Hey Jay, Champ’s Still Got Your Back

Its no secret Bronco fans were torn over the whole Jay Cutler thing. But what about the players?

Well at least one person on the current Broncos roster still has former Pro Bowl QB Jay Cutlers’ back. It’s Pro Bowl DB Champ Bailey, who is arguably the leader of the Broncos defense.

Well, at least according to what he said in a recent radio interview: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2009/07/07/champ-bailey-sticks-up-for-cutler/#comments

Champ was very positive on Cutler’s behalf and and went on to say he is definitely a top 10 QB and has the ability to be the best in the game.

Champ even went on to compare him to some of the greatest QBs of all time, while predicting a successful future for Jay with the Bears.

“He reminds me of a Marino, Elway type of guy, and he’s going to be a great winner for them. It’s unfortunate for us that we had to lose a guy like that, but we’ve got to move on.”

In the interview, Champ goes on to say how he was surprised about the trade, and neither Cutler nor the Broncos staff consulted with anyone. He also said he understand it is a business and everyone is expendable.

As a Bronco fan it must be pretty frustrating when the best player on your defense and possibly the whole team actually defends your former “crybaby” QB after leaving the team in such a manner.

It kind of makes you think, was Jay Cutler really the one in the wrong?

To make matters worse for Bronco fans, now Devin Hester is coming to Jay Cutler’s defense. In a recent interview, Hester countered negative remarks by Tony Dungy and Mike Ditka with:

“Can’t judge a book by its cover. If you haven’t sat down and talked to him, how could you say something like that? He’s calm in the huddle. He makes us laugh and he jokes around before the ball is snapped. That’s the kind of quarterback who is relaxed and says, ‘Let’s play ball.’ “

“Just from the OTAs we’ve had, our offense has changed a whole lot,” Hester continued. “I feel like we’re stronger than we have ever been. I feel like we’re going to take the ball up and down the field. That’s the kind of quarterback Jay brings to this team.”

If Cutler really can turn the Bears offense around and continue to be a top 10 QB then he may turn out to be a huge loss for the Broncos, especially if Orton and those draft picks don’t work out.

But on the other hand, consensus says Chicagos WRs and TEs don’t even compare to that of the Denver Broncos. Others will even go as far to say Matt Forte is highly overrated and the only reason he was succesful was due to a lacking pass-game.

And the fact that Chicago receivers were unable to get open down-field forced Orton to fall back to his check-down reciever Matt Forte.

Regarding Chicago’s lack of big name receivers Hester had this to say:

“If we sign a big-time receiver or a free agent receiver who can help our team, I’m glad. But the guys we have here now, we’re pretty set. [The coaches] just want us to make plays. … Jay is the type of quarterback who is going to find a way to get the job done.”

One thing that Bears fans now need to ask themselves is, did Cutler make that offense or did the scheme, WRs, and arguably the best line in the NFL make Jay Cutler?

Why the Raiders Should Sign Former Saints Nose Tackle Hollis Thomas

Hollis Thomas, a defensive nose tackle, is currently a free agent after being released by the New Orleans Saints.

Last August he suffered a tricep injury which required surgery and limited him to the second half of the season. He played in only eight games and recorded a career-low seven tackles.

He is still a beast of a man standing 6’0” tall and weighing in at 335 pounds, though he often struggles with weight issues. But at only 6’0” tall, leverage is never an issue for this guy.

Here’s a look at his career stats:

 YEAR  TEAM   GAMES   TACKLES  SOLO   AST    PD    SACK    FF

1996	PHI	16	42	32	10	1	1.0	0
1997	PHI	16	61	40	21	0	2.5	2
1998	PHI	12	42	34	8	2	5.0	0
1999	PHI	16	48	35	13	1	1.0	1
2000	PHI	16	58	44	14	0	4.0	4
2001	PHI	14	51	42	9	1	0.0	1
2003	PHI	7	19	13	6	1	0.0	0
2004	PHI	13	21	17	4	1	0.0	0
2005	PHI	16	35	27	8	3	0.0	0
2006	NOR	12	43	35	8	2	3.5	0
2007	NOR	16	50	38	12	0	3.0	0
2008	NOR	8	7	6	1	1	0.0	0
Career		162	477	363	114	13	20.0	8

*Note: In 2008 he missed the first half of the season with a tricep surgery.

 

Why Do the Raiders Need Him?

