Time for Round 3! If you want any further word on your teams, just let me know. Also, I will be live-tweeting the Draft starting Thursday at 8 pm. Hope to hear from you then.
Round 3
1 (64). Indianapolis Colts: Nick Toon, WR, Wisconsin
2 (65). St. Louis Rams: David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
3 (66). Minnesota Vikings: Casey Hayward, CB, Vanderbilt
4 (67). Cleveland Browns: Joe Adams, WR, Arkansas
5 (68). Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Terrell Manning, OLB, NC State
6 (69). Washington Redskins: Zebrie Sanders, OT, Florida State
7 (70). Jacksonville Jaguars: Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
8 (71). Buffalo Bills: Mychal Kendricks, ILB, California
9 (72). Miami Dolphins: James Brown, OG/T, Troy
10 (73). Miami Dolphins: Ryan Broyles, WR, Oklahoma
11 (74). Kansas City Chiefs: Kirk Cousins, QB, Michigan State
He has the intangibles that the rest of the Chiefs QBs lack. Could start in a few years.
12 (75). Seattle Seahawks: Chris Polk, RB, Washington
13 (76). Houston Texans: Joe Looney, OG, Wake Forest
14 (77). New York Jets: Markelle Martin, S, Oklahoma State
15 (78). San Diego Chargers: Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
16 (79). Chicago Bears: Josh Norman, CB, Coastal Carolina
17 (80). Arizona Cardinals: Nick Foles, QB, Arizona
I am not sold on him at all. Prototypical QB size, but he was terrible at the Combine, and seemed not to care. The Wildcats weren't exactly the best team in the NCAA either. But he goes here to compete with Kolb and Skelton.
18 (81). Dallas Cowboys: Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson
19 (82). Tennessee Titans: Marvin McNutt, WR, Iowa
20 (83). Cincinnati Bengals: Isaiah Pead, RB, Cincinnati
Local college product could finally give the Bengals the Pro Bowl running back they need.
21 (84). Atlanta Falcons: Orson Charles, TE, Georgia
22 (85). Detroit Lions: Edwin Baker, RB, Michigan State
23 (86). Pittsburgh Steelers: Derek Wolfe, DT, Cincinnati
24 (87). Denver Broncos: Brock Osweiler, QB, Arizona State
He has amazing skills, but needs time to develop. He can sit behind Peyton Manning for a few years.
25 (88). Philadelphia Eagles: Antonio Allen, S, South Carolina
26 (89). New Orleans Saints: Billy Winn, DT, Boise State
27 (90). Green Bay Packers: Oliver Vernon, DE, Miami (FL)
28 (91). Baltimore Ravens: Alameda Ta'amu, DT, Washington
29 (92). San Francisco 49ers: Tony Bergstrom, OG, Utah
30 (93). New England Patriots: Keshawn Martin, WR, Michigan State
31 (94). New York Giants: Bernard Pierre, RB, Temple
32 (95). Oakland Raiders: Mike Martin, DT, Michigan
Enjoy the Draft, my friends!
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Official JFLANland 2012 NFL Mock Draft: Round 2
Round 2 of the mock draft. I will just be listing the teams and the players they are taking. If there are any interesting picks, I might provide some commentary. Here we go:
Round 2
1 (33). St. Louis Rams: Bobby Massic, OT, Ole Miss
2 (34). Indianapolis Colts: Jerel Worthy, DT, Michigan State
3 (35). Minnesota Vikings: Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina
I love this pick for the Vikings. They need more weapons on offense.
4 (36). Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Doug Martin, RB, Boise State
I said it in my NFL Combine summary: Martin may be the best all-around back in the draft. He will compliment LaGarrette Blount very well.
5 (37). Cleveland Browns: Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma State
Aha! The 4th QB off the board goes to a place where he can beat out Colt McCoy and start this season.
6 (38). Jacksonville Jaguars: Rueben Randle, WR, LSU
7 (39). St. Louis Rams: Devon Still, DT, Penn State
8 (40). Carolina Pathers: Janoris Jenkins, CB, Northern Alabama
9 (41). Buffalo Bills: Jeff Allen, OT, Illinois
They won't pick a tackle... Oy...
10 (42). Miami Dolphins: Nick Perry, DE, USC
11 (43). Seattle Seahawks: Andre Branch, DE, Clemson
12 (44). Kansas City Chiefs: Amini Silatolu G/OT, Midwestern State
13 (45). Dallas Cowboys: Kevin Zeitler, OG, Wisconsin
14 (46). Philadelphia Eagles: Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford
15 (47). New York Jets: Mohammad Sanu, WR, Rutgers
16 (48). New England Patriots: Josh Robinson, CB/KR, Central Florida
17 (49). San Diego Chargers: AJ Jenkins, WR, Illinois
18 (50). Chicago Bears: Kelechi Osemele, OG, Iowa State
19 (51). Philadelphia Eagles: Zach Brown, LB, UNC
20 (52). Tennessee Titans: Vinny Curry, DE, Marshall
21 (53). Cincinnati Bengals: Brian Quick, WR, Appalachian State
22 (54). Detroit Lions: Trumaine Johnson, CB, Montana
23 (55). Atlanta Falcons: Lavonte David, OLB, Nebraska
24 (56). Pittsburgh Steelers: Brandon Brooks, OG, Miami (OH)
25 (57). Denver Broncos: LaMichael James, RB, Oregon
26 (58). Houston Texans: Bobby Wagner, LB, Utah State
27 (59). Green Bay Packers: Ronnell Lewis, OLB, Oklahoma
28 (60). Baltimore Ravens: Bruce Irvin, OLB, West Virginia
29 (61). San Francisco 49ers: Brandon Taylor, S, LSU
30 (62). New England Patriots: Dwight Bentley, CB, Louisiana-Lafayette
31 (63). New York Giants: Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson
There are only 31 picks in this round because the Saints lost their pick as part of their punishment for "Bounty Gate".
Round 3 up next, where some QBs will be taken.
Round 2
1 (33). St. Louis Rams: Bobby Massic, OT, Ole Miss
2 (34). Indianapolis Colts: Jerel Worthy, DT, Michigan State
3 (35). Minnesota Vikings: Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina
I love this pick for the Vikings. They need more weapons on offense.
