By Chris Maza
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
For those of you who have been anxiously waiting, here it is - the conclusion of the way-too-early college football top-25.
3. Ohio State
The Buckeyes appear poised to take another Big 10 title, something Jim Tressel appears to be able to do in his sleep. But will Ohio State be able to clear the hurdle they've been tripping on the last five years? The Buckeyes have a legitimate shot at the BCS championship game, something they have not been able to win it their last two tries (41-14 loss to Florida in 2006, 38-24 loss to LSU in 2007). The defense will be just as dominant as last year, anchored by Cameron Heyward. But the offense needs to be more two dimensional than it has in the past, which means Terrelle Pryor needs to show he can do it with his arms as well as his legs. This is his time to prove he's worth all the hype he's gotten.
2. Alabama
Sure, conventional wisdom says you should rank last year's national champion should be ranked first, but there are many who don't agree that the BCS championship was actually between the two best teams in the nation. On top of that, Alabama has enough holes to raise doubt. The offense should be just fine with Heisman trophy winner Mark Ingram, quarterback Greg McElroy and wideout Julio Jones, but defensively the Crimson Tide is a very light on experience. Only three starters return and there are major gaps on the front line and the defensive backfield. At defensive tackle and end, the starters are all new and both starting cornerbacks are gone. Alabama has a lot of depth, but one has to wonder just how much turnover it can take as it goes for a repeat.
1. Boise State
Many, yours truly included, thought the Fiesta Bowl was in fact the true national championship game last year and Boise State won that in a terrific game. Boise State has lost just one game in the last three seasons, compiling a 39-1 record over that time, including bowl wins against TCU the past two seasons. And if the top team from last year is returning every single starter from last year's team, how can you even begin to argue against them? Sure, Boise State plays in the WAC, which is a joke of a conference, but everytime the Broncos have played on a national stage, they have proven their mettle. Kellen Moore should be very much in the Heisman discussion this season and the defense is just plain devastating. Early wins against Oregon State and Virginia Tech would go a long way towards legitimizing the schedule for Boise State.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Bruins off season off to a good start
By Jim Ingram
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Despite the hurt still being there, here I am am writing a quick blog about the Bruins. If you ask me, this is the most important off season the B's have had for quite some time as they look to bounce back from the worst play off loss in team history.
With that being said, Peter Chiarelli has wasted no time bringing back incumbent players he wants on this team. Last week he resigned Shawn Thornton to a two year deal, and most importantly signed Dennis Seidenberg to a 4 year deal over the weekend. After coming over in a deadline day trade, the left handed defenseman was simply amazing while being paired with Zdeno Chara. Despite playing on 17 games for the Bruins, he had a +9 and helped solidify the blue line for the Bruins.
The new 4 year deal costs the Bruins $13 million and averages a $3.25 million cap hit per season. That's a relatively cheap price for a top 2 defenseman, especially since Dennis Wideman is going to cost you $3.97 million for each of the next two season. Yuck! The signing pretty much finalizes the position for the team as they now have Chara, Seidenberg, Ference, Wideman, Boychuck, Stuart and Hunwick. Thankfully, this should provide Chiarelli plenty of time to deal with Bruins lack of scoring. With the draft coming up, hopefully the Bruins can assure themselves of taking Taylor Hall. I'd even be open to Bruins using their other first round pick this season in a package to get them the #1 overall pick just to make sure.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Gronkowski clearly has a passion to play this game
By Chad Garner
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
So I was at the Worcester Tornadoes' Can-Am League game Friday night, and find out a player on the team, Gordie Gronkowski, is the older brother of New England Patriots second-round draft pick Rob Gronkowski.
The story doesn't end there, however.
Rob, a tight end, was even in attendance last night watching his brother play.
I ran into the Patriots' rookie during the game, and chatted for a few minutes between innings. While it was basically small talk, Rob told me all I needed to know about him.
I asked him who he rooted for growing up, and apparently he was a Buffalo Bills fan.
Funny how things change, however. I kind of chuckled, knowing now he has to play his boyhood team twice a year in the AFC East, but Rob quickly joked something along the lines of how he dislikes them now.
We both kind of laughed, but what I really took out of that is how much passion he has for the game of football.
If you don't believe it, just watch this. That's all the proof you need.