Last year the Raiders ranked 31st in run defense.  This can be partially attributed to the week play of the nose-tackle position. The Raiders coaching staff claims to be addressing the problem through added depth to the front seven and an “improved scheme.”

Well, we have a new scheme with new defensive coordinater John Marshall and we have also added depth to every position, but the nose tackle.

Last year the position was held down by Terdell Sands and Gerrard Warren. Sands is the Raiders’ only true nose tackle while Gerrard Warren is better suited for the           three-technique.

If the Raiders add Thomas to the rotation at nose along with Sands, it would allow Warren to move to his more natural three-technique behind Tommy Kelly.

This would improve both D-tackle positions and completely change the face of the defense.

Adding Hollis Thomas would not only improve the whole D-line, but the whole defense, as well as the team as a whole.

Thomas has been phased throughout his career by coaches, teammates, and the media for his personality, sense of humor, and leadership, as well as his play on the field.

And the Raiders’ young defense is in need of veteran leadership.

Saints coach Sean Payton said Thomas is a tremendous force both in the run defense and in the locker room.

Sounds like the kind of high-character guy Tom Cable would want to bring to the Raiders, and Al Davis has been known to bring veterans to the Raiders at the DT position.

 

Pros and Cons for Bringing in Thomas Hollis

Pros

He would help the run D adding quality depth to the DT position.

He would bring a positive veteran presence to the Raider locker room.

He likely can be signed near the veteran minimum.

He works well with the media.

He should be fully healed.

Unlike Terdel Sands, he will almost always have the leverage advantage.

 

Cons

He has trouble with his weight.

He recently failed a physical administered by the Saints staff.

He has conditioning issues

At 35, many question how much he has left.

Oakland Raiders Facing Defensive Uncertainty Heading into 2009

At first thought, I could confidently predict what the Raiders’ defensive starting lineup will look like.

But then again, after a second look considering rumors and speculation, it is not so clear.

All kinds of things can mix up the starting lineup, anything from the Draft to injuries to trades, or even a former backup stepping it up to crack that starting lineup.

To make matters worse, Al Davis and the Raiders tend to be secretive and shrouded in mystery, leaking very little to the media. Raider PR reps were even seen actively keeping defenders like Greg Ellis away from reporters during OTAs.

The only things I would even say I’m certain of defensively this year are the following:

Thomas Howard will start weakside.

Tommy Kelly will start at DT.

Chris Johnson and Nnamdi Asomugha will start at corner.

Here’s a look at all the uncertainty among the Raiders’ defense.

 

Safety

Competing for the two spots are the likes of Michael Mitchell, Michael Huff, Tyvon Branch, Hiram Eugene, Keith Davis, and a few others less likely to make the roster.

Branch, like Mitchell, is a speedy DB capable of playing both safety positions and was formerly penciled in as the Raiders’ starter at strong safety.

Now multiple reports are claiming Branch is a shoo-in to start at FS.

Mitchell is a fan favorite and may eventually start at SS, but he may face competition from Davis—a veteran safety who was a key contributor to his former team on special teams and got a chance to start last year due to injury.

Eugene likely won’t sit back and let someone like Branch take his starting job, so there may be a good deal of competition at free.

Huff has been labeled a bust by many, and his time with the Raiders may be coming to an end. There’s even been speculation of a position change to corner much like the Raiders’ Asomugha, who was also labeled as a bust by many at FS until he moved to corner.

On the other hand, many are predicting a breakout year for Huff, and he may very well be the starter at free.

Opinions on Huff are mixed.

Many onlookers reported he often looked confused reading plays and was always a step slow in coverage. On the other hand, Asomugha, the best corner in the game, says he is looking great.

Nnamdi is also one of the few predicting a breakout year for Huff.

Who starts and plays where?

Your guess is as good as mine.

 

Linebacker

At first glance, the linebackers seem pretty set. Thomas Howard playing weak-side, Kirk Morrison playing?

Most would assume Morrison would be playing the middle, but others have been assuming otherwise, and there are quite a few reasons why.

Many argue MLB is not his natural position, and he is better suited to play outside. Ricky Brown, former starter at SAM, has been working at MLB. Morrison played SAM his rookie year, racking up over 100 tackles, and many believe a position swap may be imminent.

A possible stud MLB has just been picked up named Frantz Joseph.

But the confusion doesn’t end there. Assuming Kirk does continue to play the middle, there are still quite a few people fighting for that strong spot: Jon Alston, Ricky Brown, Sam Williams, Slade Norris, and a few others.

