NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 7 New Articles Added 11/6/06

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Updated: Oct. 5, 2006, 4:05 PM ET

First-quarter awards

By Eric Allen
ESPN Insider
Archive




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>
When I played for Jon Gruden in Oakland, he had a great way of making sure his players didn't look too far ahead in the season. He broke the season into four quarters. This was a perfect way to keep our minds on the games immediately ahead of us and not worry about teams in Week 13 when it was Week 2.
That idea is being used by more and more teams in the NFL now, and I've decided to appropriate it for some awards. Every quarter I will take a look at the top team, offensive player, defensive player and disappointment.
Top team

This one is easy. The Chicago Bears have proven to be the cream of the crop in the first quarter of the season. The knock on this team is that they haven't played top-notch competition yet, but the teams they've played they've dominated, culminating in a lopsided win over the defending NFC champion Seattle Seahawks.
They're doing it with a surprising combination of offense and defense. Everyone knew this defense would be stout coming into the season. They have a great defensive philosophy and execute it extremely well. That's not to take away from the tremendous amount of talent they have on that side of the ball with Tommie Harris, Mike Brown, Brian Urlacher and Ricky Manning Jr., just to name a few of their defensive studs.
What's catching people off guard is the way this offense is playing. QB Rex Grossman has already thrown for 1,061 yards and eight touchdowns and his passer rating is 100.8. Nobody expected this team to be this proficient in the passing game. If anything, the running game was thought to be the only way this team would be able to consistently garner offense, but instead they are doing it through the air.
They have a good set of receivers who understand their roles. Also, they've done a great job of taking shots downfield when defenses are playing to stop the run. That's resulted in some big plays because these receivers have the ability to exploit single coverage.
Top offensive player

Something tells me this award is probably going to go to Steve Smith in the second quarter. He takes over games in ways that I've never seen from a wide receiver. But this quarter's winner is Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb.
He's played at an extremely high level every game this season, and if not for some defensive setbacks, this team would be undefeated. He's playing without a consistent No. 1 receiver, but you wouldn't know that by looking at his numbers. That's a testament to the way he's spreading the ball around to everyone. He's doing a great job of getting the ball to L.J. Smith in the middle of the field, Brian Westbrook on the edge and Donte' Stallworth and Greg Lewis downfield.
The biggest difference in this season is his level of confidence, which is higher than at any time I've seen him play alongside Terrell Owens. Every time he drops back, he's confident he can make a play either with his legs or his arm, and that's why the Eagles are such a dangerous team offensively. So much of this game is about confidence and believing that you can make a big play, and McNabb believes he's due a big play every time he steps on the field.
Top defensive player

Young players can often start to read their own newspaper clippings and see themselves on the highlights and start to loaf. The first quarter's top defensive player is bucking that trend.
San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman had a great first season with 10 sacks, two forced fumbles and 41 solo tackles in 15 games. But that wasn't enough for "Lights Out," because during the offseason he fired his agent so he wouldn't have any distractions in becoming the best defensive player in the league. Not the best linebacker or best defensive player in the AFC, but the best defensive player in the NFL.
He's come a long way toward accomplishing that goal. Already this season he has four sacks and an interception, but the numbers don't show how many times he's forced a quarterback into a bad throw or intimidated a receiver or running back with a big hit. It's a pleasure watching a guy with this much talent doing everything in his power to embrace it and better himself. Something tells me he's going to be named top defensive player a couple more times before his career is over.
Top disappointment

This is a tough one to have to pick, but it's Miami Dolphins quarterback Daunte Culpepper, hands down. He was deemed the missing piece to the puzzle for the Dolphins, despite missing most of last season with a major knee injury. He still looks to be injured and has looked terrible out there trying to run this offense. Having a porous offensive line doesn't help things much, but Culpepper simply doesn't have the elusiveness that once was the hallmark of his game. It's almost a disservice to expect him to be 100 percent merely a season after his knee injury, but that's what is expected of him and he has to find a way to rise to the challenge. That may involve him sitting with the offensive coordinator and explaining his limitations and finding a way they can work around them. Whatever they can do to turn this situation around needs to be done quickly because this season is starting to slip away.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Updated: Oct. 5, 2006, 4:05 PM ET

First-quarter awards

By Eric Allen
ESPN Insider
Archive




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>
When I played for Jon Gruden in Oakland, he had a great way of making sure his players didn't look too far ahead in the season. He broke the season into four quarters. This was a perfect way to keep our minds on the games immediately ahead of us and not worry about teams in Week 13 when it was Week 2.
That idea is being used by more and more teams in the NFL now, and I've decided to appropriate it for some awards. Every quarter I will take a look at the top team, offensive player, defensive player and disappointment.
Top team

This one is easy. The Chicago Bears have proven to be the cream of the crop in the first quarter of the season. The knock on this team is that they haven't played top-notch competition yet, but the teams they've played they've dominated, culminating in a lopsided win over the defending NFC champion Seattle Seahawks.
They're doing it with a surprising combination of offense and defense. Everyone knew this defense would be stout coming into the season. They have a great defensive philosophy and execute it extremely well. That's not to take away from the tremendous amount of talent they have on that side of the ball with Tommie Harris, Mike Brown, Brian Urlacher and Ricky Manning Jr., just to name a few of their defensive studs.
What's catching people off guard is the way this offense is playing. QB Rex Grossman has already thrown for 1,061 yards and eight touchdowns and his passer rating is 100.8. Nobody expected this team to be this proficient in the passing game. If anything, the running game was thought to be the only way this team would be able to consistently garner offense, but instead they are doing it through the air.
They have a good set of receivers who understand their roles. Also, they've done a great job of taking shots downfield when defenses are playing to stop the run. That's resulted in some big plays because these receivers have the ability to exploit single coverage.
Top offensive player

Something tells me this award is probably going to go to Steve Smith in the second quarter. He takes over games in ways that I've never seen from a wide receiver. But this quarter's winner is Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb.
He's played at an extremely high level every game this season, and if not for some defensive setbacks, this team would be undefeated. He's playing without a consistent No. 1 receiver, but you wouldn't know that by looking at his numbers. That's a testament to the way he's spreading the ball around to everyone. He's doing a great job of getting the ball to L.J. Smith in the middle of the field, Brian Westbrook on the edge and Donte' Stallworth and Greg Lewis downfield.
The biggest difference in this season is his level of confidence, which is higher than at any time I've seen him play alongside Terrell Owens. Every time he drops back, he's confident he can make a play either with his legs or his arm, and that's why the Eagles are such a dangerous team offensively. So much of this game is about confidence and believing that you can make a big play, and McNabb believes he's due a big play every time he steps on the field.
Top defensive player

Young players can often start to read their own newspaper clippings and see themselves on the highlights and start to loaf. The first quarter's top defensive player is bucking that trend.
San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman had a great first season with 10 sacks, two forced fumbles and 41 solo tackles in 15 games. But that wasn't enough for "Lights Out," because during the offseason he fired his agent so he wouldn't have any distractions in becoming the best defensive player in the league. Not the best linebacker or best defensive player in the AFC, but the best defensive player in the NFL.
He's come a long way toward accomplishing that goal. Already this season he has four sacks and an interception, but the numbers don't show how many times he's forced a quarterback into a bad throw or intimidated a receiver or running back with a big hit. It's a pleasure watching a guy with this much talent doing everything in his power to embrace it and better himself. Something tells me he's going to be named top defensive player a couple more times before his career is over.
Top disappointment

This is a tough one to have to pick, but it's Miami Dolphins quarterback Daunte Culpepper, hands down. He was deemed the missing piece to the puzzle for the Dolphins, despite missing most of last season with a major knee injury. He still looks to be injured and has looked terrible out there trying to run this offense. Having a porous offensive line doesn't help things much, but Culpepper simply doesn't have the elusiveness that once was the hallmark of his game. It's almost a disservice to expect him to be 100 percent merely a season after his knee injury, but that's what is expected of him and he has to find a way to rise to the challenge. That may involve him sitting with the offensive coordinator and explaining his limitations and finding a way they can work around them. Whatever they can do to turn this situation around needs to be done quickly because this season is starting to slip away.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Panthers still team to beat

posted: October 5, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Atlanta Falcons, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers

D, Atlanta: Why is it that you continually uphold your love affair with the Carolina Panthers? The Falcons manhandled them on opening dayand their defense is easily one of the best in the business. How is it that the Falcons are not the team to beat in the NFC South?

Keith: What's up D? I have some love for every team in the NFC South. I just think when it's all said and done the Panthers will prevail in the division. However, I really do like the Falcons chances in the NFC as a wild card team. The schedule is going to get extremely tough for both teams with the NFC East and AFC North opponents yet to be played. Defensively, the Falcons offseason additions have made a huge impact on this team. With that said, one player you need to watch when the Falcons return to the field next week is SLB Michael Boley. He is a physically and athletically gifted player who has the ability to play both on the line of scrimmage and in the bubble. He is a smart instinctive player who has a very good knack for timing up zone dogs. Another impressive thing about the Falcons "D" is they have given up only one rushing touchdown over four games at that came Devery Henderson's double reserve against the Saints.

Mark, Houston: Hey Keith, love your style, you're up to .500 in your picks. I would love to see the Saints make the playoffs. I didn't think the Panthers looked all that great against the Saints considering they were in a must-win situation.

Keith: Thanks Mark. The Saints have definitely been the most impressive team other than Jets under first-year head coaches this season. Unfortunately, I don't see the Saints as a playoff caliber team just yet. I still have concerns about their defensive personnel especially at corner. QB Drew Brees and the offensive personnel will keep this team in every game. There will be a lot to learn about this team over the weekend as they play a very winnable game at home against the Buccaneers. As for the Panthers, a win is a win in the NFL regardless of how you look on Sundays.

Chuck, Atlanta: Keith, what can the Falcons does to improve the passing game? I don't think they can win consistently as they have with the run.

Keith: Hey Chuck, thanks for the questions. I think a lot of the problems with the Falcons' passing game will improve as we get deeper in the season as the timing and chemistry improves with Vick and his receivers. I do agree that they will need a stronger passing game as their schedule gets tougher and teams will focus even more in their defensive game plans of taking away the spread option attack and the Falcons' running game.

Bruce, North Carolina: Hi Keith, if there is an early candidate for MVP, is has to be Steve Smith. Hard to believe he can have that much of an impact on Carolina's offense. What other player around the league, in your opinion is as valuable to his team as Smith is to the Panthers?

Keith: Hey Bruce, thanks for the questions. Without a doubt Steve Smith is a great football player and easily a top player at his position. He has brought so much more to the Panthers offense simply by the way teams have defended them over the last two weeks. If he can stay healthy and maintain his numbers over the course of the season then he again should be a candidate for MVP honors. Other players that come to mind that are just as valuable as far as impact is Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Donovan McNabb, LaDainian Tomlinson and Carson Palmer. I'm sure I left someone out.

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Panthers still team to beat

posted: October 5, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Atlanta Falcons, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers

D, Atlanta: Why is it that you continually uphold your love affair with the Carolina Panthers? The Falcons manhandled them on opening dayand their defense is easily one of the best in the business. How is it that the Falcons are not the team to beat in the NFC South?

Keith: What's up D? I have some love for every team in the NFC South. I just think when it's all said and done the Panthers will prevail in the division. However, I really do like the Falcons chances in the NFC as a wild card team. The schedule is going to get extremely tough for both teams with the NFC East and AFC North opponents yet to be played. Defensively, the Falcons offseason additions have made a huge impact on this team. With that said, one player you need to watch when the Falcons return to the field next week is SLB Michael Boley. He is a physically and athletically gifted player who has the ability to play both on the line of scrimmage and in the bubble. He is a smart instinctive player who has a very good knack for timing up zone dogs. Another impressive thing about the Falcons "D" is they have given up only one rushing touchdown over four games at that came Devery Henderson's double reserve against the Saints.

Mark, Houston: Hey Keith, love your style, you're up to .500 in your picks. I would love to see the Saints make the playoffs. I didn't think the Panthers looked all that great against the Saints considering they were in a must-win situation.

Keith: Thanks Mark. The Saints have definitely been the most impressive team other than Jets under first-year head coaches this season. Unfortunately, I don't see the Saints as a playoff caliber team just yet. I still have concerns about their defensive personnel especially at corner. QB Drew Brees and the offensive personnel will keep this team in every game. There will be a lot to learn about this team over the weekend as they play a very winnable game at home against the Buccaneers. As for the Panthers, a win is a win in the NFL regardless of how you look on Sundays.

Chuck, Atlanta: Keith, what can the Falcons does to improve the passing game? I don't think they can win consistently as they have with the run.

