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Thursday, June 2, 2011

My Big 12 2011 Predictions

1) Oklahoma Sooners 9-0, 12-0
2) Texas A&M Aggies 8-1, 11-1
3) Oklahoma State Cowboys 6-3, 9-3
3) Kansas State Wildcats 6-3, 8-4
3) Texas Longhorns 6-3, 8-4
6) Missouri Tigers 5-4, 8-4
7) Texas Tech Red Raiders, 3-6, 6-6
8) Baylor Bears 3-6, 5-7
9) Kansas Jayhawks 1-8, 3-9
10) Iowa State Cyclones 0-9, 1-11

All Big 12(1st,2nd,3rd Teams)
Offense
QB-Landry Jones, OU/ Brandon Weeden, Ok State/ Ryan Tannehill, A&M
RB-Cyrus Gray, A&M/ Christine Michael, A&M/ Bryce Brown KSU
RB- Malcolm Brown, UT/ Brandon Williams, OU/ Eric Stephens TT
WR-Justin Blackmon Ok State/Kenny Stills OU/ Kendall Wright, Bay
WR-Ryan Broyles, OU/ Mike Davis, UT/ Marquis Goodwin, UT
WR-TJ Moe, Mizzo/ Jeff Fuller, A&M/ Uzoma Nwachukwu A&M
TE-Michael Egnew, Mizzo/ Nehemiah Hicks A&M/ James Hanna OU
OT-Levy Adcock Ok State/ Mickey Okafor TT/ Kelechi Osemele Iowas State
OT-Luke Joeckel A&M/ Jake Mathews A&M/ Dan Hoch, Mizzo
OG-Lane Taylor Ok State/ Gabe Ikard OU/ Robert T Griffen, Bay
OG-Lonnie Edwards TT/ Mason Walters UT/ Jonathan Rush Ok State
OC-David Snow UT/ Ben Habern OU/ Patrick Lewis A&M
Defense
DE-Ronnell Lewis, OU/ Brad Madison, Mizzo/ DaMontre Moore A&M(joker 3-4)
DE-Alex Okafor UT/ Frank Alexander, OU/ Jackson Jeffcoat UT
DT-Kheeston Randall UT/ JaMarkus McFarland OU/ Ray Kibble KSU/
DT-Tony Jerod-Eddie A&M(DE 3-4)/ Stephen Ruempolhamer Iowa State/ Terrell Resonno Mizzo
LB-Keenan Robinson UT/ Arthur Brown KSU/ Sean Porter A&M 
LB-Travis Lewis OU/ Garrick Williams A&M/ AJ Klein Iowa State
LB-Emmanuel Acho UT/ Jordan Hicks UT/ Shaun Lewis Ok State
CB-Coryell Judie A&M/ Jamell Flemming, OU/ Terrence Frederick A&M
CB-DeMontre Hurst OU/ David Garrett KSU/ Broderick Brown, Ok State
S- Blake Gideon UT/ Ty Zimmerman KSU/ Aaron Colvin OU/
S- Markelle Martin, Ok State/ Tyson Hartman KSU/ Trent Hunter, A&M
Special Teams
K-Justin Tucker UT/ Jimmy Stevens OU/ Grant Ressel Mizzo
P-Quinn Sharp, Ok State/ Kirby Van Der Kamp Iowa State/ Tress Way OU
KR- Justin Gilbert, Ok State/ Coryell Judie A&M/ DJ Monroe UT
PR- Ryan Broyles, OU/ Josh Lenz Iowa State/  Josh Cooper Ok State

Top Newcomers to watch-Justin Tuggle, QB, KSU, Jr, 6-3, 227/ James Franklin, QB, Mizzo, So, 6-2, 225/ Johnny Manziel, QB, A&M, Fr, 6-1, 180 (Wildcat)/ Steele Jantz, QB, Iowa State, Jr, 6-3, 216/ Malcolm Brown, RB, UT, Fr, 6-0, 220, 4.4/ Brandon Williams, RB, OU, Fr, 5-11, 190, 4.3/ Herschel Sims, RB, Ok State, Fr, 5-8, 190, 4.3/ Kenny Williams, RB, TT, Fr/ Trey Metoyer, WR, OU, Fr/ Jaxson Shipley, WR, UT, Fr/ Jace Amaro, TE, TT, Fr/ MJ McFarland, TE, UT, Fr/ Sedrick Flowers, OG, UT, Fr/ Meshak Williams, DE, KSU, Jr, 6-3, 231/ Jordan Phillips, DL, OU, Fr/ Marquis Anderson, DL, OU/ Quincey Russell, DT, UT, Fr/ LeMarc Stranhan, DT, A&M, So, 6-4, 365/ Quandre Diggs, CB, UT, Fr(Quentin Jammers cousin)/

