Coming into his senior season, Aaron Ross was known as an explosive return man that should be a solid compliment to Tarell Brown at the second cornerback spot. One amazing senior campaign later, and Ross enters the draft as a highly touted cornerback and the Thorpe Award winner for the top cornerback in the country. Ross was a hard hitting and explosive corner that also made plays in the return game.
Ross is a great athlete with good speed, running a 4.5 forty. He has fluid hips and moves well around the secondary. He is a playmaker with great hands, and at 6’1” and 192 lbs, is ideally sized for corner. He is well rounded, as he is good in supporting the run and is a hard hitter in the secondary. He has added value as an excellent return man and should make an impact immediately on special teams and in nickel packages. He lacks experience as he only was a one year starter at
The year Ross put up at
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Draft Profile: Aaron Ross
Draft Profile: Michael Griffin
Draft Profile: Justin Blalock
There’s no man you’d rather have in the trenches than Justin Blalock. At 6’4” and 329 lbs, Blalock was a force in the 
He has good size and good athleticism. He showed good speed at workouts and has a mean streak that makes him an asset in the running game. He also has the ability to play guard or tackle, though he projects as a guard at the next level. He projects with a lot of upside as he currently relies on his athleticism and natural ability and needs to work on his technique. This is reflected in the fact that he is a better run blocker than pass blocker.
Some have him rated as the top offensive guard in the draft and he could go anywhere from late first round, to early to mid second round, to a team like the Atlanta Falcons who would love to add a powerful run blocker to the mix. He has a very high ceiling due to the fact that there’s still room for improvement on his technique.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Draft Profile: Tim Crowder
As a four year starter, Tim Crowder emerged as a freshman and continued to be the face of the 
Crowder projects as a solid defensive end at the next level. He is a player that is very well rounded and would be well suited in a defensive line rotation. He has decent size and strength and as tons of experience against top college talent. He's athletic and productive and has good technique. He will be a solid addition for any team. Though he will not be a great addition. He's sometimes inconsistent with his production and getting off of blocks and doesn't excel in any area.
Crowder should be taken in the late 2nd round or early 3rd round as one of the top 10 defensive ends in the draft. One positive from Crowder is that he will come into camp with a chance to play early as he is a very polished prospect. He is a well rounded prospect that does everything well which should allow him to have a solid career as a professional.
Draft Profile: Brian Robison
After starting out as an outside linebacker, Brian Robison was moved to defensive end for his junior year and he immeadiately began to excel. Extremely athletic Robison was able to be a playmaker at defensive end. He was able to play the run with his strength as a Big XII Shot Put champion and was able to wreak havoc rushing the passer and dropping off into coverage as a former linebacker.
Robison has a chance to make a real impact at the next level because of his athleticism. He would need to be a defensive end in a 4-3 system because at 6'2" and 266 lbs he is undersized. He could also be used as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 system. Either way, Robison will be able to make the adjustment because of his speed and quickness. Robison has several question marks going into the draft. He will need to get stronger to play defensive end in the League. Also, while he shows great in workouts, sometimes they don't translate onto the field. He is undersized and also lacks mobility in his hips and direction change that would allow him to make a transition to outside linebacker.
Robison is ranked as the 13th best defensive end by www.nfldraftcountdown.com and should be a Day one pick in the late 3rd or early 4th rounds. Robison will need to adjust and improve to make it at the next level, but has the potential to be a game changer at either defensive end or linebacker.
Draft Profile: Tarell Brown
Coming into his senior year, Tarell Brown was supposed to be the superstar shutdown corner for Texas. After his arrest on marijuana possession and gun charges, Brown was suspended for the Ohio State game. After his suspension was lifted he faced a series of nagging injuries and with the emergence of Aaron Ross, he never became the player he was supposed to be.
Draft Profile: Lyle Sendlein
As the captain of the offensive line for the past two years, Lyle Sendlein has had a productive career for the Longhorns. He has been a leader for the Horns and has run a successful unit for the past two seasons. Sendlein comes from great NFL bloodlines as his father was a former NFL player, and his game is an old school style.
Sendlein has good size and a big frame. In the old school style he has a tough and nasty mentality and is a fighter in the trenches. He has shown good intelligence and recognition in running an offensive unit. Much like fellow lineman Kasey Studdard, Lyle has limited upside, and for the most part is a polished player that has peaked. While he needs to get stronger, he is not very athletic and mobile and struggles in space as a blocker.
Ranked at the #13 center by www.nfldraftcountdown.com Sendlein isn't likely to get drafted, unless it is late in day 2. However, coming from a major university and as polished as a prospect as Sendlein is, with some NFL bloodlines, he should be invited into camp by a team. If he catches on, he should be able to stick around the NFL as a smart, aggressive, tough player.
Draft Profile: Romance Taylor
The way to succeed in this business is to learn from those around you and copy their methods of success. This must be what we were doing with Ramonce Taylor. In the mold of Ohio State and Maurice Clarett, Texas sold a tiny piece of its soul for success through Taylor. However, Taylor will always hold a special place in our hearts for his amazing talent and success he experienced at Texas. And will never be considered a Texas College product.