Keith: Hey Chuck, thanks for the questions. I think a lot of the problems with the Falcons' passing game will improve as we get deeper in the season as the timing and chemistry improves with Vick and his receivers. I do agree that they will need a stronger passing game as their schedule gets tougher and teams will focus even more in their defensive game plans of taking away the spread option attack and the Falcons' running game.

Bruce, North Carolina: Hi Keith, if there is an early candidate for MVP, is has to be Steve Smith. Hard to believe he can have that much of an impact on Carolina's offense. What other player around the league, in your opinion is as valuable to his team as Smith is to the Panthers?

Keith: Hey Bruce, thanks for the questions. Without a doubt Steve Smith is a great football player and easily a top player at his position. He has brought so much more to the Panthers offense simply by the way teams have defended them over the last two weeks. If he can stay healthy and maintain his numbers over the course of the season then he again should be a candidate for MVP honors. Other players that come to mind that are just as valuable as far as impact is Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Donovan McNabb, LaDainian Tomlinson and Carson Palmer. I'm sure I left someone out.

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Sounding off on the AFC West

posted: Thursday, October 5, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Kansas City Chiefs, Oakland Raiders, Denver Broncos

I wrote a blog Tuesday on "Marty Ball," and Chargers fans across the country sounded off. That got me thinking what a great forum this is to hear what you guys, the fans, think. I will throw my opinion out there too, and you guys can agree or tell me I'm nuts. (My wife tells me that all the time, so don't worry, you won't hurt my feelings).

In my time at ESPN, I've had many people tell me Chargers fans are not very passionate. Well, after looking at my mailbag, I beg to differ. Tomorrow, I'll post the comments I received on "Marty Ball" and let Chargers fans across the nation speak their piece. Who knows, maybe he will read this thing and take your advice.
For now, let's check in on some other topics in the AFC West. Feel free to sound off.
Kansas City Chiefs

Huard

OK, Chiefs fans. It's your turn. I have a little scenario I want to throw out there. Over the past two weeks a quarterback has posted solid numbers in leading this team, and his name is not Trent Green. In 2 1/2 games at the helm, Damon Huard has completed 47 of 66 passes (71.2 percent) for 481 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. His passer rating is an outstanding 106.9.

Now, this idea might be moot if the Chiefs lose this week -- or if Green isn't ready to come back next week, a distinct possibility -- but for argument's sake, let's say they beat the Cardinals in Arizona and Huard puts up more excellent numbers. He will have won back-to-back games, but if Green is ready to come back, what should head coach Herm Edwards do?
Kansas City's schedule after Arizona is brutal, with a road game in Pittsburgh before back-to-back home games against San Diego and Seattle.
Personally, I would stick with the hot hand. I love Green and know how much he means to the organization, but it would be tough to go away from a hot quarterback when the schedule is that daunting. What if Green is not fully recovered and struggles? It would be tough to go back to Huard, because he might feel a little slighted. He also might not be as sharp if he's not taking as many practice reps with the first unit during the week.
What do you guys think? I've put my opinion out there, now sound off.
Oakland Raiders

Moss

It pains me to have to write about the Raiders today. I'm only doing it because I have to. I mean, if Randy Moss doesn't care, and if, as he says, nobody else in the organization cares, then am I not just wasting my time even talking about this team?

The most disturbing thing about that entire Moss story? Moss is a team-elected captain. Are you serious? If the players don't like where he is coming from, then I guess they better choose a captain next year that hasn't given up on his team.
And, really, that is what he has done. I don't care if he goes out and scores three touchdowns this week, either. That would only reinforce my point that his talent is essentially a waste.
If there is a player giving less effort than him on a weekly basis, send me the video proof, because I can't find it.
Sound off on that, Oakland fans!
Denver Broncos

Plummer

I know a lot of Denver fans have been down on Jake Plummer this season, and there are a lot of people who want to see rookie QB Jay Cutler. After his performance two weeks ago, however, that talk should be tossed out the window. I don't even want to hear about Cutler until Plummer plays at least three poor games in a row. This blog has now been deemed a "Cutler-free" zone until further notice.

Here is a Jake Plummer stat for you: Through the first three games of last season, Plummer had two touchdown pass and three interceptions. This season through three games he has two touchdown passes and four interceptions.
Last season from weeks 4 through 11, Plummer threw 11 touchdown passes and zero interceptions. I don't know what all that means, but I am going to go with history on this one. Plummer has been a notoriously slow starter in Denver, and I think with a bye week to fine-tune the offense, he will be ready to hit his stride and start playing at a level that can help this team try to get to the Super Bowl. Sound off on that, Denver fans!

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Sounding off on the AFC West

posted: Thursday, October 5, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Kansas City Chiefs, Oakland Raiders, Denver Broncos

I wrote a blog Tuesday on "Marty Ball," and Chargers fans across the country sounded off. That got me thinking what a great forum this is to hear what you guys, the fans, think. I will throw my opinion out there too, and you guys can agree or tell me I'm nuts. (My wife tells me that all the time, so don't worry, you won't hurt my feelings).

In my time at ESPN, I've had many people tell me Chargers fans are not very passionate. Well, after looking at my mailbag, I beg to differ. Tomorrow, I'll post the comments I received on "Marty Ball" and let Chargers fans across the nation speak their piece. Who knows, maybe he will read this thing and take your advice.
For now, let's check in on some other topics in the AFC West. Feel free to sound off.
Kansas City Chiefs

Huard

OK, Chiefs fans. It's your turn. I have a little scenario I want to throw out there. Over the past two weeks a quarterback has posted solid numbers in leading this team, and his name is not Trent Green. In 2 1/2 games at the helm, Damon Huard has completed 47 of 66 passes (71.2 percent) for 481 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. His passer rating is an outstanding 106.9.

Now, this idea might be moot if the Chiefs lose this week -- or if Green isn't ready to come back next week, a distinct possibility -- but for argument's sake, let's say they beat the Cardinals in Arizona and Huard puts up more excellent numbers. He will have won back-to-back games, but if Green is ready to come back, what should head coach Herm Edwards do?
Kansas City's schedule after Arizona is brutal, with a road game in Pittsburgh before back-to-back home games against San Diego and Seattle.
Personally, I would stick with the hot hand. I love Green and know how much he means to the organization, but it would be tough to go away from a hot quarterback when the schedule is that daunting. What if Green is not fully recovered and struggles? It would be tough to go back to Huard, because he might feel a little slighted. He also might not be as sharp if he's not taking as many practice reps with the first unit during the week.
What do you guys think? I've put my opinion out there, now sound off.
Oakland Raiders

Moss

It pains me to have to write about the Raiders today. I'm only doing it because I have to. I mean, if Randy Moss doesn't care, and if, as he says, nobody else in the organization cares, then am I not just wasting my time even talking about this team?

The most disturbing thing about that entire Moss story? Moss is a team-elected captain. Are you serious? If the players don't like where he is coming from, then I guess they better choose a captain next year that hasn't given up on his team.
And, really, that is what he has done. I don't care if he goes out and scores three touchdowns this week, either. That would only reinforce my point that his talent is essentially a waste.
If there is a player giving less effort than him on a weekly basis, send me the video proof, because I can't find it.
Sound off on that, Oakland fans!
Denver Broncos

Plummer

I know a lot of Denver fans have been down on Jake Plummer this season, and there are a lot of people who want to see rookie QB Jay Cutler. After his performance two weeks ago, however, that talk should be tossed out the window. I don't even want to hear about Cutler until Plummer plays at least three poor games in a row. This blog has now been deemed a "Cutler-free" zone until further notice.

Here is a Jake Plummer stat for you: Through the first three games of last season, Plummer had two touchdown pass and three interceptions. This season through three games he has two touchdown passes and four interceptions.
Last season from weeks 4 through 11, Plummer threw 11 touchdown passes and zero interceptions. I don't know what all that means, but I am going to go with history on this one. Plummer has been a notoriously slow starter in Denver, and I think with a bye week to fine-tune the offense, he will be ready to hit his stride and start playing at a level that can help this team try to get to the Super Bowl. Sound off on that, Denver fans!

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Updated: Oct. 5, 2006, 2:54 PM ET

A look at Haynesworth and Eagles-Cowboys

By Joe Theismann
ESPN Insider
Archive




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>
There's no question we play in a violent and emotional sport, but you have to be able to control your emotions when you're playing. It's unthinkable to do what Albert Haynesworth did last week against the Cowboys. The Tennessee Titans defensive tackle disrespected the game, the players and himself with his actions and that's why the suspension was so well deserved.
Coach Jeff Fisher's statements after the fact spoke volumes about the him as a man and coach. I'm sure he realizes this is a young team that isn't going to win a lot of games this season and that will be on the bad end of some routes, but frustration can't take over and cause them to do stupid things.
Now we shouldn't get on a high horse and proclaim that something like this has never happened before, though. We shouldn't act as though this is the first time a football player has crossed the line and done something that was reprehensible on the football field. This isn't a game played by gentlemen. Off the field, most football players are nice, guys you could bring home to meet Mom, but on the field they are closer to Genghis Khan than they are to Dudley Do-Right. I remember times when players intentionally stepped on my passing hand while I was on the ground and have seen players try to gouge out eyes at the bottom of piles.
That's just the nature of the game, it's a skirmish every time the ball is hiked. But what separates Haynesworth's actions is that Andre Gurode was on the ground helpless, with no helmet on and we live in the age of scrutiny for professional athletes. This incident is about more than just a kick in the face. It's about players today needing to to understand that cameras catch everything they do. They're under a microscope that is being filmed and that should be the first thing every professional athlete should understand. This isn't the old days when you could get away with something like that and know that it wouldn't be mentioned the next day in the papers.
Now it's going to be replayed over and over again on "SportsCenter," discussed on talk radio ad nauseum and then put to music on YouTube. Eventually it'll be on DVD and No. 1 in someone's Netflix queue.
These guys need to understand that the minute they sign their contract, they are a target for scurrilous friends and family who want their money and a media that is doing its job by reporting what they do. Yes, that is a lot of pressure and responsibility for a young player, but it's also a lot of money they play for every season. I don't want to sound like an old guy, but if you're making that kind of money you need to be on your P's and Q's constantly. It's stupid not to be.
Cowboys-Eagles

Donovan McNabb summed up this week's game and the hoopla surrounding it perfectly when he said that Terrell Owens is just one player and nothing more.
The Eagles have more to worry about then Owens and his return to the City of Brotherly Love. Sure, all the media attention will focus on him but that's because he's become the Dennis Rodman of the NFL. Everything he says and does has a certain shock value and it's designed to get him more attention. Right now all it's doing is hiding the fact that he's become the perfect complement to Terry Glenn in this offense just like Keyshawn Johnson is the perfect complement to Steve Smith in Carolina. He's not the primary receiver in the Cowboys' offense, but I bet most people think he is because of the media attention that is lavished upon him on a weekly basis. Anyway, enough about Owens, let's talk some football. The Eagles are going to have to play much better football this week than they have in the first quarter of the season. They've played like world-beaters in spurts, but have also struggled mightily at times. They have to get big games from the secondary. Brian Dawkins, Sheldon Brown and Lito Sheppard have to act as though this is a playoff game. This is the second divisional game the Eagles are playing and they blew the first one against the Giants. There is a saying that says make hay while the sun is shining, and that's what the Eagles must do.
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Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Updated: Oct. 5, 2006, 2:54 PM ET

A look at Haynesworth and Eagles-Cowboys

By Joe Theismann
ESPN Insider
Archive




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>
There's no question we play in a violent and emotional sport, but you have to be able to control your emotions when you're playing. It's unthinkable to do what Albert Haynesworth did last week against the Cowboys. The Tennessee Titans defensive tackle disrespected the game, the players and himself with his actions and that's why the suspension was so well deserved.
Coach Jeff Fisher's statements after the fact spoke volumes about the him as a man and coach. I'm sure he realizes this is a young team that isn't going to win a lot of games this season and that will be on the bad end of some routes, but frustration can't take over and cause them to do stupid things.
Now we shouldn't get on a high horse and proclaim that something like this has never happened before, though. We shouldn't act as though this is the first time a football player has crossed the line and done something that was reprehensible on the football field. This isn't a game played by gentlemen. Off the field, most football players are nice, guys you could bring home to meet Mom, but on the field they are closer to Genghis Khan than they are to Dudley Do-Right. I remember times when players intentionally stepped on my passing hand while I was on the ground and have seen players try to gouge out eyes at the bottom of piles.
That's just the nature of the game, it's a skirmish every time the ball is hiked. But what separates Haynesworth's actions is that Andre Gurode was on the ground helpless, with no helmet on and we live in the age of scrutiny for professional athletes. This incident is about more than just a kick in the face. It's about players today needing to to understand that cameras catch everything they do. They're under a microscope that is being filmed and that should be the first thing every professional athlete should understand. This isn't the old days when you could get away with something like that and know that it wouldn't be mentioned the next day in the papers.
Now it's going to be replayed over and over again on "SportsCenter," discussed on talk radio ad nauseum and then put to music on YouTube. Eventually it'll be on DVD and No. 1 in someone's Netflix queue.
These guys need to understand that the minute they sign their contract, they are a target for scurrilous friends and family who want their money and a media that is doing its job by reporting what they do. Yes, that is a lot of pressure and responsibility for a young player, but it's also a lot of money they play for every season. I don't want to sound like an old guy, but if you're making that kind of money you need to be on your P's and Q's constantly. It's stupid not to be.
Cowboys-Eagles

