Category: Sports
NFL (49ers) Off-Season : Chris Borland Retirement/Quitting
Oh, I know the PR move would be to “clarify” what he meant, but I think “quit” is a sufficient description for what Borland did. I don’t think that he meant it as a criticism of Borland’s decision to do what, he believes, is in his best interests. The fact of the matter is that, for the fraction of his life that he would be a member of the San Francisco 49ers, we — as a fan base — would support and adore him (so long as he was playing well, haha). But, typically, once a player retires or moves to another team, we have very little interest in these guys. That’s just the way that it goes: you are a hero to us, until we have no purpose for you anymore (unless you become a legendary player a la Rice, Montana, and so forth). There will always be an up-and-coming guy to switch our focus to – so I don’t get hurt or offended when guys decide to retire/leave the game when they feel that it’s in their best interests, because they are the ONLY ones who are looking out for their best interests in this business, haha.
That said, what does bother me is that 1) for a guy who – I believe – has only received 3 concussions in his entire life — two he referenced from high school, and one he believed came from a practice this summer — to cite that fear as the reason that he’s not going to play anymore is questionable, to me — furthermore, to reference and consult with players FROM A DIFFERENT ERA in the game as the examples of what he didn’t want to end up like (later in life), is just absurd – to me. The equipment has changed; the rules have changed; the way players are taught to tackle has changed, all with the emphasis of NOT sustaining head injuries. Hell, Jamal Charles got benched IN A PLAYOFF GAME because they were concerned that he suffered a concussion….which, may not have cost the Chiefs the game (since he exited very, very early in the game), but it certainly didn’t help them win it. He shouldn’t be “banging” his head into people all day, as he alluded to; so that sounds like an excuse more than an explanation.
And, 2) why bother going through the NFL Draft if you were concerned about the health implications that the profession would have on your future? Why not just play college ball, get your education provided, and then go professional in something other than sports? It’s not like the presence and implication of concussions just got revealed in January, spurring this reflection on one’s future — this has been WELL-DOCUMENTED for several years, now, at the very least. Hell, the NFL veteran lawsuit was settled last summer, before he ever played a DOWN in the NFL. So, to cite a fear of concussions as the reason for leaving the game, in my opinion, is totally bogus.
This may be just my opinion, but here is why I think that he decided to leave the game:
It was well-documented from before the Draft, up through pre-season, and all the way through the season when he finished with an incredible rookie performance: he is an under-sized LB (at 5’11” 248lbs…but may be smaller, in actuality) – which was gaining concerns for his longevity, due to his physical style, at the position from Day One. When Willis’ season (and career) came to an end, I think that he gave it 100% to fill-in, and certainly took a lot of physical punishment in the process — figuring that Willis would return next year and he’d slip into more of a support role — as Willis had stated, when he opted for season-ending surgery, that he had 5-6yrs left of great football in him. That makes sense.
However, when Willis abruptly retired, and everyone began talking about building around him, he realized that he couldn’t play LB in the NFL as a career, and so he quit. I think that he came to realize that the amount of physical strength that the position required (that he learned first-hand last season) was too much for him to handle, physically…… without getting hurt…… and so the only options he had was either: a) request or otherwise lose the starting job that he had been, essentially, promoted; b) continue to play the position and risk injury — especially, since fear of injury was already on his mind (you can’t play football while scared of injury); or c) “retire” from the game, citing the media “hot topic” of concussions in order to not get portrayed negatively. He took Option C, and I can’t blame him, too much. After all, nowadays, once you cite concussions and football, you have an advocacy group backing you, the media can re-run reports and interviews on the topic again, and the NFL isn’t going to challenge you on it….because Goodell has had a rough time with the PR-part of his job in the past year, so you’re not going to face serious criticism from anyone by citing a fear of concussions as a reason to leave the game.
That said, he did sort of screw us out of our 3rd round pick in the Draft (especially, since he said that the fear of injury had been on his mind throughout college…. that’s probably something you should have told prospective employers). And, yeah, he ends up having to give us back the prorated part of his contract, but no team is investing a 3rd round pick in a guy who is going to play for a year, so, of course, had we known that, we certainly would have drafted someone else. So, that’s a bummer.
Furthermore, I wish he would have discussed this fear and contemplation of retirement with the team during the season — rather than in March — as we could have planned better for it. At this point, though, we are bound to the Draft in order to replace this guy, now; and having options is always better. But, I get it — he didn’t know (no one did) that Willis was going to abruptly retire when his parting words in October was that he felt, physically, like he had another half-decade on the field and wanted to get his toe healthy for it. Had he mentioned it something during the season, he just puts a target on himself to get less playing time or on the list of potential cuts after the season. Because, again, you can’t play this game while you’re scared of getting hurt, especially, at the LB position.
What’s done is done. People are freaking out about our season but, again, we knew Chris Borland wasn’t going to be a career-guy (citing his smaller size and reckless physicality), but we had hoped he could be a sufficient patch (with Wilhoite) for a year or two until we figured out a long-term solution. Our season is over because we are hosting Super Bowl 50 — the Football Gods will make sure of that, and, hopefully, all of this turnover and “turmoil” is Their work. I’ll take a season of adjusting to a new system over a Bounty-Gate or Kaepernick sitting out all season for 4 neck surgeries….as they have struck in the recent past. This is the season to be a casual fan, if that’s your sort of thing. #GoNiners
NFL (49ers) Off Season : Free Agent Frenzy
Oh. Wow. Tuesday’s start to free agency was INSANE. I wanted to let the dust settle (and more breaking developments happen) before I rattled off my thoughts, and Friday night seems like a safe time to get cracking.
Frank Gore to the Colts
While initially it was being reported that Gore was going to Philly, he instead went to the Colts…and that may be the happiest that I’ve seen a fan base get over signing a 32yr old free agent RB. However, when you’ve had a running game like the Colts have had the past few years (which hasn’t been much of a running game), a productive RB – regardless of age – is probably welcomed.
I’m still kind of surprised that they signed Gore as opposed to going for a RB in the Draft; although, I suppose that they can certainly do both. While it’s a slight bummer that we weren’t able to resign Frankie, I’m not too surprised by this move. It’s the exact opposite of what happened to Lynch in Seattle: we gave our young guy (Hyde) some opportunities and he showed great potential. Once that happened (taking into account that Hunter was also returning), I think that certainly put a cap on what amount we were going to be willing to offer Frankie; whereas, in Seattle, neither of the back ups showed much promise, and so Beast Mode got his extension.
The biggest thing that we lose with Gore leaving for Indy is his pass protection. Holy wow – the guy was brilliant in pass protection. I do hope that is the primary focus of the coaching staff, Hyde, and Hunter — Frankie’s pass protection was never talked about as much as it should have been. While I do wish him well, I also would find it kind of humorous if his age suddenly caught up with him….and then seeing the fall out from Colts fans as they berate themselves for being excited about signing a 32yo running back. That would be humorous, to me.
The Expletive Rams
The Rams started collecting QBs today, trading Sam Bradford for Foles (Philly) and signing Case Keenum from Houston. The Houston one makes sense…. but I have NO IDEA why the Eagles traded for Sam Bradford. Especially, since Foles was (presumably) their QB of the Future. It further doesn’t make sense, to me, because all signs pointed to Bradford being released sooner rather than later. You probably could have traded for Bradford without giving up your starting QB.
