As a public service in these tough economic times, I'll add my comments for the Madison Avenue advertising execs who are trying to stretch the already depleted advertising dollars for major companies.
After watching the Bucs/Raiders game today, I've got to wonder how major corporations are staying afloat or who the hell is making the decisions on the advertising budget.
Burger King-
McDonald's stock is doing quite well during these tough times. I wouldn't touch Burger King with a 10 foot pole. Who the hell approved this abysmal Whopper Virgin ad campaign? This is simply disgusting. If people in Greenland liked the Whopper, does that make me more likely to go there to eat? I doubt it.
Geico-
Readers of this blog will know, I have applauded Geico for the creation of the Geico gecko. People love animals in advertising. Is the board of Geico dropping acid? What the hell is up with these eyeballs on the stack of dollar bills? The background music is the one hit wonder of the 1980's, Rockwell, Who's watching Me. Rockwell was discovered and bankrolled by Michael Jackson. Add all of this up and it's very creepy. Let's see more of the gecko, and less of the eyeballs.
Pizza Hut-
They like to introduce new items in a commercial by showing middle aged folks coming to a make believe opening of a restaurant. The latest campaign is a new pizza. The all natural multi grain pizza. Hmm. What have I been eating from Pizza Hut in the past. The Hut illustrates that this "new" pizza has all natural pepperoni. This is opposed to fake pepperoni?
Coors Light-
I've complained about this company before. But this endless parade of the faux coaches pressers with the three idiots in the audience is getting really old after nearly 2 years. Coors, I don't drink your product and you are not inspiring me to switch brands. End the insanity after the Super Bowl for the love of God.
The Big Three-
It's no wonder that the big three automakers needed a bailout on the backs of the taxpayers. In the first quarter of the game today, 7 Ford truck ads with narrative by Dennis Leary. Then, not to be outdone, Dodge rallies with 6 ads in the second quarter illustrating people doing stupid things with their trucks.
With these discussions of major companies needing a bailout at the taxpayers expense, these are some companies which could tighten their belt a bit and do away with wasted money on failed advertising.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
CBS you have NO CLASS
CBS showed no class this afternoon during the Bucs/Raiders game in my opinion. Carnell Williams, who suffered a season ending knee injury last year against Carolina when his knee cap was detached and actually ended up in his thigh, suffered another knee injury this afternoon. This time, it was his other knee and his career is likely finished.
After a 20 yard run on the outside, Williams went down and was in obvious pain. The microphone operator for CBS must have been in close proximity to where Carnell went down, and as the broadcasters spoke, you could clearly hear the pain Williams was in, repeatedly saying, "you can't be f-ing serious" and screaming in pain. Finally, you could hear someone from the Bucs staff say get out of here, obviously to the sound man.
This was a very poor decision on whoever was in control of the broadcast. And while the Bucs are my team, I wouldn't want coverage of any injury of any other team's player done in such a crass way. Is CBS hiring out of work TMZ employees?
After a 20 yard run on the outside, Williams went down and was in obvious pain. The microphone operator for CBS must have been in close proximity to where Carnell went down, and as the broadcasters spoke, you could clearly hear the pain Williams was in, repeatedly saying, "you can't be f-ing serious" and screaming in pain. Finally, you could hear someone from the Bucs staff say get out of here, obviously to the sound man.
This was a very poor decision on whoever was in control of the broadcast. And while the Bucs are my team, I wouldn't want coverage of any injury of any other team's player done in such a crass way. Is CBS hiring out of work TMZ employees?
Jon, please turn the lights off when you leave Ray Jay.
Well that was a spectacular finish to a once promising season. At one point, the Bucs were 9-3 and in control of the #2 seed in the NFC playoffs and now after getting throttled today by a 5-11 team at home, the Bucs will be at home watching the playoffs on their 60" tv's at home. The Bucs lost by 7. They left 7 points on the field in the second quarter. With 2:26 to go in the 2nd quarter, the Bucs pulled a quick 3 and out and punted back to the Raiders who returned it to the 40. The Raiders then promptly scored to lead 14-7 at the half.
Some serious changes must be made to this team in the offseason. Derrick Brooks and Ronde Barber, great players in their prime, but it's time to say goodbye. Kevin Carter, you can leave as well. Mike Clayton. The movie was more successful than your career in Tampa. Yes, you scored a touchdown today, your first in 3 years. Move on and take your attitude with you to some other city. Jeff Garcia, no one will ever say you don't have heart. You are one of the toughest SOB's I've ever seen play but it's time for this organization to move on. Carnell Williams, my heart goes out to you. You showed tremendous courage to come back and play but after today's injury, I doubt we will ever see you on the field ever again. Joey Galloway, I don't know what happened to you and Gruden this season, perhaps one day we'll know, but take your drama queen act someplace else.
Hey Bruce Allen, is the ink dry yet on Antonio Bryant's new contract yet? He is the only major playmaker we have on this roster and the best wide receiver the Bucs have had since Kevin House. This man should be signed RIGHT NOW.
After watching today's game and the putrid offense the Bucs have, field position plays a major part of our game plan. The Raider's punter, Shane Lechler is a free agent, release Bidwell and sign this guy.
The Bucs have given up nearly 900 yards rushing in the past 4 games. You don't win games like that. And for all you folks on the message boards not wondering why the Bucs don't get any National respect, you witnessed it first hand in the last 4 games of the season. This team overachieved early and the team flaws finally caught up with them. Looks like about 251 days until the start of the 2009 NFL season.
Some serious changes must be made to this team in the offseason. Derrick Brooks and Ronde Barber, great players in their prime, but it's time to say goodbye. Kevin Carter, you can leave as well. Mike Clayton. The movie was more successful than your career in Tampa. Yes, you scored a touchdown today, your first in 3 years. Move on and take your attitude with you to some other city. Jeff Garcia, no one will ever say you don't have heart. You are one of the toughest SOB's I've ever seen play but it's time for this organization to move on. Carnell Williams, my heart goes out to you. You showed tremendous courage to come back and play but after today's injury, I doubt we will ever see you on the field ever again. Joey Galloway, I don't know what happened to you and Gruden this season, perhaps one day we'll know, but take your drama queen act someplace else.
Hey Bruce Allen, is the ink dry yet on Antonio Bryant's new contract yet? He is the only major playmaker we have on this roster and the best wide receiver the Bucs have had since Kevin House. This man should be signed RIGHT NOW.
After watching today's game and the putrid offense the Bucs have, field position plays a major part of our game plan. The Raider's punter, Shane Lechler is a free agent, release Bidwell and sign this guy.
The Bucs have given up nearly 900 yards rushing in the past 4 games. You don't win games like that. And for all you folks on the message boards not wondering why the Bucs don't get any National respect, you witnessed it first hand in the last 4 games of the season. This team overachieved early and the team flaws finally caught up with them. Looks like about 251 days until the start of the 2009 NFL season.
Crazy Dave's
I was watching Meet the Press with David "Sasquatch" Gregory this morning. One of his guests was Obama campaign manager, David Axelrod. There is something creepy about this guy. He looks slimy, and he's from a slimy city. Then as I watching listening to him dance around answering any questions Gregory fired to him, it hit me. He reminds me of the guy you see at 2am doing cheesy commercials for his local business.
He comes on your screen wearing a brown leisure suit with a 3 inch wide white belt holding his pet poodle while yelling madly. Howdy folks, Crazy Dave here from Crazy Dave's Mattress City, 1060 West Addison. All this inventory must go. I'm blowing it all out. Buy a Serta queen pillowtop and get a free headboard. Buy a complete 9 piece bedroom set, get a free senate seat. Everything's gotta go folks, we're closing our doors in three weeks and moving to Washington. Come on down, buy some bunk beds and register to vote. Already registered? Not a problem, our ACORN representatives will help you register again. Look at this Tommy Bahama Canopy set. 7999? No. 6999? No. 5999? No. 4999 cash and carry today and we're throwing in an autographed picture of Ron Gettelfinger and 100 shares of GM stock. And now back to our late night movie.
He comes on your screen wearing a brown leisure suit with a 3 inch wide white belt holding his pet poodle while yelling madly. Howdy folks, Crazy Dave here from Crazy Dave's Mattress City, 1060 West Addison. All this inventory must go. I'm blowing it all out. Buy a Serta queen pillowtop and get a free headboard. Buy a complete 9 piece bedroom set, get a free senate seat. Everything's gotta go folks, we're closing our doors in three weeks and moving to Washington. Come on down, buy some bunk beds and register to vote. Already registered? Not a problem, our ACORN representatives will help you register again. Look at this Tommy Bahama Canopy set. 7999? No. 6999? No. 5999? No. 4999 cash and carry today and we're throwing in an autographed picture of Ron Gettelfinger and 100 shares of GM stock. And now back to our late night movie.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Last Dance, Last Chance
To steal a line from Donna Summer, this is it for several teams this weekend. And for the die hard fans of the greatest game on earth, it's a melancholy time. (unless you are a Lions fan) This is the weekend where the reality hits that there are only 4 more weeks of football remaining. And no, the ProBowl doesn't count as actual football. February ushers in the start of those mindless sports. One where drivers turn left for hundreds of miles and the other, where dozens of men walk 6,000 yards a day, 4 days in a row following a small white ball. Thank God for the NFL Network.
So, as I usually dissect the upcoming Bucs game, I want to look at four key games this week.
Bucs vs Raiders
There is so much history here. Gruden coached the Raiders right up until the famous Tuck Rule game against New England in 2001. Bucs ownership, the Glazers, sent a bounty to the Raiders after the 2001 season in order to obtain Gruden as head coach. 2 1st round picks, 2 2nd round picks and 8 million in cash. The Bucs ironically played the Raiders the next season in the Super Bowl and destroyed them, 48-21 to win the first Buccaneer World Championship in the teams history.
Those of you who had HBO in the 1980's can associate the Raiders owner, Al Davis, with the late night host, the Crypt Keeper. Davis was a maverick before John McCain made being a maverick cool. Davis must be in contact with the lab which has Walt Disney's head frozen for regeneration so Al can come back in a decade to see if his decisions have paid off. His decisions haven't paid off since his team's last Super Bowl appearance. 23-72 since 2003.
The Bucs a 13 point favorite? Are you kidding me? The Bucs will win, but take Oakland and the points. Mortgage the house. Oh shit, I forgot, this is South Florida, you can't get a pawn shop to take a title loan on that bet.
Bucs win 31-21
Dallas vs Philly
Jerry Jones came out this week and said Wade Phillips won't be fired. Wades' done such a superb job. 70-48 career coaching record and a Schottenheimer-esque 0-4 playoff record. And as the Dallas team heads to Philly this weekend, they will miss the playoffs once again. Regardless of the score of the Tampa Bay/Oakland game, Philly will want to knock the Cowboys out of the playoffs. The Cowboys have become the Yankees of the NFL. Lots of money, no delivery.
Philly on the other hand has to deal with the ever present issue regarding the QB diva, Donovan McNabb. This past week, Donovan said he wanted to leave everything on the field. He does. He left chunks on the 20 yardline in the south endzone in Ray Jay. His performance on the field and the endorsement of Chunky Campbell Soup is a bit disturbing.
