Well, it's a day after a tough loss to Xavier before I can write about it. The young Boiler ballclub took it on the chin from a bigger, more veteran team yesterday in D.C., losing 75-68. But the potential of this squad in the future is unlimited. I'm just sad Terrence Crump won't be around to be a part of it. The lone Senior on the team had a fine tournament and was instrumental in getting the young players ready for battle throughout the year.
The biggest off-season issues for Purdue will be:
1) Get a physical, active and assertive big man presence in the middle. I don't think Calasan fits that bill unless he learns to square up before he shoots an offensive rebound instead of just tipping at it. AND, he's not a three-point shooter. Use that thinking when we're up by a large margin and the defense isn't expecting it. My hunch is that the last 10 3 point shots he took this year were key misses that helped the other team's rally.
But hitting the weights for the guys in the paint will be critical, and the same can be said for the others as well. I would imagine they all took note of Xavier and their strenght and physicality.
JaJuan will no doubt bulk up to get bigger and stronger. That is an absolute must. He showed what he could be like offensively, but we need him to be able to shut down the play inside the paint defensively with more than an occassional block. But I like the fact he was rockin' it at times in the 1st round win vs Baylor.
2) Stop slapping at the ball when your on defense. Not sure how many times the Boilers did it, but I know it was TOO MUCH! Everytime someone was beaten off the dribble, they'd slap at the ball as it was about to be shot. Not only did it help send key players to the bench with foul trouble, it uncannily led to multiple 3-point plays for Xavier that would nullify pretty good defensive play until then.
Part of that is the maturation of this young team, so it probably is to be expected early on. But I would have thought for as well as they had progressed (and as much experience in AAU ball ) throughout their career thus far, that it would have become steadily improved. Not so.
But this team has our hearts and enthusiasm. They've brought back optimism and enthusiasm back to the area during the dull days of winter. Four freshman, some sophomores and a junior will be back next season with a year more of experience and knowledge under their belts. It should be an exciting three seasons coming up.
Mackey Magic is back, but even more, dreams of that ellusive National Championship is once again alive for perhaps the first time in nearly a decade.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Colts Draft Picks in 2008?
With the 2008 NFL Draft just six weeks or so away, time is winding down on evaluations on team Big Boards and strategies that will potential make or break the future of an organization.
The Indianapolis Colts, in the Bill Polian era, have done dramatically well. This year, however, there is a certain angst among fans due to the uncertainy of key players. Specifically, the long-term health and ability of defensive end Dwight Freeney, and future hall of fame receiver Marvin Harrison.
Add to that the departure of a top offensive lineman (Jake Scott) who signed with a division foe (Tennessee) this past week, the uncertainty in free agents like safety Matt Giordano, and the murky waters of the off-season do not seem to be getting any clearer.
Then the Colts watched TE Ben Utecht get an offer from the NY Jets, which depletes the reserve TE position to just one subsitute for starter Dallas Clark. With depth an issue there, at running back, defensive end and the offensive line, the problem of just six overall draft selections becomes more apparent. Not to mention critical.
Drafting late in the second round, the Colts could have plenty of solid prospects to choose from, but unlike years past, the money situation is bleak and the need for multiple, good picks is significant because of the aforementioned lack of depth dangers.
Potentially on the board at the Colts first pick in the late second round will be a top running back, top tight end and exceptionally good linebackers, a couple of solid wideouts,defensive ends and offensive linemen. Which do you go with if, for example, all were of "equal" value.
Bill Polian has shown he is up to the challenge in years past. Freeney, Bob Sanders and Dwight Clark are prime examples. Perhaps his least obvious, but highly successful picks, have been along the offensive line. Take the Tony Ugoh last year, or wideout Anthony Gonzales too. Antoine Bethea was a huge find in the latter rounds of that draft class. So you can always expect the unexpected with Mr. Polian during the draft.
It would not surprise me to see him trade down (assuming he could find a willing trade partner to do so) in order to save money on front end contracts, acquire more players and fill needs with attendant value.
One thing is for certain. It should be a heckuva show.
The Indianapolis Colts, in the Bill Polian era, have done dramatically well. This year, however, there is a certain angst among fans due to the uncertainy of key players. Specifically, the long-term health and ability of defensive end Dwight Freeney, and future hall of fame receiver Marvin Harrison.
Add to that the departure of a top offensive lineman (Jake Scott) who signed with a division foe (Tennessee) this past week, the uncertainty in free agents like safety Matt Giordano, and the murky waters of the off-season do not seem to be getting any clearer.
Then the Colts watched TE Ben Utecht get an offer from the NY Jets, which depletes the reserve TE position to just one subsitute for starter Dallas Clark. With depth an issue there, at running back, defensive end and the offensive line, the problem of just six overall draft selections becomes more apparent. Not to mention critical.
Drafting late in the second round, the Colts could have plenty of solid prospects to choose from, but unlike years past, the money situation is bleak and the need for multiple, good picks is significant because of the aforementioned lack of depth dangers.
Potentially on the board at the Colts first pick in the late second round will be a top running back, top tight end and exceptionally good linebackers, a couple of solid wideouts,defensive ends and offensive linemen. Which do you go with if, for example, all were of "equal" value.
Bill Polian has shown he is up to the challenge in years past. Freeney, Bob Sanders and Dwight Clark are prime examples. Perhaps his least obvious, but highly successful picks, have been along the offensive line. Take the Tony Ugoh last year, or wideout Anthony Gonzales too. Antoine Bethea was a huge find in the latter rounds of that draft class. So you can always expect the unexpected with Mr. Polian during the draft.
It would not surprise me to see him trade down (assuming he could find a willing trade partner to do so) in order to save money on front end contracts, acquire more players and fill needs with attendant value.
One thing is for certain. It should be a heckuva show.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
BoilerMacR's 2008 NFL Mock Draft v7
FIRST ROUND PROJECTIONS
1. Miami Dolphins - Jake Long, OT, Michigan
2. St. Louis Rams -Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio St.
3. Atlanta Falcons - Glen Dorsey, DT, LSU
4. Oakland Raiders - Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
5. Kansas City Chiefs - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.
6. New York Jets - Chris Long, DE, Virginia
7. N.E. Patriots (from SF) - Derrick Harvery, DE, Florida
8. Baltimore Ravens - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
9. Cincinnati Bengals - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
10. New Orleans Saints - Keith Rivers, LB, USC
11. Buffalo Bills - Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
12. Denver Broncos - Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
13. Carolina Panthers - Kenny Phillips, FS, Miami
14. Chicago Bears - Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
15. Detroit Lions - DRC, CB, Tenn. St.
16. Arizona Cardinals - Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
17. Minnesota Vikings - Jeff Otah, OT, Pitt
18. Houston Texans - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
19. Philadelphia Eagles - Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
20. Tampa Bay Bucs - James Hardy, WR, Indiana
21. Washington Redskins - Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
22. Dallas Cowboys (Cleve.) - Brandon Albert, OG, Tennessee
23. Pittsburgh Steelers - Anthony Collins, OT, Kansas
24. Tennessee Titans - Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina (RB/KR/WR-BPA)
25. Seattle Seahawks - Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas
26. J'ville Jaguars - Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy (Want top DE or CB)
27. Dallas Cowboys - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
28. S.F. 49ers (from Indy) - Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan St.
29. San Diego Chargers - Mike Jenkins, CB, So Florida
30. Green Bay Packers - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
New England Forfeits Pick #31 due to illegal spying
32. New York Giants - Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
ROUND TWO PROJECTIONS:
33. Miami - Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
34. St. Louis - DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal
35. Atlanta - Brain Brohm, QB, Louisville
36. Kansas City - Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida
37. NY Jets - Chad Henne, QB, Michigan
38. Atlanta - Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina
39. Baltimore - Quentin Groves, OLB, Auburn
40. San Francisco - Erin Henderson, OLB, Maryland
41. New Orleans - Mike Pollack, C, Arizona
42. Buffalo - Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue
43. Denver - Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame
44. Carolina -Sam Baker, OT, USC
45. Chicago - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska
46. Detroit - Jerod Mayo, ILB, Tennessee
47. Cincinnati - Fred Davis, TE, USC
48. Minnesota - Martellus Bennett, TE, Texas A&M
49. Atlanta* - Curtis Lofton, ILB, Oklahoma
50. Philadelphia - DaJuan Morgan, S, NC St.
51. Arizona - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska
52. Washington - Lawrence Jackson, DE, Florida
53. Tampa Bay - Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware
54. Pittsburgh - Justin King, CB, Penn St.
55. Tennessee - Roy Scheuning, OG, Oregon St. (need center also)
56. Seattle - Pat Sims, DT, Auburn
57. Green Bay (from Cleveland) - Dre Moore, DT, Maryland
58. Miami (from SD) - Red Bryant, DT, Texas A&M
59. Jacksonville - Duane Brown, OT, Va. Tech (OL or DE or DT)
60. Indianapolis - Matt Forte, RB, Tulane
61. Green Bay -Cliff Avril, OLB, Purdue
62. Dallas - Thomas Terrell, CB, USC
63. New England - Marcus Howard, LB, Georgia
64. New York Giants - Josh Barrett, SS, Arizona
ROUND THREE PROJECTIONS:
65. Miami - Tavares Gooden, ILB, Miami
66. St. Louis - Shawn Crable, OLB, Michigan
67. Kansas City - Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa
68. Carolina (From NYJets) - Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan
69. Atlanta - Phillip Wheeler, ILB, Georgia Tech
70. New England* - Duane Brown, OT, Va Tech
71. San Francisco - Steve Justice, C, Wake Forest
72. Jacksonville (from Buffalo) - Dwight Lowery, CB, San Jose St.
73. Buffalo - John Sullivan, C, Notre Dame
74. Minnesota (from Denver) - Johnny Dingle, DE, W. Virginia
75. Carolina- Quintin Demps, FS, UTEP
76. Chicago - Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware
77. Detroit - Kevin Smith, RB, UCF
78. Cincinnati - Bruce Davis, OLB, UCLA
79. New Orleans - Chevis Jackson, CB, LSU
80. Houston - Jamar Adams,SS, Michigan
81. Philadelphia - John Greco, OT, Toledo
82. Arizona - Oneil Cousins , OT, UTEP
83. Minnesota - Craig Steltz, S, LSU
84. Tampa Bay - Kendall Langford, DE, Hampton
85. Washington - Earl Bennett, WR, Vanderbilt
86. Tennessee - Darrell Robertson, DE, Georgia Tech
87. Seattle - Eddie Royal, WR, Va Tech
88. Detroit (from Cleveland) Brad Cottam, TE, Tennessee
89. Pittsburgh - Mike McGlynn, OG, Pitt (kendall langford/de someone who plays 3-4 end)
90. Jacksonville - Chris Ellis, DE, Va Tech
91. Chicago (from SD) - Will Franklin, WR, Missouri
92. Green Bay - John Carlson, TE, Notre Dame
93. Dallas - Marcus Griffin, S, Texas
94. Indianapolis - Chilo Rachal, OG, USC
95. New England - Tyvon Branch, CB, UConn
96. NY Giants- Antwaun Molden, CB, 6-1
ROUND FOUR PROJECTIONS
97. Miami
98. St. Louis
99. NY Jets
100. Atlanta
101. Oakland
102. Kansas City
103. Baltimore
104. San Francisco
105. Denver
106. Carolina
107. Chicago
108. Detroit
109. Cincinnati
110. NY Jets(from NO)
111. Buffalo
112. Philadelphia
113. Arizona
114. Minnesota
115. Houston
116. Denver (from Washington)
117. Tampa Bay
118. Seattle
119. Cleveland
120. Pittsburgh
121. Tennessee
122. Jacksonville
123. San Diego ( pick forfeited)
124. Dallas
125. Indianapolis
126. Green Bay
127. New England
128. NY Giants
1. Miami Dolphins - Jake Long, OT, Michigan
2. St. Louis Rams -Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio St.
3. Atlanta Falcons - Glen Dorsey, DT, LSU
4. Oakland Raiders - Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
5. Kansas City Chiefs - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.
6. New York Jets - Chris Long, DE, Virginia
7. N.E. Patriots (from SF) - Derrick Harvery, DE, Florida
8. Baltimore Ravens - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
9. Cincinnati Bengals - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
10. New Orleans Saints - Keith Rivers, LB, USC
11. Buffalo Bills - Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
12. Denver Broncos - Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
13. Carolina Panthers - Kenny Phillips, FS, Miami
14. Chicago Bears - Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
15. Detroit Lions - DRC, CB, Tenn. St.
16. Arizona Cardinals - Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
17. Minnesota Vikings - Jeff Otah, OT, Pitt
18. Houston Texans - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
19. Philadelphia Eagles - Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
20. Tampa Bay Bucs - James Hardy, WR, Indiana
21. Washington Redskins - Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
22. Dallas Cowboys (Cleve.) - Brandon Albert, OG, Tennessee
23. Pittsburgh Steelers - Anthony Collins, OT, Kansas
24. Tennessee Titans - Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina (RB/KR/WR-BPA)
25. Seattle Seahawks - Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas
26. J'ville Jaguars - Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy (Want top DE or CB)
27. Dallas Cowboys - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
28. S.F. 49ers (from Indy) - Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan St.
29. San Diego Chargers - Mike Jenkins, CB, So Florida
30. Green Bay Packers - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
New England Forfeits Pick #31 due to illegal spying
32. New York Giants - Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
ROUND TWO PROJECTIONS:
33. Miami - Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
34. St. Louis - DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal
35. Atlanta - Brain Brohm, QB, Louisville
36. Kansas City - Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida
37. NY Jets - Chad Henne, QB, Michigan
38. Atlanta - Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina
39. Baltimore - Quentin Groves, OLB, Auburn
40. San Francisco - Erin Henderson, OLB, Maryland
41. New Orleans - Mike Pollack, C, Arizona
42. Buffalo - Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue
43. Denver - Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame
44. Carolina -Sam Baker, OT, USC
45. Chicago - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska
46. Detroit - Jerod Mayo, ILB, Tennessee
47. Cincinnati - Fred Davis, TE, USC
48. Minnesota - Martellus Bennett, TE, Texas A&M
49. Atlanta* - Curtis Lofton, ILB, Oklahoma
50. Philadelphia - DaJuan Morgan, S, NC St.
51. Arizona - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska
52. Washington - Lawrence Jackson, DE, Florida
53. Tampa Bay - Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware
54. Pittsburgh - Justin King, CB, Penn St.
55. Tennessee - Roy Scheuning, OG, Oregon St. (need center also)
56. Seattle - Pat Sims, DT, Auburn
57. Green Bay (from Cleveland) - Dre Moore, DT, Maryland
58. Miami (from SD) - Red Bryant, DT, Texas A&M
59. Jacksonville - Duane Brown, OT, Va. Tech (OL or DE or DT)
60. Indianapolis - Matt Forte, RB, Tulane
61. Green Bay -Cliff Avril, OLB, Purdue
62. Dallas - Thomas Terrell, CB, USC
63. New England - Marcus Howard, LB, Georgia
64. New York Giants - Josh Barrett, SS, Arizona
ROUND THREE PROJECTIONS:
65. Miami - Tavares Gooden, ILB, Miami
66. St. Louis - Shawn Crable, OLB, Michigan
67. Kansas City - Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa
68. Carolina (From NYJets) - Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan
69. Atlanta - Phillip Wheeler, ILB, Georgia Tech
70. New England* - Duane Brown, OT, Va Tech
71. San Francisco - Steve Justice, C, Wake Forest
72. Jacksonville (from Buffalo) - Dwight Lowery, CB, San Jose St.
73. Buffalo - John Sullivan, C, Notre Dame
74. Minnesota (from Denver) - Johnny Dingle, DE, W. Virginia
75. Carolina- Quintin Demps, FS, UTEP
76. Chicago - Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware
77. Detroit - Kevin Smith, RB, UCF
78. Cincinnati - Bruce Davis, OLB, UCLA
79. New Orleans - Chevis Jackson, CB, LSU
80. Houston - Jamar Adams,SS, Michigan
81. Philadelphia - John Greco, OT, Toledo
82. Arizona - Oneil Cousins , OT, UTEP
83. Minnesota - Craig Steltz, S, LSU
84. Tampa Bay - Kendall Langford, DE, Hampton
85. Washington - Earl Bennett, WR, Vanderbilt
86. Tennessee - Darrell Robertson, DE, Georgia Tech
87. Seattle - Eddie Royal, WR, Va Tech
88. Detroit (from Cleveland) Brad Cottam, TE, Tennessee
89. Pittsburgh - Mike McGlynn, OG, Pitt (kendall langford/de someone who plays 3-4 end)
90. Jacksonville - Chris Ellis, DE, Va Tech
91. Chicago (from SD) - Will Franklin, WR, Missouri
92. Green Bay - John Carlson, TE, Notre Dame
93. Dallas - Marcus Griffin, S, Texas
94. Indianapolis - Chilo Rachal, OG, USC
95. New England - Tyvon Branch, CB, UConn
96. NY Giants- Antwaun Molden, CB, 6-1
ROUND FOUR PROJECTIONS
97. Miami
98. St. Louis
99. NY Jets
100. Atlanta
101. Oakland
102. Kansas City
103. Baltimore
104. San Francisco
105. Denver
106. Carolina
107. Chicago
108. Detroit
109. Cincinnati
110. NY Jets(from NO)
111. Buffalo
112. Philadelphia
113. Arizona
114. Minnesota
115. Houston
116. Denver (from Washington)
117. Tampa Bay
118. Seattle
119. Cleveland
120. Pittsburgh
121. Tennessee
122. Jacksonville
123. San Diego ( pick forfeited)
124. Dallas
125. Indianapolis
126. Green Bay
127. New England
128. NY Giants
Sunday, March 9, 2008
"Baby Boilers" Settle for 2nd Place finish.
Purdue's young guns knocked off the university with the original Fab Four. This contemporary version features freshman with names like Hummle, Moore, Martin and Johnson sparking Purdue to a stunning season. This afternoon the Boilermakers win their final game of the regular season 72-58 in Ann Arbor and clinch sole possession of 2nd place in the Big Ten.
Only a stumble this past Tuesday night in Columbus kept the Baby Boilers from collecting the Big Ten title, losing by 3 in overtime. Had they won that game and then the one today, Purdue would have won the title outright by virtue of beating Wisconsin twice this season. However, the loss to Ohio State cost Purdue that championship banner and the young squad end in 2nd place, one full game behind the Badgers.
Now the Boilermakers (24-7, 15-3) are seeded #2 into the Big Ten post-season tournament and face the winner of Penn State-Illinois for a Friday night game. Purdue has never won the post-season tournament. In fact, the Boilers are usually out in the first round. This year might be different. Especially considering that one of the four frosh, Scott Martin, seems to finally be getting his groove going.
Martin has battled back from an ankle injury earlier in the year, and was key in the win over Michigan St. He also played exceptionally well against Ohio St., as well as today against Michigan. That means the Boilers are chugging on all cylinders now, enabling the Boilers to get potential double-figure scoring from any of their five starters, while be able to go to a deep bench. Their only possible weakness (and it's a glaring one) is not having a big man in the paint.
One thing that is certain is that the Boilers have earned a trip back to the NCAA tournament. That will be the second trip in three years for young Matt Painter, who has turned the program back into a winner just three years after succeeding long-time coach Gene Keady. In his first year, Matt Painter had to endure ending up at the bottom of the league. What a turnaround.
The achilles heel for Purdue in losses this season has been poor shooting and breakdowns defensively allowing dribble penetration. Teams with larger front-lint players are also starting to take advantage of the inside game, and pushing the perimeter out further on Purdue when the Boilers set up offensively. The Baby Boilers will have to adjust to that in both tournaments if they hope to go deep in tourney play.
But for the youngest team in the nation, in their first year of play at this level, it is a huge achievement. With the addition of a big, dominating inside player, the Boilers are Final Four material in the coming years.
BONUS PURDUE SPORTS NEWS: The Lady Boilers knocked off Illinois 58-56 to win the Big Ten Women's Championship at Conseco Field House in Indianapolis tonight. Lakisha Freeman hit a follow-up rebound of her own miss at the buzzer to capture an improbable tournament title for a Boiler squad who has struggled through injury and adversity this season. Had Purdue's lady Boilers not won the Big Ten tourney, it's hard to imagine they would be going to the NCAA tournament.
This is the 7th B10 tournament title for the Purdue women's team overall. That's HALF of them, as the tournament is 14 years old. The last tournament championship loss for Illinois was back in 1999, to Purdue. In that year, Purdue went on to win the NCAA Women's title.
Deja vu? Doubtful...but exciting nonetheless for a team that really wasn't expected to do this.
Only a stumble this past Tuesday night in Columbus kept the Baby Boilers from collecting the Big Ten title, losing by 3 in overtime. Had they won that game and then the one today, Purdue would have won the title outright by virtue of beating Wisconsin twice this season. However, the loss to Ohio State cost Purdue that championship banner and the young squad end in 2nd place, one full game behind the Badgers.
Now the Boilermakers (24-7, 15-3) are seeded #2 into the Big Ten post-season tournament and face the winner of Penn State-Illinois for a Friday night game. Purdue has never won the post-season tournament. In fact, the Boilers are usually out in the first round. This year might be different. Especially considering that one of the four frosh, Scott Martin, seems to finally be getting his groove going.
Martin has battled back from an ankle injury earlier in the year, and was key in the win over Michigan St. He also played exceptionally well against Ohio St., as well as today against Michigan. That means the Boilers are chugging on all cylinders now, enabling the Boilers to get potential double-figure scoring from any of their five starters, while be able to go to a deep bench. Their only possible weakness (and it's a glaring one) is not having a big man in the paint.
One thing that is certain is that the Boilers have earned a trip back to the NCAA tournament. That will be the second trip in three years for young Matt Painter, who has turned the program back into a winner just three years after succeeding long-time coach Gene Keady. In his first year, Matt Painter had to endure ending up at the bottom of the league. What a turnaround.
The achilles heel for Purdue in losses this season has been poor shooting and breakdowns defensively allowing dribble penetration. Teams with larger front-lint players are also starting to take advantage of the inside game, and pushing the perimeter out further on Purdue when the Boilers set up offensively. The Baby Boilers will have to adjust to that in both tournaments if they hope to go deep in tourney play.
But for the youngest team in the nation, in their first year of play at this level, it is a huge achievement. With the addition of a big, dominating inside player, the Boilers are Final Four material in the coming years.
BONUS PURDUE SPORTS NEWS: The Lady Boilers knocked off Illinois 58-56 to win the Big Ten Women's Championship at Conseco Field House in Indianapolis tonight. Lakisha Freeman hit a follow-up rebound of her own miss at the buzzer to capture an improbable tournament title for a Boiler squad who has struggled through injury and adversity this season. Had Purdue's lady Boilers not won the Big Ten tourney, it's hard to imagine they would be going to the NCAA tournament.
This is the 7th B10 tournament title for the Purdue women's team overall. That's HALF of them, as the tournament is 14 years old. The last tournament championship loss for Illinois was back in 1999, to Purdue. In that year, Purdue went on to win the NCAA Women's title.
Deja vu? Doubtful...but exciting nonetheless for a team that really wasn't expected to do this.
