tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160269278690157632024-02-19T00:37:49.399-05:00I Mashed In Little Leaguetalbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.comBlogger294125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-68306724847541775652016-04-26T23:14:00.004-04:002016-04-30T10:29:49.163-04:00Licht Work<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It’s finally here!
The NFL Draft kicks off this Thursday.
A year ago the Bucs got it started by taking Jameis Winston to be the QB
of the offense and the face of the franchise.
Year one was a definite success, but Jameis has been working harder this
offseason to continue on the path of reaching his goal of becoming one of the
best. The Bucs also appear to have
scored with their next three picks. Donovan Smith and Ali Marpet are key pieces of
a rebuilt offensive line, and Kwon Alexander made free agent signing Bruce
Carter irrelevant. Kenny Bell is the
best of the rest, but he’s still an unknown after missing all of last
year. <o:p></o:p></div>
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They’d be extremely fortunate to go 4 for 4 again this
year. I want to see a fast receiver and
OL depth added, but the majority of their needs are on the defensive side of
the ball. They need a talent infusion at
every level of this defense. I expect
them to take two defensive linemen, two defensive backs, and at least one
linebacker. Do they have enough picks to
hit every need? Do you really expect Jason
Licht to not make a deal, especially now that he’s calling all the shots?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here’s how I see (most of) the first round playing out as
well as what I would do with all of the Bucs 9, yes 9, draft picks. <o:p></o:p></div>
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1) LAR – Jared Goff (QB, Cal)<o:p></o:p></div>
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After conflicting initial reports, it looks like the Rams
will take the local-ish guy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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2) PHI (via CLE) – Carson Wentz (QB, N Dakota St)<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’ve been on the ‘Philly could take a QB’ wagon for a
while, and this trade just made too much sense.
They want a QB, and the Browns apparently didn’t.<o:p></o:p></div>
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3) SD – DeForest Buckner (DL, Oregon)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Why not Tunsil?
No, King Dunlap isn’t Walter Jones, but the Chargers are already three
deep at tackle with he, Barksdale, and Hairston. Franklin can also play the position too if
needed. I think Ramsey is more likely
than Tunsil. Buckner fills their largest
hole and is best available in the eyes of some. <o:p></o:p></div>
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4) DAL – Jalen Ramsey (DB, FSU)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jerry Jones giddily giddys up to the podium and takes my
#1 player in the draft. Huge upgrade
over bust Claiborne at corner. I’d have
a tough time trying to guess what they do between Bosa and Elliott if Ramsey is
gone. <o:p></o:p></div>
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5) JAX – Myles Jack (LB, UCLA)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Search John Thornton on Twitter. His knee looks good to me. Why not Tunsil? The Jags already have Kelvin Beachum and Luke
Joeckel fighting for that spot. How many
more games do they win by taking Tunsil instead of a defensive player? <o:p></o:p></div>
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6) BAL – Laremy Tunsil (T, Ole Miss)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Maybe somebody trades up to 5 to get him, but I don’t
think BAL budges if he makes it to them.
Eugene Monroe is looking for work before Tunsil hugs Goodell. <o:p></o:p></div>
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7) SF – Joey Bosa (DL, Ohio State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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With Tanka Carradine moving to a stand up rusher role,
bodies are needed up front. Bosa slides
into a 5-technique role, one formerly filled by Justin Smith, a player to whom
Bosa has drawn comparisons.<o:p></o:p></div>
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8) CLE (via PHI) – Ezekiel Elliott (RB, Ohio State)</div>
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There’s really no wrong pick for this team. They need help absolutely everywhere. Here they take the draft’s best back and the
best public relations pick. A tackle
wouldn’t be a surprise, and them taking one would give more credence to my
proposition below. </div>
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9) TEN (via TB) – Ronnie Stanley (T, Notre Dame)<o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s an easy trade to project and one that might actually
have legs with talk that the Titans do want to <a href="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/writer/jason-la-canfora/25557933/draft-even-after-blockbuster-deal-titans-trying-to-trade-into-the-top-10">move
back up</a>, their supposed interest in a tackle, the increasing buzz of 3 tackles
going in the top 10, and the relationship between Licht and Robinson. What would be awesome but unlikely is if
Paxton Lynch goes in the top 8 and both Elliott and at least one of the tackles
are still there at 9. CHI, MIA, TEN, and
DET could all be interested trade partners if that were the case. I don’t believe the Bucs will be able to get
one of the Titans R2 picks though unless a bidding war develops. If they can (say pick #45) then that’s a heck
of a move by Licht. I think they settle
for the fair price of the 64<sup>th</sup> (R3) and 140<sup>th</sup> (R5)
picks. And no, there’s not a player on
the board right now who would prevent me from making this trade.<o:p></o:p></div>
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10) NYG – Jack Conklin (T, Michigan State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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After taking LT Flowers last year, they lock down RT with
Conklin. This potential pick is a reason
I think the Titans (or someone else) will try to get into the bottom of the top
10. The top 3 tackles are going to go
quickly.<o:p></o:p></div>
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11) CHI – Jarran Reed (DL, Alabama)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here’s my first real surprise of the draft. Reed joins last year’s R2 pick Eddie Goldman
as cornerstones for a rebuilt defensive front.
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12) NO – Sheldon Rankins (DT, Louisville)<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Saints biggest need up front is a defensive tackle
who can boost a sagging run defense and putrid pass rush. Enter Rankins.<o:p></o:p></div>
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13) MIA – William Jackson III (CB, Houston)<o:p></o:p></div>
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This might seem high for Jackson, but my premise is that
NFL front offices are higher on Jackson than draft pundits. He’s my favorite DB not named Ramsey. <o:p></o:p></div>
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14) OAK – Chris Jones (DL, Mississippi State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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I loved this pick when McShay or Kiper did it on their
live special. Their biggest need is
along the defensive line, specifically at the end position. Jones could end up being the best interior
lineman of this class. </div>
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15) TB (via TEN)<o:p></o:p></div>
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If I had to stay at 9, I would take Rankins. After him it’s Jackson or Conklin. I’m sure a lot of people will disagree with
that, but there’s not another player (Lawson, Hargreaves, Apple) who better
fills a need in my opinion. Lawson isn’t
someone to partner with Smith at RE, and I don’t like Hargreaves or Apple
enough. The pick gets tougher for me
here at 15, but I like having the extra selections acquired in the trade. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Spence, Lawson, Ogbah, and Dodd are the best remaining
pass rushers, and Spence is the only one who I believe fits what the Bucs truly
need. Has he screwed up? Obviously.
Is he still a concern? Couldn’t
tell you. Since I haven’t and won’t
speak to the young man, I choose to believe what I’m not reading. I’m not reading about him getting into any
more trouble. I’m not reading anyone go on
record speaking against him. I’ll assume
he’s not toxic until told otherwise. </div>
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What about the interior guys? There’s a group of seven players I could see
the Bucs focusing on – <o:p></o:p></div>
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Jarran Reed<o:p></o:p></div>
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Chris Jones<o:p></o:p></div>
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Robert Nkemdiche<o:p></o:p></div>
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Kenny Clark<o:p></o:p></div>
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Vernon Butler<o:p></o:p></div>
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Andrew Billings<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jonathan Bullard<o:p></o:p></div>
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Let’s eliminate some of them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Reed and Jones are already off the board, I won’t spend a
lot of time discussing them here. I
think Reed might be the safest DL pick in the entire draft, and I’ve already
mentioned Jones as a potential top producer.
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I absolutely do not want them to draft Nkemdiche. I’m going to count on an underperforming, jumping
15 feet out of windows, biggest risk of the draft 21 year old?? Not a chance.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Part of me worries that Clark isn’t wide enough to play
at a high level as a 3-4 end, but he’ll be a fine 1-technique as a run
stuffer. How much better is he going to
get as a pass rusher, and how many other options are there with higher ceilings
and as much or less uncertainty? </div>
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I’m not sure you can go wrong with any of the remaining three. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Billings is the strongest guy in this draft and is a
plug-and-play NT in both three and four man fronts. I think he can be
contributor on passing downs, but while his floor appears to be high, how high
is the ceiling? What I like most about
Butler is his agility for a guy that’s 320 lbs.
He engulfs ball carriers with his big body and huge wingspan. Billings is more of a “blow you up” kind of
hitter, which is probably why he suffered more broken tackles than Butler. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I see Jones and Bullard both as bull rushers with plus
quickness, best off as 3-techniques with the ability to be 5-techniques. While I think Bullard can be a 5-technique,
I’m initially more confident in Jones in that regard due to his body type. Jones is also more likely to run over a
blocker than Bullard and less likely to be handled 1-on-1. But Bullard was a stud against the run and
shows you plenty of penetration potential.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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So what does any of this mean, other than that I had a hard
time establishing a favorite? If I’m
trying to find the highest ceiling while making sure the floor isn’t too low
and the player best fits what the team needs, this pick comes down to – <o:p></o:p></div>
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Noah Spence <o:p></o:p></div>
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Andrew Billings<o:p></o:p></div>
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Vernon Butler <o:p></o:p></div>
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Jonathan Bullard<o:p></o:p></div>
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What to do with Spence?
I think 15-30 is more his range than the top half of the round, and
that’s only if he’s had a clean screening.
He’s not a 3 down player at the moment but would pair well with Smith at
RE.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Billings makes McCoy’s life a lot easier. He’s only 21 years old and is already a
dominant presence without much of a clue as to the finer points of the position.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Butler is a personal favorite. He might not be the physical brute that
Billings is, but his gifts are tempting.
Smith, Hayes, and Spicer could develop a special player. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Bullard is the best remaining combination of penetration
and run defense. The path isn’t clear at
the moment, but he does have three-down ability. <o:p></o:p></div>
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My first cut comes down to risk/reward. Spence is the riskiest pick, and that’s not
even counting character. Then it comes
down to impact and path to playing time.
The Bucs must improve their penetration and pocket collapsing. All three would make an impact there, but
what about the path to playing time? Butler
and Billings check that column, and I see higher potential in the former than
the latter. It’s not a simple decision
or a popular outcome, but it’s how I see things. <o:p></o:p></div>
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15) TB (via TEN) – Vernon Butler (DL, Louisiana Tech)</div>
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Butler is massive.
He measured in at the Combine at 6’4”, 323 lbs, with 35 1/8 arms. He has great movement for that size and
displays an impressive combination of power and finesse. When the rest of his technique is right
(footwork, pad level, leverage, etc), he sheds well with his hands and uses his
enormous length to get extension from blockers.
Butler has the tools, but he’s very raw.
He must learn to play with better leverage and the desired pad level
more consistently. He’s reportedly a
really good person and a dedicated individual which tends to indicate that the
kid is coachable. Butler uses a nice
bull rush, but a guy with his strength needs to be more violent with his hands
and arms as a pass rusher. I see a
player who can start right away next to McCoy and be the first step to
improving an anemic pass rush, both directly and indirectly. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Here are my top 15 players for the Bucs – <o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Jalen Ramsey (DB, FSU)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Myles Jack (LB, UCLA)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Laremy Tunsil (T, Ole Miss)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->DeForest Buckner (DL, Oregon)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->5.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Ronnie Stanley (T, Notre Dame)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->6.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Sheldon Rankins (DT, Louisville)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->7.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Joey Bosa (DE, Ohio State)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->8.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->William Jackson III (CB, Houston)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->9.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Jack Conklin (T, Michigan St)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->10.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Vernon Butler (DL, Louisiana Tech)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->11.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Jarran Reed (DL, Alabama)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->12.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Chris Jones (DL, Mississippi St)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->13.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Andrew Billings (DL, Baylor)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->14.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Jonathan Bullard (DL, Florida)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->15.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Noah Spence (DE, E Kentucky)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Assuming his knee isn’t wrecked, I don’t have a problem
taking Myles Jack. Smith would find a
way to get a special talent on the field for as many snaps as possible. I think Jackson will be the second best
corner in this class, and I’ve warmed to the thought of Conklin playing RT
opposite Smith. The difference between
10 and 14 is not that great. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Here’s what I do with all of the draft picks –</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Lr5TJo_UjS7EQlDP8o7fqPhXs72NzXSq4KFLPOo3PgLkAKez0MCYRB5EPAeTugv-BCfhYCj-mdy2cs1KZ28rGQsaDyegQ8Vh3-8qmKYgBT6Kn3oZ8vi7IAJ_6DPBLqWMqghiEQZlYHo/s1600/final+-+small+butler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Lr5TJo_UjS7EQlDP8o7fqPhXs72NzXSq4KFLPOo3PgLkAKez0MCYRB5EPAeTugv-BCfhYCj-mdy2cs1KZ28rGQsaDyegQ8Vh3-8qmKYgBT6Kn3oZ8vi7IAJ_6DPBLqWMqghiEQZlYHo/s1600/final+-+small+butler.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
R1 (15) – Vernon Butler (DL, Louisiana Tech)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
6’4”, 323 lbs with 35 1/8 inch arms<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
John Henderson to Gerald McCoy’s Marcus Stroud<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbnsDMD3fmqEXEHq6sJXiP6n9ZUsvF8fQyse4YkZ36FVGtHF0XTFCuwHJsvwgxZ2mzL5cplrBs8S26W0WOuMf76EbjYO5fPs9t4017EL8dFKTexku22TsEYVL2GsS7IWR45g4DO9N7jI/s1600/final+-+small+shepard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbnsDMD3fmqEXEHq6sJXiP6n9ZUsvF8fQyse4YkZ36FVGtHF0XTFCuwHJsvwgxZ2mzL5cplrBs8S26W0WOuMf76EbjYO5fPs9t4017EL8dFKTexku22TsEYVL2GsS7IWR45g4DO9N7jI/s1600/final+-+small+shepard.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
R2 (39) – Sterling Shepard (WR, Oklahoma)</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
41 inch vertical; tied for position best at Combine <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
Career drop rate of 2.5% of targeted passes<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_JRB3sFMoK6JQS4rGQio8I83km_IBHv4ghpQpklHYZMp5XP8XOm_Lyq5Ax4sNdn4xE0guDjbUchk9b9JcKILsWirDyCpttpekmd7WIAO79VbWv7JhHRnrNuz4hNCLPOFxYtzh_SVmlk/s1600/final+-+small+davis+dhc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="101" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_JRB3sFMoK6JQS4rGQio8I83km_IBHv4ghpQpklHYZMp5XP8XOm_Lyq5Ax4sNdn4xE0guDjbUchk9b9JcKILsWirDyCpttpekmd7WIAO79VbWv7JhHRnrNuz4hNCLPOFxYtzh_SVmlk/s320/final+-+small+davis+dhc.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
R3 (64) (via TEN) – Sean Davis (S, Maryland) or DeAndre
Houston-Carson (S, William & Mary)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
Both 6’1”, 201<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
3 and 4 year starters; hybrid CB/S types<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinTWUgpSQjkBPiPO5ux9X5HesGbvbhmSZc_v776ujAqd6YWCwA9F8Etk-DZlL90_FUBNRFffcnJbnk8cCP7xUUTToIT737JBXZrOH5VcSQvJy4pvUsrQ84gMTuK1XeNvkEQus0WiEvuno/s1600/final+-+small+judon2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinTWUgpSQjkBPiPO5ux9X5HesGbvbhmSZc_v776ujAqd6YWCwA9F8Etk-DZlL90_FUBNRFffcnJbnk8cCP7xUUTToIT737JBXZrOH5VcSQvJy4pvUsrQ84gMTuK1XeNvkEQus0WiEvuno/s1600/final+-+small+judon2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
R3 (74) – Matt Judon (DE, Grand Valley State)</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
6’3”, 275; ran 4.73 40, 1.66 10 yd split, 30 reps, 35
inch vertical<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
Led country with 20 sacks in 2015<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjosm6Qe7yg0EU4hUQ9DEzLAM8Lal5bTF1jWhRxdjhHVg_g1yoIvaU1rA2SmThlIiySpu1sengpv_Tzxh5qyMIA-TTAwHyPcr2ItQH6OEW-JXvG74gLpKWyzZ2XU1opAPPffFYA9tYjzIk/s1600/final+-+small+schobert2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjosm6Qe7yg0EU4hUQ9DEzLAM8Lal5bTF1jWhRxdjhHVg_g1yoIvaU1rA2SmThlIiySpu1sengpv_Tzxh5qyMIA-TTAwHyPcr2ItQH6OEW-JXvG74gLpKWyzZ2XU1opAPPffFYA9tYjzIk/s1600/final+-+small+schobert2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
R4 (108) – Joe Schobert (LB, Wisconsin)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
From walk-on to second team All American<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
Can rush the passer, cover, and play special teams<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKlxDF7QmbDVkCgZZKnXFLxqHZpXLaDMTmOQOqXjpG9UqORTARCm2C2iBLqerolVZI4G2hQ_SwgIx8a6XJcj-vpOxvlfPNaktDmUnHcaPVTPNTywcpOqLInx7nG4dGEqtryjc_qOEgvc/s1600/final+-+small+bradberry+hall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKlxDF7QmbDVkCgZZKnXFLxqHZpXLaDMTmOQOqXjpG9UqORTARCm2C2iBLqerolVZI4G2hQ_SwgIx8a6XJcj-vpOxvlfPNaktDmUnHcaPVTPNTywcpOqLInx7nG4dGEqtryjc_qOEgvc/s320/final+-+small+bradberry+hall.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
R5 (140) (via TEN) – James Bradberry (CB, Samford) or
Deiondre Hall (CB, N Iowa)</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
33 3/8 and 34 3/8 inch arms<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
Hybrid CB/S types who play the run<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYem-zudYiYJgqmhQoY7fUHmSJaqHh-DUkH72IFmIN9J_WBPNzU7wBVApXf4pXJxKdJ0buTx524A55coXAC1U9F9rRcSlqhu-NsxfrQ7oFjuj2eyptPZcGxAdeDCF7rPeCHgvetFMfdwM/s1600/final+-+small+thuney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYem-zudYiYJgqmhQoY7fUHmSJaqHh-DUkH72IFmIN9J_WBPNzU7wBVApXf4pXJxKdJ0buTx524A55coXAC1U9F9rRcSlqhu-NsxfrQ7oFjuj2eyptPZcGxAdeDCF7rPeCHgvetFMfdwM/s1600/final+-+small+thuney.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
R5 (148) – Joe Thuney (OL, NC State)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
Played every position on the OL<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
Athletic, versatile 3 year starter<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjociKgp0w-AZf7FO_XrBdwq4DazOV-QLBmNdrTuZapX1SwcKuc8-7ccbWiZYMwMwLIlxclVdfGG0KaEroRz4wmcgKWzZm02UFh7diLfiT7qjy9if3RGo98cqMq5oBkXW6VrT7r8Rp_wH0/s1600/final+-+small+marshall2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjociKgp0w-AZf7FO_XrBdwq4DazOV-QLBmNdrTuZapX1SwcKuc8-7ccbWiZYMwMwLIlxclVdfGG0KaEroRz4wmcgKWzZm02UFh7diLfiT7qjy9if3RGo98cqMq5oBkXW6VrT7r8Rp_wH0/s1600/final+-+small+marshall2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
R6 (183) – Keith Marshall (RB, Georgia)</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
Balanced strength-speed runner<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
3 more bench reps than Derrick Henry (25 to 22)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSfHvfyswCRIQkka2Kx0y6zVcwsFVIKd00fvL9-IDvI-izxz248ehear3V_h56ziYUyOrildIWBtkIaP9bgWWlkvWF75-Mo1RQFGNDtWsL92dU-3q4SZtvwUpynWjzDwUtLDtWGRq7c_c/s1600/final+-+small+wallace2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSfHvfyswCRIQkka2Kx0y6zVcwsFVIKd00fvL9-IDvI-izxz248ehear3V_h56ziYUyOrildIWBtkIaP9bgWWlkvWF75-Mo1RQFGNDtWsL92dU-3q4SZtvwUpynWjzDwUtLDtWGRq7c_c/s1600/final+-+small+wallace2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
R6 (197) – Aaron Wallace (LB, UCLA)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
Athlete learning the game of football<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
Pass rushing SLB depth<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Here’s a list of my favorite players for the Bucs by
position – <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<u>QB<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Dak Prescott,
Kevin Hogan, Brandon Allen, Jacoby Brissett<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<u>FB<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Glenn Gronkowski, Dan Vitale, Derek Watt, Andy Janovich,
Will Ratelle<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<u>RB<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Keith Marshall, Daniel Lasco, Tra Carson, Brandon Wilds<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<u>WR<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Corey Coleman, Josh Doctson, Sterling Shepard, Braxton Miller,
Keyarris Garrett, Tajae Sharpe, Roger Lewis, Cody Core<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<u>T<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Laremy Tunsil, Ronnie Stanley, Jack Conklin, Shon
Coleman, Le’Raven Clark, Brandon Shell<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<u>G/C<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Joe Dahl, Joe Thuney, Jack Allen, Ted Karras, Kyle
Friend, Parker Ehinger<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<u>DE<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Noah Spence, Kevin Dodd, Emmanuel Ogbah, Shilique
Calhoun, Matt Judon, Yannick Ngakoue, Jason Fanaika, Alex McCalister, Victor
Ochi<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<u>DT<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Sheldon Rankins, Vernon Butler, Jarran Reed, Chris Jones,
Andrew Billings, Jonathan Bullard, Kenny Clark, Javon Hargrave, Sheldon Day,
Jihad Ward<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<u>LB<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Joe Schobert, Aaron Wallace, De’Vondre Campbell<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<u>CB<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Jalen Ramsey, William Jackson III, Mackensie Alexander,
Xavien Howard, Jonathan Jones, James Bradberry, Deiondre’ Hall, Jalen Mills,
Morgan Burns<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<u>S<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Karl Joseph, Sean Davis, Justin Simmons, DeAndre
Houston-Carson, Tyvis Powell<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="color: red; font-size: 18.0pt;">Go Bucs!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRTrSzpwv7m_5abWkuLF4vHzKlfQmwZ-Hs27FBVFVu6QZM74bMmaA09-p-qIJ_WMVpELE2QbU79tgdz2x11S4_QaVN_7t9BB76tYgvolmOu13rYgDIffbkftD0RZu7FH4iy-xXy10-za8/s1600/final+-+go+bucs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRTrSzpwv7m_5abWkuLF4vHzKlfQmwZ-Hs27FBVFVu6QZM74bMmaA09-p-qIJ_WMVpELE2QbU79tgdz2x11S4_QaVN_7t9BB76tYgvolmOu13rYgDIffbkftD0RZu7FH4iy-xXy10-za8/s400/final+-+go+bucs.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-63436184968885092632016-03-17T23:59:00.001-04:002016-03-17T23:59:50.663-04:00Options at 9<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The plan all franchises strive to follow every year is to
fill roster holes in free agency while taking a best available talent approach
and not getting pigeonholed into particular positions in the draft. Resign your own free agents, and scan the
market to address draft failures. As I
expected them to do, the Bucs addressed but did not necessarily solve their
biggest areas of weakness in free agency.
Licht’s strategy of not being beholden to a signing after year two of
the deal is something we all need to put in our memory banks for projecting
offseason activity going forward. Finding
bargains isn’t the goal. Avoiding
crippling contracts is. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Re-signing Doug Martin was their highest priority, and
that was accomplished sensibly by both sides.
The Bucs did well to wrap it up before Martin hit the open market. With the money Chris Ivory got, Martin could
have played it out for more money. If
the Bucs don’t resign Bobby Rainey, they still need another RB that could play
early down role. That said, I’d be
shocked if they spent anything higher than a R6 pick on the position, and even
that would be a bit of a surprise. <o:p></o:p></div>
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With Bradley McDougald, Keith Tandy, and Chris Conte
resigned, the usual suspects will all return from last year. Major Wright isn’t a roster lock now that
Lovie’s gone. McDougald ($2.5 mil) and
Conte ($3 mil) are being paid as starting SS and FS, respectively, so I think
they’re done in free agency. I think
they’ll start to look at the position in the draft as early as R3 for someone
who can take over the FS position in ’17.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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The JR Sweezy acquisition is their best non-resign so
far. He replaces Logan Mankins at LG,
giving the Bucs another young, big, athletic lineman. He’s certainly more ideal than having Kevin
Pamphile learn on the job. The interior
of the offensive line is good enough to head to camp, but I wouldn’t be opposed
to a late round pick being spent on it. </div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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I’m fine with the Robert Ayers deal, given the available
options and the understanding that the Bucs weren’t going to go crazy for
Olivier Vernon. I wanted William Hayes
to be the guy they paired with William Gholston, but Ayers will do the
trick. What I like best about the
Ayers/Gholston pairing is that both of those guys have interior ability. Ayers alleviates the need for an inside guy
to help Gerald McCoy push the pocket. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m not a fan of the Brent Grimes deal. His familiarity with Mike Smith will help,
but the Bucs should have aimed higher. I
believe that a plan or model should allow for outliers, and if they were going
to extend a bit somewhere, I would have liked them to do it here. Sean Smith’s deal with OAK (4 yr, $38 mil)
wasn’t at all exorbitant, and Casey Hayward signed inexpensively with San Diego
(3 yr, $15.3 mil). I would have even
liked to have seen them in on Prince Amukamara (JAX 1 yr, $5 mil). In addition to not being high on Grimes’
ability, the situation with his wife can’t be ignored either. It’s a matter of when not if she becomes a
distraction. I just think there were/are
plenty of better, more talented options to pursue. Josh Robinson was a nice depth signing, but
it won’t alter the Bucs draft plans one bit.
This is a position group I believe they should have set themselves up
better with heading into the draft. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Daryl Smith was just signed today on a one year
deal. That’s pretty much an expected
move, a familiar face with scheme familiarity.
He’s probably got the inside track on the SLB job by default. They’ll likely add another free agent
linebacker and spend a draft pick on one.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Turning our attention to pick #9, we’re not exactly sure
which positions and players they’re highest on, but since we can eliminate QB, RB,
TE, G, and C at the start, then a bit of work is already done for us. <o:p></o:p></div>
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LB, WR, and S are unlikely as well. Myles Jack isn’t falling to the Bucs, but if
by some miracle he does, I’m sprinting to Goodell with his name on the
card. Would enough offensive and
defensive lineman be drafted ahead of 9 that would make Laquon Treadwell or
Corey Coleman serious options? I doubt it,
but I wouldn’t rule it out 100%. The
only one of these three positions I’d rule out for sure is safety because unless
Jalen Ramsey is busted with hookers and blow on April 27, he’s not going to be
there at 9. No other safety is likely to
go in R1 let alone the top ten. <o:p></o:p></div>
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That means the player the Bucs take at 9 will, in all
likelihood, play OT, DE, DT, or CB. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Now let’s step through the first 8 picks.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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1 – TEN – Jalen Ramsey<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m switching from Laremy Tunsil. Normally you wouldn’t take a DB over a LT,
but I think there’s some decent reasoning to do so in this instance. First off, call me biased, but I still have
Ramsey as the best player in this draft.
I’m not alone in that opinion.
Second, the Titans have what is likely the league’s worst
secondary. Yes, even worse than Tampa
Bay’s. Lastly, Taylor Lewan is already
one of the better LTs in the game. They
definitely need to do something at RT, but moving Lewan there probably isn’t
the best move. Aside from that not being
his natural position (I think he played there one year Michigan), when his deal
runs out after ‘17, they’d have to grossly raise the price of the RT market in
order to keep him over someone who a team that could play him at LT. I can’t blame anyone for going with Tunsil,
but I believe that taking the draft’s best player to lead your worst position group
and drafting a RT in R2 or R3 is the way to go.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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2 – CLE – Carson Wentz<o:p></o:p></div>
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There was talk of Colin Kaepernick wanting to play for
Hue Jackson, but latest word is that he’s not inspired by their offseason. He may be positioning for a better deal, or
it may mean that Denver has a better chance of landing him. I’ll take Denver over Cleveland in any
contest, so the Browns will likely still need a QB when they’re on the clock. I’m not convinced either Wentz or Goff is
going to be an All Pro, but can the Browns really afford not to take a shot at
the head of this year’s class? <o:p></o:p></div>
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3 – SD – Laremy Tunsil<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Chargers are better off with King Dunlap as their
third tackle, and drafting a stud LT like Tunsil is like adding another
offensive weapon for Philip Rivers.
Depending on what Denver ends up doing on the offensive side of the ball
the rest of this offseason, that division could be up for grabs in ’16. Adding Tunsil and getting healthy seasons
from guards Orlando Franklin and DJ Fluker would go a long way in helping
Rivers get the ball downfield to Keenan Allen and their big free agent
acquisition, Travis Benjamin. <o:p></o:p></div>
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4 – DAL – Joey Bosa<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’ve got to think they take a defensive lineman
here. Greg Hardy won’t be back, Randy
Gregory is suspended, and Demarcus Lawrence is coming back from a reportedly
serious back surgery. You can’t have too
many pass rushers, and drafting Bosa would give them three young and relatively
inexpensive ones. If Bosa isn’t their
guy, I’d go with Jack over Ezekiel Elliott.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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5 – JAX – Myles Jack<o:p></o:p></div>
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He’s the best player on the board and gives Jacksonville
another stud to go with newly signed Malik Jackson and second year rookie Dante
Fowler. Jacksonville’s defense just got
a ton better. I could see them taking
Bosa if Jack goes at 4 instead. <o:p></o:p></div>
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6 – BAL – DeForest Buckner<o:p></o:p></div>
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For me this comes down to two players – Buckner and
Ronnie Stanley. Losing Kelechi Osemele
was a big blow to the OL, but they still have Eugene Monroe at LT, the position
Stanley would play. Is cutting Monroe
and drafting Stanley a better move than keeping Monroe and drafting a defensive
building block? I’d have a hard time
saying yes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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7 – SF – Jared Goff<o:p></o:p></div>
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Trent Baalke and Chip Kelly are both unpredictable when
it comes to personnel moves, but the way this board has played out gives them a
shot at the local product. Could they
really take a tackle or wide receiver over Goff here? I’m assuming Kaepernick isn’t in the equation
for SF come the first night of the draft.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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8 – PHI – Ronnie Stanley<o:p></o:p></div>
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While Ezekiel Elliott would be a nice story, I think the
Eagles will begin planning for life after Jason Peters (which I think starts in
‘17) by taking a LT. Corner is a big
area of need, but I don’t think Hargreaves, Alexander, Jackson, or Apple is
worth a top 10 pick. A defensive lineman
wouldn’t surprise me, but I think Stanley is the way to go.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Recap – <o:p></o:p></div>
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1 – TEN – Jalen Ramsey<o:p></o:p></div>
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2 – CLE – Carson Wentz<o:p></o:p></div>
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3 – SD – Laremy Tunsil<o:p></o:p></div>
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4 – DAL – Joey Bosa<o:p></o:p></div>
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5 – JAX – Myles Jack<o:p></o:p></div>
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6 – BAL – DeForest Buckner<o:p></o:p></div>
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7 – SF – Jared Goff<o:p></o:p></div>
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8 – PHI – Ronnie Stanley<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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That might be the worst case scenario for the Bucs with the
top talent at their greatest areas of need coming off the board. While my predictions may not turn out to be
correct, I like my chances of at least 6 of those players going in the top 8,
and that’s really all that matters when it comes to projecting who will be
available at 9. My favorites of that
group are Ramsey, Tunsil, Jack, and Stanley.
If any of them is available, we stop the discussion here and start
thinking about #39. <o:p></o:p></div>
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What’s the best of what’s left?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ezekiel Elliott (RB, Ohio State) – Not with Martin
resigned; scratch him<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jack Conklin (T, Michigan State) – Best left at the position,
but not best value<o:p></o:p></div>
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Shaq Lawson (DE, Clemson) – Potential shoulder issue; does
the Clemson stigma scare off the Bucs?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Emmanuel Ogbah (DE, Oklahoma State) – Is this too high
for him? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Kevin Dodd (DE, Clemson) – Clemson stigma and one year of
production in college<o:p></o:p></div>
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Noah Spence (DE, E Kentucky) – Is his fall perceived or
real?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Eli Apple (CB, Ohio State) & William Jackson III (CB,
Houston) – This is too high for them, right?
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sheldon Rankins (DT, Louisville) – Would he be best
available in this scenario?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Who do they pick?
Let’s go through some more process of elimination.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m not a fan of taking any DB not named Jalen Ramsey in
the top 10. I’m not big on Hargreaves,
and as I mentioned earlier, I think the upper echelon of the position is fairly
even. I’d rather the Bucs wait until
later in the draft to draft a large corner who can learn behind Grimes and
Banks. </div>
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If you believe the guys at Pewter Report, the Bucs are a
lot higher on Jacquies Smith than most fans are. Whether or not you agree with the Bucs
stance, this is something that can’t be ignored. Point being, they may not view acquiring a
pass rusher as their #1 priority. Depth? Yes. But
starter? Maybe not. If they wait until the middle rounds to take
an edge rusher, it doesn’t mean they’re crazy.
It means they really like what they have in Smith. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Knowing that, is Spence a risk the Bucs deem worth
taking? Is he not a risk at all, and
this negative talk is just talk? I’m
sure teams’ opinions of this guy are all over the place, and I have no way of
knowing how the Bucs feel about him. All
I can really say for sure is that I do not feel comfortable making him the pick
any longer. I’m not big on Lawson. I don’t think he has a high enough ceiling
for this spot, and there’s a recent report that he has to have his shoulder
rechecked. <o:p></o:p></div>
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If the Bucs do take a DE with this pick, I believe it
will come down to Dodd and Ogbah. Dodd
has the Clemson thing going against him as well as the fact that he only had one
big season in college, but I saw him as a consistent factor week in and week
out this year. I think Lawson benefitted
more from him than vice versa. Ogbah is
intriguing. I don’t believe he gets
enough credit for the total package he brings, and with pro coaching, the sky
could be the limit for this guy. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s just that as I sit here right now, I’m having
trouble convincing myself that taking either one would be the best use of this
pick. It’s like going to buy a car and
leaving with the model you want but not the color you want. All the way home you’re wondering if you made
the right choice. Then throw in the Bucs
love of Smith. Do they have an easy time
passing on an end in this situation? <o:p></o:p></div>
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I now go back and answer my question about Rankins. Yes, I believe he is best available here. I think his game compares very favorably to
Geno Atkins, a stud who has been coached his entire career by Jay Hayes, the
guy the Bucs brought in this offseason to coach up their front four. Rankins addresses the need for an interior
penetrator to pair with McCoy. Yes,
there’s depth at the DT position in this draft, but if I can get the best one,
I’ll do it and be happy about it. </div>
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This would lead me to go with a remaining draft of – <o:p></o:p></div>
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R2 (#39) – Shilique Calhoun (DE, Michigan State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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This assumes Dodd and Ogbah are off the board. Calhoun is a speed rusher I think would make
an excellent partner to Smith at the weak end position. I think that he disappeared when getting overpowered,
but he has a ton to work with if he can take to pro coaching. Lot of potential here. <o:p></o:p></div>
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R3 (#74) – Sterling Shepard (WR, Oklahoma)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Shepard is a smaller receiver with tremendous hands and
concentration out of the slot. He possesses
ankle breaking stop-start ability and is an incredibly quick receiver. I’d still love to draft Braxton Miller, but I’d
feel better about addressing the DE position before R3 than I would WR, based on
the available talent. <o:p></o:p></div>
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There aren’t a lot of changes with the rest of my
draft. <o:p></o:p></div>
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R4 (#108) – Joe Schobert (LB, Wisconsin)<o:p></o:p></div>
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R5 (#148) – James Bradberry (CB, Samford)<o:p></o:p></div>
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R6 (#183) – Justin Simmons (FS, Boston College)<o:p></o:p></div>
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R6 (#197) – Joe Dahl (OL, Washington State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’ve still got Schobert as the LB to draft, and I think
he’d make a nice student behind Daryl Smith at the SLB spot. He could be a good fit as a pass rusher and
in coverage depending on what Mike Smith wants to do. Bradberry was my top alternate pick in R5
last time, and since I think Simmons can be a had a little later, I’ll now slot
Bradberry in there as the guy to take.
The thought behind taking these two is that the Bucs would have that
young, big corner to learn behind Banks and Grimes and a FS to back up / push
Conte. Dahl sticks as potential guard
and tackle depth. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Summary – <o:p></o:p></div>
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R1 (#9) – Sheldon Rankins (DT, Louisville)<o:p></o:p></div>
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R2 (#39) – Shilique Calhoun (DE, Michigan State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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R3 (#74) – Sterling Shepard (WR, Oklahoma)<o:p></o:p></div>
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R4 (#108) – Joe Schobert (LB, Wisconsin)<o:p></o:p></div>
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R5 (#148) – James Bradberry (CB, Samford)<o:p></o:p></div>
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R6 (#183) – Justin Simmons (FS, Boston College)<o:p></o:p></div>
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R6 (#197) – Joe Dahl (OL, Washington State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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They get two defensive linemen and two defensive backs,
the areas I believe are in most need of long term attention. The slot receiver void is addressed with a guy
who would flourish in underneath zones created by Mike Evans and Vincent
Jackson. A linebacker with pass rush and
coverage skills and an offensive lineman with some position flexibility provide
depth to an improved roster. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Everyone will be thrilled if this year’s draft class is
as impactful as last year’s. I believe
this grouping of players gives the Bucs guys who can make an instant impact and,
as Mike Smith likes to do, take advantage of mismatches on that side of the
ball. It’s not a championship roster
yet, but they’re headed in the right direction. </div>
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talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-30044216009003254322016-03-04T00:41:00.003-05:002016-03-04T07:04:34.703-05:002016 Buccaneers Offseason - 'Mon Back<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Back up the truck. In
the NFL world of stock values, the Bucs are trending upward. They finally have a QB the franchise can take
pride in saying, ‘Yeah he’s our guy’.
They acted decisively (and correctly) in cutting ties with Lovie Smith
and an outdated way of thinking. They’re
a competitive team with young talent on both sides of the ball (Winston, Evans,
Marpet, Smith, McCoy, David, Alexander), a lot of money to spend ($49,392,453) and
the 9<sup>th</sup> pick in the first round of the draft. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Of the Bucs free agents, I put them in these categories – <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Let go – Henry Melton, Tony McDaniel, Chris Conte, Mike
Jenkins, Danny Lansanah, Larry English, TJ Fatinikun, and DaQuan Bowers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bring back at low cost – Bobby Rainey, Keith Tandy, Bradley
McDougald, Russell Shepard, Jovorskie Lane, Jeremiah George, and Andrew DePaola<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sign em – Sterling Moore, Jacquies Smith</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Keep him…I think – Doug Martin</span></div>
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Of those names the Bucs #1 priority is to retain the
league’s second leading rusher. Not
picking up Martin’s extra year was obviously a bad move in hindsight. After not tagging Martin for nearly $12 mil,
the options now are to sign him to a 3-4 year deal averaging a guesstimated $6
mil or find a replacement in the draft or free agency. Given the Bucs needs at other positions, the
available replacements in the draft and free agency, and their available cap
space, I try to sign Martin to a 3 year deal maxing out at $20 million. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Given that take on the team’s free agents and the assumptive
resigning of Martin, I have the Bucs needs (in priority order) as – DE, S, WR,
CB, OT, DT, LB, G/C<o:p></o:p></div>
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If the Bucs are to make a non-Martin splash in free agency I
expect it to happen in the secondary, and I’d go as far as saying that signing
a starting boundary corner is a must.
Alterraun Verner and Johnthan Banks should both be back, but of the two,
I’m only slightly convinced that Banks can be a starter in a scheme that I
believe will look for more length and bump ability from its boundary and field
corners. I’d have Verner and Moore fight it out for nickel/dime duties, and if
Verner won’t take a pay cut, replace him with one of the many cheaper
alternatives. Of the available free
agents I prefer Casey Hayward and Sean Smith.
Hayward can play both inside and outside the formation, and Smith is the
larger cover man type I think they’ll begin to target. If their focus is more on nickel play, I
would opt for either Patrick Robinson or Brandon Boykin. Either would immediately be the best slot
corner on the team. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The safety position is in horrible shape. I believe they need to find a starter not
named Conte in free agency and spend a draft pick on the position as well. I like Tandy and McDougald as depth, but
they’ve been playing too many snaps. George
Iloka is the free agent I’d target first, with Walter Thurmond and Tashaun
Gipson as alternatives. I prefer the
flexibility of Iloka (FS/SS) and Thurmond (FS/CB) and believe the defense
improves greatly with Iloka’s physical style ranging the back of the
defense. </div>
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<o:p></o:p><br />
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Staying on that side of the ball and focusing on the ‘not
going crazy in free agency’ theme, I really like free agent DE William
Hayes. I mentioned him as an option for
the Bucs last offseason, and after another 5.5 sacks in part time duty with the
Rams, he’s still worthy. I believe that
pairing him with Will Gholston on the strong side would lock down that
position, allowing the Bucs to focus on the Leo / weak side end in the
draft. Smith returns as a contributor on
that side, but ideally he rotates in behind an upgrade. Jason Pierre-Paul and Mario Williams are the
kind of free agents I’d target (guys coming off down years who I think can
still play at a high level), but with the lack of quality free agent rushers,
they’ll likely get paid. I’d rather pay
DBs, positions that in recent years have seen their markets be slower to
develop than pass rushers. </div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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On the interior of the DL, the Bucs return three quality
players in Gerald McCoy, Akeem Spence, and Clinton McDonald. The latter two should be the primary NTs,
which means the emphasis would be on finding another big guy who can collapse
the pocket. I don’t see him out there in
free agency, so addressing that spot will likely occur in the draft.<o:p></o:p></div>
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At linebacker, the Bucs appear set at the two priority
positions with Lavonte David and Kwon Alexander. Danny Lansanah is a free agent, so Bruce
Carter might have the best shot at starting on the strong side. I’m not too worried about the position either
way given how regularly the game is played with just two linebackers, but I’m
also not going to ignore a talented linebacker in the middle rounds of the
draft should the situation present itself. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m convinced that Donovan Smith is a starting offensive
lineman on this team, but I’m not convinced that he’s the best they can do at
LT for the next decade. Should they
decide to address the tackle position in free agency there are two guys I’d
target. If optimizing the talent at LT is
a priority, I’d sign Kelechi Osmele, and if they want to keep Smith on the left
side I’d sign Mitchell Schwartz (one of the most underappreciated lineman in
the game) to play RT. Demar Dotson and
Gosder Cherlius are still under contract, but it would be hard to argue that
the Bucs aren’t better with a combination of Osmele/Smith/Mitchell as the
starters with Dotson manning the third tackle spot. Improving the protection around Jameis, their
#1 investment, is always a priority. <o:p></o:p></div>
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At receiver, the focus <b><u>still</u></b>
needs to be on finding an eventual replacement for Vincent Jackson. Last year I was hoping they’d target someone
who could man the slot while waiting for the VJax era to end and then shift
outside. My thought was that ’15 would
be his last season with the Bucs. I
think we can all agree that ’16 will be his last year here, at least in a major
role, and I don’t think they should wait until next offseason to think about
his replacement. Plan ahead. Kenny Bell missed all of last year, so
counting on him to make that jump is a leap I’m not ready to take. He also isn’t ideal slot candidate. Louis Murphy, who was also hurt last year, is
probably the top guy there. Not
ideal. I like Russell Shepard and Adam
Humphries, but the Bucs need to improve the top of the depth chart, ideally
with someone who can contribute right away in the slot. Rishard Matthews would be my top target in
free agency, but I don’t see much of a chance of that happening. It looks like the draft will be where they
get better at receiver. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Alex Mack, Alex Boone, and Brandon Brooks would all be
fabulous interior offensive line additions, but I don’t get the feeling the
Bucs see it as a real area of need, even if Logan Mankins retires. Kevin Pamphile appears to be next in line at
LG, and I don’t get the feeling they’re eager to spend big on upgrading over
Joe Hawley and Evan Smith at center. A
versatile day three draft prospect may make the most sense.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In summary, my free agent class would include – <o:p></o:p></div>
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RB – Doug Martin<o:p></o:p></div>
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T – Mitchell Schwartz<o:p></o:p></div>
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DE – William Hayes<o:p></o:p></div>
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CB – Casey Hayward / Sean Smith, Patrick
Robinson<o:p></o:p></div>
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S – George Iloka<o:p></o:p></div>
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That leaves my priorities as DE, S, WR, DT, LB, G/C, and
CB. <o:p></o:p></div>
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My take on the first 9 picks –</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
1)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->TEN – Laremy Tunsil (T, Ole Miss) – A common
selection given their needs and available talent; Ramsey would be my surprise
pick.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--> 2)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->CLE – Carson Wentz (QB, N Dakota St) – It’s no
secret that they need to take a QB, and right now I think Wentz has a leg up on
Goff.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--> 3)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->SD – Jalen Ramsey (DB, FSU) – I’ve seen DL as a
more popular pick here, but Ramsey fills an immediate need at either safety or
corner; draft’s best player in my opinion.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--> 4)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->DAL – Joey Bosa (DE, Ohio State) – I like them
to take a pass rusher, given the shape of the position (Hardy gone and Gregory
suspended).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--> 5)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->JAX – DeForest Buckner (DE, Oregon) – They’d
probably prefer Ramsey given their desperation in the secondary, but adding
Buckner to a healthy Dante Fowler would suddenly improve a weak pass rush.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--> 6)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->BAL – Vernon Hargreaves (CB, Florida) – This is
probably as high as he go; fills a huge need in a division with Antonio Brown,
AJ Green, Martavis Bryant, and likely, again, Josh Gordon.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--> 7)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->SF – Jared Goff (QB, California) – Myles Jack
would be another option, but as I watch this Kapernick/SF situation play out
over the offseason, I don’t get the slightest impression that the Niners still
believe in him; Goff seems an ideal fit for Chip Kelly and the city (local
kid).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--> 8)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->MIA – Myles Jack (LB, UCLA) – This seems like a
great fit to me; LB is a huge need in all areas and Jack does it all.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of those 8, the ones I’d be most interested for the Bucs are
Ramsey, Tunsil, Hargreaves, and Bosa.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Given how the board has played out, best available could end
up being – <o:p></o:p></div>
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Ezekiel Elliott (RB, Ohio State)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Ronnie Stanley (T, Notre Dame)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sheldon Rankins (DT, Louisville)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Noah Spence (DE, E Kentucky)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Kevin Dodd (DE, Clemson) <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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As good as I think Elliott is going to be, I don’t think it
would be responsible GMing to take RB at #9 given the shape of the rest of the
roster. I’ve got this coming down to a
lineman, and the last three candidates are Stanley, Rankins and Spence. Stanley is considered either the #2 or 1a
tackle in this year’s draft and would immediately be the team’s LT, moving last
year’s R2 pick to RT. He drops down the
list if the Bucs sign Schwartz in free agency. Rankins has what I believe is the best
combination of strength, agility, and ability to make plays in the backfield of
this year’s defensive interior. I have
zero problem taking him this high. Spence
could be his year’s best edge rusher and looks the part of the difference maker
the team has needed since Michael Bennett left.
