Does this sound right to you? David Sillis, 12 years old. 5'8" 135 pounds. Ok, he's a little big for his age; lets keep going. Favorite food, pizza. Loves football. Well..... sounds like a normal 12 year old to me. Lets keep on reading. Has the best arm money can buy. Is being offered scholarships to play football for division 1 colleges including UCLA. Has been working with the coach that helped Matt Leinart win the heisman, and Ben Roethlisberger win the super bowl, since 2006. Has been attending the best QB camp in the world since 2007. WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHH!!!!!!!!
Can we please be real here for a second. This kid hasn't even played middle school football yet, he's in sixth grade!!! Now there's no doubt that this kid has talent, but seriously? How are you gonna offer a scholarship to a kid that's in the sixth grade? All it takes is one hit and BOOM, you dislocate your knee, never play again. I may be sounding a little negative here, but he has 6 more long, grueling years of football ahead of him before he actually gets to step foot on a college campus.
Many believe that this kid is the real deal, because of his coach. Coach Steve Clarkson. Steve has discovered many star QB's, ranging from Jimmy Clausen, Chris Leak, all the way to Sillis. Clarkson holds his own QB camp that is fit for the finest QB's in the world. Although many competitors such as the Manning QB camp may be in their way, Clarkson's camp always seems to pull through with the best players.
ANYONE could be the best QB in America if they were getting trained by THIS guy!!! He's a genius. Sillis started going to Clarkson's QB camp when he was only 9 years old. I could just picture it, Clarkson getting annoyed by a 9 year old, but still having to train him since he was getting paid. Supposedly, David Sillis came through after about a week in camp, but lets be honest. If you were 9 years old, and trained with the best QB coach in the world for a week, I'm pretty sure that you would be good too.
Sillis isn't the only great young QB these days. Kelly Hilinski, a 6'4" rising 9th grade QB sensation is also under the spotlight. Except this is different. He doesn't have to grow. He's already 6'4", taller than most QB's in the NFL today!!!
The sport of football is evolving, and it will continue to evolve to every fan and every coach is satisfied with the result. Right now, coaches are in need of more talented recruits. So to solve that problem, scouts try to get players before they reach high school. It's not accurate, and it also causes to much hype that is unnecessary.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
College Football, Starting From Scratch
What does it take to start a football program? Is football in our best interest as a university? How much money will this all cost? These were some of the questions Georgia State president Mark Becker faced when a football program was proposed in April of 2008. Most universities have a solid football program, but like every college once did, Georgia State has to start from scratch.
Ever since its opening in 1939, Georgia State has always had athletics, but never football. Local fans have asked if football on Saturday's would ever come, but GSU's previous president Carl V Patton would simply reply "not in my life-time". Spirits were down, but ever since Mark P Becker was hired to run Georgia State, it has been different. Football is well on it's way to Atlanta Georgia.
Starting a football program may sound difficult, but is a dream of many football fans. Their is no standards to follow. Their is no previous all-time greats to look up to. And their is no coaches that have set the line of expectancy for the program. You have complete control; the programs is in your hands.
A new football team requires a new coaching staff. And what a new coaching staff requires is money. MONEY, MONEY, MONEY, MONEY, MONEY. Some say "you can't do anything without money", and i'm 100% sure that "anything" includes starting a college football program. Not only do the coaches require salaries, but you also need a stadium, a practice field, a weight room, equipment, and much much more. All of which costs a whole lot of MONEY. GSU currently plans to raise their athletic fee for the fall semester by 85$ to help the financial dilemma.
Georgia State, commonly known as the Panthers, are in lack of the one thing that physically represents their football team..... uniforms. It may not sound like a big deal, but the schools colors have a lot to do with a college football team. You can't make T-shirts, jerseys, or hats(more money) for the fans or team unless you decide on your uniform. Georgia State's main colors are almost in perfect resemblance of Penn State, wearing white and royal blue. Since the Panthers have quite a while until their 2010 season opener, there is no stress in making a decision.
One question that you may ask is "How do you get players to play for non existing team?". Well..... it's difficult. Their are no locker rooms to show recruits, no stadium, no facilities, no highlights, just the campus. Since a single season of football has yet to occur at Georgia State, there aren't even fans to support your decision. But some how, some way, Georgia State head coach Bill Curry signed 26 recruits this off-season. Recruits say that Curry told them his goals, plans, and vision for Georgia State football, and many were convinced.