What also made this really, really weird to me was when Chip Kelly was saying that he had been offered a first-round pick for Bradford, after trading for him. WHAT??? 1 – I don’t believe that…. at all. Simply because, if you look at the other 31 teams in the NFL, by and large the teams that have a QB vacancy (or no definite starter), are all very high in the Draft position — it’s certainly not any of the teams on the contender-side of the spectrum. Reportedly, Coach Fischer quasi-backed up Chip Kelly by saying he had received a “low first” offer prior to trading for Foles….but even that doesn’t make sense. And so, if it wasn’t a “low first” like Fischer reported, then it would have to be a “high first” pick, right? RIGHT?? So, 2 – this high Draft pick team allegedly requested to trade their first pick for Bradford……and you said “no”?!?!?!
I remember, prior to the Harbaugh era starting, when Bradford was the best QB in the NFC West, as a rookie. But that was when he played a full season. In his five seasons in the League, to this point, he has essentially missed 2 full seasons due to injury. Even when he was 100% healthy, he was a decent QB….but I wouldn’t have given up my starting QB for him. ESPECIALLY, when he has a difficult time staying healthy. Maybe the NFC East won’t be as physical to him this coming year (as the NFC West was) and he may prove to be more durable? I don’t know. But I think that this was a bad trade for Philly.
The part of this activity that worries me is that the Expletive Rams are the scariest team in the Division – some think it’s the Seahawks, but it’s not; it’s the Expletive Rams.
They have no cemented identity, which means that they are capable of anything. ANYTHING. They do trick plays, they play tough defense, and they are one of the few teams that are able to beat the best teams in the League, while also lose to the worst teams in the League. The one thing that always gave me quasi-confidence against the Expletive Rams was that Sam Bradford was either going to get hurt, or was already hurt, and so our reliable, strong defense was going to be playing an at-best 2nd string QB, maybe even some guy I’d never heard of, and that always gave us a reasonable edge; regardless of whatever crazy stuff they pulled in the game.
If Foles can stabilize the position, though, then that safety net is gone. The Expletive Rams scare me. They always have, and they continue to scare me now. Especially, today, with the signing of Nick Fairley from Detroit. The guy may be a dirty player (that’s what I’ve heard), but he’s also talented; and the Expletive Rams’ defense has been legitimate the past few years, and I think that they just got better. The NFC West is going to be a brawl once again.
Seahawks Making Moves
The Seahawks added some CBs, lost a CB & LB, but the move that was the most interesting was the trade for Jimmy Graham. This is a big spash trade that surprised me, simply because I didn’t know that Graham was on the trade block, haha. From what I recall, he just signed a big contract last year (or the year before) after a tumultuous contract negotiation, so it surprises me that they traded for him. It’s also surprising to me that the Seahawks made this trade.
For one, he’s expensive; sure, he’s a good player, but I don’t know if they really needed someone of his pay-grade, but, hey, if the Seahawks want to make big purchases, I support it. It’s especially weird, to me, that they’d sacrifice a key part of their O Line, which was a considerable area of vulnerability. Wilson has been able to avoid big hits thus far in his career, but you don’t want to take chances with your O Line if you have a finesse QB. Although, I still contend that TJ could step in for Wilson and not be that much of a drop off — so long as the officials continued to allow Offensive Holding when he starts dancing in the backfield.
The Saints raised my eye brows this week, as well. For one, trading Graham came out of nowhere. But now, trading away their other prime offensive target (Stills) and adding CJ Spiller from the Bills. It sounds like they are committing serious attention to their defense, but I don’t know what they’re going to do offensively, now. Maybe, with the signing of Spiller and getting Unger via trade with Seattle, they are trying to go run-heavy this coming year? Maybe they were thinking — the way that I was thinking — last season that Drew Brees doesn’t have “it” anymore; or that he is showing signs of being on the decline. That could make sense, I guess. Well, I’m hoping to go to New Orleans for Halloween this year – God willing, the Saints will be playing in town that weekend AND they’re commitment to defense and lack of an offense will make them not very good, thus, greater increasing the odds of getting some tickets to hang out with the Who Dat Nation. *fingers crossed*
My Beloved 49ers
Saving the most important reflection for last, of course. First and foremost, people need to relax. We are hosting the Super Bowl this year, so there is absolutely no way that we are going to be contenders this year. None. In the 49 Super Bowls that have occurred, the only thing that all of them have in common is that the host team has NEVER played in the game. EVER. Most of the time, the host team doesn’t even sniff the playoffs let alone the Super Bowl; so kudos to the Cardinals for at least making it to the playoffs. That said, we’re probably not going to make the playoffs and we’re definitely not going to the Super Bowl; let alone be able to win the Super Bowl. So, let’s keep our expectations realistic and also not freak out. A season is never won — or loss — 5 months before it starts. Calm down.
This off-season has been a mixed bag of news. First, let’s talk about the departures: Frank Gore left for Indy – which I was prepared for but still kind of a bummer; Chris Culliver left for the Redskins (to each their own, I suppose); Mike Iupati went to the Cardinals (bold move); and Dan Skuta went to Jacksonville.
Willis retired – which blind-sided everyone….but I think that we may be able to make it work; No one seems to be talking about it, but Bubba Ventrone’s retirement is surprising, too – he was a reliable special teams player for us. And maybe Justin Smith is retiring (…?) — I haven’t heard confirmation one way or the other.
Crabtree is likely gone – but I’ve made peace with this (unless he signs a very favorable contract – however, I recall how he held out for more money as a rookie, so I don’t think he’s the “favorable contract”-kind of guy); We released Stevie Johnson, which surprises me because – last I heard – both sides were open to restructuring his deal so that he’d be cheaper; and I’m pretty sure that we’re going to release Ahmad Brooks sooner than later – I think that Lynch outplayed him last season and certainly has a more favorable contract.
Lastly, while not a departure (or likely departure, I wouldn’t think) but is worth mentioning: Bruce Miller was arrested for pushing a woman and causing her to fall to the ground, and then destroying her phone….vaguely.
Side Note: I did see this article on a suggested ad through Facebook, where they referred to Miller as a “49ers STAR player” — please. I like Bruce Miller and he has played well for us, but the FB is not a “star” position for us; he is not a “star” player for us, either. Someone’s just trying to get attention to their crappy publication (or doesn’t know football). End Side Note.
This was initially brought to my attention from my Seahawk fan friends wanting to talk trash, and they made it sound like he beat up a woman — it sounds, though, that there weren’t any injuries and it that it’s more of an issue of destruction of property — citing the vaguely described “destroying her phone” part. Not sure what will come of this but it fits more appropriately in the “bad news” category.
Good news, though, Aldon Smith isn’t in trouble, AND, I’m reasonably confident that he isn’t going to be in trouble… which could be my Bold Statement of the Off Season. When reading about him restructuring his contract in order to free up more cap space for this season, I just get this feeling that he’s focused and he’s ready to play and compete — and I really, really, really like that. The man is a beast — before all of these distractions in his personal life happened, he was averaging almost 1 sack per game….. 1 SACK PER GAME…. which is ridiculous. But after the house party where he got stabbed, and then arrested for gun possession; then you had the whole DUI incident and the LAX detainment fiasco, with a stint in rehab and NFL-mandated suspension, those distractions took away from his focus. But, now, with all of that behind him, I think that we are going to get a focused and dialed-in Aldon Smith rushing off the edge.
