Kelvin Sampson to the Milwaukee Bucks?
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3365899
Well the good new for Sampson is that he can make all the calls and text messages he wants to players. Unfortunately for him, though, by the time these guys get to the NBA, they're a little smarter and don't quite easily fall under an Assistant Coach's suave text spells... their agents already hold that position for them (more money please!!)
But really, does the Bucks organization not see that Sampson is a perpetual screw up? But hey, whatever, it'll be entertaining to sit around and wait to see what Sampson's next stupid move is.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Youtube Friday: Inspiration Edition
It is clear whatever coach Augie Garrido is trying with this year's baseball team is not working. Texas baseball is truely struggling for the first time in nearly a decade, and just cannot seem to find any consistant answers to thier fielding, hitting or pitching problems. Texas turned what was supposed to be a season turning win against Baylor into another head scratcher as they proceeded to drop their next game against UT-SA 7-1. We are going to further explore the baseball team's short comings in a a later post, but today, I thought I would send them off to their weekend series at Kansas State with a little reminder of the good times. Enjoy.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Five Draft Day Trades/Acquisitions on Saturday
Cowboys package picks to acquire WR Roy Williams from Detroit.
The Cowboys are in need of a young talented receiver to play opposite of the aging Terrell
Owens and Terry Glenn. Patrick Clayton is a nice compliment to the system but is in no way the future of Dallas’ passing game. Williams, an Odessa native, has made it clear that he is unhappy in Detroit and would love to try his hand with another franchise. Where better than the great state of Texas where he is adored? After acquiring CB Pacman Jones yesterday, their round one priorities are at WR and RB. Packaging their two first round picks for Williams makes more sense to me than taking a chance on a mediocre receiver class. Williams is and was a much better prospect than even Devin Thomas at his best. Why take a chance on a young guy, when you could grab a guaranteed All-Pro and look for a speedy back in the second round to compliment MB3. Roy Williams plus a Ray Rice or Jamaal Charles trumps a James Hardy and a Felix Jones any day at the poker table.
Bills package picks to acquire CB Lito Shepard from Philly.
The Buffalo Bills secondary has never been the same since losing Nate Clements to free agency last year. Partner that with the injuries and disappointments in the Bills secondary depth behind Terrance McGee and it’s obvious that the Bills need another CB. They could take a chance on one of the talented draft prospects at pick #11, OR they could get an established playmaker in Sheppard and wait for a much-needed receiver in the second round. I think the Eagles would be glad to get an extra pick in the draft to grab a pass rusher and a WR and would benefit most from cutting ties with an unhappy, dominant personality. I mean it did work well for both parties when they cut ties with T.O.
Cincy finally wises up and sends WR Chad Johnson to the Redskins.
I still cannot fathom why the Bengals did not pull the trigger on this trade earlier this
week. Does Marvin Lewis and Cincy’s front office really think they are going to benefit from “testing” Chad? If he says he isn’t going to play, I would not tempt Chad Johnson. For all you know, he could come in, sabotage a couple of games and still collect his paycheck. Ocho Cinco is crazy. Word is that the Redskins are making Johnson their number one priority for draft day and are reworking a deal that will give you even more benefits. Take the deal, part ways with Johnson, and be glad that you got rid of an on and off the field distraction. You still have T.J. and like previously stated, it worked so well for the Eagles. Don’t shoot yourself in the foot.
DE Jason Taylor dances his way onto one of the 1996 expansion teams.
The Dolphins are seriously attempting to get rid of the veteran as of Wednesday and I
can’t understand why if they were going to make this move, they didn’t consider Chris Long or Vernon Ghoulston further? That being said, I’d love to see the Dolphin’s poster boy and Dancing with the Stars celeb in a different uniform. The team that is reportedly most interested is the Jacksonville Jaguars, but I could also see the Carolina Panthers make a move after the retirement of Mike Rucker. I again think that this move would be best for both parties. Taylor isn’t happy and seems to be becoming too Hollywood in Miami (I mean DWTS in your off-season, no wonder the Fins were 1-15). Get rid of him for a decently high draft pick and go after a second round talent in a deep DL draft like a Tommy Blake or Lawrence Jackson.
New Orleans makes a move up for a DT and then trades picks for TE Jeremy Shockey.
This may be the most far fetched hope for Saturday, but I do believe that the Saints are
trying to move up as high as they can to grab one of the two dominant DT’s. Shockey has become obsolete in New York (they basically won SB without him) and really isn’t happy in NY anyway. Sending him to New Orleans would be a gift to Drew Brees. Brees excelled heavily when he played with the dominant Antonio Gates in San Diego and giving him an extra target makes all the sense for a NewO offense that sputter much of last season. Even if you walk away from this draft with one DT, Jeremy Shockey, and a 7th round CB, that’s a damn good draft if you ask me.
I would LOVE to wake up on Saturday and see all of these NFL draft pipe dreams come true and I think the Randy Moss acquisition last year gave us reason to believe that they all can, but if I take a step our of my Mel Kiper led fantasy world and back into reality I would say that we’ll be lucky to see more than one of these trades. I love to watch PTI on Thursdays and see them play percent odds on every topic in sports; being Thursday I’ll give it a go with these trade predictions.
Roy Williams to Dallas? Unfortunately only about 10%. Lito Sheppard to Buffalo? Slightly higher chance at 32%. Ocho Cinco to Washington? The pun-master in me wants to go 85%, but the Bengals are being stingy and stupid so I’m going to go 51%. I think all the money will get him there though, so thus the one percent over fifty percent. Jason Taylor moving? This is my virtual guarantee. 82% chance he’ll move to Jacksonville, Carolina, or the wildcard Redskins. Finally New O getting both a top tier DT and Jeremy Shockey? 0%. But I think they will get one of them, so I am going 60% Shockey/40% DT.
Take that Todd McShay…
God, I love draft season….
The Cowboys are in need of a young talented receiver to play opposite of the aging Terrell
Owens and Terry Glenn. Patrick Clayton is a nice compliment to the system but is in no way the future of Dallas’ passing game. Williams, an Odessa native, has made it clear that he is unhappy in Detroit and would love to try his hand with another franchise. Where better than the great state of Texas where he is adored? After acquiring CB Pacman Jones yesterday, their round one priorities are at WR and RB. Packaging their two first round picks for Williams makes more sense to me than taking a chance on a mediocre receiver class. Williams is and was a much better prospect than even Devin Thomas at his best. Why take a chance on a young guy, when you could grab a guaranteed All-Pro and look for a speedy back in the second round to compliment MB3. Roy Williams plus a Ray Rice or Jamaal Charles trumps a James Hardy and a Felix Jones any day at the poker table.Bills package picks to acquire CB Lito Shepard from Philly.