4 (36). Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Doug Martin, RB, Boise State
I said it in my NFL Combine summary: Martin may be the best all-around back in the draft. He will compliment LaGarrette Blount very well.
5 (37). Cleveland Browns: Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma State
Aha! The 4th QB off the board goes to a place where he can beat out Colt McCoy and start this season.
6 (38). Jacksonville Jaguars: Rueben Randle, WR, LSU
7 (39). St. Louis Rams: Devon Still, DT, Penn State
8 (40). Carolina Pathers: Janoris Jenkins, CB, Northern Alabama
9 (41). Buffalo Bills: Jeff Allen, OT, Illinois
They won't pick a tackle... Oy...
10 (42). Miami Dolphins: Nick Perry, DE, USC
11 (43). Seattle Seahawks: Andre Branch, DE, Clemson
12 (44). Kansas City Chiefs: Amini Silatolu G/OT, Midwestern State
13 (45). Dallas Cowboys: Kevin Zeitler, OG, Wisconsin
14 (46). Philadelphia Eagles: Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford
15 (47). New York Jets: Mohammad Sanu, WR, Rutgers
16 (48). New England Patriots: Josh Robinson, CB/KR, Central Florida
17 (49). San Diego Chargers: AJ Jenkins, WR, Illinois
18 (50). Chicago Bears: Kelechi Osemele, OG, Iowa State
19 (51). Philadelphia Eagles: Zach Brown, LB, UNC
20 (52). Tennessee Titans: Vinny Curry, DE, Marshall
21 (53). Cincinnati Bengals: Brian Quick, WR, Appalachian State
22 (54). Detroit Lions: Trumaine Johnson, CB, Montana
23 (55). Atlanta Falcons: Lavonte David, OLB, Nebraska
24 (56). Pittsburgh Steelers: Brandon Brooks, OG, Miami (OH)
25 (57). Denver Broncos: LaMichael James, RB, Oregon
26 (58). Houston Texans: Bobby Wagner, LB, Utah State
27 (59). Green Bay Packers: Ronnell Lewis, OLB, Oklahoma
28 (60). Baltimore Ravens: Bruce Irvin, OLB, West Virginia
29 (61). San Francisco 49ers: Brandon Taylor, S, LSU
30 (62). New England Patriots: Dwight Bentley, CB, Louisiana-Lafayette
31 (63). New York Giants: Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson
There are only 31 picks in this round because the Saints lost their pick as part of their punishment for "Bounty Gate".
Round 3 up next, where some QBs will be taken.
Official JFLANland 2012 NFL Mock Draft: Round 1
Well, here it is. 2 days before the 2012 NFL Draft gets underway, I have finished my mock draft. It is a 3 rounder, because, while I could do all 7 rounds, I am pretty sure that none of you care that much. If you want to know who I think your team could take in Rounds 4-7, hit me up with a comment or on twitter @JFLANland.
Some explanation first- I do not predict trades. This is a mock where each team is drafting where they are currently slotted. That being said, I may make a comment on where a team could trade up, but still, not going to predict any trades.
With that being said, let's get to it. With the first selection in the 2012 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts select...
Round 1
1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford
Duh. They told him last week. They told everyone else today. No drama.
2. Washington Redskins: Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor
The only reason the Skins traded up to #2 was to take RG3. Welcome to DC, Mr. Heisman.
3. Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, OT, USC
The Vikings want to trade out of the pick. Maybe the Bills trade up. Maybe the take Morris Claiborne instead of Kalil. But I wouldn't. Christian Ponder can't grow if he is on his back, and Kalil is far and away the best offensive tackle in the draft.
4. Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama
The Browns offense is terrible. Trent Richardson is projected to be the best RB since Adrian Peterson. It makes sense.
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU
The best defensive back on a team that had a Heisman finalist, he instantly helps a floundering secondary. He can take over for Ronde Barber when he moves to safety, or decides to hang up his cleats.
6. St. Louis Rams: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State
The Rams trade back to #6, pick up a second rounder and two more first round picks over the next 2 years from the Skins, and still get their man. Blackmon's skills are undeniable. I hate drafting Big XII wide receivers. Maybe he can buck the trend and not be a mental case, just an awesome weapon for Sam Bradford.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina
The Jaguars need a lot of help, but aren't ready to give up on Blaine Gabbert. They sure up their pass rush with Ingram, and hope the defense can carry a one-dimensional offense.
8. Miami Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M
They need a QB, and didn't get Matt Flynn or Peyton Manning. Tannehill's college coach is now the offensive coordinator for the Dolphins. Sounds almost too good to be true.
9. Carolina Panthers: Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State
Cam Newton supercharged the Panthers offense. The only problem was that the defense couldn't stop anyone. A big and talented defensive tackle is the first step to stopping the opposing offense.
10. Buffalo Bills: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame
I love Michael Floyd. The Bills shouldn't draft him. They should draft an offensive tackle like Riley Reiff. They should have drafted OTs in the first round the past 10 years. But they never do. They did with Mike Williams, and when he flopped they vowed never to do it again. Someone needs to protect the QB, and they keep losing the tackles they develop to the Eagles (Jason Peters, and now Demitrius Bell). So, what do they do instead of protecting Ryan Fitzpatrick? They get him the best weapon available to put across from Stevie Johnson.
11. Kansas City Chiefs: Dontari Poe, NT, Memphis
He could be the next Haloti Ngata, and the Chiefs couldn't stop anyone. This isn't a spot for a QB right now, so Poe is the man.
12. Seattle Seahawks: Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
A tackling machine who instantly adds a fire to the defense to match the raucous crowd in Seattle.
13. Arizona Cardinals: Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa
Reiff has top 10 talent, and can protect whoever it is that the Cardinals choose to use at QB this season.
14. Dallas Cowboys: Mark Barron, S, Alabama
The Cowboys secondary has been awful for years. Barron can provide some stability that they can build on. They have to be able to stop Vick, Eli and RG3.
15. Philadelphia Eagles: Quentin Couples, DE/DT, UNC
Bold prediction- Andy Reid's last pick as the head coach of the Eagles. They need a pass rush and Couples falls to them because of character and motivation questions.
16. New York Jets: Courtney Upshaw, OLB, Alabama
The Jets defense really wasn't what it used to be, and part of that was the pass rush they are still looking for. Upshaw comes from the best defense in college, and has a motor that Rex Ryan would love.
