The Super Bowl Halftime Show Needs To Be More Super
I got this idea for a blog on packersnews.net. A thread was started about who would you have as a Super Bowl half time show. So I replied, but the more I started to think about it, the more ideas I had, so I decided to write this blog.
The NFL has gone the “safe” route since the Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake “nipple gate” situation. By having artist such as Paul McCartney, Prince, The Who and other “classic rock & pop” acts, the NFL has made it a “who’s who” (no pun intended) of 70’s icons.
But the half time show has become stale and it is time for a change. I have the solution to the NFL’s problem.
Working as a Program Director for a CHR Top 40 station for 5 years, I have a unique perspective. I am an avid sports fan. Besides my family and god, it is the third most important thing in my life. But I am also a huge music fan and consider myself rather eclectic.
I am a self-described “hip-hop head”, but prefer the thought provoking and ”conscious” artists who touch on social issues to the “bling, bling” money, girls and clothes artists. But I respect those artists as well because they found their “nitch”.
I also am a huge R&B and Soul fan, not just todays artists, but also acts from the 60’s,70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Finally, I also like classic rock groups like Journey (Steve Perry has the most amazing voice), The Eagles, Pink Floyd, Bruce Springsteen, War, Carlos Santana and many others.
Why am I describing my personal tastes in this blog? So you can see what my twisted little mind has in store for the NFL and the idea I have for the Super Bowl halftime show.
Today we don’t seem to have an appreciation for older groups and their music. In the radio business we are always looking for that new, fresh thing that will turn the radio world and society upside down and create a buzz.
A few years ago I went to my boss with an idea that I heard on some mixtapes. It combined new song lyrics played over classic rock & R&B beats. He thought it was a really good idea, but it would be difficult to get all the artists to clear it, so we decided to not try it (as part of a new music show we were planning). Today it is known as “mash-up’s” and they even have a video game (DJ Hero) that you can “mash-up” certain songs.
So, my idea is to bring together artists of today with classic artists of yesterday, on stage performing together as one. It would allow both younger viewers and older viewers to both enjoy the show.
I have a few ideas of artists that I think would be good fits together with their songs. Here they are in no particular order:
1. The Eagles and R&B artist TQ performing “Hotel California”. TQ is an artist that is multi-talented with a natural voice and actually did a very good version of “Hotel California” but the Eagles never cleared it.
2. Earth, Wind & Fire with R&B artist Usher performing ”September”. Usher is one hell of an entertainer and would be a natural fit with Earth, Wind and Fire.
3. Kool & The Gang with R&B artist Ne-Yo performing “Celebrate”. Ne-Yo is another multi-talented singer and song writer that has the right vocals to sing “Celebrate”.
4. Pat Benatar with pop artist Pink performing “Hit me With Your Best Shot”. This see,s like a natural fit. Both have that voice that is so distinctive and would be one hell of a performance.
5. Queen with “American Idol” runner-up Adam Lambert performing “We Are The Champions”. This, to me, is another perfect fit with Lambert’s theatrics blending with Queen.
6. Stevie Wonder and R&B artist Trey Songz performing ANY Stevie Wonder song. Trey Songz is another R&B singer that is “slept on” by many people, but is getting more popularity lately (and deservedly so).
7. Prince with R&B artist Ryan Leslie performing ANY Prince song. Prince had the best half time show in recent memory (to me at least). Leslie can’t sing as good a Prince, but he has that similar style.
8. Bee Gee’s with R&B artist Robin Thicke
By tieing in the “old with the new” it bridges the gap between generations. The NFL was caught of guard by the Timberlake/Jackson situation, but they shouldn’t exclude newer acts because of it. Make sure that you have final say over all things about the performance. That would eliminate any issue or concern the NFL would have.
I didn’t include any Hip-Hop acts because I don’t feel that the older people attending or viewing would be as receptive to them as younger people. It is about dollars and cents with the NFL and I also don’t feel that “corporate America” would accept a Hip-Hop act. In time, maybe, but I don’t think some are ready for a Lil’ Wayne and AC/DC mash-up.
I hope that this blog some how finds it way to the NFL office and the people who are in charge of the halftime show. I think a little “freshen up” wouldn’t be a bad thing. The NFL wants to continue to improve their product in every aspect, this is one to improve the Super Bowl.
Joe
If I Was The Green Bay Packers G.M.
As the Saints and “Who Dat” Nation are celebrating their first (and well deserved) Super Bowl victory, I am in full off-season mode. But as many Packers know (and complain about) it could be a long off-season for the Packers fans since GM Ted Thompson (who does a very good job at his job) generally doesn’t “do” too much until the draft.
So I figured I would do a piece on what I would do as the Packers GM/V.P. of Player Personnel. So I will do the players who I would resign (with-out the dollar amounts, because I suck at those), trade, cut and draft.
I understand that not everyone will agree with what I would do, but I am doing this under the current CBA situation (or lack there of).
Here I go…..
Re-signings/Tenders:
Ryan Pickett: He is a perfect nose tackle in Dom Capers system. He is also a player that has out played his contract and didn’t make any noise about wanting a new one. (Re-Sign)
Nick Collins: He has been to the Pro Bowl for two straight year and is a playmaker in the defensive backfield. He has also been very good about not letting his contract situation distract him on the field or off the field. Collins play alone says that he deserves a new deal. (Re-Sign)
Chad Clifton: Clifton is not the same player he once was, but when he is in, he does a very good job. He knows the system and is a player that is a leader in the locker room. It would only be a 1 year deal. (Re-Sign)
Mark Tauscher: Tauscher is another case of the Packers lack of depth at the offensive tackle position. When he started for the Packers, it seemed that the offense came together. It would also be a 1 year deal. (Re-Sign)
Tramon Williams: Tramon is a very good nickle-back and a player that can start for many teams int he NFL. He is to talented and has enough starts under his belt as a Packer (the past two seasons) to show that he is a capable starter. He is a restricted free agent, but I would tie him up long-term. (Re-Sign)
Johnny Jolly: Jolly may have been the Packers best and most consistent defensive linemen in 2009. He can play either left defensive end or nose tackle. With his legal issues, he should be a little easier to re-sign (and may face some type of NFL suspension). (Re-Sign)
Jason Spitz: Spitz is coming off back surgery and that makes him a question mark. When he is healthy he is a guy that can play either guard spot and center. He has the “nasty” that offensive line coaches love. It will be a 1 year deal to see if he can stay healthy for the season. (Tender)
Daryn Colledge: I struggled with this one. Colledge played well at times, but when he was bad, it was in the biggest games. He is a guard, not a tackle and that was made clear by the Minnesota Vikings. I will tender him and he would get a $900,000 raise. If he shows that he can improve from a poor 2009, then I would look into locking him up long-term. (Tender)
Will Blackmon: Blackmon is a really good punt returner and is a better dime back than Jarrett Bush. He is coming off a knee injury, but he has too much big play potential for me to let walk. A roster spot is not guaranteed, but I am not willing to give up on him. (Tender)
Derrick Martin: Martin was (and is) the best special teams player on the Packers. He can also be a solid back-up safety. He is a special teams demon and a player I place a high value on. (Re-Sign)
Aaron Kampman: Coming off a season ending ACL injury and a unproductive season, some may scratch their heads, but I have a bigger plan. The re-signing will be under the premise that I would deal Kampman to a team that he would be a better fit with (see what deal I made involving him on draft day in a few moments). (Re-Sign)
Released/Not Re-Signed:
Atari Bigby: Bigby is a big hitter but to me those big hits blind some of his coverage abilities (or lack there of). He is a huge liability in coverage and gets burned far to often. He is also a player that can’t stay healthy. I feel I can upgrade the safety position through the draft and (yes) free agency. (Not Re-Signed)
Jarrett Bush: If I can’t trade him (and my first call would be to Tennessee), I would cut him. He is a poor cover corner and he is a better than average special team player. I KNOW I can upgrade his position. (Cut)
Brady Poppinga: Over paid for a 5th or 6th linebacker. Yes he plays a mean special teams, but not at his price tag. High motor and effort guy, but why pay him as much I he is getting paid to play (almost) solely on special teams. (Cut)
Other I would cut/release/not re-sign:
Joh Kuhn, Jeremy Kapinos, Patrick Williams, Josh Bell, Trevor Ford, Matt Giordano, Deshawn Wynn, Devin Frischknecht and Mike Montgomery.