The Buffalo Bills secondary has never been the same since losing Nate Clements to free agency last year. Partner that with the injuries and disappointments in the Bills secondary depth behind Terrance McGee and it’s obvious that the Bills need another CB. They could take a chance on one of the talented draft prospects at pick #11, OR they could get an established playmaker in Sheppard and wait for a much-needed receiver in the second round. I think the Eagles would be glad to get an extra pick in the draft to grab a pass rusher and a WR and would benefit most from cutting ties with an unhappy, dominant personality. I mean it did work well for both parties when they cut ties with T.O.
Cincy finally wises up and sends WR Chad Johnson to the Redskins.
I still cannot fathom why the Bengals did not pull the trigger on this trade earlier this
week. Does Marvin Lewis and Cincy’s front office really think they are going to benefit from “testing” Chad? If he says he isn’t going to play, I would not tempt Chad Johnson. For all you know, he could come in, sabotage a couple of games and still collect his paycheck. Ocho Cinco is crazy. Word is that the Redskins are making Johnson their number one priority for draft day and are reworking a deal that will give you even more benefits. Take the deal, part ways with Johnson, and be glad that you got rid of an on and off the field distraction. You still have T.J. and like previously stated, it worked so well for the Eagles. Don’t shoot yourself in the foot.DE Jason Taylor dances his way onto one of the 1996 expansion teams.
The Dolphins are seriously attempting to get rid of the veteran as of Wednesday and I
can’t understand why if they were going to make this move, they didn’t consider Chris Long or Vernon Ghoulston further? That being said, I’d love to see the Dolphin’s poster boy and Dancing with the Stars celeb in a different uniform. The team that is reportedly most interested is the Jacksonville Jaguars, but I could also see the Carolina Panthers make a move after the retirement of Mike Rucker. I again think that this move would be best for both parties. Taylor isn’t happy and seems to be becoming too Hollywood in Miami (I mean DWTS in your off-season, no wonder the Fins were 1-15). Get rid of him for a decently high draft pick and go after a second round talent in a deep DL draft like a Tommy Blake or Lawrence Jackson.New Orleans makes a move up for a DT and then trades picks for TE Jeremy Shockey.
This may be the most far fetched hope for Saturday, but I do believe that the Saints are
trying to move up as high as they can to grab one of the two dominant DT’s. Shockey has become obsolete in New York (they basically won SB without him) and really isn’t happy in NY anyway. Sending him to New Orleans would be a gift to Drew Brees. Brees excelled heavily when he played with the dominant Antonio Gates in San Diego and giving him an extra target makes all the sense for a NewO offense that sputter much of last season. Even if you walk away from this draft with one DT, Jeremy Shockey, and a 7th round CB, that’s a damn good draft if you ask me.I would LOVE to wake up on Saturday and see all of these NFL draft pipe dreams come true and I think the Randy Moss acquisition last year gave us reason to believe that they all can, but if I take a step our of my Mel Kiper led fantasy world and back into reality I would say that we’ll be lucky to see more than one of these trades. I love to watch PTI on Thursdays and see them play percent odds on every topic in sports; being Thursday I’ll give it a go with these trade predictions.
Roy Williams to Dallas? Unfortunately only about 10%. Lito Sheppard to Buffalo? Slightly higher chance at 32%. Ocho Cinco to Washington? The pun-master in me wants to go 85%, but the Bengals are being stingy and stupid so I’m going to go 51%. I think all the money will get him there though, so thus the one percent over fifty percent. Jason Taylor moving? This is my virtual guarantee. 82% chance he’ll move to Jacksonville, Carolina, or the wildcard Redskins. Finally New O getting both a top tier DT and Jeremy Shockey? 0%. But I think they will get one of them, so I am going 60% Shockey/40% DT.
Take that Todd McShay…
God, I love draft season….
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
2008 NFL Mock Draft
The 2008 NFL Draft is this Saturday, and since America loves Mock Drafts, we here at Drinking the Forty thought it was time to throw our hat in the ring. But then, we had an epiphany. What could possibly be better than an NFL Mock Draft?
Oh yes, that would be two NFL Mock Drafts. For the first, we turned to our NFL Correspondant (Yeah, we have an NFL Correspondant. I know, we're a big deal around here.) Mamba King to give us our DTF Mock Draft 1.0.
Take it away Mamba...
1. Miami Dolphins – Jake Long, OT, Michigan
Since the Dolphins held a press conference stating that they have signed Jake Long to a reported 5-year, $57.75 million contract with $30 million guaranteed, it’s safe to assume that he will be the first player to hear his name called shortly after the draft begins at 3:00pm on Saturday. Long is widely considered the top OT in the draft, and that happens to be one of the Dolphins biggest needs. The addition of Long fills a hole at a tackle spot and he is as safe a pick as there is in the draft.
2. St. Louis Rams – Chris Long, DE/OLB, Virginia
The Rams have been burned by some recent picks along the DL, but this pick has to be a defensive lineman if they don’t trade the pick away. The question is whether it will be Glenn Dorsey or Chris Long? The pick should be Long considering they picked Adam Carriker in the first round last year and seemed to like playing him inside, and their top two DE currently on the roster, Leonard Little and James Hall, are getting older and may be on their way out.
3. Atlanta Falcons – Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
It would seem reasonable for the Falcons to consider quarterback Matt Ryan at this spot since their quarterbacks are currently Chris Redman, Joey Harrington, and D.J. Shockley. However, Dorsey could possibly be the best player in the draft. He is one of the most decorated players to come out of college in recent memory. Not to mention he played a large portion of his senior season injured and still led his team to a national championship. He is a hard worker and the Falcons need a DT with Rod Coleman gone.
4. Oakland Raiders – Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
Vernon Gholston could be the pick here, but the defense has been carrying the Raiders for a few years now. The offense probably needs more help. Does anyone really think that Huggy Bear’s son, Justin Fargas, should be carrying the load at RB? Also, Al Davis has a history of falling in love with fast players, and after McFadden ran a 4.33 at the combine he locked up a top 5 selection in this year’s draft. He could be the game-breaker that Oakland needs to make the Raiders offense matter again.
