2014 NFL DRAFT
The NFL Draft starts at 8:00 PM EST tonight. You can follow the draft coverage here
| Pick | Team | Player | Position | College |
| 1 | Houston Texans | Jadeveon Clowney | DE | South Carolina |
| 2 | St. Louis Rams (From WSH) | Greg Robinson | OT | Auburn |
| 3 | Jacksonville Jaguars | Blake Bortles | QB | Central Florida |
| 4 | Buffalo Bills (From CLE) | Sammy Watkins | WR | Clemson |
| 5 | Oakland Raiders | Khalil Mack | OLB | Buffalo |
| 6 | Atlanta Falcons | Jake Matthews | OT | Texas A&M |
| 7 | Tampa Bay Buccanners | Mike Evans | WR | Texas A&M |
| 8 | Cleveland Browns (From MIN) | Justin Gilbert | CB | Oklahoma State |
| 9 | Minnesota Vikings (From CLE) (Via BUF) | Anthony Barr | OLB | UCLA |
| 10 | Detroit Lions | Eric Ebron | TE | UNC |
| 11 | Tennessee Titans | Taylor Lewan | OT | Michigan |
| 12 | New York Giants | Odell Beckham Jr. | WR | LSU |
| 13 | St. Louis Rams | Aaron Donald | DT | Pittsburgh |
| 14 | Chicago Bears | Kyle Fuller | CB | VA. Tech |
| 15 | Pittsburgh Steelers | Ryan Shazier | LB | Ohio State |
| 16 | Dallas Cowboys | Zack Martin | OT | Notre Dame |
| 17 | Baltimore Ravens | CJ Mosley | LB | Alabama |
| 18 | New York Jets | Calvin Pryor | S | Louisville |
| 19 | Miami Dolphins | Ja’wuan James | OT | Tennessee |
| 20 | New Orleans Saints (From ARI) | Brandin Cooks | WR | Oregon State |
| 21 | Green Bay Packers | Ha-Ha Clinton Dix | S | Alabama |
| 22 | Cleveland Browns (From PHI) | Johnny Manziel | QB | Texas A&M |
| 23 | Kansas City Chiefs | Dee Ford | DE | Auburn |
| 24 | Cincinnati Bengals | Darqueze Dennard | CB | Michigan State |
| 25 | San Diego Chargers | Jason Verrett | CB | TCU |
| 26 | Philadelphia Eagles (Via CLE) (From IND) | Marcus Smith | DE | Louisville |
| 27 | Arizona Cardinals (From NO) | Deone Bucannon | S | Washington St. |
| 28 | Carolina Panthers | Kelvin Benjamin | WR | FSU |
| 29 | New England Patriots | Dominique Easley | DT | Florida |
| 30 | San Francisco 49ers | Jimmie Ward | S | Northern Illinois |
| 31 | Denver Broncos | Brandon Roby | CB | Ohio State |
| 32 | Minnesota Vikings (Via SEA) | Teddy Bridgewater | QB | Louisville |
Draft Day Trades:
- Bills acquire No. 4 Pick (Sammy Watkins) from Browns for No. 9 pick (Anthony Barr), plus 2015 1st & 4th round picks
- Browns acquire 8th pick (Justin Gilbert) from Minnesota for 9th pick (Anthony Barr)
- The Cardinals traded No. 20 (Brandin Cooks) to New Orleans for No. 27 (Deone Bucannon) and their third-rounder, Pick No. 91.
- The Browns traded Pick No. 26 (Marcus Smith), and their third-rounder, Pick No. 83, to move up to No. 22 (Johnny Manziel)
- Vikings acquire the 32th pick (Teddy Bridgewater) for the 40th pick and 108th pick
Amid all of the hype for other players this season, expect Clowney’s name to be called first at the NFL Draft (Via Jeff Blake/US Presswire)
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Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
2014 Mock Draft 2.0
By Ryan Crawford
My mock draft 1.0 was devoid of the early QB run that was expected and mock draft 2.0 follows the same pattern. I think that now that the QB situation has gotten murkier and that there will be a lot of moves both up and down that do not involve the QBs. Houston at 1 and St. Louis at 2 are both candidates to move down. With St Louis having 2 and 13 I believe there is no doubt that Rams GM Les Snead will be moving all over the place. We heard rumors for months that every pick from 3 to 7 could also be in play. Here’s my most recent stab at it.
1. HOUSTON TEXANS- Jadaveon Clowney-DL- South Carolina
Clowney is still the best player in the draft. I don’t think it’s a question at this point that he goes number one. I think the question is who makes the pick. Probably will be the Texans but the Falcons are interested and there are a couple of rumors about the unknown suitors as well.
2. ST. LOUIS RAMS- Greg Robinson- Tackle- Auburn
I do not think the Rams make this pick but if they do it will be the manchild Robinson or WR Sammy Watkins. Could Cleveland move up a couple picks?
3. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS- Khalil Mack-OLB- Buffalo
This is what I wrote in Mock 1.0 and I’m sticking with it. “The Jags need a QB bad and if they jump it would probably be Bortles but I think they wait till later rounds to grab the QB and keep building their defense”
Khalil Mack will be one of the first few selected in this year’s NFL Draft (Via AP)
4. CLEVELAND BROWNS- Sammy Watkins-WR-Clemson
I’m convinced the Browns will not pick a QB with this pick and word is they are so intrigued with Watkins that they may move to 2 to get him.
5. OAKLAND RAIDERS- Mike Evans- Wide Receiver- Texas A & M
To me this is the toughest pick of the draft. If one of the elite 4 drop it becomes a no brainer but if not, hmmmm… I’m gonna slot big receiver Mike Evans in here as it is imperative that the Raiders get a receiver, so why not one of the best?
6. ATLANTA FALCONS- Taylor Lewan- Tackle- Michigan
The Falcons need linemen to protect Matty Ice and Lewan is rising up the board. I still think they have a realistic shot at going to number 1 for Clowney.
7. TAMPA BAY BUCS- Odell Beckham Jr- WR- LSU
I think the Bucs will trade down for multiple picks but if not they grab the third wide receiver in seven picks. Don’t sleep on Beckham Jr. One of my favorites in the draft.
8. MINNESOTA VIKINGS- Aaron Donald-DT-Pittsburgh
Vikings need to rebuild the defensive line and this guy is a great place to start. Maybe a QB in round 2?
9. BUFFALO BILLS- Jake Mathews- Tackle- Texas A&M
I had Eric Ebron in Mock 1.0 but that was before I realized Jake Mathews might be available. A no brainer as the Bills need a tackle badly.
10. DETROIT LIONS- Darquez Dennard- Cornerback- Michigan State
The Lions should go for a corner or a receiver here but with the run on receivers, they can get the top rated corner.
11. TENNESSEE TITANS- Justin Gilbert- CB- Oklahoma State
Johnny Manziel? Not yet…. Defense wins championships and a corner is a priority.
12. NEW YORK GIANTS- Eric Ebron- TE- North Carolina
It’s no secret the Giants are in dire need of a top flight tight end. Best tight end in the draft drops into the Giants lap at 12.
13. ST LOUIS RAMS- . Johnny Manziel-QB-Texas A&M
No way the Rams pick at 13. Maybe up or maybe down but not 13. My hunch from Mock #1 had the Cowboys getting Johnny Manziel at 16. It seems my hunch from a month ago has gained a little traction in the media but I’m not sure he gets that far because word is the Rams love him. Could you imagine if the Rams didn’t have to trade a boatload of picks for a running QB with a rocket arm and he turned out better than RGIII?? Is that Daniel Snyder we hear sniffling? Wow.
14. CHICAGO BEARS- Ra’Shede Hageman- DT- Minnesota
Bears need defensive line help. Hageman is a rock on the line and will help.
15. PITTSBURGH STEELERS- Zach Martin –T-Notre Dame
Looking for another Tackle, Martin is being described by pundits as one of the safest picks in the draft.
16. DALLAS COWBOYS- Dee Ford- DE- Auburn
Cowboys are looking for defensive help and Ford will help offset the loss of DeMarcus Ware. I expect the Cowboys to be another team that tries to trade down.
17 BALTIMORE RAVENS- Brandin Cooks- WR- Oregon State
Ravens rumored to be trading down as well but can really use another weapon for Joe Flacco and Cooks is Tavon Austin redux.
18 NEW YORK JETS- Calvin Pryor- S- Louisville
Another quote from Mock 1.0: “Yes I know the Jets need another receiver badly but this guy is a hammer and Rex is drooling at the thought of a young Ed Reed. The Wide Receiver class is very deep and they will get a couple in later rounds”. We will stay with this pick for Mock 2.0.
19. MIAMI DOLPHINS- Morgan Moses-Tackle- Virginia
It’s no secret that the Dolphins need some serious help on the offensive line and this guy should slot in at one of the tackles.
20. ARIZONA CARDINALS- Kony Ealy- DE/LB- Missouri
Could this be a QB landing spot? My guess is there are enough QB prospects for the Cards to look in round 2 or 3. Ealy fills big defensive needs for the Cardinals.
21. GREEN BAY PACKERS – CJ Mosley- ILB- Alabama
The Packers need a lot of help on defense and Mosley makes a lot of sense in this spot.
22. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES- Anthony Barr- OLB- UCLA
A PAC-12 Linebacker for Chip Kelly to help keep Romo, RGIII and Eli in check.
23. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS- HaHa Clinton-Dix- S- Alabama
Chiefs are absolutely thrilled that Dix drops down this far and quickly gobble him up.
24. CINCINNATI BENGALS- Teddy Bridgewater- QB- Louisville
We will see if all the rumors about Bridgewater landing here are true. My gut is no but I’m gonna take a shot anyway.
25. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS- Louis Nix- NT- Notre Dame
It seems that everyone who did a mock draft has Nix going to the Chargers. Can you say Perfect Fit? A strong nose tackle prospect.