This kid appears to be a perfect Patriot with talent, heart and desire. He's already being compared to Dallas' Jason Witten because he can catch passes, run away from defenders and also seal the edge as a blocker.
Anway, good luck to Rob Gronkowski. I hope he has a long, healthy and successful career in the NFL.
Never lose that passion to play this game! Welcome to Patriot Nation!!!
Friday, June 4, 2010
Watch out for Bryce Harper
By Jim Ingram
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
In case you didn't notice, the 2010 MLB Draft begins on Monday June 7th. Don't worry, this will not be an article that delves into the entire first round. No, I am concentrating on the consensus overall top pick, Bryce Harper.
By all accounts, Harper has the tools to be a very good, potentially great hitter in the big leagues. To be quite honest, I'm not even writing this blog about how good he will be, but I'll quickly tell you. If I wasn't a betting man, I'd put my money on him being the next Todd Van Poppel or Brien Tayler. Obviously the offensive version as both of the aforementioned players were pitchers. So, the title to this blog is misleading on purpose.
Despite the obvious tools that make him a "safe" pick # 1 overall, if I was a GM of a major league team, I would pass and let him be someone else's problem. Based on everything I've heard, and read, Bryce Harper seems to be extremely full of himself. We are talking about the kid who dropped out of high school, got his GED and went to Community College so he would be draft eligible a year early. Unfortunately for the Washington Nationals, the 17 year old will be even more expensive than last years #1 pick Stephen Strasburg. The major problem with that is he is at least 3 years away from even breaking into the big leagues, much less making an impact.
His natural position as catcher, but recently Harper's "advisor", yeah right, Scott Boras has indicated a move from behind the plate would benefit him more. I haven't seen enough of him in the field to know if he can play other positions. The Nationals could always start behind the plate while in the minors, and do what the Giants are doing with Buster Posey until they think he can handle a major league staff. Either way, it's going to be a situation many baseball fans, and experts, will be watching closely.
Like I said, I'd rather take another player, but this is a draft that is somewhat light on bats. I just have a hard time gambling on a kid that could turn out to be an overrated, arrogant punk who can't really hit at the major league level. Then again, there's a reason why I'm writing this blog instead of making draft choices. I guess only time will tell
Fantasy Baseball Friday: June 4th
By Jim Ingram
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Now that we've entered the month of June, it's safe to say we know whether someone is a bust or a pleasant surprise. Today's blog will be a little bit different. I'll just list the top 10 hitters and pitchers of the month, but will spend more time reviewing some of the aforementioned busts and surprises and look forward to the remainder of the season.
Top 10 Hitters of the Month:
1. Alex Rios - White Sox
2. Miguel Cabrera - Tigers
3. David Ortiz - Red Sox
4. Vlad Guerrero - Rangers
5. Alex Rodriguez - Yankees
6. Carl Crawford - Rays
7. Troy Glaus - Braves
8. Hunter Pence - Astros
9. Jose Bautista - Blue Jays
10. Michael Young - Rangers
I have to be honest that I'm shocked Ortiz, Rios, Glaus & Bautista on this list. Bautista will not hit for average, but he's a legit power guy the rest of the season. Look for Ortiz, Glaus, Pence and Vlad to slow at some point. I would especially watch out for Vlad in the nasty heat of Texas.
Top 10 Pitchers of the Month:
1. Mat Latos - Padres
2. Ubaldo Jiminez - Rockies
3. Clayton Kershaw - Dodgers
4. Jon Lester - Red Sox
5. Jonathon Broxton - Dodgers
6. Josh Johnson - Marlins
7. John Ely - Dodgers
8. Bill Wagner - Braves
9. Matt Cain - Giants
10. Shaun Marcum - Blue Jays
Look at the youth that's included in this list. No one is pitching better than Ubaldo this season, Kershaw and Lester are the two best young left handers in the game, and there's nothing to scoff at for Johnson and Cain. I think Latos surprises me the most. He's won 4 straight decisions after a terrible start to the year.
Top Busts: (listed in no particular order)
Zack Grienke - I really hesitate to put him on this list. Outside of his 1-7 record, his stats aren't that bad. He really is the killed by the fact the Royals are terrible.
Wandy Rodriguez - There was a ton of expectations on the left hander, and he hasn't delivered at all. I know the Astros are not a good team, but a 5+ ERA and a 1.62 WHIP is just awful.