5. Kansas City Chiefs – Branden Albert, OL, Virginia
This could be another spot where Matt Ryan might make sense, but the Chiefs will give Brodie Croyle another shot at leading the team next season. To make things easier on him, they will get him some help up front. Some may say this is too high for Albert, but the Chiefs need help along the OL after the recent retirements of perennial pro bowlers Willie Roaf and Will Shields. Remember, the Cardinals took Levi Brown at the fifth spot last year when many thought that was too high. Albert, who played both guard and tackle in college, most likely will line up a tackle in the NFL. The only reason he was moved in to play guard in college was because Virginia had D’Brickashaw Ferguson.
6. New York Jets – Vernon Gholston, OLB/DE, Ohio State
The Jets will be thrilled to get Gholston at this spot. He has the quickest first step off the line in the draft and he tied Jake Long for the most reps on the bench at the combine with 37 reps of 225lbs. He has had unbelievable workouts and looks like a pass rusher should. The knock on Gholston seems to be that he is inconsistent and that he takes plays off. However, if Eric Mangini and his staff can get more consistent play from Gholston, he will be a force rushing the passer.
7. New England Patriots – Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy
The Patriots would like to get Gholston, and Keith Rivers is also a possibility for the aging Patriots linebacker corps. However, the loss of Asante Samuel to the Eagles and Randall Gay to the Saints this off-season makes cornerback a need for this team. McKelvin is also a good returner which is always a plus.
8. Baltimore Ravens – Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
With Matt Ryan still on the board, the Ravens won’t take long to make their pick. At this point, with Steve McNair retiring and Kyle Boller and Troy Smith the top two QBs on the roster, it seems like a good opportunity for Ryan to step in and become the QB that will be tied to new head coach John Harbaugh for years to come.
9. Cincinnati Bengals – Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
The Bengals desperately need help at DT and Sedrick Ellis will be just what the doctor ordered. He is not far behind Glenn Dorsey as the best DT in the draft. John Thornton and Bryan Robinson are getting older and Ellis will pair up nicely with Domata Peko.
10. New Orleans Saints – Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State
Keith Rivers will be a strong possibility for the Saints here, but Rodgers-Cromartie has a lot of potential to develop into a top-notch corner. The Saints added Randall Gay in the offseason to go along with Mike McKenzie, but Jason David was a disappointment as a free agent signing last year so the Saints will be looking for another solid defensive back.
11. Buffalo Bills – Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State
The Bills need a WR and Devin Thomas is widely considered the top WR in the draft. It is probably a reach, but the Bills will take a shot with him in hopes that he can take some pressure off Lee Evans because Roscoe Parrish and Josh Reed haven’t been able to do so.
12. Denver Broncos – Keith Rivers, LB, USC
Keith Rivers very likely could go earlier considering his workouts were outstanding. The Broncos may have other more pressing needs and could consider OT Ryan Clady, but Rivers should be the pick even though they added LB Boss Bailey, Champ’s brother, through free agency. You can never have enough good linebackers.
13. Carolina Panthers – Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State
The Panthers need help on their OL and Clady is a good athlete that will be able to line up at tackle for the Panthers right away pairing him with Jordan Gross at the other tackle spot. Travelle Wharton, who played tackle last year, should move inside to guard.
14. Chicago Bears – Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
The Bears suffered last year without Thomas Jones to take some of the load off Cedric Benson, who has had some injury concerns. They could consider taking an OL here, but Mendenhall is too good to pass up.
15. Detroit Lions – Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
After releasing Kevin Jones, the Lions are left with Tatum Bell as their top running back. Jones could be the most explosive back in the draft. The only reason he wasn’t more productive in college is because he had to play in the same backfield as Darren McFadden.
16. Arizona Cardinals – Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
The Cardinals could be moving Antrel Rolle to safety and they will need to add depth at corner. Jenkins runs a sub-4.4 and should get significant playing time right away in the Cardinals secondary.
17. Kansas City Chiefs – Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
After trading Jared Allen to pick up this additional 1st round pick, the Chiefs will want to add one of the best pass rushers coming out in the draft. Harvey is a steal at this point and will fill in nicely for Allen.
18. Houston Texans – Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
The Texans have been looking for a legitimate starting LT ever since the Tony Boselli experiment didn’t work in their expansion draft. Cherilus may finally be the long term answer at that position.
19. Philadelphia Eagles – DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal
Aside from T.O., the Eagles have never had receivers for Donovan McNabb. DeSean Jackson’s speed makes him a game-breaker as a receiver and a return man. He is this year’s Ted Ginn, Jr.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
Limas Sweed is the best of the big WR in this class, and Jon Gruden would love to have a tall, young receiver on the other side of Joey Galloway. Michael Clayton has fallen off since his rookie year so the Bucs will not hesitate to pick Sweed at this spot since his wrist injury is now healed.
21. Washington Redskins – Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
The Redskins have been looking for help across the DL for years. Merling is a solid DE that will eventually replace 12-year veteran Phillip Daniels on the opposite side of pass rush specialist Andre Carter.
22. Dallas Cowboys – Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
The Cowboys don’t have too many holes to fill when it comes to starters, but their depth is thin in a few areas. In particular, the DBs are thin after losing Jacques Reeves, who started 14 games last season, along with Nathan Jones and Keith Davis in free agency. Now they don’t have much behind starters Terrance Newman and Anthony Henry. They will grab Talib here despite the recent reports of his off-field issues.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers – Jeff Otah, OT, Pitt
The Steelers OL was very weak last season and Big Ben Roethlisberger took a beating. That was before they lost their best OL in Alan Faneca to free agency. Otah is another good tackle prospect in the draft and the Steelers will hope the hometown kid is still around.
24. Tennessee Titans – Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
The Titans have a need at corner, and Cason is the best on the board at this point. He is a playmaker in the secondary that has the ability to take an interception all the way back at any time.
25. Seattle Seahawks – Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
Kentwan Balmer is in the next tier of DT following Dorsey and Ellis. He will give the Seahawks some much needed help up front. The Seahawks could also be looking for a TE here, but they will most likely be able to pick one up later in the draft.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars – Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
The Jaguars have been rumored to be interested in trading for a good pass rusher, but they can stay right where they are in the draft and pick up Calais Campbell. His numbers fell from 2006, but the Jaguars will take him in hopes that he regains that form.