1) Oklahoma Sooners- They have everything they need to win every game and carry off the BCS National Title this year. Offensively everything is peaking, and they should be able to put up numbers similar to the Bradford years. There schedule is very nice as well with only road test against Florida State, Oklahoma State and Texas in Dallas. The defense could hold them back with them not being as strong as their power years at the middle of the DL. We will see how bad the death of LB Austin Box effects them. Some teams pull together and play harder
2) Texas A&M Aggies-They have recruited well with the talented state of Texas and the fruit is starting to rippen. If they can upset OU I look for them to play for a national title instead of them. But more than likely they will be playing in a BCS. The Nov 5 game in College Station will be the Big 12 title game this year. Ryan Tannehill must have learned alot about playing QB from playing WR, because ever since they made the change he has gone off. Gray and Michaels remind me of a stables ready for the Kentucky Derby. The biggest loss will be Von Miller who was drafted #2 overall by Denver. The team is solid and ready. Will they let loose and win it all, remains to be seen. They do have a tendency to play down to the level of lesser teams.
3) Oklahoma State Cowboys-The offense is destructive, and can score at will. There are two things keeping them from a BCS game a defense that can shut down teams when it needs too, and a very difficult schedule. The have road games against A&M, Texas, Missouri, and upset minded TT. I look for a Cotton Bowl berth for them. If they had a more favorable schedule they might challenge.
4) Kansas State Wildcats-All in all this team is only average, with a lot of new JUCO faces. But that's what works for return coach Bill Snyder. Keep in mind that his team have always given people trouble even when they weren't that good, and they have owned Texas since the Big 12 started.
5) Texas Longhorns-The biggest question will be at quarterback with Garrett Gilbert getting his second year at trying to hold on to the reigns from under center. He is a quarter back built for the shotgun since he's only played that since he was a kid, and not under center. If he can learn how to do it, then the sky is the limit. But i look for him to struggle a bit, and maybe catch on later in the season. If not the real McCoy may step up. Malcolm Brown should see a little bit of playing time until after the OU game before he starts going off, in the mold of Cedric Benson and Ricky Williams. The Defense will have a new wrinkle attacking zone blitz scheme that may remind some of Rex Ryan and the Jets.
6) Missouri Tigers-This is a good team, and one that is better than 6th in the Big 12. But teams due tend to struggle when they lose a quarterback in the first round. James Franklin is the new kid. But he's not so new to Tiger fans as he ran a lot of Wildcat formations for them last year. He may struggle in his passing game a little, but i expect this team to be a lot better at the end of the season then they started.
7) Texas Tech Red Raiders-Now in the second full year of coaching at Tech. Tuberville must continue to make the changes he wants, as the passing numbers drop and the rushing number rise. We will see how much patience his fans have. The offensive line is one of this teams strengths, and should continue to be able to do so. I look for Eric Stephens to be the first rb to go over a 1,000 in a while. Seth Doege will battle rFR-Scotty Young for the right to lead this team into the future. They are still a year or two away.
8) Baylor Bears-This year we will get to see if phenom Robert Griffin II can do everything. If he could play defense to fill all the holes they have then this might be a better team. A tough schedules says they aren't going bowling, and may be looking for a new coach unless the AD is tired of that. Well offensively they should be good, not great though.
9) Kansas Jayhawks-This is a very, very young team with a lot of growing pains still left in it. If the school can show some faith in Turner Gill then they should weather the storm and be good in a few years. But right now its like Necessary Roughness the movie. With a collection of who's that's going on right now.
10) Iowa State Cyclones-There were two really good players on Iowa State last year. Austen Arnaud QB, and Alexander Robinson RB, both are history and this team just stinks. Look for the punter to pull a hamstring, or get head exhaustion. There must win game will be against Northern Iowa because it will all be downhill after that.

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Texas Longhorns-Post Spring Game Look at Depth Chart Possibles.

Quarterback-This could be the strength of the team, but that will be up to the coaching staff, and the player who is chosen to step forward. Right now its Gilbert, and as of yet he has not put together a good full game as a quarterback. McCoy waits for a chance to prove himself in a real game, as he did versus the first team defense in the spring game. Look for Wood to probably transfer during, or at the end of the season if he stays where he's at. He's got a lot of talent, and should be playing just about as much as the others. Ash is a quality leader who made a definite impact on the rest of the team during spring ball. It's not often that the name of a Freshman quarter back who wasn't a five star is on the lips of the rest of the team.
1. 7-Garrett Gilbert, 6-4 218 Jr., Austin, Texas (Lake Travis)
2. 6-Case McCoy, 6-2, 200, So, Graham, Texas
3. 5-Connor Wood, 6-4, 220, Fr-RS, Houston, Texas (2nd Baptist)
4. 14-David Ash, 6-3, 215, Fr, Belton, Texas

Runningback-This thing is wide freaking open. With the new OC wanting to run the ball the in a 50/50 style like he did at Boise State. Espect to see a lot of everyone. With the hot one getting the carries. I would say expect heralded Malcolm Brown to be the eventual starter, but he probably won't get there until mid season or later. If he's treated much like Cedric Benson was, where he didn't start until they lost to OU. If it was me, i would be working Brown, and redshirt Freshman Shead till there big legs were exhausted. Whitakker will be given the first chance to be the full time starter. Expect him to look great till he gets hurt. Hills is a quality kid more in line with the old offense then the new one. Monroe should play only as change of pace getting one or two carries a game for his explosion factor.
1. 2-Foswhitt Whitakker, 5-10, 198, Sr, Pearland, Texas
2. X-Malcolm Brown, 6-0, 220, Fr, Cibolo, Texas (Steele)
3. 25-Jeremy Hills, 6-0, 202, Jr, Alief, Texas (Elsik)
4. 32-Traylon Shead, 6-2, 220, Fr-RS, Cayuga, Texas
5. 26-DJ Monroe, 5-9, 175, Jr, Angleton, Texas

