensive line was terrible. Center Hank Fraley was abused all game.Star wide receiver Terrell Owens was recovering from a broken ankle and wasn't fully healthy. Number two receiver Todd Pinkston had to leave the game at halftime with an injury. He caught four passes for 82 yards in two quarters of play.McNabb was asked to rally the Eagles from a ten-point deficit in the second half of the fourth quarter. He came close. The Eagles scored a touchdown with 1:48 left in the game to cut the Patriots' lead to 24-21.McNabb is often remembered for vomiting during the game. An article written by Philadelphia Inquirer writer Peter Mucha in March of 2010 goes to great lengths to prove that McNabb did not vomit during the game. He interviewed former teammates of McNabb. He watched video of the game. Nobody actually saw McNabb vomit. Gasp for air? Yes. Vomit? No.Then again, that's not what's relevant. McNabb stayed in the game. If Favre puked during the game, he would be called a warrior, a hero. McNabb is a bum, a choke artist.The Eagles also felt that McNabb received a great deal of abuse from the New England Patriots' defenders during the game. So much abuse, in fact, that they met with NFL Vice President of Officiating Mike Pereira during the offseason to discuss the hits in the game. Were the Eagles just poor sports? Maybe. But they clearly felt that the abuse McNabb received was enough to warrant a visit with the NFL.And there are also allegations of the Patriots cheating in Super Bowl XXXIX. After all, they were busted by the NFL for cheating during the 2007 season. I'm sure the cheating had been going on throughout Belichick's whole tenure, Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
or most of his tenure with the Patriots.Did this cheating impact the game? Well, the Eagles lost by three points. A single 20-yard play could easily have changed the outcome of the game in a three-point loss. I'll be a good sport and say I think we still would have lost...but do I think the Patriots cheated? Yes, I do.McNabb's stats for the game: 30-51, 357 yards, 3 touchdowns, 3 interceptions, 75.4 passer rating.His final interception bounced off the hands of tight end L.J. Smith and was caught by safety Rodney Harrison to clinch a Patriots' victory.I don't think McNabb played well in this game. Three interceptions is never acceptable. But for a quarterback asked to throw 56 times (51 passes, four sacks, one scramble) against just 16 runs, McNabb didn't do bad at all.One thing is for sure. In the biggest game of his career, he left everything he had on the field. He played his heart out.4. He will never win a Super Bowl.There is no denying that McNabb performed at a lesser pace throughout the postseason. I tried.For years, I argued that it wasn't him. It was the futile combination of James Thrash and Todd Pinkston, lovingly known as Trash and Stinkston by Eagles' fans. Or it was Jim Johnson, outcoached in every big game. Or it was a poor coaching decision by head coach Andy Reid.While all of those are probably true, McNabb never helped. More times than not, he harmed the Eagles.He threw interceptions in the most crucial moments of the 2001 NFC Championship Game, the 2002 NFC Championship Game, and the 2004 Super Bowl. He was unable to finish the 2003 NFC Championship Game after the Panthers knocked him out midway through (It's worth noting that he threw three interceptions and we wouldn't have won anyway.)Even when McNabb did something right in the postseason, it usually didn't end pretty. "4th and 26" could have been so much more if the Eagles had advanced to the Super Bowl. The 2001 NFC Championship Game will never be regarded as one of his better games, simply because the Eagles lost. And the 18-point comeback in the 2008 NFC Championship Game means nothing because he couldn't get it done on the game's most important drive.I wrote an article last year in which I conducted extensive research on the importance of a quarterback's defensive support in the postseason throughout his career.Donovan McNabb won nine of 16 postseason games during his tenure with the Eagles. Based on his defensive support in the postseason, he should have won 9.3 games.Among the 18 quarterbacks who won at least seven postseason games in their career, he is the only one to win fewer games than he should have, based on his defensive support.When the Eagles' defense allowed fewer than 20 points, McNabb was 9-1. When they allowed 20 or more, he was 0-6.McNabb could never pick up the team if anything went wrong for the defense. The great ones do.5. He is not a Hall of Fame quarterback unless he wins a Super Bowl. Guaranteed.Dan Marino didn't need a ring. But Dan Marino had 420 touchdown passes and 61,361 passing yards during his 17-year career.Fran Tarkenton didn't need a ring. But Tarkenton was the greatest combination Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
of passing and running until Steve Young came along.Jim Kelly didn't need a ring. But Kelly led the Bills to four straight Super Bowls and threw 237 touchdowns in 11 seasons.Donovan McNabb isn't going to make the Hall of Fame without a ring.The Hall of Fame isn't for very good quarterbacks without a Super Bowl ring. McNabb certainly doesn't have the regular season statistics to make the Hall. He has a lot of postseason victories and appearances.But unless he carries a team throughout a postseason and wins a Super Bowl, he is not going to join a list of the game's greatest in Canton.