27. San Diego Chargers – Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
The Chargers have a very strong team, but the weakest part of the defense is probably at safety. Last year’s starters were Clinton Hart and Marlon McCree. That is why they will take the best safety in the draft, Kenny Phillips, with this pick.
28. Dallas Cowboys – Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
This is another case of Dallas adding depth and possibly preparing for life after Flozell “The Hotel” Adams hangs it up. Dallas would also like to pick up a WR or a RB here, but Williams will be the best value.
29. San Francisco 49ers – Dan Connor, ILB, Penn State
The Niners picked up the top ILB in the draft last year when they selected Patrick Willis. Since they like to run a 3-4, they will do the same thing this year adding Dan Connor. Plus, the 49ers have had a recent history of adding players they already know from coaching at the Senior Bowl, such as Connor.
30. Green Bay Packers – Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech
Charles Woodson and Al Harris are both getting up there in age and they could use some depth behind them. Flowers isn’t the fastest CB, but he is a good football player that always seems to know where to be.
31. New York Giants – Jerod Mayo, LB, Tennessee
The Super Bowl Champions always have a hard time retaining all of their players through free agency. The Giants lost two of their starting LB, Kawika Mitchell and Reggie Torbor, from the Super Bowl run. Picking up Mayo will fill a need, and he is versatile enough to play both inside and outside as he did at Tennessee.
32. Miami Dolphins – Quentin Groves, OLB/DE, Auburn
Ok, so technically this is a 2nd round pick. However, there are usually 32 picks in the 1st round, but the Patriots got caught trying to cheat their way to a Perfect Season and had to forfeit their 1st round pick. Therefore, the Dolphins get the 32nd pick and will be very happy to have the opportunity to pick Groves here. He is a young pass rusher that will have a great opportunity to work himself into the lineup.
Oh yes, that would be two NFL Mock Drafts. For the first, we turned to our NFL Correspondant (Yeah, we have an NFL Correspondant. I know, we're a big deal around here.) Mamba King to give us our DTF Mock Draft 1.0.
Take it away Mamba...
1. Miami Dolphins – Jake Long, OT, Michigan
Since the Dolphins held a press conference stating that they have signed Jake Long to a reported 5-year, $57.75 million contract with $30 million guaranteed, it’s safe to assume that he will be the first player to hear his name called shortly after the draft begins at 3:00pm on Saturday. Long is widely considered the top OT in the draft, and that happens to be one of the Dolphins biggest needs. The addition of Long fills a hole at a tackle spot and he is as safe a pick as there is in the draft.2. St. Louis Rams – Chris Long, DE/OLB, Virginia
The Rams have been burned by some recent picks along the DL, but this pick has to be a defensive lineman if they don’t trade the pick away. The question is whether it will be Glenn Dorsey or Chris Long? The pick should be Long considering they picked Adam Carriker in the first round last year and seemed to like playing him inside, and their top two DE currently on the roster, Leonard Little and James Hall, are getting older and may be on their way out.3. Atlanta Falcons – Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
It would seem reasonable for the Falcons to consider quarterback Matt Ryan at this spot since their quarterbacks are currently Chris Redman, Joey Harrington, and D.J. Shockley. However, Dorsey could possibly be the best player in the draft. He is one of the most decorated players to come out of college in recent memory. Not to mention he played a large portion of his senior season injured and still led his team to a national championship. He is a hard worker and the Falcons need a DT with Rod Coleman gone.4. Oakland Raiders – Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
Vernon Gholston could be the pick here, but the defense has been carrying the Raiders for a few years now. The offense probably needs more help. Does anyone really think that Huggy Bear’s son, Justin Fargas, should be carrying the load at RB? Also, Al Davis has a history of falling in love with fast players, and after McFadden ran a 4.33 at the combine he locked up a top 5 selection in this year’s draft. He could be the game-breaker that Oakland needs to make the Raiders offense matter again.5. Kansas City Chiefs – Branden Albert, OL, Virginia
This could be another spot where Matt Ryan might make sense, but the Chiefs will give Brodie Croyle another shot at leading the team next season. To make things easier on him, they will get him some help up front. Some may say this is too high for Albert, but the Chiefs need help along the OL after the recent retirements of perennial pro bowlers Willie Roaf and Will Shields. Remember, the Cardinals took Levi Brown at the fifth spot last year when many thought that was too high. Albert, who played both guard and tackle in college, most likely will line up a tackle in the NFL. The only reason he was moved in to play guard in college was because Virginia had D’Brickashaw Ferguson.6. New York Jets – Vernon Gholston, OLB/DE, Ohio State
The Jets will be thrilled to get Gholston at this spot. He has the quickest first step off the line in the draft and he tied Jake Long for the most reps on the bench at the combine with 37 reps of 225lbs. He has had unbelievable workouts and looks like a pass rusher should. The knock on Gholston seems to be that he is inconsistent and that he takes plays off. However, if Eric Mangini and his staff can get more consistent play from Gholston, he will be a force rushing the passer.7. New England Patriots – Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy
The Patriots would like to get Gholston, and Keith Rivers is also a possibility for the aging Patriots linebacker corps. However, the loss of Asante Samuel to the Eagles and Randall Gay to the Saints this off-season makes cornerback a need for this team. McKelvin is also a good returner which is always a plus.8. Baltimore Ravens – Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
With Matt Ryan still on the board, the Ravens won’t take long to make their pick. At this point, with Steve McNair retiring and Kyle Boller and Troy Smith the top two QBs on the roster, it seems like a good opportunity for Ryan to step in and become the QB that will be tied to new head coach John Harbaugh for years to come.9. Cincinnati Bengals – Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
The Bengals desperately need help at DT and Sedrick Ellis will be just what the doctor ordered. He is not far behind Glenn Dorsey as the best DT in the draft. John Thornton and Bryan Robinson are getting older and Ellis will pair up nicely with Domata Peko.10. New Orleans Saints – Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State
Keith Rivers will be a strong possibility for the Saints here, but Rodgers-Cromartie has a lot of potential to develop into a top-notch corner. The Saints added Randall Gay in the offseason to go along with Mike McKenzie, but Jason David was a disappointment as a free agent signing last year so the Saints will be looking for another solid defensive back.11. Buffalo Bills – Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State
The Bills need a WR and Devin Thomas is widely considered the top WR in the draft. It is probably a reach, but the Bills will take a shot with him in hopes that he can take some pressure off Lee Evans because Roscoe Parrish and Josh Reed haven’t been able to do so.12. Denver Broncos – Keith Rivers, LB, USC
