The Kevin Kolb Sweepstakes just got a little more interesting

After the dust of the first round settled I wanted to take a look and see which teams will be pursuing Kolb when free agency starts. Let's take a look at the first 15 picks and see which teams still need QBs:

1. Panthers - QB Cam Newton
2. Broncos - LB Von Miller
3. Bills - DT Marcell Dareus <--- Needs a QB
4. Bengals - WR A.J. Green <--- Needs a QB if Palmer leaves
5. Cardinals - CB Patrick Peterson <--- Needs a QB
6. Falcons - WR Julio Jones
7. Niners - DE Aldon Smith <--- Needs a QB
8. Titans - QB Jake Locker
9. Cowboys - OT Tyron Smith
10. Jaguars - QB Blaine Gabbert
11. Texans - DE J.J. Watt
12. Vikings - QB Christian Ponder <--- Still think they need a QB
13. Lions - DT Nick Fairley
14. Rams - DE Robert Quinn
15. Dolphins - G Mike Pouncey

So of these 5 teams, let's dive a little deeper

Buffalo Bills - definitely more than a QB away from becoming a contender. They wouldn't mortgage part of their future to have Kolb lead a team that wouldn't be ready for the next 3 years or so (or ever... it is Buffalo). Trading for Kolb makes no sense. They'll go for a QB in the later rounds and add a veteran when free agency starts. Verdict: Not a trade partner for Kolb.

Cincinnati Bengals - Interesting choice here with A.J. Green. Could entice Palmer to stay, but if he doesn't, they'll definitely need a QB. Will probably draft one in the later rounds to begin the grooming process, but I would still consider Cincinnati to be a viable trade partner for Kolb. The only thing that would make me think otherwise is because they're in a division with Baltimore and Pittsburgh and wouldn't be competing any time soon. Verdict: Possible Kolb destination.

Arizona Cardinals - Boy, what an interesting pick. For a QB-needy team that has enough other pieces in place to win their division, they chose a CB. The Cardinals aren't naive enough to think they could win the division without a QB. They know they can compete and win it next year. They plan to trade for McNabb, Palmer or Kolb. McNabb and Palmer are clearly "rent" options, while Kolb would be more of an investment for their future. Peterson was an obvious choice at this pick. No one would fault them for taking arguably the best football player in the draft. However, something tells me it was a bit of a smokescreen. The Cardinals are solid at CB with McFadden and Rodgers-Cromartie and even if the position was a big weakness, QB is still more important. The other heavy favorite to land Kolb is division rival 9ers. I don't think the Cardinals want them to get him. I think Reid contacted the Cardinals before the draft, knowing that they couldn't trade for picks, but putting a deal in place that would swap Kolb for the 5th pick. He told the Cardinals to take Peterson so that when the CBA is finally resolved and free agency begins, a Kolb for Peterson deal could happen. Verdict: When the CBA is settled, Kolb for Peterson. Book it.

San Francisco 49ers - Even though Harbaugh has stated that Alex Smith will probably be one of the QBs on the roster come training camp, no one in this organization is naive enough to think he's still the future (I hope). The 9ers need a QB and badly. They will definitely consider taking one in the later rounds -- someone like Andy Dalton or Pat Devlin -- but neither are even close to sure things. The 49ers will also be major players in the McNabb/Palmer/Kolb frenzy. Two of those players are on the decline and would only serve as a short-term rental. Harbaugh is thinking long-term. The best deal the Niners could offer for Kolb at this point would be future 2012 draft picks (probably a 1 and 4). If you were offered Patrick Peterson or a 2012 1st and 4th round draft choice what would you choose? Doesn't even seem like a choice. Verdict: Likely Kolb destination, but can't match Cardinals best offer.

Minnesota Vikings - The Vikings just took a QB in the 1st round. Why would they still need one? Ponder isn't exactly lighting the world on fire. He was the 4th overall QB taken in the draft. He's a prospect. Someone to groom. He needs a strong veteran to show him the ropes. For this reason I just see McNabb as a Viking. I think the 9ers or Cardinals -- whoever doesn't get Kolb -- will land Palmer. Verdict: Possible, but unlikely.

The Dream Offseason

Sometimes it's just more fun to dream when you're awake. Here is my plan for the Eagles this off-season:

March 11th, 2011
After a triathlon of dodgeball, sumo wrestling and tickle fights, the NFLPA and league owners are still locked in a negotiating stalemate. Both agree that a winner-take-all match of arm wrestling will determine who drafts the next CBA. Each side gets to pick from the other team.

Manning motions to a sleeping Jerry Jones in the corner, but NFLPA director DeMaurice Smith has already made up his mind, "Al Davis," he says smugly.

Davis rises from his chair, incensed at their confidence. "You forgot one thing," he says. He tears off his shirt and reveals a surprisingly ripped upper body. "The older we are, the stronger we become."

Manning leans over to Brees, "Is Al Davis a vampire?"

The owners deliberate in a tight huddle so as to not let their opponent know what they're thinking. They come to a surprisingly fast consensus. "Jay Cutler."

"No. I'm not doing it," Cutler pouts.

"Sorry Jay, you have to do it. That was the arrangement," says Manning.

"Well guess what Peyton? I'm not," Cutler pouts.

"Why do you have to be such a bitch all the time?" says Manning.

"Exactly why we chose him," says smiling Broncos owner Pat Bowlen.

After several hours of prodding, calling his mother and agreeing to take him out for ice cream after the negotiations, Cutler agrees to the match.



While Cutler is younger and in much better shape, Davis is a formidable opponent. Cutler's endurance is what gains the upper hand for the NFLPA. It seems like he's about to end the match when...

Davis summons every last ounce of old man strength and turns the tables on Cutler. Cutler is mere centimeters from being pinned when he realizes something. Davis died five minutes ago. Cutler pins him for the victory and the new CBA is signed.

Football will be played in 2011.


Free agents resigned
The two most notable free agents are Vick and Mikell. Both are resigned and both take under market contracts -- because this is my dream.

As for the rest of the team. Here is who stays and goes:
RB Jerome Harrison - stay
K David Akers - stay
P Sav Rocca - stay
DE Victor Abiamiri - stay
DE Darryl Tapp - stay
MLB Stewart Bradley - stay
OLB Akeem Jordan - stay

C/G Nick Cole - peace
G Reggie Wells - peace
OLB Omar Gaither - peace
OLB Ernie Sims - peace
CB Ellis Hobbs - peace


Extending Desean
The Eagles extend star WR Desean Jackson making him one of the top 5 highest paid players at his position.

Kevin Kolb traded
Kolb is traded to Seattle for a 1st (25th overall) and 4th round pick. Fans complain, but this is an excellent haul. The Eagles then flip their newly acquired first rounder to Miami for 29-year-old RT Vernon Carey. The team does not want a rookie protecting Vick's blindspot.

Nmandi Asomugha and Albert Haynesworth signed
Still way under the cap despite resigning Vick, Jackson and Mikell, the Eagles make Nmandi the highest paid cornerback in the league while Haynesworth decides to take less money to play for newly acquired DL coach Jim Washburn. He presents no problems to team chemistry and works hard to prove he's still an All-Pro (so realistic right?)



Eagles draft OG Gabe Carimi in the 1st
He's ready to play immediately and under the tutelage of new OL coach Howard Mudd, he should thrive in our system.

Rounds 2-7
The Eagles have 8 more picks and place specific focus on strengthening the depth at LB, S, OL and RB.

With my off-season complete the team is absolutely stacked to make a super bowl run. A quick look at the starters...

DEFENSE

CB Asante Samuel
SS Quintin Mikell
FS Nate Allen* (returning from injury)
CB Nmandi Asomugha*

WILL Stewart Bradley (Moved from MLB)
MLB Jamar Chaney
SAM Moises Fokou

DE Trent Cole
DT Mike Patterson
DT Albert Haynesworth*
DE Brandon Graham* (returning from injury)

OFFENSE

QB Mike Vick

RB Lesean McCoy

WR Desean Jackson
WR Jeremy Maclin
WR Jason Avant

TE Brent Celek

LT Jason Peters
LG Todd Herremans
C Jamaal Jackson* (back from injury)
RG Gabe Carimi* (rookie)
RT Vernon Carey*

*Not on the playoff team last year

Is Iguodala Invaluable or Superfluous?

Remember when we were good Allen?

Bill Simmons just came out with his annual top 50 player value rankings. Some notable young Sixers make the "snubs" section (Jrue Holiday and Evan Turner), but the most glaring offense has to be the omission of Andre Iguodala, the Sixers' leader and best player.