Donovan McNabb summed up this week's game and the hoopla surrounding it perfectly when he said that Terrell Owens is just one player and nothing more.
The Eagles have more to worry about then Owens and his return to the City of Brotherly Love. Sure, all the media attention will focus on him but that's because he's become the Dennis Rodman of the NFL. Everything he says and does has a certain shock value and it's designed to get him more attention. Right now all it's doing is hiding the fact that he's become the perfect complement to Terry Glenn in this offense just like Keyshawn Johnson is the perfect complement to Steve Smith in Carolina. He's not the primary receiver in the Cowboys' offense, but I bet most people think he is because of the media attention that is lavished upon him on a weekly basis. Anyway, enough about Owens, let's talk some football. The Eagles are going to have to play much better football this week than they have in the first quarter of the season. They've played like world-beaters in spurts, but have also struggled mightily at times. They have to get big games from the secondary. Brian Dawkins, Sheldon Brown and Lito Sheppard have to act as though this is a playoff game. This is the second divisional game the Eagles are playing and they blew the first one against the Giants. There is a saying that says make hay while the sun is shining, and that's what the Eagles must do.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Updated: Oct. 5, 2006, 10:05 AM ET
Big Ten puts up big numbers on Big Board

By Mel Kiper Jr.
Special to ESPN.com
Archive




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>
A fairly quiet week on my Top 25 Big Board. The only addition this week is Michigan linebacker David Harris, who continues to show why he is one of the best defensive players in the Big Ten. <OFFER>
The Big Ten conference leads with seven players in the Top 25. One player who has dropped drastically from that conference is quarterback Drew Stanton. Two weeks ago he was No. 4 on the board, but after two sub-par performances against Notre Dame and Illinois, Stanton has dropped out of the Top 20.

1. Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame (6-3?, 225) | previous: Same
Poised, smart and at his best in pressure situations. After a comeback against Michigan State, Quinn had a solid outing against Purdue.

2. Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin (6-6?, 313) | previous: Same
Huge, quick and athletic with a long wingspan.

3. Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson (6-4?, 260) | previous: 4
Flashes dominating ability with his athleticism and quickness.

4. Quentin Moses, DE, Georgia (6-4, 254) | previous: 3
Mature, hard working and explosive off the edge.

5. Levi Brown, OT, Penn St. (6-4?, 325) | previous: 6
Steady and reliable at protecting the quarterback's blind side.

6. Kenny Irons, RB, Auburn (5-10?, 199) | previous: 5
Deceptively strong with great vision and balance. Two TD and 117 yards in hard-fought win over South Carolina.

7. Leon Hall, CB, Michigan (5-11, 193) | previous: 8
Tough customer who also shows very good anticipation and awareness in coverage.

8. Marcus McCauley, CB, Fresno St. (6-0?, 200) | previous: 7
He has the size and speed (4.33 40-yard dash) with outstanding coverage technique.

9. Quinn Pitcock, DT, Ohio St. (6-3, 297) | previous: Same
Run-stuffing dynamo who does a great job of clogging the interior.

10. LaRon Landry, DB, LSU (6-1?, 205) | previous: Same
Four-year starter who has proven to be Mr. Reliable throughout his career.

11. Jeff Samardzija, WR, Notre Dame (6-4?, 215) | previous: 12
Super hands and concentration with outstanding speed-to-size ratio.

12. Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska (6-6, 298) | previous: 14
You just don't see many defensive ends carrying 300 pounds who can move as well as Carriker.

13. Tom Zbikowski, S, Notre Dame (5-11?, 212) | previous: Same
An aggressive ball hawk who brings a swagger to the Irish's defense. A true play-maker who also excels as a punt returner.

14. Brian Leonard, Rutgers, (6-1, 239) | previous: 18
He will presnet the NFL with a tremendous amount of versatility, either as a traditional fullback or he could operate as an H-Back.

15. DeMarcus "Tank" Taylor, DT, NC State (6-2?, 310) | previous: 19
Extremely quick and very powerful. A player on the rise, Taylor was a one-man wrecking crew against Boston College. I'm eager to see him against Florida State.

16. Daymeion Hughes, CB, California (6-0, 187) | previous: 20
Big-play cornerback for the Golden Bears. Finished strong in 2005 and it has carried over to this season. Hughes has five INT in five games.

17. Paul Posluszny, LB, Penn St. (6-1?, 235) | previous: 21
A productive and consistent player who studies and prepares as thoroughly as anybody.

18. Aaron Rouse, S, Virginia Tech (6-4, 218) | previous: 17
Incredible physical specimen with rare computer numbers.
19. David Harris, LB, Michigan (6-2, 240) | previous: unranked

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images
Michigan's David Harris is a big reason why the Wolverines are 5-0.

Fast, strong and very productive, Harris has been one of the elite defensive players in the Big Ten this season.

20. Patrick Willis, LB, Mississippi (6-2, 235) | previous: 16
Tackling machine with great football sense and diagnostic ability.

21. Ryan Harris, OT, Notre Dame (6-4?, 297) | previous: 15
Light on his feet with a defensive mentality. Harris neutralizes quick outside pass rushers.

22. Drew Stanton, QB, Michigan St. (6-3, 232) | previous:11
Desire to win is unmatched. Stanton brings every intangible you want at the QB position, but has not looked solid in losses to Notre Dame and Ilinois.

23. Kyle Young, C, Fresno State (6-5, 339) | previous: 22
Experienced anchor on the Bulldogs offensive line. Great physical skills and extremely durable. (Young has made 42 straight starts.)

24. Justin Harrell, DT, Tennessee (6-4 ?, 302) | previous: Same
Prior to going down with a season-ending injury (torn biceps), Harrell was performing at the level you would expect from a first-round draft pick.

25. Michael Bush, RB, Louisville (6-2, 250) | previous: Same
He carried a first-round grade before breaking his leg in the first game of the season. If his rehabilitation goes well, Bush will be an intriguing prospect for next April's draft.
Dropped
Buster Davis, LB, Florida State (5-10, 242) | previous: 23
Rock-solid player who is off to a phenomenal start. A shorter version of Ray Lewis.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Updated: Oct. 5, 2006, 10:05 AM ET
Big Ten puts up big numbers on Big Board

By Mel Kiper Jr.
Special to ESPN.com
Archive




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>
A fairly quiet week on my Top 25 Big Board. The only addition this week is Michigan linebacker David Harris, who continues to show why he is one of the best defensive players in the Big Ten. <OFFER>
The Big Ten conference leads with seven players in the Top 25. One player who has dropped drastically from that conference is quarterback Drew Stanton. Two weeks ago he was No. 4 on the board, but after two sub-par performances against Notre Dame and Illinois, Stanton has dropped out of the Top 20.

1. Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame (6-3?, 225) | previous: Same
Poised, smart and at his best in pressure situations. After a comeback against Michigan State, Quinn had a solid outing against Purdue.

2. Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin (6-6?, 313) | previous: Same
Huge, quick and athletic with a long wingspan.

3. Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson (6-4?, 260) | previous: 4
Flashes dominating ability with his athleticism and quickness.

4. Quentin Moses, DE, Georgia (6-4, 254) | previous: 3
Mature, hard working and explosive off the edge.

5. Levi Brown, OT, Penn St. (6-4?, 325) | previous: 6
Steady and reliable at protecting the quarterback's blind side.

6. Kenny Irons, RB, Auburn (5-10?, 199) | previous: 5
Deceptively strong with great vision and balance. Two TD and 117 yards in hard-fought win over South Carolina.

7. Leon Hall, CB, Michigan (5-11, 193) | previous: 8
Tough customer who also shows very good anticipation and awareness in coverage.

8. Marcus McCauley, CB, Fresno St. (6-0?, 200) | previous: 7
He has the size and speed (4.33 40-yard dash) with outstanding coverage technique.

9. Quinn Pitcock, DT, Ohio St. (6-3, 297) | previous: Same
Run-stuffing dynamo who does a great job of clogging the interior.

10. LaRon Landry, DB, LSU (6-1?, 205) | previous: Same
Four-year starter who has proven to be Mr. Reliable throughout his career.

11. Jeff Samardzija, WR, Notre Dame (6-4?, 215) | previous: 12
Super hands and concentration with outstanding speed-to-size ratio.

12. Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska (6-6, 298) | previous: 14
You just don't see many defensive ends carrying 300 pounds who can move as well as Carriker.

13. Tom Zbikowski, S, Notre Dame (5-11?, 212) | previous: Same
An aggressive ball hawk who brings a swagger to the Irish's defense. A true play-maker who also excels as a punt returner.

14. Brian Leonard, Rutgers, (6-1, 239) | previous: 18
He will presnet the NFL with a tremendous amount of versatility, either as a traditional fullback or he could operate as an H-Back.

15. DeMarcus "Tank" Taylor, DT, NC State (6-2?, 310) | previous: 19
Extremely quick and very powerful. A player on the rise, Taylor was a one-man wrecking crew against Boston College. I'm eager to see him against Florida State.

16. Daymeion Hughes, CB, California (6-0, 187) | previous: 20
Big-play cornerback for the Golden Bears. Finished strong in 2005 and it has carried over to this season. Hughes has five INT in five games.

17. Paul Posluszny, LB, Penn St. (6-1?, 235) | previous: 21
A productive and consistent player who studies and prepares as thoroughly as anybody.

18. Aaron Rouse, S, Virginia Tech (6-4, 218) | previous: 17
Incredible physical specimen with rare computer numbers.
19. David Harris, LB, Michigan (6-2, 240) | previous: unranked

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images
Michigan's David Harris is a big reason why the Wolverines are 5-0.

Fast, strong and very productive, Harris has been one of the elite defensive players in the Big Ten this season.

20. Patrick Willis, LB, Mississippi (6-2, 235) | previous: 16
Tackling machine with great football sense and diagnostic ability.

21. Ryan Harris, OT, Notre Dame (6-4?, 297) | previous: 15
Light on his feet with a defensive mentality. Harris neutralizes quick outside pass rushers.

22. Drew Stanton, QB, Michigan St. (6-3, 232) | previous:11
Desire to win is unmatched. Stanton brings every intangible you want at the QB position, but has not looked solid in losses to Notre Dame and Ilinois.

23. Kyle Young, C, Fresno State (6-5, 339) | previous: 22
Experienced anchor on the Bulldogs offensive line. Great physical skills and extremely durable. (Young has made 42 straight starts.)

24. Justin Harrell, DT, Tennessee (6-4 ?, 302) | previous: Same
Prior to going down with a season-ending injury (torn biceps), Harrell was performing at the level you would expect from a first-round draft pick.

25. Michael Bush, RB, Louisville (6-2, 250) | previous: Same
He carried a first-round grade before breaking his leg in the first game of the season. If his rehabilitation goes well, Bush will be an intriguing prospect for next April's draft.
Dropped
Buster Davis, LB, Florida State (5-10, 242) | previous: 23
Rock-solid player who is off to a phenomenal start. A shorter version of Ray Lewis.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Updated: Oct. 5, 2006
NFL teams recognizing Everett's talent

By Todd McShay
Scouts Inc.
Archive




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>
Earl Everett has always possessed an impressive combination of size, speed and athleticism. But despite recording 196 tackles during his first three seasons at Florida, there was concern entering Everett's senior year that he lacked ideal recognition skills.
Through five games this fall, Everett is doing everything in his power to erase those doubts. The 6-foot-2, 230-pound weakside linebacker has been a ballhawk for the Gator defense, as he is diagnosing plays more quickly and taking fewer false steps.
If his strong play continues, Everett could get drafted as high as the second round in a strong class of linebackers that includes Paul Posluszny (Penn State), Patrick Willis (Mississippi), LaMarr Woodley (Michigan) and Rufus Alexander (Oklahoma).