Bill Curry has is a very well established coach, having won national coach of the year in 1989, and has already been inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall Of Fame. Curry is known for making football programs more stable with his old school type coaching, and most expect him to get the Panthers off to a good start in 2010.
2010 may seem like light years away, but I promise you that it's closer than you think. You'll be seeing the Panthers kickin' it up in no time.
Ever since its opening in 1939, Georgia State has always had athletics, but never football. Local fans have asked if football on Saturday's would ever come, but GSU's previous president Carl V Patton would simply reply "not in my life-time". Spirits were down, but ever since Mark P Becker was hired to run Georgia State, it has been different. Football is well on it's way to Atlanta Georgia.
Starting a football program may sound difficult, but is a dream of many football fans. Their is no standards to follow. Their is no previous all-time greats to look up to. And their is no coaches that have set the line of expectancy for the program. You have complete control; the programs is in your hands.
A new football team requires a new coaching staff. And what a new coaching staff requires is money. MONEY, MONEY, MONEY, MONEY, MONEY. Some say "you can't do anything without money", and i'm 100% sure that "anything" includes starting a college football program. Not only do the coaches require salaries, but you also need a stadium, a practice field, a weight room, equipment, and much much more. All of which costs a whole lot of MONEY. GSU currently plans to raise their athletic fee for the fall semester by 85$ to help the financial dilemma.
Georgia State, commonly known as the Panthers, are in lack of the one thing that physically represents their football team..... uniforms. It may not sound like a big deal, but the schools colors have a lot to do with a college football team. You can't make T-shirts, jerseys, or hats(more money) for the fans or team unless you decide on your uniform. Georgia State's main colors are almost in perfect resemblance of Penn State, wearing white and royal blue. Since the Panthers have quite a while until their 2010 season opener, there is no stress in making a decision.
One question that you may ask is "How do you get players to play for non existing team?". Well..... it's difficult. Their are no locker rooms to show recruits, no stadium, no facilities, no highlights, just the campus. Since a single season of football has yet to occur at Georgia State, there aren't even fans to support your decision. But some how, some way, Georgia State head coach Bill Curry signed 26 recruits this off-season. Recruits say that Curry told them his goals, plans, and vision for Georgia State football, and many were convinced.
Bill Curry has is a very well established coach, having won national coach of the year in 1989, and has already been inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall Of Fame. Curry is known for making football programs more stable with his old school type coaching, and most expect him to get the Panthers off to a good start in 2010.
2010 may seem like light years away, but I promise you that it's closer than you think. You'll be seeing the Panthers kickin' it up in no time.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT IT WAS OVER
National signing day was over a week ago, and recruiting seemed to be over. Well maybe that's what we thought. Some prospects still remain out there. One of which is #1 running back Bryce Brown.
Bryce has had many twists and turns on his recruiting trail, but none quite like this. Brown said that a call on Monday made by LSU head coach Les Miles may have put the Tigers at the top of his list.
If Bryce does commit to the Bayou Bengals, then LSU will be with no doubt, the #1 recruiting class. Many online websites such as ESPN, SCOUT, and RIVALS have had their own recruiting rankings. But this guy might shake them up a little bit. Rivals might have to reconsider their #1 ranking, a list that currently claims that Alabama has won the recruiting national championship.
If Bryce Brown doesn't seem like that big of a deal, then lets take a little past to present lesson here. Try to think back to about one year ago. Think of the prospects of last year, and who all committed on signing day, and who had the #1 recruiting class. Now think about that "not so important" recruit that decided to wait a little bit longer to make his decision. I think I recall, his name was Tyrell Pryor. The recruit that waited to make his decision, actually ended being a starting quarter back sensation at Ohio State.
Now lets just pretend here for a second. Now what if Bryce Brown, #1 RB in the nation, just so happens to make an impact on the team he commits to. That would be a pretty significant gain now wouldn't it. Just look at Ohio State. What would have come of them if they didn't land Tyrell Pryor, and Michigan did. We wouldn't be seeing Ohio State in a BCS bowl, instead Michigan would have been in the Rose Bowl! What a change.
Brown is allowed to have two more visits before he fully commits. He is already scheduled to visit Tennessee, but the other visit may either be to LSU or the Trojans. The transcendent tailback plans to make his decision on March 12th.
Bryce has had many twists and turns on his recruiting trail, but none quite like this. Brown said that a call on Monday made by LSU head coach Les Miles may have put the Tigers at the top of his list.