Trevor Hoffman - I told you so. I cautioned you to stay away before the season, and the all time saves leader is making me look like a smart man.
Grady Sizemore - Even before he got hurt, he was off to an awful start. He has such promise, but he'll never reach his full potential. He can't hit for average, and really doesn't hit for enough power or drive in enough runs to garner all the hype.
Aramis Ramirez - Boy has he fallen off a cliff. His average is .162, and he has now power production at all. It looks like he may be done.
Chone Figgins - This one surprises me. His game should be able to translate to any team, and the cavernous SafeCo field shouldn't affect him at all. If anything, I figured he'd hit more doubles and triples.
Gordon Beckham - All the hype, and all the bust. He's done absolutely nothing so far. I'd actually keep an eye on him for a much better second half.
Top Surprises/Breakouts: (listed in no particular order)
Top Surprises/Breakouts: (listed in no particular order)
Alex Rios - Who would have thought the Sox would get this type of production. He's making Ken Williams look like a genius.
Vernon Wells - Maybe now the Blue Jays will be able to unload his contract. If you read my articles, you know I wouldn't have taken Wells with my last pick in the draft. He has certainly shut me up with a huge start.
Jose Bautista - The man keeps hitting homers and driving in runs. That's about all he can do, but look for him to do it all season long.
Martin Prado - He's now a super utility type of fantasy player. He's eligible at three positions, and keeps hitting. I love him.
Troy Glaus - The Braves took a gamble on the power hitter, put him at first base and it's really paid off so far. I don't expect him to keep up the same pace, but he's certainly added to that lineup.
Jaime Garcia - Who is this guy? Well, he's just another in a long line of Cardinals pitchers to excel under the tutelage of Dave Duncan.
Mike Pelfrey - He finally looks like he's put it all together. He has the ability, so it's nice to see him pitching so well.
Carlos Silva - Wait, he's 7-0? Yes, he is, and you should probably trade him as high as you possibly can right now.
Early Season Fantasy Awards: (Full MLB)
Offensive MVP - Robinson Cano - It was close, but you have to give it to a guy who's hitting for average, power, drives in runs, and scores runs
Cy Young - Ubaldo Jiminez - Can't be surprised here. He already has 1o wins, a sub 1 ERA (0.78 in fact) and a 0.90 WHIP.
Rookie of the Year (so far): Jason Heyward - I think he's been better than the hype so far. I think it's his consistency that has really impressed me the most. He has the ability to adjust to Pitchers and what they're trying to do to him. You just don't see that in a player so young.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Way-too-early college football top-25
By Chris Maza
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
After the pain of watching the Bruins cough up a 3-0 lead in game seven firsthand, my friend said to me, "Now I don't have anything to look forward to until September." Well, this is for you, buddy.
Yep, it's time for the way-too-early college football top-25 prognostications for this year. Who will be No. 1? Where will your team rank? Read on and find out. I can only promise two things - 1. Notre Dame will NOT be anywhere near this list and 2. There will be some rankings that won't be popular.
25. Cincinnati
Cincinnati won't have to worry about the offense. Zach Collaros filled in well for Tony Pike when he was injured last year and should make the quarterback transition pretty seamless. He also has the benefit of most of the offense returning. The problems for the Bearcats lie on defense, especially up front with both starting DE's from last year leaving. The question marks that always surround a new head coach will be there as well.
24. Utah
Underrated my many as always, Utah returns a ton of talent on the offensive side of the ball. Four offensive linemen are back, including senior All-Conference selections Caleb Schlauderaff (G) and Zane Taylor (C) Defensively, the Utes are pretty green, however, especially at linebacker.
23. Navy
Navy gets no respect and perhaps part of that is because it's a service academy, but the fact of the matter is Navy has made it to seven-straight bowl games, winning 8 games or more in each season and winning 10 games twice in that span, including last season. While four of those bowl appearances were losses, two of those losses were by a field goal or less (2006 Meineke Car Care 25-24 loss to Boston College, 2007 Poinsettia 35-32 loss to Utah).
22. LSU
LSU needs to solve its problems on offense because a 112th-ranked unit is not going to get you very far in the SEC. In his junior season, Jordan Jefferson needs to become what the Tigers thought they were getting when they brought him in.
21.UConn
The self-proclaimed fastest-rising college football program in history had a pretty nice season last year, considering all the adversity it faced. Jordan Todman is now the man in the backfield behind a young, but experienced line and could be a household name by season's end.