Simmons' list is all about trade value and while Iguodala is not going to be winning championships here anytime soon, he is by far our biggest bargaining chip to hit the reset button and get some younger talent with potential.

Here are 9 reasons why AI9 should be in the 30-40 range on his list...

1. Iguodala is in his prime and has fully matured as a player


2. His summer on the Team USA squad morphed him into a leader. A role he is fully embracing for the first time in his career.


3. He is one of the best (if not THE best) perimeter defender in the game


4. He has never made it past the first round of the playoffs... something that should fuel his hanger (hunger/anger).


5. He can guard the other team's best player the entire game... and be effective while doing it. Pretty invaluable in the playoffs, no?


6. He has a rebound rate (9.0) and assist rate (28.6) that are top 10 at his position


7. He can be a legit 3rd scoring option for a Championship-caliber team (17.8 PER/.530 TS%)


8. He is one of the most athletic players in the NBA and this versatility allows him to guard multiple positions


9. His contract expires in 2 years with a player option for the 2013-14 season... essentially wrapping him up for the entirety of his prime

It's sad that as this Sixers team is lost in NBA mediocrity, so to is Dre's value to the national media.

Observations from a Stupid Game

I'm currently in my anger phase and although I've forsworn ESPN for a week, I do happen to have this blog to get some feelings out there.

I really felt like I did my part as a fan. I tailgated for three hours. Lost my voice around the 3rd quarter. Lost feeling in my toes around the 4th. From an outside perspective, I never gave up hope that they could pull it out. And that's somewhat true. I did think that last drive was going to end in a touchdown. But it never should have come down to that last drive. The Eagles played so terribly that the Seahawks (gulp?) are more deserving of being in the playoffs than them.

Some observations:

Third Downs
The Eagles were 5-13 and the Packers were 8-13, but numbers don't tell the entire story. The offense was unable to convert at 3rd and 3 or shorter four different times, stalling some key drives. The defense did a little better, especially in the 4th quarter, but had a costly penalty in the first half that would have forced a punt, and instead, extended a TD drive.

Penalties
Inexperience plays a large part in this, but in no way excuses it. Our team is young. Of the 11 defensive starters in that playoff game, 6 of them were not starting week 1 against the Packers and 3 of them are former 7th round picks. Maybe this issue wouldn't be as glaring had the Packers made more mistakes, but they remained disciplined and finished with 2-15. The Eagles? 7-50.

Winston Justice is horrible
Justice played unbelievably poorly. He wasn't finishing run blocks. He was collapsing nearly every down in pass protection. At one point in the game, he had 3 penalties on 2 consecutive plays, forcing Vick to convert from 1st and 25 inside our own 15. In the 4th quarter he was replaced by King Dunlap V. Most of the game, he was assigned to block sure-fire Defensive POY Clay Matthews, but to be as effective as a hologram? Winston, I have no doubt you'll play in the NFL, I just don't want you on my team anymore.

Jamar Chaney is a force
Can anyone tell that the quarterback of our defense is a 7th round rookie who made his first start in week 15? Chaney has led the team in tackles each week he has started. He was a noticeable difference maker in his first playoff game, shedding blockers and penetrating the trenches. Prediction: A healthy Stewart Bradley will be moved to WILL (his position from college), Chaney will stay at MLB and Fokou will be our SAM. I'm confident in all three of them.

Michael Vick has major weaknesses
But they are fixable. Andy and Marty need to teach Vick to read the blitz whenever the off-season happens to start. Granted, our offensive line is terrible, but almost every play where protection broke down, Vick reverted to his Atlanta days and simply tried to buy time for himself without looking down the field. If the blitz was loaded to a particular side, Vick would try to scramble the other way instead of throwing into the blitz. He seems to be looking for the big play too often when we just need him to run the offense efficiently.

The Eagles are going to be very good next year
They are the 4th youngest team in the NFL and the youngest offense in the NFC. Assuming they keep Desean, Vick and Mikell, they are still far enough under the cap to make some moves. They could and should be in the running to get soon-to-be free agent CB Nnamdi Asomugha to put opposite Asante Samuel, debatably better than Cromartie and Revis. They also have assets. Kevin Kolb will demand at least a first round draft pick in a year when many teams are looking for help at the position and the draft class doesn't have a stud QB thanks to Andrew Luck's return to Stanford. We could be in a prime position to strengthen our offensive line and secondary while retaining the highest scoring offense in Eagles history.

The only immediate gratification from a first round loss is a January and February of stress-free football watching. Maybe next year.

Year in Review: The Top 5 Moments of 2010

I hate new years resolutions. I get the whole concept of setting yearly goals, but calling it a new years resolution is too artificial for me. As soon as you get into February the local gym suddenly has half as many members, the McDonald's drive-thru line wraps around the block and that cigarette that was supposed to be the very last one becomes an afterthought. Why? Because after one month, not a single person is in that "new year" mindset anymore.

Instead of telling myself I'm going to begin the blogging process anew in 2011, I decided to look back at why I stopped in 2010.

This blog clearly lacked a direction and overall theme which caused my main issue, I never knew what to write about. When I did write about things I was interested in (All-star voting, my love affair for Iverson) I found that the research required of me to turn it into the article I wanted it to be was taking away from my main two jobs that provide me with a career and source of income. Each NFL division preview took me upwards of 4 hours to write. Direction and time.

To solve both of these issues I am changing the direction from a general topic blog to a Philadelphia sports blog. From now on my focus will be on the trials, tribulations and successes of my teams.

Here are my top 5 Philadelphia sports moments from 2010:

5. Vick annihilates Redskins; makes football look easy

In Madden 2004, you could roll out of the pocket with Vick and use their newest feature, something they called "Playmaker", to direct your receivers on the fly. Vick happened to be the fastest on the field and any novice could easily buy an extra two or three seconds, an eternity for a QB.

The effectiveness of this play was akin to scoring goals in NHL '94, where you could take nearly any player, swoop down the boards and cut across the ice in front of the crease because the goalie couldn't move laterally. It was the cause of many fights in my household and led to a rule that you couldn't score goals that way.

Ten years later and we had a similar rule. NO VICK. He was too cheap. Too dynamic. Too prolific in his ability to score.

So on the first play of a frigid Monday night in November in DC, a game that was supposed to be a tightly contested match between division rivals, Vick went into video game mode and left the Monday night broadcasting crew without any proper adjectives to describe what they had just witnessed.

The eagles set team records for largest lead by a road team in a quarter (28-0) and most points in a first half (45). They also set a team record for total yards in a game (592).

Vick became the first player in NFL history to have over 300 yards passing, over 50 yards rushing, 4 passing TDs and 2 rushing TDs. He did this while having no interceptions or fumbles (and up until this point in the season he had no interceptions at all).

4. Cliff Lee spurns Yankees; Takes less money to play for Phillies

By far the most unexpected story in Philadelphia this year. Consider the Phillies as an organization before 2007. Until Jim Thome in 2003, they had never been able to sign a premier free agent. They were the losingest franchise in history (across all sports) and the first to reach 10,000+ losses. They had not been to the playoffs since 1993.

Since '07? Four straight division titles, two NL pennants and a World Championship. To say that this franchise has completely turned itself around is a gross understatement. Roy Halladay took less money than his market worth to play here. Cliff Lee turned down $50 million and two years to play here. Cole Hamels is now our #4 starter.

The Phillies have become a complete powerhouse in the NL, but I still laugh at people who suggest we are the Yankees and Red Sox or that we are simply "buying" our teams. The Phillies became a powerhouse the old-fashioned way. It's what every franchise dreams of doing. They used homegrown talent (Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins, Cole Hamels) and surrounded themselves with key role players. They gave Jayson Werth a second shot after a failed stint with the Dodgers. They sniped Victorino from the Rule 5 draft. They built a great new ballpark to accommodate a fan base that was sick of Veterans Stadium. The Phillies began selling out game after game and soon the payroll grew because revenue was growing, not because of an owner with bottomless pockets.

Sorry New York, entitlement is earned, not inherited.

3. Roy Halladay tosses the 2nd Playoff No-No in History... and I was there

When I listen to my dad talk about the Mike Schmidt led Phillies in the '80s or the Bobby Clarke Broad Street Bullies of the '70s, I can hear the excitement in his voice. He was there. He lived it. When he talks about it you can tell that it conjures up those same incredible feelings he felt way back before he had me.