Keith Rivers very likely could go earlier considering his workouts were outstanding. The Broncos may have other more pressing needs and could consider OT Ryan Clady, but Rivers should be the pick even though they added LB Boss Bailey, Champ’s brother, through free agency. You can never have enough good linebackers.13. Carolina Panthers – Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State
The Panthers need help on their OL and Clady is a good athlete that will be able to line up at tackle for the Panthers right away pairing him with Jordan Gross at the other tackle spot. Travelle Wharton, who played tackle last year, should move inside to guard.14. Chicago Bears – Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
The Bears suffered last year without Thomas Jones to take some of the load off Cedric Benson, who has had some injury concerns. They could consider taking an OL here, but Mendenhall is too good to pass up.15. Detroit Lions – Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
After releasing Kevin Jones, the Lions are left with Tatum Bell as their top running back. Jones could be the most explosive back in the draft. The only reason he wasn’t more productive in college is because he had to play in the same backfield as Darren McFadden.16. Arizona Cardinals – Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
The Cardinals could be moving Antrel Rolle to safety and they will need to add depth at corner. Jenkins runs a sub-4.4 and should get significant playing time right away in the Cardinals secondary.17. Kansas City Chiefs – Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
After trading Jared Allen to pick up this additional 1st round pick, the Chiefs will want to add one of the best pass rushers coming out in the draft. Harvey is a steal at this point and will fill in nicely for Allen.18. Houston Texans – Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
The Texans have been looking for a legitimate starting LT ever since the Tony Boselli experiment didn’t work in their expansion draft. Cherilus may finally be the long term answer at that position.19. Philadelphia Eagles – DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal
Aside from T.O., the Eagles have never had receivers for Donovan McNabb. DeSean Jackson’s speed makes him a game-breaker as a receiver and a return man. He is this year’s Ted Ginn, Jr.20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
Limas Sweed is the best of the big WR in this class, and Jon Gruden would love to have a tall, young receiver on the other side of Joey Galloway. Michael Clayton has fallen off since his rookie year so the Bucs will not hesitate to pick Sweed at this spot since his wrist injury is now healed.21. Washington Redskins – Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
The Redskins have been looking for help across the DL for years. Merling is a solid DE that will eventually replace 12-year veteran Phillip Daniels on the opposite side of pass rush specialist Andre Carter.22. Dallas Cowboys – Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
The Cowboys don’t have too many holes to fill when it comes to starters, but their depth is thin in a few areas. In particular, the DBs are thin after losing Jacques Reeves, who started 14 games last season, along with Nathan Jones and Keith Davis in free agency. Now they don’t have much behind starters Terrance Newman and Anthony Henry. They will grab Talib here despite the recent reports of his off-field issues.23. Pittsburgh Steelers – Jeff Otah, OT, Pitt
The Steelers OL was very weak last season and Big Ben Roethlisberger took a beating. That was before they lost their best OL in Alan Faneca to free agency. Otah is another good tackle prospect in the draft and the Steelers will hope the hometown kid is still around.24. Tennessee Titans – Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
The Titans have a need at corner, and Cason is the best on the board at this point. He is a playmaker in the secondary that has the ability to take an interception all the way back at any time.25. Seattle Seahawks – Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
Kentwan Balmer is in the next tier of DT following Dorsey and Ellis. He will give the Seahawks some much needed help up front. The Seahawks could also be looking for a TE here, but they will most likely be able to pick one up later in the draft.26. Jacksonville Jaguars – Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
The Jaguars have been rumored to be interested in trading for a good pass rusher, but they can stay right where they are in the draft and pick up Calais Campbell. His numbers fell from 2006, but the Jaguars will take him in hopes that he regains that form.27. San Diego Chargers – Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
The Chargers have a very strong team, but the weakest part of the defense is probably at safety. Last year’s starters were Clinton Hart and Marlon McCree. That is why they will take the best safety in the draft, Kenny Phillips, with this pick.28. Dallas Cowboys – Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
This is another case of Dallas adding depth and possibly preparing for life after Flozell “The Hotel” Adams hangs it up. Dallas would also like to pick up a WR or a RB here, but Williams will be the best value.29. San Francisco 49ers – Dan Connor, ILB, Penn State
The Niners picked up the top ILB in the draft last year when they selected Patrick Willis. Since they like to run a 3-4, they will do the same thing this year adding Dan Connor. Plus, the 49ers have had a recent history of adding players they already know from coaching at the Senior Bowl, such as Connor.30. Green Bay Packers – Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech
Charles Woodson and Al Harris are both getting up there in age and they could use some depth behind them. Flowers isn’t the fastest CB, but he is a good football player that always seems to know where to be.31. New York Giants – Jerod Mayo, LB, Tennessee
The Super Bowl Champions always have a hard time retaining all of their players through free agency. The Giants lost two of their starting LB, Kawika Mitchell and Reggie Torbor, from the Super Bowl run. Picking up Mayo will fill a need, and he is versatile enough to play both inside and outside as he did at Tennessee.32. Miami Dolphins – Quentin Groves, OLB/DE, Auburn
Ok, so technically this is a 2nd round pick. However, there are usually 32 picks in the 1st round, but the Patriots got caught trying to cheat their way to a Perfect Season and had to forfeit their 1st round pick. Therefore, the Dolphins get the 32nd pick and will be very happy to have the opportunity to pick Groves here. He is a young pass rusher that will have a great opportunity to work himself into the lineup.
Augustin Bids Farewell, Abrams Too?
To the surprise of not many, DJ Augustin declared for the NBA draft today. While he has not hired an agent, it was done more on the precaution of injury, not for the possibility of choosing to return. While Augustin did not come as a surprise, it was the declaration of AJ Abrams that caused some concern for fans on the Forty Acres.
Abrams, too, did not hire an agent, and is a much safer bet to return to school for his senior season. Even Abrams admitted that he is using his free pass during his junior season, to test the process, and see where he ranks. While Abrams is a great shooter, his size and lack of all around game will hurt his draft status. It would be quite surprising if Abrams is not back in a Longhorn uniform for his senior season. However, it is not a forgone conclusion. Only a few short years ago, most thought that LaMarcus Aldridge would be drafted, and Daniel Gibson would return for his junior season, only to surprise everyone with his agreement with the Cleveland Cavaliers. But, I will also say that Daniel Gibson was bigger and a more well rounded player than AJ Abrams at that point in time.