While we certainly lost some high-caliber talent as well as both of our Field Generals (Gore & Willis), we are still a talented team. While you don’t just replace Frank Gore and Patrick Willis, I do think that the tandem of Hyde/Hunter and Borland/Wilhoite can fill in. *IF* Bowman returns this season at 100%, that certainly makes life easier on that side of the ball.
I have read ample skeptics to the signing of Torrie Smith (from Baltimore) because he has an “off year” last season, but the guy is a consistent producer, wanted to play here, and hasn’t missed a game in his NFL season. His ability to stretch the field is also something that I think will benefit our whole offense — not just the passing game, but also alleviates pressure on the running game. Our “deep threat” receivers as of late have been mostly unproven and hampered rookies. The elite secondaries in the League, rightfully so, probably weren’t respecting them too much. But Torrie Smith has a resume and so you have to respect him. If he is able to keep a Seahawk CB and Safety deep — out of respect — then that is HUGE for our underneath game. Up until now, though, most of our offense has been largely based on YAC-style receiving, and getting our guys lit up by Chancellor/Thomas crashing down from the safety-position. If Torrie Smith is able to keep at least one of those guys back, that could open up a lot of opportunities for Boldin or Davis in the intermediate range.
We also added Dockett from the Cardinals – and, even though he’s coming off an injury, he should be an adequate replacement for McDonald – who we released at the end of last season. *IF* Justin Smith retires, it will be a blow to our line BUT I don’t think it’ll be devastating. Why? Because with Tomsula ascending to the starting job, and having worked with our mystery product — Lawrence Okoye — the past two seasons, I think that Okoye sees playing time this year. I think that he’s ready. *IF* he is ready, he could be a HUGE bull-rush type lineman that could cause problems. He has great speed for his size and is a beast! If he could be taught to execute Justin Smith’s role in that cross-rush that he and Aldon Smith perfected a couple of years back, then that could be a formidable tandem, as well. I see a lot of promise there — *IF* he is progressing as I imagine/hope.
The addition of Jerome Simpson I think is more of just a leverage-signing or a competition factor — I’d be surprised if he is on the team this season. For one, he comes with a lot of baggage and not a lot of productivity to show for it; which does counter York’s oft-mockingly-reported “winning with class” statement. HOWEVER, if the plan is to try and sign Crabtree for a cheaper contract, being able to say: “Hey, we have Boldin, we have Torrie Smith, and we have Jerome Simpson, in addition to our young guys” — could put us in a favorable bargaining position (especially, if Crabtree’s open-market demand/price isn’t very high). I think that if we re-sign Crabtree or if we draft a WR in the early rounds, then we’ll let Simpson compete for a spot over the summer to raise competition from our young guys (but then release him in August). That is, unless, he just blows us all away during the off-season — and stays out of trouble. But the only time that I have ever heard his name or seen him play was that *ONE* time that he did the front-flip over the defender and stuck the landing for a TD. That’s it. And that was when he played for the Bengals a couple of years ago. So, we’ll see what happens there, but I think that this was more of a leverage-signing.
The signing of Jarryd Hayne is another one that I like. I doubt that he’s going to actually be a RB for us — simply because I doubt that he has the nuances of the position grasped to the point of being able to play the position in this League — however, I think that he can quickly translate his rugby skills into special teams play in a returner role. I’m excited to see what he can do, for sure.
Onto the Rumor Mill-
I’m pleased to have read, today, that the rumor of Percy Harvin coming to us is dead — he reportedly signed with the Bills (1yr for, I believe, $6M…. good signing, Buffalo). I can’t stand Percy Harvin — one of the most overrated players in the past decade. It really irritates me that he has a Super Bowl ring when he only played in about 2.5 games the whole season. He gets hailed as this great athlete but he’s really just a speed guy…..who has joint health issues. I am so happy that he’s not going to be a 49er. The best move that the York/Baalke union has made all off-season.
Reportedly, Reggie Bush stopped by to visit, but I’d pass on him, too. I hope that we pass on him, at least. I don’t know what price Reggie Bush is garnering these days, but I can almost guarantee that it’s more than Hyde is making — and if it comes down to it: I’m taking Hyde over Bush every….single…day. I’m taking Hunter over him, too. We probably do need a 3rd RB – especially with Hunter’s injury history – but I say let’s pick one up in the draft or wait for one that we like to get released from another team during the preseason (or an undrafted rookie).
We are also apparently meeting with Shareece Wright, formerly of the Chargers, and while I don’t know much about the guy, he’s reportedly not an impressive CB. It sounds like our interest in him is solely because he’s cheap and a veteran guy. His stats don’t seem that impressive, and, the word from the Chargers expert that they talked to in the story, the only plus about him is his size — he’s apparently not a good tackler and not good in coverage, either.
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All in all, that’s how the first week has gone, thus far. The NFC West is certainly getting strong once again, and I think that the Expletive Rams may end up being the team to beat. If they can put it together this season….watch out. That said, as we’re certainly out of contention this season — due to hosting the Super Bowl — I think that we have a lot of upside awaiting us in 2016. Hopefully, we can use this season to further develop some of our youth and strengthen the connections on the offense. We’ll have some new pieces this year, not to mention a new system, so it may be a learning curve for everyone. I’m still optimistic and faithful. #GoNiners.
NFL (49ers) Off Season : Patrick Willis Retirement??
This development has caught me by surprise and I’m a little disappointed in Patrick Willis. When he left the Rams game last October, the message he was sending was: I’ll be back after the Bye Week. Then, out of nowhere, he opted for season-ending surgery to repair the toe. Why? Because apparently it had been hurt for years and, in his own words, he had “five or six more great years” left in him, and wanted to get healthy for them. Okay, sounds good. But then the next time we hear from him it’s to announce his retirement?? How one goes from 5-6 great years to retirement is beyond me. Either he was over-optimistic in October/November, and reality just struck, or something is up — it doesn’t make any sense, to me.
Especially, with the only thing that I have seen/heard from him since this apparent story broke is him – big smile and all – on some sort of exercise machine. Which is a weird activity to be doing on the eve of your retirement announcement.
Anyway, it feels like the everyman equivalent would be going into your job, that you’ve had for many, many years, and requesting time off for surgery — okay, the boss says, and you’re out for a couple of weeks or however long it’s supposed to take. Then, out of the blue, calling in to announce that you’re not coming back. That’s where the disappointment, for me, comes into play. I like Patrick Willis and he’s been great for us, no doubt, but if this toe injury was a potential career-ending injury, then I wish he would have been more upfront about it.
I guess we will find out tomorrow if he is announcing his retirement, or if this is just something that he’s contemplating. Hopefully, he comes back because — presuming that Aldon stays out of trouble (like I think that he will) and Bowman also comes back — we would have a scary-good LB unit with him in the lineup. Patrick Willis, even at 75% health is still a lot better than most other LBs. We will know more tomorrow, I guess. #GoNiners
NFL (49ers) Off Season: Aldon Smith Restructuring His Contract
One of the positive signs from this off-season activity is Aldon’s restructuring of his contract, to help out this year with the salary cap. He didn’t really have to do this (he’s at the end of his contract, no one really that can fill in for him — unlike Willis/Bowman who we were able to cover for), he could have completely looked out for his own interests…. but he didn’t. And I like that.