If Bryce does commit to the Bayou Bengals, then LSU will be with no doubt, the #1 recruiting class. Many online websites such as ESPN, SCOUT, and RIVALS have had their own recruiting rankings. But this guy might shake them up a little bit. Rivals might have to reconsider their #1 ranking, a list that currently claims that Alabama has won the recruiting national championship.
If Bryce Brown doesn't seem like that big of a deal, then lets take a little past to present lesson here. Try to think back to about one year ago. Think of the prospects of last year, and who all committed on signing day, and who had the #1 recruiting class. Now think about that "not so important" recruit that decided to wait a little bit longer to make his decision. I think I recall, his name was Tyrell Pryor. The recruit that waited to make his decision, actually ended being a starting quarter back sensation at Ohio State.
Now lets just pretend here for a second. Now what if Bryce Brown, #1 RB in the nation, just so happens to make an impact on the team he commits to. That would be a pretty significant gain now wouldn't it. Just look at Ohio State. What would have come of them if they didn't land Tyrell Pryor, and Michigan did. We wouldn't be seeing Ohio State in a BCS bowl, instead Michigan would have been in the Rose Bowl! What a change.
Brown is allowed to have two more visits before he fully commits. He is already scheduled to visit Tennessee, but the other visit may either be to LSU or the Trojans. The transcendent tailback plans to make his decision on March 12th.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
THE QUEENS FULL MOCK DRAFT
Here is the Queens full first found 2009 NFL mock draft. In depth information on my projected top 10 picks are available in the article below titled "NFL MOCK DRAFT 2009, PICKS 1-10
1 - DET: CURRY, AARON - LB - WakeForest
2 - STL: SMITH, ANDRE - OL - Alabama
3 - KC: STAFFORD, MATTHEW - QB - Georgia
4 - SEA: CRABTREE, MICHAEL - WR - Texas Tech
5 - CLE: BROWN, EVERETTE - DE - Florida State
6 - CIN: OHER, MICHAEL - OL - Mississippi
7 - OAK: MONROE, EUGENE - OL - Virginia
8 - JAX: SMITH, JASON - OL - Baylor
9 - GB: ORAKPO, BRIAN - DE - Texas
10 - SF: RAJI, B.J. - DT - Boston College
11 - BUF: Coffman, Chase - TE - Missouri
12 - DEN: Maualuga, Rey - ILB - USC
13 - WAS: Jackson, Tyson - DE - LSU
14 - NO: Cushing, Brian - OLB - USC
15 - HOU: Jenkins, Malcolm - CB - Ohio State
16 - SD: Britton, Eben - OL - Arizona
17 - NYJ: Maybin, Aaron - DE - Penn State
18 - CHI: Harvin, Percy - WR - Florida
19 - TB: Jerry, Peria - DT - Mississippi
20 - DET: English, Larry - DE - Northern Illinois
21 - PHI: Wells, Chris - RB - Ohio State
22 - MIN: Sanchez, Mark - QB - USC
23 - NE: Davis, Vontae - CB - Illinois
24 - ATL: Pettigrew, Brandon - TE - Oklahoma St.
25 - MIA: Matthews, Clay - OLB - USC
26 - BAL: Laurinaitis, James - ILB - Ohio State
27 - IND: Nicks, Hakeem - WR - North Carolina
28 - PHI: Maclin, Jeremy - WR - Missouri
29 - NYG: Sintim, Clint - OLB - Virginia
30 - TEN: Barden, Ramses - WR - Cal Poly
31 - ARI: Moreno, Knowshon - RB - Georgia
32 - PIT: Unger, Max - OL - Oregon
1 - DET: CURRY, AARON - LB - WakeForest
2 - STL: SMITH, ANDRE - OL - Alabama
3 - KC: STAFFORD, MATTHEW - QB - Georgia
4 - SEA: CRABTREE, MICHAEL - WR - Texas Tech
5 - CLE: BROWN, EVERETTE - DE - Florida State
6 - CIN: OHER, MICHAEL - OL - Mississippi
7 - OAK: MONROE, EUGENE - OL - Virginia
8 - JAX: SMITH, JASON - OL - Baylor
9 - GB: ORAKPO, BRIAN - DE - Texas
10 - SF: RAJI, B.J. - DT - Boston College
11 - BUF: Coffman, Chase - TE - Missouri
12 - DEN: Maualuga, Rey - ILB - USC
13 - WAS: Jackson, Tyson - DE - LSU
14 - NO: Cushing, Brian - OLB - USC
15 - HOU: Jenkins, Malcolm - CB - Ohio State
16 - SD: Britton, Eben - OL - Arizona
17 - NYJ: Maybin, Aaron - DE - Penn State
18 - CHI: Harvin, Percy - WR - Florida
19 - TB: Jerry, Peria - DT - Mississippi
20 - DET: English, Larry - DE - Northern Illinois
21 - PHI: Wells, Chris - RB - Ohio State
22 - MIN: Sanchez, Mark - QB - USC
23 - NE: Davis, Vontae - CB - Illinois
24 - ATL: Pettigrew, Brandon - TE - Oklahoma St.