Free Agent Signings:
Ryan Clark- Pittsburgh Steelers: Clark would be the strong safety the Packers (and Dom Capers) would love to have. He understands how to play in the 3-4 and is underrated. He does have a medical condition, but would be a major upgrade in the secondary for the Packers.
Larry Foote- Detroit Lions: Foote adds even more depth to the inside linebacker group and a player that has played in the same type of defense in Pittsburgh.
Adalius Thomas- New England: Here is a guy that can play almost any where in the front 7 (in the 3-4) and can still get to the passer. He is a guy that will be cut by the Patriots and will try to prove them wrong (about not playing him that much in 09′). He would be a really nice player opposite of Clay Matthews III.
Trades:
Aaron Kampman to the Saints for Jammal Brown: A draft day deal that would benefit both teams. The world champs get a pass rusher that is tailor made for a 4-3 defense (as an end) and the Packers get a 2 time Pro Bowl left tackle that will be 30 years old in 2010. Brown will need a new deal so that would have to get done, but coming off an injury, he should be cheaper than people think.
2010 Draft: ( I project a 5th round comp pick for Colin Cole)
Round 1: Trade pick to Tampa Bay for their 2nd rounder (#35) 2010 4th rounder and a 2011 1st round pick)
Round 2 ( A ): Taylor Mays- SS- USC: I know he can’t cover, but Mays ability, work ethic, attitude and blood lines (his dad played for the Vikings) make him to good to pass up in early round 2. I think with Darren Perry’s help, Mays will become a better coverage guy and Dom Capers would put him in a position to use his strengths.
Round 2 ( B ): Perrish Cox- CB/KR- Oklahoma St.: Cox plays with a chip on his shoulder and is a playmaker. He is brash and over-confident (but what NFL corner isn’t) and would help in the return game as well as play nickle (or dime) back right away (depending on how good Al Harrises recovery is coming.
Round 3: Dexter McCluster-RB/WR/KR- Ole Miss: McCluster is a lot like Percy Harvin in the sense he can line-up any where. He can play RB, WR or even “Wild Pack” quarterback. He is lightning in a bottle and a playmaker.
Round 4 ( A ): Eric Norwood- OLB- South Carolina: Here is the big, strong guy that will line-up next to CM-III in the future. He is projected by some scouts to be a 3rd-4th rounder and to get him here is great value.
Round 4 ( B ): LeGarrette Blount- RB- Oregon: Blount is that tough, physical running back with surprising burst and speed. He slips due to character concerns, but here he provides very good value in round 4.
Round 5 ( A ): Ciron Black- OT- LSU: A big, mammoth guy that projects at right tackle on the NFL level. Again, here is value and a guy that coming into the season was a late first-early second rounder. Could be a steal here.
Round 5 ( B ): Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB/FS- Indiana (PA): A playmaker that has it all and is an outstanding return man. He is a ball hawk that may rise up draft boards after the combine but is coming off an injury. He has great size and speed and would be a welcome addition the the Packers secondary. I see him as a 5th CB, back up free safety and a returnman. He slides because of two reasons; he is coming off an injury and the level of competition he played at.
Round 6: O’Brien Schofield- OLB- Wisconsin: He tore his ACL at the Senior Bowl, but he was a standout at the Shrine game. This is a pick that will have value in a year or two and would provide depth then, opposed to 2010. He is a real go getter with up-side and make-up that I love.
Round 7: Mike Tepper- LT- California: He is a pretty good player that was hurt a lot while at Cal. In 2005 he was out with a broken right leg and then in 2008 he was out with a pectoral injury. He does a good job of sealing off the edge rushers, but will have trouble with powerful bull rushers. Another value pick.
Joe
2010 NFL Draft: Top 10 Wide Receivers
We are at the point of the year that has the prospects are preparing for the combine and every “draft expert” has their “big board” and their list of players who they feel are the best at their respective positions. I am no different.
I’ll now shift focus to the wide receivers. I think this is a pretty decent group, but not a deep as last years class. Dez Bryant is by far and away the best wide receiver in this class. He is a complete receiver and has the size NFL teams love. After him there are smaller receivers (Mardy Gilyard), smooth receivers (Damian Williams) bigger receivers (Arrelious Benn), posession receivers (Golden Tate) and a few converted quarterbacks (Joe Webb).
Here are my Top 10 wide receivers for the 2010 NFL Draft.
1. Dez Bryant- Oklahoma St.
2. Damian Williams- USC
3. Demaryius Thomas- Georgia Tech
4. Brandon LaFell- LSU
6. Mardy Gilyard- Cincinnati
6. Golden Tate- Notre Dame
7. Arrelious Benn- Illinois
8. Taylor Price- Ohio
9. Jordan Shipley- Texas
10. Carlton Mitchell- South Florida
2010 NFL Draft: Top 10 Running Backs
We are at the point of the year that has the prospects are preparing for the combine and every “draft expert” has their “big board” and their list of players who they feel are the best at their respective positions. I am no different.
Now it’s time to shift to the running backs. The 2010 running back class, to me, is really good at the top with a few players that could develop into very good backs in the middle rounds depending on where they end up.
CJ Spiller is lightning in a bottle. Jonathan Dwyer is a bigger back who fits a zone blocking scheme. Jahvid Best is a back that is a smaller version of Spiller while Joe McKinght is a back that may not have Spiller or Best’s speed, but can go the distance anytime he touches the ball. Then there is Dexter McCluster from Ole Miss. He is a back that can line up at running back, wide receiver or quarterback in a ”Wild Cat” formation.
Here are my top 10 running backs that are in the 2010 draft.
1. CJ Spiller- Clemson
2. Jonathan Dwyer- Georgia Tech
3. Jahvid Best- Cal
4. Anthony Dixon- Mississippi St.
5. Joe McKnight- USC
6. Dexter McCluster- Ole Miss
7. LeGarrette Blount- Oregon
8. Ryan Mathews- Fresno St.
9. Toby Gerhart- Stanford
10. Montario Hardesty- Tennessee
2010 NFL Draft: Top 10 Quarterbacks
We are at the point of the year that has the prospects are preparing for the combine and every “draft expert” has their “big board” and their list of players who they feel are the best at their respective positions. I am no different.
I am starting with my top quarterbacks. I don’t feel there is a sure-fire number one quarterback worthy of a top 5 pick. Oklahoma’s Sam Bradford and Jimmy Clausen of Notre Dame are the consensus number 1-A and 1-B, but after them there is much to debate.
But there is many questions after those two. Where will tim Tebow land and how high? Does Colt McCoy have NFL arm strength? Is Jevan Snead a better pro player than college player? As you can see that is only 3 questions that are being asked and there are many more.
I won’t debate who is number 3 through 10. Instead here are my top 10 quarterbacks for the 2010 draft PRE-Combine. It may or may not change much after the combine, but here our my top 10 quarterback prospects for the 2010 draft.
1. Sam Bradford- Oklahoma
2. Jimmy Clausen- Notre Dame
3. Colt McCoy- Texas
4. Jevan Snead- Ole Miss
5. Tony Pike- Cincinnati
6. Tim Tebow- Florida
7. John Skelton- Fordham
8. Dan LeFevour- Central Michigan
9. Jarrett Brown- West Virginia
10. Matt Nichols- Eastern Washington
2-4-10 O.T.S. (Rumors) and Packers Mock v.12.0
I decided that I would make the O.T.S. and my Packers mock one blog/article. It saves time for me to post both together as one piece. I also wanted to wish my mother, Cathy and youngest son, Dominic a very Happy Birthday (on February 4th & 5th).