I think that we have proven ourselves to be highly invested in him — we took A LOT of heat when we kept him after the DUI, the weapons charges, the whole LAX fiasco — and I’m quite pleased to see him returning the favor. It shows me that he’s serious about being a part of this team and that he’s willing to take one for the team. It’s probably something that isn’t going to be talked too much about, as we have the distrust of Baalke/York to contend with, but I like it. He’s still going to get his money (and probably a ton more when we extend him) but his willingness to restructure now to give us a little bit more room this season is a good sign. #GoNiners
NFL (49ers) Off Season : Kaepernick Trade Rumors
Absurdity. If it’s true, it is absolute absurdity. I guess, even if it’s not true, then it’s still absolute absurdity.
While my trust in Baalke/York is not as high as it once was, I can’t imagine that they’d be shopping our only QB — especially, a talented-albeit-young QB. ESPECIALLY, with this rumor that we’re interested in Brian Hoyer instead. REALLY? Brian Hoyer? No intended disrespect to him, but an older, less versatile, and less accomplished QB?? I know that there are a lot of people who are not fans of Kaepernick or who do not evaluate him appropriately, but are there any folks who think that Hoyer is a better option? Because I sure don’t.
We have* to cut Gabbert and may-or-may-not keep Johnson, however, unless Johnson is the real-life Willie Beamen – that doesn’t bode well for us.
*We have to cut Gabbert (or get his price way down) because he was making more than a back up should make. I thought that was a bad signing when it happened. Unless, it was solely to put pressure on Kaepernick’s people to keep his price low. If, that was the case, then I guess it was worth it….unless you end up trading Kaepernick a season later, that is, haha.
The only way that a Kaepernick trade makes ANY sense, is if we are blowing this up. Which would 100% contradict the message of “reloading, not rebuilding” that has been toted since Harbaugh got fired. I was reading some article that suggested the hypothetical of Dan Snyder, or someone else (but probably Dan Snyder), making another RG3-esque trade that would be tough to turn down. For example, if the plan is to blow things up, then trading Kaepernick for an ungodly amount of either 1st round picks or top-level talent, then tanking the season for a good Draft position on our own, would be the only way that the Kaepernick trade makes any sense.
However, by doing that, you further alienate a fan base that already is distrustful and upset with the Front Office. Choose your path carefully, Baalke/York. #GoNiners
NFL (49ers) Off Season: Torrey Smith Headed West??
Let’s be honest: I mostly/primarily/really only care about what we are doing this off-season, so while I may give opinions and comments on what the rest of the League is up to, my focus is on the only team (to me) that matters — my beloved San Francisco 49ers. Tuesday is going to be a wild day, I reckon. It’s a good thing that this week is Spring Break and probably pretty quiet, because I’ll be checking updates like a man with a problem.
Interesting. *IF* this pans out, I’m quite intrigued. Last year, our passing threat was really only Anquan “Grown Man” Boldin. As far as I’m concerned, Vernon quit on us — maybe he was injured (again) but he certainly wasn’t giving 100% effort when he was on the field, and he wasn’t a reliable target; Crabtree also struggled and didn’t perform as we had anticipated; McDonald/Celek/Carrier failed to shine (hence, why I think Baalke made the guarantee that Davis would be back — I reckon, had either of those guys looked like someone who could step into the starting role, that Davis would be traded by now, without question); and Stevie Johnson didn’t see as much action, as the least experienced in the system.
I know that Anquan “Grown Man” Boldin is going to do his job — I’m not worried there; the man’s a warrior — however, *if* it’s true that Vernon is a new-man and ready to play hard… AND, now, with a full year and off-season getting Stevie Johnson more in sync with Kaepernick…. AND we get Torrey Smith who can stretch the field deep??? It could be a HUGE development for us. The only potential downside (right now, that I see) is that it would further delay the development of Patton and Ellington. Having three veteran WRs at a higher pay-grade on roster, unless they get outworked this summer, they are going to get the bulk of the playing time. And, with the signing of Jarryd Hayne (for the purpose of the return game, I imagine) that makes Ellington – in particular – on the edge of redundancy.
One of the downsides of our past few seasons, offensively, is that almost EVERY play that our offense ran was, by and large, capped at 15-20yds….maybe even 10-15yds. We had solid/reliable inside receivers, but not much in the way of speed or a deep threat. However, now, if we can have the Smiths (Stevie and Torrey) on the outside — Stevie doing the mid-range/side line work; Torrey on the deep ball — with Anquan “Grown Man” Boldin and Davis attacking the middle, we accomplish a few big things:
1– Give Kaepernick more options; in addition, veteran/experienced options.
2–Expand opposing secondaries, as they no longer could just contain 1-2 receivers 10-15yds from the line of scrimmage.
3–Ease pressure on the running game — if we are able to keep the secondary back, I think that our offensive line is good enough to make lanes, and I think that Hyde/Hunter are good enough to gain yards. Neither are probably as good at finding holes as Gore, so I don’t know if they’d break off BIG gains, but as long as they’re good for a handful when we need them, that is HUGE. Losing Gore will be tough but I think it’s still a talented backfield, and, who knows?, maybe we’ll add another RB in the Draft — as insurance.
Oh, not to mention that Baalke/York had said, prior, that they’re taking Kaepernick off the leash — which is a good sign. The thing that annoyed me about last year is that there were many times where Kaepernick held off running in order to throw — which led to either a) high-risk passes, b) incompletions, or c) getting caught by defenders for either a sack or minimal gain. If they’re taking him off the leash, though, then I’m thinking that we’ll see him get out of the pocket and, if daylight is there, taking off. Seattle’s defenders had said (in that NFC Championship Game) that tackling him was deceivingly difficult. I think it would be even more difficult if, as a defender, you are have your back to him and are giving him a 20yd cushion because you have to respect Torrey Smith and the deep ball — after all, Kaepernick has the arm (and accuracy) to hit the deep ball: he just hasn’t had the talent in the WR position to make it work.
I know that I said a lot of the same things when we drafted LaMichael James a few years back (I figured we’d use him like a Darren Sproles-type, into the flat against a OLB or Safety), and that didn’t pan out…..at all…..as Roman instead tried using him between the tackles, which was just bizarre, before trying to make him a return specialist….which also didn’t work….before ultimately releasing him after he became a distraction. So, my visions haven’t always worked out — BUT I think that, if we do land Torrey Smith, there is only one reason we would be pursuing him: utilization of his speed and deep-ball abilities. Especially, since it’s unlikely we’ll have a shot at any of the premiere deep threat WRs in the Draft. #GoNiners
Welcoming Jarryd Hayne to the 49ers & NFL
An announcement popped up on my News Feed this evening stating that Jarryd Hayne — an apparent rugby superstar — had signed with us to give a shot at making a career in the NFL.
Reading the comment sections on a variety of reports of the signing, a lot of people either scoffed at the signing as a joke or were clear on the opposite side of the spectrum in their excitement. I think that this signing, right now, lands somewhere in the middle …. but closer to the optimistic side of the spectrum.
For those who were very excited about having him in the backfield and citing his YouTube highlight reel while claiming how much of a beast he is, I do like the optimism and the energy, but he’s far, far, farrrrr away from being an NFL-caliber running back. And, for those who scoffed because rugby players can’t play football (and the combative response from international folks that American football is soft), he most certainly can play football – but it depends on how we plan on utilizing him.
I believe that he has the skill set, right now, to be a productive return man. He has good size, seems durable/can take a hit, exhibits a strong stiff-arm, can break through tackles, has good speed, possess agility with good cuts and jukes, and – maybe most importantly – exhibits good vision and anticipation for evading defenses (i.e. looking for lanes, minding angles on the field, etc.). For a return man, I think that he’s almost ready to play in that capacity. Sure, there’s bound to be a learning curve when coming from what sport to another, but I think that he has the skillset already – which is a good start.