26. CLEVELAND BROWNS- Blake Bortles-QB-UCF
In my first mock I had Bridgewater dropping down this far. Now I have Bortles dropping to the Browns. Either way it’s a good spot for the Browns to pick their QB of the future.
27. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS- Ryan Shazier-OLB- Ohio State
Staying with my choice from Mock 1.0: “The Saints need to improve their defense and Shazier is a good step in that direction. He can play inside or move outside if needed at the linebacker spot”. Kony Ealy is now an option here as well.
28. CAROLINA PANTHERS- Kelvin Benjamin- WR- Florida State
Clearly one of the biggest needs on this team is a big go-to target for Cam Newton.
29. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS- Kyle Fuller- CB- Virginia Tech
Too good a player to pass up and of course Revis will be a Free Agent at the end of the year anyway (sound familiar??)
30. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS- Marqise Lee- WR- USC
My first Mock choice for the Niners stays in play. “In need of another young receiver, 49ers are thrilled to get Lee at 30”.
31. DENVER BRONCOS- Kony Ealy- LB/DE- Missouri
Can you ever have enough pass rushers and defenders? I think not.
32. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS- Austin Seferian-Jenkins TE- Washington
They probably trade down a few and pick up a couple of picks from a team looking to jump the top teams in round two for a QB. Think Derek Carr, Jimmy Garoppolo, Zach Mettenberger or AJ McCarron??
Other Potential 1st Round Picks (besides the QBs)
DeMarcus Lawrence DE Boise St
Joel Bitonio G Nevada
Jason Verrett CB TCU
Timmy Jernigan DT Florida State
Bradley Roby CB Ohio State
Davante Adams WR Fresno State
2014 Mock Draft 1.0
By Ryan Crawford
Let me start off by saying this is a very interesting draft. While there are multiple Quarterbacks that everyone talks about, I don’t think they are on a level with many of the QB’s that have been top ten picks in the past. Of course the teams that generally need Quarterbacks reside in the top ten. You would expect some of those teams to trade down for some additional value but I don’t anticipate the teams looking to move up paying a steep price to move. Teams generally overpay for franchise QB’s and these guys don’t fit that description. Don’t expect teams to jump up for the strength of this draft, which are Wide Receivers, Tackles and a couple of Defensive studs at the top. The result will be a cat and mouse game and alot of picks that people will be shocked at, both high and low. It will be one of the hardest drafts in years to predict. Good luck to the experts on this one. Should be a lot of fun…
1. HOUSTON TEXANS- Jadaveon Clowney-DL- South Carolina
Texans need a QB but not at #1. Clowney is still the best player in the draft.
Amid all of the hype for other players this season, expect Clowney’s name to be called first at the NFL Draft (Via US Presswire)
2. ST. LOUIS RAMS- Greg Robinson- Tackle- Auburn
This guy is a mountain with huge upside. I expected Rams to try to trade down but the price might not be worth it if someone is not coming up to get a QB or Clowney.
3. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS- Khalil Mack-OLB- Buffalo
The Jags need a QB bad and if they jump it would probably be Bortles but I think they wait till later rounds to grab the QB and keep building their defense.
4. CLEVELAND BROWNS- Sammy Watkins-WR-Clemson
Another QB needy team that will wait till later. Any QB coming in to a situation with Josh Gordon and this stud receiver will look better anyway.
5. OAKLAND RAIDERS- Jake Matthews- Tackle- Texas A & M
If Al Davis were alive, this pick would have Johnny Manziel written all over it. Does anyone ever really know what the Raiders will do? Matthews is the smart pick for a team in need of protection up front.
6. ATLANTA FALCONS- Taylor Lewan- Tackle- Michigan
The Falcons need linemen to protect Matty Ice and Lewan is the third tackle off the board early.
7. TAMPA BAY BUCS- Darqueze Dennard- CB- Michigan State
Defense, Defense, Defense for new coach Lovie Smith as the Bucs secure one of the top corners in the draft.
8. MINNESOTA VIKINGS- Blake Bortles-QB-UCF
Vikings sit tight and grab the only QB they really wanted for new coach Mike Zimmer.
9. BUFFALO BILLS- Eric Ebron- TE- North Carolina
Bills snag a big time weapon for second year QB EJ Manuel.
10. DETROIT LIONS- Mike Evans- WR- Texas A&M
Could go corner here but teaming Evans with Megatron makes too much sense and scares the heck out of opposing secondarys.
11. TENNESSEE TITANS- Justin Gilbert- CB- Oklahoma State
With the secondary defections in free agency, a big need for Titans is filled with this pick.
12. NEW YORK GIANTS- Anthony Barr- OLB- UCLA
Giants are in need of strong defenders and haven’t had a linebacker with this much potential in years.