17. Cincinnati Bengals: David DeCastro, G/C, Stanford
When it comes down to it, DeCastro might be the best player in the draft. He should provide Pro Bowl protection for Andy Dalton for the next decade.
18. San Diego Chargers: Chandler Jones, DE/OLB, Syracuse
Hey hey! My Orange get a player taken in the first round of the draft for the first time since Dwight Freeney. Chandler Jones has size, speed and agility to contribute right away to the Chargers' pass rush.
19. Chicago Bears: Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois
With a name like that, he has to be a Bear. It is a perfect fit.
20. Tennessee Titans: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
The Titans need help in the secondary and Kirkpatrick is the best CB available.
21. Cincinnati Bengals: Stephen Gillmore, CB, South Carolina
With their second pick in the first round, the Bengals are able to sure up their defense with a solid CB. Gillmore's cover skills can help stop an Anquan Boldin or Mike Wallace.
22. Cleveland Browns: Cordey Glenn, OT/OG, Georgia
They need to protect Colt McCoy and someone to get push up front for Trent Richardson.
23. Detroit Lions: Johnathan Martin, OT/G, Stanford
The Lions won't succeed if Matthew Stafford is hurt or on his back all the time. Martin can play 4 positions on the line, and will protect their franchise QB.
24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Dont'a Hightower, ILB, Alabama
A powerful middle linebacker that fits in with the Steelers system. Every mock I have seen has him going here. It makes sense.
25. Denver Broncos: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU
Last year, the Broncos chose Von Miller over defensive tackle Marcel Darius. Miller was fantastic, but they still needed that big body in the middle of their defensive line. Brockers is the just the man to anchor a strong defense that compliments Peyton's new offense.
26. Houston Texans: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor
They need a real #2 threat behind Andre Johnson. Wright will help ease some of the coverage, and has the speed to stretch the field.
27. New England Patriots: Shea McClellin, DE/OLB, Boise State
The Patriots always trade picks, so who knows what they will do. McClellin is a smart, strong player, who can beat left tackles off the block. He'd be a great fit in New England.
28. Green Bay Packers: Harrison Smith, S, Notre Dame
The Packers secondary was historically bad last year. Luckily, their offense was historically awesome. They need an upgrade at safety, and Smith is the best on the board.
29. Baltimore Ravens: Peter Konz, C/G, Wisconsin
It isn't a sexy pick, but it is the biggest need for the Ravens. Konz will start next year if he goes here.
30. San Francisco 49ers: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech
The 49ers had almost no production from their wide receivers last year. They signed Mario Manningham and Randy Moss, but they could still use a big, young playmaker like Hill. He could thrive in Jim Harbaugh's system.
31. New England Patriots: Kendall Reyes, DT, UConn
Again, this pick probably won't be made by the Patriots. But if it is, Reyes adds depth and talent to a line of Vince Wilfork and a bunch of okay players. In reality, this may be the perfect spot for the 49ers or Browns to trade back in and grab either Coby Fleener or Brandon Weeden.
32. New York Giants: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State
The Super Bowl champs need to protect that two time Super Bowl champ QB of theirs. Adams has some talent, and projects well as a right tackle.
Round 2 is up next!
Some explanation first- I do not predict trades. This is a mock where each team is drafting where they are currently slotted. That being said, I may make a comment on where a team could trade up, but still, not going to predict any trades.
With that being said, let's get to it. With the first selection in the 2012 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts select...
Round 1
1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford
Duh. They told him last week. They told everyone else today. No drama.
2. Washington Redskins: Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor
The only reason the Skins traded up to #2 was to take RG3. Welcome to DC, Mr. Heisman.
3. Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, OT, USC
The Vikings want to trade out of the pick. Maybe the Bills trade up. Maybe the take Morris Claiborne instead of Kalil. But I wouldn't. Christian Ponder can't grow if he is on his back, and Kalil is far and away the best offensive tackle in the draft.
4. Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama
The Browns offense is terrible. Trent Richardson is projected to be the best RB since Adrian Peterson. It makes sense.
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU
The best defensive back on a team that had a Heisman finalist, he instantly helps a floundering secondary. He can take over for Ronde Barber when he moves to safety, or decides to hang up his cleats.
6. St. Louis Rams: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State
The Rams trade back to #6, pick up a second rounder and two more first round picks over the next 2 years from the Skins, and still get their man. Blackmon's skills are undeniable. I hate drafting Big XII wide receivers. Maybe he can buck the trend and not be a mental case, just an awesome weapon for Sam Bradford.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina
The Jaguars need a lot of help, but aren't ready to give up on Blaine Gabbert. They sure up their pass rush with Ingram, and hope the defense can carry a one-dimensional offense.
8. Miami Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M
They need a QB, and didn't get Matt Flynn or Peyton Manning. Tannehill's college coach is now the offensive coordinator for the Dolphins. Sounds almost too good to be true.
9. Carolina Panthers: Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State
Cam Newton supercharged the Panthers offense. The only problem was that the defense couldn't stop anyone. A big and talented defensive tackle is the first step to stopping the opposing offense.
10. Buffalo Bills: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame
I love Michael Floyd. The Bills shouldn't draft him. They should draft an offensive tackle like Riley Reiff. They should have drafted OTs in the first round the past 10 years. But they never do. They did with Mike Williams, and when he flopped they vowed never to do it again. Someone needs to protect the QB, and they keep losing the tackles they develop to the Eagles (Jason Peters, and now Demitrius Bell). So, what do they do instead of protecting Ryan Fitzpatrick? They get him the best weapon available to put across from Stevie Johnson.
11. Kansas City Chiefs: Dontari Poe, NT, Memphis
He could be the next Haloti Ngata, and the Chiefs couldn't stop anyone. This isn't a spot for a QB right now, so Poe is the man.
12. Seattle Seahawks: Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
A tackling machine who instantly adds a fire to the defense to match the raucous crowd in Seattle.
13. Arizona Cardinals: Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa
Reiff has top 10 talent, and can protect whoever it is that the Cardinals choose to use at QB this season.
14. Dallas Cowboys: Mark Barron, S, Alabama
The Cowboys secondary has been awful for years. Barron can provide some stability that they can build on. They have to be able to stop Vick, Eli and RG3.