Philly beats Dallas 24-21
Miami vs. Jets
Oh this is the largest game of the year for the Northeast corridor media sports writers. You know those, the ones on ESPN, the ones who anointed Lord Favre after he was traded to the Jets the J-E-T-S would be an immediate playoff team. Hmmm. The anointed one has thrown 21 touchdowns and 19 interceptions. 6 of those td's were thown in week foor and since, Farve has been 9 td's and 15 picks.
Jets home wins have been against Arizona (week 4) Cincy, KC, St. Louis, and Buffalo. Jets have lost at home to two teams battling for a playoff spot. New England and Denver.
Jets lose to Miami. 27-20
San Diego vs. Denver
8-7 Denver
7-8 San Diego
This is a piss poor division in the NFL. Denver's coach Mike Shanahan will end his 4th season hovering around .500. Norv Turner in San Diego is heading up a mismanagement situation with talent. Shanahan won back to back Super Bowls but has not won a playoff game since 1998.
Both San Diego and Denver play in perhaps the weakest division in the NFL. Oakland and Kansas City are a combined 6-24. A 8-8 Division winner is pretty sad.
San Diego beats Denver 38-30.
So, as I usually dissect the upcoming Bucs game, I want to look at four key games this week.
Bucs vs Raiders
There is so much history here. Gruden coached the Raiders right up until the famous Tuck Rule game against New England in 2001. Bucs ownership, the Glazers, sent a bounty to the Raiders after the 2001 season in order to obtain Gruden as head coach. 2 1st round picks, 2 2nd round picks and 8 million in cash. The Bucs ironically played the Raiders the next season in the Super Bowl and destroyed them, 48-21 to win the first Buccaneer World Championship in the teams history.
Those of you who had HBO in the 1980's can associate the Raiders owner, Al Davis, with the late night host, the Crypt Keeper. Davis was a maverick before John McCain made being a maverick cool. Davis must be in contact with the lab which has Walt Disney's head frozen for regeneration so Al can come back in a decade to see if his decisions have paid off. His decisions haven't paid off since his team's last Super Bowl appearance. 23-72 since 2003.
The Bucs a 13 point favorite? Are you kidding me? The Bucs will win, but take Oakland and the points. Mortgage the house. Oh shit, I forgot, this is South Florida, you can't get a pawn shop to take a title loan on that bet.
Bucs win 31-21
Dallas vs Philly
Jerry Jones came out this week and said Wade Phillips won't be fired. Wades' done such a superb job. 70-48 career coaching record and a Schottenheimer-esque 0-4 playoff record. And as the Dallas team heads to Philly this weekend, they will miss the playoffs once again. Regardless of the score of the Tampa Bay/Oakland game, Philly will want to knock the Cowboys out of the playoffs. The Cowboys have become the Yankees of the NFL. Lots of money, no delivery.
Philly on the other hand has to deal with the ever present issue regarding the QB diva, Donovan McNabb. This past week, Donovan said he wanted to leave everything on the field. He does. He left chunks on the 20 yardline in the south endzone in Ray Jay. His performance on the field and the endorsement of Chunky Campbell Soup is a bit disturbing.
Philly beats Dallas 24-21
Miami vs. Jets
Oh this is the largest game of the year for the Northeast corridor media sports writers. You know those, the ones on ESPN, the ones who anointed Lord Favre after he was traded to the Jets the J-E-T-S would be an immediate playoff team. Hmmm. The anointed one has thrown 21 touchdowns and 19 interceptions. 6 of those td's were thown in week foor and since, Farve has been 9 td's and 15 picks.
Jets home wins have been against Arizona (week 4) Cincy, KC, St. Louis, and Buffalo. Jets have lost at home to two teams battling for a playoff spot. New England and Denver.
Jets lose to Miami. 27-20
San Diego vs. Denver
8-7 Denver
7-8 San Diego
This is a piss poor division in the NFL. Denver's coach Mike Shanahan will end his 4th season hovering around .500. Norv Turner in San Diego is heading up a mismanagement situation with talent. Shanahan won back to back Super Bowls but has not won a playoff game since 1998.
Both San Diego and Denver play in perhaps the weakest division in the NFL. Oakland and Kansas City are a combined 6-24. A 8-8 Division winner is pretty sad.
San Diego beats Denver 38-30.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Crank up the Fat Lady, the season is winding down
Well Bucs fans, how did that 41-24 beatdown by a 6-8 West Coast team feel today? The only other West Coast team to win a game on the East Coast this season was San Francisco in Buffalo last week. West Coast teams have recorded a record of 1-13 prior to this week.
Two times, Antonio Bryant was overthrown while he was WIDE OPEN for a walk in touchdown. This wasn't the first time this season. If the front office allows Bryant to get away during free agency, they must have their heads examined. Remember where you read here, 7 months ago, that Bryant would be the CBPOY.
Bucs fans, the season is over. Playoff seed or not, forget the post season. Get ready for some major shake ups since Monte Kiffin is leaving, and even though Gruden signed a new 3 year contract after last season, after being 9-3 and missing the playoffs might be not so good for the "Offensive Genius" The Marquee Matchup Coach of the 3 yard out pattern on 3rd and 12.
Bucs message boards are filled with links on how the Bucs will beat the snot out of Oakland next week because of Gruden's link to Al Davis. I don't think the Bucs beat the Raiders next week either and finish the year 9-7.
Two times, Antonio Bryant was overthrown while he was WIDE OPEN for a walk in touchdown. This wasn't the first time this season. If the front office allows Bryant to get away during free agency, they must have their heads examined. Remember where you read here, 7 months ago, that Bryant would be the CBPOY.
Bucs fans, the season is over. Playoff seed or not, forget the post season. Get ready for some major shake ups since Monte Kiffin is leaving, and even though Gruden signed a new 3 year contract after last season, after being 9-3 and missing the playoffs might be not so good for the "Offensive Genius" The Marquee Matchup Coach of the 3 yard out pattern on 3rd and 12.
Bucs message boards are filled with links on how the Bucs will beat the snot out of Oakland next week because of Gruden's link to Al Davis. I don't think the Bucs beat the Raiders next week either and finish the year 9-7.
This is it Bucs, your last chance.
With the Baltimore Ravens conducting a beatdown of the Cowboys last night, 33-24, a win by the Bucs today means that at least a wildcard playoff spot will await the Buccos. Those of us who follow and understand this bipolar team, know that a wildcard spot and a road playoff game equal and one and done situation, early exit from the playoff tournament.
There is still the possible scenario which the Bucs can win the division, obtain the #2 seed in the playoffs and a first week bye. However, a loss today and you can kiss that goodbye. While I do believe there is a strong possibility that Carolina and Atlanta both lose on the road today, but a guaranteed win at home for the Bucs? Never. The Bucs could be playing Sister Mary's School for the Blind and still only be a 3 point home favorite. Our Pewter pirates are always seemingly able to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. And in true Bucs flavor, today's game will be be uncertain with 3 minutes to go.
The Chargers have unarchived this season to say the least. Still, Phillip Rivers is the total rated quarterback in the NFL coming into today's game. LT has had a horrible season (especially for fantasy owners, I know firsthand) as he's been battling a toe injury all season. I wonder just how much the departure of Lorenzo Neal (another former Buc) meant to the running game in San Diego. Neal sure looked good last night springing big blocks for big runs against the Cowboys.
Why does it seem, Baltimore always plays great defense and finds a quarterback to manage the game? The last time the Super Bowl was in Tampa, they had Trent Dilfer at the helm and won the big game. This year, rookie quarterback Joe Flacco from Delaware is taking snaps from center. Think about that Bucs fans, ROOKIE quarterback and a 10-5 record. It almost makes you bleed from the eyes if you try to comprehend that.
ATTENTION ONE BUC PLACE, SCOUTING DEPARTMENT
Last season, I was pretty excited about the possibility of drafting Chris Johnson, running back from East Carolina. He only ran a 4.2 40 at the combine. No, instead we are going to be smarter than the average bear and select, I mean waste, the second round pick by taking Dexter 'Skids" Jackson, who is buried on the inactive list each week now. Great pick guys.
This year, I'd like to see the Bucs select Gartrell Johnson from Colorado State. This Marshall Faulk look alike only managed 285 yards on 27 carries and added 90 yards on a few receptions. This senior will be an impact player in the NFL.
If Brian "Hot Wheels" Griese starts today, pencil in a loss Bucs fans. LT should have a 100 yard rushing day but Garcia should be able to carve up a very below average Charger secondary.
Hey Bruce Allen, is Bryant signed to a long term contract yet? No? What are you waiting for?
There is still the possible scenario which the Bucs can win the division, obtain the #2 seed in the playoffs and a first week bye. However, a loss today and you can kiss that goodbye. While I do believe there is a strong possibility that Carolina and Atlanta both lose on the road today, but a guaranteed win at home for the Bucs? Never. The Bucs could be playing Sister Mary's School for the Blind and still only be a 3 point home favorite. Our Pewter pirates are always seemingly able to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. And in true Bucs flavor, today's game will be be uncertain with 3 minutes to go.
The Chargers have unarchived this season to say the least. Still, Phillip Rivers is the total rated quarterback in the NFL coming into today's game. LT has had a horrible season (especially for fantasy owners, I know firsthand) as he's been battling a toe injury all season. I wonder just how much the departure of Lorenzo Neal (another former Buc) meant to the running game in San Diego. Neal sure looked good last night springing big blocks for big runs against the Cowboys.
Why does it seem, Baltimore always plays great defense and finds a quarterback to manage the game? The last time the Super Bowl was in Tampa, they had Trent Dilfer at the helm and won the big game. This year, rookie quarterback Joe Flacco from Delaware is taking snaps from center. Think about that Bucs fans, ROOKIE quarterback and a 10-5 record. It almost makes you bleed from the eyes if you try to comprehend that.
ATTENTION ONE BUC PLACE, SCOUTING DEPARTMENT
Last season, I was pretty excited about the possibility of drafting Chris Johnson, running back from East Carolina. He only ran a 4.2 40 at the combine. No, instead we are going to be smarter than the average bear and select, I mean waste, the second round pick by taking Dexter 'Skids" Jackson, who is buried on the inactive list each week now. Great pick guys.
This year, I'd like to see the Bucs select Gartrell Johnson from Colorado State. This Marshall Faulk look alike only managed 285 yards on 27 carries and added 90 yards on a few receptions. This senior will be an impact player in the NFL.
If Brian "Hot Wheels" Griese starts today, pencil in a loss Bucs fans. LT should have a 100 yard rushing day but Garcia should be able to carve up a very below average Charger secondary.
Hey Bruce Allen, is Bryant signed to a long term contract yet? No? What are you waiting for?
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Week 16, picks
Baltimore over Dallas, 24-20
Cleveland over Cincy 10-6
New Orleans over Detroit 34-17
KC over Miami in a 6 degree freezer. 13-6
Minnesota over Atlanta, Peterson runs wild, 37-20
New England over Arizona, 19-10
San Diego over Tampa 34-26 LT rushes for 150 yards and 2 scores
San Fran over St Louis 38-28
Pittsburgh over Tenn 18-13
Philly over Washington 34-17
Denver over Buffalo 29-27
Houston over Oakland 29-16
NY Jets over Seattle 31-24
Monday Night
Chicago in a freezer bowl game, 16-13.