Overrated: Steve Breaston, WR/RS, Michigan
Breaston's production dipped significantly as a junior in 2005, but there was speculation that he was battling through a painful shoulder injury that limited him throughout much of the season. With that in mind, there was hope for Breaston regaining his form as a senior this fall. Unfortunately that has not been the case through five games.
The 6-foot-1, 180-pound wideout is not separating from man coverage as frequently as he should and his failure to generate yards after the catch has been puzzling. His production has been solid but unspectacular in the return game, and his average of 9.6 yards per catch this season is glaring.
Making matters worse, Breaston recorded pedestrian 40-yard dash times -- high 4.4's to low 4.5's -- in the spring. At this point, Breaston can be considered nothing more than a second-day prospect.
Sleeper of the week: Travarous Bain, DC, Hampton
Bain began his career at Miami (Fla.) before transferring to Hampton prior to the 2005 season. He earned first-team All-MEAC honors with 13 passes broken up last year and has been impressive so far this fall.
The senior cornerback notched a timely interception that he returned to the Delaware State 1-yard line in Hampton's 29-14 win last Saturday. The interception was his fourth in as many games this season. Bain needs to get bigger and stronger, and his technique needs polishing. However, Bain displays impressive speed (4.44 in the 40) and agility for a 6-foot cornerback. Strong performances during postseason all-star games and workouts could land Bain a spot on Day 1 of next April's draft.

Can't miss individual matchup:
Texas ROT Justin Blalock vs. Oklahoma LDE C.J. Ah You
Adrian Peterson, Malcolm Kelly, Limas Sweed and Jamaal Charles are just a few of the star skill players who will be on display in Saturday's 101st edition of the Red River Rivalry. NFL scouts will be keeping a close eye on the trenches, where Blalock will frequently do battle with Ah You on the perimeter.
Blalock ranks as one of the top-five senior offensive line prospects in next year's draft class. He's a four-year starter with good size, power, balance and technique. The biggest knock on Blalock is his lack of agility, though. In fact, there's speculation regarding his potential to play tackle at the next level. If NFL teams view him only as a guard, Blalock's stock will drop. So Blalock needs to take advantage of the opportunity to showcase his skills against a formidable opponent like Ah You.
Ah You had a breakout season filling in for the injured Larry Birdine at right end in 2005, when he started all 12 games as a first-year JUCO transfer and finished with 45 tackles, including seven sacks. With Birdine returning to the staring lineup the Sooners switched Ah You over to left end and the transition has not gone smoothly. Through four games this season Ah You has only six tackles and zero sacks. He needs to pick up the pace in order to warrant Day 2 consideration in the 2007 NFL draft. Showing up Blalock would be a good start.

2007 NFL draft news and notes:
? Clemson wide receiver Chansi Stuckey, a late first-day draft prospect, broke his foot while making a cut in practice this week. He underwent surgery on Wednesday and is expected to miss up to five weeks. Stuckey had a breakout season with 64 receptions as a junior in 2005. He was off to a fast start this fall with 25 catches for 331 yards and three touchdowns before the injury.

? News out of Tempe has not been good recently, as Arizona State has lost two players -- OT Andrew Carnahan and DE Loren Howard -- to injuries. Carnahan suffered a right knee injury against California (9/23) that will sideline him for the remainder of the season. Carnahan had started 37 games for the Sun Devils, but he did miss three games in 2005 due to a dislocated wrist. He was considered an early Day 2 prospect prior to the injury.
Howard's setback, on the other hand, came during practice leading up to the California game, as he re-aggravated a quadriceps injury that kept him out of the first four games. He reportedly will apply to the NCAA for a sixth season of eligibility. This is yet another setback in roller-coaster of a collegiate career for Howard, who began his career at Northwestern before transferring to Arizona State in 2005. Howard missed time in 2004 with an ankle injury that required surgery and he missed the entire 2005 season with a knee injury that also called for surgery.
? Pittsburgh OG John Simonitis suffered a season-ending ankle injury in last week's 45-3 victory over Toledo. Simonitis entered the season as a fringe late-round pick and most likely will go undrafted following the injury. <TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width=430 border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #000000" colSpan=5>Scouts Inc.'s Top 32</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width="5%">RANK</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width="35%">NAME</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width="10%">POS</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width="10%">CLASS</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width="30%">SCHOOL</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width="10%">PREV</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">1.</TD><TD width="35%">Brady Quinn</TD><TD width="10%">QB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Notre Dame</TD><TD width="10%">1</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">2.</TD><TD width="35%">Joe Thomas</TD><TD width="10%">OT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Wisconsin</TD><TD width="10%">2</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">3.</TD><TD width="35%">Marcus McCauley</TD><TD width="10%">DC</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Fresno State</TD><TD width="10%">3</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">4.</TD><TD width="35%">Quentin Moses</TD><TD width="10%">DE</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Georgia</TD><TD width="10%">6</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">5.</TD><TD width="35%">Leon Hall</TD><TD width="10%">DC</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Michigan</TD><TD width="10%">4</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">6.</TD><TD width="35%">Kenny Irons</TD><TD width="10%">DC</TD><TD width="10%">RB</TD><TD width="30%">Auburn</TD><TD width="10%">8</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">7.</TD><TD width="35%">Quinn Pitcock</TD><TD width="10%">DT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Ohio State</TD><TD width="10%">12</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">8.</TD><TD width="35%">Levi Brown</TD><TD width="10%">OT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Penn State</TD><TD width="10%">5</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">9.</TD><TD width="35%">Gaines Adams</TD><TD width="10%">DE</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Clemson</TD><TD width="10%">11</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">10.</TD><TD width="35%">Paul Posluszny</TD><TD width="10%">LB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Penn State</TD><TD width="10%">9</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">11.</TD><TD width="35%">Drew Stanton</TD><TD width="10%">QB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Michigan State</TD><TD width="10%">7</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">12.</TD><TD width="35%">LaRon Landry</TD><TD width="10%">S</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">LSUe</TD><TD width="10%">10</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">13.</TD><TD width="35%">Jeff Samardzija</TD><TD width="10%">WR</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Notre Dame</TD><TD width="10%">14</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">14.</TD><TD width="35%">LaMarr Woodley</TD><TD width="10%">DE</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Michigan</TD><TD width="10%">13</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">15.</TD><TD width="35%">Patrick Willis</TD><TD width="10%">ILB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Mississippi</TD><TD width="10%">17</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">16.</TD><TD width="35%">Adam Carriker</TD><TD width="10%">DE</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Nebraska</TD><TD width="10%">18</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">17.</TD><TD width="35%">Ryan Harris</TD><TD width="10%">OT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Notre Dame</TD><TD width="10%">20</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">18.</TD><TD width="35%">Tim Crowder</TD><TD width="10%">DE</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Texas</TD><TD width="10%">22</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">19.</TD><TD width="35%">Brandon Meriweather</TD><TD width="10%">S</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Miami (Fla.)</TD><TD width="10%">15</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">20.</TD><TD width="35%">Justin Blalock</TD><TD width="10%">OT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Texas</TD><TD width="10%">16</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">21.</TD><TD width="35%">Aaron Rouse</TD><TD width="10%">S</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Virginia Tech</TD><TD width="10%">19</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">22.</TD><TD width="35%">Marcus Thomas</TD><TD width="10%">DT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Florida</TD><TD width="10%">24</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">23.</TD><TD width="35%">Tom Zbikowski</TD><TD width="10%">S</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Notre Dame</TD><TD width="10%">28</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">24.</TD><TD width="35%">Buster Davis</TD><TD width="10%">ILB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Florida State</TD><TD width="10%">23</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">25.</TD><TD width="35%">Michael Griffin</TD><TD width="10%">S</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Texas</TD><TD width="10%">26</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">26.</TD><TD width="35%">Earl Everett</TD><TD width="10%">OLB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Florida</TD><TD width="10%">31</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">27.</TD><TD width="35%">Rufus Alexander</TD><TD width="10%">OLB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Oklahoma</TD><TD width="10%">27</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">28.</TD><TD width="35%">Aundrae Allison</TD><TD width="10%">WR</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">East Carolina</TD><TD width="10%">32</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">29.</TD><TD width="35%">Amobi Okoye</TD><TD width="10%">DT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Louisville</TD><TD width="10%">NR</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">30.</TD><TD width="35%">Tank Tyler</TD><TD width="10%">DT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">N.C. State</TD><TD width="10%">NR</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">31.</TD><TD width="35%">Troy Smith</TD><TD width="10%">QB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Ohio State</TD><TD width="10%">NR</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">32.</TD><TD width="35%">Joe Staley</TD><TD width="10%">OT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Central Michigan</TD><TD width="10%">29</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Updated: Oct. 5, 2006
NFL teams recognizing Everett's talent

By Todd McShay
Scouts Inc.
Archive




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>
Earl Everett has always possessed an impressive combination of size, speed and athleticism. But despite recording 196 tackles during his first three seasons at Florida, there was concern entering Everett's senior year that he lacked ideal recognition skills.
Through five games this fall, Everett is doing everything in his power to erase those doubts. The 6-foot-2, 230-pound weakside linebacker has been a ballhawk for the Gator defense, as he is diagnosing plays more quickly and taking fewer false steps.
If his strong play continues, Everett could get drafted as high as the second round in a strong class of linebackers that includes Paul Posluszny (Penn State), Patrick Willis (Mississippi), LaMarr Woodley (Michigan) and Rufus Alexander (Oklahoma).

Overrated: Steve Breaston, WR/RS, Michigan
Breaston's production dipped significantly as a junior in 2005, but there was speculation that he was battling through a painful shoulder injury that limited him throughout much of the season. With that in mind, there was hope for Breaston regaining his form as a senior this fall. Unfortunately that has not been the case through five games.
The 6-foot-1, 180-pound wideout is not separating from man coverage as frequently as he should and his failure to generate yards after the catch has been puzzling. His production has been solid but unspectacular in the return game, and his average of 9.6 yards per catch this season is glaring.
Making matters worse, Breaston recorded pedestrian 40-yard dash times -- high 4.4's to low 4.5's -- in the spring. At this point, Breaston can be considered nothing more than a second-day prospect.
Sleeper of the week: Travarous Bain, DC, Hampton
Bain began his career at Miami (Fla.) before transferring to Hampton prior to the 2005 season. He earned first-team All-MEAC honors with 13 passes broken up last year and has been impressive so far this fall.
The senior cornerback notched a timely interception that he returned to the Delaware State 1-yard line in Hampton's 29-14 win last Saturday. The interception was his fourth in as many games this season. Bain needs to get bigger and stronger, and his technique needs polishing. However, Bain displays impressive speed (4.44 in the 40) and agility for a 6-foot cornerback. Strong performances during postseason all-star games and workouts could land Bain a spot on Day 1 of next April's draft.

Can't miss individual matchup:
Texas ROT Justin Blalock vs. Oklahoma LDE C.J. Ah You
Adrian Peterson, Malcolm Kelly, Limas Sweed and Jamaal Charles are just a few of the star skill players who will be on display in Saturday's 101st edition of the Red River Rivalry. NFL scouts will be keeping a close eye on the trenches, where Blalock will frequently do battle with Ah You on the perimeter.
Blalock ranks as one of the top-five senior offensive line prospects in next year's draft class. He's a four-year starter with good size, power, balance and technique. The biggest knock on Blalock is his lack of agility, though. In fact, there's speculation regarding his potential to play tackle at the next level. If NFL teams view him only as a guard, Blalock's stock will drop. So Blalock needs to take advantage of the opportunity to showcase his skills against a formidable opponent like Ah You.
Ah You had a breakout season filling in for the injured Larry Birdine at right end in 2005, when he started all 12 games as a first-year JUCO transfer and finished with 45 tackles, including seven sacks. With Birdine returning to the staring lineup the Sooners switched Ah You over to left end and the transition has not gone smoothly. Through four games this season Ah You has only six tackles and zero sacks. He needs to pick up the pace in order to warrant Day 2 consideration in the 2007 NFL draft. Showing up Blalock would be a good start.

2007 NFL draft news and notes:
? Clemson wide receiver Chansi Stuckey, a late first-day draft prospect, broke his foot while making a cut in practice this week. He underwent surgery on Wednesday and is expected to miss up to five weeks. Stuckey had a breakout season with 64 receptions as a junior in 2005. He was off to a fast start this fall with 25 catches for 331 yards and three touchdowns before the injury.