Alston has received rave reviews, especially regarding his speed and coverage. Though he may be best suited for passing situations, he became the starter last year after Brown went down with an injury.

Brown, the initial starter last year, has been working in the middle with the second team defense during OTAs.

Norris, a “tweener” OLB/DE, has seen reps in OTAs at SOLB with the second team, though his speed and size make him better suited to play the weak side.

Williams is extremely gifted physically with size, speed, and athleticism but hasn’t lived up to expectations.

Many question his will and mind.

Is there any truth to the rumors of Morrison moving back outside?

Is Joseph the real deal?

If the answer to those questions is no, who will start strong-side?

 

Defensive End

Currently, the Raiders are stacked with talent at this position with the likes of Greg Ellis, Derrick Burgess, Trevor Scott, Jay Richardson, Matt Shaughnessy, Stryker Sulak, and a few others.

There’s a good deal of competition not only to start, but to just make the roster. Currently, though unconfirmed, there are even rumors of the team shopping Burgess.

Burgess and Ellis are both decorated veterans of pass rush and may even end up starting opposite each other.

Richardson started most of last season. Currently he is the most proven against the run, but has yet to develop his pass-rushing skills. Though not very flashy or a fan favorite, he is a likely candidate to start.

Scott just finished a breakout rookie year, leading all rookies in sacks. This offseason he has added 15 pounds of muscle to become more effective against the run.

Shaughnessy is a big defensive end built much like Richardson with better pass rush credentials, though it may not transfer over to the NFL.

Who will start, and who will even make the team?

How much longer will Burgess be a Raider?

 

Nose Tackle

This is the most neglected position on the Raiders’ defense, and Terdell Sands is the only true nose tackle the Raiders have. Gerard Warren started most of the season and was semi-effective.

To make matters worse, Sands has yet to live up to expectations and is currently on the trade block. 

Even though it looks pretty bleak for this position, there is still hope.

We have an experienced defensive coordinator who claims to be addressing the problem through depth and scheme. This would suggest he plans to hide this weakness through increased pressure—sounds like more blitzing to me.

Also, there are still possibilities we add a nose tackle via trade or FA. Hollis Thomas is still a free agent and can fill the void left if Sands is traded.

 

Here’s a look at my projected defensive starting lineup for the Raiders.

Free Safety = Tyvon Branch

Strong Safety = Michael Mitchell

Corner = Nnamdi Asomugha

Corner = Chris Johnson 

Weakside Linebacker = Thomas Howard

Middle Linebacker = Frantz Joseph, Ricky Brown

Strongside Linebacker = Kirk Morrison

Left Defensive End = Greg Ellis

Right Defensive End = Jay Richardson

Defensive Tackle = Tommy Kelly

Nose Tackle = Gerard Warren, Terdell Sands (Hollis Thomas, I wish)

Debunking 10 NFL Myths

Throughout the year, you often hear people claim “myths” as truths. Here’s a look at how I have debunked my 10 least favorite NFL myths:

 

1. Jerry Rice was slow

I am so tired of hearing people say Jerry Rice ran a 4.6 or 4.7 on his 40-yard dash. Countless Web sites claim this without documented proof, as if it were fact.

This myth was created to give less athletic people hope that if they worked hard enough at something, like Rice, who had legendary work ethic, they can accomplish anything.

Sorry to burst your bubble, but Rice is also gifted with great genes and actually ran a 4.4 according to this Web site http://www.extremeskins.com/archive/index.php/t-103312.html

Also in an interview on the Chronicle live, when asked about his notoriously slow 40, Rice claimed to have 4.4 speed.

To further debunk this, he obviously lost a step after suffering a knee injury in 1997 that ended his season, allowing him only two games that year. Factor in that and old age, and it would suggest that had he really ran a 4.7 by the turn of the century he would have been approaching 5.0 flat in his 40.

Furthermore, Rice is often seen pulling away from DBs in his highlights and, believe it or not, he was a vertical threat early in his career.

 

2. The Steelers have a bad offensive line

Well I guess Steeler Fans feel like they need something to complain about. Last year was one of their worst performances, but the O-line still ranked 19th, around the middle of the pack.

In 2007 they ranked 13th once again and in 2006 they ranked sixth statistically.

The only stat they have working against them is that they were 31st in attempts between sacks last year. But on the other hand, you have to consider they are responsible for that monster running game.