H-Back(Goal line back, Short Yardage, FB/TE)-This is the all around utility running back who could get several carries, or just be used on the goal line or in short yardage, or only as blockers. Look for Cody to get a lot of short yardage td's this year. Padget mainly as a blocker. Bergeron could be the next Ricky Williams, or he could also be the next Chris Whaley who never gets a chance.
1. 11-Cody Johnson, 5-11, 250, Sr, Waller, Texas
2. 45-Luke Padget, 6-1, 225, Sr, Bellville, Texas
3. X-Joe Bergeron, 6-1, 220, Fr, Mesquite, Texas (North)

Fullback-Roberson is a great blocking fullback who can also catch, and carry. He should be playing in the NFL in a year or two. Berryhill is of the same mold but not as polished. "MMMOOOOOOOSSEE!"
1. 30-Ryan Roberson, 5-10, 235, Jr, Brenham, Texas
2. 41-Jamison Berryhill, 5-11, 220. Jr, Odessa, Texas (Permian)

Wide Receiver-Another position that is really wide open. Davis, and Goodwin are the best, and should be the two main starters unless they fall or get beaten out. Jaxon Shipley is a serious talent and will spend the summer working out with his brother up in Cinn. Jordan maintains that Jaxon is more talented and faster than he was. Hales has quality, but the biggest question mark is Malcolm Williams. We all saw the guy who Colt found a couple of times as they came back against Tech, and we all saw what he's done since. He has all the talent to be a great wide out, but something is missing. White could be a stud as well. Timmons, and Jones are two unknowns who have a lot of talen. Mykkele Thompson could was a quarter back who projects as a possible wide out but he could be moved to defense full time. The rest is a wild west shootout.
1. 1-Mike Davis, 6-2, 186, So, Dallas, Texas (Skyline)
2. 84-Marquis Goodwin, 5-9, 177, Jr, Garland, Texas (Rowlett)
3.X-Jaxon Shipley, 6-1, 175, Fr, Brownwood, Texas
4. 3-DeSean Hales, 5-11, 170, Klein, Texas (Oak)
5. 9-Malcolm Williams, 6-3, 238, Sr, Garland, Texas
6. 4-Darius White, 6-3, 200, So, Fort Worth (Dunbar)
7. 81-Greg Timmons, 6-3, 205, So, Aldine, Texas (Eisenhower)
8. 17-Chris Jones, 6-0, 160, Fr-RS, Dangerfield, Texas
9. X-Mykkele Thompson, 6-3, 182, Fr, San Antonio, Texas (Stevens)
10. X-Miles Onyegbule, 6-4, 206, Fr, Arlington, Texas
11. 87-Patrick McNamara, 6-4, 210, Jr, Lubbock, Texas (Monterey)
12. 86-Cade McCrary, 6-4, 215, So, Austin, Texas (Lake Travis)
13. 13-John Harris, 6-3, 206, Fr-RS, Garland, Texas (Naaman Forest)

Tight End-Look for this position to be used a lot more than in the past. Irby was on the verge of being one of the great Tight Ends in Texas or NCAA history. Then the disasterous injury against Rice. I remember watching it a couple of times. Each time i was physically ill. This is his last chance. Barrett Matthew is a good blocker but a horrible receiever. DJ Grant is another phyically gifted receiver who has had a lot of injuries. Howard, and Jones are solid blockers, but less on the Receiving point. I really look for MJ McFarland to not this year, but maybe the next to be an All-American. Solid hands, and blocking mixed in with that 6-6 size.
1. 19-Blaine Irby, 6-3, 237, Sr, Camarillo, California (St. Bonaventure)
2. 89-Barrett Mathews, 6-2, 235, Jr, Galena Park, Texas (North Shore)
3. 18-DJ Grant, 6-4, 230, Jr, Austin, Texas (LBJ)
4. 85-Ahmard Howard, 6-4, 250, Sr, Brenham, Texas
5. 87-Dominque Jones, 6-3, 240, So, Kilgore, Texas
6. 88-MJ McFarland, 6-6, 245, Fr, El Paso, Texas (El Dorado)

Tackle-The weakiest point of the team so far. Lack of depth, mixed with a lack of experience and no studs who have stepped forward yet. I like Greenlea to possibly challege for playing time. With a year in the weight room he could be a real good one. It's time for Poehlmann, and Buchanan to become the players they were given scholarships for. Look for Kelly to challenge for time if they don't.
1. 77-Luke Poehlmann, 6-7, 290, Jr, Brenham, Texas (Probable Left Tackle)
2. 54-Mark Buchanan, 6-6, 305, Jr, Austin, Texas (Probable Right Tackle)
3. 70-Paden Kelly, 6-7, 305, So, Austin, Texas (Lake Travis)
4. X-Garrett Greenlea, 6-7, 300, Fr, Klein, Texas (Collins)