Cleveland over Cincy 10-6
New Orleans over Detroit 34-17
KC over Miami in a 6 degree freezer. 13-6
Minnesota over Atlanta, Peterson runs wild, 37-20
New England over Arizona, 19-10
San Diego over Tampa 34-26 LT rushes for 150 yards and 2 scores
San Fran over St Louis 38-28
Pittsburgh over Tenn 18-13
Philly over Washington 34-17
Denver over Buffalo 29-27
Houston over Oakland 29-16
NY Jets over Seattle 31-24
Monday Night
Chicago in a freezer bowl game, 16-13.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Calling Pfizer, do you make something for goal line dysfunction?
I had to chuckle this past weekend as I heard a report on the news that professional athletes might soon be tested for the erectile dysfunction drug, Viagra, as some athletes are using it to enhance performance. ON THE FIELD, get your mind out of the gutter. Bucs qb Jeff Garcia should be a spokesman for the product if he's trying it out, his Playboy playmate of the year wife is pregnant again. If athletes are really starting to turn to Viagra for enhanced performance, there might be a great new venture capital business in a new line of athletic supporters needed in the coming few years. I'm just trying to help jumpstart the sagging economy here.
I wonder if Viagra could make a drug for goal line dysfunction because when it comes to a quick score, the Bucs are at the end of the line. 12 players have carried the ball this year for the Bucs, and the team has totaled a paltry 1600 yards and 9 touchdowns. Look at the top 5 rushing yardage leaders in the NFL currently,
Adrian Peterson, MIN 1581-9tds
Michael Turner, ATL 1421-15tds
Clinton Portis, WASH 1337-7tds
DeAngelo Williams CAR 1229-14 tds
Thomas Jones NY JETS 1222- 13 tds (former Buc player)
And here are 4 players in the top 20 rushing leaders who split the majority of their playing time with other teammates which have scored more singularly than the Bucs have as a team:
Brandon Jacobs Giants 1002-12tds
Ronnie Brown MIA 827-10tds
LenDale White TEN 700-14tds
Maurice Jones-Drew JAX 655-12tds
The Bucs have scored 9 rushing tds and 16 passing tds all year. 25 scores offensively through 14 games. 1.635 touchdowns a game. There are Pinellas county school teachers scoring with their students more often than the Bucs find the endzone on offense.
The past two years, the Bucs have focused on upgrading the offensive line though the draft and free agency. Donald Penn, LT, is an undrafted free agent. LG, Aaron Sears is a second round draft choice from 2007. C Jeff Faine, is a free agent acquired from New Orleans and is the highest paid Center in the league. RG Davin Joseph is a 1st round pick in 2006 and RT Jeremy Trueblood is a second round pick in the 2006 draft. This is the youngest offensive line in the NFL and while it was showing promise last year and earlier this season, it is regressing now and Trueblood is quickly morphing into another OL bust known to Bucs fans as, Kenyatta "false start" Walker which played the same position, right tackle.
I doubt the test kitchens at Pfizer can cook up some sort of concoction to help the Bucs cure their season long scoring woes by Sunday, but there needs to be some sort of cure this offseason. Since Monte is leaving, and most likely the defense will see the end of the Barber and Brooks era, along with Carter, perhaps ownership might look at taking the team in a new direction, especially if after a 9-3 start, the Bucs fail to make the playoffs. Even if they make the playoffs as a wildcard, one and done on he road doesn't cut it. Look at what former Buc assistant defensive coach Mike Tomlin is doing in Pittsburgh. We've got our own Mike Tomlin here in Tampa in Raheem Morris, the Glazers should not let this young talent get away. If the Bucs finish 10-6 or worse and miss the playoffs, release Gruden and let this young man take the reigns. Players love playing for this man.
I wonder if Viagra could make a drug for goal line dysfunction because when it comes to a quick score, the Bucs are at the end of the line. 12 players have carried the ball this year for the Bucs, and the team has totaled a paltry 1600 yards and 9 touchdowns. Look at the top 5 rushing yardage leaders in the NFL currently,
Adrian Peterson, MIN 1581-9tds
Michael Turner, ATL 1421-15tds
Clinton Portis, WASH 1337-7tds
DeAngelo Williams CAR 1229-14 tds
Thomas Jones NY JETS 1222- 13 tds (former Buc player)
And here are 4 players in the top 20 rushing leaders who split the majority of their playing time with other teammates which have scored more singularly than the Bucs have as a team:
Brandon Jacobs Giants 1002-12tds
Ronnie Brown MIA 827-10tds
LenDale White TEN 700-14tds
Maurice Jones-Drew JAX 655-12tds
The Bucs have scored 9 rushing tds and 16 passing tds all year. 25 scores offensively through 14 games. 1.635 touchdowns a game. There are Pinellas county school teachers scoring with their students more often than the Bucs find the endzone on offense.
The past two years, the Bucs have focused on upgrading the offensive line though the draft and free agency. Donald Penn, LT, is an undrafted free agent. LG, Aaron Sears is a second round draft choice from 2007. C Jeff Faine, is a free agent acquired from New Orleans and is the highest paid Center in the league. RG Davin Joseph is a 1st round pick in 2006 and RT Jeremy Trueblood is a second round pick in the 2006 draft. This is the youngest offensive line in the NFL and while it was showing promise last year and earlier this season, it is regressing now and Trueblood is quickly morphing into another OL bust known to Bucs fans as, Kenyatta "false start" Walker which played the same position, right tackle.
I doubt the test kitchens at Pfizer can cook up some sort of concoction to help the Bucs cure their season long scoring woes by Sunday, but there needs to be some sort of cure this offseason. Since Monte is leaving, and most likely the defense will see the end of the Barber and Brooks era, along with Carter, perhaps ownership might look at taking the team in a new direction, especially if after a 9-3 start, the Bucs fail to make the playoffs. Even if they make the playoffs as a wildcard, one and done on he road doesn't cut it. Look at what former Buc assistant defensive coach Mike Tomlin is doing in Pittsburgh. We've got our own Mike Tomlin here in Tampa in Raheem Morris, the Glazers should not let this young talent get away. If the Bucs finish 10-6 or worse and miss the playoffs, release Gruden and let this young man take the reigns. Players love playing for this man.
Next Year's Gunslinger
In a visionary article prior to yesterday's loss, cutting edge sports journalist for the Slant Pete Times, Rick Stroud opined about who might be taking snaps under center for the Buccos next season. I was going to comment on this article yesterday, but I was so disgusted with yesterday's loss, I couldn't have cared of Roger Staubach had announced his return to the league.
Stroud scribed about his top three possible free agent acquisitions for the next Bucs qb. HA! The only time the Bucs will see any of these three are if they happen to be playing them. Name me ONE major media sports writer, ONE local sports writer, or ONE radio host, who predicted Antonio Bryant would have 80 catches for 1200 yards and 8 touchdowns this year and predicted he would WIN Comeback Player of the Year in the NFL. Who did? You're reading his words baby, so these so called "experts" with much better access than myself, can't seem to get it.
Stroud's top three choices? Derek Anderson, Donovan McNabb and a player to be named later.
Derek Anderson. Surprise Cleveland starter last year and led the Browns to a 10-6 regular season record, just missing the playoffs. This year however, Anderson compiled a 66.5 passer rating in 10 games before being replaced by Brady Quinn. Both Anderson and Quinn are done for the season and someone will be odd man out next season, however both are under contract and will command a couple of high draft choices.
Donovan McNabb. Benched earlier in the year. Undergoing an up and down season in Philly this season. He'll be 33 next season, which really makes him an underclassman in Gruden's eyes. McNabb used to be a spokesman for Chunky soup, and Tampa fans can testify, that he actually does eat Chunky soup, he left some on the south endzone around the 20 late in the game on his last visit. Donovan is due almost 11 million next year and the Glazers aren't going to lay out hat kind of money.
Finally, Stroud really went of the box and suggested that Gruden would want to bring in, you guessed it, Mike Vick. Ron Mexico will be out of jail by June of 2009, and removed from football for nearly three years. With Florida and the Bay area in the grasp of a serious economic downturn, the Glazers are not going to pull a move such as this which could cause an uproar from the fans. I know if the Bucs organization were to sign Mike Vick, I would send each and every piece of merchandise I have with the Bucs logo on it, to One Buc Place and would NEVER root for the Bucs ever again.
Stroud has been covering the Bucs for a while now, but even I get it at this point. Garcia and McCown are going to be gone next year. That leaves Griese under contract for 2009 with rookie Josh Johnson still on the roster. Gruden loves Greise for some reason. Maybe Brian has some compromising pictures of Gruden having sex with farm animals or something, but I don't understand the love affair. Gruden likes quarterbacks who mobile playmakers and don't turn the ball over. Griese, who is as mobile as a blacksmith's anvil, throws nearly as many interceptions as touchdowns. Regardless of the current salary cap room, 8 million or more a season won't be spent on getting younger at the quarterback position.
The Bucs will enter 2009 with Griese as number 1 and some castoff journeyman as number 2. I predict a powerhouse signing such as Joey Harrington, Alex Smith, Ken Dorsey or perhaps Jon Kitna. Josh Johnson will continue to be the number three qb.
Stroud scribed about his top three possible free agent acquisitions for the next Bucs qb. HA! The only time the Bucs will see any of these three are if they happen to be playing them. Name me ONE major media sports writer, ONE local sports writer, or ONE radio host, who predicted Antonio Bryant would have 80 catches for 1200 yards and 8 touchdowns this year and predicted he would WIN Comeback Player of the Year in the NFL. Who did? You're reading his words baby, so these so called "experts" with much better access than myself, can't seem to get it.
Stroud's top three choices? Derek Anderson, Donovan McNabb and a player to be named later.
Derek Anderson. Surprise Cleveland starter last year and led the Browns to a 10-6 regular season record, just missing the playoffs. This year however, Anderson compiled a 66.5 passer rating in 10 games before being replaced by Brady Quinn. Both Anderson and Quinn are done for the season and someone will be odd man out next season, however both are under contract and will command a couple of high draft choices.
Donovan McNabb. Benched earlier in the year. Undergoing an up and down season in Philly this season. He'll be 33 next season, which really makes him an underclassman in Gruden's eyes. McNabb used to be a spokesman for Chunky soup, and Tampa fans can testify, that he actually does eat Chunky soup, he left some on the south endzone around the 20 late in the game on his last visit. Donovan is due almost 11 million next year and the Glazers aren't going to lay out hat kind of money.
Finally, Stroud really went of the box and suggested that Gruden would want to bring in, you guessed it, Mike Vick. Ron Mexico will be out of jail by June of 2009, and removed from football for nearly three years. With Florida and the Bay area in the grasp of a serious economic downturn, the Glazers are not going to pull a move such as this which could cause an uproar from the fans. I know if the Bucs organization were to sign Mike Vick, I would send each and every piece of merchandise I have with the Bucs logo on it, to One Buc Place and would NEVER root for the Bucs ever again.
Stroud has been covering the Bucs for a while now, but even I get it at this point. Garcia and McCown are going to be gone next year. That leaves Griese under contract for 2009 with rookie Josh Johnson still on the roster. Gruden loves Greise for some reason. Maybe Brian has some compromising pictures of Gruden having sex with farm animals or something, but I don't understand the love affair. Gruden likes quarterbacks who mobile playmakers and don't turn the ball over. Griese, who is as mobile as a blacksmith's anvil, throws nearly as many interceptions as touchdowns. Regardless of the current salary cap room, 8 million or more a season won't be spent on getting younger at the quarterback position.