Taylor has the chance to be an explosive specialist at the next level. He has Reggie Bush type athleticism and moves and has great top end speed. A 4.5 forty, seems a bit slow for him, which makes you wonder what kind of shape and whether being away for a year has affected him at all. Taylor has the chance to be a great return man and a very good situational back. But Taylor only has his sophomore season at Texas to showcase his talent and ability, which will hurt his chances. He will likely have to prove himself all over again at the next level, but his talent and athletic ability will entice teams.
The biggest question mark surrounding Taylor is the off-field issues that got him booted off the team and eventually led to his departure from the University. A player as talented as Taylor, has some serious issues, and it most likely wasn't his first transgression for Texas to give up on him. With the NFL cracking down on conduct, teams will be very weary to give him a chance. But I'm sure Taylor has been in constant contact with the Bengals and Chargers.
Look for a team to take a chance on Taylor in the late rounds, most likely the 7th. He is too talented a back with too much upside to not take a chance on him through the preseason to see if he can perform and stay out of trouble. The question will always be maturity with Taylor, but if he can make the transition he can be a Dante Hall type explosive specialist.
Draft Profile: Kasey Studdard
During the Mack Brown era, Texas has become known for among other things big powerful offensive lineman. This year is no different as Texas features three lineman in this draft. As a three year starter at guard, Kasey Studdard has been a consistent staple of the Texas offensive line. While he is a better run blocker than pass blocker, Studdard has been a star for the Horns line.
Studdard should be able to make a solid NFL career as a backup and spot starter at guard. He is technically sound and is a very old school type blocker. He is strong and powerful and has good size at 6'2" and 307 lbs. He has a mean streak and is an extremely hard worker. He has good experience from Texas and has good bloodlines as his father is a former NFL player. With Studdard you know what you're getting, as he is pretty much reached his ceiling for potential. He will be consistent, reliable, and durable, but is not very athletic and struggles with his mobility.
Studdard ranks as the 14th best guard by www.nfldraftcountdown.com and should be a late round pick or an undrafted free agent. It is more likely that he will be an undrafted free agent given his lack of upside, as most teams will opt for someone with a higher ceiling. However, this should allow Studdard to find his best fit to make a roster and will come in more advanced than other rookies and should be able to make a roster out of camp.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Houston Voted America's Least Offense-ive City
The saga of the Houston Texans has been well documented (and quite lamented). Right form the start, through the expansion draft, the Texans chose lineman Tony Boselli to be the first player in franchises’ history. I would give you his stats, but Mr. Boselli never played a single game for the Texans due to injury. Sweet. So how did the Texans manage to top this? By drafting David Carr as the first pick in their very first draft. Sigh… At least with Boselli, he didn’t cost you any games. The same cannot be said for Carr. In 2006, the Texans finished 28th in total offense. But hey, that is actually an improvement from a 30th place offensive finish in 2005. At least they had a 19th place finish in 2004 to get them over that 31st place showing in 2003. If nothing else, the Texans can say they were the penultimate offense in 2003. That at least makes it sound like they were good, right?
Would it be wrong of me to wish for the days when Jeff Bagwell’s jersey was a little less… cough, cough…“baggy?” (Not that I am implying anything). The Astros offense was not that great in 2006. They were ranked 25th in runs scored, 30th in batting average and total bases (Penultimate!!!). Not to mention the painful chore of watching Brad Ausmus and Adam Everett ground into double play after inning ending double play all season.
So you may ask: what does giving Carlos Lee $100 million do for your team offense? Answer: 20th in runs scored and 26th in team batting average! Hooray! Oh, and I am going to point out that the team directly behind the Astros in team batting average is the Pittsburgh Pirates. Yes, this is the same Pirates team that the Astros are currently 0-6 against this year, and who have made the pitchers Jonah Bayliss, Zach Duke, Paul Maholm, and Ian Snell look like the second comings of Sandy Koufax. In the six games played against the Pirates this year, the Astros have put up 14 runs. And in the last 2 game have left a staggering 31 men on base. Just to put it in perspective, Craig Biggio may be the best batter on this team right now. I am just gonna let you sit back and let that one soak in for a while.
Not to be outdone by their fellow Houstonians, the Rockets have decided to throw their hats into this prestigious ring (probably going to miss). Thus far, in their opening round playoff series against the Jazz, the Rockets have apparently given up on the idea of “field goal percentage” as an important goal. In Game 1, the Rockets blistered their way to 39% shooting from the floor. They followed that up with an impressive 36% performance in Game 2 (and 16% from 3-pt land). Then the Rockets stood up and proclaimed, “No! Indeed, we can shoot worse!” And they did in Game 3, going 32.8% in the game. Will the Rockets try to go all series without shooting over 40%? I don’t know for sure, but I bet they give it their damnedest.