Let me start by saying thank you for all the support that you give me and have given me over the years. I say this because I recently read a very unflattering piece directed at me by Railbird Central’s Brian Carriveau. He wrote that I make up my rumors. I respect Brian and admire his work covering the Packers on his site. Just because he has heard differently from what I have heard doesn’t mean I make up my rumors. Many different things are floating around this time of the year and it is not always what everyone else has heard.
We do have each others e-mails and I would have hoped that if he has an issue with me that he would have e-mailed me directly opposed to writing it about me and “blind siding” me. I am not upset at him, nor do I wish him any ill will or “beef”. I just hope that we can resolve what ever issue is there on his end (becasue I don’t have one with him). Get at me Brian, I am free any time you are to discuss this.
Now to the O.T.S.
RUMOR:
n.
- A piece of unverified information of uncertain origin usually spread by word of mouth.
- Unverified information received from another; hearsay.
I have heard (and believe it has been reported) that the Packers top 3 priorities this off season are to re-sign defensive tackle Ryan Pickett. The second is to re-sign offensive tackles Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher and finally re-sign outside linebacker Aaron Kampman. I have heard that the Packers have made a “very nice” offer to Kampman. I have no word on what the dollar figures are or for how many years.
I have heard that USC safety Taylor Mays left the Packers scouts and coaches with a lot to be desired as they came away “unimpressed” after the Senior Bowl week. He did play better in the game (coming away with a interception) , but his stock (as of now) is falling from mid-first round to the 20’s if not early second round.
The next group of safties to watch (after Berry, Mays and Thomas) are Chad Jones of LSU and Morgan Burnett of Georgia Tech. I have heard that the Packers are really doing their homework with the two safties (who are graded out 2nd rounders).
A player I hear the Packers had a lot of interest in while in Mobile, Alabama is Dexter McCluster, the playmaker from Ole Miss. I heard that the team had “more than a few” conversations with him and like his make-up and football IQ. McCluster could fill three “needs” for the Packers as a 3rd running back, a 5th wide receiver and a return specialist.
A few more players that I was told the Packers are high on are Jerry Hughes (OLB, TCU), Sean Weatherspoon (LB, Mizzu) Jason Fox (OT, Miami) Darryl Washington (MLB, TCU), Cameron Sheffield (OLB, Troy), Kyle Wilson (CB, Boise St.), Perrish Cox (CB, Oklahoma St.), Amari Spievey (CB, Iowa), Dominique Franks (CB, Oklahoma) and Devin McCourty (CB, Rutgers).
Many teams may not have Oregon running back LeGarrette Blount on their draft boards because of “charactor issues”, but I have heard the Packers people spoke with him while at the Senior Bowl and came away with a positive impression. I have also heard that the Packers would like to add a big back to get the tough short yard, and Blount can do just that.
Kyle Wilson of Boise St. blew the Packers (and most NFL teams) away while in Mobile, Alabama not just with his playing, but also his personality. I heard they really like what he brings to the table as a corner and think he would be perfect fit in their secondary.
They also came away impressed with Perrish Cox. He flashed the big time play-making skills he showed while at Oklahoma St. Cox is a guy that should be available in the second round should the Packers not select a corner in round 1.
Many people, including myself have bought into Idaho offensive guard Mike Iupati. He is a big, strong, athletic guy that could play guard or tackle in the NFL. But Mike Mayock said that the more he watched tape on him the more he see’s him as a guy that grabs instead of punches (which leads to holding calls). It may not be a red flag, but it is something to keep an eye on.
Two offensive tackle names that have been linked by some scouts that could be available when the Packers pick in round 1 (if they stay there) are Bruce Campbell of Maryland and Charles Brown of USC. Campbell has some injury concerns while Brown, some scouts feel, isn’t strong enough as a run blocker.
As expected, Myron Rolle blew away everyone that he met with at the Senior Bowl. If the term “Packers People” had a picture next to it, it could very well be his face. Everyone raved about him and rightfully so. But remember this, he had 1 interception in 3 years starting at Florida St. while Mays had 5 in four years.
A player that I hear the Packers feel is a good fit in their 3-4 is Penn St.’s Jared Odrick.
Two other players that had the Packers attention at the Senior Bowl were A J Edds (ILB, Iowa) and Colin Peek (TE, Alabama).
I heard something that I found both interesting and frustrating (to me at least). I heard that the Packers are actually looking to trade out of the first round. The reason being is the Packers feel the “cut-off” is 19 players in the first round. They feel that they can get the same type of player in the early second round, with added picks, if they trade back a few spots. It is early, but I thought that I would pass that along.
I also have heard that the Packers want to add a saftey early in the draft (possibly round 1). Would they reach for the athletic and playmaking Jones or take the hard hitting Mays?
I have heard that the Packers won’t pay the type of money Chargers OLB Shawne Merriman will want and won’t part with the draft picks as well, so don’t look for him in Green Bay in 2010. (Sorry Nick Barnett and Ryan Grant).
I have been hearing (for a while now) that Ted Thompson is looking to add a couple “Level II” free agents.
Here is my Packers mock v.12.0. I added in the players I think the Packers will re-sign and also who the will not bring back.
With the CBA situation still unsettled, I think Packers G.M. Ted Thompson focuses on the Packers free agents and sticks with his normal modus operandi (building through the draft). But I do think a deal get done at the 11th hour and I expect the Packers to sign two level II free agents.
I think the Packers resign: Nick Collins, Ryan Pickett, Tramon Williams, Aaron Kampman, Jason Spitz, Chad Clifton, Mark Tausher, Desmond Bishop, Derrick Martin, Will Blackmon, Anthony Toribio and Johnny Jolly.
I don’t think the Packers resign and/or release: Daryn Colledge, Donald Lee, Jeremy Kapinos, Patrick Williams, Jarrett Bush, Josh Bell, Trevor Ford, Matt Giordano, Brady Poppinga, Atari Bigby, Deshawn Wynn, Devin Frischknecht and Mike Montgomery.
As far as the draft, I think Thompson will look for and consider a “special kind of player” (or “difference maker”) in the first round. Thompson seems to stay “true” to his board and draft BPA, but his board always seems to have the BPA at a position of the Packers ”need”. So in my mock, I tried to stay as true to my board as possible.
I also believe that the Packers will receive a 5th round comp pick for Colin Cole.
Here is the mock and I hope you have a great weekend.
Mock Draft v.12.0
Round 1: Kyle Wilson- CB- Bosie St.: The Packers corner situation is not that great. After Woodson and Williams there are question marks. Can Al Harris come back from a torn ACL? Is Pat Lee gonna be a player and stay healthy? They can’t trust Jarrett Bush and Will Blackmon is also coming off an ACL injury. Wilson has all the tools to be a future star in the NFL and in Dom Capers scheme.
Round 2: Chad Jones- S- LSU: Even if the Packers bring back Atari Bigby (which I doubt), they need to upgrade the strong safety spot. Jones can cover, hit and return punts. He is a playmaking safety that is not afraid to take on a runningback or tight end.
Round 3: Dexter McCluster-RB/WR/KR- Ole Miss: McCluster is a doing every thing football player that is tough, smart and instictive. He fills multiple “needs” for the Packers including a 3rd running back, a 5th wide receiver and a kick returner. He can also line up as a QB in a “Wild Pack” formation. Here is a bit of info that is in the new O.T.S. (above): I have heard the Packers have met with him a few times in Mobile and have a big time iterest in him.
Round 4: Rodger Saffold- OT- Indiana: This kid turned heads at the Shrine game and a few reports had Thompson and other Packers scouts looking at him “hard”. Big, strong, long armed kid that has all the things the Packers want from a left tackle. If Clifton is resigned, then he has a year to develop, which would only help him.
Round 5 ( A ): Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB/FS- Indiana (PA): A playmaker that has it all and is an outstanding return man. He is a ball hawk that may rise up draft boards after the combine but is coming off an injury. He has great size and speed and would be a welcome addition the the Packers secondary. I see him as a 5th CB, back up free safety and a returnman.