The Bucs will enter 2009 with Griese as number 1 and some castoff journeyman as number 2. I predict a powerhouse signing such as Joey Harrington, Alex Smith, Ken Dorsey or perhaps Jon Kitna. Josh Johnson will continue to be the number three qb.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
If they lose and we win and then if we can win by 27 points........
It's over Bucs fans. The usual Bucs message boards are filled with all the playoff scenarios, and how the Bucs will make the playoffs, if this team loses two games, the other wins one, etc etc etc. Well, Bucs fans will understand that the Bucs held their destiny in their hands prior to going into Charlotte to play the Panthers.
The Bucs defense was schooled by Carolina, and then today, the Bucs were unable to score from the 11 yard line. You Homer fans which are scheduling how the Bucs could make the playoffs by figuring who will win and who will lose in the final three weeks of the season. Homer, GET A LIFE. The Bucs were 9-3 prior to the Carolina game, and now after the Atlanta game, they are 9-5. If Greise starts again next Sunday, the Bucs will lose against San Diego. The Bucs will split their final homegames and finish 10-6, out of the playoffs.
The Bucs defense was schooled by Carolina, and then today, the Bucs were unable to score from the 11 yard line. You Homer fans which are scheduling how the Bucs could make the playoffs by figuring who will win and who will lose in the final three weeks of the season. Homer, GET A LIFE. The Bucs were 9-3 prior to the Carolina game, and now after the Atlanta game, they are 9-5. If Greise starts again next Sunday, the Bucs will lose against San Diego. The Bucs will split their final homegames and finish 10-6, out of the playoffs.
Monte Kiffin heading for redneck central
Over the past few weeks, after the University of Tennessee announced that they fired head coach Phillip Fullmer, and hired failed Oakland Raider head coach, Lane Kiffin, there have been rumors surrounding Tampa Bay Bucs defensive coordinator, Monte Kiffin, his father.
Jon Gruden has deflected questions during his press conferences over the past two weeks, but Monte Kiffin came out this evening and said he'll be joining his son at UT next season. Perhaps that might be a good thing for the Bucs. Derrick Brooks, Ronde Barber, Kevin Carter, all need to be shook up, and it's time for them to transition to the post playing portion of their career.
Prior to re-signing any players, the Bucs should make a deal with current defensive back coach, Raheem Morris and make him the defensive coordinator, and offer the option of becoming head coach when and if Gruden is relieved.
Post game injury report, Jermaine Phillips, re-fractured his arm, out for the season. What looked like a possible 12-4 season, now 9-7 looks much more reasonable.
Jon Gruden has deflected questions during his press conferences over the past two weeks, but Monte Kiffin came out this evening and said he'll be joining his son at UT next season. Perhaps that might be a good thing for the Bucs. Derrick Brooks, Ronde Barber, Kevin Carter, all need to be shook up, and it's time for them to transition to the post playing portion of their career.
Prior to re-signing any players, the Bucs should make a deal with current defensive back coach, Raheem Morris and make him the defensive coordinator, and offer the option of becoming head coach when and if Gruden is relieved.
Post game injury report, Jermaine Phillips, re-fractured his arm, out for the season. What looked like a possible 12-4 season, now 9-7 looks much more reasonable.
Bruce Allen, send the scout teams to the bowl games
Well Bucco fans, what seemed like a magical season two weeks ago, has become a nightmare. Nothing new to those of us which have followed the team for 30 years. Going into the Monday night match up with the Carolina Panthers, the Bucs were 9-3 and the projected #2 seed in the NFC playoffs. After being embarrassed by the Panthers, Carolina ran over the proud defensive unit for 299 yards and 4 rushing touchdowns, the Bucs showed up to play the surprising upstart Atlanta Falcons this afternoon.
Once again, for the 14th time this season, the Bucs failed to score inside the redzone. Each game seems to bring a new problem. Last week against Carolina, it was 20 missed tackles. Today, it was the stupid ass playcalling and 11 penalties for 76 yards. The defense once again kept the team in the game, but once again, Matt Bryant kicks a late game field goal to send the game to overtime.
I foresee the Bucs splitting their last two home games, losing next week to San Diego and winning out against Oakland. The Bucs finish 10-6 and out of the playoffs. There was a magic surrounding the Bay area this season, with the Rays advancing all the way to the World Series. If I had been the coach of the Bucs, the week of the Bucs traveling to Carolina with so much on the line, I'd have called Joe Maddon and set up a get together with the Rays and Bucs players. The Bucs could have made history this season by being the first home team in a Super Bowl host city to play in the game, but that isn't going to happen now. If the Bucs do stumble into the playoffs, they'll play their game on the road against either Arizona or Minnesota. One and done.
Bruce Allen ought to send out the scouts to the Bowl games now and see who the Bucs can select with the 20th pick in the upcoming draft.
Here are my 5 observations of today's debacle:
Antonio Bryant-
Why has this wideout not been signed yet to a longterm contract? Readers of my blog can search what I wrote during the offseason regarding Bryant, I forecasted a 80 catch, 1200 yard and 8 touchdown season and winner of the Comeback Player of the Year. Let's see where we are right now...........73-1044-7tds, with two games to go.
Now in today's game, Bryant had 7 catches for 106 yards and a score in the first half, and all he saw was a 1 catch for 2 yards in the second half. If Atlanta decided to take him out of the game in the second half, weren't there open receivers somewhere on the field? Bryant is a classic reclimation project, while out of the NFL last season. He signed a 1 year contract during training camp for 661,240 for 1 year. Bryant could be the best receiver we've had since Kevin House. Bandwagon fans will need to Google that name. After being kicked to the curb in the past 2 weeks, Bruce Allen should hold a press conference this week and announce his resigning to a longterm contract. If the Bucs let Bryant get away....I've lost all respect for Gruden and Allen.
Alex Smith-
Right before the trading deadline in the NFL back in October, TE Tony Gonzalez made known to teams that he wanted out of Kansas City. Tony is going to the Hall of Fame when his playing days are done, but he has a year or two left and he is still productive. I've not been a Alex Smith fan since he has failed to deliver on his "potential" for several years now. He's like an annoying girlfriend who is always whining about something. He's always seemingly injured, and he'll make the occasional catch, but, he can't catch the ball in traffic for shit. I believe his contract is up this year, and I want to see him sent down the road. He's Maurice Stovall and Paris Warren all rolled up into one. Alex Smith-gotta go.
Why are these players even on the roster?
Joey Galloway. Inactive today. Hell, he's been inactive all season. Gruden is a supposed offensive genius, and he can't figure out a way to work Galloway into a slot receiver position? I understand Bryant is now the split end, but, jesus man, if Galloway can run, why not bring him in the game in the slot position to creates the mismatches Gruden is so famous for creating. I have a feeling, that during this offseason, we will hear from Galloway about this season and even back to last season's playoff game against the Giants in Ray Jay when he walked off the field.
Luke McCown. According to local media sources, he took all the reps in practice this week. Last year, when Garcia was injured, McCown led the Bucs to the NFC South division title against the New Orleans Saints. Gruden complains about wanting to groom a young quarterback for the future. Griese looked horrible today. He was as statue-esque as usual, taking sacks and losing field position. McCown reminds me of a young Garcia. Whether you like Garcia or not, he is a gamer. I've met him in person and he's smaller than I am. I watch him get smashed in the mouth and sacked like a ragdoll by 300 pound defensive players and he jumps right back up. Both McCown and Garcia's contracts are up at the end of this year, Griese will be returning. (suppressed exuberance emitted here)
Jerremy Stevens. The Bucs have the ball, inside the 12 with 3 minutes to go, and Gruden calls 3 running plays and draws two penalties, eventually creating a 3rd and 28 at the 30. Why is Stevens on this team? He's freaking 6'7", everytime he touches the ball, he's lunging forward or running over someone. Can't we match this guy up on a 6'0" linebacker for a scoring opportunity? Gruden wants to create mismatches, why can't this guy get more than 2 touches a game?
Red Zone-
Once the Bucs cross the opponents 20 yardline, the squad seems to act like they are in one of those Verizon commercials. You're in a deadzone, nothing comes in, nothing comes out. Well, Gruden is supposed to be the network, and after today, I believe the network has disconnected. Detroit, who is 0-14, on the road in Indy, put 21 points up against Indy with a rookie QB.
An 0-14 team can put more points up on the road than a 2 week ago #2 seed in the NFC? I don't think Tampa could put 21 points up in Indy.
Playoffs-
Playoffs? Playoffs? I sound like the Coors commercial with Coach Mora. There will be no playoffs for the Bucs. There might be one playoff game on the road, but the Bucs are one and done this year, just as last year. There is no pass rush on the opposing quarterback and there is no offensive threat to opposing teams. At 9-3, this team looked destined for something special, something I wanted to happen for players like Derrick Brooks, Ronde Barber and Warrick Dunn, but after the past two games, any advancement deep into the playoffs for the Bucs is not a reasonable assumption.
Once again, for the 14th time this season, the Bucs failed to score inside the redzone. Each game seems to bring a new problem. Last week against Carolina, it was 20 missed tackles. Today, it was the stupid ass playcalling and 11 penalties for 76 yards. The defense once again kept the team in the game, but once again, Matt Bryant kicks a late game field goal to send the game to overtime.
I foresee the Bucs splitting their last two home games, losing next week to San Diego and winning out against Oakland. The Bucs finish 10-6 and out of the playoffs. There was a magic surrounding the Bay area this season, with the Rays advancing all the way to the World Series. If I had been the coach of the Bucs, the week of the Bucs traveling to Carolina with so much on the line, I'd have called Joe Maddon and set up a get together with the Rays and Bucs players. The Bucs could have made history this season by being the first home team in a Super Bowl host city to play in the game, but that isn't going to happen now. If the Bucs do stumble into the playoffs, they'll play their game on the road against either Arizona or Minnesota. One and done.
Bruce Allen ought to send out the scouts to the Bowl games now and see who the Bucs can select with the 20th pick in the upcoming draft.
Here are my 5 observations of today's debacle:
Antonio Bryant-
Why has this wideout not been signed yet to a longterm contract? Readers of my blog can search what I wrote during the offseason regarding Bryant, I forecasted a 80 catch, 1200 yard and 8 touchdown season and winner of the Comeback Player of the Year. Let's see where we are right now...........73-1044-7tds, with two games to go.
Now in today's game, Bryant had 7 catches for 106 yards and a score in the first half, and all he saw was a 1 catch for 2 yards in the second half. If Atlanta decided to take him out of the game in the second half, weren't there open receivers somewhere on the field? Bryant is a classic reclimation project, while out of the NFL last season. He signed a 1 year contract during training camp for 661,240 for 1 year. Bryant could be the best receiver we've had since Kevin House. Bandwagon fans will need to Google that name. After being kicked to the curb in the past 2 weeks, Bruce Allen should hold a press conference this week and announce his resigning to a longterm contract. If the Bucs let Bryant get away....I've lost all respect for Gruden and Allen.