 

3. Icing the kicker works

I hate it when teams ice the kicker by calling a time out. Some Kickers have even said they prefer it, as it gives them more time to prepare mentally.

Another Raider example is the dreaded snow-job game. While the Raiders tried to “ice” the Patriots’ kicker, it actually gave the o-line more time to clear snow from the set down spot.

And guess what: He still made the kick!

 

4. Al Davis is the worst owner

Sure he has had a blemish on his record the last six years, but his team is still one of the more successful overall. His team has never lost more than 14 games in a season and he has still won more Super Bowls than the majority of the other NFL owners.

Very few owners can even try to compare.

 

5. Tom Brady won his first Super Bowl with no name receivers

Maybe true to an extent, but you can’t argue Troy Brown was a bad receiver.

 

6. Pass rush is responsible for elite corners

This one is easily debunked using The Raiders as an example:

They have the best corner in football in Nnamdi Asmugha yet their average pass-rush was ranked 13th last year.

 

7. Offense wins games

The top scoring teams were the Saints, Cardinals, and Chargers. The combined records of the three last years was only one game above .500.

 

8. Defense wins championships 

Well maybe this one has some truth to it. But I found an article arguing against it http://www.thumper300zx.com/megalist/defense.htm

 

9. NFL scheduling is unfair and my team always has a hard schedule

I hear this all the time and people often act like the NFL scheduling is out to get their respective team. But contrary to popular belief, all but two of the regular season games are scheduled years in advance, while the other two have to do with the divisional ranking of “your team” along with others.

 

10. Great QB numbers win games

This would suggest that teams like the Saints and the Broncos, whose QBs threw for the most yards, would have won the most games.

Actually, if a team’s QB throws for 300-plus yards, the team only wins 46 percent of the time. This means that statistically it’s better to throw for less than 300. This is due to the fact that these teams often throw for huge amounts of yards because they are often playing from behind.

Oakland Raiders Crystal Ball: Ten Non-Game Predictions

Lately with sports news slow, a lot of people have been making predictions on the upcoming NFL season. Whether it be games, win-loss records, playoffs, whatever, everyone seems to have there say in what will happen.

Here I’ll show you 10 of my non-game predictions for the Oakland Raiders upcoming season and explain why I believe they will happen.

 

1. All three of the Raider running backs (Justin Fargas, Michael Bush, and Darren McFadden) will “start” at one point in the season.

The Raiders have three very talented backs Fargas is the most likely to “start” as he has shown the most heart and is a veteran leader on the field. Fargas has had a somewhat injury plagued career as of late and will likely miss a game.

McFadden also had an injury plagued rookie year and it has been said his toe (injured last year) is still bothering him and may not be fully healed. The third back, Bush, is also very talented and likely the most well rounded of the three.

 

2. Johnnie Lee Higgins and Zach Miller both make the Pro-Bowl for the first time.

Last year Higgins was snubbed out of a well deserved Pro-bowl appearance after leading the league in punts returned to the house.

Miller is an up and coming star at tight end who is steadily improving, and, with Tony Gonzalez and Kellen Winslow both now out of the AFC, his chances are very high.

3. At least one “deserving” Raider will be snubbed from the Pro-Bowl.

It seems to happen every year. It just happened to Higgins, the year before it happened to Nnamdi Asomugha and Shane Lechlar, and before that it happened to Kirk Morrison and Thomas Howard when they led all linebackers in interceptions.

4. The Raiders are top five in rushing.

The year before last they were ranked sixth, and last year they were tenth, but they lost many players responsible for production in the ground game to injury (Oren O’Neal, Justin Griffith, Jake Grove, as well as McFadden, who was limited due to turf toe, and Fargas, who missed a few with minor injuries).

This year with the additions of Khaliff Barnes, Lorenzo Neal, and less injury-prone Samson Satele the Raiders ground game will be an impressive force with one of the most talented backfields in the league.

5. Sebastian Janikowski breaks the 63-yard field goal record.

He is often seen making 70-yarders for warmups and has arguably the strongest leg in the league. And if Cable has the balls and confidence to try him from 76 yards in a game there’s no doubt in my mind he can hit it from 64.

 

6. The Raiders’ passing offense, run defense, and time of possession all improve over last year.

These were three areas the Raiders were very weak in last year and were ultimately the cause of the Raiders lack of production. They will improve through continuity and moves made this offseason to improve them. And because of the fact that they can’t get much worse than they were, the only way to go is up.