Guard-Allen was once the number one lineman coming out of college. But a slow start, and injuries have derailed what could have been a great lineman. But its my hope that this year he will shine. Walters, Hopkins, and Ashcroft have all played a lot of quality time and have a lot of experience. I think guard is fairly solid barring injuries.
1. 56-Trey Allen, 6-4, 310, Sr, Grand Praire, Texas (South)
2. 72-Mason Walters, 6-6, 305, So, Wolford, Texas (Frenship)
3. 75-Trey Hopkins, 6-4, 290, So, Galena Park (North Shore)
4. 79-Thomas Ashcroft, 6-5, 310, So, Cedar Hill, Texas

Center-If any NFL GM is smart they will draft David Snow. He can play center, guard or tackle. He is the best offensive lineman Texas has. Porter is almost as multi facit as Snow. Look for Espinosa to eventually take over the position in a year or too and not give it back.
1. 78-David Snow, 6-4, 295, Sr, Gilmer, Texas
2. 73-Garrett Porter, 6-6, 305, So, Odessa, Texas (Permian)
3. 55-Dominic Espinosa, 6-4, 295, Fr-RS, Cedar Park, Texas

Defensive End-By and far the most talented positon on the team. They have a serious rotation. Okafor is solid against the run and pass, and just needs the tackles to step up to give him more space. Jeffcoat will eventually be a lottery pick, is a pass rushing demon. Wilson is a freak who had 3 sacks in the spring game. Johnson is a question mark because he is more of a outside linebacker. Whaley hopes to revitalize his career much the way Henry Melton did and Daniels could be a tackle by the end of things.
1. 80-Alex Okafor, 6-5, 260, Jr, Pflugerville, Texas
2. 44-Jackson Jeffcoat, 6-5, 253, So, Plano, Texas (West)
3. 92-Reggie Wilson, 6-3, 252, So, Haltom, Texas
4. 9-Dravantti Johnson, 6-2, 235, Jr, Neaderland, Texas
5. 96-Chris Whaley, 6-3, 250, So, Madisonville, Texas
6. 95-Greg Daniels, 6-5, 270, Fr-RS, Houston, Texas (St. Pius)

Defensive Tackle- This could be another strength but someone besides Randle needs to step up. Howell should be the number two. But the rest is a wide open shoot. Bible, Dorsey, Cotton, Russell, and Jackson are all very talented rookies where all highly rated and need to prove that the 4 and 5 stars were right. Martinez is a hard working walkon who could see some time if no one steps up.
1. 91-Kheeston Randle, 6-5, 300, Sr, Beaumont, Texas (Kelly)
2. 90-Calvin Howell, 6-4, 290, So, San Antonio, Texas (Warren)
3. 94-Taylor Bible, 6-3, 310, Fr-RS, Denton, Texas (Guyer)
4. 85-Ashton Dorsey, 6-2, 295, So, Tyler, Texas (John Tyler)
5. 89-De’Aires Cotton, 6-4, 295, Fr-RS, Alief, Texas (Taylor)
6. X-Quincy Russell, 6-3, 289, Fr, San Antonio, Texas (Sam Houston)
7. X-Desmond Jackson, 6-1, 285, Fr, Houston, Texas (Westfield)
8. 52-Luciano Martinez, 5-11, 280, Sr, Monterrey, Mexico (La Joya)

Outside Linebackers- Another strength of the team. Acho is smart, quick, a leader, and hard hitting. Hicks is the next Derrick Johnson, and showed flashes of it as a freshman. He's only going to get better. The backup are a crap shoot.
1. 18-Emmanuel Acho, 6-2, 240, Sr, Dallas, Texas (St. Marks)
2. 3-Jordan Hicks, 6-2, 228, So, West Chester, Ohio (Lakota West)
3. 13-Chet Moss, 6-2, 235, Fr, Cedar Park, Texas
4. 15-DeMarco Cobb, 6-2, 215, So, Tulsa, Oklahoma (Tulsa Central)
5. 32-Patrick Nkwopara, 5-11, 218, So, Grand Praire (South)

Middle Linebackers-Robinson has been one of the most solid defense players over the last few years. Benson is a youngster who could see time at outside as well.
1. 1-Keenan Robinson, 6-3, 235, Sr, Plano, Texas (East)
2. 5-Aaron Benson, 6-2, 230, Fr-RS, Cedar Hill, Texas

Cornerback-Right now this is a weak position. But only because of its age. There is a lot of talent. Quentin Jammers nephew Diggs showed in the spring game that even as a true freshman he is the best of the lot. Byndom and White should fight over the next positon with the other being the nickle. Turner should also see time in the mix. He is another talented true, who chose Texas over his home early. Evans and Scott could see time due to injuries or poor play.
1. 28-Quandre Diggs, 5-10, 192, Fr, Angleton, Texas
2. 23-Carrington Byndom, 6-0, 175, So, Lufkin, Texas
3, 7-AJ White, 6-0, 175, So, DeSoto, Texas
4. 4-Eryon Barnett, 6-2, 195, So, Euless, Texas (Trinity)
5. X-Josh Turner, 6-0, 175, Fr, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Millwood)
6. X-Sherrod Evans, 6-1, 185, Fr, Sugarland, Texas (Dulles)
7. X-Leroy Scott, 5-10, 190, Fr, Pasadena, Texas (South Houston)

