The Missouri Tigers are off to another great start in 2010. Mizzou is 4-0 for the fifth consecutive year under head coach GaryPinkeland appears ready to make a run at the Big 12 North title once again.The Tigers have been plagued with several off-the-fieldissues this season, most notably involving running back Derrick New England Patriots jersey
Washington, which led to his permanent suspension from the team.Pinkel has run a tight ship at MU for 10 years, so hopefully this is just "one of those years" and not a trend.Missouri has also dealt with many key injuries, none with more potentially disastrous consequences than defensive end Aldon Smith's broken fibula.Smith is an incredible athlete and was on pace to lead the Big 12 in sacks for the second straight season before his injury. The Tigershope to have him back for their matchup with the Colorado Buffaloes,but thatmay be wishful thinking.Coach Pinkel has a "no excuses" policy and will expect Mizzou's depth on the defensive line to overcome the loss of Smith if he cannot go on October 9.The running back by committee appears to be working. The Tigers have been a better rushing team thisyear, rushing for 154 yards per game compared to 127 yards per game last season.Can Mizzou Keep the Win Streak Going?Can Mizzou Keep the Win Streak Going?Yes24.9%No7.1%They'll Fall to Oklahoma19.1%They'll Stumble at Nebraska21.3%Mizzou Will Win the Big 12 Championship27.6%Total votes: 225Mizzou will need to keep up its newfound rushing attack as the competition will continue to get stronger with MU heading into Big 12 Conference play.The Tigers need to get more disciplined on the field as New Orleans Saints jersey
well as off the field. Mizzou is averaging 71.5 yards in penalties this seasoncompared to 55 yards lost per game due to penaltiesin 2009.This is a big number when you consider Mizzou needs all the help it can get on defense. Losing ground and field position due to penaltiesonly adds pressure to the Tigers' bend-but-don't-break defensive unit.Last, but certainly not least, is the play of Blaine Gabbert. The Tigers will go as far as Gabbert's arm will take them. His passing efficiency is down132.96 compared to 140.45 in 2009due to Gabbert's five touchdowns to three interceptions ratio.Gabbert hasn't faced any stout defenses this season, sohis efficiency is an area of concern for the MU coaching staff. The good news is that Gabbert looks to be pressing knowing he is supposed to be even better this season (he's been mentioned in some of the Heisman talk for the 2010 award). Once Gabbert stops pressing, his rating will climb back up.Look forGabbert'splay to become more consistent as he continues to getcomfortable withreceivers T.J. Moe and Michael Egnew. New York Giants jersey
Gabbert's main target last season was the departed Danario Alexander, whoproduced 48 percent of Mizzou's offense in 2009.The fact that Gabbert is spreading the ball more this season should mean more difficulty for opposing defenses.All in all Missouri looks to be a legit 4-0 team. Sure they had a close game against San Diego State, but the Tigers didn't quit and came away with a character-building victory, something they haven't always had the ability to do
2011年1月22日星期六
22 Jan 11 Eight Minutes of Emulation: 2010 Colorado Buffs Imitate 1990 National Champions
From www.cuatthegame.com Buffs show imitation is the most sincere form of flatteryThe 2010 Buff players had to wait.The halftime ceremony honoring Alfred Williams' selection as a member of the College Football Hall of Fame Class of 2010 was running long. The 2010 Buff players were lined up behind Ralphie, ready to make Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
their second half entrance onto Folsom Field, but Ralphie's path around the stadium had yet to be cleared. Hundreds of young children, all wearing No. 94 jerseys in honor of Williams, along with a number of dignitaries on hand for the presentation - including fellow CU Hall of Famers Joe Romig and Dick Anderson - were still in Ralphie's way.As the Buffs waited, they heard the cheers for Williams.As the Buffs waited, the sun, which had been as hidden from view in the first half as the Colorado offense, decided to make an appearance.As the Buffs waited, a trio of F-18's thundered their way over the stadium, bringing about yet another raucous cheer from a Buff home crowd anxious to have something for which to cheer."Do you get it now?", I thought to myself as I saw the Buff players bunched up behind Ralphie, their gold helmets reflecting the first patch of sunlight of the afternoon. "Do you understand that wearing those 1990 Buffs'jerseys means something??".Apparently, the Buffs got it.Maybeit was halftime speeches (Buff players related after the game that offensive coordinator Eric Kiesau was quite animated about the shutout being pitched against his offense by a Warrior defense giving up 38 points per game). Maybe it wasthe flyover, or the sunlight, or the presence of Alfred Williams on their field.Something got to the 2010 Buff players, down 10-0 to Hawai'i at halftime.Whatever it was, it sparked a rally. For the first eight minutes of the second half against Hawai'i, Colorado played about as well as any Buff team has during any such stretch in the Dan Hawkins' era.Taking the second half kickoff at their 20-yard line, Rodney Stewart promptly ran for seven yards. An illegal substitution penalty on Hawai'i subsequently gave Colorado a first down. After an incompletion, the offensive line was guilty of yet another false start. As moans were heard throughout the stadium, though, senior Nate Solder was getting in the grill of two of his teammates.Enough was enough.From there, Colorado exhibited classic ball control offense. Stewart up the middle for seven; Tyler Hansen to tight end Ryan Deehan for 13, converting on third-and-eight. After the completion to Deehan,the Buffs never again faced a third down on the drive, quickly marching down the field. A 14-play, 80-yard drive was capped off by a four-yard touchdown run by Rodney Stewart in which Stewart ran up the middle of the Warrior defense completely untouched.The Buffs had new life, but were still down 10-7.Enter the Colorado defense, which had seen eight snaps by the Hawai'i offense inside the Colorado five yard line early in the first quarter, but had surrendered no points. Two penalties pushed the Warriors back to their five yard line. On third down, Hawai'i quarterback Bryant Moniz was nearly sacked by junior linebacker Tyler Ahles. Moniz did get off a pass to running back Alex Green, but Green was quickly swarmed under, with defensive back Anthony Perkins given credit for the safety.Three offensive plays by Hawai'i ... for minus-nine yards and a safety. The lead was now down to a single point. 10-9, Hawai'i.The ensuing free kick was returned by Toney Clemons to the Buff 40-yard line. The Colorado offense was now in high gear, taking off on adrive with play calling which was pure poetry in the eyes of Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
many Buff fans who have longed for a return of "smash-mouth" football in Boulder. The first four plays were all Rodney Stewart runs, gaining nine, seven, four, and five yards. On third-and-one, Tyler Hansen easily gained two yards fora first down, but the Buffs were flagged for illegal substitution. Rather than allow the gaff to ruin the drive, however, the inspired Buffs went ahead and converted, with Hansen hitting Scotty McKnight for ten yards and a first down.Then it was Brian Lockridge's turn to shine. Four straight runs by "B-Lock" went for 13, two, four, and nine yards, setting up the Buffs with a first-and-goal at the Hawai'i two yard line. Stewart again did the honors, covering the final two yards unscathed for his secondtouchdown of the third quarter. The comeback was complete a few moments later, when Tyler Hansen hit freshman wide receiver Paul Richardson for a two-point conversion.17-10, Colorado.Eight minutes of game clock.Two drives by the Colorado offense, covering a total of 140 yards in 24 plays. Two touchdowns.One drive for the Hawai'i offense, losing nine yards in three plays, and surrendering a safety to the Colorado defense.Eight minutes of play in which the 2010 Colorado Buffaloes dominated.Eight minutes of play in which the 2010 Colorado Buffaloes looked like a team capable of competing with almost any team on its schedule.Eight minutes of play in which the 2010 Colorado Buffaloes looked like the team which was worthy of the last team to wearthose same style jerseys - the 1990 national championship team.No. I am not saying, even for a moment, that this year's version of the Buffs is on its way to playing like, and winning like, the 1990 team did. The national championship team went 3-1-1 in non-conference play, with four of those five games being playedagainst ranked teams (the fifth opponent, unranked Stanford, went on to defeat the No. 1 team in the nation at the time, Notre Dame, two weeks after playing the Buffs). The 2010 Buffs would be fortunate to get away with one winagainst that schedule.What I am saying is that, for an ever-so brief period of time - eight minutes -Colorado fans were treated toquality football.Perhaps the Buff Nation owes yet another round of applause to Alfred Williams. On Friday night, Williams spoke to the team. He talked about the tradition of the program. Williams "called a lot of us guys out, basically every starter on the team," said senior captain Scotty McKnight. "He called them all out and was like, 'This (losing by 45 points to Cal) is unacceptable' ... We don't take it as he's calling us out because he doesn't like us. I think we're all grown men and we can understand that. We take it as he is calling us out because he wants us to be great. He said if you're the starter, you need to work Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
harder than anyone on the team. If you're a backup, make it your goal not to be the backup next week."For much of the first half, it was the "bad old days" for the Buffs - and the BuffNation. Buff fans were not shocked when the Colorado defense, knowing that Hawai'i was going to pass all afternoon, gave up an 80-yard pass on the second play of the game. Buff fans were not surprised, when, a few moments later, a punt was muffed, setting up the Warriors for another chance to score. Buff fans were not irate when Tyler Hansen missed a wide open Kyle Cefalo to end one threat, then had a snap go between his legs to end another. After four years of losing, with over a dozen losses by double digits, Buff fans have become numb.For eight minutes of the third quarter against Hawai'i, however, Buff fans were at once both reminded of what was once theirs, and what could potentially be theirs again.It was a nice feeling ...
