May 2, 2012

The Great Junior Seau

Today was truly a sad day for the NFL, as Junior Seau was reported dead by a self inflicted gun shot to the chest. This is a huge blow to the Seau family, as well as the San Diego community. The heart sobbing interview Mrs. Seau gave in front of her son’s former home, would make the strongest shed a tear. Her mixture of words and sobbing was one of the most heart felt moments I have witnessed in quite awhile. There has been several instances within the past couple of years, that a former NFL player has taken his life. Just last year former Chicago Bear, Dave Duerson took his life in the same manner it appears Junior Seau took his, that is with a gun shot to the chest. Along with finding his body covered in blood, his family and authorities found a note that explained why he did not shoot himself in the head.

The note read, “please see that my brain is given to the N.F.L brain’s bank.” His ex wife, who divorced him four years before, said he always described pain from the left side of his brain. She said his vision and memory almost faded instantly and he did not know how to cope with the fact that is body was degenerating right before him. Duerson was by all account a happy and financially successful man, until he was forced to file for bankruptcy and his once prosperous food distribution went into decline. That is when his family noticed a dramatic change in his mood and how he interacted with others.

Even before Duerson went through his dilemma, he worked along side the committee that reviewed disability claims by retired players. He was very familiar with the sharp incline of former football players suffering from dementia, players like Fred McNeill. Duerson used his brain as a very direct message to the NFL, that they need to provide assistance to former players who gave their bodies up for the progress of this league. Now with the death of Junior Seau, the NFL has to take a deeper look at what causes theses players to go in a sharp decline mentally.

There is no denying it, the NFL is a dangerous, violence game. In order to change that, you would have to eliminate the game. There is no way you can remove the dangerous aspect of the game without removing the game all together. I do not believe it is the game, it is the players that play the game. They throw their bodies recklessly at other players, not thinking, of course in the action, what problems they will have in the future. After this incident, NFL can no longer just talk about making the league safer and providing assistance to retired players.

 It is sad at the age of 43 that Junior Seau took his life and though nothing initially can be diagnosed as why he took his life, but a sure bet could be placed on the fact after playing football for more than half of his life took a toll on his brain. The number of instances your head takes traumatic hits during a football career is astounding. Seau was revered as a quality teammate and neighbor within his community. Always willing to help out those who were less fortunate and gave back time and money to his former high school in southern California. He played 20 years all together in the NFL with the San Diego Chargers, Miami Dolphins, and ended his career with New England Patriots. He is a sure Hall of Famer for the class of 2015, it is sad this will be his lasting memory in so many fans mind. His family shall remain in the prayers and minds of all those who are witnesses to this epidemic that will affect so many more players if something is not done by the NFL and the NFL Players Association.

Michael Rose

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May 2, 2012

2013 NFL Draft Quarterbacks

The quarterback is the most important position in the NFL and the 2013 NFL draft quarterback class will be special.  This draft class may not have as good of a prospect as Andrew Luck, but it could have as many as 6 first round picks.