15. Philadelphia Eagles: Quentin Couples, DE/DT, UNC
Bold prediction- Andy Reid's last pick as the head coach of the Eagles. They need a pass rush and Couples falls to them because of character and motivation questions.
16. New York Jets: Courtney Upshaw, OLB, Alabama
The Jets defense really wasn't what it used to be, and part of that was the pass rush they are still looking for. Upshaw comes from the best defense in college, and has a motor that Rex Ryan would love.
17. Cincinnati Bengals: David DeCastro, G/C, Stanford
When it comes down to it, DeCastro might be the best player in the draft. He should provide Pro Bowl protection for Andy Dalton for the next decade.
18. San Diego Chargers: Chandler Jones, DE/OLB, Syracuse
Hey hey! My Orange get a player taken in the first round of the draft for the first time since Dwight Freeney. Chandler Jones has size, speed and agility to contribute right away to the Chargers' pass rush.
19. Chicago Bears: Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois
With a name like that, he has to be a Bear. It is a perfect fit.
20. Tennessee Titans: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
The Titans need help in the secondary and Kirkpatrick is the best CB available.
21. Cincinnati Bengals: Stephen Gillmore, CB, South Carolina
With their second pick in the first round, the Bengals are able to sure up their defense with a solid CB. Gillmore's cover skills can help stop an Anquan Boldin or Mike Wallace.
22. Cleveland Browns: Cordey Glenn, OT/OG, Georgia
They need to protect Colt McCoy and someone to get push up front for Trent Richardson.
23. Detroit Lions: Johnathan Martin, OT/G, Stanford
The Lions won't succeed if Matthew Stafford is hurt or on his back all the time. Martin can play 4 positions on the line, and will protect their franchise QB.
24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Dont'a Hightower, ILB, Alabama
A powerful middle linebacker that fits in with the Steelers system. Every mock I have seen has him going here. It makes sense.
25. Denver Broncos: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU
Last year, the Broncos chose Von Miller over defensive tackle Marcel Darius. Miller was fantastic, but they still needed that big body in the middle of their defensive line. Brockers is the just the man to anchor a strong defense that compliments Peyton's new offense.
26. Houston Texans: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor
They need a real #2 threat behind Andre Johnson. Wright will help ease some of the coverage, and has the speed to stretch the field.
27. New England Patriots: Shea McClellin, DE/OLB, Boise State
The Patriots always trade picks, so who knows what they will do. McClellin is a smart, strong player, who can beat left tackles off the block. He'd be a great fit in New England.
28. Green Bay Packers: Harrison Smith, S, Notre Dame
The Packers secondary was historically bad last year. Luckily, their offense was historically awesome. They need an upgrade at safety, and Smith is the best on the board.
29. Baltimore Ravens: Peter Konz, C/G, Wisconsin
It isn't a sexy pick, but it is the biggest need for the Ravens. Konz will start next year if he goes here.
30. San Francisco 49ers: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech
The 49ers had almost no production from their wide receivers last year. They signed Mario Manningham and Randy Moss, but they could still use a big, young playmaker like Hill. He could thrive in Jim Harbaugh's system.
31. New England Patriots: Kendall Reyes, DT, UConn
Again, this pick probably won't be made by the Patriots. But if it is, Reyes adds depth and talent to a line of Vince Wilfork and a bunch of okay players. In reality, this may be the perfect spot for the 49ers or Browns to trade back in and grab either Coby Fleener or Brandon Weeden.
32. New York Giants: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State
The Super Bowl champs need to protect that two time Super Bowl champ QB of theirs. Adams has some talent, and projects well as a right tackle.
Round 2 is up next!
Monday, April 23, 2012
The Weekend That Was 4/20-4/22
Just a quick look at some of the weekend that was in the world of sports:
- My Nats look really good. They finished their homestand 12-4. The pitching staff is the best in the majors right now. The only problem has been the offense. The lineup needs more pop in it, especially with Michael Morse out for a while. There are whispers that Tyler Moore, the most pro-ready slugger in AAA Syracuse, may be called up soon. That could help a good deal. He has been playing more games at left field, and a power bat to go along with LaRoche and Werth would be super.
- Why do we love Jayson Werth? Because he gets on base.
- I still love Rick Ankiel's arm. Follow it on twitter @AnkielsArm
- The Capitals are heading back to Boston for Game 7. I know I can be pessimistic sometimes, but doesn't this seem like the same old story we have seen since 2008? The Caps could have closed out the Bruins on Sunday. Instead, a stupid turnover by Nicklas Backstrom leads to an easy Tyler Seguin goal in overtime. I hope I am wrong, but history is making me concerned.
- I recently had a conversation with my good friend Colin. I've known him for 12 years, since back in high school. He was a goalie for our hockey team. He loves hockey. I trust his opinion on the sport. He says Johnathan Quick should be MVP, or at least win the Vezina. Having watched every game in the Kings/Canucks series, and seeing just how dominant and talented Quick is, I have a hard time disagreeing with Colin. Look at it this way: The Kings offense was the second worst in the NHL. Their goals against average? Second best. It's all Johnathan Quick. He is the type of special goalie who, with a hot hand, can carry an 8-seed like the Kings to the Stanley Cup finals. That makes him more valuable than anyone else in the league.
- I love that the Penguins are out. Sorry.
- I like that the Canucks and Red Wings are out. Sorry.
- Unlike some people, I like that more teams are winning the Cup and finding playoff success. Hockey got boring when it was just the Red Wings and Devils winning every year. Then the Avalanche got involved and it got exciting. After that, teams like the Lightening, Hurricanes and Ducks have provided hope for fans of the sport whose teams have yet to achieve greatness. Basically, as a Caps fan, it means I shouldn't give up, no matter how many times we choke. PLEASE PROVE ME WRONG, GUYS!
- Philip Humber threw a perfect game on Saturday. It was a great moment, as perfect games always are. What I liked the most was the strike call on the last pitch of the game. It was borderline. It was a checked swing. It might have not been a strike. But with 26 outs gone, an opposing stadium on their feet, and history on the line, the borderline calls should go to the pitcher. Humber's stuff was unhittable, and the moment was fantastic.
- The NBA playoffs are almost here. I promise I will write about them once the match-ups are set.