Now I have one of those moments. I remember standing with 46,410 other people, including my friend Dan who took me to the game, screaming out what was left of my voice as I worked on my 4th or 5th beer. I remember Carlos Ruiz dropping to his knees to field a broken bat bunt. I remember celebrating so raucously that I spilled beer on the entire row in front of me. I remember singing high hopes and high-fiving nearly everyone in site as we exited the ballpark.

The fact that this moment is only #3 on my list makes me feel incredibly spoiled. It was a great year for Philadelphia sports indeed.

2. Miracle at the New Meadowlands

I was at my old stomping ground in San Francisco, a Philly bar called Jake's Steaks in the marina. They do it right. There is a mural of boathouse row painted across all the walls. A large banner hangs above the back wall and reads "Welcome to Eagle's Country." The employees have Phillies t-shirts. They import Amaroso rolls and cheese whiz. There is a case of Tastycakes behind the counter. I watched nearly every Eagles game there over the past two years. I watched the Phillies win the World Series there in '08. I know the owner and nearly all of the regulars. When the Eagles score touchdowns, they play the fight song and toss green jello shots out to all of the patrons. It's simply a great place to watch the game.

My vacation in San Francisco happened to coincide with the biggest Eagles game of the year. Eagles vs Giants at the New Meadowlands. I was at the game they played in Philly and without a 50-yard LeSean McCoy run and a fluke Eli Manning fumble, we might not be talking playoffs this year.

The game started out pretty terrible, which was only made worse by the fact that my friend was openly rooting for the Giants. On an early Vick interception, she was so surprised and delighted that she let out a loud squeal. I received some death stares from the other people there as I quickly tried to assure them that I had no idea who she was. The game stayed terrible until 8:17 left in the 4th quarter. The Eagles were down 31-10. Then the jello shots started flying.

Vick to Celek for a 65-yard TD - 31-17 7:29 left

(meh still game over)

Onside kick recovered by the Eagles

(okay let's see what we can do)

Vick 4-yd TD run - 31-24 5:28 left

(this is a game, but we still have to stop them)

Giants run out the clock and manage to get a first down, but punt - 3:01 left

(holy shit could this possibly be happening?)

Eagles face a 3rd and 10 at their own 12, but Vick scrambles for 33 yards to keep the drive alive. Eagles score on a 13-yd TD pass to Maclin - 31-31 1:16 left

(HOLY MOTHER OF GOD THIS WOULD BE THE BEST COMEBACK EVER)

Giants go 3 and out - :14 left

(There's no way they punt it to Desean right?...)

Then this happened

The Eagles have never scored 28 points in the 4th quarter, but they did just that to seal off one of the greatest comebacks in NFL history and ultimately end the Giants playoff hopes for 2010. Double sweet.

1. Flyers overcome 3-0 series deficit, 3-0 game 7 deficit to stun Bruins

The NHL employs a group of psychics to run their marketing campaigns. The tagline for the 2010 playoffs boldly declared "History Will Be Made". Sure, every Stanley Cup Champion ultimately goes down in the history books, but historical moments are few and far between. Would we really see anything special this postseason?

Consider this Flyers team. They had high expectations going into the season, picked by many to win the Eastern Conference. They had an up and down season, but mostly down. They weren't able to find any kind of identity. They fired their coach midway through the season. After Ray Emery went down they were forced to rely on journeyman Michael Leighton and career backup Brian Boucher. Scott Hartnell and Danny Briere were in the midst of the worst slumps in their careers. People were calling for Jeff Carter's head. The season came down to a play-in game just to get into the playoffs against the Rangers during the last game of the season. They won that game on a shoot out. There was no room for error whatsoever. One wrong bounce during the course of an 82-game season and this comeback never even has a chance to happen.

Down 3-0 in the series after a devastating 4-1 game 3 loss, all seemed hopeless. And when I say seemed hopeless it's because no one actually felt that way. Whether it was the fact that we probably didn't deserve to be in the playoffs or that we had dispatched our rivals in New Jersey and their expensive new Kovalchuk toy, there was not much panic amongst the fans, players or coaches.

Meanwhile, Boston tensed up. It was as if they were playing to not lose, which they failed at miserably.

Simon Gagne came back from injury for game 4 and produced a slick game-winning goal in OT to keep the playoff hopes alive. This took the series back to Boston where the Flyers played demonstrable hockey, shutting them out 4-0. Game 6 back in Philly was a tightly contested match, but saw the Flyers eke away with a 2-1 win on the strength of a Briere PP Goal.

So the stage was set. Down 3-0, the Flyers at least had a chance to prove the NHL prognosticators right and make history.

Game 7 became a microcosm of the series. The Flyers went down 3-0 within the first 15 minutes of the first period. Boston would not let themselves wind up on the wrong end of a trivia question. It didn't look like the Flyers were ready to match their intensity after all.

Then Peter Laviolette called a timeout that will be known forever in Philadelphia sports history as "The Timeout". James van Riemsdyk scored in the waning seconds of the period to give the Flyers life. In the 2nd period, Hartnell and Briere (our two biggest season slumpers) scored. Tie game. 3-3. Just like the series.

Then with 7 minutes left in the 3rd period, Simon Gagne lifted a puck over Tuukka Rask's shoulder to seal the game. History was made.

Oh Hey 2011... didn't see you there

Now that 2010 is out of the way, I'd like to make some predictions for 2011... some bold and some... not so much

The Flyers will win the Stanley Cup
Sure, I'm a homer, but it's not like they can't do it. They have one of the deepest offenses and defenses in the league. This team was built for a playoff run. The fact that they are having a great season and getting production from all lines is a great sign. The only question that remains is the same question that's existed for the past two decades: Got goalie?

The Eagles will lose to the Packers this Sunday
I want more than anything for this prediction to be wrong, but I don't like our chances. We match up horribly with the Packers' deep receiving corps and their speedy and talented secondary matches up very well with ours. This game will ultimately come down to Vick, but Clay Matthews scares the crap out of me. I can see us taking the lead, but our D not being able to stop Rodgers' game-winning drive.

Michael Vick will be extended as an Eagle through the 2013 season
This is a lock barring any ridiculous injury in the playoffs. I think they will get at least a first-rounder for Kolb.

The Sixers will make the playoffs and lose in the first round (if Iguodala isn't traded)
Oh NBA purgatory, how I resent thee. There's about as much parity in the NBA as there is fun allowed in the NFL, which is to say, NONE. The Sixers are talented, young and athletic. They have great role players and a deep bench. Elton Brand is having a great comeback year. Jrue Holiday looks to be on the path to stardom. That's about where I'm going to stop the compliments. They have no frontcourt other than Brand and Iguodala looks to be on the trading block. They have no alpha dog or any player I would definitively trust in crunch time. Evan Turner has shown flashes of promise, but looks to be a bust on the virtue that he was the 2nd overall pick. I will probably be into my 30s before the Sixers are title contenders again.

The Phillies will win the World Series
This one I actually believe whole-heartedly. Quick, name the team affected by the most injuries last year. Okay, now name the team who had the best record in all of baseball. Hint: They're the same one. The Phillies lost every regular starter except for Jayson Werth and Raul Ibanez to the DL. Rollins had three separate stints. They were without J.C. Romero, Ryan Madson and Brad Lidge for extended time as well. They weren't able to field their every day lineup until the end of August just before the playoffs. And it showed. Utley looked labored in the playoffs. The team didn't have that same fire it had in previous years. 2011 will be different. Injuries will regress back to the mean and production will rise. This is all without even mentioning our rotation which can be summed up thusly:

H₂0Lee Sh*t

Iverson to China?

Reports are filtering in that former #1 draft pick and face-of-the-Sixers-franchise, Allen Iverson plans to take his talents to South... Beijing? As a fan of the NBA, this is depressing. Iverson is a past league MVP and three-time scoring champion. He is considered by most to be destined for Springfield, Massachusetts. As a die-hard Sixers fan that grew up during Iverson's prime years and single-handedly sparked my interest in basketball, this is devastating. When life seems stuck in neutral, sports are a great reminder of how quickly things can change for the better or (in Iverson's case) the much worse.

Iverson could perhaps be the most polarizing athlete in the history of Philadelphia sports to the national media. More than Chamberlain, Barkley, Dykstra, Burrell, Lindros or McNabb. But to Philadelphia, he was, is and will always be a hero. He is one of the most interesting cases of misunderstood athletes.