Safties-A strength of the team. Blake Gideon may be know forever as the guy who dropped the int versus Texas Tech. But he has never let it beat him down. He is a solid cover and hitter, who should be playing on Sundays next year. Scott brings the power to all his hits, and reminds me of Ronnie Lott when it comes to abusing people with the ball. Vaccaro could beat him out though due to his smart play that has impressed the new defensive coaches. Brewster is one of the better backups in the country and could be starting for a lot of other teams. Jackson, Phillips, and Boyer are the future of the team and should see time resting the starters.
1. 21-Blake Gideon, 6-1, 205, Sr, Leander, Texas
2. 6-Christian Scott, 6-1, 217, Sr, Dallas, Texas (Skyline)
3. 8-Kenny Vaccaro, 6-1, 214, Jr, Brownwood, Texas (Early)
4. 2-Nolan Brewster, 6-2, 205, Jr., Denver, Colo (Mullen)
5. 27-Bryant Jackson, 6-2, 191, Fr-RS, Sulphur Springs, Texas
6. 17-Adrian Phillips, 5-11, 200, So, Garland, Texas
7. 37-Nate Boyer, 5-11, 188, Fr-RS, Dublin, California (Valley Christian)

Kicker-Tucker is solid and clutch with a long leg, that fans like. Russ i believe hold the HS record for the longest field goal made 67 or something like it. Both are consistant.
1. 19-Justin Tucker, 6-1,185, Sr, Austin, Texas (Westlake)
2. 14-William Russ, 6-4, 193, Fr-RS, Shreveport, Louisiana (Evangel Christian)

Punter-for Russ see Kicker, Tucker will probably see time as the backup as well. Ash will only play if he doesn't get redshirted. Ash was a punter at Belton and adds the ability to run or pass on a punt that scares defenses.
1. 14-William Russ, 6-4, 193, Fr-RS, Shreveport, Louisiana (Evangel Christian)
2. 14-David Ash, 6-3, 215, Fr, Belton, Texas

Thursday, May 19, 2011

A Look at the Texas Longhorns Early Commits so far.

*Note These Commits are Verbal and non binding*
*Note the Star Ratings are my own, and I am not affiliated with any organization*

1. Connor Brewer, QB, Scottsdale-Chaparral, Ariz, 6-3, 195, 4.7, 4-Star, (2 time State Champs going into senior year, 57TD-11ints for career)
2. Johnathan Gray, HB, Aledo HS, Tx, 5-11, 200, 4.4, 5-Star (Father played RB at TT. Has dominated the state over the last two years including breaking the record for TD's in a state game, with 7 i believe. I have him as the best running back in the country. That's with Barry Sanders kid out there too.
3. Cayleb Jones, WR, Austin HS, Tx, 6-3, 195, 4.5, 5-Star (Strong wide receiver with good hands who could bring back the days of Roy Williams if works hard)
4. Thomas Johnson, WR, Dallas Skyline,Tx, 5-11, 170, 4.3, 4-Star, (A quick speedy wide out who had 25td's as a sophomore before being injured last year)
5. Curtis Riser, OL(OG), Desoto HS,Tx,  6-3, 283, 4-Star, (Was named the Nike MVP for 1-1 battle in the trenches at a camp. Just the kind of nasty player the Longhorns need)
6. Camrhon Hughes, OT, Harker Heights HS, Tx, 6-6, 270, 4-Star, (When he puts on some beef, could be the need LT for a few years.
7. Caleb Bluiett, DE, Beaumont Westbrook, Tx, 6-3, 235, 4.6, 3-Star, (More depth for the rotation, known for his intensity, and quickness, but need to hit the weight room)
8. Hassan Ridgeway, DE, Mansfield HS, Tx, 6-3, 240, 4.65, 4-Star, (Was said to be dominating at the Nike Camp in Ft.Worth, has great balance)
9. Paul Boyette jr., DT, Humble Hs, Tx, 6-4, 285, 4.9, 4-Star (Chose UT over OU, NDame, Nebraska and Stanford)
10. Malcolm Brown, DT, Brenham Hs, Tx, 6-2, 280,  5-Star, (Known as the Beast of Brenham for his destructive play on the line. Has great size, is quick off the ball, and known as a disruptive force penetrating into the backfield. One of the best DT in the country.
11. Alex Norman, DT, Dallas-Bishop Dunne, Tx, 6-4, 275, 3-Star, (Has the size, and the attitude to become a great player with some work in the weight room. Grandfather played TE for the Cowboys)
12. Timothy Cole, LB, Brenham, Tx, 6-2, 225, 4.7, 4-Star ( Has great size and speed, but will have to work on being in the right position to make the tackle)
13. Alex De La Torre, LB, Denton Ryan, Tx, 6-1, 220, 4.7, 4-Star, (Son of a Coach, and is a tackling machine who brings intensity and attitude to each hit. Kind of reminds me of Zac Thomas with more physical potential)
14. Peter Jenkins, LB, Dallas Skyline, Tx, 6-1, 208. 4.5, 4-Star (Has great speed and technique that could translate into becoming a Derrick Johnson, or becoming a Strong Saftey)
15. Bryson Echols, CB, Desoto Hs, Tx, 5-11, 170, 4.4, 4-Star (Really looked good at the Under-Armor Camp)
16. Orlando Thomas, Ath, Copperas Cove Hs, Tx, 6-0, 170, 4.3, 4-Star (Plays QB and CB for his school, but projects as a slot receiver, and or CB/S. All around athlete who could play anywhere)

The class just like always is shaping up to be a really good one. My hope is that we can land a few more beefy guys for the tackle position to make this one of the best classes ever.