Alex Smith-
Right before the trading deadline in the NFL back in October, TE Tony Gonzalez made known to teams that he wanted out of Kansas City. Tony is going to the Hall of Fame when his playing days are done, but he has a year or two left and he is still productive. I've not been a Alex Smith fan since he has failed to deliver on his "potential" for several years now. He's like an annoying girlfriend who is always whining about something. He's always seemingly injured, and he'll make the occasional catch, but, he can't catch the ball in traffic for shit. I believe his contract is up this year, and I want to see him sent down the road. He's Maurice Stovall and Paris Warren all rolled up into one. Alex Smith-gotta go.
Why are these players even on the roster?
Joey Galloway. Inactive today. Hell, he's been inactive all season. Gruden is a supposed offensive genius, and he can't figure out a way to work Galloway into a slot receiver position? I understand Bryant is now the split end, but, jesus man, if Galloway can run, why not bring him in the game in the slot position to creates the mismatches Gruden is so famous for creating. I have a feeling, that during this offseason, we will hear from Galloway about this season and even back to last season's playoff game against the Giants in Ray Jay when he walked off the field.
Luke McCown. According to local media sources, he took all the reps in practice this week. Last year, when Garcia was injured, McCown led the Bucs to the NFC South division title against the New Orleans Saints. Gruden complains about wanting to groom a young quarterback for the future. Griese looked horrible today. He was as statue-esque as usual, taking sacks and losing field position. McCown reminds me of a young Garcia. Whether you like Garcia or not, he is a gamer. I've met him in person and he's smaller than I am. I watch him get smashed in the mouth and sacked like a ragdoll by 300 pound defensive players and he jumps right back up. Both McCown and Garcia's contracts are up at the end of this year, Griese will be returning. (suppressed exuberance emitted here)
Jerremy Stevens. The Bucs have the ball, inside the 12 with 3 minutes to go, and Gruden calls 3 running plays and draws two penalties, eventually creating a 3rd and 28 at the 30. Why is Stevens on this team? He's freaking 6'7", everytime he touches the ball, he's lunging forward or running over someone. Can't we match this guy up on a 6'0" linebacker for a scoring opportunity? Gruden wants to create mismatches, why can't this guy get more than 2 touches a game?
Red Zone-
Once the Bucs cross the opponents 20 yardline, the squad seems to act like they are in one of those Verizon commercials. You're in a deadzone, nothing comes in, nothing comes out. Well, Gruden is supposed to be the network, and after today, I believe the network has disconnected. Detroit, who is 0-14, on the road in Indy, put 21 points up against Indy with a rookie QB.
An 0-14 team can put more points up on the road than a 2 week ago #2 seed in the NFC? I don't think Tampa could put 21 points up in Indy.
Playoffs-
Playoffs? Playoffs? I sound like the Coors commercial with Coach Mora. There will be no playoffs for the Bucs. There might be one playoff game on the road, but the Bucs are one and done this year, just as last year. There is no pass rush on the opposing quarterback and there is no offensive threat to opposing teams. At 9-3, this team looked destined for something special, something I wanted to happen for players like Derrick Brooks, Ronde Barber and Warrick Dunn, but after the past two games, any advancement deep into the playoffs for the Bucs is not a reasonable assumption.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Did Detroit steal our defense?
Sweet Jesus. What the hell happened tonight? The lone bright spot tonight was my favorite offseason free agent signing of Antonio Bryant. I predicted he would have 80 receptions for 1200 yards and 8 scores. Last night, he snagged 8 for 200 yards and 2 touchdowns, while making one of the most remarkable one handed grabs you'll ever see. Bruce Allen, sign him to a multi year contract tonight on the flight home. Other than that, not much to see here, move along.
Let's review my 10 observations.
1. Peppers.
He was pretty much held in check all night until he flipped over to the rightside versus Trueblood and had a sack. Peppers also blocked a PAT in the 4th quarter when the Bucs got within a touchdown, making it an 8 point game.
2. Slay the two headed monster.
Two headed monster? The Carolina backfield looked like a T-Rex romping through Jurassic Park, running for 301 yards, an 8 yard average per carry and 4 touchdowns. This Bucs defense had only surrendered 1 100 yard runner and 1 rushing touchdown all season. The defense had piss poor tackling technique tonight and with Michael Turner and LT from San Diego next up, they better start remembering how in the immediate future.
3. Steve Smith.
100 yards and a score, atleast he was controlled.100 yards and a score was a gimme.
4. Stevens.
Wasn't really in the gameplan until late in the third quarter. He had 5 targets and 4 catches. Alex Smith dropped two and Gilmore had 1 catch early on. Cadillac only had 9 carries and 1 reception. He did look strong on his rushing score, driving Beason backwards. Dunn had some flashes tonight, but in the second half when it mattered, he dropped 5 screen passes.
5. Delhomme.
This cat could have played in a white tux tonight and gone out on the town after the game. No touches, no real pressures and most definitely, no sacks.
6. Carolina's Tightends.
When you have an 8 yard per carry average, rush for 4 touchdowns and 300 yards, punting once, who needs to throw to a tight end?
7. Return game.
Clifton Smith only got to field two kickoffs and one punt. The return game was a non issue tonight for either team.
8. White Tiger.
Did Galloway even take the flight from Tampa? Is he still on the roster?
9. Trueblood.
Jeremy you got schooled by Peppers. At least you didn't go Rambo on a Panther defender.
10. Keep Carolina outside the 35.
Yeah. That was a great suggestion. Perhaps my observation should have been, keep Carolina out of the endzone.
So, the Bucs are 9-4 and Carolina is 10-3. The Bucs remaining games are at Atlanta next week and then finish up with two at home where they are 6-0 against a demoralized San Diego and a pitiful Oakland Raiders. Carolina has the Denver Broncos coming to visit next week in Charlotte and then travel for their final two games against the New York Giants and then to New Orleans. If the Bucs win out in their final three games and the Panthers drop 1,the Bucs still win the NFC South and most likely get the #2 seed in the NFC playoffs.
The Bucs did not get it done tonight. The defense is due to have a bad game once out of 16 games and I'm glad it was tonight and not in the playoffs. Even if Monte is leaving to join his son in Tennessee, he wants one last chance to make it to the Super Bowl, especially since it's in Tampa this year, what a way to go out. I was on several Bucs internet message boards tonight and I'm sure I-275 is backed up from the Skyway all the way to Ulmerton with possible jumpers tonight. Calm yourselves. Sit back, take a deep breath and look at the standings picture in the NFL. I never thought I'd see Bucs fans panicking at 9-4 back in 1977. Then again, I never thought I'd live to see the Rays make it to the World Series. That's what makes sports so much fun. Enjoy Bucs fans, all is not lost, it is a mere speed bump. This loss builds character.
Let's review my 10 observations.
1. Peppers.
He was pretty much held in check all night until he flipped over to the rightside versus Trueblood and had a sack. Peppers also blocked a PAT in the 4th quarter when the Bucs got within a touchdown, making it an 8 point game.
2. Slay the two headed monster.
Two headed monster? The Carolina backfield looked like a T-Rex romping through Jurassic Park, running for 301 yards, an 8 yard average per carry and 4 touchdowns. This Bucs defense had only surrendered 1 100 yard runner and 1 rushing touchdown all season. The defense had piss poor tackling technique tonight and with Michael Turner and LT from San Diego next up, they better start remembering how in the immediate future.
3. Steve Smith.
100 yards and a score, atleast he was controlled.100 yards and a score was a gimme.
4. Stevens.
Wasn't really in the gameplan until late in the third quarter. He had 5 targets and 4 catches. Alex Smith dropped two and Gilmore had 1 catch early on. Cadillac only had 9 carries and 1 reception. He did look strong on his rushing score, driving Beason backwards. Dunn had some flashes tonight, but in the second half when it mattered, he dropped 5 screen passes.
5. Delhomme.
This cat could have played in a white tux tonight and gone out on the town after the game. No touches, no real pressures and most definitely, no sacks.
6. Carolina's Tightends.
When you have an 8 yard per carry average, rush for 4 touchdowns and 300 yards, punting once, who needs to throw to a tight end?
7. Return game.
Clifton Smith only got to field two kickoffs and one punt. The return game was a non issue tonight for either team.
8. White Tiger.
Did Galloway even take the flight from Tampa? Is he still on the roster?
9. Trueblood.
Jeremy you got schooled by Peppers. At least you didn't go Rambo on a Panther defender.
10. Keep Carolina outside the 35.
Yeah. That was a great suggestion. Perhaps my observation should have been, keep Carolina out of the endzone.
So, the Bucs are 9-4 and Carolina is 10-3. The Bucs remaining games are at Atlanta next week and then finish up with two at home where they are 6-0 against a demoralized San Diego and a pitiful Oakland Raiders. Carolina has the Denver Broncos coming to visit next week in Charlotte and then travel for their final two games against the New York Giants and then to New Orleans. If the Bucs win out in their final three games and the Panthers drop 1,the Bucs still win the NFC South and most likely get the #2 seed in the NFC playoffs.
The Bucs did not get it done tonight. The defense is due to have a bad game once out of 16 games and I'm glad it was tonight and not in the playoffs. Even if Monte is leaving to join his son in Tennessee, he wants one last chance to make it to the Super Bowl, especially since it's in Tampa this year, what a way to go out. I was on several Bucs internet message boards tonight and I'm sure I-275 is backed up from the Skyway all the way to Ulmerton with possible jumpers tonight. Calm yourselves. Sit back, take a deep breath and look at the standings picture in the NFL. I never thought I'd see Bucs fans panicking at 9-4 back in 1977. Then again, I never thought I'd live to see the Rays make it to the World Series. That's what makes sports so much fun. Enjoy Bucs fans, all is not lost, it is a mere speed bump. This loss builds character.
Look out Charlotte, here comes trouble
Tonight's Monday night game is one of the better matchups we've seen in a long time. Usually at this time of the season, we have to endure some snoozer of a game, but not this year. Two 9-3 teams fighting for the division lead. The winner of tonight's game will be in sole possession of 1st place in the NFC South and it appears the South's winner should get a #2 seed in the playoffs and a week off.
Here are ten observations for tonight's game.
1. Account for Peppers.
Of course this goes without saying. Peppers has always seemed to have big games against the Bucs. Last year was an off year for him, but he has 11 sacks so far this year, and 7 of those have come in the past three games.
2. Slay the two headed monster.
DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart have led the Panthers to one of best running attacks in the NFL. Williams has 955 yards and 11 scores, while rookie Stewart has 584 yards and 6 touchdowns. The Bucs have only allowed 1 100 yard rushing game by an opponent this year and yield just 1 rushing touchdown. Williams is coming off a game where he scored 4 times in Green Bay. Tampa usually shuts down some big name running backs and tonight should be no different. However, Jovan Haye is out for tonight's game, so the Defensive line is going to need to step up.
3. Steve Smith.
I hate this dude. It seems like an accomplishment to hold him to just 100 yards. The past two games, Smith has 12 catches for 173 yards. He'll be matched up tonight against Ronde Barber. I had noticed a slip in Barber's play earlier in the year, but it was just reported this week that Ronde has been battling through an undisclosed injury. The past few weeks though, Ronde has been playing much better. It would still be wise though to give Barber some help over the top with Smith.
4. Give Stevens more looks.
Last week TE Jeramy Stevens only had 1 reception. I think he matches up well against Carolina's linebackers. The Bucs should be able to run against the Panthers. Warrick Dunn had 115 yards on 22 touches in week 6 this year. I believe Carnell Williams should see around 12 touches tonight as well. With the running game clicking, that will open up the tight end play. I'd like to see Stevens get 5-6 looks tonight.