Thug Life. Iverson was raised in Hampton, Virgina by his single 15-year-old mother. Life was difficult. He fell in with with a core group of friends, calling themselves Cru Thik. In high school, he was a two-sport star. He managed to win the State Championship in both Football (QB, CB and KOR/PR) and Basketball in the same year. His senior year he was involved in a Bowling Alley brawl divided along racial lines. ESPN did a 30 for 30 on it called "No Crossover: The Trial of Allen Iverson." It is unbelievably compelling. Needless to say, when the Sixers drafted him, his perception was that of an uneducated thug.

No Stranger to the Spotlight. Iverson blew up expectations and had the entire city talking about his ceiling potential. He won Rookie of the Year in a very strong class (Ray Allen, Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash) and demonstrated his devastating crossover on a pretty good player. He followed up this performance with a scoring title in only his third year. Iverson was good. We just didn't know how good until his fifth year.

Carrying a team city on his back. I remember 2001 so vividly. We started the season 10-0. Everything was clicking. All of the key role players were in place to make a title run (Theo Ratliff/Dikembe Mutombo, George Lynch, Tyrone Hill, Matt Geiger, Aaron McKie and Eric Snow). Iverson was unstoppable. He won the MVP and scoring title, averaging 31.1 points/game during the regular season. No one else averaged more than 12. In the playoffs, he stepped it up, scoring 32.9 points/game. They blew by Indiana in the first round, but went 7 games with Toronto and Milwaukee. At one point during the Toronto series, he traded 50 point games with Vince Carter.

Game 2: Iverson, 54 points - Sixers win
Game 3: Carter, 54 points - Raptors win
Game 5: Iverson, 52 points - Sixers win

After winning the Eastern Conference Championship, they took game 1 from the Lakers in LA and every Philadelphian learned the name Tyronn Lue. It was an incredible time to be a Sixers fan. Despite the loss, there was optimism for the future. Iverson was only 25 (entering his basketball prime) and there was plenty of time to surround him with dangerous players and perennially compete for a championship.

Snowballing. This was the first and last great year for the Sixers. Starting with his infamous press conference in 2002 and ending with a domestic dispute with his wife, Iverson seemed distracted. He still gave a blue-collar effort on the court, but his off court shenanigans left many fans wondering if he put in the Kobe-like work ethic to sustain for the long-term. I guess we all know the answer to that now.

Journeyman Starter? I didn't follow Iverson's career too closely after he left Philadelphia, but I did watch his return to the city of brotherly love. I get very emotional watching my teams, but rarely does something compel me to shed tears. Iverson received a minute and a half standing ovation fighting back tears. He pandered to the crowd with his signature hand cupping the ear and kissed the 76ers logo at mid court. A decade's worth of emotions, frustration and unrealized expectations all coming out in one moment. Yet, that night, we were all family again. His 2nd return was not as anticipated. At this point in his career, Iverson was brought back to sell tickets. Still, it conjured those old feelings that when Iverson was starting, we had a chance to win every game.

Now, after a decade of hall-of-fame caliber play, Iverson is an alcoholic and carries a seemingly insurmountable gambling debt. He only knows how to do one thing well: play basektball. Unfortunately for him, not a single NBA team wants him. It's incredible to think that it has come to this for him. Iverson must go to China, just to survive and continue to provide for his family. Best wishes and like always, I'll still be rooting for you.

What's in Ruben Amaro's Cupboard?

In order to obtain Roy Halladay, Phillies' GM Ruben Amaro Jr. had to "empty the cupboard." They shipped off coveted prospects LHP Kyle Drabek, C Travis D'Arnaud and OF Michael Taylor to Toronto. But Amaro, stressed to find his cupboard bare, needed to restock with unproven talent. He shipped Cliff Lee (who had a year remaining at a paltry $8 million) to the Mariners in exchange for RHP Phillippe Aumont, OF Tyson Gillies and RHP Juan Ramirez.

Let's check in with our newest cupboard ornaments, shall we?

RHP Phillippe Aumount - the 6'7" 21-year-old performed so poorly in Double-A Reading this year that he was demoted to Single-A. He posted a 7.43 ERA before being sent down.

OF Tyson Gillies - the 6'2" 22-year-old was batting only .238 in Double-A Reading this year before being arrested for felony cocaine possession. Are you fucking kidding me?

RHP Juan Ramirez - In 73 Innings of Double-A Reading ball, Ramirez has gone 3-3 with an unspectacular ERA of 5.18.

What a lovely cupboard you have Ruben.

NFC South Preview

Over the next few weeks until the NFL season begins I will be doing division by division previews. You can check out my previous division previews here:

• NFC North

Next up is the NFC South.


Last Year's Record: 3-13 (4th in Division)
Last Year's Story: A year removed from a 9-7 record and a near-playoff berth that they squandered in the last week of the season, the Buccaneers looked to build on their chances with new TE acquisition Kellen Winslow and a slew of talented rookies including eventual QB-of-the-future Josh Freeman. The offseason was a transitional mess otherwise. Long-time defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin left for greener pastures to join his son in Tennessee and Raheem Morris, then defensive backs coach, was promoted to replace him. Inexplicably, Jon Gruden was fired in January, paving the way for Morris to become the NFL's youngest head coach (33). What a way to get thrown into the fire.

With the departure of aging veteran QB Jeff Garcia, training camp became a QB battle between Byron Leftwich and Luke McCown, taking precious snaps away from Josh Johnson and Freeman. Leftwich won and McCown was shipped off to Jacksonville. After starting 0-2 he was benched during week 3 and replaced with Johnson. Johnson proceeded to go winless up until their bye week when he was replaced by Freeman. To make matters worse, Tampa lost their starting C Jeff Faine in the first game of the season.

When Freeman took over after the bye week, he led the Buccs to a 38-28 upset at home against Green Bay. Down 28-17 with about 12 minutes remaining in the game, Freeman drove down the field twice, throwing for touchdowns both times. In his first NFL start, his final stat line was 14/31 with 205 yds 3 TD 1 INT good for a QB rating of 86.1. Not too shabby, especially when you consider the talent around him. WR Antonio Bryant and Winslow were nice targets, but neither force a team to gameplan around them. RB Derrick Ward was acquired in the offseason from the Giants, but was an extreme disappointment as a sidekick to Cadillac Williams. Ward played in 14 games but only amassed 400 yards and 1 TD. Williams, meanwhile, played in all 16 games putting up a slightly more respectable yet unspectacular stat line of 800 yards and 4 TD.

The other side of the ball had a very respectable pass defense. Led by CB Aqib Talib (5 INT) and FS Tanard Jackson (5 INT) they ranked 10th in pass yards allowed per game. This was the sole area in which the defense excelled. The line was unable to generate much pressure, sacking the QB only 28 times (good for 26th in the league) and giving up an astounding 158.2 yards/game and 4.8 yards/carry (both good for last in the league).

Key Additions: DT Gerald McCoy (3rd Overall), DT Brian Price (35th Overall), WR Arrelious Benn (39th Overall), SS Sean Jones (Eagles), WR Reggie Brown (Eagles), P Brent Bowden (172nd Overall)

Key Subtractions: WR Antonio Bryant (Bengals), QB Byron Leftwich (Steelers), DL Jimmy Wilkerson (Saints)

Injuries: WR Maurice Stovall (ankle), TE Kellen Winslow (knee) - both are probable for the start of the regular season.

Predicted Finish: 3-13
The Buccs are young, inexperienced and lacking talent at the skill positions, but have a relatively easy schedule to navigate this year. Unfortunately I think they'll still be the stomping ground of the NFC South.

Let's get the positive out of the way first. Josh Freeman can play in this league. The question is whether he can play with Reggie Brown and rookies Arrelious Benn and Mike Williams (101st Overall) as his top 3 receivers. Brown couldn't even hold down a roster spot in Philadelphia and relying on green wide receivers with a QB that still needs to mature could be a recipe for disaster. Without strengthening the offensive line or RB positions in the offseason, the Buccs are expecting a bounce back from Cadillac and Ward. I don't see it happening. Defenses can simply stack the box and play the pass coverage man-to-man. Neither RB is talented enough to overcome this.

The defense is young, but could see significant improvement this year. McCoy and Price are very talented and will anchor the line for the foreseeable future. The secondary is still strong and was able to improve their depth with the addition of Jones. The linebackers need to improve, but have a very solid middleman in Barrett Ruud. They should be just as effective against the pass with the ability to generate more pressure up front, but only slightly better against the run. I don't expect them to finish last this year, but I do expect them to give up a ton of points. Unless the offense is consistently firing on all cylinders, the Buccaneers won't win many games.