25 - MIA: Matthews, Clay - OLB - USC
26 - BAL: Laurinaitis, James - ILB - Ohio State
27 - IND: Nicks, Hakeem - WR - North Carolina
28 - PHI: Maclin, Jeremy - WR - Missouri
29 - NYG: Sintim, Clint - OLB - Virginia
30 - TEN: Barden, Ramses - WR - Cal Poly
31 - ARI: Moreno, Knowshon - RB - Georgia
32 - PIT: Unger, Max - OL - Oregon
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
NFL Mock Draft 2009, Picks 1-10
PICK #1 - DETROIT LIONS
CURRY, AARON - LB - WAKE FOREST
Aaron Curry is by far the most versatile linebacker in the 2009 draft class. He can play in any defensive scheme, and can cover the pass better than any other linebacker in this class. Has great size at 6'4", 241 pounds, and will surely be a help to the Lions next season. Most would say that Matthew Stafford is what the Lions need most. But honestly, it is the defense. The line doesn't get a good push up front, so the back seven have to cover longer, which provides more opportunities for the opposing team to make plays down field. Curry will be a perfect match for the Lions with his phenomenal pass coverage, and motivated pass rush.
PICK #2 - ST. LOUIS RAMS
SMITH, ANDRE - OT - ALABAMA
The Rams need an offensive tackle to replace all-time great Orlando Pace, and Andre Smith is just that guy. Andre is an extremely hard worker, and has great size at 6'6", 339 pounds. He has started every single game of his career at Alabama, which shows great durability, and has went up against some of the best defensive lineman during his career. Some of which include Tyson Jackson, Glenn Dorsey, Quentin Groves, Derrick Harvey, Jamaal Anderson, and Jarvis Moss. Right now, Marc Bulger doesn't look so good, but Andre Smith can easily solve that problem. A lot of buzz is saying that they're looking to draft WR Micheal Crabtree, but WR is not their primary need.
PICK #3 - KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
STAFFORD, MATTHEW - QB - GEORGIA
Kansas City has had many chances to win more football games last season, and I think that it's because they're lacking leadership in the huddle. Matthew Stafford is obviously the guy for them. Stafford stands tall in the pocket, has played some of the most dominating defenses in his college career, and has an arm that will bring a huge upside to the Chiefs offense. Stafford has started since his freshman year, has steadily improved as a QB, and has been bringing smiles to GM's faces for the past year now. I think that with the Lions taking Curry first, the Chiefs wouldn't dare to pass over on Stafford.
PICK #4 - SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
CRABTREE, MICHAEL - WR - TEXAS TECH
Seattle needs a good spark to get their offense going again. Although the Seahawks made a run at the Super Bowl just three years ago, with Deion Branch being hurt constantly, and RB Shaun Alexander leaving last year, QB Matt Hasselbeck constantly strives a consistent target to throw to. Micheal Crabtree is a great fit on this Seattle team. He has exceptional speed, jaw dropping elusiveness, and ball skills that puts him in a position to catch anything that comes his way.
PICK #5 - CLEVELAND BROWNS
BROWN, EVERETTE - DE - FLORIDA STATE
With Curry going #1, I say that Brown is the next best thing. Cleveland runs a 3-4 defense, the same scheme that Brown played in at Florida State, which will provide an easy transition for the monster of a defensive end. Having not missed a game in his college career, Everette is very reliable. His knack of getting to the ball carrier behind the line looks to be the source of big defensive plays that the Browns have been looking for. The Cleveland coaching staff might be upset if they can't get Curry, but they should be very pleased if they land this guy instead.
PICK #6 - CINCINNATI BENGALS
OHER, MICHAEL - OT - OLE MISS
Michael Oher is a very under testified prospect coming out of Ole Miss. He will take on any player without hesitation, and will make a fool of most that dare to challenge him. Has lined up against many d-line greats in college, and this dominating OT looks to be ready for the NFL. I say that Cincinnati has finally found the missing piece to their offensive puzzle. The Bengals offensive line hasn't been playing nearly as well as expected, which has made WR Chad Ocho Cinco, and QB Carson Palmer easily overlooked. With a better offensive line, Cincinnati might make a run next season.