13. ST LOUIS RAMS- Ha Ha Clinton Dix- S- Alabama
If the Rams can’t trade down off the 2nd pick, look for them to trade down here to add more picks later on. If they use the pick, a good safety is a big need and Dix is one of the top two. Calvin Pryor also a strong possibility
14. CHICAGO BEARS- Timmy Jernigan- DT- Florida State
The Bears need to beef up the defensive line and Jernigan brings the beef in a big way
15. PITTSBURGH STEELERS- Aaron Donald-DT-Pittsburgh
The Steelers stay in town to pick the speedy, strong Donald. Another team that needs to rebuild its defense and this is a good start.
16. DALLAS COWBOYS- Johnny Manziel-QB-Texas A&M
Nothing more than a hunch on my part, but imagine this guy playing for America’s team. Jerry Jones is never one to miss a good marketing opportunity and Tony Romo is 33 and not exactly Peyton Manning or Tom Brady. Makes sense from so many vantage points.
17. BALTIMORE RAVENS- Odell Beckham Jr-WR-LSU
Ravens can really use another weapon for Joe Flacco and Beckham Jr is one of the best. Brandin Cooks could go here as well.
18. NEW YORK JETS- Calvin Pryor- S- Louisville
Yes I know the Jets need another receiver badly but this guy is a hammer and Rex is drooling at the thought of a young Ed Reed. The Wide Receiver class is very deep and they will get a couple in later rounds.
19. MIAMI DOLPHINS- Morgan Moses- OT- Virginia
It’s no secret that the Dolphins need some serious help on the offensive line and this guy should slot in at one of the tackles.
20. ARIZONA CARDINALS- Bradley Roby- CB- Ohio State
Even with the addition of Antonio Cromartie, the Cards could use a young corner and this guy has all the talent in the world
21. GREEN BAY PACKERS – Kony Ealy- DE/LB- Missouri
The Packers need a lot of help on this side of the ball and the versatile Ealy can play multiple spots. CJ Mosley is a possibility here as well.
22. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES- Brandin Cooks-WR-Oregon State
Doesn’t take the Eagles long to replace Desean Jackson with this speedster whom Chip Kelly knows well from his Oregon days.
23. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS- Kelvin Benjamin-WR-Florida State
Chiefs need more weapons for Alex Smith and Benjamin is a big target.
24. CINCINNATI BENGALS- Jason Verrett- CB- TCU
Marvin Lewis is concerned about his secondary and the corners are starting to run so he grabs a very good prospect in Verrett
25. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS- Louis Nix- NT- Notre Dame
A strong nose tackle prospect, Nix is a great fit for the Chargers D.
26. CLEVELAND BROWNS- Teddy Bridgewater- QB- Louisville
How many times have we seen this one. The guy a team was considering at 4 drops to their next pick at 26. The last time we saw this was with Geno Smith and the Jets last year. The Browns can’t believe their good fortune and the shouts of joy are heard all the way from Cleveland.
27. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS- Ryan Shazier-OLB- Ohio State
The Saints need to improve their defense and Shazier is a good step in that direction. He can play inside or move outside if needed at the linebacker spot.
28. CAROLINA PANTHERS- Zach Martin –T-Notre Dame
Looking for another Tackle, Martin falls right into the Panthers lap.
29. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS- CJ Mosley- ILB- Alabama
Another defender for the Patriots. A wide receiver is a possibility here or trading down as the Pats like to do.
30. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS- Marqise Lee- WR- USC
In need of another young receiver, 49ers are thrilled to get Lee at 30.
31. DENVER BRONCOS- Dee Ford- DE- Auburn
Think the Broncos need more defense? Me too. Another guy to rush the passer
32. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS- Ra’Shede Hageman- DT- Minnesota
What do you get the team that has everything? Another weapon for Russell Wilson? Another defender for a team full of stud defenders? Some protection for the offense? Just get the best guy available and at this point that is Hageman.
UPDATED: Seattle Seahawks win Super Bowl XLVIII
Update 9:55 PM EST
Seattle Seahawks have won the Super Bowl. 43-8 is the final
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Update 9:51 PM EST
2:00 left and the Seahawks basically have it in the bag. Broncos with the ball
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Update 9:30 PM EST
TD Seattle. 43-8 in a blowout.
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Update 9:15 PM EST
36-8 Seahawks as the Broncos finally get on the board.
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Update 9:05 PM EST
36-0 Seahawks.
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Update 8:59 PM EST
Fumble! Seahawks have it. still 29-0 Seahawks
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Update 8:00 PM EST
2nd half begins with Percy Harvin taking it all the way for an 87 yard return TD. 29-0 Seahawks
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Update 7:43 PM EST
INTERCEPTION!!! Manning throws an INT to Malcolm Smith, who takes it the other way. 3:36 to play. 22-0 SEA
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Update 7:27 PM EST
Marshawn Lynch runs it into the endzone. 15-0 SEA with 12:08 to play in the 2nd quarter
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Update 7:12 PM EST
Complete domination. 8-0 Seahawks and now an INT for SEA.