Offensive MVP: Josh Freeman
Defensive MVP: Gerald McCoy

Fantasy Boom: Kellen Winslow - Young QBs are notorious for targeting the biggest guys on the field. This will be no exception. Winslow is the most talented athlete on the field for them. He must remain healthy.
Projected Stats: 85 rec 850 yds 6 TD
Fantasy Bust: Derrick Ward - Cadillac Williams is still the feature back, so Ward will have to make the most of his carries. Ward stands at only 5'11" 228 lbs and will probably not see time in goal line situations.
Projected Stats: 120 car 500 yds 3 TD
Fantasy Sleeper: Josh Freeman - Although he threw for more interceptions than TDs last year, his talent is obvious. The Buccs have found their franchise QB and he should benefit from another year under the center, but consider him a deep, deep sleeper without much talent surrounding him.
Projected Stats: 3000 yds 15 TD 24 INT


Last Year's Record: 8-8 (3rd in Division)
Last Year's Story: The Panthers were coming off a successful '08 campaign, riding the coattails of stud RBs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart to a first seed bye before being upset at home against the Cardinals in a complete meltdown by Jake Delhomme (6 turnovers).

Delhomme, in a bid for consistency, proceeded to open the '09 season in the same way with 4 INT in a week 1 home loss against Philly. He was erratic the rest of the season, leading the team to a 4-7 record and throwing for 8 TD and 18 INT, until he was benched in week 13 for Oregon State product Matt Moore. The Panthers had weapons-o'-plenty with their running back tandem (combined 2250 yards 17 TD) as well as superstar WR Steve Smith (982 yards 7 TD), leading some to believe that the poor record should be attributed mostly to Delhomme. Moore set out to prove those pundits right as he led the Panthers to a 4-1 record while throwing for over 1000 yards 8 TD 2 INT at 61.6% (a QB Rating of 98.5). Moore did this against decent opponents as well, beating a Minnesota team that was still trying to clinch a first round bye in week 15, blowing out the Giants at the Meadowlands in week 16 (and effectively ending their playoff hopes) and beating the Saints during the last week of the season (albeit without their starters).

Overall, the defense could be deemed a success last year. They crushed opponents' passing attacks, limiting them to 191 yds/game (4th Overall) and were able to prevent the opposition from scoring over 20 points/game (9th Overall), but failed miserably against the run (22nd Overall). Hellacious DE Julius Peppers led the team with 10.5 sacks, but no one else was able to get much pressure. MLB Jon Beason continued to be an absolute beast (142 tackles, 1 FF 3 INT) earning his second Pro Bowl trip and CBs Richard Marshall and Chris Gamble were solid as well. Despite Delhomme's 18 interceptions, the Panthers actually posted a positive turnover differential (+6).

Key Additions: QB Jimmy Clausen (48th Overall), DT Ed Johnson (Colts), WR Brandon LaFell (78th Overall), WR Armanti Edwards (89th Overall)

Key Subtractions: DE Julius Peppers (Bears), WR Muhsin Muhammad (retired), QB Jake Delhomme (Browns), LB Na'il Diggs (Rams), DT Damione Lewis (Patriots), DT Ma’ake Kemoeatu (Redskins)

Injuries: WR Steve Smith (arm) and RB Jonathan Stewart (heel) were both banged up in training camp, but should be fine by the regular season.

Predicted Finish: 9-7
It's difficult to predict how well the Panthers will do this season. I think they can be anywhere from mediocre to a legitimate playoff team. The offense improved greatly at QB, but it remains to be seen whether Matt Moore can find consistency as a starter across a full season. Fortunately, in his limited appearances, he has few turnovers and seems to let his weapons work for him. Moore could have a very good season and fly under the radar. The lack of a #2 receiving option with the retirement of Muhsin Muhammad will definitely hurt, but the superior ground attack will force opponents to stack the box. Moore should have enough time behind a solid offensive line to produce.

The one glaring issue is the defense. The Panthers lost 4 starters from their front 7. Julius Peppers will be the most impactful loss. He led the team with 10.5 sacks last year. DEs Tyler Brayton and Everette Brown (combined 7.5 sacks last year) look to fill his shoes. Ed Johnson should help with the run defense, but he was injured too often in Indianapolis and has only played in 5 games the past two years. The secondary remains largely the same and there is no reason to suspect a drop-off in production.

It will be interesting to see what they do with Notre Dame QB Jimmy Clausen. Moore will be on a short leash if he fails to live up to expectations and Clausen would be expected to take over the reins. If Moore is good, the Panthers will have an interesting dilemma on their hands. Clausen was the most NFL-ready QB coming out of this draft and could be used as trade bait.

Offensive MVP: Steve Smith
Defensive MVP: Jon Beason

Fantasy Boom: Steve Smith - I think it's about time Steve Smith started being the best Steve Smith in the league again. His stats in 4 games with Moore: 19 rec 378 yards 3 TD
Projected Stats: 80 rec 1200 yds 10 TD
Fantasy Bust: Dante Rosario - the Panthers are weak at TE. Rosario will be the main option, but with Jeff King and Gary Barnidge in the equation, they figure to spread the ball around. Rosario will suffer.
Projected Stats: 30 rec 280 yds 1 TD
Fantasy Sleeper: Jonathan Stewart - Entering his 3rd season, he has scored 10 TDs in each of the past two years while boasting a YPC of 4.9. If he can stay healthy, he should see his touches increase.
Projected Stats: 240 car 1300 yds 10 TD


Last Year's Record: 9-7 (2nd in Division)
Last Year's Story: Matt Ryan improved in his 2nd full year as a starter and went 9-5, throwing for close to 3000 yards 22 TD 14 INT and a QB rating of 80.9. He was resilient for most of the season, but sat out two key games in the thick of the playoff race due to turf toe. This ended up being the Falcons undoing as they lost both games and failed to make the playoffs. RB Michael Turner experienced a breakthrough season in '08 and led the NFL with 376 carries, but was hampered by an ankle injury and missed most of 6 games in '09. RBs Jerious Norwood and Jason Snelling carried the load in his absence, the latter being the better of the two. TE Tony Gonzalez continued to give linebackers nightmares at 34 years old, boosting his already stellar Hall of Fame resume. The one major concern on offense, besides injuries was a lack of a 2nd receiving option behind dynamic Pro Bowler Roddy White. Combined, Gonzalez and White caught 17 TD passes. The rest of the team? 9.

The defense was inconsistent, ranking 28th against the pass. Part of this was due to a terrible pass rush which finished 26th in the league in total sacks. DT Jonathan Babineaux (6 sacks), DE John Abraham (5.5 sacks) and DE Kroy Biermann (5 sacks) supplied the majority of the pressure, but after them the depth falls out. The team was not able to replace DT Peria Jerry, who succumbed to a season ending ACL tear in September. The front 7 were decent against the rush, finishing 10th in the league. They were led by LBs Mike Peterson and Curtis Lofton. FS Thomas DeCoud (3 INT 2 FF) and CB Brent Grimes (6 INT) were the lone bright spots on a pass defense that was otherwise torched by the opposing QBs, giving up 300 yards by an individual passer 6 times. Despite the lack of consistency in the secondary, the Falcons posted a turnover differential of +3.

Key Additions: CB Dunta Robinson (Texans), LB Sean Weatherspoon (19th Overall), DT Corey Peters (83rd Overall)

Key Subtractions: CB Chris Houston (Lions), CB Tye Hill (Rams)

Injuries: WR Mike Jenkins (shoulder) - out 3-5 weeks. A team already depleted at WR cannot afford to have Jenkins miss a lot of time. Worth keeping an eye on.

Predicted Finish: 10-6
They say you hit your stride during the 3rd year of your NFL career. If this is true, it's great news for Matty Ice and the Atlanta Falcons. With a feast of weapons at the skill positions, the only thing that should hold the Falcons back from a spot in the playoffs this year is the injury bug. I expect the Falcons to contend for a wild-card spot, but they aren't good enough to challenge the Saints for the division yet.

Turner should have a bounce-back year and will get over 300 carries if he can remain healthy. Coach Mike Smith loves running the ball. The team ranked 11th in attempts last year and 2nd in '08. Tony Gonzalez is on the decline, but until he has an unproductive season, I won't write him off. Gonzalez has only missed two games in his 13 year career. Astounding. The injury to Mike Jenkins could be decisive if Turner is unable to get back to '08 form. Roddy White is a top 5 receiver in this league, but Ryan will have little else to throw to. The offensive line remains intact from last year returning all five members. They should benefit from this consistency.