5. Grab Delhomme.
Sacks are always great, however I'd like to see Gaines Adams and Greg White around Delhomme tonight. Both defensive ends have shown the ability to strip the ball and Delhomme does like to oblige but having a tendency to fumble.
6. Tightends seem to give the Bucs fits at times.
Granted the Panthers don't have an elite TE, but teams seem to pick apart the seams of our defense with play from that position. Rosario has only 18 receptions this season but has missed time with injuries.
7. Short Field.
This season, the Bucs drafted Dexter "skids" Jackson with their second round selection. By the 9th week of the season, Coach Gruden had seen enough and promoted Clifton Smith. Smith was an undrafted free agent running back out of Fresno State University. Smith has been a treasure for the Bucs this year, returning a kickoff for a touchdown in his first game. In four games, Smith has racked up 841 combined return yardage, has a hefty 17.6 punt return average and is the only Buccaneer in team history to return both a kickoff and a punt for a touchdown in the same year. On the other side of the field, the Panthers signed former Buc, Mark Jones in the offseason and he has provided Carolina a good return game as well. The Bucs will have to be on their coverages tonight. Field position will be key.
8. White Tiger Sighting tonight.
For many of the past weeks, I've been checking milk cartons at Publix to see if I could find Joey Galloway. With Clayton dealing with a knee issue, I believe we might actually have a Galloway sighting tonight. Joey snags 3 for 60 tonight.
9. Temper Trueblood.
By now, I'm sure defensive coordinators are well aware of Jeremy Trueblood's short fuse. I have no doubt that the D line of Carolina will try to bait Trueblood into going off and causing a few 15 yard penalties. Davin Joseph needs to have his man's back tonight.
10. Keep Carolina outside of the 35.
Carolina has one of the best long distance kickers in the NFL. Bucs fans should remember the September 24th 2006 game. The infamous spleen bowl. John Kasay kicked 4 field goals in that game. He kicked them from 51, 50, 49 and a 46 yarder with 2 seconds left to win the game 26-24 in Tampa. Tonight's game might just come down to a last second field goal for the win so the Panthers are driving late, stop them outside of the 35!
Although the Bucs have started slowly in the past few road games against Kansas City and Detroit, Derrick Brooks and Warrick Dunn realize how important this game is and the Bucs will be more impressive tonight. Bucs win 23-20.
Here are ten observations for tonight's game.
1. Account for Peppers.
Of course this goes without saying. Peppers has always seemed to have big games against the Bucs. Last year was an off year for him, but he has 11 sacks so far this year, and 7 of those have come in the past three games.
2. Slay the two headed monster.
DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart have led the Panthers to one of best running attacks in the NFL. Williams has 955 yards and 11 scores, while rookie Stewart has 584 yards and 6 touchdowns. The Bucs have only allowed 1 100 yard rushing game by an opponent this year and yield just 1 rushing touchdown. Williams is coming off a game where he scored 4 times in Green Bay. Tampa usually shuts down some big name running backs and tonight should be no different. However, Jovan Haye is out for tonight's game, so the Defensive line is going to need to step up.
3. Steve Smith.
I hate this dude. It seems like an accomplishment to hold him to just 100 yards. The past two games, Smith has 12 catches for 173 yards. He'll be matched up tonight against Ronde Barber. I had noticed a slip in Barber's play earlier in the year, but it was just reported this week that Ronde has been battling through an undisclosed injury. The past few weeks though, Ronde has been playing much better. It would still be wise though to give Barber some help over the top with Smith.
4. Give Stevens more looks.
Last week TE Jeramy Stevens only had 1 reception. I think he matches up well against Carolina's linebackers. The Bucs should be able to run against the Panthers. Warrick Dunn had 115 yards on 22 touches in week 6 this year. I believe Carnell Williams should see around 12 touches tonight as well. With the running game clicking, that will open up the tight end play. I'd like to see Stevens get 5-6 looks tonight.
5. Grab Delhomme.
Sacks are always great, however I'd like to see Gaines Adams and Greg White around Delhomme tonight. Both defensive ends have shown the ability to strip the ball and Delhomme does like to oblige but having a tendency to fumble.
6. Tightends seem to give the Bucs fits at times.
Granted the Panthers don't have an elite TE, but teams seem to pick apart the seams of our defense with play from that position. Rosario has only 18 receptions this season but has missed time with injuries.
7. Short Field.
This season, the Bucs drafted Dexter "skids" Jackson with their second round selection. By the 9th week of the season, Coach Gruden had seen enough and promoted Clifton Smith. Smith was an undrafted free agent running back out of Fresno State University. Smith has been a treasure for the Bucs this year, returning a kickoff for a touchdown in his first game. In four games, Smith has racked up 841 combined return yardage, has a hefty 17.6 punt return average and is the only Buccaneer in team history to return both a kickoff and a punt for a touchdown in the same year. On the other side of the field, the Panthers signed former Buc, Mark Jones in the offseason and he has provided Carolina a good return game as well. The Bucs will have to be on their coverages tonight. Field position will be key.
8. White Tiger Sighting tonight.
For many of the past weeks, I've been checking milk cartons at Publix to see if I could find Joey Galloway. With Clayton dealing with a knee issue, I believe we might actually have a Galloway sighting tonight. Joey snags 3 for 60 tonight.
9. Temper Trueblood.
By now, I'm sure defensive coordinators are well aware of Jeremy Trueblood's short fuse. I have no doubt that the D line of Carolina will try to bait Trueblood into going off and causing a few 15 yard penalties. Davin Joseph needs to have his man's back tonight.
10. Keep Carolina outside of the 35.
Carolina has one of the best long distance kickers in the NFL. Bucs fans should remember the September 24th 2006 game. The infamous spleen bowl. John Kasay kicked 4 field goals in that game. He kicked them from 51, 50, 49 and a 46 yarder with 2 seconds left to win the game 26-24 in Tampa. Tonight's game might just come down to a last second field goal for the win so the Panthers are driving late, stop them outside of the 35!
Although the Bucs have started slowly in the past few road games against Kansas City and Detroit, Derrick Brooks and Warrick Dunn realize how important this game is and the Bucs will be more impressive tonight. Bucs win 23-20.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Tebow for 2?
After leading a magnificent comeback against Alabama Saturday night, Tim Tebow might have climbed back into the Heisman Trophy race. Only one other player has won the award twice, Archie Griffin, Running Back for Ohio State University in 1974-1975.
Winning the Heisman Trophy does not always translate into NFL success. Griffin was the 24th player selected in the first round of the 1976 NFL draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. Griffin played 6 years for the Bengals and only totaled 4400 total yards and 13 touchdowns.
Lets review the past 20 winners and see you was a bust and who became a superstar.
1988- Barry Sanders RB Oklahoma St. 1st rd/3rd overall Detroit.
Sanders was a true elite running back in the NFL. He earned 10 trips to the probowl, each year he played. 6 time All-Pro. 1989 Rookie of the Year. 1997 Co-MVP with Brett Favre. Only Walter Payton and Emmitt Smith have more career rushing yards than Sanders. Prior to the start of the 1999 campaign, Sanders simply retired and walked away from the game. He was simply 1,557 yards behind Payton for the all-time leading rushing title, which was achievable given 1500 yards was his career season average.
An interesting note is he was the third player chosen in the draft in 1988. The Cowboys had the first pick and selected Troy Aikman. Then the Packers selected OL Tony Mandrich, one of the NFL's all-time biggest draft busts. The Lions then selected Sanders with the third pick. Had Barry Sanders been selected by the Packers in 1988, would Ron Wolf traded with Atlanta for a quarterback named Brett Favre in 1992? Would Sanders, known as a better runner on turf than natural grass, have had a similar career on the frozen Tundra of Green Bay? Superstar.
1989- Andre Ware QB University of Houston 1st rd/7th overall Lions
The Lions select their second Heisman trophy winner back to back. Ware put up outrageous numbers at the University of Houston. Ware benefitted from a system, the run and gun offense which allowed him to throw 40 or more times a game. While Houston played against weak opponents, Ware's numbers never translated into NFL success. He was on the Lions roster through the 1993 season after which Ware headed to Canada and played a few years in the CFL.
Bust.
1990-Ty Detmer QB BYU 9th rd/230th overall Packers
Detmer was one reason Ron Wolf eventually traded a first round pick to Atlanta for Brett Favre. Detmer played for 6 teams over a 14 year career, throwing 34 touchdowns and 6,000 yards. Detmer never became anything more than a spot starter and a career back-up. BUST.
1991-Desmond Howard University of Michigan WR 1st rd/4th overall Washington
Howard was an electrifying player in college. He played for 5 teams in 10 years and while used as a third wide reciever on some teams, he was primiarly utilized as a kick returner while amassing over 10,000 career return yards. Howard is currently employed as a commentator for pre-season Detroit Lion games. Ouch. Not a bust, but not worthy of the position of where he was selected in the draft.
1992-Gino Toretta QB University of Miami 7th rd/192 Vikings
Toretta rode the coattails of previous quarterbacks which came from the U of M. He also won the Heisman in a year where the crop of talent named for the award was fairly weak. Toretta played in NFL Europe and for the Vikings, 49er's, Lions and Seahawks. Never had much of a career. Are you starting to see a link here to all the Heisman winners and the connection to the Lions? BUST
1993-Charlie Ward QB THE Florida State University (national champions in 1993)
Charlie Ward said if he wasn't going to be drafted in the first or second round, he would play in the NBA. Ward was an exciting player on the football field but he truly was a triple sport star. In addition to football, Ward was drafted by a MLB team and finally opted to play point guard for the New York Knicks and 3 other teams in an 11 year career.
1994-Rashaan Iman Salaam RB Colorado 1st rd/21st pick Chicago
Salaam had a 1,000 yard rookie season, but followed up the next two years with a rash of injuries, ball control issues and drug charges. Salaam also made stops in Cleveland and Green Bay, finally playing a year in the failed XFL for the Memphis Maniax. BUST
1995-Eddie George RB Ohio State 1st rd/14th overall Houston Oilers.
George was a dynamic and tough as nails running back for the Houston Oilers, who eventually became the Tennessee Titans. George played 9 years, rushed for 10,441 yards and scored 78 touchdowns. SUPERSTAR
1996- Danny Wuerffel QB Some college in Gainesville FL 4th rd/99th overall New Orleans
Wuerffel, proir to the arrival of Tim Tebow, was the most prolific and dynamic quarterback at the University of Florida. Wuerffel was deserving of the Heisman in 1996. However, he was another system oriented player, playing in Steve Spurrier's run and gun offense. Not many of Spurrier's players translated into successful NFL players. Wuerffel, a man with the highest character of football players never really caught on in the NFL. He played for the Saints, Packers, Bears, Redskins and a stint in the NFL Europe. He compiled 2200 career passing yards, 12 touchdowns and 22 interceptions. BUST
1997-Charles Woodson DB University of Michigan 1st rd/4th overall Oakland
In a rare move, a defensive player won the Heisman trophy. Woodson is still currently playing. After a long career with the Oakland Raiders he has recently signed a 6 year deal with the Green Bay Packers. To this point in his career, he has 602 career tackles and 32 interceptions. SUPERSTAR
1998-Ricky Williams RB University of Texas 1st rd/5th overall New Orleans
Saints coach Mike Ditka was so enamored with Williams that he traded every pick in the 1999 draft and the 1st and 3rd round picks in 2000 to the Washington Redskins in order to move up in the draft and select Williams 5th overall. Williams did not live up to expectations and was eventually traded to the Miami Dolphins. Ditka was eventually fired and it took several years for the Saints to recover from Ditka's draft day blunder. Williams has had a rocky NFL career. While with the Dolphins, he tested positive for marijuana and faced a 4 game suspension and a near 700,000.00 fine. Williams decided to retire from football. The following year, 2005, after pressure from the Dolphins front office to recover a huge signing bonus, Williams decided to un-retire. He payed back a portion of his signing bonus and served his 4 game suspension. In the offseason, Williams tested positive for marijuana again and was suspended for an entire year. In 2006, he decided to play football for in the CFL for the Toronto Argonaughts. While playing in Canada, he broke his hand halfway through the season. In 2007, NFL Commissioneer Roger Goodell reinstated his eligibility to play in the NFL and he returned to the Dolphins, where he is still playing. Along the way, he's been able to collect nearly 10,000 total yards and 55 touchdowns. The jury is still out on this drama queen.