their second half entrance onto Folsom Field, but Ralphie's path around the stadium had yet to be cleared. Hundreds of young children, all wearing No. 94 jerseys in honor of Williams, along with a number of dignitaries on hand for the presentation - including fellow CU Hall of Famers Joe Romig and Dick Anderson - were still in Ralphie's way.As the Buffs waited, they heard the cheers for Williams.As the Buffs waited, the sun, which had been as hidden from view in the first half as the Colorado offense, decided to make an appearance.As the Buffs waited, a trio of F-18's thundered their way over the stadium, bringing about yet another raucous cheer from a Buff home crowd anxious to have something for which to cheer."Do you get it now?", I thought to myself as I saw the Buff players bunched up behind Ralphie, their gold helmets reflecting the first patch of sunlight of the afternoon. "Do you understand that wearing those 1990 Buffs'jerseys means something??".Apparently, the Buffs got it.Maybeit was halftime speeches (Buff players related after the game that offensive coordinator Eric Kiesau was quite animated about the shutout being pitched against his offense by a Warrior defense giving up 38 points per game). Maybe it wasthe flyover, or the sunlight, or the presence of Alfred Williams on their field.Something got to the 2010 Buff players, down 10-0 to Hawai'i at halftime.Whatever it was, it sparked a rally. For the first eight minutes of the second half against Hawai'i, Colorado played about as well as any Buff team has during any such stretch in the Dan Hawkins' era.Taking the second half kickoff at their 20-yard line, Rodney Stewart promptly ran for seven yards. An illegal substitution penalty on Hawai'i subsequently gave Colorado a first down. After an incompletion, the offensive line was guilty of yet another false start. As moans were heard throughout the stadium, though, senior Nate Solder was getting in the grill of two of his teammates.Enough was enough.From there, Colorado exhibited classic ball control offense. Stewart up the middle for seven; Tyler Hansen to tight end Ryan Deehan for 13, converting on third-and-eight. After the completion to Deehan,the Buffs never again faced a third down on the drive, quickly marching down the field. A 14-play, 80-yard drive was capped off by a four-yard touchdown run by Rodney Stewart in which Stewart ran up the middle of the Warrior defense completely untouched.The Buffs had new life, but were still down 10-7.Enter the Colorado defense, which had seen eight snaps by the Hawai'i offense inside the Colorado five yard line early in the first quarter, but had surrendered no points. Two penalties pushed the Warriors back to their five yard line. On third down, Hawai'i quarterback Bryant Moniz was nearly sacked by junior linebacker Tyler Ahles. Moniz did get off a pass to running back Alex Green, but Green was quickly swarmed under, with defensive back Anthony Perkins given credit for the safety.Three offensive plays by Hawai'i ... for minus-nine yards and a safety. The lead was now down to a single point. 10-9, Hawai'i.The ensuing free kick was returned by Toney Clemons to the Buff 40-yard line. The Colorado offense was now in high gear, taking off on adrive with play calling which was pure poetry in the eyes of Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
many Buff fans who have longed for a return of "smash-mouth" football in Boulder. The first four plays were all Rodney Stewart runs, gaining nine, seven, four, and five yards. On third-and-one, Tyler Hansen easily gained two yards fora first down, but the Buffs were flagged for illegal substitution. Rather than allow the gaff to ruin the drive, however, the inspired Buffs went ahead and converted, with Hansen hitting Scotty McKnight for ten yards and a first down.Then it was Brian Lockridge's turn to shine. Four straight runs by "B-Lock" went for 13, two, four, and nine yards, setting up the Buffs with a first-and-goal at the Hawai'i two yard line. Stewart again did the honors, covering the final two yards unscathed for his secondtouchdown of the third quarter. The comeback was complete a few moments later, when Tyler Hansen hit freshman wide receiver Paul Richardson for a two-point conversion.17-10, Colorado.Eight minutes of game clock.Two drives by the Colorado offense, covering a total of 140 yards in 24 plays. Two touchdowns.One drive for the Hawai'i offense, losing nine yards in three plays, and surrendering a safety to the Colorado defense.Eight minutes of play in which the 2010 Colorado Buffaloes dominated.Eight minutes of play in which the 2010 Colorado Buffaloes looked like a team capable of competing with almost any team on its schedule.Eight minutes of play in which the 2010 Colorado Buffaloes looked like the team which was worthy of the last team to wearthose same style jerseys - the 1990 national championship team.No. I am not saying, even for a moment, that this year's version of the Buffs is on its way to playing like, and winning like, the 1990 team did. The national championship team went 3-1-1 in non-conference play, with four of those five games being playedagainst ranked teams (the fifth opponent, unranked Stanford, went on to defeat the No. 1 team in the nation at the time, Notre Dame, two weeks after playing the Buffs). The 2010 Buffs would be fortunate to get away with one winagainst that schedule.What I am saying is that, for an ever-so brief period of time - eight minutes -Colorado fans were treated toquality football.Perhaps the Buff Nation owes yet another round of applause to Alfred Williams. On Friday night, Williams spoke to the team. He talked about the tradition of the program. Williams "called a lot of us guys out, basically every starter on the team," said senior captain Scotty McKnight. "He called them all out and was like, 'This (losing by 45 points to Cal) is unacceptable' ... We don't take it as he's calling us out because he doesn't like us. I think we're all grown men and we can understand that. We take it as he is calling us out because he wants us to be great. He said if you're the starter, you need to work Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
harder than anyone on the team. If you're a backup, make it your goal not to be the backup next week."For much of the first half, it was the "bad old days" for the Buffs - and the BuffNation. Buff fans were not shocked when the Colorado defense, knowing that Hawai'i was going to pass all afternoon, gave up an 80-yard pass on the second play of the game. Buff fans were not surprised, when, a few moments later, a punt was muffed, setting up the Warriors for another chance to score. Buff fans were not irate when Tyler Hansen missed a wide open Kyle Cefalo to end one threat, then had a snap go between his legs to end another. After four years of losing, with over a dozen losses by double digits, Buff fans have become numb.For eight minutes of the third quarter against Hawai'i, however, Buff fans were at once both reminded of what was once theirs, and what could potentially be theirs again.It was a nice feeling ...