20. Pitt
The Panthers are very young and have a lot of questions to answer, especially on the offensive line and at quarterback. Tino Sunersi has some big shoes to fill after Bill Stull's surprisingly good year last year.
19. Oregon State
Oregon State turned some heads last season and could compete for a spot in the Rose Bowl if the quarterback situation gets figured out since most of the team at other positions is intact. A passing game to compliment Jacquizz Rogers in the running game would go a long way towards legitimizing the Beavers' attack.
18. Arkansas
Ryan Mallett was quite the surprise for SEC opponents last year, offering a solid passing attack to a team that has been known for its predictability in its playcalling when it comes to run vs. pass. Arkansas' defense needs to improve after being ranked 89th in total defense last year, especially in the secondary, which allowed nearly 250 yards per game through the air.
17. North Carolina
North Carolina's defense steamrolled some pretty legitimate ACC opponents last season and returns six All-Conference talents to that side of the ball. On offense, T.J. Yates was a disappointment under center, but that wasn't completely his fault. As long as his weapons stay healthy, the offense, which didn't lose much of anything in the offseason, should at least be adequate. That's more than last year's team could say.
16. Nebraska
Nebraska suffered the biggest loss in terms of personnel of any team, including Florida, with the exit of Ndamukong Suh. The man just plain dominated opposing defenses by himself. While the Huskers have a solid all-around unit, many players, especially at linebacker, had the comfort of knowing Suh was going to occupy two or sometimes three blockers. The offense is not much to talk about so ball control and defense will again have to steal some games for Nebraska.
15. Penn State
Defenses beware: Evan Royster is coming. The guy just barrels through the line and punishes whomever might be waiting on the other side. He just might be the best senior college running back out there this year and with the line he's got in front of him, it could be a Heisman season in the making, especially with cupcakes like Youngstown State, Kent State, Temple, Northwestern and Indiana on the slate.
14. Virginia Tech
No more Beamer Ball? The defense was a strength of the Hokies in 2009, but it could be a major weakness this season with only five players returning from last year's team that ranked ninth in scoring defense and 12th in total defense. Offensively, Tyrod Taylor and ACC Rookie of the Year Ryan Williams will lead a more-than-capable Hokies offense that has most of its starters returning. The question is whether or not a run-first offense can out-gun teams if the defense falters.
13. Wisconsin
John Clay will be a major cog in the Badgers' machine running behind fellow All-Conference selections Gabe Carimi (T) and John Moffitt (G). The veteran offensive unit is primed to put up some very impressive numbers on the ground. The real question is whether or not the young front seven on defense can prevent any opponents from doing the same.
12. USC
Put aside what Lane Kiffin is making to coach USC and ask yourself one question: Is he capable of winning with a big-time program? The answer is that nobody knows. Last year was a lackluster one for Kiffin in Tennessee and he was in a horrible situation in Oakland, so the jury is still very much out on the wunderkind. Add to that the fact that USC collapsed against supposed lesser teams and settled for the Emerald Bowl last year. Still, USC has a stable of horses in the backfield to carry the football and keep the pressure off of Matt Barkley, who had his growing pains as a freshman starter, but should make strides this season. The real question mark lies in the defensive backfield, which lost three All-Conference selections, including Taylor Mays.
11. Georgia Tech
The triple option has all of its major pieces back in Josh Nesbit (QB), Anthony Allen (RB) and Roddy Jones (RB) as well as a very athletic offensive line and should again be a devastating attack for the Yellow Jackets. Altogether 19 of the Jackets' 22 starters are returning this year after posting an ACC championship season the year prior.
10. Miami
Miami's defense was the only one to hold Georgia Tech under 100 yards rushing. In fact, they were the only team to hold GT under 200 yards rushing. That should tell you just how solid the Hurricane's defense is. Most of that squad is back for another go-around, including three All- ACC team members in Allen Bailey, Colin McCarthy and Brandon Harris. Miami's offense has the tools to be very, very good, but Jacory Harris needs to learn that it's not all about armstrength and start playing more disciplined.
