Colts
I agree completely with Michael Irvin. If you have a chance to go undefeated and be recognized as the greatest team of all-time, you go for it. The Colts are within striking range of that feat. To begin resting players is simply playing it safe and there is no guarantee those same players can turn the switch back on come playoff time.
This is history that’s being fooled with. That’s a serious thing. If you are banged up, you sit. If you get a nice lead, you can sit. Otherwise, go make history. Besides, this is mostly about one player anyway - Peyton Manning.
Steelers
Experts are lamenting the fact the Steelers are struggling. Some have even gone to the “They need to get back to running the football like the old Steelers did” card. Right.
They won the Super Bowl last season by having BR throwing the football to their talented receivers and by playing solid defense. They are struggling in 2009 mainly due to two factors - their talented quarterback is banged up, having taken a ton of hits again this fall, including suffering a recent concussion, and they lost arguably the league’s best defensive players to injury in Troy Paluamalu.
The close games the Steelers were winning in the past are losses this season. It happens.
No, an overhaul isn’t needed. I would be stunned to see what some are predicting at the end of the year – the firing of the special teams coach and offensive coordinator. That’s not what the Steelers do. They are the most patient franchise in sports. That’s a good thing. Look at their brand and winning percentage if you want proof.
Drew Brees
I recently watched the best free agent pickup of all-time in sports play and lose his first game this year.
Drew Brees is that man and he plays for the 13-1 Saints. We loved Brees coming out of college and wanted the Browns to chase him down when the Chargers soured on him. But that’s ancient history.
Draft
If I’m the Browns and Nebraska’s Ndamukong Su is on the board, I don’t hesitate. Add him to that defense, and the Browns will have their best defensive front since their return in 1999 - which isn't saying that much when you see where they've ranked every year in rush defense.
Two other guys I like coming out of the draft – Notre Dame’s Golden Tate and Stanford’s Toby Gerhart.
I can hear the draft experts already – Tate is too small and Gerhart is to slow. Right. Neither one will be a “Combine Freak.” So what? They were the best football players on the field just about every time they played this fall. That’s enough for me. They'll be good pros.
Are you sure Washington quarterback Jake Locker didn’t suffer a concussion this season? This guy needs his head examined. I’m told he’s a likely top-5 pick in April yet he decided to go back to college so he can play in a Bowl game in 2010.
First, his stock can’t get much higher. In fact, it can only get worse. Secondly, he could go down and lose millions (see Oklahoma QB). And third, no one is sure what the collective bargaining agreement will look like a year from now.
A rookie cap is coming fact. The NFL players have finally figured out NFL players who get the best deals are those who haven’t even paid their first union dues yet. Why the NFLPA hasn’t used that chip in the past to get better deals for its veterans is beyond me.
One more time – you attend college so you can make a good living once your college career ends. If you have an opportunity to win the lottery 32 credits shy of graduating, you go. Period.
Besides, when you move mom out of Gary, Indiana and buy her that condo on the beach in sunny Florida with a small portion of your signing bonus, she won’t be complaining you left early.
Browns
The Browns have won back to back games. That’s the good news. At least they have stopped embarrassing themselves. But let’s not get too excited. Two of their three wins are over the Bills and Chiefs where their quarterbacks completed a handful of passes each. That’s not impressive to this observer.
We did finally find a receiving group on par with the Browns. The Chiefs’ wideouts are horrible. Check that - at least they get open occasionally. But their hands, as a group, rivals Cleveland’s hapless bunch. The Browns’ receivers don’t get open, they run routes short of the sticks and they have trouble holding on to the ball.
Again, Eric Mangini won’t be back if the “Walrus” comes to town. I’ve had several semi-smart people tell me otherwise. I didn’t bother discussing it with them. It wasn’t worth it. They are wrong.
Who is stupid enough to take over an army and not put his own generals in charge of the troops?
John Gruden might be a good fit on the sidelines since he worked with the “Walrus” once. Gruden has a huge ego, but he can coach. We thought he was also a good fit for Notre Dame. If I’m Brady Quinn, I’m nervous if that happens. Gruden changes quarterbacks like most of us change underwear.
Speaking of my boy Quinn - he looked like DA yesterday against the Chiefs. That’s not a good thing. He sailed one pick and threw into double coverage on another. I do like the fact they finally used his athleticism in short yardage by having him play fake and keep it around the edge. That's a start. Now moving him out of the pocket in the red zone would be a nice next step.
We still believe BQ will be a very good quarterback. Like the Steelers, we are patient. As we stated earlier this season, it’s next to impossible to judge a Browns’ quarterback with this talent level at the skilled positions.
On a positive note, we like the no huddle and we like the fact Jerome Harrison is finally getting 20-25 touches a game (more on that later). Next is the dire need for wide receivers that can actually get open and catch the ball.
Case in point, on Quinn’s second pick Sunday, MM made a horrible adjustment on that deep ball. Quinn made a terrible decision in throwing the ball, but his receiver has to give him some help. MM has, on more than one occasion this fall, looked lost on deep balls. He did it to Anderson and now he’s doing it to Quinn. That’s not good. Yes, he’s a rookie, but it’s like trying to learn to bunt at the Major League level – you either know how to do it, or you don’t.
Sports Morons
Okay, I heard this one on the radio yesterday. One moron fan told a talk show host the Browns’ defensive is better without its best player, Shaun Rogers, on the field. It got worse. The host agreed. They figured Rogers shoots the gap too much, thus getting too much penetration, and not maintaining his “gap integrity.” Nice us of football jargon there.
That sounds good, until you ask NFL guards and centers who they would rather go up against – Rogers or Ahtyba Rubin. Look, I like Rubin. The second-year player has performed well when given the opportunity. But for anyone to think this defense is better with its only playmaker on the sideline in street clothes borders on the ridiculous. The scary part is that much of that listening audience probably agreed when the term "gap integrity" was used.
I quickly turned my radio back to Dave Ramsey – the dude who gives you advice on handling money. He knew what he was talking about.
Jerome
Congratulations to Jerome Harrison for setting the Browns’ team record for yards rushing in a game. Now, he needs to finish strong in the final two weeks and continue to establish himself as an every down back. We’ve always liked Harrison – especially in a no huddle system. He seems to be able to make the first guy miss on occasion – which is what you need to do when you aren’t 6-2/225. He has more drops than I’d like to see, but that's for another day.
Lessons Leared
One personal note - I am teaching my sports PR course after a two-year layoff this spring. Yes, I am looking forward to it. I’ll be able to influence 15-20 college kids this spring who either are going into the business or who love watching this stuff. My skills are limited, but this is one thing I do relatively well.
Get the Fruity Drinks Ready
I’ll see some of you tomorrow (22nd) at Olive Garden.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Health Care & More
Health Care
As promised.
Approximately 75% of the country is relatively satisfied with its health care – both the system and the delivery of care. That means the proponents of health care overhaul are trying to swim upstream with a 40 pound weight on their backs.
Many in favor of a health care overhaul are well intentioned – helping those in need. Some are semi-socialists - wanting as much central government control and influence as possible in as many areas of life as possible. And some are just born followers or decision making-challenged, who do what they are told by their party leaders.
Regardless, the math is the math. It’s next to impossible to add 30+ million people to doctors’ waiting rooms across the country without it affecting the timeliness and quality of care.
It’s also hard to believe the federal government can provide a delivery system that’s on budget. History indicates otherwise.
What does this all mean?
If anything does get passed, it will be likely by watered down and relatively harmless to those who already have decent to excellent heath insurance/coverage – the 75% we mentioned earlier.
However, whatever passes will still allow its proponents to claim victory and move on to the likely next battleground – illegal immigration.
Either way, the party in power (democrats) seems to be taking a serious political hit for pushing something the majority of Americans don’t want. I guess we’ll find out if the polling is accurate come next November – in the mid-term election.
Some top democratic strategists are pushing the theory that if health care does not get passed, the base of the party (democrats) will be so disillusioned that it will fail to turn out to vote in 2010 – guaranteeing a huge republican victory.
That logic seems somewhat flawed to this observer who believes if health care does pass, that will only anger the opposition even more – creating a huge turnout to offset any base democratic turnout in 2010.
Again, we’ll have the answer in early November of 2010. Besides, a lot can happen between now and then. One year is an eternity in politics.
The bottom line is this has been a center right country for a long, long time. The 2008 election was not a monumental shift in the American political landscape as some tried to sell (see NBC, ABC, CBS, CNN, MSNBC, Time, Newsweek, etc.).
The election of Mr. Obama was part cult of personality, part repudiation of republican control, part John McCain is a nice man but simply looks too old to do this difficult job, part the economy went to total hell less than two months before the election took place and part there were no weapons of mass destruction in Iraq.
It was as we have described in the past as "the perfect storm."
Today, it looks like some are having buyers’ remorse. Polls indicate Americans are most concerned about jobs and the deficit – that’s a good thing. Since when has our “spend-first and pay later society” truly felt concerned about putting everything on credit?
I would argue however if unemployment were at 8% right now – which is high but not staggering – Mr. Obama would be in much better shape politically, his health care proposal would have a real chance of passing, concern about the national debt would not be so high on the list of American concerns, and democrats would not be looking at a potential Waterloo next November.
Short of another 9-11 occurrence, it’s all about jobs – always has been and always will be.
As long as unemployment hangs around 10%, it looks to the American people as though Obama and company are in over their heads. You don’t need daily polling or a political science degree from Brown University to figure that one out.
Things could be worse Mr. President – gas could be at $4.00 a gallon – then you’d really be in trouble.
See, now you can carry on a conversation on the issue if it comes up at your upcoming X-mas work party as you munch on shrimp.
The Irish
According to the Notre Dame AD, Charlie Weiss sealed his fate with late November losses. What?
Does that mean if he beat Navy, he would have kept his job? Ridiculous.
How about analyzing his body of work instead? For $10 million a year, you expect more, much more. It’s that simple. Don’t give me any garbage about a win over Connecticut would have helped Weiss’ cause. You insult my intelligence when you go there.
No one has asked me, but John Gruden is the guy I would go after if I ran Notre Dame’s athletic department.
Chucky can coach, is the right age and has the right approach in dealing with recruiting 18 year olds.
He has the energy, disposition, personality and communication skills to deal with the media attention that comes with coaching at Notre Dame. Finally, Gruden has Notre Dame ties – his old man coached there.
Look, we all know the Notre Dame “Brand” isn’t what it once was. However, the Irish is still the most loved and most hated college sports program in the nation. That means the “Brand” still has some life.
And with the right person is in charge, it can become a gold mine once again – even in 2010.
Cavaliers
I don’t like the way they are winning – beating teams late with talent instead of with suffocating defense. But it’s early.
Indians
My boy Kelly Shoppach got dealt. I still like his bat – although is .214 average in 2009 hurt his case. Regardless, I don’t worry much about average from that position if you can call a game, throw out 30% of runners trying to steal and hit for power. We’ll see what he does in Tampa.
Besides, the Indians claim they have three catchers in waiting who can do much better. We’ll see. One thing is for certain, if a couple of these guys are for real, I suggest you deal one of them for some pitching sooner rather than later.
I’ll say it over and over again – this starting staff on paper stinks. That’s what happens when you deal two Cy Young winners, your #2 falls off the face of the earth (Carmona), your #3 goes down (Westbrook) and your much-heralded farm system can only deliver one soft-tossing mediocre lefty after another.
And since pitching is 70% of this game, the Indians head into 2010 with Trent Dilfer as their quarterback.
Browns
Not much this week. You see the same thing I see.
I have come to one conclusion however – this is the worse offensive talent in terms of playmakers I have ever seen on one team at the professional level – that’s after 40 years of watching folks.
We begged the Browns to draft some “playmakers” in the 2009 draft. They decided to continually trade down, accumulate picks and take a center #1.
How’s that working out?
We said the same thing when DA was at the helm earlier this season – it’s hard for any quarterback to get judged with this garbage around him. One could argue Brady Quinn had more offensive talent around him at Notre Dame. At least he actually had a pro tight end – who decided to go for the 60 feet, 6 inch gig instead of getting hit on every play. He also had an experienced “O” coordinator Charlie Weiss.
Regardless, it is what it is, and Quinn needs to show some improvement and consistency this month if he wants his stock to rise for 2010.
Life's not fair, but if you're BQ, when you begin to feel sorry for yourself, you need to realize it could be much worse - you could be digging ditches for a living instead of getting paid to play a game.
One more time – I would like to see Jerome Harrison get a full look in December. But then again, this offense not only lacks talent, but has absolutely no direction.
Harrison rushed for over 100 yards against the Bengals the first time around, and is hardly used the second time out against Cincy. What is the logic behind that decision?
We have complained over and over again the past 10 years that this team has absolutely no identity. As we speak, it’s like an amber alert is needed. It’s worse than no identity – you can’t even find the body.
Finally, answer me this question. In short yardgae situations, why don't the Browns consistently run over their left side - where they have spend a fortune recently on a guard in free agency, a tackle in the draft and a first round pick at center in 2009?
It seems to me if you can't consistently run behind those guys when you need it most, they ain't as good as advertised.
Let's at least find out one way or the other.
As promised.
Approximately 75% of the country is relatively satisfied with its health care – both the system and the delivery of care. That means the proponents of health care overhaul are trying to swim upstream with a 40 pound weight on their backs.
Many in favor of a health care overhaul are well intentioned – helping those in need. Some are semi-socialists - wanting as much central government control and influence as possible in as many areas of life as possible. And some are just born followers or decision making-challenged, who do what they are told by their party leaders.
Regardless, the math is the math. It’s next to impossible to add 30+ million people to doctors’ waiting rooms across the country without it affecting the timeliness and quality of care.
It’s also hard to believe the federal government can provide a delivery system that’s on budget. History indicates otherwise.
What does this all mean?
If anything does get passed, it will be likely by watered down and relatively harmless to those who already have decent to excellent heath insurance/coverage – the 75% we mentioned earlier.
However, whatever passes will still allow its proponents to claim victory and move on to the likely next battleground – illegal immigration.
Either way, the party in power (democrats) seems to be taking a serious political hit for pushing something the majority of Americans don’t want. I guess we’ll find out if the polling is accurate come next November – in the mid-term election.
Some top democratic strategists are pushing the theory that if health care does not get passed, the base of the party (democrats) will be so disillusioned that it will fail to turn out to vote in 2010 – guaranteeing a huge republican victory.
That logic seems somewhat flawed to this observer who believes if health care does pass, that will only anger the opposition even more – creating a huge turnout to offset any base democratic turnout in 2010.
Again, we’ll have the answer in early November of 2010. Besides, a lot can happen between now and then. One year is an eternity in politics.
The bottom line is this has been a center right country for a long, long time. The 2008 election was not a monumental shift in the American political landscape as some tried to sell (see NBC, ABC, CBS, CNN, MSNBC, Time, Newsweek, etc.).
The election of Mr. Obama was part cult of personality, part repudiation of republican control, part John McCain is a nice man but simply looks too old to do this difficult job, part the economy went to total hell less than two months before the election took place and part there were no weapons of mass destruction in Iraq.
It was as we have described in the past as "the perfect storm."
Today, it looks like some are having buyers’ remorse. Polls indicate Americans are most concerned about jobs and the deficit – that’s a good thing. Since when has our “spend-first and pay later society” truly felt concerned about putting everything on credit?
I would argue however if unemployment were at 8% right now – which is high but not staggering – Mr. Obama would be in much better shape politically, his health care proposal would have a real chance of passing, concern about the national debt would not be so high on the list of American concerns, and democrats would not be looking at a potential Waterloo next November.
Short of another 9-11 occurrence, it’s all about jobs – always has been and always will be.
As long as unemployment hangs around 10%, it looks to the American people as though Obama and company are in over their heads. You don’t need daily polling or a political science degree from Brown University to figure that one out.
Things could be worse Mr. President – gas could be at $4.00 a gallon – then you’d really be in trouble.
See, now you can carry on a conversation on the issue if it comes up at your upcoming X-mas work party as you munch on shrimp.
The Irish
According to the Notre Dame AD, Charlie Weiss sealed his fate with late November losses. What?
Does that mean if he beat Navy, he would have kept his job? Ridiculous.
How about analyzing his body of work instead? For $10 million a year, you expect more, much more. It’s that simple. Don’t give me any garbage about a win over Connecticut would have helped Weiss’ cause. You insult my intelligence when you go there.
No one has asked me, but John Gruden is the guy I would go after if I ran Notre Dame’s athletic department.
Chucky can coach, is the right age and has the right approach in dealing with recruiting 18 year olds.
He has the energy, disposition, personality and communication skills to deal with the media attention that comes with coaching at Notre Dame. Finally, Gruden has Notre Dame ties – his old man coached there.
Look, we all know the Notre Dame “Brand” isn’t what it once was. However, the Irish is still the most loved and most hated college sports program in the nation. That means the “Brand” still has some life.
And with the right person is in charge, it can become a gold mine once again – even in 2010.
Cavaliers
I don’t like the way they are winning – beating teams late with talent instead of with suffocating defense. But it’s early.
Indians
My boy Kelly Shoppach got dealt. I still like his bat – although is .214 average in 2009 hurt his case. Regardless, I don’t worry much about average from that position if you can call a game, throw out 30% of runners trying to steal and hit for power. We’ll see what he does in Tampa.
Besides, the Indians claim they have three catchers in waiting who can do much better. We’ll see. One thing is for certain, if a couple of these guys are for real, I suggest you deal one of them for some pitching sooner rather than later.
I’ll say it over and over again – this starting staff on paper stinks. That’s what happens when you deal two Cy Young winners, your #2 falls off the face of the earth (Carmona), your #3 goes down (Westbrook) and your much-heralded farm system can only deliver one soft-tossing mediocre lefty after another.
And since pitching is 70% of this game, the Indians head into 2010 with Trent Dilfer as their quarterback.
Browns
Not much this week. You see the same thing I see.
I have come to one conclusion however – this is the worse offensive talent in terms of playmakers I have ever seen on one team at the professional level – that’s after 40 years of watching folks.
We begged the Browns to draft some “playmakers” in the 2009 draft. They decided to continually trade down, accumulate picks and take a center #1.
How’s that working out?
We said the same thing when DA was at the helm earlier this season – it’s hard for any quarterback to get judged with this garbage around him. One could argue Brady Quinn had more offensive talent around him at Notre Dame. At least he actually had a pro tight end – who decided to go for the 60 feet, 6 inch gig instead of getting hit on every play. He also had an experienced “O” coordinator Charlie Weiss.
Regardless, it is what it is, and Quinn needs to show some improvement and consistency this month if he wants his stock to rise for 2010.
Life's not fair, but if you're BQ, when you begin to feel sorry for yourself, you need to realize it could be much worse - you could be digging ditches for a living instead of getting paid to play a game.
One more time – I would like to see Jerome Harrison get a full look in December. But then again, this offense not only lacks talent, but has absolutely no direction.
Harrison rushed for over 100 yards against the Bengals the first time around, and is hardly used the second time out against Cincy. What is the logic behind that decision?
We have complained over and over again the past 10 years that this team has absolutely no identity. As we speak, it’s like an amber alert is needed. It’s worse than no identity – you can’t even find the body.
Finally, answer me this question. In short yardgae situations, why don't the Browns consistently run over their left side - where they have spend a fortune recently on a guard in free agency, a tackle in the draft and a first round pick at center in 2009?
It seems to me if you can't consistently run behind those guys when you need it most, they ain't as good as advertised.
Let's at least find out one way or the other.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
If Brady Quinn is in Cleveland next year, we strongly suggest that commitment should be accompanied with a safety blanket – Charlie Weiss to run the offense. Weiss will soon be out of a job and the Browns will soon have a new team Czar who will demand to bring in his own GM & Head Coach. So it makes sense, if you finally commit to a quarterback, you make it as comfortable for him as possible. Of course, this makes too much sense to happen.
