Pro Football 101 Fantasy Rankings: AFC South D/ST in 2009

The AFC South features a few of the best defenses in fantasy football, starting in Tennessee with the Titans.

 

Ben Roethlisberger, Welcome to the Wonderful World of Junk Journalism

It’s been a banner two weeks for the creators and consumers of what I like to call ‘Junk Journalism’, also known as cotton candy reporting.

From the Steve McNair and Arturo Gatti tragedies to the latest report about Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, the junk journalists have been out in full force ready to vomit more sensationalist drivel down our throats.

On Friday, Roethlisberger was named in a civil suit that claimed he sexually assaulted a woman in a Las Vegas hotel room last year.

As soon as the news broke, the junkalists—my nickname for these idiots—were ready to pounce on Big Ben.

Never mind that he’s innocent until proven guilty. Forget the fact that it’s a civil suit and zero criminal charges have been filed against him. Let’s ignore the fact she waited a year to file the suit and never filed a criminal complaint at all.

Do away with common sense, reason, and decency—all that matters is selling papers, getting noticed, and making money at someone else’s expense.

Such is the mind of a practicing junk journalist.

What used to be reserved for the tabloid rags at the supermarket checkout counter is now everywhere—thanks to cable TV, satellite radio, and the Internet. The cotton candy brigade is running rampant on blogs, web 2.0, and the so called 24 hour news networks.

As the somewhat sordid details of the civil suit were disclosed, Roethlisberger has already been judged and condemned by these poison pen artists, even though not one shred of evidence has been uncovered proving his guilt.

It doesn’t matter to the scandal—mongers.

Just like it didn’t matter when Gatti’s wife was tried and convicted by the police and press before any forensic evidence was even collected. Now, it looks as if Gatti may have committed suicide by hanging.

Just like it didn’t matter to the families of Steve McNair and Sahel Kazemi, who have been devastated and will never fully recover from what happened. It’s a sad tragedy, yet the only coverage getting fed to us is of the sensational kind. Like the recent report that McNair was drunk when he was shot in the head.

Who cares? Will it change what happened?

Where are the stories on the good McNair did in the community? How about an article on the kind of person Kazemi was before her life spiraled out of control?

How about some light once in a blue moon instead of all this darkness?

A return to common sense thinking is needed, especially with the enormous amount of information, good and bad, readily available to us at the click of mouse.

Is the woman who accused Roethlisberger telling the truth?

I don’t know.

What I do know is this: the truth always comes out in the end, and it’s better to wait on truth than to cast stones at people, famous or not.

What we need, now more than ever, is to remove the beam from our own eye before trying to find the speck in someone else’s.

Fantasy Football Preseason Rankings: Defense

By Derek of The Sportmeisters

Hello Football Fans! It’s July and that means OTA’s and minicamps are over and actual training camp is around the corner. Preseason games start on August 13 and boy o boy I can’t wait. Now, what I am here to discuss today are my preseason, pre training camp Fantasy rankings for the Defense and Special Teams. Obviously, my rankings are likely to change, but here are my first projections of the year.

1. Pittsburgh Steelers Projection: 50 Sacks, 20 Interceptions, 15 Forced Fumbles, 11 Fumble Recoveries, 5 Defensive TD, 235 Points Against, 4100 Yards Against, 2 Safeties, 2 Return TD

The Steel Curtain is alive and well. Linebackers James Harrison, James Farrior, and LaMarr Woodley lead this unit. Not to mention Safety Troy Polamalu. The Steelers allowed the fewest Yards and Points Against last year and they haven’t really lost any significant pieces to the puzzle. Look for them to be the No.1 fantasy Defense yet again and expect them to be taken off the board before any other unit.

 

2. New York Giants Projection: 49 Sacks, 18 Interceptions, 16 Forced Fumbles, 10 Fumble Recoveries, 4 Defensive TD, 275 Points Against, 4650 Yards Against, 1 Safety, 1 Return TD

The Giants lost their Defensive Coordinator, but picked up some significant pieces to their Defensive unit. They are getting All-Pro DE Osi Umenyiora back from injury and signed DE Chris Canty, DT Rocky Bernard, and LB Michael Boley (even though Boley is injured and suspended for one game). Combine that with DE’s Justin Tuck and Mathias Kiwanuka and LB Antonio Pierce and you have one feared unit. Expect similar production from last year and watch them go right after the Steelers in most drafts.