But fear not Rockets fans, the team did set a few records in the midst of Game 3’s futility. The Rockets had a total of 4 players score on Thursday. FOUR! I could count that high on one hand, even if a freakin’ bear had bitten my thumb off! Team playoff record lows were set for points in a game (67), fewest field goals (21) and fewest points in a half (25). Again, to put this in perspective,
Draft Profile: Selvin Young
After five seasons in a Longhorn uniform Selvin Young will move on, leaving a legacy that never really established itself. Coming in as a freshman backup to Cedric Benson and a return man out of Houston, Young quickly showed great potential with speed and shiftiness that made him the heir apparent to Cedric Benson. However, torn down by a broken ankle, Young came back and struggled to find his role within a crowded backfield. He never became that feature back that was expected of him, but by his senior year he had established himself into a dual role with Jaamal Charles and proved to be a nice compliment to the speedy Charles as a reliable blocker, receiver out of the backfield, and a back not afraid to run in between the tackles.
Coming into the draft Young projects to be exactly what he was in college, a situational back that can provide solid play and possibly a quality return man. He looks like he will have to find a niche as a solid return man or special teamer, that can be used on third downs as a blocker and a reliable pass option out of the backfield. Young will never be a feature back and will never wow anyone with his athletic ability. Ideally, Young would be delighted to make a roster and spend a few seasons as a special teamer and a backup before breaking through into a contributing role. He could possibly become a player like Brian Mitchell, or a player that is out of the league very quickly.Throughout workouts he has shown good hands, and a solid understanding of blocking schemes. With average size and speed he will need to make it in the League by being solid technically and a contributor in a wide variety of areas. At 5'11" and 217 pounds and a 4.6 forty, he's not an athlete or a physical specimen. He could become a solid return specialist and contributor on special teams which should improve his chances of being drafted. There are questions about his durability, as he has been injured on and off since his ankle surgery that cost him his sophomore season.
Young ranks as the 20th best back according to http://www.nfldraftcountdown.com/ and would be lucky to get drafted. He will either be a 6th or 7th round pick, or he will have to try and make it as an undrafted free agent. He will most likely get invited to camp by some team as a free agent, and should be able to get a shot to catch on with a team out of camp provided he can stay healthy through mini camps and preseason, and impress with limited opportunities.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
This is Exactly How You Want to Run an Athletic Program
While one might think that Mustain's departure has finally put to rest the drama surrounding the Razorbacks over the past few weeks, you would be wrong. After fans obtained Coach Nutt's cell phone records, fans, blogs, and media questioned Houston's knowledge of emails sent by boosters to Mitch Mustain encouraging his transfer, as well as Nutt's involvement with a female television reporter. This led to a letter defending her husband by Nutt's wife, which is important. I think it's a very positive sign to have your wife in your corner defending you against your critics when you've been cheating on her. Unfortunately, her letter did nothing to silence the critics, which led to Houston Nutt's open letter.
Sadly, this to has done nothing, as today, an Arkansas fan has brought a law suit against the University President and Chancellor saying they knew about the circumstances around Mustain's email and their inability to launch a fair and independent investigation into the situation. I think this could be the first time that a fan is actually bringing a lawsuit against his team.
When this situation began with the cell phone records, many wondered if this was a dangerous new trend that could develop at other universities around the country. However, after the complete debacle that this situation has become, it is pretty clear, that Arkansas is a unique program. By unique, I mean that they are completely out of control and insane. The fans are out of control calling for Houston's head, and the administration is staying out of it, when they probably need to be getting involved one way or the other, boosters are too involved, and Houston Nutt along with his wife is clearly insane.
One must wonder what would have happened had Arkansas not gone to the SEC Championship game and had instead gone 5-6. But instead, while most programs enjoy increased fan support and prosperity through success, Arkansas will continue their example of how not to run an athletic program.
Rockets Up 2-0, Headed to Utah
The Houston Rockets did what they were supposed to do: win at home.
1- Carlos Boozer v. Rockets “Defense”: As was expected the Rocket defense has been utterly unable to guard Carlos Boozer anywhere on the court. He has hit outside shot and taken it to the rack in a dominant manner. Boozer has 52 points so far (41 on Tuesday). But it seems the Jazz have figured out no one on the court can stop him. Van Gundy tried
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Big XII Response: Texas Tech
I was graciously approached by Drinking the Forty to think about life in the Big 12 without Kevin Durant and Texas Tech's prospects next year. First, I think Durant was the most talented player that I've seen play the college game. I have a tremendous amount of respect for the kid and as a Red Raider fan, it was incredibly difficult to watch KD score at will against Tech (Who remembers this line: 40 minutes, 37 points, 23 rebounds?).
Will the Big 12 suffer as a result of Durant leaving? Not likely, that's the beautiful thing about collegiate sports, we love our players but we love the laundry more (vague Seinfeld reference). For me, although I enjoy watching certain players, it's not the particular player, but the team itself. I will still watch every game and I will still hate the Aggies, whether or not the Red Raiders are able to beat up on Gillispie or not.