2011年1月18日星期二
18 Jan 11 3 Reasons Why Boise State Could Hang In The SEC.
Derp Derpa DerpI donknow that Ive ever heard anyone say that Boise State couldnhandle the daunting schedule of the Big East or ACC. But, itone of the go-to arguments used by fans of the Big 4 SEC, PAC10, BIG10, BIG12. We've all heard it:Anyone can win one game. But if they were in the __(insert best conference ever to exist in the universe here)_ theyd be 6-6 at best. So letsee why saying that makes you sound stupid: 1. Recruiting Since SEC fans seem to be the most boisterous about this topic, well use them as an example. According to the infallible New York Jets jersey
Wikipedia, South Carolina has never so much as won their division and Kentucky has won one SEC title in 1950. Neither is ever really a serious contender in their conference. So tell me, why do they each already have two 4-Star recruits committed for next year? How did S. Carolina get five 4-star recruits last year? The answer: because they play in the SEC. Now back to Boise State. In the 78-year history of the team, Boise State has had ZERO 5-star recruits and TWO 3-star recruits. It seems pretty safe to say that by simply being in the SEC, Boise State would have much better recruiting. 2. Money According to the Department of Education, Mississippi Stateathletic department had the lowest revenue of all SEC Teams (in 2008, the latest report available on ope.ed.gov) with $18.73 million dollars. Boise State brought in $8.53 million. Just to be fair, thatall athletics combined, but we all know that football is the big money maker. What do you think Boise State could do with recruiting, PR, advertising, hiring, and stadium expansions with an extra $10 million a year? 3. History Pop Quiz. How national championships has Boise State won? Did somebody say 2? Thatright, Boise State has a history of winning. In 1958, they won the Junior College National Championship. In 1980, they won the I-AA National Championship. So letsee, 25 years after joining the National Junior College Athletics Association, they won the national championship. 10 years after moving to Division I-AA, they won a national championship. Remind me again, when Oakland Raiders jersey
did Boise State move to Division I-A? Oh, yes, 1996. 14 years ago. Boise State would be the ____ team in the Big 12.Boise State would be the ____ team in the Big 12.1 - Best62.1%2- Second Best14.9%3- Third Best9.9%4- Fourth6.2%5- Bottom Half6.8%Total votes: 161 But, since we are talking about Boise State hanging with the SEC, it would make even more sense to look at conference affiliation. Since joining Division I in 1970 (29 seasons ago), Boise State has been in 3 different conferences (next yearmove to the Mountain West will be number 4) and has been conference champion 15 times. For those of you who might have gone to the University of Idaho, thatmore than half. The only two realistic explanations for this would be if 1) Boise State kept moving down to weaker conferences, or 2) if theyre just good at football. Conclusion People tend to focus on Boise Stateweak WAC opponents without thinking about all the other problems that come from being in a weak conference. They donhave the exposure, the money, or ability to land big recruits. It appears that many recruits care more about conference affiliation than about specific teams. If you donbelieve thattrue, then compare the recruiting of Boise State, Utah, and TCU to Washington State, Iowa State, and Syracuse (or any other Philadelphia Eagles jersey
crappy team from an AQ conference). If Boise State had to play SEC teams while remaining a member of the WAC, then I could see how you could make some kind of argument, as weak and baseless as it may be. But you canplay one conferenceschedule without being a member of that conference. Give Boise State the same resources and benefits that come from membership in a Big 6 conference, and even Mark May would know which horse to bet on.
Wikipedia, South Carolina has never so much as won their division and Kentucky has won one SEC title in 1950. Neither is ever really a serious contender in their conference. So tell me, why do they each already have two 4-Star recruits committed for next year? How did S. Carolina get five 4-star recruits last year? The answer: because they play in the SEC. Now back to Boise State. In the 78-year history of the team, Boise State has had ZERO 5-star recruits and TWO 3-star recruits. It seems pretty safe to say that by simply being in the SEC, Boise State would have much better recruiting. 2. Money According to the Department of Education, Mississippi Stateathletic department had the lowest revenue of all SEC Teams (in 2008, the latest report available on ope.ed.gov) with $18.73 million dollars. Boise State brought in $8.53 million. Just to be fair, thatall athletics combined, but we all know that football is the big money maker. What do you think Boise State could do with recruiting, PR, advertising, hiring, and stadium expansions with an extra $10 million a year? 3. History Pop Quiz. How national championships has Boise State won? Did somebody say 2? Thatright, Boise State has a history of winning. In 1958, they won the Junior College National Championship. In 1980, they won the I-AA National Championship. So letsee, 25 years after joining the National Junior College Athletics Association, they won the national championship. 10 years after moving to Division I-AA, they won a national championship. Remind me again, when Oakland Raiders jersey
did Boise State move to Division I-A? Oh, yes, 1996. 14 years ago. Boise State would be the ____ team in the Big 12.Boise State would be the ____ team in the Big 12.1 - Best62.1%2- Second Best14.9%3- Third Best9.9%4- Fourth6.2%5- Bottom Half6.8%Total votes: 161 But, since we are talking about Boise State hanging with the SEC, it would make even more sense to look at conference affiliation. Since joining Division I in 1970 (29 seasons ago), Boise State has been in 3 different conferences (next yearmove to the Mountain West will be number 4) and has been conference champion 15 times. For those of you who might have gone to the University of Idaho, thatmore than half. The only two realistic explanations for this would be if 1) Boise State kept moving down to weaker conferences, or 2) if theyre just good at football. Conclusion People tend to focus on Boise Stateweak WAC opponents without thinking about all the other problems that come from being in a weak conference. They donhave the exposure, the money, or ability to land big recruits. It appears that many recruits care more about conference affiliation than about specific teams. If you donbelieve thattrue, then compare the recruiting of Boise State, Utah, and TCU to Washington State, Iowa State, and Syracuse (or any other Philadelphia Eagles jersey
crappy team from an AQ conference). If Boise State had to play SEC teams while remaining a member of the WAC, then I could see how you could make some kind of argument, as weak and baseless as it may be. But you canplay one conferenceschedule without being a member of that conference. Give Boise State the same resources and benefits that come from membership in a Big 6 conference, and even Mark May would know which horse to bet on.
2011年1月15日星期六
15 Jan 11 St. Louis Rams "System Shock" vs. San Diego Chargers
The Rams had two weeks to prepare for San Diego. They knew the Chargers' Modus Operandi well: Pound the ball with LaDainian Tomlinson, have solid, mistake-free quarterback play from Philip Rivers and let Shawne Merriman - who received a two-week reprieve from suspension incurred due to the Evil Guild of Rogue Supplement Tainters - wreak havoc in the backfield.They simply couldn't stop it.The Rams' offense, although tentative in the first half, scored three touchdowns and played well enough to win the game. However, the defense was absolutely schooled by Tennessee Titans jersey
Tomlinson and must sit at the back of class, a position it should be quite used to after staring at the back of No. 21's jersey all day Sunday. Despite solid play from the offense, the Rams' defense continues to make a potentially good squad simply ordinary. Poor run defense and a reliance on Jim Haslett's system to create pressure continue to be the Rams' Achilles' heel:OffenseQuarterback: Marc Bulger appeared a bit shell-shocked in the first-half due to constant harassment from Shawne (insert your own supplement joke here) Merriman. Bulger, ever the unflappable one, recovered and carved up the Chargers' defense for 327 yards and two touchdowns. Bulger seems to have acclimated perfectly to Scott Linehan's offensive scheme, putting up impressive numbers against only a single interception for the entire year. If the Rams can put themselves together in time to make a run to the playoffs, Bulger should receive MVP consideration. Grade: ARunning Backs: Steven Jackson seems to be learning when to hesitate and wait for an opening rather than trying to juke his way past the defense when in the backfield. Jackson has strength and deceptive speed for his size and turned in a solid performance on Sunday. Most impressive is Jackson's ability to be a safety valve for Bulger in the flat; this gives yet another dimension to the Rams' potent passing attack. With the Rams driving to tie the score, Stephen Davis coughed up a fumble that was returned for a touchdown by Chargers safety Marlon McCree early in the third quarter. The Rams never recovered. Grade: B -Wide Receivers: Torry Holt may still be planted somewhere in the turf at Qualcomm Stadium after a vicious open-field tackle by Merriman in the third quarter. The Chargers put emphasis on stopping Holt and limited him to 48 yards receiving, so Bulger turned his attention to Isaac Bruce and Kevin Curtis. Bruce had over 100 yards receiving and Curtis netted 79 yards and a touchdown. Shaun McDonald made his first touchdown grab of the year. Grade: B +Offensive Line: Aside from a couple of late false start penalties, Washington Redskins jersey