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Update 6:49 PM EST
Seahawks kick a FG. 5-0 Seahawks with 10:00 to play in the 1st quarter
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Update 6:35 PM EST
One play in and the Broncos already are down. A botched snap into the endzone and the Seahawks take a 2-0 lead
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Dabuzzza founder Brett Malamud will be providing live coverage of this year’s Super Bowl. Follow us on Twitter or check on this post for updates. Enjoy the game.
Super Bowl XLLVIII should be a fantastic matchup
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Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
Superbowl XLVIII Picks
With the big game finally here, we thought we’d present our picks for Superbowl XLVIII between the Seattle Seahawks and Denver Broncos. From all of us here at Dabuzzza, stay safe and enjoy the game.
|
Writer |
Pick |
|
Brett Malamud |
Denver wins this one 27-17. They say defense wins championships, but Manning torched every one of them. In a season that led to Manning’s fifth MVP award, Manning took down some of the league’s top defenses. Take the Kansas City Chiefs for example. In a week 13 matchup in Kansas City, Manning led the Broncos to a win by throwing for 403 yards and five touchdowns. All I’m saying is just because Seattle’s defense is strong doesn’t mean that Peyton Manning cannot be stronger. |
|
Dan Lagnado |
I think Denver wins a close game (24-20 or 28-24), but in the end too many offensive weapons even for Seattle. Denver running backs in the passing game will have a big impact plus I think Wes Welker proves his worth. |
|
Josh Halilej |
I’ll go with Seattle 23-20. There have been 15 teams to be the top defense in the regular season to go to the Super Bowl and their record is 12-3. Plus, I like Wilson’s leadership and I think Marshawn Lynch will wear down the Broncos’ front seven. |
|
Eric Huberman |
Seattle 28-24. Way too many people on Denver -2 in the gambling world. Usually a good tip it will go the other way. The wind will bother Peyton throughout the game. Also believe Lynch has a huge game. |
|
Josh Wicker |
Seattle wins 21-17, Wilson has a great game and Lynch has over 100 yards and a touchdown. The weather could lead to the game being won or lost with the run game and I feel that Seattle has the stronger of the two. Manning also has a good game but comes up short on a game winning drive. |
|
Seth Schuster |
Seattle will pull out a win, 27-24, in a tight game that comes down to the wire. Russell Wilson, will respond to criticism, by leading the Seahawks on a game winning drive, capped off by a Hauschka field goal as time expires (Shockingly similar to another QB on his quest for the Lombardi Trophy–Tom Brady) This game will come down to the weather, as well as clock management. This game will come down to whichever team possesses the ball last–hard to bet against Peyton with the game on the line. |
|
Nick Vespasiano |
Denver wins 24-21. If their run defense can contain Lynch just enough, Wilson won’t be able to take over the game. Seattle’s secondary is good, especially on the edge but Denver (specifically Manning) is all about the intermediate passing game in the seams and slot. If Peyton gets in a rhythm and works Moreno and ball into the game, the Broncos can win. |
|
Sam Iryami |
Denver wins 27-23. Richard Sherman and the Seattle defense will not be able to stop the motivated Peyton Manning and his passing game. Peyton will march down the field and get completion after completion to get that Super Bowl win. Also he has Moreno, who is an incredible asset that could give them great yardage. All in all, the Broncos have a much better offense that is just unstoppable. However, Seattle has a great running game with Lynch so it will be a close one. I don’t think Wilson has the potential to own the game and do well. Manning is going to come out strong and win the game. |
|
Matthew Wieselthier |
Seattle 25-21. Defense wins championships. This game may have been different had Denver still had LB Von Miller but without him, they clearly have the worse defense and Seattle still is strong on the offensive end. There is a reason that Marshawn Lynch is a top RB and Russell Wilson isn’t in the Super Bowl in his second season for no reason. Peyton Manning may be one of the best QBs of all time, but historically, he is not a great playoff quarterback. The Broncos also haven’t faced a defense near the power of Seattle and the L.O.B. (Legion of Boom). The 12th Man will be celebrating all night on Groundhog’s Day and take their lack of experience straight to a title. |
|
Ben Ozur |
Seattle 27-24. Yes the Broncos have the best offense in NFL history, but none of the top five scoring offenses in NFL history have won the Super Bowl (only the 2007 Patriots even made it there). Though Peyton Manning’s offense has set numerous NFL records, their defense is nothing to get excited about. On the other side, you have Seattle with the NFL’s best defense this season. Their offense is nothing to sneeze at, however, as they have many weapons, including Percy Harvin, whom, as Denver will have a hard time planning for the receiver who’s only played in two games this season. I think Denver will dominate early and Seattle will make a comeback. And here’s my bold prediction: this will be the first Super Bowl to go into overtime. Steven Hauschka will kick a field goal in the first drive of OT and Peyton will fail to take his team down the field, as the Seahawks win their first ever Super Bowl. |
Peyton’s Legacy
By Christian Pierre-Louis
Almost two years ago, Peyton Manning came to Denver, not knowing how his tale would continue. Now he prepares to take over the Big Apple, one win away from winning that elusive second Lombardi Trophy. When Manning sat out the 2011 season because of a neck injury, he had plenty of time to contemplate life without football. Manning; the No. 1 high school recruit in the nation, the Heisman favorite as a Tennessee senior and No. 1 overall pick in 1998, was suddenly an underdog for the first time, really ever.