Round 5 ( B ): Cameron Sheffield- OLB- Troy: Sheffield projects as a perfect 3-4 rush linebacker. He still needs to work on some things, but he has a great first step and just makes plays.
Round 6: Freddie Barnes- WR- Bowling Green: I love Barnes. He reminds me of a “poor man’s” Greg Jennings. I think this kid is a major sleeper in this draft. He isn’t fast, but this kid catches everything thrown his way, gets in and ut of his breaks quickly, quick hips and has good size (6′0/212). He understands how to play WR and would be an excellent 5th receiver for the Packers until he move up the depth chart. He also can return kicks and punts if needed.
Round 7: Michael Hoomanawanui- TE- Illinois: A big guy (6′4/ 267 lbs) that could be the blocking tight end the Packers need to compliment Jermichael Finley and Spencer Havner. He also has some decent hands.
Mock Draft 11.0
Round 1: Mike Iupati- OL- Idaho
Round 2: Perrish Cox- CB/KR- Oklahoma St.
Round 3: Dexter McCluster- RB/WR/KR- Ole Miss
Round 4: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB/FS- Indiana (PA)
Round 5 ( a ): Myron Rolle- SS- Florida St.
Round 5 ( b ): Cameron Sheffield- OLB- Troy
Round 6: Freddie Barnes- WR- Bowling Green
Round 7: Jimmy Graham- TE- Miami
Mock Draft 10.0
Round 1: Jahvid Best- RB- Cal
Round 2: Chad Jones- S- LSU
Round 3: Rodger Saffold- LT- Indiana
Round 4: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 5 ( a ): O”Brien Schofield- OLB- Wisconsin
Round 5 ( b ): Freddie Barnes- WR- Bowling Green
Round 6: Joique Bell- RB- Wayne State (MI)
Round 7: John Skelton- QB- Fordham
Recap of Mock 9.0
Round 1: Taylor Mays- S- USC
Round 2: Donovan Warren- DB- Michigan
Round 3: Rodger Saffold- OT- Indiana
Round 4: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 5 ( a ): Joique Bell- RB- Wayne State (MI)
Round 5 ( b ): Trindon Holliday- WR/KR- LSU
Round 6: Arthur Moats- OLB- James Madison
Round 7: Stafon Johnson- RB- USC
Recap of Mock 8.0
Round 1: Jahvid Best- RB- Cal
Round 2: Selvish Capers- RT- W. Virginia
Round 3: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 4: Barry Church- SS- Toledo
Round 5 ( A ): Vince Oghobaase- DE/DT- Duke
Round 5 ( B ): Zoltan Mesko- P- Michigan
Round 6: Arthur Moats- OLB- James Madison
Round 7: Trindon Holliday- WR/KR- LSU
Recap of Mock 7.0
Round 1: Bruce Campbell- OT- Maryland
Round 2: Chad Jones- S- LSU
Round 3: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 4: LeGarrette Blount- RB- Oregon
Round 5 ( A ): Matt Dodge- P- East Carolina
Round 5 ( B ): Arthur Moats- OLB- James Madison
Round 6: Kelton Tindal- WR- Newberry
Round 7: Greg Middleton- DE- Indiana
Recap of Mock 6.0
Round 1: CJ Spiller- RB- Clemson
Round 2: Charles Brown- OT- USC
Round 3: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 4: Barry Church- SS- Toledo
Round 5 ( A ): Matt Dodge- P- East Carolina
Round 5 ( B ): Arthur Moats- OLB- James Madison
Round 6: Kelton Tindal- WR- Newberry
Round 7: Greg Middleton- DE- Indiana
Recap of Mock 5.0
Round 1: C.J. Spiller- RB- Clemson
Round 2 ( A ): Jerry Hughes- OLB- TCU
Round 2 ( B ): Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 3: Kurt Coleman- SS- Ohio St.
Round 4: LeGarrette Blount- RB- Oregon
Round 5 ( A ): Rodger Safford- OT- Indiana
Round 5 ( B ): Matt Dodge- P- East Carolina
Round 6: Brandon Deaderick- DE- Alabama
Round 7: Zac Robinson- QB- Oklahoma St
Recap of my Mock 4.0:
Round 1: Taylor Mays- SS- USC
Round 2 ( A ): Jonathan Dwyer- RB- Georgia Tech
Round 2 ( B ) : Mike Johnson- OL- Alabama
Round 3: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 4 ( A ): Cameron Sheffield- OLB- Troy
Round 4 ( B ): Alex Carrington- DE- Arkansas St.
Round 5: Taylor Price- WR- Ohio
Round 6: Michael Smith- RB- Arkansas
Round 7: Zac Robinson- QB- Oklahoma St
Recap of my Mock 3.0:
Round 1: Taylor Mays- S- USC
Round 2: Jonathan Dwyer- RB- Georgia Tech
Round 3: Bruce Campbell- OT- Maryland
Round 4: Chris Scott- OT- Tennessee
Round 5: Cameron Sheffield- OLB- Troy
Round 6: LeGarrette Blount- RB- Oregon
Round 7: Brandon Banks- WR/KR/PR- Kansas St
Recap of my Mock 2.0:
Round 1 (mid/late): Chad Jones- S- LSU
Round 2: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA):
Round 3: Joe McKnight- RB- USC
Round 4: Kyle Calloway- OT- Iowa
Round 5: Eric Decker- WR- Minnesota
Round 6: LeGarrette Blount- RB- Oregon:
Round 7: Isiah “Juice” Williams- QB- Illinois
Recap of my Mock 1.0:
Round 1: (mid/late round ): Joe McKnight- RB- USC
Round 2: Ciron Black- OT- LSU
Round 3: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 4: Myron Rolle- S- FSU
Round 5: Davis Gettis- WR- Baylor:
Round 6: Ryan Perrilloux- QB- Jacksonville St.
Round 7: Allen Bradford- RB- USC
Arrigo Packers Mock v.11.0
Here it is, my Packers mock v.11.0. I added some resigning thoughts and I added some undrafted rookie free agent signings to round out my mock draft.
With the CBA situation still unsettled, I think Ted Thompson focuses on the Packers free agents and sticks with his normal modus operandi. But I do think a deal get done at the 11th hour and I expect the Packers to sign two level II free agent for decent offers.
I think the Packers resign: Nick Collins, Ryan Pickett, Tramon Williams, Aaron Kampman, Jason Spitz, Chad Clifton, Mark Tausher, Desmond Bishop, Derrick Martin, Will Blackmon, Anthony Toribio and Johnny Jolly.
I don’t think the Packers resign and/or release: Daryn Colledge, Donald Lee, Jeremy Kapinos, Patrick Williams, Jarrett Bush, Josh Bell, Trevor Ford, Matt Giordano, Brady Poppinga, Atari Bigby, Deshawn Wynn, Devin Frischknecht and Mike Montgomery.
Free Agent Singings: Nick Kaczur- OT- New England Patriots, Ryan Clark- SS- Pittsburgh Steelers. Both players fill needs and are considered “Level II” free agents.
As far as the draft, I think Thompson will look for and consider a “special kind of player” (or “difference maker”) in the first round. Thompson seems to stay “true” to his board and draft BPA, but his board always seems to have the BPA at a position of the Packers ”need”. So in my mock, I tried to stay as true to my board as possible.
I also believe that the Packers will receive a 5th round comp pick for Colin Cole.
I do think that CJ Spiller, Bruce Campbell and the other big 3 (offensive linemen) will be off the board when the Packers pick, but the guy that is quickly becoming one of my favorite players is still there at #23 and he would fill a “need” and may be the BPA. So with that being said, here is my mock!