the Rams' O-line held up pretty well. Merriman's pressure generally came when he could beat a blocking back or on plays that took a long time to develop. Steven Jackson demonstrated patience and waited for the linemen to open holes in San Diego's much-vaunted 3-4 defense. The line definitely held their own against the Chargers' front seven. Grade: BDefenseDefensive Line: Simply put, the front four is generating zero pressure on the quarterback. Philip Rivers picked his spots and carved up the Rams' defense. Haslett can't afford to rely on schemes to generate quarterback pressure. If the line continues to show an inability to provide pressure without utilizing extra blitzers, then personnel changes must be made. There are times when a team must be able to play "honest" and rely on its front four to hurry the opposition's quarterback; otherwise, the offense knows it can always exploit the hole left by the extra rusher. However, this problem paled in comparison to the field day enjoyed by Tomlinson. The future Hall of Famer charged through the Rams' front seven to the tune of 183 yards and three total touchdowns. The Rams have had difficulty stopping the run in the last several games (if not years) and the Chargers were more than happy to exploit the weakness. If the line can't generate pressure and stop the run, the Rams will never see the playoffs. Grade: FLinebackers: The Rams seemed to suffer several coverage mismatches. Brandon Chillar was forced to cover Tomlinson and Antonio Gates in the flat with Rivers taking full advantage. Will Witherspoon was all over the field, but was likewise burned by Tomlinson on more than one occasion. Dexter Coakley filled in for an injured Pisa Tinoisamoa but had no luck, either. Tomlinson was generally five yards beyond the line of scrimmage before the Rams' linebackers could lay a hand on him. Grade DSecondary: The Rams' secondary did the best it could, considering Rivers had an eternity to find his receivers. They didn't give up any huge plays and did their best to help contain Tomlinson when he burst into the second level (a regular occurrence). Corey Chavous contributed the Rams' lone sack. Grade C -Special Teams: The Rams' coverage units held up well against the Chargers' return units. The Rams continue to look for a mainstay to return punts as well as kickoffs. Jeff Wilkins and Matt Turk continue to contribute solid performances. Grade: C + With Bulger enjoying a career year and a rushing attack that must be respected, the Rams' offense is once again instilling fear into opposing defenses. Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
However, the Rams' defense makes the team vulnerable and good teams like the Chargers are going to continue to exploit the defense's weaknesses. If St. Louis' defenders cannot step up their play, the Gateway to the West will continue to be the Gateway to the Mediocre.Get in-depth postgame analysis of the St. Louis Rams (3)
Tomlinson and must sit at the back of class, a position it should be quite used to after staring at the back of No. 21's jersey all day Sunday. Despite solid play from the offense, the Rams' defense continues to make a potentially good squad simply ordinary. Poor run defense and a reliance on Jim Haslett's system to create pressure continue to be the Rams' Achilles' heel:OffenseQuarterback: Marc Bulger appeared a bit shell-shocked in the first-half due to constant harassment from Shawne (insert your own supplement joke here) Merriman. Bulger, ever the unflappable one, recovered and carved up the Chargers' defense for 327 yards and two touchdowns. Bulger seems to have acclimated perfectly to Scott Linehan's offensive scheme, putting up impressive numbers against only a single interception for the entire year. If the Rams can put themselves together in time to make a run to the playoffs, Bulger should receive MVP consideration. Grade: ARunning Backs: Steven Jackson seems to be learning when to hesitate and wait for an opening rather than trying to juke his way past the defense when in the backfield. Jackson has strength and deceptive speed for his size and turned in a solid performance on Sunday. Most impressive is Jackson's ability to be a safety valve for Bulger in the flat; this gives yet another dimension to the Rams' potent passing attack. With the Rams driving to tie the score, Stephen Davis coughed up a fumble that was returned for a touchdown by Chargers safety Marlon McCree early in the third quarter. The Rams never recovered. Grade: B -Wide Receivers: Torry Holt may still be planted somewhere in the turf at Qualcomm Stadium after a vicious open-field tackle by Merriman in the third quarter. The Chargers put emphasis on stopping Holt and limited him to 48 yards receiving, so Bulger turned his attention to Isaac Bruce and Kevin Curtis. Bruce had over 100 yards receiving and Curtis netted 79 yards and a touchdown. Shaun McDonald made his first touchdown grab of the year. Grade: B +Offensive Line: Aside from a couple of late false start penalties, Washington Redskins jersey
the Rams' O-line held up pretty well. Merriman's pressure generally came when he could beat a blocking back or on plays that took a long time to develop. Steven Jackson demonstrated patience and waited for the linemen to open holes in San Diego's much-vaunted 3-4 defense. The line definitely held their own against the Chargers' front seven. Grade: BDefenseDefensive Line: Simply put, the front four is generating zero pressure on the quarterback. Philip Rivers picked his spots and carved up the Rams' defense. Haslett can't afford to rely on schemes to generate quarterback pressure. If the line continues to show an inability to provide pressure without utilizing extra blitzers, then personnel changes must be made. There are times when a team must be able to play "honest" and rely on its front four to hurry the opposition's quarterback; otherwise, the offense knows it can always exploit the hole left by the extra rusher. However, this problem paled in comparison to the field day enjoyed by Tomlinson. The future Hall of Famer charged through the Rams' front seven to the tune of 183 yards and three total touchdowns. The Rams have had difficulty stopping the run in the last several games (if not years) and the Chargers were more than happy to exploit the weakness. If the line can't generate pressure and stop the run, the Rams will never see the playoffs. Grade: FLinebackers: The Rams seemed to suffer several coverage mismatches. Brandon Chillar was forced to cover Tomlinson and Antonio Gates in the flat with Rivers taking full advantage. Will Witherspoon was all over the field, but was likewise burned by Tomlinson on more than one occasion. Dexter Coakley filled in for an injured Pisa Tinoisamoa but had no luck, either. Tomlinson was generally five yards beyond the line of scrimmage before the Rams' linebackers could lay a hand on him. Grade DSecondary: The Rams' secondary did the best it could, considering Rivers had an eternity to find his receivers. They didn't give up any huge plays and did their best to help contain Tomlinson when he burst into the second level (a regular occurrence). Corey Chavous contributed the Rams' lone sack. Grade C -Special Teams: The Rams' coverage units held up well against the Chargers' return units. The Rams continue to look for a mainstay to return punts as well as kickoffs. Jeff Wilkins and Matt Turk continue to contribute solid performances. Grade: C + With Bulger enjoying a career year and a rushing attack that must be respected, the Rams' offense is once again instilling fear into opposing defenses. Reebok Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald Realtree camo Jersey
However, the Rams' defense makes the team vulnerable and good teams like the Chargers are going to continue to exploit the defense's weaknesses. If St. Louis' defenders cannot step up their play, the Gateway to the West will continue to be the Gateway to the Mediocre.Get in-depth postgame analysis of the St. Louis Rams (3)
2011年1月13日星期四
14 Jan 11 Seattle Seahawks "What would Hutch say about Hawks' running game?"
We don't know of any letter All-Pro guard Steve Hutchinson has written to his former linemates in Seattle, but if he had written one, we think it might have said something like this:Hey fellas, miss me yet? 'Cause it sure looks like you do.I know my new team, the Minnesota Vikings, is not very good. Heck, we were just 6-10 last year while you guys won the NFC West for the third straight season and were an overtime field goal away from the NFC title game again. We're only 2-4 this year while you guys are 4-3. But I also know you guys are having a heck of Seattle Seahawks jersey
a time running the ball. Remember in 2005, when Walter Jones and I formed the best left side in football and we led the league in rushing and scoring on the way to the Super Bowl? You guys look nothing like that group. Sure, Shaun Alexander is playing injured and a bit tentatively. But coach Mike Holmgren was right this week when he said it's on you guys, the ones who are supposed to pave the way for Shaun.I know you miss me because I've helped the Vikings become the league's best rushing team this season, while you guys are stumbling along at No. 20. My backs, led by rookie stud Adrian Peterson, are averaging 5.5 yards per carry -- a full 2 yards better than your boys. Tell me you don't miss me. Tell me you wouldn't be better off with me and Walter still dominating the left side, Chris Gray playing center and Rob Sims at right guard. I saw Chris Spencer, the first-round pick from 2005, against the Rams last weekend. He was falling down, missing assignments, unable to sustain or drive his blocks. He got quarterback Matt Hasselbeck hurt because he tripped St. Louis Rams jersey
over his own feet. He didn't look like the guy Holmgren thinks will be a Pro Bowl center for the next decade.And Holmgren was certainly referring to Spencer, Gray and right tackle Sean Locklear above all when he told reporters on Monday that the line, well, stinks right now."We are not blocking very well at this particular point. That must improve," Holmgren said. "I'm here to say for Shaun there is not a lot (of room) there. And we have to be better at that. We have to fix that."Holmgren said you guys are failing at every step: technique, assignments, preparation. He said he has allowed his coaches to address it to this point, but he has had enough and "... it's going to get a little tense around here if I don't see some improvement."I'm surprised he gave you guys the bye week off rather than making you bust your butts all week to get better. But you had better be prepared for one tough week when you come back for the Cleveland game. President Tim Ruskell screwed up when he didn't put the franchise marker on me last year because he thought $7 million a season Tennessee Titans jersey
was too much to pay a guard. He must have regurgitated his breakfast when he saw three lesser guards sign $7 million-per-year deals last March.But that's in the past. Nothing to do about it now. I'm here in Minnesota, leading the best running game in the NFL, and you guys are there in Seattle stumbling along with one of the worst rushing attacks in the league. You don't have to say you miss me because I know you do.