The defense improved in an immediate area of concern: cornerback. 6-year veteran Dunta Robinson was brought in to play opposite Grimes. The Falcons also strengthened their front 7 with the drafting of Weatherspoon and Peters. Both are expected to receive significant playing time this year. The defense will improve their pass coverage without dropping off the production in their run defense.

Offensive MVP: Matt Ryan
Defensive MVP: John Abraham

Fantasy Boom: Roddy White - the only thing holding him back from upper-elite WR fantasy status is the lack of a #2 option across from him. Teams will try to shut down White -- but they won't be very successful.
Projected Stats: 100 rec 1400 yds 8 TD
Fantasy Bust: Jason Snelling - the "bust" aspect of this will depend largely on the health of Turner. If Turner is back, he will get the lion's share of the load, rendering Snelling useless.
Projected Stats: 80 car 300 yds 2 TD
Fantasy Sleeper: Matt Ryan - he sports a positive TD/INT ratio with only 2 seasons under his belt. Ryan has a strong arm and many weapons around him. I wouldn't be surprised to see him finish in the top 10 for fantasy QBs.
Projected Stats: 3800 yds 24 TD 14 INT


Last Year's Record: 13-3 (1st in Division), 3-0 Playoffs, Super Bowl Champions
Last Year's Story: This is the one story where I have nothing negative to say. The Saints annihilated their competition to start the season 13-0. Annihilated may even be taking it easy. The Saints somehow managed to outscore their opponents 466 to 274 during this run. The offense claimed the 4th best passing attack and 6th best rushing attack in the league, notching over 30 points 12 different times (including the playoffs).

Drew Brees did not have his best statistic year, but he did have his best all around year, flinging for 4388 yds 34 TD 11 INT at a RIDICULOUS 70.6 % (QB Rating 109.6). The ball was spread around with no receiver scoring over 9 TDs, but 8 different guys were able to contribute 2 or more. WRs Marques Colston and Devery Henderson combined for 1900 yards and 11 TDs. TE Jeremy Shockey contributed significantly as well. The three-headed ground attack consisted of RBs Pierre Thomas, Reggie Bush and Mike Bell. Bell had the most carries, but Thomas contributed the most yards. Bush was a threat on the screen as well. All-Pro Jahri Evans flanked a fantastic offensive line which only allowed 20 sacks on Brees all year, ranking 4th in the league.

The offense needed to be this good, because the defense was porous. It ranked 26th against the pass and 21st against the run. The defense also gave up 20 or more points 13 times (including the playoffs) and ranked 20th in the league in points allowed/game. All-Pro Darren Sharper had a career year, picking off 9 passes and returning 3 of them for TDs. DE Will Smith (13 sacks) leads a line of savvy veterans, none of whom stand out as superstars. The line as a whole was mediocre at bringing pressure, tallying 35 sacks (good for 13th in the league). CBs Tracy Porter and Jabari Greer form one of the best tandems in the league and accumulated 6 interceptions between themselves. MLB Jonathan Vilma is a stud, but the rest of the linebacking corps is sub-par. The Saints ranked 3rd in the NFC with a +11 turnover differential. Even though the defense had what could be considered a down year, does it really matter? The team won the Super Bowl. Enough said.

Key Additions: DE Alex Brown (Bears), LB Clint Ingram (Jaguars), DE Jimmy Wilkerson (Buccaneers) CB Patrick Robinson (32nd Overall), OT Charles Brown (64th Overall)

Key Subtractions: RB Mike Bell (Eagles), OT Jammal Brown (Redskins), LB Scott Fujita (Browns), DE Charles Grant (Dolphins)

Injuries: WR Robert Meachem (toe) has missed some training camp, but is expected to be fine.

Predicted Finish: 13-3
I don't see any reason why the defending Super Bowl Champs couldn't repeat this year. Their super-powered offense is wholly intact and the defense improved through offseason acquisitions.

I don't think the offense will be as great as they were last year when they averaged 31.9 points/game, but then again I don't think they have to be. Sean Payton is an offensive mastermind and will still have this team firing on all cylinders. Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas will be enough to carry the load. The Saints' WR corps is one of the best in the league and TE Jeremy Shockeyy has a knack for making the big catch. The offensive line is one of the best in the league and should remain that way. Last year's absurd 70% completion rate by Brees is what happens when an elite QB gets time to let the play develop (See: Tom Brady, 2007).

The defense has improved in all areas and the additions of Brown and Ingram will provide some much needed depth. Sharper is a ball-hawk and should have another stellar season. The addition of Robinson will strengthen the secondary as well. The defense is still not one of the league's elite units, but they have enough veterans and playmakers to get by from week to week.

Offensive MVP: Drew Brees
Defensive MVP: Will Smith

Fantasy Boom: Drew Brees - do you really need a reason?
Projected Stats: 4400 yds 30 TD 10 INT
Fantasy Bust: Jeremy Shockey - with too many options on offense, Shockey's looks have suffered. Since 2006, he has seen a decline in receptions every year.
Projected Stats: 45 rec 500 yds 2 TD
Fantasy Sleeper: Pierre Thomas - with Mike Bell gone, Thomas will get more touches. It's a good thing too since he racked up an impressive 5.4 YPC last season.
Projected Stats: 200 car 750 yds 8 TD, 20 rec 160 yds 2 TD

K-Rod Breaks Hand, Face, Career in One Punch

No, Francisco Rodriguez did not reveal his identity as Superman, but he did do something extremely dumb. The Mets' struggling closer was in an altercation with his girlfriend's father over the weekend and threw a strike that actually hit the zone. Apparently, no one has been working with him on his punch mechanics and he ended up tearing a ligament in his right thumb.

Now I can forgive the fact that K-Rod resorted to pugilism to settle a dispute. There is really no other way a man can defend his honor against the grandfather of his children other than to lead him roughly by the collar away from the family room at Citi Field and pop a few shiners into his skull. What I can't possibly believe is why he threw the punch with his freaking pitching hand. Come on, Franny (new nickname), how dumb can you be?

Eagles vs Jaguars Preseason Thoughts

As far as anticipation goes, August sits at the top of my list of months I can't wait to get through. Even though it was only the first preseason game, you could feel the excitement. No other sport lends itself to the same off-season withdrawal. The game was practically sold out to watch the second and third string teams scrimmage for the right to earn practice squad slots. This is the equivalent of watching and caring about the NBA D-League and yet, I (and the rest of America) can't get enough of it.



The tunnel is a defining moment for career reflection. This will be the first time Kevin Kolb steps out as a starter. The first time (future Hall of Famers) Brandon Graham and Nate Allen will get their taste of the unforgiving Philadelphia crowds. They sway back and forth, eyes closed, ruminating about where they came from and where they're going to the background noise of the adulating masses. Everyone is 0-0. Like the inspiring Nike World Cup commercials, there is a common theme that dances around every player's mind: Write the Future.



Sadly, this is the time I most remember Brian Dawkins who used to crawl out of the tunnel like a Wolverine (which earned him the awesome nickname "Weapon X"). Miss you, Dawk.



Where's Waldo? -- (Hint: Andy ate him)



Kolb, in command of the huddle.



Our first team offense played pretty well for two first quarter drives. They broke into the red zone both times, but were unable to convert, settling for two David Akers field goals. Some observations:

• I think Desean Jackson will do okay in this league.


• Jeremy Maclin looks like he added 30 lbs... of muscle.


• We are starting to see the good and bad of Kolb. He is very accurate and consistent, but likes to force it into coverage more than Mcnabb. One thing we can definitely expect this season: more interceptions. Mcnabb holds the NFL record (or close to it) for career avg attempts in between interceptions.


• The offensive line looks solid. This is especially impressive because third-string center Mike McGlynn is starting in place of Jamaal Jackson and Nick Cole.


• Jason Avant might be the most underrated WR in the league.

The first team defense was even more impressive than the offense. They were only on the field for two posessions, but held the Jaguars first team offense to consecutive three and outs and a total of 10 yards.

• Asante Samuel, yes Asante Samuel, delivered the best hit, crunching Jaguars TE Mercedes Lewis on a crucial third down for a minimal gain. I've been as critical as anyone about Asante's ability to tackle, but it's great to see him lay out like this in a preseason game against a bigger guy.


• The linebackers look FAST. Ernie Sims and Stewart Bradley might become the next "Thunder and Lightning" duo. Akeem Jordan looks great as well. On one play he surged into the backfield by himself and took out Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew for a loss of 2 yards.