9. Oklahoma
Everything that could possibly have gone wrong for Oklahoma did last season. Still, through all that, some good things happened. Landry Jones emerged as an effective quarterback, who will only get better this season with almost all of his targets from last year back on the field. There are questions about how good the defense can be for OU with Gerald McCoy leaving for the NFL and newcomers filling in at linebacker, but the Sooners have never had a problem with coming up with top-level talent.
8. Iowa
The Hawkeyes' defense is just plain scary with very few - if any - weaknesses. Adrian Clayborn could be involved in the Heisman conversation this year after posting 11.5 sacks and 20 tackles for loss, both of which land him in the nation's top-10. Injuries hampered the offense last year and even when healthy, it won't blow the doors off anyone of merit, but with a defense as good as Iowa's, pretty good is all the offense has to be.
7. TCU
The MWC is becoming a more and more legit conference, so the best team in that conference needs to be treated with that kind of respect. Jerry Hughes, who was tied with Iowa's Clayborn in total sacks, is gone, so that's a blow, but the Horned Frogs have a very good defensive unit all the way around. Cornerback is a concern because both sides of the field are manned by new starters this year, but that's where the excellent line play of the Frogs' ends and tackles comes into play. Offensively, TCU is very similar to last season.
6. Florida
It will be interesting to see Florida post-Tebow, but still expect them to be a mid-to-upper-level top-10 team. The intriguing thing will be the way they use John Brantley in the offense. With Tebow at the helm, the Gators' offense relied on the quarterback being mobile. Brantley is much more of a pocket passer, but a dynamic running attack behind him could make up for the fact he can't move much. Defensively, the Gators lost a lot, including Brandon Spikes, but the secondary remains one of the toughest in the country.
5. Oregon
It's sad to say it, but Oregon is turning into the Bengals of college football. Lots of athletic ability, but a longer wrap sheet. Jeremiah Masoli, who was one of the best in the Pac-10 last year is gone for his extra-curricular activities, so quarterback automatically becomes a point of concern. LaMichael James, who came on the scene when LaGarrett Blount was suspended for his idiocy against Boise State, is back as the explosive catalyst for the Ducks' offense, though he's had his brushes with the law as well. Can he carry the offense by himself? Quite possibly as he will have a seasoned line in front of him. Altogether, most of last year's unit returns and if some people step into key spots, like quarterback, you are definitely looking at this year's Pac-10 champion again.
4. Texas
Colt McCoy is gone, leaving big shoes to fill at quarterback. Luckily, the newcomer will have lots of help with three returning wideouts and a host of able-bodied running backs in the mix. Three All-Conference o-linemen are also missing, along with Jordan Shipley, so Mack Brown will have a lot of work to do to get the unit into shape. Defensively, he's pretty well set, however, even though Earl Thomas skipped out for greener pastures in the NFL. The Longhorns have seven starters coming back to a unit that allowed less than 17 points and just 251.9 yards per game.
Want No. 3-1? Stay tuned.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
After the pain of watching the Bruins cough up a 3-0 lead in game seven firsthand, my friend said to me, "Now I don't have anything to look forward to until September." Well, this is for you, buddy.
Yep, it's time for the way-too-early college football top-25 prognostications for this year. Who will be No. 1? Where will your team rank? Read on and find out. I can only promise two things - 1. Notre Dame will NOT be anywhere near this list and 2. There will be some rankings that won't be popular.
25. Cincinnati
Cincinnati won't have to worry about the offense. Zach Collaros filled in well for Tony Pike when he was injured last year and should make the quarterback transition pretty seamless. He also has the benefit of most of the offense returning. The problems for the Bearcats lie on defense, especially up front with both starting DE's from last year leaving. The question marks that always surround a new head coach will be there as well.
24. Utah
Underrated my many as always, Utah returns a ton of talent on the offensive side of the ball. Four offensive linemen are back, including senior All-Conference selections Caleb Schlauderaff (G) and Zane Taylor (C) Defensively, the Utes are pretty green, however, especially at linebacker.
23. Navy
Navy gets no respect and perhaps part of that is because it's a service academy, but the fact of the matter is Navy has made it to seven-straight bowl games, winning 8 games or more in each season and winning 10 games twice in that span, including last season. While four of those bowl appearances were losses, two of those losses were by a field goal or less (2006 Meineke Car Care 25-24 loss to Boston College, 2007 Poinsettia 35-32 loss to Utah).
22. LSU
LSU needs to solve its problems on offense because a 112th-ranked unit is not going to get you very far in the SEC. In his junior season, Jordan Jefferson needs to become what the Tigers thought they were getting when they brought him in.