If Abrams does not return for his senior season it would be a huge blow to the Longhorns. Abrams will be relied on to be a perimeter scorer for the Longhorns, as well as someone who is expected to share ballhandling duties with Justin Mason and Dogus Balbay. Abrams early departure would cause all kinds of problems for the Longhorn backcourt and press Balbay and J'Covan Brown into larger roles than they currently would be expected to fill.
While I don't think that Augustin is completely ready for the NBA, I can't fault the decision to turn pro. Most think we will be a lottery pick, and many pundits have him falling at #11 to the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers would be a good fit, as it is an organization in transition, and if Augustin shows to a capable point guard, he will certainly get his chance to replace the off-court headache that is Jamaal Tinsley. The only drawback to going to Indiana for Augustin would certainly be the players around him. They certainly are in transition and are missing a few pieces. Danny Granger and Mike Dunleavey are the most quality pieces they have, with Troy Murphy and Jeff Foster as solid compliments. Jermaine O'Neal has been a disaster for the past three seasons and Jamaal Tinsley isn't far behind him. Augustin would probably get his opportunity to play and has a chance to become a successful pro, if he does stay in the draft. That's a lot of money, and a solid opportunity to grow in the Eastern Conference. That's why you can't fault DJ for leaving early and turning pro.
The two most intriguing questions to follow from here on out is whether AJ Abrams stays in the draft and what the Longhorns will do with DJ Augustin's scholarship. With the extra scholarship and a large opening at point guard and points, the Longhorns will be a player on the recruiting trail to fill the void with the pieces that are still available in the 2008 class. At the top of Barnes' wish list certainly has to be Devin Ebanks from Connecticut. At 6'8" and 185 pounds, he is a long, athletic, swingman that would fit nicely at Texas. He could play two or three, and ranks #11 on Rivals.com Top 150 list. Texas is competing with Memphis, Rutgers, and West Virginia for the small forward's services. If the Longhorns could land him it would be a huge sign for Barnes and give him another valuable offensive weapon for 2009. If Ebanks does decide to go elsewhere, the Longhorns would definitely turn their attention to Wesley Witherspoon, another 6'8", 185 pound point forward out of Georgia. Witherspoon, #34 on Rivals.com's list, is choosing between Colorado, Memphis, Virginia, and the Longhorns. Another player that may come into play with the open scholarship is SF Jeff Taylor (6'7"/197), out of New Mexico, who was interested in Texas before recently giving a soft verbal to Vanderbilt. If Texas can bring in one of these players, it will cushion the blow of losing Augustin and allow Texas to remain a player in 2009.
But if Texas loses AJ Abrams as well, it will cripple the Longhorns' title hopes in 2009. DJ Augustin was a great Longhorn and will be sorely missed, but it is the right time for him to move on. We'll have more later this week on his legacy at the Forty Acres. But here's to hoping AJ Abrams makes the right decision and comes back to lead the Texas Longhorns in 2009.
Abrams, too, did not hire an agent, and is a much safer bet to return to school for his senior season. Even Abrams admitted that he is using his free pass during his junior season, to test the process, and see where he ranks. While Abrams is a great shooter, his size and lack of all around game will hurt his draft status. It would be quite surprising if Abrams is not back in a Longhorn uniform for his senior season. However, it is not a forgone conclusion. Only a few short years ago, most thought that LaMarcus Aldridge would be drafted, and Daniel Gibson would return for his junior season, only to surprise everyone with his agreement with the Cleveland Cavaliers. But, I will also say that Daniel Gibson was bigger and a more well rounded player than AJ Abrams at that point in time.If Abrams does not return for his senior season it would be a huge blow to the Longhorns. Abrams will be relied on to be a perimeter scorer for the Longhorns, as well as someone who is expected to share ballhandling duties with Justin Mason and Dogus Balbay. Abrams early departure would cause all kinds of problems for the Longhorn backcourt and press Balbay and J'Covan Brown into larger roles than they currently would be expected to fill.
While I don't think that Augustin is completely ready for the NBA, I can't fault the decision to turn pro. Most think we will be a lottery pick, and many pundits have him falling at #11 to the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers would be a good fit, as it is an organization in transition, and if Augustin shows to a capable point guard, he will certainly get his chance to replace the off-court headache that is Jamaal Tinsley. The only drawback to going to Indiana for Augustin would certainly be the players around him. They certainly are in transition and are missing a few pieces. Danny Granger and Mike Dunleavey are the most quality pieces they have, with Troy Murphy and Jeff Foster as solid compliments. Jermaine O'Neal has been a disaster for the past three seasons and Jamaal Tinsley isn't far behind him. Augustin would probably get his opportunity to play and has a chance to become a successful pro, if he does stay in the draft. That's a lot of money, and a solid opportunity to grow in the Eastern Conference. That's why you can't fault DJ for leaving early and turning pro.The two most intriguing questions to follow from here on out is whether AJ Abrams stays in the draft and what the Longhorns will do with DJ Augustin's scholarship. With the extra scholarship and a large opening at point guard and points, the Longhorns will be a player on the recruiting trail to fill the void with the pieces that are still available in the 2008 class. At the top of Barnes' wish list certainly has to be Devin Ebanks from Connecticut. At 6'8" and 185 pounds, he is a long, athletic, swingman that would fit nicely at Texas. He could play two or three, and ranks #11 on Rivals.com Top 150 list. Texas is competing with Memphis, Rutgers, and West Virginia for the small forward's services. If the Longhorns could land him it would be a huge sign for Barnes and give him another valuable offensive weapon for 2009. If Ebanks does decide to go elsewhere, the Longhorns would definitely turn their attention to Wesley Witherspoon, another 6'8", 185 pound point forward out of Georgia. Witherspoon, #34 on Rivals.com's list, is choosing between Colorado, Memphis, Virginia, and the Longhorns. Another player that may come into play with the open scholarship is SF Jeff Taylor (6'7"/197), out of New Mexico, who was interested in Texas before recently giving a soft verbal to Vanderbilt. If Texas can bring in one of these players, it will cushion the blow of losing Augustin and allow Texas to remain a player in 2009.
But if Texas loses AJ Abrams as well, it will cripple the Longhorns' title hopes in 2009. DJ Augustin was a great Longhorn and will be sorely missed, but it is the right time for him to move on. We'll have more later this week on his legacy at the Forty Acres. But here's to hoping AJ Abrams makes the right decision and comes back to lead the Texas Longhorns in 2009.