• Brandon Graham got into the backfield on nearly every play. He seemed overly excited and ran past the quarterback several times, but was always within arms length reach. After the game he admitted that he had a little too much adrenaline and wanted to perform for the crowd.


• My only complaint was that Nate Allen needs more reps. He was on the field for six plays. While Graham played a little with the second team, Allen never stepped onto the field again.

NFC North Preview

Over the next few weeks until the NFL season begins I will be doing division by division previews. Up first, the NFC North.



Last Year's Record: 2-14 (4th in Division)
Last Year's Story: Heading into QB-of-the-future Matthew Stafford's inaugural season, the focus was toward building for the future. With a promising young core of WR Calvin Johnson (23), RB Kevin Smith (22), TE Brandon Pettigrew (24) and Stafford (21) the Lions looked poised to grow consistency together and surprise as a potential sleeper team. The only thing consistent was their inconsistency. Stafford looked like a rookie at times and a sure-fire franchise QB at others. Johnson fought through double coverages without a reliable second option. The offense even showed flashes of greatness at times, gritting it out in a last second comeback win at home against Cleveland on week 11. Okay greatness is pushing it, the Browns are awful. As the season wore on, the quad of youngsters were also hit by an injury train. Combined they missed 16 games between each other and were only on the field together for 8 regular season games.

As for the other side of the ball, the numbers tell most of the story. The Lions' defense ranked last in Total Yards, Yds/game, Pass Yds/game and Pts/game. Their Rush Yds/game was only slightly improved at 25th. The early loss of veteran Jared Devries to the defensive line threw rookie Sammie Hill into the fire. The line was porous at best, succumbing to individual rushers gaining over 100 yards 8 different times. The secondary was mired in injury with 6 DBs finishing the season on the injured reserve. The lone bright spot was the LB corps which received fast-paced high intensity play from Julian Peterson, Ernie Sims, Larry Foote and youngster DeAndre Levy.

Key Additions: DE Kyle Vanden Bosch (Titans), DT Ndamukong Suh (2nd Overall Pick), RB Jahvid Best (30th Overall Pick), WR Nate Burleson (Seahawks), TE Tony Scheffler (Broncos), OG Rob Sims (Seahawks)

Key Subtractions: LB Ernie Sims (Eagles), LB Larry Foote (Steelers)

Injuries: SS Ko Simpson - Missed most of training camp with a knee injury after missing most of last year. He is the starting SS. Worth keeping an eye on.

Predicted Finish: 3-13
The defense improved on paper. They shored up the defensive line with the drafting of Suh and signing Vanden Bosch to a four-year deal worth $26 million. Both players should make an immediate impact. The losses of Foote and Sims will hurt. Newcomer Zach Follett will replace Sims having played in 10 games and amassing a total of... 10 total tackles. The front office brass apparently had enough faith in him to let Sims go. Foote will be replaced at MLB by Deandre Levy who proved to be a capable starter and ended up playing in all but one of the team's games. Whether he can perform consistently at that level without Sims or Foote to help back him up remains an unknown. The secondary shouldn't face the smattering of injuries they had last year, but then again they aren't that talented to begin with. I expect improvement from this defensive unit. The only way to go is up anyway.

The offense should face similar returns from their off-season investments. Best could be a sleeper for Offensive ROY. He'll split time with a (hopefully) healthy Kevin Smith. This tandem should demand respect and free up space for Megatron. CJ will also benefit from the veteran presence of Nate Burleson, a possession receiver that runs good routes. A legitimate second option for Stafford. In addition, with Pettigrew healthy, the Lions have two starting-caliber tight ends. Neither of them have proved themselves to stand out yet, but both should be serviceable. The acquisition of Rob Sims will prove to be valuable. Longtime veteran Jeff Backus is a rock at LT. The offensive line should benefit from an additional year together and some veteran depth.

I admit, they have improved themselves on paper. They are young and FAST. It will be exciting to watch them this year, especially if Stafford can limit his turnovers. So why give the Lions only one extra win from last year? Well that little thing called a schedule. The Lions face the enormous task of playing the NFC East and AFC East. Quite possibly the two strongest divisions in football. And if not, well then they're playing in the toughest division. The only sanctuary is a home game against the Rams and an away game in Tampa. The Lions' record may not improve much, but their play will. The future looks a little brighter in Motown.

Offensive MVP: Calvin Johnson
Defensive MVP: Ndamukong Suh

Fantasy Boom: Calvin Johnson - Megatron is an elite WR poised for a big year. Expect more consistency between him and Stafford.
Projected Stats: 88 rec 1300 yds 9 TD
Fantasy Bust: Tony Scheffler - He'll be splitting reps with Pettigrew. The Lions have too many weapons in the red zone.
Projected Stats: 35 rec 475 yds 3 TD
Fantasy Sleeper: Jahvid Best - He's a homerun threat with a decent offensive line. If he can be anywhere near as dominant as he was in college, the Lions may have stumbled upon California gold.
Projected Stats: 200 car 770 yds 5 TD, 30 rec 280 yds 3 TD



Last Year's Record: 7-9 (3rd in Division)
Last Year's Story: Never shy in the off-season, Chicago blew a load of draft picks to rescue Pro Bowl QB Jay Cutler from the evil clutches of Denver coach Josh McDaniels. With their franchise QB firmly entrenched and RB Matt Forte coming off of a breakout rookie season, the Bears looked to be in the driver's seat, having come one game away from making the playoffs in '08. In the opening day game against Green Bay, Cutler proved to be erratic, throwing 4 interceptions as the defense blew a 4th quarter lead to complete the meltdown. This would set the tone for the season. After throwing for 4500 yds 25 TD 18 INT at 62.3 PCT in '08 Cutler regressed to 3600 yds 27 TD 26 INT at 60 PCT. The blame should not be heaped on Cutler though. With return-man specialist Devin Hester as the #1 WR, Forte unable to hold onto the ball and a past-their-prime O-Line led by Orlando Pace and Olin Kreutz, the Bears stumbled in '09.

Chicago's defense was consistently mediocre throughout the year, unable to stop any high-powered offense from having their way. Part of this reason is that defensive centerpiece, LB Brian Urlacher went down to injury in the first game of the season and never returned. Having produced more than 34 turnovers in each of Lovie Smith's first five seasons, the bounces simply did not go their way in '09 with only 28 turnovers and 35 sacks. Although they ranked 10th in turnovers forced, they were a -6 overall.

Key Additions: DE Julius Peppers (Panthers), RB Chester Taylor (Vikings), Mike Martz (Offensive Coordinator), FS Major Wright (75th pick)

Key Subtractions: DE Alex Brown (Saints), DE Adewale Ogunleye (FA)

Injuries: None

Predicted Finish: 7-9
Color me skeptical, but I'm not convinced Julius Peppers is the pole to vault this team into the playoffs. Firstly, the team lost Brown (6 sacks) and Ogunleye (6.5 sacks). I doubt Peppers will be much more productive than both of them combined. He is heading into his 9th season and has only topped 12.5 sacks 3 times. The linebackers should be much improved with Urlacher and Pisa Tinoisamoa healthy. Urlacher is heading into his 11th season. I wonder how much longer he can be a dominant force in this league, especially since he must come back from a season-ending injury. The cornerbacks are solidified with Zach Bowman and Charles Tillman, but the safety slots are up for grabs. In competition are incumbents Danieal Manning and Chris Harris as well as Craig Steltz and rookie Major Wright. The group as a whole should be slightly improved, barring injuries.

The offense is a different story and one that is not as easy to predict. Jay "Crybaby" Cutler will benefit from Mike Martz and his ability to mold Hall of Fame QBs (see: Kurt Warner), but who exactly will he throw to? TE Greg Olsen is his most legitimate threat but WRs Devin Hester and Johnny Knox are not #1 options on most teams. Secondaries blanketed them last year forcing a ton of missed balls and broken routes. Forte's return to dominance could be possible with the addition of Taylor, but they will be too dependent on a makeshift offensive line to predict absolute success. The Bears got rid of a washed-up Pace, but will use training camp to determine the best possible combination of lineman to use come September.