Side Note: To the uneducated viewer, rugby and football look similar….but they are not the same sport. It’s like oranges and grapefruits: to the casual glance, they look familiar, but they are notably different. Those who claim that one is better/tougher than the other are expressing their bias — they’re not comparable. End Side Note.
However, when it comes to the part that our plan is to convert him into a RB — that is most certainly a multi-year project. He had said something about Coach Tomsula teaching the game to Europeans while he was over in the NFL Europa, so maybe he has familiarity with the game, already. However, there is so much more than just the athleticism and running aspects of being an NFL-caliber RB. Being able to identify defensive formations, knowing blocking assignments, being in the right place at the right time for pass protection, etc. which are all mental aspects of the game that 1) do not exist in rugby and 2) are VITAL in NFL-caliber RBs.
I’m excited to see what he can do — as well as the development of Lawrence Okoye, another rugby/Olympic athlete attempting to make a transition to the NFL game — but, if being realistic, I can’t see him doing more than special teams/returning duties. UNLESS he already knows the RB position, I don’t think that it’s something that he’d be able to pick up quickly. Besides, we already have three solid RBs (Gore, Hyde, Hunter), so we don’t need him in that capacity. Even if we make a big mistake and don’t find a way to bring Gore back, RBs aren’t as valued in today’s game, so we can find an undrafted RB or someone who gets cut going into the season (who has been playing the position for years) to be our #3 guy. BUT, if he can translate his rugby skillset into the return game, I do think that he could be a difference-maker. #GoNiners.
NFL Week 3 Picks
Salutations Good People,
Week 2 was a rough outing for me (7-9) that could have been disastrous had a few of the close games that I won gone the other way. But, just like my beloved 49ers who endured an ugly game on Sunday, I’m looking to rebound with my Week 3 picks. Here we go:
Week 3 Picks
Buccs @ Falcons –
As I stated, the Falcons are a different team at home than they are on the road, whereas I don’t know what is wrong with the Buccs but when they are gifted 2 home games to start the season, against back-up QBs, and they are sitting at 0-2, I don’t think that they’ll fare much better in Atlanta than the Saints did in Week 1 — except I don’t think that the Buccs have the offensive potential that the Saints do. I think that the Falcons should win this game handily. Falcons over Buccs.
Chargers @ Bills –
The Chargers did everything that they needed to do to beat the Seahawks, but one difference, here, is that they’re not going to have the elements in their favor. To me, it looked like the heat (along with wearing dark jerseys) wore down the Seahawks. As the game progressed, they looked miserable hiding under the make-shift canopies with the misting fans. This will be the first real test for the Bills, though, as I think that the Chargers are better than the Bears and the Dolphins. Flying across the continent should be interesting, though. I’m not confident on this one, though. Bills over Chargers.
Cowboys @ Rams –
These two teams have thrown me so far this season. The Cowboys did not look impressive against us in Week 1, and then they came out (on the road) and stomped the Titans. Meanwhile, the Rams open the season getting blown out by the Vikings at home….but then go on to win on the road against the Buccs. I think that the Rams’ defense (specifically pass rush) is the best thing that they have going for them, right now, and with so much of the Cowboys’ success being hinged on Tony Romo, I think that the Rams will be able to hassle him and cause him to make some mistakes. Rams over Cowboys.
Redskins @ Eagles –
The Cousins-led Redskins surprised me by roughing up the Jags in Week 2, but I still have the Eagles my hands-down favorite to win this division, and with the game being in Philly, I’m going to roll with the Eagles in this one. Eagles over Redskins.
Texans @ NY Giants –
The Texans could be the luckiest team in the League right now. It seems like they have been able to play the worst teams in the NFL to open the first 3 weeks of the season; despite being a team with a lot of question marks. However, the Giants are probably one of the worst teams in the League this year (or at least to this point), so I have no reason to really suspect them to win this game. Texans over Giants.
Vikings @ Saints –
Similar to the Falcons, the Saints are a different team when they play at home. While I swung and missed on them last week at Cleveland, I think that they’ll be able to take out the Vikings in New Orleans. Saints over Vikings.
Titans @ Bengals –
The Bengals may be playing like one of the better teams in the League right now, whereas the Titans are not. I don’t know what happened to them against Dallas, at home, but I like the Bengals in this game. Bengals over Titans.
Ravens @ Browns –
Because I believe that the Bengals have this division wrapped up already, and the Steelers do not look good, I think that these two are fighting for the #2 spot in the division…and maybe a Wild Card spot, too. I think that I’m going to go with the Ravens right now. Sure, the Browns made it a close contest against the Steelers in Week 1 and then beat the Saints on a last-second FG in Week 2, but the Ravens, I think, are playing more complete games and have a little bit more talent. Ravens over Browns.
Packers @ Lions –
The Lions have silently been the most talented roster in the NFC North for at least the past two years, but always managed to screw it up at the end of the season — example: last year they played without Rodgers and Cutler for the majority of the season and STILL managed to not win the division. However, I don’t know if they’re going to have a similar collapse. Meanwhile, the Packers got mismatched in Seattle in Week 1 and I chalked it up to the Packers struggling against the NFC West teams — but then the Jets were giving it to them throughout most of the game, before the Packers rallied back and got the win. I don’t know if the Lions will go down that easy. They have the offensive weapons and experience that the Jets’ offense lacked, and a rather talented defense (at least up front). I think I’m going to go with the Lions in this game, and they may be my early favorites to win this division. I think that they are the most well-rounded team in the division and have the talent to win against the other NFC North teams. Lions over Packers.
Colts @ Jags –
I have thus far been disappointed by the Jags – they gave Philly a good fight in Week 1 before collapsing at the end, and then they got hammered by the Redskins in a game that I thought that they could have won (based on their performance the week prior). While I think that the Colts have some concerns, they are a team that fights and doesn’t give up. I think that the Colts are still the best team in their division, so I’ll gamble with Luck & Co. on the road this week. Colts over Jags.
Raiders @ Patriots –
In what may be my most confident pick of the week….. Patriots over Raiders.
49ers @ Cardinals –
I know that a lot of people are freaking out about my beloved 49ers, and how we blew that game against the Bears, and how Kaepernick is proving to not be mature enough or capable to lead this team to the post-season…..despite him having already done it before…..I think that that Bears game was what it looked like: a bad game. *IF* we don’t commit 16 penalties for 118yds (or whatever) and turn the ball over 4 times, I think we would have dominated the Bears. The bright side? Penalties and turnovers can be addressed and corrected. We’re still a talented team. This will be a tough game and it’s a tough call to make, but I’m hoping/thinking that we’ll clean up our performance and play a much better game of football this Sunday. I think that our secondary will, again, get torched later in the game (as our pass rush gets fatigued) so I think that Kaepernick will bounce back and have a stronger performance. 49ers over Cardinals.