 

3. New York Jets Projection: 45 Sacks, 18 Interceptions, 19 Forced Fumbles, 16 Fumble Recoveries, 4 Defensive TD, 305 Points Against, 4900 Yards Against, 2 Safeties, 3 Return TD

This is the Defense that I think you should expect huge things from this year. With new Defensive Genius Rex Ryan as Head Coach, the signing of LB Bart Scott and S Jim Leonhard, and the trade for CB Lito Sheppard, the Jets are poised for Defensive greatness. They still have LB’s Calvin Pace and David Harris, DT Kris Jenkins, and CB Darrelle Revis to go with those new additions, not to mention one of the most dynamic return men in the NFL in RB Leon Washington. The Jets aren’t expected to be a top five D/ST unit by most, but I would take them right along with the top two.

 

4. Minnesota Vikings Projection: 43 Sacks, 17 Interceptions, 17 Forced Fumbles, 12 Fumble Recoveries, 3 Defensive TD, 340 Points Against, 4850 Yards Against, 2 Safeties, 2 Return TD

The Vikings have been among the top five Defensive units for the past three seasons. They still have DE Jared Allen and DT’s Pat and Kevin Williams reeking havoc on opposing teams and have a little bit better secondary this year. Expect the Vikings D/ST to be one of the first taken in most drafts.

 

5. Tennessee Titans Projection: 40 Sacks, 18 Interceptions, 18 Forced Fumbles, 12 Fumble Recoveries, 4 Defensive TD, 325 Points Against, 4875 Yards Against, 1 Safety, 1 Return TD

The Titans will have to get over the loss of their best Defensive player in DT Albert Haynesworth and the loss of their Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz. However, they have the other 10 starters returning and they were a top five Defense last year. They are definitely still a top five fantasy D/ST unit and will be right there with the Steelers, Vikings, and Giants as the first to be taken in drafts.

 

6. Philadelphia Eagles Projection: 44 Sacks, 17 Interceptions, 18 Forced Fumbles, 15 Fumble Recoveries, 4 Defensive TD, 320 Points Against, 4775 Yards Against, 1 Safety, 2 Return TD

The Eagles lost three key defensive backs this off—season in Safeties Brian Dawkins and Sean Considine and CB Lito Sheppard. However, they have a healthy Asante Samuel returning and brought in CB Ellis Hobbs and Safety Sean Jones. They will still run the same blitz happy style of Defense and will be force to be reckoned with this season. Expect them to be a strong No.1 fantasy D/ST unit.

 

7. Baltimore Ravens Projection: 35 Sacks, 19 Interceptions, 14 Forced Fumbles, 12 Fumble Recoveries, 3 Defensive TD, 305 Points Against, 4600 Yards Against, 1 Safety, 1 Return TD

The Ravens are getting older and the losses of LB Bart Scott, S Jim Leonhard, CB’s Chris McAlister, Samari Rolle, and Corey Ivy, and their Defensive Coordinator Rex Ryan won’t help either. However, they still have LB’s Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs, S Ed Reed, and DT Haloti Ngata. The style won’t change much and they still have talent, so expect them to still be a strong fantasy Defense, but don’t reach for them.

 

8. New England Patriots Projection: 35 Sacks, 17 Interceptions, 14 Forced Fumbles, 11 Fumble Recoveries, 3 Defensive TD, 335 Points Against, 4750 Yards Against, 1 Safety, 1 Return TD

The Patriots are still coached by Bill Belichick and still have their veteran leaders in LB’s Tedy Bruschi and Adalius Thomas and DE Richard Seymour. They have a few good young players to add into the mix and should bounce back from a disappointing fantasy year in 2008.

 

9. San Diego Chargers Projection: 39 Sacks, 16 Interceptions, 14 Forced Fumbles, 11 Fumble Recoveries, 3 Defensive TD, 350 Points Against, 5200 Yards Against, 1 Safety, 2 Return TD

We all know what happened to the Chargers last year. When LB Shawne Merriman went down, it seems like the entire Defense went down with him. However, he returns this year and I expect the Chargers to bounce back, especially with Ron Rivera as the Defensive Coordinator for a full season and with speedy RB Darren Sproles as their return man. This is the official Sportmeisters fantasy D/ST sleeper pick.

 

10. Miami Dolphins Projection: 38 Sacks, 17 Interceptions, 15 Forced Fumbles, 11 Fumble Recoveries, 3 Defensive TD, 340 Points Against, 5300 Yards Against, 1 Safety, 1 Return TD

Did I just put the Dolphins in my top ten? As much as I hate the Dolphins, I have to admit they were good last year. Their Defense was surprisingly stingy and LB Joey Porter showed that he was no bust, posting 17.5 sacks. They should put up similar numbers to last years resurgent team and could emerge as a top six fantasy defense as the year progresses.