1.     Tyler Wilson Arkansas – Tyler shows a strong arm that will be able to make all the throws.  Tyler also shows above average accuracy and has the ability to fit the ball in tight spaces.  On top of that, Wilson goes through all his progressions often throwing to his 3rd or 4th wide receiver.  The only major downside is that he plays in a spread offense.
2.      Matt Barkley USC – Matt is one the smartest quarterbacks I have ever seen.  He rarely makes any bad or errant throws.  When Barkley sees he can’t make a play, he will just throw the ball away. Barkley is the frontrunner for the Heisman because of the weapons he has on offense.  Matt shows above average arm strength and excellent accuracy.  While Matt is the most NFL ready, he doesn’t show as much upside as some of the other quarterback prospects.
3.     Tyler Bray Tennessee – Tyler is a very young prospect who’s development was hampered some this year do to injury.  However, Tyler shows a great arm and shows good athleticism for his size.  Also, he shows good accuracy, but this is the part of his game that he must improve in most.   I feel that his accuracy was most affected by his injury.   Tyler shows good upside as a pocket passer and has the upside to jump both Tyler Wilson and Matt Barkley as the top quarterback.
4.      Logan Thomas  Virginia Tech– Thomas presents the most upside of any quarterback prospect in this draft class. He is big and shows great athleticism, while being able to make any throw.  Logan often extends plays with his feet and then makes a spectacular throw down the field.  However, Logan must increase his accuracy since his completion percentage was at 59% this past season.  An NFL comparison for Logan Thomas is Ben Rothlesberger.
5.     Aaron Murray  Georgia -  Aaron has been starting at Georgia since he was a Freshman and has been quite successful in the SEC.  Aaron has a strong arm and shows decent accuracy, but he should improve as a junior. However, the concern for Aaron is his height.  Aaron is measured at 6’1’ according to ESPN, but he is probably closer to 5’11’.  However, Aaron Murray has the upside to be Drew Brees due to his height limitations.
Sleeper – Zach Mettenberger LSU –  Mettenberger is my sleeper here because no one has seen him play in division one football.   Zach was expected to compete with Aaron Murray and Zach Cox as the starting quarterback at Georgia, but he was kicked off the team for violating team rules.  He transferred to Butler Community College and looked incredible.  He then transferred to LSU where will most likely be the starting quarterback this season.  Zach shows an incredibly strong arm and has mobility for a 6’6’’ quarterback.  He is also my Heisman sleeper this year. I could see him pulling a Cam Newton and win a National Championship, Heisman, and be the number 1 overall pick, all in one year.  The only thing I question is his accuracy because he hasn’t played division one college football.
Connor Willsey

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May 1, 2012

K-State Spring Wrap Up

K-State held its annual Spring Game last Saturday. In front of a crowd of about 18,000, the game ended in a 42-42 tie. Head Coach Bill Snyder stuck with his usual spring game format, pitting the first team against the second team and flipping the score at halftime so the first team must come from behind to win. Quarterback Collin Klein’s arm looked fantastic, making nearly every throw. Some surprises included running back Robert Rose, who’ll look to push John Hubert for the starting job during the fall, and wide receiver Curry Sexton, who made a spectacular catch in the corner of the endzone and managed to get his foot down for a touchdown in the first half. Chris Harper looked solid, as did Tramaine Thompson.

Tyler Lockett did not play due to an undisclosed injury. Fullback Braden Wilson got a lot of touches, which is something K-State fans hope to see more of this fall. True Freshman quarterback Tavarius Bender got the nod with the second team offense, which is saying a lot considering he’s only been on campus since January. On defense, cornerback Nigel Malone looked like the same person that was a second team All-American last season. Linebacker Arthur Brown looked extremely fluid in his drops into pass coverage and was his normal ball hawk self on run plays. Converted quarterback Justin Tuggle got the start with the first team defense at linebacker over Jarell Childs. Safety Ty Zimmerman performed well in pass coverage and truly has a knack for getting to the ball. All in all, it was a very vanilla game. Nothing earth shattering, just what we all expected to see from a Bill Snyder coached team.  The outright leader on defense is Arthur Brown. Along with his phenomenal play, he brings fantastic leadership. The story this year for Kansas State will be about Collin Klein. This team can go as far as he can take them.

Sam Young

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April 30, 2012

The Struggles Against Lefties

The “future” of the Royals was once thought to be Eric Hosmer. While Hosmer still has the most potential, and will most likely be the best player the Royals have, he has struggled immensely in the young 2012 season. He is hitting a meager .188 average. While Hosmer’s average is extremely low, he still appears to be hitting the ball well. The biggest difference from his last season performance has been the fact that Hosmer keeps missing hittable pitches. It is known that in an at bat, a hitter will see one “hittable” pitch. Last year, if a pitcher made a mistake to Hosmer, it would have been a crucial mistake because he was driving the ball to both fields. This year it seems as though he is over swinging on such pitches. Too many times I have seen him pass up or foul off great pitches.

Another important look into Hosmer’s stats blatantly show his struggles against left handed pitchers. Hosmer has only one home run in 173 at bats against lefties. Along with his power struggles, he continues to hit .225 compared to .299 against right handed pitchers. These stats have to scare the Royals organization somewhat. While Hosmer is going to be an elite first baseman, hitting seems to be the main obstacle holding him back.