Of course, I think that Texas fans would might actually agree with Coach Knight as he believes the rule to jump to the NBA should keep a kid in school for 2 years rather than 1. However, if I were advising Durant, there wouldn't have been any question that he should have gone to the NBA. There's just too much to potentially to lose. I don't think Texas will have that difficult a time coping with the loss, the Longhorns have a ton of talented returning players who will improve their games. Augustine, Abrams, James and Mason will all improve significantly, the question of course for Longhorn fans is who will fill that other forward/center slot?
I think Texas Tech's success next year hinges on a few things.
1. I think that John Roberson, a freshman point guard from Plano, will have the same effect at Texas Tech as Augustin had at Texas. In fact they are physically similar players, but I think that Roberson is a more gifted scorer, while Augustin is a more gifted passer. If Knight gives him the opportunity to play then I really like Tech's chances.
2. Will JUCO transfer Ricardo De'Bem and Texas State transfer Trevor Cook, will be able to establish the inside presence that Texas Tech lacked last year? It will be interesting to see if De'Bem and Cook are able to adjust to major college basketball.
3. How will the returning players be able to fill the void left by Jay Jackson. I'm not too worried about Zeno, who I think is one of the more dynamic players in the Big 12, but Decensae White, Alan Voskuil and Charlie Burgess must step up their games.
http://doubletnation.com/
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Remember when we used be friends, John?
Now he faces his newest adversary as he will grace the cover of EA Sports, Madden 2008. An honor that is quite impressive considering it is his second season, it brings with it a dubious history for carrying with it, the curse of the cover.
The Curse of the Madden cover has been debated for years, but has some significant evidence in its favor. With the first player to appear on the cover, Garrison Hearst in 1999, to Shawn Alexander in 2007, the Madden Cover has quite an impressive resume. After Hearst's career year in '98, he suffered a broken ankle in '99. After Barry Sanders was due to appear on the cover in '00, he abruptly retired giving way to Dorsey Levens, who amassed 224 yards the next season. This may have been due to the curse or to the fact that they put Dorsey freaking Levens on the cover.
In 2001, Madden opted for Eddie George, who was nearing the end of the career. Whether it was the Madden Curse or the fact that George was the equivalent of a punch-drunk boxer by the time he graced the cover, is debatable. However, starting in 2002, injuries plagued Daunte Culpepper ('02), Marshall Faulk ('03), Michael Vick ('04), Ray Lewis ('05), Donovan McNabb ('06), and Shawn Alexander ('07). All the while Madden watched, eating mutated turkey and riding in his bus, doing nothing.
While Vince does not believe in the curse, probably because he is a sane and rational human being, this is the first time I would much rather see Madden's portly figure on the cover, rather than Vince. But who are we kidding, curses don't exist. And if they do, can't we throw some salt over a shoulder, do a preventative dance, and whatever else your great grandmother used to do in these situations.
Four Months Later, Aggies Post 10 Win Season
The Aggies posted their 10th win this weekend during the annual "Maroon & White" inter-squad match up, held at the conclusion of spring drills. "It was the hardest game we've played all year," said starting quarterback Stephen McGee. "I mean, fans have been telling us we are the greatest team of all time after we beat those sips in Austin. So when we played against each other, we were honestly worried that the amount of awesomeness on the field would cause some sort of rip in the space-time continuum."
Obviously, this is a great step forward for an Aggie team that was embarrassed 45-10 by Cal in their Holiday Bowl appearance. "Of course we were disappointed in our game against Cal," said running back Michael Goodson. "But we weren't gonna let it get us down, 'cause we new we had four months to prepare to play ourselves this weekend and get that loss out of our minds."
With the win A&M expects to move into the top 25 in the final regular season rankings. "Its a big recruiting tool. We can show recruits that we can come into our own place, for and against ourselves, with and without the fans, over come the hostile crowd and use the home field advantage, and battle for a hard earned win and loss," explained Coach Fran.
The Aggie Athletic Department has already sent out new voting ballots to all AP writers and NCAA coaches so they can amend their final rankings based on this weekend's performance. "We know some may not look at this as official," said Athletic Director Bill Byrne as he sprinkled maroon glitter into the envelopes. "But these rankings are for our kids and our fans. If a new poll comes out and we are actually ranked, hell, what Aggie is going to question it? There just gonna be too busy whoopin' up in the faces of all those t-sips who keep throwing national championships down our throat. Look, if the only way we can be a viable football program is by making up wins and conducting our own polls, then by God, that's just what we're gonna have to do."
Texas A&M has also petitioned the Big 12 to host a replacement Big 12 championship game in light of the improved conference record (They did play a Big 12 South team... technically). But when asked why this weekend did not count as a loss, Franchione became suddenly became very defensive. "Look here, Mr. Reporter," Fran threatened. "We had to come up with some very complicated graphs and ven diagrams to explain to our players and fans as to why this does not also count as a loss. As far as we know, they bought it. We think it's because we used maroon lettering and numbers, so we would have more credibility." As a parting comment, Franchione wanted to put the college world on notice that A&M was about to start breaking some big records. "We've already decided that, next year, we are going to begin to factor student intramural games into our win total. Hey BCS, just try and keep a 340 win team out of the championship game!"