a time running the ball. Remember in 2005, when Walter Jones and I formed the best left side in football and we led the league in rushing and scoring on the way to the Super Bowl? You guys look nothing like that group. Sure, Shaun Alexander is playing injured and a bit tentatively. But coach Mike Holmgren was right this week when he said it's on you guys, the ones who are supposed to pave the way for Shaun.I know you miss me because I've helped the Vikings become the league's best rushing team this season, while you guys are stumbling along at No. 20. My backs, led by rookie stud Adrian Peterson, are averaging 5.5 yards per carry -- a full 2 yards better than your boys. Tell me you don't miss me. Tell me you wouldn't be better off with me and Walter still dominating the left side, Chris Gray playing center and Rob Sims at right guard. I saw Chris Spencer, the first-round pick from 2005, against the Rams last weekend. He was falling down, missing assignments, unable to sustain or drive his blocks. He got quarterback Matt Hasselbeck hurt because he tripped St. Louis Rams jersey
over his own feet. He didn't look like the guy Holmgren thinks will be a Pro Bowl center for the next decade.And Holmgren was certainly referring to Spencer, Gray and right tackle Sean Locklear above all when he told reporters on Monday that the line, well, stinks right now."We are not blocking very well at this particular point. That must improve," Holmgren said. "I'm here to say for Shaun there is not a lot (of room) there. And we have to be better at that. We have to fix that."Holmgren said you guys are failing at every step: technique, assignments, preparation. He said he has allowed his coaches to address it to this point, but he has had enough and "... it's going to get a little tense around here if I don't see some improvement."I'm surprised he gave you guys the bye week off rather than making you bust your butts all week to get better. But you had better be prepared for one tough week when you come back for the Cleveland game. President Tim Ruskell screwed up when he didn't put the franchise marker on me last year because he thought $7 million a season Tennessee Titans jersey
was too much to pay a guard. He must have regurgitated his breakfast when he saw three lesser guards sign $7 million-per-year deals last March.But that's in the past. Nothing to do about it now. I'm here in Minnesota, leading the best running game in the NFL, and you guys are there in Seattle stumbling along with one of the worst rushing attacks in the league. You don't have to say you miss me because I know you do.
2011年1月12日星期三
13 Jan 11 Why The New Orleans Hornets Will Not Be Anything Special This Year
Chris Graythen/Getty ImagesWith Tyson Chandler now averaging a mere six points and six rebounds in Charlotte, Rasual Butler in La La Land, and the former head coach Byron Scott looking for a career in broadcasting, it seems the Hornets are doomed for eternal mediocrity.However after all of theseIndianapolis Colts jersey
somewhat significant losses, the Hornets have rallied to not only pull themselves above .500 (quite a feat in itself) but now find themselves a couple of games out of the Western conference playoffs.From a basketball standpoint the Hornets seem to be finding a groove. Devin Brown has come from no where to fill what Mo Peterson once did, hit threes and score when needed. Emeka Okafor and Chris Paul are working the Pick and Roll with improved success and David West has finally found the touch to score he once lacked earlier in the season.Defensively the Hornets still seem lost in transition (literal and figuratively speaking). Time and time again players turn to each other looking at one another as if to ask, "who had that guy?" Yes, there has been an improvement in rotations and communication but the Hornets are lacking that edge where once (2007-08) they got going, they pounded on you until you would give up.An indication of this is the margin of victory for the Hornets. The only Hornets victory of 10 or more came against the Clippers under Byron Scott. Sure winning close games can do a lot for a team when the situation arises against teams like the Lakers, Celtics, Nuggets and Spurs, but what good does it do when the Hornets consistently beat woeful teams by the narrowest of margins?It wears out your starters, the young guns don't get trash time and my heart beats faster than a bongo drum.These digressions leave me with the thought that this team won't achieve anything great. Greatness usually occurs when players just dominate every possession. Yet the Hornets starting lineup doesn't seem to have those possessions where as a fan you say, "you cannot stop that move."The only time I find myself saying something of that manner is when CP and Emeka run the pick and roll to an extreme level. It is the other facets of the Hornets game that will hold them down when trying to beat the teams in the top 8 of Marc Stein's esteemed Power Rankings (note: Sarcasm).Peja Stojakovic is either clanking the threes or swishing them, Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
but when he's not doing either you can find him "defending" some of the great Small Forwards the NBA has to offer. Other players who seem to hinder rather than hasten the Hornets success are found on the bench. James Posey can look very good when knocking down three's and shutting down players, but this seldom happens in the same game.Darren Collison seemed to be one of the best backup PG's in the league when he took over for CP and killed a number of teams, now demoted he hasn't shined like he did with extended minutes. Getting production out of Julian Wright is like asking Hilton Armstrong too. About the only consistent player to fit in with the Hornets is Darius Songaila who does what is asked of him, Pick and Pop, shoot, and rebound.The bench doesn't seems to be the biggest of problems as these days they aren't giving up leads they once did with Byron Scott. But still they lack a direction and defensive swagger that the Hornets once had in their playoff run 2 long seasons ago.The offensive sets are progressing with off-ball movement encouraged. The defense is again progressing with rotations improving. But the progression will not be enough in order for the Hornets to rally into the playoffs and make a push.I know that most of us, including myself, don't believe that we will do all that Kansas City Chiefs jersey
much this year when it comes to making a case in and towards the playoffs. Discounting this season and the next is absurd because one day time will run out, CP will be 30, David West will be 35, Emeka 32, and who's to say they will all still be on the team?I am not giving up on the Hornets, but by god they better show me over the next two months why they might be able to achieve something better than expected, and most importantly special.
somewhat significant losses, the Hornets have rallied to not only pull themselves above .500 (quite a feat in itself) but now find themselves a couple of games out of the Western conference playoffs.From a basketball standpoint the Hornets seem to be finding a groove. Devin Brown has come from no where to fill what Mo Peterson once did, hit threes and score when needed. Emeka Okafor and Chris Paul are working the Pick and Roll with improved success and David West has finally found the touch to score he once lacked earlier in the season.Defensively the Hornets still seem lost in transition (literal and figuratively speaking). Time and time again players turn to each other looking at one another as if to ask, "who had that guy?" Yes, there has been an improvement in rotations and communication but the Hornets are lacking that edge where once (2007-08) they got going, they pounded on you until you would give up.An indication of this is the margin of victory for the Hornets. The only Hornets victory of 10 or more came against the Clippers under Byron Scott. Sure winning close games can do a lot for a team when the situation arises against teams like the Lakers, Celtics, Nuggets and Spurs, but what good does it do when the Hornets consistently beat woeful teams by the narrowest of margins?It wears out your starters, the young guns don't get trash time and my heart beats faster than a bongo drum.These digressions leave me with the thought that this team won't achieve anything great. Greatness usually occurs when players just dominate every possession. Yet the Hornets starting lineup doesn't seem to have those possessions where as a fan you say, "you cannot stop that move."The only time I find myself saying something of that manner is when CP and Emeka run the pick and roll to an extreme level. It is the other facets of the Hornets game that will hold them down when trying to beat the teams in the top 8 of Marc Stein's esteemed Power Rankings (note: Sarcasm).Peja Stojakovic is either clanking the threes or swishing them, Jacksonville Jaguars jersey
but when he's not doing either you can find him "defending" some of the great Small Forwards the NBA has to offer. Other players who seem to hinder rather than hasten the Hornets success are found on the bench. James Posey can look very good when knocking down three's and shutting down players, but this seldom happens in the same game.Darren Collison seemed to be one of the best backup PG's in the league when he took over for CP and killed a number of teams, now demoted he hasn't shined like he did with extended minutes. Getting production out of Julian Wright is like asking Hilton Armstrong too. About the only consistent player to fit in with the Hornets is Darius Songaila who does what is asked of him, Pick and Pop, shoot, and rebound.The bench doesn't seems to be the biggest of problems as these days they aren't giving up leads they once did with Byron Scott. But still they lack a direction and defensive swagger that the Hornets once had in their playoff run 2 long seasons ago.The offensive sets are progressing with off-ball movement encouraged. The defense is again progressing with rotations improving. But the progression will not be enough in order for the Hornets to rally into the playoffs and make a push.I know that most of us, including myself, don't believe that we will do all that Kansas City Chiefs jersey
much this year when it comes to making a case in and towards the playoffs. Discounting this season and the next is absurd because one day time will run out, CP will be 30, David West will be 35, Emeka 32, and who's to say they will all still be on the team?I am not giving up on the Hornets, but by god they better show me over the next two months why they might be able to achieve something better than expected, and most importantly special.