21.UConn
The self-proclaimed fastest-rising college football program in history had a pretty nice season last year, considering all the adversity it faced. Jordan Todman is now the man in the backfield behind a young, but experienced line and could be a household name by season's end.
20. Pitt
The Panthers are very young and have a lot of questions to answer, especially on the offensive line and at quarterback. Tino Sunersi has some big shoes to fill after Bill Stull's surprisingly good year last year.
19. Oregon State
Oregon State turned some heads last season and could compete for a spot in the Rose Bowl if the quarterback situation gets figured out since most of the team at other positions is intact. A passing game to compliment Jacquizz Rogers in the running game would go a long way towards legitimizing the Beavers' attack.
18. Arkansas
Ryan Mallett was quite the surprise for SEC opponents last year, offering a solid passing attack to a team that has been known for its predictability in its playcalling when it comes to run vs. pass. Arkansas' defense needs to improve after being ranked 89th in total defense last year, especially in the secondary, which allowed nearly 250 yards per game through the air.
17. North Carolina
North Carolina's defense steamrolled some pretty legitimate ACC opponents last season and returns six All-Conference talents to that side of the ball. On offense, T.J. Yates was a disappointment under center, but that wasn't completely his fault. As long as his weapons stay healthy, the offense, which didn't lose much of anything in the offseason, should at least be adequate. That's more than last year's team could say.
16. Nebraska
Nebraska suffered the biggest loss in terms of personnel of any team, including Florida, with the exit of Ndamukong Suh. The man just plain dominated opposing defenses by himself. While the Huskers have a solid all-around unit, many players, especially at linebacker, had the comfort of knowing Suh was going to occupy two or sometimes three blockers. The offense is not much to talk about so ball control and defense will again have to steal some games for Nebraska.
15. Penn State
Defenses beware: Evan Royster is coming. The guy just barrels through the line and punishes whomever might be waiting on the other side. He just might be the best senior college running back out there this year and with the line he's got in front of him, it could be a Heisman season in the making, especially with cupcakes like Youngstown State, Kent State, Temple, Northwestern and Indiana on the slate.
14. Virginia Tech
No more Beamer Ball? The defense was a strength of the Hokies in 2009, but it could be a major weakness this season with only five players returning from last year's team that ranked ninth in scoring defense and 12th in total defense. Offensively, Tyrod Taylor and ACC Rookie of the Year Ryan Williams will lead a more-than-capable Hokies offense that has most of its starters returning. The question is whether or not a run-first offense can out-gun teams if the defense falters.
13. Wisconsin
John Clay will be a major cog in the Badgers' machine running behind fellow All-Conference selections Gabe Carimi (T) and John Moffitt (G). The veteran offensive unit is primed to put up some very impressive numbers on the ground. The real question is whether or not the young front seven on defense can prevent any opponents from doing the same.
12. USC
Put aside what Lane Kiffin is making to coach USC and ask yourself one question: Is he capable of winning with a big-time program? The answer is that nobody knows. Last year was a lackluster one for Kiffin in Tennessee and he was in a horrible situation in Oakland, so the jury is still very much out on the wunderkind. Add to that the fact that USC collapsed against supposed lesser teams and settled for the Emerald Bowl last year. Still, USC has a stable of horses in the backfield to carry the football and keep the pressure off of Matt Barkley, who had his growing pains as a freshman starter, but should make strides this season. The real question mark lies in the defensive backfield, which lost three All-Conference selections, including Taylor Mays.
11. Georgia Tech
The triple option has all of its major pieces back in Josh Nesbit (QB), Anthony Allen (RB) and Roddy Jones (RB) as well as a very athletic offensive line and should again be a devastating attack for the Yellow Jackets. Altogether 19 of the Jackets' 22 starters are returning this year after posting an ACC championship season the year prior.
10. Miami
Miami's defense was the only one to hold Georgia Tech under 100 yards rushing. In fact, they were the only team to hold GT under 200 yards rushing. That should tell you just how solid the Hurricane's defense is. Most of that squad is back for another go-around, including three All- ACC team members in Allen Bailey, Colin McCarthy and Brandon Harris. Miami's offense has the tools to be very, very good, but Jacory Harris needs to learn that it's not all about armstrength and start playing more disciplined.