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Big XII Response: Kansas State
e one year he graced the hardwoods in our neck of the woods. Austin is a great city with some fascinating people, especially if you're a college student, but a scholarship stipend will never compete with New York and Los Angeles on an NBA salary.Kansas State's fortune in 2007 rests with that of Martin and Hill and their ability to keep together as much as possible of the '07 recruited class. If Michael Beasley & Co. remain intact the 'Cats will be competitive with their cross-state rival for the first time in two decades. Beasley and Billy Walker would be the best front court in the conference, as good as any in the nation. But a lot of "ifs" this far out.
http://www.kstatefootball.com/
Monday, April 16, 2007
Big XII Response: Iowa State
Kevin Durant was simply the best player in college basketball. It's funny though, because I thought ISU dealt him one of his worst games of the year by assigning a 4-year walkon in Chris Ceasar to guard him. I kept saying before we played Texas "thank God we only have to play him once." He was going to get even more dangerous if he stuck around, so I'm glad he;s gone. Of course, it hurts the conference to lose a player of his stature, but it's good for the conference too, showing we can get these guys. I don't really think Durant leaving will have a huge impact on Iowa State. We'll be middle of the road anyways. We keep losing players, but we have a five star recruit in Craig Brackins coming in, as well as a rather slick PG in Diante Garrett. ISU will once again have a wait and see kind of year.
http://crosscyed.blogspot.com/
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Guide to the NHL Playoffs: Eastern Conference
I don't know if you've watched a game on the Versus Network, I can't get it. Apparently not too many people can, and those that can, don't watch it. That is why the Versus Network was in danger of folding up shop in the middle of the playoffs. But the NHL is a tough cookie, and it carries on. Therefore, it becomes necessary that you might need to know something during this NHL playoff season. Oh, if you didn't know, the NHL playoff season is right now.
So here it is, your handy guide to the NHL Playoffs.
Eastern Conference:
(1) Buffalo Sabres vs. (8) NY Islanders
The Buffalo Sabres won the President's Trophy (Best record in the league), though it doesn't really specify which President the trophy originally belonged to. The NHL has a Commissioner. And the United States doesn't follow hockey, and I'm not sure Canada has a President, so not really sure if the trophy is significant or not. The Sabres are led by Daniel Briere, Thomas Vanek, and Chris Drury. Chris Drury is the only one that sounds familiar to me (Thank you, NHL 1998) But obviously, they all must be fantastic. They do have an American goalie, which through this process, I learned is very rare. Ryan Miller has had a great season, and in hockey, the goalie will win you games. At least that's what Barry Melrose is telling me every morning on Sportscenter. Really, I'm just starring at his mullet.
Who you should be cheering for: Michael Funk, he brings the funk and the noise.
The Islanders are just excited to be in the playoffs as the Untouchables of the New York hockey scene. Does New York have a hockey scene anymore? They're led by Jason Blake and Mike Sillinger, but every team has to watch out for Chris Simon. If you don't, he'll hit you across the face with his hockey stick. In the pipes for the Islanders is Rick DiPietro, who recently signed a 10 year deal for more money then any hockey player should make. Didn't we learn anything from the lockout?
Who you should be cheering for: Miroslav Satan, it's actually pronounced (Sah-tan)
(2) New Jersey Devils vs. (7) Tampa Bay Lightning
The New Jersey Devils seem to always be good. Apparently not playing for two years doesn't change anything. Back in the day when I was a Flyers fan I hated these guys. Now, I suppose I can still root against them. They're led by Patrick Elias and Scott Gomez, but as it has been for the last 10 years, they're led by Martin Broeduer in goal. He's good. He stops the puck.
Who you should be cheering for: Jaime Lagenbrunner, built Ford tough, wait is he Canadian?
The Tampa Bay Lightning winning the Stanley Cup might have actually been what killed hockey. I mean it is Tampa Bay. People move to Tampa Bay to stop being cold. Hockey, you might have expanded a little too much. The Lightning are led by Vincent Lecavilier and Martin St. Louis, your perfect hockey names. Just makes you want to crack open a LeBatt Blue. Their goalie is Johan Holmqvist. I told you we'd be done with the Americans very shortly.
Who you should be cheering for: Nikita Alexeev, it reminds me of LeFemme Nikita, remember that show? She was hot. At least I think so, I was 10.
(3) Atlanta Thrashers vs. (6) NY Rangers
Another one of those classic hockey towns, the Atlanta Thrashers. They're led by Marian Hossa and Slava Kozlov. I can totally see them partying it up with Luda. They're in Luda's next single, he just is trying to figure out what rhymes with Kozlov. In net, the Thrashers have Kari Lehtonen. If the NHL had been such an international game in the 60s, Senator McCarthy would've had a field day.
Who you should be cheering for: Garnet Exelby, I don't' have a joke, but I like his name
If you're the NHL does it even matter if you have a major market in the playoffs? Just to be safe they better rig it so they get to the Stanley Cup Finals. Though with Jaromir Jagr and Martin Straka scoring goals and Henrik Lundqvist in net, they might have a chance. That last sentence made it sound like they really had a chance, but really who knows. Jagr has got to be like 42 right? I mean the league didn't happen for a year and everyone got old.