Mike Moustakas has been an extremely nice attribute for the Royals. When Moose was called up last year, he struggled greatly, but Moose came to camp with a different body and mind this season. When he said he is in the best shape of his life, he wasn’t kidding. Moustakas has shown great improvements not only with the bat, but with the glove. Moose has been phenomenal at third. He has made numerous diving plays while eating up nearly every ground ball his way. He has also shown an extremely bright spot at the plate. He is currently hitting .315 with 3 home runs and 7 doubles. In the minors, Moose’s power numbers were gaudy. While he has yet to fully display his power, Moose has shown signs that lead me to believe his future will be extremely bright. The one flaw that both him and Hosmer share is hitting the lefties. Moustakas has 0 home runs while hitting only .222 against left handed pitchers. These two hitters are the future for the Royals at the plate, but aren’t proving themselves yet. With these struggles against lefties, the Royals will need Billy Butler to hit between Hosmer and Moose for years to come.

After winning the series against the Indians and splitting against the Twins, I am most excited to see how the Royals fair against the powerful Tigers. This series will determine if the Royals have a chance at turning this disappointing season around. The injuries to Perez, Soria, Holland, and Paulino have been detrimental to the Royals early success. Hopefully this team can show resiliency and find a way to keep “our time” intriguing.

Spencer Montgomery

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April 29, 2012

Manchester United vs. Manchester City Preview

Frugality versus munificence…the Scot versus the Italian…the Reds versus the Blues…the Red Devils versus the Citizens…wherever you’re from or whatever you call it, it’s Manchester United versus Manchester City-the legendary derby destined to decide the 2011/2012 Premier League title race.

As unlikely as it appeared three weeks ago when Manchester United went eight points clear of City at the top of the Premier League table, Monday’s title-deciding ultimatum will no doubt be pivotal regarding the destination of the long sought-after Premier League title.

Since the shocking loss to Wigan at the DW Stadium, United has won at home against a struggling Aston Villa side and squandered a two goal lead against Everton at Old Trafford. The latter allowed Man City to within three points, which leads us to the epic match on Monday night.

The Blues are the in-form side of course entering the game with the 3 wins in the last 3 after a disappointing loss to Arsenal. Throughout the week Roberto Mancini has not made it clear whether or not Mario Balotelli would return after he received a red card in that loss to Arsenal. If Mancini knew what was good for his team he would keep his starting 11 the same, most importantly in the frontline where Sergio Agüero and Carlos Tevez have impressed since starting together and in the attacking mid/winger spot where David Silva and Samir Nasri have showed the creative guile and goal-scoring potential that initially brought them together at the beginning of season. So then, where does Balotelli end up? Well hopefully for Man City, on the bench where he belongs…

For Manchester United, these last few weeks have been as painful as the 6-1 dismantling that the Blues handed them at the Theatre of Dreams on October 23rd. The Red Devils will have to respond immediately from last week’s disappointment. If they’re to complete this epic comeback in the title race, Alex Ferguson will have to put out his best lineup rather than underestimate his opponent like he often does. Basically, for Fergie, it means not starting Ryan Giggs and Michael Carrick together in the center of midfield. Controlling the center of the park and not letting City’s attack run rampant at the Etihad Stadium will no doubt go a long way in the winning the game (and title) for United.

In conclusion, it is everyone’s hope that this game lives up to the hype and buildup that has been grown in the media. Whichever side you’re on, this game will either make or break your season and will leave both sides crestfallen as they should…a draw of course would leave everyone on the edge of our seats for the last two games and anxiously awaiting the final goal difference of the season for each side.