7. Raider-bashing will be at an all-time high, regardless of win-loss records.

Lately the media seems to be having a field day at the Raiders expense. Whether it be pundits criticizing our draft or predicting us last in the division with a 2-14 record, there seems to be a lot of negativity from the media directed at the Raiders.

It’s even reached Comedy Central. I’m sure many of you have even seen the recent clip from the Colbert Report: http://ccinsider.comedycentral.com/2009/06/25/colbert-raiders-logo-a-clear-endorsement-of-gay-rights/

 

8. Before the 2009 season starts, the Raiders will make noise via trade or free agency.

Its no secret the Raiders still have a few holes in their offense. The Raiders even offered a handful and the No. 7 pick up for trade prior to the draft. Now there are rumors floating around that players like Derrick Burgess are being shopped around.

If the Raiders were to make a move in FA there are still a good deal of linebackers available as well as a handful of quality D-linemen.

 

9. JaMarcus Russell throws for 3,000 yards.

Labeled by many as a bust, he has been given all the tools he needs to succeed, but because the Raiders are a running team he won’t exceed this mark by much.

 

10. Tom Cable finishes the season and returns for 2010.

His players have confidence in him as well does Al Davis. Tom Cable’s team first mentality will bring the Raiders back to greatness.

Is It Time for Derrick Burgess to Be Traded by the Oakland Raiders?

Derrick Burgess is a former Pro Bowler and former NFL sack leader, but many speculate his days in Oakland are numbered. This is especially true after the emergence of young pass rusher Trevor Scott and signing of veteran pass rusher Greg Ellis. Not to mention the Raiders drafted a couple more D-ends in this year’s draft: Matt Shaughnessy and Stryker Sulak.

As it stands right now, the D-end position for the Oakland Raiders is becoming pretty crowded. Players, namely Burgess, are beginning to look expendable.

To make things even worse for him, the Raiders can afford to part ways with a pass rusher. It’s arguably not one of the team’s weaknesses. Last year they ranked 13th in sacks with teams rarely throwing against them.

Recent rumors arose of the team shopping around players including Burgess, but Raider officials have done nothing but deny any interest in trading him.

Whether or not the team has been in negotiations with other teams regarding Burgess, now is the time—especially now that premier pass rushers like Ellis, Jason Taylor, and Julius Peppers are off the market. 

Value for pass rushers is now at an offseason high, and there should be many interested parties.

One team desperately in need of a pass rusher is the Kansas City Chiefs. Though I doubt the Raiders would deal with a division rival, the Chiefs ranked dead last in sacks last year with a dismal 10, barely cracking double digits.

Another candidate who has been rumored to have interest in Burgess is the New England Patriots.

Last year they were tied at 14th in sacks with 31, one fewer than the Raiders’ total. 

They were allegedly in the hunt for Peppers to play OLB as a pass rusher. Now with his $16 million-plus franchise tender signing, that door seems closed. 

Though fairly unsuccessful, Burgess has experience playing the 3-4 OLB position. In a defense other than one of Rob Ryan’s vanilla schemes, he is likely to perform better.

The next likely candidate is the Cleveland Browns, who were tied at 31st in sacks with only 17. The defense is currently being coached by former Raider DC Rob Ryan, and a history between Ryan and Burgess may have pull in a trade. Also, seemingly happy now DT Shaun Rogers requested a trade earlier this offseason.

Next are the Cincinnati Bengals, tied with the Browns with a measly 17 sacks. Many would argue they drafted their future pass rusher in the third round with DE Michael Johnson, but the tandem of rookie and veteran would strike fear in many QBs.

Next are the Green Bay Packers. Last year they ranked 25th in the league with 27 sacks, and they are currently transitioning to the 3-4 from a 4-3 (with Aaron Kampman making the transition from DE to OLB). Burgess can be plugged in the rotation or played opposite Kampman. The Packers have an impressive offense but struggled (only winning six games) last year due to the defense.

There are other teams who may be interested, but these were the most likely in my opinion. Other pass rush-challenged teams that may be interested include the Washington Redskins, (T)28th with 24; Buffalo Bills (T), 28th with 24; Houston Texans, 27th with 25; NO Saints, 22nd with 28; and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Jacksonville Jaguars, tied at 20th with 29.