Prior to Sunday’s game against the New England Patriots, Manning had received an assault of criticism on whether he would be able to lead the Broncos to a victory over the Patriots. During his career, the rivalry between Manning and the Patriots quarterback, Tom Brady, has been the source of many memorable moments in the NFL. However, Manning was able to overcome the harsh skepticism, and lead the Broncos to a 26-16 victory over the New England Patriots.
Peyton Manning hopes to win a second Super Bowl (via SportsPickle)
From the beginning of the game, the Broncos dominated the Patriots in every aspect, and in the end, the best team came out on top. The game started with Manning and the Broncos taking an early lead, and once they had it, there was no looking back. Manning had his way with the New England defense, toying with them at the line of scrimmage and his surgical precision was too much for Bill Belichick’s team to handle. The Broncos as a team controlled the ball for close to 36 minutes, whereas the Patriots only had possession of the ball for 24.
The defense for the Broncos also played exceptionally well, managing to stop the Patriots’ ability to score a touchdown for the first three quarters of the game. It was only in the fourth quarter of the game that a comeback sparked by Brady seemed possible, however, the performance of the Broncos during the first three quarters had separated them so far that lead prevented this from happening. Patriots coach Bill Belichick expressed his disappointment with his statement following the game, “I wish we could’ve done a little better today, especially me.”
Although the game was won by the Broncos as a team, Peyton Manning has received the majority of the attention following the Broncos win. With this win, Manning is looking at his third Super Bowl appearance, and an opportunity for a second Super Bowl victory. In addition, with this win Manning has ensured that his legacy continues into the Super Bowl. Manning could be the first quarterback to have won a Super Bowl with two different teams if the Broncos win the Super Bowl. Following the game, the Broncos waited patiently to hear the news of whether they would be playing the San Francisco 49ers or the Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl.
So it’s a Seattle-Denver Super Bowl, one full of intrigue and new story lines, seeing that almost every player in the game will be new to the Super Bowl stage. Every player but one. Peyton Manning is back for his third Big One, and the pressure is all on him to cap this underdog chapter in the Book of Manning and silence all his critics once and for all.
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Christian Pierre-Louis is a journalism major at Seton Hall University. He is a HUGE fan of the, LA Lakers, NY Giants, and NY Yankees. He is also an assistant sports producer at Seton Hall’s radio station WSOU 89.5 FM. You can follow him on twitter at @CPL_78.
Injuries Plague NFL Playoff Contenders
By Dan Lagnado
With week 16 now in the books, those teams that have clinched will gear up for their playoff run while several others prepare to attempt a “win and they’re in” game. However quite a few of these teams will be without important players.
The most notable of these teams is the Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys may be playing for the NFC East championship without the quarterback. Of course Tony Romo has been heavily criticized by fans of the game for being unable to win important games in December. If the reports of his injuries are correct, Romo might not get the chance to prove them wrong next weekend. The report is that Romo has a herniated disc that will require surgery and so will not play against the Eagles, or beyond if the Cowboys win. Kyle Orton has been Romo’s backup all season but has not started a game since 2011. It is rumored that the team will look to sign another quarterback this week. Notable free agent quarterbacks include former college stars Vince Young, Matt Leinart, JaMarcus Russell and of course, Tim Tebow. There are also some proven veterans who are available such as David Carr, Byron Leftwich, Trent Edwards and Charlie Batch.
Tony Romo will be absent in week 17 (Via Hulkshare)
Another serious injury inflicted star pass rusher Von Miller of the AFC leading Broncos. Miller tore his ACL early in the game and will be out for the remainder of the season. Miller is one of the league’s most prolific, young, defensive stars and his absence will be felt by an inconsistent Denver defense. However, Denver performed well without Miller early in the season (Miller missed the first six games but Denver was 6-0), however it remains to be seen if the offense can make up for the loss against more talented teams in the playoffs.
The Carolina Panthers are fighting not only for a division title but for a possible first round bye. However, they will be doing so without their star wide receiver Steve Smith. Smith strained his PCL in Sunday’s victory over the Saints and has been declared doubtful for the season finale. It is unclear if Smith will miss any time beyond week 17. Smith is a vital part of the offense and a popular option for Cam Newton. If Smith is forced to miss any significant amount of time it could cause problems for the Panther offense.
The New Orleans Saints had one of the worst defenses in NFL history last season. Rob Ryan was brought in and managed to recreate the defense and it has helped the Saints to return to contention. However, young, talented safety Kenny Vaccaro broke his ankle in the loss to Carolina. Vaccaro had over 90 tackles, an interception, a forced fumble, and a sack. Vaccaro had performed at all aspects of the defense and a group that has started to struggle in recent weeks will feel his loss.