Monday, March 3, 2008
BoilerMacR's Mock Draft v6
FIRST ROUND
1. Miami Dolphins - Chris Long, DE, Virginia
2. St. Louis Rams - Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio St.
3. Atlanta Falcons - Jake Long, OT, Michigan
4. Oakland Raiders - Glen Dorsey, DT, LSU
5. Kansas City Chiefs - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.
6. New York Jets - Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas (betcha Jets trade later with Dallas)
7. N.E. Patriots (from SF) - Keith Rivers, LB, USC
8. Baltimore Ravens - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
9. Cincinnati Bengals - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
10. New Orleans Saints - Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
11. Buffalo Bills - Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
12. Denver Broncos - Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
13. Carolina Panthers - Kenny Phillips, FS, Miami
14. Chicago Bears - Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
15. Detroit Lions - Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
16. Arizona Cardinals - Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
17. Minnesota Vikings - Jeff Otah, OT, Pitt
18. Houston Texans - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
19. Philadelphia Eagles - Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
20. Tampa Bay Bucs - James Hardy, WR, Indiana
21. Washington Redskins - Brandon Albert, OG, Virginia
22. Dallas Cowboys (Cleve.) - D.R-Cromartie, CB, Tenn. St.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers - Anthony Collins, OT, Kansas
24. Tennessee Titans - Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
25. Seattle Seahawks - Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas
26. J'ville Jaguars - Dan Connor, ILB, Penn St.
27. Dallas Cowboys - Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan St.
28. S.F. 49ers (from Indy) - DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal
29. San Diego Chargers - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
30. Green Bay Packers - Mike Jenkins, CB, So. Florida
New England Forfeits Pick #31 due to illegal spying
32. New York Giants - Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
ROUND TWO PROJECTIONS:
33. Miami - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
34. St. Louis - Early Doucet, WR, LSU
35. Atlanta - Brain Brohm, QB, Louisville
36. Oakland - Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
37. Kansas City - Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida
38. N.Y. Jets - Xavier Adibi, OLB, Va Tech
39. Baltimore - Quentin Groves, OLB, Auburn
40. San Francisco - Erin Henderson, OLB, Maryland
41. New Orleans - Mike Pollack, C, Arizona
42. Buffalo - Martellus Bennett, TE, Texas A&M
43. Denver - Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame
44. Carolina -Chris Johnson, RB, ECU
45. Chicago - Sam Baker, OT, USC
46. Detroit - Jerod Mayo, ILB, Tennessee
47. Cincinnati - Fred Davis, TE, USC
48. Minnesota - Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue
49. Atlanta* - Curtis Lofton, ILB, Oklahoma
50. Philadelphia - DaJuan Morgan, S, NC St.
51. Arizona - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska
52. Washington - Lawrence Jackson, DE, Florida
53. Tampa Bay - Chad Henne, QB, Michigan
54. Cleveland - Tracy Porter, CB, IU
55. Pittsburgh - Roy Scheuning, OG, Oregon St.
56. Tennessee - Pat Sims, DT, Auburn
57. Seattle - Dre Moore, DT, Maryland
58. Jacksonville - Red Bryant, DT, Texas A&M
59. Miami* - Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan
60. Green Bay -Cliff Avril, OLB, Purdue
61. Dallas - Ray Rice, RB, Rutgers
62. Indianapolis - Matt Forte, RB, Tulane
63. New York Giants - Thomas Terrell, CB, USC
64. New England - Marcus Howard, LB, Georgia
ROUND THREE PROJECTIONS:
65. Miami - Tavares Gooden, ILB, Miami
66. St. Louis - Shawn Crable, OLB, Michigan
67. Kansas City - Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa
68. N.Y. Jets - Earl Bennett, WR, Vanderbilt
69. New England* - Duane Brown, OT, Va Tech
70. Atlanta - Philip Wheeler, ILB, Georgia Tech
71. San Francisco - Steve Justice, C, Wake Forest
72. Buffalo* - Dwight Lowery, CB, San Jose St.
73. Buffalo - John Sullivan, C, Notre Dame
74. Minnesota* - Johnny Dingle, DE, W. Virginia
75. Carolina- Quintin Demps, FS, UTEP
76. Chicago - Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware
77. Detroit - Kevin Smith, RB, UCF
78. Cincinnati - Bruce Davis, OLB, UCLA
79. New Orleans - Chilo Rachal, OG, USC
80. Houston - Jamar Adams,SS, Michigan
81. Philadelphia - John Greco, OT, Toledo
82. Arizona - Oneil Cousins , OT, UTEP
83. Minnesota - Craig Steltz, S, LSU
84. Tampa Bay - Kendall Langford, DE, Hampton
85. Washington - Donnie Avery, WR, Houston
86. Cleveland - Darrell Robertson, DE, Georgia Tech
87. Tennessee - Eddie Royal, WR, Va Tech
88. Seattle - Brad Cottam, TE, Tennessee
89. Pittsburgh - Mike McGlynn, OG, Pitt
90. Jacksonville - Chris Ellis, DE, Va Tech
91. Chicago* - Will Franklin, WR, Missouri
92. Green Bay - John Carlson, TE, Notre Dame
93. Dallas - Marcus Griffin, S, Texas
94. Indianapolis - Ahtyba Rubin, DT, Iowa St.
95. NY Giants - Justin King, CB, Penn St.
96. New England - Chevis Jackson, CB, LSU
1. Miami Dolphins - Chris Long, DE, Virginia
2. St. Louis Rams - Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio St.
3. Atlanta Falcons - Jake Long, OT, Michigan
4. Oakland Raiders - Glen Dorsey, DT, LSU
5. Kansas City Chiefs - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.
6. New York Jets - Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas (betcha Jets trade later with Dallas)
7. N.E. Patriots (from SF) - Keith Rivers, LB, USC
8. Baltimore Ravens - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
9. Cincinnati Bengals - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
10. New Orleans Saints - Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
11. Buffalo Bills - Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
12. Denver Broncos - Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
13. Carolina Panthers - Kenny Phillips, FS, Miami
14. Chicago Bears - Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
15. Detroit Lions - Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
16. Arizona Cardinals - Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
17. Minnesota Vikings - Jeff Otah, OT, Pitt
18. Houston Texans - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
19. Philadelphia Eagles - Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
20. Tampa Bay Bucs - James Hardy, WR, Indiana
21. Washington Redskins - Brandon Albert, OG, Virginia
22. Dallas Cowboys (Cleve.) - D.R-Cromartie, CB, Tenn. St.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers - Anthony Collins, OT, Kansas
24. Tennessee Titans - Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
25. Seattle Seahawks - Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas
26. J'ville Jaguars - Dan Connor, ILB, Penn St.
27. Dallas Cowboys - Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan St.
28. S.F. 49ers (from Indy) - DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal
29. San Diego Chargers - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
30. Green Bay Packers - Mike Jenkins, CB, So. Florida
New England Forfeits Pick #31 due to illegal spying
32. New York Giants - Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
ROUND TWO PROJECTIONS:
33. Miami - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
34. St. Louis - Early Doucet, WR, LSU
35. Atlanta - Brain Brohm, QB, Louisville
36. Oakland - Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
37. Kansas City - Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida
38. N.Y. Jets - Xavier Adibi, OLB, Va Tech
39. Baltimore - Quentin Groves, OLB, Auburn
40. San Francisco - Erin Henderson, OLB, Maryland
41. New Orleans - Mike Pollack, C, Arizona
42. Buffalo - Martellus Bennett, TE, Texas A&M
43. Denver - Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame
44. Carolina -Chris Johnson, RB, ECU
45. Chicago - Sam Baker, OT, USC
46. Detroit - Jerod Mayo, ILB, Tennessee
47. Cincinnati - Fred Davis, TE, USC
48. Minnesota - Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue
49. Atlanta* - Curtis Lofton, ILB, Oklahoma
50. Philadelphia - DaJuan Morgan, S, NC St.
51. Arizona - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska
52. Washington - Lawrence Jackson, DE, Florida
53. Tampa Bay - Chad Henne, QB, Michigan
54. Cleveland - Tracy Porter, CB, IU
55. Pittsburgh - Roy Scheuning, OG, Oregon St.
56. Tennessee - Pat Sims, DT, Auburn
57. Seattle - Dre Moore, DT, Maryland
58. Jacksonville - Red Bryant, DT, Texas A&M
59. Miami* - Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan
60. Green Bay -Cliff Avril, OLB, Purdue
61. Dallas - Ray Rice, RB, Rutgers
62. Indianapolis - Matt Forte, RB, Tulane
63. New York Giants - Thomas Terrell, CB, USC
64. New England - Marcus Howard, LB, Georgia
ROUND THREE PROJECTIONS:
65. Miami - Tavares Gooden, ILB, Miami
66. St. Louis - Shawn Crable, OLB, Michigan
67. Kansas City - Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa
68. N.Y. Jets - Earl Bennett, WR, Vanderbilt
69. New England* - Duane Brown, OT, Va Tech
70. Atlanta - Philip Wheeler, ILB, Georgia Tech
71. San Francisco - Steve Justice, C, Wake Forest
72. Buffalo* - Dwight Lowery, CB, San Jose St.
73. Buffalo - John Sullivan, C, Notre Dame
74. Minnesota* - Johnny Dingle, DE, W. Virginia
75. Carolina- Quintin Demps, FS, UTEP
76. Chicago - Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware
77. Detroit - Kevin Smith, RB, UCF
78. Cincinnati - Bruce Davis, OLB, UCLA
79. New Orleans - Chilo Rachal, OG, USC
80. Houston - Jamar Adams,SS, Michigan
81. Philadelphia - John Greco, OT, Toledo
82. Arizona - Oneil Cousins , OT, UTEP
83. Minnesota - Craig Steltz, S, LSU
84. Tampa Bay - Kendall Langford, DE, Hampton
85. Washington - Donnie Avery, WR, Houston
86. Cleveland - Darrell Robertson, DE, Georgia Tech
87. Tennessee - Eddie Royal, WR, Va Tech
88. Seattle - Brad Cottam, TE, Tennessee
89. Pittsburgh - Mike McGlynn, OG, Pitt
90. Jacksonville - Chris Ellis, DE, Va Tech
91. Chicago* - Will Franklin, WR, Missouri
92. Green Bay - John Carlson, TE, Notre Dame
93. Dallas - Marcus Griffin, S, Texas
94. Indianapolis - Ahtyba Rubin, DT, Iowa St.
95. NY Giants - Justin King, CB, Penn St.
96. New England - Chevis Jackson, CB, LSU
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Boilers #1 in Big Ten
Never would have thought it. Not in a million years. And it seems like it has been ions since I could write that subject line. Only 12 years since our last title, but that IS ions in basketball years in this state.
Yes, I saw the inevitable potential in the 4 young Purdue players this past summer in Mackey during the exhibition Indiana all-star game. I knew Matt Painter would eventually have them playing as a solid team and challenging for Big Ten titles in a couple of years, while creating havoc for the initial two years as this young squad matured in the midst of Big Ten battles.
However, never in my wildest dreams did I conjure up even one thought of battling for the title in their very first campaign. And much of this has been done with extremely suffocating defense and early season shooting woes. And one of the four, Scott Martin, has been out with an injury for a few games. Before that, Robbie Hummel sat out the lone league loss with the flu.
This is one of the most enjoyable and exciting Purdue teams I have ever watched. I remember the Walter Jordan, Wayne Walls and the 1974 NIT Champions were fun to watch. So too was the NCAA Final Four team of Joe Barry Carroll, Jerry Sichting, the Walker brothers and Arnette Hillman. The improbable 1984 team with the Jim Rowinski bank shot to beat Illinois and the might 1988 team with the triplets of Stephens-Mitchell-Lewis. And of course the three-peat team of '94,'95 and '96 led by Glenn Robinson, were as exciting as any.
But now comes as big a game in the Purdue-IU rivalry as there has ever been. Not since 2000 have these two teams battled in a league game that meant something other than bragging rights. THIS game is for the league lead and potentially the league championship. IF Purdue wins, they will have a lone loss in league play, while the Hoosiers would then have 3.
The game is in Bloomington and for whatever ridiculous reason, this is the only matchup between these in-state rivals this year, so Purdue would then have the edge on both IU and Wisconsin, while splitting the series with four loss Michigan St. Decided advantage for Purdue.
Tuesday night will be HUGE.
Yes, I saw the inevitable potential in the 4 young Purdue players this past summer in Mackey during the exhibition Indiana all-star game. I knew Matt Painter would eventually have them playing as a solid team and challenging for Big Ten titles in a couple of years, while creating havoc for the initial two years as this young squad matured in the midst of Big Ten battles.
However, never in my wildest dreams did I conjure up even one thought of battling for the title in their very first campaign. And much of this has been done with extremely suffocating defense and early season shooting woes. And one of the four, Scott Martin, has been out with an injury for a few games. Before that, Robbie Hummel sat out the lone league loss with the flu.
This is one of the most enjoyable and exciting Purdue teams I have ever watched. I remember the Walter Jordan, Wayne Walls and the 1974 NIT Champions were fun to watch. So too was the NCAA Final Four team of Joe Barry Carroll, Jerry Sichting, the Walker brothers and Arnette Hillman. The improbable 1984 team with the Jim Rowinski bank shot to beat Illinois and the might 1988 team with the triplets of Stephens-Mitchell-Lewis. And of course the three-peat team of '94,'95 and '96 led by Glenn Robinson, were as exciting as any.
But now comes as big a game in the Purdue-IU rivalry as there has ever been. Not since 2000 have these two teams battled in a league game that meant something other than bragging rights. THIS game is for the league lead and potentially the league championship. IF Purdue wins, they will have a lone loss in league play, while the Hoosiers would then have 3.
The game is in Bloomington and for whatever ridiculous reason, this is the only matchup between these in-state rivals this year, so Purdue would then have the edge on both IU and Wisconsin, while splitting the series with four loss Michigan St. Decided advantage for Purdue.
Tuesday night will be HUGE.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
2008 NFL Mock Draft, v5
FIRST ROUND
1. Miami Dolphins - Chris Long, DE, Virginia
The big decision for the Tuna Company will be whether or not to build the foundation with a new QB, new DT or new DE. The fact that Parcell's loves a strong defense and an especially strong pass rushing attack would indicate he may favor DE Long. But Parcells has also made 3 QB's his first picks in previous drafts (Simms, Testaverde & Bledsoe) so he could start the Dolphins over on offense. And will Parcells go with the 3-4 defense? If so, that pretty much cancels out a Glen Dorsey pick. I'll go with defense because I think Parcells is looking at snatching Tim Tebow as the QB of the future in the next draft, so he will opt to get strong on defense and ride it out at QB with Green or another FA.
2. St. Louis Rams - Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio St.
The Rams need a serious pass rusher who can also help stop the run. Gholston races up the charts after an outstanding combine and becomes the second DE in a row taken in the draft, especially after the Giants showed what can happen with great pressure on a QB.
3. Atlanta Falcons - Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
I cannot see the Falcons passing on a potentially fast, powerful backfield of McFadden and Jerious Norwood, not to mention veteran Warrick Dunn. They can pick up a QB in the next round, then work on the defense while adding offensive lineman as well.
4. Oakland Raiders - Glen Dorsey, DT, Miami
The franchise QB will have growing pains and he will need protection and receivers. But the Raiders can't let a prospect like Dorsey go. So they take Dorsey here and then will work to get the offensive tackle position and receiver positions addressed in later rounds. The worry about not taking Jake Long here is the protection of Russell. But if you can't stop the other team Russell is likely always playing without a lead.
5. Kansas City Chiefs - Jake Long, OT, Michigan
The QB's cannot be any good at all without protection or a running game. They have to have extremely talented offensive lineman to do both. It's a no-brainer pick to me with limited, top-rated OT's at a premium. The Chiefs get a gift with Long falling in their laps here. True, they need a defensive end and a corner, but they can't move the ball without quality up front. Not moving the ball means the defense stays on the field much too long and eventually leads to season-ending injuries, while games lost in the 4th Qtr. pile up.
6. New York Jets - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
The speed of Ellis, especially as it relates to inside pass rushing, puts him just ahead of Dorsey in a fit for the NY Jets. Plus Dorsey is a prototypical 4-3 DT. The Jets were 30th in total yards allowed per game in 2007 and were especially atrocious against the run. They need help on the defensive line and at outside linebacker. I'm thinking that rotating Ellis and Robertson at the DT positions, it helps both in to stay healthy and fresh. It also allows Ellis to learn the ropes. This would help DE Shaun Ellis and Coleman on the outside too, as the Jets could later add depth at DE and help in the rotation on the edge with Ellis, Coleman and Mosely. But there's no doubt defense is a main theme in April, but it must start up front.