Who you should be cheering for: Thomas Pock, because it sounds like puck. That's what they play with in hockey, a puck.
(4) Ottawa Senators vs. (5) Pittsburgh Penguins
In a battle of two actual hockey towns, Ottawa is led by, what has to be a feel good story, Dany Heatley. After being in a near death car crash as a passenger with his best friend and teammate, he has found a new home in Atlanta, and who knew, he's really good. But then again, if you were in a near death car crash and survived, I hope God would make you really really good too. Daniel Alfredson is also really good, but his story doesn't make you feel good. Ray Emery is their goalie. Never heard of him.
Who you should be cheering for: Danny Bois, "OH DANNY BOIS!!!"
Good news, the Penguins didn't get moved to Kansas City. If Pittsburgh can't keep a team, how can the NHL really survive? I mean they rigged the draft so they could get Sidney Crosby "The Next Greztky" and Evgeni Malkin "The Next "Insert Good Russian Here"". And as soon as those two are old enough to drink, Pittsburgh will be a force. Especially with Marc-Andre Fleury in goal. Okay, they may need a goalie.
Who you should be cheering for: Nils Ekman
So there is your Eastern Conference preview. Just in case, ya know, you find yourself trapped in a bar, in Canada with a guy with a mullet on one side of you and a mountie on the other side. That way, you can sit back relax, and knock back a few LaBatts. Just in case you find yourself in Western Canada, check back in a few days for your guide to the Western Conference.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Round 1: Western Conference Preview
1 v. 8
Honestly, does it really matter which team
The Mavs have their big time shooter in Dirk Nowitzki. Josh Howard may be over looked at times, but he provides nearly 20 points a game and 7 rebounds. Jason Terry provides a constant 3-point threat on the perimeter. Eric Dampier provides a rebounding and shot blocking presence in the lane. And Devin Harris just doesn’t make mistakes at point guard. More than anything
Though its not necessarily related to their success,
Prediction: Mavericks 4-0
2 v. 7
Wow. This series seems fun even if the Lakers are running out the likes of Jordan Farmar, Sasha Vujacic, Andrew Bynum, Brian Cook, and Vladimir Radmanovic to surround Kobe Bryant. This also sets up a battle of the reigning 2 time MVP Steve Nash and the player many though deserved the award, Kobe Bryant.
Let’s get this out of the way.
Prediction:
3 v. 6
San Antonio v.
While Denver’s Allen Iverson experiment seems to finally be catching hold, San Antonio just seems to have “been there and done that” in the playoffs. The Spurs have the post season experience that is so crucial in a seven game set. Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, Bruce Bowen, Brent Barry, Robert Horry, Beno Udrih, and Manu Ginobili all have a significant number of playoff games under their belt. And while Iverson has led a team to the finals, he is hardly considered a “leader” on the team.
The Nuggets definitely have talent. They have two of the top scorers in the NBA with Iverson and Carmelo Anthony. Marcus Camby is a solid rebounder but Steve Blake and Reggie Evans are likely not talented enough to carry
Prediction: Spurs 4-1
4 v. 5
While the match up is definite, home court advantage is still up in the air. And really, any advantage in this anticipated series is crucial. This seems to be the most evenly matched of all the opening round series.
Each team has their set of favorable match ups.
The Jazz are also running out second year point guard Deron Williams. This may be the biggest advantage for the Jazz. Williams has turned into a very solid NBA guard and
The Rockets, however, counter with arguably 2 of the top 10 players in the Western Conference in Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming. You can barely stop one and you just can’t stop both on any given night. Okur will most likely draw the match up with
Prediction: Rockets 4-2
The Big XII Response: Missouri
Kevin Durant leaving for the NBA is obviously a loss for the Big 12 Conference. Durant was a marquee player who drew a lot of attention from the national media to the
Big 12 and that is never a bad thing. For the Missouri Tigers, the loss of Durant means the Tigers will have a better shot at knocking off the Longhorns next year. It will be hard for the Horns to replace that kind of scoring and that kind of defense.I don't expect the Tigers to be significantly better next year, but an NCAA appearance is not out of the question. Had the Tigers been able to win a couple more conference games this year, I think they would have been selected. I think a 2-3 game improvement is definitely within the Tigers' grasp.