 

11. Chicago Bears Projection: 33 Sacks, 18 Interceptions, 13 Forced Fumbles, 10 Fumble Recoveries, 5 Defensive TD, 350 Points Against, 5175 Yards Against, 1 Safety, 2 Return TD

OK, there’s no way the Bears can be that bad for three straight years…can they? I don’t think so. LB Brian Urlacher appears to be healthy again and looks to rebound from his worst statistical year in 2008. Plus, there’s no way you can hold WR/KR Devin Hester without a KR/PR touchdown for two straight years, even if he is trying to be their No.1 WR. I don’t expect them to be a top five defense, but they could definitely produce within the top 10. They could wind up being a nice fantasy sleeper.

 

12. Washington Redskins Projection: 33 Sacks, 13 Interceptions, 13 Forced Fumbles, 11 Fumble Recoveries, 2 Defensive TD, 340 Points Against, 4875 Yards Against, 1 Safety, 1 Return TD

The addition of DT Albert Haynesworth should help one of the league’s lowest sack totals, even with older DE’s Renaldo Wynn and Phillip Daniels. However, they did draft LB/DE Brian Orakpo for the future and CB DeAngelo Hall can’t really be that bad…Can he? The Redskins could be a pleasant surprise in the fantasy world, but they could also go the complete other way and be a bust. Draft carefully.

 

13. Carolina Panthers Projection: 35 Sacks, 16 Interceptions, 16 Forced Fumbles, 13 Fumble Recoveries, 3 Defensive TD, 350 Points Against, 5050 Yards Against, 1 Safety, 1 Return TD

Now that we know that DE Julius Peppers will at least be here for this year, it is safe to put the Panthers on this list. LB Jon Beason is a beast and they also drafted DE Everette Brown (from my partner’s alma mater FSU) and have put CB Richard Marshall into the starting role opposite CB Chris Gamble. The Panthers could be a nice sleeper pick and could put up good numbers.

 

14. Dallas Cowboys Projection: 49 Sacks, 13 Interceptions, 17 Forced Fumbles, 13 Fumble Recoveries, 3 Defensive TD, 370 Points Against, 5100 Yards Against, 1 Safety, 1 Return TD

Boy, were they a bust last year or what? The Cowboys D/ST unit was highly touted last year and I thought they would be the best fantasy unit around. However, injuries and suspensions led them to a disastrous fantasy season. However, the one bright spot was LB DeMarcus Ware who had a league leading 20 sacks. Ware is back and they brought in DE Igor Olshansky from San Diego. The Cowboys should have plenty of sacks, but an inexperienced secondary could get torched. Be careful if you draft them.

 

15. Green Bay Packers Projection: 32 Sacks, 17 Interceptions, 13 Forced Fumbles, 10 Fumble Recoveries, 4 Defensive TD, 355 Points Against, 5350 Yards Against, 1 Safety, 2 Return TD

The Packers have a new Defensive Coordinator in Dom Capers and he brings a new 3—4 scheme with him. They are moving DE Aaron Kampman to OLB and they drafted OLB Clay Matthews from USC. LB A.J. Hawk is a fantastic pass rusher and run stopper and they are getting LB Nick Barnett back from injury. All of this goes with first round pick, DT B.J. Raji and veteran CB’s Al Harris and Charles Woodson. Not to mention CB Will Blackmon had two punt return touchdowns last year. The Packers could be a low—end No.1 fantasy D, with the possibility of sleeper top 10 value.

 

There are my first projections for fantasy football. The D/ST position could be very important to your fantasy team if you choose the right one. However, depending on your scoring system, you usually should not draft a Defense/Special Teams unit before the later rounds of the draft. Any questions or concerns, email me at Derek@Sportmeisters.com.

The Schottey Six: Which NFL Rookies Will Disappoint In ’09?

Vernon Gholston…came into the 2008 Draft a lot of hype and had a 2008 season followed by a lot of fizzle.

Some guys want to be famous and end up infamous.

Let’s get one thing straight. I am not saying the young men on this list will be “busts.” I am not saying they will be out of the league in a few years. I don’t pretend to look into the future, I just predict.

However, what I can do, is cut through the hype.

Here are six guys who I predict to have tough transitions to the NFL.

Some of these guys could have decent years, but not as great as their fans may hope.

Inside the Denver Broncos’ Coaching Staff

After nearly a decade and a half, the Denver Broncos made one of the most surprising front office moves in franchise history when Pat Bowlen fired head coach/VP of player operations Mike Shanahan.