7. N.E. Patriots (from SF) - Derrick Harvey, DE/LB, Florida
The Pats need to revitalize their LB corps, and might be able to utilize Harvey as an OLB while having him fill in on occassion as an outside pass rusher at DE. Great versatility here with this pick, coming at a time when New England's only big problem is the aging backer corps.
8. Baltimore Ravens - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
The Ravens could potentially role the dice here and continue to hope the trio of McNair, Boller and Troy Smith will be enough for now. But other than Calais Campbell or Mike Jenkins, the Ravens really have no other first round value pick that matches up with a high enough need than does Matt Ryan. Look for the Ravens to say "Sayanora" to McNair, and have Ryan battle it out with Boller and Smith.
9. Cincinnati Bengals - Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
Could also be Kentwaan Balmer here, but I think Campbell is the more certain pick. With the Bengals, EVERYTHING in this draft will be about defense - except for the one pick they must make at the tight end position. And there should be some good tight ends in later rounds.
10. New Orleans Saints - Mike Jenkins, CB, So. Florida
Tough call here between a CB and DT Balmer, and it could go either way. I am going with cornerback because I just can't get those pictures of hopeless Jason David out of my mind. Now David isn't done, he just needs to be in that system a little longer and find his niche. Enter Mike Jenkins, who runs a 4.4 40 and is 6'0", 200 lbs. What's more, Jenkins could end up helping the Saints on special teams as a kick/punt returner rather than risking injury with Reggie Bush. The Saints desperately need a solid secondary to help New Orleans slow down opponents. To be sure, this will be one of many defensive picks for the Saints, unless they shop in FA.
11. Buffalo Bills - Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
Adding a speedy, big wideout will help the Bills offense increase it's potential explosive force exponentially. A defensive tackle, cornerback and linebacker are needs too, but the ability to put points on the board within the same division as New England is the most important. Kelly will help that cause, creating multiple weapons for opposing defenses to try and defend.
12. Denver Broncos - Kentwaan Balmer, DT, N.C.
Stuffing the run and creating a more stingy defense is their primary consideration in this draft. They also need a pick at wideout and safety, as well as linebacker, but starting in the middle of the defensive line with Balmer will start them off in the right direction.
13. Carolina Panthers - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.
I'm torn between the offensive line and safety for Carolina, especially seeing a talent like Kenny Phillips available. Seems to me that a safety will likely be available in the second round and not a top level OT, so the Panthers go with Clady here.
14. Chicago Bears - Gosder Cherilus, OT, BC
Huge, very athletic OT helps the Bears solidify the offensive line and offer more protection for whomever they finally decide to put in at QB. Other than running back, the Bears will need better depth and production out of their offensive line.
15. Detroit Lions - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
The passing defense of Detroit was horrid and must be addressed in the draft. They finished 31st in the NFL in passing yards allowed and forced the Lions away from any chance at a running game to balance a prolific passing offense. It forced Jon Kitna and company to always play catch-up or to score on every drive. Look for one more pick in the next two rounds at corner, with adds at linebacker and the offensive line.
16. Arizona Cardinals - Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
The Cards have little protection for the QB, which spells doom for this highly charged offense. What's more, the offensive line is not doing the job in the running game as well. This pick is a bigger need than defensive end and must be addressed in the first round.
17. Minnesota Vikings - James Hardy, WR, Indiana
This pick is clearly dependent on the type of combine Hardy has, but with his size and quickness, this could be the answer the Vikes need at the wideout position. Philip Merling could be the pick at defensive end here if Hardy doesn't excel at the combine, and then Minnesota might be able to pick him up in round two.
18. Houston Texans - Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
The guy is flat-out good. Catches the ball, is fast, strong and patient enough to wait for his blockers to create the holes. And his burst through the hole is exciting. Unless the Texans decide an offensive tackle trumps a running back (which it may), Mendenhall is too valuable a pick to miss out on.
19. Philadelphia Eagles - Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC
The Eagles need up front defensive pressure as well as upgrades in the linebacking unit and secondary. Lawrence Jackson, DE, from Southern Cal may be the pick here instead.
20. Tampa Bay Bucs - Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
I was thinking more about a wideout with this pick, but the Bucs cannot afford to miss out on a top OT. They can probably find a suitable receiver in the next couple of rounds, so they go with Williams with this selection. Unless, of course, they find a good candidate in free agency. In that case, this is a definite wide receiver pick.
21. Washington Redskins - Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
Washington needs several improvements in their defensive line and Merling should be a good starting point. It's possible Devin Thomas, the wideout from Michigan State, could be the selection here. The Skins also need some depth in the offensive line.
22. Dallas Cowboys (Cleve.) - Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy
The secondary help is a MUST for the first pick, and they could even go CB in the next pick of the first round. Another Troy alumni helps give the Cowboys stability in the secondary.
23. Seattle Seahawks - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
He will be the eventual heir to Shaun Alexander as the Holmgren era comes to an end following the upcoming season. Coach-in-waiting Jim Mora is already licking his chops.
24. Pittsburgh Steelers - Sam Baker, OT, USC
Just what the Steelers needed to help make certain Parker still has the blocking he needs to break off the long one. Along with offensive line reinforcement, the Steelers will look to bolster the corners and need to find an explosive wideout. Devin Thomas or Early Doucet could go here, but I have a hunch the offensive line is the pick.
25. Tennessee Titans - Devin Thomas, WR, MSU
This is the sleeper of the wideout position, which may not last much longer than the combine. Thomas has the perfect size, strength and speed to be a consistently solid WR in the pros. Think of him as a slightly taller version of Reggie Wayne. The Titans could be forced to look for a DT if Haynesworth isn't re-signed, but I don't think Fisher will allow that to happen. Even if Haynesworth is back, the Titans still need to add some depth at DT in order to rotate Albert in and out along with Vickerson.
26. J'ville Jaguars - Reggie Smith, S/CB, Oklahoma
27. Dallas Cowboys - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
Although the Cowboys might think about DT with this pick, if Jones is still on the board (and considering owner Jerry Jones' affinity for his alma mater) Dallas will not pass this pick up.
28. S.F. 49ers (from Indy) - DeMario Pressley, DT, NC State
Huge selection for the 49ers, as they need that disruptive, big body in the defensive front line to help create penetration up the middle and disrupt gaps for opposing RB's to slide through. San Francisco will select whichever of the DT's remain after the Cowboy pick, but will get a good one no matter which of them remain.
29. San Diego Chargers - D.R.-Cromartie, CB, LSU
Teaming up with another Cromartie will give play-by-play announcers fits having two Cromarties on the field. It will also pose additional challenges to opposing offenses searching for vulnerabilities in the Charger secondary. It is also possible the Chargers flirt with taking a DT at this pick. Someone like Trevor Laws or Dre Moore.
30. Green Bay Packers - Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
Chance of the Packers taking LB Rivers of USC with this pick, but the corner position is an area of concern.
31. New York Giants - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska
Adding depth to a pretty tough offensive line.
32. New England Patriots - Forfeited
ROUND TWO PROJECTIONS:
33. Miami - Keith Rivers, LB, USC
34. St. Louis - Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan
35. Atlanta - Andre Woodson, QB, Kentucky
The Falcons are now set in their offensive backfield for years to come. Potentially.