It was good to hear the Browns and the Bills are both looking at former Super Bowl winners to roam the sidelines or call the shots from above. It won’t guarantee success, but it’s the right call.
Which begs the question - what took so long? Sorry. I remain amazed and contemptuous of how billion $ organizations can be so dysfunctional for so long. But I’m sure their executives are impeccably dressed, get weekly trims and carry $500briefcases.
Nice performance by the Browns’ passing game against the lowly Lions. Compared to where they were as an offense, last week looked like a record-setter. However, we caution patience. There are six more games to be played and everyone is in on the audition. I’ll be more impressed with Quinn and the offense if they can establish some consistency the rest of the way. Three or four touchdowns in Cincy this Sunday would be a good start.
I was very disappointed in Eric Mangini’s decision to call time-out - allowing the Lions’ quarterback to get back on the field for the game’s final play last week.
But I was much more concerned that he spent the majority of the timeout complaining to the officials instead of getting his defense ready to get a stop. Finally, he came up with a hat trick by spending part of his Monday morning press conference whining about the interference call in the end zone and claiming the Lions were faking injuries to slow down the Browns’ hurry up offense.
Bottom line – the guy did everything wrong. Yes, you can excuse him for the timeout – that’s a judgment call, but the rest of it speaks volumes of him as a leader of men.
Let me get this right – Mangini’s football team, 1-8 going in, blows a 24-3 lead to a team that has won two games in the past 2+ seasons, and the head coach, who is supposed to set an example for his team, whines and complain for two days instead of taking responsibility for blowing a game that should have been won.
By the way, did anyone ever tell C. Stuckey it would be a good idea to stay in bounds after catching a huge third down completion when you are trying to run out the clock?
Then you wonder why coaches want players with high football/basketball/baseball IQs. The same can be said for Kamerion Wimbley several weeks ago when he decided to bat down a fourth down pass from the 1-yard line instead of making the interception -thus giving his offense possession on the 20 yard line after the touchback instead of the 1.
Perhaps that is a window into why Wimbley has never reached his full potential. He had a terrific rookie year, and when the NFL adjusted in year two, Wimbley has been incapable of adjusting to the adjustments.
There are thousands upon thousands of superior athletes who never reach their full potential. Game intelligence is important - otherwise the guys with the best bodies and fastest feet would always be the best players.
The Atlanta’s Hawks’ Josh Smith can play for me anytime – size, athleticism, quickness and a mean streak are qualities I like in a basketball player.
I know some of you don’t like what you are about to read, but if I were Danny Ferry, I would have a talk with AI about coming off the bench and giving the Cavaliers 25 minutes a night of instant offense.
If AI truly wants a ring – and he’s spent the last 10 years telling is just that - this is might be a good fit. If Iverson agrees and can tamp his ego, the question then becomes can Mike Brown handle LJ, Shaq and AI on the same team?
Where are all those football experts who were ripping Jim Tressel and his beleaguered quarterback several weeks ago. One local moron talk show host even suggested T. Pryor be moved to wide receiver. Nice.
Look, Pryor is not ready for the NFL – not even close. But give him credit. He dealt with the scrutiny and criticism of being the quarterback at OSU and has played better in recent weeks. Good for him. Our view hasn’t changed since we saw him first play in 2009 – he was overhyped coming into Columbus in 2009 and he wasn’t as bad as many proclaimed when the 2010 season was in peril back in October. He's an amazing athlete still learning to play quarterback. Period.
As for Tressel – he is what he is – an outstanding, yet boring, college football coach. The offense is the same it was when Pryor was missing wide open receivers and throwing multiple picks in the first half of the season. The difference – Pryor and company are making more plays. Some times, the answer is simple, but many make it more complicated than it is.
I am currently watching Colt McCoy throw touchdown passes all over the field and run for 150+ yards against Texas A&M. I’m sure Mel Kipper will have this kid as the #1 pick overall in 2010 after this one. And of course, if he throws three picks in the National Championship game, Kipper and company will drop him out of the top 15. Right.
Actually, McCoy looks pretty good to me, but so does the kid on the other team (Johnson). He (McCoy) probably sealed the Heisman votes with this effort. If he did, good for him, he seems like a decent kid.
Speaking of the draft - where are all those geniuses that had J. Russell as the #1 overall pick? I bring this up because the 2010 draft is fast approaching and we will soon begin hearing the endless daily spin. After years of simple personal observation, I truly believe you have to be a moron to consistently blow day 1 picks (#1 & #2 rounds). Yet I see teams do it every year.
Over-analysis is deadly. I truly believe if the draft took place two weeks after the Super Bowl, fewer mistakes would be made. Think about it - the more time you spend looking at a multiple choice question on a test, the more likely you are to go against your first instincts and get it wrong.
I hope you all enjoyed Thanksgiving and I look forward to seeing some of you at dinner on December 22. If necessary, the table will be under Robert Jampo of course.
Next time – Health Care. I promise.
It was good to hear the Browns and the Bills are both looking at former Super Bowl winners to roam the sidelines or call the shots from above. It won’t guarantee success, but it’s the right call.
Which begs the question - what took so long? Sorry. I remain amazed and contemptuous of how billion $ organizations can be so dysfunctional for so long. But I’m sure their executives are impeccably dressed, get weekly trims and carry $500briefcases.
Nice performance by the Browns’ passing game against the lowly Lions. Compared to where they were as an offense, last week looked like a record-setter. However, we caution patience. There are six more games to be played and everyone is in on the audition. I’ll be more impressed with Quinn and the offense if they can establish some consistency the rest of the way. Three or four touchdowns in Cincy this Sunday would be a good start.
I was very disappointed in Eric Mangini’s decision to call time-out - allowing the Lions’ quarterback to get back on the field for the game’s final play last week.
But I was much more concerned that he spent the majority of the timeout complaining to the officials instead of getting his defense ready to get a stop. Finally, he came up with a hat trick by spending part of his Monday morning press conference whining about the interference call in the end zone and claiming the Lions were faking injuries to slow down the Browns’ hurry up offense.
Bottom line – the guy did everything wrong. Yes, you can excuse him for the timeout – that’s a judgment call, but the rest of it speaks volumes of him as a leader of men.
Let me get this right – Mangini’s football team, 1-8 going in, blows a 24-3 lead to a team that has won two games in the past 2+ seasons, and the head coach, who is supposed to set an example for his team, whines and complain for two days instead of taking responsibility for blowing a game that should have been won.
By the way, did anyone ever tell C. Stuckey it would be a good idea to stay in bounds after catching a huge third down completion when you are trying to run out the clock?
Then you wonder why coaches want players with high football/basketball/baseball IQs. The same can be said for Kamerion Wimbley several weeks ago when he decided to bat down a fourth down pass from the 1-yard line instead of making the interception -thus giving his offense possession on the 20 yard line after the touchback instead of the 1.
Perhaps that is a window into why Wimbley has never reached his full potential. He had a terrific rookie year, and when the NFL adjusted in year two, Wimbley has been incapable of adjusting to the adjustments.
There are thousands upon thousands of superior athletes who never reach their full potential. Game intelligence is important - otherwise the guys with the best bodies and fastest feet would always be the best players.
The Atlanta’s Hawks’ Josh Smith can play for me anytime – size, athleticism, quickness and a mean streak are qualities I like in a basketball player.
I know some of you don’t like what you are about to read, but if I were Danny Ferry, I would have a talk with AI about coming off the bench and giving the Cavaliers 25 minutes a night of instant offense.
If AI truly wants a ring – and he’s spent the last 10 years telling is just that - this is might be a good fit. If Iverson agrees and can tamp his ego, the question then becomes can Mike Brown handle LJ, Shaq and AI on the same team?
Where are all those football experts who were ripping Jim Tressel and his beleaguered quarterback several weeks ago. One local moron talk show host even suggested T. Pryor be moved to wide receiver. Nice.
Look, Pryor is not ready for the NFL – not even close. But give him credit. He dealt with the scrutiny and criticism of being the quarterback at OSU and has played better in recent weeks. Good for him. Our view hasn’t changed since we saw him first play in 2009 – he was overhyped coming into Columbus in 2009 and he wasn’t as bad as many proclaimed when the 2010 season was in peril back in October. He's an amazing athlete still learning to play quarterback. Period.
As for Tressel – he is what he is – an outstanding, yet boring, college football coach. The offense is the same it was when Pryor was missing wide open receivers and throwing multiple picks in the first half of the season. The difference – Pryor and company are making more plays. Some times, the answer is simple, but many make it more complicated than it is.
I am currently watching Colt McCoy throw touchdown passes all over the field and run for 150+ yards against Texas A&M. I’m sure Mel Kipper will have this kid as the #1 pick overall in 2010 after this one. And of course, if he throws three picks in the National Championship game, Kipper and company will drop him out of the top 15. Right.
Actually, McCoy looks pretty good to me, but so does the kid on the other team (Johnson). He (McCoy) probably sealed the Heisman votes with this effort. If he did, good for him, he seems like a decent kid.
Speaking of the draft - where are all those geniuses that had J. Russell as the #1 overall pick? I bring this up because the 2010 draft is fast approaching and we will soon begin hearing the endless daily spin. After years of simple personal observation, I truly believe you have to be a moron to consistently blow day 1 picks (#1 & #2 rounds). Yet I see teams do it every year.
Over-analysis is deadly. I truly believe if the draft took place two weeks after the Super Bowl, fewer mistakes would be made. Think about it - the more time you spend looking at a multiple choice question on a test, the more likely you are to go against your first instincts and get it wrong.
I hope you all enjoyed Thanksgiving and I look forward to seeing some of you at dinner on December 22. If necessary, the table will be under Robert Jampo of course.
Next time – Health Care. I promise.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Criminalizing Terror
Yes, I still take requests. Sorry here goes for those of you who seek some hot issues wisdom from the “Wizard.”
In the famous boring words of coaches and athletes everywhere - "we are going to take it one issue at a time however."
Enemy Combatants In New York Court House
So let me get this right – the current administration is going to provide the same constitutional protections to enemy combatants captured on some foreign battlefield as granted a 16-year old pimple-faced kid in Gary, Indiana, who shoplifts a pack of extra small rubbers from the local Revco.
What’s wrong with this picture? Hell, where do I start?
First, this has never been done. These terrorists are not U.S. citizens and were not captured – notice I said captured not arrested – on U.S. soil. Therefore, by definition, they are strictly enemy combatants and should be dealt with in military courts - i.e. military tribunals. That’s what has always happened in the past and no U.S. law that I know of has been changed recently to affect a change in process/venue.
Secondly, bringing them to New York and putting them on trial in a civilian courtroom provides them rights and privileges that will make it harder on the prosecution and easier for the defense to turn this into a three-ring circus never see before on this planet.
This will make the OJ Trial look like the local drunk’s bi-yearly traffic court case in Plano, Texas.
Can you imagine the motions to suppress that will come of this alone?
For example, these creatures weren’t read their Miranda Rights after capture. Does that mean that some of the evidence gathered will not permissible? And that’s just one example from a non-lawyer who has a merely primitive understanding of our criminal judicial system. Think what a sharp attorney can come up with?
Third, this will give these pricks the stage they seek. They will be able to spew their anti U.S. venom in from of the world stage for months and months, if not years.
Fourth, the security measure alone will cost taxpayers in excess of $100 million dollars for this trial.
Fifth, this is a slap in the face of relatives and friends of the victims of 9-11 who were killed a few short blocks away. The large majority of those who still grieve today do not want this trial in their backyard. This will only serve to make them relive the horrors of that terrible day.
Sixth, the President and his attorney general (Eric Holder) have both publicly stated they are “certain” convictions will results and these individuals will be put to death for their crimes.
There’s nothing like poisoning the potential jury pool, hey guys? A first-year law student would have tons of fun with these asinine and inappropriate statements prior to trial when the jury selection process gets here.
Seventh, what if, by some chance, one lone jury – with an IQ near the daily temperature in San Diego, holds out and the prosecution fails to get full convictions?
You say it isn’t possible? In the famous words of an OJ juror as she left the courtroom after the verdict - “I don’t know nothin’ about no DNA!” Enough said.
Eight – the administration keeps going to the “we want to show that we are better than they are and show everyone how our system of justice can work” card. Right.
Then how come everyone with a law degree who has commented on this move has alredy stated, if by some chance these animals are acquitted, they would be re-arrested the minute they left the courtroom on other charges.
In other words, they ain’t going free! Period.
Do you think that set of circumstances would go over well in Algeria or South Yemen?
This group of morons in charge spent the past three years telling us how the previous administration recruited tons and tons of terrorists for the bad guys with how they handled the War on Terror, Gitmo, water boarding, etc.
And I’m sure this trial won’t disintegrate into a freak show, the Muslim world will fully grasp the nuances of our judicial system, and by some slim chance these guys get off and are re-arrested immediately, that won’t piss off jobless, 20-year old Muhammad Akbar Hakim in some refugee camp somewhere in the middle of some god-awful desert - making him an easy recruit to slip on 50 pounds of TNT with the desire to blow himself up and as many as he can take with him in some mall somewhere in middle-America.
Finally, this simply was not necessary. The administration has made it clear other terrorists are and will continue to be tried with military courts/tribunals. They (Obama & Company) specifically chose to put the biggest fish on trial in our criminal court system.
This was a cold, calculated, horrid decision with a downside the size of a lunar crater.
And here’s the kicker – these pieces of crap ALREADY CONFESSED & have asked to be sent to martyrdom where they can meet up with their 72 virgins.
No one has explained to me yet why a trial is even necessary when they’ve pled guilty already.
A personal note from a Catholic is in order here - if there truly is a God, the 72 virgins waiting are actually be 40 year-old men who look like they’re 60, with pot bellies, smelly pits and formerly possessed full NAMBLA membership while of this earth.
Now the only question remaining is why would this administration take this route?
Of course some of it has to do with appeasing the political base (far left nuts) – who want to see Bush and the CIA on trial as much, if not more, than the mastermind of 9-11.
My guess is the rest is likely pure arrogance – the belief by this bunch that they know best. It’s similar to the current health care debate. Forget what the majority of the people want. We are the smart ones and we know what is best for the masses.
This is dangerously close to a Marxist line of thinking – the concept that the masses cannot think for themselves and need to be guided, manipulated and controlled.
You see, assuming there’s no boom boom in New York City during this trial, Obama and his crew get a two-fer!
What’s a two-fer? I’m glad you asked. They (Obama & crew) get to blame George Bush and the CIA (read: Water boarding) all over again while likely getting full convictions.
The problem is the downside – the biggest circus trial in history, at a ridiculous financial cost, and more importantly, emotional expense for those near Ground Zero, and the nation for that matter, a job made more difficult with many more potential roadblocks for the prosecuting attorneys, and a world-stage for those who hate this nation, both in the courtroom in shackles and outside the courtroom across the planet.
The problem is - this bunch in charge simply don’t care. They have an agenda and they are simply grinding it out. The term used to describe the current administration is “ideologues.”
I would simplify it and just say what we have here is the radical 1960s/70s crew that was busy smoking as much pot as possible, dancing naked to Joplin/Hendrix songs, organizing sit-ins across college campuses, and basically rebelling against authority at every turn, now finally in charge and making the decisions - with a charming, likeable, personable, 48-year old, who looks in way over his head, as their figure-head in charge.
It's the inmates running the asylum.
America wanted change - and they got it. Boy did they get it.
Next – the Health Care Debate or Palin Mania – you choose.
In the famous boring words of coaches and athletes everywhere - "we are going to take it one issue at a time however."
Enemy Combatants In New York Court House
So let me get this right – the current administration is going to provide the same constitutional protections to enemy combatants captured on some foreign battlefield as granted a 16-year old pimple-faced kid in Gary, Indiana, who shoplifts a pack of extra small rubbers from the local Revco.
What’s wrong with this picture? Hell, where do I start?
First, this has never been done. These terrorists are not U.S. citizens and were not captured – notice I said captured not arrested – on U.S. soil. Therefore, by definition, they are strictly enemy combatants and should be dealt with in military courts - i.e. military tribunals. That’s what has always happened in the past and no U.S. law that I know of has been changed recently to affect a change in process/venue.
Secondly, bringing them to New York and putting them on trial in a civilian courtroom provides them rights and privileges that will make it harder on the prosecution and easier for the defense to turn this into a three-ring circus never see before on this planet.
This will make the OJ Trial look like the local drunk’s bi-yearly traffic court case in Plano, Texas.
Can you imagine the motions to suppress that will come of this alone?
For example, these creatures weren’t read their Miranda Rights after capture. Does that mean that some of the evidence gathered will not permissible? And that’s just one example from a non-lawyer who has a merely primitive understanding of our criminal judicial system. Think what a sharp attorney can come up with?
Third, this will give these pricks the stage they seek. They will be able to spew their anti U.S. venom in from of the world stage for months and months, if not years.
Fourth, the security measure alone will cost taxpayers in excess of $100 million dollars for this trial.
Fifth, this is a slap in the face of relatives and friends of the victims of 9-11 who were killed a few short blocks away. The large majority of those who still grieve today do not want this trial in their backyard. This will only serve to make them relive the horrors of that terrible day.
Sixth, the President and his attorney general (Eric Holder) have both publicly stated they are “certain” convictions will results and these individuals will be put to death for their crimes.
There’s nothing like poisoning the potential jury pool, hey guys? A first-year law student would have tons of fun with these asinine and inappropriate statements prior to trial when the jury selection process gets here.
Seventh, what if, by some chance, one lone jury – with an IQ near the daily temperature in San Diego, holds out and the prosecution fails to get full convictions?
You say it isn’t possible? In the famous words of an OJ juror as she left the courtroom after the verdict - “I don’t know nothin’ about no DNA!” Enough said.
Eight – the administration keeps going to the “we want to show that we are better than they are and show everyone how our system of justice can work” card. Right.
Then how come everyone with a law degree who has commented on this move has alredy stated, if by some chance these animals are acquitted, they would be re-arrested the minute they left the courtroom on other charges.
In other words, they ain’t going free! Period.
Do you think that set of circumstances would go over well in Algeria or South Yemen?
This group of morons in charge spent the past three years telling us how the previous administration recruited tons and tons of terrorists for the bad guys with how they handled the War on Terror, Gitmo, water boarding, etc.
And I’m sure this trial won’t disintegrate into a freak show, the Muslim world will fully grasp the nuances of our judicial system, and by some slim chance these guys get off and are re-arrested immediately, that won’t piss off jobless, 20-year old Muhammad Akbar Hakim in some refugee camp somewhere in the middle of some god-awful desert - making him an easy recruit to slip on 50 pounds of TNT with the desire to blow himself up and as many as he can take with him in some mall somewhere in middle-America.
Finally, this simply was not necessary. The administration has made it clear other terrorists are and will continue to be tried with military courts/tribunals. They (Obama & Company) specifically chose to put the biggest fish on trial in our criminal court system.
This was a cold, calculated, horrid decision with a downside the size of a lunar crater.
And here’s the kicker – these pieces of crap ALREADY CONFESSED & have asked to be sent to martyrdom where they can meet up with their 72 virgins.
No one has explained to me yet why a trial is even necessary when they’ve pled guilty already.
A personal note from a Catholic is in order here - if there truly is a God, the 72 virgins waiting are actually be 40 year-old men who look like they’re 60, with pot bellies, smelly pits and formerly possessed full NAMBLA membership while of this earth.
Now the only question remaining is why would this administration take this route?
Of course some of it has to do with appeasing the political base (far left nuts) – who want to see Bush and the CIA on trial as much, if not more, than the mastermind of 9-11.