1999- Ron Dayne RB Illinois 1st rd/11th overall New York Giants
Dayne was a punishing running back who teamed up with Tiki Barber forming the Thunder and Lightining backfield, similar to the Warrick Dunn/Mike Alstott combo in Tampa around the same time. Dayne always dealt with weight issues throughout his career and only lasted a few years in New York before moving on to Denver and finally Houston. Dayne is no longer in football. BUST
2000-Chris Weinke QB National Champion FS Seminoles! 4th rd/106 Carolina
Weinke is the oldest recipient of the Heisman. He won the award at the age of 28. Stright out of high school, Weinke signed to play professional baseball with the Toronto Blue Jays, after reaching AAA ball as a third baseman and realizing he wasn't going to make it to the majors, Weike exercised his college eligibility and returned to Florida State. The led the Seminoles to a National Championship his final season. Weinke never caught on in the NFL. He played 5 years for the Carolina Panthers and 1 season with the 49er's. As mostly a career backup, he threw for 3900 yards, 15 touchdowns and 26 interceptions. BUST
2001-Eric Crouch QB Nebraska 3rd rd/95th overall St. Louis
Though Crouch played quarterback in college, he was moved to defense as St. Louis experimented with him in the secondary. The experiment failed. He spent 2002 on the Rams practice squad, 2003-04 with the Packers, 2005 on the Chiefs practice squad, served a year in NFL Europe with the Hamburg Sea Devils, one year with the CFL's Toronto Argonauts and is currently on the roster of Team Texas, in the All-American Football League. The AAFL is a rival league to the NFL which is scheduled to start play in 2009. With busts like Crouch filling the rosters of these teams, I'm sure the AAFL wont last long. BUST
2002-Carson Palmer QB USC 1st rd/1st overall Cincinnatti
Carson is the only Heisman Trophy winner in the past 20 years to be drafted as the first overall selection. Palmer has proven to be a serviceable quarterback while dealing with injury issues in his young career. Palmer has racked up over 16,000 yards passing, 107 touchdowns and a 88.9 passer rating. It's to early to rate this selection.
2003-Jason White QB Oklahoma undrafted.
He spent 2005 on the Tennessee Titans practice squad and he currently owns an Athlete's Foot shoe store franchise. BUST
2004-Matt Leinhart QB USC 1st rd/10th overall Arizona
This is the second USC quarterback to win the Heisman in three years. The left hander has struggled to crack the starting lineup in Arizona, this year losing out to 38 year old Kurt Warner. Warner has had a fantastic year and has indicated he would like to return in 2009 so Leinhart better get it in gear if he wants to be under center anytime soon. Too soon to tell
2005-Reggie Bush RB USC 1st/2nd overall New Orleans
Heading into the draft, the speculation was that Bush was heading to Houston who had the first overall selection in 2006. The night before the draft, the Texans announced they had reached agreement with DE Mario Williams, a move after the 2006 season which looked foolish for the Texans. In his rookie year, Bush put up 2600 all purpose yards and scored 18 touchdowns. This year however, Texas looks to have made the better selection as Williams has proven to be a force on the defensive line while Bush has become a situational back for the Saints. Too soon to tell
2006 Troy Smith QB Ohio State University 5th rd/174th overall
Smith only saw action while starting the Ravens final game of the 2007 season. In the 2008 draft, the Ravens selected Delaware quarterback Joe Flacco. Smith was unable to unseat Flacco in training camp, so his future with the Ravens may be in question. Too soon to tell
2007-Tim Tebow QB The Swamp- still in college.
So while the near term future looks bright for Tebow, a successful NFL career is not guaranteed.
Winning the Heisman Trophy does not always translate into NFL success. Griffin was the 24th player selected in the first round of the 1976 NFL draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. Griffin played 6 years for the Bengals and only totaled 4400 total yards and 13 touchdowns.
Lets review the past 20 winners and see you was a bust and who became a superstar.
1988- Barry Sanders RB Oklahoma St. 1st rd/3rd overall Detroit.
Sanders was a true elite running back in the NFL. He earned 10 trips to the probowl, each year he played. 6 time All-Pro. 1989 Rookie of the Year. 1997 Co-MVP with Brett Favre. Only Walter Payton and Emmitt Smith have more career rushing yards than Sanders. Prior to the start of the 1999 campaign, Sanders simply retired and walked away from the game. He was simply 1,557 yards behind Payton for the all-time leading rushing title, which was achievable given 1500 yards was his career season average.
An interesting note is he was the third player chosen in the draft in 1988. The Cowboys had the first pick and selected Troy Aikman. Then the Packers selected OL Tony Mandrich, one of the NFL's all-time biggest draft busts. The Lions then selected Sanders with the third pick. Had Barry Sanders been selected by the Packers in 1988, would Ron Wolf traded with Atlanta for a quarterback named Brett Favre in 1992? Would Sanders, known as a better runner on turf than natural grass, have had a similar career on the frozen Tundra of Green Bay? Superstar.
1989- Andre Ware QB University of Houston 1st rd/7th overall Lions
The Lions select their second Heisman trophy winner back to back. Ware put up outrageous numbers at the University of Houston. Ware benefitted from a system, the run and gun offense which allowed him to throw 40 or more times a game. While Houston played against weak opponents, Ware's numbers never translated into NFL success. He was on the Lions roster through the 1993 season after which Ware headed to Canada and played a few years in the CFL.
Bust.
1990-Ty Detmer QB BYU 9th rd/230th overall Packers
Detmer was one reason Ron Wolf eventually traded a first round pick to Atlanta for Brett Favre. Detmer played for 6 teams over a 14 year career, throwing 34 touchdowns and 6,000 yards. Detmer never became anything more than a spot starter and a career back-up. BUST.
1991-Desmond Howard University of Michigan WR 1st rd/4th overall Washington
Howard was an electrifying player in college. He played for 5 teams in 10 years and while used as a third wide reciever on some teams, he was primiarly utilized as a kick returner while amassing over 10,000 career return yards. Howard is currently employed as a commentator for pre-season Detroit Lion games. Ouch. Not a bust, but not worthy of the position of where he was selected in the draft.
1992-Gino Toretta QB University of Miami 7th rd/192 Vikings
Toretta rode the coattails of previous quarterbacks which came from the U of M. He also won the Heisman in a year where the crop of talent named for the award was fairly weak. Toretta played in NFL Europe and for the Vikings, 49er's, Lions and Seahawks. Never had much of a career. Are you starting to see a link here to all the Heisman winners and the connection to the Lions? BUST
1993-Charlie Ward QB THE Florida State University (national champions in 1993)
Charlie Ward said if he wasn't going to be drafted in the first or second round, he would play in the NBA. Ward was an exciting player on the football field but he truly was a triple sport star. In addition to football, Ward was drafted by a MLB team and finally opted to play point guard for the New York Knicks and 3 other teams in an 11 year career.
1994-Rashaan Iman Salaam RB Colorado 1st rd/21st pick Chicago
Salaam had a 1,000 yard rookie season, but followed up the next two years with a rash of injuries, ball control issues and drug charges. Salaam also made stops in Cleveland and Green Bay, finally playing a year in the failed XFL for the Memphis Maniax. BUST
1995-Eddie George RB Ohio State 1st rd/14th overall Houston Oilers.
George was a dynamic and tough as nails running back for the Houston Oilers, who eventually became the Tennessee Titans. George played 9 years, rushed for 10,441 yards and scored 78 touchdowns. SUPERSTAR
1996- Danny Wuerffel QB Some college in Gainesville FL 4th rd/99th overall New Orleans
Wuerffel, proir to the arrival of Tim Tebow, was the most prolific and dynamic quarterback at the University of Florida. Wuerffel was deserving of the Heisman in 1996. However, he was another system oriented player, playing in Steve Spurrier's run and gun offense. Not many of Spurrier's players translated into successful NFL players. Wuerffel, a man with the highest character of football players never really caught on in the NFL. He played for the Saints, Packers, Bears, Redskins and a stint in the NFL Europe. He compiled 2200 career passing yards, 12 touchdowns and 22 interceptions. BUST
1997-Charles Woodson DB University of Michigan 1st rd/4th overall Oakland
In a rare move, a defensive player won the Heisman trophy. Woodson is still currently playing. After a long career with the Oakland Raiders he has recently signed a 6 year deal with the Green Bay Packers. To this point in his career, he has 602 career tackles and 32 interceptions. SUPERSTAR
1998-Ricky Williams RB University of Texas 1st rd/5th overall New Orleans
Saints coach Mike Ditka was so enamored with Williams that he traded every pick in the 1999 draft and the 1st and 3rd round picks in 2000 to the Washington Redskins in order to move up in the draft and select Williams 5th overall. Williams did not live up to expectations and was eventually traded to the Miami Dolphins. Ditka was eventually fired and it took several years for the Saints to recover from Ditka's draft day blunder. Williams has had a rocky NFL career. While with the Dolphins, he tested positive for marijuana and faced a 4 game suspension and a near 700,000.00 fine. Williams decided to retire from football. The following year, 2005, after pressure from the Dolphins front office to recover a huge signing bonus, Williams decided to un-retire. He payed back a portion of his signing bonus and served his 4 game suspension. In the offseason, Williams tested positive for marijuana again and was suspended for an entire year. In 2006, he decided to play football for in the CFL for the Toronto Argonaughts. While playing in Canada, he broke his hand halfway through the season. In 2007, NFL Commissioneer Roger Goodell reinstated his eligibility to play in the NFL and he returned to the Dolphins, where he is still playing. Along the way, he's been able to collect nearly 10,000 total yards and 55 touchdowns. The jury is still out on this drama queen.