12 Jan 11 Is Allen Iverson Scared?
The Allen Iverson we see today is not the Allen Iverson we saw just two seasons ago in Denver. It is an Allen Iverson we have never seen and an Allen Iverson nobody would have imagined watching. It is a humbled, boring and scared Allen Iverson. Yes scared!Allen Iverson was arguably the most fearless player in NBA history. He was also the most feared player in the NBA for so long. This guy was not afraid to go at anyone and every player was afraid to guard him. Iverson would shoot as many shots as he wanted and would score at will. He made amazing plays and broke Reebok Minnesota Vikings #4 Brett Favre Realtree camo Jersey
down defences like no other. He took games over any time he wanted. He was the most fearless competitor in sports. Iverson through his body around like no other player ever has. He drove to the whole without fear and would dive into 7 foot 300 lb bodies on every other possesion. Iverson was the best player in the league and no body ever imagined the day he would be shooting 11 shots a game, playing 35 mpg and being asked to come off the bench. He was fearless.But now in 2010 just two years after having one of the best statistical seasons of his career in Denver Iverson is a different player. The things he has gone through in the past two years have obviously changed him. It all started in Detroit when Iverson was made the scapegoat and was blamed for all the Pistons problems. The media destroyed this man. They got to him. Iverson was always bashed by the media even when he was the best player in the league he was hated on. People that hated his cornrows and tattoos bashed his basketball ability by saying he was a selfish ball hog. Iverson would come back and piss those media people off by dropping 50 the next night. He had the never back down and never give in attitude like his hero Tupac Shakur.But than it stopped. Iverson stopped shooting 18 shots a night and thought it was time to change his game for the team. He stopped doing what he did best which was score the ball. Detroit treated him badly and sent him home. The league thought he was a cancer and only the Memphis Grizzlies wanted him. Iverson played 3 games for the Grizzlies and was sent home after complaining about coming off the bench. Iverson went from dropping 26.4 ppg and 7.2 apg for a 50 win Denver Nuggets team in 2008 to not being wanted by any NBA teams.On December 3 he signed a 1 year deal for the Philadelphia Sixers and returned to the city where he became a legend. The Sixers improved big time since Iverson came in. But they are still missing that extra 5 points that could have them at a 6th spot in the Eastern Conference. Their leader is still Allen Iverson. Not the same Allen Iverson that would break your favorite players ankles and drop 30 every night. It is a SCARED! Allen Iverson. Scared to shoot, scared to go by his man and dive into defenders like he once did, scared to take the game winning shot, SCARED to fail.Scared that teams won't sign him if he takes to many shots and scared that teams will think he is a cancer if he does his own thing on the court.When people say that the 2010 Allen Iverson is not the Allen Iverson ofReebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
old they are right. Iverson is different because he is scared.Don't get me wrong Allen Iverson has not lost much basketball ability at all. He still is very quick, fast and explosive. His jumper is looking better now than it ever has. Iverson has the same ability he had 4 years ago. If he wanted and was given the green light to drop 30 a night he would do it with his eyes closed. Ability-wise Iverson is the same Iverson he was 4 years ago.But mentally Iverson is a different player. He let the Pistons ruin him and he let the media get to his head.So now Iverson thinks twice before taking a shot and he decides to give the ball to Andre Igoudala in game winning situations. Iverson doesn't tell the team to clear the way so he could go one on one like he used to. Iverson decides to run the slow Princeton offence and take out of rythm shots and drive to the hoop every once and a while. He is too brain-washed. He came out to prove people wrong this season after last seasons disasterous campaign in Detroit but he is preventing him self from doing it. Yeah he was labelled a even bigger distraction in Memphis but that was because he was complaining out loud. When people said Iverson needs to stop being a distraction if he wants to continue playing they never said shoot 11 shots and take 1 shot every 5 possesions.Iverson is too scared of what people will think about him and how teams will view him in the off season. He needs to go back to his old mind set and play without thinking about it and play without fear. Iverson should play the way he plays best and that is when shoots when he wants. He did it in Denver and they won 50 games. Why not do it in Philly again? Iverson needs to be much more aggressive if he wants to prove anyone wrong.14.2 ppg and 4 apg? This is Allen Iverson we are talking about. Who would have thought Iverson's stats would be that low some day? Nobody. Iverson is taking a career low 11 shots per game and when you watch the Sixers games you know he is trying way to hard to fit in. It is all about proving people wrong this year. Iverson needs to show the world that he is still one of the games elite players.When will Iverson realize that this is not him? Iverson was born to score and take games over. He can still do it and he can still dominate games if he attempts to. But if there is one person who knows how to play without fear it is Iverson and if he decides to take control of the Sixers like he did for 10 years in his first stint than this team is going straight to the playoffs and is capable of upsetting the number 1 seed no matter Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
who it may be. Allen Iverson, Elton Brand, Sam Dalembert, Andre Igoudala and Louis Williams is one scary starting lineup.But the 2010 Philadelphia 76ers can be one of the best teams in the east. Allen Iverson can prove that he is still an elite player. Iverson has always been the "Answer" and now it is time he answers the critiques and takes control of the Sixers like he was meant to. He just has to forget about the last year and a half and remember the 12 years prior to 2009. Iverson needs to get his swagger and old attitude back. The same attitude that has made him a lock for the Hall of Fame. The "Answer" to the Sixers and Iverson's problem is simple-when Iverson stops playing scared(still feels weird to say that) that is when this season will turn around for the Sixers and that is when Iverson's career will be rejuvinated.