My guess is the rest is likely pure arrogance – the belief by this bunch that they know best. It’s similar to the current health care debate. Forget what the majority of the people want. We are the smart ones and we know what is best for the masses.
This is dangerously close to a Marxist line of thinking – the concept that the masses cannot think for themselves and need to be guided, manipulated and controlled.
You see, assuming there’s no boom boom in New York City during this trial, Obama and his crew get a two-fer!
What’s a two-fer? I’m glad you asked. They (Obama & crew) get to blame George Bush and the CIA (read: Water boarding) all over again while likely getting full convictions.
The problem is the downside – the biggest circus trial in history, at a ridiculous financial cost, and more importantly, emotional expense for those near Ground Zero, and the nation for that matter, a job made more difficult with many more potential roadblocks for the prosecuting attorneys, and a world-stage for those who hate this nation, both in the courtroom in shackles and outside the courtroom across the planet.
The problem is - this bunch in charge simply don’t care. They have an agenda and they are simply grinding it out. The term used to describe the current administration is “ideologues.”
I would simplify it and just say what we have here is the radical 1960s/70s crew that was busy smoking as much pot as possible, dancing naked to Joplin/Hendrix songs, organizing sit-ins across college campuses, and basically rebelling against authority at every turn, now finally in charge and making the decisions - with a charming, likeable, personable, 48-year old, who looks in way over his head, as their figure-head in charge.
It's the inmates running the asylum.
America wanted change - and they got it. Boy did they get it.
Next – the Health Care Debate or Palin Mania – you choose.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
What You Won't Get Elsewhere
You are warned - I'm not in a good mood as I'm writing.
Let's start on a positive note however.
I know you don't care, but so what. I'm 3-1 as head coach after a Saturday sweep, including a come from behind 3-point win against a solid squad. My sixth grade Catholic girls actually manned up, laid the wood defensively and executed down the stretch to earn the W. That's saying something when you are dealing with normally "soft" Catholic kids who are more concerned about getting an I-pod Touch for X-mas than putting a body on someone when rebounding.
I'm very proud of the little ones. Big one today - we play the league's version of the New York Yankees. Yes, I'm having a ton of fun. As I've said over and over again, I like working with children much more than adults. Perhaps that's why I'm anti-social unless you are paying me to communicate with others.
Gilbert & Bernie
Is it just me or is there something inappropriate about the owner of the Cavaliers (Dan Gilbert), and now an executive for the Cleveland Browns (Bernie Kosar), on all the local radio talk shows last week pitching the casino amendment in the state of Ohio?
I voted for the damn thing, but that’s not the point. It just isn’t right for individual in those positions to be publicly lobbying for such a proposition.
Regardless, I doubt their leagues’ respective commissioners will do anything about it. In Gilbert’s case, it looks like he’s angling to invest and make money on casino gambling in Cleveland. Why am I the only one who thinks that’s inappropriate as long as he owns the local basketball team in town?
Cavs
I am starting to fade on Mike Browns, and it has nothing to do with the Cavaliers’
3-3 record. It’s early and they will win a ton of games. My criticism of Mike Brown has a four-prong analysis attached to it.
First, you cannot play Z and Shaq together very often or for very long. You can’t defend quicker front lines that way, especially when they go pick and roll against you. Why he’s experimenting with this group confuses me.
Secondly, I agree with Charles Barkley when he insists, time and time again, the Cavaliers need to speed up the game. They have the game’s best open court finisher (LJ) – it’s not even close. This team should run as much as possible. Instead, they still walk it up too much for my taste.
Third, I am SICK & TIRED of watching screen/roll with LJ and Andy V. There is absolutely no reason to run it with Andy. He’s no threat to score unless he’s standing under the basket with no one around him. Therefore, when Andy sets the screen, all that does is bring a second defender to LJ. And when Andy rolls to the basket now, with Shaq in the line-up, the lane is clogged more than in the past, making the roll to the basket more difficult.
If you are going to run screen/roll, you HAVE to run it with someone who can score the basketball, otherwise it does no good. This is the third time I've brought this specific criticism up.
Finally, I refuse to let him (MB) off the hook for his match-up decisions versus the Magic last spring. His stubborness in keeping a smaller defender on Hedo T. made it easy for Orlando to run its half-court and get the exact shot they wanted time and time again.
James on Hedo T. was the right call. Period. All Brown did was get Hedo paid in the off-season.
Many Acta
Firs, I have no idea how this guy will do. I do assume they hired him for three reasons however.
He’s used to dealing with young (aka: bad) teams. He’s Spanish and that helps a lot these days. And finally, he comes cheap. Yes, I know he was prepared, did his homework and said all the right things in his multiple interviews with Mark Shapiro.
But something tells me Shapiro simply doesn’t have the make-up (aka: stones) to hire someone with clout.
You see, some people are more comfortable hiring individuals to work for them who won’t dominate them in any way. You know where I’m going. These bosses are “insecure,” to put it nicely.
More and more, I get the read Shapiro falls in this category. No, I didn’t want self-promoter Bobby Valentine. But an experienced winner at the helm would have been a better choice.
Here’s the question you have to ask – Did the Indians clearly upgrade in going from Wedge to Acta? There is absolutely no way of knowing the answer to that at this point. And that, my friends, is the problem.
Regardless, we wish Acta well. And again, it won’t matter until you get quality starting pitching. I keep repeating myself, don’t I? Remember, with repetition, come retention. Hopefully, some of this wit and wisdom is rubbing off on you.
Many Good Options
Never has there been so many qualified football people out of work and available. I've harped on three - Bill C., Marty S., and Mike S., time and time again. What's wrong with Tony Dungy? Absolutely nothing. Make it four.
Randy Lerner can't possibly screw this up again. Or can he? Read below.
Browns Mess
So it’s George Kokinis’ fault the Browns are a disaster. Then we are told that Eric Mangini will have a hand in picking his new boss. Amazing. Who the hell with any credibility would come here if that’s true?
My guess is Randy Lerner will come to his senses after talking to qualified individuals and realize no one will come here if part of the deal is Mangini absolutely stays in 2010.
Hey, some of the same media members who okayed the move to Derek Anderson now go on record as saying Brady Quinn wasn’t given enough snaps as the starter to find out if he can play or not. Nice.
Next, they’ll tell us unemployment seems to be high now that’s its reached 10.2%.
These are also the same morons who have decided the Browns will definitely have two new quarterbacks in town next fall instead of Quinn and Anderson without knowing who will run the show next fall.
Kudos to former Browns Head Coach Sam Rutigliano, who nailed it last week, when Browns’ television color commentator Doug Dieken echoed the current media line, stating neither quarterback has done the job and next year’s quarterback is elsewhere.
Rutigliano then responded by acknowledging Quinn’s poor play in the first 2 1/2 games, but made clear the Browns have well over two years worth of footage on Anderson to go by but less than six full games on Quinn.
If Randy Lerner wants a wise, old football man to lean on, he should contact Rutigliano and offer him a corner office in Berea. He can't do worse.
More Browns’ Mess
The more I think about the Browns, the more I get ticked off. These so-called experts sleep in their offices 24-7, fly all over the country checking out prospects in their underwear and watch film until they are blue in the face.
Why do these people make it more difficult than it should be?
Thus, I leave you today with the following - my thoughts, on record, in the order I wanted the Browns to go on the first day of the draft.
Remember, I’m no scout, have no GM experience and watched a lot less DI football last fall than your average drunk 35 year old wearing his Charlie Frye game jersey looking to get laid on the end of a bar stool in some wings joint, in heaven because he can watch six different conferences on large plasmas at one time will sipping his seventh Michelob Ultra.
Here were my exact words in print just after the draft.
“If you read my previous entry, you were aware I preferred quality over quantity in terms of draft philosophy and that I wanted Cleveland to come away with a minimum of two of the following five players (in order of importance), in the 2009 draft – Crabtree (TT), Maualuga (USC), Jenkins (OSU) Moreno (GU) and Wells (OSU). And yes, the way the draft evolved, they could have easily had a combination of the two considering Maualaga’s free fall into the second round, as well as other factors.”
Let's start on a positive note however.
I know you don't care, but so what. I'm 3-1 as head coach after a Saturday sweep, including a come from behind 3-point win against a solid squad. My sixth grade Catholic girls actually manned up, laid the wood defensively and executed down the stretch to earn the W. That's saying something when you are dealing with normally "soft" Catholic kids who are more concerned about getting an I-pod Touch for X-mas than putting a body on someone when rebounding.
I'm very proud of the little ones. Big one today - we play the league's version of the New York Yankees. Yes, I'm having a ton of fun. As I've said over and over again, I like working with children much more than adults. Perhaps that's why I'm anti-social unless you are paying me to communicate with others.
Gilbert & Bernie
Is it just me or is there something inappropriate about the owner of the Cavaliers (Dan Gilbert), and now an executive for the Cleveland Browns (Bernie Kosar), on all the local radio talk shows last week pitching the casino amendment in the state of Ohio?
I voted for the damn thing, but that’s not the point. It just isn’t right for individual in those positions to be publicly lobbying for such a proposition.
Regardless, I doubt their leagues’ respective commissioners will do anything about it. In Gilbert’s case, it looks like he’s angling to invest and make money on casino gambling in Cleveland. Why am I the only one who thinks that’s inappropriate as long as he owns the local basketball team in town?
Cavs
I am starting to fade on Mike Browns, and it has nothing to do with the Cavaliers’
3-3 record. It’s early and they will win a ton of games. My criticism of Mike Brown has a four-prong analysis attached to it.
First, you cannot play Z and Shaq together very often or for very long. You can’t defend quicker front lines that way, especially when they go pick and roll against you. Why he’s experimenting with this group confuses me.
Secondly, I agree with Charles Barkley when he insists, time and time again, the Cavaliers need to speed up the game. They have the game’s best open court finisher (LJ) – it’s not even close. This team should run as much as possible. Instead, they still walk it up too much for my taste.
Third, I am SICK & TIRED of watching screen/roll with LJ and Andy V. There is absolutely no reason to run it with Andy. He’s no threat to score unless he’s standing under the basket with no one around him. Therefore, when Andy sets the screen, all that does is bring a second defender to LJ. And when Andy rolls to the basket now, with Shaq in the line-up, the lane is clogged more than in the past, making the roll to the basket more difficult.
If you are going to run screen/roll, you HAVE to run it with someone who can score the basketball, otherwise it does no good. This is the third time I've brought this specific criticism up.
Finally, I refuse to let him (MB) off the hook for his match-up decisions versus the Magic last spring. His stubborness in keeping a smaller defender on Hedo T. made it easy for Orlando to run its half-court and get the exact shot they wanted time and time again.
James on Hedo T. was the right call. Period. All Brown did was get Hedo paid in the off-season.
Many Acta
Firs, I have no idea how this guy will do. I do assume they hired him for three reasons however.
He’s used to dealing with young (aka: bad) teams. He’s Spanish and that helps a lot these days. And finally, he comes cheap. Yes, I know he was prepared, did his homework and said all the right things in his multiple interviews with Mark Shapiro.
But something tells me Shapiro simply doesn’t have the make-up (aka: stones) to hire someone with clout.
You see, some people are more comfortable hiring individuals to work for them who won’t dominate them in any way. You know where I’m going. These bosses are “insecure,” to put it nicely.
More and more, I get the read Shapiro falls in this category. No, I didn’t want self-promoter Bobby Valentine. But an experienced winner at the helm would have been a better choice.
Here’s the question you have to ask – Did the Indians clearly upgrade in going from Wedge to Acta? There is absolutely no way of knowing the answer to that at this point. And that, my friends, is the problem.
Regardless, we wish Acta well. And again, it won’t matter until you get quality starting pitching. I keep repeating myself, don’t I? Remember, with repetition, come retention. Hopefully, some of this wit and wisdom is rubbing off on you.
Many Good Options
Never has there been so many qualified football people out of work and available. I've harped on three - Bill C., Marty S., and Mike S., time and time again. What's wrong with Tony Dungy? Absolutely nothing. Make it four.
Randy Lerner can't possibly screw this up again. Or can he? Read below.
Browns Mess
So it’s George Kokinis’ fault the Browns are a disaster. Then we are told that Eric Mangini will have a hand in picking his new boss. Amazing. Who the hell with any credibility would come here if that’s true?
My guess is Randy Lerner will come to his senses after talking to qualified individuals and realize no one will come here if part of the deal is Mangini absolutely stays in 2010.
Hey, some of the same media members who okayed the move to Derek Anderson now go on record as saying Brady Quinn wasn’t given enough snaps as the starter to find out if he can play or not. Nice.
Next, they’ll tell us unemployment seems to be high now that’s its reached 10.2%.
These are also the same morons who have decided the Browns will definitely have two new quarterbacks in town next fall instead of Quinn and Anderson without knowing who will run the show next fall.
Kudos to former Browns Head Coach Sam Rutigliano, who nailed it last week, when Browns’ television color commentator Doug Dieken echoed the current media line, stating neither quarterback has done the job and next year’s quarterback is elsewhere.
Rutigliano then responded by acknowledging Quinn’s poor play in the first 2 1/2 games, but made clear the Browns have well over two years worth of footage on Anderson to go by but less than six full games on Quinn.
If Randy Lerner wants a wise, old football man to lean on, he should contact Rutigliano and offer him a corner office in Berea. He can't do worse.
More Browns’ Mess
The more I think about the Browns, the more I get ticked off. These so-called experts sleep in their offices 24-7, fly all over the country checking out prospects in their underwear and watch film until they are blue in the face.
Why do these people make it more difficult than it should be?
Thus, I leave you today with the following - my thoughts, on record, in the order I wanted the Browns to go on the first day of the draft.
Remember, I’m no scout, have no GM experience and watched a lot less DI football last fall than your average drunk 35 year old wearing his Charlie Frye game jersey looking to get laid on the end of a bar stool in some wings joint, in heaven because he can watch six different conferences on large plasmas at one time will sipping his seventh Michelob Ultra.
Here were my exact words in print just after the draft.
“If you read my previous entry, you were aware I preferred quality over quantity in terms of draft philosophy and that I wanted Cleveland to come away with a minimum of two of the following five players (in order of importance), in the 2009 draft – Crabtree (TT), Maualuga (USC), Jenkins (OSU) Moreno (GU) and Wells (OSU). And yes, the way the draft evolved, they could have easily had a combination of the two considering Maualaga’s free fall into the second round, as well as other factors.”
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Mangini's Meteoric Power Loss
I did not watch the Browns’ game today. I went 1-1 with my 6th grade girls’ basketball coaching duties, losing 13-12 in the opener before earning a 40 point win in game #2.
The sad part is we underachieved in game #1. That one was very winnable. I’ll take the blame. Unfortunately, whether you lose by one point or win by 40 – they both count the same. We sit at .500 unfortunately.
As for the Browns – I DVRd it and flew through it quickly. Nice.
While the media is now writing about DA’s quarterback rating, Quinn’s $11 million bonus he doesn’t reach if he doesn’t play, the fact this franchise, dating back to its original founding some 70+ years ago, may have hit rock, I've kept my eye on the ball – the record-setting speed by which Eric Mangini has lost power an influence – and I am not talking over his players.
Bernie Kosar was added as a consultant two weeks ago and here’s my interpretation of that act because it weighs heavily on the future of this franchise with each new ass-whipping.
Randy Lerner added Kosar for two reasons. First, this was a PR move to keep the fans from burning him in effigy. We get it. Everyone over 40 who follows the Browns likes or loves BK - even though, at times, he sounds like a punch-drunk 45 year old ex-fighter.
Secondly, this is a clear indication Lerner is already fading on Mangini. Mangini is his hand-picked guy. The coach he (Lerner) had to have minutes after finding out Mangini had just been fired in New York.
And here’s where we are eight games into the Mangini regime - the expansion Browns of 1999 would be -2 over this bunch. That's all you need to know.
Remember, Mangini was put in TOTAL control. What no one has mentioned is that Mangini looks as though he has made a bad organization worse - not just the play on the field mind you, but the whole shootin' match. Lerner even let Mangini hand-pick his own GM. There is no one else to blame folks.
Look at the resume so far - Mangini signed the free agents, traded down on draft day time and time again looking for quantity instead of quality - passing up potential playmakers in the process, he traded Winslow and Butterfingers when their value was at their lowest, waited forever to select a quarterback as though he were guarding a national secret, then threw his choice overboard quicker than a Hollywood DIVA gets a divorce, and finally, he surrounded his quarterbacks with what look like generic collegiate receivers - two of which he drafted in the second round just a few months ago.
Unfortunately, there is more - like could you believe, in 2009, Jim Brown has scored as many rushing touchdowns for the Browns as all the backs on the roster combined - none!
I'll stop now. This isn't funny.
It's all on him folks - there is nowhere for Mangini to hide and he knows it.
So where are we?
Mangini knows he’s already in trouble.
How do I know this?
Simple. He couldn’t keep Kosar, someone with absolutely NO NFL experience in terms of front office work, from being added to “supervise.” Lerner has begun stepping on Mangini’s toes and it will get worse.
And please, don’t believe the report that is circulating locally the addition of Kosar was “suggested” by Mangini. The reporter who broke that story should never be permitted in front of a laptop again. Oh, yea - the control freak coach went to the owner and suggested he (Lerner) hire a consultant with no experience to oversee what he (Mangini) was doing.
Look, I don’t see Lerner firing Mangini during the off-week and paying him and his staff for the next 3 1/2 years. That would take huge stones and what would it prove?
What would I do if I were advising Lerner?
Okay, let’s go over our suggestions post-2008 first.
First, hire a HOF coach – either Marty or Bill Cowher. He didn't.
If neither one wants it, be PATIENT, go slow and get it right. He didn't.
Look – Mike Shanahan just became available.
No, no. no. Don’t make Mangini the offer. Talk to Shanahan first. He didn't.
And what are you doing Randy hiring a coach before picking a GM? You only do that if a Hall of Fame coach is about to come to town – like Marty, Bill or Mike. You don’t give a head coach that kind of control unless he’s earned it. Hell, even Marty got too much power in Cleveland by most accounts in the late 80s.
He didn't.
This is all on record.
Here’s what likely happened.
Randy Lerner had no one around him to tell him he was doing it WRONG. You see, most people value their paychecks more than their credibility. Lerner was bombarded by the media and fans that this time around he needed to hire someone with NFL coaching experience. And that’s exactly what he did. He hired Mangini. You could see this one coming.
I wrote after the hiring that I understood why he hired Mangini even though I wanted someone with a much better resume. I also wrote I understood why Mangini hired his own GM. I would do the same if given that kind of power. That doesn’t make it right.
So where are we now?
Bernie Kosar’s power will grow with every future loss. Look I love BK. It wasn't hs fault we didn't get to the Super Bowl, it was a lack of a pass rush. That too is for another day. But BK is a rookie all over again. Then again, how much worse can he do?
So what would I do if I had Lerner’s ear now?
Here’s more advice he won’t follow - spend the next two weeks (bye week time) in search of the best available Team President/GM who happens to be out of work. Bernie can consult – that’s fine. But bring in a pro and put him at the top of the hierarchy. I would also tell Lerner to “man up” and join the new “team president” on the podium when the announcement is made.
The fans need to see Randy Lerner and he needs to address the media – even if he’s not comfortable. His Howard Hughes act isn’t working. Look, I like owners who stay in the background, but this is ridiculous. It borders on the bizarre.
If Mangini does not like having a boss – too bad What is he going to do – quit and lose 3 1/2 years of checks? That won’t happen. Mangini needs to focus on coaching the team. Period.
Soon, you will begin hearing media morons and idiot fans calling for Mangini to be fired and the defensive coordinator to be named interim ASAP. It’s actually already started. Good idea.