1999- Ron Dayne RB Illinois 1st rd/11th overall New York Giants
Dayne was a punishing running back who teamed up with Tiki Barber forming the Thunder and Lightining backfield, similar to the Warrick Dunn/Mike Alstott combo in Tampa around the same time. Dayne always dealt with weight issues throughout his career and only lasted a few years in New York before moving on to Denver and finally Houston. Dayne is no longer in football. BUST
2000-Chris Weinke QB National Champion FS Seminoles! 4th rd/106 Carolina
Weinke is the oldest recipient of the Heisman. He won the award at the age of 28. Stright out of high school, Weinke signed to play professional baseball with the Toronto Blue Jays, after reaching AAA ball as a third baseman and realizing he wasn't going to make it to the majors, Weike exercised his college eligibility and returned to Florida State. The led the Seminoles to a National Championship his final season. Weinke never caught on in the NFL. He played 5 years for the Carolina Panthers and 1 season with the 49er's. As mostly a career backup, he threw for 3900 yards, 15 touchdowns and 26 interceptions. BUST
2001-Eric Crouch QB Nebraska 3rd rd/95th overall St. Louis
Though Crouch played quarterback in college, he was moved to defense as St. Louis experimented with him in the secondary. The experiment failed. He spent 2002 on the Rams practice squad, 2003-04 with the Packers, 2005 on the Chiefs practice squad, served a year in NFL Europe with the Hamburg Sea Devils, one year with the CFL's Toronto Argonauts and is currently on the roster of Team Texas, in the All-American Football League. The AAFL is a rival league to the NFL which is scheduled to start play in 2009. With busts like Crouch filling the rosters of these teams, I'm sure the AAFL wont last long. BUST
2002-Carson Palmer QB USC 1st rd/1st overall Cincinnatti
Carson is the only Heisman Trophy winner in the past 20 years to be drafted as the first overall selection. Palmer has proven to be a serviceable quarterback while dealing with injury issues in his young career. Palmer has racked up over 16,000 yards passing, 107 touchdowns and a 88.9 passer rating. It's to early to rate this selection.
2003-Jason White QB Oklahoma undrafted.
He spent 2005 on the Tennessee Titans practice squad and he currently owns an Athlete's Foot shoe store franchise. BUST
2004-Matt Leinhart QB USC 1st rd/10th overall Arizona
This is the second USC quarterback to win the Heisman in three years. The left hander has struggled to crack the starting lineup in Arizona, this year losing out to 38 year old Kurt Warner. Warner has had a fantastic year and has indicated he would like to return in 2009 so Leinhart better get it in gear if he wants to be under center anytime soon. Too soon to tell
2005-Reggie Bush RB USC 1st/2nd overall New Orleans
Heading into the draft, the speculation was that Bush was heading to Houston who had the first overall selection in 2006. The night before the draft, the Texans announced they had reached agreement with DE Mario Williams, a move after the 2006 season which looked foolish for the Texans. In his rookie year, Bush put up 2600 all purpose yards and scored 18 touchdowns. This year however, Texas looks to have made the better selection as Williams has proven to be a force on the defensive line while Bush has become a situational back for the Saints. Too soon to tell
2006 Troy Smith QB Ohio State University 5th rd/174th overall
Smith only saw action while starting the Ravens final game of the 2007 season. In the 2008 draft, the Ravens selected Delaware quarterback Joe Flacco. Smith was unable to unseat Flacco in training camp, so his future with the Ravens may be in question. Too soon to tell
2007-Tim Tebow QB The Swamp- still in college.
So while the near term future looks bright for Tebow, a successful NFL career is not guaranteed.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Plaxico's Duress
By now, I'm sure everyone who follows the sports world knows about the bonehead, Plaxico Burress shooting himself in the leg at a New York City nightclub in the Latin Quarter on Friday night.
Some of the details surrounding his accidental shooting came out in the media today.
Burress was allowed to sidestep security before entering the nightclub where this event occurred by stating he was wearing alot of jewelry and had a bunch of cash on him so he needed protection. No prob Plex, right this way, here's a seat in the VIP room, feel free. People who were in the club, are reporting he and teammate Antonio Pierce were drinking heavily. The gunshot reportedly happened when Plex tucked his .40 caliber handgun into his belt. (This dude just signed a 5 yr 35 million dollar contract, he can't afford a 40.00 velcro holster?) After busting a cap off in his thigh, Plex shopped around for a hospital which would treat him and not report the incident to the police. This is a felony in the socialist State of New York, according to Section 265.25 of the Penal Code.
After finally finding a hospital which would treat him, Burress pulled his best Mike Vick impersonation. (Remember Vick gave herpes to a woman and used a fake name, Ron Mexico) Plex signed into the hospital under the name of Harris Smith. Harris Smith? The dude is 6'5" tall, couldn't he come up with a better fake name? Harris Smith makes me think of a slightly overweight, balding white guy who works for H&R Block, complete with a pocket protector. And it doesn't end here. He told the doctor's that the shooting happened at an Applebees. Applebees, are you freaking kidding me? What happened? Were you trying to teach the waitress a lesson because she didn't bring your fired appetizer sampler platter fast enough?
NYC detectives were foiled in their attempts to track Burress down, as the hospital wouldn't release any information citing personal confidentiality issues. Good thing for Plax the Giants won the Super Bowl last year, because if they had been 4-12 last year or 3-8 this season, they'd have sold him right down the river in a heartbeat. And after all these fun filled details, I read today that Mr. Burress is married to an attorney. Hmmm. What roll did she play in all this scheme.
What the hell is wrong with these guys? They have been coddled since they played pop warner football and everytime they did something wrong from high school through college, someone has always covered it up or taken care of it for them. Just get out there and win us a state championship, just get us in a BCS bowl game, a National Championship.
If Burress escapes jail time, he will no doubt be released by the Giants. He's already caused quite a disruption for the team this season. After signing a 5 year 35 million dollar contract this year, he's been fined 200,000.00, suspended for 1 game and benched for another. Tom Coughlin is not going to tolerate this much longer. There will be a long list of NFL teams which will line up to employ Burress. Pacman Jones is on his 4th second chance and still has a job. Ron Mexico errrr Mike Vick is lined up for early release from prison, and his bankruptcy lawyers are already scheduling repayments based on future salary from the NFL, he'll get a job.
At the start of training camp, teams bring in local law enforcement to talk about guns and local laws. These high profile stars are making outrageous amounts of money and you have to wonder why they don't have private drivers and personal security instead of taking on the risk of violating the law themselves. Then again, they have always been taken care of since they were 8 years old and could run faster or throw further than the other kids so why should they feel a sense of responsibility now that they are making millions.
Some of the details surrounding his accidental shooting came out in the media today.
Burress was allowed to sidestep security before entering the nightclub where this event occurred by stating he was wearing alot of jewelry and had a bunch of cash on him so he needed protection. No prob Plex, right this way, here's a seat in the VIP room, feel free. People who were in the club, are reporting he and teammate Antonio Pierce were drinking heavily. The gunshot reportedly happened when Plex tucked his .40 caliber handgun into his belt. (This dude just signed a 5 yr 35 million dollar contract, he can't afford a 40.00 velcro holster?) After busting a cap off in his thigh, Plex shopped around for a hospital which would treat him and not report the incident to the police. This is a felony in the socialist State of New York, according to Section 265.25 of the Penal Code.
After finally finding a hospital which would treat him, Burress pulled his best Mike Vick impersonation. (Remember Vick gave herpes to a woman and used a fake name, Ron Mexico) Plex signed into the hospital under the name of Harris Smith. Harris Smith? The dude is 6'5" tall, couldn't he come up with a better fake name? Harris Smith makes me think of a slightly overweight, balding white guy who works for H&R Block, complete with a pocket protector. And it doesn't end here. He told the doctor's that the shooting happened at an Applebees. Applebees, are you freaking kidding me? What happened? Were you trying to teach the waitress a lesson because she didn't bring your fired appetizer sampler platter fast enough?
NYC detectives were foiled in their attempts to track Burress down, as the hospital wouldn't release any information citing personal confidentiality issues. Good thing for Plax the Giants won the Super Bowl last year, because if they had been 4-12 last year or 3-8 this season, they'd have sold him right down the river in a heartbeat. And after all these fun filled details, I read today that Mr. Burress is married to an attorney. Hmmm. What roll did she play in all this scheme.
What the hell is wrong with these guys? They have been coddled since they played pop warner football and everytime they did something wrong from high school through college, someone has always covered it up or taken care of it for them. Just get out there and win us a state championship, just get us in a BCS bowl game, a National Championship.
If Burress escapes jail time, he will no doubt be released by the Giants. He's already caused quite a disruption for the team this season. After signing a 5 year 35 million dollar contract this year, he's been fined 200,000.00, suspended for 1 game and benched for another. Tom Coughlin is not going to tolerate this much longer. There will be a long list of NFL teams which will line up to employ Burress. Pacman Jones is on his 4th second chance and still has a job. Ron Mexico errrr Mike Vick is lined up for early release from prison, and his bankruptcy lawyers are already scheduling repayments based on future salary from the NFL, he'll get a job.
At the start of training camp, teams bring in local law enforcement to talk about guns and local laws. These high profile stars are making outrageous amounts of money and you have to wonder why they don't have private drivers and personal security instead of taking on the risk of violating the law themselves. Then again, they have always been taken care of since they were 8 years old and could run faster or throw further than the other kids so why should they feel a sense of responsibility now that they are making millions.
Bucs fans robbed of a home game
Regular readers of this blog know how I feel about the push to make the NFL international. Preseason games in Tokyo and Mexico City. The last two years, a regular season game in mid October played at Wembley Stadium in London. I don't like this games played abroad during the regular season. 2 years ago, Miami played the New York Giants and this year on October 26th, the New Orleans Saints played the San Diego Chargers.
Just announced today, next years game will be played on October 25th and will feature none other than the Bucs playing the Patriots. The game will be considered as a Bucs "home game" thus, season ticket holders which are already screwed by having to pay full price for 2 pre-season games, will now lose a home game. Seeing that the Bucs are 6-0 so far at home this year, I don't like this move at all. I knew we had the AFC East on our schedule next year and was hoping we'd have the Patriots at RayJay.
October in England is dismal. The past two games played there resulted in nothing more than a heavy downpour of rain and the field turning to mud. The field in Wembley Stadium was not built for NFL football, rather some mindless sport involving a round black and white ball, requiring men to run up and down the field for 90 minutes resulting in a exciting score usually of 1-0. Upon the end of the game, the fans then proceed to beat the crap out each other, and occasionally the bleachers will collapse, crushing other fans. Man that sounds like a great sport.
I hate this move. Roger Goodell, stop worrying about making the team owners more money by spreading the NFL brand around the world and start worrying about the behavior of the players already on US NFL teams. Plaxico Buress comes to mind.
Just announced today, next years game will be played on October 25th and will feature none other than the Bucs playing the Patriots. The game will be considered as a Bucs "home game" thus, season ticket holders which are already screwed by having to pay full price for 2 pre-season games, will now lose a home game. Seeing that the Bucs are 6-0 so far at home this year, I don't like this move at all. I knew we had the AFC East on our schedule next year and was hoping we'd have the Patriots at RayJay.
October in England is dismal. The past two games played there resulted in nothing more than a heavy downpour of rain and the field turning to mud. The field in Wembley Stadium was not built for NFL football, rather some mindless sport involving a round black and white ball, requiring men to run up and down the field for 90 minutes resulting in a exciting score usually of 1-0. Upon the end of the game, the fans then proceed to beat the crap out each other, and occasionally the bleachers will collapse, crushing other fans. Man that sounds like a great sport.
I hate this move. Roger Goodell, stop worrying about making the team owners more money by spreading the NFL brand around the world and start worrying about the behavior of the players already on US NFL teams. Plaxico Buress comes to mind.
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