Prediction: Manchester City 3-1 Manchester United

3- Tevez hat trick; 1- Rooney consolation goal

Jonathan ZInser

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April 29, 2012

Grades for Chiefs Draft

The Chiefs have mastered the art creating quite a frenzy throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area, and most of the times they are not good reasons. With the draft in the rear view mirror, many fans have questions about why the Chiefs picked certain guys. What was the most frustrating aspect of watching the draft, was it seemed as Scott Pioli went against getting the best player out of the position they ended up drafting. I don’t tend to think Todd McShay and Mel Kiper’s mock draft boards are doctrine, but I believe the Chiefs left some quality players out in the draft pool. For example in the second round, the Chiefs drafted OG Jeff Allen from the University of Illinois. The Chiefs passed on offensive linemen that were projected as better prospects than Allen such as, Peter Konz (Atlanta pick 55), Mike Adams (Pittsburgh 56), and Kelechi Osemele (Baltimore 60). I understand that Scott Pioli has actually seen these guys workout and maybe they do not fit the scheme. It is almost like he is drafting with the idea that every guy he drafts will have the same success story as Tom Brady. It is obvious they left some pretty talented guys on the draft board, but lets take a look, pick by pick, on how well the Chiefs draft went.
1. Dontari Poe (Memphis) NT C+
 After hearing the rumors that the Chiefs may trade up to get Ryan Tannehill, I was just hoping they picked anybody but him. As the pick came in however, I was not as happy as I thought I would have been. With Stanford guard David DeCastro, still available I was certain they would take him. He would have been a great addition along with Eric Winston, to solidify their offensive line as being one of the best in the AFC West. I love Poe’s upside, I mean who wouldn’t like a 6’4″ 330lb guy running a 4.9 forty and bench pressing 225lbs 44 times! He has the tangibles to be a dominating, enforcing nose tackle. This will help Derrick Johnson make more plays and keep the guards off of him. The value of the pick is the most concerning part. Guys such as Devon Stills and Jerel Worthy were not picked until the second round. Both of these guys were seen as much safer picks than Poe. Romeo Crenel vouched for this pick and will take all the heat if he cannot get Poe to become a dominate nose tackle.
2. Jeff Allen (Illinois) OT C-
 Again, I do not question the pick because it was a need, however, I do question the value of the pick. The start of the second round, Stanford OT Johnathan Martin was still available and I was for sure the Chiefs would trade up to get him. After that was no longer an option, I figured they would go get Kelechi Osemele, OG, from Iowa State or Peter Konz, OG, from Wisconsin. Allen will not be a player that will a\play immediately and will take on a more developmental role behind Ryan Lilja. He will need a lot of coaching to become the player the Chiefs think he can become.
3. Donald Stephenson (Oklahoma) OT C
Many were surprised that the Chiefs went back to back offensive tackles, but they did when they selected Jeff Allen and then Donald Stphenson in rounds two and three. A great story to begin with, as Stephenson comes back home to play in a Kansas City Chiefs uniform. At 6’6″ 320lbs, Stephenson has great footwork and is a premiere pass blocker. However many did not see Donald coming off the board this early in the draft. He is not the most explosive and dominating left tackle but will provide solid blindside protection. I look for Stephenson to take his first year to learn the system and possibly be the replacement of Brandon Alberts, if the Chiefs or Alberts decide to part ways after this season.
4. Devon Wylie (Fresno St) WR D+
 Even if we had not seen Scott Pioli’s resume, we could all assume by the way he drafts that he was with the Patriots. I mean come on, the most obvious reason Devon Wylie was selected was because Pioli thought he could be the next Wes Welker. I have no problem with that at all, except the fact the Chiefs continuously reach for players and leave others for other teams to take. If anything, Devon Wylie will provide the possibility of explosive kick off and punt returns but that is also in question. Last year, he was recovering from a torn ACL and with a 5’9″ 187 lbs frame, I do not seem him lasting long in a NFL uniform.
5. De’Quan Menzie (Alabama) CB B-
 When you can get an All-American in the fifth round, I think you should be pleased with your pick. The former Alabama Crimson Tide corner, will provide great man to man coverage as well as an extraordinary tackler which is rare for a corner. He plays physical on the outside and was utilized as a blitzer within Nick Saban’s scheme. He will fit will in the Chiefs three safety packages were they utilize blitzing defensive backs. Menzie’s height and length is concerning if the Chiefs are looking for him to become a number one type corner, but he will fit will in nickel and dime packages for now.
6. Cyrus Gray (Texas A&M) RB A
 One of the few consistent players to come out of the underachieving Texas A&M program, Cyrus Gray is a steal pick up early in the sixth round for the Chiefs. With Jamaal Charles coming off injury and Peyton Hillis’ work ethic being questioned, the Chiefs drafted a potential every down back in Gray. Gray touched the ball over 620 times and accumulated nearly 3,300 career yards and scored 30 touchdowns on the ground. He also provides a great pass catching option out of the backfield and even has showed the ability to pick up blitzers. He will provide great depth to an already talented group. Cyrus Gray was one of the Chiefs better picks in the draft and I look for him to make an major impact, depending on how healthy Jamaal Charles knee is.
7. Jerome Long (Sand Diego St.) DT/DE C
 The Chiefs made Jerome Long their second defensive linemen selected in this draft in the seventh round. Long has a distinct nose for the ball. He was second on his team in tackles, which is tough for a defensive linemen to do, sacks, and also tackles for a loss. There is nothing that Long does that is overwhelming that spectacular, but he just a solid football player. He will provide a great motor and ability to stop the run at the five technique in the Chiefs 3-4 defense.
8. Junior Hemingway (Michigan) WR B-
 The Chiefs capped off the draft by taking Michigan playmaker, Junior Hemingway, one choice of being Mr. Irrelevant which is the last pick. With Dennard Robinson as his quarterback, you would have to think Hemingway is used to making acrobatic adjustments to the ball. You are hard pressed to find anything Hemingway does not do well, because he may have been under utilized due to quarterback play. He has strong hands and has proved he has the ability to catch passes in traffic. Hemingway is a steal for a seventh round pick and I believe he will become a huge playmaker for the future.
 I believe as the draft went later and later, the Chiefs made more and more better decisions on picking guys. I believe their is a lot of upside within this class, but their are a lot of risks. The most is in Dontari Poe but he has the ability to be a top defensive tackle in the league. Everyone that was drafted has the ability to make an impact on this team within the next three to four years.
Michael Rose