http://www.tigerboard.com/
**Yes, this idea was taken from Deadspin. They're good at what they do. Imitation is the finest form of flattery.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Augie's Boys Continue Their Charge
Texas' pitching staff has been much improved over last year's staff led by Juniors Adrian Alaniz and James Russell. Alaniz is 8-2 with a 2.41 ERA and two complete games, while Russell has a 7-2 record with a 3.20 ERA. The consistency of their first two starters has made Texas formidable early in every series. Texas thought coming into the season they would have a powerful starting rotation featuring junior Kenn Kasparek as the game three starter. The 6'10 righty however has not thrown a pitch this season due to injury. The Longhorns then turned to sophomore Kyle Walker who pitched well in his freshman campaign. However, in five starts this season Walker is 1-0 with a 10.32 ERA. The inability of anyone to lock down the third starting position has forced Garrido to call on his bullpen to fill the void. Senior Joseph Krebs and sophomore Austin Wood have split time starting with solid results. Krebs is 4-0 with a 3.88 ERA while Wood is 4-0 with a 3.08 ERA. While the tandem of Krebs and Wood has been effective it has the bullpen to be depleted. Closer Randy Boone (1-5; 3.54) has thrown 40.2 innings, which may come back to haunt the Horns later in the season, as he is not, Huston Street. The rest of the bullpen has been filled out by sophomores Pat McCrory and Keith Shinaberry and freshman Hunter Harris. The results have been mixed. With the loss of Kasparek and the disappointing performance by Walker, Texas has gone most of the season with Alaniz, Russell, Wood, Krebs, and Boone carrying most of the load. This may come back to hurt Texas later in the season has injury or fatigue could derail the Longhorn postseason chances.
Where the pitching staff has shown a lack of depth, the lineup of the Longhorns has no such problems. Texas boasts a dangerous lineup one through nine that is capable of hitting for average and power. Texas teams will always play Augie ball as they feature three players with 10 or more stolen bases. But this year's team can hit, and has hit all season long. They are lead by sophomore Kyle Russell (.354; 20/45) who has tied the Longhorn Home Run record at 20 with 18 games still left to play in the season. Sophomore Bradley Suttle has had a breakthrough season hitting .406 with 9 home runs and 47 RBIs. All three Round Rock High School products, sophomore Jordan Danks (.350; 3/26), and seniors Chance Wheeless (.374; 2/21) and Nick Peoples (.316; 2/32) have had great years. The thing that has made this Texas lineup truly formidable has been the emergence of sophomore Travis Tucker (.313; 1/28) and freshman Josh Prince (.400; 0/12) and Russell Moldenhauer (.308; 2/8). With eight players hitting over .300, Texas has hit their way to the top of the Big XII.
While Texas has jumped to the top of the Big XII with a 9-3 mark, they are truly saving the best for last. After a series with Texas Tech and Nebraska, Texas will go to Stillwater to take on second place Oklahoma State (25-8; 6-3). They will then have to take on Missouri (24-9; 6-3) and Texas A&M (28-7; 6-5) in Austin to end the season. Texas will need to play more consistent as they have dropped one game in each of their last three series to teams in the bottom half of the division. Whether this is a sign of Texas cooling off, a lack of focus, or a hole in the pitching staff, Texas will face their toughest test this season in the final three series. If Texas can get contributions from other parts of their pitching staff, this Texas team could find itself in familiar territory as a force to be reckoned with in Omaha.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Durant Banks It
While there will be much commentary in the coming weeks about the legacy of Kevin Durant, the void he leaves at Texas, and how to replace it, I thought we'd first take a look at where Kevin Durant may make his new home in the NBA.
I imagine that the announcement will cause NBA teams to enhance their efforts to tank their season, not that they needed much help. From the Celtics declaring Paul Pierce will be missing the rest of the season with various ailments a night after he played 40 plus minutes and scored 34 points and the Bucks announcing today that Michael Redd was playing far too well, and he will join Andrew Bogut, Charlie Villanueva, and bubble boy on the disabled list. Even the Grizzlies fearing that they were using too much talent decided to scour the D-League to find the newest Grizzly stars. However, with Kevin Durant now in the picture, every team not in the playoff race will be trying their best to lose games. Except the 76ers, they must not have gotten the memo, as they play solid basketball down the stretch for no apparent reason.
Memphis (19-59) has been tanking this season from 7 minutes into the season opener, because Jerry West knows a good opportunity when he sees it. Kevin Durant would give the Grizz a loaded front line with Rudy Gay and Pau Gasol already similar type players. But really, how many athletic, talented forwards is too many? I'd like to see a front line with Gay, Durant, and Gasol. Granted, sometimes you need a guard to win a basketball game, and Memphis doesn't have any. A year removed from the playoffs one has to wonder whether Memphis has been tanking the season from last year, but Jerry West can't be that good, can he?
Five games behind Memphis in the chase, is the Boston Celtics (23-53). Durant has to be terrified of the possibility of going to the Celtics. While they have a great city, great fans, great history, and the love of Bill Simmons, they obviously sold their soul for all those titles under Red Auerbach. Durant would be cursed if he went to the Celtics, and would have no chance to become a star. Len Bias, Reggie Lewis, and Rick Pitino come to mind immediately. But even players that have had success, seem to have some fatal flaw. Antoine Walker appeared to be cursed by the need to shoot 15 threes a game, and even Paul Pierce had to endure being stabbed before he could truly become a star. Durant would have to be a little uneasy about going to Boston. Perhaps he could use the Chauncey Billups strategy and convince Boston that he was a bust before succeeding elsewhere.