There are well known drawbacks to making him top 10 pick, but that’s the
Bucs job to figure out over the next two months. <o:p></o:p></div>
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My pick – Noah Spence (DE, E Kentucky)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB3v54hxRpR9CjwgfYoJFAb7B5hBfhDmqMKQ77cUnSqO9kCroegjKwE4rNQ5i9Xh6AEoEXjbSxJtikko-HcYRA8Ok4hIswZbrvtjYU6PRFGVabjFCtcdU1P2Mu4Iz0xqjMY7abUQb4N3I/s1600/noah+spence.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB3v54hxRpR9CjwgfYoJFAb7B5hBfhDmqMKQ77cUnSqO9kCroegjKwE4rNQ5i9Xh6AEoEXjbSxJtikko-HcYRA8Ok4hIswZbrvtjYU6PRFGVabjFCtcdU1P2Mu4Iz0xqjMY7abUQb4N3I/s400/noah+spence.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In the end, if Spence passes the Bucs sniff test I think he
has to be the pick. He best brings what
the Bucs need most. If Licht, Koetter,
Smith, and Hayes think he’s worth it, I’ll support the pick. This
one is definitely written in pencil, and one could make valid arguments for
Rankins or Stanley. <o:p></o:p></div>
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My R1 preferences would be (in order) – Ramsey and Tunsil
are in a class by themselves; Spence, Rankins, Stanley, Dodd, Hargreaves,
Bosa. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I’ve got a lot more work to do on the rest of the draft, but
here’s what I’m thinking right now – <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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R2 – Braxton Miller (WR, Ohio State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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I see a lot of Randall Cobb in Miller – QB who made the
switch to WR, an ability to make plays in short spaces, and a positive, team
first mindset. I love his pro future; really
strikes me a winner and someone who will be a success in the NFL.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYzusBmgn1w0I2yhLCbrJBRl764YUevz6h__vw_J-g8YJc1it_QXKGo1UXviNTMirySApoE2KlZQnajjNeqTTeOnV4ulhi-zUFzoCR6q5V5GZnM6te3hm_yf0XWAoilTPBwpuxObRNoLU/s1600/braton+miller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYzusBmgn1w0I2yhLCbrJBRl764YUevz6h__vw_J-g8YJc1it_QXKGo1UXviNTMirySApoE2KlZQnajjNeqTTeOnV4ulhi-zUFzoCR6q5V5GZnM6te3hm_yf0XWAoilTPBwpuxObRNoLU/s400/braton+miller.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Alternate Picks – <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Sterling Shepard (WR, Oklahoma)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Josh Doctson (WR, Kansas State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Eli Apple (CB, Ohio State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jason Spriggs (T, Indiana) <o:p></o:p></div>
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Shilique Calhoun (DE, Michigan State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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William Jackson III (CB, Houston) is a stud, and this
pick assumes he’s unavailable at #39 (I think he ends up a R1 pick). Otherwise, he gets the nod over Miller. <o:p></o:p></div>
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R3 – Sheldon Day (DT, Notre Dame)<o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
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Day is an ideal guy to groom behind McCoy on the
defensive interior. He’s a gap shooter
with a ton of quickness who moves down the line with a lot of agility. If he can add weight and upper body strength
without losing the quickness, he’s a steal at #74. </div>
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Alternate Picks – <o:p></o:p></div>
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Karl Joseph (S, West Virginia)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Javon Hargrave (DT, South Carolina State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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DeAndre Houston-Carson (S, William & Mary)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jason Fanaika (DE, Utah)<o:p></o:p></div>
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R4 – Joe Schobert (LB, Wisconsin)<o:p></o:p></div>
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He looks very comfortable and in control on the field;
excellent change of direction. Played
3-4 OLB at Wisconsin but his size and strength limitations as a pro (relies a
lot on leverage) will likely make him an off-line LB. Schobert has a ton of pass rush experience
and could be a situational rusher / special teams player to start. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQLyHyy6bqO0YkruSbQQed4YtkOoTcZNpBluly7M9Tx9UlIUg1pwbJbtvGmol-HjMMwSXKHELXUyHaTm-n_9p1p9XeRrv23zqqzax_cu1_YSusCcbLuG_bzpZIRfA7vJb1EVvIeRDYEmU/s1600/joe+schobert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQLyHyy6bqO0YkruSbQQed4YtkOoTcZNpBluly7M9Tx9UlIUg1pwbJbtvGmol-HjMMwSXKHELXUyHaTm-n_9p1p9XeRrv23zqqzax_cu1_YSusCcbLuG_bzpZIRfA7vJb1EVvIeRDYEmU/s400/joe+schobert.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Alternate Picks – <o:p></o:p></div>
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Keyarris Garrett (WR, Tulsa)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jack Allen (C, Michigan State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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R5 – Justin Simmons (FS, Boston College)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrhsE3wds4hvtntehhE2Rsd9xwvZSp_T4Ndcy3j_fW40iZBAI79qMpH2ju8ndxP31jvoik0J5zEjruSL1uRv6BsBrZD7AcOx_Le0p0UnGtM2RXVI9E6LFbJnubNimwaJtTmZaGZo4iF00/s1600/justin+simmons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrhsE3wds4hvtntehhE2Rsd9xwvZSp_T4Ndcy3j_fW40iZBAI79qMpH2ju8ndxP31jvoik0J5zEjruSL1uRv6BsBrZD7AcOx_Le0p0UnGtM2RXVI9E6LFbJnubNimwaJtTmZaGZo4iF00/s400/justin+simmons.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Alternate Picks – <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
James Bradberry (DB, Samford)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Deiondre’ Hall (DB, Northern Iowa)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Morgan Burns (CB/KR, Kansas State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m obviously looking at a DB here. Simmons is a true center field safety;
impressed with how quickly he reads and reacts; has a reputation as a studier,
leader, team first type. Bradberry and
Hall are very intriguing prospects, both college corners who could move to
safety in the pros. Would be happy with
anyone from this group.<o:p></o:p></div>
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R6 (1) – Joe Dahl (OL, Washington State)</div>
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Alternate Picks – <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Kyle Friend (OL, Temple)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Parker Ehinger (OL, Cincinnati)<o:p></o:p></div>
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R6 (2) – Matt Judon (DE, Grand Valley State)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7MDc9L1zPl2nYY7ZVsN-_T-945U_Oo0FjwQ_GLgg0QDayGOib7ozBEGaraUgD0oVeP7Z5u2Fv0qoz1EWodNeKcDGcwJrbRvR-C2Lx5Wo3XkHhv4qJxJfUb1J4NCZwd5ZJCd04PIzYfw/s1600/matt+judon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7MDc9L1zPl2nYY7ZVsN-_T-945U_Oo0FjwQ_GLgg0QDayGOib7ozBEGaraUgD0oVeP7Z5u2Fv0qoz1EWodNeKcDGcwJrbRvR-C2Lx5Wo3XkHhv4qJxJfUb1J4NCZwd5ZJCd04PIzYfw/s400/matt+judon.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Alternate Picks – <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Ken Crawley (CB, Colorado)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Roger Lewis (WR, Bowling Green)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The draft wraps up with developmental prospects. Dahl is a T/G whose size may limit him to the
latter position; I like him as quality depth and potentially an eventual
starter. Judon dominated Division II on pure talent; needs pro coaching for
technique / proper body usage.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
In summary – <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
We started out with the following needs – DE, S, WR, CB,
RB, OT, DT, LB, G/C<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
And here’s what I have them addressing – <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
DE – 3 (William Hayes, Noah Spence, Matt Judon)<o:p></o:p></div>
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S – 2 (George Iloka, Justin Simmons)<o:p></o:p></div>
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WR – 1 (Braxton Miller)<o:p></o:p></div>
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CB – 2 (Casey Hayward or Sean Smith, Patrick Robinson)<o:p></o:p></div>
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RB – 1 (Doug Martin)<o:p></o:p></div>
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OL – 2 (Mitchell Schwartz, Joe Dahl)<o:p></o:p></div>
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DT – 1 (Sheldon Day)<o:p></o:p></div>
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LB – 1 (Joe Schobert)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Go Bucs!<o:p></o:p></div>
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talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-36185031418476339932015-05-01T00:54:00.002-04:002015-05-01T00:56:28.339-04:002015 NFL Draft - Buccaneers Day Two - Who's #34?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The 2015 NFL Draft got off to a great start for the
Bucs. Not only did they land their
(hopeful) franchise QB, but the way the rest of the night played out left a ton
of attractive talent on the board to start day two. Who will they pick?</div>
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First let me mention the 5 best available players that I
don’t think the Bucs will target:</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Randy Gregory – I don’t think he’s got the size that the
Bucs are looking for with already two smallish ends in Jacquies Smith and
George Johnson. I understand that Lovie’s
defense doesn’t rely on larger ends, but they can’t become so susceptible to
the run by acquiring too many players with the same physical stats. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Landon Collins – I hope the Bucs have learned their lesson
about taking limited <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>
safeties. Collins was thought to be a R1
pick by the experts, but his limitation to an in-the-box role has him still
looking for a job on Friday. The Bucs
won’t bite, but I wouldn’t be surprised if the safety-needy Titans took him to
kick off R2.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Owamagbe Odighizuwa – Hopefully this is the last time I have
to type his name. I don’t think much of
OO as a pass rusher, but he’s one of the top rated remaining ends. I believe there are less risky options for
the Bucs with this pick. They already
have a ends who are questionable pass rushers.
No need for OO.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
La’el Collins – Without knowing the specifics, I can’t say
that it’s a shame that Collins went undrafted Thursday. For be it for me to analyze his strategy, but
I would have thought that, if innocent, he would have done everything possible
to get out in front of the issue and save himself millions of dollars. The fact that he didn’t definitely doesn’t make
him guilty, but it certainly doesn’t point toward innocence. </div>
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Dorial Green-Beckham (WR, <st1:place w:st="on">Oklahoma</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The best way to describe this guy is to say it can’t be
ignored. I’m speaking to both his
on-field talent and his off-field behavior.
Professional sports have been great at excusing transgressions by
special talents, but that era seems to be fading. If you believe what’s been written, DGB has
been physical with women on <a href="http://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/sec/university-of-missouri/article344785/Columbia-police-say-Missouri-receiver-Dorial-Green-Beckham-will-not-be-arrested.html">more
than one occasion</a>. <st1:place w:st="on">Oklahoma</st1:place>’s staff says he’s a changed young
man, but it’s hard to ignore his past transgressions. Is he a need or a luxury? As talented as he appears, I can find a much
safer receiver in the next round and not lose much in the talent category.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With those exclusions, here are my top 5 picks for the Bucs
at #34:</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5unUMgO8iq6Pd3Gwt4yXJYcMFFs3yey9GkNMU2TlkBXp_zSDKPBNlKKQTpdU4pXjZtp3VxJ521JqIDco_TrAbvRat3C5m1sjOoD6aEdtos1gMMQeLaj_xVQ3xGcVH_8USg6OOBvwgc-8/s1600/draft+-+donovan+smith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5unUMgO8iq6Pd3Gwt4yXJYcMFFs3yey9GkNMU2TlkBXp_zSDKPBNlKKQTpdU4pXjZtp3VxJ521JqIDco_TrAbvRat3C5m1sjOoD6aEdtos1gMMQeLaj_xVQ3xGcVH_8USg6OOBvwgc-8/s1600/draft+-+donovan+smith.jpg" height="206" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) Donovan Smith (OL, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Penn</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Initially believed to be a R3 pick, Smith earned a trip to
the draft in <st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city>. That invitation does not guarantee a
particular draft position, but I doubt he’s available when the Bucs pick at
#65. He’s large and projects as a top
notch RT. Some still project him as a
LT, but he’s got quite a bit of work to do before he gets there. I like him as an option at both RT and guard
but not with this pick. I believe I can
find a less risky player in this spot.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDO7OBYv9s-lUu1ocTj7U6bBVSc575U2Dlaaurawebxr1DX3-HKMu7wbNYQT6UylJRqmDpd3tBgTnIo1LO6Un0yVCH7C5GanD1B1BmK1PRSyJYfOm6PfJlktgM1ZTCAl2o7uh-CJpkueg/s1600/draft+-+eric+kendricks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDO7OBYv9s-lUu1ocTj7U6bBVSc575U2Dlaaurawebxr1DX3-HKMu7wbNYQT6UylJRqmDpd3tBgTnIo1LO6Un0yVCH7C5GanD1B1BmK1PRSyJYfOm6PfJlktgM1ZTCAl2o7uh-CJpkueg/s1600/draft+-+eric+kendricks.jpg" height="232" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) Eric Kendricks (LB, UCLA)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My highest-ranked LB in this year’s draft, Kendricks went
all of Thursday evening without hearing his name called. I think he’d be a stud in the middle of
Lovie’s defense, but they signed Bruce Carter in free agency with an eye on
lining him up there. Was he penciled in
with the possibility of the draft forcing a move to SLB? I think the Bucs would definitely be better
at LB with Kendricks in the lineup, but is it worth it at the expense of the OL
and DL?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDy_npHpVpqVpwu_WP5LFP5QF9_flZUnP19oN4DXZ6zxza2wjZwEdfI0K_ez1QaNsIBlqY4WgsHnzYdEkncjJzjZ9fqDguwrf4sArv98hatmnEeNpkwXAPo6EM9fQ15w9JaB33ycexh2M/s1600/draft+-+tj+clemmings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDy_npHpVpqVpwu_WP5LFP5QF9_flZUnP19oN4DXZ6zxza2wjZwEdfI0K_ez1QaNsIBlqY4WgsHnzYdEkncjJzjZ9fqDguwrf4sArv98hatmnEeNpkwXAPo6EM9fQ15w9JaB33ycexh2M/s1600/draft+-+tj+clemmings.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) TJ Clemmings (OL, <st1:place w:st="on">Pittsburgh</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s this draft’s biggest OL gamble in my opinion. Clemmings shows the strength/potential to be
a truly elite offensive lineman, but his technique needs a ton of work. He’s also very inexperienced having played
just two years on the offensive line. Is
the stress fracture in his foot a big deal?
There may not be a stronger or more physical imposing tackle in this
draft, but with as much development as he apparently needs, is that a risk Bucs
fans want to take? Personally, I’m not
optimistic about this staff’s ability to coach up the offensive line talent.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAA0i99fc4ksFuT_k1tEL4c0qYcG8wia0-BUSTHUJI6hmHx1QH2AgWYiJFmM393uUGELVIGsVtwpWyd7bTlOf2dCgd9QsCuSKB-UFoHt7Ax7Ldy-Sg-BXcTrcXPbf5wxr7GNgD3bUEFIc/s1600/draft+-+preston+smith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAA0i99fc4ksFuT_k1tEL4c0qYcG8wia0-BUSTHUJI6hmHx1QH2AgWYiJFmM393uUGELVIGsVtwpWyd7bTlOf2dCgd9QsCuSKB-UFoHt7Ax7Ldy-Sg-BXcTrcXPbf5wxr7GNgD3bUEFIc/s1600/draft+-+preston+smith.jpg" height="250" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Preston Smith (DE, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Mississippi</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If the Bucs want to address the pass rush with this pick, it
needs to be by selecting Smith. He’ll
play all three downs and give the Bucs the stability they’ve been searching for
since they drafted Adrian Clayborn four years ago. He has size, speed, strength, and hand usage
to be an ideal compliment to Gerald McCoy up front. He’s not a flashy speed rusher, but he’s also
not the type of end to get washed out of plays.
You won’t see a lot of useless upfield rushed by Smith. He fights well to the football.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbw3UkPBY8IberrlZoOo4PyJB8mnaFHwbyxLQUpqqmCA3Y3cnsr8B5Spq05Taurm0wo6Ffh_hB2_SAoXvDxwZjQHUGqRqwvAxc47oUi0CTSzcuHc4v5jc_VySDc5Md7tEcO5gm2VhFBAU/s1600/draft+-+jake+fisher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbw3UkPBY8IberrlZoOo4PyJB8mnaFHwbyxLQUpqqmCA3Y3cnsr8B5Spq05Taurm0wo6Ffh_hB2_SAoXvDxwZjQHUGqRqwvAxc47oUi0CTSzcuHc4v5jc_VySDc5Md7tEcO5gm2VhFBAU/s1600/draft+-+jake+fisher.jpg" height="218" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Jake Fisher (OL, <st1:place w:st="on">Oregon</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the way R1 played out the Bucs will have their pick of
a couple of top offensive tackles. Are
L&L focusing on the offensive line prospects as much as Bucs fans? If they are, Fisher might be the pick. A guy who steadily rose up draft boards
throughout the process, Fisher projects as versatile OL with the ceiling of a
franchise tackle and the floor of a decent RT.
I believe he can play guard as well and would provide the Bucs with two
tackles who have the ability to play on both the left and right side.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Summary</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If I had to put a wager on what I think the Bucs will do,
I’d say Clemmings, and I wouldn’t be mad for a second. The talent is certainly there. It just needs to be developed in the right
situation. Here he wouldn’t be expected
to be a LT right away but could start and grow at RT given the current state of
affairs as the position. Clemmings might
have the most potential of any tackle in this class. Unfortunately, he comes with quite a bit of
risk as well. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Honestly, the Bucs could take any of these top 5, and I’d be
happy. Although I’d really like to see
it come from the top 3. Locking up an
offensive or defensive lineman after acquiring a potential franchise QB is the
right way to build a winner. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 18.0pt;">Go Bucs!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-29069576643309761752015-04-30T18:26:00.002-04:002015-04-30T19:23:59.984-04:00Predicting the 2015 Buccaneer Draft - Last Last Call (For Real)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZqjADcVbeiHcgXTJLGb3bGD4WxVNpBKEDMvW36Wt59NiEOJEfNwa6ULqwA7vysI5aS-IM-Kr68cFKI7I5YJ6gfN9xZr4t3NWJACrn6GNoZOj25FWkWKXnUWhyDxAVbFHrmPBFNyEoRnk/s1600/draft+5+-+top+jameis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZqjADcVbeiHcgXTJLGb3bGD4WxVNpBKEDMvW36Wt59NiEOJEfNwa6ULqwA7vysI5aS-IM-Kr68cFKI7I5YJ6gfN9xZr4t3NWJACrn6GNoZOj25FWkWKXnUWhyDxAVbFHrmPBFNyEoRnk/s1600/draft+5+-+top+jameis.jpg" height="315" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Surprise, I made a few last minute changes today to my final Bucs mock. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is the final one...for real.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
R1 - Jameis Winston (QB, FSU)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
R2 - Jake Fisher (T, Oregon)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Alternate pick - Preston Smith (DE, Mississippi State)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
R3 - Trey Flowers (DE, Arkansas)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Alternate pick - Tre Jackson (G, FSU)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*R3 - Rashad Green (WR, FSU)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Alternate pick - Tre' McBride (WR, William & Mary)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
R4 - Rob Havenstein (T, Wisconsin)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Alternate pick - Derron </i><i>Smith (FS, Fresno State)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
R5 - Ben Heeney (LB, Kansas)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Alternate pick - Jeremiah Poutasi (OL, Utah)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
R6 - Max Garcia (OL, Florida)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> Alternate pick - Bobby McCain (CB, Memphis)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
R7 - Darryl Roberts (CB, Marshall)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Alternate pick - Junior Sylvestre (LB, Toledo)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
R7 - John Crockett (RB, North Dakota State)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Alternate pick - Tye Smith (CB, Towson)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
* - Bucs trade Mike Glennon to Arizona for pick #86</div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-6354466648871615102015-04-29T20:08:00.003-04:002015-04-29T20:08:34.631-04:00Predicting the 2015 Buccaneer Draft - Last Call<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT2be938JurdbumkSAKn-QbxSu0WWHkkTAEYAr8iVI4vHkinzqls3j1Rp3rHKsfy2pAJq6f24nQEuWxm727Pq79HImjA1MfLx3ZSzt20QHDvfSnaPId0NuD84spxxwR5wO_c6uxn8Uoiw/s1600/draft+5+-+draft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT2be938JurdbumkSAKn-QbxSu0WWHkkTAEYAr8iVI4vHkinzqls3j1Rp3rHKsfy2pAJq6f24nQEuWxm727Pq79HImjA1MfLx3ZSzt20QHDvfSnaPId0NuD84spxxwR5wO_c6uxn8Uoiw/s1600/draft+5+-+draft.jpg" height="218" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s finally here. I
guess I can now say from experience, the draft definitely does take longer to
get here when you team has the first pick.
I’m going to be as short and sweet as possible with this version. My first round mock has huge changes, and
I’ve gone a slightly different route in my Bucs draft from the last version.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I mentioned <a href="http://talbuc.blogspot.com/2015/04/predicting-2015-buccaneer-draft-time-is.html">last
time</a>, I’m looking for the Bucs to be aggressive in this year’s draft. If they take a best-available approach rather
than drafting complimentary pieces and projects, as was a large part of last
year’s plan, they’ll find plenty of players who can contribute right away. That shouldn’t be asking for much considering
the team needs to upgrade the starting caliber talent at QB, RT, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">RG</st1:city>, <st1:state w:st="on">DE</st1:state></st1:place>,
WR, and FS. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Spoiler alert – Jameis is going to be the 1<sup>st</sup>
pick. He’s also very likely to take the
first snap in week 1 against the Titans.
I want the Bucs to aggressively shop Glennon to <st1:city w:st="on">Buffalo</st1:city>,
<st1:state w:st="on">Arizona</st1:state>, <st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city>,
<st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>, and <st1:city w:st="on">Houston</st1:city> for a R3 pick. When it comes to the next most movable piece,
Doug Martin, I’m split. I was very high
on the Bucs drafting him in 2012, but he looks far removed from the player who
showed elite talent in stretches as a rookie.
Is it worth moving him for a R5 pick prior to what will likely be his
last year as a Buc? Does the L&L
regime really want to move him bad enough to draft a back for the second year
in a row?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For the last time in 2015, here’s what I think <u>will
happen</u> in R1 of the NFL draft as well as what I think the <u>Bucs should do</u>
with their picks.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Round 1<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4eUhLUwNSL8ANlBWnfvOFDkoOlQotMNgE4ZDeVAzM5uQNFgPcJAeWWkRKzCRvLkoRKP-yU9auKusjcA3LXIUDgMTflCYVL5kuNp8Aw8FAtBiAoBFVi-E6FPjFFxx7wQdff8dLK2TGvs4/s1600/draft+5+-+jameis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4eUhLUwNSL8ANlBWnfvOFDkoOlQotMNgE4ZDeVAzM5uQNFgPcJAeWWkRKzCRvLkoRKP-yU9auKusjcA3LXIUDgMTflCYVL5kuNp8Aw8FAtBiAoBFVi-E6FPjFFxx7wQdff8dLK2TGvs4/s1600/draft+5+-+jameis.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) TB – Jameis Winston (QB, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bucs acquire their most talented player at the QB
position since Vinny Testaverde, and I’ll put it on record once more – Jameis
will finish his career as the greatest Buc QB of all time. I don’t expect him to be the instant savior
of a 2-14 and perpetually downward trending franchise, but he will give
credibility to the position and lead in the establishment of a winning culture.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) TEN – Marcus Mariota (QB, <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve come around. I
now believe (especially after hearing Jim Wyatt say so) that the Titans will
not take Leonard Williams at #2. I
believe that the Titans will be the team to draft Mariota but that he may be
moved to <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>
or (longshot) to Philly during or after the draft. I don’t think <st1:city w:st="on">San Diego</st1:city> is in play. My final destination prediction (in order) – <st1:state w:st="on">Tennessee</st1:state>, <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>, <st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city>, <st1:place w:st="on">Philadelphia</st1:place>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also, the “where will Mariota go / end up” storyline will be
the talk of the evening, even after the Titans take him at #2. That will be the talking point, and the Bucs
and Winston will be back page news.
Surprised?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) *ATL – Dante Fowler (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s your first trade of the draft. Since I believe that the R1-worthy talent
runs dry after about 15 players, I believe that we will see at least two trades
within the top 10 picks. Here’s your
first. The Falcons move up to secure the
draft’s first pass rusher.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) OAK – Leonard Williams (DE, USC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve had the Raiders taking a WR in every prior version, but
this is the first domino of Mariota going #2.
I would take Williams here over Cooper and White. Pairing him with <st1:city w:st="on">Fort
Pierce</st1:city>’s Khalil Mach would help put <st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city>’s defense back on the map.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) WAS – Vic Beasley (DE/OLB, Clemson)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Redskins must replace Brian Orakpo, and I’ve got them
taking Beasley over an offensive lineman.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) * CLE – Amari Cooper (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Jets might take a receiver here themselves (I wouldn’t
if I were them), but if the first 5 picks play out like this, I think someone
will move up to take the draft’s first WR.
I believe <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>
could very well be that team. Who knows
when/if Josh Gordon will play again, and Dwayne Bowe and Brian Hartline are
ideally #2 and #3 receivers respectively.
Flip a coin in the Cooper/White talent argument, but Cooper is probably
the safer option and will be able to contribute more early on.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7) CHI – Kevin White (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">West Virginia</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bears will be in position to draft either Cooper or
White or make a trade with someone who wants to move up and get them. White and Alshon Jeffrey give the Bears a
very dynamic duo at WR.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8) * JAX – Todd Gurley (RB, Georgia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first “WOW!” of the evening. The Jags were aggressive in their pursuit of
DeMarcos Murray. I believe they want to
make a big splash on offense, and what better way to do it than with the
local-ish stud rusher?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
9) NYG – Andrus Peat (T, Stanford)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In a mild surprise, Peat beats Scherff off the board. According to reports by those closest to the
team, of the two top-rated lineman, Peat is the preference.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
10) STL – Brandon Scherff (OL, <st1:state w:st="on">Iowa</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I believe that Peat and Scherff are going to go off the
board at 9 or 10 in one of two ways. Scherff
could slot into either current openings at RG or RT.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
11) * SF – DeVante Parker (WR, <st1:city w:st="on">Louisville</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many mocks hook Teddy Bridgewater up with his former <st1:city w:st="on">Louisville</st1:city> target, but I think <st1:state w:st="on">Minnesota</st1:state> is in a great spot to move down
with whoever wants the draft’s 3<sup>rd</sup> receiver. The Vikings could take Parker if they stay
here, but they’re not desperate at the position after acquiring Mike Wallace.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
12) * NYJ – Bud Dupree (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Kentucky</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In a deal that likely nets the Jets picks on day 2 and day
3, they grab a pass rusher that might end up worthy of a top 6 pick.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
13) NOR – Danny Shelton (NT, Washington)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Saints need help everywhere. Lining up <st1:city w:st="on">Shelton</st1:city> between Cameron Jordan and Akiem
Hicks is a lot of beef up front. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
14) MIA – La’el Collins (OL, LSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the way this draft has played out I think the Dolphins
will go OL, and both Collins and Ereck Flowers should be options. Assuming Collins is not a suspect in the
death in which he’s being questioned, he should hear his name called in the top
half of Thursday’s action. With this
pick, <st1:city w:st="on">Miami</st1:city> has
quietly put together one of the better, younger offensive lines in the league.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
15) * MIN – Trae Waynes (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Michigan</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Vikings are still able to pick up (arguably) the draft’s
best corner and player to whom they’ve been tied in draft conversations in the
deal down with SF.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
16) HOU – Breshad Perriman (WR, UCF)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m not that high on Perriman, but he’s apparently going to
be selected in the early portion of R1.
I’d probably roll the dice with Randy Gregory at this point if I was
calling the shots in <st1:place w:st="on">Houston</st1:place>. The potential of Gregory and Clowney on the
edges behind JJ Watt would be very intriguing.
.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
17) SD – Malcom Brown (DL, <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Chargers need help up front on defense. Brown can play three downs which is key in a
division with Peyton Manning’s arm and <st1:place w:st="on">Denver</st1:place>’s
run game. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
18) KC – Cameron Erving (OL, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Chiefs replace Rodney Hudson with another Nole.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
19) CLE – Ereck Flowers (OL, <st1:place w:st="on">Miami</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It might not be the glaring need, but the Browns could stand
to upgrade the RT and guard positions.
Flowers could start right away. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
20) PHI – Nelson Agholor (WR, USC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another “WOW!”
Whoever Chip Kelly picks, it will elicit a strong reaction. Agholor gives him a guy I see as an excellent
compliment to Jordan Matthews.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
21) CIN – Eddie Goldman (DL, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bengals need to beef up the interior, and Goldman
provides plenty of that.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
22) PIT – Randy Gregory (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Nebraska</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The freefall ends with <st1:city w:st="on">Pittsburgh</st1:city>. I think Gregory goes to a 3-4 team looking
for a rusher, and if he doesn’t go to <st1:place w:st="on">Houston</st1:place>
at #16, I think he’ll slide to #22. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
23) DET – Kevin Johnson (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Wake</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Forest</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t think we’ll see corners go early or often in
R1. Johnson at #23 is just the second
one taken in this mock.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
24) ARI – Melvin Gordon (RB, <st1:place w:st="on">Wisconsin</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This seems like one of the most ideal picks of R1. The Cardinals definitely need a RB, and
Gordon’s talents would fit well in Bruce Arians’ offense. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
25) CAR – Cedric Ogbuehi (T, <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state> A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Still like the fit here.
Given their offseason signings, he won’t have to start right away and
can completely heal that ACL injury.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
26) BAL – Dorial Green-Beckham (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">Oklahoma</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think this is either WR or CB, and <st1:city w:st="on">Baltimore</st1:city> is one of the few teams in the
league with the leadership/stability to take on a question like DGB. If focused, he’s a steal at #26.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
27) DAL – Byron Jones (CB, <st1:place w:st="on">Connecticut</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In this mock the CB-needy Cowboys have their pick of any
corner not named <st1:city w:st="on">Waynes</st1:city>
or Johnson. Hard for me to see them
going in any other direction.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
28) DEN – DJ Humphries (T, <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Looks like an ideal fit for what they want to run in <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>; slides in
immediately at RT.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
29) <st1:state w:st="on">IND</st1:state> – Damarious Randall
(FS, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Arizona</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>) <br />
Will another safety really be drafted ahead of Landon Collins? Don’t count it out. Whether it’s a safety like Collins, a
defensive lineman like Arik Armstead, or a linebacker like Eric Kendricks, the
Colts must improve their defense if they want to get to the top of the AFC
heap. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
30) GB – Eric Kendricks (LB, UCLA)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the better need/talent fits of R1. GB would be thrilled to see Kendricks be on
the board at #30.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
31) NOR – Phillip Dorsett (WR, <st1:place w:st="on">Miami</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dorsett isn’t just a speed guy. He’s a sharp route runner and gives Sean
Payton another dynamic weapon to go with Brandin Cooks and transition from the
Coltston era at receiver.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
32) NE – Mario Edwards (DL, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Patriots finish Thursday’s action with one last “WOW!”
pick. Not many project Edwards this high,
but I believe he’ll be a much better pro than collegiate player. What better place to land than with Bill
Belichick? They spent a good bit of time
with him at FSU’s Pro Day.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Round 2</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As demonstrated above, I don’t think we’ll see much movement
for draft picks from the middle of R1 on.
I don’t believe there is much of a disparity in talent from picks
15-35. Therefore, I would be very much
against the Bucs moving up to secure a player at the bottom of R1. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
33) TEN – Landon Collins (S, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Safety is a huge need for the Titans, and I’m guessing
they’d be happy to find Collins available at the top of R2. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
34) TB</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve had the Bucs taking a tackle, specifically Jake Fisher,
in the last two versions of this exercise.
I’ve now cooled a bit on Fisher and am not so sure he’s the best option,
despite the team’s needs, at this point.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the way R1 played out above, here are the players I
would say are the consensus best available (in no particular order): Eli Harold, Arik Armstead, Shane Ray, Jake
Fisher, Marcus Peters, TJ Clemmings, Stephone Anthony, Preston Smith, AJ Cann,
Owamagbe Odighizuwa, Devin Smith, Laken Tomlinson, Jaelen Strong, and Jalen
Collins. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My top 5 (in no particular order) from that group, based on
my analysis of their talents and the Bucs’ needs, are: Shane Ray, Marcus Peters, Preston Smith, Jake
Fisher, and Jalen Collins. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of those I eliminated – </div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">I
think Armstead will go in R1 and be the biggest bust from this draft. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Harold
isn’t a fit. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">OO is
overrated as a pass rusher</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">I love
Anthony but don’t think LB is in play at #34. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">I’m
not saying a guard isn’t worth this pick, but given the other talent on
the board, I believe that Tomlinson and Cann would both be big need-leans
rather than best talent picks. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Clemmings’
project status and current injury push him out of the picture for me.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">If
it’s not DGB or Agholor, I’m not interested in a WR with this pick. There’s better value in R3.</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My final list comes down to two pass rushers, two corners,
and one lineman. I list Collins because
of the possibility of him playing FS. He
likely has too many questions (failed drug tests and limited on-field snaps) to
make L&L pull the trigger here, but the talent is undeniable. Same with Peters. Is he worth the headache? The talent is there, but he was obstinate
both on and off the field at <st1:place w:st="on">Washington</st1:place>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That narrows it down to Ray, Smith, and Fisher. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I believe I was lower on Ray than the consensus throughout
the draft process (#12, #13, #19, #19 in my mocks), but prior to his traffic
stop, he was a sure-fire R1 pick. Is he
worth the gamble here? Aside from his
questionable decision making, he’s dealing with a toe injury that supposedly
doesn’t need surgery, and is small for the position. Can he be an effective enough pass rusher to make
the Bucs comfortable with his questions?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Is Fisher going to be a really good LT in any offense, or
have I been ignoring/missing flaws in his game based on <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>’s offensive style? To me, he’s a guy who can step in right away
at RT or possibly even guard with the potential to swing over to LT. Will he become strong/stout enough to really
anchor an end of the line, or is he best suited for a zone-heavy scheme? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Smith is a guy I’m much higher on that apparently the expert
consensus. In my mind, he’s the ideal
left end on this defense. He wins with
both power and speed and has a longer wingspan than Beasley, Ray, Orchard,
Fowler, and OO. Wingspan isn’t
everything, but when I look at Smith’s combination of speed, strength, hand
usage, and body type/usage, he’s what the Bucs need up front with Gerald
McCoy. A good example of Smith’s ability
to make adjustments on the move is the 3-cone drill, a drill in which he
finished 2<sup>nd</sup> to Beasley among all pass rushers at the Combine. He’ll go in R2 because he doesn’t have elite
speed or athleticism. The Bucs should
not let spend much of Friday as a spectator.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Preston Smith (DE, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Mississippi</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAyLnkA2ZwsTuDQruuSwaftZ-5K6jdOSgr10fmjDzQOWTmof9yfHsDdeOC03nmo3it1uvs1LopKswVgl8W_lJvGcIdq2H-QoNkVfo85j54pq_0qoDTnH70q0l2X36hhnU0x1uNYsHHLfY/s1600/draft+5+-+preston.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAyLnkA2ZwsTuDQruuSwaftZ-5K6jdOSgr10fmjDzQOWTmof9yfHsDdeOC03nmo3it1uvs1LopKswVgl8W_lJvGcIdq2H-QoNkVfo85j54pq_0qoDTnH70q0l2X36hhnU0x1uNYsHHLfY/s1600/draft+5+-+preston.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some may argue the talent/value with this pick, but I feel
very strongly about this prospect’s potential as a pro. Put Smith at left end with William Gholston
opposite Jacquies Smith and George Johnson, a position in question a month ago
now has some semblance of stability.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I would love to draft Flowers, Humphries or Ogbuehi here,
but they’re long since gone. Just
because the Bucs don’t get an offensive lineman with this pick doesn’t mean
that the position can’t/won’t be addressed.
I’m also not giving up on Fisher; just backing off of him as my lockdown
favorite here. I’d really be thrilled
with either one, but in the end I believe Smith is the best option of all the
players I listed. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Round 3</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Again, I don’t want to force a position on a pick,
especially this early. Your selections
through the first three rounds should be players who contribute right
away. With that in mind, I know I need
to draft a starting caliber offensive lineman with one of my next two picks,
and I also still need to take advantage of the most talent-laden position group
in the draft, WR.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I did last time, I’m dealing Glennon for a R3 pick. I’ll project the destinations in this order –
<st1:city w:st="on">Buffalo</st1:city>, <st1:state w:st="on">Arizona</st1:state>,
<st1:city w:st="on">Houston</st1:city>, <st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city>,
and <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The picks – Tre’ Jackson (G, FSU) and Tre McBride (WR,
William & Mary)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgldTyMXeeLP3-0uZTh54bGv_SgZCNb6zstf2izNL6-1r0NVz6wkBz3jcdqlESn5cDZ8Q1RQr2sSEQj2SgnsoQ6AaQJ0886xovAP3Kgs1gfVK6Swo2Q_-FijQauMqbqecOX040Xb0oIAJU/s1600/draft+5+-+tre+j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgldTyMXeeLP3-0uZTh54bGv_SgZCNb6zstf2izNL6-1r0NVz6wkBz3jcdqlESn5cDZ8Q1RQr2sSEQj2SgnsoQ6AaQJ0886xovAP3Kgs1gfVK6Swo2Q_-FijQauMqbqecOX040Xb0oIAJU/s1600/draft+5+-+tre+j.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:place w:st="on">Jackson</st1:place>
gives the Bucs an immediate upgrade at RG, and McBride steps in at the slot and
projects an eventual ideal #2 opposite Evans.
I no longer see Donovan Smith lasting until R3, and I don’t think Ty
Sambrailo is worthy of selecting this high.
Point being, I see the Bucs OT options in R3 as limited. Take the guy who can play right away, and the
fact that he blocked for the #1 pick the last two years doesn’t hurt. I think you plug <st1:city w:st="on">Jackson</st1:city> in at RG now and look to address the
position again in another 8 years. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3FTw2KbDNvuFMevjwk6lWN349sKINbvbpI38ysLhxYknyQYTSN38rz8EYhj_9F8kGJqJ4ziPIhP3RV1vT0h2L2H5PilYF-tKfC9FuKKGXDIeWSCKK9N7eMNCbKlgm83kcRQnYT4pTTk/s1600/draft+5+-+tre+m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3FTw2KbDNvuFMevjwk6lWN349sKINbvbpI38ysLhxYknyQYTSN38rz8EYhj_9F8kGJqJ4ziPIhP3RV1vT0h2L2H5PilYF-tKfC9FuKKGXDIeWSCKK9N7eMNCbKlgm83kcRQnYT4pTTk/s1600/draft+5+-+tre+m.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I still love Rashad Green, but even I admit that following
up <st1:place w:st="on">Jackson</st1:place> with
a third Nole would be a bit much. I rank
them virtually the same for the Bucs, but I think McBride has the slightly higher
overall upside as a pro. Back on the
bandwagon! I believe that McBride might
have the best in-traffic receiving ability of any receiver in this class, and
his downfield battles for the ball fill highlight videos. His biggest knock is a lack of elite game
speed, but his route running, formation flexibility, and the ability to
consistently move the chains makes him well worth the pick here.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Round 4</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So far:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R1 – Jameis Winston (QB, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R2 – Preston Smith (DE, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Mississippi</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R3 – Tre’ Jackson (G, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R3 – Tre McBride (WR, William & Mary)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If I’m Licht I see my highest remaining priority as drafting
a starting caliber tackle. I had the
Bucs going FS, Derron Smith here last time, but based on how I have this
version progressing, the safety position might be the odd spot out.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Rob Havenstein (T, <st1:place w:st="on">Wisconsin</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh__u0Ucg1mT7dETj-xqhsoc1vAm27A0GhgPRI-6qu_K_S37reDx0AG1ejq4fc9Ig_aGHKZytyBr5d67wQ1uUHkbkWC9XcSgyjK9mXxk6f0DI4_-BRVJBMTdl68xK4aRu4irYCniBRuemM/s1600/draft+5+-+havenstein.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh__u0Ucg1mT7dETj-xqhsoc1vAm27A0GhgPRI-6qu_K_S37reDx0AG1ejq4fc9Ig_aGHKZytyBr5d67wQ1uUHkbkWC9XcSgyjK9mXxk6f0DI4_-BRVJBMTdl68xK4aRu4irYCniBRuemM/s1600/draft+5+-+havenstein.jpg" height="262" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You want to talk about upgrading the strength on the right
side of the line? Well you’ve done it
with the Jackson and Havenstein combination.
Both players will need development in pass protection (as most rookies
do) but excel as physical run blockers right now. Yes, Havenstein projects as a right tackle
only, but that’s why he’s available in R4.
Also, I’m not of the belief that every tackle on the roster must be able
to play both sides of the line.
Havenstein will make himself plenty of money as a right side only guy.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Round 5</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had the Bucs trading Doug Martin in the last version for
the first pick in R5. This time I’m
holding onto Martin and bypassing taking a RB in the draft. Again, I’m not truly beholden to one side of
the debate over the other. Let’s see
what he can do behind an improved line and with better play at the QB
position. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve taken a QB, DE, G, WR, and T so far. Since I’m holding onto Martin, I don’t need
to take a RB. The positions that would
have my attention are OL, S, CB, and LB.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Jeremiah Poutasi (OL, <st1:place w:st="on">Utah</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6a2Dok9IMfaAYpoRM6ZLfeIE69KVlIB3iacqE_ia8WnIuiIZT2zmCoObU4HjkjkeD_m0BxEThVsI-J_nSJiFAZn66oEqPnUQOyOpqqW8MetFdi6Y0CET6KZlS4KgIrSDNl36gopG2pWw/s1600/draft+5+-+poutasi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6a2Dok9IMfaAYpoRM6ZLfeIE69KVlIB3iacqE_ia8WnIuiIZT2zmCoObU4HjkjkeD_m0BxEThVsI-J_nSJiFAZn66oEqPnUQOyOpqqW8MetFdi6Y0CET6KZlS4KgIrSDNl36gopG2pWw/s1600/draft+5+-+poutasi.jpg" height="281" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I took Poutasi in an earlier draft, and I’m going back him
here. Like Jackson and Havenstein,
here’s another powerful force up front.
Poutasi played predominantly tackle at <st1:state w:st="on">Utah</st1:state>,
but he would ideally be an eventual replacement for Logan Mankins at the guard
spot opposite <st1:city w:st="on">Jackson</st1:city>. Centers Andy Gallik and Max Garcia would be
in play for me here as well. Get one of
those three, and I’m pleased. Also, if
they need another tackle, Laurence Gibson is the guy I like in the R5-R6
range. Ben Heeney and Ramik Wilson are
the LBs I’d pursue in this round.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Rounds 6 & 7</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To close things out, I’m sticking with my three previous
picks:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bobby McCain (CB, <st1:city w:st="on">Memphis</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Junior Sylvestre (OLB, <st1:city w:st="on">Toledo</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tye Smith (CB, <st1:city w:st="on">Towson</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Summary</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjObM0INOSLHhiWfdy3M5Ws4sS9brWGvKVswJ2djxnl4XqRHUv4QW7I44rsRyGPkTB9Za5EIP0AhOqHtAlrkLo7UUL4lEFVSTahsZqaDxJEdMlw1rpuxvOg91Cu9DP6VXKdBgeJT-C5TE4/s1600/draft+5+-+jameis+lovie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjObM0INOSLHhiWfdy3M5Ws4sS9brWGvKVswJ2djxnl4XqRHUv4QW7I44rsRyGPkTB9Za5EIP0AhOqHtAlrkLo7UUL4lEFVSTahsZqaDxJEdMlw1rpuxvOg91Cu9DP6VXKdBgeJT-C5TE4/s1600/draft+5+-+jameis+lovie.jpg" height="308" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I emerge from this version pleased with the work done of the
offensive side of the ball. The Bucs get
their QB, an ideal fit at WR, and three starting caliber linemen. As I detailed (excruciatingly) I think Smith
is the way to go at #34, and McCain is going to impress a lot of people with
the way he plays the slot. I would have
preferred to add a safety at some point, but we can’t always get everything we
want. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Final haul – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jameis Winston (QB, FSU) </div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">week 1
starting QB</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:place w:st="on">Preston</st1:place> Smith (DE, <st1:street w:st="on">Mississippi St</st1:street>)</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">a
needed DL force; does what Clayborn was drafted to do</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tre’ Jackson (G, FSU) </div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">day 1
starting RG</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tre McBride (WR, William & Mary)</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">today’s
#3 WR, tomorrow’s #2</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rob Havenstein (T, <st1:state w:st="on">Wisconsin</st1:state>)
</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">may
not start right away but will play for a long time once he does</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jeremiah Poutasi (OL, <st1:state w:st="on">Utah</st1:state>)</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">the
cherry on top of a power-focused OL expedition</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bobby McCain (CB, <st1:place w:st="on">Memphis</st1:place>)</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Ronde-lite
nickel to groom behind <st1:city w:st="on">Moore</st1:city></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Junior Sylvestre (OLB, <st1:city w:st="on">Toledo</st1:city>)</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Special
teams dynamo and depth at LB</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tye Smith (CB, <st1:city w:st="on">Towson</st1:city>)</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Developmental
corner who could eventually start on the outside</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 18.0pt;">Go Bucs!</span></b></div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-28863810285970334322015-04-20T00:12:00.006-04:002015-04-20T00:12:51.524-04:00Predicting the 2015 Buccaneer Draft - The Time is Now<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDnJb_ELe82VAVDsthzcxjfei-l8aEj-sLDldkGaPzcZEk6ty4EZNnZP69ALkweb0w62x6zxljueZyBKib52RJG2eUXZd8tksQeREqserLJ4TcmwOlXJWuWgpB6xe4LzFAK5hkXJbiSNk/s1600/draft+4+-+lovie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDnJb_ELe82VAVDsthzcxjfei-l8aEj-sLDldkGaPzcZEk6ty4EZNnZP69ALkweb0w62x6zxljueZyBKib52RJG2eUXZd8tksQeREqserLJ4TcmwOlXJWuWgpB6xe4LzFAK5hkXJbiSNk/s1600/draft+4+-+lovie.jpg" height="283" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The lead-up has been painfully slow, but the 2015 NFL Draft
is less than two weeks away. Since the
last time I went through this exercise, the only substantive move the Bucs have
made is to trade for DE George Johnson and drop 63 spots in the draft in the
process. I’ve already expressed my
thoughts on that <a href="http://www.bucschat.com/topic/38523-bucs-switch-undisclosed-late-round-picks-with-lions-to-get-de/?p=798703">“deal”</a>. That move doesn’t lessen the need to add a
pass rusher, but Licht and Lovie might disagree. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I see the Bucs needs as QB, T, G, DE, WR, S, CB, and LB, and
as it stands right now, they have 7 draft picks. Coming off a 2-14 season followed by an
unspectacular free agency period, April 30 starts possibly the most important three
day span of the L&L regime. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For this reason, I expect them to be active in the trade
market draft weekend. As a fan who has
been disgusted by the organization’s performance both on and off the field for
more than a decade, I need them to be active in the trade market draft
weekend. In addition to the 7 draft
picks, they have a couple of movable parts (namely Mike Glennon and Doug Martin)
that could net them additional prospects.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Barring the upset of all upsets, the Bucs will kick off the
draft by selecting what they hope is a franchise QB. I believe they need to partner that pick with
aggressive moves that give them multiple players who can contribute right
away. If the Bucs take who I expect them
to take #1 and he performs as I expect he will perform, the wise move would be
work the draft to address those primary needs with players who can step in as
soon as possible. But that’s just
me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On with the picks…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Round 1<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiI-nz8WYMSe5bV0PU3yi4To01nvBX0OjINs2sUUAp02lhofZj5c8o0x20bj8Of2Kd6kANuaIWQwxDGoeWs-6C1hg3_QB3DmUSlway9QVfnw5oIuUU_QM8xN35GJEz3JZG63IihyAFQ1Y/s1600/draft+4+-+jameis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiI-nz8WYMSe5bV0PU3yi4To01nvBX0OjINs2sUUAp02lhofZj5c8o0x20bj8Of2Kd6kANuaIWQwxDGoeWs-6C1hg3_QB3DmUSlway9QVfnw5oIuUU_QM8xN35GJEz3JZG63IihyAFQ1Y/s1600/draft+4+-+jameis.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#1 TB – Jameis Winston (QB, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
January…check.
February…check. March…check. First half of April…check. Jameis was the Bucs best bet back in January,
and all he had to do to stay at the top of the draft board was to stay
clean. <st1:place w:st="on">Mission</st1:place> (nearly) accomplished. Sooner than later, this will be his
team. They will finally have someone to
truly build the franchise around. I’ve
said it before, and I’ll say it again.
Jameis will be the best QB in the history of the Buccaneer
franchise. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#2 TEN – Leonard Williams (DL, USC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here is where most “experts” have Marcus Mariota going. I don’t see it. I don’t believe that there will be a team
that offers anything of significance to <st1:state w:st="on">Tennessee</st1:state>
for the rights to the Oregon QB, largely because unless he’s playing for Chip
Kelly, he’s likely to need a professional redshirt. I’ve dropped him in each of the mocks I’ve
done (3<sup>rd</sup>, 5<sup>th</sup>, 6<sup>th</sup>). I simply don’t see him as a prospect worthy
of giving away the future to take at 2.
Anyways, for the fourth time in four tries, Williams follows Winston off
the board.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#3 JAX – Vic Beasley (DE/OLB, Clemson)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dante Fowler gets mocked here a lot, but I’m sticking with
Beasley. I think they are the two most
likely picks, and I still believe that Beasley is the better fit for Gus
Bradley’s LEO position. We’ll find out
what he thinks soon enough.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#4 OAK – Kevin White (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">West Virginia</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I went with White the first two times and Cooper the last
go-round, and now I’m back on White. The
only other player I’m considering here is Williams if he falls to #4.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#5 (trade) ATL – Dante Fowler (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I proposed this WAS/ATL trade last time around, and I still
like it. <st1:city w:st="on">Atlanta</st1:city> must add an elite pass rusher, and
jumping up 3 spots allows them to take the best of what’s left after the
Jaguars take their pick. I really see a
strong possibility of this exact trade pairing happening April 30. <span style="text-transform: uppercase;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#6 (trade) PHI – Marcus Mariota (QB, <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have no clue where Mariota is going to go, but aligning
him with Chip Kelly seems like a safe move.
I’m sticking with the deal I proposed last time:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Philly trades <st1:place w:st="on">Bradford</st1:place> to the Browns for pick #19. Philly
then flips that selection, the 20th overall pick, and Mychal Kendricks, to
the Jets for pick #6. If you look at the trade value chart, #19 and #20
are more than enough for pick #6. I think Kendricks is the cherry on top
and an expendable player based on Philly’s offseason activity. Chip Kelly
said that he wouldn’t mortgage his future to move up for one player, but this
scenario allows him to get his star pupil and stay true to his word.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#7 (trade) MIA – Amari Cooper (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just as strongly as I feel <st1:city w:st="on">Atlanta</st1:city> will move up for a pass rusher, I
believe that the Dolphins will move up for a receiver. They’ve reworked their receiving corps by
trading and releasing Mike Wallace and Brian Hartline and trading for Kenny
Stills. Jarvis Landry is best in the
slot, so they need to add a boundary #1 opposite Stills. Whether it’s White or Cooper, I think <st1:city w:st="on">Miami</st1:city> moves up to get the
second receiver off the board. <st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city> makes sense as a
trade partner because they have multiple needs and don’t appear to be keying on
one player or position.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#8 (trade) WAS – Brandon Scherff (OL, <st1:state w:st="on">Michigan</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:place w:st="on">Washington</st1:place>
still gets their guy at #8. This trade
pairing with ATL just makes too much sense to not happen. The Falcons are desperate for a pass rusher,
and no one in the top 7 other than the Redskins is going to take an offensive
lineman. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#9 NYG – La’el Collins (OL, LSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Collins will line up at either RT or RG for the Giants,
depending on what they want to do with Justin Pugh.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#10 STL – Andrus Peat (OL, Stanford)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first pure/definite tackle goes off the board. If this draft looks exactly like my last one
so far, it’s because it is. I promise
picks will change.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#11 (trade) SF – Bud Dupree (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Kentucky</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Starting here. I
don’t know the odds of this happening, but I like the idea of San Fran moving
up a handful of spots to secure their target.