Mock Draft V.11.0:
Round 1: Mike Iupati- OL- Idaho: Has this kid lit it up at the Senior Bowl! He is the best guard in the draft but has all the traits, size (6′6, 324), long arms and great footwork to be an outstanding tackle as well. I think he starts at left guard right away and then slides into the left tackle position in a few years and becomes a dominating player there for many years. Did anyone else see him covering kicks during the Senior Bowl practice? WOW!
Round 2: Perrish Cox- CB/KR- Oklahoma St.: I really liked Boise St.’s Kyle Wilson here, but I think he played himself into the 1st round. Cox has what the Packers look for in a corner, good size (5′11/198) with really good speed (4.4ish) a fiesty attitude but mostly he is a playmaker that can take a pick or a return to the house any time he touches the ball. Cox isn’t afraid to stick his nose in a make a hit either. He has great game speed and is an elite return specialist who would add some much needed speed to the Packers defensive backfield.
Round 3: Dexter McCluster- RB/WR/KR- Ole Miss: McCluster is a kid I have liked for two years. He is a doing every thing football player that is tough, smart and instictive. He fills multiple “needs” for the Packers including a 3rd running back, a 5th wide receiver and a kick returner. He can also line up as a QB in a “Wild Pack” formation. Here is a bit of info that is in the new O.T.S. I have heard the Packers have met with him a few times in Mobile and have a big time iterest in him.
Round 4: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB/FS- Indiana (PA): A playmaker that has it all and is an outstanding return man. He is a ball hawk that may rise up draft boards after the combine. He has great size and speed and would be a welcome addition the the Packers secondary. I see him as a 5th CB (until Al Harris is 100%), back up free safety and a returnman with McCluster or Cox on kick offs.
Round 5 ( a ): Myron Rolle- SS- Florida St.: He went to Oxford for a year to study as a Rhodes Scholar and came back looking like all he did was work out. He has good size (6′0/217), is smart and you know will “WOW” teams in the interview process. He did only have 1 interception during 3 years at FSU and he he is not really fast, but is a sure tackle and takes pretty good angles.
Round 5 ( b ): Cameron Sheffield- OLB- Troy: Sheffield is a perfect fit for a 3-4 scheme. He can get to the QB and has shown a good burst in post season workouts (@ the Senior Bowl). His primary job is to rush the passer and he should be able to do that in Dom Capers system. He’s not DeMarcus Ware, but not to many players are.
Round 6: Freddie Barnes- WR- Bowling Green: I love Barnes. He reminds me of a “poor man’s” Greg Jennings. I think this kid is a major sleeper in the draft. He isn’t fast, but this kid catches everything thrown his way, gets in and ut of his breaks quickly, quick hips and has good size (6′0/212). He understands how to play WR and would be an excellent 5th receiver for the Packers until he move up the depth chart. He also can return kicks and punts if needed.
Round 7: Jimmy Graham- TE- Miami: This kid has some nice tools, but at each Senior Bowl practice he just gets better. He isn’t a great blocker but could become one in time and is a better receiver right now. He is also a former basketball player and has very good leaping ability. He needs to fill out his 6′7 frame, but he would be another “green zone” threat teaming with Jermichael Finley for Aaron Rodgers.
Undrafted Rookie Free Agents:
O’Brien Schofiled- OLB- Wisconsin: Tore his ACL at the Senior Bowl after a steller Shrine week. He is a really good pass rusher and could get better dropping into pass coverage. Great motor and a great kid overall.
Arthur Moats- OLB- James Madison: Another OLB that can get to the QB and in a hurry. He may sneal into the late rounds for a team running a 3-4, but I think he goes undrafted and Thompson snatches him up quickly.
Greg Middleton- DE- Indiana: Middleton is a guy that didn’t have the type of Senior year many thought he would and his draft stock has slipped quite a bit. He would be a very good 3-4 end and has a decent burst. Another player that could sneak into the late rounds.
Brandon Deaderick- DE- Alabama: Another big body for the Packers defensive line. He would provide even more depth to a pretty deep defensive line group.
Zac Robinson- QB- Oklahoma St.: The Packers have a franchise and Pro Bowl quarterback in Aaron Rodgers, but after him it’s Matt Flynn and nobody. So the Packers take Robinson and try to develop him into a guy that can come in if need be and not lose the game. He is really athletic and has a decent arm.
Jeff Byers- OG/C- USC: Byers has had some injury problems and is older then most would like, but he is a guy that has the experience the Packers may be looking for. He isn’t strong, but he knows how to use his leverage well and knows how to block in a “zone” scheme.
Matt Dodge- P- East Carolina: I don’t see Thompson drafting a punter, but I do see him making it a priority to land a college guy to compete with Jeremy Kapinos, who is a liabilty.
Mock Draft v. 10.0
Round 1: Jahvid Best- RB- Cal
Round 2: Chad Jones- S- LSU
Round 3: Rodger Saffold- LT- Indiana
Round 4: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 5 ( a ): O”Brien Schofield- OLB- Wisconsin
Round 5 ( b ): Freddie Barnes- WR- Bowling Green
Round 6: Joique Bell- RB- Wayne State (MI)
Round 7: John Skelton- QB- Fordham
Recap of Mock 9.0
Round 1: Taylor Mays- S- USC
Round 2: Donovan Warren- DB- Michigan
Round 3: Rodger Saffold- OT- Indiana
Round 4: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 5 ( a ): Joique Bell- RB- Wayne State (MI)
Round 5 ( b ): Trindon Holliday- WR/KR- LSU
Round 6: Arthur Moats- OLB- James Madison
Round 7: Stafon Johnson- RB- USC
Recap of Mock 8.0
Round 1: Jahvid Best- RB- Cal
Round 2: Selvish Capers- RT- W. Virginia
Round 3: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 4: Barry Church- SS- Toledo
Round 5 ( A ): Vince Oghobaase- DE/DT- Duke
Round 5 ( B ): Zoltan Mesko- P- Michigan
Round 6: Arthur Moats- OLB- James Madison
Round 7: Trindon Holliday- WR/KR- LSU
Recap of Mock 7.0
Round 1: Bruce Campbell- OT- Maryland
Round 2: Chad Jones- S- LSU
Round 3: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 4: LeGarrette Blount- RB- Oregon
Round 5 ( A ): Matt Dodge- P- East Carolina
Round 5 ( B ): Arthur Moats- OLB- James Madison
Round 6: Kelton Tindal- WR- Newberry
Round 7: Greg Middleton- DE- Indiana
Recap of Mock 6.0
Round 1: CJ Spiller- RB- Clemson
Round 2: Charles Brown- OT- USC
Round 3: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 4: Barry Church- SS- Toledo
Round 5 ( A ): Matt Dodge- P- East Carolina
Round 5 ( B ): Arthur Moats- OLB- James Madison
Round 6: Kelton Tindal- WR- Newberry
Round 7: Greg Middleton- DE- Indiana
Recap of Mock 5.0
Round 1: C.J. Spiller- RB- Clemson
Round 2 ( A ): Jerry Hughes- OLB- TCU
Round 2 ( B ): Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 3: Kurt Coleman- SS- Ohio St.
Round 4: LeGarrette Blount- RB- Oregon
Round 5 ( A ): Rodger Safford- OT- Indiana
Round 5 ( B ): Matt Dodge- P- East Carolina
Round 6: Brandon Deaderick- DE- Alabama
Round 7: Zac Robinson- QB- Oklahoma St
Recap of my Mock 4.0:
Round 1: Taylor Mays- SS- USC
Round 2 ( A ): Jonathan Dwyer- RB- Georgia Tech
Round 2 ( B ) : Mike Johnson- OL- Alabama
Round 3: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 4 ( A ): Cameron Sheffield- OLB- Troy
Round 4 ( B ): Alex Carrington- DE- Arkansas St.