with a passer rating in the mid 90s.Will Donovan McNabb make the Hall of Fame?Will Donovan McNabb make the Hall of Fame?Yes35.9%No48.7%Needs a few more seasons15.4%Total votes: 392. He had no idea what he was doing in the final two minutes of a game (or a half). I can't deny this. Nobody can.He hasn't thrown a game-winning touchdown pass in the final two minutes of a game since 2003, when his six-yard touchdown pass to Todd Pinkston gave the Eagles a 17-14 victory over the Green Bay Packers on Monday Night Football.When the Eagles trailed by four with three minutes left in the game, you knew McNabb wasn't going to get it done. He usually wouldn't throw an interception. He rarely did. But he'd lead the Eagles for 20 yards and then the drive would stall with two incompletions, a sack, and a fourth down incompletion.He's had his share of fourth quarter comebacks, but they're the type where the Eagles trail 17-14 entering the fourth and win 28-17. He never put the Eagles on his back with the game on the line. Never.People wonder why McNabb wasn't more popular during his time in Philly. This is a large reason why.3. He played his heart out during Super Bowl XXXIX.In Super Bowl XXXIX, Brian Westbrook was shut down. He rushed 15 times for 44 yards.The offensive line was terrible. Center Hank Fraley was abused all game.Star wide receiver Terrell Owens was recovering from a broken ankle and wasn't fully healthy. Number two receiver Todd Pinkston had to leave the game at halftime with an injury. He caught four passes for 82 yards in two quarters of play.McNabb was asked to rally the Eagles from a ten-point deficit in the second half of the fourth quarter. He came close. The Eagles scored a touchdown with 1:48 left in the game to cut the Patriots' lead to 24-21.McNabb is often remembered for vomiting during the game. An article written by Philadelphia Inquirer writer Peter Mucha in March of 2010 goes to great lengths to prove that McNabb did not vomit during the game. He interviewed former teammates of McNabb. He watched video of the game. Nobody actually saw McNabb vomit. Gasp for air? Yes. Vomit? No.Then again, that's not what's relevant. McNabb stayed in the game. If Favre puked during the game, he would be called a warrior, a hero. McNabb is a bum, a choke artist.The Eagles also felt that McNabb received a great deal of abuse from the New England Patriots' defenders during the game. So much abuse, in fact, that they met with NFL Vice President of Officiating Mike Pereira during the offseason to discuss the hits in the game. Were the Eagles just poor sports? Maybe. But they clearly felt that the abuse McNabb received was enough to warrant a visit with the NFL.And there are also allegations of the Patriots cheating in Super Bowl XXXIX. After all, they were busted by the NFL for cheating during the 2007 season. I'm sure the cheating had been going on throughout Belichick's whole tenure, Reebok New York Giants #27 Brandon Jacobs Realtree camo Jersey
or most of his tenure with the Patriots.Did this cheating impact the game? Well, the Eagles lost by three points. A single 20-yard play could easily have changed the outcome of the game in a three-point loss. I'll be a good sport and say I think we still would have lost...but do I think the Patriots cheated? Yes, I do.McNabb's stats for the game: 30-51, 357 yards, 3 touchdowns, 3 interceptions, 75.4 passer rating.His final interception bounced off the hands of tight end L.J. Smith and was caught by safety Rodney Harrison to clinch a Patriots' victory.I don't think McNabb played well in this game. Three interceptions is never acceptable. But for a quarterback asked to throw 56 times (51 passes, four sacks, one scramble) against just 16 runs, McNabb didn't do bad at all.One thing is for sure. In the biggest game of his career, he left everything he had on the field. He played his heart out.4. He will never win a Super Bowl.There is no denying that McNabb performed at a lesser pace throughout the postseason. I tried.For years, I argued that it wasn't him. It was the futile combination of James Thrash and Todd Pinkston, lovingly known as Trash and Stinkston by Eagles' fans. Or it was Jim Johnson, outcoached in every big game. Or it was a poor coaching decision by head coach Andy Reid.While all of those are probably true, McNabb never helped. More times than not, he harmed the Eagles.He threw interceptions in the most crucial moments of the 2001 NFC Championship Game, the 2002 NFC Championship Game, and the 2004 Super Bowl. He was unable to finish the 2003 NFC Championship Game after the Panthers knocked him out midway through (It's worth noting that he threw three interceptions and we wouldn't have won anyway.)Even when McNabb did something right in the postseason, it usually didn't end pretty. "4th and 26" could have been so much more if the Eagles had advanced to the Super Bowl. The 2001 NFC Championship Game will never be regarded as one of his better games, simply because the Eagles lost. And the 18-point comeback in the 2008 NFC Championship Game means nothing because he couldn't get it done on the game's most important drive.I wrote an article last year in which I conducted extensive research on the importance of a quarterback's defensive support in the postseason throughout his career.Donovan McNabb won nine of 16 postseason games during his tenure with the Eagles. Based on his defensive support in the postseason, he should have won 9.3 games.Among the 18 quarterbacks who won at least seven postseason games in their career, he is the only one to win fewer games than he should have, based on his defensive support.When the Eagles' defense allowed fewer than 20 points, McNabb was 9-1. When they allowed 20 or more, he was 0-6.McNabb could never pick up the team if anything went wrong for the defense. The great ones do.5. He is not a Hall of Fame quarterback unless he wins a Super Bowl. Guaranteed.Dan Marino didn't need a ring. But Dan Marino had 420 touchdown passes and 61,361 passing yards during his 17-year career.Fran Tarkenton didn't need a ring. But Tarkenton was the greatest combination Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
of passing and running until Steve Young came along.Jim Kelly didn't need a ring. But Kelly led the Bills to four straight Super Bowls and threw 237 touchdowns in 11 seasons.Donovan McNabb isn't going to make the Hall of Fame without a ring.The Hall of Fame isn't for very good quarterbacks without a Super Bowl ring. McNabb certainly doesn't have the regular season statistics to make the Hall. He has a lot of postseason victories and appearances.But unless he carries a team throughout a postseason and wins a Super Bowl, he is not going to join a list of the game's greatest in Canton.
订阅：
博文 (Atom)