And there is the ongoing question of Aaron Rodgers and his collarbone. Rodgers has missed seven games and is still waiting to be cleared to play by the Packers’ medical staff. Rodgers has practiced and has stated that he feels that he could play but team doctors have not cleared him for full football. The Packers will face the Bears with a chance to win the NFC North and if Rodgers is held out again, Matt Flynn will once again be asked to lead the team against a good Bears team with Jay Cutler back in the lineup.
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Dan Lagnado is studying communications, law economics and government at American University. He’s a fan of both the Mets and Jets and has been writing about sports for four years. You can follow him on twitter at @dlag1995
Fantasy Football First Half Awards and What to Expect in the Coming Weeks
By: Josh Halilej
So far this NFL season has been full of offensive firepower and high scoring games, which translates to BIG fantasy points. There have been standout individual performances (Calvin Johnson- 329 yards receiving, 1 TD or Peyton Manning- 462 yards passing, 7 TDs), and surprising seasons too (Andy Dalton ranked #6 in points among QBs, and Knowshon Moreno who has outscored every other RB/WR except Jamaal Charles.) This article is going to give you my opinion on who I think has performed the best comparative to their value so far, and who you can look out for in the future and during the playoff push. Remember, this is MY opinion, so you can take it or leave it as you wish. So here’s this season’s fantasy dream team:
Quarterback:
Best overall: Peyton Manning
Best value: Phillip Rivers
Worst value: Tom Brady
Let me explain, Peyton shouldn’t be anywhere else on the list of best fantasy QBs this season. He’s been consistent, he’s produced touchdowns and yards, and he hasn’t turned it over. He has exactly what you need to dominate a league and achieve ultimate bragging rights. Rivers has been sort of under the radar this season, because, well, that’s what happens when you’re on the Chargers. He’s quietly thrown for over 400 yards 3 times, and only has a total of 5 turnovers this year. In my league, where he went undrafted, he was the best pickup of the season so far at ANY position. Brady on the other hand, has been the opposite. He has had difficulty gaining chemistry with his new, rookie receivers Kenbrell Thompkins and Aaron Dobson, but he has his savior in Rob Gronkowski who is back from his surgery and adds a new threat and more receiver depth on this roster.
Philip Rivers has surprised everyone and has proved to be a fantasy steal this year (Via Opinuns)
Running Back:
Best overall: Jamaal Charles
Best Value: Knowshon Moreno
Worst Value: CJ Spiller
Jamaal, oh Jamaal. He hasn’t done anything wrong this year consistently getting at least 16 carries and gaining at least 100 total yards of offense in each game so far, PLUS 8 total TDs. Moreno has had similar consistencies to Charles with 9 total TDs, and around 15 carries a week in support of Peyton. The disappointment in the running back spot comes from none other than CJ Spiller. Before the season I thought that he was going to excel in Buffalo and help push them to the playoffs, but I couldn’t grab him in my league, and now I’m thankful.
Wide Receiver:
Best Overall: Dez Bryant
Best Value: Josh Gordon
Worst Value: Randall Cobb
Why not Megatron? Because he had one game with 36 ESPN standard fantasy points that really influenced him in terms of points. I have to give the starting position to Dez because of his consistency so far, but for the rest of the season, expect more domination from Calvin. Josh Gordon, although he missed the first 2 games of the season with a suspension, has been proven to be any Browns QB’s favorite target excelling with all Hoyer, Weeden, and Campbell throwing him the ball. Cobb can’t help his injury, but he had high expectations coming into the season, and only played 2 full games.
Tight End:
Best overall: Jimmy Graham
Best Value: Jordan Cameron
Worst Value: Rob Gronkowski
Jimmy Graham has been simply exciting this season making catches look easy, and making his good buddy Drew Brees look good. On top of that, he had a 5 game stretch to open up the season where he had 93 points total (which would still lead the league now). Cameron has been a welcome sight for most fantasy owners who thought he would have no opportunities because of the Browns, but he has grabbed 6 TDs this year and is averaging 11.5 points per game, which isn’t too shabby for a free agent find. Now, Gronkowski is interesting because reports were saying that he could have came back week 5, but made his first appearance in week 7. Since then in his 2 games of action Gronk has 13 total points and no touchdowns which isn’t exactly comforting to owners who drafted him in high/mid rounds.
D/ST:
Best overall: Chiefs
Best Value: Chiefs
Worst Value: Broncos
The Chiefs have been unstoppable on defense causing turnovers, not allowing points or yards, and just wreaking havoc in the backfield with their premier edge rushers Justin Houston and Tamba Hali. Houston is second in the NFL in sacks with 11, and Hali is tops in the league with 4 forced fumbles. The Broncos haven’t lived up to their stellar defense from last year, and have taken part in quite a few shootouts of offense vs. offense. Expect Von Miller to be the main factor on their future success.