People say Durant's game is like Oscar Robinson's, so why not head to Milwaukee (26-51). With Bogut in the front court and Redd in the back court, the Bucks would become an absolute force. Actually, now that I think about it, with Mo Williams, and Charlie Villanueva, this team would go from a lottery pick to an immediate contender in the East. Durant would have to be excited to go to the Bucks, as they would have to be one of the best teams he could go to out of the lottery front runners.
The Atlanta Hawks (28-49) would be a terrible pick for the Hawks, and with their luck they would probably land in the two spot to take Durant. With Marvin Williams, Josh Smith, and Josh Childress, they really don't need another swing man. Though if Atlanta were smart they would get Durant, and trade Marvin Williams and Josh Childress for a point guard and a center and win lots of games with Joe Johnson, Durant, Josh Smith, and their newly serviceable center and point guard. But this is Atlanta, if they got Durant, they would attempt to be the first team in NBA History to play 5 forwards in the same role at the same time.
The Charlotte Bobcats (31-47) would love to get Durant, and he would be an upgrade over whoever they currently run out at the power forward or small forward. Because that Adam Morrison thing worked out great. I think Durant would like to go to Charlotte, but it just seems that they're so young and while extremely talented don't seem to be improving every year. I just don't think Okafor or Gerald Wallce will ever stay healthy, May seems to be a tweener, Morrison might have a Brent Barry ceiling, and Felton can't decide whether he's an elite point guard or a journeyman. Their roster just doesn't seem as loaded at second glance.
Seattle (31-47) has a roster that Durant would fit nicely into. With Rashard Lewis, Ray Allen, Earl Watson, Luke Ridenour (if he figures out how to play basketball again), Nick Collison, Robert Swift, and Wilcox, Durant would make this team an instant contender for the 7 seed in the West. But then again, by the NBA draft half those players could be gone and the team could be in New Orleans. Someone should let Seattle know that they have a basketball team, even if the rest of the country doesn't know that they do.
Portland (31-46) would be extremely young and talented with Durant. He could fit in nicely with Aldridge, Zach Randolph, Brandon Roy, and Jarrett Jack. He also would fit into that whole don't domestically abuse your family, don't buy, sell, or use drugs, and don't have illegal dog fights thing that Portland seems to be striving for. So that's a plus!
Philadelphia (31-45) knows how to treat a star. With Charles Barkely and Allen Iverson before him, Kevin Durant would be celebrated by the City of Brotherly Love and appreciated every step of the way. He would also be given no discernible talent around him to the point that he would eventually be forced to demand a trade and move on to try and win a title.
I don't think Durant would want to end up in Sacramento (31-45). They seem to be getting older and assembling less talent every year. Really, I think the Maloofs are attempting to move the team to Las Vegas through losing in the basketball version of Major League. Though, I don't think enough National Guard could prepare us for Ron Artest in Las Vegas.
How would Kevin Durant fit into the New York Knicks (32-45) roster? How does anyone fit into the New York Knicks roster? But Isiah Thomas would be delighted to add another superstar in NYC. But would Durant get any touches with those pass first point guards of Stephon Marbury, Steve Francis, and Nate Robinson?
I think Durant in Minnesota (32-45) could be the worst of all destinations for him. With Garnett already there, they would be playing very close to the same player. It would just seem to be like Durant going to an apprenticeship until he fills Garnett's role as a frustrated but extremely loyal player with no chance of winning.
Every team will be fitting these last two weeks to lose as many games as they can to get in the best position of landing Kevin Durant. Wherever he lands, he will make an immediate impact, and I for one will enjoy watching him take over the NBA. Though, I would've liked to see him take over the Sweet 16 first.
Monday, April 9, 2007
Ready or Not: Durant to Announce by Tuesday
While the team celebrated a successful, however short, season at the annual basketball banquet, many thoughts were on the impending decision of the best athlete to ever to grace the hardcourt at UT. Reports began to surface this weekend indicating the Durant will, as expected by many, declare for the NBA draft, forgoing his final three years as a Longhorn. Not shocking news. Texas Basketball has not had a good track record with basketball players sticking around the 40 acres for an extended period of time (see, T.J. Ford, LaMarcus Aldridge, P.J. Tucker, Daniel Gibson, Maurice Evans, Chris Mihm).
But there is a small slice of hope Texas fans cling on to, thinking that KD might just decide to return for one more run at a sweep of national awards. But as reports continue to surface, all indication lead to the conclusion that Durant is not long for dormitory life. In fact, Burnt Orange Nation is quoting sources that Durant's decision is made, leaving only the official announcement.
While it would have been nice to have Kevin Durant around, Texas basketball is far from left bare. With the probable departure of Durant, Texas only loses Craig Winder from last years team. The Horns are also adding recruits Alexis Wangmene, James Kirkendoll, Gary Johnson and Clint Chapman. So Texas looks to be a solid team in '07-'08. And with the departure of Texas A&M's Billy Gillespie and Kansas' Julian Wright, Texas will be able to contend for a Big 12 championship and hopefully a run in the NCAA Tournament.
Kevin Durant, above, dribbling towards a new shoe contract. 