PICK #7 - OAKLAND RAIDERS
MONROE, EUGENE - OT - VIRGINIA
Many NFL fans will be very surprised if Monroe falls down to #7, but I won't. This draft class in loaded with quality offensive tackles, and one of them has to fall. The offensive line is obviously what keeps the Raiders out of the play-off picture, and if I think that Eugene Monroe could start that rebuilding process. Eugene has great size at 6'6" 315 pounds, and I'm not sure if one of those Chevy Silverado's could move this guy out of the way. He has tremendous strength, and has good athleticism for an offensive lineman. Monroe has already helped a team climb out of the gutters in college, and don't be surprised if he does it again in Oakland.
PICK #8 - JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
SMITH, JASON - OT - BAYLOR
The Jaguars were probably the most disappointing team this past season. Going from the divisional round of the play-offs one year, to 5-11. Like almost every other team in the NFL, the problem dominating the team is the offensive line. QB David Garrard got knocked down more than any other QB last season, with LT Khalif Barnes allowing 7.5 sacks. This draft is going to be a OT happy draft with four of the top eight picks being offensive tackles, but it's very necessary. Having played TE in high school, Smith is extremely athletic. Most athletic offensive lineman help with blocks down field, which is one thing that will strangely help the Jaguars.
PICK #9 - GREEN BAY PACKERS
ORAKPO, BRIAN - DE - TEXAS
Green Bay is strongly in the need for a defensive end, and Brian Orakpo is that guy. Orakpo won the defensive player of the year, lineman of the year, and defensive end of the year in last season and is certainly deserving of it. He was the one who anchored the longhorns defense last year, and might not be the immediate answer in Green Bay, but over time he will grow into a great player for the Packers. Most NFL analysis say that Packers need a defensive tackle here, but with the 3-4 scheme, they probably won't need a DT for a couple more years.
Pick #10 - San Fransisco 49ers
RAJI, B.J. - DT - BOSTON COLLEGE
San Fransisco has an embarrassing defensive line, and will obviously draft a d-lineman in the first round. And chances are, B.J. Raji will probably be the best player left on the board. B.J. not only can make plays on the ball carrier, but he can also knock down passes at the line, making a fool of the opposing QB. He knocked down five passes in the Senior Bowl. B.J. is a very consistent player at DT, and despite his small size at 6'1", he will bring it all until the final whistle blows.
CURRY, AARON - LB - WAKE FOREST
Aaron Curry is by far the most versatile linebacker in the 2009 draft class. He can play in any defensive scheme, and can cover the pass better than any other linebacker in this class. Has great size at 6'4", 241 pounds, and will surely be a help to the Lions next season. Most would say that Matthew Stafford is what the Lions need most. But honestly, it is the defense. The line doesn't get a good push up front, so the back seven have to cover longer, which provides more opportunities for the opposing team to make plays down field. Curry will be a perfect match for the Lions with his phenomenal pass coverage, and motivated pass rush.
PICK #2 - ST. LOUIS RAMS
SMITH, ANDRE - OT - ALABAMA
The Rams need an offensive tackle to replace all-time great Orlando Pace, and Andre Smith is just that guy. Andre is an extremely hard worker, and has great size at 6'6", 339 pounds. He has started every single game of his career at Alabama, which shows great durability, and has went up against some of the best defensive lineman during his career. Some of which include Tyson Jackson, Glenn Dorsey, Quentin Groves, Derrick Harvey, Jamaal Anderson, and Jarvis Moss. Right now, Marc Bulger doesn't look so good, but Andre Smith can easily solve that problem. A lot of buzz is saying that they're looking to draft WR Micheal Crabtree, but WR is not their primary need.
PICK #3 - KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
STAFFORD, MATTHEW - QB - GEORGIA
Kansas City has had many chances to win more football games last season, and I think that it's because they're lacking leadership in the huddle. Matthew Stafford is obviously the guy for them. Stafford stands tall in the pocket, has played some of the most dominating defenses in his college career, and has an arm that will bring a huge upside to the Chiefs offense. Stafford has started since his freshman year, has steadily improved as a QB, and has been bringing smiles to GM's faces for the past year now. I think that with the Lions taking Curry first, the Chiefs wouldn't dare to pass over on Stafford.