The firing was a huge surprise to many, while some others saw it coming.  In fact, this move was brought to my attention over a week prior to its occurrence when a former B/R writer Josh Vitale suggested the move be made on a Facebook discussion board.

To me, it was unheard of.

Shanahan led the Broncos to their only two Lombardi trophies in franchise history, and was undoubtedly the most successful head coach Denver has ever had.  He was so successful, in fact, that the Broncos only had two losing seasons under his tutelage.

When 2008 saw the Broncos miss out on playoff action for the third straight season, Pat Bowlen decided enough was enough.

After firing his good friend, Bowlen set up a host of head coaching interviews that included the likes of Raheem Morris, Steve Spagnuolo, Jason Garrett, Leslie Frazier, and Josh McDaniels.

After extensive interviewing, Bowlen hired McDaniels, who had been in the New England Patriots organization for the past eight seasons, most recently as an offensive coordinator.

This was a move that I expected and promoted from the start, and although many Bronco fans were lobbying for a more defensive minded head coaching prospect, the smart money was on getting a coach to develop Denver’s stellar offense, which at the time included quarterback Jay Cutler.

McDaniels is the youngest head coach in Broncos history, and is the second youngest in the NFL today right in front of Tampa Bay’s Raheem Morris.

Some have suggested that McDaniels is arrogant and has an ego to keep inflated, but I would contend he is the polar opposite.

For 15 years, the Broncos’ organization has been a “prison run by the inmates,” if you will.  There has been no discipline whatsoever.

When McDaniels was given free reign, he immediately revamped the Broncos’ roster and coaching staff to his liking, including trading his diva quarterback.

McDaniels is (or at least was) regarded as one of the best young offensive minds in the National Football League.

In 2007, he coordinated a Patriots offense that is arguably the best the NFL has ever seen, and followed in 2008 by molding Matt Cassel, a quarterback who had not started a single game since high school, into a $63 million man.

With the Patriots, McDaniels won three Super Bowls, four AFC Championship titles, and six division titles whilst leading the NFL in winning percentage over the course of the past eight seasons at 76.6 percent.

Of course, McDaniels should not be given all of the credit for the Patriots’ success, as he played a minimal role for a couple of those seasons, but he was there nonetheless—he has championship experience.

More than anything, this young Broncos team needed two things:

1.  Direction

2.  Championship Experience

While it could be argued, depending on whether or not you are talking to a Jay Cutler homer, McDaniels has provided the Broncos with both.

He learned a standard and protocol with the Patriots that has given the Broncos hope for 2009 and beyond.

McDaniels is regarded as a quarterback “guru” by his peers, and figures to do wonders with new quarterbacks Kyle Orton, Chris Simms, and rookie Tom Brandstater.  In fact, McDaniels has had such a solid track record for developing quarterbacks that many feel Kyle Orton is set to have a breakout season.

When McDaniels was hired, he completely cleaned house not only in terms of players, but he revamped his coaching staff as well.

He hired former Carolina Panthers passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach Mike McCoy to be the Broncos’ quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator, although McDaniels will most likely be above him on both accounts.

McCoy has nice tenure with the Panthers, so the Broncos appear to be in good hands at the quarterback position.

Bobby Turner and Rick Dennison were the only two coaches retained from Mike Shanahan’s offensive staff, and both figure to continue to implement the zone blocking and running scheme that has made the Broncos the most successful rushing unit over the last 20 seasons.

Denver’s defense will be coached by 3-4 guru and long-time defensive specialist Mike Nolan, who has had a very decorated NFL career.

Nolan was most recently seen roaming the sidelines for the San Francisco 49ers as the team’s head coach, but he has spent 11 seasons at this level coaching defenses.

And coaching them well.

Under his tutelage, Nolan has seen two players win Defensive Player of the Year awards in Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, and coached 2007 Defensive Rookie of the Year Patrick Willis, who is regarded as one of the NFL’s top middle linebackers.

He undoubtedly will have his hands full with the Broncos’ defense, which has been likened to Swiss cheese over the last two seasons.

One of the more underrated coaching acquisitions this offseason was the Broncos’ signing of Wayne Nunnely to coach the defensive line.

Nunnely has been coaching the San Diego Chargers’ defensive linemen for the last 12 seasons.

He has over a decade of experience coaching defensive linemen in the 3-4 scheme, and as the Broncos make a transition to that defense, he will be an enormous help.

The Broncos’ coaching staff appears to be one that can work together for a long time, and one that has a great mix of youth and experience.