Video Smooth Move MLB

http://video.yahoo.com/editorspicks-12135647/commercials-25269363/evan-longoria-s-crazy-bare-hand-catch-25269537.html

This video that's been making the rounds show's Evan Longoria saving a reporters life, or at least her career. But the word is that it was just a viral Guilett commerical. It's kind've cool though, and a smooth move.

Sunday, May 15, 2011

Texas Longhorn Marquise Goodwin a True Athlete

Just this Saturday(May 14) the sophomore at the home of their biggest rival(OU in Norman, Oklahoma) won his second consecutive Big 12-Outdoor long jump title. If you add in the indoor he has won three straight. He is also the defending National Champion, and the current record holder at the University of Texas. Expect to see this guy not just catching passes from who ever is the quarterback at Texas but jumping for Olympic gold in 2012.

In highschool at Garland, Texas he was a two time World Junior Champion in the long jump, and 4x100. He set the national high school record for the long jump 26-10, finishing fifth in the US championships. He is also one of 20 prep athletes to ever go over 26 feet. Makes you wonder if they shouldn’t just give him the ball on the goal line and ask him to jump over the defense. In a time when most college football players are struggling just to make the grades and play football. He does it all. He jumps over the Big 12, and the rest of the nation, Catches passes, has run a few times, returns punts, and kickoffs. Marquise Anderson is in the truest essence of the word an Athlete.

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Let's Talk about Possible Free Agents for the NFL-Offense

Here's my list of the Best that's out there at each position. (Noting that they may not be able to sign, so this is totally unofficial) *These are in no particular order*

Quarterback-The leader of any team, so its important to have quality backups too, just ask Dallas

1. Marc Bulger, St.Louis,Baltimore-Once a quality starter who lost his edge and basically had to turn in his wings. But this is a high quality backup for any team. This guy reminds me of a lower quality Kurt Warner. A real slinger, who got David Carred a lot till he broke.

2. Matt Hasselbeck, Seattle-Once one of the better quarterbacks in the league, but age has taken its toll on him. He's still got starter material in him. He's a great pickup for Carolina, San Fran or another team who wants their very young high draft pick to sit a while and learn under a veteran. Also a high quality backup who would fit in Dallas or someone else who's willing to pay for the insurance.

3. Micheal Vick,Phil and Peyton Manning, Ind- Don't expect them to go anywhere. I expect the National Guard to be involved if they try.

4. Alex Smith, SF- Might have been a good quarterback if given the chance too. Was under way to much pressure for his ability. Former number one overall who proved he was really a third or fourth round pick. Has showed signs of improvement. But it was tough playing without a deep ball, an offensive line, and on a team that changes OC's every year. Backup material, or starter in a Hasselbeck situation.

5. Vince Young, Tenn-though unreleased, he's done in Nashville. Has all the talent god ever gave to any individual. Could be Vick with a better arm, or he could spend his career watching games on tv. The whole thing is now on him. I was hoping he would end up in SF, or in a situation like it where he could eventually work hard and gain the nod. I still believe in him, never will doubt him. Did i mention i am a Texas fan. Just ask USC, or a few NFL teams like the Arizonia Cardinals if they doubt his ability to will a team to victory.

6. Chris Simms, TB,Tenn-Had a chance to be a real starter in TB until the ruptured spleen. The doctors had to rib open his chest to save him. He lost a lot of arm strength and flexibility because of the stomach and chest muscles that were damaged in the event. Will make a quality back up if given the opportunity.

7. Matt Leinhart, Ariz,Hou-Has never proved himself to be a starter on the field, but hasn't really had the chance. There are a lot of quarterbacks who would have lost out on the position to Kurt Warner. Is a West Coast kind of quarterback if given the opportunity. Should find himself as a quality backup.

Running Back

1. Cedric Benson, Cinn.-Part of me hopes he signs again with Cinn. The team that gave him a chance, where his has shined with rugged yards, and quality catches out of the backfield. But there are rumors about him going just about anywhere but Chicago lol.

2. Ricky Williams, Mia-Probably the greatest running back i have ever seen live. What's weird is the his age is not indictitive of how good he is. He spent many years not playing, and if his head is right he could be a quality starter for any team who promises not to ground him into the ground like Dave Wannstat

3. Ronnie Brown, Mia-Note i expect Miami to sign him or Williams, not really sure. A lot of his stats where elevated by the wildcat offense. Especially his td numbers since he usually decided to keep the ball near the goaline. Never really like him all that much, because he just wasn't as good as he believes he is. But could be a great starter for many teams. That is if he is willing to put his ego in check and play within himself.