This just seems like something they’d do. The Niners move up 4 positions, and ahead of
the pass rush needy Saints, to land Dupree, a player reportedly held in very
high regard by coaching staffs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#12 CLE – DeVante Parker (WR, <st1:city w:st="on">Louisville</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Browns actually do some things that make sense. After acquiring their QB in <st1:place w:st="on">Bradford</st1:place>,
they give him a legit #1 receiver.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#13 NOR – Arik Armstead (DL, <st1:place w:st="on">Oregon</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It might surprise some folks if Armstead goes this high, but
he may have more raw potential than any other defensive player in the
class. The production hasn’t been there,
hence the lack of top 5 mentions. I had
Randy Gregory here last time but feel that Armstead may be more worthy of the
selection. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#14 (trade) CHI – Danny Shelton (DL, <st1:state w:st="on">Washington</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He makes sense for them at #7 and is a heck of a value 7
spots later. Plugging <st1:city w:st="on">Shelton</st1:city> in as the nose of their new 3-4
defense is a great way to start restocking that side of the ball.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#15 (trade) MIN – Trae Waynes (CB, Michigan State)<br />
Wrapping up the SF/MIN swap, the Vikings deal down and are still able to secure
the press corner that fits Mike Zimmer’s defense. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#16 HOU – Randy Gregory (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Nebraska</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think the Texans are going to take a front 7
defender. This time I give them the
sliding pass rusher who Greg Cosell said is more athletic than <st1:place w:st="on">Houston</st1:place>’s #1 overall pick
from last year, Jadeveon Clowney. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#17 SD – Todd Gurley (RB, Georgia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is right around the range I expect him to come off the
board, and again, a franchise back like Gurley might be enough to convince
Rivers to make the move with the rest of the team to LA.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#18 KC – Cameron Erving (OL, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve got two players that I really like in this spot for the
Chiefs. Erving is obviously one, and
Eric Kendricks is the other. Here Erving
replaces fellow Nole, Rodney Hudson as the Chiefs center.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#19 (trade) NYJ – Shane Ray (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Missouri</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#20 (trade) NYJ – Melvin Gordon (RB, <st1:state w:st="on">Wisconsin</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve still got the Jets picking up Ray and Gordon in the
trade with Philly. I’m thinking one of
Ray and Gregory will be on the board at this point, and I still like the Jets
to take Gordon despite their signing of Stevan Ridley. I’m projecting the Jets to head into the
season with Ridley or Chris Ivory (likely Ivory) along with a rookie and Bilal
Powell.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#21 CIN – Ereck Flowers (T, <st1:city w:st="on">Miami</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m sticking with Flowers here as a future fixture on the
outside, but I also think Malcom Brown could be in play if he’s still on the
board. If anyone’s counting, that’s 5
offensive linemen in the first 21 picks.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#22 PIT – Byron Jones (CB, <st1:place w:st="on">Connecticut</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jones is one of the more difficult players to project in
this year’s draft. He could end up being
the first corner selected, or he could go early R2. My money is right in this range, and corner
is the biggest need for the Steelers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#23 (trade) <st1:state w:st="on">IND</st1:state> – Landon
Collins (S, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s a new trade.
I’ve been ready for a while here and there that Collins is high on
Indy’s board, and I think they’ll have to move ahead of Baltimore and Dallas to
ensure that they get him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#24 ARI – Malcom Brown (DL, <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This isn’t the biggest area of need for the Cardinals, but
Calais Campbell and the recently signed Cory Redding are on the wrong side of
their playing primes. I like Kendrick as
an option here as well.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#25 CAR – Cedric Ogbuehi (T, <st1:place w:st="on">Texas</st1:place> A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is a pick I don’t believe I’ll be changing. The Panthers reportedly have been big on
Ogbuehi for a while and see someone they can groom (and let heal) behind their
stopgap additions. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#26 BAL – Breshad Perriman (WR, UCF)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m sticking with receiver for the Ravens, but I’m swapping
Strong for Perriman, who has a very similar skill set to the recently-lost
Torrey Smith.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#27 DAL – Kevin Johnson (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Wake</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Forest</st1:placetype></st1:place>)<br />
The RB position for the Cowboys gets a lot of talk when it comes to this pick,
but I think they’re far more likely to draft either a corner or DT. Johnson could be off the board long before 27
on the 30<sup>th</sup>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#28 DEN – DJ Humphries (T, <st1:place w:st="on">Florida</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve got to think the Broncos go OL with this pick. Cameron Erving was my pick for them in the
last 2 versions, but he’s gone at 18 this time around. Humphries can be inserted immediately at RT
and be a potential eventual replacement for LT Ryan Clady.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#29 (trade) DET – Eddie Goldman (DT, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the 2<sup>nd</sup> half of my 5<sup>th</sup> R1 trade,
the Lions finish addressing the losses of Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley by
pairing Goldman with Haloti Ngata. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#30 GB – Eric Kendricks (LB, UCLA)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some “experts” say that Kendricks doesn’t belong going in
R1. I’m having trouble keeping him on
the board through the first 29 picks.
I’ve got to think the Packers would pounce on him here given their
desperate situation at ILB.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#31 NOR – Eli Harold (DE/OLB, <st1:place w:st="on">Virginia</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After netting Armstead at 13, the Saints select a pass
rusher in this spot. Corners Jalen
Collins and Marcus Peters could be in play, and my sneaky pick for them is AJ
Cann.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#32 NE – Mario Edwards (DL, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m closing out this version’s R1 with a bit of a
surprise. I don’t think Edwards is
listed as a R1 pick anywhere, but the Patriots are known to be interested in
him and he’s apparently endeared more by coaching staffs than scouts. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Round 2<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#33 TEN – Dorial Green-Beckham (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">Oklahoma</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If <st1:state w:st="on">Tennessee</st1:state>
holds onto this pick, I think they will be intrigued with the possibility of
adding DGB, a first round talent with questions. The Titans have a bunch of #2 and #3
receivers, and DGB (if focused) is a legit #1.
Maybe they feel comfortable taking a chance with this pick after taking,
arguably, the draft’s safest selection, Leonard Williams, in R1.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#34 – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had 7 OL picked in R1 which is (give or take one) likely what
we’ll actually see. The Titans are also
a threat at #33. With the way this mock
has played out, Jake Fisher and TJ Clemmings are the best available OL. I basically have Fisher and Humphries neck
and neck as my favorites at #34, and Mississippi State DE Preston Smith remains
my third choice. If Clemmings is the
highest rated tackle left in this spot, I could see the Bucs fielding
calls. Donovan Smith drew a draft
invite, but I think this is too high to take him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Jake Fisher (OL, <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfrVHoqPR2fnvre-gKQJId5cAaSnsPhQOI2BqxHxJ1jhqCq5OnxSFRBvM0FUrNoHrc9osFB9CGXiCptyjmmfm9THt9eKIAsfyhJX6hZv7XNgf8UEhQSFRXSI7RWwIvgS_k-UF36vZhtB0/s1600/draft+4+-+fisher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfrVHoqPR2fnvre-gKQJId5cAaSnsPhQOI2BqxHxJ1jhqCq5OnxSFRBvM0FUrNoHrc9osFB9CGXiCptyjmmfm9THt9eKIAsfyhJX6hZv7XNgf8UEhQSFRXSI7RWwIvgS_k-UF36vZhtB0/s1600/draft+4+-+fisher.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fisher steps in right away at RT and, paired with Demar
Dotson, gives the Bucs two tackles with the skill sets to play both ends of the
line. Fisher is an athletic tackle who
offers quite a bit of power drive blocking in the run game as well. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Round 3<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bucs own the first pick in R3, but I believe they can
gain another one. If Jameis is the pick
at #1, he’s in all likelihood going to start right away. That would make Glennon one of the league’s
better backup, a position in which I’ve placed less and less importance in
recent history. I’d rather take an
aggressive approach in getting what I can for Glennon and back up Jameis with a
veteran that becomes available after the draft.
In a league where we struggle to identify 20 quality QBs total, I
believe that the band-aid approach is the most economical way to manage the
roster. I don’t need to aim for having a
starting-caliber backup, because the odds of needing that starter to play for a
significant stretch doesn’t outweigh my need to upgrade other positions.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also, look at the available QBs in this year’s class. After Jameis and Mariota, there’s not even a
consensus on who’s the third best passer.
I think Petty and Grayson could eventually be decent starters, I’m not
sold on Hundley at all, and it only gets worse after him. So if these QB-needy teams are seeing what
I’m seeing, where are they going to find a starting caliber passer? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:state w:st="on">Arizona</st1:state>
has Carson Palmer. Technically, they
don’t need a starter, but everyone remembers how their defense was dragging a
limp offense into the playoffs while he was out. Palmer also turns 36 two days after Christmas
and is coming off his second ACL tear. With
<st1:city w:st="on">San Francisco</st1:city> trending in the wrong direction
this offseason and <st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city> being <st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city>, <st1:state w:st="on">Arizona</st1:state> is on
the verge of establishing itself as <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s
biggest nemesis. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The other team I’m looking at is <st1:city w:st="on">Buffalo</st1:city>.
They have Matt <st1:place w:st="on">Cassel</st1:place> penciled in as
their starter and Tyrod Taylor and EJ Manuel as backups. The latter two aren’t guaranteed to make the
final roster, and <st1:place w:st="on">Cassel</st1:place> shouldn’t be starting
on any team looking to compete for the playoffs. <st1:city w:st="on">Buffalo</st1:city>’s
roster is built, both defensively and offensively, to get to the playoffs right
now. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Would the Cardinals think the 86<sup>th</sup> overall pick
is worth the insurance of not repeating last year’s struggle? Might the Bills think the 81<sup>st</sup>
pick is worth what would be the best signal caller on their roster? These two teams will be definitely be looking
for QBs, as will the Jets, Browns, Rams, Texans, and Redskins. Is it logical to think they’ll find a better
option with those picks who can help them sooner than Glennon? Is it reasonable to think the Bucs can
negotiate a R3 pick from one of those many teams looking for QB in a dead
market?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have the Bucs acquiring <st1:city w:st="on">Buffalo</st1:city>’s R3 pick (#81 overall) for Mike
Glennon.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What should the Bucs do with those two picks?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After going QB and OT, I’m looking to find a third
starter. Which positions? I believe <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">WR</st1:city>, <st1:state w:st="on">DE</st1:state></st1:place>, and
OL are where to look, and here are my picks – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#65 – Rashad Greene (WR, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#81 – Anthony Chickillo (DE, <st1:city w:st="on">Miami</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDN7GETHj1S3S1zA4fL9Psn2vlrtXHM1RxHbL3QpBGVQ27ELptK6_NKAtk1CGdZgfhNmkEWkJDpQWoOS-D7qADZ1z0GNjujXKuhnKE1cTXNL5BJhyRO5sytcNRli6gXf0jUSW92xcK7MI/s1600/draft+4+-+rashad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDN7GETHj1S3S1zA4fL9Psn2vlrtXHM1RxHbL3QpBGVQ27ELptK6_NKAtk1CGdZgfhNmkEWkJDpQWoOS-D7qADZ1z0GNjujXKuhnKE1cTXNL5BJhyRO5sytcNRli6gXf0jUSW92xcK7MI/s1600/draft+4+-+rashad.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greene was my R3 pick for the Bucs last time around as
well. As I mentioned, he offers exactly
what the team needs in a receiver – someone who can play right now and be a
real asset in the slot while providing the ability to play out wide when Vincent
Jackson inevitably moves on. The fact
that he’s been the #1 target of the team’s likely #1 pick for the last two
years can’t be ignored.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcB2krKoCG75Ac9PTaIyi2YYASTjrwtSxSIc4eHBGhgDW4fi9j3-ltrZf-sEDcFVPGwIpHvlOset8NbBHG4p5vEIB4DKb0UJ1pAuMQCFB2jmtxXjCL1p1ec6HqWRTF2tMalj4gaVfivJ8/s1600/draft+4+-+chickillo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcB2krKoCG75Ac9PTaIyi2YYASTjrwtSxSIc4eHBGhgDW4fi9j3-ltrZf-sEDcFVPGwIpHvlOset8NbBHG4p5vEIB4DKb0UJ1pAuMQCFB2jmtxXjCL1p1ec6HqWRTF2tMalj4gaVfivJ8/s1600/draft+4+-+chickillo.jpg" height="293" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chickillo is a three-down end who, according to the player
himself, feels that he was misused (and therefore undervalued) at <st1:place w:st="on">Miami</st1:place>. He’s a strong edge setter who, even miscast,
showed the ability to use his arms to direct the action and vision to make
consistent reads on the ball. I believe
that he would make a fine pairing with William Gholston at the base end
position opposite the combination of George Johnson and Jacquies Smith. It wouldn’t rival the pass rushing potential
of the Giants during their Super Bowl run, but it would make the Bucs competent
at the position. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Round 4<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After a lengthy R3, I’ll keep this one short and sweet. Bradley McDougald has shown promise at SS,
but the Bucs appear to be actively looking for a FS after trading Dashon
Goldson to the Redskins. Chris Conte and
Major Wright make for better depth than starters. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t want the Bucs to spend an earlier pick on a
safety. Yes, I said I wanted to get
starters with the first three (four now if you include the Glennon trade)
picks, but I believe you can get equitable R3 DE value for a FS in R4. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikFFE6aFfQIUwSn6myBPRydPXGbDnu6CEg_qM7Kl_3kMJgKWWWVc01PIj1erEhCsZUOgTKDSQn9EdEYcdvN1bdiZcHaHo4xJzX2BmrjEEx9X2oe82E1V0A8XZvD_BlQGY_IrhtpgVxYoA/s1600/draft+4+-+smith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikFFE6aFfQIUwSn6myBPRydPXGbDnu6CEg_qM7Kl_3kMJgKWWWVc01PIj1erEhCsZUOgTKDSQn9EdEYcdvN1bdiZcHaHo4xJzX2BmrjEEx9X2oe82E1V0A8XZvD_BlQGY_IrhtpgVxYoA/s1600/draft+4+-+smith.jpg" height="307" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – #109 – Derron Smith (FS, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Smith is a playmaker with coverage skills who I believe he
possesses the ability to play the role in Lovie’s single-high sets. Having Wright and Conte around would allow
Smith to focus on certain sets early while learning the entire defensive
playbook. He also looks to have the
ability to line up in coverage against slot receivers, surely a plus for a team
lacking in talent and depth at CB.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Round 5<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bucs had two R5 picks until the George Johnson trade,
but thanks to the magic of pretend general managing, they’re about to have a
second once again.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Despite public quotes that could vaguely be construed to
contain support for Doug Martin, I believe the L&L regime is ready to cut
ties with former R1 pick. Whether it was
the offensive line, QB play, or Martin himself, the muscle hamster hasn’t
resembled the back who tallied the 5<sup>th</sup> most yards in the league as a
rookie. Still, he has value. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One locale where I believe he would prove valuable is <st1:state w:st="on">Tennessee</st1:state>, where last
year’s flop Bishop Sankey resides as the team’s only rosterable rusher. Maybe Martin can give the Titans a glimpse of
the record setting rookie from a few seasons ago, but safe estimates say he
could give the Titans more of what they’re looking for (a starting,
three-down-capable back) in a rusher than a R5 pick will.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have the Bucs acquiring <st1:place w:st="on">Tennessee</st1:place>’s R3 pick (#138 overall) for Doug
Martin.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Order has been restored.
The Bucs again have two R5 selections, and here are the picks – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#138 – Andy Gallik (C, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Boston</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">College</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#162 – Matt Jones (RB, <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLE37MFXWN6EWAFkCcDyRwWzCEJGA1iHYC1HEhBRbZuPXlpTcp-7og9S0BGln83AXz9lq586bszaF3AvNc9sL8Qq2aNQZC4p34JO5mfIZ2ia_n-BLKjSPITtCymmip6irT9Q3k-OALmss/s1600/draft+4+-+gallik.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLE37MFXWN6EWAFkCcDyRwWzCEJGA1iHYC1HEhBRbZuPXlpTcp-7og9S0BGln83AXz9lq586bszaF3AvNc9sL8Qq2aNQZC4p34JO5mfIZ2ia_n-BLKjSPITtCymmip6irT9Q3k-OALmss/s1600/draft+4+-+gallik.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gallik was my R4 pick for the team in the last version. I’m going to gamble that he’s still available
at the top of R5. Gallik would give the
Bucs interior depth and a starting caliber center should they ever decide to
move EDS to another position or team.
More about Gallik <a href="http://talbuc.blogspot.com/2015/03/are-bucs-getting-new-center.html">here</a>. Should Gallik be gone, I’d stay with an
interior offensive lineman and take Max Garcia from <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>.
Unlike Gallik, Garcia has played multiple positions in college and
projects as a versatile interior guy.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8V7gbdjwGYFD8hQZ_XoqpF-RqORRrkC3ya8NkQmN2A1LGF157dZUSYW420rC_7oLjod-cGKV7oYImjObHD_navkJDYlt4HneIxJSMEP0Njupu8mOZ_i3tUWlrDYBkoQvyvUJDX-yXifU/s1600/draft+4+-+jones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8V7gbdjwGYFD8hQZ_XoqpF-RqORRrkC3ya8NkQmN2A1LGF157dZUSYW420rC_7oLjod-cGKV7oYImjObHD_navkJDYlt4HneIxJSMEP0Njupu8mOZ_i3tUWlrDYBkoQvyvUJDX-yXifU/s1600/draft+4+-+jones.jpg" height="250" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I can’t believe I’m going to mention two of “their” players
in a row, but according to <a href="https://twitter.com/RCummingsTBO/status/586266425838428160">Roy Cummings</a>
(among others), the Bucs like Jones as a day 3 RB. He would give the Bucs a different back than
they currently have on the roster; a strong interior rusher capable of picking
up short yardage or cashing in at the goal line. He’s also an underrated pass protector. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Rounds 6 & 7<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Through five rounds the Bucs have secured a QB, OT, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">WR</st1:city>, <st1:state w:st="on">DE</st1:state></st1:place>,
FS, C, and RB. They have three picks
left and (going by my list of needs) should target G, CB, and LB with
them. Sadly, I’m only going to address
two of those positions. The picks – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#184 – Bobby McCain (CB, <st1:city w:st="on">Memphis</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#218 – Junior Sylvestre (LB, <st1:city w:st="on">Toledo</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
#231 – Tye Smith (CB, <st1:city w:st="on">Towson</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGGDXI87qyplYYAX6PD6TxLnumEJOcIdH_x_SKWbVkMkLg8XgBaAj-fcgZRQo72UlUzeh4bePRNUXd1BGepV3Oxf2ORotld8nu_EvGsfQn8tiEhHd7sGg4q6pa-eOAuCQSfpKJ3Dmupw/s1600/draft+4+-+mccain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGGDXI87qyplYYAX6PD6TxLnumEJOcIdH_x_SKWbVkMkLg8XgBaAj-fcgZRQo72UlUzeh4bePRNUXd1BGepV3Oxf2ORotld8nu_EvGsfQn8tiEhHd7sGg4q6pa-eOAuCQSfpKJ3Dmupw/s1600/draft+4+-+mccain.jpg" height="255" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
McCain remains a faux Buccaneer for the third time in a row. He would develop behind Sterling Moore in the
slot and contribute on special teams. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9fTucv_omUyAZ1O5wO-GC7v9G9nWV9beHOG8B0Yyjqu9ig1xEetAABbFPo0JGw_8hnyH0v-PV2rFHRx1XLGWNlydRFbVDba4Oq5CDD6anoplz8bsMYwcSaI9e00ifALHjGkPtplM03s/s1600/draft+4+-+sylvestre.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9fTucv_omUyAZ1O5wO-GC7v9G9nWV9beHOG8B0Yyjqu9ig1xEetAABbFPo0JGw_8hnyH0v-PV2rFHRx1XLGWNlydRFbVDba4Oq5CDD6anoplz8bsMYwcSaI9e00ifALHjGkPtplM03s/s1600/draft+4+-+sylvestre.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sylvestre stretches to reach 6’0 and is on the small side
for an NFL LB. However, he has excellent
sideline-to-sideline speed and is more than passable in coverage. Sound like a fit for a particular coach’s
defense? Sylvestre would be depth behind
Lavonte David and a guy on which to focus your binoculars on special
teams. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Smith is an FCS corner who plays physical football for a guy
who was 180ish during the season. He’s
got a nice skill set that could develop behind the current starters.</div>
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<b>Summary<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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#1 – Jameis Winston (QB, FSU)</div>
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#34 – Jake Fisher (OL, <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>)</div>
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#65 – Rashad Greene (WR, FSU)</div>
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#81 – Anthony Chickillo (DE, <st1:place w:st="on">Miami</st1:place>)</div>
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#109 – Derron Smith (FS, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
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#138 – Andy Gallik (C, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Boston</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">College</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
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#162 – Matt Jones (RB, <st1:place w:st="on">Florida</st1:place>)</div>
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#184 – Bobby McCain (CB, <st1:place w:st="on">Memphis</st1:place>)</div>
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#218 – Junior Sylvestre (LB, <st1:place w:st="on">Toledo</st1:place>)</div>
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#231 – Tye Smith (CB, <st1:place w:st="on">Towson</st1:place>)</div>
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That’s 10 picks in total with a bit of an unintentional
theme. I have no idea if L&L or the
Glazers are focusing on local talent, but I have them taking four players from
the state of <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>. Drafting identifiable talent is one way to
spark a largely disenchanted local fanbase.
If the Bucs do not draft a guard, as they do not in this scenario, I
expect them to reach out to Dan Connolly the following week. </div>
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<o:p>
</o:p></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">Go Bucs!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-27537725363156588782015-04-04T16:59:00.006-04:002015-04-04T17:27:03.697-04:00Predicting the 2015 Buccaneer Draft - Almost There<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The first pick is nearly four weeks away, but it’s finally
draft month. <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype></st1:place>
has been quiet in free agency the last couple of weeks, so the needs remain the
same. Here’s my updated look at how I
believe the first round plays out as well as what the Bucs should do with all
of their selections.</div>
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<br /></div>
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1) TB – Jameis Winston (QB, FSU)</div>
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It goes without saying that this pick will not change. I believe that Jameis is the best player in
this draft and will go down as the best QB in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype></st1:place>
history. He was the team’s best option
back in January, and the events of the offseason have only strengthened his
case. Some Bucs fans hesitate to embrace
Jameis because of concerns about his character.
They may be dismayed that he’s not concerned with making people believe
he’s a good guy. He’s focused on
greatness. He’s been a winner and wants
to continue that at the next level. His
message has been consistent. He wants to
be compared to Tom Brady. He wants to
win a Super Bowl this year. He wants to
be a hall of famer. Like him or not,
Bucs fans are going to appreciate the way this young man plays the position and
becomes a leader of this franchise. </div>
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<br /></div>
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2) TEN – Leonard Williams (DL, USC)</div>
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I’m still not buying Mariota going #2. <st1:state w:st="on">Tennessee</st1:state>
takes the guy widely considered to be the best overall player in the
draft. Lining Williams up opposite
Jurrell Casey beefs up an improving defense.</div>
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<br /></div>
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3) JAX – Vic Beasley (DE/OLB, Clemson)</div>
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I’ve had Dante Fowler here before, but I believe that
Beasley is probably the best fit for the Jags LEO position on defense. Jax will have their pick of edge rushers, so
we’ll eventually see how right I am.</div>
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<br /></div>
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4) OAK – Amari Cooper (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
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Like anyone else who talks draft, I’m having a hard time
putting any discernable difference between Cooper and Kevin White. I’ve had White here both times in the past,
but right now I’m leaning Cooper because he might be the safer option. Can I really count on <st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city> making the safe choice?</div>
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<br /></div>
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5) <trade> ATL – Dante Fowler (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>)</trade></div>
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I think this trade makes a ton of sense for both teams. Yes, <st1:state w:st="on">Washington</st1:state>
could use a pass rusher like Fowler after losing Brian Orakpo this offseason,
but if they feel they can receive similar value three picks lower and gain one
or more picks in return, I think they pull the trigger. I like the potential of a trade between
WAS/ATL. <st1:city w:st="on">Atlanta</st1:city> moves up to secure, arguably, the
draft’s best pass rusher rather than hoping the guy they want falls to #8.</div>
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<br /></div>
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6) <trade> PHI – Marcus Mariota (QB, <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>)</trade></div>
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Here’s how this one goes down. There are several parts to it, but I believe
it has substantial legs. </div>
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<br /></div>
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First, I’m going to assume Philly and <st1:place w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:place> have at least discussed the
potential of making a deal should the draft play out where Mariota is available
here. The Browns reportedly were in on
Sam Bradford, and here they get him.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Philly trades <st1:place w:st="on">Bradford</st1:place> to
the Browns for pick #19. Philly then
flips that selection, the 20<sup>th</sup> overall pick, and Mychal Kendricks,
to the Jets for pick #6. If you look at
the trade value chart, #19 and #20 are more than enough for pick #6. I think Kendricks is the cherry on top and an
expendable player based on Philly’s offseason activity. Chip Kelly said that he wouldn’t mortgage his
future to move up for one player, but this scenario allows him to get his star
pupil and stay true to his word.</div>
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<br /></div>
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7) CHI – Kevin White (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">West Virginia</st1:state>)</div>
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I’ve had them taking Cooper, and with him off the board,
they take White. Again, I don’t see a
ton of difference in projecting these two receivers.</div>
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<br /></div>
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8) WAS – Brandon Scherff (OL, <st1:state w:st="on">Iowa</st1:state>)</div>
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The Redskins move down 3 spots and still get a guy they
would likely be comfortable taking at #5. </div>
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<br /></div>
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9) NYG – La’el Collins (OL, LSU)</div>
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I’ve got to think this pick goes to either the offensive or
defensive line. Scherff and Danny
Shelton have been my previous picks for the Giants. Collins is an immediate starter at RT and
gives Eli some much-needed protection.</div>
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<br /></div>
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10) STL – Andrus Peat (OL, Stanford)</div>
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The run on offensive linemen continues with the Rams. I think they’re in a tough spot here with
Scherff and Collins going with the two previous picks, but they’ve apparently
been in on Peat for a while. Maybe they
don’t see much separation here.</div>
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<br /></div>
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11) MIN – DeVante Parker (WR, <st1:city w:st="on">Louisville</st1:city>)</div>
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Teddy Bridgewater gets his man. This pick makes too much sense. Parker is not a reach here at #11, fills a
need, pairs nicely with recently acquired Mike Wallace, and is reunited with
his collegiate QB.</div>
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<br /></div>
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12) CLE – Danny Shelton (DT, Washington)</div>
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If <st1:city w:st="on">Shelton</st1:city>
falls this far, I’ve got to think the Browns jump on him. Great value and fit.</div>
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<br /></div>
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13) NOR – Randy Gregory (DE/OLB, <st1:place w:st="on">Nebraska</st1:place>)</div>
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Bob Marley doesn’t fall far.
The Saints take a bit of a chance in attempt to address their need for a
pass rusher. </div>
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14) MIA – Trae Waynes (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Michigan</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
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Todd Gurley would be a nice surprise pick here, but with I
think <st1:city w:st="on">Waynes</st1:city>
matches up well with Maimi’s need for a corner.</div>
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15) SF – Bud Dupree (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Kentucky</st1:state>)</div>
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Back before the regular season ended I had Dupree on my
radar as an option for the Bucs in R2.
He’ll be off the board well before R1 ends, and even this might be too
low for him. Aldon Smith is unreliable,
and there’s no pass rushing depth to speak of. </div>
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16) HOU – Malcom Brown (DL, <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state>)</div>
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Big man doesn’t have to travel far and gives the Texans help
opposite JJ Watt.</div>
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17) SD – Todd Gurley (RB, Georgia)</div>
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Barring a trade, <st1:city w:st="on">San Diego</st1:city> is
the second team in the draft (after <st1:city w:st="on">Miami</st1:city>)
I could see taking Gurley. Taking the
talented back and focusing on the offensive line in subsequent rounds would be
a way to entice Philip Rivers to hang around.</div>
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<br /></div>
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18) KC – Eric Kendricks (LB, UCLA)</div>
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Same as last time. I
think this is either Kendricks or someone (Flowers) who can play RT.</div>
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<br /></div>
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19) NYJ – Shane Ray (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Missouri</st1:state>)</div>
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With the first pick acquired in the in the Mariota deal, the
Jets take a pass rusher. Ray “slides” in
this version. I think his less than
stellar workout numbers will cause him to be the guy from this closely grouped
group of pass rushers that could wait to hear his name called.</div>
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<br /></div>
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20) NYJ – Melvin Gordon (RB, <st1:state w:st="on">Wisconsin</st1:state>)</div>
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The Jets need to add talent in the backfield, and Gordon
pairs nicely with Chris Ivory.</div>
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21) CIN – Ereck Flowers (OL, <st1:city w:st="on">Miami</st1:city>)</div>
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Here’s another pick I think coes down to either the
offensive or defensive line. Flowers
could be the best available lineman at this point. </div>
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22) PIT – Landon Collins (S, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
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Fit meets need meets value.
Collins could be the Andrew Luck to Troy Polamalu’s Peyton Manning.</div>
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23) DET – Eddie Goldman (DT, FSU)</div>
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Haloti Ngata was a nice response to losing Ndamukong Suh,
but there’s still work to do up front.</div>
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24) ARI – Jalen Collins (CB, LSU)</div>
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After losing Antonio Cromartie in free agency, there’s an
opening opposite Patrick Peterson.
Landing with a fellow former Tiger should be a good thing for the
talented and inexperienced Collins.</div>
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25) CAR – Cedric Ogbuehi (T, <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state> A&M)</div>
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Ogbuehi often gets left out of the tackle conversation, in
large part because of his ACL injury.
Free agent signing Michael Oher might be the bridge to the future of
Ogbuehi. </div>
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<br /></div>
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26) BAL – Jaelen Strong (WR, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Arizona</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
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Anyone paying attention knows that WR is a huge need for the
Ravens. I think Strong is their best
option here, but Breshad Perriman could get their attention as well.</div>
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27) DAL – Kevin Johnson (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Wake</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Forest</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
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After adding Greg Hardy, finding a corner is <st1:city w:st="on">Dallas</st1:city>’ biggest
need. Johnson doesn’t get a lot of
attention but will be among the first off the board at his position.</div>
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28) DEN – Cameron Erving (OL, FSU)</div>
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He can play center or guard for the Broncos right now, both
positions of need.</div>
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29) <st1:state w:st="on">IND</st1:state> – Arik Armstead
(DL, <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>)</div>
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If the Colts want to make it past the Patriots, they must
get better players on the defensive side of the ball.</div>
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<br /></div>
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30) GB – Stephone Anthony (LB, Clemson)</div>
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I’m going corner or linebacker here. Anthony fills a need that seems to exist
every year for this team. </div>
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<br /></div>
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31) NOR – Marcus Peters (CB, Washington)</div>
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If they go in on Gregory at #13, then why not go with another
off-field question here? Peters could be
the best cornerback in this year’s draft class.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
32) NE – Byron Jones (CB, <st1:place w:st="on">Connecticut</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the stars of the offseason completes R1 and helps the
Patriots slow the bleeding from the losses of both Darrelle Revis and Brandon
Browner.</div>
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<b>Round 2<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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33) TEN – TJ Clemmings (T, <st1:city w:st="on">Pittsburgh</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Titans could obviously go in several directions here,
including trading the first pick of day two, but I’ve got them addressing a
need at RT with a guy should pair nicely with LT Taylor Lewan for quite a
while. </div>
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<br /></div>
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34) TB</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nothing has changed.
Given the Bucs needs this pick still must be spent on either an
offensive or defensive lineman. Drafting
any other position would be a mistake.
There are no “must have” prospects still on the board; no one to entice
the Bucs to stray from their needs here.
</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My three targets with the 34<sup>th</sup> pick are (in
order) Jake Fisher, DJ Humphries, and Preston Smith. The tackles are both among the top of this
year’s class in their present ability to protect the passer. Here’s how they checked in at the Combine:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fisher – 6’6, 306 with 33 ¾ arms</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Humphries – 6’6, 307 with 33 5/8 arms</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Both have the size and athleticism (footwork, range,
recovery) to project as left tackles with the ability to play on the right side
as well. I’m more comfortable with
Fisher because of how refined he is already, but Humphries has just as much, if
not more, potential. Adding either
Fisher or Humphries will not only improve protection for their rookie passer,
but the skill sets of these two players along with Demar Dotson’s gives them
some side flexibility/versatility with their tackles. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Smith remains my favorite pass rusher in this range. He’s got the size and ability to play all
three downs, something this team desperately needs and won’t likely find in
this year’s draft after this round. One
reason Smith isn’t rated higher is that he doesn’t play as fluid as his numbers
suggest. His versatility to line up in
multiple spots up front will also be attractive to Lovie Smith. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Jake Fisher (T, <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>)</div>
<br />
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<b>Round 3<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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So far the Bucs have taken a QB and someone to protect
him. I’d love to find a stud pass rusher
here, but there’s a reason those guys aren’t readily available with the 65<sup>th</sup>
pick in the draft. The Bucs need to
capitalize on talent here rather than blindly continuing down their checklist
of needs. </div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
The three players I’m projecting here hold the talent worthy
of the selection and address immediate needs.
In order they are Rashad Greene, Tre McBride, and Tre’ <st1:city w:st="on">Jackson</st1:city>.
Yes, two of them are Noles. </div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Possibly the biggest factor in Rashad’s favor is the fact
that he’s Jameis’ go-to guy. On a ’13 team
with Kelvin Benjamin, Kenny Shaw, and Nick O’Leary, Rashad led them all in
receptions (76) by 21. This year he
caught 99 passes, or 41 more than any other receiver on the roster. Getting your new #1 asset his favorite
collegiate target seems like a no-brainer.
Rashad obviously has a great relationship with Jameis, but he’s not
simply a product of his QB’s success. He
has excellent hands, runs a full route tree, and despite a lack of great size
or speed combined with the attention he gets from the defense, he’s routinely
able to get open and make plays. For the
Bucs, he fills the immediate need of a slot receiver while also bringing the
ability to play out wide when Vincent Jackson inevitably moves on. </div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve been driving the McBride bandwagon for a while now, and
only the #1 pick’s #1 target could cause him not to be my #1 choice. Like Rashad, McBride has the skills to play
both inside and outside the formation.
His level of competition is in question, but McBride’s ability to make
contested catches is not. I’d be
thrilled with either receiver. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:city w:st="on">Jackson</st1:city>
rounds out this group of candidates.
Regarded as one of this class’ top guards (for reference I have Cann and
Tomlinson off the board at this point), he would slide right into the opening
at RG, a position he played at FSU for the past 3+ years. <st1:place w:st="on">Jackson</st1:place>
does most of his damage destroying defenders in the run game and needs to
improve his technique in pass protection.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Want a shocker for the 3<sup>rd</sup> round? TJ Yeldon (RB, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>).
If the Bucs were to take a RB early, it should be Yeldon. In my opinion, he represents this draft’s
best running game partner to Charles Sims.
Yeldon could handle the early down work, while Sims is allowed to play
the change of pace role for which he is better suited. I still expect Doug Martin to be moved at
some point, and while most Bucs fans would be upset with another early pick
being spent on a RB, I don’t think it’s out of the realm of possibility. Ifo Ekpre-Olomu (CB, <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>)
and Trey Flowers (DE, <st1:state w:st="on">Arkansas</st1:state>)
are two other players I’d consider in R3.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Rashad Greene (WR, FSU) </div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEeNhuprFmh0Hfdq81H-tss_eLICYa_NCCmwc0esKqm2RQ9MFEOTLTN4L60IYxPOTrLbsz1bl3_22jdC6OO2iahAo_yLGAi561nrQS3rCWCLNwOxuIZq550u-EdTgtD3TM3h9SG36arpk/s1600/draft+3+-+rashad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEeNhuprFmh0Hfdq81H-tss_eLICYa_NCCmwc0esKqm2RQ9MFEOTLTN4L60IYxPOTrLbsz1bl3_22jdC6OO2iahAo_yLGAi561nrQS3rCWCLNwOxuIZq550u-EdTgtD3TM3h9SG36arpk/s1600/draft+3+-+rashad.jpg" height="288" width="400" /></a></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Round 4<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s the haul through 3 rounds – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
QB – Jameis Winston</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OL – Jake Fisher</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WR – Rashad Greene</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The biggest remaining needs are starting talent on the
offensive and defensive lines and depth at linebacker and in the
secondary. Seeing as how the Bucs
current roster is lacking in overall talent, no position can be ignored. However, I think the lines will receive
higher consideration.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve got a ton of candidates for this pick, spanning the
offensive line, pass rusher, cornerback, wide receiver, and running back. My favorites are Andy Gallik, John Miller,
and Lynden Trail. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve already mentioned <a href="http://talbuc.blogspot.com/2015/03/are-bucs-getting-new-center.html">Gallik
as an option for the Bucs</a>. He’s a really
strong anchor who won’t get pushed around, which of course is a desirable trait
for the guy playing in front of your passer.
Consistency is his game. He was
BC’s starting center for four years and the key to an offensive line that
produced 212.5 rushing ypg in ’13 and 251.8 in ’14. He makes all the line calls, and you don’t
see many missteps in his footwork in the run game. His knock is a lack of athleticism and size
(6’2, 306), which has him in the R4 range rather than being an earlier
pick. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Similar to Gallik, Miller does everything you want from an
interior lineman, but he isn’t as athletic or big as one might prefer. Miller has good size (6’2, 303), but he’d
ideally be another inch taller and 10 pounds heavier. Power and consistency are his game. He could step in and start right away at RG.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Trail was my previous R4 pick. The athletic pass rushing project is still a
candidate, but I believe Gallik and Miller represent safer gambles; something a
team that has swung and missed as often as the Bucs must consider.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The other players I would consider in this round – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rob Havenstein (T, Wisconsin), Mike Davis (RB, S Carolina),
Donovan Smith (T, Penn State), Senquez Golson (CB, Mississippi), Justin Hardy
(WR, ECU), Jeremy Langford (RB, Michigan St), Mitch Morse (G, Missouri),
Za’Darius Smith (DE, Kentucky), and Cedric Reed (DE, Texas).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bucs currently own one 4<sup>th</sup> round pick, but if
they are able/decide to deal Martin and/or Mike Glennon, maybe one of those
other guys enters the equation.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Andy Gallik (OL, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Boston</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">College</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
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<o:p>
</o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Round 5<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bucs own two selections in this round. In the past I’ve mocked Jeremiah Poutasi,
Jarvis Harrison, and Stefon Diggs with those picks. Given the way this draft has played out, with
the Bucs spending all four previous picks on the offensive side of the ball,
I’ve got a few new candidates for the fifth round, namely Ben Heeney and Zack
Wagenmann. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Heeney was a three year starting MLB for <st1:state w:st="on">Kansas</st1:state>, team captain for the last two, and
led the NCAA in solo tackles in ’14. At
6’0, 230 he’s light for your prototypical MLB but is the epitome of the
sideline-to-sideline player that the Bucs are reportedly looking for at the
position. He demonstrates above average
straight line speed and change of direction.
Heeney is a form tackler and doesn’t make many missteps or misreads to
the ball. If you want to play a little
past player association, Heeney should strive for Shelton Quarles’ career. His speed, pursuit, and tackling ability will
make him an instant star on special teams, and I expect he would start out as
depth at SLB. Also, if you haven’t done
so already, do yourself a favor and check out the <a href="http://captainheeney.com/#popup_video3">Captain Heeney website</a>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wagenmann is a pass rusher who accumulated 37.5 career sacks
and 52 TFL in college. Why in the world
is he a 5<sup>th</sup> round prospect? For
starters, he played at <st1:state w:st="on">Montana</st1:state>,
an FCS university. He also measures in
at an undersized 6’3, 247. His weak
showing of strength at both the Combine and his pro day reveal his likely
future as a situational rusher. There’s
plenty of room for guys like that in today’s NFL. The guys at Pewter Report have been on
Wagenmann for a while now, so I did some digging myself. If the Bucs haven’t drafted a pass rusher at
this point, I believe Wagenmann represents excellent value as someone to get
after the passer and make contributions on special teams.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Poutasi would be on my radar if the Bucs don’t add a couple
of offensive linemen earlier, but I think <st1:place w:st="on">Harrison</st1:place>
and Diggs have seen their stock settle a round lower. Other players I’d target in R5 – Kenny Bell
(WR, Nebraska), Jamison Crowder (WR, Duke), Karlos Williams (RB, FSU), Kevin
White (CB, TCU), Kurtis Drummond (S, Michigan State), and Adrian Amos (S, Penn
State).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The picks – Ben Heeney (LB, <st1:state w:st="on">Kansas</st1:state>)
and Zack Wagenmann (DE, <st1:state w:st="on">Montana</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIaXfeQKZ-8Ed6VUlGWWuEXhSyWn73vvivzeRak2gS_6H6jBjTXyKOSVbka0T5TCMAO4zDSXGTb7bp9ex-8J5ZAFur5buqnrpE-0QVhWBTz1A2RSLxz1LlYExsd5qVvN9voTl1c0PBnWM/s1600/draft+3+-+heeney+wagenmann.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIaXfeQKZ-8Ed6VUlGWWuEXhSyWn73vvivzeRak2gS_6H6jBjTXyKOSVbka0T5TCMAO4zDSXGTb7bp9ex-8J5ZAFur5buqnrpE-0QVhWBTz1A2RSLxz1LlYExsd5qVvN9voTl1c0PBnWM/s1600/draft+3+-+heeney+wagenmann.jpg" height="126" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Rounds 6 & 7</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Through five rounds, here’s the haul – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
QB – Jameis Winston</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OL – Jake Fisher</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WR – Rashad Greene</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OL – Andy Gallik</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LB – Ben Heeney</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DE – Zack Wagenmann</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After signing Sterling Moore to man the nickel corner spot,
I like the Bucs starters in three receiver sets. What I don’t like is the complete lack of
talented depth behind Alterraun Verner, Johnthan Banks, and Moore. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I mentioned earlier, I still believe that Martin gets
moved. Fans may not like the return, but
that hasn’t stopped this regime from moving players they don’t believe fits
their plan. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I wouldn’t sneeze at another offensive or defensive lineman
in these rounds either.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the end, I’m sticking with my previous picks. I still believe that Bobby McCain will be a
starting caliber corner and that John Crockett can be a three-down NFL rusher.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The picks – Bobby McCain (CB, <st1:city w:st="on">Memphis</st1:city>)
and John Crockett (RB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">North
Dakota</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
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</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDQY2YUjyq5gPWtMlzZQnXPhsBQYVwujbpEnE5O3LUFsa6mcj-2bEDWjnkGY4mK_sOEwmx4YTY5oAhDV1NqNqdVj82H6-oMvkzKGeCbzgF2RIWf9rQDtiNBAvGuGkl54pPvEEWGUtCqDc/s1600/draft+3+-+mccain+crockett.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDQY2YUjyq5gPWtMlzZQnXPhsBQYVwujbpEnE5O3LUFsa6mcj-2bEDWjnkGY4mK_sOEwmx4YTY5oAhDV1NqNqdVj82H6-oMvkzKGeCbzgF2RIWf9rQDtiNBAvGuGkl54pPvEEWGUtCqDc/s1600/draft+3+-+mccain+crockett.jpg" height="146" width="400" /></a></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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I’ve got quite a few players I’d consider either in R7 or as
undrafted free agents. They are – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cody Fajardo (QB, <st1:place w:st="on">Nevada</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hutson Mason (QB, Georgia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shane Carden (QB, ECU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Laurence Gibson (OL, Virginia Tech)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mark Glowinski (OL, <st1:state w:st="on">West
Virginia</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Doniel Gambrell (OL, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Notre</st1:placename> <st1:placename w:st="on">Dame</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">College</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Adam Shead (OL, <st1:place w:st="on">Oklahoma</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Max Garcia (OL, <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DeAndrew White (WR, <st1:place w:st="on">Alabama</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mike Reilly (DE, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">North
Dakota</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mark Nzeocha (LB, <st1:state w:st="on">Wyoming</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tye Smith (CB, <st1:place w:st="on">Towson</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bryce Callahan (CB, Rice)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Robertson Daniel (CB, BYU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Donald Celiscar (DB, <st1:place w:st="on">Western Michigan</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cody Riggs (DB, Notre Dame)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dean Marlowe (S, James Madison)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Total Haul</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVfOPO9jNZyntxkDFI6lfYSk3RcIm_j1iKnVI1dRfh79YT24PNrxLV-dFfnefbECv3pRMsUh6BPxYUNytAAgLUrBuWLS5FrpKVQOcLvW0EduVcjE54oB_q5Ie87qh847IhT342KmuFFxo/s1600/draft+3+-+go+bucs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVfOPO9jNZyntxkDFI6lfYSk3RcIm_j1iKnVI1dRfh79YT24PNrxLV-dFfnefbECv3pRMsUh6BPxYUNytAAgLUrBuWLS5FrpKVQOcLvW0EduVcjE54oB_q5Ie87qh847IhT342KmuFFxo/s1600/draft+3+-+go+bucs.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jameis Winston (QB, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jake Fisher (OL, <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rashad Greene (WR, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Andy Gallik (OL, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Boston</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">College</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ben Heeney (LB, <st1:state w:st="on">Kansas</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Zack Wagenmann (DE, <st1:state w:st="on">Montana</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bobby McCain (CB, <st1:city w:st="on">Memphis</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
John Crockett (RB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">North Dakota</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In this draft the Bucs take their 5<sup>th</sup> R1 QB in
team history, two long term starters on the OL, a starting slot receiver and
new #3 on the depth chart, a starting caliber nickel corner, two defensive
reserves with big special teams potential, and a rusher to add to the backfield
equation.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Go Bucs!</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-34784242868506278132015-03-22T10:40:00.001-04:002015-03-22T14:54:19.706-04:00Are the Bucs Getting a New Center?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDjn9cChfs2aJ2TXYcWhhZd8IWncPjSsNm8oSs5TGPRMwG-dhFU-MZY3LwUL65A-wZY8iARXtdOl4a8k-TpGr73aseglf7EgeMyD-fph4SSyiFdw6uCzED-ze4dj32rH9HJRErZNXgZ8/s1600/andy+gallik.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDjn9cChfs2aJ2TXYcWhhZd8IWncPjSsNm8oSs5TGPRMwG-dhFU-MZY3LwUL65A-wZY8iARXtdOl4a8k-TpGr73aseglf7EgeMyD-fph4SSyiFdw6uCzED-ze4dj32rH9HJRErZNXgZ8/s1600/andy+gallik.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the Bucs sniffing around Stefen Wisniewski, it raised
the question of whether or not they were making a change at center. Wisniewski can play guard too, so it can be
reasoned that the Bucs wanted him to play alongside EDS rather than in place of
him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, I’ve read that the Bucs have taken a strong
interest in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Boston</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">College</st1:placetype></st1:place> center, Andy
Gallik. I love it. Gallik has been a stud in the middle of their
offensive line. I could definitely him
as the Bucs R4 pick. Here’s an <a href="http://itiswhatitis.weei.com/sports/newengland/football/patriots/2015/03/18/steve-addazio-thinks-andy-gallik-is-going-to-have-a-great-future-in-the-nfl/" target="_blank">excerpt</a> from BC’s head coach, Steve Addazio:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“He’s not strictly a
center. He can play guard but he’s uniquely a good center,” Addazio said. “But
he sure could play guard but he’s just got that knack. To watch him snap. To
watch him shotgun snap a ball for example, or under center snap it and pull to
the perimeter, I think he’s gifted. He’s one of the better guys I’ve seen do
that. It’s just natural for him. He’s got great balance and he can run. I don’t
know what the 40-times are but when you watch him on film, he runs well when he
pulls and I think that’s a unique ability he has. And he’s bright. He calls
every protection.”</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Pursuing Wisniewski is one thing, but a strong interest in a
guy like Gallik who should remain at center tells me the Bucs are eyeing a
change in the middle. Do they slide EDS
over to RG, or do they save his $3.75m and find someone else to play next to
the new center? talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-10491568959895315842015-03-16T22:05:00.003-04:002015-03-16T22:09:42.715-04:002015 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Offseason Plan - Take Two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIRnL5GjIThEJF9kO9jKboZVM4KHkyTyJyUfpYgkqLSoC62_oEsxzGKB-PhCsM8VTyqnjgxRCuVzF-XUoqFx2vppZQoQlvlv4WN95ueiHl5d-lALROZYCoBbeyQIrsTUW9FFRUbEuAsQg/s1600/bucs+-+take+two.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIRnL5GjIThEJF9kO9jKboZVM4KHkyTyJyUfpYgkqLSoC62_oEsxzGKB-PhCsM8VTyqnjgxRCuVzF-XUoqFx2vppZQoQlvlv4WN95ueiHl5d-lALROZYCoBbeyQIrsTUW9FFRUbEuAsQg/s1600/bucs+-+take+two.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first wave of free agency has ended, and it’s time to
reassess the offseason plan. In are
Bruce Carter, Henry Melton, and Chris Conte.