That's all for now.
- My Nats look really good. They finished their homestand 12-4. The pitching staff is the best in the majors right now. The only problem has been the offense. The lineup needs more pop in it, especially with Michael Morse out for a while. There are whispers that Tyler Moore, the most pro-ready slugger in AAA Syracuse, may be called up soon. That could help a good deal. He has been playing more games at left field, and a power bat to go along with LaRoche and Werth would be super.
- Why do we love Jayson Werth? Because he gets on base.
- I still love Rick Ankiel's arm. Follow it on twitter @AnkielsArm
- The Capitals are heading back to Boston for Game 7. I know I can be pessimistic sometimes, but doesn't this seem like the same old story we have seen since 2008? The Caps could have closed out the Bruins on Sunday. Instead, a stupid turnover by Nicklas Backstrom leads to an easy Tyler Seguin goal in overtime. I hope I am wrong, but history is making me concerned.
- I recently had a conversation with my good friend Colin. I've known him for 12 years, since back in high school. He was a goalie for our hockey team. He loves hockey. I trust his opinion on the sport. He says Johnathan Quick should be MVP, or at least win the Vezina. Having watched every game in the Kings/Canucks series, and seeing just how dominant and talented Quick is, I have a hard time disagreeing with Colin. Look at it this way: The Kings offense was the second worst in the NHL. Their goals against average? Second best. It's all Johnathan Quick. He is the type of special goalie who, with a hot hand, can carry an 8-seed like the Kings to the Stanley Cup finals. That makes him more valuable than anyone else in the league.
- I love that the Penguins are out. Sorry.
- I like that the Canucks and Red Wings are out. Sorry.
- Unlike some people, I like that more teams are winning the Cup and finding playoff success. Hockey got boring when it was just the Red Wings and Devils winning every year. Then the Avalanche got involved and it got exciting. After that, teams like the Lightening, Hurricanes and Ducks have provided hope for fans of the sport whose teams have yet to achieve greatness. Basically, as a Caps fan, it means I shouldn't give up, no matter how many times we choke. PLEASE PROVE ME WRONG, GUYS!
- Philip Humber threw a perfect game on Saturday. It was a great moment, as perfect games always are. What I liked the most was the strike call on the last pitch of the game. It was borderline. It was a checked swing. It might have not been a strike. But with 26 outs gone, an opposing stadium on their feet, and history on the line, the borderline calls should go to the pitcher. Humber's stuff was unhittable, and the moment was fantastic.
- The NBA playoffs are almost here. I promise I will write about them once the match-ups are set.
That's all for now.
Mock Draft Coming Soon
Just want to let you, my lovely loyal readers, that I will be working on my final 2012 NFL Mock Draft tonight and tomorrow. I think I will keep it to 3 rounds to cover the first two days of the Draft. Keep an eye out for it!
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Hall of Fame Numbers, but No Spot in Canton?
So, let's play a game. I will throw out the career stats of 5 quarterbacks. You try to identify who they are, and if they are in the Hall of Fame.
#1- 169 games played, 2,667 completions, 33,124 yards, 232 touchdowns, 107 ints, 4239 rush yards, 43 rush TDs
#2- 167 games played, 3,170 completions, 37,276 yards, 234 touchdowns, 117 ints, 3459 rush yards, 29 rush TDs
#3- 165 games played, 2,898 completions, 32,942 yards, 165 touchdowns, 131 ints, 1,016 rush yards, 9 rush TDs
#4- 161 games played, 1,926 completions, 25,092 yards, 192 touchdowns, 172 ints, 994 rush yards, 7 rush TDs
#5- 140 games played, 1,886 completions, 27,663 yards, 173 touchdowns, 220 ints, 140 rush yards, 7 rush TDs
Research done? Any ideas? Give up?
Well, #1 is Steve Young, a Hall of Famer. #3 is Troy Aikman, a Hall of Famer. #4 is Bob Griese, a Hall of Famer. #5 is Joe Namath, a Hall of Famer.
And who is #2? Who has numbers comparable to other Hall of Famers? Surely, this man must already be in Canton if he is with the likes of these legends!
It's Donovan McNabb.
Yeah, that Donovan McNabb.
The greatest QB in Eagles history.
But, the general consensus, it seems, is that he isn't a Hall of Famer. He is a Hall of Very Good player. Even with those numbers. Why? Because he never won a Super Bowl. That is what matters most to the fans, the voters and to the people who determine a player's legacy. The other 4 quarterbacks I mentioned all have rings. Super Bowl 3 is really the only reason Joe Namath is in the Hall. McNabb doesn't have that, so, despite his Hall of Fame numbers, he probably won't be a Hall of Famer.
Well, since apparently only championships matter now, we should rename it the Hall of Champions, and inform Dan Marino, Warren Moon, Jim Kelly, Dan Fouts and Fran Tarkenton that they are no longer members. After that, let's call up Brad Johnson, Trent Dilfer, and Mark Rypien to let them know they are in, and ask their jacket size and if they want to be smiling on their bust.
Does that sound ridiculous to you too?
Football, more than almost any other sport, is based on the team. A great team can make up for bad QB play, and maybe win a Super Bowl. At the same time, a great QB's career can be ruined by a bad team, and maybe they never win a Super Bowl.
Just for a second, let's look at how the Eagles might have to take some of the blame off Donovan McNabb, at least in the instance of Super Bowl XXXIX:
It is McNabb's fault that Andy Reid never ran the ball, and asked him to throw 51 times in the Super Bowl? Yeah, 45 rush yards in the big game is really helping out the team in the clutch. Or how about that they played a 14-2 New England team in the Super Bowl? It was a group that had already won two rings, and wanted to cement its place in NFL History as a great dynasty. Or what about the Eagles' secondary? Who was covering Deion Branch when he had that nice Super Bowl record 11 catch performance?
It was never the Eagles losing. It was always McNabb losing. He doesn't play defense. He can't throw and catch the ball, to paraphrase Giselle. He went out there, usually with a receiving corp that featured Freddy Mitchell, or Jason Avant, or Reggie Brown as its #1 threat, and made the Eagles relevant. He is the best QB in the team's history, easily. He is a Top 5 player in the team's history, but he will never be good enough because he didn't win the Super Bowl like those other Eagles QBs.... OH WAIT! No Eagles QB ever has! Yet the fans and media hate McNabb with a passion and always will.