The Browns’ defense has been outstanding this fall. I think they rank 32nd in a 32-team league. Obviously, this guy has earned a raise in title and pay. Oh, I get it - they weren’t embarrassed against the Bears, so the guy should get the gig. That’s what drunk fans dream up before sleeping it off.
Look, the truth is I don’t know where this train is going. We are truly in uncharted territory folks. I have been watching this team since the late 60s and I can’t remember it being this bad. But I know a runaway locomotive when I see one, and this baby has no brakes.
Lerner may surprise me and decide to blow it up after the season and start over – AGAIN. If that happens, ownership will surely look to finally hire someone with immense status/credentials to either run the show (team president) or coach (HOFer).
Regardless, if Mangini survives and is back coaching this team in 2010, one thing is certain, he won't be in charge of trading down on draft day and picking a right guard late in round one. Hell, if this coninues and they finish 2-14 or there abouts, he might not have the authority left to model the locker room again.
This is a truly a meteoric fall. Which begs the real question Randy - What did he (Mangini) ever do to earn such total control of a billion $ organization in the first place?
The sad part is we underachieved in game #1. That one was very winnable. I’ll take the blame. Unfortunately, whether you lose by one point or win by 40 – they both count the same. We sit at .500 unfortunately.
As for the Browns – I DVRd it and flew through it quickly. Nice.
While the media is now writing about DA’s quarterback rating, Quinn’s $11 million bonus he doesn’t reach if he doesn’t play, the fact this franchise, dating back to its original founding some 70+ years ago, may have hit rock, I've kept my eye on the ball – the record-setting speed by which Eric Mangini has lost power an influence – and I am not talking over his players.
Bernie Kosar was added as a consultant two weeks ago and here’s my interpretation of that act because it weighs heavily on the future of this franchise with each new ass-whipping.
Randy Lerner added Kosar for two reasons. First, this was a PR move to keep the fans from burning him in effigy. We get it. Everyone over 40 who follows the Browns likes or loves BK - even though, at times, he sounds like a punch-drunk 45 year old ex-fighter.
Secondly, this is a clear indication Lerner is already fading on Mangini. Mangini is his hand-picked guy. The coach he (Lerner) had to have minutes after finding out Mangini had just been fired in New York.
And here’s where we are eight games into the Mangini regime - the expansion Browns of 1999 would be -2 over this bunch. That's all you need to know.
Remember, Mangini was put in TOTAL control. What no one has mentioned is that Mangini looks as though he has made a bad organization worse - not just the play on the field mind you, but the whole shootin' match. Lerner even let Mangini hand-pick his own GM. There is no one else to blame folks.
Look at the resume so far - Mangini signed the free agents, traded down on draft day time and time again looking for quantity instead of quality - passing up potential playmakers in the process, he traded Winslow and Butterfingers when their value was at their lowest, waited forever to select a quarterback as though he were guarding a national secret, then threw his choice overboard quicker than a Hollywood DIVA gets a divorce, and finally, he surrounded his quarterbacks with what look like generic collegiate receivers - two of which he drafted in the second round just a few months ago.
Unfortunately, there is more - like could you believe, in 2009, Jim Brown has scored as many rushing touchdowns for the Browns as all the backs on the roster combined - none!
I'll stop now. This isn't funny.
It's all on him folks - there is nowhere for Mangini to hide and he knows it.
So where are we?
Mangini knows he’s already in trouble.
How do I know this?
Simple. He couldn’t keep Kosar, someone with absolutely NO NFL experience in terms of front office work, from being added to “supervise.” Lerner has begun stepping on Mangini’s toes and it will get worse.
And please, don’t believe the report that is circulating locally the addition of Kosar was “suggested” by Mangini. The reporter who broke that story should never be permitted in front of a laptop again. Oh, yea - the control freak coach went to the owner and suggested he (Lerner) hire a consultant with no experience to oversee what he (Mangini) was doing.
Look, I don’t see Lerner firing Mangini during the off-week and paying him and his staff for the next 3 1/2 years. That would take huge stones and what would it prove?
What would I do if I were advising Lerner?
Okay, let’s go over our suggestions post-2008 first.
First, hire a HOF coach – either Marty or Bill Cowher. He didn't.
If neither one wants it, be PATIENT, go slow and get it right. He didn't.
Look – Mike Shanahan just became available.
No, no. no. Don’t make Mangini the offer. Talk to Shanahan first. He didn't.
And what are you doing Randy hiring a coach before picking a GM? You only do that if a Hall of Fame coach is about to come to town – like Marty, Bill or Mike. You don’t give a head coach that kind of control unless he’s earned it. Hell, even Marty got too much power in Cleveland by most accounts in the late 80s.
He didn't.
This is all on record.
Here’s what likely happened.
Randy Lerner had no one around him to tell him he was doing it WRONG. You see, most people value their paychecks more than their credibility. Lerner was bombarded by the media and fans that this time around he needed to hire someone with NFL coaching experience. And that’s exactly what he did. He hired Mangini. You could see this one coming.
I wrote after the hiring that I understood why he hired Mangini even though I wanted someone with a much better resume. I also wrote I understood why Mangini hired his own GM. I would do the same if given that kind of power. That doesn’t make it right.
So where are we now?
Bernie Kosar’s power will grow with every future loss. Look I love BK. It wasn't hs fault we didn't get to the Super Bowl, it was a lack of a pass rush. That too is for another day. But BK is a rookie all over again. Then again, how much worse can he do?
So what would I do if I had Lerner’s ear now?
Here’s more advice he won’t follow - spend the next two weeks (bye week time) in search of the best available Team President/GM who happens to be out of work. Bernie can consult – that’s fine. But bring in a pro and put him at the top of the hierarchy. I would also tell Lerner to “man up” and join the new “team president” on the podium when the announcement is made.
The fans need to see Randy Lerner and he needs to address the media – even if he’s not comfortable. His Howard Hughes act isn’t working. Look, I like owners who stay in the background, but this is ridiculous. It borders on the bizarre.
If Mangini does not like having a boss – too bad What is he going to do – quit and lose 3 1/2 years of checks? That won’t happen. Mangini needs to focus on coaching the team. Period.
Soon, you will begin hearing media morons and idiot fans calling for Mangini to be fired and the defensive coordinator to be named interim ASAP. It’s actually already started. Good idea.
The Browns’ defense has been outstanding this fall. I think they rank 32nd in a 32-team league. Obviously, this guy has earned a raise in title and pay. Oh, I get it - they weren’t embarrassed against the Bears, so the guy should get the gig. That’s what drunk fans dream up before sleeping it off.
Look, the truth is I don’t know where this train is going. We are truly in uncharted territory folks. I have been watching this team since the late 60s and I can’t remember it being this bad. But I know a runaway locomotive when I see one, and this baby has no brakes.
Lerner may surprise me and decide to blow it up after the season and start over – AGAIN. If that happens, ownership will surely look to finally hire someone with immense status/credentials to either run the show (team president) or coach (HOFer).
Regardless, if Mangini survives and is back coaching this team in 2010, one thing is certain, he won't be in charge of trading down on draft day and picking a right guard late in round one. Hell, if this coninues and they finish 2-14 or there abouts, he might not have the authority left to model the locker room again.
This is a truly a meteoric fall. Which begs the real question Randy - What did he (Mangini) ever do to earn such total control of a billion $ organization in the first place?
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Packers-Browns Post-Mortem & More
Are you sure this isn’t 1999? Right now, the Cleveland Browns look like an expansion team. No NFL team should be consistently doubled and tripled in total yardage on an almost weekly basis.
This had the looks of a terrible match-up with the Pack's veteran lockdown corners up against a pair of kids at wideout for the Browns. The results were as expected. Ugly! Meanwhile, Green Bay came in having all sorts of problems protecting Rodgers. Today, he stayed clean and played pitch and catch.
What is it with running an inside handoff on 2nd and 17? Imagine how the huddle responds when DA barks out that call sent in by the wizards of smart – otherwise known as the Browns’ offensive coaching staff.
Why Green Bay decided to open the game running the ball on almost every down in their first series escapes me. All it did was give Rodgers and company just one first quarter possession.
Every time I see Kamerion Wimbley in space trying to cover a running back or tight end, I cringe. And here I thought they drafted him several years ago to rush the passer.
How do you run a defense that allows Donald Driver, the Packers’ best wide receiver, to run a seam route with no one covering him?
The Packers had so little respect for the Browns offense, they tried a 50+ yard field goal, giving the Browns the ball on their own 45 after the FG was missed.
After next week’s expected bloodbath in Chicago, Derek Anderson will have made as many starts this season as Brady Quinn has for his entire career (5). I am still amazed many in the media have determined Quinn can’t play after five NFL starts. They are either extremely intelligent or complete fools. I vote for the latter. There is only one local scribe, Tony Grossi, who nailed it when he stated weeks ago that Quinn has been “the most mismanaged player in Browns history since the team’s return in 1999.”
Even though Anderson is well on his way to losing the starting job in Cleveland for the third time in his career, I actually feel sorry for him. He doesn't have much of a chance with this group. No one does. Regardless, don't look for Mangini to make the QB switch. Clearly, Mangini doesn’t see Quinn as an NFL starter based on the fact he took forever to pick his starter and then had a quick hook less than three full games into the season. This leads me to assume he went with Quinn to start the season in part to placate the owner – who wanted to see his investment of three years ago on the field. Regardless, the sad fact is whoever takes the snaps with this bunch doesn’t have much opportunity for success when you consider the youth at receiver and at “O” coordinator.
I feel like I’m truly in the twilight zone watching Cedric Benson and Kyle Orton leading their respective teams to early success in 2009.
NBA
I like the Cavaliers and Lakers to play in the Finals with LA winning in seven. The Lakers have the large majority of their pieces back and have added a unique talent in Ron Artest. I just hope I’m wrong. Meanwhile, I picked the Cavs to reach the Finals because they added the "Diesel" inside, who still looks like he has 1/2 a tank left, and a pair of perimeter players who bring size and athleticism to the roster - something they neded desperately.
Indians’ Chief
I don’t know who they will choose but I don’t want Bobby Valentine. He’s a self-promoter first and last. I wanted Grover because of his track record in Cleveland. Whatever. Regardless, until they find several quality starters, it wouldn’t matter if Billy Martin, the best manager I’ve ever seen, comes back from the dead, they won’t succeed.
This had the looks of a terrible match-up with the Pack's veteran lockdown corners up against a pair of kids at wideout for the Browns. The results were as expected. Ugly! Meanwhile, Green Bay came in having all sorts of problems protecting Rodgers. Today, he stayed clean and played pitch and catch.
What is it with running an inside handoff on 2nd and 17? Imagine how the huddle responds when DA barks out that call sent in by the wizards of smart – otherwise known as the Browns’ offensive coaching staff.
Why Green Bay decided to open the game running the ball on almost every down in their first series escapes me. All it did was give Rodgers and company just one first quarter possession.
Every time I see Kamerion Wimbley in space trying to cover a running back or tight end, I cringe. And here I thought they drafted him several years ago to rush the passer.
How do you run a defense that allows Donald Driver, the Packers’ best wide receiver, to run a seam route with no one covering him?
The Packers had so little respect for the Browns offense, they tried a 50+ yard field goal, giving the Browns the ball on their own 45 after the FG was missed.
After next week’s expected bloodbath in Chicago, Derek Anderson will have made as many starts this season as Brady Quinn has for his entire career (5). I am still amazed many in the media have determined Quinn can’t play after five NFL starts. They are either extremely intelligent or complete fools. I vote for the latter. There is only one local scribe, Tony Grossi, who nailed it when he stated weeks ago that Quinn has been “the most mismanaged player in Browns history since the team’s return in 1999.”
Even though Anderson is well on his way to losing the starting job in Cleveland for the third time in his career, I actually feel sorry for him. He doesn't have much of a chance with this group. No one does. Regardless, don't look for Mangini to make the QB switch. Clearly, Mangini doesn’t see Quinn as an NFL starter based on the fact he took forever to pick his starter and then had a quick hook less than three full games into the season. This leads me to assume he went with Quinn to start the season in part to placate the owner – who wanted to see his investment of three years ago on the field. Regardless, the sad fact is whoever takes the snaps with this bunch doesn’t have much opportunity for success when you consider the youth at receiver and at “O” coordinator.
I feel like I’m truly in the twilight zone watching Cedric Benson and Kyle Orton leading their respective teams to early success in 2009.
NBA
I like the Cavaliers and Lakers to play in the Finals with LA winning in seven. The Lakers have the large majority of their pieces back and have added a unique talent in Ron Artest. I just hope I’m wrong. Meanwhile, I picked the Cavs to reach the Finals because they added the "Diesel" inside, who still looks like he has 1/2 a tank left, and a pair of perimeter players who bring size and athleticism to the roster - something they neded desperately.
Indians’ Chief
I don’t know who they will choose but I don’t want Bobby Valentine. He’s a self-promoter first and last. I wanted Grover because of his track record in Cleveland. Whatever. Regardless, until they find several quality starters, it wouldn’t matter if Billy Martin, the best manager I’ve ever seen, comes back from the dead, they won’t succeed.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Browns - Steelers Post Mortem
The Steelers were going to go for it on 4th and 10 from the Browns’ 35 in the first quarter. A procedure call prior to the snap changed their minds. I hate to see teams punt inside the opponent’s 40 and applaud Pittsburgh for the initial idea. The fact that Pittsburgh had absolutely no fear of the Browns' offense also helped.
The wildcat offense is a gimmick, but it can work on occasion however. What I don’t like is to see a quarterback (i.e. Derek Anderson) out wide in that offense. What’s he going to do out there? Why not put a receiver out wide in that set? At least then, the defense has to take his presence seriously.
The Brows have now scored four offensive touchdowns this season. That’s exactly one touchdown less than Tom Brady threw in his second quarter of play today. Nice.
Brandon McDonald is a perfect example of the Browns playing an NFL second teamer as a starter. He missed a couple more tackles today and had a pick go through his hands in the Browns' end zone this afternoon. Think about it - Thomas and Steinbach are the only offensive starters who would play elsewhere. Rogers, Jackson, Pool and perhaps Bowen are the only defensive starters who would see significant time on a decent NFL team. You do the math.
I am dumbfounded as to why the Browns have not given Josh Cribbs a new deal. Again, this is not MLB or the NBA – where the players have guaranteed deals. If you tear up his current contract, give him a new five-year package, then he goes down next year with an injury, you don’t owe him the final four years of the deal. Therefore, if this guy is your best player – which he is right now, and he wants to stay in town – which he does – why not fix this problem now? It’s not like this is going to start a run on Browns’ players wanting new deals. They don’t have anyone else who is close to Cribbs in terms of productivity.
Pittsburgh has an excellent passing game with a talented group of receivers in tow. I do think Big Ben holding the ball so long will, in the long run, be a negative for him and the franchise. Yes, it gives his receivers more time to get open. It also shows he’s extremely tough. However, taking that many hits, year after year, will eventually take its toll on his body and shorten his career.
I love the routes the Steelers run. They love crossing patterns, where the receivers are headed up field as they make the reception. It gives them multiple opportunities for yards after catch (YAC). It is also the most difficult route to cover when you are in man-to-man – where the defender is chasing a receiver across the field.
In the NFL, no team should outgain another 500+ yards to 190, like Pittsburgh did today against the hapless Browns. It’s one thing to see that in high school and college, where the talent difference can be huge, but not in the NLF – where they ALL get paid. That’s embarrassing. It makes one wonder what Eric Mangini, his staff and the Browns were doing in all those voluntary camps, mini-camps, two-a-days, etc… the past six months.
The Browns' lone touchdown today was a pass to the fullback. That’s right, fullback. Luckily, he (Lawrence Vickers) caught it. However, I would not suggest they make a habit of throwing to fullbacks on third down and goal. There’s a reason fullbacks block and do little else.
Only in Cleveland can the Browns give up the fourth most yards in a single game in team history while the offense produces one lone touchdown, yet the focus by some in the media is on why the refs gave the Steelers a first down after a fourth down play when the television angle seemed to show it might have been short.
With all the drops recently and general youth at wide receiver on this roster, does anyone really believe David Patten, a 13-year vet with rings, wasn't good enough to make this roster? Come on.
I saw Future Hall of Famer, according to the National Media, Mark Sanchez, throw three of his five picks today. He didn’t get pulled and likely won’t get pulled next week even though he has struggled the last three weeks. The Jets will show the appropriate amount of patience you need to display with a young quarterback you believe in. You see, now we find out about Sanchez, not when he was sitting at 3-0 with the media and fans so far up his rear they couldn't see any daylight.
The trading deadline is less than 48 hours away. How many more draft picks will Mangini and company try to acquire? A reminder - it's nice to have quantity, but I'd rather have quality (aka:talent/playmakers).
The wildcat offense is a gimmick, but it can work on occasion however. What I don’t like is to see a quarterback (i.e. Derek Anderson) out wide in that offense. What’s he going to do out there? Why not put a receiver out wide in that set? At least then, the defense has to take his presence seriously.
The Brows have now scored four offensive touchdowns this season. That’s exactly one touchdown less than Tom Brady threw in his second quarter of play today. Nice.
Brandon McDonald is a perfect example of the Browns playing an NFL second teamer as a starter. He missed a couple more tackles today and had a pick go through his hands in the Browns' end zone this afternoon. Think about it - Thomas and Steinbach are the only offensive starters who would play elsewhere. Rogers, Jackson, Pool and perhaps Bowen are the only defensive starters who would see significant time on a decent NFL team. You do the math.
I am dumbfounded as to why the Browns have not given Josh Cribbs a new deal. Again, this is not MLB or the NBA – where the players have guaranteed deals. If you tear up his current contract, give him a new five-year package, then he goes down next year with an injury, you don’t owe him the final four years of the deal. Therefore, if this guy is your best player – which he is right now, and he wants to stay in town – which he does – why not fix this problem now? It’s not like this is going to start a run on Browns’ players wanting new deals. They don’t have anyone else who is close to Cribbs in terms of productivity.
Pittsburgh has an excellent passing game with a talented group of receivers in tow. I do think Big Ben holding the ball so long will, in the long run, be a negative for him and the franchise. Yes, it gives his receivers more time to get open. It also shows he’s extremely tough. However, taking that many hits, year after year, will eventually take its toll on his body and shorten his career.
I love the routes the Steelers run. They love crossing patterns, where the receivers are headed up field as they make the reception. It gives them multiple opportunities for yards after catch (YAC). It is also the most difficult route to cover when you are in man-to-man – where the defender is chasing a receiver across the field.
In the NFL, no team should outgain another 500+ yards to 190, like Pittsburgh did today against the hapless Browns. It’s one thing to see that in high school and college, where the talent difference can be huge, but not in the NLF – where they ALL get paid. That’s embarrassing. It makes one wonder what Eric Mangini, his staff and the Browns were doing in all those voluntary camps, mini-camps, two-a-days, etc… the past six months.
The Browns' lone touchdown today was a pass to the fullback. That’s right, fullback. Luckily, he (Lawrence Vickers) caught it. However, I would not suggest they make a habit of throwing to fullbacks on third down and goal. There’s a reason fullbacks block and do little else.
Only in Cleveland can the Browns give up the fourth most yards in a single game in team history while the offense produces one lone touchdown, yet the focus by some in the media is on why the refs gave the Steelers a first down after a fourth down play when the television angle seemed to show it might have been short.
With all the drops recently and general youth at wide receiver on this roster, does anyone really believe David Patten, a 13-year vet with rings, wasn't good enough to make this roster? Come on.