Rumored values on Burgess range anywhere from a second to a fourth rounder, though I suspect the Raiders would be interested in package deals, especially if they include a DT or SOLB.

Wildcat Formation: Was It Really Just a Fad?

When you see this picture you start to ask alot of questions. 

Is Peyon Manning confused?  Why is he awkwardly in a WR stance split out wide?  Doesn’t he know he’s arguably one of the best QBs in the game, not a WR?  Does he have a childhood fantasy of playing a position other than QB?  And did he really play well enough last year to be voted into the Pro-Bowl.

To answer all your question:  Probably,  Because of the “WildCat(or WildHog) formation, not sure, maybe, and not really.

What is the “Wildhog” exactly? Well its a trick play that roughly consists of two RBs in the backfield,  at least one who can throw the ball.  Usually a QB split out wide like Manning in the picture with two real WR opposite the formation and a Tight-end as a wing in there somewhere.  The ball is snapped to a RB who thinks he’s a QB usually followed by playaction with the two RBs in the backfield and the ball is either ran or thrown by one of the RBs. 

The defenses get confused,  mainly because corners can’t comprehend lining up in coverage against the likes of Peyton Manning, Chad Pennington or in the Raiders case Joe Flacco.  Defensive Coordinators throw fits and yards are gained.  This is then repeated sometimes more than 15 times a game.

This was used by numerous teams last year but most notably and most effectively by the Miami Dolphins.  Many people will argue:  It was just a fad, we won’t see it much this year, defenses caught on towards the end of the year,  its not that effective.  But I believe otherwise and think it will be even more widespread this year.

Last Year once other teams saw how effective the Dolphins were using this formation they began to follow suit,  this year after a whole off-season to digest the formation offensive coordinators everywhere will want to try there hand at the “WildHog”.  Heres a look some of the teams who can and likely will use the formation.

The Miami Dolphins

Considered the originators of the formation at the NFL level,  they ran it most effectively and more often than any other team.  In this years draft they “reached” for a speedy QB named Pat White ideal for the formation.  I’m not claiming they will bench Pennington for White and exclusively run the”Wildcat” but expect the formation to be just as big a part of the offense if not bigger.

The Oakland Raiders

They have two young running backs well suited to run the formation: Michael Bush who was an out-standing QB in HS; and Darren Mcfadden who often ran the “WildHog” alongside Felix Jones with the Arkansas RazorBacks. Mcfadden is also capable of throwing the ball.  The Raiders ran it a few times early last year, but injuries and a coach change limited it to the beginning of the season.

The Dallas Cowboys

Their use of the Formation was also limited to the beginning of the season after a season ending injury to Former Arkansas Running-Back Felix Jones. With Felix Jones healthy expect more of the “WildHog” from the Dallas Cowboys.

The Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens coaching staff spent so much energy devising a way to stop the formation they actually decided to incorporate it in their offense.  Most notably Joe Flaccos long reception against a confused Oakland Raider defense.

The SanFrancisco 49ers

They ran it occasionally last year and with a struggling offense and uncertainty at the QB position Mike Singletary will do anything to give his offense a boost.

The San Diego Chargers

They have never ran the formation as far as I know.  Ladainian Tomlinson though aging is still the most versatile RB in the game and is no stranger to trick plays,  he was ran threw and received a touchdown in a single game. Last year the running game struggled but Phillip Rivers was able to pick up the slack.  There is no doubt in my mind the Chargers would run this play.

Other Teams

I’m sure there are teams out there who ran it last year that I left out and more teams capable of running it like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with Josh Johnson or whoever lands Michael Vick.  For next year I see no reason why teams won’t continue to run the formation,  the WildHog may even breakout at epidemic proportions like the swine-flu.

Conspiracy Theories In Denver: What McDaniels Is Really Thinking

This year many things have been said about Josh Mcdaniels: He doesn’t know how to run a team, he’s ruining the Denver Broncos,  he’s setting up the Broncos for a year of mediocrity. Very few positive things have been said about McDaniels, aside from a few loyal fans who would follow the Broncos to the depths of hell.

But what if Mcdaniels knows exactly what hes doing and has been following a thought-out plan from the beginning. 

What if Jay Cutler wasn’t part of his plan for the Broncos future.

Here, let me explain.

He started out as a highschool QB and a college WR eventually making his way to the Patriots as a personal assistant in 2001. He began working his way up the ranks of the organization. 

In 2004 Charlie Weis left the Patriots, though not officially named to the position, Mcdaniels was the one calling plays from the sidelines now.