LaDainian Tomlinson and His Legacy: The 2009 Campaign Could Prove Critical

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The 2009 season could very well be the year that defines LaDainian Tomlinson’s career with the Chargers.

 

Understand, his post—retirement ticket to Canton has an open date, to be filled in upon his near—certain election to the Hall in his first year of eligibility.

 

It is worth noting as well that the best running back in franchise history long ago won the hearts of the local faithful, with admiring fans scattered across the landscape.

 

And unquestionably, there is football left to be played for Tomlinson, his 30th birthday having passed notwithstanding.

 

What remains unsettled for LT, though, and also for a team that graduated to the NFL along with the rest of the AFL in 1971, is a Super Bowl title.

 

Of course, championships are not won by the singular efforts of one man—it requires a collective assembly, not to mention good fortune and relatively good health.

 

But a ring would cement Tomlinson’s legacy in a town that is still waiting for its first parade.

 

Dan Fouts couldn’t deliver.

 

It took all of three plays for Steve Young and the Niners to run Junior Seau and his pals out of Miami in Super Bowl XXIX.

 

And aside from those Fouts teams under Air Coryell or those defensively stubborn Bobby Ross squads, no other iteration of the Chargers has been close to Super Bowl worthy.

 

Until now.

 

This Chargers group has steered its fans agonizingly close the last few years, only to leave them with the taste of warm beer.

 

Playoff losses following the ’04 and ’06 seasons cost Marty Schottenheimer his job. And in the last two years, the Chargers have proven to be an entertaining piece to the postseason NFL tournament, but have lacked the ability to play more than a supporting role in the league’s annual winter theater.

 

And fairly or not, some of the blame has been placed at the supremely talented feet of LT.

 

Postseason exits the last two seasons have seen Tomlinson largely playing the role of spectator. In the Chargers’ loss in Pittsburgh this past January, LT did not play.

 

A week earlier against the Colts, he carried the ball five times and scored the Chargers’ first touchdown with a three—yard run in the second quarter.

 

It was a disappointing finish to a season that saw Tomlinson slowed by a toe injury and finally a groin strain that sidelined him in the divisional round against the Steelers.

 

It’s tough to call out a player for being hurt, but it’s his inability to be on the field at crunch time in the Chargers’ last two postseason exits (he managed just two carries against New England in the 2008 AFC Conference Championship loss) that has fueled the fire of his skeptics.

 

Even solid efforts in two other postseason appearances—123 yards on the ground and a pair of scores with 64 yards receiving against the Patriots in ’07, and 80 yards rushing with another 53 through the air against the Jets in ’05—couldn’t help produce victories.

 

Which sets up 2009 as a make or break season of sorts.

 

A productive and injury—free year with a run to the Super Bowl would certainly silence any whispers of lost steps and solidify an image that Tomlinson so richly deserves.

 

One, too, that could challenge Tony Gwynn as the city’s supreme sportsman.

 

LT, a 2001 first—round selection that could have gone to Michael Vick if not for some deft pre draft—day maneuvering, helped erase the lingering fog of the Ryan Leaf years.

 

Quickly returning fans’ interest to the field, Tomlinson soared up the list of the game’s great running backs while earning five trips to the Pro Bowl, getting three All—Pro nods and becoming the league’s MVP in 2006.

 

He is currently 14th in career rushing yards and is within five 100—yard games from reaching the top 10.

 

More impressive has been his ability to find the end zone. LT trails only Emmitt Smith on the career TD list for running backs with 126 and is tied for fourth with Terrell Owens among all players.

 

Those numbers have produced a Hall of Fame resume, but it’s clear Tomlinson is looking for more and possibly has something to prove.

 

Signed through 2011, LT has indicated he might not seek another contract and instead opt for retirement at the age of 33. But the Chargers, too, may be looking for a new direction if Tomlinson’s production dips again in 2009.

 

Last year he gained 1,110 yards rushing, a career low, and scored 12 touchdowns—fewest since his rookie season.

With an eye to the future, the Chargers affixed the franchise tag to Darren Sproles who will likely see an increased role in the offense this season.

 

But LT, who has had three different injuries (MCL strain, toe, groin) since December 2007, is ready to prove 30 is his new 20.

 

Plenty of support will help, too, with Philip Rivers emerging as one of the NFL’s elite passers and a bevy of talented receivers on offense, and the return of Shawne Merriman and a healthy Antonio Cromartie on defense.

 

Perception is everything, though, and winning cures all ills, making 2009 the season LT could produce his greatest gains.

 

With Vick Out of Custody, Why Wouldn’t the NFL Still Be in His Future?