9. Oklahoma
Everything that could possibly have gone wrong for Oklahoma did last season. Still, through all that, some good things happened. Landry Jones emerged as an effective quarterback, who will only get better this season with almost all of his targets from last year back on the field. There are questions about how good the defense can be for OU with Gerald McCoy leaving for the NFL and newcomers filling in at linebacker, but the Sooners have never had a problem with coming up with top-level talent.
8. Iowa
The Hawkeyes' defense is just plain scary with very few - if any - weaknesses. Adrian Clayborn could be involved in the Heisman conversation this year after posting 11.5 sacks and 20 tackles for loss, both of which land him in the nation's top-10. Injuries hampered the offense last year and even when healthy, it won't blow the doors off anyone of merit, but with a defense as good as Iowa's, pretty good is all the offense has to be.
7. TCU
The MWC is becoming a more and more legit conference, so the best team in that conference needs to be treated with that kind of respect. Jerry Hughes, who was tied with Iowa's Clayborn in total sacks, is gone, so that's a blow, but the Horned Frogs have a very good defensive unit all the way around. Cornerback is a concern because both sides of the field are manned by new starters this year, but that's where the excellent line play of the Frogs' ends and tackles comes into play. Offensively, TCU is very similar to last season.
6. Florida
It will be interesting to see Florida post-Tebow, but still expect them to be a mid-to-upper-level top-10 team. The intriguing thing will be the way they use John Brantley in the offense. With Tebow at the helm, the Gators' offense relied on the quarterback being mobile. Brantley is much more of a pocket passer, but a dynamic running attack behind him could make up for the fact he can't move much. Defensively, the Gators lost a lot, including Brandon Spikes, but the secondary remains one of the toughest in the country.
5. Oregon
It's sad to say it, but Oregon is turning into the Bengals of college football. Lots of athletic ability, but a longer wrap sheet. Jeremiah Masoli, who was one of the best in the Pac-10 last year is gone for his extra-curricular activities, so quarterback automatically becomes a point of concern. LaMichael James, who came on the scene when LaGarrett Blount was suspended for his idiocy against Boise State, is back as the explosive catalyst for the Ducks' offense, though he's had his brushes with the law as well. Can he carry the offense by himself? Quite possibly as he will have a seasoned line in front of him. Altogether, most of last year's unit returns and if some people step into key spots, like quarterback, you are definitely looking at this year's Pac-10 champion again.
4. Texas
Colt McCoy is gone, leaving big shoes to fill at quarterback. Luckily, the newcomer will have lots of help with three returning wideouts and a host of able-bodied running backs in the mix. Three All-Conference o-linemen are also missing, along with Jordan Shipley, so Mack Brown will have a lot of work to do to get the unit into shape. Defensively, he's pretty well set, however, even though Earl Thomas skipped out for greener pastures in the NFL. The Longhorns have seven starters coming back to a unit that allowed less than 17 points and just 251.9 yards per game.
Want No. 3-1? Stay tuned.
Monday, May 31, 2010
This team would never lose a game
By Chad Garner
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
I’ve been sitting around today in a fog, and started dreaming about the baseball Dream Team I’d assemble if I were GM of Team MLB. Here’s my dream team (subject to debate, of course), which includes eight positional players, a right-handed starter, left-handed starter and closer. They are all current MLB players, too.
Do you agree or disagree with me?
1B – Mark Teixeira (NYY) While Tex hasn’t currently gotten hot yet with the stick, the one aspect of his game that is always steaming is on defense. He’s got a great glove, yes he’s a Gold Glover, and saves the rest of that infield so many errors with great plays. He’s the best defensive first baseman, no doubt.
2B – Chase Utley (PHI) – Utley might not be the best defender in the world, but he’s a legit Hit Dog with plus power, especially at the second base position.
SS – Derek Jeter (NYY) – Go ahead and call me a homer, but Jeter can still get it done on offense and defense (I know his range has diminished a tad). But what separates him from most, is his ability to lead a ballclub. He’s my captain without a doubt.
3B – Evan Longoria (TB) – The 24-year-old can already do it all at a high level. He hasn’t even hit his prime yet. Now that’s scary.
C – Joe Mauer (MIN) – Is there a sweeter swing in the game right now that the Twins’ backstop? What’s so impressive is the grind that catchers have to battle through, and Mauer still manages to hit over .300 every year.