Am I saying that he should be a first ballot Hall of Famer? No. Very few people are. But McNabb should be a serious candidate. It isn't as crazy as your first assumption might be. Maybe on the 7th or 8th ballot. Even if it takes until the Veterans Committee nomination in 30 years. I think it is pretty hard to keep a guy like McNabb out when you look at those numbers. They are, without a doubt, the numbers of a Hall of Fame quarterback.
#1- 169 games played, 2,667 completions, 33,124 yards, 232 touchdowns, 107 ints, 4239 rush yards, 43 rush TDs
#2- 167 games played, 3,170 completions, 37,276 yards, 234 touchdowns, 117 ints, 3459 rush yards, 29 rush TDs
#3- 165 games played, 2,898 completions, 32,942 yards, 165 touchdowns, 131 ints, 1,016 rush yards, 9 rush TDs
#4- 161 games played, 1,926 completions, 25,092 yards, 192 touchdowns, 172 ints, 994 rush yards, 7 rush TDs
#5- 140 games played, 1,886 completions, 27,663 yards, 173 touchdowns, 220 ints, 140 rush yards, 7 rush TDs
Research done? Any ideas? Give up?
Well, #1 is Steve Young, a Hall of Famer. #3 is Troy Aikman, a Hall of Famer. #4 is Bob Griese, a Hall of Famer. #5 is Joe Namath, a Hall of Famer.
And who is #2? Who has numbers comparable to other Hall of Famers? Surely, this man must already be in Canton if he is with the likes of these legends!
It's Donovan McNabb.
Yeah, that Donovan McNabb.
The greatest QB in Eagles history.
But, the general consensus, it seems, is that he isn't a Hall of Famer. He is a Hall of Very Good player. Even with those numbers. Why? Because he never won a Super Bowl. That is what matters most to the fans, the voters and to the people who determine a player's legacy. The other 4 quarterbacks I mentioned all have rings. Super Bowl 3 is really the only reason Joe Namath is in the Hall. McNabb doesn't have that, so, despite his Hall of Fame numbers, he probably won't be a Hall of Famer.
Well, since apparently only championships matter now, we should rename it the Hall of Champions, and inform Dan Marino, Warren Moon, Jim Kelly, Dan Fouts and Fran Tarkenton that they are no longer members. After that, let's call up Brad Johnson, Trent Dilfer, and Mark Rypien to let them know they are in, and ask their jacket size and if they want to be smiling on their bust.
Does that sound ridiculous to you too?
Football, more than almost any other sport, is based on the team. A great team can make up for bad QB play, and maybe win a Super Bowl. At the same time, a great QB's career can be ruined by a bad team, and maybe they never win a Super Bowl.
Just for a second, let's look at how the Eagles might have to take some of the blame off Donovan McNabb, at least in the instance of Super Bowl XXXIX:
It is McNabb's fault that Andy Reid never ran the ball, and asked him to throw 51 times in the Super Bowl? Yeah, 45 rush yards in the big game is really helping out the team in the clutch. Or how about that they played a 14-2 New England team in the Super Bowl? It was a group that had already won two rings, and wanted to cement its place in NFL History as a great dynasty. Or what about the Eagles' secondary? Who was covering Deion Branch when he had that nice Super Bowl record 11 catch performance?
It was never the Eagles losing. It was always McNabb losing. He doesn't play defense. He can't throw and catch the ball, to paraphrase Giselle. He went out there, usually with a receiving corp that featured Freddy Mitchell, or Jason Avant, or Reggie Brown as its #1 threat, and made the Eagles relevant. He is the best QB in the team's history, easily. He is a Top 5 player in the team's history, but he will never be good enough because he didn't win the Super Bowl like those other Eagles QBs.... OH WAIT! No Eagles QB ever has! Yet the fans and media hate McNabb with a passion and always will.
Am I saying that he should be a first ballot Hall of Famer? No. Very few people are. But McNabb should be a serious candidate. It isn't as crazy as your first assumption might be. Maybe on the 7th or 8th ballot. Even if it takes until the Veterans Committee nomination in 30 years. I think it is pretty hard to keep a guy like McNabb out when you look at those numbers. They are, without a doubt, the numbers of a Hall of Fame quarterback.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Why No Love for the Pacers?
So, call me crazy, but I think that the teams with the best records should usually get the most attention. I'm more than just a casual fan of the NBA. I like to think I know my stuff. But I know almost nothing about the Indiana Pacers. So I see today that, with a week remaining in the regular season, they have all but locked up the 3 seed in the Eastern Conference. They have more wins, as of 10 pm April 17th, than the Lakers, Clippers, Grizzlies, Celtics, and Magic. They had an all-star in Roy Hibbert, one of the best true centers in basketball, a commodity seen less and less. But the casual fan may only know him from his days at Georgetown. Do they know who Danny Granger, Paul George and David West are? Is that why no one is talking about them as serious playoff contenders?
I know that the NBA is a star-driven league. Fans obsess over LeBron, Wade, Melo, Kobe, Blake Griffin and all the other guys seen in Nike or Adidas commercials. But some times these stars are more famous for being stars than they are for their production in the trophy department. If they aren't in the bright lights of a major market, or if they aren't picked early to be the heir-apparent to His Airness, it can be very difficult for a player to become a star.
Dirk Nowitski had to become a German Larry Bird before he was considered on the level of a superstar. Tim Duncan, who is arguably the greatest power forward of all time, isn't a true superstar. He just wins titles a lot. But he isn't flashy. He doesn't throw powder in the air before games. He doesn't dunk over cars. He is so un-flashy that his nickname is the borderline-derogatory "Big Fundamental". They have the rings that some of these superstars don't have (yes, that was a shot at LeBron. Win something, son.)
So is this the case with the Indiana Pacers? Is it that they are a small market team, devoid of stars, that just goes out there and wins more than almost everyone else? That isn't a bad thing. They have no pressure on them, unlike the three amigos in Miami, the old men in Boston, or the #1 seed in Chicago. Maybe they are a year away, like last year's Oklahoma City Thunder. Or maybe they are just the type of team that can hurt an up and down, star driven team in a 7-game series. They are consistent. They are talented. They do all the fundamental little things right.