Yesterday, former NFL quarterback Michael Vick was released from federal custody after serving a sentence on dogfighting charges.

It’s unclear what kind of penalties, if any, he will incur at the local and state levels, but many are still torn over whether or not Vick will play in the NFL again.

Commissioner Roger Goodell suspended the Virginia Tech alum indefinitely last summer, and now Vick’s eligibility hinges on Goodell’s impending verdict. No doubt Goodell will want to examine Vick to determine if he has truly changed.

But with training camp looming, Vick has tried to recondition himself for potentially playing again in 2009.

Should Vick get another opportunity to play football in the NFL?

My answer is yes.

This opinion is not so much based on his performances, but on the poor performances of other quarterbacks. If Vick can be at the level he was at early in his pro career, some teams might be calling his number before 2009 is over.

Quarterback is the most important position in all of sports, and usually teams that are lacking in that postion will seek out new quarterbacks to improve their overall game.

Vick might be a player that fits into this category.

But because of his dogfighting case, Vick may forever be as hated a player as Pacman Jones, who may never find another roster to play on.

Regardless, if Vick performs, there is a place for him in football, whether it be as a full-time starter or situational Wildcat quarterback.

If he doesn’t get back into the NFL, some believe he might sign into the UFL this fall and play in its inaugural season.

Goodell has grown a quick reputation for being a no-nonsense commissioner, dealing out huge suspensions and fines to send a message that certain conduct is simply not tolerated.

Many feel that this stance will keep Vick out of the NFL for at least this upcoming season, if not forever.

Should he be banned for life?

If he truly feels remorse for what he’s done and can stay clean, the answer is no.

If he is allowed to play football, certainly there is someone who will give this embattled, ex-superstar a second chance.

I mean, hey, don’t most of us deserve one more chance?

Steelers’ Ben Roethlisberger a Rapist?

Other articles here and many sports sites report that Ben Roethlisberger, quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers, is accused in a civil suit of several charges connected to an alleged rape that took place last July, 2008.

A senior shift manager who was in charge of VIP relations at Harrah’s filed suit last Friday against Ben Roethlisberger saying he had held her against her will and raped her during his stay at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe last July.

Normally the names of alleged rape victims are not identified, but the press has reported the alleged victim as Andrea McNully. She was a long time employee of Harrah’s and had just been promoted in the VIP department.

Roethlisberger’s attorney stated, “Ben has never sexually assaulted anyone, especially not Andrea McNully.” This statement was unfortunate as it makes it sound like the alleged victim was especially not worthy of an assault. While this statement was in reports early on the 21st of July, it was not being reported later in the day.

Ms. McNully reported the major part of her job as VIP shift manager was to be sure VIP’s such as Roethlisberger are content and happy with their hotel stay.

She had met him the night before as a VIP golf tournament began at the hotel. The next day, she claims, he called to say his television was not working. She states she could not find a technician and because it was her job to manage VIP relations (sic) she went to his room herself.

Once in the room she determined the sound on the television was working fine.

Allegedly, Roethlisberger blocked the door and did not allow her to leave, thus he is charged with one act of kidnapping, in addition to the sexual assault. He began to fondle her through her dress and then picked her up and threw her on the bed.

She states she was afraid because of his 6’5″ 240 pound frame and felt he could really hurt her.

She states she protested and even stated “I am not on any birth control. You do not want to do this.”

Ms. McNully also stated she did not file criminal charges because she was afraid management would take the side of the assailant and she would lose her job.

She did tell the Chief of Security who told her that crying and shaking was “overreacting” and that their boss would probably give her a bonus if she continued to have sex more often with Ben. Ben and the President of the company are good friends.

She reports he also said, “Why are you so upset? A lot of woman would love to have sex with the Steeler’s quarterback.”

She alledges there was then a cover up by Harrah’s employees, including by the President of North Nevada Harrah’s, who is a good friend with Roethlisberger. She named eight Harrah’s employees in the cover-up.

In spite of her fears of losing her job, she was unable to continue anyway and was hospitalized later for depression.

 

Psychologist’s Opinion

I spoke with a local psychologist with experience in sexual assault cases.

She stated, “He said-she said cases are always hard to prove. The alleged assailant also has unlimited funds to defend himself which makes the case lopsided.”

“In general, women do not make these claims frivolously because their whole life will be exposed, most often with a negative slant.”

However, the psychologist emphasized, she had no personal knowledge of any party to this case and could not speak to the veracity of the woman’s claims.

“I do know,” she said, “That her pattern of behavior is not atypical. Women think they can put these incidents in the past, but they find out soon that depression and anxiety and a sense of betrayal on the part of her employers will disrupt her life.”