36. Oakland - Adarius Bowman, WR, Oklahoma St.
37. Kansas City - Justin Lee, CB, Penn State
38. N.Y. Jets - Dan Connor, LB, Penn State
39. Baltimore - Tony Hills, OT, Texas
40. San Francisco - Ali Highsmith, LB, LSU
41. New Orleans - Dan Connor, OLB, Penn St
42. Buffalo - Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame
43. Denver - Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
44. Carolina -Thomas DeCoud, S, California
45. Chicago - Kevin Smith, RB, Central Florida
46. Detroit - Shawn Crable, LB, Michigan
47. Cincinnati - Tavares Gooden, OLB, Miami
48. Minnesota - Andre Fluellen, DT, Florida St.
49. Atlanta* - Barry Richardson, OT, Clemson
50. Philadelphia - DaJuan Morgan, S, NC St.
51. Arizona - Tommy Blake, DE, TCU
52. Washington - Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
53. Tampa Bay - Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
54. Cleveland - Frank Okam, DT, Texas
55. Pittsburgh - Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa
56. Tennessee - Chris Ellis, DE, Virginia Tech
57. Seattle - Fred Davis, TE, USC
58. Jacksonville - Wallace Gilberry, DE, Alabama
59. Miami* - Martin Rucker, TE, Missouri
60. Green Bay -Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa
61. Dallas - D.J. Hall, WR, Alabama
62. Indianapolis - Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas
63. New York Giants - Letroy Guion, DT, FSU
64. New England - Chevis Jackson, CB, LSU
ROUND THREE PROJECTIONS:
65. Miami - Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida
66. St. Louis - Craig Steltz, S, LSU
67. Kansas City - Roy Schuening, OG, Oregon St.
68. N.Y. Jets - Kirk Barton, OT, Ohio St.
69. New England* - Erick Young, OG, Tennessee
70. Atlanta - Jerod Mayo, LB, Tennessee
71. San Francisco - Keenan Burton, WR, Kentucky
72. Buffalo* - Dustin Keller, TE/WR, Purdue
73. Buffalo - Earl Bennett, WR, Vanderbilt
74. Minnesota* - Kendall Langford, DE, Hampton
75. Carolina- Red Bryant, DT, Texas A&M
76. Chicago - Dennis Keyes, S, UCLA
77. Detroit - Dre Moore, DT, Maryland
78. Cincinnati - Dwight Lowery, CB, San Jose St.
79. New Orleans - Jolonn Dunbar, ILB, Boston College
80 Houston - Marcus Griffin, S, Texas
81. Philadelphia - Heath Benedict, OT, Newberry
82. Arizona - Tommy Blake, DE, TCU
83. Minnesota - Jacob Tamme, TE, Kentucky
84. Tampa Bay - Steve Slaton, RB, West Virginia
85. Washington - Andre Fluellen, DT, FSU8
86. Cleveland - Kendall Langford, DE, Hampton
87. Tennessee - Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame
88. Seattle - Kerry Brown, OG, Appalachian St.
89. Pittsburgh - Mike McGlynn, OG, Pittsburgh
90. Jacksonville - Darrell Robertson, DT, Georgia Tech
91. Chicago* - Jamar Adams, S, Michigan
92. Green Bay - Duane Brown, OT, Virginia Tech
93. Dallas - Allen Patrick, RB, Oklahoma
94. Indianapolis - Jameel McClain, DE, Syracuse
95. NY Giants - Chad Rinehart, OT, No. Iowa
96. New England - Ray Rice, RB, Rutgers
1. Miami Dolphins - Chris Long, DE, Virginia
The big decision for the Tuna Company will be whether or not to build the foundation with a new QB, new DT or new DE. The fact that Parcell's loves a strong defense and an especially strong pass rushing attack would indicate he may favor DE Long. But Parcells has also made 3 QB's his first picks in previous drafts (Simms, Testaverde & Bledsoe) so he could start the Dolphins over on offense. And will Parcells go with the 3-4 defense? If so, that pretty much cancels out a Glen Dorsey pick. I'll go with defense because I think Parcells is looking at snatching Tim Tebow as the QB of the future in the next draft, so he will opt to get strong on defense and ride it out at QB with Green or another FA.
2. St. Louis Rams - Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio St.
The Rams need a serious pass rusher who can also help stop the run. Gholston races up the charts after an outstanding combine and becomes the second DE in a row taken in the draft, especially after the Giants showed what can happen with great pressure on a QB.
3. Atlanta Falcons - Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
I cannot see the Falcons passing on a potentially fast, powerful backfield of McFadden and Jerious Norwood, not to mention veteran Warrick Dunn. They can pick up a QB in the next round, then work on the defense while adding offensive lineman as well.
4. Oakland Raiders - Glen Dorsey, DT, Miami
The franchise QB will have growing pains and he will need protection and receivers. But the Raiders can't let a prospect like Dorsey go. So they take Dorsey here and then will work to get the offensive tackle position and receiver positions addressed in later rounds. The worry about not taking Jake Long here is the protection of Russell. But if you can't stop the other team Russell is likely always playing without a lead.
5. Kansas City Chiefs - Jake Long, OT, Michigan
The QB's cannot be any good at all without protection or a running game. They have to have extremely talented offensive lineman to do both. It's a no-brainer pick to me with limited, top-rated OT's at a premium. The Chiefs get a gift with Long falling in their laps here. True, they need a defensive end and a corner, but they can't move the ball without quality up front. Not moving the ball means the defense stays on the field much too long and eventually leads to season-ending injuries, while games lost in the 4th Qtr. pile up.
6. New York Jets - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
The speed of Ellis, especially as it relates to inside pass rushing, puts him just ahead of Dorsey in a fit for the NY Jets. Plus Dorsey is a prototypical 4-3 DT. The Jets were 30th in total yards allowed per game in 2007 and were especially atrocious against the run. They need help on the defensive line and at outside linebacker. I'm thinking that rotating Ellis and Robertson at the DT positions, it helps both in to stay healthy and fresh. It also allows Ellis to learn the ropes. This would help DE Shaun Ellis and Coleman on the outside too, as the Jets could later add depth at DE and help in the rotation on the edge with Ellis, Coleman and Mosely. But there's no doubt defense is a main theme in April, but it must start up front.
7. N.E. Patriots (from SF) - Derrick Harvey, DE/LB, Florida
The Pats need to revitalize their LB corps, and might be able to utilize Harvey as an OLB while having him fill in on occassion as an outside pass rusher at DE. Great versatility here with this pick, coming at a time when New England's only big problem is the aging backer corps.
8. Baltimore Ravens - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
The Ravens could potentially role the dice here and continue to hope the trio of McNair, Boller and Troy Smith will be enough for now. But other than Calais Campbell or Mike Jenkins, the Ravens really have no other first round value pick that matches up with a high enough need than does Matt Ryan. Look for the Ravens to say "Sayanora" to McNair, and have Ryan battle it out with Boller and Smith.
9. Cincinnati Bengals - Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
Could also be Kentwaan Balmer here, but I think Campbell is the more certain pick. With the Bengals, EVERYTHING in this draft will be about defense - except for the one pick they must make at the tight end position. And there should be some good tight ends in later rounds.
10. New Orleans Saints - Mike Jenkins, CB, So. Florida
Tough call here between a CB and DT Balmer, and it could go either way. I am going with cornerback because I just can't get those pictures of hopeless Jason David out of my mind. Now David isn't done, he just needs to be in that system a little longer and find his niche. Enter Mike Jenkins, who runs a 4.4 40 and is 6'0", 200 lbs. What's more, Jenkins could end up helping the Saints on special teams as a kick/punt returner rather than risking injury with Reggie Bush. The Saints desperately need a solid secondary to help New Orleans slow down opponents. To be sure, this will be one of many defensive picks for the Saints, unless they shop in FA.
11. Buffalo Bills - Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
Adding a speedy, big wideout will help the Bills offense increase it's potential explosive force exponentially. A defensive tackle, cornerback and linebacker are needs too, but the ability to put points on the board within the same division as New England is the most important. Kelly will help that cause, creating multiple weapons for opposing defenses to try and defend.
12. Denver Broncos - Kentwaan Balmer, DT, N.C.
Stuffing the run and creating a more stingy defense is their primary consideration in this draft. They also need a pick at wideout and safety, as well as linebacker, but starting in the middle of the defensive line with Balmer will start them off in the right direction.
13. Carolina Panthers - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.
I'm torn between the offensive line and safety for Carolina, especially seeing a talent like Kenny Phillips available. Seems to me that a safety will likely be available in the second round and not a top level OT, so the Panthers go with Clady here.
14. Chicago Bears - Gosder Cherilus, OT, BC
Huge, very athletic OT helps the Bears solidify the offensive line and offer more protection for whomever they finally decide to put in at QB. Other than running back, the Bears will need better depth and production out of their offensive line.