4. Darren Sproles, SD- Honestly any team that signs this guy is a smart team. He can be a great 3rd down back, great on special teams, and the price tag isn't as high as Reggie Bush's will probably be. Is a hard worker who could go several games playing all downs if main back in injured. He's so small and makes a habit out of not taking the big hit.

5. Reggie Bush, NO-officially still a Saint. But rumor is he is gone, and even said so in a tweet. Versitile, great hands, great returner everything you could ever want in a running back but the ability to play every down.

Wide Receivers

1. Randy Moss, Minn,NE,Tenn-Is a great Receiver, a game changer. But always seems to carry a cloud to rain on him with him. Price tag shouldn't be too high.

2. Terrell Owens, Cinn-see Randy Moss. But then add that he works like most men are afraid too. I honestly think if he had to do it all again he would have played quarterback, and been a lot happier getting the ball that much. :) Think back a few years ago. If someone told you that you could have Moss, and Owens on your team cheap. You would have freaked out.

3. Braylon Edwards, Cleve,NYJ- A Micheal Irvin style WR who can also stretch the field. Comes with the baggage of all great WR's it seems. But is the youngest of the group. Should stay in NY if he can, that is if he wants some rings.

4. Vincent Jackson, SD-Expect a lot of teams to go after him. If nothing else to hurt SD. When's on so are they, when's he off the field so are they it seams.

Tight Ends

1. Randy McMicheal, Mia,SD-Thought of as a great TE coming out of College who really hasn't lived up to the hype. But is a decent quality TE who can run block which is very important

Offensive Line

1. Khalif Barnes, LT, Oak-Has a lot of talent, and could have been the anchor many times. But has been injured so many times, he probably will get a speed pass to any local hospital in your area.

2. Jammal Brown, RT, NO, Wash-Talented run blocker, who can protect as well. Not that old yet, and has a lot of skills that could make him very wanted

3. Ray Willis, T, Seattle- Is a very versitile offensive lineman. Still in his prime and can and has played all positions on the line. Originally drafted as a center i believe. A great pickup for any team

4. Logan Mankins, G, NE-Don't expect him to go anywhere if Tom Brady has anything to say. A total stud at guard. Probably will be the most popular lineman at the prom this year.

5. Alan Faneca, G, Pitt,Ariz-One of the premier guards of the NFL for many season. But age has finally caught up with him. But if he wills it, and has gas in the tank. Could play a few more quality years.

6. Robert Gallery, G/T, Oak-Was a very high draft pick who reminded me of Tony Mandarich as far as living up to his expectations. Very tall with long arms, who just didn't have the quick feet to protect the blind side at LT. But could play guard or right tackle for many teams.

7. Chris Spencer, C, Seattle- Though it looks like the enitre Seahawk offensive line is up for sale, this might be the best. He is an all around beast at center. One of the hardest positions to master. He is also still young for the NFL and should have all the teams looking hard at him for the answer to their offensive line wooes

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

What Grade do you give the Cowboys Draft?

1(9) Tyron Smith, OT, USC, 6-5, 307 (My Grade A)- The boys needed at serious pass blocking offensive tackle. So they drafted a guy with quick feet. Note, this is the first offensive lineman taken in the 1st round by the Cowboys since Tom Landry was coach. That should tell you all you need to know on the line troubles.

2() Bruce Carter, LB, North Carolina, 6-2, 245, 4.57 (My Grade B)-Excellent Athelete, but he comes with some serious buts. One he missed just about all of last year with a big knee injury. Two He will have to make the change from outside linebacker in a 4-3 to inside linebacker in the 3-4. People have struggled with this role before, (Just ask Derrick Johnson, KC).We all know he isn't going to play much this year. He will be a great backup.

3() DeMarco Murray, HB, OU, 6-0, 213, 4.37 (My Grade C-)- Don't get me wrong as a Longhorn fan i know all about this guy. I was totally pleased that he finally graduated. But don't we already have this same guy, well sort of. Felix Jones. How many Reggie Bush type running backs can we fit on the team. If they went here they needed an everydown guy who could replace Barber. Or maybe trade for Ricky Williams, sign a running back in the free agent season. (If there ever is one). On just about any other team Murray is a B or even A pick, but for Dallas this is just confusing.

4() David Arkin, OG, SW Missouri St., 6-5, 305 (My Grade A+)- Wow you say how can they get that high of a score in the 4th. Well this guy might be the guard steal of the draft. This guy is know as a seriously hard working guy who can pass block. I have heard several guru's mention that this was their sleeper on the offensive line. Well the boys got him in the fourth so that's an A+

5() Josh Thomas, CB, Buffalo, 5-10, 191, 4.4 (My Grade A-). The grade is a lot higher due to the need at the position. Terence Newman is on his last legs, and the other guy is a head case. Another thing to mention is that this guy is quick, can change his pace fast, and played a lot of zone. I do believe that the new DC Ryan uses a lot of zone blitzes. If he uses a lot of zone this guy could be the steal of the draft. But i kind've wish they drafted someone else too a little higher. But Who know's maybe this guy will be skipping the Pro Bowl because he has to practice for the Super Bowl one day. Gotta hope.