<st1:place w:st="on">New jersey</st1:place>
sales aren’t exactly booming, but Lovie Smith has brought in players who he
believe will make a difference. Both
Melton and Conte played for Smith in <st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city>,
and Carter played for Lovie’s buddy Rod Marinelli in <st1:city w:st="on">Dallas</st1:city>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The plan is for Carter to fill the MLB vacancy, Melton to
provide pass rush depth at tackle, and Conte to take the starting FS job from
an eventually released Dashon Goldson. Carter
played the SLB position in Marninelli’s defense, but he believes he can make
the transition to the middle in <st1:city w:st="on">Tampa</st1:city>. It’s a bit of a gamble for the Bucs
personnel-wise, but his contract isn’t guaranteed past this year. Melton and Conte are short-term investments
as well, both signing one year deals. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t love the Carter acquisition, but I see the thought
behind it, and given the contract, I’m on board. I like Melton as depth in pass rushing
situations, but I’m not a fan of the Conte acquisition. I would have liked to see the Bucs be more
involved for Devin McCourty, Jabaal Sheard, Walter Thurmond, and Eddie
Royal. Two other targets of mine, RT
Joseph Barksdale and CB Patrick Robinson, are still available as I write
this. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
McCourty ended up signing a 5yr $47.5m contract with the
Patriots that pays him nearly $30m in the first 3 years. The Bucs could not have topped that. They could have, however, topped the 2yr $11m
contract ($5.5m guaranteed) that the Patriots gave Sheard. The Bucs entered the offseason needing to add
a pass rusher and so far have released Michael Johnson. Thurmond got $3.25m from the Eagles for one
year; nothing obscene about that. Royal
signed a very affordable 3yr $15m contract with only the first two years
guaranteed. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Taking into account Goldson’s inevitable release, the Bucs
have about $33m in cap space. Sheard and
Royal would have fit in their nicely and given the Bucs two less positions to
worry about in the draft. But the Bucs
had other plans. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If I can assume Demar Dotson is going to play LT, then it
appears the Bucs are going to enter the draft, a draft in which they’re
expected to spend the first pick on a QB, with noticeable holes at RG and
RT. If they had picked up a pass rusher
or slot receiver in free agency, then they could have more comfortably allocated
more draft picks to the offensive line. But
the Bucs had other plans. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now they’ll be forced to, again, focus more of their draft
on addressing needs rather than grabbing the best available talent. Given this organization’s history with the
amateur lottery, relying on them to hit with more consistency with draft picks
isn’t a wise proposition. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So here we are. The
Bucs currently have eight draft picks; one in each round and two in the
fifth. Their remaining trade bait
includes Mike Glennon and Doug Martin.
Odds are decent that at least one of those guys is dealt, giving the
Bucs at least one more opportunity for success.
I have their top needs, in order, as QB, DE, RT, RG, NCB, SWR, and
FS. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s my revised look at how R1 will play out – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJc1Tz3IF4ubSR4iDbqIPUEzYO_cHHne1n3ch9IS0f97zLhDQGvPUmbm520pvJwxd5Gf-3129eXgtko_PweGFVI5bSRb_Hc65UvSxBd2c0szfIpuiCmmsL-n04B1AM5DzQr5Tc6uVxHa0/s1600/jameis+auburn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJc1Tz3IF4ubSR4iDbqIPUEzYO_cHHne1n3ch9IS0f97zLhDQGvPUmbm520pvJwxd5Gf-3129eXgtko_PweGFVI5bSRb_Hc65UvSxBd2c0szfIpuiCmmsL-n04B1AM5DzQr5Tc6uVxHa0/s1600/jameis+auburn.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) TB – Jameis Winston (QB, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No change here. The
Bucs need a franchise QB and get the best this class has to offer. I expect Jameis to take the first snap week
1. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) TEN – Leonard Williams (DL, USC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t know if Zach Mettenberger is going to save Ken
Whisenhunt’s job in <st1:state w:st="on">Tennessee</st1:state>,
but it would be very un-Whisenhunt for him to put all of his eggs in Mariota’s
basket. I think <st1:state w:st="on">Tennessee</st1:state> plays it safe and takes the
consensus best defensive player in the draft.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) JAX – Dante Fowler (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jared Odrick was a nice addition to the defensive line, but
they still need a pass rusher. As I
mentioned last time, Fowler may end up being the best defensive player from
this class. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) OAK – Kevin White (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">West Virginia</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city>
supposedly got in on Randall Cobb and Julius Thomas and obviously failed. I expect them to focus on giving David Carr a
true #1 receiver with this pick, and I’m sticking with White over Cooper.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) CLE – Marcus Mariota (QB, <st1:place w:st="on">Oregon</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m having a really hard time projecting where Mariota is
going to go, and I still think this might be a little high. You can’t count Philly out, despite what Chip
Kelly himself said, but who else would trade up for Mariota? <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>
is starving for success at the position, and they’ve shown interest in and have
at least one tie (QB coach Kevin O’Connell) to Mariota. I think the deal gets done for the #12 pick,
and <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>’s
R2 and R7 picks. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) NYJ – Vic Beasley (OLB, Clemson)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After striking gold in free agency at the cornerback
position, new HC Todd Bowles get a much needed pass rusher. No, I don’t think they’d take Mariota if he
was available. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7) CHI – Amari Cooper (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve got the Bears going with Cooper over Danny Shelton
here. Trading Brandon Marshall to the
Jets opened up a spot opposite Alshon Jeffery, and I’m not sure the new regime
is sold on Marquess Wilson as a starter.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8) ATL – Randy Gregory (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Nebraska</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No change here. <st1:city w:st="on">Atlanta</st1:city>’s biggest
addition thus far was to bring in Brooks Reed.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
9) NYG – Danny Shelton (DT, Washington)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Giants have needs on both offensive and defensive lines,
and tackle Marshall Newhouse is the only guy they’ve brought in. They’ve got nothing inside next to Johnathan
Hankins, so I’m going with <st1:city w:st="on">Shelton</st1:city>
over Shane Ray and Brandon Scherff.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
10) STL – Brandon Scherff (OL, <st1:state w:st="on">Iowa</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As of now Joseph Barksdale hasn’t resigned with the Rams, so
they have openings at both guard and tackle.
Scherff projects to both positions.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
11) MIN – Trae Waynes (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Michigan</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After acquiring Mike Wallace, a receiver doesn’t seem like a
possibility here. This should come down
to a corner or offensive lineman.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
12) WAS – La’el Collins (OL, LSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the first pick gained in the trade with <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city> the Redskins
take Collins, who, with Trent Williams, gives them an impressive pair of
starting tackles. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
13) NO – Shane Ray (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Missouri</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pass rush is a huge need, and Parys Haralson has been their
only addition so far. Also, Sean Payton
apparently wants to get rid of Junior Galette.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
14) MIA – DeVante Parker (WR, <st1:city w:st="on">Louisville</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They did just replace Wallace with Kenny Stills, but I
believe adding Parker to go with Stills and Jarvis Landry will give Ryan
Tannehill all the chance in the world to succeed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
15) SF – Bud Dupree (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Kentucky</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Niners have really taken a hit since the start of free
agency. Patrick Willis retired, Justin
Smith might not be too far behind him, they lost their two most productive
cornerbacks, and the offense lost Frank Gore and Mike Iupati. New head coach Jim Tomsula gets himself a
pass rusher. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
16) HOU – Andrus Peat (T, Stanford)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tackle isn’t an urgent need, but Peat’s skill set fits what
they do in <st1:city w:st="on">Houston</st1:city>
and gives them versatility to play right or left tackle.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
17) PHI – Dorial Green-Beckham (WR, <st1:place w:st="on">Oklahoma</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chip Kelly moves up, but it’s not for Mariota. I think DGB fits what Kelly is looking for at
receiver, and I could see him moving ahead of receiver-needy KC and <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city> to secure his
guy. The cost may be nothing more than
the 20<sup>th</sup> pick and their R4 selection. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
18) KC – Eric Kendricks (LB, UCLA)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Inside linebacker and offensive tackle are the Chiefs
biggest needs, and if they stay in this spot, I don’t think it’s too early for
Kendricks. He’d look great next to
Derrick Johnson.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
19) CLE – Eddie Goldman (DT, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the pick acquired from <st1:city w:st="on">Buffalo</st1:city>, the Browns address a big need on the
defensive line. Goldman can occupy
blockers, shut down run lanes, and get after the passer.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
20) SD – Todd Gurley (RB, Georgia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Chargers spent some of their free agent dollars on
offensive linemen and watched their best running back leave for Philly. Gurley is a big boost to Philip Rivers’ career.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
21) CIN – Malcom Brown (DL, <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bengals have numbers on the defensive line, but I think
they need to improve the quality at tackle.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
22) PIT – Landon Collins (S, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve got to think they go defense with this pick. If not Collins then a CB or OLB.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
23) DET – Arik Armstead (DT, <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They did replace Ndamukong Suh with Haloti Ngata, but they
also lost Nick Fairley and may lose CJ Mosley.
Corner and offensive line are two other avenues they may pursue. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
24) ARI – Marcus Peters (CB, Washington)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If the Cardinals don’t acquire Adrian Peterson from the
Vikings, maybe RB is in play here, but they also need a starting corner since
Cro went back to NY.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
25) CAR – TJ Clemmings (T, Pittsburgh)<br />
The Panthers have needs at both left and right tackle, and Clemmings is a
prospect with that “upside” descriptor. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
26) BAL – Jaelen Strong (WR, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Arizona</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Torrey Smith bolted for San Fran, and Jacoby Jones left them
for the Bolts. Steve Smith can’t play
forever, and Marlon Brown is currently listed as their other starter. That won’t last long.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
27) DAL – Eli Harold (DE/OLB, <st1:state w:st="on">Virginia</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of the additions <st1:city w:st="on">Dallas</st1:city>
has made, none have been along the defensive line. They must get better at getting to the
passer.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
28) DEN – Cameron Erving (OL, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Perfect fit. Erving
gives Gary Kubiak a versatile chess piece in the interior of his zone-blocking
offense.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
29) <st1:state w:st="on">IND</st1:state>
– Stephone Anthony (LB, Clemson)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This may look a little high for Anthony, but the Colts are
desperate for help in the middle of their defense and have reportedly been hot
after Anthony.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
30) GB – Kevin Johnson (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Wake</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Forest</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They’ve already lost Davon House and may lose Tramon
Williams too. I think this is either CB
or LB.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
31) NOR – Ereck Flowers (T, <st1:place w:st="on">Miami</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Saints use the Jimmy Graham pick to add some needed
depth to the offensive line.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
32) NE – Jalen Collins (CB, LSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The champs close out R1 by addressing their cornerback exodus
with the press cover guy from LSU. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Remaining Buccaneer Picks<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>R2<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This pick has to be an offensive lineman or edge
rusher. In the first round I had six
offensive linemen and six edge rushers chosen, and with pick #34, I expect the
Bucs to have more options on the offensive line. As the draft played out above, I’ve got this
pick down to two players head and shoulders above the rest. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3YRiCk24y_svQEq6jhjc1HpPtAkpzYHt6rJ0d55PJDkMnDYhjj1CDxjp-R9MZLQboYd3pYLSHU6OIckmMvBV971hYtHWWZFrzaGIk80saIqrGQC4zde4J7heZr5M3-1UVX2m-KdY7JVk/s1600/jake+fisher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3YRiCk24y_svQEq6jhjc1HpPtAkpzYHt6rJ0d55PJDkMnDYhjj1CDxjp-R9MZLQboYd3pYLSHU6OIckmMvBV971hYtHWWZFrzaGIk80saIqrGQC4zde4J7heZr5M3-1UVX2m-KdY7JVk/s1600/jake+fisher.jpg" height="288" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Jake Fisher (T, <st1:place w:st="on">Oregon</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I mentioned earlier, the first pick is going to be a QB,
and there are zero quality starting candidates on the current roster at RG and
RT. They must protect their investment,
and if (when) Jameis is the pick, he’s going to play early. Fisher might be the most athletic tackle in
this year’s class, and what I really like about him is that he’s not simply an
athletic, zone-blocking stereotype guy, he plays with power. I also think he has a bit of position
flexibility with him, so Fisher could give the Bucs options at LT, RT and
guard. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My other choice at #34 is Preston Smith (DE, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Mississippi</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>).
I think he’s the Bucs best remaining chance to upgrade the pass
rusher. He’s big and quick and doesn’t
give ground on the line of scrimmage. I
have noticed that he stops his feet too often and gives up too early on plays,
but that’s correctable. Smith played a lot of right end at MSU, but I like him
better on the left side in the pros.
He’s big and strong enough to handle himself against right tackles and
often gets the edge with his quickness off the line and hand usage. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>R3<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After addressing the offensive line and not seeing a pass
rusher I like in this range, I’m looking at wide receiver and cornerback. At receiver I want someone who could start
right away in the slot and eventually be able to move out wide when Vincent
Jackson moves on. At corner I want
someone who can contribute as the nickel right away and eventually project as a
boundary starter. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTtGbdKSB0Ll4vDdNTyjy_l_neAnQN7vWhc2ImaiYtzAzBQhKyvI8sar8geT3i6JGBeZPac7EdgC0EUZZgXKw7WgGAMHO9zwzfimwouIDlzXFxjHIyDkyyHwWL-wMDJBU5HsH_O7CWc_8/s1600/tre+mcbride.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTtGbdKSB0Ll4vDdNTyjy_l_neAnQN7vWhc2ImaiYtzAzBQhKyvI8sar8geT3i6JGBeZPac7EdgC0EUZZgXKw7WgGAMHO9zwzfimwouIDlzXFxjHIyDkyyHwWL-wMDJBU5HsH_O7CWc_8/s1600/tre+mcbride.jpeg" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Tre McBride (WR, William & Mary)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He’s an ideal slot receiver for Jameis. McBride has excellent hands and consistently
makes contested catches in tight spaces.
He’s the perfect compliment to Evans and Jackson and has shown enough
vertical playmaking ability to project as an eventual flanker. McBride could also contribute as a return
man. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve read that Ifo-Ekpre-Olomu (CB, <st1:place w:st="on">Oregon</st1:place>) has a chance to be available in this
range, and he would be my choice at cornerback.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>R4<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So far the Bucs have taken:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jameis Winston (QB, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jake Fisher (T, <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tre McBride (WR, William & Mary)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve got three positions in mind here – OL, CB, and edge
rusher – with an emphasis on the latter two.
You’ve got a better chance of finding an offensive lineman or cornerback
later in the draft than a quality pass rusher, so I’d really like to see the
Bucs get one with or before this pick if they’re going to draft one. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy48eh9mWszt04d098KI8YGauk4yX9E5tRvlC98odK46pkWGC-mbxoq1K1Ary5y_ItLsUZtNpSED0Cdr-FzEB7SNdsf9A6O_XM6TPyPLQXalmoEqQOneOsm1dfcIsB2EhnRzVAgWnrhaY/s1600/lynden+trail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy48eh9mWszt04d098KI8YGauk4yX9E5tRvlC98odK46pkWGC-mbxoq1K1Ary5y_ItLsUZtNpSED0Cdr-FzEB7SNdsf9A6O_XM6TPyPLQXalmoEqQOneOsm1dfcIsB2EhnRzVAgWnrhaY/s1600/lynden+trail.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Lynden Trail (DE, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Norfolk</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Long and lean pass rusher who must get stronger and improve
his hand usage at the point of contact.
He’s got a bigger wingspan than likely #2 overall pick Leonard Williams
and the quickness to contribute in backside pursuit. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At corner I like Senquez Golson (Ole Miss), and Donovan Smith
(<st1:placename w:st="on">Penn</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype>)
and Rob Havenstein (<st1:state w:st="on">Wisconsin</st1:state>)
are two tackles I’d consider here. If
the Bucs end up trading Martin or Glennon, I’d want one of these guys to be the
pick. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>R5 <o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikFrAwBdnI4GnLztBFXcgTbm2I8zt-ObRn1Di3YHg4CWHV6Jqk7krzd8z3Uc0OjgyfEEpj4VTjYEAy1a603ZjpGSzvJcD6dT3c_4xsqzqtt_HswmHWmv2yGadQHizTgq9Dwm2M9-tlgCM/s1600/poutasi+harrison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikFrAwBdnI4GnLztBFXcgTbm2I8zt-ObRn1Di3YHg4CWHV6Jqk7krzd8z3Uc0OjgyfEEpj4VTjYEAy1a603ZjpGSzvJcD6dT3c_4xsqzqtt_HswmHWmv2yGadQHizTgq9Dwm2M9-tlgCM/s1600/poutasi+harrison.jpg" height="212" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jeremiah Poutasi (OL, <st1:state w:st="on">Utah</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jarvis Harrison (G, <st1:place w:st="on">Texas</st1:place>
A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the two fifth round picks I’ve got the Bucs double
dipping on the offensive line with holdovers from my first mock. Poutasi played both right and left tackle in
college but projects as either a right tackle or guard in the pros. <st1:place w:st="on">Harrison</st1:place> saw
most of his time at left guard and would be an option at the right guard spot
as well. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With their first six picks, I have the Bucs taking three
offensive linemen, a quarterback and a pass rusher. Cornerback is the one position of obvious
weakness I’d still like to address, and depending on what happens with Martin
or one of the other rushers, running back might be an option. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>R6-R7</u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6jAHOoTZ9akJwyaYfy22f1dHs-FhQPjxnvTO11ut6za18UEQQJRTQdLIw41ZWl9JWWU3noAOYoQYW-ZhfcjmuFI4JfuEXe5ZfgGseJbYfc3bUiVYkRqH5-v47OGTIBMj7U6xPswtj7A/s1600/mccain+crockett.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6jAHOoTZ9akJwyaYfy22f1dHs-FhQPjxnvTO11ut6za18UEQQJRTQdLIw41ZWl9JWWU3noAOYoQYW-ZhfcjmuFI4JfuEXe5ZfgGseJbYfc3bUiVYkRqH5-v47OGTIBMj7U6xPswtj7A/s1600/mccain+crockett.jpg" height="146" width="400" /></a></div>
<u><br /></u>
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bobby McCain (CB, <st1:place w:st="on">Memphis</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
John Crockett (RB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">North Dakota</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
McCain is so quick to close on the ball. He’s physical enough to play man in the slot
and quick enough to play the short zone in front of him. Technique and tenacity are there as a
tackler, but he can’t help his size.
Only Shaq Thompson has more defensive TDs among players in this class
than McCain. I took Crockett with my
last pick in the first draft, and I’ll stick with him here. I still think the Bucs tinker with the
backfield, and as I mentioned last time, Crockett reminds me of James
Starks. I think there’s value in taking
a back capable of playing all three downs this late in the draft. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In Summary – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R1) Jameis Winston (QB, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R2) Jake Fisher (T, <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R3) Tre McBride (WR, William & Mary)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R4) Lynden Trail (DE, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Norfolk</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R5) Jeremiah Poutasi (OL, <st1:state w:st="on">Utah</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R5) Jarvis Harrison (G, <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state> A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R6) Bobby McCain (CB, <st1:city w:st="on">Memphis</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R7) John Crockett (RB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">North Dakota</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Go Bucs!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-40744177795018068602015-03-14T01:00:00.003-04:002015-03-14T01:00:58.322-04:00Where Are We Headed?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBw0gglXwNG4a4k59h5pa-pjZcw6Hs416tYLfrXtshiovA8vcXs-B_WWslFRXbflQwCJkCngOZ_rEdo0ySYXtWEGhMX4Feo0XHG0L5Z4pk9hxq7KDhHSm8Ybq98DeR7wXUKcLYI-3tEFQ/s1600/lovie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBw0gglXwNG4a4k59h5pa-pjZcw6Hs416tYLfrXtshiovA8vcXs-B_WWslFRXbflQwCJkCngOZ_rEdo0ySYXtWEGhMX4Feo0XHG0L5Z4pk9hxq7KDhHSm8Ybq98DeR7wXUKcLYI-3tEFQ/s1600/lovie.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unimpressive…Disappointing…Frustrating</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How do you feel about the Bucs activity so far in the new
league year? The pewter pirates entered
the offseason with needs at QB, DE, MLB, NCB, SWR, RT, RG, and FS. They then released failed experiments in LT
Anthony Collins and DE Michael Johnson, and FS Dashon Goldson is soon to be a
ex-Buc as well. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I believe roughly 200 transactions have taken place in the
NFL in the month of March. Of those 200,
only 3 of them involve the 2-14 Bucs bringing in new talent. Making an evaluation of a team’s entire
offseason prior to the draft is not fair, but if I’m to go by what I’ve seen so
far in response to a putrid performance and what I would expect to be a strong
attempt at a rebound, I’m unimpressed.
I’m disappointed. I’m
frustrated. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Who did they miss out on?
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bucs hosted DE Derrick Morgan and G/C Stefen Wisniewski,
and both left without contracts. Morgan
re-upped with <st1:place w:st="on">Tennessee</st1:place>
for an obscene $27 million over 4 years.
The Bucs were correct to balk at that kind of compensation for Morgan,
and news on the Wisniewski front has been quiet since he left <st1:city w:st="on">Tampa</st1:city>
for <st1:place w:st="on">Seattle</st1:place>. I don’t expect him to see <st1:place w:st="on">Tampa</st1:place> again unless it’s as member of the
opposition.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In my opinion, the Bucs biggest miss on a player that they
were rumored to be associated with is DE Jabaal Sheard. I believe Sheard would have been the ideal
solution at the base end position, providing three down consistency the team
hasn’t seen for quite some time. Sheard
signed with the Patriots and should flourish in that defense with Belichick
calling the shots.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DT Henry Melton was added on a one year deal and is a fine
addition to the interior defensive line rotation. The Bucs are now set in the middle with the
foursome of Gerald McCoy, Clinton McDonald, Akeem Spence, and Melton. They’re solid here. Sadly, this is the only place they’re
solid. Chris Conte, another former Lovie
Bear, was brought in to replace Goldson as the starter at FS. As bad as Goldson as been, I’m not sure
they’re getting any better with Conte.
My positive takeaway is that he’s a cheaper poor player. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m not privy to Jason Licht and Lovie Smith’s step-by-step
offseason plan, but if I’m being honest, I can’t help but mention that the only
players being brought in have a connection to Lovie Smith or someone on a
nearby branch of his preverbal coaching tree.
Why aren’t they bringing in new/unconnected players? Does the plan involve a hard cap on
guaranteed money? If so, why? Are they being realistic about their ’15
chances and looking forward to being bigger players in ’16? Or worst of all, are Licht and Lovie out of
their league? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m inclined to think it’s primarily about a plan involving
limited guaranteed money being handed out in ’15 due to a rational approach to
the upcoming season. Regardless of who
they draft, the Bucs aren’t going to be a factor in February. They’ll be lucky to be playoff relevant in
week 10. Are the Bucs managing this
offseason with that in mind, hoping that they draft well and then have a reason
to be bigger spenders a year from now?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I fully expect Jameis Winston to be the first collegiate
player to shake Roger Goodell’s hand April 30, so that fills the QB checkbox on
the offseason checklist. If I’m to
believe that Bruce Carter is going to play a 4-3 MLB regularly for the first
time and do it well, then I can go ahead and, hesitantly, check that position
off as well. Even if I assume the Bucs
sign Sterling Moore (shocker another ex-Cowboy / Marinelli guy) they still need
a starting caliber nickel. They’ve also
yet to address slot receiver, defensive end, or any position on the offensive
line. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The offseason plan clearly does not entail attempting to
address every position of need. Given an
optimistic look at what I mentioned above, the Bucs needs after the 1<sup>st</sup>
pick in the draft will be DE, NCB, SWR, RT, RG, and FS. Unless they basically win Powerball and hit on
every pick, the Bucs will again enter the season with a roster littered with
holes. At what point, in what year is
enough enough? Do we need to wait until
the end of the ’16 season to form an opinion of this regime? Does the play of their #1 pick excuse or prop
them up going forward? Why does my team
look so different from most of the other 31 in the league?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t need to see the Bucs sign Ndamukong Suh, Devin
McCourty, and Randall Cobb in one offseason.
I simply want to see some activity that suggests this franchise is
building a foundation for the future; one that doesn’t rely on striking it rich
with retreads from previously failed regimes.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RT is still a need, and Joseph Barkdale is still looking for
work. He’s 6’4 and over 320 pounds. He can’t be that hard to find. What about Justin Blalock? No, I don’t think the 31 year old guard is
the answer to the offensive line woes, but is his price on a one or two year
deal that prohibitive for a team desperate for bodies on the offensive
line? The Bucs little more than a glance
at a fairly plentiful pass rusher market tells me they don’t have any interest
on spending big on an end. Both Morgan
and Trent Cole left town without deals, and Sheard (in whom the Bucs were
apparently interested) didn’t even make a trip south. Don’t hold your breath on a Greg Hardy hail
mary. The Bucs are now fairly forced to
spend their R2 pick on either a pass rusher or pass blocker. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Great teams don’t rely on free agency to win them a
title. One example notwithstanding, not
a single player picked up last March from this past year’s final four teams
(NE, <st1:state w:st="on">IND</st1:state>, GB,
SEA) got them to where they were.
Darrelle Revis may be the exception, but then again I would expect (arguably)
the game’s best cover man to make a significant difference to any competitive
(non-Buc) team he joins. Rather than
relying on free agency to make them winners, each of these teams has
established a pattern of consistency in both free agency and the draft. You want to get to a point as an organization
where you’re drafting nearly entirely for best available talent with each
selection. If you’re constantly drafting
for need, then you’re obviously doing a poor job of capitalizing upon your
other opportunities. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If the Bucs don’t sign another veteran or deal for more
picks, they have eight opportunities to successfully address at least six needs. Given those six obvious needs listed above,
the Bucs will have to hit at an extremely high rate of success for the team to
be competitive this year. We may be less
than a week into the 2015 season, but even the most optimistic Bucs fan has to
be questioning where the regime is headed, not just this year but more
importantly for the foreseeable future. So
what is the plan? Are the Bucs
intentionally inactive this offseason?
Is the idea to identify their building blocks at the end of the ’15
season and spend big next year? The
regime’s results have been unimpressive, the lack of activity is disappointing,
and a strong sense of frustration is permeating through a dwindling fan base. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The late Al Davis is famous for the phrase, “commitment to
excellence”. Every organization should
have that as their mission. Too often
and for too long I’ve felt that a commitment to excellence has been missing
from this organization. Tell me I’m
being unfair. Tell me I’m not seeing
it. What is the plan? When should we expect results? Who’s to blame if this team remains
significant strides from relevance a year from now? When does it become natural to expect this
team to be competitive on an annual basis rather than watching them ramp up for
a two year run at mediocrity?</div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-54497866611512207172015-02-25T23:22:00.002-05:002015-02-25T23:22:28.944-05:002015 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Offseason Plan - Do It Big Then<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwU30zzgKJAUasMaIWrvdd-sXf7kQBSTTIkS5ZR1isfWVWWBr6_4j6DTLhuohRCqV-ImXRg0e_otK1bkZ3iEBiEOAHqSKrSnnLJGHoLErrLsQX9RVR5zqC36UwPnRLf6Zh_WMiwsmxRCY/s1600/licht+and+lovie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwU30zzgKJAUasMaIWrvdd-sXf7kQBSTTIkS5ZR1isfWVWWBr6_4j6DTLhuohRCqV-ImXRg0e_otK1bkZ3iEBiEOAHqSKrSnnLJGHoLErrLsQX9RVR5zqC36UwPnRLf6Zh_WMiwsmxRCY/s1600/licht+and+lovie.jpg" height="235" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Jason Licht & Lovie Smith era began in rather
forgettable fashion, with the Bucs waving the white flag on a two-win season by
losing their last six games, besting an earlier in-season five game losing
streak. The new regime quickly turned
over a majority of the roster, and their replacements, for the most part, did
not pay dividends. There were
exceptions. First round pick, Mike
Evans, looks like a franchise #1 receiver, Clinton McDonald was a welcome
addition to the defensive line, and Logan Mankins removed some of the comedy
from the offensive line’s play. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The rest of the acquisitions include a veteran QB who was brought
in to take the starting job and was just cut, a left tackle who was benched and
is likely to get cut, and a pass rusher who they paid about $2 million per
sack. Aside from Evans, the rest of the
draft class disappointed. Austin
Seferian-Jenkins has promise at tight end, and Charles Sims, a pick panned by
the consensus, wasn’t overly impressive when he eventually got healthy. The rest of the picks made no impact at all
and haven’t distinguished themselves as keepers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Following a two win season, Licht and Smith must show
significant improvement in year two. Their
to-do list is lengthy:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Find a
starting quarterback</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Decide
whether Doug Martin, Mike Glennon, Anthony Collins, Michael Johnson, Dashon Goldson, and Michael Koenen are worth
more on or off the roster</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Acquire
a threat at receiver behind Evans and Vincent Jackson</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Upgrade
at right guard and right tackle and improve overall OL depth</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Add
another pass rusher, even with Johnson on the team</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Sign a
starting MLB</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Bring
in a starting nickel corner and add depth</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">At a
minimum, add safety depth and replace Goldson if cut</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fortunately they have over $30 million in cap space and can
create more by cutting/trading those decision point players mentioned above. They also have a healthy supply of draft
picks, headlined by the #1 overall selection.
Before getting into what I think the Bucs should do with their draft
picks, let’s take a look at their options in free agency. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Free Agency<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlmt_I-JLwUMgAGrJL1xnM73xqUEy8mH0KNI6WrfuMaiMY2U4NHsuXrQ6zxolYB6OFxzD3B5-vy6EWtksAbsR14lTtPO6J4_4AQ_GQXycGye8G9Fr4QnOey05gyAm80G0p8nWWlKinhkw/s1600/2015+free+agents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlmt_I-JLwUMgAGrJL1xnM73xqUEy8mH0KNI6WrfuMaiMY2U4NHsuXrQ6zxolYB6OFxzD3B5-vy6EWtksAbsR14lTtPO6J4_4AQ_GQXycGye8G9Fr4QnOey05gyAm80G0p8nWWlKinhkw/s1600/2015+free+agents.jpg" height="226" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ndamukong Suh and Mike Iupati will likely headline the list
of players who make it to the market, and while both would look great in those
ugly Buc uniforms, I don’t foresee <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype></st1:place> being in on either
one. Even though the Bucs again go into
the offseason with multiple holes on the depth chart and decisions to make
about current personnel, I don’t think we see near the roster turnover as last
year. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If I’m charting the course, I’m wooing a select handful of
free agents. On offense I have two
specific targets at positions of need.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Joseph Barksdale (RT, <st1:city w:st="on">St.
Louis</st1:city> Rams)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With Demar Dotson likely to stay at left tackle, the Bucs
need to find a starter on the right side either in free agency or in the draft. Barksdale ranks as an elite run blocker with
room to grow as a pass protector. By
locking up Barksdale, the Bucs would have two bookends who will be under 30
when the season starts. I’m not sure
they can head into the draft without addressing the RG or RT spots in free
agency. I sign Barksdale and focus on a
starting right guard and at least one (ideally two) other offensive linemen in
the draft.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eddie Royal (WR, Chargers)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I like the idea of a group of targets that include Jackson,
Evans, and ASJ, but it’s not a finished group.
It’s still missing is that dimension of an explosive player in
space. I had Randall Cobb mocked to the
Bucs back in ’11, and as much as I’d love to see him finally join the crew, the
Bucs wisely won’t commit heavily to the position with Jackson and Evans already
on the roster. Royal averaged 55
catches, over 700 yards, and 8 TDs the last two years playing the slot role for
Philip Rivers, a QB to whom I’ve drawn some comparisons when discussing the
Bucs’ future at the position, and gives the Bucs some validity in the slot at
an affordable price. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Barksdale and Royal represent measurable yet efficient
upgrades. Both can be secured for
multiple years and leave plenty of cap space to address needs on the defensive
side of the ball.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Brandon Graham (DE, Eagles)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jabaal Sheard (DE, Browns)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unless cap space gets dire, I would hold onto Johnson for
another year to see if he can meet expectations when fully healthy. I would still look to add a free agent since
there is little depth behind Johnson and last year’s surprise, Jacquies
Smith. Both Graham and Sheard are
unlikely to be pursued by their current teams due to player/scheme mismatches
not a lack of talent. Graham wants to
play in a 4-3 defense, and he’d give the Bucs a pass rush boost from the left
side. He’s also a plus run stopper. Sheard has excelled as a run stopping
linebacker, but he totaled 15.5 sacks in his first two years as a 4-3 end. I think Johnson, Smith, and Graham/Sheard
would all benefit from being part of a rotation. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Walter Thurmond III (CB, Giants)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Patrick Robinson (CB, Saints)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The cornerback position may be the deepest of an overall
disappointing free agent class, and the Bucs will be in the market for a
starting nickel corner as well as depth behind starters Alterraun Verner and
Johnthan Banks. Thurmond is the ideal
slot corner, but he’s coming a missed season due to injury. He shouldn’t cost a fortune, but I expect
he’ll still have plenty of suitors.
Robinson shined once moved into the nickel role for the Saints, but I
assume he’ll look for a boundary role should he leave <st1:city w:st="on">New Orleans</st1:city>.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Adding a RT, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">WR</st1:city>,
<st1:state w:st="on">DE</st1:state></st1:place>, and CB will shorten their
must-do list and allow the Bucs to widen their focus in the draft. It’s not a lengthy list, but I’d like to see
an emphasis on quality over quantity in free agency this year. And I’m not expecting them to shop top shelf
either. I’d love to see the Bucs go
after Shane Vereen, Cobb, Bryan Bulaga, Iupati, Suh, Byron Maxwell, and Devin
McCourty, but it’s not happening.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>The Draft<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbl_ll6jd0kzOSnV25omDPfXTXuv4JRl68MB74ExmYV95XTy8Pvd78lV-4z5rdiKXQnLgBREuQjGDPZtNknQb3jSTgx7qDVFjwGoxAKwEBe77Edc90DkXc0BURt-WJCpi8vlwNGeB658/s1600/2015+draft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbl_ll6jd0kzOSnV25omDPfXTXuv4JRl68MB74ExmYV95XTy8Pvd78lV-4z5rdiKXQnLgBREuQjGDPZtNknQb3jSTgx7qDVFjwGoxAKwEBe77Edc90DkXc0BURt-WJCpi8vlwNGeB658/s1600/2015+draft.jpg" height="218" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If free agency goes as planned above, QB, MLB, and OL are
the highest remaining priorities. As it
currently stands, the Bucs have eight draft picks with at least one in each
round, and their first one will kick off draft weekend. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Debates rage regarding what the Bucs should do with the #1
pick, arguably the most critical pick in franchise history. Assuming they don’t trade the pick (something
I see as having little to no chance of happening), the choice will come down to
Jameis Winston or Marcus Mariota. The
best the Bucs have ever done when it comes to a franchise QB is Doug Williams,
Vinny Testaverde, and Trent Dilfer. The
bar is set low for whoever the Bucs decide on, but expectations will be
high. Who should it be?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One QB comes from a pro style offense where he was forced to
call plays in the huddle, adjust plays at the line of scrimmage, read defenses,
and exploit defenses. The other comes
from an offense, that while successful and efficient, doesn’t share a playbook
with an NFL franchise outside of <st1:place w:st="on">Philadelphia</st1:place>. As Bruce Arians commented, looking at the
sidelines at a guy holding a card, lifting your leg, and throwing the ball
isn’t playing quarterback. Winston is
the more ‘pro ready’ of the two, a fact that cannot be understated when you
consider that the Licht & Lovie regime will need to make big gains in year
two. Winston also requires zero roster
turnover at the other skilled positions in order to maximize his
strengths. Jackson, Evans, and ASJ are
big guys who get vertical; receivers who would excel with Winston under center. They’re not exactly the quick-cutting,
high/low combination route runners that <st1:state w:st="on">Oregon</st1:state>
and <st1:city w:st="on">Philadelphia</st1:city>
have had success with. Any suggestions
that Mariota has the higher ceiling assumes that he learns how to do the things
he hasn’t done and that he does them better than Winston. That’s a bet I don’t see the Bucs
taking. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of course I’m biased, but I’m not blind. Mariota might be a fine professional QB some
day, but Winston is the QB the Bucs need.
He’s everything they want on the field, has already proven to teams that
his game preparation and play/situation recognition skills are elite, and
embraces the idea of being the face of a franchise. He’s a winner and has his sights set on
greatness. When was the last time the
Bucs had someone with that energy?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the 1<sup>st</sup> pick in the 2015 NFL draft, the Tampa
Bay Buccaneers select…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jameis Winston (QB, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2FWaIkK_Xkejk6N3cImUcoag5wiyFHDIu4Bl-mfrpV_jETNVggiL0OEqNxJ4ktAp6Al2sILNE0kWL15kpzFuzsLEUXmBmM6uQ7chgXdU0CBNfj4apYtSgpv5qddHZhJk4KQcn8618HP8/s1600/jameis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2FWaIkK_Xkejk6N3cImUcoag5wiyFHDIu4Bl-mfrpV_jETNVggiL0OEqNxJ4ktAp6Al2sILNE0kWL15kpzFuzsLEUXmBmM6uQ7chgXdU0CBNfj4apYtSgpv5qddHZhJk4KQcn8618HP8/s1600/jameis.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s how I see the rest of the first round playing out.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) TEN – Leonard Williams (DL, USC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Far from sold on this pick; could be Fowler, Gregory,
Mariota, or a trade</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) CLE – Marcus Mariota (QB, <st1:place w:st="on">Oregon</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:place w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:place>
trades their two 1<sup>st</sup> round picks for the 3<sup>rd</sup> overall
pick. New OC has a impressive history
with young QBs, and their new QB coach tutored Mariota this offseason.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) OAK – Kevin White (WR, <st1:place w:st="on">W Virginia</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If not a pass rusher, it’s a #1 receiver for their franchise
QB.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) WAS – Dante Fowler (DE/OLB, <st1:place w:st="on">Florida</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Impressive pass rusher replaces Orakpo opposite Kerrigan;
could be the best defensive player in this draft.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) NYJ – Trae Waynes (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Michigan</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A flawless Combine gives new HC Todd Bowles all the reason
he needs to begin building his defense.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7) CHI – Danny Shelton (DT, Washington)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pretty obvious pick here; Bears moving to a 3-4 defense and
don’t have a nose; Ngata 2.0.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8) ATL – Randy Gregory (DE/OLB, <st1:place w:st="on">Nebraska</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Guessing this is about as low as Gregory goes; Falcons get a
much-needed pass rusher.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
9) NYG – Brandon Scherff (OL, <st1:place w:st="on">Iowa</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another obvious pick; Giants need help at tackle and guard,
and the well-rounded Scherff seems like a Couglin guy.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
10) STL – Amari Cooper (WR, <st1:place w:st="on">Alabama</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Back to the well; Mayock has compared Cooper to Torry Holt;
Rams fans should hope.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
11) MIN – La’el Collins (OL, LSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bit of a surprise here but Vikings have a hole at guard and
questions about Kalil.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
12) JAX – Shane Ray (DE, <st1:place w:st="on">Missouri</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jaguars need pass rushers and impact players all over; Ray
meets both of those needs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
13) NOR – Vic Beasley (DE/OLB, Clemson)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After the Combine, Beasley could go a lot higher than this,
but if not, the Saints would love to land a pass rusher here.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
14) MIA – DeVante Parker (WR, <st1:place w:st="on">Louisville</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If I’m reading the signs correctly, Mike Wallace won’t be
back next year, and neither will Hartline or Gibson. That leaves 2<sup>nd</sup> year Jarvis Landry
as the senior wideout. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
15) SF – Malcolm Brown (DL, <st1:place w:st="on">Texas</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This spot screams receiver, especially if Parker is still on
the board, but instead I have defensive-minded new HC taking Justin Smith’s
replacement.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
16) HOU – Andrus Peat (T, Stanford)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They won’t get a QB here, and rather than go with the
unoriginal pick of Landon Collins, I take possibly the best player on the
board.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
17) SD – Cameron Erving (OL, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Given the Chargers’ dire need for help at center and guard,
this is a nice spot for the ascending Erving to go.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
18) KC – Landon Collins (S, <st1:place w:st="on">Alabama</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If he lasts this long, I’ve got to think the Chiefs would
take him as Eric Berry’s replacement.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
19) JAX – Todd Gurley (RB, Georgia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the second pick acquired in the <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city> trade, the Jaguars take the best
back in the draft. He’s a local-enough
kid, and when he gets healthy, he’ll take a huge load off Bortles’ shoulders.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
20) PHI – Bud Dupree (DE/OLB, <st1:place w:st="on">Kentucky</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Corner and safety are higher needs, but I think Chip Kelly
is still looking for “his” players on defense; Dupree could team with Mychal
Kendricks to give the Eagles a couple of insanely athletic linebackers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
21) CIN – Eddie Goldman (DT, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Talent meets need.
Bengals have numbers but need more production from the defensive
line. Goldman can play the run and get
after the passer.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
22) PIT – Marcus Peters (CB, Washington)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Corner and pass rusher are their biggest needs, and I think
Peters is their best value at this point.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
23) DET – TJ Clemmings (T, <st1:place w:st="on">Pittsburgh</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m having a hard time reading Clemmings’ stock, but he
could step in right away at RT for the Lions.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
24) ARI – Melvin Gordon (RB, <st1:place w:st="on">Wisconsin</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You couldn’t blame Zona for addressing one of their many
defensive needs, but I’ve got to think Arians could find a ton of ways to use
Gordon and Ellington together. He’ll
also make an instant impact for a team with a questionable playoff window. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
25) CAR – Dorial Green-Beckham (WR, <st1:place w:st="on">Oklahoma</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Love the value and risk here. <st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city>
struck gold at receiver last year with Kelvin Benjamin, and pairing the 6-5,
240 former Nole with a 6-5, 235 DGB, is a scary thought. <st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city>
could impress next year with those two, the underrated Olsen, and a healthy
Stewart.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
26) BAL – Jalen Collins (CB, LSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ton of talent; could end up being the best corner from this
draft; really nice fit opposite Jimmy Smith.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
27) DAL – PJ Williams (CB, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This pick has to be a defensive player, and if they don’t
find a pass rusher to their liking, I think they go corner given the lack of
talent at the position.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
28) DEN – Ereck Flowers (T, <st1:place w:st="on">Miami</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Seems to be exactly what Kubiak needs – a big tackle who
excels in the run game.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
29) <st1:place w:st="on">IND</st1:place>
– Eric Kendricks (LB, UCLA)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Indy has to get a lot better on defense, and I think this is
a perfect situation for Kendricks. They
need help at ILB, and this guy makes a ton of plays.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
30) GB – Denzel Perryman (LB, <st1:city w:st="on">Miami</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Packers are terribly lacking at ILB, and getting a force
like Perryman frees Matthews up to move back outside.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
31) SEA – Quinten Rollins (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Miami</st1:city> <st1:state w:st="on">OH</st1:state></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
is dangerously thin at corner, and the big, physical Rollins fits perfectly.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
32) NE – Shaq Thompson (ATH, Washington)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Belichick loves toys, and this guy may be the more exciting
of this year’s bunch. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Round 2 & Remaining Picks</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWjrjWv4VRqclOzMszCQl8qR2FJFzxs0hgJX1TRPVXokwp3NKlNSRuhbHYB3VXv0KiDGdIOuT52q7o2iRYuoWkgu9JM1bbxSoj3LIPwA5nd34C-SoMudMJu3FLAilq1w_Hl-MWOrlSyQE/s1600/stephone+anthony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWjrjWv4VRqclOzMszCQl8qR2FJFzxs0hgJX1TRPVXokwp3NKlNSRuhbHYB3VXv0KiDGdIOuT52q7o2iRYuoWkgu9JM1bbxSoj3LIPwA5nd34C-SoMudMJu3FLAilq1w_Hl-MWOrlSyQE/s1600/stephone+anthony.jpg" height="203" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve got the Titans drafting Nate Orchard (DE/OLB, <st1:place w:st="on">Utah</st1:place>) with the first
pick of day two. Since I’m always one
for acquiring more draft picks, I’m going to propose a trade here. I’m not sure the Bucs will be in a better
position to move down than the Titans, but should the opportunity present
itself, I expect them to be inclined to do so.
I’ve got the Bucs trading the 34<sup>th</sup> overall pick to the Bills
for their 2<sup>nd</sup> and 3<sup>rd</sup> round picks in order for Rex Ryan
to take a QB, Brett Hundley. Here’s what
I have <st1:city w:st="on">Tampa</st1:city>
doing with those and their other draft picks.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R2 (BUF trade) – Ifo Ekpre-Olomu (CB, <st1:place w:st="on">Oregon</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
An ideal solution to the slot corner dilemma; easy
comparison to Ronde; ACL injury could have him available in this range.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R3 – Stephone Anthony (LB, Clemson)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lacks explosiveness of higher-rated linebackers but a strong
showing of athleticism at Combine combined with an ability to cover the deep
middle has to be appealing to the Bucs.
Anthony, Kendricks, and Paul Dawson would be my top MLB choices in the
draft. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R3 (BUF trade) – Donovan Smith (T, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Penn</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Worth the risk at this point; high upside as a left tackle
with a ton of physical tools; just needs coaching and reps; could play RT or
possibly G which increases his value to the Bucs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R4 – Jeremiah Poutasi (OL, <st1:place w:st="on">Utah</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another offensive lineman long on potential; projects as a
RG/RT; similar to Smith in that he has all the physical traits, just needs
coaching and reps; would love to see him at RG.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think the odds are better than 50/50 that the Bucs trade
Doug Martin at some point. I’ve got him
going to the Steelers for a 4<sup>th</sup> round pick. With that pick the Bucs take…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R4 (PIT trade) – Kurtis Drummond (FS, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Michigan</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Whether or not Goldson is retained, the Bucs need bodies at
safety. I like his ability to track and
seize the football. Senquez Golson (CB,
Ole Miss) is another guy I like in this range should they not address corner
sooner.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R5 – Stefon Diggs (WR, <st1:place w:st="on">Maryland</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
More explosive than fast, Diggs does his damage in the slot;
fills a huge need as someone who can make plays in space and get those extra
years in the middle of the field.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R5 – Jarvis Harrison (G, <st1:place w:st="on">Texas</st1:place> A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Huge dude with starting guard potential; interested in
seeing him play to his strengths in a power scheme.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R6 – Tyeler Davison (DT, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Love his projection as a NT next to McCoy; huge and strong;
has a bit of position versatility and potential as a pass rusher. Bobby McCain (CB, <st1:city w:st="on">Memphis</st1:city>) would get my vote if they haven’t
drafted a corner by now.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R7 – John Crockett (RB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">North Dakota</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)<br />
If the Bucs trade Martin, they’ll need another back to go with Sims, James, and
Rainey. Reminds me of James Starks; does
everything well, not great. (I see PR
took him in their latest mock; great minds think alike)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Summary<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In total the Bucs add:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
QB – Jameis Winston</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RB – John Crockett <br />
WR – Eddie Royal, Stefon Diggs </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OL – Joseph Barksdale, Donovan Smith, Jeremiah Poutasi,
Jarvis Harrison</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DL – Brandon Graham / Jabaal Sheard, Tyeler Davison</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LB – Stephone Anthony</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CB – Walter Thurmond, Ifo Ekpre-Olomu</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FS – Kurtis Drummond </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Acquiring talent is just one half of the staff’s
charge. They must do a much better job
of coaching up the talent and putting players in the best position to
succeed. I believe this sufficiently and
realistically addresses the first half of the equation. The rest is up to Lovie. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Go Bucs!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHnd6-m01Dqyven8angMQI3VyAq3J7-g6PugdTGCeTn6ZOMZC6nE4kci7ck3FU4Ygc0FCjjSFfwXvz6z4pxU4Cro2R2WX1gdbYLlWGU4YeTGoqycjT3r8Rw82Pk-MBLky1xkhTvNuBAM/s1600/winston+white.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHnd6-m01Dqyven8angMQI3VyAq3J7-g6PugdTGCeTn6ZOMZC6nE4kci7ck3FU4Ygc0FCjjSFfwXvz6z4pxU4Cro2R2WX1gdbYLlWGU4YeTGoqycjT3r8Rw82Pk-MBLky1xkhTvNuBAM/s1600/winston+white.jpg" height="305" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-80568998564435545392014-05-09T17:30:00.000-04:002014-05-09T17:31:24.569-04:002014 NFL Draft - Buccaneers Day 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlfd24BXsKEN56OQNsoiZJA6Qtf5kTYJAcCjrdBOvT8qR0ePuMOvUV1nq-_n5dEBtnh2BPijB08Fwl7ejQ1V__SFJycl8pX6NQAmP5reEkqzxYe-Wgc2tqz7AG3w_HDNmcRXJriddk8c/s1600/draft+-+mike+evans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlfd24BXsKEN56OQNsoiZJA6Qtf5kTYJAcCjrdBOvT8qR0ePuMOvUV1nq-_n5dEBtnh2BPijB08Fwl7ejQ1V__SFJycl8pX6NQAmP5reEkqzxYe-Wgc2tqz7AG3w_HDNmcRXJriddk8c/s1600/draft+-+mike+evans.jpg" height="305" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
After acquiring Mike Evans with the 7<sup>th</sup> pick in
R1, the Bucs have addressed one weakness – finding a starter opposite Vincent
Jackson. While I found the pick
underwhelming, there’s no mistaking that Evans is an upgrade over Mike
Williams, gives Josh McCown two very large wideouts to work with, and is an
eventual #1 replacement for <st1:city w:st="on">Jackson</st1:city>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With two picks for Friday night’s action, the positions I
would target are – QB, WR, OL, CB, and DL.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s what I expect to happen with the first six picks of
the evening:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
33) <st1:city w:st="on">Houston</st1:city>
Texans – Louis Nix (DT, Notre Dame)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t think the Texans want to tempt fate by drafting
David Carr’s little brother. I think
this will be a DL pick. Ra’Shede Hageman
is my fallback.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
34) <st1:state w:st="on">Washington</st1:state>
Redskins – Morgan Moses (T, Virginia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think this one is going to be a tackle, and I’m going with
Moses. Cyrus Kouandjio is my fallback.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
35) <st1:place w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:place>
Browns – Xavier Su’a-Filo (G, UCLA)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Browns want to upgrade at RG, and XSF might be the best
player remaining on the board, regardless of position. Marqise Lee is my fallback as a nice addition
to Gordon-Cameron-Hawkins.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
36) <st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city> Raiders – Derek Carr
(QB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unless they simply enjoy confusing the media, all
indications point to the Raiders taking Carr.