It shouldn't matter that they don't have a LeBron or Kobe. All that should matter is who is winning, and who can win in the playoffs. I would just think it'd be nice for the NBA, and the sports pundits that talk about it, to acknowledge that there might just be a title contender in Indy. Because right now, no one is talking about them.
I know that the NBA is a star-driven league. Fans obsess over LeBron, Wade, Melo, Kobe, Blake Griffin and all the other guys seen in Nike or Adidas commercials. But some times these stars are more famous for being stars than they are for their production in the trophy department. If they aren't in the bright lights of a major market, or if they aren't picked early to be the heir-apparent to His Airness, it can be very difficult for a player to become a star.
Dirk Nowitski had to become a German Larry Bird before he was considered on the level of a superstar. Tim Duncan, who is arguably the greatest power forward of all time, isn't a true superstar. He just wins titles a lot. But he isn't flashy. He doesn't throw powder in the air before games. He doesn't dunk over cars. He is so un-flashy that his nickname is the borderline-derogatory "Big Fundamental". They have the rings that some of these superstars don't have (yes, that was a shot at LeBron. Win something, son.)
So is this the case with the Indiana Pacers? Is it that they are a small market team, devoid of stars, that just goes out there and wins more than almost everyone else? That isn't a bad thing. They have no pressure on them, unlike the three amigos in Miami, the old men in Boston, or the #1 seed in Chicago. Maybe they are a year away, like last year's Oklahoma City Thunder. Or maybe they are just the type of team that can hurt an up and down, star driven team in a 7-game series. They are consistent. They are talented. They do all the fundamental little things right.
It shouldn't matter that they don't have a LeBron or Kobe. All that should matter is who is winning, and who can win in the playoffs. I would just think it'd be nice for the NBA, and the sports pundits that talk about it, to acknowledge that there might just be a title contender in Indy. Because right now, no one is talking about them.
Rick Ankiel's Golden Outfield Arm
There have been some fantastic arms in the outfield. Older folks speak fondly of Roberto Clemente and Willie Mays, and how they made circus catches, turned, and fire the ball back into the infield. Growing up, I got used to seeing Ken Griffey Jr, Vladimir Guerrero and Ichiro throwing out runners at home from deep in the outfield. The question now could be, who has the best outfield arm in the major leagues? I know my vote. It's Rick Ankiel.
Sitting in Section 109 of Nationals Park last night, in the 6th inning, Stephen Strasburg was in a jam. Bases were loaded with no outs, and Astros' leadoff man Jordan Schaffer was on 3rd. He is a speedster, having already stolen 5 bases this year. Any ball to the outfield should have easily scored him. But then Rick Ankiel did this.
It was a strike. Wilson Ramos didn't have to move from home. Jordan Schaffer didn't try to score, and would have been out by a mile. The entire stadium stood a cheered a throw from the outfield. It was insane. It might have been a better pitch than he had been able to throw when he was a starting pitcher, but it came from 300 feet away from the plate. Ankiel's arm is a gem, and is extremely important to the Nats.
It isn't like this is the first time Ankiel has been able to pull off an impressive throw. After essentially forgetting how to pitch, Ankiel went to the minors and re-invented himself as an outfielder. He came back to the majors with the Cardinals, and while his offense has been up and down, his arm has always been impressive. His two outfield assists against the Rockies when he was in St. Louis made everyone take notice:
I am not the only person in awe of Rick's arm. ESPN baseball guru Tim Kurkjian is in love with it, and thinks it might be the best lefty arm he has ever seen in the outfield. That is high praise from a smart man who knows his baseball history.
I, clearly, am not an expert like Kurkjian. I am just a fan. All I know is that, as long as Rick Ankiel is patrolling the outfield of Nationals Park, I will enjoy watching him throw lasers back to the infield.
Sitting in Section 109 of Nationals Park last night, in the 6th inning, Stephen Strasburg was in a jam. Bases were loaded with no outs, and Astros' leadoff man Jordan Schaffer was on 3rd. He is a speedster, having already stolen 5 bases this year. Any ball to the outfield should have easily scored him. But then Rick Ankiel did this.
It was a strike. Wilson Ramos didn't have to move from home. Jordan Schaffer didn't try to score, and would have been out by a mile. The entire stadium stood a cheered a throw from the outfield. It was insane. It might have been a better pitch than he had been able to throw when he was a starting pitcher, but it came from 300 feet away from the plate. Ankiel's arm is a gem, and is extremely important to the Nats.
It isn't like this is the first time Ankiel has been able to pull off an impressive throw. After essentially forgetting how to pitch, Ankiel went to the minors and re-invented himself as an outfielder. He came back to the majors with the Cardinals, and while his offense has been up and down, his arm has always been impressive. His two outfield assists against the Rockies when he was in St. Louis made everyone take notice:I am not the only person in awe of Rick's arm. ESPN baseball guru Tim Kurkjian is in love with it, and thinks it might be the best lefty arm he has ever seen in the outfield. That is high praise from a smart man who knows his baseball history.
I, clearly, am not an expert like Kurkjian. I am just a fan. All I know is that, as long as Rick Ankiel is patrolling the outfield of Nationals Park, I will enjoy watching him throw lasers back to the infield.
Monday, April 9, 2012
The April Shower of Sports
I love April. It is a great months for sports. There are just so many great things that happen all month from each of the major leagues and college. Here is a quick look at what we have seen so far, and what is on the docket for the rest of April:
- April 1st gave us the biggest day each year in "Sports Entertainment", WrestleMania 28. Not everyone likes wrestling, I understand. But I do. A ton of my friends do. A bunch of athletes do. This year's show promised at least two great matches, and delivered. The rematch of HHH and The Undertaker inside a 20-foot tall "Hell in a Cell" cage was a classic match with a fantastic story. The other match was Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson against John Cena, which was booked a year ago. The Rock won, which surprised me. John Cena is the face of the WWE, and he should have been elevated at their biggest show. The rest of the show was... lacking. There have been much better PPV matches over the past year, so it was only a par event.