6() Dwayne Harris, WR,East Carolina, 5-10, 203, 4.53 (My Grade B+). I am not basing this grade as much on need, as what style of player he is. The Cowboys like that short quick route passing. This guy could become the slot guy who could maybe turn into the Jordan Shipley of the Cowboys, or disappear. In the 5th round its not much of a stretch to go for a solid quick slot guy. Some have questioned his hands, but they seemed good enough to be Voted the Most Valuable Player of Conf USA by the Coaches.

7() Shaun Chapas, FB/TE, Georgia, 6-2, 247 (My Grade D/B). Don't get me wrong i really like this guy. I've seen him play and he gives it his all. He's quick, and can catch. But if they are planning on using him as the replacement at Fullback then its a bad pick if we are going to run the ball much. But if he is used on passing situations as an H-Back, or on the line as a TE then this is a great pickup especially in the 7th. Maybe I'm wrong and he's an everydown blocker?

7() Bill Nagy, C, Wisconsin (My Grade C+), 6-3, 318 Don't know much about this guy other than he can play center or guard which is a plus. I believe he has only a couple of games of center under his belt, the rest at guard, but thats more than most, and makes him versatile. He comes from Wisconsin which is smash mouth run over your mother to the endzone which i love in an offensive lineman. So this could be a good pickup or not. Just the kind of chance you take in the 7th round. Though he did sit out most of 2009 with injury.

All in All I give them a Solid B. Nothing too flashy like Dez Bryant, but a lot of bulk. The addressed a major concern with the offensive line. Now all that's really left is Cornerback. Maybe The older guys will step up, Maybe it will be Thomas. Rumor mill has the the Boys really going hard after Nnamdi Asomugha from Oakland which would be a serious step up. He does have experience with Rex Ryan. But he will probably want 12 billion dollars so that's the downside.

As always let me know what you think.

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

The Texas Longhorns

       I heard on the radio, 760 I think that the University of Texas Longhorns will be starting Garrett Gilbert again this season. I just have to say WTF! Don't get me wrong, I really like the kid. He's totally talented, and has a lot of class. He's seems like a good kid who will do what he needs to do to graduate, and show Texas in a good light. But come on, if the position was really open then the real McCoy would be starting. He went the whole spring game against the 1st Team defense(ok most of it), and had really good numbers. Plus it looked like the offense around him believed in him, and he was a lot more mobile. Something all UT quarterbacks are going to need until we sign a deeper, and better offensive line. Gilbert looked awful against the second team defense and he gets the nod????? Then again after last year, maybe the 1st team defense is just as bad as last year???????

      Honestly if this was a pro team if would think they were trying to get a higher draft pick. Maybe Applewhite, and Boise St. jr just like him better. Or maybe this is another Chris Simms/Applewhite situation where the guy with the most potential gets to play over the better player. Don't get me wrong, I am not comparing Gilbert to Sims. Chris Sims never went below .500, he just couldn't beat OU and tensed up big time in big games. Gilbert tenses up for 3 quarters against Iowa State. Then in the fourth suddenly he can throw. Just in time to barely lose another one.

      You can pay to the all the assistants you want, you can pay them more than anybody else in the country. But no Assistant can go out on the field and lead, and throw touchdown passes in clutch situations. I know i'm spoiled by Major Applewhite, Vince Young and Colt McCoy. But that doesn't bling me to the fact that the current guy just isn't getting it done. I hope I am wrong. Maybe Gilbert will spend the whole summer working out will all his receivers, like the great ones did. Maybe Gilbert was waiting for his ship to come in from Brownwood, Jordan Shipleys litte bro. Who Jordan claims is better than he was. I don't know, but i'm not getting my hopes up. Just remember all those of you who get down. If God wasn't a Longhorn fan, then why is the sunset burnt orange. :) Please let me know what you have to say on the matter.

The San Antonio Spurs. Are they really that bad?

     After the Memphis series ended so quickly, and poorly most people here hit the panic button. They have been talking for the last week or so about should they blow up the whole team or not. I want to put my two cents in on this. 1. Memphis was just the hotter team, i can't remember their record. But i saw somewhere that they had the best record in the NBA over the last 40 games or so. I could be wrong, they might have had the second best record. But that's besides the point. Granted Memphis is a much younger team than San Antonio, but so is Oklahoma City. Look what they are doing to Kevin Durant and company. Honestly it wouldn't shock me if they finished off the Thunder, beat the Mav's and then probably lost to the Heat or something. That will make me totally sick, because I am not a Lebron fan after the way the snubbed his nose at Cleveland on national tv like that. 2. This same old, and broken team aka the San Antonio Spurs had the best record in the NBA. 3. The Spurs slumped at the weirdest team. Usually near the end of the season they are on a tear, having jumped back up from 4th or 5th all the way up to the two or one seed. But this year they started out hot, and really had that bad slump at the end of the year.

        All in all i'm saying maybe it aint broken. Granted we could seriously use a good quality YOUNG big man who isn't going to play four years in Europe first. It is also time to start moving a few things around to try and get younger. I believe Timmy will come back another year or two. But they are going to need to spell him more than they did. The wheels aren't falling off, but they are starting to bald. Please let me know what you think, any and all non vulgar comments will be posted. Thanks.