I saw Future Hall of Famer, according to the National Media, Mark Sanchez, throw three of his five picks today. He didn’t get pulled and likely won’t get pulled next week even though he has struggled the last three weeks. The Jets will show the appropriate amount of patience you need to display with a young quarterback you believe in. You see, now we find out about Sanchez, not when he was sitting at 3-0 with the media and fans so far up his rear they couldn't see any daylight.
The trading deadline is less than 48 hours away. How many more draft picks will Mangini and company try to acquire? A reminder - it's nice to have quantity, but I'd rather have quality (aka:talent/playmakers).
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Browns Get A Win
Wow. I just witnessed the NFL’s version of a botched abortion. The Cleveland Browns’ 6-3 win over the Buffalo Bills might be the worst NFL game I have ever seen. Period.
Regardless, congratulations to Eric Mangini, his coaches and players for their first win of the 2009 season. It does count.
There were so many horrid things going on, I don’t know where to begin. For one thing, I don’t think I’ve ever seen that many procedure and false starts by an offensive line – at any level. I realize the Bills have been hit hard by injuries, but all their linemen do get paid, don’t they? Even at the high school level, you don’t get that much movement prior to the snap.
When was the last time you saw an NFL game where the best player on the field was the punter? The Browns’ Dave Zastudil nailed three punts inside the Bills’ 5-yard line and had 386 yards punting on the day.
How is it possible for a pro team to complete its first pass with just 0:37 left in the half? Perhaps that’s why the Browns’ coaching staff sat on the ball with decent field position, timeouts in tow and the wind at their back late in the first half up 3-0. That was beyond conservative and bordering on the ridiculous. They won, so no one will mention it but me.
Speaking of the ridiculous, “Butterfingers” left town but left his calling card. I counted five drops on the day for the Browns. It must be infectious. When was the last time the Browns had that many drops and Braylon wasn’t involved?
I’m no offensive coordinator and don’t play one on television, but I would have tried to get the ball to TO more often if I were the Bills. He was the best talent on the football field – this side of Dave Zastudil of course. Thankfully for the Browns, the Bills decided to spread the garbage around.
On a positive note – and trust me – I had to look long and hard for one, the Browns have posted back-to-back 100 yard rushers in consecutive games. I knew turning the offense over to Derek Anderson would pay big dividends.
October 21 is the trading deadline I’m told. If true, I reiterate my hope that Brady Quinn has a new home address on Thursday the 22nd. Here’s a kid who actually wanted to play in Cleveland, waited patiently for his opportunity, went down with an injury once that opportunity came, came back and had to win the job again, was given the reigns, then yanked less than three games in. Quinn stunk in is 10 quarters of play in ’09 – no argument there. But anyone who has seen this mess of an offense, the schemes they use, the personnel packages they employ, and the overall talent level they possess and thinks that kid got a good, long look at QB needs a lobotomy.
As for next week’s trip to Pittsburgh to take on the Steelers, I expect it to be as ugly as watching one of the Indians’ soft-tossing lefties (pick your favorite) try to get out a quality line-up without their best stuff. The Las Vegas line might actually reach 20 – something unheard of in NFL circles.
Regardless, congratulations to Eric Mangini, his coaches and players for their first win of the 2009 season. It does count.
There were so many horrid things going on, I don’t know where to begin. For one thing, I don’t think I’ve ever seen that many procedure and false starts by an offensive line – at any level. I realize the Bills have been hit hard by injuries, but all their linemen do get paid, don’t they? Even at the high school level, you don’t get that much movement prior to the snap.
When was the last time you saw an NFL game where the best player on the field was the punter? The Browns’ Dave Zastudil nailed three punts inside the Bills’ 5-yard line and had 386 yards punting on the day.
How is it possible for a pro team to complete its first pass with just 0:37 left in the half? Perhaps that’s why the Browns’ coaching staff sat on the ball with decent field position, timeouts in tow and the wind at their back late in the first half up 3-0. That was beyond conservative and bordering on the ridiculous. They won, so no one will mention it but me.
Speaking of the ridiculous, “Butterfingers” left town but left his calling card. I counted five drops on the day for the Browns. It must be infectious. When was the last time the Browns had that many drops and Braylon wasn’t involved?
I’m no offensive coordinator and don’t play one on television, but I would have tried to get the ball to TO more often if I were the Bills. He was the best talent on the football field – this side of Dave Zastudil of course. Thankfully for the Browns, the Bills decided to spread the garbage around.
On a positive note – and trust me – I had to look long and hard for one, the Browns have posted back-to-back 100 yard rushers in consecutive games. I knew turning the offense over to Derek Anderson would pay big dividends.
October 21 is the trading deadline I’m told. If true, I reiterate my hope that Brady Quinn has a new home address on Thursday the 22nd. Here’s a kid who actually wanted to play in Cleveland, waited patiently for his opportunity, went down with an injury once that opportunity came, came back and had to win the job again, was given the reigns, then yanked less than three games in. Quinn stunk in is 10 quarters of play in ’09 – no argument there. But anyone who has seen this mess of an offense, the schemes they use, the personnel packages they employ, and the overall talent level they possess and thinks that kid got a good, long look at QB needs a lobotomy.
As for next week’s trip to Pittsburgh to take on the Steelers, I expect it to be as ugly as watching one of the Indians’ soft-tossing lefties (pick your favorite) try to get out a quality line-up without their best stuff. The Las Vegas line might actually reach 20 – something unheard of in NFL circles.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
0-4 Browns
The bar is so low in Cleveland when it comes to professional football that there were actually people locally praising the Browns’ effort against the Bengals.
That’s right, Cincinnati went on the road and gave up a ton of yards on special teams, fumbled a kick return deep in their end, couldn’t convert on a chip shot field or on a potential game-winning PAT late, allowed the Browns to produce their first 100 yard back in two years and still won.
Yet, the Browns were praised by many for “being competitive.” Nice.
Kudos to Josh Cribbs, who almost single-handedly won the game by giving Cleveland ridiculous field position time and time again, to rookie receiver Mohamed Massaquoi, who had a breakout game with eight grabs for well over 100 yards, to James Harrison, for rushing for over 120 yards, to safety Brodney Pool, for playing perhaps his best game as a pro, and to Shaun Rogers, who dominated on the kick block unit.
As for the rest of the players and coaching staff, this was a win that got away – nothing more nothing less. And the last time I checked, the goal is still to win the game in the NFL. Moral victories are nice when dealing with Little Leaguers, not professional athletes and coaches, who currently stand at 0-4, are paid to win, and not just to finally show up 1/4 of the way into the season.
This leads us to this week’s game between the sub par 1-3 Bills and the hapless 0-4 Browns. Contrary to the popular belief locally that the Browns are now finally headed in the right direction after at least showing up last Sunday, we believe the mediocre Bills will win at home unless they decide to play atrociously on special teams, let a back rush for 100+ yards against them in their building and turn in over to the Browns deep in their own end a couple times. Even with all that, they might still pull it off in overtime against this Browns team. Cincinnati did.
Let’s say 27-17 Bills with TO finally making some plays. As always, we hope we’re wrong and there is some light at the end of the tunnel.
One final note on last week’s loss at home to the Super Bowl bound Bengals - someone needs to tell Cleveland’s offense coordinator not to jump up and down giving high fives to anyone in the vicinity and generally cheering like a fat drunk in the top row of the stadium after his offense scores.
Act like you know what you are doing, instead of like you are thrilled to death your guys finally got it right for once. It just looks bad, very bad.
No, I didn’t forget about Butterfingers. What do you want me to say?
We had it right when we said you don’t take him at 3. We had it right when we said he was underachieving his first two years in the league and they should deal him while he still had some value. We had it right when we congratulated him on an outstanding season in 2007, but noted one season does not make a career. And we had it right when we named him “Butterfingers” long before anyone else figured it out.
We do wish him well with the Jets. Why shouldn't we? He’s probably play well there. He’ll also drop some ball because that’s what he does. Regardless, one good performance on national television while with thr Jets will probably get him a fat contract next year. Coaches never learn.
One thing is still certain – he was another huge miss in the draft for the Browns and epitomizes why this is organization has been so hapless regardless as to who is roaming the sideline and in charge since its return in 1999.
That’s right, Cincinnati went on the road and gave up a ton of yards on special teams, fumbled a kick return deep in their end, couldn’t convert on a chip shot field or on a potential game-winning PAT late, allowed the Browns to produce their first 100 yard back in two years and still won.
Yet, the Browns were praised by many for “being competitive.” Nice.
Kudos to Josh Cribbs, who almost single-handedly won the game by giving Cleveland ridiculous field position time and time again, to rookie receiver Mohamed Massaquoi, who had a breakout game with eight grabs for well over 100 yards, to James Harrison, for rushing for over 120 yards, to safety Brodney Pool, for playing perhaps his best game as a pro, and to Shaun Rogers, who dominated on the kick block unit.
As for the rest of the players and coaching staff, this was a win that got away – nothing more nothing less. And the last time I checked, the goal is still to win the game in the NFL. Moral victories are nice when dealing with Little Leaguers, not professional athletes and coaches, who currently stand at 0-4, are paid to win, and not just to finally show up 1/4 of the way into the season.
This leads us to this week’s game between the sub par 1-3 Bills and the hapless 0-4 Browns. Contrary to the popular belief locally that the Browns are now finally headed in the right direction after at least showing up last Sunday, we believe the mediocre Bills will win at home unless they decide to play atrociously on special teams, let a back rush for 100+ yards against them in their building and turn in over to the Browns deep in their own end a couple times. Even with all that, they might still pull it off in overtime against this Browns team. Cincinnati did.
Let’s say 27-17 Bills with TO finally making some plays. As always, we hope we’re wrong and there is some light at the end of the tunnel.
One final note on last week’s loss at home to the Super Bowl bound Bengals - someone needs to tell Cleveland’s offense coordinator not to jump up and down giving high fives to anyone in the vicinity and generally cheering like a fat drunk in the top row of the stadium after his offense scores.
Act like you know what you are doing, instead of like you are thrilled to death your guys finally got it right for once. It just looks bad, very bad.
No, I didn’t forget about Butterfingers. What do you want me to say?
We had it right when we said you don’t take him at 3. We had it right when we said he was underachieving his first two years in the league and they should deal him while he still had some value. We had it right when we congratulated him on an outstanding season in 2007, but noted one season does not make a career. And we had it right when we named him “Butterfingers” long before anyone else figured it out.
We do wish him well with the Jets. Why shouldn't we? He’s probably play well there. He’ll also drop some ball because that’s what he does. Regardless, one good performance on national television while with thr Jets will probably get him a fat contract next year. Coaches never learn.
One thing is still certain – he was another huge miss in the draft for the Browns and epitomizes why this is organization has been so hapless regardless as to who is roaming the sideline and in charge since its return in 1999.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
10 Thoughts On Browns Entering Week #4 versus Cincinnati
Right now, this team looks in total disarray – perhaps worse than it has looks at any time since its return. That’s saying something.
After three weeks, not one unit on this football team has improved over a year ago, and one could argue that every unit has regressed.
The coaching staff lost much of its credibility by pulling it’s starting quarterback just 10 quarter into the season after spending months painstakingly deliberating and making a choice as to who would run this team. Having said that, Brady Quinn needs to take responsibility for regressing as a player from where he was a year ago. Regardless, he clearly deserved more time to find his way – or not. There simply is not enough of a “body of evidence” to make a judgment on him as a starting NFL quarterback, and anyone who says there is should not be taken seriously. It's best for BQ to go elsewhere. A lot can change quickly in the NFL, but this regime, which is likely here for a while, just tossed him overboad. I suggest his agent get on the phone ASAP.
The team is a national joke after rewarding a player with a starting quarterback role after throwing three picks in two quarters of play. When has that happened before?
On three different occasions, in the same game, a running back pranced untouched into the end zone last week against a defense that looks as though it quit. When has that happened before?
As we expected, Mangini got absolutely no “Honeymoon Period” from the media and fans due to his “MR. Bill Management Style” and the team’s embarrassing start. That will only make it more difficult for the coaches to get the players to “buy in,” especially if they see everyone on the outside not buying in either.
I would like someone to explain to me how so many starters on this roster have kept their job after three weeks when so many players are underachieving – once again?
A reminder - over half of this roster is new. Mangini and company brought in their own people and then some. As someone who studies words for a living and is well-versed in sports PR, I don't want to hear "it takes time" or "change doesn't happen over night" from this regime. That's a copout and insults my intellligence. This is the NFL - where solid leadership on and off the field leads to marked improvement sooner rather than later.
This corner expects the Browns to be competitive against the Bengals. However, after what we’ve seen to date, it’s impossible for us to pick the Browns to win over a team that arguably should be 3-0 right now. We like Cincinnati, 33-23. No, there is no such thing as a moral victory in professional sports.
Where are Bill Cowher, Marty of Mike Shanahan when you need them? And to think all three were available when the Lerner family fell in love with Mangini. Ownership bypassed our first sports commandment - HIRE THE BEST TALENT AVAILABE TO RUN THE SHOW! But we’ve been over that ground numerous times. Having said that, intelligent followers should not fall into the same trap some media members and most fans will now fall into, and start demanding the coach’s head on a platter. As big a trainwreck as this seems right now, it’s way too early for that. Whether you like it or not, Mangini is here to stay. Besides, who is going to call him on the carpet -the general manager MANGINI hired?
After three weeks, not one unit on this football team has improved over a year ago, and one could argue that every unit has regressed.
The coaching staff lost much of its credibility by pulling it’s starting quarterback just 10 quarter into the season after spending months painstakingly deliberating and making a choice as to who would run this team. Having said that, Brady Quinn needs to take responsibility for regressing as a player from where he was a year ago. Regardless, he clearly deserved more time to find his way – or not. There simply is not enough of a “body of evidence” to make a judgment on him as a starting NFL quarterback, and anyone who says there is should not be taken seriously. It's best for BQ to go elsewhere. A lot can change quickly in the NFL, but this regime, which is likely here for a while, just tossed him overboad. I suggest his agent get on the phone ASAP.
The team is a national joke after rewarding a player with a starting quarterback role after throwing three picks in two quarters of play. When has that happened before?
On three different occasions, in the same game, a running back pranced untouched into the end zone last week against a defense that looks as though it quit. When has that happened before?
As we expected, Mangini got absolutely no “Honeymoon Period” from the media and fans due to his “MR. Bill Management Style” and the team’s embarrassing start. That will only make it more difficult for the coaches to get the players to “buy in,” especially if they see everyone on the outside not buying in either.
I would like someone to explain to me how so many starters on this roster have kept their job after three weeks when so many players are underachieving – once again?
A reminder - over half of this roster is new. Mangini and company brought in their own people and then some. As someone who studies words for a living and is well-versed in sports PR, I don't want to hear "it takes time" or "change doesn't happen over night" from this regime. That's a copout and insults my intellligence. This is the NFL - where solid leadership on and off the field leads to marked improvement sooner rather than later.
This corner expects the Browns to be competitive against the Bengals. However, after what we’ve seen to date, it’s impossible for us to pick the Browns to win over a team that arguably should be 3-0 right now. We like Cincinnati, 33-23. No, there is no such thing as a moral victory in professional sports.
Where are Bill Cowher, Marty of Mike Shanahan when you need them? And to think all three were available when the Lerner family fell in love with Mangini. Ownership bypassed our first sports commandment - HIRE THE BEST TALENT AVAILABE TO RUN THE SHOW! But we’ve been over that ground numerous times. Having said that, intelligent followers should not fall into the same trap some media members and most fans will now fall into, and start demanding the coach’s head on a platter. As big a trainwreck as this seems right now, it’s way too early for that. Whether you like it or not, Mangini is here to stay. Besides, who is going to call him on the carpet -the general manager MANGINI hired?
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Browns –Ravens Preview & More
Browns –Ravens Preview
On paper, this looks like it will be reminiscent of the Browns in 1999, when they had problems getting the ball across midfield against a good defense. All indications point to this getting ugly quickly.
Add the fact that Jamaal Lewis is out, means that Brady Quinn is likely to have absolutely no running game against the Ravens’ defense.
The upside is that Jerome Harrison should get a good, long look today and he’d better take advantage of it. Regardless, unless the Browns have something up their sleeve, Quinn could take a pounding.
The Ravens so far in this young season crush the run – as always - but have had problems against the pass. The Browns’ problem is this – Who do they have to throw to? Their #1 receiver, Butterfingers, is being doubled, and no one else is capable of getting open consistently.
Yes, spreading the field and trying to get one-on-ones (i.e. Harrison versus a linebacker) makes sense. However, will the line protect long enough for Quinn to find the open man?
Like I said, it could be a bloodletting.
On the other side, it would be nice to see the Browns defense play four full quarters –regardless of what happens on the other side of the ball. I love how some pundits put the defense’s second half collapses on the lack of offense -thus the "D" being on the field too long and wearing down.
Here’s my answer – get some three and outs on occasion and you won’t be on the field so long. And while you are at it, how about forcing ONE turnover?
Ravens 27-10 sound about right. Here’s hoping I’m way off.
Quinn
I was asked by a friend this week if I already soured on BQ after my last post where I called his play “very poor.” Absolutely not.
However, BQ looked tentative and held the ball too long against a mediocre Broncos defense. For me to suggest otherwise and let him off the hook would be wrong. My credibility is more important to me than being right.
BQ should have the full 16 game schedule to be evaluated properly. And there will be serious bumps along the way – like right now. I’m very curious as to how he handles those down times and if he progresses properly.
Yes, there is little talent around him. However, BQ touches the ball on every down. The quarterback needs to lead by example – regardless of the circumstances around him. Over the courses of 60 minutes and 60-70 offensive plays, there are opportunities to make some plays. Here’s hoping that begins this week in Baltimore.
Mangini and Bottled Water
A big deal was made this week of Eric Mangini fining a player the league maximum (close to $2,000) because he didn’t pay for bottled water taken from the team’s hotel in Denver.
Mangini’s point is no one is better than anyone else and he expects everyone in the organization – players, coaches, PR people, secretaries, etc. to act like adults at all times.
I’m sure there is more to the story than what has been reported. Regardless, we don’t have a problem with his decision, only that it was made public. To his credit, Mangini doesn’t just talk the talk when he says he wants high character people on his team.
However, if you lose, stunts like this will be interpreted by the media and fans as childish and overbearing. If the Browns were 2-0 right now, everyone would be saying how Mangini is running a tight ship and his style of discipline works. Such is PR in the world of sport. The "immediately memory only" of fans and media has fascinated me for years.
Indians
It looks as though the Indians' everyday line-up is pretty much set for 2010.
It goes as follows – LaPorta (1B), Valbuena (2B), Cabrera (SS), Peralta (3B), Brantley (LF), Sizemore (CF) and Choo (RF), and Hafner (DH). The only question remaining is at catcher, where the organization has numerous, if not, good options.
Here’s the problem – can you name the teams #1, #2 OR #3 starter for 2010?
I know I’m beating a dead horse, but remember – without pitching, you have no chance to be good.
On another note, the Tribe barely avoided tying a team record for consecutive losses (12) this week. So they started slow in April and finished even slower in September.
Which begs the question – who will manage this club next year?
I'm already on record as wanting either Grover or Buddy Bell. These two have been part of this organization when it was winning and both possess ML managing experience.
What I don’t want is someone who hasn’t managed at the ML level before. That was just tried and failed with Eric Wedge. Yes, Wedge took over a rebuilding project. However, it needs to be noted he also had several teams that were expect to contend in a relatively weak division.
His resume only has one post-season appearance on it – and that was a flame job up 3-1 against Boston with quality starters (1 through 3) lined up to close it out.
No one would argue, even his most stauchest supporters, that Wedge got the most out of his talent base. Shapiro and his scouts were of litte help (AKA: see any draft class), but that's another story altogether that we've covered before.