down defences like no other. He took games over any time he wanted. He was the most fearless competitor in sports. Iverson through his body around like no other player ever has. He drove to the whole without fear and would dive into 7 foot 300 lb bodies on every other possesion. Iverson was the best player in the league and no body ever imagined the day he would be shooting 11 shots a game, playing 35 mpg and being asked to come off the bench. He was fearless.But now in 2010 just two years after having one of the best statistical seasons of his career in Denver Iverson is a different player. The things he has gone through in the past two years have obviously changed him. It all started in Detroit when Iverson was made the scapegoat and was blamed for all the Pistons problems. The media destroyed this man. They got to him. Iverson was always bashed by the media even when he was the best player in the league he was hated on. People that hated his cornrows and tattoos bashed his basketball ability by saying he was a selfish ball hog. Iverson would come back and piss those media people off by dropping 50 the next night. He had the never back down and never give in attitude like his hero Tupac Shakur.But than it stopped. Iverson stopped shooting 18 shots a night and thought it was time to change his game for the team. He stopped doing what he did best which was score the ball. Detroit treated him badly and sent him home. The league thought he was a cancer and only the Memphis Grizzlies wanted him. Iverson played 3 games for the Grizzlies and was sent home after complaining about coming off the bench. Iverson went from dropping 26.4 ppg and 7.2 apg for a 50 win Denver Nuggets team in 2008 to not being wanted by any NBA teams.On December 3 he signed a 1 year deal for the Philadelphia Sixers and returned to the city where he became a legend. The Sixers improved big time since Iverson came in. But they are still missing that extra 5 points that could have them at a 6th spot in the Eastern Conference. Their leader is still Allen Iverson. Not the same Allen Iverson that would break your favorite players ankles and drop 30 every night. It is a SCARED! Allen Iverson. Scared to shoot, scared to go by his man and dive into defenders like he once did, scared to take the game winning shot, SCARED to fail.Scared that teams won't sign him if he takes to many shots and scared that teams will think he is a cancer if he does his own thing on the court.When people say that the 2010 Allen Iverson is not the Allen Iverson ofReebok Minnesota Vikings #69 Jared Allen Realtree camo Jersey
old they are right. Iverson is different because he is scared.Don't get me wrong Allen Iverson has not lost much basketball ability at all. He still is very quick, fast and explosive. His jumper is looking better now than it ever has. Iverson has the same ability he had 4 years ago. If he wanted and was given the green light to drop 30 a night he would do it with his eyes closed. Ability-wise Iverson is the same Iverson he was 4 years ago.But mentally Iverson is a different player. He let the Pistons ruin him and he let the media get to his head.So now Iverson thinks twice before taking a shot and he decides to give the ball to Andre Igoudala in game winning situations. Iverson doesn't tell the team to clear the way so he could go one on one like he used to. Iverson decides to run the slow Princeton offence and take out of rythm shots and drive to the hoop every once and a while. He is too brain-washed. He came out to prove people wrong this season after last seasons disasterous campaign in Detroit but he is preventing him self from doing it. Yeah he was labelled a even bigger distraction in Memphis but that was because he was complaining out loud. When people said Iverson needs to stop being a distraction if he wants to continue playing they never said shoot 11 shots and take 1 shot every 5 possesions.Iverson is too scared of what people will think about him and how teams will view him in the off season. He needs to go back to his old mind set and play without thinking about it and play without fear. Iverson should play the way he plays best and that is when shoots when he wants. He did it in Denver and they won 50 games. Why not do it in Philly again? Iverson needs to be much more aggressive if he wants to prove anyone wrong.14.2 ppg and 4 apg? This is Allen Iverson we are talking about. Who would have thought Iverson's stats would be that low some day? Nobody. Iverson is taking a career low 11 shots per game and when you watch the Sixers games you know he is trying way to hard to fit in. It is all about proving people wrong this year. Iverson needs to show the world that he is still one of the games elite players.When will Iverson realize that this is not him? Iverson was born to score and take games over. He can still do it and he can still dominate games if he attempts to. But if there is one person who knows how to play without fear it is Iverson and if he decides to take control of the Sixers like he did for 10 years in his first stint than this team is going straight to the playoffs and is capable of upsetting the number 1 seed no matter Reebok New England Patriots #12 Tom Brady Realtree camo Jersey
who it may be. Allen Iverson, Elton Brand, Sam Dalembert, Andre Igoudala and Louis Williams is one scary starting lineup.But the 2010 Philadelphia 76ers can be one of the best teams in the east. Allen Iverson can prove that he is still an elite player. Iverson has always been the "Answer" and now it is time he answers the critiques and takes control of the Sixers like he was meant to. He just has to forget about the last year and a half and remember the 12 years prior to 2009. Iverson needs to get his swagger and old attitude back. The same attitude that has made him a lock for the Hall of Fame. The "Answer" to the Sixers and Iverson's problem is simple-when Iverson stops playing scared(still feels weird to say that) that is when this season will turn around for the Sixers and that is when Iverson's career will be rejuvinated.
2011年1月10日星期一
10 Jan 11 Nate Robinson to The Celtics: Why He's Worth Eddie House
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesThis article is also featured on Beantown Sports Observer The Boston Celtics announced today that they traded Eddie House, Bill Walker and JR Giddens to the New York Knicks for Nate Robinson and Marcus Landry.Last week, Robinson became the first three-time winner of the Slam Dunk Contest. So we have a minor celebrity coming to Boston.I've always liked Eddie House. He seemed to be the under-the-radar bench leader, and wasinfinitelyclutch down the stretch for the Celtics during the 2007-2008 NBA Championship run. Along the Green Bay Packers jersey
way, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, and Kevin Garnett were glorified (and rightfully so) and House received very little praise.I've always loved the underdog. For a stretch, Eric Hinske was my favorite player on the Red Sox. So, naturally, I was drawn to House.I liked everything about Eddie, too. I liked his swagger and how he always seemed to be respectful out on the court.As I was watching the Los Angeles Lakers-Boston Celtics game last night, one of the announcers on TNT said that 'Now here's a time that you could really use a three point shooter like Eddie House.'You may think that the Celtics are going to miss the three-ball from House. But House is 31 and Robinson is 21. Robinson is the future, and, soon, House will be the past. The almost completely unknown past.I've always looked at Robinson as the new Spud Webb: A short Houston Texans jersey
guy (Webb was only 5'7") who could dunk. Exactly like Nate Robinson.The Knicks also acquired Tracy McGrady from the Houston Rockets, Brian Cardinal from the Minnesota Timberwolves, Sergio Rodriguez from the Portland Trail Blazers, making the Knicks arguably the most active team during the NBA trading deadline. The Celtics acquired no one else other than Marcus Landry.
way, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, and Kevin Garnett were glorified (and rightfully so) and House received very little praise.I've always loved the underdog. For a stretch, Eric Hinske was my favorite player on the Red Sox. So, naturally, I was drawn to House.I liked everything about Eddie, too. I liked his swagger and how he always seemed to be respectful out on the court.As I was watching the Los Angeles Lakers-Boston Celtics game last night, one of the announcers on TNT said that 'Now here's a time that you could really use a three point shooter like Eddie House.'You may think that the Celtics are going to miss the three-ball from House. But House is 31 and Robinson is 21. Robinson is the future, and, soon, House will be the past. The almost completely unknown past.I've always looked at Robinson as the new Spud Webb: A short Houston Texans jersey
guy (Webb was only 5'7") who could dunk. Exactly like Nate Robinson.The Knicks also acquired Tracy McGrady from the Houston Rockets, Brian Cardinal from the Minnesota Timberwolves, Sergio Rodriguez from the Portland Trail Blazers, making the Knicks arguably the most active team during the NBA trading deadline. The Celtics acquired no one else other than Marcus Landry.
2011年1月9日星期日
9 Jan 11 Marcus Camby Important but Not a Difference Maker
The first time I tried to write this, Camby suddenly went down with a sprained ankle and I was left pondering whether I need to go sacrifice a goat to rid this pitiful team of its damned Curse of the Center. As it turns out, I don't actually need to go burn any farm animals on an alter in the dead of night, as Camby returned to action just a couple of nights later.Before going down with the big boo boo Camby logged an impressive 18 rebounds in the home loss to division rival Utah Jazz. In a trade that surprised exactly no one yet simultaneously shocked the entire town, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
the Blazer's newest member is expected to fill the gaping hole at center for the Blazers on the court and rejuvenate the battered team and disenchanted city.I said on Comcast Sports Net's Talkin' Ball a week ago that Camby was brought to this Blazer team not to score but to be a reliable inside presence offering rebounding and defense. He's displayed the ability to do exactly that and more, in what is appearing to be a great pick up by Kevin Pritchard and his front office team.But the Blazers are not exactly reveling in their new edition, going 3-3 since acquiring the big man from the Clippers. In fact, Camby has only played in four games for the Blazers and all but one of those games have been losses. Many fans have been left wondering whether trading for Camby was such a great idea after all.Make no mistake about it, sending two popular guys and adding one new one is a rough transition for any team, especially for one that is so close knit (emotionally fragile?) as the Blazers reportedly are. These last couple of games may be the result of a team still adjusting both mentally and on the court to their new teammate and loss of a couple of good friends.However, the Blazers are not suffering or excelling solely because of Marcus Camby, on the contrary the Blazers struggles of late are a direct result of a hampered (read: injured) Brandon Roy and some shoddy decision making from Nate McMillan.Whether fans want to admit it or not, the Blazer's three-time All-Star is not himself and it is because of his strained hamstring, which continues to dog the normally versatile Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
guard. There is no doubt that if Brandon Roy were healthy, this team would be wracking up wins with their new and improved starting lineup and suddenly-there presence in the paint.The Blazers are almost night in and night out outscored in the paint, and by a healthy margin at that. In theory, Brandon Roy's game and that of the team would benefit from once again playing with two big men on the court, yet he's starting games slow and not finishing at the rim.Roy is uncharacteristically floating around the perimeter on offense and literally disappearing on defense.As Roy is the unquestioned leader of this team, his attitude whether negative or positive is very obviously infectious. If Brandon cheats on defense, the team will cheat off on defense. If Roy can't capitalize on weak coverage on offense the rest of the team won't take the effort to attack the lane or be aggressive. Simply put, when Brandon is hurt the whole team may as well be injured too.How can this be remedied? Well, first Roy should get healthy and I have been a loud proponent of sitting Brandon Roy until he is feeling better. Besides that, McMillan would do well to incorporate more members of the team into the offense.This was seen to a large degree last night at Minnesota when Nic Batum went off in the third quarter and ended the game with a new career high in points and assists. Brandon Roy had a mediocre line, but it didn't matter because Batum and Aldridge were balllllllinnnn'.McMillan didn't scramble the rotation unmercifully in order to get Roy going, he stuck with the players who were playing well and it payed off with an easy and much needed road victory.In my first piece for this site, I wrote McMillan's management of the point guard position would directly impact whether the Blazers make the playoffs. I was a little off in that prediction, but there is substance in my assertion that McMillan has struggled this season managing his players. Why this is I have no idea, but it is not relegated only to the point guard position or Brandon Roy's playing time.If Marcus Camby were six years younger Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
nd less-injury prone I would still contend he is not the difference maker for this team. While his addition to the Trail Blazers is no doubt great, in the grand scheme of things it is a temporary addition that has little long term impact and just moderate immediate impact.My opinion and the team's record would be different if Brandon Roy were healthy and McMillan wasn't so stubborn.What do you think?