I’ll be shocked if Carr isn’t a Raider.
They may even move up to #33 to secure him.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
37) <st1:city w:st="on">Atlanta</st1:city> Falcons –
Demarcus Lawrence (DE, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Boise</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Falcons need an impact rusher, and <st1:city w:st="on">Lawrence</st1:city> is widely considered the most
dynamic pass rusher remaining. A sneaky
good pick would be to take XSF as a follow up to Matthews last night. Jace Amaro could be Tony Gonzalez’s
successor. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
38) <st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype> Buccaneers – Joel Bitonio (OL, <st1:state w:st="on">Nevada</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If XSF is off the board, I think Bitonio becomes the Bucs #1
target. He has the ability to play both
tackle and guard but would likely settle into one of the guard spots in <st1:city w:st="on">Tampa</st1:city>. I like Bitonio, but he’s not my first
option. I would first encourage the Bucs
to deal down, and with a lot of talent remaining at receiver and along the
offensive and defensive lines, hopefully the Bucs are able to move down a bit and
add another pick or two. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My order of preference for pick #38 – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Derek Carr</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Donte Moncrief </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) Joel Bitonio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) Lamarcus Joyner</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) XSF</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) Timmy Jernigan</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7) Allen Robinson</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8) Kony Ealy</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-46044275172807760612014-05-08T07:36:00.003-04:002014-05-08T07:37:13.700-04:002014 NFL Draft - Final Mock Draft<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-rmr3hkbf7Hsmc2EYXIUzdowq4z__THBQpUFQVWUQ9Euelg68V9Xz3sDroF8vuhAxTnmKa7EyQ_Lm0oZTo87hOHABAejjOkP7Ie1UVj_e3YCVPOsgIEM6jHVYsfxysnIvpd97O8a-5E8/s1600/draft+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-rmr3hkbf7Hsmc2EYXIUzdowq4z__THBQpUFQVWUQ9Euelg68V9Xz3sDroF8vuhAxTnmKa7EyQ_Lm0oZTo87hOHABAejjOkP7Ie1UVj_e3YCVPOsgIEM6jHVYsfxysnIvpd97O8a-5E8/s1600/draft+2014.jpg" height="375" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s one last take on the first round of the draft before
things kick off tonight.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) <st1:city w:st="on">Houston</st1:city> Texans – Jadeveon
Clowney (DE, <st1:state w:st="on">South Carolina</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Texans are reportedly open to moving the pick if they
can get an RGII-like haul, but I don’t think anyone meets their price, even the
Falcons. <st1:city w:st="on">Houston</st1:city> adds the draft’s best player to an
already stout defensive front.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) <st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city> Rams – Jake
Matthews (T, <st1:place w:st="on">Texas</st1:place>
A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m sticking with Matthews to the Rams, but this time they
stay put at #2 and take him. <st1:city w:st="on">Detroit</st1:city> and <st1:place w:st="on">Buffalo</st1:place>
are reportedly interested in moving up for Sammy Watkins, but I’m not sure we
will actually see a team outside the top ten move up that high. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) <st1:city w:st="on">Jacksonville</st1:city> Jaguars –
Khalil Mack (DE/OLB, <st1:city w:st="on">Buffalo</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve had the Jaguars going defense all along, and I’m
sticking to it. I think this comes down
to Mack or Watkins, and I have the Jaguars going with the elite defensive
player over the elite offensive player due in part to the sizeable draft depth
difference between the two positions.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city> Browns – Mike
Evans (WR, <st1:place w:st="on">Texas</st1:place>
A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If Matthews going #2 isn’t the first swerve of the draft,
this is. The Browns take Evans over
Watkins and add him to Josh Gordon, Andrew Hawkins, and Jordan Cameron. If they go this route, expect QB to be their
target with R1 pick #2. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) <st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city>
Raiders – Sammy Watkins (WR, Clemson)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If Watkins is there, I don’t see any way the Raiders don’t
take him. I’d probably give them Evans
if Watkins goes earlier. If not a
receiver then I’d go with my previous pick, Aaron Donald. I’m guessing the tackle talk, specifically
Taylor Lewan, is draft smoke.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) <st1:city w:st="on">Atlanta</st1:city> Falcons – Greg
Robinson (T, <st1:city w:st="on">Auburn</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rather than trade up to #1 for Clowney, the Falcons stay at
six, keep their picks, and add, arguably, the draft’s top tackle prospect. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7) <st1:city w:st="on">Dallas</st1:city> Cowboys (TRADE) –
Aaron Donald (DT, <st1:city w:st="on">Pittsburgh</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today’s rumor says Lovie Smith wants Aaron Donald, but I’m
not buying it. I’d like to think that a
team with more dire needs on the offensive side of the ball would go that route
rather than add a part time pass rusher.
Donald wouldn’t be a part timer for the Cowboys. Bucs get <st1:city w:st="on">Dallas</st1:city>’ picks in R1, R2, and R4. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8) <st1:state w:st="on">Minnesota</st1:state>
Vikings – Kyle Fuller (CB, Virginia Tech)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This may be a surprise pick, but without Donald there, I
don’t think they take Mosley this high or a QB in R1. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
9) <st1:city w:st="on">Buffalo</st1:city> Bills – Taylor
Lewan (T, <st1:state w:st="on">Michigan</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think it’s either a tackle or receiver here, and I’ve got
them taking the former.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
10) Detroit Lions – Odell Beckham (WR, LSU)<br />
They’re mentioned as being interested in moving up for Watkins, but if they
stay put, they could get a similarly successful player.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
11) <st1:state w:st="on">Tennessee</st1:state>
Titans – Blake Bortles (QB, UCF)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Oh how the mighty have fallen. Bortles slides ten spots from my previous
pick and ignites a QB controversy in <st1:city w:st="on">Nashville</st1:city>. HC Ken Whisenhunt gets a QB who compares
favorably to former pupil, Ben Roethlisberger.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
12) <st1:state w:st="on">New York</st1:state>
Giants – Zack Martin (OL, Notre Dame)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I mentioned last time, the Giants need to really hit with
this pick, and Martin is probably the safest pick they can make and also
addresses a need on the offensive line.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
13) <st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city> Rams – Darqueze
Dennard (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Michigan</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The smaller, physical Dennard replaces the departed,
smaller, physical Cortland Finnegan.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
14) <st1:city w:st="on">San Francisco</st1:city> 49ers
(TRADE) – Brandin Cooks (WR, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Oregon</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Niners make the move up for a receiver to compliment
Boldin, Crabtree, and Davis. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
15) <st1:city w:st="on">Pittsburgh</st1:city> Steelers –
Justin Gilbert (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Oregon</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Projected as the draft’s #1 corner, Gilbert is the third
player off the board at his position. I
think the Steelers will have a tough time going any other route than corner
with this pick.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
16) <st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype> Buccaneers (TRADE) – Derek Carr (QB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m sticking with Carr.
Ideally the Bucs are able to move down from #7 into this range in order
to take their QB, but I could see them doing it with their original pick. I don’t buy the Manziel talk because I don’t
think his quick improvisation trigger fits with Jeff Tedford’s structured/disciplined
offense. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
17) <st1:city w:st="on">Baltimore</st1:city>
Ravens – Eric Ebron (TE, UNC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ebron is reportedly high on <st1:city w:st="on">Baltimore</st1:city>’s radar, and if they don’t go big
at WR, adding Ebron to go with Dennis Pitta in the middle of the field would be
a nice way to upgrade the pass offense.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
18) <st1:state w:st="on">New York</st1:state> Jets – Ha Ha
Clinton-Dix (S, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This may be too low for HHCD, but I think the Jets would
love to add a DB of his caliber to a very weak and shallow group. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
19) <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city> Browns (TRADE)
– Johnny Manziel (QB, <st1:place w:st="on">Texas</st1:place>
A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jay Glazer is firm about the Browns not taking JFF at #4,
but that doesn’t mean that can’t get him later.
If I can trust that intel, I don’t think Manziel ends up a top 10
pick. At that point, it’s about who can
deal up the quickest to get him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
20) <st1:place w:st="on">Arizona</st1:place>
Cardinals – Anthony Barr (OLB, UCLA)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m not a Barr fan, but if he’s still available, I think <st1:state w:st="on">Arizona</st1:state> will have a
tough time passing on him. A safety
would be my second choice.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
21) <st1:city w:st="on">Green Bay</st1:city> Packers – CJ
Mosley (LB, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sadly, the Packers seem to be a team spinning their wheels
on defense, regardless of the talent they’ve acquired in recent years. Mosley
would give them an upgrade on Brad Jones’ spot next to AJ Hawk on the
inside. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
22) <st1:city w:st="on">Philadelphia</st1:city> Eagles –
Ryan Shazier (OLB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Ohio</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t know that I’ve seen Shazier mentioned to the Eagles elsewhere,
but if they do indeed go defense, I think adding the very active Shazier to a
linebacker group that already features Mychal Kendricks would be one hell of a
move.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
23) <st1:city w:st="on">Kansas City</st1:city> Chiefs –
Calvin Pryor (S, <st1:city w:st="on">Louisville</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He may not fall this far in the real deal, but since he did
here, the Chiefs don’t pass up an ideal fit at a position of need.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
24) <st1:city w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:city> Bengals –
Teddy Bridgewater (QB, <st1:city w:st="on">Louisville</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m taking the bait. <st1:city w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:city> is reported to have interest in <st1:city w:st="on">Bridgewater</st1:city>, and, if
true, I think it’s a very smart move.
They’re getting close to decision time with the underwhelming Andy
Dalton, and adding Bridgewater to the fold give them more leverage in Dalton’s
contract talks and security in case they decide to let Dalton depart.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
25) <st1:city w:st="on">San Diego</st1:city>
Chargers – Jason Verrett (CB, TCU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m going with CB over DL with this pick as the Chargers
look to upgrade a vulnerable secondary.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
26) <st1:city w:st="on">Miami</st1:city>
Dolphins (TRADE) – Morgan Moses (T, Virginia)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The standard line of thinking has the Dolphins taking a
tackle in R1. Moving down via the <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city> trade makes
Moses the move look less forced.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
27) <st1:city w:st="on">New Orleans</st1:city>
Saints – Marqise Lee (WR, USC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With Marques Colston not getting any younger and only Kenny
Stills as a developing receiver, the Saints need to add to the position.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
28) <st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city> Panthers –
Bradley Roby (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Ohio</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city>
got through a successful ’13 season with a smoke-and-mirrors act in the
secondary. Talent is sorely needed at
corner.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
29) <st1:place w:st="on">New England</st1:place> Patriots –
Louis Nix (DT, Notre Dame)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Wilfork comparison is too obvious, but so is the
fit. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
30) <st1:place w:st="on">Chicago</st1:place>
Bears (TRADE) – Timmy Jernigan (DT, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m not sure if he’s still on the team’s radar after the
failed drug test, but as we’ve seen in the past, teams make excuses for
talent. Maybe this will be another one
of those instances.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
31) <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> Broncos – Deen
Ford (DE/OLB, <st1:city w:st="on">Auburn</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I like the fit for Ford.
He goes to a team where he can be eased into the rotation and won’t be
counted on to be the sack savior. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
32) <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> Seahawks –
Dominique Easley (DT, <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since his medicals apparently shed good light on his status,
I think Easley is definitely in play at the end of day one. If any team can afford to give a guy with
Easley’s ability a redshirt season, it’s the champs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Remaining Buccaneer Selections<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If the Bucs were to get Carr in R1, I’ve got to think
they’re making every attempt to deal Glennon.
I will say this – If they don’t get at least a third round pick in
exchange, I’d take Glennon to camp and look to deal him again if/when a team
experiences an injury at QB. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
With QB taken care of, like last time I’m focusing 100% on
receiver at pick #38. Unlike last time,
I’m going with the player I prefer, rather than guessing who the Bucs might
prefer. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5oO76-4erZ-9ejMl1NuVr9Kb7nnXTYAGii94njSPiWBjfooUwIKLkV8I93Vt1Z5rVcQGw08KVrhCc-pN7wcRXXVNqfKFJQZa-2sY5nCkjkLo2uTv9rGM2qjiEnX-Rb-MIhN29PPflMg8/s1600/draft+-+donte+moncrief.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5oO76-4erZ-9ejMl1NuVr9Kb7nnXTYAGii94njSPiWBjfooUwIKLkV8I93Vt1Z5rVcQGw08KVrhCc-pN7wcRXXVNqfKFJQZa-2sY5nCkjkLo2uTv9rGM2qjiEnX-Rb-MIhN29PPflMg8/s1600/draft+-+donte+moncrief.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
R2a – Donte Moncrief (WR, <st1:place w:st="on">Mississippi</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In my last version, I had the Bucs taking Easley with the
pick acquired in the R1 trade. With
Easley off the board, I’m going with choice 1a.
As I’ve mentioned previously, I love this guy’s fit as a slot corner and
potential contributor/successor at free safety.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoMw_SPtnC38yYEjXFV9AvkZLoVvXgfj78jsWSxrbQiLjj9yAWyjpyocGRyu5EzbXig0kHKdLRz8yv0_7ydIqycDKjxZ7sBRLhomOkOjUtC2SxhfyMwKuTySC3wTQDolKxHeBqlMliOCw/s1600/draft+-+lamarcus+joyner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoMw_SPtnC38yYEjXFV9AvkZLoVvXgfj78jsWSxrbQiLjj9yAWyjpyocGRyu5EzbXig0kHKdLRz8yv0_7ydIqycDKjxZ7sBRLhomOkOjUtC2SxhfyMwKuTySC3wTQDolKxHeBqlMliOCw/s1600/draft+-+lamarcus+joyner.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
R2b – Lamarcus Joyner (DB, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m switching my pick here.
I’ve been big on both Bruce Ellington and CJ Fiedorowicz, but since I’ve
yet to read anything about the Bucs being tied to the receiver and know that
they have visited with the tight end, I’m going for the most likely
outcome. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjdEyIFvZi21_Xy_iDNwCvHWUtm688LRRCqUVJbLD1QJmusp0hbOLJCZXtsZZUaNG3OfI9tBqqkryIEMFBvq6QDI4zNzGyBpuVTtIBVUC1SK1L-sfHGQU5o6zSG6HTjxYizuvX7V-RuCA/s1600/draft+-+cj+fiedorowicz2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjdEyIFvZi21_Xy_iDNwCvHWUtm688LRRCqUVJbLD1QJmusp0hbOLJCZXtsZZUaNG3OfI9tBqqkryIEMFBvq6QDI4zNzGyBpuVTtIBVUC1SK1L-sfHGQU5o6zSG6HTjxYizuvX7V-RuCA/s1600/draft+-+cj+fiedorowicz2.jpg" height="297" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
R3 – CJ Fiedorowicz (TE, <st1:place w:st="on">Iowa</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since I switched from Ellington in R3, I still want to add
another receiver. I don’t wait long to
do so and take a guy who has some of that speed in space stuff. He can line up inside or outside, and I think
he’d make a fine #3 inside of Jackson and Moncrief. With the last pick acquired in my
hypothetical <st1:city w:st="on">Dallas</st1:city> trade, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype></st1:place>
takes…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinWMCB027CnfW25HSyfsgMtlWZCMprX4KJs_rgHMmRKbguCQjZykQzbZZUY5jWkr_bwWEPn7u5h3Cb3J4s-Mb_Wp1w6EhwVDfHlslAdZcEPVpYpr2XkKYVk28NQPvqApryjmAHDVrKHG8/s1600/draft+-+jared+abbrederis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinWMCB027CnfW25HSyfsgMtlWZCMprX4KJs_rgHMmRKbguCQjZykQzbZZUY5jWkr_bwWEPn7u5h3Cb3J4s-Mb_Wp1w6EhwVDfHlslAdZcEPVpYpr2XkKYVk28NQPvqApryjmAHDVrKHG8/s1600/draft+-+jared+abbrederis.jpg" height="278" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
R4 – Jared Abbrederis (WR, <st1:place w:st="on">Wisconsin</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No change in plans with my R5 pick. The Bucs have yet to address the hole at
guard and take the strong man from Bama.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPaSDmGM101ZjrNke5eCTjpz-psV02Hv1zpeXj9ffBnh6KfsT7ZsRBiJzDruuDFmVGBMGu2aVWAEmuAWWXPKomQyNiI0whsG-lhOeZ4DCtyDUq4d88Mo4O9atHzLJDQ40dKoowA_daBU/s1600/draft+-+anthony+steen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPaSDmGM101ZjrNke5eCTjpz-psV02Hv1zpeXj9ffBnh6KfsT7ZsRBiJzDruuDFmVGBMGu2aVWAEmuAWWXPKomQyNiI0whsG-lhOeZ4DCtyDUq4d88Mo4O9atHzLJDQ40dKoowA_daBU/s1600/draft+-+anthony+steen.jpg" height="206" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
R5 – Anthony Steen (G, <st1:place w:st="on">Alabama</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since I’ve got them taking Fiedorowicz in this version,
Crockett Gillmore is overkill. I’ve got
to think Lovie will lobby for a defensive lineman at some point, and here I’m
giving them a guy who offers versatility and a good bit of pass rush potential.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgleGvUoYeTLdSABhWTcfIwFiIhz-wKNfPACGcYR0qD7YG5UWk4n1IFF-bBXvt5wClN5IQ_nfZ2_3i9Rt3NfEbq8fmXo1jzlZT2VeVhcP4O0aqkezqeb-N2dh5dNWPtK9sTdoFOC_1TcrU/s1600/draft+-+calvin+barnett.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgleGvUoYeTLdSABhWTcfIwFiIhz-wKNfPACGcYR0qD7YG5UWk4n1IFF-bBXvt5wClN5IQ_nfZ2_3i9Rt3NfEbq8fmXo1jzlZT2VeVhcP4O0aqkezqeb-N2dh5dNWPtK9sTdoFOC_1TcrU/s1600/draft+-+calvin+barnett.jpg" height="293" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
R6 – Calvin Barnett (DT, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Oklahoma</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m going with the same shot in the dark with the last pick;
another strong offensive lineman with a lot of starting experience.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SC6803POzaDg9GQO8XDYm_XW8its5uKiPJ0GRGPBXHuYeqtGdRQ_iXdIo2P5Ud6dV1ZYKY3Yb8pZnxDwrsqA1hsViuSRXiZRV9moAymJ3SE3tclmVJIGflSlugm3hS0Tug2kCkpoclU/s1600/draft+-+corey+linsley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SC6803POzaDg9GQO8XDYm_XW8its5uKiPJ0GRGPBXHuYeqtGdRQ_iXdIo2P5Ud6dV1ZYKY3Yb8pZnxDwrsqA1hsViuSRXiZRV9moAymJ3SE3tclmVJIGflSlugm3hS0Tug2kCkpoclU/s1600/draft+-+corey+linsley.jpg" height="288" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
R7 – Corey Linsley (C, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Ohio</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<u>Recap<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
*1) Derek Carr (QB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
2a) Donte Moncrief (WR, <st1:place w:st="on">Mississippi</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
*2b) Lamarcus Joyner (DB, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
3) CJ Fiedorowicz (TE, <st1:state w:st="on">Iowa</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
*4) Jared Abbrederis (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">Wisconsin</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
5) Anthony Steen (G, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
6) Calvin Barnett (DT, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Oklahoma</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
7) Corey Linsley (C, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Ohio</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
* = pick acquired in Dallas trade</div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-60003096152182769692014-05-04T10:51:00.003-04:002014-05-04T10:51:44.270-04:002014 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings By Position<div class="MsoNormal">
Here are my (at least) top 5 prospects at every position. I also mention my favorite per position for the Bucs. Players are ranked, not in the order in which
I think they’ll be chosen but rather my projection of their success as
pros. For reference, I ranked Colin
Kaepernick <a href="http://talbuc.blogspot.com/2011/01/2011-nfl-draft-prospects-quarterbacks.html">higher
than Cam Newton</a> in 2011 (pay no attention to QBs 1-4) and had this to say
about the eventual Niners QB prior to the draft – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Kaepernick might look
a little high here, but he could actually have the greatest potential as a
developmental prospect with a big arm and plus mobility. Once Kaepernick
commits to keeping the ball, he shows impressive straight line speed. He avoids
the pass rush well for a guy who isn’t the thickest QB. Despite running the
Pistol offense at <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:state w:st="on">Nevada</st1:state></st1:place>
I think his skill set will make the transition to a more traditional scheme
fairly seamless.....<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Are there any Kaepernicks in this year’s class?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOceqSMNNoO6umvo4VK_hYh7F0QegjQw2Erf3gVzEuJuUb_01VOM28ZGBCjD7HZ-anpeB_zWs7aJAGOd66bxt6gRXDFTn2q16ug52JW_N4lNnH6zH35AgcuUfaMbx6wgC4VZHGpMCer2E/s1600/draft+-+derek+carr+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOceqSMNNoO6umvo4VK_hYh7F0QegjQw2Erf3gVzEuJuUb_01VOM28ZGBCjD7HZ-anpeB_zWs7aJAGOd66bxt6gRXDFTn2q16ug52JW_N4lNnH6zH35AgcuUfaMbx6wgC4VZHGpMCer2E/s1600/draft+-+derek+carr+2.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Quarterback<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Blake Bortles (UCF)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Derek Carr (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) Teddy Bridgewater (<st1:place w:st="on">Louisville</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) Johnny Manziel (<st1:place w:st="on">Texas</st1:place>
A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) Jimmy Garoppolo (<st1:place w:st="on">E Illinois</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) Aaron Murray (<st1:country-region w:st="on">Georgia</st1:country-region>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7) Zach Mettenberger (LSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Favorite for the Bucs – Derek Carr</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m of the belief that the Bucs will take a QB early and
trade Mike Glennon for a draft pick. Carr
is still my projected pick for the Bucs in round one, whether it is at #7 or
via a trade down in R1. Carr won’t start
right away, and if Josh McCown plays anything like he did last year, he won’t
have to. I love the idea of him learning
behind the scenes with Jeff Tedford without the pressure to produce right away
that derailed his brother’s career. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZcI-o-pvD3wJg9UYNvG39bA7iAuuAfxIQzqKYVaKaf8uLZG6_-CDJ22ehdpMffojP1JewC5I_mU1UmAFxiEnYRfc4aOh6IeQXkx28j-xKWcOE5XkGeXakO5cqFGRhLV1NCb512kPYrXw/s1600/draft+-+devonta+freeman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZcI-o-pvD3wJg9UYNvG39bA7iAuuAfxIQzqKYVaKaf8uLZG6_-CDJ22ehdpMffojP1JewC5I_mU1UmAFxiEnYRfc4aOh6IeQXkx28j-xKWcOE5XkGeXakO5cqFGRhLV1NCb512kPYrXw/s1600/draft+-+devonta+freeman.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Running Back<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Tre Mason (<st1:place w:st="on">Auburn</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Jeremy Hill (LSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) Carlos Hyde (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Ohio</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) Devonta Freeman (FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) Bishop Sankey (<st1:place w:st="on">Washington</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) Terrance West (<st1:city w:st="on">Towson</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Favorite for the Bucs – Tre Mason</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Running back is probably the safest position to rule out as
far as the Bucs go, but if the cupboard was bare, Mason seems like the type of
toy Tedford would be giddy about getting on draft day. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVNTCev-WjUryjHNEGGL33U_bwYTrrOP6OfbhycMUKii4msdt6HdupxtfvlCs-6TnhP7QTPBgAmHkeGb2Md_k9-W9ImQcBO1P-VIdpilSuhrY1tYTXRXgxVjCwkVYiDpovY1_h25MmTAQ/s1600/draft+-+donte+moncrief.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVNTCev-WjUryjHNEGGL33U_bwYTrrOP6OfbhycMUKii4msdt6HdupxtfvlCs-6TnhP7QTPBgAmHkeGb2Md_k9-W9ImQcBO1P-VIdpilSuhrY1tYTXRXgxVjCwkVYiDpovY1_h25MmTAQ/s1600/draft+-+donte+moncrief.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Wide Receiver<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Sammy Watkins (Clemson)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Odell Beckham (LSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) Donte Moncrief (Ole Miss)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) Mike Evans (<st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state>
A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) Brandin Cooks (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Oregon</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) Allen Robinson (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Penn</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7) Davante Adams (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8) Kelvin Benjamin (FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
9) Jordan Matthews (Vanderbilt)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
10) Marqise Lee (USC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
11) Bruce Ellington (<st1:state w:st="on">South
Carolina</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
12) Cody Latimer (<st1:state w:st="on">Indiana</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Favorite for the Bucs – Donte Moncrief</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Watkins is the easy pick, and I’m a huge huge Beckham
fan. I see them being special NFL
receivers. I also think Moncrief will be
in the same discussion two or three years from now, and he’s my ideal R2 pick for
the Bucs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr8-2c7TKCIw6eoeVSDwtv6Omxkzc5ulynoaXgMyFtSKmB5Rg6mEvrkNKNJVMzRXJIyAo1jg6AzrYl2YpWqTaYmqgToQ79I1ytU56ZE5Hu21uI8DhqOwM0xb-h-pbd-uWSB3XKYJv6Yos/s1600/draft+-+cj+fiedorowicz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr8-2c7TKCIw6eoeVSDwtv6Omxkzc5ulynoaXgMyFtSKmB5Rg6mEvrkNKNJVMzRXJIyAo1jg6AzrYl2YpWqTaYmqgToQ79I1ytU56ZE5Hu21uI8DhqOwM0xb-h-pbd-uWSB3XKYJv6Yos/s1600/draft+-+cj+fiedorowicz.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Tight End<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Eric Ebron (UNC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) CJ Fiedorowicz (<st1:place w:st="on">Iowa</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) Jace Amaro (<st1:place w:st="on">Texas</st1:place>
Tech)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) Austin Seferian-Jenkins (<st1:state w:st="on">Washington</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) Troy Niklas (Notre Dame)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) Crockett Gillmore (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Colorado</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Favorite for the Bucs – CJ Fiedorowicz</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bucs may not draft one, but Fiedorowicz would be the
most complete tight end on the roster and allow the Bucs to be more creative
with Tim Wright and Brandon Myers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZM72cIjpSl_-_wI98hg4Gqb0iX2U1veSvA_BELM1zPVEfnfdMzoHeZuNjAZGDR2_pn0iMFXmrE9iXUCfD4n4OO_CLGBIMxAyFoQ6Cz1r6zxZOoSIvUjAV7ROpG0yAsyUYsHzaQbwy8g/s1600/draft+-+greg+robinson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZM72cIjpSl_-_wI98hg4Gqb0iX2U1veSvA_BELM1zPVEfnfdMzoHeZuNjAZGDR2_pn0iMFXmrE9iXUCfD4n4OO_CLGBIMxAyFoQ6Cz1r6zxZOoSIvUjAV7ROpG0yAsyUYsHzaQbwy8g/s1600/draft+-+greg+robinson.jpg" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Offensive Tackle<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Greg Robinson (<st1:place w:st="on">Auburn</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1a) Jake Matthews (<st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state>
A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) Taylor Lewan (<st1:state w:st="on">Michigan</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) Morgan Moses (<st1:place w:st="on">Virginia</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) Cyrus Kouandjio (<st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Favorite for the Bucs – Jake Matthews</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Robinson might be the better long term tackle prospect, but
if I can be optimistic about Anthony Collins and Demar Dotson establishing
themselves as Buccaneer bookends, Matthews’ ability to play multiple positions
would help a weak Tampa Bay interior. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2uXsETfjzu6zg-QYXkNY-RLMdCyO5OzAXl8fOa5_eKn8DLmRUREwSu9LBqaOUjroezv3XNI1i3PqMMLAjsywB6R_9mtCc_n5YIhJQ896Nje0mkwVZp-U22yN0ot7Na_IVFOX-ag13iKI/s1600/draft+-+joel+bitonio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2uXsETfjzu6zg-QYXkNY-RLMdCyO5OzAXl8fOa5_eKn8DLmRUREwSu9LBqaOUjroezv3XNI1i3PqMMLAjsywB6R_9mtCc_n5YIhJQ896Nje0mkwVZp-U22yN0ot7Na_IVFOX-ag13iKI/s1600/draft+-+joel+bitonio.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Interior OL<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Zack Martin (G/T, Notre Dame)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Joel Bitonio (G/T, <st1:state w:st="on">Nevada</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) Marcus Martin (C, USC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) Xavier Su’a-Filo (G, UCLA)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) Gabe Jackson (G, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Mississippi</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Favorite for the Bucs – Anthony Steen (G, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t see the Bucs spending a pick on a guard in the first
three rounds. If that’s the case, Steen
should be there on day three when the Bucs go guard shopping. I like him as a candidate to fill the vacant
RG spot. Brandon Thomas would be an
honorable mention as someone the Bucs could basically redshirt his rookie year
and insert in ’15 as a draft steal.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZm0YLowrs083k4_tShxbOEManRPY-O3s3vyGwq8euxRloZSIwm88iSH0gsdth0t9Dq2NYc9FciK24YGQYXgqdIleBkmu4r5WM7VItU-Akt_JhB_hQcHiUtZ_VinMFlga1Oh7gDRaYunE/s1600/draft+-+jadeveon+clowney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZm0YLowrs083k4_tShxbOEManRPY-O3s3vyGwq8euxRloZSIwm88iSH0gsdth0t9Dq2NYc9FciK24YGQYXgqdIleBkmu4r5WM7VItU-Akt_JhB_hQcHiUtZ_VinMFlga1Oh7gDRaYunE/s1600/draft+-+jadeveon+clowney.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Defensive End<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Jadeveon Clowney (<st1:place w:st="on">South
Carolina</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Kony Ealy (<st1:state w:st="on">Missouri</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) Kareem Martin (UNC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) Dee Ford (<st1:city w:st="on">Auburn</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) Scott Crichton (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Oregon</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Favorite for the Bucs – Kony Ealy</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If the Bucs were fortunate enough to find Ealy on the board
in R2, he’d be awful tough to pass up as a guy who could offer pass rush
potential at end and tackle positions. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwjzsVB_YIb5Vhs5lG0GLAgEqnCGq4FywRetr9LnpV4yVxHvLQUM4LyVjElr9u0R9y_wuiNl1nXZHi1hQYtYVGqM_dhkae5kNJukv7ILsKhCXdVGzCRbnZYJsLDUn1IMUL0iyXEARO8k/s1600/draft+-+aaron+donald.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwjzsVB_YIb5Vhs5lG0GLAgEqnCGq4FywRetr9LnpV4yVxHvLQUM4LyVjElr9u0R9y_wuiNl1nXZHi1hQYtYVGqM_dhkae5kNJukv7ILsKhCXdVGzCRbnZYJsLDUn1IMUL0iyXEARO8k/s1600/draft+-+aaron+donald.jpg" height="273" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Defensive Tackle<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Aaron Donald (<st1:place w:st="on">Pittsburgh</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Timmy Jernigan (FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) Dominique Easley (<st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) RaShede Hageman (<st1:state w:st="on">Minnesota</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) Louis Nix (Notre Dame)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) Stephon Tuitt (Notre Dame)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7) Kelcy Quarles (<st1:place w:st="on">South
Carolina</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8) Ego <st1:city w:st="on">Ferguson</st1:city>
(LSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Favorite for the Bucs – Dominique Easley</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Similar to Ealy, Easley would be a R2 gift. Since his medicals apparently checked out
well, I could see him going to the Seahawks at the end of R1. Should he slide, he’d be tough to pass up as
a compliment to McCoy and McDonald. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSuRYauNTjbsSqmyeZQLTrif6_CYP15_CU4JHs1rUffRp-2ZQb7tZOlwZVOflkOIT-jFbUAPP8kkGPPlwvftY0K08kBPs4MWsZZFd9GQ2QeVIoVWeaEAXKqp1DID2HTTowANi6Qa4VUk4/s1600/draft+-+jeremiah+attaochu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSuRYauNTjbsSqmyeZQLTrif6_CYP15_CU4JHs1rUffRp-2ZQb7tZOlwZVOflkOIT-jFbUAPP8kkGPPlwvftY0K08kBPs4MWsZZFd9GQ2QeVIoVWeaEAXKqp1DID2HTTowANi6Qa4VUk4/s1600/draft+-+jeremiah+attaochu.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Outside Linebacker<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Khalil Mack (<st1:place w:st="on">Buffalo</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Jeremiah Attaochu (Georgia Tech)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) Ryan Shazier (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Ohio</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) Anthony Barr (UCLA)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) Telvin Smith (FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) Demarcus Lawrence (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Boise</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7) Christian Jones (FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8) Carl Bradford (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Arizona</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Favorite for the Bucs – Telvin Smith</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bucs only have six draft picks, and with Lavonte David
in place, WLB may be the most solidified starting position on the team. Still, the Bucs have been stung by a lack of
depth in the past, and there’s nothing behind David. If the Bucs add another pick or two and they
really feel like going best available in R3, then Telvin would be a fantastic acquisition. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIovnZwdjGuCkaQVlU1S4a0V6mZ_lPPu0BejzNADacLxpqzemkJwYI8dxxXNE0MY9cDNuBqxs0z6v9t6SGlWk3bT3SM_OwaVgoIJyi1EMr_e2a5yZc5WlcI3mD4jjWSLKg3A-eGsxKotU/s1600/draft+-+cj+mosley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIovnZwdjGuCkaQVlU1S4a0V6mZ_lPPu0BejzNADacLxpqzemkJwYI8dxxXNE0MY9cDNuBqxs0z6v9t6SGlWk3bT3SM_OwaVgoIJyi1EMr_e2a5yZc5WlcI3mD4jjWSLKg3A-eGsxKotU/s1600/draft+-+cj+mosley.jpg" height="226" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Inside Linebacker<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) CJ Mosley (<st1:place w:st="on">Alabama</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Chris Borland (<st1:place w:st="on">Wisconsin</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) Shayne Skov (Stanford)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) Yawin Smallwood (<st1:state w:st="on">Connecticut</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) Preston Brown (<st1:city w:st="on">Louisville</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Best for the Bucs – CJ Mosley</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If I had to pick a surprise R1 selection for the Bucs,
Mosley or Aaron Donald would be my choice.
Acquiring Mosley would upgrade both the MLB and SLB spots as Foster
would likely move over and start ahead of Jonathan Casillas opposite David.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrI2HvE2Vqde2IBvxf4n0Cby9LgwC5rSk0CXWstsFi70WfgjvFVl3UccWyySbkXXK2qHVZbCwMAs8d1RdBchat0OsfpqFknvWOWFEdsc4E73jEjWG6UILZUJWdMcCVBoYm5_qqrUHk0mk/s1600/draft+-+jason+verrett.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrI2HvE2Vqde2IBvxf4n0Cby9LgwC5rSk0CXWstsFi70WfgjvFVl3UccWyySbkXXK2qHVZbCwMAs8d1RdBchat0OsfpqFknvWOWFEdsc4E73jEjWG6UILZUJWdMcCVBoYm5_qqrUHk0mk/s1600/draft+-+jason+verrett.jpg" height="257" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Cornerback<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Kyle Fuller (Virginia Tech)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Jason Verrett (TCU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) Justin Gilbert (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Oklahoma</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) Lamarcus Joyner (FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) Darqueze Dennard (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Michigan</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) Bradley Roby (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Ohio</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7) Jaylen Watkins (<st1:place w:st="on">Florida</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8) Rashaad Reynolds (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Oregon</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Favorite for the Bucs – Lamarcus Joyner</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yep, another Nole. As
I’ve mentioned in detail on previous occasions, the Bucs are awfully weak at
the nickel corner spot, and Joyner would give them an ideal fit in Lovie’s
defense. He might also project as a
future replacement for Dashon Goldson at free safety. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3yTWso_HtOeiCcZvpA4ornSIvd-81sDC6nVMBBP9qO_3Gg-4OAKaW5W3Yz6kVpyUpu3EBIYS_ATzIWgX4_m9jpvnivi4Vb8LhigGTO2pl6hlukkJnZh4KNxmvLkOzdMUeIQrJLkc60_s/s1600/draft+-+deone+bucannon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3yTWso_HtOeiCcZvpA4ornSIvd-81sDC6nVMBBP9qO_3Gg-4OAKaW5W3Yz6kVpyUpu3EBIYS_ATzIWgX4_m9jpvnivi4Vb8LhigGTO2pl6hlukkJnZh4KNxmvLkOzdMUeIQrJLkc60_s/s1600/draft+-+deone+bucannon.jpg" height="275" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Safety<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (<st1:place w:st="on">Alabama</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Calvin Pryor (<st1:city w:st="on">Louisville</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) Deone Bucannon (<st1:street w:st="on">Washington
St</st1:street>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) Terrence Brooks (FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) Jimmie Ward (<st1:place w:st="on">N Illinois</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Favorite for the Bucs – Deone Bucannon</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He’s not rated as high by the “experts”, but I really think
Bucannon is going to be a star in the NFL.
He’s long, physical, and excels in zone concepts. From the games I’ve seen, I think, given the
right coaching, he has more potential in pass coverage than his draft bios will
lead you to believe. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-39252936047265922122014-04-17T00:00:00.000-04:002014-04-17T10:31:25.138-04:002014 NFL Draft - Ch Ch Changes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqwY11wsQ0VAJ7M_REiQtHCuQDM5qRsXWnd5clbvIGLopMoOfojMdwd0QqwF5ayvsb7ciOv_4KVSQ8PDGcTDxnaxcSzkXKmi0fYgit53ct6gZ0wNjvzLo9tBzqNrHfS0iYqgenM1KLP-Y/s1600/draft+-+bucs+helmet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqwY11wsQ0VAJ7M_REiQtHCuQDM5qRsXWnd5clbvIGLopMoOfojMdwd0QqwF5ayvsb7ciOv_4KVSQ8PDGcTDxnaxcSzkXKmi0fYgit53ct6gZ0wNjvzLo9tBzqNrHfS0iYqgenM1KLP-Y/s1600/draft+-+bucs+helmet.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Much has happened since my first attempt to predict what the
Buccaneer’s roster will look like in 2014.
Jason Licht and Lovie Smith have been hard at work turning it over and
making it theirs. Hell, we’ve even got
new helmets and uniforms, but that’s a whole other conversation.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Josh McCown rejoins Lovie and will be the teams’ bridge to
their next, hopefully franchise, QB.
Anthony Collins and Evan Dietrich-Smith are upgrades upon Donald Penn
and Jeremy Zuttah, and they cost less than their predecessors. Brandon Myers becomes the most experienced
tight end on the roster. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On defense, Michael Johnson was brought in to increase the
teams edge pass rush presence, Clinton McDonald improves the play next to GMC,
and Alterraun Verner replaces the one year waste of money and draft picks,
Darrelle Revis. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s still work to do. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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I don’t believe for a second that Mike Glennon has a future
in <st1:place w:st="on">Tampa</st1:place>. I think the Bucs will draft McCown’s
successor and look to move Glennon, possibly during the draft to obtain another
ick. Licht and Lovie have already begun
quite the overhaul, and with only six draft picks, I’ve got to think they’ll
make every effort to acquire more.
Glennon is their most valuable asset that they can and would most likely
trade. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mike Jenkins and DJ Moore are two veteran corners brought in
this offseason, but I believe the Bucs are mistaken if they feel either is up
to the task of the role of slot corner.
Moore would likely start there if a game broke out today, but I don’t
think it’s wise to rely on a guy who was out of football last year to be the
needed upgrade over Leonard Johnson.
Lovie has also stated that his boundary corners will be boundary
corners, which means Verner, a reputable slot corner, will not slide inside
when they go nickel. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bucs needed help at receiver before they moved on from
Mike Williams. There’s a wide talent gap
between Vincent Jackson and the rest of the receivers. Chris Owusu belongs at the bottom of the
depth chart, and Tommy Streeter remains unrealized potential. Louis Murphy and a personal favorite, Lavelle
Hawkins, were added to compete, but in an ideal world, they’re fighting for one
roster spot.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Oneil Cousins follows OL coach George Warhop to <st1:city w:st="on">Tampa</st1:city>, but like the
receivers above, he’s camp competition.
The same goes for the re-signed Jamon Meredith. The Bucs are hoping Carl Nicks can suit up at
left guard, but they need to at add least one more starting caliber guard.</div>
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<br /></div>
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You can never have enough pass rushers, and I’d like to have
a tight end who doesn’t tip plays. I’d
still like to upgrade over Mason Foster, but I think his competition will come
from Dane Fletcher rather than the draft.
Dashon Goldson might go the way of Penn, Williams, and Zuttah next year,
but I don’t expect the Bucs to spend a day one or two pick on the position this
year. </div>
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<br /></div>
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</div>
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What will the Bucs do at #7?
That’s the question on Bucs fans’ minds.
Below is my take on the draft’s first 38 picks as well as what the Bucs
will do with all of theirs. To make
things as entertaining as possible yet remain fairly realistic, I’ve included
trades, quite a few. Might the Bucs be
involved in such a scenario? Let’s find
out.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfBkYpCjYXrR2eY0SSGrrz3vpaSFlQv2FsdiqfFl0w-qMA_bWxD7eKjuPIQoZBOMpr_eLCslLI1rfF1F6dTCASs0xl-DSzJAkIVOZ83bKS2lSxKhhWNqlwLvuir8lylu089XcDFjfz1xo/s1600/draft+-+round+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfBkYpCjYXrR2eY0SSGrrz3vpaSFlQv2FsdiqfFl0w-qMA_bWxD7eKjuPIQoZBOMpr_eLCslLI1rfF1F6dTCASs0xl-DSzJAkIVOZ83bKS2lSxKhhWNqlwLvuir8lylu089XcDFjfz1xo/s1600/draft+-+round+1.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
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<u>Round 1<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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<br /></div>
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1) <st1:city w:st="on">Houston</st1:city>
Texans – Blake Bortles (QB, UCF)</div>
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I’m still going with Bortles as the Texans pick to kick
things off. Ryan Fitzpatrick was brought
in to be the bridge/backup to whoever they draft this year, and I think that’s
going to be Bortles. Clowney is the only
other way I’d go with this. He may not
be an ideal 3-4 OLB, but Romeo Crennel would find a way to maximize his
talents. </div>
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<br /></div>
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2) <st1:city w:st="on">Atlanta</st1:city> Falcons (TRADE) –
Jadeveon Clowney (DE, <st1:place w:st="on">S Carolina</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Again I have the Rams trading out of this spot, but this
time I’m going with the Falcons to move up and get their pass rusher. There are connections between the two front
offices, and they even consummated a trade in last year’s draft. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) <st1:city w:st="on">Jacksonville</st1:city> Jaguars –
Khalil Mack (DE/OLB, <st1:city w:st="on">Buffalo</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Last time I had the Jags passing on a passer for
Clowney. I still think they go with a
pass rusher and address QB with a later pick.
While they have brought in a couple of Gus Bradley’s former Seahawks,
the Jags aren’t suddenly pass rush rich.
Here they take the remaining consensus-elite defender. I even think they’d take Watkins before any
of the QBs. </div>
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<br /></div>
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4) <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>
Browns – Sammy Watkins (WR, Clemson)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sorry Bucs fans. I
don’t think Watkins makes it to #7. In
fact, I see three teams more likely to end up with him than the Bucs. If the Browns or Raiders don’t take Watkins,
I think <st1:city w:st="on">Detroit</st1:city> will maneuver ahead of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype></st1:place>
to get him. Here the Browns get arguably
the draft’s most talented offensive player and can find Brian Hoyer’s
competition with their next pick. </div>
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<br /></div>
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5) <st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city> Raiders – Aaron
Donald (DT, <st1:city w:st="on">Pittsburgh</st1:city>)</div>
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Surprising no one, the draft’s first swerve comes from <st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city>. Their roster is the most depressing in the
league and needs help literally everywhere.
Taking one of the top tackles would be my alternate route, but acquiring
arguably the drafts best interior rusher is a great way for a team that defines
the word ‘rebuilding’ to start doing just that.</div>
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<br /></div>
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6) <st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city> Rams (TRADE) –
Jake Matthews (T, <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state>
A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had the Rams selecting Matthews last time, and I’m
sticking with it here. Robinson has
received more air time during draft season, but I still think Matthews is the
smarter pick. </div>
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<br /></div>
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7) <st1:city w:st="on">Baltimore</st1:city> Ravens (TRADE) –
Mike Evans (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state>
A&M)</div>
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Yes, the Bucs move down.
Evans would address the departure of Williams, but I believe there is
better value in trading down. Ozzie
Newsome finally gets his replacement for Anquan Boldin, and combined with
Torrey Smith, a healthy Dennis Pitta, and the recently-acquired Steve Smith,
gives the Joe Flacco an impressive arsenal that may need to lean more on the
passing game, depending upon what happens with Ray Rice’s off-field
situation. To make the move down the
board to #17, I have the Bucs picking up <st1:city w:st="on">Baltimore</st1:city>’s
picks in round one, two, and four. </div>
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<br /></div>
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8) <st1:state w:st="on">New York</st1:state> Giants (TRADE)
– Greg Robinson (T, <st1:city w:st="on">Auburn</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think <st1:state w:st="on">Minnesota</st1:state>
is very eager to move down, and having Robinson remain on the board should help
their cause. The Giants really need to
turn things around, and while Robinson isn’t going to score a lot of touchdowns
himself, most importantly the Giants needed to emerge from the first round with
a great player. Moving up for Robinson
helps them do that.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
9) <st1:city w:st="on">Buffalo</st1:city>
Bills – Zack Martin (OL, Notre Dame)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bills are often good for a surprise pick on draft day,
and they continue the tradition here. I
don’t think Martin is a bad pick but one that would surprise a lot of people
who take prospect rankings as fact. Martin
gives the Bills options on the left side with Cordy Glenn. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
10) <st1:city w:st="on">Detroit</st1:city> Lions – Ha Ha
Clinton-Dix (S, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Failing to trade up for Watkins or Evans, the Lions here
look to upgrade the secondary. Pass
rusher or cornerback would be my other guesses, but I think getting a player
with Ha Ha’s upside would be a good use of this pick. </div>
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<br /></div>
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11) <st1:state w:st="on">Tennessee</st1:state> Titans –
Justin Gilbert (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Oklahoma</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gilbert appears to have solidified his place atop the list
of cornerbacks and would fill an immediate need. The Titans are often linked to Anthony Barr,
and while they could use a talent upgrade at the position, they already have
four OLBs that are likely to make the team.</div>
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<br /></div>
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12) <st1:state w:st="on">Minnesota</st1:state> Vikings – CJ
Mosley (LB, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By trading down four spots the Vikings gain a pick or two
and still get the player I think they’d be happy to select at #8. I don’t believe they’re interested in any of
the day one QBs and will instead select Zach Mettenberger on day two. </div>
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<br /></div>
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13) <st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city>
Rams – Odell Beckham (WR, LSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rather than taking Watkins or Evans with their first pick, I
think it would be wiser for the Rams to take their highest rated lineman there
and then grab Beckham here. Beckham is
my second rated WR behind Watkins and gives Sam Bradford the best receiver he’s
had as a pro. I think Beckham is going
to be really special. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
14) <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city> Browns (TRADE)
– Johnny Manziel (QB, <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state>
A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What a first day for the Browns. They get Watkins with their first pick and
are able to package their other first rounder and additional picks to swap
spots with the Bears and get their QB.