? News out of Tempe has not been good recently, as Arizona State has lost two players -- OT Andrew Carnahan and DE Loren Howard -- to injuries. Carnahan suffered a right knee injury against California (9/23) that will sideline him for the remainder of the season. Carnahan had started 37 games for the Sun Devils, but he did miss three games in 2005 due to a dislocated wrist. He was considered an early Day 2 prospect prior to the injury.
Howard's setback, on the other hand, came during practice leading up to the California game, as he re-aggravated a quadriceps injury that kept him out of the first four games. He reportedly will apply to the NCAA for a sixth season of eligibility. This is yet another setback in roller-coaster of a collegiate career for Howard, who began his career at Northwestern before transferring to Arizona State in 2005. Howard missed time in 2004 with an ankle injury that required surgery and he missed the entire 2005 season with a knee injury that also called for surgery.
? Pittsburgh OG John Simonitis suffered a season-ending ankle injury in last week's 45-3 victory over Toledo. Simonitis entered the season as a fringe late-round pick and most likely will go undrafted following the injury. <TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width=430 border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #000000" colSpan=5>Scouts Inc.'s Top 32</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width="5%">RANK</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width="35%">NAME</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width="10%">POS</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width="10%">CLASS</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width="30%">SCHOOL</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width="10%">PREV</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">1.</TD><TD width="35%">Brady Quinn</TD><TD width="10%">QB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Notre Dame</TD><TD width="10%">1</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">2.</TD><TD width="35%">Joe Thomas</TD><TD width="10%">OT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Wisconsin</TD><TD width="10%">2</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">3.</TD><TD width="35%">Marcus McCauley</TD><TD width="10%">DC</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Fresno State</TD><TD width="10%">3</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">4.</TD><TD width="35%">Quentin Moses</TD><TD width="10%">DE</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Georgia</TD><TD width="10%">6</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">5.</TD><TD width="35%">Leon Hall</TD><TD width="10%">DC</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Michigan</TD><TD width="10%">4</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">6.</TD><TD width="35%">Kenny Irons</TD><TD width="10%">DC</TD><TD width="10%">RB</TD><TD width="30%">Auburn</TD><TD width="10%">8</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">7.</TD><TD width="35%">Quinn Pitcock</TD><TD width="10%">DT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Ohio State</TD><TD width="10%">12</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">8.</TD><TD width="35%">Levi Brown</TD><TD width="10%">OT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Penn State</TD><TD width="10%">5</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">9.</TD><TD width="35%">Gaines Adams</TD><TD width="10%">DE</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Clemson</TD><TD width="10%">11</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">10.</TD><TD width="35%">Paul Posluszny</TD><TD width="10%">LB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Penn State</TD><TD width="10%">9</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">11.</TD><TD width="35%">Drew Stanton</TD><TD width="10%">QB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Michigan State</TD><TD width="10%">7</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">12.</TD><TD width="35%">LaRon Landry</TD><TD width="10%">S</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">LSUe</TD><TD width="10%">10</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">13.</TD><TD width="35%">Jeff Samardzija</TD><TD width="10%">WR</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Notre Dame</TD><TD width="10%">14</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">14.</TD><TD width="35%">LaMarr Woodley</TD><TD width="10%">DE</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Michigan</TD><TD width="10%">13</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">15.</TD><TD width="35%">Patrick Willis</TD><TD width="10%">ILB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Mississippi</TD><TD width="10%">17</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">16.</TD><TD width="35%">Adam Carriker</TD><TD width="10%">DE</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Nebraska</TD><TD width="10%">18</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">17.</TD><TD width="35%">Ryan Harris</TD><TD width="10%">OT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Notre Dame</TD><TD width="10%">20</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">18.</TD><TD width="35%">Tim Crowder</TD><TD width="10%">DE</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Texas</TD><TD width="10%">22</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">19.</TD><TD width="35%">Brandon Meriweather</TD><TD width="10%">S</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Miami (Fla.)</TD><TD width="10%">15</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">20.</TD><TD width="35%">Justin Blalock</TD><TD width="10%">OT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Texas</TD><TD width="10%">16</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">21.</TD><TD width="35%">Aaron Rouse</TD><TD width="10%">S</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Virginia Tech</TD><TD width="10%">19</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">22.</TD><TD width="35%">Marcus Thomas</TD><TD width="10%">DT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Florida</TD><TD width="10%">24</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">23.</TD><TD width="35%">Tom Zbikowski</TD><TD width="10%">S</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Notre Dame</TD><TD width="10%">28</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">24.</TD><TD width="35%">Buster Davis</TD><TD width="10%">ILB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Florida State</TD><TD width="10%">23</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">25.</TD><TD width="35%">Michael Griffin</TD><TD width="10%">S</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Texas</TD><TD width="10%">26</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">26.</TD><TD width="35%">Earl Everett</TD><TD width="10%">OLB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Florida</TD><TD width="10%">31</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">27.</TD><TD width="35%">Rufus Alexander</TD><TD width="10%">OLB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Oklahoma</TD><TD width="10%">27</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">28.</TD><TD width="35%">Aundrae Allison</TD><TD width="10%">WR</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">East Carolina</TD><TD width="10%">32</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">29.</TD><TD width="35%">Amobi Okoye</TD><TD width="10%">DT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Louisville</TD><TD width="10%">NR</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">30.</TD><TD width="35%">Tank Tyler</TD><TD width="10%">DT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">N.C. State</TD><TD width="10%">NR</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">31.</TD><TD width="35%">Troy Smith</TD><TD width="10%">QB</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Ohio State</TD><TD width="10%">NR</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width="5%">32.</TD><TD width="35%">Joe Staley</TD><TD width="10%">OT</TD><TD width="10%">SR</TD><TD width="30%">Central Michigan</TD><TD width="10%">29</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Updated: Oct. 5, 2006, 9:19 AM ET

Top 5 seniors by position

By Mel Kiper Jr.
Special to ESPN Insider
Archive




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Quarterbacks[/FONT]
1. Brady Quinn, Notre Dame
2. Drew Stanton, Michigan State
3. Troy Smith, Ohio State
4. Trent Edwards, Stanford
5. Kevin Kolb, Houston

<OFFER>

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Running Backs[/FONT]
1. Kenny Irons, Auburn
2. Michael Bush, Louisville (injured)
3. Tony Hunt, Penn State
4. Selvin Young, Texas
5. Garrett Wolfe, Northern Illinois

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Fullbacks[/FONT]
1. Brian Leonard, Rutgers
2. LeRon McClain, Alabama
3. Jason Snelling, Virginia
4. Bryson Davis, Mississippi State
5. Obi Oluigbo, Michigan

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Wide Receivers[/FONT]
1. Jeff Samardzija, Notre Dame
2. Aundrae Allison, East Carolina
3. Paul Williams, Fresno State
4. Rhema McKnight, Notre Dame
5. Dwayne Bowe, LSU

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Tight Ends[/FONT]
1. Matt Spaeth, Minnesota
2. Joe Newton, Oregon State
3. Scott Chandler, Iowa
4. Martrez Milner, Georgia
5. Clark Harris, Rutgers

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Offensive Tackles[/FONT]
1. Joe Thomas, Wisconsin
2. Levi Brown, Penn State
3. Ryan Harris, Notre Dame
4. Joe Staley, Central Michigan
5. Doug Free, Northern Illinois

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Offensive Guards[/FONT]
1. Ben Grubbs, Auburn
2. Josh Beekman, Boston College
3. Justin Blalock, Texas
4. Arron Sears, Tennessee
5. Tim Duckworth, Auburn

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Centers[/FONT]
1. Kyle Young, Fresno State
2. Doug Datish, Ohio State
3. Enoka Lucas, Oregon
4. Ryan Kalil, USC
5. Leroy Harris, NC State

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Defensive Ends[/FONT]
1. Gaines Adams, Clemson
2. Quentin Moses, Georgia
3. Adam Carriker, Nebraska
4. Victor Abiamiri, Notre Dame
5. Ray McDonald, Florida

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Defensive Tackles[/FONT]
1. Quinn Pitcock, Ohio State
2. Tank Tyler, NC State
3. Justin Harrell, Tennessee (injured)
4. Marcus Thomas, Florida
5. Amobi Okoye, Louisville

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Inside Linebackers[/FONT]
1. David Harris, Michigan
2. Patrick Willis, Mississippi
3. Buster Davis, Florida State
4. Kelvin Smith, Syracuse
5. Nate Harris, Louisville

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Outside Linebackers[/FONT]
1. Paul Posluszny, Penn State
2. Earl Everett, Florida
3. KaMichael Hall, Georgia Tech
4. Rufus Alexander, Oklahoma
5. Juwan Simpson, Auburn

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Cornerbacks[/FONT]
1. Leon Hall, Michigan
2. Marcus McCauley, Fresno State
3. Daymeion Hughes, Cal
4. Tanard Jackson, Syracuse
5. Fred Bennett, South Carolina

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Safeties[/FONT]
1. LaRon Landry, LSU
2. Tom Zbikowski, Notre Dame
3. Aaron Rouse, Virginia Tech
4. Brandon Meriweather, Miami
5. Michael Griffin, Texas

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Place-Kickers[/FONT]
1. Mason Crosby, Colorado
2. Justin Medlock, UCLA
3. Andrew Wellock, Eastern Michigan
4. Brian Wingert, Northern Iowa
5. Mike Barrow, Idaho (injured)

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Punters[/FONT]
1. Kody Bliss, Auburn
2. Daniel Sepulveda, Baylor
3. Adam Podlesh, Maryland
4. Adam Graessle, Pittsburgh
5. Chris Beckman, Tulane

Top 5 Juniors By Position
Asterisk denotes third-year sophomores eligible for the draft.

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Quarterbacks[/FONT]
1. Brian Brohm, Louisville
2. Chad Henne, Michigan
3. John David Booty, USC
4. JaMarcus Russell, LSU
5. Dennis Dixon, Oregon
5a. Erik Ainge, Tennessee

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Running Backs[/FONT]
1. Adrian Peterson, Oklahoma
2. Marshawn Lynch, California
3. Andre Brown, NC State*
4. Antonio Pittman, Ohio State
5. Dwayne Wright, Fresno State
5a. Mike Hart, Michigan

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Fullbacks[/FONT]
1. Owen Schmitt, West Virginia
2. Michael Pitre, UCLA
3. Peyton Hillis, Arkansas
4. Jacob Hester, LSU
5. Justin Valentine, Minnesota

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Wide Receivers[/FONT]
1. Calvin Johnson, Georgia Tech
2. Ted Ginn Jr., Ohio State
3. Dwayne Jarrett, USC
4. Anthony Gonzalez, Ohio State
5. Limas Sweed, Texas
5a. Sidney Rice, South Carolina*

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Tight Ends[/FONT]
1. Zach Miller, Arizona State
2. Greg Olsen, Miami
3. Martin Rucker, Missouri
4. Fred Davis, USC
5. Kory Sperry, Colorado State
5a. John Carlson, Notre Dame

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Offensive Tackles[/FONT]
1. Jake Long, Michigan
2. Sam Baker, USC
3. Jared Gaither, Maryland*
4. Barry Richardson, Clemson
5. Kirk Barton, Ohio State
5a. Gosder Cherilus, Boston College

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Offensive Guards[/FONT]
1. Will Arnold, LSU
2. Brandon Rodd, Arizona State
3. Jordan Grimes, Purdue
4. Andrew Crummey, Maryland
5. Shannon Tevaga, UCLA

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Centers[/FONT]
1. Tony Brinkhaus, Minnesota
2. John Sullivan, Notre Dame
3. Samson Satele, Hawaii
4. Doug Legursky, Marshall
5. Adam Spieker, Missouri

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Defensive Ends[/FONT]
1. Charles Johnson, Georgia
2. Jarvis Moss, Florida
3. Lawrence Jackson, USC
4. Tommy Blake, TCU
5. Jamaal Anderson, Arkansas
5a. Kenny Iwebema, Iowa

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Defensive Tackles[/FONT]
1. Glenn Dorsey, LSU
2. Alan Branch, Michigan
3. Marcus Harrison, Arkansas
4. Andre Fluellen, Florida State
5. Frank Okam, Texas
5a. DeMario Pressley, NC State

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Inside Linebackers[/FONT]
1. Jonathan Goff, Vanderbilt
2. Brandon Siler, Florida
3. Vince Hall, Virginia Tech
4. Jasper Brinkley, South Carolina
5. Nelson Coleman, Tulsa
5a. Luke Sanders, LSU

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Outside Linebackers[/FONT]
1. Dan Connor, Penn State
2. Lawrence Timmons, Florida State
3. Ali Highsmith, LSU
4. Keith Rivers, USC
5. Xavier Adibi, Virginia Tech

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Cornerbacks[/FONT]
1. Zack Bowman, Nebraska (injured)
2. Eric Wright, UNLV
3. Antoine Cason, Arizona
4. Darrelle Revis, Pittsburgh
5. Dwight Lowery, San Jose State
5a. Jonathan Wilhite, Auburn

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Safeties[/FONT]
1. Reggie Nelson, Florida
2. Thomas DeCoud, California
3. Josh Barrett, Arizona State
4. Nehemiah Warrick, Michigan State
5. Craig Steltz, LSU
5a. Tyrell Johnson, Arkansas State

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Place-Kickers[/FONT]
1. Brandon Coutu, Georgia
2. Sergio Aguayo, UNLV
3. Chris Nendick, Northern Illinois
4. Alexis Serna, Oregon State
5. Art Carmody, Louisville
[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Punters[/FONT]
1. Geoff Price, Notre Dame
2. Andrew Larson, California
3. Jared Armstrong, Purdue
4. Ken DeBauche, Wisconsin
5. Todd Flannery, Louisville
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Updated: Oct. 5, 2006, 9:19 AM ET