Broncos @ Seahawks –
If you buy into the whole so-and-so-exposed-the-template-on-how-to-beat-these-guys thing, then the Broncos may be able to execute a similar game plan that the Chargers did last weekend. However, the Broncos aren’t hosting this game, so they have that going against them. Also, Manning likes changing the plays at the line of scrimmage, which is tough to do in Seattle due to the crowd noise. Really, the way to beat the Seahawks in Seattle is to have a game plan and a play and stick with it. When you start having to call audibles and change the play at the line of scrimmage, that’s when you start getting delay of games, false start penalties, or burning time outs…..or sending the ball through the back of the end zone for a safety. I would love to see the Broncos win this game but I don’t think that it’s going to happen. I think that this is a must-win for the Seahawks. No one seems to be talking about how their Bye Week is next weekend, but if they are 1-2 going into their Bye Week, then I think that they certainly will lose the home-field advantage…and maybe even lose the division title. I think that the Seahawks are going to start to run out of gas as we creep into late November and December; having your Bye Week in September is rough. Seahawks over Broncos.
Chiefs @ Dolphins –
The Chiefs have also been a team that has surprised me thus far this season. Granted, when they jumped out to that ridiculous 9-1 record to start the season last year, they were benefiting from the Cellar Dweller schedule. But they’ve perplexed me so far this season. Anyway, I’ll ride with the Dolphins in this game since they’re at home. Dolphins over Chiefs.
Steelers @ Panthers –
I think that the Steelers are going to be the worst in their division and possibly pretty bad overall. Meanwhile, the Panthers still have most of their defense intact from last season, so they have that going for them, and Newton appears to be in good health now, after sitting out Week 1. I have no reason to think that the Panthers can’t win this game, especially at home. Panthers over Steelers.
Bears @ Jets –
This game is one that I’m not confident on, either. For one, I don’t think that the Bears’ victory over us is as much of an indication on what their ceiling is, as much as it was about us shooting ourselves in the foot with penalties and then our pass rush becoming exhausted by the 4th quarter. The Bears’ offense and Cutler struggled to get much going through the first 3 quarters of the game, but then our pass rush never seemed to get within 5yds of Cutler in the pocket and he just picked us apart (with stupid penalties, some on 3rd downs that extended their series). Meanwhile, for the Jets to have a big lead in Lambeau and then watch Rodgers come back and pick them apart at the end, makes me concerned that the Bears can/will do the same. I think I have to go with the Bears because I see the Jets blowing this game more than I see the Bears not showing up to play. Bears over Jets.
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That will do it for my picks this week and I’m hoping that I’ve found my groove and that I can get back to picking winners in Week 3.
-Ryan.
NFL Week 2 Picks
Salutations Good People,
Week 1 is always a week where I feel out and experiment — or it is when I go 9-7 on the first week of football…as I did last weekend. In the interest of brevity and getting on with it, I’ll just jump right into my picks. Here are my picks for Week 2:
Week 2 Picks
Steelers @ Ravens –
Good to see that we start off Week 2 with one of the match-ups that I can easily talk myself into and out of for hours. To me, this game comes down to how the Ravens respond to the whole Ray Rice debacle. I can see them either a) imploding from the distraction element, or b) playing with something to prove — but I have no idea what to expect. I don’t think that the Steelers are very good; as I don’t think that the Browns are very good, yet they gave the Steelers a good run/scare IN PITTSBURGH in Week 1. I mean, when people were clamoring for the entire preseason about Johnny Football and the reasons for him starting being largely centered on the greater opinion that Hoyer is not a good NFL QB….but then Hoyer can silence critics (and keep Johnny Football on the bench)… well, the Steelers must have had a hand in him looking that good. I’ll go with the Ravens and hope that they play with something to prove. These games always seem to be close and come down to a controversial call/moment, so we’ll see. Ravens over Steelers.
Dolphins @ Bills –
Another game that I think the outcome will show us more. The Dolphins took it to the Patriots at home last weekend…but the Patriots may not be very good this year. And the Bills battled the Bears last weekend, in Chicago, for the OT win…. but the Bears’ D has been vulnerable for the past few seasons now. So, the Dolphins appear to have had the better performance, but the Bills may have beaten a tougher opponent on the road. Simply because picking against Buffalo hasn’t backfired on me too often, I’ll take Miami on the road in this game. Dolphins over Bills.
Jags @ Redskins –
I’m taking the Jags. The Redskins do not look like a very good team and I’m actually starting to get behind the Jags as being an okay team. Especially with their division and the AFC being a wide-open conference. I don’t think that the Jags will blow another lead in the second half like that they did against Philly in Week 1. Jags over Redskins.
Cowboys @ Titans –
I saw nothing from the Cowboys against us last weekend that makes me think that their defense can get much stops, nor that their offense is firing on all cylinders. Although, the Niners took over that stadium, so I guess playing on the road this week in Tennessee shouldn’t be too different for the Cowboys. Titans over Cowboys.
Cardinals @ Giants –
Similarly, I saw nothing (in the recap) from the Giants that puts much of my faith in them. The Cardinals, though, are hosting the Super Bowl this year — well, their stadium is, rather — and so the Football Gods will end up doing something to keep them from being relevant this year…. but I don’t know what and I don’t know when. However, I still think that an irrelevant Cardinals team is still better than the Giants team right now. Cardinals over Giants.
Patriots @ Vikings –
I think that I read/heard somewhere that the Patriots haven’t lost consecutive games in like 10yrs or maybe longer — but they have been getting grilled in the media reactions (questions about their O line, their defense’s ineffectiveness, and Tom Brady, apparently, is struggling to throw farther than 15yrds with success…also, per the Sports Guy, Bill Simmons, the Patriots are 2-6 in their previous 8 road games. Yeesh). So, a lot of my signs are pointing to the Vikings (especially since they’re not in a dome this year), but then they just lost AP for at least this week. I think that I’ll still take the Vikings, and I’ll tempt history. This is a call that I’m not sure about, but the Vikings looked really good against a Rams team that may be bad, so why wouldn’t they be good-to-decent against a Patriots team that may also be bad? Makes sense. Vikings over Patriots.
Saints @ Browns –
The Saints in New Orleans are much different than the Saints outside of New Orleans, however, since it is early in the year, I don’t think the elements of Ohio are anything that would screw with them too much. Going off the belief that the Steelers may not be very good this year, I then must believe that the Saints are WAAAAAY better than the Browns. So much so that I’d take them on the road, when I’m usually hesitant to take the Saints on the road….except for last week when I took them against Atlanta….and they still lost. Whoops. Saints over Browns.
Falcons @ Bengals –
Speaking of those Falcons, they (like the Saints) are also a different team when taken out of their dome, and they too are headed to the state of Ohio this weekend. However, the Bengals – I think – are probably one of the Top 3 teams in the AFC….whereas the Saints are playing the Browns, who may not be Top 3 in their division, let alone the greater conference. So, I’m going to take the Bengals in this game. Bengals over Falcons.
Lions @ Panthers –
This game is a tough one, too, because the Giants look like they just have a bad team right now, so the Lions’ performance is kind of tainted. Meanwhile, I thought that the Buccs were going to be a sneaky, good team this year…but Derek Anderson (who I actually work with his aunt – random trivia) was able to go into Tampa and come out with the win. The Panthers get Newton back this weekend and so I think that I’ll stick with them at home (as the Lions have, historically, struggled outside of their dome, as well). Panthers over Lions.
Rams @ Buccs –
The Rams looked awful in the recap from Week 1. While the Buccs didn’t execute when they needed to against the Panthers, I do think that the Panthers are a better team than the Rams are, and so having them come to Tampa I think gives the edge to the Buccs this week. Don’t let me down, Tampa. Buccs over Rams.