Johnny Football sits in the green room longer than he’d have liked, but
he’s got to like the prospects of throwing to Josh Gordon, Watkins, and Jordan
Cameron.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
15) <st1:city w:st="on">Philadelphia</st1:city>
Eagles (TRADE) – Anthony Barr (OLB, UCLA)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, another trade.
The Eagles are reportedly looking to upgrade their pass rush and have
targeted former Chip Kelly Duck, Dion Jordan.
If they don’t acquire the third overall pick from last year’s draft, I
could see them making this move for Barr.
I’m not a fan of his game, but maybe Kelly is. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
16) <st1:city w:st="on">Dallas</st1:city> Cowboys – Taylor
Lewan (T, <st1:state w:st="on">Michigan</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Cowboys have seen just about all they want to see from
Doug Free, so an upgrade at right tackle is high on their list of
priorities. I could see Jerry Jones
targeting Lewan or Martin with his first round pick before a defensive player.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
17) <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype></st1:place> Buccaneers (TRADE)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the agonizing additional ten pick wait having passed,
the Bucs are now on the clock again.
Watkins, Clowney, and Mack are what I would consider the elite of the
elite in this year’s draft, and with them off the board at #7, I would hope the
Bucs exhaust all efforts to deal down.
I’ve mentioned QB, WR, G, and CB as the greatest positions of need, in
my opinion, and see the Bucs targeting either a passer or a pass catcher in
round one over one of the top tackles.
Do Licht and Lovie prefer Evans or more picks with which to continue
their Buccaneeer makeover?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Derek Carr (QB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I still have Bortles as my #1 QB, but I’m in on Carr as
well. He fits what Tedford will look to
do offensively and hopefully gives the Bucs the franchise QB they’ve been
pursuing since Brad Johnson left. Having
McCown in house affords Carr a year to assimilate himself to the pro game and
get even more on the same page with Tedford.
The QB-OC relationship is critical, and I couldn’t see a better fit in
that regard. I don’t believe the Bucs
are interested in Bortles, <st1:city w:st="on">Bridgewater</st1:city>,
or Manziel and will rather look to draft Carr, Jimmy Garoppolo, or Connor Shaw.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGV91-wsYIT-spbHDRLDRwB3SZWU6_MuFcUDI_M0HruoXFR0OGUtNpWXtd1ICsEFkL4lX0PhyPR-9cySiS5Fhyyu4-BbXUtR_Ss2oRwhcmtWmhWBYz-mLMziTkIfUuZfJHMWEwKT89WPo/s1600/draft+-+derek+carr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGV91-wsYIT-spbHDRLDRwB3SZWU6_MuFcUDI_M0HruoXFR0OGUtNpWXtd1ICsEFkL4lX0PhyPR-9cySiS5Fhyyu4-BbXUtR_Ss2oRwhcmtWmhWBYz-mLMziTkIfUuZfJHMWEwKT89WPo/s1600/draft+-+derek+carr.jpg" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
18) <st1:state w:st="on">New York</st1:state> Jets – Eric
Ebron (TE, <st1:place w:st="on">North Carolina</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This may be a little later than expected for Ebron, but he’s
a guy I think will slide a bit on day one.
The Jets would be happy to see it happen, as they’re desperate for
offensive playmakers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
19) <st1:city w:st="on">San Francisco</st1:city> (TRADE) –
Brandin Cooks (WR, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Oregon</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Niners have plenty of picks in this year’s draft to move
up and get their guy and are looking to upgrade receiver and cornerback. Here I have them making a deal with the
Dolphins to move up and get a dynamic receiver to line up inside boundary
playmakers Boldin and Crabtree. They’re
really lacking behind their two starters, and Cooks gives them someone else for
the Seahawks and the rest of the NFC to scheme against. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
20) <st1:state w:st="on">Arizona</st1:state> Cardinals –
Calvin Pryor (S, <st1:city w:st="on">Louisville</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t think the Cardinals will spend their first pick on
an offensive lineman, so if they don’t’ take a pass rusher, I think they’ll
look to solidify the safety spot next to Tyrann Mathieu. I see Pryor as a really nice fit.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
21) <st1:city w:st="on">Green Bay</st1:city> Packers –
RaShede Hageman (DT, <st1:state w:st="on">Minnesota</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ted Thompson hopes to pull off some more draft magic and get
the good RaShede Hageman, the day one prospect generating the most polar
predictions. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
22) <st1:city w:st="on">Pittsburgh</st1:city>
Steelers (TRADE) – Louis Nix (DT, Notre Dame)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Defensive line and cornerback are the two areas I think <st1:city w:st="on">Pittsburgh</st1:city> will look to
address first, and they take the anchor they’ve needed since Casey Hampton fell
off a few years ago.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
23) <st1:city w:st="on">Kansas City</st1:city>
Chiefs – Marqise Lee (WR, USC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Chiefs finally get a viable target to pair with Dwayne
Bowe. I’m not sure how much longer they
can continue to win by giving Jamaal Charles 99% of their offensive
touches. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
24) <st1:city w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:city> Bengals – Kony
Ealy (DE, <st1:state w:st="on">Missouri</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m going with a defensive end over a cornerback here. Ealy helps make up for the loss of Johnson
and gives them a versatile presence up front.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
25) <st1:city w:st="on">San Diego</st1:city>
Chargers – Kyle Fuller (CB, Virginia Tech)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think Fuller ends up going higher than this, but it didn’t
happen here. If not a corner, then Nix
might get consideration if available.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
26) <st1:place w:st="on">Chicago</st1:place>
Bears (TRADE) – Timmy Jernigan (DT, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Defensive line and secondary are the focus early on. I think <st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city>
would pass on a DB to get a DT who can step in contribute right away.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
27) <st1:city w:st="on">New Orleans</st1:city> Saints – Dee
Ford (DE/OLB, <st1:city w:st="on">Auburn</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dee Ford may think he’s as good as Clowney, but talent
evaluators believe otherwise. If not a
pass rusher, a receiver like Benjamin wouldn’t surprise me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
28) <st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city> Panthers – Cyrus
Kouandjio (T, <st1:place w:st="on">Alabama</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s unknown how individual teams feel about Kouandjio’s
health, but if his knee checks out, he’s quite a value at a high need position.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
29) New England Patriots – Jace Amaro (TE, <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state> A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Maybe this is too common of a pick, but it makes a ton of
sense. With or without Gronk, the
Patriots need to add a move-TE to the roster.
Amaro could be really dangerous in this offense.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
30) <st1:city w:st="on">Miami</st1:city>
Dolphins (TRADE) – Morgan Moses (T, Virginia Tech)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Dolphins signed a former Hokie in free agency to man the
left tackle position, so it would only make sense to draft a former Hokie to
fill the void at right tackle. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
31) <st1:city w:st="on">Jacksonville</st1:city> Jaguars
(TRADE) – Jimmy Garoppolo (QB, <st1:place w:st="on">E Illinois</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Jags get antsy and move up with <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> to grab Garoppolo. Teddy Bridgewater remains unselected.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
32) <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
Seahawks – Kelvin Benjamin (WR, FSU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Benjamin fills a need and would be a perfect fit for the
champs, lining up with the dynamic Harvin and underrated <st1:place w:st="on">Baldwin</st1:place>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
END ROUND ONE</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Round 2<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
33) <st1:city w:st="on">Houston</st1:city> Texans – Demarcus
Lawrence (OLB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Boise</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If they don’t take Clowney #1, I could see the Texans taking
a pass rusher like Lawrence or Georgia Tech’s Jeremiah Attaochu here.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
34) <st1:state w:st="on">Washington</st1:state> Redskins –
Bradley Roby (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Ohio</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Redskins badly need to upgrade their defensive backs and
defensive backs coach. They can only
address one of them in the draft and grab the corner from <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Ohio</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
35) <st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city> Bears (TRADE) –
Jimmie Ward (S, <st1:place w:st="on">N Illinois</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After addressing the defensive line with Jernigan, the Bears
take Ward with a pick obtained in my hypothetical trade with <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
36) <st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city> Raiders – Teddy
Bridgewater (QB, <st1:city w:st="on">Louisville</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally. This looks
awfully low for <st1:city w:st="on">Bridgewater</st1:city>,
but who really knows when any of these QBs will be picked? This has to be the most uncertain and
non-consensus QB class in quite some time.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
37) <st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city>
Rams – Jason Verrett (CB, TCU)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After getting Matthews and Beckham with their first two
picks, the Rams get a really tough corner who will play a lot early and provide
them with insurance should Trumaine Johnson struggle as a starter opposite
Janoris Jenkins. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
38) <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype></st1:place> Buccaneers</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Best available at WR, DL, and CB is where I’m looking both
here and with the #48 pick, the second rounder obtained from the Ravens in that
first round trade. Of those three
positions, receiver is the clearest need.
I mention DL because I think Lovie really wants to beef up that front
and could get an impact player in this round.
I rank cornerback as a higher need than most, but I’m simply not
impressed with what the Bucs have other than Verner. Of the players I’ve got going off the board
in this vicinity, I think Benjamin and Verrett would both interest the Bucs
quite a bit. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Given that Vincent Jackson is the only starting caliber
receiver on the roster, I think the Bucs will have a tough time waiting any
later to address the position. If I’m
picking a wideout here, and Benjamin isn’t in play, I’ve got it down to three
players – Davante Adams, Donte Moncrief, and Allen Robinson. What are the Bucs likely looking for? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They need a starter; someone who can be today’s #2 and
possibly tomorrow’s #1. They want a
receiver with speed in space who can gain separation and win downfield. I’m also going to assume that Lovie will
influence catch radius and winning the battle at the point of catch. Who checks the most boxes?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As much as I like Robinson, he’s the first one
eliminated. I think he would interest
Lovie as someone who plays with a lot of physicality and wins at the point of
contact, but how much will his lack of separation hurt him in the pros? I’d be happy if he was the pick, but I think
the Bucs are going to look for a receiver with a better chance of developing
into a #1. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Moncrief and Adams better fit that mold. I’m a huge Moncrief fan. I believe that in three years, he will be at
worst the fifth most productive receiver from this class. I think Moncrief has a higher upside and
played with a lot more physicality in college than <st1:place w:st="on">Adams</st1:place>. On the other hand, <st1:place w:st="on">Adams</st1:place>
is a more consistent and fundamentally sound pass catcher and does a better job
of winning aerial battles for the ball.
I love how he snatches it out of the air from a variety of positions on
the field; shows very reliable hands. If
the Bucs indeed take Carr in the first round, you’ve got to think that couldn’t
hurt <st1:place w:st="on">Adams</st1:place>’ chances of being the pick. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the end I think Licht and Lovie would take who they see
as the safer of the two options. Although
I like Moncrief more, I’m guessing that would be….</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Davante Adams (WR, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv1vGe0z-hhyQJgFwwPnZvqzrx7DaNSTxCIlilrzO8or6bZO2ZpqOzwOsnXxItT8AM-2pEoqW41NhgUAnrgRp3bCCMrVl8mpfrdM5JL_FIn4B5mvBCZH1RdHlC-Mqx7Vjo3_lxWDbypwc/s1600/draft+-+davante+adams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv1vGe0z-hhyQJgFwwPnZvqzrx7DaNSTxCIlilrzO8or6bZO2ZpqOzwOsnXxItT8AM-2pEoqW41NhgUAnrgRp3bCCMrVl8mpfrdM5JL_FIn4B5mvBCZH1RdHlC-Mqx7Vjo3_lxWDbypwc/s1600/draft+-+davante+adams.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Pick #48 <o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m having a really hard time trying to decide between two
players with this hypothetical second rounder from <st1:city w:st="on">Baltimore</st1:city>.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve listed slot corner as a need for the Bucs on more than
one occasion and believe that Lamarcus Joyner would be an ideal fit in Lovie’s
defense. He can cover the slot, support
the run, blitz the passer, contribute on special teams, and potentially, see
time at safety as well. That last item
could be of importance depending upon what Licht and Lovie think of Goldson’s
future with the team.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Back and forth I’ve gone on this, and I’m sure I will
again. As much as I love Joyner, I
wouldn’t be able to pass up Dominique Easley if he were to be here for the Bucs
to take with an additional second rounder.
As I type this he has yet to work out for teams, and we don’t know much
about his knee. Given the type of talent
he was prior to his injury and how quickly and successfully he recovered from
his first ACL injury, he’s a steal and a damn good addition to a young
defensive line. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Dominique Easley (DT, <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmcrmHKC_nfqVHqYj_jCnauCqqbTUpm6VLbRCyVHYC-zDjG8SDXUHXINDgRpcyvNXeFQKN4pbfu9meAIbrdnm5qlmeTuuBheiZp0Qnkdc9wU24qFArigldjijOVYbjxYmR4DvdcKkVsNU/s1600/draft+-+dominique+easley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmcrmHKC_nfqVHqYj_jCnauCqqbTUpm6VLbRCyVHYC-zDjG8SDXUHXINDgRpcyvNXeFQKN4pbfu9meAIbrdnm5qlmeTuuBheiZp0Qnkdc9wU24qFArigldjijOVYbjxYmR4DvdcKkVsNU/s1600/draft+-+dominique+easley.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Round 3<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Offensive line and cornerback are two positions of need I’ve
yet to address, but I don’t love the projected value at those positions in this
round. Dakota Dozier is the only guard
I’d target in this range, and I don’t know enough about him to make a case for
the guy. Jaylen Watkins might be the
best value at corner in this round, but I can’t go there for fear of
Gooberville overload.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I still want the Bucs to get a tight end, and CJ Fiedorowicz,
the guy I listed as the Bucs fourth round pick in my last mock, is my favorite
for them. He’s an underutilized pass
catcher who would be the teams’ best blocking tight end the moment he signed. Lots of upside there I think.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Instead I pass for who I believe to be a better talent as a
position, and specifically a <u>skill</u>, in which the Bucs are lacking. I’ll keep my rant short. I’ve been pining for a quick/elusive talent
for some time, and Tedford is, thankfully, looking for receivers with that
ability. Here they get a really tough
slot guy with a ton of potential. He
doesn’t shy away from contact and runs like a running back with the ball in his
hands. Like <st1:place w:st="on">Adams</st1:place>,
I think he’ll be attractive to Lovie due to his ability to make contested
catches. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Bruce Ellington (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">South Carolina</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOlMaYXGPaAP4_1TpNQ2VCI-ZDBwIv8a40I6Axizf8OrjLKIM98u8A-Y1FlpIF1KAGLaRjByCltbzPL3rHdRQMqu_KKOkKvP_ZRaasYNWIkR37GJbJUzdmCjqX-0hn1bBMQQ9JyES3vR4/s1600/draft+-+bruce+ellington.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOlMaYXGPaAP4_1TpNQ2VCI-ZDBwIv8a40I6Axizf8OrjLKIM98u8A-Y1FlpIF1KAGLaRjByCltbzPL3rHdRQMqu_KKOkKvP_ZRaasYNWIkR37GJbJUzdmCjqX-0hn1bBMQQ9JyES3vR4/s1600/draft+-+bruce+ellington.jpg" height="292" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Round 4<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bucs still don’t have a fourth round pick, but I gave
them one in this mock trade with the Ravens.
If they have yet to address the cornerback position and have a chance to
do so here, my target would be Rashaad Reynolds. If the Bucs can’t get Joyner, I think
Reynolds brings that same style of play as an undersized physical corner who
can cover, support the run, and line up in multiple spots. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I hate to keep taking player with medical issues, but if
Clemson’s Brandon Thomas is still on the board at this point, you’ve got to
think he’s worth the investment, even if you don’t get anything from him this
year. Thomas was viewed as a rising
talent in the draft capable of playing both tackle and guard in the NFL. EJ Gaines from <st1:state w:st="on">Missouri</st1:state> is the other corner I’d consider if
Reynolds isn’t available. Two more
players I like in this area (rounds 3-5) are Terrence Brooks and Christian
Jones. Yes, two Noles. Brooks would be a great fit at free safety,
and Jones could provide competition at both SLB and MLB. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Rashaad Reynolds (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Oregon</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWpUayf-gJO3MyYK0KAtuXc7tt2ditkfcczOI0XuUgjQ7MPuu5RbCy8fwS5_uyT3sgcj3ayDzrYKrNKO007mPkMcA0Q-JlE4ba4DdtJ_tKJw108n6CfEUpI9vuvozEwzSp8dl_0h9htw/s1600/draft+-+rashaad+reynolds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWpUayf-gJO3MyYK0KAtuXc7tt2ditkfcczOI0XuUgjQ7MPuu5RbCy8fwS5_uyT3sgcj3ayDzrYKrNKO007mPkMcA0Q-JlE4ba4DdtJ_tKJw108n6CfEUpI9vuvozEwzSp8dl_0h9htw/s1600/draft+-+rashaad+reynolds.jpg" height="290" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Round 5<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I understand the situation at guard. Carl Nicks is a huge question mark, and Oneil
Cousins better not be starting on the right side. Still, I’m simply not in love at all with the
guard talent in this draft. Despite the
need at the position, I cannot justify spending earlier picks on inferior
talent at the expense of other positions of need.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here I think the Bucs can get a guy like Anthony Steen from <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state> or Jon Halapio from <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>.
I’ve been on the Halapio bandwagon a while, but I think Steen might
offer more of what this coaching staff is looking for. Steen doesn’t have superstar athleticism, but
I think he has a fairly high floor as someone with incredible strength and consistent
technique. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Anthony Steen (G, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigi28wQ-g5bl-uoV51KJTWPZju80KZKMjtm83_xXWTZcTz2-N55iyTgycxiIeumoK-X2a2mcU579qRJAo6Mc-MAW_sL2S0AOFv77FPBCf8xqmUzcc7BDp6IyjImK9fxoFR8OFdelLNqh8/s1600/draft+-+anthony+steen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigi28wQ-g5bl-uoV51KJTWPZju80KZKMjtm83_xXWTZcTz2-N55iyTgycxiIeumoK-X2a2mcU579qRJAo6Mc-MAW_sL2S0AOFv77FPBCf8xqmUzcc7BDp6IyjImK9fxoFR8OFdelLNqh8/s1600/draft+-+anthony+steen.jpg" height="206" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Round 6<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the Mike Williams pick I’m taking a shot on one of the
few TE prospects I like in this draft.
This guy is a big bodied TE who offers a lot of upside in both the
receiving in blocking games. If they
haven’t taken a corner yet, I would target Bene Benewikere from <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">San Jose</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place> (no that’s not him in the picture
below). </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Crockett Gillmore (TE, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Colorado</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiAqLH6bywtL5GWx8vMohyphenhyphenx-8nxkTFfHUAd4J9wN2rgjM7mrPK09ogC_GQsSxbrckzB8Nzv8zkRv8PJejdsnUzI9vD4YdPXsj_OxzjC7KtMuQZEzip6o_ToqvO28uoAlEamX7btJOYG9s/s1600/draft+-+crockett+gillmore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiAqLH6bywtL5GWx8vMohyphenhyphenx-8nxkTFfHUAd4J9wN2rgjM7mrPK09ogC_GQsSxbrckzB8Nzv8zkRv8PJejdsnUzI9vD4YdPXsj_OxzjC7KtMuQZEzip6o_ToqvO28uoAlEamX7btJOYG9s/s1600/draft+-+crockett+gillmore.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Round 7<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Like most seventh round picks, this one is really a shot in
the dark. The Bucs need depth on the
offensive line more than anywhere else, so here I’m taking a shot on a guy who
was a captain and brings a lot of natural strength to the position. John Brown of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Pittsburgh</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>
is a vertical threat I’d look at if the Bucs had not drafted two receivers
already. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pick – Corey Linsley (C, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Ohio</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4uqBbF2q9_HS-X2k08izbnSaL9gMLk0WnGiWaX1O08TFkA_gAkgzZS10YhWUCmFuLnvSPw7UfISMDyCIHGLPJNvvjfX3khMAB9D_hyVAo4w2e8XGNUTyKmf8L94syTnrX1c5x-QgMTAM/s1600/draft+-+corey+linsley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4uqBbF2q9_HS-X2k08izbnSaL9gMLk0WnGiWaX1O08TFkA_gAkgzZS10YhWUCmFuLnvSPw7UfISMDyCIHGLPJNvvjfX3khMAB9D_hyVAo4w2e8XGNUTyKmf8L94syTnrX1c5x-QgMTAM/s1600/draft+-+corey+linsley.jpg" height="288" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Summary<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R1 – Derek Carr (QB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R2a – Davonte Adams (WR, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R2b – Dominique Easley (DT, <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R3 – Bruce Ellington (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">South Carolina</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R4 – Rashaad Reynolds (CB, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Oregon</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R5 – Anthony Steen (G, <st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R6 – Crockett Gillmore (TE, <st1:street w:st="on">Colorado St</st1:street>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R7 – Corey Linsley (C, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Ohio</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I get a hopeful franchise QB, a steal of a pass rusher, and two
receivers who can contribute right away.
I also address other needs with a potential slot corner, two offensive
linemen, and a tight end to develop behind Myers and Wright. The dual <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>
picks early on may turn off a lot of people, but I’m now a believer in Derek
Carr. I think he has what it takes to
make those around him better players and be a leader of a perennial
contender. If you put <st1:place w:st="on">Adams</st1:place>
on another college team, he’s still a stud.
His familiarity and success with Carr is a plus, not what makes him. I believe they’ll both excel in traditional
style pro offenses. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I realize predicting a trade of this nature for the Bucs
isn’t terribly likely. If it ends up
happening, maybe I need to go into another line of work. I did it to demonstrate the potential gains
of moving down the board in round one should the situation present itself and,
to be quite honest, to point out the prospects I’m high on at positions of
need. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>Go Bucs!</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-64756257858548585052014-04-06T02:20:00.001-04:002014-04-06T02:24:15.538-04:00Gravity Left Me Floating<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3xGvpaaKIEFDo2ETfGDzj5fMhLcfU5I0OZZqb03lbjcfvHj8MLAidsmYS14cf_iIJIpMOMmZks_q0ikiMg2P7b8CeG7YQ3YzsOJHccbq2-rgP6M-inSyHhjRqSktp4-t6HjFl8Pli7xU/s1600/gravity+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3xGvpaaKIEFDo2ETfGDzj5fMhLcfU5I0OZZqb03lbjcfvHj8MLAidsmYS14cf_iIJIpMOMmZks_q0ikiMg2P7b8CeG7YQ3YzsOJHccbq2-rgP6M-inSyHhjRqSktp4-t6HjFl8Pli7xU/s1600/gravity+2.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
This has been a sports blog since its inception, but I guess
this is the first time I’ve felt <b>that</b>
motivated to state a non-sports opinion (I don’t publicly talk politics). </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I just finished watching Gravity, an amazing film by Alfonso
Cuaron. It focused on visual and situational
drama and suspense rather than dialogue and delivered a success. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of the
film, until the ending. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We witness an unbelievable experience where Sandra Bullock’s
astronaut character (Ryan Stone) is forced to manage multiple life-or-death
situations in a suspenseful fight for survival.
After jumping from shuttle to space station to space station, we witness
Bullock’s descent to Earth aboard a Chinese capsule. She survives reentry to Earth’s atmosphere
and lands in a body of water conveniently close to land.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My issue is not with the events in space or with the land
proximity convenience but with the missed climactic moment of human emotion
upon Bullock’s character’s emerging from the water upon the capsule’s
crash. Bullock’s Stone not only survives
multiple perils in space but nearly drowns in what initially figured to be a
routine capsule exit. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Upon escaping the capsule and, like Kate and Leo in Titanic,
fighting the downward drag of a much heavier object, Bullock emerges from the water
in time to see the remaining pieces of her most recent mod of space
transportation disintegrate in the Earth’s atmosphere. What does she do? She flips over in the water and swims to
shore in the film’s final scenes. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While I have no issue with the way the film’s final minute
of Bullock’s character struggling swim to shore and appreciation of being on
Earth once again, Cuaron really missed an opportunity to put an award winning
stamp on the film. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At that moment when Bullock emerges from the water, I
expected an extreme release of human emotion.
Hell, she floated through space from space junk to space junk and nearly
died from being lost in space, running out of oxygen in space, re-entering
Earth’s atmosphere, and drowning in water.
She’s finally feeling in control of her body again AND witnessing the
remainder of her astro experience burn in the sky, and we get nothing from
her?!?! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m sorry, but I thought that after emerging from the water,
given a brief dramatic pause, would have broken down emotionally. I expected to see quite a release of anguish,
tension, and fear, but what we get none of that. I would have spent another 1 or 2 minutes of
film time putting the cherry on top of the suspenseful sundae by having Bullock’s
character give a human release of said anguish, tension, and fear. Let her scream and experience a physical
release of emotion. By god, she just
went through something that no one in the history of humanity has ever
experienced. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I loved the film, as it kept me engaged throughout, but I
was really hoping for a much stronger ending.
It was one of those times where I had felt I passed the film by at its
end and was pulling it along with me to my conclusion; similar to Bullock’s
multiple tension-filled scenes tugging at tethers. You had me Gravity, but like George Clooney,
you left me floating in the end. </div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-18590778349646654912014-03-10T18:34:00.000-04:002014-03-10T18:34:02.867-04:00What Happens Tomorrow?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx5CK4HCpZHYAXQdBlgIFimwmUE8GJofI2wlPmGYIZqMzzaB5s3vwbBzMmy7pFrJmiG5yRp3P_qikCQrKU7qn5NmxSUK_1FP66vYqElU2-w6OOtU2DDXBFlkXMR7YcS6897IEDaWZrb7w/s1600/lovie+bucs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx5CK4HCpZHYAXQdBlgIFimwmUE8GJofI2wlPmGYIZqMzzaB5s3vwbBzMmy7pFrJmiG5yRp3P_qikCQrKU7qn5NmxSUK_1FP66vYqElU2-w6OOtU2DDXBFlkXMR7YcS6897IEDaWZrb7w/s1600/lovie+bucs.jpg" height="322" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
With nearly $25 million in cap space and player rumors
flying, the Bucs are expected to be active participants when free agency kicks
off Tuesday at 4pm. What positions will
Licht and Lovie look to address first? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If we’re to believe the whispers, the Bucs will be most
active on the offensive and defensive lines.
They’ve already cut their starting right guard and are rumored to be
flirting with the idea of ditching their left tackle and center as well. It’s assumed a pass rushing defensive end
will be one of their first signings, but they may add a tackle too. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8oRF_FNZHGWmRpRdE1nYrv-AxUWGdZx-omZH9D9Foh6qlczz7SgQ2XQiE8I3CjOu-aFT1i6xureWEQ4LYBRl6_niWlqUTINw5AjugL4VXURAnj823ZhyhdRJVoA7adGFK0C8Pg4Y7hz8/s1600/anthony+collins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8oRF_FNZHGWmRpRdE1nYrv-AxUWGdZx-omZH9D9Foh6qlczz7SgQ2XQiE8I3CjOu-aFT1i6xureWEQ4LYBRl6_niWlqUTINw5AjugL4VXURAnj823ZhyhdRJVoA7adGFK0C8Pg4Y7hz8/s1600/anthony+collins.jpg" height="311" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>OL <o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the Bucs being tied to Eugene Monroe, Branden Albert,
and Anthony Collins you’ve got to think Penn’s roster spot is in serious
jeopardy. Albert is reportedly headed to
<st1:city w:st="on">Miami</st1:city>, and <st1:city w:st="on">Monroe</st1:city>
might stay in <st1:city w:st="on">Baltimore</st1:city>. Reports have Collins ticketed for <st1:city w:st="on">Tampa</st1:city> at $6.5 to $7
million per year. He’s a guy I’ve liked
since he was at <st1:state w:st="on">Kansas</st1:state>. With Andrew Whitworth and Andre Smith manning
<st1:place w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:place>’s
tackle positions, Collins has been the best backup tackle in the league the
last few years in my opinion. He would
be a significant improvement in pass protection and is no slouch in the run
game either. To me the biggest things
about Collins are that he’s consistent and has stayed healthy. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What also excites me about this potential acquisition is
that the Bucs could get younger and better at left tackle for less money. I listed Collins in my offseason piece, but I
didn’t think the Bucs would be that aggressive in replacing <st1:place w:st="on">Penn.</st1:place>
Hopefully I underestimated them. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bucs are rumored to be talking to Rodger Saffold as
well, and I would hope that would be for right guard rather than left tackle
where I think Saffold is a inferior talent to Collins. I’d rather let <st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city> pay Saffold the rumored $8 million to
play left tackle and focus on either Geoff Schwartz or Jon Asamoah at right
guard. I know this sounds narrow-minded
since it’s only two players, but if the Bucs don’t sign either of KC’s guards,
I think they’ll focus on the draft to find Joseph’s replacement. I still like <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>’s Jon Halapio as a day three
pick. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At $4.5 million, Zuttah might not be any safer than <st1:state w:st="on">Penn.</st1:state> Working a bit in his favor though is the
center market dried up a bit when <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>
gave Alex Mack the transition tag. Yes
he’s free to talk to other teams, but I have a feeling any suitors would just
be doing <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>’s
negotiating for them. If the Bucs do
decide to move on from the versatile but average Zuttah, two realistic options
are Evan Dietrich-Smith and Brian De La Puente.
Dietrich-Smith earned $1.3 million with the Packers last year, while De
La Puente made $2 million with the Saints.
The former is expected to land the larger deal this offseason, but maybe
the Bucs could steal the latter from a division rival at roughly what it would
have cost to keep Zuttah. De La Puente
is a pretty athletic center who played for Jeff Tedford’s Cal Bears and could
be a nice Mack consolation prize.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IkMFm5KMPEjhobrTdX7OuJMZItDeu5nHKSDtRp7b-td0dJv8v0qb57GVP0ZZi4x_uQsAyXQFmUPb-FvFlCd87D0puYkH6et7biR60f3j9D-6erKZGuw6aql5MbOP_voHVd9Ncn39Lyg/s1600/corey+wootton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IkMFm5KMPEjhobrTdX7OuJMZItDeu5nHKSDtRp7b-td0dJv8v0qb57GVP0ZZi4x_uQsAyXQFmUPb-FvFlCd87D0puYkH6et7biR60f3j9D-6erKZGuw6aql5MbOP_voHVd9Ncn39Lyg/s1600/corey+wootton.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>DL</u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Heading into the offseason I was hoping for either Everson
Griffen or Corey Wootton to be the Bucs primary focus at defensive end. Unfortunately, Griffen signed a 5 year dealt
to remain in <st1:state w:st="on">Minnesota</st1:state>
with $20 million guaranteed. Wootton
will come cheaper than that, has the Lovie connection, and can assist the Bucs
from both the end and tackle positions.
He would be my #1 pass rush target when free agency kicks off and would
give the Bucs a solid pairing at left end with William Gholston. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Michael Johnson is the big name being tied to <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype></st1:place>. With his former defensive coordinator’s new
team re-upping Griffen, he’s not headed to <st1:state w:st="on">Minnesota</st1:state>.
The Bears are rumored to be competition for Johnson’s services, but the
Bucs should have no trouble matching any Bears’ offer since they sit at just
roughly $9 million under the salary cap.
Stating the obvious, signing Johnson would be a big upgrade at left end
over the disappointing Da’Quan Bowers.
An anticipated $9-10 million annual stipend may seem a bit steep for a
guy with just 3.5 sacks last year, but a lot of Johnson’s contributions come in
less sexy statistical categories.
Johnson tied teammate Carlos Dunlap for the league lead with 7 batted
passes, and set career highs in QB hurries with 41 and hits with 17. The bottom line is disrupting the flow and
momentum of the offense. Johnson does
that in multiple ways. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With Michael Bennett staying in <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>,
maybe <st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city> finagles
the cap somehow to get competitive for Johnson.
The Bucs could make my year by signing both Johnson and Wootton. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If Henry Melton finds a soft market, the Bucs could get
quite the steal at tackle. Melton would
give the Bucs a very quality rotational piece in the middle as he tries to
rebuild his value. If Melton doesn’t
fall in their laps, I’d like to see the Bucs add Vance Walker, the veteran who
shows up every week. I expect both Randy
Starks and Jason Hatcher to sign deals that price them out of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype></st1:place>’s
range, so there don’t figure to be many economical impact options. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkFdDoKPmHdNB8TARwcMQMU9iPp2xpxcYq03pzup7LCbnNTfWhmQgqR_SpcKb3zK2tRJ6IqRI77nzBhyEMcX12TGTW8zwKfpBAFa85CekdrHSvkc7-Bw0FRTiy4nhpHCiVsJWQo9z9fs/s1600/corey+graham.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkFdDoKPmHdNB8TARwcMQMU9iPp2xpxcYq03pzup7LCbnNTfWhmQgqR_SpcKb3zK2tRJ6IqRI77nzBhyEMcX12TGTW8zwKfpBAFa85CekdrHSvkc7-Bw0FRTiy4nhpHCiVsJWQo9z9fs/s1600/corey+graham.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Other Positions<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not to completely rehash my previous piece, I would like to
see the Bucs add a corner, receiver, and middle linebacker. With the majority of the funding going into
the trenches, the Bucs will likely be looking “second tier” when it comes to
these positions. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sam Shields’ signing made a lot of other guys a lot of
money. Alterraun Verner and Vontae Davis
are very unlikely options, and Aqib Talib isn’t coming back to town. Former Bear Charles Tillman may be the most
likely option, but I’d still prefer to the Corey Graham route. He’s four years younger, a better player at
this point, and will likely land a similar deal to Tillman. Veteran Drayton <st1:city w:st="on">Florence</st1:city> would be another, cheaper option and
would also weaken the rival Panthers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With Jeremy Maclin re-signing with Philly, Andre Roberts is
my clear #1 option at receiver. He’s a
proven talent who would not surprise me if he were to outplay current #2 and
resident knucklehead Mike Williams. The
Bucs would still need to add to the position in the draft, and Sammy Watkins
could be the cherry on top of a restocked receiving stable.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think Mason Foster has a bullseye on his back, but there
isn’t a clear, immediate upgrade in free agency. I expect the Bucs to pursue both Erin
Henderson and Desmond Bishop, former Vikings familiar with DC Leslie
Frazier. <st1:city w:st="on">Henderson</st1:city> could be Dekoda Watson’s
replacement at SLB, while a healthy Bishop could be legit competition for
Foster. Being greedy, I’d like to
re-sign Watson, bring in the two Vikings, and let the best men win the MLB and
SLB jobs. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s no serious long-term threat to Mike Glennon’s job in
free agency, but Josh McCown and Shaun Hill are the best remaining
options. McCown is surely seeking a shot
at a starting gig, while Hill makes for the more likely clipboard holder. I’ve mentioned Hill as an option in previous
years and would be the route I’d go should they choose to bring in a
veteran. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I mentioned Dexter McCluster as someone I expected/wanted
the Bucs to target in free agency, and it appears they will do so. I have a clear preference for McCluster over
Hester given that McCluster can be a pretty decent offensive contributor when
given enough snaps. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Summary<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With plenty of cap space and currently only five draft
picks, I expect the Bucs to be active early and often in free agency,
especially with the potential “no-cap-impact” additions on the offensive
line. Since the TE market sucks, I hope
they address enough other needs in free agency that they can get a quality TE
in the draft. They can’t sign all of
these guys, but given what has happened and what we think we know so far, here
are my updated <st1:city w:st="on">Tampa</st1:city>
targets – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shaun Hill (QB, <st1:city w:st="on">Detroit</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eric Lorig (FB, re-sign)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Andre Roberts (WR, <st1:state w:st="on">Arizona</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dexter McCluster (WR/PR, <st1:city w:st="on">Kansas City</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anthony Collins (T, <st1:place w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Geoff Schwartz (G, <st1:city w:st="on">Kansas
City</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jon Asamoah (G, <st1:place w:st="on">Kansas
City</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Brian De La Puente (C, <st1:place w:st="on">New
Orleans</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Corey Wootton (DE, Chicago)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Michael Johnson (DE, <st1:city w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Henry Melton (DT, Chicago)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Vance Walker (DT, <st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Erin Henderson (LB, <st1:state w:st="on">Minnesota</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Desmond Bishop (LB, <st1:state w:st="on">Minnesota</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dekoda Watson (LB, re-sign)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Corey Graham (CB, Baltimore)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Charles Tillman (CB, Chicago)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-92049744382184048952014-02-20T19:00:00.000-05:002014-02-20T19:00:20.822-05:002014 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Offseason Plan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ppVPZjwLPRMMEhpwXAx_qhkRkiLDDyT_eN2eZvc-6L4TH67MfsVZ6rikBOnraWpPph321m7cC6qcjuQ_9RiG-ftuGWClcNnybsmcPWP2pTzBwcIHhz71m-O4QqiHUCntP-roPF0pnHY/s1600/lovie+smith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ppVPZjwLPRMMEhpwXAx_qhkRkiLDDyT_eN2eZvc-6L4TH67MfsVZ6rikBOnraWpPph321m7cC6qcjuQ_9RiG-ftuGWClcNnybsmcPWP2pTzBwcIHhz71m-O4QqiHUCntP-roPF0pnHY/s1600/lovie+smith.jpg" height="273" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Congratulations Seahawks!
I thought they were the better team going into the game (my breakdown
showed them having the edge on both sides of the ball), but I certainly didn’t
expect to see it get that out of hand. <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> gets their first
NFL championship, joining their ’76 brethren Buccaneers as one-time winners of
it all. Interestingly, that Super Bowl
saw the Bucs dominant defense destroy <st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city>’s
offensive machine. Speaking of <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s expansion
companion, I thought I’d take an early look at some decisions the Bucs may need
to make this offseason. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bucs pick 7<sup>th</sup> in the first round, where
they’ll look to add to a talented, albeit shallow roster. That pick must be spent on an impact player,
whether it is a QB, receiver, or pass rusher; all areas of need for the
Bucs. Here are the positions I believe
they need to address in free agency and/or the draft:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
QB – I’m not sold on Mike Glennon as a guy who is going to
win a meaningful January or February game for this team. I also don’t see how he fits new OC Jeff
Tedford’s style of passers who can move in the pocket. The free agent pool is empty, so do they ride
with Glennon or pull the trigger on a passer in the first round or two? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WR – Like a broken record, I keep begging year after year
for speed and elusiveness at the receiver position. It’s still lacking. Vincent Jackson has been a fine #1 given the
team’s QB play, but there are questions about Mike Williams’ commitment. At a minimum, they need to difference-making
slot guy to play with these two. Worst
case scenario has them looking for someone to start in place of Williams. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TE – Tim Wright was a nice pass catcher, but he can’t
block. Tom Crabtree is a back up, and
Luke Stocker has to be a huge afterthought at this point. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
OL – When the Bucs signed Carl Nicks, they thought they’d
have quite a formidable line, but it just never materialized. They have no idea what they’ll get from
Nicks, if anything, and Joseph’s play has taken a nosedive. Moving Jeremy Zuttah to guard and finding a
new center could be a possibility.
Donald Penn has his detractors, but left tackle is far from the team’s
biggest weakness. Right tackle Demar
Dotson had a fabulous year and may be the most certain thing they’ve got going
up front. . </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DL – Adrian Clayborn has been ok, but the Bucs need more
pass rushers. Da’Quan Bowers has been a
waste, but on a positive note, William Gholston looks like a building
block. That’s only two, possibly,
reliable rushers. I expect this to be
the Bucs priority in free agency. Gerald
McCoy should only excel under Lovie Smith and Leslie Frazier, and Akeem Spence
should benefit from the coaching change as well. They’re shallow inside, so they’ll add a
tackle or two. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LB – Lavonte David is a stud, but I continue to believe they
need to get better than Mason Foster in the middle. I’m guessing the new regime will look to do
that. Every other Bucs linebacker with a
name you’d recognize is a free agent. Of
that bunch, it would be best to bring back Dekoda Watson on the strong side.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CB – Darrelle Revis is back, but there’s a steep drop off in
talent after him. Johnthan Banks didn’t
exactly shine as a rookie, and Leonard Johnson should be lower on the depth
chart. Ideally, they get new starters
opposite Revis and in the slot, and Banks and Johnson develop as backups. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I believe the Bucs currently sit at about $12mil under the
’14 cap after the round of releases that included Derek Landri. Where can they find more cap space? They can free up about $5mil by cutting both
Connor Barth and Michael Koenen. Aside
from that, there’s not a ton of fat to trim from this cap aside from two
obvious targets – </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Davin Joseph - $6mil</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I mentioned above, Joseph’s play has fallen off
significantly, and I don’t see any way he’s back for anything close to that
amount. It’s probably best for the team
to move on from him altogether and pay
someone else less to do a better job. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Donald Penn - $7.4mil</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, I know. I just
mentioned that Penn isn’t one of the team’s bigger problems. I’m not advocating releasing Penn, but maybe
he’d be open to extending his deal that currently is set to expire after the
’15 season at a lower annual rate. It
wouldn’t be a $7.4mil cap savings, but they could conceivably get a couple of
million to go towards another position by restructuring Penn’s contract.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If they start over at kicker and punter, cut Joseph and
either restructure Penn or make a couple of other small moves, they would be
looking at more $25mil in cap space heading into the offseason. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here are the specific free agents I’d key on:</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8zl1yQWU217xuMyzDt25xKiZcpLa96Qs1KZOnKXUGFO0uXHUDFsTRjEEK7ugWHKOEAJaTGeHI-MPQiQALB6Y9R097hHfdESx99vtIiC5X0NQaKZtCOqeJ2HUSSODpBsyH4WCX8e5Khc/s1600/everson+griffen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8zl1yQWU217xuMyzDt25xKiZcpLa96Qs1KZOnKXUGFO0uXHUDFsTRjEEK7ugWHKOEAJaTGeHI-MPQiQALB6Y9R097hHfdESx99vtIiC5X0NQaKZtCOqeJ2HUSSODpBsyH4WCX8e5Khc/s1600/everson+griffen.jpg" height="292" width="400" /></a></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everson Griffen (DE, Vikings)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Willie Young (DE, Lions)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Corey Wootton (DE, Bears)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s where I’m struggling.
They almost sure to add a free agent, but on what side will they put
him? Jared Allen plays the same side as
Clayborn, and it doesn’t make sense to either bench our best pass rusher or
weaken the run defense by playing Allen on the strong side. He’d be the big name veteran I’d be
interested in giving a short term deal.
I wouldn’t feel comfortable giving Julius Peppers or Just Tuck a lot of
money, Greg Hardy isn’t coming here, and Michael Bennett isn’t coming
back. I’d prefer to see the Bucs go the
younger route. Young isn’t terribly
likely given that he’d be on the same side as Clayborn, but I mention him
because I’ve always been a fan of his talent.
I like the idea of pairing Griffen with Gholston on the left side. He’s not going to cost a lot and is someone
who has shown steady, albeit slow development as a pass rusher. If he doesn’t perform up to expectations, the
Bucs won’t be in the huge financial hole like they would if they went the
Peppers or Tuck route. Assuming I’m not
completely underestimating his market, Griffen is a low risk high reward
option. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Vance Walker (DT, Raiders)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Henry Melton (DT, Bears)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ll be shocked if the Bucs commit much to DT this
offseason. Maybe Melton finds a soft
market coming off his injury. <st1:place w:st="on">Walker</st1:place> continues to be a
reliable rotational piece on the defensive line wherever he plays and would
bolster the run defense. </div>
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<o:p>
</o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_KBNDV_uNkMw9BQQbgIYTjFKdxNPqB8tandtnwVt656oYvgSE-e0EGDwghwx7gvEUVLw0ApM6KWhWXw_DXzGwzem1RXE65cWVfejHdzt4vwLstyrBRpxTQmEqsT97Lkv1yVjNhr7kdjY/s1600/alex+mack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_KBNDV_uNkMw9BQQbgIYTjFKdxNPqB8tandtnwVt656oYvgSE-e0EGDwghwx7gvEUVLw0ApM6KWhWXw_DXzGwzem1RXE65cWVfejHdzt4vwLstyrBRpxTQmEqsT97Lkv1yVjNhr7kdjY/s1600/alex+mack.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Alex Mack (C, Browns)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Geoff Schwartz (G, Chiefs)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anthony Collins (T, Bengals)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t want to get rid of Zuttah, but it’s possible for
them to upgrade two positions with one signing.
Early reports on Nicks are positive, so maybe he’ll be a factor after
all. There should still be one vacant
guard position. Zuttah has seen most of
his time away from center at left guard, but he has played a handful of games
at right guard. Could he handle that
switch and play next to Mack, an attractive free agent with new <st1:city w:st="on">Tampa</st1:city> ties? Mack is arguably the game’s best center and
would go a long way in helping this new coaching staff implement their
offense. Ultimately, I think he’ll be
out of the Bucs price range. I don’t
know if the Bucs will look to free agency to solve their guard situation, but
Schwartz would be a steal and nice plug in on the right side. He was a big factor in <st1:place w:st="on">Kansas City</st1:place>’s success on offense and made
just $700k last year. Collins isn’t
really an option as a back up, but he’s the only free agent tackle I’d
consider. </div>
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<o:p>
</o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-BnS6DZZemxdJlX4KGFlwGI_mXzP32AkRS1ltGwhkFqLEI1M_rPwcVVjptJGkAHt_zT2RO66GfdZI_eMVN4imSfXwEKVbW7T4e4bAsKq3T59Wg5kHGeS1IytUQ8N-aF0yQVvTLGjYns/s1600/charles+tillman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-BnS6DZZemxdJlX4KGFlwGI_mXzP32AkRS1ltGwhkFqLEI1M_rPwcVVjptJGkAHt_zT2RO66GfdZI_eMVN4imSfXwEKVbW7T4e4bAsKq3T59Wg5kHGeS1IytUQ8N-aF0yQVvTLGjYns/s1600/charles+tillman.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sam Shields (CB, Packers)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Alterraun Verner (CB, Titans)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Corey Graham (CB, Ravens)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Corner play opposite Revis wasn’t pretty in ’13, and I’ll be
disappointed if they don’t bring in a legit starter this offseason. If we were playing with monopoly money and no
salary cap, Brent Grimes would be my preferred target. Since we aren’t, maybe Shields and Verner
will be affordable. They’re both young
corners with a lot of experience and are sure to attract a bit of attention,
but the corner market didn’t exactly go crazy last offseason. Maybe they’ll be affordable after all. I’d slot Graham behind Shields and Verner,
but he would be a solid sneaky addition, in my opinion. He could start in <st1:city w:st="on">Tampa</st1:city>;
something he won’t do next year in <st1:city w:st="on">Baltimore</st1:city>. Charles Tillman would be a fall-back and a
shorter term option, but he may be the most likely of the names I’ve
mentioned. </div>
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<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFzQ2fSylpdV9g8oSi_EJZI9Q8vHgHMB6gmTnyEFGSYLP9przEklg5yMAxQ8E3fSzgt4g10n0c8SYfUefKDe2aT-bgDNBwlsPgIS19inpbWtPw0kiOKmVMbs-kB6-LG9hsIJhiJeaIrI/s1600/andre+roberts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFzQ2fSylpdV9g8oSi_EJZI9Q8vHgHMB6gmTnyEFGSYLP9przEklg5yMAxQ8E3fSzgt4g10n0c8SYfUefKDe2aT-bgDNBwlsPgIS19inpbWtPw0kiOKmVMbs-kB6-LG9hsIJhiJeaIrI/s1600/andre+roberts.jpg" height="262" width="400" /></a></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jeremy Maclin (WR, Eagles)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Andre Roberts (WR, Cardinals)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jacoby Jones (WR, Ravens)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dexter McCluster (WR, Chiefs)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve always been a Maclin fan, and he’ll probably be had on
a cheap prove-it deal. Jones is still
big in the punt return game, and while he’s never reached his potential as a
receiver, he’d instantly be #3 on the depth chart and give Glennon a deep threat. McCluster would provide some of the increased
quickness I’m seeking, but he’s not a solution to anything. Of all available free agent receivers, Doug
Baldwin would be my preference, but he’s a restricted free agent and isn’t
getting out of <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>. Since I can’t get <st1:place w:st="on">Baldwin</st1:place>,
I’ll focus on a similar receiver in Roberts; a guy who can play both inside and
out and make some plays for you in the middle and deep parts of the
secondary. Roberts has been a
consistent, reliable target and was productive when called upon as a starter;
something that’s not easy to do given the presence of Larry Fitzgerald and the
sloppy pre-Palmer QB play. There isn’t a
TE I’m interested in, especially since Fred Davis was just handed an indefinite
ban. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m sure I won’t be close, but here’s my attempt to blend my
wishes and expectations – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everson Griffen (DE, Vikings) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Charles Tillman (CB, Bears)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Andre Roberts (WR, Cardinals)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Geoff Schwartz (G, Chiefs)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Vance Walker (DT, Raiders)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dekoda Watson (LB, re-sign)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eric Lorig (FB, re-sign)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think that’s pretty doable with a guesstimated $25mil in
cap space, even with $5mil allocated to the draft. There should be plenty of cap room for the
Bucs to pull off these moves considering the salary cap for ’14 was just
increased from $123mil to $130mil.</div>
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<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2algBRxtQ4Lr79C4w0ZRquo6PmzWZSO85OhtCK0OA1gi1MxVjXV9naVPAK-5dP77jgeVe4aCOCfOn1ctvqxyr5xrXfsZ2tv_pbfNTDjyS1B19V9kpWq8worDKHItOpQLmMSJyiAf0jhA/s1600/blake+bortles.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2algBRxtQ4Lr79C4w0ZRquo6PmzWZSO85OhtCK0OA1gi1MxVjXV9naVPAK-5dP77jgeVe4aCOCfOn1ctvqxyr5xrXfsZ2tv_pbfNTDjyS1B19V9kpWq8worDKHItOpQLmMSJyiAf0jhA/s1600/blake+bortles.bmp" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Transitioning to the draft, here are my early thoughts on
the first 7 selections. The NFL Combine
starts Saturday, so I’m sure a lot of this will change in the coming
weeks. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) <st1:city w:st="on">Houston</st1:city>
Texans</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Key Needs – QB, OL, LB, CB</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Texans won’t take an offensive lineman or cornerback with
the first pick. For me, this one is down
to Jadeveon Clowney or a QB, and if we’re supposed to believe reports that the
owner is pushing for a passer, I’m siding with the guy who writes the checks. Which QB is still uncertain, but knowing what
I know about Bill O’Brien and his connections to the UCF staff. They’ll upset a lot of folks in <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state> by passing on
Johnny Manziel, but I’m going to go with…..Blake Bortles (QB, UCF)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>
Browns (via STL)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Key Needs – QB, RB, LB, WR</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This pick is an obvious trade spot, so I’ll go ahead and
predict that one happens. Right or wrong
the Rams remain committed to Sam Bradford, so they won’t be taking a QB this
year. There isn’t a team that couldn’t
use Clowney, but if I’m a Rams fan I’d rather they address a true area of
weakness rather than allocating more assets to the one thing they do
right. I could see Cleveland’s new
regime taking an aggressive approach to securing their (hopeful) franchise QB,
and they have the draft picks to do pull it off…..Teddy Bridgewater (QB,
Louisville) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) <st1:place w:st="on">Jacksonville</st1:place>
Jaguars</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Key Needs – QB, DE, RB, OL</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take a QB right?