LF – Carl Crawford (TB) – Man, I just love Crawford’s speed. Five out of the last seven years, Crawford has swiped at least 50 bases. On my team, he’s got the green light to run whenever he wants.
CF – Matt Kemp (LAD) – He’s the best young player in baseball. He’s got all five tools, and he’s on the verge of stardom. Kemp is welcome on my team any day.
RF – Jason Heyward (ATL) – I know it might be a little early to crown Heyward, but the rookie has caught my eye with an above average OF arm and a great bat. I’d feel more comfortable if he put up great numbers for a few years, but I’ll roll the dice and say he’s going to be an All-Star very soon.
LHP – Jon Lester (BOS) – You probably thought I’d say CC Sabathia, but I’ll take Lester. The southpaw is a lot younger and I feel he still has upside, while we’ve already seen the best CC has to offer. If Lester didn’t stink so much the first month of every season, imagine the numbers he’d put up?
RHP – Roy Halladay (PHI), Tim Lincecum (SF) – I took the easy way out and selected two guys. Well, here’s my reasoning. If I want a premier veteran, Halladay is my choice hands-down. But if I want youth and power, Lincecum is my man. Either way, I can’t lose.
Closer – Mariano Rivera (NYY) – Rivera could be 90 years old, and if he’s still in the majors closing, I’m taking him. He’s a big game pitcher, having proven to do the job on the biggest stage many times, and not many still enjoy hitting that potent cutter. Really, is there anyone even close to Rivera? No way.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
I’ve been sitting around today in a fog, and started dreaming about the baseball Dream Team I’d assemble if I were GM of Team MLB. Here’s my dream team (subject to debate, of course), which includes eight positional players, a right-handed starter, left-handed starter and closer. They are all current MLB players, too.
Do you agree or disagree with me?
1B – Mark Teixeira (NYY) While Tex hasn’t currently gotten hot yet with the stick, the one aspect of his game that is always steaming is on defense. He’s got a great glove, yes he’s a Gold Glover, and saves the rest of that infield so many errors with great plays. He’s the best defensive first baseman, no doubt.
2B – Chase Utley (PHI) – Utley might not be the best defender in the world, but he’s a legit Hit Dog with plus power, especially at the second base position.
SS – Derek Jeter (NYY) – Go ahead and call me a homer, but Jeter can still get it done on offense and defense (I know his range has diminished a tad). But what separates him from most, is his ability to lead a ballclub. He’s my captain without a doubt.
3B – Evan Longoria (TB) – The 24-year-old can already do it all at a high level. He hasn’t even hit his prime yet. Now that’s scary.
C – Joe Mauer (MIN) – Is there a sweeter swing in the game right now that the Twins’ backstop? What’s so impressive is the grind that catchers have to battle through, and Mauer still manages to hit over .300 every year.
LF – Carl Crawford (TB) – Man, I just love Crawford’s speed. Five out of the last seven years, Crawford has swiped at least 50 bases. On my team, he’s got the green light to run whenever he wants.
CF – Matt Kemp (LAD) – He’s the best young player in baseball. He’s got all five tools, and he’s on the verge of stardom. Kemp is welcome on my team any day.
RF – Jason Heyward (ATL) – I know it might be a little early to crown Heyward, but the rookie has caught my eye with an above average OF arm and a great bat. I’d feel more comfortable if he put up great numbers for a few years, but I’ll roll the dice and say he’s going to be an All-Star very soon.
LHP – Jon Lester (BOS) – You probably thought I’d say CC Sabathia, but I’ll take Lester. The southpaw is a lot younger and I feel he still has upside, while we’ve already seen the best CC has to offer. If Lester didn’t stink so much the first month of every season, imagine the numbers he’d put up?
RHP – Roy Halladay (PHI), Tim Lincecum (SF) – I took the easy way out and selected two guys. Well, here’s my reasoning. If I want a premier veteran, Halladay is my choice hands-down. But if I want youth and power, Lincecum is my man. Either way, I can’t lose.
Closer – Mariano Rivera (NYY) – Rivera could be 90 years old, and if he’s still in the majors closing, I’m taking him. He’s a big game pitcher, having proven to do the job on the biggest stage many times, and not many still enjoy hitting that potent cutter. Really, is there anyone even close to Rivera? No way.
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