PICK #4 - SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
CRABTREE, MICHAEL - WR - TEXAS TECH
Seattle needs a good spark to get their offense going again. Although the Seahawks made a run at the Super Bowl just three years ago, with Deion Branch being hurt constantly, and RB Shaun Alexander leaving last year, QB Matt Hasselbeck constantly strives a consistent target to throw to. Micheal Crabtree is a great fit on this Seattle team. He has exceptional speed, jaw dropping elusiveness, and ball skills that puts him in a position to catch anything that comes his way.
PICK #5 - CLEVELAND BROWNS
BROWN, EVERETTE - DE - FLORIDA STATE
With Curry going #1, I say that Brown is the next best thing. Cleveland runs a 3-4 defense, the same scheme that Brown played in at Florida State, which will provide an easy transition for the monster of a defensive end. Having not missed a game in his college career, Everette is very reliable. His knack of getting to the ball carrier behind the line looks to be the source of big defensive plays that the Browns have been looking for. The Cleveland coaching staff might be upset if they can't get Curry, but they should be very pleased if they land this guy instead.
PICK #6 - CINCINNATI BENGALS
OHER, MICHAEL - OT - OLE MISS
Michael Oher is a very under testified prospect coming out of Ole Miss. He will take on any player without hesitation, and will make a fool of most that dare to challenge him. Has lined up against many d-line greats in college, and this dominating OT looks to be ready for the NFL. I say that Cincinnati has finally found the missing piece to their offensive puzzle. The Bengals offensive line hasn't been playing nearly as well as expected, which has made WR Chad Ocho Cinco, and QB Carson Palmer easily overlooked. With a better offensive line, Cincinnati might make a run next season.
PICK #7 - OAKLAND RAIDERS
MONROE, EUGENE - OT - VIRGINIA
Many NFL fans will be very surprised if Monroe falls down to #7, but I won't. This draft class in loaded with quality offensive tackles, and one of them has to fall. The offensive line is obviously what keeps the Raiders out of the play-off picture, and if I think that Eugene Monroe could start that rebuilding process. Eugene has great size at 6'6" 315 pounds, and I'm not sure if one of those Chevy Silverado's could move this guy out of the way. He has tremendous strength, and has good athleticism for an offensive lineman. Monroe has already helped a team climb out of the gutters in college, and don't be surprised if he does it again in Oakland.
PICK #8 - JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
SMITH, JASON - OT - BAYLOR
The Jaguars were probably the most disappointing team this past season. Going from the divisional round of the play-offs one year, to 5-11. Like almost every other team in the NFL, the problem dominating the team is the offensive line. QB David Garrard got knocked down more than any other QB last season, with LT Khalif Barnes allowing 7.5 sacks. This draft is going to be a OT happy draft with four of the top eight picks being offensive tackles, but it's very necessary. Having played TE in high school, Smith is extremely athletic. Most athletic offensive lineman help with blocks down field, which is one thing that will strangely help the Jaguars.
PICK #9 - GREEN BAY PACKERS
ORAKPO, BRIAN - DE - TEXAS
Green Bay is strongly in the need for a defensive end, and Brian Orakpo is that guy. Orakpo won the defensive player of the year, lineman of the year, and defensive end of the year in last season and is certainly deserving of it. He was the one who anchored the longhorns defense last year, and might not be the immediate answer in Green Bay, but over time he will grow into a great player for the Packers. Most NFL analysis say that Packers need a defensive tackle here, but with the 3-4 scheme, they probably won't need a DT for a couple more years.
Pick #10 - San Fransisco 49ers
RAJI, B.J. - DT - BOSTON COLLEGE
San Fransisco has an embarrassing defensive line, and will obviously draft a d-lineman in the first round. And chances are, B.J. Raji will probably be the best player left on the board. B.J. not only can make plays on the ball carrier, but he can also knock down passes at the line, making a fool of the opposing QB. He knocked down five passes in the Senior Bowl. B.J. is a very consistent player at DT, and despite his small size at 6'1", he will bring it all until the final whistle blows.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
An Unofficial Start To A New Season
Bayou fans, today is the unofficial start to a brand new season. 2008 is over, recruiting is finalized, and the Tigers are off to a stellar start. In this article, I will scrutinize the 2009 LSU football team position by position. Get a sneak peak on what surprises are in store for the Tigers.