15. Detroit Lions - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
The passing defense of Detroit was horrid and must be addressed in the draft. They finished 31st in the NFL in passing yards allowed and forced the Lions away from any chance at a running game to balance a prolific passing offense. It forced Jon Kitna and company to always play catch-up or to score on every drive. Look for one more pick in the next two rounds at corner, with adds at linebacker and the offensive line.
16. Arizona Cardinals - Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
The Cards have little protection for the QB, which spells doom for this highly charged offense. What's more, the offensive line is not doing the job in the running game as well. This pick is a bigger need than defensive end and must be addressed in the first round.
17. Minnesota Vikings - James Hardy, WR, Indiana
This pick is clearly dependent on the type of combine Hardy has, but with his size and quickness, this could be the answer the Vikes need at the wideout position. Philip Merling could be the pick at defensive end here if Hardy doesn't excel at the combine, and then Minnesota might be able to pick him up in round two.
18. Houston Texans - Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
The guy is flat-out good. Catches the ball, is fast, strong and patient enough to wait for his blockers to create the holes. And his burst through the hole is exciting. Unless the Texans decide an offensive tackle trumps a running back (which it may), Mendenhall is too valuable a pick to miss out on.
19. Philadelphia Eagles - Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC
The Eagles need up front defensive pressure as well as upgrades in the linebacking unit and secondary. Lawrence Jackson, DE, from Southern Cal may be the pick here instead.
20. Tampa Bay Bucs - Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
I was thinking more about a wideout with this pick, but the Bucs cannot afford to miss out on a top OT. They can probably find a suitable receiver in the next couple of rounds, so they go with Williams with this selection. Unless, of course, they find a good candidate in free agency. In that case, this is a definite wide receiver pick.
21. Washington Redskins - Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
Washington needs several improvements in their defensive line and Merling should be a good starting point. It's possible Devin Thomas, the wideout from Michigan State, could be the selection here. The Skins also need some depth in the offensive line.
22. Dallas Cowboys (Cleve.) - Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy
The secondary help is a MUST for the first pick, and they could even go CB in the next pick of the first round. Another Troy alumni helps give the Cowboys stability in the secondary.
23. Seattle Seahawks - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
He will be the eventual heir to Shaun Alexander as the Holmgren era comes to an end following the upcoming season. Coach-in-waiting Jim Mora is already licking his chops.
24. Pittsburgh Steelers - Sam Baker, OT, USC
Just what the Steelers needed to help make certain Parker still has the blocking he needs to break off the long one. Along with offensive line reinforcement, the Steelers will look to bolster the corners and need to find an explosive wideout. Devin Thomas or Early Doucet could go here, but I have a hunch the offensive line is the pick.
25. Tennessee Titans - Devin Thomas, WR, MSU
This is the sleeper of the wideout position, which may not last much longer than the combine. Thomas has the perfect size, strength and speed to be a consistently solid WR in the pros. Think of him as a slightly taller version of Reggie Wayne. The Titans could be forced to look for a DT if Haynesworth isn't re-signed, but I don't think Fisher will allow that to happen. Even if Haynesworth is back, the Titans still need to add some depth at DT in order to rotate Albert in and out along with Vickerson.
26. J'ville Jaguars - Reggie Smith, S/CB, Oklahoma
27. Dallas Cowboys - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
Although the Cowboys might think about DT with this pick, if Jones is still on the board (and considering owner Jerry Jones' affinity for his alma mater) Dallas will not pass this pick up.
28. S.F. 49ers (from Indy) - DeMario Pressley, DT, NC State
Huge selection for the 49ers, as they need that disruptive, big body in the defensive front line to help create penetration up the middle and disrupt gaps for opposing RB's to slide through. San Francisco will select whichever of the DT's remain after the Cowboy pick, but will get a good one no matter which of them remain.
29. San Diego Chargers - D.R.-Cromartie, CB, LSU
Teaming up with another Cromartie will give play-by-play announcers fits having two Cromarties on the field. It will also pose additional challenges to opposing offenses searching for vulnerabilities in the Charger secondary. It is also possible the Chargers flirt with taking a DT at this pick. Someone like Trevor Laws or Dre Moore.
30. Green Bay Packers - Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
Chance of the Packers taking LB Rivers of USC with this pick, but the corner position is an area of concern.
31. New York Giants - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska
Adding depth to a pretty tough offensive line.
32. New England Patriots - Forfeited
ROUND TWO PROJECTIONS:
33. Miami - Keith Rivers, LB, USC
34. St. Louis - Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan
35. Atlanta - Andre Woodson, QB, Kentucky
The Falcons are now set in their offensive backfield for years to come. Potentially.
36. Oakland - Adarius Bowman, WR, Oklahoma St.
37. Kansas City - Justin Lee, CB, Penn State
38. N.Y. Jets - Dan Connor, LB, Penn State
39. Baltimore - Tony Hills, OT, Texas
40. San Francisco - Ali Highsmith, LB, LSU
41. New Orleans - Dan Connor, OLB, Penn St
42. Buffalo - Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame
43. Denver - Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
44. Carolina -Thomas DeCoud, S, California
45. Chicago - Kevin Smith, RB, Central Florida
46. Detroit - Shawn Crable, LB, Michigan
47. Cincinnati - Tavares Gooden, OLB, Miami
48. Minnesota - Andre Fluellen, DT, Florida St.
49. Atlanta* - Barry Richardson, OT, Clemson
50. Philadelphia - DaJuan Morgan, S, NC St.
51. Arizona - Tommy Blake, DE, TCU
52. Washington - Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
53. Tampa Bay - Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
54. Cleveland - Frank Okam, DT, Texas
55. Pittsburgh - Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa
56. Tennessee - Chris Ellis, DE, Virginia Tech
57. Seattle - Fred Davis, TE, USC
58. Jacksonville - Wallace Gilberry, DE, Alabama
59. Miami* - Martin Rucker, TE, Missouri
60. Green Bay -Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa
61. Dallas - D.J. Hall, WR, Alabama
62. Indianapolis - Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas
63. New York Giants - Letroy Guion, DT, FSU
64. New England - Chevis Jackson, CB, LSU
ROUND THREE PROJECTIONS:
65. Miami - Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida
66. St. Louis - Craig Steltz, S, LSU
67. Kansas City - Roy Schuening, OG, Oregon St.
68. N.Y. Jets - Kirk Barton, OT, Ohio St.
69. New England* - Erick Young, OG, Tennessee
70. Atlanta - Jerod Mayo, LB, Tennessee
71. San Francisco - Keenan Burton, WR, Kentucky
72. Buffalo* - Dustin Keller, TE/WR, Purdue
73. Buffalo - Earl Bennett, WR, Vanderbilt
74. Minnesota* - Kendall Langford, DE, Hampton
75. Carolina- Red Bryant, DT, Texas A&M
76. Chicago - Dennis Keyes, S, UCLA
77. Detroit - Dre Moore, DT, Maryland
78. Cincinnati - Dwight Lowery, CB, San Jose St.
79. New Orleans - Jolonn Dunbar, ILB, Boston College
80 Houston - Marcus Griffin, S, Texas
81. Philadelphia - Heath Benedict, OT, Newberry
82. Arizona - Tommy Blake, DE, TCU
83. Minnesota - Jacob Tamme, TE, Kentucky
84. Tampa Bay - Steve Slaton, RB, West Virginia
85. Washington - Andre Fluellen, DT, FSU8
86. Cleveland - Kendall Langford, DE, Hampton
87. Tennessee - Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame
88. Seattle - Kerry Brown, OG, Appalachian St.
89. Pittsburgh - Mike McGlynn, OG, Pittsburgh
90. Jacksonville - Darrell Robertson, DT, Georgia Tech
91. Chicago* - Jamar Adams, S, Michigan
92. Green Bay - Duane Brown, OT, Virginia Tech
93. Dallas - Allen Patrick, RB, Oklahoma
94. Indianapolis - Jameel McClain, DE, Syracuse
95. NY Giants - Chad Rinehart, OT, No. Iowa
96. New England - Ray Rice, RB, Rutgers
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