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April 28, 2012

Winners or Losers from the Draft

Winners

Saint Louis Rams – The Rams had five picks in the first 3 rounds and picked quality players at each pick.  They started in round 1 with Michael Brockers, who will be a great run stuffer for the Rams. Next, they drafted Brain Quick, a big wide receiver out of Appalachain State who will help out Sam Bradford.  They drafted two cornerbacks in Janoris Jenkins and Trumaine Johnson, both have the skills to be a shut down corner in the NFL.  Also, they drafted running back Isaih Pead, who should be a good rotational back for the Rams.

Philidelphia Eagles – The Eagels have had an all around good draft.  They have addressed their pass rush situation by drafting Fletcher Cox and Vinny Curry.  Also, they drafted Mychal Kendricks who is the most athletic linebacker in the  draft. He should be an immediate starter this year.  Lastly, they drafted quarterback Nick Foles who they will develop at quarterback behind Michael Vick.  Also, this pick insures they will have a good back up in case MIchael Vick can’t make it through the entire season.

Indianpoils Colts -  The Colts drafted Andrew Luck, the best prospect in this draft, but what they did on day 2 really impresses me.  They drafted 2 tight ends in Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen, which should really help Andrew Luck.  Next, they drafted T.Y. Hilton who is a slot wide receiver. When the ball is in his hands, he has the potential to score a touchdown.

Losers

Seattle Seahawks -  The Seahawks have reached on every single pick so far.  They drafted Bruce Irvin who is there first round pick, but should have been picked in the 2nd round.  They then drafted Bobby Wagner, who I felt should have been picked in the 3rd or 4th round.  Finally they drafted Russel Wilson, the 5’10” quarterback and he probably won’t succeed because of his height.

Oakland Raiders -  The Raiders had one pick at the end of the 3rd round and picked a 25 year old offensive guard who probably should have gone in the 5th round. I’m not bashing the pick of Tony Bergstom, but I am bashing them for only having one pick in the first 3 rounds.

New Orleans Saints – The Saints only had one pick in the first 3 rounds and drafted Akiem Hicks.  Hicks is a high upside defensive tackle who could become a great defensive tackle in the NFL.  The Saints are a loser, because they too only had 1 pick in the first 3 rounds.

Jacksonville Jaguars -  The Jaguars drafted a great wide receiver in Justin Blackmon.  In the second round, they drafted Andre Branch at defensive end, but I am a huge fan of him.  However, there 3rd round pick was a real head scratcher; They drafted Bryan Anger a punter who is the highest punter drafted since 1995.  Bryan Anger could have been drafted in the 7th round.

Connor Willsey

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