“On the other hand,” she said, “Men with the wealth and fame of Roethlisberger are sitting ducks. My advice to them would be to never close the door when they are in a hotel with a woman they do not know well.”

This case is sure to be a distraction during the current NFL season. After today’s headlines about Michael Vick’s release it will be interesting to see if this story receives the same publicity as incidents with NBA star Kobe Bryant and others.

 

 

Introducing the 2009 All-NFC North Team

After looking at the North, this division has perhaps the league’s best running back, the league’s best defensive tackle tandem, and one of the best free-agent pick-ups.

In the end, this was still not an easy team to compile, especially at quarterback.

Here is the preseason All-NFC North team.

Oh, before we get started, Jay Cutler is actually not the top QB. I’ll explain later, especially to Cutler and Bear fans.

OFFENSE

QUARTERBACK: Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay- Yes, even on a 6-10 team, and his performances late in games, Rodgers still had a higher passer rating than Cutler, and his touchdown-to-interception ratio was 28-13. Plus, he knows he has a pro bowl receiver to throw to in Donald Driver.

RUNNING BACK: Adrian Peterson, Minnesota- It won’t be long until we see him rush for 2,000 yards.

FULLBACK: Jason McKie, Chicago- Not only is he a solid lead blocker, he can run and catch as well. He is one of the league’s most versatile fullbacks.

WIDE RECEIVER: Calvin Johnson, Detroit- On a team that did everything wrong, he did almost everything right with 1,331 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns.

WIDE RECEIVER: Greg Jennings, Green Bay- He is an emerging star with 80 receptions and 16.2 yards per catch last season.

TIGHT END: Greg Olsen, Chicago- He’s a 255-pound guy who has very good speed and hands. He’ll be one of Cutler’s new favorite targets.

LEFT TACKLE: Orlando Pace, Chicago- The Bears hope he can provide a good two to three years of play before he calls it a career.

LEFT GUARD: Steve Hutchinson, Minnesota- He is the best at what he does, even after nine years in the league.

CENTER: Olin Kreutz, Chicago- He may not be a pro bowl caliber player anymore, but he still remains a strong presence in the huddle and in the locker room.

RIGHT GUARD: Stephen Peterman, Detroit- He may not be dominant, but he’s competitive and fiery.

RIGHT TACKLE: Breno Giacomini, Green Bay- If this massive, 6’7″, 311-pound tackle can block out Aaron Kampman well in practice, he can block almost any good rusher.

DEFENSE

DEFENSIVE END: Alex Brown, Chicago- He has been a high-motor guy for the Bears throughout his career, and he led the team in sacks last season.

DEFENSIVE END: Jared Allen, Minnesota- He was the boost the Vikings’ defensive line needed with 14.5 sacks.

DEFENSIVE TACKLE: Kevin Williams, Minnesota- His 8.5 sacks was his best total since the 2004-2005 season. He even has two career touchdowns, off of interceptions.

DEFENSIVE TACKLE: Pat Williams, Minnesota- The massive 317-pound defender is an immovable force and a key reason why the Vikings are always good against the run.

OUTSIDE LINEBACKER: Lance Briggs, Chicago- He’s emerged as the Bears’ best all-around linebacker, even with Brian Urlacher alongside him.

OUTSIDE LINEBACKER: Julian Peterson, Detroit- Jim Schwartz gets his Keith Bulluck type player on the outside. The versatile five-time pro bowler should be used in a variety of ways.

INSIDE LINEBACKER: Brian Urlacher, Chicago- He’s getting older, plus he has missed the last two pro bowls. But he can still make impact plays.

CORNERBACK: Antoine Winfield, Minnesota- He still remains a physical corner and one of the league’s fiercest hitters in the secondary.

CORNERBACK: Charles Woodson, Green Bay- He’s still not showing his age. He tied for the conference lead in picks at age 32.

FREE SAFETY: Nick Collins, Green Bay- Like Woodson, he tied for the NFC lead with seven interceptions.

STRONG SAFETY: Daniel Bullocks, Detroit- He can hit you hard. Schwartz should love his aggressiveness.

SPECIALIST

PUNTER: Brad Maynard, Chicago- 40 of his punts were placed inside the 20-yard-line.

KICKER: Jason Hanson, Detroit- He’s still reliable and still loyal to the Lions after 18 seasons.

RETURN MAN: Devin Hester, Chicago- Last season was a disappointment because he focused more on being a receiver. But when you put him back on returns, he can still make special team units cringe.