In 2006, 2007, and 2008 Mcdaniels was officially the Patriots offensive coordinator leading an offense that set multiple records: 1st in scoring, 1st in points, 1st in TD passes and the emergence of Matt Cassel—the only known NFL quarterback ever to start an NFL game without ever starting at quarterback in college.

Earlier this year Mcdaniels was named head coach of the Denver Broncos.

This year his first big move was dealing away Jay Cutler for a lesser QB and two first round draft picks. I would say dealing away an unhappy Jay Cutler was well worth what the Broncos received in return.

So, how was this all part of Mcdaniels’ plans, simple.

Jay Cutler was Mike Shanahan’s QB molded to fit into Shanahan’s system, and Mcdaniels would rather mold his own young QB. Instead of one who has already developed his own set of habits and playing style. And, Mcdaniels at-least believes hes been responsible for the development of two young late-round draft picks—Tom Brady and Matt Cassell.

Just think, is it a coincidence that Mcdaniels joined the Patriots in 2001, the same year Brady first took over the Patriots starting 15 games? Mcdaniels obviously doesn’t think so. And now he wants to mold Tom Brandstater to fit into his system and become the next Tom Brady. Another coincidence both Tom Brandstater and Tom Brady are 6th round draft picks.

Will it be just a coincedence when Brandstater takes over in his second year like Brady did?

But why not mold Orton or Simms to be the next Tom Brady? Also simple.

Like Cutler, Orton is not Mcdaniels QB and neither is Chris Simms. Orton has already been developed by a defensive minded coach, and Simms is just some guy who couldn’t cut it in Tampa Bay. While Tom, unlike the other two, is young, impressionable and can be molded into whatever Mcdaniels likes.

The attempted Cassell trade further backs up this logic as Cassell is a QB Mcdaniels helped develop.

Next on to the Brandon Marshall thing. 

This may also fall into his plan.

Brandon Marshall by many accounts is a selfish, thuggish, violent, a me first-type player. If he can be dealt away for maximum compensation, in draft picks next year, not only does this help Mcdaniels plans for Tom Brandstater’s “coming out party” next year,  but it gets rid of one of “Mike Shannahan’s guys” and a locker room nuisance.

But what are Mcdaniels plans for this year? Once again simple.

Mcdaniels is going to do his best to compete with what he has, while developing Tom Brandstater. 

As far fetched as it may seem whats to say this isn’t what Mcdaniels is doing in Denver,  I would like to know what Broncos fans think of this.

Oakland Raiders: Should Michael Bush Be the Focal-Point of the Offense?

First, I know there are people who will disagree with me; many believe the main focus of our offense should be one of our first-round draft picks, either QB JaMarcus Russell, or the elusive HB Darren McFadden. 

I’m sure there are even Justin Fargas supporters who believe he has earned the right as he is a true Raider through and through and bleeds silver and black. Here, I will explain why Bush is better suited for the job.

 

Getting to know Michael Bush

In high school, this guy was a beast, seeing action at quarterback, safety, cornerback, linebacker, defensive end, wide receiver, and return man.

His senior year, he completed 190 of 304 for 2891 yards and 35 TDs. He rushed 131 times for 911 yards and seven TDs and he caught 17 passes for 152 yards and three TDs.

He received numerous awards, and was ranked as the 14th highest prospect by scout.com.

Fast forward to his junior year in college, where he rushed for 1143 yards on 205 carries, averaging 5.6 yards per carry, scored 23 rushing touchdowns, and led NCAA division 1-A in scoring.

His senior year, he was the preseason leading candidate to receive the Heisman trophy until he broke his leg in the first game of the 2006 season. He was then drafted by the Raiders in the fourth round, and placed on the PUP list.

Now, he is an intimidating force in the Raiders’ backfield.

There are many reasons why Michael Bush is the leading candidate to build the offense around.

 

No. 1 Bush has Superior vision

Film shows he obviously has the best “running vision,” as he is great at following blockers and using patience waiting for plays to develop, unlike other Raider running backs.

Justin Fargas, though he hits the hole hard, is often seen barreling into the backs of his own linemen; Darren McFadden, who is often too quick to rely on his speed, has been known to outrun blockers or bounce plays outside to early.

Great “vision” is an attribute Bush shares with many of the games top backs Steven Jackson, Marshall Faulk, and most notably Emmitt Smith. Emmitt’s great career can easily be attributed to his ability to rely on his linemen, while using his vision and patience to allow plays to develop.