Quarterback
Last years offensive struggles were dominated by one thing. LSU was in poverty for a quarterback. There are two main players that should make a difference next year. Jordan Jefferson, and #1 Athlete Russell Shepard. Jefferson only started two games in his freshman campaign, one of which was a 38-3 win in the Chick-fil-A bowl. He looks to be the immediate answer next year for the Tigers. But highly anticipated top recruit Russell Shepard has settled in on campus, and looks to make an impact of his own. He quoted saying-
"I tell you, watch out in 2009. We're going for the National(championship)again."
Halfback
LSU has had good fortune at the halfback position with Running back Keiland Williams running along side starter Charles Scott. But they also pulled in ESPNU 150 running back Michael Ford; an explosive force on the field. I say that Charles Scott will continue to wreak havoc on defenses everywhere, and this year will serve as a learning experience for Michael Ford. I think it'll be very significant for a young back like Ford to sit back and learn from more experienced runners. He has great potential, and we need a good back for when Scott and Williams leave next year. As far as Fullback goes, we have two very young fullbacks who look to do just fine for the Tigers.
Wide Receiver
The receiving core caught a huge break when Brandon LaFell decided to come back for one more season. LaFell is among LSU's best ever and looks continue his triumph with the Tigers. The other starting receiver Demetrius Bird has graduated and left open a spot to fill. But that shouldn't be a problem for LSU. The Bayou Bengals are stock full of talented receivers such as Jordan Newell, R.J. Jackson, Chris Mitchell, and Jared Mitchell; all of which are seniors. Also, #1 WR recruit Rueben Randle looks to be a force on next season. I think that the receiving core will be alive and well next year, with plenty of flexibility in substitutions.
Athletes
LSU is very blessed to have many talented athletes that aren't characterized under one position. Trindon Holliday has speed that is almost overwhelming. He can run 40 yards of zig zags as fast as he can run the same distance straight. Short strides prevent Holliday from excelling onto the Olympics, but quick change in direction,a small figure, and short strides is exactly what you look for in a football player. He can play RB, WR, and always returns kicks/punts. Also, Drayton Calhoun, an athlete with tremendous elusiveness, has committed to play for the tigers and should return kicks when Holliday leaves. I think that special teams will be an exciting venue for LSU next year, and will add another complexion to their game.
Offensive Line
The offensive line is where everything starts. No blocking, no scoring. LSU has senior LT Ciron Black returning, as well as junior RT Joseph Barksdale. Both measure up to 6.5 feet tall and exceed 300 pounds. LSU may have problems at the center position, with both centers being red-shirt freshman. But look to see the left and right guards take on the two defensive tackles, and let the center do zone run blocking until he gains enough experience to carry out regular assignments. Either way, I say Les Miles will have his bold offensive lineman well prepared for next season.
Defensive Line
The defensive line is what separates LSU from the rest of the pack. LSU has a vast history of strong, powerful, hefty D-lineman that are just about unstoppable. But the Bayou Bengals are suffering a huge loss to their defensive front with DE Tyson Jackson, and DT Ricky Jean-Francois both leaving to the NFL Draft. But Coach Miles and his recruiters have stocked up on some brand new talent this off-season. The class includes #2 DE Sam Montgomery, #4 DT Joshua Downs, and #7 DT Chris Davenport. All three bring promising futures. I say the Tigers defensive line carries on with their success next year, and overtake last years efforts.
Linebackers
The linebacking core is what seemed to be the problem last year, but it really wasn't the problem at all. LSU was ranked 17th in the nation at stopping the run. Starting outside linebackers Kelvin Sheppard and Perry Riley are returning, and the empty middle linebacker spot will most likely be filled by senior Jacob Cutrera. I say next years linebacking core will be considerably better defending the pass, and should dominate the running game as it did last year.
Cornerbacks
This may be the position that should make the most improvement next for next year. All five corners on the LSU roster are coming back for another season with the Tigers. We are also very lucky for one of those to be rising sophomore Patrick Peterson. He is a tall, vigorous, physical corner with great ball skills, that should leave a mark on next years season. Also, look for senior CB Chris Hawkins to bring experience to the right side of the field and lock down on receivers all next year. He has started ever since his sophomore year.
Safety
LSU should only improve at the safety position; the Tigers have many smart upperclassmen. LSU is only losing one starting safety, but is being replaced by senior Danny McCray. Also, Les Miles singed #1 safety Craig Loston this off-season, so expect him to play nickelback next year to get some burn in. I say that LSU is set at the safety position for next year, but must rely on younger players to improve for success in the future.