My Final Mock Draft...Maybe....
So the NBA playoffs dont get good until well into May, baseball is not important until win game totals get to triple-digits, and no one watches Hockey below the Mason Dixon Line, so with that said there is only one thing that matters in sports...who will my Cowboys take with the 167th pick in the sixth round? And you thought I was talking about Danica Patrick breaking gender stereotypes? The following Mock Draft has gone through more changes than the enitre guest star history of Nip/Tuck with the latest change coming five seconds before posting it when the Cowboys announced the acquisition of PacMan Jones. I think it is finally polished enough for me to be confident in it. Let's just say, Todd McShay doesnt have shit on me. So without further ado....my final mock draft before the big day (purportedly)...
1. Miami – Jake Long, Michigan OT – With no real must-have standout phenoms in this year’s class, Parcells went with the surest thing and grabbed a cornerstone to start Miami’s renovation.
2. St Louis – Glenn Dorsey, LSU DT – Some analysts say that a D-End makes more sense here, but this much raw force in the middle, to me makes rushing the outside that much easier for the Rams.
3. Atlanta – Matt Ryan, Boston College QB – The quarterback position is just such a sexy pick in the draft and it isn’t like the Falcons have anyone of any merit to start the season with. The Birds may try to trade down to grab a QB, but I just think with Dorsey gone, Ryan goes this early due to such dominant workouts.
4. Oakland – Chris Long, Virginia DE – The fancy pick is McFadden, but the Oakland Raiders are already loaded with talented running backs. Al Davis needs to bolster a defensive line that lost Warren Sapp and how perfect would it be to go for the gritty son of Howie Long?
5. Kansas City – Vernon Ghoulston, Ohio State DE – Well the Chiefs cut ties with defensive bookend Justin Allen and thus must replace their top pass rusher. That being said, this pick comes down to pass rusher vs pass protector and I just feel like the best value pick is taking Ghoulston here and waiting until Minnesota’s pick to get a tackle.
6. New York Jets – Darren McFadden, Arkansas RB – The next Curtis Martin? The Jets would love it if McFadden falls all the way to six here and if Oakland skips on him like they should, then the Jets should get their man.
7. New England – Leodis McKelvin, Troy CB – I don’t think there is any doubt that the Patriots will shop this pick around. If no one bites, than the losses of Randall Gay and Asante Samuel mean that New England needs some help in the secondary. McKelvin is the best available and is a safer pick than Keith Rivers.
8. Baltimore – Dominique Rodgers Cromartie, Tennessee State CB - The Ravens would love to get a franchise quarterback here, but outside of Ryan, no other QB warrants this high of a pick. In turn, I think the Ravens look to improve their secondary with DRC.
9. Cincinnati – Sedrick Ellis, USC DT – A mass of a man at 6 feet 309lbs, Ellis will provide a scary, dominant presence inside for a struggling Cincinnati defense.
10. New Orleans – Keith Rivers, USC LB – There are a lot of rumors flaring that the Saints want to trade up to grab one of the huge DT’s, but I don’t know how much listening that will warrant. Thus, I say the Saints should grab the best defensive player available. Rivers can fill any linebacking hole the Saints seem to have.
11. Buffalo – Mike Jenkins, USF CB – The Bills biggest need may be at receiver but there may not be a WR that warrants discussion this high and with a deep WR class, the Bills can grab a quality prospect in the 2nd or 3rd round. With that being said, defensive back is also a need with the glaring hole that Nate Clements left and Jenkins may be the best after McKelvin and DRC.
12. Denver – Ryan Clady, Boise State OT – The Broncs need to bolster the offensive line and with Alberts launching himself up the board, Clady falls into Denver’s lap. Cutler’s old OT Chris Williams is also getting a look, but I think Clady is a more polished guarantee in the Broncos zone blocking scheme.
12. Carolina – Derrick Harvey, Florida DE – A team who initially want an offensive lineman may go with the talented DE Harvey in order to replace the retired Mike Rucker. There is still a good chance that the Panthers take Chris Williams or Jeff Otah, but I think Harvey fills an immediate void.
14. Chicago – Chris Williams, Vanderbilt OT – Its likely to be all offense in this year’s draft for da Bears and if they want to improve their running game, they’ll go with the run-blocking stalwart Chris Williams. Williams is one of the best run blockers after Jake Long and should be a starter in Chicago from day one.
15. Detroit – Rashad Mendenhall, Illinois RB – The Lions released Kevin Jones in the offseason and are left with a glaring hole in the backfield. There are needs on the offensive line and at linebacker, but I think that RB is more pressing and a more media-saavy pick.
16. Arizona – Taqib Alib, Kansas CB – The Cardinals need a running back, but with Mendenhall gone, I don’t think they take a chance on Stewart just yet. They can easily grab a Ray Rice or Jamaal Charles down the road. Here they need to improve on defense and Alib gives them a great option in the secondary.
17. Kansas City (from Minnesota) – Jeff Otah, Pittsburgh OT – The Jared Allen trade left a gaping hole on the defensive front and with that filled with pick 5, the Chiefs need to beefen up the offensive line. Otah is the best available offensive lineman left and could provide great assistance to the running game.
18. Houston – Kenny Phillips, Miami S – The Texans have bigger needs like offensive linemen and linebackers, but those positions are dry here. I look for the Texans to get some defensive help in the back seven. Phillips is one of those NFL-bred safeties from The U and may be worth a shot. RB wouldn’t surprise me here either.
19. Philadelphia – Devin Thomas, Michigan State WR – I’m not sure I even like a receiver here, but offensive line prospects are running slim and so Philly may wait until the second round to provide depth behind Jon Runyan and Tra Thomas. Take the best receiver and hope for the best.
20. Tampa Bay – DeSean Jackson, Cal WR – It wouldn’t surprise me to see the Bucs take a defensive player, but I think an explosive receiver/returner would excite the Jon Gruden offense. DeSean Jackson fits that mold and would bring speed to that short-pass oriented offense.21. Washington – Calais Campbell, Miami DE – I keep juggling this pick between Campbell, Phillip Merling, and Kentawn Balmer, but because Campbell’s old line coach Joe Palmero is now the line coach in Washington, they’ll probably take an overrated Campbell.
22. Dallas – James Hardy, Indiana WR– The Cowboys secured PacMan Jones from Tennessee and now they can take care of their WR and RB concerns in the first round. I really hope the Boys will package thier picks and trade them for Roy Williams, if they don't they'll need a big, speedy, young reciever.