Round 5: Taylor Price- WR- Ohio
Round 6: Michael Smith- RB- Arkansas
Round 7: Zac Robinson- QB- Oklahoma St
Recap of my Mock 3.0:
Round 1: Taylor Mays- S- USC
Round 2: Jonathan Dwyer- RB- Georgia Tech
Round 3: Bruce Campbell- OT- Maryland
Round 4: Chris Scott- OT- Tennessee
Round 5: Cameron Sheffield- OLB- Troy
Round 6: LeGarrette Blount- RB- Oregon
Round 7: Brandon Banks- WR/KR/PR- Kansas St
Recap of my Mock 2.0:
Round 1 (mid/late): Chad Jones- S- LSU
Round 2: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA):
Round 3: Joe McKnight- RB- USC
Round 4: Kyle Calloway- OT- Iowa
Round 5: Eric Decker- WR- Minnesota
Round 6: LeGarrette Blount- RB- Oregon:
Round 7: Isiah “Juice” Williams- QB- Illinois:
Recap of my Mock 1.0:
Round 1: (mid/late round ): Joe McKnight- RB- USC
Round 2: Ciron Black- OT- LSU
Round 3: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah- CB- Indiana (PA)
Round 4: Myron Rolle- S- FSU
Round 5: Davis Gettis- WR- Baylor:
Round 6: Ryan Perrilloux- QB- Jacksonville St.
Round 7: Allen Bradford- RB- USC
Ran-DUMB-Football-Thoughts (1-28-10)
As the NFL’s season draws to a close there are a few things in the football world that I would love to touch on. So here are my “Ran-DUMB” football thoughts.
NFL:
When Ted Thompson, Mike McCarthy and the Green Bay Packers brain trust decided to hand the team over to Aaron Rodgers, and eventually trade Brett Favre to the Jets, many Packers fans were worried. How could they turn the franchise over to an unproven player when the man who helped resurrect the franchise still wants to play? Will Rodgers be any good? Will he be able to play out of Brett Favre’s shadow?
The answer is an unequivocal yes, and not only an unequivocal yes, but he may have exceeded all the expectations many Packers fans had for him.
Rodgers became the first player in NFL history to throw for 4,000 yards and 30 touchdowns in his first two seasons as a starting quarterback. He also has led an offense that had a 1,200 yard rusher (Ryan Grant) and two 1,000 yard receivers (Donald Driver and Greg Jennings) two straight years. Rodgers has shown the toughness and leadership needed to be a successful NFL signal caller.
Rodgers has become the brightest star of the NFL’s young quarterbacks. He made the Pro Bowl in 2010 (and will start the game), but isn’t indicative to the type player he is destined to become. Rodgers is more Joe Montana then Brett Favre. He shows that “Joe Cool” attitude in time of duress. Rodgers isn’t the risk taking, gun slinger Favre is, he would rather use his “check downs” or throw the ball away then throw an interception.
The NFL has their standard bearers as quarterbacks in Peyton Manning and Drew Brees, with Tom Brady and Phillip Rivers right behind them. But Aaron Rodgers name will soon be mentioned with them, if it isn’t already. The Green Bay Packers hierarchy made the right decision in letting Favre go and making Rodgers the Packers starter.
As a life long Packers fan I was upset Brett Favre went to the Vikings. To me that would be like Magic Johnson playing for the Celtics, Michael Jordan for the Pistons or Derek Jeter in a Red Sox uniform. But I didn’t wish him harm nor do I hold any ill will towards Favre because after all, he was a free agent and had the desire to play (still).
I didn’t like (and still don’t like) the way he has handled his retirement(s), but who am I to judge? I think both the Packers and the Favre camp handled his exit from Green Bay equally wrong, but for both sides, it was time to move on (especially if he wanted to continue to play and the Packers wanted to have Rodgers as the starter).
Did it hurt to see him in a Viking uniform? Yes. But I understood that in pro sports players are a business inside a business and they have to do what they feel is best for them in the short and long-term. In pro sports there is no loyalty by the owners to players and vice versa. The fans of those teams are the only one with loyalty and expect players and teams to show that same loyalty to each other, and that rarely happens.
That being said, I will admit that I was glad to see Favre have a very good year and only wanted him to not play his best when he and the Vikings played against the Packers. Sorry, I can’t forget 16 years of service to the team I am dedicated to, but I didn’t want to see the Vikings have the team success they had either (my disdain for the Vikings runs deep, no matter who is on the team). I root for the name on the front of the jersey, not the back. So when they lost in the NFC title game it was bittersweet for me.
But it is that time of the year again, will he or won’t he. The “Favre Watch” is in full swing (again).
I won’t act like I know something nobody else knows, so I won’t try to predict what Favre will do. But I do know for nearly 20 years of my life I have had the pleasure of watching one of the most exciting quarterbacks in the history of the NFL. A player that has shown both physical and mental toughness never seen before by a pro athlete.
If this was his last year, thanks Favre. Thanks for showing the fans one last time that the “good ole’ boy from Kiln” can still sling the pigskin. If it is not, then I wish you a healthy off-season and personal success in 2010 (except when you play the Packers). But either way it goes, please, for the sake of NFL fans everywhere, MAKE A DECISION AND STICK WITH IT NO MATTER HOW DIFFICULT IT IS!
I am torn on the NFL Pro Bowl situation. I would rather see it in Hawaii, like it has been since 1980. I am not sure about when to play the game. I know I dislike the game being played the week before the Super Bowl leaving some of the best players out of the game (if the are playing in the Super Bowl). But I also disliked the game the week after since it was nothing more than a All-Star pre season game. I think that the NFL should make the Pro Bowl happen during the Hall Of Fame weekend. This way the greatest of the great are able to watch the past seasons greats.
The two best and most consistent teams in the NFC and AFC are in the Super Bowl. I have no issues with either of these teams playing for the Lombardi Trophy since they both had the best records in their respective conferences. I don’t have my prediction ready yet (that will be in next weeks Ran-DUMB-Football-Thoughts) but I will share this thought. I fully expect it to be one of the highest scoring Super Bowls in history.
During the NFC title game, in the 4th quarter with well under a minute left an interesting thing happened, the Vikings called a timeout. When they came out to huddle they had 12 men in the huddle, Favre noticed it and tried to call another timeout (but NFL rules state teams can not do that) so they were penalized 5 yards and were out of Ryan Longwell’s field goal range. So, on third down and 15 the Vikings were forced to try and throw for the 5 yards and we all know how that ended up.
While Favre threw the pick, and that was his fault, make no mistake about it, it was head coach Brad Childress fault the Vikings were even in that situation. As the head coach you are responsible for your personnel, and who goes where and when, and he failed at that during the Vikings biggest moment (arguably) in franchise history.
Childress is a desperate coach (just look at how he handled the Favre situation from the beginning). He parlayed his teams (and Favre’s) success in the regular season into a contract extension. He has (in critical games) choked. If I was Ziggy Wilf, the Vikings owner, I would keep a close eye on “Chilly”. With names like Jon Gruden and Bill Cowher still unemployed ( both also have Super Bowl rings) and questions at the quarterback position, I would expect him to have somewhat of a hot seat if the Vikings take a step back in 2010.
The Oakland Raiders are a proud franchise with a great tradition. Al Davis is a major reason the Raiders have had so much success. He was a revolutionary, visionary and a maverick all at the same time. He was a keen talent evaluator and a person that loved to go against the NFL grain (and Pete Rozell).
But that was a long time ago.
Today the Raiders are one of the laughing stocks of the NFL and have a team full of team cancers and over paid players. I was told that current and former players (like Derrick Burgess) got into some of the younger, more talented players heads and have had a negative impact on them. It is also known in NFL circles that most of the players are in Oakland just to collect a check (JaMarcus Russell) and are unwilling to put forth any effort to become a “professional”.
The drafting is another issue. While Mr. Davis has an eye for talent, I am afraid to say that until he hires a person to run the player personnel department and allows him to run the draft, the Raiders will be in also ran in the NFL.
I respect Al Davis and admire him for many reasons (football and non-football). I love his loyalty and commitment to excellence. He is not afraid to go against the grain to get what he wants, another Super Bowl championship. But until he gets rid of the “bad apples” and hires a capable person to run the player personnel department, I am afraid the Raiders fans are in for a long wait until their next Super Bowl win.