- April 2nd gave us the most expected result of the spring: The Kentucky Wildcats won the NCAA Men's Basketball Championship. Having them win makes me feel better about Syracuse losing. I don't think we could have beaten them, and no one else could. Kansas put up a game effort in the 2nd half, but it was too little to late. The biggest surprise for me was that John Calipari wasn't happy. The man seemed sour and bitter after winning his title. He wasn't happy and relieved he finally won like Jim Boeheim, in awe of his team like Jim Calhoun, grateful to be a part of the game like Coach K, or relieved they didn't blow it like Roy Williams. He should have been happy. He just won it all!
- April 3rd brought Baylor Women's perfection. They were just better than everyone else, and went 40-0. The only problem now is that both Baylor's men's and women's teams are under investigation for recruiting violations.
- April 4th was Opening Night for Major League Baseball. The Marlins lost to the Cardinals, spoiling the debut of their new stadium. Baseball is back! And so is that monstrosity in center field of Marlin's Park. Yuck!
- April 5th was the opening for the Washington Nationals, who beat the Chicago Cubs in Wrigley. It was a beautiful thing. The Nats took 2 of 3 from the Cubbies, and play 3 against the Mets before coming back for their home opener on Thursday. I'll be there in Section 109. Come say hi.
- April 6th was the home opener for the Baltimore Orioles, celebrating the 20th anniversary of Orioles Park at Camden Yards. It is a wonderful stadium that has unfortunately not seen much wonderful baseball. The O's are 3-0, but that might be because they faced a hapless Twins team more than the young Orioles squad being ready to compete. Nothing would make me happier than having both the Nats and O's being competitive in their divisions each year.
- The weekend gave us a tradition unlike any other, The Masters. Phil Mickelson made a huge comeback on Saturday, but blew it on Sunday. Louis Oosthuizen recorded a double eagle (or albatross as some call it apparently) and seemed in position to take the green jacket. Instead, it was Bubba Watson, the good ol' boy from Florida, who went to the University of Georgia, who won in a playoff. His hooking shot from the woods on the 2nd playoff hole will go down in Masters history.
- The NHL regular season ended over the weekend as well, and playoff matches were all set. The Caps will take on the defending Stanley Cup champion Bruins, but the most interesting matchup is the Flyers vs the Penguins. These teams were involved in a big brawl only a week ago, and we can expect a physical series. As a fan that dislikes both teams, I hope it goes 7 games.
- Finally, the run up to the Kentucky Derby is in full swing, with the Wood Memorial at Aqueduct and the Santa Anita Derby taking place over the weekend, with Gemologist and I'll Have Another as the winners, respectively. Gemologist (pictured below) is undefeated, and could be the Derby favorite.
So what is on deck for the rest of the month? Well, more baseball of course. Plus, the NBA and NHL playoffs start. The run up to the Kentucky Derby in May is there as well. And of course, my favorite event of the year, the NFL Draft. It is a great month. Enjoy your time, sports fans.
- April 1st gave us the biggest day each year in "Sports Entertainment", WrestleMania 28. Not everyone likes wrestling, I understand. But I do. A ton of my friends do. A bunch of athletes do. This year's show promised at least two great matches, and delivered. The rematch of HHH and The Undertaker inside a 20-foot tall "Hell in a Cell" cage was a classic match with a fantastic story. The other match was Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson against John Cena, which was booked a year ago. The Rock won, which surprised me. John Cena is the face of the WWE, and he should have been elevated at their biggest show. The rest of the show was... lacking. There have been much better PPV matches over the past year, so it was only a par event.
- April 2nd gave us the most expected result of the spring: The Kentucky Wildcats won the NCAA Men's Basketball Championship. Having them win makes me feel better about Syracuse losing. I don't think we could have beaten them, and no one else could. Kansas put up a game effort in the 2nd half, but it was too little to late. The biggest surprise for me was that John Calipari wasn't happy. The man seemed sour and bitter after winning his title. He wasn't happy and relieved he finally won like Jim Boeheim, in awe of his team like Jim Calhoun, grateful to be a part of the game like Coach K, or relieved they didn't blow it like Roy Williams. He should have been happy. He just won it all!
- April 3rd brought Baylor Women's perfection. They were just better than everyone else, and went 40-0. The only problem now is that both Baylor's men's and women's teams are under investigation for recruiting violations.
- April 4th was Opening Night for Major League Baseball. The Marlins lost to the Cardinals, spoiling the debut of their new stadium. Baseball is back! And so is that monstrosity in center field of Marlin's Park. Yuck!
- April 5th was the opening for the Washington Nationals, who beat the Chicago Cubs in Wrigley. It was a beautiful thing. The Nats took 2 of 3 from the Cubbies, and play 3 against the Mets before coming back for their home opener on Thursday. I'll be there in Section 109. Come say hi.
- April 6th was the home opener for the Baltimore Orioles, celebrating the 20th anniversary of Orioles Park at Camden Yards. It is a wonderful stadium that has unfortunately not seen much wonderful baseball. The O's are 3-0, but that might be because they faced a hapless Twins team more than the young Orioles squad being ready to compete. Nothing would make me happier than having both the Nats and O's being competitive in their divisions each year.
- The weekend gave us a tradition unlike any other, The Masters. Phil Mickelson made a huge comeback on Saturday, but blew it on Sunday. Louis Oosthuizen recorded a double eagle (or albatross as some call it apparently) and seemed in position to take the green jacket. Instead, it was Bubba Watson, the good ol' boy from Florida, who went to the University of Georgia, who won in a playoff. His hooking shot from the woods on the 2nd playoff hole will go down in Masters history.
- The NHL regular season ended over the weekend as well, and playoff matches were all set. The Caps will take on the defending Stanley Cup champion Bruins, but the most interesting matchup is the Flyers vs the Penguins. These teams were involved in a big brawl only a week ago, and we can expect a physical series. As a fan that dislikes both teams, I hope it goes 7 games.
- Finally, the run up to the Kentucky Derby is in full swing, with the Wood Memorial at Aqueduct and the Santa Anita Derby taking place over the weekend, with Gemologist and I'll Have Another as the winners, respectively. Gemologist (pictured below) is undefeated, and could be the Derby favorite.
So what is on deck for the rest of the month? Well, more baseball of course. Plus, the NBA and NHL playoffs start. The run up to the Kentucky Derby in May is there as well. And of course, my favorite event of the year, the NFL Draft. It is a great month. Enjoy your time, sports fans.
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