the Blazer's newest member is expected to fill the gaping hole at center for the Blazers on the court and rejuvenate the battered team and disenchanted city.I said on Comcast Sports Net's Talkin' Ball a week ago that Camby was brought to this Blazer team not to score but to be a reliable inside presence offering rebounding and defense. He's displayed the ability to do exactly that and more, in what is appearing to be a great pick up by Kevin Pritchard and his front office team.But the Blazers are not exactly reveling in their new edition, going 3-3 since acquiring the big man from the Clippers. In fact, Camby has only played in four games for the Blazers and all but one of those games have been losses. Many fans have been left wondering whether trading for Camby was such a great idea after all.Make no mistake about it, sending two popular guys and adding one new one is a rough transition for any team, especially for one that is so close knit (emotionally fragile?) as the Blazers reportedly are. These last couple of games may be the result of a team still adjusting both mentally and on the court to their new teammate and loss of a couple of good friends.However, the Blazers are not suffering or excelling solely because of Marcus Camby, on the contrary the Blazers struggles of late are a direct result of a hampered (read: injured) Brandon Roy and some shoddy decision making from Nate McMillan.Whether fans want to admit it or not, the Blazer's three-time All-Star is not himself and it is because of his strained hamstring, which continues to dog the normally versatile Reebok Dallas Cowboys #9 Tony Romo Realtree camo Jersey
guard. There is no doubt that if Brandon Roy were healthy, this team would be wracking up wins with their new and improved starting lineup and suddenly-there presence in the paint.The Blazers are almost night in and night out outscored in the paint, and by a healthy margin at that. In theory, Brandon Roy's game and that of the team would benefit from once again playing with two big men on the court, yet he's starting games slow and not finishing at the rim.Roy is uncharacteristically floating around the perimeter on offense and literally disappearing on defense.As Roy is the unquestioned leader of this team, his attitude whether negative or positive is very obviously infectious. If Brandon cheats on defense, the team will cheat off on defense. If Roy can't capitalize on weak coverage on offense the rest of the team won't take the effort to attack the lane or be aggressive. Simply put, when Brandon is hurt the whole team may as well be injured too.How can this be remedied? Well, first Roy should get healthy and I have been a loud proponent of sitting Brandon Roy until he is feeling better. Besides that, McMillan would do well to incorporate more members of the team into the offense.This was seen to a large degree last night at Minnesota when Nic Batum went off in the third quarter and ended the game with a new career high in points and assists. Brandon Roy had a mediocre line, but it didn't matter because Batum and Aldridge were balllllllinnnn'.McMillan didn't scramble the rotation unmercifully in order to get Roy going, he stuck with the players who were playing well and it payed off with an easy and much needed road victory.In my first piece for this site, I wrote McMillan's management of the point guard position would directly impact whether the Blazers make the playoffs. I was a little off in that prediction, but there is substance in my assertion that McMillan has struggled this season managing his players. Why this is I have no idea, but it is not relegated only to the point guard position or Brandon Roy's playing time.If Marcus Camby were six years younger Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
nd less-injury prone I would still contend he is not the difference maker for this team. While his addition to the Trail Blazers is no doubt great, in the grand scheme of things it is a temporary addition that has little long term impact and just moderate immediate impact.My opinion and the team's record would be different if Brandon Roy were healthy and McMillan wasn't so stubborn.What do you think?
2011年1月8日星期六
8 Jan 11 Fantasy Hoops Roundtable: Fantasy Playoff Bargains
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesIt's time for another fantasy basketball roundtable.Nels ofGiveMeTheRock.comisresponsible for this week Fantasy Hoops Roundtable debate topic.Click here to see the full article.This Week TopicWith team schedules over the last four weeks of the season in mind, what likely Reebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
free agent player would you recommend fantasy owners pick up for a playoff run?My ResponseOver four week schedules will balance out so I wouldn really factor that in. Id simply roll with guys who could get opportunities down the stretch.Jrue Holiday, Philadelphia 76ersThe Sixers are toast. Holiday is getting the experience he needs as the Sixers build for the future. Hell have his ups and downs, but is a decent option going forward.Anthony Morrow, C.J. Watson, Reggie Williams, Golden State WarriorsMarrow and Williams have been huge for the last few weeks. As long as they are healthy and in the rotation, they will produce. In deeper leagues Reggie Williams could be a nice find down the stretch.Darren Collison Marcus Thornton, New Orleans HornetsThe longer Chris Paul remains out, the likelihood of his return decreases. If there are only a handful of games left and the Hornets are out of it, why risk further injury. If that the case Collison and Thornton will continue their furious finisheven if CP3 does come back, the talented duo should still Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
be fantasy factors down the stretch.Drew Gooden, Los Angeles ClippersThe Clippers are a sorry bunch. Fortunately, those who were able to gobble up Drew Gooden should get solid scoring and rebounding down the stretch.PanelistsBrian ofEmptyTheBench.comRyan Lester ofLestersLegends.comNels ofGiveMeTheRock.comTommy ofHoopsWorld.comJeff/Tom ofDamn Lies Statistics
free agent player would you recommend fantasy owners pick up for a playoff run?My ResponseOver four week schedules will balance out so I wouldn really factor that in. Id simply roll with guys who could get opportunities down the stretch.Jrue Holiday, Philadelphia 76ersThe Sixers are toast. Holiday is getting the experience he needs as the Sixers build for the future. Hell have his ups and downs, but is a decent option going forward.Anthony Morrow, C.J. Watson, Reggie Williams, Golden State WarriorsMarrow and Williams have been huge for the last few weeks. As long as they are healthy and in the rotation, they will produce. In deeper leagues Reggie Williams could be a nice find down the stretch.Darren Collison Marcus Thornton, New Orleans HornetsThe longer Chris Paul remains out, the likelihood of his return decreases. If there are only a handful of games left and the Hornets are out of it, why risk further injury. If that the case Collison and Thornton will continue their furious finisheven if CP3 does come back, the talented duo should still Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
be fantasy factors down the stretch.Drew Gooden, Los Angeles ClippersThe Clippers are a sorry bunch. Fortunately, those who were able to gobble up Drew Gooden should get solid scoring and rebounding down the stretch.PanelistsBrian ofEmptyTheBench.comRyan Lester ofLestersLegends.comNels ofGiveMeTheRock.comTommy ofHoopsWorld.comJeff/Tom ofDamn Lies Statistics
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