Kicker:
Best overall: Matt Prater
Best Value: Matt Prater
Worst Value: Sebastian Janikowski
When it doubt, Matt Prater it out. He has gotten an incredible amount of points from just PATs and is not going to stop if Peyton keeps it up. I have no idea why Sea bass isn’t performing like the machine he was last year, but with a paltry 36 points through 8 weeks, he is the worst kicker in the NFL who has maintained a starting job.
Who to watch out for:
QB: Matt Stafford- He doesn’t have a tough schedule ahead of him and has many weapons.
RB: Gio Bernard- A rookie on the rise has had a few good games this season that could potentially give him the full time job over the Law Firm in Cincinatti.
WR: Calvin Johnson- need I say more?
TE: Jordan Reed- RG3 has found a liking to this guy as a main target. Watch out.
D/ST: Panthers- Despite the trading of Jon Beason to the Giants, these guys are playing solid football and just might surprise a few people with a playoff push
K: Matt Prater- He’s just going to keep on kicking these extra points until the season is over
Let me hear what you guys think about my picks in the comments and leave any of your own if you want. Just remember that there’s still a lot of football left to play.
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Josh Halilej is a die hard fan of both the Jets and the Mets, and is an avid fantasy sports player. He participates in leagues for baseball, basketball and football. You can follow him on twitter at @Mrmet2323
AFC Midseason Recap and Predictions (2 of 4)
By Dan Lagnado
In part one of the midseason recap and predictions, the AFC East was covered. Now we will move on to the AFC West:
Division winner: Denver Broncos
This prediction may seem controversial given the current standings of the division. The battle for the top spot really is a two horse race at this point. The Broncos and the Chiefs seem poised to battle it out until the end. However, I give the edge to Denver for reasons to be explained later in this article.
The Broncos have far and away the NFL’s best offense: first in points scored, first in total yards per game and first in passing yards per game all thanks to MVP candidate Peyton Manning. This is a team that made the AFC Championship last season and has come back even better, with even more weapons both offensively and defensively. In addition to Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker, Manning now has Wes Welker and rookie tight end Julius Thomas. The defense gained Shaun Phillips to help the pass rush along with Von Miller, who recently returned from suspension. This has helped the defense compile 22 sacks on the year. The Broncos currently have a 7-1 record heading into their bye week.
Peyton Manning hopes to walk off as a Super Bowl champion at the end of the season. (Via US Presswire)
The Kansas City Chiefs on the other hand boast a very powerful defense. They rank first in the NFL in points allowed, fifth in total yards allowed and fourth in pass yards allowed. They are arguably the biggest surprise team of this season after coming off a two win year. With a new quarterback in Alex Smith and a new coach in Andy Reid, the Chiefs now sit in first place at 8-0. Justin Houston and Tamba Hali have 20 sacks combined along with five forced fumbles. Smith, Jamaal Charles and Dwayne Bowe lead the offense. Smith has continued his consistent play from last season with nine touchdown passes and only four interceptions. However, despite the undefeated start, this is a team with some flaws. Their last two games, against disappointing Browns and Texans teams, were won by only a combined six points. Jason Campbell and Case Keenum nearly led their teams to giving KC their first loss. How can we expect them to keep Peyton Manning in check two times in the next four weeks if Campbell and Keenum give this defense trouble? That said, look for KC to easily lock up a Wild Card birth and a potential third matchup with Denver in the postseason.
The San Diego Chargers have comeback from a disappointing season with a very impressive first seven games. Their 4-3 record would be good enough for better than third place in almost all other divisions. Yet, because of the two powerhouses at the top, that’s where they find themselves. Quarterback Phillip Rivers is an early Comeback Player of the Year candidate and has thrown for 15 touchdowns and only five interceptions after a 2012 season that saw him account for 30 total turnovers. Rivers and tight end Antonio Gates have reestablished the connection that they have had for many years and Gates leads the team in receiving yards. The defense, though allowing yards, is still sixth in the NFL in points allowed. If the Chargers continue their strong play, they can find themselves in a position for a Wild Card position as well.
The Oakland Raiders have seen quite a bit of disappointment in the past few seasons. Though they currently sit in last place with a sub-.500 record (3-4), there are many reasons to have high hopes for the future. One of these reasons is Terrelle Pryor. In his first season starting, Pryor has shown that he is capable of being a dual threat quarterback and can lead this team to many wins as he matures. Pryor is supported by a corps of young, fast wide receivers including Denarius Moore and Rod Streater. If the Raiders can manage to get Darren McFadden running in the way that he did last year, look for them to be competitive in the second half of the season, and potentially play spoiler for other teams’ playoff chances.
The AFC West has emerged this season as potentially the best in the AFC. Both the Chiefs and Broncos seem primed for a playoff run, with the chance of being joined by the Chargers. The two upcoming matchups between Kansas City and Denver might prove to be the key to the tight race for first place and San Diego’s consistency will be key for their Wild Card push. It’s important not to count out Oakland as Terrelle Pryor continues to develop as a quarterback who can win with his arm or his legs.
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