Secondly, in all the years he has managed the Indians, I can count on just one hand the times I witnesses a squeeze/suicide bunt or a succesfull hit and run being put on. Perhaps I missed it on occasion, but it’s clear that Wedge did not do much to manufacture runs.
Remember - in the post-steroids era, a manager in the American League, once again, on occasion, needs to be able to manufacture runs.
Yes, the Indians will be more athletic next year and possess more overall foot speed as a team. That's a good thing. But if you don’t use those tools properly, it does you no good.
On paper, this looks like it will be reminiscent of the Browns in 1999, when they had problems getting the ball across midfield against a good defense. All indications point to this getting ugly quickly.
Add the fact that Jamaal Lewis is out, means that Brady Quinn is likely to have absolutely no running game against the Ravens’ defense.
The upside is that Jerome Harrison should get a good, long look today and he’d better take advantage of it. Regardless, unless the Browns have something up their sleeve, Quinn could take a pounding.
The Ravens so far in this young season crush the run – as always - but have had problems against the pass. The Browns’ problem is this – Who do they have to throw to? Their #1 receiver, Butterfingers, is being doubled, and no one else is capable of getting open consistently.
Yes, spreading the field and trying to get one-on-ones (i.e. Harrison versus a linebacker) makes sense. However, will the line protect long enough for Quinn to find the open man?
Like I said, it could be a bloodletting.
On the other side, it would be nice to see the Browns defense play four full quarters –regardless of what happens on the other side of the ball. I love how some pundits put the defense’s second half collapses on the lack of offense -thus the "D" being on the field too long and wearing down.
Here’s my answer – get some three and outs on occasion and you won’t be on the field so long. And while you are at it, how about forcing ONE turnover?
Ravens 27-10 sound about right. Here’s hoping I’m way off.
Quinn
I was asked by a friend this week if I already soured on BQ after my last post where I called his play “very poor.” Absolutely not.
However, BQ looked tentative and held the ball too long against a mediocre Broncos defense. For me to suggest otherwise and let him off the hook would be wrong. My credibility is more important to me than being right.
BQ should have the full 16 game schedule to be evaluated properly. And there will be serious bumps along the way – like right now. I’m very curious as to how he handles those down times and if he progresses properly.
Yes, there is little talent around him. However, BQ touches the ball on every down. The quarterback needs to lead by example – regardless of the circumstances around him. Over the courses of 60 minutes and 60-70 offensive plays, there are opportunities to make some plays. Here’s hoping that begins this week in Baltimore.
Mangini and Bottled Water
A big deal was made this week of Eric Mangini fining a player the league maximum (close to $2,000) because he didn’t pay for bottled water taken from the team’s hotel in Denver.
Mangini’s point is no one is better than anyone else and he expects everyone in the organization – players, coaches, PR people, secretaries, etc. to act like adults at all times.
I’m sure there is more to the story than what has been reported. Regardless, we don’t have a problem with his decision, only that it was made public. To his credit, Mangini doesn’t just talk the talk when he says he wants high character people on his team.
However, if you lose, stunts like this will be interpreted by the media and fans as childish and overbearing. If the Browns were 2-0 right now, everyone would be saying how Mangini is running a tight ship and his style of discipline works. Such is PR in the world of sport. The "immediately memory only" of fans and media has fascinated me for years.
Indians
It looks as though the Indians' everyday line-up is pretty much set for 2010.
It goes as follows – LaPorta (1B), Valbuena (2B), Cabrera (SS), Peralta (3B), Brantley (LF), Sizemore (CF) and Choo (RF), and Hafner (DH). The only question remaining is at catcher, where the organization has numerous, if not, good options.
Here’s the problem – can you name the teams #1, #2 OR #3 starter for 2010?
I know I’m beating a dead horse, but remember – without pitching, you have no chance to be good.
On another note, the Tribe barely avoided tying a team record for consecutive losses (12) this week. So they started slow in April and finished even slower in September.
Which begs the question – who will manage this club next year?
I'm already on record as wanting either Grover or Buddy Bell. These two have been part of this organization when it was winning and both possess ML managing experience.
What I don’t want is someone who hasn’t managed at the ML level before. That was just tried and failed with Eric Wedge. Yes, Wedge took over a rebuilding project. However, it needs to be noted he also had several teams that were expect to contend in a relatively weak division.
His resume only has one post-season appearance on it – and that was a flame job up 3-1 against Boston with quality starters (1 through 3) lined up to close it out.
No one would argue, even his most stauchest supporters, that Wedge got the most out of his talent base. Shapiro and his scouts were of litte help (AKA: see any draft class), but that's another story altogether that we've covered before.
Secondly, in all the years he has managed the Indians, I can count on just one hand the times I witnesses a squeeze/suicide bunt or a succesfull hit and run being put on. Perhaps I missed it on occasion, but it’s clear that Wedge did not do much to manufacture runs.
Remember - in the post-steroids era, a manager in the American League, once again, on occasion, needs to be able to manufacture runs.
Yes, the Indians will be more athletic next year and possess more overall foot speed as a team. That's a good thing. But if you don’t use those tools properly, it does you no good.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
10 Things Following Browns-Broncos
I’ve seen this movie before – last week in fact. The Browns were in it at halftime and folded in the second half – again. The offense was non-existent and the defense wilted. It's rare to see the exact same act in the NFL in back to back weeks.
Brady Quinn played poorly, and that’s being kind. Yes, he doesn’t have much help around him (aka: playmakers). Regardless, he gets paid to score touchdowns. Right now, after two weeks in 2009, he looks as if he’s taken a step backwards compared to where he was when he played against the Broncos a year ago. My boy will need to start making some plays very soon. Otherwise, I can see Mangini going to the bullpen sooner rather than later – especially if he actually believes there isn’t much difference between Quinn and DA.
What happened to the screen pass that was so effective in pre-season? The Browns ran it once against the Broncos.
Eric Mangini is big on holding players accountable – at least that’s what we are told. Then why didn’t Brandon McDonald get pulled for a few plays when he got called for a defensive holding on 3rd and 19 for the Broncos in the first quarter. That’s inexcusable. Besides, it’s not like he’s indispensable. The Browns right now may have the worse set of starting corners in the league.
That’s eight full quarters played without this defense coming close to forcing a turnover this season.
There’s way too much energy being expended by Quinn and company on offense pointing fingers at defenders before the ball is snapped. That’s getting old quick.
The Broncos offensive coaches made the Browns defensive staff look silly on third and goal from the 2-yard line in the first quarter. Denver called a timeout then isolated a tight end on Kamerion Wimbley out in space. Result – an easy touchdown pass for Kyle Horton. Whatever defensive scheme has Wimbley effectively playing corner needs to be junked immediately.
Am I the only one who thinks something must be wrong if either one of our second round picks at wideout can’t beat out Josh Cribbs? I've mentioned this before, but it is concerning for another reason besides not getting any productivity from second rounders drafted by a bad team. Having Cribbs play receiver also takes him off the punt coverage and kick-off coverage units – where he excels.
The Browns have a lot of NFL second teams starting. That’s not good.
It would be nice to see some called rollouts for Quinn deep in the red zone.
Final thoughts: The wolves will be out this week. The local media and fans were already whining after the Vikings loss. Many dislike Mangini because of his attitude, won’t give him any wiggle room and will bury him at the first sign of failure. And most fans begin calling for the back-up at the first sign of trouble at QB. That’s the lack of patience that as made sports followers so easy to ridicule. Regardless, this is not what you want to have on your resume (0-2) heading into Baltimore in week #3. Ouch!
Brady Quinn played poorly, and that’s being kind. Yes, he doesn’t have much help around him (aka: playmakers). Regardless, he gets paid to score touchdowns. Right now, after two weeks in 2009, he looks as if he’s taken a step backwards compared to where he was when he played against the Broncos a year ago. My boy will need to start making some plays very soon. Otherwise, I can see Mangini going to the bullpen sooner rather than later – especially if he actually believes there isn’t much difference between Quinn and DA.
What happened to the screen pass that was so effective in pre-season? The Browns ran it once against the Broncos.
Eric Mangini is big on holding players accountable – at least that’s what we are told. Then why didn’t Brandon McDonald get pulled for a few plays when he got called for a defensive holding on 3rd and 19 for the Broncos in the first quarter. That’s inexcusable. Besides, it’s not like he’s indispensable. The Browns right now may have the worse set of starting corners in the league.
That’s eight full quarters played without this defense coming close to forcing a turnover this season.
There’s way too much energy being expended by Quinn and company on offense pointing fingers at defenders before the ball is snapped. That’s getting old quick.
The Broncos offensive coaches made the Browns defensive staff look silly on third and goal from the 2-yard line in the first quarter. Denver called a timeout then isolated a tight end on Kamerion Wimbley out in space. Result – an easy touchdown pass for Kyle Horton. Whatever defensive scheme has Wimbley effectively playing corner needs to be junked immediately.
Am I the only one who thinks something must be wrong if either one of our second round picks at wideout can’t beat out Josh Cribbs? I've mentioned this before, but it is concerning for another reason besides not getting any productivity from second rounders drafted by a bad team. Having Cribbs play receiver also takes him off the punt coverage and kick-off coverage units – where he excels.
The Browns have a lot of NFL second teams starting. That’s not good.
It would be nice to see some called rollouts for Quinn deep in the red zone.
Final thoughts: The wolves will be out this week. The local media and fans were already whining after the Vikings loss. Many dislike Mangini because of his attitude, won’t give him any wiggle room and will bury him at the first sign of failure. And most fans begin calling for the back-up at the first sign of trouble at QB. That’s the lack of patience that as made sports followers so easy to ridicule. Regardless, this is not what you want to have on your resume (0-2) heading into Baltimore in week #3. Ouch!
Browns at Denver
I like the Browns today.
Yea, I know that makes so sense with our history in that city – Denver, but I like the Browns today.
I like the Browns because of two words – Kyle Orton. If Eric Mangini can truly coach, he should be able to devise a defense that limits Denver offensively with Orton and those tools at his disposal.
I like the Browns today because their best offensive player (Brandon Marshall) is a bigger head case than our presumed best weapon (Butterfingers).
I like the Browns today because we have the edge in special teams with Josh Cribbs and company.
I like the Browns today because I don’t see Brady Quinn melting down in his first big road start.
I like the Browns today because I expect Jerome Harrison to be involved and make some plays.
I like the Browns today because Denver is like us right now – not very good.
I like the Browns today because this is a winnable game, despite the venue, and if Mangini’s organization and discipline are going to take hold – this should be where that process starts.
I like the Browns today because Mike Shanahan is not prowling the Broncos' sideline and #7 is no longer in uniform to torch the Browns on 3rd and long.
I like the Browns 24-20.
Yea, I know that makes so sense with our history in that city – Denver, but I like the Browns today.
I like the Browns because of two words – Kyle Orton. If Eric Mangini can truly coach, he should be able to devise a defense that limits Denver offensively with Orton and those tools at his disposal.
I like the Browns today because their best offensive player (Brandon Marshall) is a bigger head case than our presumed best weapon (Butterfingers).
I like the Browns today because we have the edge in special teams with Josh Cribbs and company.
I like the Browns today because I don’t see Brady Quinn melting down in his first big road start.
I like the Browns today because I expect Jerome Harrison to be involved and make some plays.
I like the Browns today because Denver is like us right now – not very good.
I like the Browns today because this is a winnable game, despite the venue, and if Mangini’s organization and discipline are going to take hold – this should be where that process starts.
I like the Browns today because Mike Shanahan is not prowling the Broncos' sideline and #7 is no longer in uniform to torch the Browns on 3rd and long.
I like the Browns 24-20.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
10 Things About the Browns in Week 1
Point 1
• The actual score (34-20) was not indicative of how Minnesota dominated the second half of this game. The Vikings just wore the Browns down. Simply put – it’s a 60 minute game, not 30. You have to figure that out and play accordingly before you can beat a quality NFL opponent.
• What looked like an impressive defensive effort stopping the run early turned into another 200+ yard rushing effort allowed by the Browns. That’s not a good sign.
• Offensively, the Browns ran the ball relatively well early, but were unable to stay with the game plan once the Vikings got up two scores.
• One wonders who will consistently make plays for this team on both sides of the ball. You win with playmakers. The defense forced no turnovers and the offense had no big gains from scrimmage.
• Quinn looked like a rookie at times – which is to be expected against a good Vikings’ defense, especially once they were able to pin their ears back, up two scores. The late Cleveland score came in garbage time, but baby steps are necessary when you haven’t scored an offensive touchdown since prior to Thanksgiving of 2008.
• The loss was expected against a team the caliber of Minnesota. Getting worn down wasn’t a total surprise either. However, the penalties and poor tackling late showed a disturbing lack of concentration – similar of years past. We expect that to change under Mangini - sooner rather than later.
• I am not a fan of re-structuring contracts. This corner would never do so with NBA or ML players because those deals are guaranteed. However, the NFL is a different animal with no guaranteed deals and players playing for their pay from one year to the next. I would tear up Josh Cribbs’ deal and give him a new, better, incentive laden contract making arguably the team’s best player a happy camper. The fans love him, he wants to be here and you don’t have to worry about him coasting once he gets paid.
• A lot of NFL quarterbacks could have won that game for the Vikings today. Brett Favre actually “managed the game.” As you know, I hate that term. That’s uncharted waters for the future HOFer. But that’s what happens when you have a stud back up against one of the worst run defenses in the league the past 10 years. They however didn't bring Favre in to beat the Browns. He'll be asked to be Brett Favre against good teams at some point - especially come playoff time.
• On a positive note, the Browns’ defensive scheme early was refreshing to see and caused some confusion for the Vikings. Unfortunately, they decided to keep it simple in the second half and feed their horse (Adrian Peterson) until he got it rolling. The KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) Philosophy works with sports too. Some coaches need to remember that.
• Next week’s road game in Denver is actually winnable. The venue is a difficult one, but #7 doesn’t take snaps anymore for the Broncos.
SC-OSU Post-Script
I thought the Trojans would handle the Buckeyes. It was closer than I expected and I was impressed with Ohio State’s defensive front. However, I was not impressed with the quarterbacking Ohio State received – especially in the game’s final drive. In the end, SC won because their extremely young quarterback made plays when it mattered most while OSU’s signal-caller couldn’t.
And no, it’s not Tressel’s conservative play-calling that hurts the Buckeyes in big games. That’s the same approach that won them a National Title. That’s his style – you can‘t congratulate him when it works and criticize him when it doesn’t. That’s being one of the 95%+ who don’t get it.
The problem for Buckeye Nation is as follows – without a stud future #1 NFL pick running the ball for OSU, Prior will need to make more plays in order to beat quality opponents. And I’m not talking about Northwestern. The kid is a great athlete, but far from a finished product under center - yet.
If you take a glass half empty approach you wonder if OSU will ever beat the likes of SC after having them in their house, in front of a raucous record crowd, playing against a quarterback that had just one college start under his belt with a revamped defense to boot.
A glass half full person believes these two teams will see each other again in the National Championship Game. Those are the Buckeye fans I have a problem with. They can even be ignorant &/or arrogant after another bad loss.
The truth is probably somewhere in between.
• The actual score (34-20) was not indicative of how Minnesota dominated the second half of this game. The Vikings just wore the Browns down. Simply put – it’s a 60 minute game, not 30. You have to figure that out and play accordingly before you can beat a quality NFL opponent.
• What looked like an impressive defensive effort stopping the run early turned into another 200+ yard rushing effort allowed by the Browns. That’s not a good sign.
• Offensively, the Browns ran the ball relatively well early, but were unable to stay with the game plan once the Vikings got up two scores.
• One wonders who will consistently make plays for this team on both sides of the ball. You win with playmakers. The defense forced no turnovers and the offense had no big gains from scrimmage.
• Quinn looked like a rookie at times – which is to be expected against a good Vikings’ defense, especially once they were able to pin their ears back, up two scores. The late Cleveland score came in garbage time, but baby steps are necessary when you haven’t scored an offensive touchdown since prior to Thanksgiving of 2008.
• The loss was expected against a team the caliber of Minnesota. Getting worn down wasn’t a total surprise either. However, the penalties and poor tackling late showed a disturbing lack of concentration – similar of years past. We expect that to change under Mangini - sooner rather than later.
• I am not a fan of re-structuring contracts. This corner would never do so with NBA or ML players because those deals are guaranteed. However, the NFL is a different animal with no guaranteed deals and players playing for their pay from one year to the next. I would tear up Josh Cribbs’ deal and give him a new, better, incentive laden contract making arguably the team’s best player a happy camper. The fans love him, he wants to be here and you don’t have to worry about him coasting once he gets paid.
• A lot of NFL quarterbacks could have won that game for the Vikings today. Brett Favre actually “managed the game.” As you know, I hate that term. That’s uncharted waters for the future HOFer. But that’s what happens when you have a stud back up against one of the worst run defenses in the league the past 10 years. They however didn't bring Favre in to beat the Browns. He'll be asked to be Brett Favre against good teams at some point - especially come playoff time.
• On a positive note, the Browns’ defensive scheme early was refreshing to see and caused some confusion for the Vikings. Unfortunately, they decided to keep it simple in the second half and feed their horse (Adrian Peterson) until he got it rolling. The KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) Philosophy works with sports too. Some coaches need to remember that.
• Next week’s road game in Denver is actually winnable. The venue is a difficult one, but #7 doesn’t take snaps anymore for the Broncos.
SC-OSU Post-Script
I thought the Trojans would handle the Buckeyes. It was closer than I expected and I was impressed with Ohio State’s defensive front. However, I was not impressed with the quarterbacking Ohio State received – especially in the game’s final drive. In the end, SC won because their extremely young quarterback made plays when it mattered most while OSU’s signal-caller couldn’t.
And no, it’s not Tressel’s conservative play-calling that hurts the Buckeyes in big games. That’s the same approach that won them a National Title. That’s his style – you can‘t congratulate him when it works and criticize him when it doesn’t. That’s being one of the 95%+ who don’t get it.
The problem for Buckeye Nation is as follows – without a stud future #1 NFL pick running the ball for OSU, Prior will need to make more plays in order to beat quality opponents. And I’m not talking about Northwestern. The kid is a great athlete, but far from a finished product under center - yet.
If you take a glass half empty approach you wonder if OSU will ever beat the likes of SC after having them in their house, in front of a raucous record crowd, playing against a quarterback that had just one college start under his belt with a revamped defense to boot.
A glass half full person believes these two teams will see each other again in the National Championship Game. Those are the Buckeye fans I have a problem with. They can even be ignorant &/or arrogant after another bad loss.
The truth is probably somewhere in between.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Short & Quick
Vikings- Browns
We like the Vikings to handle the Browns 27-20 in the opener. Minnesota should be able to hold and control the ball – keeping the Browns’ offense off the field and limiting their possessions. Unless Brett Favre implodes, it’s hard to imagine Cleveland winning this one.
I have had more than one individual remind me the “BQ Era” starts this weekend. I guess better late than never. One thing is for sure, Quinn wasn’t handed anything when he turned pro – unlike a lot of young athletes these days.
Quinn handled the past 2+ years with class. He could have complained after dropping in the draft, after sitting the past two years, and again after being told he had to compete with DA for the starting job in year three after Anderson imploded in 2008. He didn't whine. He just competed and said all the right things. Now this is finally his team. Good for him.
If I am right, he’ll quickly become the best signal-caller this city has seen since Bernie was earning MVP votes back in the late 80s while leading the Browns to a trio of AFC Championship game. If I’m wrong, this team will continue to wallow in mediocrity or worse for the foreseeable future.
Statistically, keep your eyes on BQ's touchdown to interception ratio. Remember, the first sign you have something special at that position (QB) is if the guy can consistently put up a 2-1 ratio or better from year to year. Anything better than that and you have a horse you can ride to a title with the right pieces around him.