Offensive MVP: Jay Cutler
Defensive MVP: Julius Peppers

Fantasy Boom: Greg Olsen - Cutler will improve under Martz's direction and Olsen is his guy.
Projected Stats: 70 rec 720 yds 9 TD
Fantasy Bust: Matt Forte - He will be forced to split time with Chester Taylor behind a huge question mark of an offensive line.
Projected Stats: 240 car 900 yds 6 TD
Fantasy Sleeper: Johnny Knox - Despite a raw rookie season, Knox has shown flashes of brilliance and could surprise this year.
Projected Stats: 60 rec 680 yds 5 TD



Last Year's Record: 12-4 (1st in Division) 1-1 Playoffs
Last Year's Story: A friend challenged me to write this blurb without mentioning He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named. Unfortunately I don't think that's possible. The Unretired One even put Adrian Peterson on the media back stove and dominated the headlines. As Favre went, so did the Vikings. None of this was more evident than a week 3 miracle catch in the back of the end zone by Greg Lewis against the 49ers. Conversely, the season ended not so miraculously with an overtime interception in the NFC Championship game. (Sidenote: Favre has now thrown interceptions in his last career passing attempts for the Packers, Jets and Vikings -- as long as he stays retired... please stay retired). Among the supporting cast, Adrian Peterson wasn't as dominant as his previous version, racking up over 100 yards in only 3 games. Percy Harvin proved to be a breakout star, winning Offensive ROY. Visante Shiancoe emerged as a dangerous red zone option and Pro Bowl guard Steve Hutchinson anchored a solid line.

The Vikings' D was spectacular against the run, but less than impressive against the air attack. The best defensive line in the league featured a Pro Bowl caliber player at every position. Pat and Kevin Williams anchored the middle and were flanked at the ends by Jared Allen (arguably the best DE in the league) and Ray Edwards (8.5 sacks). The unit topped the league with 48 sacks. LB Chad Greenway had a great year, but lost the freedom to move around when MLB E.J. Henderson went down with a broken femur in December. CB Antoine Winfield was not able to stay healthy either. The secondary persevered and only gave up 2 individual 300 yard passing games, including the playoffs. Still, they were not able to force many turnovers, with only 11 total interceptions on the year as a team, tied for 26th in the league.

Key Additions: CB Lito Sheppard (Jets), CB Chris Cook (34th Pick), RB Toby Gerhart (51st pick), DE Everson Griffen (100th pick)

Key Subtractions: RB Chester Taylor (Bears)

Injuries: None

Predicted Finish: 11-5 (Favre) 8-8 (sans)
If Minnesota is jilted by Favre, this season could turn ugly quickly. Backup QB Tavaris Jackson played reasonably well in short stints last year, but hasn't played consistently since '07. QB is too important a position to leave up to an unknown. If Favre does return, I don't see him having the MVP-caliber season he had last year (4200 yards 33 TD 7 INT at 68.4% 107 QB Rating). He'll be 41 in October and is coming off major ankle surgery. AP will be AP. Percy Harvin and Vishanthe Shiancoe will both take another step forward. Shiancoe spent four years in New York with Coughlin, but was unable to break out until '08.

The defense added depth where they were weakest: the secondary. The signing of veteran Lito Sheppard was a great move. Sheppard was a Pro Bowler in his time with the Eagles. While he may have lost a step since those days, he will still be a valuable backup to rotate into their nickel schemes. If the linebackers can stay healthy, the Vikings' front seven could be the best in the league. This defense is dangerous. The balls didn't seem to bounce their way last year only recovering 13 of their 23 forced fumbles. The poor luck should regress back to the mean.

I seem to have the Vikings improving in almost all aspects, yet gave them a worse record than last year. This is because they got worse at the most important position, quarterback. Tavaris Jackson cannot be Brett Favre. Neither can Favre for that matter (or at least the '09 version of him). It's one thing to come back from major ankle surgery at 25 (and still extremely difficult). It's a completely different thing to do it at 40-41. Poor quarterback play can destroy a team. We saw how the team rose and fell with Favre's performances last year. This year will be no different. Only Favre will be worse.

Offensive MVP: Adrian Peterson
Defensive MVP: Ray Edwards

Fantasy Boom: Adrian Peterson - No brainer here. He has a great line to support him and doesn't need to rely on the QB to get his touches. He should get even more carries this year.
Projected Stats: 330 car 1400 yds 17 TD, 30 rec 350 yds 4 TD
Fantasy Bust: Brett Favre/Tavaris Jackson - Yes, they have weapons at their disposal and a solid line, but the same was true last year as well. Neither of them will have last year's season.
Projected Stats: Favre: 3900 yds 28 TD 23 INT, Jackson: 3000 yds 22 TD 23 INT
Fantasy Sleeper: Vikings D - not really a sleeper, but when you consider the number of huge games they could have it will spike your week-to-week total. They are still the best in the sack business and will get more interceptions than last year if they remain healthy.



Last Year's Record: 11-5 (2nd in Division) 0-1 Playoffs
Last Year's Story: In QB Aaron Rodgers' second full year as a starter, the offense thrived. Rodgers threw for over 4000 yards for the second consecutive season, becoming the first person in NFL history to do so. He is not without a plethora of weapons. Bonafide star WRs Greg Jennings and Donald Driver lead an impressive receiving corps. RB Ryan Grant has rushed for over 1200 yards in the past two years. The Packers left some points on the board last year, but it wasn't the fault of the skill position players. The offensive line suffered miserably against the pass rush, giving up a league high 51 sacks. While constantly running for his life, Rodgers completed 64.7% of his passes and boasted 30 TD to only 7 INT -- good for a QB rating of 103.2. Despite putting up the 6th best yards/game and 3rd most points/game over the course of the regular season, the Packers were handed a Wild Card round exit courtesy of the Arizona Cardinals. Rodgers threw for over 400 yards and had 4 TDs, but a fumble recovery returned by Karlos Dansby in overtime sealed their fate 51-45.

The defense put up impressive numbers in some gaudy categories. They led the league with 30 interceptions and a turnover differential of +24. At 33, CB Charles Woodson had possibly the best season of his 12-year career: 9 INT 4 FF 2 SCK 74 TCK 3 TD. He received NFC Defensive Player of the Month award 3 times and was the AP Defensive Player of the Year. Assisting him in the secondary were Pro Bowl S Nick Collins(6 INT) and veteran CB Al Harris. The Packers sat heavily in a base 3-4 and leaned heavily on their linebackers to perform. Luckily, they hit a homerun in the '09 Draft with LB Clay Matthews. The USC rookie posted 10 sacks in route to a Pro Bowl season.

Key Additions: OT Bryan Bulaga (23rd Overall), DE Mike Neal (56th Overall), P Chris Bryan (Undrafted)
Key Subtractions: DE Aaron Kampman (Jaguars), DE Mike Montgomery (Vikings)

Injuries: DE Johnny Jolly (Suspended)

Predicted Finish: 12-4
The entire season rests on the stability of the offensive line. I think they'll be better. Of the 51 sacks they gave up, 41 of them came in the first 9 games. In their remaining 7 games, they went 6-1. First round draft pick, tackle Bryan "Baby Beluga" Bulaga is saying and doing all of the right things so far. He might have earned himself a spot on the line by the time the real games begin. Another fact to consider... Rodgers was sacked 14 times in his two losses against Minnesota. His QB Ratings in those games: 110.6 and 108.5. It's scary to think what he would be capable of with better protection in front of him.

The defense still has a ton of playmakers on it. The losses of Jolly and Kampman will hurt, but the Packers will continue to rely on their athleticism at linebacker. Clay Matthews will benefit from an off-season of NFL conditioning and veterans A.J. Hawk and Nick Barnett will continue their solid play. Green Bay's secondary remains one of the best in the league. I expect them to be near the top of the league in turnovers and turnover differential again. The Packers tend to give up a lot of points, but they will make enough plays to keep themselves in games. Fortunately, the offense has enough firepower to win those high scoring games.

The Packers will win the division and compete for a Super Bowl this year. Playing at Lambeau in December should give them a decisive advantage.

Offensive MVP: Aaron Rodgers
Defensive MVP: Clay Matthews

Fantasy Boom: Aaron Rodgers - Like I haven't heaped enough praise on him yet. Rodgers will dominate fantasy this year.
Projected Stats: 4700 yds 38 TD 8 INT
Fantasy Bust: Packers D - not in the sense that they won't create a lot of turnovers, just not as much as last year and with fewer touchdowns. Their schedule is not very forgiving. They will face teams that can put up points.
Fantasy Sleeper: Ryan Grant - as teams gameplan for Rodgers, space will open up for Grant. Couple that with another year of experience for an upgraded offensive line and you have a formula for overachievement.
Projected Stats: 260 car 1400 yds 10 TD, 30 rec 160 yds 2 TD