Neither Blaine Gabbert nor Chad Henne belongs taking a regular season
snap, but I don’t think the Jags are an absolute lock to take a passer with
their first pick, even if <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>
doesn’t trade ahead of them. Everyone
knows they need a QB, but more importantly, they need a sure thing. To many, this guy is the surest thing in the
draft, and he also fills a huge need for the Jags…..Jadeveon Clowney (DE, <st1:place w:st="on">South Carolina</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) <st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city>
Rams (via CLE)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Key Needs – OT, WR, S, CB</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is where I think the Watkins watch could start. Pairing him with Tavon Austin could lead to
some highlights in <st1:place w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:place>,
but whether it’s Bradford or someone else handling the football, they’ve got to
get him some protection. Jake Long is
coming off a torn ACL, and RT Rodger Saffold is a free agent. Greg Robinson might have the higher ceiling,
but I believe this guy will have a quicker assimilation period, has experience
at both left and right tackle, and has a father with ties to the head coach…..Jake
Matthews (T, Texas A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) <st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city>
Raiders</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Key Needs – QB, DE, CB, RB</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city>’s
roster is a mess. I know, what a
surprise. I can’t see a scenario that
has Clowney still on the board, and it’s too early for a corner or running
back. Watkins is an option, but I’m
going to think <st1:city w:st="on">Oakland</st1:city>
seizes the opportunity to take a true starting QB. And come on.
What non-JFF/Texan fan wouldn’t want to see this guy in a Raider
uniform?…..Johnny Manziel (QB, Texas A&M)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) <st1:city w:st="on">Atlanta</st1:city>
Falcons</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Key Needs – OT, DE, DT, TE</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Will they take a tackle after shelling out a lot of money
for Sam Baker last year? I’m guessing
no. They must get better up front on
defense, especially considering their best pass rusher is a fading Osi
Umenyiora. They have to draft or sign
someone who can get after Brees and <st1:city w:st="on">Newton</st1:city>. I think this comes down to either Anthony
Barr or…..Khalil Mack (DE/OLB, <st1:place w:st="on">Buffalo</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7) <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype></st1:place> Buccaneers</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Key Needs – QB, DL, CB, WR</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve got the top QBs off the board at this point, but if the
Bucs had a shot at either Bortles or <st1:city w:st="on">Bridgewater</st1:city>,
I’ve got to think they would give them a ton of consideration. I don’t think Manziel is a Lovie or Tedford
pick, and while Derek Carr has Tedford ties, I’m far from sold on him. I’m intrigued by Mack, but I’m not sure where
he’d fit in Lovie’s defense. Right now,
if I can’t get Bortles, <st1:city w:st="on">Bridgewater</st1:city>,
or Clowney I’ve got my eyes on three players:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greg Robinson (T, <st1:city w:st="on">Auburn</st1:city>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If he’s not the first tackle taken, he’ll be the
second. Robinson would give the Bucs a
replacement for Penn at LT and free up a lot of cap space. If I can plead Penn’s case, I’d hate to dump
a guy that is in the better half of players at his position in what could be a
sink or swim year for Glennon. Still,
Robinson’s upside would be pretty hard to ignore. He’s big, strong, and can move. That’s still a rare combination of skills for
a tackle. It’s hard for some to get
excited about taking a tackle with your first choice, but Robinson could be the
smartest use of the pick; high ceiling and floor. I listed Robinson because he hadn’t been
picked yet in this instance, but Matthews would warrant similar consideration. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sammy Watkins (WR, Clemson)<br />
Should the Bucs choose to go receiver here, they’ll likely have first pick at
what looks to be a pretty deep class.
Watkins would give the Bucs something they don’t have – a multi-threat player
with incredible vertical speed. He isn’t
just a speed guy though. Watkins gets
physical when needed, especially at the point of catch, and his strong build
will help him hold up well to the hits he’ll take as a pro. I see him being a huge red zone weapon for
whoever drafts him; something the Bucs could use. Watkins would be the explosive talent I’ve
been pining for. Just having him on the
field and making the defense think about him will open things up for the rest
of the offense. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kony Ealy (DE, <st1:state w:st="on">Missouri</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve pointed out the Bucs need for a pass rusher or two, and
with Clowney off the board, I think Ealy might be the best remaining option for
the Bucs. You probably won’t find a mock
that has him going this high, but I expect that to change the closer we get to
May. Ealy is an athletic pass rusher often
lazily compared to former Missou Tiger, Aldon Smith. He shows plus change of direction; impressive
for his size and important for his position. I like how Ealy uses his length and hands off
the edge, but he needs to be more consistent in anchoring with his hips and
legs to be more effective in both setting the edge against the run and getting
to the passer. He’s got great short area
closing speed for a guy with his build, but I think he needs a bit of coaching
and a lot of reps against grown men to see if he’s a really good football
player or if he’s just a really good athlete.
As you see, Ealy has impressive positives but is still rather incomplete
as a football player. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Others I didn’t list – </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Timmy Jernigan (DT, FSU) I love but don’t want
to take GMC backup at #7.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Mike Evans (WR, Texas A&M) is duplicative
with Vincent Jackson.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Anthony Barr (DE/OLB, UCLA) see Khalil Mack.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->CJ Mosley (LB, <st1:place w:st="on">Alabama</st1:place>) don’t see him as a 4-3 MLB; already
have David at WLB.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Marquise Lee (WR, USC) worries me when it comes to
staying healthy.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In making my decision, Ealy is the first one out. I believe the Bucs will address this position
prior to the draft and will roll with Clayborn, Gholston, Bowers, and a free
agent. If they do add a pass rusher, I’m
guessing it’s with a later pick. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Deciding between Robinson and Watkins, one of the first
things I have to consider is how much better the Bucs would be with Robinson
instead of <st1:state w:st="on">Penn.</st1:state> The veteran has been a target for Bucs fans,
but he’s still among the better left tackles in the game. How long would it take to say the same about
Robinson? Not hating, but potential and
performance are two different things. Could
the Bucs’ next left tackle currently be playing on the right side of the
line? Lovie is already talking about
giving Demar Dotson reps at LT in camp. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Watkins is probably the most electrifying offensive talent
in this draft, and the Bucs lack of said talent has had them behind the rest of
the league for the last couple of years.
Adding Watkins makes the Bucs a better team than replacing Penn with Robinson
or Matthews. I did mention Roberts as a
free agent target, but there is the Mike Williams factor. He’s far from on firm footing with the new
regime, and his contract takes a huge $4mil increase in ’15. I can’t count on him to see anywhere close to
the end of that deal. After watching
some of the “receivers” this team has run out there in recent years, I’d
welcome the complaints of too many weapons and not enough footballs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R1 pick – Sammy Watkins (WR, Clemson)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit4oUnBSSjtYFnHMFsR1p9ima0RP7qj40Ssrp4HVnen0WtpHHDiJUOL8W9XIPJbW4o3QYF9YeY9J4HedSxa-CaytwNEsKNB39Dqgypvdbw-lowVaDysfuIbFcM3sBCvgCPLFItnx_-8yI/s1600/sammy+watkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit4oUnBSSjtYFnHMFsR1p9ima0RP7qj40Ssrp4HVnen0WtpHHDiJUOL8W9XIPJbW4o3QYF9YeY9J4HedSxa-CaytwNEsKNB39Dqgypvdbw-lowVaDysfuIbFcM3sBCvgCPLFItnx_-8yI/s1600/sammy+watkins.jpg" height="355" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Buccaneer Surprise – Eric Ebron (TE, <st1:place w:st="on">North Carolina</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I wouldn’t do it, but I think the one pick that could
surprise us is the Bucs taking UNC’s stud TE at #7. There’s a big talent need at the position,
and I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Bucs be aggressive in addressing
it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>REST OF DRAFT<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R2 – Lamarcus Joyner (CB, FSU) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yeah, I know, a Nole.
Get over it. I think Joyner is
the perfect defender for what Lovie is likely to do in <st1:city w:st="on">Tampa</st1:city>.
Let’s first talk about the elephant in the room – Joyner’s size. He’s listed at 5-8, 180 which would obviously
put him on the small side. If you’ve
watched more than a few minutes of FSU football you’ve noticed that Joyner
plays far bigger in his size. Joyner
draws a lot of Ronde Barber comparisons, and they make sense. He’s a dangerous blitzer, is fast and can
change directions quickly, covers a ton of ground, has excellent ball
anticipation, and isn’t afraid pop you.
He’s understandably a drag-down tackler, given his size, but he stays
with his man to secure the tackle. He’ll
be a stud on special teams. Lovie’s
defenses have been predicated on fast guys making plays in space, and Joyner
certainly fits that description and would be an immediate upgrade at the nickel
corner and third safety spot. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKeL1JQ6zhv4LOmp2dsjZhch-9t_JldNmvJ-Ef4IHjdOjYqq38mZBBVjfyuunLlMyMbC9U8VK102BzC9OaAzFg5S79sxV9DAEt2-VDoRCx5A1gmbgqUCYL3nqX4vpW_hLEq6e5pWqjA-8/s1600/lamarcus+joyner+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKeL1JQ6zhv4LOmp2dsjZhch-9t_JldNmvJ-Ef4IHjdOjYqq38mZBBVjfyuunLlMyMbC9U8VK102BzC9OaAzFg5S79sxV9DAEt2-VDoRCx5A1gmbgqUCYL3nqX4vpW_hLEq6e5pWqjA-8/s1600/lamarcus+joyner+2.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Other options –</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Troy Niklas (TE, Notre Dame)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kyle Fuller (CB, Virginia Tech)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R4 – CJ Fiedorowicz (TE, <st1:place w:st="on">Iowa</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Due to a dry free agent market, I think it’s pretty likely
the Bucs will spend a pick on the tight end position. Here I’m giving them a player with great size
who could be their traditional in-line tight end to pair with the flexed out
Tim Wright. Fiedorowicz would be the
team’s best blocking tight end as soon as he put on a jersey and has plenty of
pass catching potential as well. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQXDAgh3mDwfXsHXzXEMsTvkLVLRTnlYOpt9N1kB59_1RF4AsoQ3Hn_LKGxTtWd2-3vKWv_4EMFqDC7Q6hyphenhyphenvt3S7Wu0tZ2oMEsVf_YmC_IZYlacTPCTrXvmBasn4B11Hg2Zt1znE4y-I/s1600/cj+fiedorowicz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQXDAgh3mDwfXsHXzXEMsTvkLVLRTnlYOpt9N1kB59_1RF4AsoQ3Hn_LKGxTtWd2-3vKWv_4EMFqDC7Q6hyphenhyphenvt3S7Wu0tZ2oMEsVf_YmC_IZYlacTPCTrXvmBasn4B11Hg2Zt1znE4y-I/s1600/cj+fiedorowicz.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R5 – Jon Halapio (G, <st1:place w:st="on">Florida</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s a tad painful to do this, but I want to get a lineman
in the draft and this is a good spot for Halapio. He’s a guy who logged a ton of starts against
impressive competition and could be in the mix for early playing time depending
on the situation at right guard.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
R7 – Connor Shaw (QB, <st1:place w:st="on">S Carolina</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t think the Bucs will have a shot at Bortles or <st1:city w:st="on">Bridgewater</st1:city>, but that
doesn’t mean I’m giving up on a passer.
I’d rather spend a 7<sup>th</sup> round pick on Shaw than sign a veteran
back up. Shaw is a winner. I love the combination of his mobility and
how he takes care of the football.
Simply put, he doesn’t make many mistakes. If he gets an opportunity to play in the NFL,
I think he’s going to surprise a lot of people.
I like him as a passer now, but I think he’s got plenty of room for
growth there still. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8uiJW-4Fw92Iq3JofojAi8am3SO8rMgxAzMFzCJQgDg4m5yuSsMCQNIII_DsauarAxflw0706nQoWWN4_w3Uz8kdwU21WaNU70mK69mcaZR5cmh3Jp-PU9MOOlg-tUvjzIaP6yLtDAk/s1600/connor+shaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8uiJW-4Fw92Iq3JofojAi8am3SO8rMgxAzMFzCJQgDg4m5yuSsMCQNIII_DsauarAxflw0706nQoWWN4_w3Uz8kdwU21WaNU70mK69mcaZR5cmh3Jp-PU9MOOlg-tUvjzIaP6yLtDAk/s1600/connor+shaw.jpg" height="400" width="335" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With this plan, I’ve got the Bucs addressing every position
of need except MLB. It’s rare that a
team is able to address every need in one offseason, and I’ll be pleased if
they fill most of the gaps I mentioned.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Combined offseason acquisitions:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everson Griffen (DE, Vikings) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Vance Walker (DT, Raiders)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dekoda Watson (LB, re-sign)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Charles Tillman (CB, Bears)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lamarcus Joyner (CB, FSU) </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Connor Shaw (QB, <st1:place w:st="on">S Carolina</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eric Lorig (FB, re-sign)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sammy Watkins (WR, Clemson)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Andre Roberts (WR, Cardinals)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CJ Fiedorowicz (TE, <st1:state w:st="on">Iowa</st1:state>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Geoff Schwartz (G, Chiefs)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jon Halapio (G, <st1:place w:st="on">Florida</st1:place>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Go Bucs!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-45882525177216335352014-02-01T14:30:00.000-05:002014-02-01T14:30:09.420-05:00Super Bowl XLVIII Prediction<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPXibuc6KCMwIvwBw-FcoG3r0BPw4npXc__gmklQBxg9MO4yJYhok1y3NyYYJrlVtrb-9JuzXhnaagojWcc3q_-LaUIvGbVvwAGoo4yJAjp0ShKX7lRyaPoLCLz-QN18OxjoyCdawc-Vw/s1600/super+bowl+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPXibuc6KCMwIvwBw-FcoG3r0BPw4npXc__gmklQBxg9MO4yJYhok1y3NyYYJrlVtrb-9JuzXhnaagojWcc3q_-LaUIvGbVvwAGoo4yJAjp0ShKX7lRyaPoLCLz-QN18OxjoyCdawc-Vw/s1600/super+bowl+2014.jpg" height="250" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
So here we are. We’ve
reached the big one, and the Broncos and Seahawks are the last two teams
standing. To get here <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> pulled off a fairly one-sided win
against the always dangerous Patriots, and Seattle held off San Fran in what
may have been the game of the year. With
both <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> and <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> making it to MetLife, this is only
the second time in the last two decades that both #1 seeds have squared off in the
Super Bowl. Earlier this month I <a href="http://talbuc.blogspot.com/2014/01/2014-nfl-playoff-predictions-wild-card.html" target="_blank">predicted</a> that we’d see these two in the final game, and I had <st1:place w:st="on">Seattle</st1:place> earning the victory. What’s changed since then? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Peyton Peyton Peyton.
In case you haven’t turned on a television, radio, or computer or walked
by a newsstand the last week, Peyton Manning is playing in another Super
Bowl. Arguably, the games greatest to
ever toss it is on the verge of creating a ton of conversation, regardless of
the outcome. If the Broncos win, Peyton
will have earned his second Super Bowl victory in three chances and will
generate a lot of buzz (because ‘now’ always beats history in today’s hyper-attentive
world) as the greatest of all time. On
the other hand, if Denver loses (and assuming 18 doesn’t gift wrap the game to
Seattle) you’re going to hear about how Peyton can’t get it done when it counts
and that there’s no way to put him in the same class as Montana and Brady. Such is the world in which we live.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The last time the league’s best offense faced the league’s
best defense in the season finale was the 1990 season where the defensively
dominant Giants beat the Bills no-huddle attack 20-19 in <st1:city w:st="on">Tampa</st1:city>.
Will Peyton add another chapter to his legacy, or will history repeat
itself 13 years later and 1,128 miles north? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>When <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Denver</st1:place></st1:city> has the Ball</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjito7n3n78fO6tfEw59Kk4y5LXW_C9KDi-G52pWKmsvUzamwIPMI8mHq-TQvBuUh0vBmChQBr4fsRihKVqfDd8Gxd3iARIlrRIED1mswb3lOHvzhiuT1_LqbsAQajel4vspuYxkftzplQ/s1600/sb+-+peyton+julius.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjito7n3n78fO6tfEw59Kk4y5LXW_C9KDi-G52pWKmsvUzamwIPMI8mHq-TQvBuUh0vBmChQBr4fsRihKVqfDd8Gxd3iARIlrRIED1mswb3lOHvzhiuT1_LqbsAQajel4vspuYxkftzplQ/s1600/sb+-+peyton+julius.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Matchups:</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Demaryius
Thomas, Wes Welker, Eric Decker, Julius Thomas, and Jacob Tamme against a
talented and intimidating secondary made up of Richard Sherman, Byron
Maxwell, Walter Thurmond, Jeremy Lane, Earl Thomas, and Kan Chancellor </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Knowshon
Moreno and Montee Ball against a front seven run crew headlined by Red
Bryant, Bobby Wagner, KJ Wright, and Tony McDaniel</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Chris
Clark, Zane Beadles, Manny Ramirez, Louis Vasquez, and Orlando Franklin
acting as the wall between Peyton and Michael Bennett, Cliff Avril, and
Clinton McDonald</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mr. Manning will earn his fifth MVP award before this game
kicks off. There’s no arguing that he
was the league’s best player this season.
What I found somewhat surprising is that in the previous four seasons he
won the award, he only made it to the big dance in one of them – the ’09 game
against <st1:city w:st="on">New Orleans</st1:city>,
which, as I referenced earlier, was the only other time in the last two decades
that both top seeds won their halves of the bracket. Peyton runs the offense from the line of
scrimmage and usually knows what the defense is doing, sometimes more so than
players on the other side of that line. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This time he faces what I believe is the league’s most physical
defense (sorry San Fran). It’s a unit
that likes to get in your face early and disrupt your timing; something <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> relies on to move
the chains and make big plays with the football. It will be a tremendous test for both
teams. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67yxgfb72LyNfRBtZt20njoHCLmmg9dWgde4LbQ3d_WgNxo0R9TyfVAwFvW7jkCvd8mWOjG80W6vu3a-0Qv5UDL1SU_r7TL8eSVNmIdDalzDdREN0oohSp1kb7rNQ2ajRh1AKW04wSl8/s1600/sb+-+denver+offense.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67yxgfb72LyNfRBtZt20njoHCLmmg9dWgde4LbQ3d_WgNxo0R9TyfVAwFvW7jkCvd8mWOjG80W6vu3a-0Qv5UDL1SU_r7TL8eSVNmIdDalzDdREN0oohSp1kb7rNQ2ajRh1AKW04wSl8/s1600/sb+-+denver+offense.jpg" height="400" width="395" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>,
Richard Sherman doesn’t often move from his LCB spot, and when he does, it’s to
the slot, not the other side of the field.
That means Demaryius won’t have a shadow throughout the game. It’s not like he’ll get much of a break on the
other side though, as Byron Maxwell is no slouch himself. I think the key here with Thomas is that <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s corners are
incredibly physical, and Demaryius, despite his size, isn’t known for his
physicality or dominance at the point of contact. Neutralizing or just simply limiting Peyton’s
greatest receiving threat would go a long way in getting <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> to the celebration stage. Decker will see <st1:place w:st="on">Sherman</st1:place> about half the time, and having the
game’s best cover man in his face won’t help improve his tendency to let the
ball hit the ground. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The guys I see doing the most damage in the passing game for
<st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> are
Julius Thomas and Wes Welker. Welker
will line up in the slot against Thurmond, and I think he’s the guy Peyton will
look to especially on third downs to pick up those key catches over the middle. Julius has been one of the league’s best
tight ends this season, but <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
has handled that position better than anyone else in the game. This year the Seahawks faced Vernon Davis
three times and also faced Jimmy Graham and Tony Gonzalez. All three were held far below their
averages. A big reason for that is the
big punisher, Kam Chancellor. Extremely
underrated given the talent around him, the former Hokie is the most important
player on <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s
defense in this game, in my opinion.
Seeing as he’ll have primary responsibility for tight end coverage,
Chancellor’s ability to make Manning look away from Julius or to keep the
athletic tight end in front of him will go a long way in determining the
outcome of this one. I already mentioned
that <st1:city w:st="on">Sherman</st1:city>
doesn’t often move from his LCB spot, but when he does it’s to the slot. Carroll and company would be wise to send
Sherman Julius’ way a time or ten. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMC9rXY4cQkTBKWAHJYelEXFCKoxQ11sePXdxZRQorq7FGBi_9q6BaaeMH6X8LnohjgQRWYDtBNQ56cGPTPxz7B3psa74dWIp3vK3i2TC0Vqtskk0v2y_ZA4ln2okJCcLhmbuFLkbU6U/s1600/sb+-+peyton+knowshon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMC9rXY4cQkTBKWAHJYelEXFCKoxQ11sePXdxZRQorq7FGBi_9q6BaaeMH6X8LnohjgQRWYDtBNQ56cGPTPxz7B3psa74dWIp3vK3i2TC0Vqtskk0v2y_ZA4ln2okJCcLhmbuFLkbU6U/s1600/sb+-+peyton+knowshon.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Peyton is no dummy. I
don’t think we’ll see him string a ton of consecutive pass attempts together
against this defense. That means we
should see a good bit of both <st1:city w:st="on">Moreno</st1:city>
and Ball. The latter was expected to be
the main man this year, but he remained the clear #2 throughout the regular
season. All Knowshon did was finish in
the league’s top five in total yards from scrimmage. Not bad for a guy who didn’t figure to have a
prominent role back in August. While the
rib injury he sustained against the Patriots won’t keep him from playing in
this one, you’ve got to think <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
is going to take a few shots at the impacted area. Will it hamper his performance? </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ball will be rotated in, and I think he’s the more dangerous
player beyond the line of scrimmage.
Getting past that first line will be a tough task if the good Tony
McDaniel shows up. He, Brandon Mebane,
and Red Bryant are the main reasons why <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
ranks as one of the league’s toughest teams against which to run the
football. If the front line,
specifically Bryant, can get to the backs and keep them from running clean to
Bobby Wagner and KJ Wright, Seattle can make Peyton throw it more than he
probably wants to. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAi8W7eF34egT0zprN9U2Qav4siHYDzJ0dtXs8hHYe5Ch3hsaepNuSJ9-oPMDAqW_Oh1VLDMC2HPZw-DRNTGgXgddPvwZRvJzCKh2iaM1_4IX70Zgs-83aG9fHmuXelfOyoIiiVbmQ1dk/s1600/sb+-+seattle+dl.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAi8W7eF34egT0zprN9U2Qav4siHYDzJ0dtXs8hHYe5Ch3hsaepNuSJ9-oPMDAqW_Oh1VLDMC2HPZw-DRNTGgXgddPvwZRvJzCKh2iaM1_4IX70Zgs-83aG9fHmuXelfOyoIiiVbmQ1dk/s1600/sb+-+seattle+dl.bmp" height="233" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyone who follows football knows that you’ve got to get
Peyton off his mark if you want to be successful against <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>,
and <st1:place w:st="on">Seattle</st1:place>’s
defense brings it from multiple spots. Free
agent additions Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril did the most damage this year
at getting to the passer, and Clinton McDonald established himself as one of
the game’s better interior pass rushers.
Their ability to push the pocket and force Peyton into making questionable
throws against an opportunistic secondary is exactly what Pete Carroll is
looking for. That won’t be easy given how
quickly Peyton consistently gets rid of the ball. <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>’s
line surrendered the fewest number of sacks in the league this season, but
Peyton’s style is the biggest reason for that.
Tackles Chris Clark and Orlando Franklin don’t have their names called
often, Manny Ramirez has been solid at center, and right guard Louis Vasquez is
their best blocker. The weakest link up
front is Zane Beadles, and with the aforementioned McDonald expected to line up
against him regularly, that could be the key matchup to watch up front. I can’t take anything away from Peyton; don’t
want to. He’s one of the best, but his
lack of zip on the ball could be a factor if <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> is able to get him off his spot and
throw to a late read. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGgd8pa5XPiV8SdcIqyIZMPfbtstxHMivOskJuv-ntIqnY_UNLthd_yYR42nx5cBn6VVc8RVgQFW_hSBNsJRHqhz-wcQCzzzZX_pBRdjoRwbQCyc80Ojf1gYD-D3-vFnGAees5ojLBsy0/s1600/sb+-+terry+mcaulay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGgd8pa5XPiV8SdcIqyIZMPfbtstxHMivOskJuv-ntIqnY_UNLthd_yYR42nx5cBn6VVc8RVgQFW_hSBNsJRHqhz-wcQCzzzZX_pBRdjoRwbQCyc80Ojf1gYD-D3-vFnGAees5ojLBsy0/s1600/sb+-+terry+mcaulay.jpg" height="247" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t anticipate <st1:place w:st="on">Denver</st1:place>
having sustained success on the ground, which means we’ll see plenty of Peyton
passes. That also means <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s corners must disrupt receivers’
routes. They can’t allow <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> to get comfortable
with their timing and pick action. Two
factors are working in <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s
favor. First, there haven’t been a ton
of flags thrown in these playoff games (hasn’t that been nice), especially in <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s games. Second, this officiating crew is headed up by
Terry McAulay, an official known for keeping the flag in his pants. Former NFL strong safety, Steve Freeman, will
be the back judge, and he’s not one to take over a game either. This bodes very well for <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s chances defensively. Peyton makes his living exposing mismatches,
but I just don’t see any weak spots in <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s
secondary, including when <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
has to go dime and bring in <st1:street w:st="on">Jeremy
Lane</st1:street>.
Peyton may be forced to move his feet more than he’d like, but he’s not
going to get sacked often (if at all), even against these pass rushers. Simply put, he will need to make the passes
an MVP QB makes in big spots, and <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
will need to stick to their roots – play physical football, support each other,
and don’t over-think. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>When Seattle has the Ball<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuK_PeAWwGFuxRhQdQzz2reZRyw86VP-__Lyuw6RMAJOvVbMHZcud9nyWpJVvw4tU5wCo5jQbqPkQMKQ4egwWd429G_nUvk067btg1I5QhLChK6x4bLR3T9vGttTPMNmHwhg4NIoB5y8I/s1600/sb+-+wilson+denver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuK_PeAWwGFuxRhQdQzz2reZRyw86VP-__Lyuw6RMAJOvVbMHZcud9nyWpJVvw4tU5wCo5jQbqPkQMKQ4egwWd429G_nUvk067btg1I5QhLChK6x4bLR3T9vGttTPMNmHwhg4NIoB5y8I/s1600/sb+-+wilson+denver.jpg" height="318" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Matchups:</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Golden
Tate, Doug Baldwin, Percy Harvin, Jermaine Kearse, and Zach Miller against
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Champ Bailey, Tony Carter, Quentin Jammer, Mike
Adams, and Duke Ihenacho</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Marshawn
Lynch and Russell Wilson trying to run through Terrance Knighton, Wesley
Woodyard, and Danny Trevathan</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Russell
Okung, Paul McQuistan, Max Unger, JR Sweezy, and Breno Giacomini
attempting to hold back Malik Jackson, Shaun Phillips, and Robert
Ayers. </li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Most offenses pale in comparison to the Broncos, but I
believe the Seahawks come into this one a bit under the radar. Russell Wilson’s job isn’t to light up the
scoreboard with a ton of passing TDs, but let’s not go extreme and call their
offense limited or one-dimensional.
After shutting out the Giants on the Super Bowl’s turf, <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> played their last four games against
the 3<sup>rd</sup> (SF), 4<sup>th</sup> (NOR), and 7<sup>th</sup> (ARI) ranked
scoring defenses and a Rams front that gets after the passer. <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>’s
defense will need to be peeking at the right time if they’re going to present
as difficult a challenge as did <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s
recent opponents.</div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjUQrylVeTAZyPR3L0XAJpJ9Dzsd_LYNE2zg6Ti9So2Avpc5nBblvGjnl3LKqB-orm0Zi8ov0FH6Z5Ml7TATFTYv5X0cojaRKmfvlXPGykxJkWKYFVepg0GiyStyrSaLDj2yqQF0zYSk/s1600/sb+-+marshawn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjUQrylVeTAZyPR3L0XAJpJ9Dzsd_LYNE2zg6Ti9So2Avpc5nBblvGjnl3LKqB-orm0Zi8ov0FH6Z5Ml7TATFTYv5X0cojaRKmfvlXPGykxJkWKYFVepg0GiyStyrSaLDj2yqQF0zYSk/s1600/sb+-+marshawn.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When you talk about <st1:place w:st="on">Seattle</st1:place>’s
offense, you’ve got to start with Beast Mode, Señor Skittles, Mister Media –
Marshawn Lynch. The man who doesn’t
enjoy speaking into a microphone lets his bruising running style do all his
talking for him. Everyone knows he’s
going to get the football, yet he continues to produce. In two playoff games Lynch has 249 yards and
3 scores on the ground, including 109 yards and 6 points against the nasty
Niners last week. <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> has put up impressive run defense
numbers this year, for two reasons primarily.
First, when <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>
gets up two or more scores on a team, the opposition often abandons the
run. Second, Terrance Knighton’s ability
to make the middle of the field a “no backs allowed” zone goes a long way in
shutting down a team’s run game. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even with constant double teams from the threesome of
McQuistan, Unger, and Sweezy, I don’t expect <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> to do much damage at all running at
Knighton. If they can run at the big
man, I think that means game set match Seattle.
Let’s play the safe hand and assume they can’t. I don’t expect Darrell Bevell to be stubborn
in this one. That means we should see
Marshawn doing most of his damage on outside runs, where he’ll look to
demonstrate his tackle breaking, big gain ability against a defense that’s been
known to miss a tackle or two.
Marshawn’s big games are highlighted by signature long runs. He had a 31 yard score against the Saints in
the divisional round and a 40 yarder for 6 in the conference championship
against San Fran. I’d be a fool to bet
against him doing it again. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sticking with the run, the read option wasn’t a huge part of
the playbook this season, but when you’re playing 60 minutes of football for
the Lombardi trophy, you do whatever it takes to get the win. Following that line of thinking, I would
feature the zone read early in the game to keep <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> (specifically their defensive line)
guessing and attempt to break big runs on defensive breakdowns. Marshawn is the main weapon, but <st1:city w:st="on">Wilson</st1:city> could be the difference-making
ground factor. The man doesn’t make
mistakes with the football and has that moment-seizing personality. Expect to see <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>
chasing the back of <st1:city w:st="on">Wilson</st1:city>’s jersey a bit come
Sunday as the QB is used as a runner more than usual in an effort to keep <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>’s defense from
keying on his best offensive weapon. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw-fXJtDJaJS8ksh4An-sanl8mQv36KYDaHtirBSx0WqTnKlUDFYkm90iR07zcP_T52WwR4PCgagX41YW0JohBSmpJ8p-lksB0Wmgvp2vajheQjn_duTGt4KIQ2ykLis5ioUnpKJcR-K8/s1600/sb+-+denver+defense.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw-fXJtDJaJS8ksh4An-sanl8mQv36KYDaHtirBSx0WqTnKlUDFYkm90iR07zcP_T52WwR4PCgagX41YW0JohBSmpJ8p-lksB0Wmgvp2vajheQjn_duTGt4KIQ2ykLis5ioUnpKJcR-K8/s1600/sb+-+denver+defense.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Without the ultra-athletic Von Miller, the Broncos are going
to have to be opportunistic yet assignment-sound against Wilson and Seattle’s
offensive line. Shaun Phillips had 10
regular season sacks, but he’s only totaled 3 in his last 8 games. Malik Jackson has been a more than admirable
replacement for the injured Derek Wolfe, but he’s not a consistent pass rushing
threat. Robert Ayers has gone from utter
bust to decent defender, but he has just 3 sacks in his last 12 games. The lack of a dominant pass rusher or steady
rush threat will a big help to a <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
offensive line that isn’t one of the more stout units in the league. They’re a smaller, more mobile bunch that
must move as does their QB. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m not going to pretend <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s
receiving corps is as prolific as <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>’s
machine (<st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s leading receiver would rank
fifth in <st1:place w:st="on">Denver</st1:place>),
but at full strength they’re an extremely underrated unit. I believe this is a matchup they can
exploit. Where <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
can go four deep at corner in front of two All Pro safeties, <st1:place w:st="on">Denver</st1:place> is shallow in the secondary after
DRC. The Broncos surrendered a
middle-of-the-pack 7.1 yards per attempt through the air this year, while the
Seahawks led the league at 5.8. <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>’s defense also gave up nearly twice as many passing
TDs as <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s
(29 to 16). </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Broncos lost arguably their best corner (Chris Harris) a
few weeks ago in that divisional round win over the Chargers. The moment Quentin Jammer replaced Harris, <st1:city w:st="on">San Diego</st1:city>’s passing game started clicking, and <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> was fortunate they
didn’t have to play another 15 minutes. Jammer
found himself behind Carter on the depth chart after that game. Future HOFer Champ Bailey has dropped
retirement hints this week, but before starting the <st1:city w:st="on">Canton</st1:city>
clock, he’ll need to repeat his conference championship performance for the
Broncos to keep <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s
receivers in check. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCIejo1NPsUJyNL43qKvgHPkdSbRRMoPoRwI0YfdJ_E2ZNNJpp-6VxR7mwKqtHm1CqOcfAGyqAbp9-NmeNT5zmDDSuwazUyDR5h9e1UJ2LjWmJksd8NFJWnH64GSGAlvsxbxUmaidH76s/s1600/sb+-+tate+wilson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCIejo1NPsUJyNL43qKvgHPkdSbRRMoPoRwI0YfdJ_E2ZNNJpp-6VxR7mwKqtHm1CqOcfAGyqAbp9-NmeNT5zmDDSuwazUyDR5h9e1UJ2LjWmJksd8NFJWnH64GSGAlvsxbxUmaidH76s/s1600/sb+-+tate+wilson.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DRC figures to see a lot of <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s leading receiver, Golden Tate. Tate does a lot of his damage on short
passing patterns, but DRC hasn’t allowed receivers to break free for big
gains. Julian Edelman was able to get a
little physical and be successful against DRC last week, and Tate is a similar
smaller, strong receiver. Will Tate break
a few, or will this one end up a wash? Given
the balance in that matchup, I expect to see <st1:city w:st="on">Wilson</st1:city> focus most of his attempts on besting
Bailey and Carter, primarily with Baldwin and Harvin. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let’s start with Percy.
The always-dangerous ever-brittle weapon finally got onto the field this
year against the Saints in the divisional round and was able to make a few
plays before getting knocked out with a concussion. He missed the Niner game but is apparently
good-to-go for the Super Bowl. We know
what Harvin brings to the table. The
question is how long he’ll be able to do it before getting hurt again. Because of that great unknown, I expect
Bevell to get Harvin engaged early and often.
Throw him short passes. Throw him
deep balls. Give him the ball on an
end-around. Use him as a decoy. <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
needs to maximize Harvin’s threat and make the Broncos worry about him every
play he’s on the field. I’m also
expecting <st1:place w:st="on">Seattle</st1:place>
to have him return the kicks that Matt Prater can’t put through the back of the
endzone. The more attention he draws in
the passing game, the better that bodes for Marshawn and the running game. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt6cGs53M8WB9CZhXPfFlqyxGke3eUJw42A6sAH1Z5rZJKr8wAiVyIWadryntvFQRwGKfw6Hl3uRIA6heT54RA5BGFbsc2N7dGTCFCajEPBzDfhfYAu5cSdCGO_v8-5wXAlE5lVp7_TwQ/s1600/sb+-+baldwin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt6cGs53M8WB9CZhXPfFlqyxGke3eUJw42A6sAH1Z5rZJKr8wAiVyIWadryntvFQRwGKfw6Hl3uRIA6heT54RA5BGFbsc2N7dGTCFCajEPBzDfhfYAu5cSdCGO_v8-5wXAlE5lVp7_TwQ/s1600/sb+-+baldwin.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A healthy Harvin (at least at kickoff) puts <st1:place w:st="on">Baldwin</st1:place> in the slot where he’ll primarily face
Bailey. I love this matchup for <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>, and it’s the key
one on this side of the ball in my opinion.
Baldwin is exactly what <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>
doesn’t want to see with a Harrisless (yeah I went there) secondary. He’s dangerous deep, and he doesn’t drop the
football. Champ may have had a good
overall game against the Patriots, but Baldwin is better than any receiver <st1:place w:st="on">New England</st1:place> has besides Edelman. I expect <st1:place w:st="on">Baldwin</st1:place>
to lead the Seahawks in receiving and score at least one TD. He’s my dark horse Super Bowl MVP
candidate. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Who Wins?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9FVCRRJe1M6edMfRIuw-O8XXCfqaaDwHt1QBQqYVSS1mrxjhKqsyA_uK4fCwXA6DkzvuzsE5sEUbQdxW79Cz-SW5IQj8VMbAzv8SmehSFvJP6caiMSs3nN7lyzdogDJf0pqCwcsUW4hA/s1600/sb+-+sherman+manning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9FVCRRJe1M6edMfRIuw-O8XXCfqaaDwHt1QBQqYVSS1mrxjhKqsyA_uK4fCwXA6DkzvuzsE5sEUbQdxW79Cz-SW5IQj8VMbAzv8SmehSFvJP6caiMSs3nN7lyzdogDJf0pqCwcsUW4hA/s1600/sb+-+sherman+manning.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well it doesn’t look like weather is going to be a factor in
this one after all. Current projections
call for temps in the mid 40s, maybe some rain, and little to no wind
factor. That plays in <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>’s favor. If these officials stay true to form, they’ll
hold onto their hankies. That plays in <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s favor. If <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>’s
line can give Peyton time to catch the snap and his receivers can run picks
with impunity, advantage <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>. If Harvin can stay on the field and
contribute to keeping <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>’s defense on its
heels, advantage <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>. The fact that Denver dominated the Chargers
and Patriots in their two playoff games yet was unable to put either away is
something that stands out to me as a reason to expect this one to remain close. I’ve also got to think that the fact Seattle
has already won on this field this year, in convincing fashion, will make them
a bit more comfortable in a game that is always emotional. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Again, to me these are the matchups on which to key – </div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Terrance
Knighton against <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s
interior offensive line</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Red
Bryant containing Knowshon Moreno and Montee Ball </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Russell
Wilson reading ends Shaun Phillips and Malik Jackson</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Doug
Baldwin mid to deep against Champ Bailey </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Julius
Thomas trying to hide from Kam Chancellor </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Clinton
McDonald pass rushing against Zane Beadles</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the history of the league, 7 times has the team that led
the league in scoring made the Super Bowl.
All 7 times that team lost. Does
Peyton break the streak, or does <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
make history?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ7U7byhrEQdP6lUsTAWdYNdCkWALxjOxeqUT28Kz8bqyQrRaa7RHXtGvq2OP3HEHFhTYqakvR_ggMe8GW7XFraVephyphenhyphenKeCgGSsnUYtroUv-uE6h34PvOZTMkllqWMramqEZgZcWmVVUE/s1600/sb+-+peyton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ7U7byhrEQdP6lUsTAWdYNdCkWALxjOxeqUT28Kz8bqyQrRaa7RHXtGvq2OP3HEHFhTYqakvR_ggMe8GW7XFraVephyphenhyphenKeCgGSsnUYtroUv-uE6h34PvOZTMkllqWMramqEZgZcWmVVUE/s1600/sb+-+peyton.jpg" height="293" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Highlights – </div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Peyton
Manning throws for over 300 yards but has as many INTs as TDs (2)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Byron
Maxwell turns one of those INTs into a pick-6</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Percy
Harvin stays unharmed and on the field throughout, totaling over 100 all
purpose yards</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Montee
Ball outrushes Knowshon Moreno 54 yards to 42</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> records more sacks than <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> (2 to 1)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Russell
Wilson and Marshawn Lynch combine for 158 rushing yards</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Wes Welker
leads the Broncos in receiving yards and scores once</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Neither
kicker misses an attempt (FG or PAT)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Danny
Trevathan and Bobby Wagner combine for 22 tackles</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> will lead at halftime, but <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> will lead going into the fourth
quarter</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEewPDDC3sN4_taHkjnWoJPUflGiGE8UUR-6s7-Lqjtx4MG4O6qc8njTn9YHXpeeDpncTa772Bywn0by_RCHyw0E1SJzu6FJEvCDZ_oJ5GRmJLl6C2uH_RpjbR2ldCm3aktV0UCs5QTnw/s1600/sb+-+sherman+fans.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEewPDDC3sN4_taHkjnWoJPUflGiGE8UUR-6s7-Lqjtx4MG4O6qc8njTn9YHXpeeDpncTa772Bywn0by_RCHyw0E1SJzu6FJEvCDZ_oJ5GRmJLl6C2uH_RpjbR2ldCm3aktV0UCs5QTnw/s1600/sb+-+sherman+fans.bmp" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The battle of #1s proves to be sports entertainment at its
best. In the end, it’s Russell Wilson’s
offense that steals the show. On a
broken play late in the fourth quarter, <st1:place w:st="on">Wilson</st1:place>
finds Doug Baldwin running free for a 46 yard game-winning score. <st1:place w:st="on">Seattle</st1:place>
wins its first Super Bowl title in team history, and Peyton Manning’s greatness
(unfairly in my opinion) will continue to be questioned incessantly. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><st1:place w:st="on">Seattle</st1:place> 30</b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Broncos 24</b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>MVP – Russell Wilson</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEHt3RoUfuM3NPczxvfrNPygPGrCq9HQCte56hQriyV5AMB8UIBEIFU5mFbyaOxs3RB2XHOQNtfHLlx1xiCGQV1vAimMLj3ZojNHKUghkSsz4tdJgULkQslSMJuWIQ3xL1hIRO4zIeJM/s1600/sb+-+wilson+mvp.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEHt3RoUfuM3NPczxvfrNPygPGrCq9HQCte56hQriyV5AMB8UIBEIFU5mFbyaOxs3RB2XHOQNtfHLlx1xiCGQV1vAimMLj3ZojNHKUghkSsz4tdJgULkQslSMJuWIQ3xL1hIRO4zIeJM/s1600/sb+-+wilson+mvp.bmp" height="400" width="303" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Scoring breakdown – </div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">1Q –
Russell Wilson 1 yd TD run (SEA 7-0)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">1Q –
Byron Maxwell 26 yd INT return for TD (SEA 14-0)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">2Q –
Julius Thomas 6 yd TD reception (SEA 14-7)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">2Q –
Steven Hauschka 37 yd FG (SEA 17-7)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">3Q –
Wes Welker 18 yd TD reception (SEA 17-14)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">3Q –
Montee Ball 3 yd TD run (DEN 21-17)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">3Q –
Steven Hauschka 44 yd FG (DEN 21-20)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">4Q –
Steven Hauschka 28 yd FG (SEA 23-21)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">4Q –
Matt Prater 51 yd FG (DEN 24-23)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">4Q –
Doug Baldwin 46 yd TD reception (SEA 30-24)</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqJhgi1Jbm0BVfF3VTQz2W44HejaKetxE0Mw6HzZLcoq_Y2NQtSBANu7LMUn9CHj6XEvqCRBIuOYWVYkJ0yX5oWa2GZSmN1lvuuSzbL9zsnQClNbpOaCBXB4fWJmARZpYRBBQO4ZPubgQ/s1600/sb+-+seattle+champs.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqJhgi1Jbm0BVfF3VTQz2W44HejaKetxE0Mw6HzZLcoq_Y2NQtSBANu7LMUn9CHj6XEvqCRBIuOYWVYkJ0yX5oWa2GZSmN1lvuuSzbL9zsnQClNbpOaCBXB4fWJmARZpYRBBQO4ZPubgQ/s1600/sb+-+seattle+champs.bmp" height="275" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Congratulations to both of these teams for making it this
far, and thank you NFL for another exciting season. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Until next time…</div>
</div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-56913696851704561132014-01-19T11:25:00.000-05:002014-01-19T11:25:07.324-05:002014 NFL Playoff Predictions - Conference ChampionshipsIf you’re not enjoying these playoffs, then football
apparently isn’t your thing. Last Saturday
saw the home teams hold serve, with the Seahawks surviving a late Saints rally
and the Patriots running all over the Colts.
On Sunday <st1:city w:st="on">San Francisco</st1:city>
earned the only road win of the weekend, and the Broncos played most of their game
against the Chargers on cruise control.
You’ll have a hard time finding someone who doesn’t think these are the
four best teams in the league, and with both matchups oozing storylines, you
know these are the games the NFL wanted to see championship week. Will Brady get his 11<sup>th</sup> win
against Peyton? Will Harbaugh and
Carroll finally trade fists? Most
importantly, will I go undefeated again this week?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBWTzYYP3GYqTIyvmN1gjfq75bQ334OBwcQIhEvs1GFxVQUbKmchD367M6wv96iVDXAO9WbG_7WM9Oc3jtdakOyj3L1wh00yREUyIVOIvfQe5MUd3t_5Rpa1biqCDQhHD70NGgv4mye7Y/s1600/conf+champ+-+brady+manning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBWTzYYP3GYqTIyvmN1gjfq75bQ334OBwcQIhEvs1GFxVQUbKmchD367M6wv96iVDXAO9WbG_7WM9Oc3jtdakOyj3L1wh00yREUyIVOIvfQe5MUd3t_5Rpa1biqCDQhHD70NGgv4mye7Y/s1600/conf+champ+-+brady+manning.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
AFC Championship Game</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Patriots @ Broncos</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Sunday (3:00, CBS)</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Last Saturday’s second game was the Sucker Punch show. The suddenly resurgent bruising back ran for
a Patriot playoff record 166 yards and 4 scores in a 43-22 win against the
Colts. Tom Brady didn’t have a TD on the
day, but, more importantly, he managed a perfect game, leading the offense to
23 first downs and 35 minutes of possession.
Playing with the lead throughout, the Patriots defense was able to force
four Andrew Luck INTs and thwart any attempt at a comeback. It was an excellent game plan against an
offense that put up 45 points the week before.
They’ll need an even bigger effort this week against a Broncos team that
had no trouble avenging an earlier home loss to the Chargers. After a 27-20 defeat that saw San Diego
befuddle Peyton and run through his defense, Denver dominated the action,
holding the Chargers scoreless into the fourth quarter and limiting them to 65
rushing yards, or 112 less rushing yards than their last meeting. They’ll need to bring that effort and then
some this week against a Patriots team that has transformed itself into a power
rushing team that can thrown when necessary.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You can break this game down any number of ways, but you’ve
got to start with the two future HOF QBs.
Brady is 10-4 in head-to-head matchups against Peyton’s teams, including
three road wins in five contests. Brady
has also been the more consistent QB in their games, accumulating a 26-12
TD-INT ratio compared to 29-20 for Peyton.