Seahawks @ Chargers –
I really want the Seahawks to lose – mostly because some of my annoying Seahawk fans are predicting the Seahawks to go undefeated this season en route to a 19-0 perfect season, and some other media folks are thinking 15-1 because of how amazing they look. So, I want them to lose and they might: the Chargers have a high ceiling in the AFC, I reckon, and they are getting the Seahawks on the road – where, prior to last year, they had struggled. However, until they actual lose, I’ll stick with them for my picking purposes. Also, because I don’t know much about the Chargers to talk me into picking them. Seahawks over Chargers.
Texans @ Raiders –
The only thing that could have remotely interested me in this game was the potential of Matt Schaub vs. the Texans’ defense — but that won’t even happen. This is one game that I don’t care about and that, likely, will not be televised in the bar that I’m going to for the games, because why would it be? Who cares about this game? That said, I guess I’ll take the Raiders at home – but it’s only because they are the home team and the Texans don’t look very good. This is by no means a vote of confidence in the Raiders. Raiders over Texans.
Jets @ Packers –
The Packers do not match-up well with the NFC West – that appears to be true. However, the Jets are not in the NFC West. What possibly makes me think that the Jets could have success against Green Bay is because the Packers’ D struggles with mobile QBs and tackling in the open-field: and I believe that Geno Smith is considered a “mobile QB” and the Jets also have two running backs capable of making people miss and/or breaking poor tackling. However, I don’t think that the Jets’ D is on par with Seattle’s (obviously) and so I think Rodgers will be able to take this game over, if necessary. I don’t see the Packers dropping their first two games of the season, either, and especially the home-opener. Packers over Jets.
Chiefs @ Broncos –
Even though I enjoy the Chiefs (and they are the team of my brother and the best man in his wedding), the way that they played in Week 1 does not make me think that they will be able to win this game. ESPECIALLY on the road and against Peyton Manning when the weather is still nice. I just hope that Peyton Manning doesn’t run up the score and pad stats, like he tends to do. Broncos over Chiefs.
Bears @ My Beloved 49ers –
As all of our games for the first half of the season, this game will be tense for me. Our defense played pretty well — much better than expected — against Dallas’ offense last week. However, Romo didn’t look right, so he may be hurt or, at the least, is not playing at full-strength. The Bears are also a little banged up, or so I have read. I don’t know much about the Bears’ running game these days, but I wouldn’t be surprised if we did a similar bend-but-don’t-break defensive approach where we give up everything underneath, prevent the home run plays, and let the Bears prove they can beat us with the run. That wouldn’t surprise me. I’m not too worried about our offense – the way that the Bills were able to have success running makes me think that our O line and Gore/Hyde will be able to have some success as well. Similarly, with our receivers still healthy, I think that this could be a big game for Vernon Davis — as the Bears LBs tend to be a weak point (in coverage) for their defense, especially, against a player like Davis. 49ers over Bears.
Eagles @ Colts –
From what I have gathered, both of these teams have suspect defenses, and strong offenses. I can’t count Luck and the Colts out too early in games, as their comeback and near-victory last weekend in Denver was both unexpected and very surprising. However, the thing that makes me question their success this week, at home, is the dome. The Eagles are a fast team (both in terms of personnel and pace) and on the turf with ideal conditions, the Eagles could have a big game, offensively; especially, with the Colts’ D being a suspect defense. This will be my wild pick of the week: I’m going to take the Eagles in this game. Eagles over Colts.
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That will do it for my picks for this week. We’ll see how I do and, hopefully, I’m able to improve upon my 9-7 record from Week 1.
-Ryan.
NFL Week 1 Picks
Salutations Good People,
After many long months, I am back at my desk and getting ready to make my picks for the week. Last year, I had the goal of 170 wins during the season…. and I fell juuuuust short (169 wins). It really was just one bad week that I had last season that not only robbed me of my 170-win goal BUT robbed me of shattering it. That said, Week 1 is always a little dicey simply because I really only pay attention to a few teams, and so, Week 1, is my first opportunity to sit down and see what the rest of the League is offering. For those who didn’t follow my picks last year, I’m not a journalist and I am open with my biases; I’ll give my thoughts on the match-up where I feel inspired to, but, ultimately, I’m just picking who I think will win. Usually, I’m right — however, I don’t gamble so what does my accuracy really matter? It’s all for good fun.
Here are my picks for Week 1.
Week 1 Picks
Packers @ Seahawks –
We have gotten a fair dosing of the “Fail Mary” story in the past week, leading up to this game, but hopefully it is long past. This game is a tough one. “Fail Mary” aside, the Packers played well in Seattle the last time that they were up there; for it being the first game of the season, too, I reckon that everyone is healthy and ready to go (except for BJ Raji, but I hear that he may be more of a big name on the defense than a big factor… I don’t know, though; I don’t follow the Packers that closely). It’s tough to bet against Aaron Rodgers (even if up against a great pass-defense) and now that he has a reliable running game, as well, there’s nothing in me that thinks that the Packers do not have a chance at winning this game. I think that they do have a chance. That said, the NFC West has had the Packers’ number as of late, especially in exploiting the Packers’ often-porous defense — most notably with my beloved 49ers and Colin Kaepernick: the Packer Killer. While I’m not comfortable with the pick, I’m going to go with the Seahawks at home, simply because I’d rather pick them and have them lose (and take the loss in my Picks) than I would picking the Packers and having them lose AND taking the loss in my Picks — then I’ve just screwed my night. At least this way, I’ll have some silver lining at the end of the night…. but I’m not confident on this pick. Seahawks over Packers.
Saints @ Falcons –
While I think that the Falcons will bounce back this year — sure, they may not have much of a running game and their defense is suspect, but they’ll have Roddy White and Julio Jones healthy, and that has to be worth a few wins — I think that the Saints are going to win the division and also get home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, on the NFC side of the coin. With Graham happy, Brees having some weapons (and, I believe, he is recovered from his abdominal strain by now), plus they have reinforced their defense, I think that they will win this game. I’m not sold on the Falcons whereas I am sold on the Saints. Saints over Falcons.
Vikings @ Rams –
I think that the beginning of this season is going to be tough sledding for the Rams. Losing Bradford like they did, when they did, and now having to build the offense around Shaun Hill is a bit of a challenge. Sure, they have a good running game but Hill is the wild card; I don’t know what to expect from him. Meanwhile, I see a lot of promise with the Vikings — I don’t think that they’ll make the playoffs this year but I think that they could turn some heads as the season goes along. I think that, despite the tough predicament the Rams are in, I’ll go with the Rams in this game simply because their defense is one of the best; quietly one of the best. They have a great pass-rush and if the Vikings are rolling with Cassel as their guy in Week 1, I like the Rams defense against him. Rams over Vikings.
Browns @ Steelers –
I’m going Steelers. Not because I have a lot of faith in the Steelers (even though Big Ben and Tomlin are due for a good season) but simply because Cleveland appears to be a circus right now; I have no faith in them. Which is exactly how I like it. (Side Note: I put a curse on the city of Cleveland some 7yrs ago; so far, so good. End Side Note.) Steelers over Browns.
Jags @ Eagles –
From the highlights that I saw from the preseason (as well as how they performed down the stretch last year), I think that the Jags may have a chance in the AFC this year. By “have a chance” I mean that I think that they can put together a respectable season; maybe not playoff-bound but I think that they could be good enough to be a spoiler team for other teams that are on the post-season bubble. That said, I think that the Eagles will win the NFC East this year (again) and I’ll take their fast-paced offense, at home, over the Jags. Eagles over Jags.