23. Pittsburgh – Gosder Cherilus, Boston College OT – The Steelers love dominant offensive line play and Cherilus is able to offer that play to the whistle tenacity for the black and gold.
24. Tennessee – Limas Sweed, Texas WR – Tennessee is in need of a big play receiver to compliment Vince Young and who better to provide that then VY’s favorite collegiate target Limas Sweed?
25. Seattle – Jonathan Stewart, Oregon RB – So everyone tends to think that this pick will be a tight end, but with the sudden release of Shaun Alexander, the Hawks need a superstar at tailback. That’s not Julius Jones. I think that Seattle takes a stretch on a guy who played on the west coast.
26. Jacksonville – Kentawn Balmer, North Carolina St DT – The Jaguars need help on the defensive line and though an end makes sense here too, a bigger need is opposite John Henderson in the middle.27. San Diego – Brandon Flowers, Virginia Tech CB – The Chargers don’t have a lot of needs, especially none that need first round money tossed around. That being said, they will probably look to trade down, if they can’t Flowers gives the Chargers a physical corner opposite Quentin Jammer.
28. Dallas – Felix Jones, Arkansas RB – The Boys will be looking for a compliment to Marion Barber early in this draft; personally I think they could do it in the second round with a Jamaal Charles or Steve Slaton. However, Mr. Arkansas Jerry Jones will most likely go after Felix. I think they should also consider Stewart here.
29. San Francisco – Malcom Kelley, Oklahoma WR – This is a make or break season for QB Alex Smith and that being said, I think Mike Martz will try to offer him one more big target to throw at. With Kelley dropping so suddenly, this could also be James Hardy.
30. Green Bay – Dustin Keller, Purdue TE – It seems like there is always a tight end in the first round these days and so I am going with Keller here. Fred Davis and Martellus Bennett could just as easily be picked as well. The Packers may also trade down or look at a CB like Justin King.
31. New York Giants – Jerrod Mayo, Tennessee LB – Mayo’s stock has been rising since the combine and his individual workout and I think the Super Bowl champs could use some help on the defensive side of the ball
Top Coaching Jobs - #4
With Indiana facing certain sanctions from the NCAA for the next several years, the Hooisers were still able to land Tom Crean. Roy Williams left the Kansas Jayhawks for North Carolina in 2003. Kansas was able to replace him with Bill Self, from Illinois, who just recently turned down Oklahoma State to stay at Kansas.
It makes you wonder, what are the Top 10 coaching jobs in college basketball? We here at Drinking the Forty consulted with some of the finest basketball experts in the country to find out. Hey, if ESPN can pull random people off the street and call them experts, then we can too.
Here is our Top 10, based on a program’s national persona, recent success, fan base, facilities, history and tradition, and potential for future success.
#4.) Duke Blue Devils
The house that Coach K built. The Duke Blue Devils are loved by many and hated by everyone else. They have spent much of the last two decades as the center of the basketball universe, winning games and earning fans and enemies for their disciplined style and dedication on the defensive end.
With an .816 winning percentage over the past seven years, you can count on Duke to be relevant and be among the top 15 teams in the country. With three national titles to his credit Mike Krzyzewski will go down as one of the greatest coaches to ever grace the hardwood. With the floor already named after him, he has built this program into everything that it is today.
Duke is a nationally known and respected program and they spend about as much time on national television as Dick Vitale. That recognition allows Coach K to go into any home, coast to coast, to recruit top players. It is this constant influx of talent, along with Coach K’s coaching that keeps Duke on top year after year.
The history and legacy of the Blue Devils has been built over the last 20 years. Everyone remembers the Laettner shot, Grant Hill, Bobby Hurley, Shane Battier, Jason Williams, and JJ Redick. Duke has also developed one of the most recognizable and energetic fan bases in the Cameron Crazies. Cameron Indoor Arena is the hardest place to play in the country and the fans at Duke are the most recognizable in basketball.
While Duke’s rise has been all during the Krzyzewski era, it is a success that will surely be sustained after his tenure ends. This will be a program with the national notoriety, success, and fan base that any coach would want to come into. While their facilities are behind most, the tradition and recruiting ability are second to none. This is why Duke comes in at number four on our list.
#5.) Kentucky Wildcats
#6.) Indiana Hooisers
#7.) Florida Gators
#8) Michigan State Spartans
#9.) Connecticut Huskies
#10.) Arizona Wildcats
It makes you wonder, what are the Top 10 coaching jobs in college basketball? We here at Drinking the Forty consulted with some of the finest basketball experts in the country to find out. Hey, if ESPN can pull random people off the street and call them experts, then we can too.
Here is our Top 10, based on a program’s national persona, recent success, fan base, facilities, history and tradition, and potential for future success.
#4.) Duke Blue Devils
The house that Coach K built. The Duke Blue Devils are loved by many and hated by everyone else. They have spent much of the last two decades as the center of the basketball universe, winning games and earning fans and enemies for their disciplined style and dedication on the defensive end.With an .816 winning percentage over the past seven years, you can count on Duke to be relevant and be among the top 15 teams in the country. With three national titles to his credit Mike Krzyzewski will go down as one of the greatest coaches to ever grace the hardwood. With the floor already named after him, he has built this program into everything that it is today.
Duke is a nationally known and respected program and they spend about as much time on national television as Dick Vitale. That recognition allows Coach K to go into any home, coast to coast, to recruit top players. It is this constant influx of talent, along with Coach K’s coaching that keeps Duke on top year after year.
The history and legacy of the Blue Devils has been built over the last 20 years. Everyone remembers the Laettner shot, Grant Hill, Bobby Hurley, Shane Battier, Jason Williams, and JJ Redick. Duke has also developed one of the most recognizable and energetic fan bases in the Cameron Crazies. Cameron Indoor Arena is the hardest place to play in the country and the fans at Duke are the most recognizable in basketball.While Duke’s rise has been all during the Krzyzewski era, it is a success that will surely be sustained after his tenure ends. This will be a program with the national notoriety, success, and fan base that any coach would want to come into. While their facilities are behind most, the tradition and recruiting ability are second to none. This is why Duke comes in at number four on our list.
#5.) Kentucky Wildcats
#6.) Indiana Hooisers
#7.) Florida Gators
#8) Michigan State Spartans
#9.) Connecticut Huskies
#10.) Arizona Wildcats
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