SPECIALIST: Korey Hall, Green Bay- If he’s not considered a good fullback, he’s better at handling special team duties.

HONORABLE MENTION

Jay Cutler, quarterback, Chicago- Yes, he has pro bowls and a rocket-arm. But he doesn’t have a go-to-receiver right now. He must prove himself after his Rocky Mountain fallout and elevate this slow-moving Bears offense.

Matt Forte, running back, Chicago- Maybe he can be Cutler’s best offensive option. He’s a do-everything back for the Bears.

Donald Driver, wide receiver, Green Bay- He’s averaged over 74 catches in the last five seasons. The former pro bowler still has great speed at 34.

Bernard Berrian, wide receiver, Minnesota- Berrian is the deep threat the Vikings needed. Averaged 20.1 yards per catch.

Visanthe Shiancoe, tight end, Minnesota- Improved significantly in his second season with the Vikings. He scored seven touchdowns last season.

Ryan Grant, running back, Green Bay- He rushed for 1,203 yards last season even after contract squabble.

Bryant McKinnie, left tackle, Minnesota- If only he can excel in the zone-blocking scheme his team uses, he’d be a complete left tackle.

Jeff Backus, left tackle, Detroit- Since 2001, he’s started every game for the Lions on the left side.

Ray Edwards, defensive end, Minnesota- If he contributes in a big way, the Vikings front four will become the league’s best unit.

Tommie Harris, defensive tackle, Chicago- When healthy, he’s an elite three-technique tackle, and he makes the unit better.

Ryan Pickett, nose tackle, Green Bay- At 6’2″, 330 pounds, he’ll have no problem lining up in the middle in the new 3-4 Packer defense.

Aaron Kampman, outside linebacker, Green Bay- Even if he hasn’t played linebacker since high school, count on one thing: he’ll still rush the passer.

Chad Greenway, outside linebacker, Minnesota- Greenway went from having a season-ending injury his rookie year in 2006 to leading the Vikings in tackles last season. He performs at a near-pro bowl level.

TOP ROOKIES

Offense

Percy Harvin, wide receiver, Minnesota- He’s an explosive playmaker who can be used in a variety of ways.

Defense

B.J Raji, defensive tackle, Green Bay- He mauled offensive linemen everywhere for Boston College. At 6’2″, 337 pounds, he’ll share nose tackle duties with Pickett and even line up at end.

TOP COACHES

Head Coach: Brad Childress, Minnesota- His teams win by two more games each year (six, eight, ten). Another two-game improvement should easily mean the NFC North title again.

Offensive Assistant: Joe Philbin, Green Bay- The Packers’ offense ranked eighth overall and scored 419 points last season, without Brett Favre.

Defensive Assistant: Leslie Frazier, Minnesota- In time, he’ll be an NFL head coach because of the work he’s done with the new Purple People Eaters.

Special Teams Coach: Dave Toub, Chicago- He not only has Hester, but he has the accurate Robbie Gould and Brad Maynard.

 

Coming Soon: New Orleans Saints Football

With exactly one second left to go on the clock, the New Orleans Saints gained control of the ball, Carolina had just kicked a field goal and led the game after a resounding comeback by the Saints in the second half.

Drew Brees was just 16 yards shy of breaking Dan Marino’s record for most single season yardage by a quarterback and it looked as if he would get one more chance.

The Saints should’ve already been done, but the Panthers kicked the ball out of bounds so that one precious second stayed on the clock.

Drew Brees took the snap and looked for an open man as the Panthers played prevent defense, he threw the ball and it fell to the ground like a wounded bird.

With that, the disappointing 8-8 season came to a close as Sean Payton ran across the field to shake hands for the last time in 2008.

In the offseason, it was out with the old and in with the new, at least on the defensive side of the ball.

Defensive Coordinator Gary Gibbs was fired after a pitiful performance by the defense all season long and the much heralded Gregg Williams signed on to try to help the Black and Gold go to their first Super Bowl.

Gone are Mike Karney, Deuce McAllister, Mike McKenzie, Josh Bullocks and others but taking their places are Heath Evans, Jabari Greer, and let’s not forget Darren Sharper.

The Saints are a popular pick this season and I can’t wait to get started.

WWL 870 out of New Orleans played a highlight from 2008 along with a reminder that training camp was just ten days away and hearing Jim Henderson of the Saints Radio Network was like awakening a deep longing for something that I haven’t had in a while.

That thing is Saints football and I’m ready for it.

So shove aside the Michael Vick talk and the Brett Favre rumors and think about it: Football is almost here.

Geaux Saints!

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