The NFL has been the best pro sport when it comes to labor relations but hard times maybe looming for the NFL. The owners elected to opt-out of the CBA making the NFL fans very nervous. The NFLPA says they will not accept a salary-cap or a rookie pay scale, two things that the owners want. The salary-cap is what makes the NFL great because it allows every team the opportunity to play on an “even field”. The rookie pay scale would also be good because there is no way JaMarcus Russell should ever make more money than Tom Brady or Drew Brees before even playing an NFL game.
I have heard various things when it comes to the CBA, but most reports have the two sides far apart. I may be in the minority, but I think both sides know how important labor peace is and will get a deal done in the 11th hour.
The 2010 NFL Draft process is in full swing with the Shrine game and the Senior Bowl. NFL teams are looking for their next star and player that will hopefully lead them to a Super Bowl victory. So as one friend put it “the meat market is open for business”!
In the next two and a half months we will hear draft experts talk about verts, red flags and of course the players 40 times. But the thing that gets over looked every year (by non-NFL G.M.’s) is what a player does on film. As a “draftnik” I have learned that the film doesn’t lie. What you see a player do on film is what they will most likely do while playing for your favorite team on Sundays (and Mondays).
We will see a player rise up the draft boards of Todd McShay, Mel Kiper Jr, Mike Mayock and others based on what they do at the combine. Those workout warriors will be drafted why to high and be way over paid. I will continue to do my Packers and NFL mock drafts up until the eve of the draft.
But the draft is a time for teams and their fans to have a new sense of hope. Teams that draft well are normally contending for a Super Bowl within a few years and the ones who don’t are set back a few years. The NFL has made a change to the draft by making it a four-day event. Round 1 will take place in prime time on Thursday, April 22nd, rounds two and three Friday the 23rd, followed by Rounds 4-7 on Saturday, April 24.
NCAA Football:
In a week many of the nation’s top high school football players will make their decision on where they will play football (and get their educations) for the next three or four years. Their choices will be televised on ESPN, ESPNU, ESPNews and FOXSports T.V. stations. We already have seen two high school all-star games where some of those top prospects made their decisions. Even though I watch them and follow them, it is a shame we (as sports fans) make these high school kids “stars” before they even play a down in college.
I am just as guilty as many others when it comes to following these young men and where they are being recruited. But the difference between me know and me ten years ago is I don’t get mad when they don’t choose the school I want them to go to. Instead I remind myself that these are 17, 18 and 19-year-old kids trying to make sure they have a bright future after their football days are over.
I also dislike that the NCAA makes these same kids honor their contracts, excuse me, letter of intent, when they don’t make the college head coaches honor their own contracts. These same coaches come into living rooms across the country and make promises to the kids and their parents and then up and leave 10 months later for another college job. If a kid commits and the coach leaves, those same kids should be able to leave as well.
But this is the NCAA, the same people who make billions of dollars off the NCAA Mens Basketball tournament but feel a NCAA playoff wouldn’t work. This is the same NCAA which was once led by the President of Indiana University who hired a basketball coach who broke NCAA rules more than once and when he did it at Indiana, gave themselves a slap on the wrist.
Much is being said about Tim Tebow’s commercial during the Super Bowl. As a person that felt Tebow was over hyped, I commend him. He is a man who knows who is and stands by his convictions. He is a man who is not ashamed to say he is a Christian and proclaim his love for Jesus Christ as his lord and savior.
Tebow may or may not be a bust as a pro player but what he did in college football may have him go down as the greatest college football player ever. Not only is he the type of player coaches love to coach, but he is the type of person that the NCAA loved to have represent them. A fierce competitor on the field and now a fierce competitor for Christianity. Tim Tebow may or may not be a first round pick in the NFL, but he seems to be a first round pick in character and class.
CBS has the right to run ANY AD that they want regardless of what N.O.W. or any other organization has to say about it. The organization that paid for the ad has the right to speak about what they want in the ad. If N.O.W. or any other organization doesn’t like it, buy an ad to counter it. CBS can not (and will not according to FCC law) decline to run their ad.
I am taken back by the audacity and pompous attitudes of the organizations that oppose the ad. We have the right to listen to ANY THING we want to, including their views on abortion. How dare they DEMAND to CBS that they not run the ad? Are they the heads of CBS? Who are they to say what we the public has a right to hear or not hear? Last time I checked we were living in a society that has freedom of speech.
We have T.V. stations that report news far to the left and far to the right. We have news reports that are more like a news companies editorials. They don’t report the news, they report their version of the news. I commend CBS for not pulling the Tebow’s ad. I think that message needs to be heard and it may effect a person or two in a way that may have them rethink their own situation.
As a person that works in radio and understands how “political rates” work, I know for sure that CBS has given N.O.W. and every other opposing group the right to pay for their own ad, if not they would be in violation of the FCC and would face a hefty fine. It’s time for them (the opposing groups) to put up or shut up.
To Tim Tebow and his mother, thank you. Thank you for sharing your story and good luck in your crusade.
Joe Arrigo
Arrigo’s NFL Mock v3.0
It’s a new week and that means a new mock. This time I included all 32 NFL teams with the two Super Bowl participants selecting 31st and 32nd based on their regular season records.
I also included a second round pick as well. I wanted to do that to add more to the mock and to maybe give some type of explanation to the first round pick.
1. St. Louis: Ndamukong Suh-DT- Nebraska: Unless the Rams trade down for a chance to draft a QB, which I highly doubt, Suh has to be the pick. He is a beast and will be a force on the Rams defensive line for years.
Round 2- Rams: Colt McCoy- QB- Texas
2. Detroit: Gerald McCoy-DT-Oklahoma: McCoy fills a need for the Lions and would wreak havoc in opposing teams backfields for years. The offense has it’s corner stones in Stafford and Johnson, now the defense has one as well.
Round 2-Lions: Jerry Hughes-OLB-TCU
3. Tampa Bay: Eric Berry-S-Tennessee: The perfect fir for the “Tampa 2″ and the best playmaker in the draft. He is built in the “Ed Reed” mold and is the ideal safety for the “Tampa 2″ defense.
Round 2-Bucaneers: Golden Tate-WR-Notre Dame
4. Washington: Sam Bradford-QB-Oklahoma: The Redskins get their QB of the future and a player that Mike Shanahan covets. He would be a very good fit for his offense and what he likes to do with his quarterbacks.
Round 2- Redskins: Jason Fox-OT-Miami
5. Kansas City: Russell Okung-OT-Oklahoma State: The Chiefs need to protect Matt Cassel and open holes for Jamaal Charles, Okung is that guy. He is a big, strong guy that plays with a nasty streak.
Round 2- Chiefs: Brandon Sikes-ILB-Florida
6. Seattle: Derrick Morgan-DE-Georgia Tech: The Seahawks need an offensive tackle, but they had no pass rush last year and he will fill that need. Carroll wants to get to the quarterback and Morgan can do just that.
Round 2- Seahawks: Damian Williams-WR-USC
7. Cleveland: Joe Haden-CB-Florida: The Browns need alot, but Hayden would be a great building block for any defense. Mike Holmgren neess to address the quarterback position, but will not by 3 quarterbacks big bucks.
Round 2- Browns: Tony Pike-QB-Cincinnatti
8. Oakland: Anthony Davis-OT-Rutgers: The Raiders need an offensive tackle and Davis may be the most gifted in the draft. With Hue Jackson as the new offensive coordinator look for him to make sure JaMarcus Russell stays upright.
Round 2-Raiders: Mike Lupati-OG-Idaho
9. Buffalo: Bruce Campbell-OT-Maryland: The Bills have a need at quarterback, but the need at offensove tackle is greater and they feel they can land the strong armed QB the covet in round 2.
Round 2-Bills: Jevon Snead-QB-Ole Miss
10. Jacksonville: Rolando McClain-LB-Alabama: Quarterback is a bigger need, but McClain would be the perfect LB for Del Rio’s defense. Jimmay Clausen has to be considered here and it’s to early for Tim Tebow.