Top 5 seniors by position

By Mel Kiper Jr.
Special to ESPN Insider
Archive




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Quarterbacks[/FONT]
1. Brady Quinn, Notre Dame
2. Drew Stanton, Michigan State
3. Troy Smith, Ohio State
4. Trent Edwards, Stanford
5. Kevin Kolb, Houston

<OFFER>

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Running Backs[/FONT]
1. Kenny Irons, Auburn
2. Michael Bush, Louisville (injured)
3. Tony Hunt, Penn State
4. Selvin Young, Texas
5. Garrett Wolfe, Northern Illinois

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Fullbacks[/FONT]
1. Brian Leonard, Rutgers
2. LeRon McClain, Alabama
3. Jason Snelling, Virginia
4. Bryson Davis, Mississippi State
5. Obi Oluigbo, Michigan

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Wide Receivers[/FONT]
1. Jeff Samardzija, Notre Dame
2. Aundrae Allison, East Carolina
3. Paul Williams, Fresno State
4. Rhema McKnight, Notre Dame
5. Dwayne Bowe, LSU

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Tight Ends[/FONT]
1. Matt Spaeth, Minnesota
2. Joe Newton, Oregon State
3. Scott Chandler, Iowa
4. Martrez Milner, Georgia
5. Clark Harris, Rutgers

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Offensive Tackles[/FONT]
1. Joe Thomas, Wisconsin
2. Levi Brown, Penn State
3. Ryan Harris, Notre Dame
4. Joe Staley, Central Michigan
5. Doug Free, Northern Illinois

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Offensive Guards[/FONT]
1. Ben Grubbs, Auburn
2. Josh Beekman, Boston College
3. Justin Blalock, Texas
4. Arron Sears, Tennessee
5. Tim Duckworth, Auburn

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Centers[/FONT]
1. Kyle Young, Fresno State
2. Doug Datish, Ohio State
3. Enoka Lucas, Oregon
4. Ryan Kalil, USC
5. Leroy Harris, NC State

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Defensive Ends[/FONT]
1. Gaines Adams, Clemson
2. Quentin Moses, Georgia
3. Adam Carriker, Nebraska
4. Victor Abiamiri, Notre Dame
5. Ray McDonald, Florida

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Defensive Tackles[/FONT]
1. Quinn Pitcock, Ohio State
2. Tank Tyler, NC State
3. Justin Harrell, Tennessee (injured)
4. Marcus Thomas, Florida
5. Amobi Okoye, Louisville

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Inside Linebackers[/FONT]
1. David Harris, Michigan
2. Patrick Willis, Mississippi
3. Buster Davis, Florida State
4. Kelvin Smith, Syracuse
5. Nate Harris, Louisville

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Outside Linebackers[/FONT]
1. Paul Posluszny, Penn State
2. Earl Everett, Florida
3. KaMichael Hall, Georgia Tech
4. Rufus Alexander, Oklahoma
5. Juwan Simpson, Auburn

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Cornerbacks[/FONT]
1. Leon Hall, Michigan
2. Marcus McCauley, Fresno State
3. Daymeion Hughes, Cal
4. Tanard Jackson, Syracuse
5. Fred Bennett, South Carolina

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Safeties[/FONT]
1. LaRon Landry, LSU
2. Tom Zbikowski, Notre Dame
3. Aaron Rouse, Virginia Tech
4. Brandon Meriweather, Miami
5. Michael Griffin, Texas

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Place-Kickers[/FONT]
1. Mason Crosby, Colorado
2. Justin Medlock, UCLA
3. Andrew Wellock, Eastern Michigan
4. Brian Wingert, Northern Iowa
5. Mike Barrow, Idaho (injured)

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Punters[/FONT]
1. Kody Bliss, Auburn
2. Daniel Sepulveda, Baylor
3. Adam Podlesh, Maryland
4. Adam Graessle, Pittsburgh
5. Chris Beckman, Tulane

Top 5 Juniors By Position
Asterisk denotes third-year sophomores eligible for the draft.

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Quarterbacks[/FONT]
1. Brian Brohm, Louisville
2. Chad Henne, Michigan
3. John David Booty, USC
4. JaMarcus Russell, LSU
5. Dennis Dixon, Oregon
5a. Erik Ainge, Tennessee

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Running Backs[/FONT]
1. Adrian Peterson, Oklahoma
2. Marshawn Lynch, California
3. Andre Brown, NC State*
4. Antonio Pittman, Ohio State
5. Dwayne Wright, Fresno State
5a. Mike Hart, Michigan

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Fullbacks[/FONT]
1. Owen Schmitt, West Virginia
2. Michael Pitre, UCLA
3. Peyton Hillis, Arkansas
4. Jacob Hester, LSU
5. Justin Valentine, Minnesota

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Wide Receivers[/FONT]
1. Calvin Johnson, Georgia Tech
2. Ted Ginn Jr., Ohio State
3. Dwayne Jarrett, USC
4. Anthony Gonzalez, Ohio State
5. Limas Sweed, Texas
5a. Sidney Rice, South Carolina*

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Tight Ends[/FONT]
1. Zach Miller, Arizona State
2. Greg Olsen, Miami
3. Martin Rucker, Missouri
4. Fred Davis, USC
5. Kory Sperry, Colorado State
5a. John Carlson, Notre Dame

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Offensive Tackles[/FONT]
1. Jake Long, Michigan
2. Sam Baker, USC
3. Jared Gaither, Maryland*
4. Barry Richardson, Clemson
5. Kirk Barton, Ohio State
5a. Gosder Cherilus, Boston College

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Offensive Guards[/FONT]
1. Will Arnold, LSU
2. Brandon Rodd, Arizona State
3. Jordan Grimes, Purdue
4. Andrew Crummey, Maryland
5. Shannon Tevaga, UCLA

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Centers[/FONT]
1. Tony Brinkhaus, Minnesota
2. John Sullivan, Notre Dame
3. Samson Satele, Hawaii
4. Doug Legursky, Marshall
5. Adam Spieker, Missouri

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Defensive Ends[/FONT]
1. Charles Johnson, Georgia
2. Jarvis Moss, Florida
3. Lawrence Jackson, USC
4. Tommy Blake, TCU
5. Jamaal Anderson, Arkansas
5a. Kenny Iwebema, Iowa

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Defensive Tackles[/FONT]
1. Glenn Dorsey, LSU
2. Alan Branch, Michigan
3. Marcus Harrison, Arkansas
4. Andre Fluellen, Florida State
5. Frank Okam, Texas
5a. DeMario Pressley, NC State

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Inside Linebackers[/FONT]
1. Jonathan Goff, Vanderbilt
2. Brandon Siler, Florida
3. Vince Hall, Virginia Tech
4. Jasper Brinkley, South Carolina
5. Nelson Coleman, Tulsa
5a. Luke Sanders, LSU

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Outside Linebackers[/FONT]
1. Dan Connor, Penn State
2. Lawrence Timmons, Florida State
3. Ali Highsmith, LSU
4. Keith Rivers, USC
5. Xavier Adibi, Virginia Tech

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Cornerbacks[/FONT]
1. Zack Bowman, Nebraska (injured)
2. Eric Wright, UNLV
3. Antoine Cason, Arizona
4. Darrelle Revis, Pittsburgh
5. Dwight Lowery, San Jose State
5a. Jonathan Wilhite, Auburn

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Safeties[/FONT]
1. Reggie Nelson, Florida
2. Thomas DeCoud, California
3. Josh Barrett, Arizona State
4. Nehemiah Warrick, Michigan State
5. Craig Steltz, LSU
5a. Tyrell Johnson, Arkansas State

[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Place-Kickers[/FONT]
1. Brandon Coutu, Georgia
2. Sergio Aguayo, UNLV
3. Chris Nendick, Northern Illinois
4. Alexis Serna, Oregon State
5. Art Carmody, Louisville
[FONT=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Punters[/FONT]
1. Geoff Price, Notre Dame
2. Andrew Larson, California
3. Jared Armstrong, Purdue
4. Ken DeBauche, Wisconsin
5. Todd Flannery, Louisville
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Bye week came at right time

posted: Thursday, October 5, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Cincinnati Bengals, Pittsburgh Steelers

Pittsburgh (Week 4) and Cincinnati (Week 5) couldn't have asked for better timing for their bye weeks. Each team had big issues exposed in the season's early going, so getting a chance to work some things out was vital.

Pittsburgh Steelers

After losing to the Bengals in Week 3, the Steelers had two weeks to stew about it. The uncharacteristic crucial mistakes the Steelers made in crunch time to lose a game they easily could have won have not been easy to stomach. Here are some of the issues they were dealing with:

Getting healthy: The Steelers' three most important players -- QB Ben Roethlisberger, WR Hines Ward and SS Troy Polamalu -- all should benefit from the extra week of recovery time. Roethlisberger and Ward needed to work on their timing and to heal their wounds, while Polamalu's shoulder injury should be much less of a hindrance when the Steelers play at San Diego on Sunday night than it was in the previous two games. Polamalu probably will feel pain in the shoulder for the remainder of the season, but his range of motion will improve. He has been playing pretty much with one arm.
The passing game: Roethlisberger and Ward needed to regain their timing and their feel for working together. With Roethlisberger having missed time after his motorcycle accident and then his emergency appendectomy, and Ward having missed time in training camp and preseason with his hamstring, these two really haven't had the opportunity to put in valuable work time.
Another player who should benefit from the bye week is WR Santonio Holmes, the team's first-round draft pick. Holmes has contributed little in his first three professional games, and Pittsburgh needs him to grow up quickly, provide a deep threat and take some of the pressure off Ward.
Develop a second running back: With the exception of the Monday night game in Jacksonville, RB Willie Parker has been outstanding this year, but he isn't built to handle the number of carries he has shouldered to this point. Najeh Davenport was brought in to lessen the load on Parker and add a big, downhill runner to the attack, but he hasn't touched the ball once. Davenport needs to get up to speed with the offense and handle half a dozen carries or so per game. If he isn't the man for the job, Duce Staley needs to be activated and given carries. This situation is a bit precarious.
Special teams: Pittsburgh's special teams have been among the worst in the league this year. The coverage teams have missed tackles and allowed too many big runbacks, and their returners have done very little and haven't made a big play. Worst of all, Ricardo Colclough badly muffed a punt against Cincinnati, which might have cost the Steelers a crucial football game. Colclough will no longer return punts. That responsibility will fall to one of the Steelers' rookie wide receivers, Holmes or Willie Reid. The bye week should help both young players gain more familiarity with what is expected of them at this level.
Pittsburgh has won four of its last five games following a bye week, including last year's Monday night victory at San Diego.
Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals are 2-1 but were dominated at home by New England on Sunday and need this bye week to cure two major problems.

Pass Protection: Quarterback Carson Palmer is getting hit -- and getting hit hard -- far too often. Protection has been an extreme strength in recent years, and Palmer has a very talented and experienced group -- offensive line, tight ends and fullbacks -- protecting him. So why are defenses getting to the Bengals' franchise quarterback this year?
LOT Levi Jones missed some time with an ankle injury and has not looked at all like his normal self since coming back from the injury. When right, he keeps Palmer's blind side clean with fine athletic ability and quick, light feet. He hasn't shown those skills since the injury. This week off should do him a lot of good.
Also, the glue of Cincinnati's offensive line, OC Rich Braham, injured his knee, and his ability to make line calls and adjustments has been dearly missed. Palmer has been getting hit cleanly by blitzers who simply have been missed by the blocking scheme. Braham's injury looks like it will linger, but replacement OC Eric Ghiaciuc should use this week off to get in the film room with his coaches and clear up any communication problems.
Run Defense: This has been the Bengals' biggest weakness for some time, and the problem doesn't seem to be getting any better. First, the Bengals allow far too many big cutback runs because they are not disciplined with their assignments and often overpursue, which leaves gaping holes on the backside. MLB Odell Thurman was guilty of this a lot in 2005, but he hasn't played all season due to suspension. The current linebackers have not been much better.
Injuries also have taken their toll on the run defense. The Bengals knew they were going to be without Thurman and moved starting OLB Brian Simmons to the middle, where he will stay for the rest of the year. OLB David Pollack was slated to start on the strong side, but he was lost for the season to injury. Rashad Jeanty now starts on the strong side, but he missed last week's game, as well. Cincinnati also has been without its best run-support safety in Dexter Jackson. Both Jeanty and Jackson should be back to full strength after the bye week.
Another linebacker who should benefit from the extra practice time is rookie Ahmad Brooks, who is dripping with talent and has the skill-set to play any of the three linebacker spots. He could begin to play a bigger role as the season progresses, probably on the strong side.
Lastly, NT Sam Adams was brought in to anchor the middle and force double-teams, which would free the linebackers to make more plays against the run. Well, Adams also has battled injury, hasn't gotten into good enough playing shape to string together many plays in a row and has spent far too much time on the ground when he is in the game. A player of Adams' age and proportions is tough to count on to stay healthy and contribute over a long stretch of time.
The bye week will help the Bengals' run defense, but this will never be a team strength this season. The bye week should also help a few other key players. Although QB Palmer has looked great, the week off certainly will help the continued rehabbing of his left knee. WR Chad Johnson also has taken some brutal hits so far this year, and the time off will be great for healing his bumps and bruises.