Kickers/Punters
Kicker Colt Davids time at LSU has expired, which means a new kicker must step up and take the load. The kicker might not sound that important, but with being in the SEC, they often make the difference in close games. Luckily, LSU has junior Josh Jasper, who should do just fine. Hopefully we won't need to use a punter very often. But when we do, the Tigers have junior punter Derek Helton to fill the job.
All in all, LSU looks to have a highly prominent season ahead of them, and only look to ameliorate.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
SEC Holds A Great Preponderance Of Recruits Going Into National Signing Day
National Signing day is a day when all unsigned college football prospects make their decision on where to play ball. Usually, about half of major prospects have already made their decision, and are just making a reassuring announcement. But going into tomorrow, one conference has already grasped the attention of the recruiting world. With 42 TOP 150 prospects signed prior to national signing day, the SEC holds the largest majority of talent that this class has to offer.
No other conference has as many top recruits signed to their name than the SEC. Not only have they won three consecutive national titles, but now the SEC is also looking pretty darn good in the future! Alabama racked up the top recruiting class last year, and LSU is achieving the same this year. With half of the Top 8 recruiting classes being in the SEC, other coaches aren't looking too hysterical about the up-coming seasons. Well...... except for Pete Carroll.
Reporter: How long do you think you'll keep up your success over at USC?
Pete Carroll: Well uh... I don't know(laughing), we're just gonna try to come out and have a good first game, and then we'll go through the next one. But, uh... what I do know is that with the success over the last few years, with recruiting, and still getting a response when we go across the country(for recruits), we have a chance to keep going, and I don't see any reason to slow down.
Well of course you have a chance Pete!!! ANY team has a chance with the schedule you're facing every year. Arizona State, ooooooooohhhhhh, not again. Washington State, Oh No, i'm not sure if we're ready for this one guys. Stanford..... BITE ME. You can always count on Pete Carroll to go into the season saying "This is the best team EVER"
Now if their is any team that is going to have a shot at cracking the SEC code, it would be Texas. Texas has The #3 ranked recruiting class this year, and is getting most of it's starters back. If they can't make it, then it's not looking so splendid for teams in other conferences.
National signing day will only improve SEC recruiting classes, and their is no chance that they won't score big tomorrow. With #1 ranked WR Rueben Randle, #1 ranked CB Dre Kirkpatrick, #2 ranked OLB Jelani Jenkins, #2 ranked CB Greg Reid, #3 ranked WR Marlon Brown, #2 ranked DE Sam Montgomery, #5 ranked Safety Darren Myles Jr., #6 ranked OLB Jarvis Jones, and much more are all expected to sign with SEC teams on National Signing Day.
The SEC will conclude future seasons the same way they'll conclude their recruiting on National Signing Day; untouched.
No other conference has as many top recruits signed to their name than the SEC. Not only have they won three consecutive national titles, but now the SEC is also looking pretty darn good in the future! Alabama racked up the top recruiting class last year, and LSU is achieving the same this year. With half of the Top 8 recruiting classes being in the SEC, other coaches aren't looking too hysterical about the up-coming seasons. Well...... except for Pete Carroll.
Reporter: How long do you think you'll keep up your success over at USC?
Pete Carroll: Well uh... I don't know(laughing), we're just gonna try to come out and have a good first game, and then we'll go through the next one. But, uh... what I do know is that with the success over the last few years, with recruiting, and still getting a response when we go across the country(for recruits), we have a chance to keep going, and I don't see any reason to slow down.
Well of course you have a chance Pete!!! ANY team has a chance with the schedule you're facing every year. Arizona State, ooooooooohhhhhh, not again. Washington State, Oh No, i'm not sure if we're ready for this one guys. Stanford..... BITE ME. You can always count on Pete Carroll to go into the season saying "This is the best team EVER"
Now if their is any team that is going to have a shot at cracking the SEC code, it would be Texas. Texas has The #3 ranked recruiting class this year, and is getting most of it's starters back. If they can't make it, then it's not looking so splendid for teams in other conferences.
National signing day will only improve SEC recruiting classes, and their is no chance that they won't score big tomorrow. With #1 ranked WR Rueben Randle, #1 ranked CB Dre Kirkpatrick, #2 ranked OLB Jelani Jenkins, #2 ranked CB Greg Reid, #3 ranked WR Marlon Brown, #2 ranked DE Sam Montgomery, #5 ranked Safety Darren Myles Jr., #6 ranked OLB Jarvis Jones, and much more are all expected to sign with SEC teams on National Signing Day.
The SEC will conclude future seasons the same way they'll conclude their recruiting on National Signing Day; untouched.
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