 

No. 2 Bush has superior power for running between the Tackles

Maybe Bush doesn’t hit the hole as hard as Justin Fargas, but what good does it do if you’re stopped for a short gain because you ran into one of your own players? Anyway, Bush has 30 pounds on Fargas, and still has comparable speed. 

McFadden’s power running ability is questionable. Sure, he is a big kid at 6’2” and 215 pounds, and has shown some promise in between the tackles, but on the other hand he has also been stopped dead in his tracks, where Bush would have likely fell forward for an extra yard or two. 

But I guess, to credit McFadden, his power (like his speed) may have been hampered by turf toe. Still, he would be my last choice in 3rd-and-short, while Bush, at 6’1” and 245 pounds, would be an easy choice in short yardage or goal line situations.

 

No. 3 Bush has the speed to get it done

Though he obviously doesn’t have blazing speed like McFadden, he does have remarkable speed for his size, easily comparable to Justin Fargas (who ran a sub-4.5 40-yard dash).

Bush has great “game time speed,” which was on display during his 32-yard run against Kansas City in Week 2, then again in a 67-yard run Week 17 against Tampa Bay.

 

No. 4 Bush may be the most durable

He broke his leg his senior year, but the injury is less serious than it sounds. One fact about broken bones is that they become stronger than ever, and become nearly impossible to break in the same spot, when allowed time to heal properly.

Aside from his leg, Bush has a clean bill of health which can’t be said for the other two halfbacks. 

Fargas, with his running style (upright with a narrow base), leaves him open to injury, and age seems to be catching up to him.

McFadden has had minor injuries throughout college, and he was hampered in his rookie year by a turf toe injury he suffered in Week 2. On top of that, he had surgery on a mystery shoulder injury said to have been bothering him all season. 

Limiting McFadden’s carries by utilizing Bush’s abilities more will only make the team better by increasing McFadden’s chance of staying healthy for the duration of the season.

 

No. 5 He has the best intangibles

The other guys have speed and power. How is Bush any better?

Easy he has skills they don’t have. Vision is a skill that can be learned with experience, but it can’t be coached, and some players never develop it at all. 

Second Bush can throw the ball, a skill not common among HBs, making him a triple threat out of the backfield; he can run with the ball, catch passes, and even throw the ball. This makes him effective for trick plays like the wildcat (or Wildhog) formation.

Next, of the three backs, he is the most effective blocking and protecting the QB.  The Raiders even wanted to use his skills at FB leading the way for the other HBs. 

With this skill, he is a likely candidate to play in passing downs; he even has great hands, and can be used in check-down routes if nothing develops down field.

With McFadden likely to see time in the slot, this makes Bush’s skills even more valuable as a blocker. In a scenario where Bush is in the backfield, and McFadden in the slot, McFadden can either be a dangerous receiver or an effective decoy for a draw play to Bush. 

 

No. 6 When Bush gets the ball we win

Out of all of our running backs, he has the most punishing running style; not only because he is a heavy load to take down, but because his patience allows for downfield blocks to develop, increasing the chances of a big play, tiring out defenders, and eating up clock. 

Not only that, but here’s a cool fact about Micheal Bush and the Raiders  when he gets 15 or more carries, the Raiders are undefeated. Sure, its a circumstantial fact, but hey, it makes you think, doesn’t it?

 

Why should the offense be built around Michael Bush, a HB, rather than JaMarcus Russell, a QB?

I believe I’ve successfully argued why Bush is the most well rounded and effective HB, but I haven’t really argued why he should be the focal point over first overall draft pick and “franchise QB” JaMarcus Russell.

Last I checked, the Raiders were a run-first team, so its no secret the ground game will overshadow the air game.

JR is still unproven, though many fans will argue he showed a lot of promise over the final six games of the season. That doesn’t mean anything; he is still an unfinished product.

The best thing for the team is to allow him to develop further while being carried by a dominant ground game. 

Raiders: Top 10 Free Agents Available To Sign

Al Davis is known for adding veterans to his team through free agency. This year he has added Lorenzo Neal, Greg Ellis, Jeff Garcia, Keith Davis and a few others. But is he done? There are still a few qaulity players left in free agency especially after recent releases. Heres a look at a few players who would further improve the Raiders chance of winning this year. Note they are not necesarily in any specific order.

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