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Bye week came at right time

posted: Thursday, October 5, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Cincinnati Bengals, Pittsburgh Steelers

Pittsburgh (Week 4) and Cincinnati (Week 5) couldn't have asked for better timing for their bye weeks. Each team had big issues exposed in the season's early going, so getting a chance to work some things out was vital.

Pittsburgh Steelers

After losing to the Bengals in Week 3, the Steelers had two weeks to stew about it. The uncharacteristic crucial mistakes the Steelers made in crunch time to lose a game they easily could have won have not been easy to stomach. Here are some of the issues they were dealing with:

Getting healthy: The Steelers' three most important players -- QB Ben Roethlisberger, WR Hines Ward and SS Troy Polamalu -- all should benefit from the extra week of recovery time. Roethlisberger and Ward needed to work on their timing and to heal their wounds, while Polamalu's shoulder injury should be much less of a hindrance when the Steelers play at San Diego on Sunday night than it was in the previous two games. Polamalu probably will feel pain in the shoulder for the remainder of the season, but his range of motion will improve. He has been playing pretty much with one arm.
The passing game: Roethlisberger and Ward needed to regain their timing and their feel for working together. With Roethlisberger having missed time after his motorcycle accident and then his emergency appendectomy, and Ward having missed time in training camp and preseason with his hamstring, these two really haven't had the opportunity to put in valuable work time.
Another player who should benefit from the bye week is WR Santonio Holmes, the team's first-round draft pick. Holmes has contributed little in his first three professional games, and Pittsburgh needs him to grow up quickly, provide a deep threat and take some of the pressure off Ward.
Develop a second running back: With the exception of the Monday night game in Jacksonville, RB Willie Parker has been outstanding this year, but he isn't built to handle the number of carries he has shouldered to this point. Najeh Davenport was brought in to lessen the load on Parker and add a big, downhill runner to the attack, but he hasn't touched the ball once. Davenport needs to get up to speed with the offense and handle half a dozen carries or so per game. If he isn't the man for the job, Duce Staley needs to be activated and given carries. This situation is a bit precarious.
Special teams: Pittsburgh's special teams have been among the worst in the league this year. The coverage teams have missed tackles and allowed too many big runbacks, and their returners have done very little and haven't made a big play. Worst of all, Ricardo Colclough badly muffed a punt against Cincinnati, which might have cost the Steelers a crucial football game. Colclough will no longer return punts. That responsibility will fall to one of the Steelers' rookie wide receivers, Holmes or Willie Reid. The bye week should help both young players gain more familiarity with what is expected of them at this level.
Pittsburgh has won four of its last five games following a bye week, including last year's Monday night victory at San Diego.
Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals are 2-1 but were dominated at home by New England on Sunday and need this bye week to cure two major problems.

Pass Protection: Quarterback Carson Palmer is getting hit -- and getting hit hard -- far too often. Protection has been an extreme strength in recent years, and Palmer has a very talented and experienced group -- offensive line, tight ends and fullbacks -- protecting him. So why are defenses getting to the Bengals' franchise quarterback this year?
LOT Levi Jones missed some time with an ankle injury and has not looked at all like his normal self since coming back from the injury. When right, he keeps Palmer's blind side clean with fine athletic ability and quick, light feet. He hasn't shown those skills since the injury. This week off should do him a lot of good.
Also, the glue of Cincinnati's offensive line, OC Rich Braham, injured his knee, and his ability to make line calls and adjustments has been dearly missed. Palmer has been getting hit cleanly by blitzers who simply have been missed by the blocking scheme. Braham's injury looks like it will linger, but replacement OC Eric Ghiaciuc should use this week off to get in the film room with his coaches and clear up any communication problems.
Run Defense: This has been the Bengals' biggest weakness for some time, and the problem doesn't seem to be getting any better. First, the Bengals allow far too many big cutback runs because they are not disciplined with their assignments and often overpursue, which leaves gaping holes on the backside. MLB Odell Thurman was guilty of this a lot in 2005, but he hasn't played all season due to suspension. The current linebackers have not been much better.
Injuries also have taken their toll on the run defense. The Bengals knew they were going to be without Thurman and moved starting OLB Brian Simmons to the middle, where he will stay for the rest of the year. OLB David Pollack was slated to start on the strong side, but he was lost for the season to injury. Rashad Jeanty now starts on the strong side, but he missed last week's game, as well. Cincinnati also has been without its best run-support safety in Dexter Jackson. Both Jeanty and Jackson should be back to full strength after the bye week.
Another linebacker who should benefit from the extra practice time is rookie Ahmad Brooks, who is dripping with talent and has the skill-set to play any of the three linebacker spots. He could begin to play a bigger role as the season progresses, probably on the strong side.
Lastly, NT Sam Adams was brought in to anchor the middle and force double-teams, which would free the linebackers to make more plays against the run. Well, Adams also has battled injury, hasn't gotten into good enough playing shape to string together many plays in a row and has spent far too much time on the ground when he is in the game. A player of Adams' age and proportions is tough to count on to stay healthy and contribute over a long stretch of time.
The bye week will help the Bengals' run defense, but this will never be a team strength this season. The bye week should also help a few other key players. Although QB Palmer has looked great, the week off certainly will help the continued rehabbing of his left knee. WR Chad Johnson also has taken some brutal hits so far this year, and the time off will be great for healing his bumps and bruises.

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Can the Jags' problems be fixed?

posted: Thursday, October 5, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Jacksonville Jaguars

After starting the season 2-0, Jacksonville suffered losses to the Indianapolis Colts and the Washington Redskins to place themselves two games behind the 4-0 Colts. The loss at Indianapolis, was a heart breaker, with the game going down to the last minute to decide the winner. And that was less than a week after winning a tough, hard fought Monday night game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The week after the loss at Indianapolis, the Jaguars dropped a tough, overtime game to the Redskins.

Is this reason to panic or to second guess their master plan? I don't think so. First of all, the loss to Indianapolis was an away game and the Jaguars did a pretty good job of keeping one of the most potent offenses to a mere 21 points. The secondary, with the help of a good pass rush, held Peyton Manning to a quarterback rating of 79.9, well below his career and season average. The running game put up good numbers, gaining 191 yards against the Colts, but the passing game suffered. QB Byron Leftwich had a sub-par game even though he completed 57 percent of his passes. Leftwich averaged 6.7 yards per completion while Manning averaged 15.6 yards per completion. Manning suffered no interceptions, while Leftwich was picked off twice.

In the Redskins game, it was the complete opposite. Their running game was nonexistent (32 yards on 16 carries) while Leftwich was 20-for-34 with three touchdowns and one interception, for a quarterback rating of 103.

The defense gave up an uncharacteristic 152 yards rushing and most of the players felt they just made too many mistakes, missed too many tackles and have no one to blame, for the loss but themselves.

It's hard to come back and play on Sunday, after a Monday night game, and very few teams who do are able tp come up with a victory. The Jaguars have suffered their share of injuries, especially on the defensive line and will benefit from a bye week after Sunday's game against the Jets.

While the two losses hurt and the team needs to buckle down, a win on Sunday would leave them 3-2 going into the bye week. As long as they are able to keep Indianapolis in their sights they can feel good in that their next meeting with the Colts will be in Jacksonville.

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/4/06)

Can the Jags' problems be fixed?

posted: Thursday, October 5, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Jacksonville Jaguars

After starting the season 2-0, Jacksonville suffered losses to the Indianapolis Colts and the Washington Redskins to place themselves two games behind the 4-0 Colts. The loss at Indianapolis, was a heart breaker, with the game going down to the last minute to decide the winner. And that was less than a week after winning a tough, hard fought Monday night game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The week after the loss at Indianapolis, the Jaguars dropped a tough, overtime game to the Redskins.

Is this reason to panic or to second guess their master plan? I don't think so. First of all, the loss to Indianapolis was an away game and the Jaguars did a pretty good job of keeping one of the most potent offenses to a mere 21 points. The secondary, with the help of a good pass rush, held Peyton Manning to a quarterback rating of 79.9, well below his career and season average. The running game put up good numbers, gaining 191 yards against the Colts, but the passing game suffered. QB Byron Leftwich had a sub-par game even though he completed 57 percent of his passes. Leftwich averaged 6.7 yards per completion while Manning averaged 15.6 yards per completion. Manning suffered no interceptions, while Leftwich was picked off twice.

In the Redskins game, it was the complete opposite. Their running game was nonexistent (32 yards on 16 carries) while Leftwich was 20-for-34 with three touchdowns and one interception, for a quarterback rating of 103.

The defense gave up an uncharacteristic 152 yards rushing and most of the players felt they just made too many mistakes, missed too many tackles and have no one to blame, for the loss but themselves.

It's hard to come back and play on Sunday, after a Monday night game, and very few teams who do are able tp come up with a victory. The Jaguars have suffered their share of injuries, especially on the defensive line and will benefit from a bye week after Sunday's game against the Jets.

While the two losses hurt and the team needs to buckle down, a win on Sunday would leave them 3-2 going into the bye week. As long as they are able to keep Indianapolis in their sights they can feel good in that their next meeting with the Colts will be in Jacksonville.

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/5/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/5/06)

Dolphins' wounds self-inflicted

posted: Thursday, October 5, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Miami Dolphins

All Dolphins coaches, players and fans are looking for answers for their dismal early season. I'm sure every angle of offense, defense and special teams has been studied by every person that has an opinion about this Miami team. Let's look at the glaring lack of offense that has held this team back in four close contests.

One of the main aspects of offense that coaches stress is to be proficient at converting third downs. To do that, a team needs to be in short-yardage situations. Staying out of third-and-long is imperative. After breaking down the four contests of the Dolphins, it is obvious that one of their main weaknesses as an offensive team is self-inflicted.
In Miami's loss to the Texans, the Dolphins had nine meaningful series (not counting kneel-downs or end of the half run-outs). On five of the first seven series, the Dolphins had a penalty or sack that put them in second- or third-and-long, which stalled the offense. Two series resulted in field goals instead of a possible touchdown). The last two drives lasted 11 and nine plays with no penalties or sacks, and those produced a field goal and a touchdown. Miami's third-down conversion rate in that game was 25 percent; Houston's was 56 percent.
In the Dolphins' ugly win over the Titans, Miami had 11 meaningful series. Eight had a penalty or sack that resulted in a stalled drive. The other three produced one touchdown and two field goals. The Dolphins were in second- or third-and-long an awful lot of the time due to self-inflicted mistakes. Miami's third-down conversion rate in that game was 38 percent; Tennessee's was 43 percent.
In the loss to Buffalo, Miami also had 11 meaningful series. Nine of them were short-circuited by either a penalty, a sack (sometimes multiple sacks) or an interception, and one ended in a blocked punt. The Dolphins were in third-and-long virtually the entire game. On Miami's final possession, though, there were no self-inflicted wounds, and the 11-play drive resulted in a touchdown, although it was against a prevent defense. Miami's third-down conversion rate in that game was 40 percent; Buffalo's was 31 percent.
The opening-game loss to the Steelers featured Miami's best offensive showing until the team suffered a meltdown with six minutes left. Miami had 12 meaningful series, and the first nine had only one penalty and one sack and produced 17 points. The last three possessions of the game, though, saw two sacks, two interceptions and one penalty. Pittsburgh returned one of the interceptions for a touchdown that put the game away. Miami's third-down conversion rate in that game was 38 percent; Pittsburgh 's was 47 percent. All aspects of the Dolphins' team need to be improved, but if they can correct the self-inflicted long-yardage situations they put themselves in on offense, they will give themselves a much better chance for positive outcomes.

Hache Man · Oct 5, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/5/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 8 New Articles Added 10/5/06)

Dolphins' wounds self-inflicted

posted: Thursday, October 5, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Miami Dolphins

All Dolphins coaches, players and fans are looking for answers for their dismal early season. I'm sure every angle of offense, defense and special teams has been studied by every person that has an opinion about this Miami team. Let's look at the glaring lack of offense that has held this team back in four close contests.