Round 2-Jaguars: Tim Tebow-QB-Florida
11. Denver (via Chicago): Dez Bryant-WR-Oklahoma St.: Will Brandon Marshall be in Denver? Bryant will be the man in McDaniels offense. If the Broncos keep Brandon Marshall they will have on hell of a duo.
Round 2-Broncos: Corey Wootton-DE/DT-Northwestern
12. Miami: Jason Pierre-Paul-DE-South Florida: The Dolphins defense isn’t bad, but Pierre-Paul would add that speed rusher Jason Taylor used to be. He may be the forst defensive lineman off the board.
Round 2: Demaryius Thomas-WR-Georgia Tech
13. San Francisco: Trent Williams- OT- Oklahoma: Williams would be the 49ers RT of the present and future. If Alex Smith is the starter there, they need to protect him.
14. Seattle (via Denver): Jimmy Clausen-QB-Notre Dame: The Seahawks need offenive line help, but their quarterback play has not been good for three straight years and Carroll has a personel history with Clausen.
15. New York Giants: Earl Thomas-S-Texas: Kenny Phillips went down and so did the Giants. Thomas is a playmaking S that the G-Men need. He is another playmaking safety that is not afraid to hit.
Round 2-Giants: Jeremy Beal-DE-Oklahoma
16. Tennessee: Everson Griffen-DE-USC: Griffen can get to the QB, and Tennessee needs to do more of that.
17. San Francisco (via Carolina): Carlos Dunlap-DE-Florida: Great value here for the 49ers. Dunlap his a high risk pick, but has huge upside. Mike Singletary will make sure this kid reaches his max ability.
Round 2-49ers: Devin McCourtney-CB-Rutgers
18. Pittsburgh: Charles Brown-OT-USC: The Steelers need to make sure “Big Ben” stays upright and Brown will help with that.
Round 2-Steelers: Trevard Lindley-CB-Kentucky
19. Atlanta: Sergio Kindle-OLB-Texas: I love this kid. He can do it all, but he is a great pass rusher and the Falcons will welcome his ability.
20. Houston: Bryan Bulaga-OT-Iowa: The Texans offense was exciting but they need to keep Matt Schuab upright in order to win games, Bulaga will make sure that happens.
Round 2-Texans: Perrish Cox-CB-Oklahoma St.
21. Cincinnati: Arrelious Benn-WR-Illinois: With the loss of Chris Henry, Chad Ocho Cinco & Carson Palmer get some help with Benn. He can go over the middle or go deep on any play, a really nice fit in the “natti”.
Round 2-Bengals: Aaron Hernandez-TE-Florida
22. New England: Ricky Sapp-OLB-Clemson: Ideal fit in the 3/4 as a rush backer and the Patriots need that. Their defense is young, but they are talented.
Round 2-Patriots: Dominique Franks-CB-Oklahoma
23. Green Bay- CJ Spiller-RB-Clemson: I know, the Packers have bigger needs (OT, CB, S) then a RB/KR, but Spiller is to good to pass up. He cures the Packers return needs and will be Ryan grants primary back-up.
Round 2-Packers: Chad Jones-S-LSU
24. Philadelphia: Navorro Bowman-OLB-Penn St.: The Eagles need to get more athletic at OLB and Bowman is just that. He is a playmaking machine with a great motor.
25. Baltimore: Jermaine Gresham-TE-Oklahoma: Joe Flacco needs another target in the red zone and Todd Heap has his heir apprent. Nobody is noticing that the Ravens are becoming a pretty good offensive team.
Round 2-Ravens: Kareem Jackson-CB-Alabama
26. Arizona: Kyle Wilson-CB-Boise St.: ANother great young corner to play along side “DRC” and gove the Cardinals a really good young secondary.
Round 2-Cardinals: Kyle Calloway-OT-Iowa
27. Dallas: Dan Williams-NT-Tennessee: The Cowboys need offensive line help, but Williams would add depth to the Cowboys line and make their defense even better up front.
Round 2-Cowboys: Marty Gilyard-WR/KR-Cincinnati
28. San Diego: Jahvid Best-RB-Cal: Norv Turner wants to have a playmaker that can “hit the homerun” any time he touches the ball, and Best is just that.
Round 2-Chargers: Morgan Burnett-FS-Georgia Tech
29. New York Jets: Brian Price-DT-UCLA: He fills a need and would be a nice fit in Ryans defense.
Round 2-Jets: Sean Weatherspoon-OLB- Missouri
30. Minnesota: Patrick Robinson-CB-Florida St.: The Vikings lost Cedric Griffin with an ACL sprain and made an already thin secondary even thinner.
Round 2-Vikings: Dan LeFavour-QB-Central Michigan
31. New Orleans: Taylor Mays-S-USC: Darren Sharper is getting older and the Saints have had success taking USC players. Mays is an enforcer that would bring a toughness to there secondary.
Round 2-Saints: Vince Oghobaase-DT-Duke
32. Indianapolis Colts: Greg Hardy-DE-Ole Miss: They have two DE free agents in Brock and Mathis next year. Polian is a smart GM and always thinks a head, and Hardy is to talented to pass up.
Round 2-Colts: Jerome Murphy-CB-South Florida
1-22-10 Packers O.T.S.
Well, I plan on doing the O.T.S. on a weekly basis but I felt the urge to knock another one out early. Again, these are things I hear from various sources and got the OK to blog (or post) them. There are things however that I am told and can’t comment on.
Again, this is a Packers only O.T.S. because their off-season is in full swing. In this O.T.S. I will touch on a trade rumor that has the Packers landing an All Pro corner back while giving up a former first round pick. I will also touch on some whispers I hear from the Shrine game, free agency and other Packers draft rumors!
RUMOR:
n.
- A piece of unverified information of uncertain origin usually spread by word of mouth.
- Unverified information received from another; hearsay.
As I reported in the previous O.T.S. the Chargers have a couple players that they will have to make some tough decisions on, LT, Shawne Merriman and Antonio Cromartie to name a few. Well I heard at the end of training camp this year the Chargers and Packers talked about a possible deal that had the Packers sending AJ Hawk and a 1st rounder to the Chargers for Cromartie and the Chargers 2nd.
I am hearing that because Hawk is less likely to take a pay cut, the deal could happen. I am hearing the two teams again talked about a Hawk for Cromartie deal recently with the Packers sending a 2nd rounder to the Chargers and the Chargers sending a 3rd rounder to the Packers.
I am hearing unless Donald Lee takes a pay cut he will be traded or cut. The Packers don’t want to pay him $2 million to drop passes and block.
I heard a rumor that if Jahvid Best checks out ok (regarding his conclusion during the 2009 season) and has a great combine, he may be a player that Ted Thompson thinks about at the end of round 1 (if CJ Spiller is gone).
I am also hearing that the Packers want to have the offensive tackle situation taken care of via free agency and will look to add a “level II” free agent. The two names that came (back) up were the two Buccaneers offensive tackles, Donald Penn and Jeremy Trueblood. A few other names that came up were Alex Barron of the Rams and Jahri Evans of the Saints.
If they deal Hawk, the name I hear they would like to have as his replacement is the Raiders Kirk Morrison. They also like Thomas Howard of the Raiders and may look to him as the other outside backer opposite of Clay Matthews III. But remember this is Ted Thompson and it has to be at the right price.
Look for the Packers to give TJ Lang a shot at either tackle spot. He did very good in the action he saw and has some tools McCarthy likes in his tackles. Remember he didn’t get that much work their last training camp.
I have heard that the Packers were scouting tackle Rodger Saffold of Indiana, receiver Emmanuel Sanders of SMU, Barry Church of Toledo, corner backs Devin Ross of Arizona and UCLA’s Alterraun Verner pretty hard during the Shrine practices this week.
Thats it or the Weekend edition of the O.T.S. I hope you all have a great and safe weekend.
Joe Arrigo