Raiders @ Jets –
The Raiders appear to be a mess. While the Jets may not be in a much better situation, I still think that they are better than the Raiders (with Smith or Vick) and, being at home, I am going to go with the Jets in this game. Jets over Raiders.
Bengals @ Ravens –
This could be a fun game. The Bengals, I think, have more talent than the Ravens — but the Bengals also tend to not perform well when I want them to, haha. I have more questions about the Ravens, though, than I do the Bengals. And so I’m going to ride with the Bengals in this game, with their defense, and that Andy Dalton usually performs well during the regular season….. but I’m not 100% confident on this pick. Bengals over Ravens.
Bills @ Bears –
I’m going to go with the Bears in this game simply because I haven’t heard anything about the Bills’ defense. Everything seems to be focused on EJ Manuel and Sammy Watkins (who may or may not be nursing a rib injury from the preseason). Meanwhile, the Bears’ offense could be pretty explosive this season, and I think that could cause problems for the Bills. I don’t have much faith in the Bears’ defense, either, but — if looking at two teams with unimpressive defenses — I’ll take the offense that is stocked with proven veterans over the youthful offense that is banking a lot on the production from a (potentially not 100% healthy) rookie WR. Bears over Bills.
Redskins @ Texans –
The only football-related story that I have heard coming out of DC this summer is the questions surrounding if RGIII is going to be healthy to start the season. I don’t follow them closely and so I haven’t heard much — one way or the other — with any great deal of confidence. That said, being on the road and going up against a potentially great pass rush (in Watts and Clowney) does make me concerned for RGIII, especially if he does not have his mobility. Unlike other “mobile” QBs, I don’t think that RGIII can play well without mobility; I think that is a much bigger part of his game than the other “mobile” QBs. I have a lot of questions about the Texans’ offense (ex. I have no idea who their starting QB is going to be…but it doesn’t seem like they have a solid pick, either…and that’s never good)….but I’d say it’s almost on par with the amount of questions that I have on the Redskins’ defense. Ergo, I’ll take the superior defense/pass rush and the home team: Texans over Redskins.
Titans @ Chiefs –
Last season, as you may recall, I was big on the Chiefs. They had been a terrible team in the recent pass…but consistently had 8 or so Pro Bowl players on their team…..so they had talent but lacked a reliable QB and solid coaching. Then they got Reid and Alex Smith, addressing both of those areas…. and for the first half of the season they were making me look like a genius, haha. Even though they stumbled as the season progressed and, ultimately, got bit (with a vengeance) by the Injury Bug in that playoff game in Indy, I felt as though they lived up to my expectations. This year, though, I’m not sure. No one seems to be talking about them — everyone is occupied with the Broncos (obviously) and there’s a bit of buzz around the Chargers, I hear as well; but I don’t know why the Chiefs can’t be competitive. If anything, given another year with the offense, Alex Smith and the rest of those pieces should be clicking better; their defense hasn’t changed all that much from last year, either, I don’t believe. However, for as quiet as the Chiefs have been this off-season and preseason, the Titans have been quieter (in my world). Ergo, I’ll stick with the home team in this one, simply because the Titans are not on my radar as a team to look out for in the AFC this season. Chiefs over Titans.
Patriots @ Dolphins –
I don’t follow the Dolphins, really, but I know that last year they had the whole media circus revolving Incognito and Martin, and that probably did have some impact on their performance. Meanwhile, the Patriots had an incredibly mediocre roster of talent last year….and still won the division….and still made it to the AFC Championship game. I don’t know if Gronk has been cleared to play (and how many games he will play this season; injury or re-injury seems inevitable) but I imagine that it’s Week 1 and the Patriots are as healthy as they’ll be, so I imagine that they will be able to get this win on the road. Patriots over Dolphins.
Panthers @ Buccaneers –
The Panthers’ offense has me concerned. Similar to the Bills, they seem to be relying a lot on young players on offense; really, just two young players on offense. While I think that Cam Newton is better than EJ Manuel, I believe that Cam is still nursing a rib injury and his ankle may be a concern, plus is O-line is not a strength of the offense. Team that with the departure of Steve Smith and thus a rather unproven receiver corps, I don’t know what to think of their offense. I reckon that their defense will still be a great defense so they do have that going for them. Meanwhile, the Buccs have a new head coach, are removed from the QB distraction from last year, and I think could make progress this year within the division. Because I have a few questions marks surrounding the Panthers’ offense right now, I’m going to stay with the home team and pick the Buccs, and then re-evaluate my opinion of the Panthers after I see them in action. Buccs over Panthers.
49ers @ Cowboys –
For all of the talk about how my beloved 49ers are in shambles right now (and some media folks even writing them off this season), the word that I keep reading and hearing from players and coaches is that things are just fine; so I’ll trust them on that. I think that the Cowboys’ offense will be able to move the ball against us — passing defense is not our strength, especially when we’ll be without 2 of our best pass-pressure players (Aldon & Bowman), but who knows? Maybe our secondary will be better this year with the changes that we have made? Regardless, the Cowboys’ defense is supposed to be one of the worst…..ever…..and so I imagine that our offense will be able to move the ball on them, as well. In that case, I will take the more all-around-talented team and I hope to see some good performances from our younger players: namely, Carlos Hyde and LaMichael James. 49ers over Cowboys.
Colts @ Broncos –
The Colts tempt me in this game. However, seeing how they needed the Injury Bug to strike KC in that playoff game last season in order to win, coupled with the fact that the Broncos are in full-on Super-Bowl-or-Bust mode right now (with their off-season spending spree), I don’t think that the Broncos are going to come out of the gates with a loss….at home. My concerns with the Broncos’ veteran additions (and their ability to hold up for the whole season) is irrelevant in Week 1, so I’ll be taking the Broncos at home. Broncos over Colts.
Giants @ Lions –
The Lions are one of the more talented teams in the League, in my opinion, and perhaps their late-season collapses were more the result of their coaching than of the players on the field? We’ll find out this year, as Jim Caldwell is the new head coach. I wasn’t impressed with Caldwell when he was at the helm of the Colts but he took that talented team to the Super Bowl….where he was promptly out-coached and the Colts were out-played by the Saints. That said, I don’t think that the Lions are Super Bowl-bound, but I think that they’ll make the post-season, sure. Meanwhile, I don’t think that the Giants will do much this year and so I’ll stick with the more talented team, especially while at home in the season-opener. Lions over Giants.
Chargers @ Cardinals –
I don’t know if I’ve bought into the hype of the Chargers or just have too many questions to back the Cardinals in this game, but in what little action I saw from the Chargers’ starters in their preseason game against us, they seem to be in a good place right now. Rivers seems happy in the new system, he was making good decisions, high-percentage passes, and such an approach could be successful against the Cards since they lost Dockett and another defensive star on the line. Patrick Peterson, I believe, is no longer handling punt return duties and we’ll see how the Honey Badger rebounds this season. Ultimately, though, my questions with the Cards are with Carson Palmer: he hasn’t been the same since his knee got blown out in that playoff game as a Bengal and now, I believe, he is in his upper 30s and I expect his production to fall off this season — but will that drop off start to happen in Week 1? That is the question. I haven’t made many bold picks this week so I’ll roll with the Chargers in this game and see what happens. Chargers over Cardinals.
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We’ll see how Week 1 goes and I’ll recap it on Tuesday evening.
-Ryan.
The Peanut Gallery 