One of the main aspects of offense that coaches stress is to be proficient at converting third downs. To do that, a team needs to be in short-yardage situations. Staying out of third-and-long is imperative. After breaking down the four contests of the Dolphins, it is obvious that one of their main weaknesses as an offensive team is self-inflicted.
In Miami's loss to the Texans, the Dolphins had nine meaningful series (not counting kneel-downs or end of the half run-outs). On five of the first seven series, the Dolphins had a penalty or sack that put them in second- or third-and-long, which stalled the offense. Two series resulted in field goals instead of a possible touchdown). The last two drives lasted 11 and nine plays with no penalties or sacks, and those produced a field goal and a touchdown. Miami's third-down conversion rate in that game was 25 percent; Houston's was 56 percent.
In the Dolphins' ugly win over the Titans, Miami had 11 meaningful series. Eight had a penalty or sack that resulted in a stalled drive. The other three produced one touchdown and two field goals. The Dolphins were in second- or third-and-long an awful lot of the time due to self-inflicted mistakes. Miami's third-down conversion rate in that game was 38 percent; Tennessee's was 43 percent.
In the loss to Buffalo, Miami also had 11 meaningful series. Nine of them were short-circuited by either a penalty, a sack (sometimes multiple sacks) or an interception, and one ended in a blocked punt. The Dolphins were in third-and-long virtually the entire game. On Miami's final possession, though, there were no self-inflicted wounds, and the 11-play drive resulted in a touchdown, although it was against a prevent defense. Miami's third-down conversion rate in that game was 40 percent; Buffalo's was 31 percent.
The opening-game loss to the Steelers featured Miami's best offensive showing until the team suffered a meltdown with six minutes left. Miami had 12 meaningful series, and the first nine had only one penalty and one sack and produced 17 points. The last three possessions of the game, though, saw two sacks, two interceptions and one penalty. Pittsburgh returned one of the interceptions for a touchdown that put the game away. Miami's third-down conversion rate in that game was 38 percent; Pittsburgh 's was 47 percent. All aspects of the Dolphins' team need to be improved, but if they can correct the self-inflicted long-yardage situations they put themselves in on offense, they will give themselves a much better chance for positive outcomes.

Hache Man · Oct 6, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 9 New Articles Added 10/5/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 9 New Articles Added 10/5/06)

Friday, October 6, 2006
<TABLE style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 7px" cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top>

</TD><TD vAlign=top>

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>Scouting Matchups: Week 5

By Scouts, Inc.




<TABLE class=text11 cellSpacing=4 cellPadding=0 width=552 border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD width="100%"><TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=162 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" colSpan=2>

</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width=3> </TD><TD width=156>Only Insiders get access to all of Scouts Inc.'s, in-depth NFL coverage, as well as insight from ESPN's stable of football analysts.
? Take the Insider tour
? Become an Insider
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>NFL advance scouts watch games in person, studying everything from personnel packages to play-calling signals, and on film, looking at individual players, as well as a team's various schemes and recent trends. The goal? Provide their coaching staff with the best possible means of preparation during the week of practice. Scouts Inc. does the same thing, compiling the best advance scouting reports available and delivering them to you by Tuesday afternoon on ESPN.com Insider. On Friday, after breaking down more game film, Scouts Inc. files an updated report with a deeper look at each game, spotlighting key individual matchups and trends and predicting the final score.

<TABLE class=tablehead cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3><TBODY><TR class=stathead><TD width=100>Matchup</TD><TD>Scouting</TD></TR><TR class=colhead><TD colSpan=2>SUNDAY OCTOBER 8, 2006</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Detroit
at
Minnesota
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Lions at Vikings
Both teams are coming off frustrating road losses. Ironically, Brad Childress, a former offensive coordinator with the Eagles, has his team playing very good defense, while Rod Marinelli, a former defensive line coach in Tampa, has seen his defense struggle.

The Minnesota offense has only scored three touchdowns in four games and Detroit's defense has given over 30 points in the last three games. The good news for the Lions is the Vikings have not scored more than 19 points in a game. The Minnesota defense has only allowed only five touchdowns in four games.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: Lions looking for first win

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Miami
at
New England
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Dolphins at Patriots
This is a huge AFC East contest between a struggling Dolphins team and the new-look Patriots. The early optimism in Miami has been fading quickly due to the poor play of the offensive line and quarterback Daunte Culpepper. Every game has been ugly for the Dolphins this season. The Patriots were impressive last week in Cincinnati. If Miami doesn't improve its offensive output, this could be a lopsided game.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: Dolphins to speed things up

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Tampa Bay
at
New Orleans
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Buccaneers at Saints
New Orleans will continue to spread the field, creating mismatches on the outside. The Buccaneers will counter with their multiple-attacking fronts, while playing physical on the outside in their Cover 2 schemes. In addition, QB Drew Brees will keep the Buccaneers off balance by finding open areas in the short and intermediate passing attack, while the Buccaneers must find creative ways to pressure him.

For the Buccaneers to have success, rookie QB Bruce Gradkowski will need to manage the game effectively and not make critical, game-changing mistakes that result in big plays. Saints defensive coordinator Gary Gibbs will load up against the run and force the Buccaneers' offense to be one-dimensional by attacking through the air.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: Gradkowski needs help from run game

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Washington
at
NY Giants
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Redskins at Giants
The Redskins are on a two-game winning streak and playing with a lot of confidence. Their offense has found its mojo with a healthy Clinton Portis and Mark Brunell, who is making full use of his weapons.

The Giants are coming off a bye and have started their season poorly. The Giants think they are a Super Bowl team, but someone forgot to tell their opponents. There has been some turmoil with players calling out coaches. We will see if the Giants have fixed their problems during the bye. The Giants need a win at Washington to stay in the race for a playoff spot.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: Redskins hitting their stride

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Cleveland
at
Carolina
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Browns at Panthers
The Panthers will look to build on the momentum of their two-game winning streak against an improving Browns team. Browns defensive coordinator Todd Grantham must find a way to contain Pro Bowl receiver Steve Smith with a depleted secondary. In doing so, the Browns will need to play four complete quarters defensively. The Panthers will continue to rely on RB DeShaun Foster to set up the play action pass. WR Braylon Edwards and TE Kellen Winslow have shown big-play ability, but they can be neutralized if Carolina is able to get to QB Charlie Frye.

Cleveland must find a way to protect Frye against a very good Panthers front seven. Defensive coordinator Mike Trgovac will focus on stopping RB Reuben Droughns and turn the Browns offense into a one-dimensional attack.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: Panthers rounding into form

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Buffalo
at
Chicago
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Bills at Bears
This will be a spirited contest between an emerging AFC team and the class of the NFC. The Bears dismantled the NFC Super Bowl team from a year ago last week, making a statement to the rest of the league that not only do they have an outstanding defense, but an explosive offense to boot. New Buffalo head coach Dick Jauron has the Bills playing hard and winning ugly. Buffalo has been in every game and could easily be 4-0.

It would appear to be a big mismatch in Week 5, but the Bills defeated a team that Chicago was lucky to beat in a late comeback rally. Most games in the NFL are about matchups. If Chicago can keep up this level, it could represent the NFC in the 2007 Super Bowl.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: Pesky Bills won't back down

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St. Louis
at
Green Bay
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Rams at Packers
A matchup of two great quarterbacks with St. Louis' Marc Bulger and Green Bay's Brett Favre. Favre is at a crossroad in his career and has been under heavy fire this year with poor performances that have him and the Packers at 1-3. Bulger enters the game without any interceptions through four games and is showing no ill effects from offseason shoulder surgery. The Rams defense has a plus-seven turnover ratio and has shown a new aggressive attitude with much more speed and athletic ability at the defensive back and linebacker positions. Green Bay head coach Mike McCarthy badly needs a win to generate some sense of hope and promise for a team struggling to gain its identity.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: Bulger should have big day

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Tennessee
at
Indianapolis
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Titans at Colts
The Titans are still looking for their first win and are coming off a sound beating by the Cowboys. Tthe Colts are still undefeated after winning a barnburner against the Jets. Coach Jeff Fisher started Vince Young against Dallas in an attempt to spark the Titans' offense, but the rookie did not fare much better than Kerry Collins had in the previous three games.

The Colts found their run game against a rather porous Jets defense and are going to try and continue that trend on Sunday. Between not being able to stop the run and not being able to amount any consistent pass rush, the Titans are going to be hard pressed to keep this game close. The Colts, meanwhile, will be looking at this game as a chance to get all their players healthy.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: Colts focused on the run

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Oakland
at
San Francisco
Sun 4:05 PM ET</TD><TD>Raiders at 49ers
The Raiders are running out of teams they have a chance to beat, as they hope to avoid going 0-16. The 49ers present them with another opportunity to get that first victory. After being competitive and seemingly turning the corner, the 49ers were humiliated in Kansas City last week. How will they respond in their return trip home?

This game features two teams that have a long history of disrespect for one another. Oakland owner Al Davis has always despised the team from the other side of the bay and would like for his team's first win to come against their crosstown rivals. Oakland QB Andrew Walter looked nervous in his first NFL start, but the Raiders should hand him the ball again this week and see if he can improve against a 49ers' secondary that is one of the worst in the NFL.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: 49ers must restore pride

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NY Jets
at
Jacksonville
Sun 4:05 PM ET</TD><TD>Jets at Jaguars
The Jaguars started off hot, beating the Cowboys and Steelers. After those two barnburners they lost a tough game to the Colts and an overtime thriller to the Redskins. The Jets, meanwhile, have two wins but are coming off a heartbreaking loss to the Colts. It will be interesting to see how both teams respond to the disappointment of Week 4.

The Jags want to be a strong running team, but were able to rush for only 33 yards (2.2 yards per carry) against the Redskins. They will try and re-establish their power running game against a weak New York run defense.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: Edge to Jags in close game

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Kansas City
at
Arizona
Sun 4:05 PM ET</TD><TD>Chiefs at Cardinals
After obtaining NFC Player of the Week honors in Week 1 when he threw for 301 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions, Kurt Warner's poor performances over the past two weeks has cost him his starting job. After their loss on the road against the Atlanta Falcons, there was an official announcement by head coach Dennis Green and his anointment of Matt Leinart as the new starter for the Cardinals.

Leinart was outstanding in his preseason debut and will need to regain his preseason poise to keep the Cardinals close against a Chiefs defense that was stingy last week against the 49ers, holding them to 165 total yards. Running back Larry Johnson is averaging just over 24 carries and 98 yards per game and is on pace for over 1,500 rushing yards in 2006.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: James needs big game

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Dallas
at
Philadelphia
Sun 4:15 PM ET</TD><TD>Cowboys at Eagles
This is the first game Terrell Owens has played against his former team, and it is in Philadelphia. The fans should have a nice warm Philly welcome for Owens. With a win, the Eagles would be 4-1 and have a good lead on the rest of the teams in the division.

The Cowboys are playing solid football on both sides of the ball and need a win on the road to stay in the hunt for the division title. This game will be a good test for the Eagles' offense because Dallas' defense has been playing at a high level.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: Cowboys will prevail in T.O.'s return

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Pittsburgh
at
San Diego
Sun 8:15 PM ET</TD><TD>Steelers at Chargers
The Super Bowl champions had two weeks to remedy some of what ails them and prepare for this cross-country road trip to San Diego -- the same situation the Chargers had one week ago. Pittsburgh will face a very good team coming off a tough loss in Baltimore, after going ultra-conservative with the lead late in the game. This is the Steelers' third prime-time game out of four.

Because Bill Cowher has been the Steelers' head coach so long, it is somewhat hard to believe that this is a matchup of mentor (Marty Schottenheimer) against apprentice (Cowher). It shows -- these teams have quite a bit in common. They both want to establish a power running game, stop the run on defense with their 3-4 schemes and then attack the quarterback once the offense becomes one-dimensional. It will be very difficult for either offense to get into a rhythm and dictate the tempo of the game.

The Steelers have turned the ball over eight times in three games and will not win this game if that trend continues. This is a very big game for both teams and could have AFC playoff tiebreaker ramifications. Last year, the Steelers beat San Diego 24-22 in a heartbreaker for the home team, which was hosting its first Monday night game since 1996.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: Rivers will be tested again

</TD></TR><TR class=colhead><TD colSpan=2>MONDAY OCTOBER 9, 2006</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Baltimore
at
Denver
Mon 8:30 PM ET</TD><TD>Ravens at Broncos
This game pits two teams that could be meeting again in the playoffs. Denver QB Jake Plummer played much better in his last start, but the Ravens' defense will be the best unit he has seen this season. Ravens QB Steve McNair has led fourth-quarter, game-winning drives the past two weeks. Will this be three in a row?

Tatum Bell has emerged as Denver's feature back and it will be interesting to see how his speed will match up with this Baltimore defense that plays exceptionally well from sideline to sideline. This game also will feature two of the best linebacking units in the NFL.
? Complete advance scouting report
? Take 2: Ravens relying on late-game heroics </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
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Hache Man · Oct 6, 2006