Super Bowl
As far as the big picture, we have the Patriots winning the Super Bowl this year – assuming Tom Brady is healthy. It’s basically the same prediction we made a year ago before he went down. We picked the Steelers after Brady went down in '08.
This fall, New England again has too many weapons and too much experience. Their defense has lost several key pieces due to retirement and free agency. However, I trust Mr. Bill to reload on that side of the ball. You have to give the guy credit –he can flat-out coach defense.
As for who they will play – I have no idea.
Culture of Personality
I have complained about the “Culture of Personality” for years – both in real life (i.e.reality television and hero worship) and the silly world of sports. In sports, it began with athletes doing touchdown dances, stomping around after making tackles and generally genuflecting every chance they get.
This has led to teams wearing fatigues coming off planes (Miami, FLA), pre-game fights at midfield and players now taking swings at opponents after a tough loss.
The NCAA’s solution – have players shake hands at midfield before kick-off. Right. It’s a little too late for that boys. You can’t put the toothpaste back in the bottle. The NCAA, head coaches and athletic directors let this get out of hand years ago.
The solution involves stiff penalties for self-promotion and benchings from coaches when appropriate. For example, the moron who taunted in the post-game melee between Oregon and Boise State should have been suspended for a minimum of one game. He wasn’t. That’s a coach sending the wrong message. Period.
The same can be said for Alabama’s coaching staff last week when their best defensive player picked up two personal foul penalties on ONE play. They never took him off the field – not even for one play. Again, the wrong message was sent by Nick Saban and his staff.
SC-OSU
Yes, we like USC to double up Ohio State tonight. Again, the Big-10 lacks the quarterback talent to beat the big boys.
Here's hoping TP doesn't wear eye black with the dog killer's name on it tonight. That was a terrible idea a week ago. It made him look ignorant. Again, Tressel and company dropped the ball. If I'm a coach or AD at OSU, I would have made him clean that mess off his face immediately. And please don't tell me no coach saw it. That's an insult to my intelligence.
Sometimes I wonder where the adults are. Vick deserves a second chance. He paid his debt to society. But he shouldn't be honored in any way, shape or form.
Tribe
I have actually watched the Indians play lately. What can I say – I like watching the kids. One thing is certain, if Westbrook and Carmona don’t make it all the way back, it’s going to be very difficult for Cleveland to contend anytime soon.
The good news is they have added the power arms we were begging for long before anyone noticed. The bad news is they still need a couple veterans in the rotaton to stabilize the staff.
We like the Vikings to handle the Browns 27-20 in the opener. Minnesota should be able to hold and control the ball – keeping the Browns’ offense off the field and limiting their possessions. Unless Brett Favre implodes, it’s hard to imagine Cleveland winning this one.
I have had more than one individual remind me the “BQ Era” starts this weekend. I guess better late than never. One thing is for sure, Quinn wasn’t handed anything when he turned pro – unlike a lot of young athletes these days.
Quinn handled the past 2+ years with class. He could have complained after dropping in the draft, after sitting the past two years, and again after being told he had to compete with DA for the starting job in year three after Anderson imploded in 2008. He didn't whine. He just competed and said all the right things. Now this is finally his team. Good for him.
If I am right, he’ll quickly become the best signal-caller this city has seen since Bernie was earning MVP votes back in the late 80s while leading the Browns to a trio of AFC Championship game. If I’m wrong, this team will continue to wallow in mediocrity or worse for the foreseeable future.
Statistically, keep your eyes on BQ's touchdown to interception ratio. Remember, the first sign you have something special at that position (QB) is if the guy can consistently put up a 2-1 ratio or better from year to year. Anything better than that and you have a horse you can ride to a title with the right pieces around him.
Super Bowl
As far as the big picture, we have the Patriots winning the Super Bowl this year – assuming Tom Brady is healthy. It’s basically the same prediction we made a year ago before he went down. We picked the Steelers after Brady went down in '08.
This fall, New England again has too many weapons and too much experience. Their defense has lost several key pieces due to retirement and free agency. However, I trust Mr. Bill to reload on that side of the ball. You have to give the guy credit –he can flat-out coach defense.
As for who they will play – I have no idea.
Culture of Personality
I have complained about the “Culture of Personality” for years – both in real life (i.e.reality television and hero worship) and the silly world of sports. In sports, it began with athletes doing touchdown dances, stomping around after making tackles and generally genuflecting every chance they get.
This has led to teams wearing fatigues coming off planes (Miami, FLA), pre-game fights at midfield and players now taking swings at opponents after a tough loss.
The NCAA’s solution – have players shake hands at midfield before kick-off. Right. It’s a little too late for that boys. You can’t put the toothpaste back in the bottle. The NCAA, head coaches and athletic directors let this get out of hand years ago.
The solution involves stiff penalties for self-promotion and benchings from coaches when appropriate. For example, the moron who taunted in the post-game melee between Oregon and Boise State should have been suspended for a minimum of one game. He wasn’t. That’s a coach sending the wrong message. Period.
The same can be said for Alabama’s coaching staff last week when their best defensive player picked up two personal foul penalties on ONE play. They never took him off the field – not even for one play. Again, the wrong message was sent by Nick Saban and his staff.
SC-OSU
Yes, we like USC to double up Ohio State tonight. Again, the Big-10 lacks the quarterback talent to beat the big boys.
Here's hoping TP doesn't wear eye black with the dog killer's name on it tonight. That was a terrible idea a week ago. It made him look ignorant. Again, Tressel and company dropped the ball. If I'm a coach or AD at OSU, I would have made him clean that mess off his face immediately. And please don't tell me no coach saw it. That's an insult to my intelligence.
Sometimes I wonder where the adults are. Vick deserves a second chance. He paid his debt to society. But he shouldn't be honored in any way, shape or form.
Tribe
I have actually watched the Indians play lately. What can I say – I like watching the kids. One thing is certain, if Westbrook and Carmona don’t make it all the way back, it’s going to be very difficult for Cleveland to contend anytime soon.
The good news is they have added the power arms we were begging for long before anyone noticed. The bad news is they still need a couple veterans in the rotaton to stabilize the staff.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Short & Quick
Short & Quick
J. Perala needs to produce better offensive numbers if he expects to be a viable candidate at 3B in the future for the Indians. If you are going to hit 15 bombs, drive in 75-80 runs and hit .275 playing that position, you’d better have a Brooks Robinson type glove. Even in the post steroids era, his current numbers make him a second division 3B. Yes, I’ve always been a Peralta fan, but I look at things objectively – always have, always will.
Matt LaPorta looks quick inside. Obviously, he’s more comfortable his second time around in the Bigs. He’ll need to consistently hit 25 bombs and drive in 90+ runs a year while hitting in the .280 range in order to even think about justifying Mark Shapiro’s acceptance of the Brewers’ package for CC. Otherwise, it was a complete give-away. It would be nice if an arm or two that came back this way in the deal also pitch effectively someday at the ML level.
Here are my impressions of the Browns after last night’s dress rehearsal against the Titans:
The defense has plenty of indians and no chiefs (S. Rodgers has been riding an exercise bike this pre-season so far). In other words, there’s plenty of average talent running around out there. If this coaching staff can produce a middle-of-the-pack defense statistically, it will be a minor miracle.
Remember this - since the team’s return in 1999, this franchise has not drafted an impact defensive player. That’s amazing and clearly evident when you watch them play.
The offense will likely produce middle-of-the-pack numbers. Quinn should improve steadily and will likely do a good job of protecting the ball – especially in this system which emphasizes screens and the short to intermediate routes. Lewis will get his 1,000 yards if he’s healthy. Butterfingers will be motivated to work hard and stay out of the limelight off the field in his free agent year. Furrey will help move the sticks on third down. Finally, J. Cribbs will get a few weekly touches on offense to make things exciting. Look for the two second round WRs to contribute at some point as well. If the offensive line plays relatively well, the offense will have its moments.
The special teams should be among the best in the league. Cribbs is special and some of the young players recently drafted look like they will make their mark on that unit this fall.
Mangini is as advertised – from the Mr. Bill school of coaching – no nonsense, audibly boring, well-organized and overly secretive. If he wins, he’ll be lauded for bringing discipline to this organization. If he loses, we’ll hear he wasn’t a good communicator/players’ coach.
Overall, I have seen better organization under Mangini – which is good. They are still not as physical as I would like to see, but that may yet change.
One more note from the dress rehearsal against the Titans. It was nice to see the Browns run the screen pass effectively all night. It’s been two decades (late 80s) since that’s been the case around here.
We suggested months ago the Broncos should acquire DA. He’s simply better than Kyle Horton. Horton, who is at best a second division starting QB, and that’s being kind, went down early. Even if he’s healthy, it will likely be a very long season in Denver.
It's not about the system, it's about talent - especially at the QB position!
Its prediction time – Browns go 8-8 in 2009. They will be improved simply from an organization and discipline standpoint. Nonetheless, there’s simply not enough talent on this team to be any better than a .500 team.
Quinn won’t give many games away and he will improve as the season progresses. The defense has to find ways to get off the field - which is problematic with so little talent. The special teams should win a couple games for them.
This league is set up so teams can go from 4 wins to 10 the following season. That won’t likely happen in Cleveland, but with good organization and a solid turnover ratio, you can get to .500, or close to it, quickly.
I realize Jerome Harrison has been hurt, but I hope they don’t cut him because Davis (6th round pick) has looked pretty good in camp. Harrison is a good third down back, and when given a chance in the past (albeit limited) to run between the tackles, he has produced.
Ditto for Kelly Shoppach of the Indians. We hear the Indians like their young catchers in the system. Power is power. I know he can’t hit for average and he strikes out a ton, but you have to keep your eye on the big picture. Shoppach can handle a staff and can hit the long ball. Besides, his price tag (around $2 million ayerage) isn’t unreasonable while you groom the kids.
Is it just me or is there too much Michael Vick reporting on the sports networks? Even the local 3 minutes sports shows are leading with this story. Enough already.
Ditto for the Teddy Kennedy 24 hour a day/full week eulogy. I know he served his country for over four decades. I get that he was the Senate’s “Liberal Lion,” championing the causes for the poor and underprivileged. And I’m well-aware he was a Kennedy – this country’s version of royalty in the minds of many – but the cable networks ALL went overboard with the coverage.
I expected it from MSNBC, the media mouthpiece for the Democratic Party and the current administration. And I also figured CNN would go the distance. But I didn’t expect Fox to cover his death from gavel to gavel.
Kennedy received coverage reserved for a president. And respectfully, that’s the point - he never reached that status.
Till next time.
J. Perala needs to produce better offensive numbers if he expects to be a viable candidate at 3B in the future for the Indians. If you are going to hit 15 bombs, drive in 75-80 runs and hit .275 playing that position, you’d better have a Brooks Robinson type glove. Even in the post steroids era, his current numbers make him a second division 3B. Yes, I’ve always been a Peralta fan, but I look at things objectively – always have, always will.
Matt LaPorta looks quick inside. Obviously, he’s more comfortable his second time around in the Bigs. He’ll need to consistently hit 25 bombs and drive in 90+ runs a year while hitting in the .280 range in order to even think about justifying Mark Shapiro’s acceptance of the Brewers’ package for CC. Otherwise, it was a complete give-away. It would be nice if an arm or two that came back this way in the deal also pitch effectively someday at the ML level.
Here are my impressions of the Browns after last night’s dress rehearsal against the Titans:
The defense has plenty of indians and no chiefs (S. Rodgers has been riding an exercise bike this pre-season so far). In other words, there’s plenty of average talent running around out there. If this coaching staff can produce a middle-of-the-pack defense statistically, it will be a minor miracle.
Remember this - since the team’s return in 1999, this franchise has not drafted an impact defensive player. That’s amazing and clearly evident when you watch them play.
The offense will likely produce middle-of-the-pack numbers. Quinn should improve steadily and will likely do a good job of protecting the ball – especially in this system which emphasizes screens and the short to intermediate routes. Lewis will get his 1,000 yards if he’s healthy. Butterfingers will be motivated to work hard and stay out of the limelight off the field in his free agent year. Furrey will help move the sticks on third down. Finally, J. Cribbs will get a few weekly touches on offense to make things exciting. Look for the two second round WRs to contribute at some point as well. If the offensive line plays relatively well, the offense will have its moments.
The special teams should be among the best in the league. Cribbs is special and some of the young players recently drafted look like they will make their mark on that unit this fall.
Mangini is as advertised – from the Mr. Bill school of coaching – no nonsense, audibly boring, well-organized and overly secretive. If he wins, he’ll be lauded for bringing discipline to this organization. If he loses, we’ll hear he wasn’t a good communicator/players’ coach.
Overall, I have seen better organization under Mangini – which is good. They are still not as physical as I would like to see, but that may yet change.
One more note from the dress rehearsal against the Titans. It was nice to see the Browns run the screen pass effectively all night. It’s been two decades (late 80s) since that’s been the case around here.
We suggested months ago the Broncos should acquire DA. He’s simply better than Kyle Horton. Horton, who is at best a second division starting QB, and that’s being kind, went down early. Even if he’s healthy, it will likely be a very long season in Denver.
It's not about the system, it's about talent - especially at the QB position!
Its prediction time – Browns go 8-8 in 2009. They will be improved simply from an organization and discipline standpoint. Nonetheless, there’s simply not enough talent on this team to be any better than a .500 team.
Quinn won’t give many games away and he will improve as the season progresses. The defense has to find ways to get off the field - which is problematic with so little talent. The special teams should win a couple games for them.
This league is set up so teams can go from 4 wins to 10 the following season. That won’t likely happen in Cleveland, but with good organization and a solid turnover ratio, you can get to .500, or close to it, quickly.
I realize Jerome Harrison has been hurt, but I hope they don’t cut him because Davis (6th round pick) has looked pretty good in camp. Harrison is a good third down back, and when given a chance in the past (albeit limited) to run between the tackles, he has produced.
Ditto for Kelly Shoppach of the Indians. We hear the Indians like their young catchers in the system. Power is power. I know he can’t hit for average and he strikes out a ton, but you have to keep your eye on the big picture. Shoppach can handle a staff and can hit the long ball. Besides, his price tag (around $2 million ayerage) isn’t unreasonable while you groom the kids.
Is it just me or is there too much Michael Vick reporting on the sports networks? Even the local 3 minutes sports shows are leading with this story. Enough already.
Ditto for the Teddy Kennedy 24 hour a day/full week eulogy. I know he served his country for over four decades. I get that he was the Senate’s “Liberal Lion,” championing the causes for the poor and underprivileged. And I’m well-aware he was a Kennedy – this country’s version of royalty in the minds of many – but the cable networks ALL went overboard with the coverage.
I expected it from MSNBC, the media mouthpiece for the Democratic Party and the current administration. And I also figured CNN would go the distance. But I didn’t expect Fox to cover his death from gavel to gavel.
Kennedy received coverage reserved for a president. And respectfully, that’s the point - he never reached that status.
Till next time.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Short & Quick
Browns First Pre-Season Game
What a difference one play makes. If Butterfingers makes that catch in the end zone, Quinn is being praised by all for a very good first outing. Regardless, Quinn can’t throw a pick in the red zone. He has to let the previous play go and stay totally focused on the next snap – especially in the red zone. Otherwise, he's not much different than DA. You have to make good decisions with the football unless you play in a system that demands you throw for 4,000 yards.
As for Butterfingers, what can I say? Unfortunately, he is the lone playmaker they have right now. If he doesn’t bounce back strong in 2009, this team will have trouble keeping defensive backs honest and off the short routes.
I will be very curious to see how long a leash Mangini gives him if he does not deliver. Crennel kept running him out there and lost his job. We'll see how Mangini deals with him if he (BE) fails. Hopefully, we won't have to find out.
I did like the aggressive play of several young players on defense last Saturday. Since it’s only one pre-season game, I won’t even mention their names yet. If they keep it up, then we’ll focus on them more.
Kamerion Wimbley did show some life. I’m told they will move him around a lot this fall. Whatever. All I know is this – I don’t care where he lines up before the snap, I just want to see him on top of the quarterback with ball in hand after the whistle on 3rd and 7, along with double-digit sacks at year’s end. If this scheme helps, fine.
I love the morons who buy the line the Browns didn’t want to show anything last week because they play the Packers this fall. If that’s the case, then how did Green Bay’s first unit score at will in the first quarter without showing anything either?
Don’t panic yet. The good news is it doesn’t count. Again, I want to see organization and physical play. What we saw against Green Bay was not encouraging, but everyone needs to wait and be patient – at least until they play for real.
If he stays healthy, Mike Furrey might catch 90 balls in this system, on this team, this year. He has good hands, a good work ethic, knows what he’s doing out there and few competitors in camp with his experience.
One final thought – they need to get Quinn a ton of reps before the bell rings. The kid has played less than three NFL games in 2+ years in the league. He’s on his second offensive coordinator and system already and has a host of new receivers.
Remember, I never bought into the “quarterback derby” we keep hearing is taking place. It’s Quinn’s job to lose – period. Again, Lerner would not have hired Mangini if he believed the new coach was open to another quarterback derby. Lerner’s been there, done that, and had to fire his GM and coach partly because of it.
What I Want to See
I would like to see the hurry up offense used occasionally this fall. First, I think Quinn can handle it, and secondly, this team's offensive talent level isn't good enough to simply line up and play basic football against the superior defense units they will face. The Browns need to try to keep teams off balance. A little creativity can't hurt.
Indians
It looks like Aaron Laffey has won a spot in the rotation for 2010. Okay, I can handle one mediocre soft tossing lefty in the #4 spot in the rotation. But one is all I can stomach. No, I don’t want a host of #4 starters in my rotation.
Here are my early impressions of newly acquired Justin Masterson. He looks like he will have some difficulty consistently getting lefties out as a starter. His release point (sidearm) makes it pretty easy for lefties to pick him up. He might be better suited as a set-up man or potential closer where he can lock in on his best two pitches while hitters only see him and his stuff once a night.
Don’t be fooled by the numbers some of the Indians are putting up the second half of the season. In the NBA, they call this “garbage time.” Some players simply play better when the pressure is off. We’ve seen this before with this team. Regardless of how they finish, this team has a ton of holes – especially on the mound.
Leon Powe
I like the Cavaliers’ addition of Leon Powe. He’s a hard worker, an overachiever and a good guy. How can you not appreciate all that in today’s world of selfish pro athletes? If and when he gets healthy, he’ll help the front line. Here’s hoping he gets well fast.
Brett Favre
I just found out Favre is a Viking. No surprise and I don’t really care. Yes, he’s better than what they had at QB, so I don’t blame Minnesota for begging him to play. But for me, Favre’s diva act got old quick – two years ago.
What a difference one play makes. If Butterfingers makes that catch in the end zone, Quinn is being praised by all for a very good first outing. Regardless, Quinn can’t throw a pick in the red zone. He has to let the previous play go and stay totally focused on the next snap – especially in the red zone. Otherwise, he's not much different than DA. You have to make good decisions with the football unless you play in a system that demands you throw for 4,000 yards.
As for Butterfingers, what can I say? Unfortunately, he is the lone playmaker they have right now. If he doesn’t bounce back strong in 2009, this team will have trouble keeping defensive backs honest and off the short routes.
I will be very curious to see how long a leash Mangini gives him if he does not deliver. Crennel kept running him out there and lost his job. We'll see how Mangini deals with him if he (BE) fails. Hopefully, we won't have to find out.
I did like the aggressive play of several young players on defense last Saturday. Since it’s only one pre-season game, I won’t even mention their names yet. If they keep it up, then we’ll focus on them more.