One of the more memorable matchups was their last, the week 12 encounter
that saw Brady rally the Patriots from a 24 point deficit to top the Broncos
34-31 in OT. What historical moments
will come from this edition?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Taking a look at the personnel, there are several
significant differences. Starting at the
TE position, a regular season role reversal has taken place. Now the Patriots are the team without theirs,
as Gronk is on IR and Julius Thomas is active for this one. Sucker Punch figures to be a factor in this
one after totaling two totes in week 12.
Von Miller scored the first TD in that last meeting, but he’s out of
this one with a torn ACL. More importantly,
in my opinion, the Broncos will be without their best corner, Chris Harris, who
sustained a season-ending knee injury last week against the Chargers. Not coincidently, <st1:place w:st="on">San Diego</st1:place> started scoring after Quentin
Jammer replaced Harris. Think Bill
Belichick might find a way or two to exploit Jammer? As Steelers safety Ryan Clark pointed out
this week, it’s more about chemistry and communication than skill in the
secondary, and replacing Harris with Jammer had a negative impact on both the
chemistry and communication. That’s
usually not something that gets cleaned up in a week of practice. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One thing about this game that intrigues me is that either
team can successfully play it out multiple ways. Will the Patriots lean on the run game and
try to keep Peyton on the sidelines, or will they try to match scores by
throwing against a beatable secondary?
Will the Broncos rely on Peyton to read and confuse defenses with the
pass, or like last time they met, will Knowshon Moreno (37 carries, 224 yards)
have a huge game on the ground? I think
we’ll see New England look to keep the power run game going and throw when they
need to, matching scores with <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>,
albeit at a slower pace. <st1:place w:st="on">Denver</st1:place> will do what it
does – thrown when you play run and run when you play pass. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I look for Wes Welker and Julius Thomas to be the offensive
keys for <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>
in this one, with the latter presenting the biggest mismatch for the
Patriots. Thomas was second on the team
in receiving TDs despite missing two games.
His ability to draw more than one defender will open things up for the
trio of Welker, Demaryius Thomas, and Eric Decker. With Thomas and Decker drawing Aqib Talib and
Alfonzo Dennard out wide, look for Welker to draw a lot of targets against Kyle
Arrington. His ability to exploit that
matchup could be the deciding factor. For
the Patriots, I look for Julian Edelman to run a lot of quick-cutting routes
against Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie in an attempt to get the corner
leaning. Despite the 280 <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> rushing yards in
week 12, I think the Patriots will be the more successful team on the ground
this time around. We know New England is
missing Vince Wilfork, Jerod Mayo, and now Brandon Spikes, but as they’ve done
in the past, the Patriots are playing next man up. Sealver Siliga stepped into the lineup after
that last <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>
game and has done a tremendous job of holding his run gaps. Dont’a Hightower has come on huge in Mayo’s
absence, and rookie linebacker Jamie Collins is becoming more of an impact
player every week. New England features
a much better offensive line than <st1:city w:st="on">San Diego</st1:city>, and
I think they’ll find success running straight at a <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> defense that isn’t very big behind
Terrance Knighton. If Sucker Punch is
able to get past the line of scrimmage, he could run for a while. <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>
did a much better job against Mathews in the rematch, but he was significantly
banged up, doesn’t bring the pop that Sucker Punch does, and runs behind an
inferior line. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Broncos and Patriots face each other next season, so
unless Peyton’s neck scan holds bad news, these legends will have at least one
more showdown. But will this be their
last face-off on the conference’s biggest stage? I’m extremely impressed with what Belichick
and Brady have done this year. I think
they keep this one close and even lead at some point, but Peyton and his
superior weapons will make just enough plays to squeak out a trip to the Super
Bowl. Welker scores the winning TD with
a minute to go. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Broncos 34</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Patriots 30</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgscXcb8TpvOrcQqpAPWoOMsAKpi4mdQtoO-0rhdxOr1stfQFcQWjjp8H6fuOdX2k_mkMmuRVnn8VH0RV6-yi4qzqiVbaKulGj-wP62gDg9PHqzopcwz3kcHQ2qce0x0HT-xhj-z0nOE2Q/s1600/conf+champ+-+sea+sf.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgscXcb8TpvOrcQqpAPWoOMsAKpi4mdQtoO-0rhdxOr1stfQFcQWjjp8H6fuOdX2k_mkMmuRVnn8VH0RV6-yi4qzqiVbaKulGj-wP62gDg9PHqzopcwz3kcHQ2qce0x0HT-xhj-z0nOE2Q/s1600/conf+champ+-+sea+sf.bmp" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
NFC Championship Game</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
49ers @ Seahawks</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Sunday (6:30, FOX)</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Both of these teams bullied their way to the NFC title
game. <st1:place w:st="on">San Francisco</st1:place> beat up and frustrated Cam
Newton a week after withstanding the Packers in the cold, and Seattle made Drew
Brees look silly for a second time, holding him to an unimpressive 39.4
QBR. The Niners, playing their third road
game in three weeks, made good on a three point halftime lead, shutting out the
home team Panthers the rest of the way.
Vernon Davis’ replay reversal TD just before the break was the turning
point in the game. After that, San Fran
took away <st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city>’s run game and forced <st1:place w:st="on">Cam</st1:place> to make plays in the passing game with a gimpy Steve
Smith, a bracketed Greg Olsen, and Ted Ginn.
Offensively, Anquan Boldin continues to make plays in the postseason,
catching 8 passes for 136 yards, while Frank Gore averaged just under 5 ypc on
17 totes. <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>,
much like <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>,
had an easy going through three quarters.
Marshawn Lynch was in Beast Mode, running for 140 yards and 2 scores,
while their defense shut down the run game and forced Bres into uncomfortable
situations all afternoon. Jimmy Graham
was limited to 1 reception on 8 targets, and aside from the one weekly deep
ball to Robert Meachem, no Saint had a catch go longer than 25 yards. Marques Colston put up the best stat line of
the afternoon for <st1:city w:st="on">New Orleans</st1:city>,
but he’ll be remembered for his failed attempt at extending the game with a
cross-field, game-ending forward lateral.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unsurprisingly, these teams split their regular season
matchups, with each holding serve at home.
<st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
had their way with San Fran in week 2, confusing Colin Kaepernick into 3 INTs
en route to a 29-3 victory. The <st1:state w:st="on">California</st1:state> contest was
much closer, with the Niners emerging with a 19-17 win in Michael Crabtree’s
second game of the season. This one is
in <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>. Home field in the playoffs is an understood
advantage, but the edge the Seahawks have at CentruyLink Field is one that
cannot be understated or beaten with game planning. The ability for the 12<sup>th</sup> man to
constantly disrupt Kaepernick’s communication and keep the visitors at a disadvantage
may be the best thing the Seahawks have going for them in this one.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are a couple of key player updates on <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s side. First, the bad news. Percy Harvin’s return to the field was
short-lived. The big play receiver
suffered a couple of big hits and a concussion against the Saints and has not
been cleared to face the Niners. His
absence means the Seahawks will rely on their regular season arsenal of Golden
Tate, Doug Baldwin, and Jermaine Kearse.
Not exactly the Three Amigos. For
the good news, linebacker KJ Wright is good-to-go after sitting out the last
five weeks with a foot injury. He may be
limited, but having their best coverage linebacker on the field to provide support
against Vernon Davis will be huge.
Kaepernick has gotten into a groove lately, and limiting his downfield weapons
is <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s
best chance of keeping San Fran off the scoreboard.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Niners will hope Kaepernick can stay in that groove and
get them to the big game for a second straight year. Since Crabtree’s return, the Niners have
been, arguably (maybe), the league’s best team, winning seven straight. Boldin is still the most physical receiver in
the game and will destroy a defense if it doesn’t give him enough attention. <st1:city w:st="on">Davis</st1:city>
doesn’t get the targets his skills suggest he should, but he’s nearly
unstoppable in the red zone. Just ask
the Panthers. Frank Gore just keeps
making plays. He totaled 110 yards on
the ground the last time he visited <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
and will need to put forth that kind of effort once again for San Fran to win
their fourth straight road game. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>,
the offensive game plan is simple – Marshawn Marshawn Marshawn. A week off did the big man some good, as he
pounded away at the Saints and kept his offense in perfect down-and-distance situations
throughout. They may need an even bigger
effort this week, given the recent uninspiring play of Russell Wilson. <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s
QB got a win last week, but he was actually worse than Brees. Numbers aren’t everything, but <st1:city w:st="on">Wilson</st1:city> has had a sub-50%
QBR in each of his last five games, two of them coming against the very
beatable Giants and Rams. In addition to
being more efficient with the football and forcing the Niners to respect the
pass, <st1:city w:st="on">Wilson</st1:city>
will undoubtedly have to move the chains with his legs. I could see <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> featuring quite a bit of zone read in
this one to keep the Niners off balance.
</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What can’t you say about these defenses? <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
led the league in fewest points and passing yards allowed per game. Their league best secondary intercepted more
passes (28) than any other team in the game and tied <st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city> for fewest rushing TDs (4) allowed
during the regular season. They come at
you from every spot up front. When Bobby
Wagner isn’t shutting down the run game, he’s coming up the gut and getting in
the QBs face. Wagner, Michael Bennett,
Cliff Avril, Clinton McDonals and Chris Clemons combined for 31.5 sacks and
should be able to break through a Niners line that hasn’t had its best season. Their ability to get after Kaepernick and
force him into mistakes against Richard Sherman, Earl Thomas, and Kam
Chancellor will go a long way to securing a win for <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>.
Similarly, San Fran will hurt you all over the field. This is a consistent unit that forces you be
multi-dimensional. The trio of Justin
Smith, Aldon Smith, and Ahmad Brooks will look to get <st1:city w:st="on">Wilson</st1:city> off his mark and funnel him into the
arms of the best inside backer duo in the game, Patrick Willis and NaVorro
Bowman. The secondary got some good news
this week with the return of slot corner Carlos Rogers. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The battles between these two teams have become the most
physical matchups in the NFL. The fans
don’t like each other. The players don’t
like each other. Even the coaches don’t
get along. What’s your deal?! There’s no reason to expect this game to be
much different from their previous confrontations. I’m counting on Marshawn to be Marshawn and
for <st1:city w:st="on">Wilson</st1:city> to
make a few plays in critical situations.
The key for me will be <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s
ability to confuse and unsettle Kaepernick.
If they can force him into bailing out on plays and bad decision making,
this crowd will be absolutely deafening.
As their collective voice rises, so does the playmaking ability of that <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> secondary. I love the run San Fran is on, and while they
may be the best team in the sport at this point, I think the home team emerges
victorious in the game’s hardest place to play.
Marshawn and the kicker handle all the scoring for <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Seahawks 16</div>
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</div>
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Niners 13</div>
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<br /></div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-56529458495615925512014-01-11T11:08:00.000-05:002014-01-11T11:08:15.885-05:002014 NFL Playoff Predictions - Divisional Round<div class="MsoNormal">
2-2 felt like a victory last week. The two I missed put up easily the most
disappointing performances of wild card weekend. Andy Dalton continues to look be a postseason
loser, and the Eagles flopped at home against a Saints team who has struggled
on the road. My good picks had Indy
pulling the stunner against KC and the Niners winning by my projected margin in
the frigid conditions at Lambeau. Given
recent history, we haven’t seen the end of the upsets. Since 2005, #6 seeds are 5-2 against #1
seeds. Which favorites fall this week?</div>
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Saints @ Seahawks</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Saturday (4:35, FOX)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Much like the Niners with the Packers, the Seahawks have had
the Saints number recently. The 2010
wild card game is best remembered for Marshawn Lynch rushing through the entire
Saints defense, and this year featured a 34-7 prime time pummeling by the NFC’s
#1 seed. Will the Saints finally figure
it out and extend the recent success of #6 seeds? </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The forecast is calling for a lot of rain and a lot of
wind. Despite last week’s win outdoors
in Philly, gaining a victory in horrible conditions in the loudest venue in the
sport over a team that has owned you doesn’t sound like a promising scenario
for the Saints. Nick Foles didn’t turn
the ball over last week, but he wasn’t able to generate any offense against a <st1:city w:st="on">New Orleans</st1:city> defense at
less than full strength. I have more
confidence in Russell Wilson’s ability to consistently move the offense against
a squad that shouldn’t present him with too many mental quandaries. Losing Parys Haralson last week won’t help
the Saints slow down Lynch and the running game. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One way the Saints can avoid another 27 point blowout is to
take advantage of an absence on <st1:place w:st="on">Seattle</st1:place>’s
side. KJ Wright, <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>’s best coverage linebacker, will be
sorely missed as they try to contain Jimmy Graham. The massive tight end is my key player for
the Saints in this one. His ability to
move the chains and make plays in the red zone will be the biggest factor in
whether or not the Saints advance. For <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> I think the
obvious key will be Lynch’s ability to control the tempo and field position of
the game. Him being able to consistently
keep the Seahawks in manageable situations will help make up for a
less-than-explosive passing game. Said
passing game could get quite the boost with the return of Percy Harvin who
appears to be a go for this week. While
he’s sure to be a bit rusty after missing the entire regular season, you can
never discount the potential impact of a player with his explosiveness. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think the weather and field conditions will keep the dome
home Saints from being as effective offensively as they’ll need to be to earn
the upset. If <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> can avoid a bye week hangover and not
let Graham run free in the secondary, I think they get another decisive win
against the boys from the bayou. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Seahawks 30</div>
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</div>
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Saints 17</div>
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Colts @ Patriots</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Saturday (8:15, CBS)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This one has to be the most enticing matchup of the
weekend. Here we’ve got the
up-and-coming Andrew luck against one of the best QBs of our era, Tom
Brady. The two have had one head-to-head
matchup with Brady’s Patriots laying a 59-24 whooping on Luck’s Colts. One impressive tidbit (for the Patriots)
about that win was that it came right in the middle of what would have been an
8 game winning streak for Indy had things gone quite a bit differently that day
in Foxboro. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What can you say about Indy’s comeback against the
Chiefs? Being down 38-10 early in the
second half and coming back with 5 TDs to earn the first playoff win of Luck’s
career is one of the craziest halves of football I’ve seen. TY Hilton was a one man receiving show,
catching 13 of Luck’s 29 completions and scoring twice. Luck was the hero that day, throwing for an
insane 443 yards an 4 TDs, while adding another score on that head-shaking
perfect bounce fumble recovery. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While what Indy did against the Chiefs was incredibly
impressive, I cannot see a Bill Belichick defense getting completely owned for
just under 30 minutes like what happened to KC.
Even without the literal core of their defense (Wilfork, Mayo, and
Spikes), I think <st1:place w:st="on">New England</st1:place> has enough to
keep the Colts from another offensive outbreak.
It’s no secret that Hilton is the only legit weapon Luck has, so expect
to see Aqib Talib following and getting physical with him all over the
field. Luck won’t be able to win this
one on his own. Donald Brown doesn’t
need to have 100 yards, but he’s got to keep Indy in manageable situations and
keep <st1:place w:st="on">New England</st1:place> honest. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some will try to convince you that Tom Terrific is working
with a bunch of scrubs this year, but he has a better arsenal than Luck. Julian Edelman has done a fine job making
fans forget about Wes Welker, stepping in as Brady’s most reliable target on
his way to 1,056 yards on 105
receptions. Stevan Ridley is working his
way back into Belichick’s good graces, and Sucker Punch has been the team’s
biggest rushing weapon late in the season.
Shane Vereen is healthy and brings a little more physicality to what
used to be Danny Woodhead’s role. Gronk
will obviously be missed, but Brady has enough weapons in his arsenal to get
back to another big game.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In what forecasts as a very wet game, I think we see a lot
of Ridley and Sucker Punch and an opportunistic Patriots defense that will
force a couple of Colts turnovers. <st1:place w:st="on">New England</st1:place> gets out to an early lead and holds off
another second half Indy charge.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Patriots 27</div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Colts 23</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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49ers @ Panthers</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Sunday (1:05, FOX)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Old school fans who pine for days where teams actually
played defense will want to tune into this one.
<st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city>
and San Fran are the 2<sup>nd</sup> and 3<sup>rd</sup> best scoring defenses in
the league and already played a 10-9 contest in San Fran back in week 10. While I expect a few more points to be scored
in this one, it should be another close contest between two fairly similar
teams.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Both teams feature QBs who can beat you with both their arms
and legs. Both like to lean on the
run. Both have brutish offensive lines,
with the Panthers actually having the better year than the Niners (don’t take
my word for it; check out profootballfocus.com). Both feature a productive, tenured receiver
and athletic tight end in the passing game.
Both defenses shut down the opposing run game and don’t allow much
through the air. Both defenses feature
two of the best linebackers in the game.
Both secondaries are unheralded yet consistently stingy. And my favorite – Both teams feature head
coaches who played for the Bears from ’87-’92.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city>
owned the most impressive win streak of the season, rattling off 8 straight
from weeks 6 through 13. They
experienced both ends of the spectrum, winning both no and close contests. They won games they probably shouldn’t,
including their last two of the season against the Saints and Falcons. As hot as they got during that streak, they
had a rather unimpressive 3-0 end to the regular season. Will they be able to flip the intensity
switch against the Niners after a bye week preceded by a near-monumental
letdown in <st1:city w:st="on">Atlanta</st1:city>? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you watched last week’s SF-GB game, you witnessed a
pretty enjoyable football game. You also
saw a San Fran team battling field-leveling weather conditions, referees who
left their flags in the locker room, and a much better passing game than the
one they’ll face this week. In that
previous matchup, the Niners were without Michael Crabtree from the start, and
saw Vernon Davis, Eric Reid, and Ray McDonald depart with injuries prior to the
final whistle. Aldon Smith was on very
limited snaps in his first game back.
San Fran is near full strength for this one, and you’ve got to think
they’re focused and hungry for a return to the Super Bowl. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If <st1:place w:st="on">Carolina</st1:place>
is to win this game, the biggest key in my opinion will be their ability to eliminate
Colin Kaepernick as a runner and, conversely, get a lot of plays from Cam
Newton’s legs. Both of these QBs are 'rattleable'. I think Frank Gore will do
a better job of keeping his offense on schedule and that <st1:place w:st="on">Cam</st1:place>
will struggle to consistently make plays in the passing game with a severely
limited or missing altogether Steve Smith. <st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city>’s
defense comes up with another strong effort, but Crabtree follows up his 8
catch, 125 yard game at <st1:city w:st="on">Green Bay</st1:city>
with another difference-making performance.
This time he scores the game-winner.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Niners 20</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Panthers 17</div>
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Chargers @ Broncos</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Sunday (4:40, CBS)<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Surprised that Peyton Manning is in the primetime, division
round capper? You shouldn’t be. The most intriguing matchup of the weekend in
my opinion has the Chargers seeking to continue their winning ways with a
second victory of the year at Peyton’s place.
The Chargers pretty much owned the Broncos in week 15, rushing for 177
yards and limiting the Broncos to 9 offensive drives. Repeating that performance is easier said than
done, and personally, I don’t think they can follow that same script and get
another road win. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Peyton’s postseason struggles (8 one-and-dones) are well
documented. They can’t be ignored or
excused. Will it happen again? Philip Rivers and Tom Brady are the only QBs
with winning records against Manning, and Rivers is an extremely impressive 6-2
in <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>’s
place. <st1:city w:st="on">San Diego</st1:city>’s head coach, Mike McCoy, was
Manning OC last year, and Ken Whisenhunt might be the league’s best OC this
year. Ryan Mathews did more of the
damage in that week 15 win, but he’s hobbled heading into this one. He’s a longshot to put up another 127 against
this leaky <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>
defense. I think Danny Woodhead will be
the Chargers’ best weapon and that Rivers will attempt 50 passes for the first
time this season. Keenan Allen’s two TDs
in week 15 were huge, but he’ll need to catch more than those two passes this
time around. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s scary just how bad <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>’s
defense looked in that loss to <st1:city w:st="on">San
Diego</st1:city>. They
knew the run was coming, but they could do nothing to stop it. That loss came on the heels of them
surrendering a combined 90 points to the Patriots, Chiefs, and Titans. And now they don’t have Von Miller. I have no confidence in this unit’s ability
to shut down Rivers and the Chargers, so Manning is going to have to pull off a
rare feat and shine in the playoffs.
Demaryius Thomas is the best pass catcher still playing football. He, Eric Decker, the medically-cleared Wes
Welker, and Julius Thomas give him the weapons he’ll likely need to maximize to
advance to the conference championship. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
John Pagano did a great job scheming against the Broncos in
week 15, but this is still one of the worst pass defenses in the league. I can’t believe that Peyton hasn’t figured
out another way or two to exploit the Chargers secondary. Vegas has this as the least competitive
matchup of the four, but I don’t see it that way. I believe in the Rivers-McCoy-Whisenhunt
trifecta and think they’re going to give Manning and company another
ulcer. This one goes back and forth
throughout, but Demaryius dominates and catches the game winner in a wild divisional
round finale. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Broncos 41</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chargers 37</div>
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talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-29320003305673668462014-01-03T23:47:00.000-05:002014-01-03T23:47:04.571-05:002014 NFL Playoff Predictions - Wild Card Round<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWYlySO49XeZRCkMaalk-37AmQ3DZrEIotjvZbxnarHaAXxJPOT68mw33qSWAQL78S9AwG8x5etoy1ktkI6PuVHZd1bzc3KQPHBu3aZgIHOAedSaB7w4278MeYW8Kc2ynBtdPl6pUghqY/s1600/super+bowl+xlviii.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWYlySO49XeZRCkMaalk-37AmQ3DZrEIotjvZbxnarHaAXxJPOT68mw33qSWAQL78S9AwG8x5etoy1ktkI6PuVHZd1bzc3KQPHBu3aZgIHOAedSaB7w4278MeYW8Kc2ynBtdPl6pUghqY/s400/super+bowl+xlviii.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If the playoffs are anything like the regular season, we’ve
got quite an unpredictable postseason ahead of us. <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> and <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> are the top dogs
in their respective conferences, but with two #4 seeds and a #6 seed winning
the last three Super Bowls, this could be anyone’s title. Here’s how I see things playing out.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>AFC<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) <st1:place w:st="on">Denver</st1:place>
Broncos</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) <st1:place w:st="on">New England</st1:place> Patriots</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) <st1:city w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:city>
Bengals</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) <st1:city w:st="on">Indianapolis</st1:city>
Colts</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) <st1:city w:st="on">Kansas City</st1:city>
Chiefs</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) <st1:city w:st="on">San Diego</st1:city>
Chargers</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Wild Card Round<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX9jBcEz1bIA5ZQ56Xcy_qJcqpvdkuqonoVu3O2KfCBkfV2-8KQ5T-S3relhCbHeMUzBMtRYttV-Zyvi97vgKCjqfvFG8hO4b9r2bs2H2lJlz2i1aHc5DUCXYVaMhw4s-dbirfh_ruWi8/s1600/wild+card+-+andrew+luck.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX9jBcEz1bIA5ZQ56Xcy_qJcqpvdkuqonoVu3O2KfCBkfV2-8KQ5T-S3relhCbHeMUzBMtRYttV-Zyvi97vgKCjqfvFG8hO4b9r2bs2H2lJlz2i1aHc5DUCXYVaMhw4s-dbirfh_ruWi8/s400/wild+card+-+andrew+luck.bmp" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Chiefs @ Colts</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Saturday, 4:35 (NBC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is first round matchup in which I am the least
certain. These teams met in Arrowhead
just two weeks ago with the visiting Colts putting a stomping to the host
Chiefs. I’m not sure that outcome will
have much of an impact one, but a trend remained true – KC doesn’t beat good
teams. They won 11 games this year but
were a futile 1-5 against teams still playing football. After a 9-0 start, they finished the year on
a 2-5 slide which isn’t the way you want to be heading into the playoffs. <br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Indy hasn’t been the same team without Reggie Wayne, and
when they lose, they lose big. <st1:city w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:city>, <st1:state w:st="on">Arizona</st1:state>, and <st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city> beat them by a
combined 120-47 score. Ouch. Their running game is an enigma with the
limited Donald Brown and disappointing Trent Richardson combining for less than
1,000 yards rushing. Stating the
obvious, the Colts will go as far as Andrew Luck can take them. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m not breaking news here, but expect to see a lot of
Jamaal Charles left and Jamaal Charles right.
The Colts have one of the worst rush defenses in football, and Charles
is one of the game’s top offensive weapons.
I’m not an Alex Smith guy, but you can’t count on him to lose the game. The Colts will have to win it. I think Andrew Luck feasts on a beatable
Chiefs secondary and gets big plays from TY Hilton and Griff Whalen and puts KC
in a hole too big to climb out of with a limited passing game. That dome still gets loud. The Chiefs’ turnaround season ends abruptly,
while Luck gets his first playoff win as a pro.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Colts 27</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chiefs 23</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKRNRxM99wxfMfVHI-nNc9OqKpBoVu5K4Mj93vVCtN66aPSDMr1SWk6LAJtmcMmrpddidITqcWmyse3TUGMSegQOgHYXaAG3V7_gTHXg67odawo1TCUny8Td4AOLl0GD2fAwFWVIQIzyE/s1600/wild+card+-+giovani+bernard.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKRNRxM99wxfMfVHI-nNc9OqKpBoVu5K4Mj93vVCtN66aPSDMr1SWk6LAJtmcMmrpddidITqcWmyse3TUGMSegQOgHYXaAG3V7_gTHXg67odawo1TCUny8Td4AOLl0GD2fAwFWVIQIzyE/s400/wild+card+-+giovani+bernard.bmp" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Chargers @ Bengals</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Sunday, 1:05 (CBS)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Contrary to the other AFC matchup, this is the first round game
in which I’m most confident in picking the winner. This one also pits teams that faced each
other late in the season. <st1:city w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:city> won 17-10 at <st1:city w:st="on">San Diego</st1:city> in week 13 in what turned out to be
the Chargers last loss of the season.
From there they finished 4-0, including a solid whooping of the Broncos
in <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>. <st1:city w:st="on">San Diego</st1:city> also
won at <st1:city w:st="on">Philadelphia</st1:city> and <st1:city w:st="on">Kansas
City</st1:city> this year, so they won’t be overwhelmed in <st1:place w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:place>.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bengals finish the year on as good of a run as just
about anyone, winning 5 of their last 6 and scoring 41, 42, 42, and 34 in four
of those wins. That said, it’s still
hard to buy into Andy Dalton. One game
he looks more than serviceable, and the next he’s throwing multiple
interceptions in crucial situations.
What makes it easier to buy into <st1:place w:st="on">Dalton</st1:place>
is the weapons he has on offense. AJ
Green is one of the best receivers in the game, and Marvin Jones has really
come on, solidifying his place as the #2 receiver. Rookie Giovani Bernard can beat you as a
runner or receiver.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:city w:st="on">San Diego</st1:city> will be able to
minimize <st1:city w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:city>’s rushing game, so <st1:city w:st="on">Dalton</st1:city> will need to make
plays for the Bengals to win. If he throws
another 4 interceptions like he did last week at home against <st1:city w:st="on">Baltimore</st1:city>, the Bengals postseason run will be
a short one. Philip Rivers and Ken
Whisenhunt had a tremendous season, but I think the Bengals defense will force
their offense into too many 3<sup>rd</sup> and long situations. <st1:city w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:city>’s
offense stays hot as they squeak one out at home and move on to face the
Patriots next week.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bengals 34</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chargers 30</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>NFC<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
Seahawks</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) <st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city>
Panthers</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) <st1:city w:st="on">Philadelphia</st1:city>
Eagles</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) <st1:city w:st="on">Green Bay</st1:city>
Packers</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5) <st1:city w:st="on">San Francisco</st1:city>
49ers</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6) <st1:city w:st="on">New Orleans</st1:city>
Saints</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Wild Card Round<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-gEdF2DEuzlINvpIWknqALk8iZ7FEaZA5MietOWvESwdhVJG53iutAqckxpeOnkDW7SE9fw8WQZzSibkOEOrKMzwmtu8eWLQr8k44G7V36bSDcKZCKUjSDzZzxKCr1rToiqVaIDmNfA/s1600/wild+card+-+49ers+packers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-gEdF2DEuzlINvpIWknqALk8iZ7FEaZA5MietOWvESwdhVJG53iutAqckxpeOnkDW7SE9fw8WQZzSibkOEOrKMzwmtu8eWLQr8k44G7V36bSDcKZCKUjSDzZzxKCr1rToiqVaIDmNfA/s400/wild+card+-+49ers+packers.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
49ers @ Packers</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Sunday, 4:30 (FOX)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He’s baaaaaaaack!
Aaron Rodgers delivered a fatal body blow to the Bears last week,
connecting with Randall Cobb for the game winner with less than a minute to go,
sending the Packers to the playoffs; something that seemed like a pipe dream
when Rodgers broke his collarbone in a week 9 home loss to the Bears. <st1:city w:st="on">Green
Bay</st1:city> hasn’t fared well against San Fran in recent
years, losing this year’s opener and twice in ’12. Will the fourth time be the charm for the
Packers?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rodgers came out obviously rusty last week, throwing
interceptions on his first two drives.
He got into gear after that; matching scores with Jay Cutler and
company, including that do-or-die three-fourth down conversion game winning
drive. Offensively, the Packers look as
good as anyone right now, and yes, I’m including the Broncos in that
conversation. Rodgers is the best talent
at the position, and Eddie Lacy (who should win the Offensive ROY) is exactly
what they’ve been looking for at running back.
In a game that figures to feature sub-0 weather against a defense like <st1:place w:st="on">San Francisco</st1:place>’s, there
won’t be a bigger moment for Lacy to put a stamp on what figures to be a Rookie
of the Year season. Jordy Nelson is a
target magnet, and Randall Cobb is a difference maker. <st1:city w:st="on">Green
Bay</st1:city> must establish the run and get vertical with
Nelson. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Where <st1:city w:st="on">Green Bay</st1:city>
still struggles is on the defensive side of the ball, and not having Clay
Matthews in this one is going to really hurt them. Colin Kaepernick got hot when Michael
Crabtree got healthy, and the Niners finished the regular season strong by
winning their last 6 games. The biggest
stars shine brightest in the playoffs, and Anquan Boldin is still a star. Look for him and those vice grip hands of his
to be the biggest playmaker on the football field Sunday. I’d love to see Rodgers and the Packers pull
out a home W, but it’s their defense that’s keeping me from picking them
here. I think Rodgers outplays
Kaepernick, but the Packers defense won’t get off the field early and often
enough to keep their season alive. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
49ers 30</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Packers 27</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjC1wcCSyZvCYL1QSTKX3umRZwq1q-Jl48K4jQqpSFaKzQyYHCtBAghOynnh4xCDt-2vNU1WJFwGfdOmcD-PONeg3cX_fWvguvg9NlVq5a7GHyFeOJriY6mJzLAalXpdUG3o8CeGXNt4I/s1600/wild+card+-+desean+jackson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjC1wcCSyZvCYL1QSTKX3umRZwq1q-Jl48K4jQqpSFaKzQyYHCtBAghOynnh4xCDt-2vNU1WJFwGfdOmcD-PONeg3cX_fWvguvg9NlVq5a7GHyFeOJriY6mJzLAalXpdUG3o8CeGXNt4I/s400/wild+card+-+desean+jackson.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Saints @ Eagles</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Saturday, 8:10 (NBC)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Something tells me this one won’t be on any “Defensive
How-To” videos. <st1:city w:st="on">Philadelphia</st1:city> enters the postseason as the
potential “no one wants to face them” team.
Chip Kelly’s crew is red hot, winning 7 of their last 8 games, including
last week’s division clincher at <st1:city w:st="on">Dallas</st1:city>. <st1:city w:st="on">New
Orleans</st1:city> on the other hand can’t be happy about having
to go on the road, especially to what projects to be a cold and wet Philly
field. They have no one to blame but
themselves, having lost 3 of their last 5, including ugly beatings at <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> and <st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city> and a
division-giveaway at <st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nick Foles not only saved my fantasy football season, but he
rescued the Eagles as well and has become Kelly’s franchise QB. With an astonishing 27-2 TD-INT ratio in his
11 starts, Foles may have given Mr. Manning a run for his MVP money if he had
played a full 16 games. Things are going
good for the Eagles if LeSean McCoy isn’t always the first player
mentioned. This year’s league leading
rusher is usually the most exciting player on the field, and Shady is going to
be a nightmare for a Saints defense that struggles against the run. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rob Ryan turned around last year’s league worst defense, but
they’re without Kenny Vaccaro who suffered a season-ending ankle injury in week
16 against the Panthers. That’s going to
be a huge loss in my opinion, given what the underrated Jason Avant brings to
the Eagles passing game. The Saints project
to be especially thin in pass coverage, and that’s not good against an Eagles
passing game that features DeSean Jackson, Riley Cooper, Avant, and Brent Celek
who’s 15.7 ypg was 2<sup>nd</sup> in the league at TE behind Vernon Davis. As with the Packers, the Saints are going to
have to show me something before I can pick them with confidence. Will <st1:city w:st="on">New Orleans</st1:city>
finally beat a good team on the road, or will the most intriguing playoff team
advance to <st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city>
and try to do something the Saints couldn’t?
Pierre Thomas will miss this one, and I think that’s a bigger loss than
it appears on the surface. Not that the
Saints want to play ground and pound, but Thomas was their best chance of
keeping Philly honest defensively. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eagles 27</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Saints 17</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Remaining Playoffs</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Divisional Round</u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bengals @ Patriots</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:city w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:city> beats <st1:place w:st="on">New England</st1:place> for the second time this season, as the
Patriots’ tough (and often very fortunate) season comes to a close. Are the Bengals this year’s Ravens, Giants,
or Packers? Bengals by 6.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Colts @ Broncos</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:place w:st="on">Denver</st1:place>
gets revenge for that butt kicking they got in Peyton’s return to Indy in week
7, avoiding a second straight first game playoff exit. Luck looks great in a loss, but he can’t
outscore Manning and company. Broncos by
17.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eagles @ Panthers</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:city w:st="on">Carolina</st1:city>
played as well as anyone in the league through the middle portion of the
season, winning 8 straight to get ahead of the Saints, but there’s something
about this Philly team that says watch out.
Eagles by 3.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
49ers @ Seahawks</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As well as the Niners look right now, I can’t pick them to
beat <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city> on
the road. They were no match for the
Seahawks in week 2 and needed some good fortune to beat them at home in week
14. That said, if any NFC team is to
keep <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
out of the Super Bowl, I think it’s the Niners.
Seahawks by 13.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Conference Championships<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bengals @ Broncos</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s close throughout as the Bengals match scores with the
Broncos, but <st1:city w:st="on">Dalton</st1:city> makes a mistake late to send
<st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> to <st1:place w:st="on">Jersey</st1:place>. Broncos by 6.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eagles @ Seahawks</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chip Kelly’s rookie run comes to an end as Marshawn Lynch has
a big game against a usually-stout Eagles rush defense. Seahawks by 17. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhagTCKaSJNXkbEaRU-DDQBQQ08A1I4jYSFp6bJzJsHAuDSj8MuVRMvkFSHyIIWacsEV6sit1dTnNMqefrHN4DAoN8Cq5hngJcyFM_oOZdsBa3eP-yXRIoLdecsBtvLfPj96Lf8Yh-InBc/s1600/super+bowl+snow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhagTCKaSJNXkbEaRU-DDQBQQ08A1I4jYSFp6bJzJsHAuDSj8MuVRMvkFSHyIIWacsEV6sit1dTnNMqefrHN4DAoN8Cq5hngJcyFM_oOZdsBa3eP-yXRIoLdecsBtvLfPj96Lf8Yh-InBc/s400/super+bowl+snow.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Super Bowl XLVIII<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Broncos v. Seahawks</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had the Patriots beating the Packers in my preseason
picks, and while they’re both still alive, I’d be surprised to see either one
in <st1:state w:st="on">New Jersey</st1:state>. If weather projections are correct, this one
is going to be cold and white. Everyone
knows that hasn’t been good news for Peyton in the past. Conversely, you’ve got to think the Seahawks
would like to have a game that’s more slug-it-out than sling-it-around. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Seahawks 23</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Broncos 17</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MVP – Marshawn Lynch</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-67067622517783833892013-12-30T22:41:00.000-05:002013-12-30T22:41:06.572-05:00Who's Next?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhea39HQMYK9BFopvKhBaISEu3tmPhu_W_Voua3_EPXHs1qJ9mtozXJG48Z_aaIQCj58blLXmsLwWZOconVhSFvN4NT_R1nnNpMMjPoO846NUs-eo-OVAXhIM-Zn4KImAE0bEyNncelbw0/s1600/ken+whisenhunt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhea39HQMYK9BFopvKhBaISEu3tmPhu_W_Voua3_EPXHs1qJ9mtozXJG48Z_aaIQCj58blLXmsLwWZOconVhSFvN4NT_R1nnNpMMjPoO846NUs-eo-OVAXhIM-Zn4KImAE0bEyNncelbw0/s400/ken+whisenhunt.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Black Monday was a happy day in the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype></st1:place>
area as both head coach Greg Schiano and general manager Mark Dominik were
axed. After going 11-21 in two years
under Schiano and 28-52 since ’09 with Dominik as GM (with no playoff
appearances and just 1 winning season), the Bucs will be filling the two most
important off-field positions in the organization at the same time for the
second time in 5 years. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Franchises generally attempt to avoid making the same
mistakes, so after two consecutive whiffs on defensive-minded coaches with no
professional head coaching (or at least coordinating) experience, I think at
least one of those two factors is sure to change this time around. </div>
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Lovie Smith is getting a lot of mention today as an early
candidate, but I’m hesitant. What
defensive advances would he implement to improve/replace his outdated <st1:place w:st="on">Tampa</st1:place> 2 concept-heavy
scheme? The personnel in the three key
spots (McCoy, David, and Barron) is there, but the game has changed. Who would he bring in to run the offense? Former <st1:state w:st="on">Cal</st1:state>
head coach Jeff Tedford is a name that has been mentioned, but again, the
cynical in me has his doubts. I respect
Tedford’s accomplishments at the collegiate level, but aside from the
uniquely-gifted Aaron Rodgers, none of his other claims to fame have become
professional superstars – Trent Dilfer, David Carr, Akili Smith, Joey
Harrington, and Kyle Boller. </div>
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When I began to grow tired of the Schiano era, the first
candidate upon which I fixated was former Cardinals head coach and current Chargers
offensive coordinator, Ken Whisenhunt.
There’s a lot to like about the <st1:country-region w:st="on">Georgia</st1:country-region> native. I prefer head coaches who have variety in
their background. Whisenhunt has coached
special teams and tight ends in addition to being an offensive coordinator and
head coach. He’s coached in the Super
Bowl for both conferences. </div>
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He groomed a young Ben Roethlisberger to a Super Bowl title
and worked with a veteran Kurt Warner to reach another big dance. His latter Arizona years were marred by
“quarterbacks” like Derek Anderson, John Skelton, Max Hall, Kevin Kolb, and
Ryan Lindley; all QBs with whom no one has won.
I don’t think it’s any coincidence at all that Philip Rivers is having a
career year just one season removed from folks wondering what, if any, the
former Wolfpack QB had left. The
Chargers thrived offensively with a rookie Keenan Allen, an old Antonio Gates,
a small Danny Woodhead, and limited receivers in Eddie Royal and Vincent Brown. Like Rivers, running back Ryan Mathews
experienced a career year under Whisenhunt.
Mathews played in all 16 regular season games for the first time in his
career, and his 1,255 rushing yards were a career high. </div>
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I don’t believe Mike Glennon is the future at QB in <st1:city w:st="on">Tampa</st1:city>, but Whisenhunt
would know just about as well as anyone.
One bit of his personal history that stood out to me was his somewhat
controversial decision to go with the veteran Warner over the young Matt
Leinart as QB of the Cardinals in ’08.
That tough decision paid off as the Cardinals made it to the Super Bowl
that year. Whisenhunt’s track record
suggests he will get the best out of whoever lines up behind center, and with a
healthy Doug Martin and Mike Williams to go along with Vincent Jackson, it
would be hard to say that the Bucs have fewer weapons than the Chargers. I still think the Bucs are a dynamic slot
receiver from reaching the next level offensively, but the cupboard isn’t bare.
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The same can be said for the defense. While pass rush help is an obvious need,
they’re not inept in the defensive line interior, at linebacker, or in the
secondary. I don’t know who Whisenhunt
would have in mind for defensive coordinator, but his former running mate in <st1:state w:st="on">Arizona</st1:state>, Ray Horton is a
guy I’d support. Horton has yet to
follow Rob Chudzinski out the door in <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city>,
so while he may not even be an option in the end, he’s a proven commodity at
this level.</div>
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Now more than ever teams will go only as far as their
quarterbacks take them, so whoever ends up as the next head coach of the
Buccaneers has a tough decision on their hands.
Do you try to strike gold with Mike Glennon, or do you (more wisely)
look for your guy in the draft? Teddy
Bridgewater will surely be off the board by #7 and so may <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Fresno</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>’s
Derek Carr. Since I can’t draft Jameis Winston
this year (or start tanking already), the name who intrigues me most is UCF’s
Blake Bortles. As I’ve mentioned many
times in the past, the first thing I look for in a QB is his ability make quick
decisions. Bortles gets a gold star in
this area and combines that intangible with coveted tangibles such as his size,
arm, and mobility. The junior passer has
yet to even declare for the draft, but since I’m playing fantasy GM, he’s my
early pick at #7 for the Bucs.</div>
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Getting a coach of Whisenhunt’s caliber along with a true
prospect at the most important position in professional sports is a great way
to turn around a 4-12 club. We’ll find
out which way the Glazers go in due time, but speculating in the meantime is
enough to help forget about those 11-21 and 28-52 records, at least for a
little while. </div>
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talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16026927869015763.post-67066065335146752013-10-27T10:49:00.002-04:002013-10-27T10:49:57.940-04:00NFL Picks - Week 8<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJYlcTNqG9OoFlbGdG8_S7exc_ocAwt490wD68ofI7ei9OTIjSFvgcs90E3tcc-ksU03v_3qv-Pr1EdeIHsDewpHp1E_VSUAA4XdiqrkjIsJv2ziJCWb_7BLfRg_mickBW-PfL26t8BeU/s1600/fire+schiano.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJYlcTNqG9OoFlbGdG8_S7exc_ocAwt490wD68ofI7ei9OTIjSFvgcs90E3tcc-ksU03v_3qv-Pr1EdeIHsDewpHp1E_VSUAA4XdiqrkjIsJv2ziJCWb_7BLfRg_mickBW-PfL26t8BeU/s400/fire+schiano.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Season Record – 62-42</div>
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Struggling after a very disappointing 7-7 last week. I’m having a tough time getting a consistent
read on the ups and downs of a lot of teams this year. One team I’m not having any trouble figuring
out is the Bucs. With Thursday night’s
loss, they’re 0-7 with a loss at <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
on the agenda next week. Whether or not
the players have quit on Schiano (I believe they have) this is an unrecoverable
situation in my opinion, and it’s time for the Glazers to start over. This includes Mark Dominik, the GM whose
tenure may not be as repugnant as Schiano’s but features plenty of failures of
its own. Mike Glennon isn’t the answer
to any question I’m interested in asking, so QB should be at the top of the
team’s on-field needs. That’s
replacements at the three most important positions – Quarterback, Head Coach,
and General Manager. More on that
later. On with the picks.</div>
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Can I get a free W for the Thursday game even though I
didn’t make an official pick? You really
think I would have taken <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Tampa</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Bay</st1:placetype></st1:place>?</div>
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Cowboys @ <b><span style="color: blue;">Lions</span></b></div>
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I actually think this is a good spot for the Lions. Will <st1:place w:st="on">Dallas</st1:place>
win three in a row? DeMarco Murray is
doubtful. A rookie from <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Saginaw</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Valley</st1:placetype> <st1:placetype w:st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place>
will start at strong safety. I’m looking
forward to the Calvin Johnson and Dez Bryant back and forth, and I think the
Lions win by at least 7. </div>
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Browns @ <b><span style="color: blue;">Chiefs</span></b></div>
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Jason Campbell gets the start for <st1:city w:st="on">Cleveland</st1:city> against the league’s top ranked
defense thus far. <st1:city w:st="on">Kansas City</st1:city> is going to lose eventually, but
I just can’t see it happening at home this week against a reeling Browns team
and with the way Alex Smith has taken care of the football. Chiefs by 17.
Hali and Houston combine for 4 sacks.
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Dolphins @ <b><span style="color: blue;">Patriots</span></b></div>
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Is there a chance the Patriots slip up at home against a
reeling Dolphins team and let the Jets sniff the division lead? I can’t see it. Even without Aqib Talib to shadow Mike
Wallace, I think the Patriots can effectively limit Ryan Tannehill. Danny Amendola looks good to go this week, so
Tom Brady will have he and Gronk on the field together for the first time. It’s another ugly one, but the home team
wins. </div>
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Bills @ <b><span style="color: blue;">Saints</span></b></div>
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Sean Payton and the Saints have had two weeks to focus on
their faults after that heartbreaking last second loss at the Patriots. In their way stand the somewhat surprising
Bills. Yes they’re 3-4, but they beat <st1:city w:st="on">Miami</st1:city> on the road last
week and nearly beat the Bengals the weak before with Thad Lewis at QB, banged
up running backs, and a depleted defense.
I won’t be surprised if this is close for a while, but I expect the
Saints to take control in the second half.</div>
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Giants @ <b><span style="color: blue;">Eagles</span></b></div>
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This is what I was talking about when I said I had no clue
about some teams. I can’t figure out the
Eagles. I liked them last week against <st1:city w:st="on">Dallas</st1:city>, and while their
defense showed up for the first time, their offense laid an egg. They already beat the Giants on the road in
week five. With Dog Killer back under
center, I give the edge to the home team, but then again, what do I know?</div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">49ers</span></b> v. Jaguars (in <st1:place w:st="on">London</st1:place>)</div>
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I don’t care where they play this one. The Jags don’t win it. San Fran may sleep walk through this one
making it a lot closer on the scoreboard than it should be, but <st1:city w:st="on">Jacksonville</st1:city> will still
have a 0 in the W column tomorrow morning.
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Jets @ <b><span style="color: blue;">Bengals</span></b></div>
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Here’s one I’m really interested in watching today. The Jets look like they may give the Patriots
a run the rest of the way, and a win on the road against a Bengals team who
plays well at home would be a big statement.
I think their defense keeps them in this one throughout, but <st1:city w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:city> gets it done
again at home. Bengals by 4; giving them
a very quiet 6-2 record. </div>
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Steelers @ <b><span style="color: blue;">Raiders</span></b></div>
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Look out, <st1:city w:st="on">Pittsburgh</st1:city>
has won two in a row. They’re back! Not so fast.
Wins against the Jets and struggling defending champs don’t tell me a
ton. I’m again going with the home team
(this week’s theme apparently). The
Raiders are coming off their bye.
They’ve had two weeks to prepare for the Steelers, and Darren McFadden
is reportedly looking sharp. Raiders by
10. </div>
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Redskins @ <b><span style="color: blue;">Broncos</span></b></div>
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Is it just me, or did it look like something was wrong with
Peyton Manning in last week’s homecoming loss?
His passes looked very “uncrisp” throughout the game, especially in the
second half. Sure it was only <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city>’s first loss of
the year, but they haven’t exactly looked like Super Bowl material in their
last three games - @ Dallas, v. Jacksonville, and @ Indy. The Redskins had their best offensive output
of the season last week against the Bears, putting up 45 points in earning
their second win. They’ll need at least
that many this week. 144. That’s the number of points the Broncos have
scored in their three games against the other NFC East teams. Sticking with the averages, <st1:city w:st="on">Denver</st1:city> scores 48 today.</div>
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Falcons @ <b><span style="color: blue;">Cardinals</span></b></div>
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This Falcons team sucks, but the Cardinals have that trend
of teams facing <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>
losing the following week going against them as well. They’ve had a little longer to heal up for
this one, and will, in my opinion, be able to shut down a Falcons offense
missing both Julio Jones and Roddy White.
Andre Ellilngton has a big day for the Cardinals. </div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Packers</span></b> @ Vikings</div>
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Here’s the first game where I’m not picking the home team,
and they won’t kick off until Sunday night.
This could be a sneaky spot for the Packers to slip up, but I expect
them to be focused to stay atop the division, especially if <st1:city w:st="on">Detroit</st1:city> wins earlier in the day as I expect
them to do. I don’t see Aaron Rodgers
having a down game when he has a chance to beat up on the vulnerable Vikings
and give his team a fourth straight win and 5-2 record before heading back home
for a big MNF matchup against the Bears.
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Seahawks</span></b> @ Rams</div>
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I don’t care if Sam Bradford didn’t tear up his knee. The Rams weren’t beating <st1:city w:st="on">Seattle</st1:city>.
Pad up Kellen Clemens. So not
only will the Rams lose this week, by rule of the <st1:place w:st="on">Seattle</st1:place> trend, they’ll lose next week at home
against the Titans. </div>
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talbuchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13119314235317540650noreply@blogger.com0