Kamerion Wimbley did show some life. I’m told they will move him around a lot this fall. Whatever. All I know is this – I don’t care where he lines up before the snap, I just want to see him on top of the quarterback with ball in hand after the whistle on 3rd and 7, along with double-digit sacks at year’s end. If this scheme helps, fine.
I love the morons who buy the line the Browns didn’t want to show anything last week because they play the Packers this fall. If that’s the case, then how did Green Bay’s first unit score at will in the first quarter without showing anything either?
Don’t panic yet. The good news is it doesn’t count. Again, I want to see organization and physical play. What we saw against Green Bay was not encouraging, but everyone needs to wait and be patient – at least until they play for real.
If he stays healthy, Mike Furrey might catch 90 balls in this system, on this team, this year. He has good hands, a good work ethic, knows what he’s doing out there and few competitors in camp with his experience.
One final thought – they need to get Quinn a ton of reps before the bell rings. The kid has played less than three NFL games in 2+ years in the league. He’s on his second offensive coordinator and system already and has a host of new receivers.
Remember, I never bought into the “quarterback derby” we keep hearing is taking place. It’s Quinn’s job to lose – period. Again, Lerner would not have hired Mangini if he believed the new coach was open to another quarterback derby. Lerner’s been there, done that, and had to fire his GM and coach partly because of it.
What I Want to See
I would like to see the hurry up offense used occasionally this fall. First, I think Quinn can handle it, and secondly, this team's offensive talent level isn't good enough to simply line up and play basic football against the superior defense units they will face. The Browns need to try to keep teams off balance. A little creativity can't hurt.
Indians
It looks like Aaron Laffey has won a spot in the rotation for 2010. Okay, I can handle one mediocre soft tossing lefty in the #4 spot in the rotation. But one is all I can stomach. No, I don’t want a host of #4 starters in my rotation.
Here are my early impressions of newly acquired Justin Masterson. He looks like he will have some difficulty consistently getting lefties out as a starter. His release point (sidearm) makes it pretty easy for lefties to pick him up. He might be better suited as a set-up man or potential closer where he can lock in on his best two pitches while hitters only see him and his stuff once a night.
Don’t be fooled by the numbers some of the Indians are putting up the second half of the season. In the NBA, they call this “garbage time.” Some players simply play better when the pressure is off. We’ve seen this before with this team. Regardless of how they finish, this team has a ton of holes – especially on the mound.
Leon Powe
I like the Cavaliers’ addition of Leon Powe. He’s a hard worker, an overachiever and a good guy. How can you not appreciate all that in today’s world of selfish pro athletes? If and when he gets healthy, he’ll help the front line. Here’s hoping he gets well fast.
Brett Favre
I just found out Favre is a Viking. No surprise and I don’t really care. Yes, he’s better than what they had at QB, so I don’t blame Minnesota for begging him to play. But for me, Favre’s diva act got old quick – two years ago.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Shapiro's Admission of Failure & NFL Camp
The Indians’ recent trade of Cy Young Award winner Cliff Lee was an organizational admission of failure.
This current regime took control approximately eight years ago when Shapiro, Wedge and company were promoted. They pushed a rebuilding agenda that would lead to consistent contention, we were told.
What we got in reality was one post-season trip, a couple near misses and what we have today – a fire sale of talent.
This corner predicted this organization would not push the panic button and sell off Cliff Lee and Victor Martinez. We were wrong.
Our assumption was based on the following reasoning – the Indians could advance the argument that contention in 2010, within this relatively weak division, was possible with the healthy return of Jake Westbrook, Fausto Carmona finding himself and the addition of a couple of decent relievers.
This argument could certainly be advanced as the organization’s sales staff pushed its season ticket packages this coming off-season.
Instead, the Indians decided to fold the tent, cut budget and make the extraordinary admission they didn’t have enough overall organizational talent to contend next summer.
Remember, this regime touted, over and over again, how it was spending huge sums of money on player development over the past eight years.
By trading Lee with over one year remaining on his deal, what Shapiro did, in essence, is tell the baseball world the Indians’ brass misjudged its big league talent level, the organization’s farm system is in shambles, and what we all knew - the Dolans weren’t willing to take on the additional payroll to content in 2010.
Now a brief history lesson is in order.
Indians’ fans were spoiled during the 1990s, as the organization successfully established a contending run while being planted in a medium size market. The perfect storm – a new ballpark, good, young talent, and locking up those talented kids early in their careers to team-friendly deals – made the Tribe the model mid-size market team.
John Hart and his apprentices, including Mark Shapiro, were the darlings of the baseball world, and rightfully so. Several of those who worked under Hart went on to bigger and better jobs because of their Cleveland resumes. Good for them.
The Indians had a sustained run and came close to winning a championship. While this was going on, one could slowly see the building blocks coming apart, piece by piece, as Hart tried to fill the gaps, knowing all the while, the good times would soon end.
Belle, Ramirez and Thome all jumped ship when their contracts expired. Hart was torn. He knew the right thing to do long-term was to deal them before they left, but he couldn’t or wouldn’t because they needed these players in the line-up come October and the fans would riot.
Soon after, Hart left as well, as did the owner, Dick Jacobs, all seeing the writing on the wall. The run was about to end.
Such is life in baseball’s uneven playing field.
It isn’t complicated - if you run a small or mid-size ML team and have an excellent batting average with your acquisitions, signings, etc…, you have a chance to make a sustained run, but it will eventually end.
The numbers are cruel and real – Cleveland, Oakland, Minnesota and company can’t keep most of their best players.
At least those teams have had runs, fans in Pittsburgh and Kansas City complain. Their executives have not been able to post the batting averages necessary to even get competitive for a short period of time. The Pirates, for example, have posted a-record 17 consecutive years of sub .500 baseball, coupled with the yearly dumping of salaries come July.
Enter Mark Shapiro, who knew exactly what he was getting into when he was promoted to run the show in Cleveland. He knew the template to follow – his former boss (Hart) showed him the way.
There was one problem – Shapiro and his minions, over the last eight years, were not able to develop enough homegrown (drafted) talent to offset misses in free agency and a mediocre track record in trades.
Think about it – Hart and company, including Shapiro, who has been with this organization for 18 years, drafted, signed and developed the likes of Belle, Ramirez and Thome. Those Hall of Fame caliber players were ALL homegrown.
Name the Indians' current top players, and with few exceptions (i.e. Victor Martinez), they came from other organizations. It’s especially evident in the pitching department – where this organization, time and time again, used high draft choices on players who have fizzled out in the minors, or have had minimal impact at the ML level.
This all eventually catches up to you when you are in this baseball market in 2009.
In Boston, you can spend $100 million on one foreign born pitcher who had never thrown one pitch in the majors, and if the investment blows up in your face, no big deal. In New York, you can have a $207 million payroll and adjust on the fly, if necessary.
Not here, not Cleveland. Not even if your payroll stood at a somewhat competitive $80 million in April of 2009. You see, when team got off to its usual horrid start, Carmona imploded, the bullpen flamed out and Sizemore and company went down with injuries, the Indians were stuck.
Shapiro knew Dolan was not about to open up the check book to trade for established players who could fill the gaps. Dolan gave him $80 million to work with – that was his limit in this market, in these economic times. Period. It was up to Shapiro, Wedge and company to make it work.
Yes, it’s that margin for error again coming into play.
There was little margin for error in this town, at this time, with this team. And, more importantly, there was no relief, literally, coming from Columbus, Akron, etc…
Shapiro’s farm system and talent evaluation experts let him down. This didn’t happen over night. Years upon years of using high draft choices on fourth outfielders (i.e. Trevor Crowe) and mediocre, soft tossing lefties (i.e. take your pick) caught up to this organization.
So here we are. Dolan gave Shapiro the approval to blow it up – again. This latest move tells me he (Shapiro) will likely be back in 2010. Wedge will be sacrificed, even though the Dolans owe him his 2010 salary. Bringing Wedge back as well would just be rubbing salt in the wound. I can’t imagine they’ll go there.
The team will take a massive PR hit. You see, many current Cleveland baseball fans are spoiled. Remember, a whole generation of Tribe fans grew up during the 90s – when times were good. This group of fans did not realize how good they had it. Some of us did.
You see, many of us have been through this (rebuilding) numerous times before. Actually, these Indians are starting to look a lot like the lovable Tribe I grew up watching on the Lake Front with 3,000 other diehards back in the 70s and 80s.
Actually I long for those days. I have complained on numerous occasions, publicly and privately, that I can’t stand baseball’s current structure, where the rich get richer and the rest have to hope for a double bank shot to win a title.
I can understand and guess what Paul Dolan told Shapiro this past week as the trading deadline approached – “Mark, if we are going to win just 75 games next summer, it doesn’t hurt my portfolio nearly as much if we are doing it with a $40 million payroll instead of $80 million.”
The truth is there is no reason not to dump as many salaries as possible if you are starting over. That's the reality of the situation.
As for the generation of spoiled Indians fans who have just come to realize ML baseball is on tilt and consistent contention is rare and fleeting in most markets, I suggest you follow the advice of that famous philosopher, Bobby Knight – “Relax, sit back and enjoy it!”
In all seriousness, it's still ML baseball. It's just baseball with lowered expectations for a couple years. A slightly lowering of ticket prices to accompany a likely inferior product would ease the pain somewhat, but don't hold your breath that will happen.
The good news - if they get it right and the dumping of high priced talent is accompanied by Shapiro and company getting it right in terms of actually obtaining future quality major leaguers in return, then another run is forthcoming in this division.
Just remember one thing if that does occur - when that talent matures, it's leaving. The sooner you prepare for that, the better - that's ML baseball.
NFL Camp Opens
One reason I like watching NFL football is because it has the opposite system of ML baseball. Everyone competes on an even playing field. I firmly believe that is what has made it the most popular sport in the country by far.
Fans in most markets appreciate the fact that their teams can win if they do it right. The Atlanta Falcons and Miami Dolphins are last year's examples of literally going from worst to first. And as sure as the sun will rise tomorrow, some NFL team will do the same in 2009. That's one reason why we all look forward to September after watching the yearly Yankees/Red Sox soap opera in baseball.
A few thoughts on the upcoming 2009 campaign.
First, Michael Vick deserves a chance to play. He paid dearly for his misdeeds and will never recover his image - which wasn't stellar to begin with. I do believe you have a right to make a living. I doubt most teams will want to touch him in July, but that may change come October when quarterbacks start going down.
As for using him in the "wildcat" offense a few times a game - bull! He's a starting quarterback, not Josh Cribbs. Yes, I know he hasn't played in two years. But do you really think Tavaris Jackson is better than he is right now?
Vick is barely a lifetime 50% quarterback in terms of completing passes. That's not where he excelled. He excelled with his legs. The last time I checked, they didn't amputate either leg in the can. The guy can still run. As for his completion rate, a wise offensive coordinator will bring him along slowly until he regains some semblance of touch.
The question is - when will some team blink and take on the circus that awaits if you sign Vick? And no, I don't think it will be the Browns. Can you imagine the "dogpound" jokes if Vick plays in Cleveland?
I also expect Brett Favre to be in uniform by October. This guy simply craves the limelight too much. He not only played the game like a kid, but acts like one. You know the type - the kid that can't come inside after playing all day when mom calls hm in for dinner. He loves it too much and can't give it up. It isn't that complicated.
He doesn't care it's affecting his legacy somewhat. He's still going down as one of the best ever with all the records next to his name. If he's irritating some fans and media types by his childish behavior, so what? He's still a first ballot HOFer. That's not going to change. He's a kid, remember? Kids act stupidly at times.
Finally, let me reiterate what I want from the Mangini-led Browns in 2009 - be more physicial and more organized. That alone should get them to 7-9 in the medicocre NFL.
Those who "hope" for a six win season don't realize what league they play in. If you can run the football a little bit, stop the run some, play solid special teams and not turn it over much, you can win half your games in this league. The talent level is that even.
Unfortunately, in Cleveland, the generation that grew up in this current Browns Era
(1999-present) expects the roof to cave in by October.
Magini has a reputation of being a no-nonsense, well organized coach. Good. Let's see it play out and expect better than 6-10. It's about time the bar is set higher around here.
By the way, Brayon Edwards seems to be making great strides early during his contract year. He came into camp late and is hurt, although the injury is not ecpected to be serious. Nice.
I will be curious to see how Mangini handles this primadonna. My guess is BE will be on a short leash. How Mangini handles Edwards will be closely watched by the rest of the players who work for Mangini and company.
This current regime took control approximately eight years ago when Shapiro, Wedge and company were promoted. They pushed a rebuilding agenda that would lead to consistent contention, we were told.
What we got in reality was one post-season trip, a couple near misses and what we have today – a fire sale of talent.
This corner predicted this organization would not push the panic button and sell off Cliff Lee and Victor Martinez. We were wrong.
Our assumption was based on the following reasoning – the Indians could advance the argument that contention in 2010, within this relatively weak division, was possible with the healthy return of Jake Westbrook, Fausto Carmona finding himself and the addition of a couple of decent relievers.
This argument could certainly be advanced as the organization’s sales staff pushed its season ticket packages this coming off-season.
Instead, the Indians decided to fold the tent, cut budget and make the extraordinary admission they didn’t have enough overall organizational talent to contend next summer.
Remember, this regime touted, over and over again, how it was spending huge sums of money on player development over the past eight years.
By trading Lee with over one year remaining on his deal, what Shapiro did, in essence, is tell the baseball world the Indians’ brass misjudged its big league talent level, the organization’s farm system is in shambles, and what we all knew - the Dolans weren’t willing to take on the additional payroll to content in 2010.
Now a brief history lesson is in order.
Indians’ fans were spoiled during the 1990s, as the organization successfully established a contending run while being planted in a medium size market. The perfect storm – a new ballpark, good, young talent, and locking up those talented kids early in their careers to team-friendly deals – made the Tribe the model mid-size market team.
John Hart and his apprentices, including Mark Shapiro, were the darlings of the baseball world, and rightfully so. Several of those who worked under Hart went on to bigger and better jobs because of their Cleveland resumes. Good for them.
The Indians had a sustained run and came close to winning a championship. While this was going on, one could slowly see the building blocks coming apart, piece by piece, as Hart tried to fill the gaps, knowing all the while, the good times would soon end.
Belle, Ramirez and Thome all jumped ship when their contracts expired. Hart was torn. He knew the right thing to do long-term was to deal them before they left, but he couldn’t or wouldn’t because they needed these players in the line-up come October and the fans would riot.
Soon after, Hart left as well, as did the owner, Dick Jacobs, all seeing the writing on the wall. The run was about to end.
Such is life in baseball’s uneven playing field.
It isn’t complicated - if you run a small or mid-size ML team and have an excellent batting average with your acquisitions, signings, etc…, you have a chance to make a sustained run, but it will eventually end.
The numbers are cruel and real – Cleveland, Oakland, Minnesota and company can’t keep most of their best players.
At least those teams have had runs, fans in Pittsburgh and Kansas City complain. Their executives have not been able to post the batting averages necessary to even get competitive for a short period of time. The Pirates, for example, have posted a-record 17 consecutive years of sub .500 baseball, coupled with the yearly dumping of salaries come July.
Enter Mark Shapiro, who knew exactly what he was getting into when he was promoted to run the show in Cleveland. He knew the template to follow – his former boss (Hart) showed him the way.
There was one problem – Shapiro and his minions, over the last eight years, were not able to develop enough homegrown (drafted) talent to offset misses in free agency and a mediocre track record in trades.
Think about it – Hart and company, including Shapiro, who has been with this organization for 18 years, drafted, signed and developed the likes of Belle, Ramirez and Thome. Those Hall of Fame caliber players were ALL homegrown.
Name the Indians' current top players, and with few exceptions (i.e. Victor Martinez), they came from other organizations. It’s especially evident in the pitching department – where this organization, time and time again, used high draft choices on players who have fizzled out in the minors, or have had minimal impact at the ML level.
This all eventually catches up to you when you are in this baseball market in 2009.
In Boston, you can spend $100 million on one foreign born pitcher who had never thrown one pitch in the majors, and if the investment blows up in your face, no big deal. In New York, you can have a $207 million payroll and adjust on the fly, if necessary.
Not here, not Cleveland. Not even if your payroll stood at a somewhat competitive $80 million in April of 2009. You see, when team got off to its usual horrid start, Carmona imploded, the bullpen flamed out and Sizemore and company went down with injuries, the Indians were stuck.
Shapiro knew Dolan was not about to open up the check book to trade for established players who could fill the gaps. Dolan gave him $80 million to work with – that was his limit in this market, in these economic times. Period. It was up to Shapiro, Wedge and company to make it work.
Yes, it’s that margin for error again coming into play.
There was little margin for error in this town, at this time, with this team. And, more importantly, there was no relief, literally, coming from Columbus, Akron, etc…
Shapiro’s farm system and talent evaluation experts let him down. This didn’t happen over night. Years upon years of using high draft choices on fourth outfielders (i.e. Trevor Crowe) and mediocre, soft tossing lefties (i.e. take your pick) caught up to this organization.
So here we are. Dolan gave Shapiro the approval to blow it up – again. This latest move tells me he (Shapiro) will likely be back in 2010. Wedge will be sacrificed, even though the Dolans owe him his 2010 salary. Bringing Wedge back as well would just be rubbing salt in the wound. I can’t imagine they’ll go there.
The team will take a massive PR hit. You see, many current Cleveland baseball fans are spoiled. Remember, a whole generation of Tribe fans grew up during the 90s – when times were good. This group of fans did not realize how good they had it. Some of us did.
You see, many of us have been through this (rebuilding) numerous times before. Actually, these Indians are starting to look a lot like the lovable Tribe I grew up watching on the Lake Front with 3,000 other diehards back in the 70s and 80s.
Actually I long for those days. I have complained on numerous occasions, publicly and privately, that I can’t stand baseball’s current structure, where the rich get richer and the rest have to hope for a double bank shot to win a title.
I can understand and guess what Paul Dolan told Shapiro this past week as the trading deadline approached – “Mark, if we are going to win just 75 games next summer, it doesn’t hurt my portfolio nearly as much if we are doing it with a $40 million payroll instead of $80 million.”
The truth is there is no reason not to dump as many salaries as possible if you are starting over. That's the reality of the situation.
As for the generation of spoiled Indians fans who have just come to realize ML baseball is on tilt and consistent contention is rare and fleeting in most markets, I suggest you follow the advice of that famous philosopher, Bobby Knight – “Relax, sit back and enjoy it!”
In all seriousness, it's still ML baseball. It's just baseball with lowered expectations for a couple years. A slightly lowering of ticket prices to accompany a likely inferior product would ease the pain somewhat, but don't hold your breath that will happen.
The good news - if they get it right and the dumping of high priced talent is accompanied by Shapiro and company getting it right in terms of actually obtaining future quality major leaguers in return, then another run is forthcoming in this division.
Just remember one thing if that does occur - when that talent matures, it's leaving. The sooner you prepare for that, the better - that's ML baseball.
NFL Camp Opens
One reason I like watching NFL football is because it has the opposite system of ML baseball. Everyone competes on an even playing field. I firmly believe that is what has made it the most popular sport in the country by far.
Fans in most markets appreciate the fact that their teams can win if they do it right. The Atlanta Falcons and Miami Dolphins are last year's examples of literally going from worst to first. And as sure as the sun will rise tomorrow, some NFL team will do the same in 2009. That's one reason why we all look forward to September after watching the yearly Yankees/Red Sox soap opera in baseball.
A few thoughts on the upcoming 2009 campaign.
First, Michael Vick deserves a chance to play. He paid dearly for his misdeeds and will never recover his image - which wasn't stellar to begin with. I do believe you have a right to make a living. I doubt most teams will want to touch him in July, but that may change come October when quarterbacks start going down.
As for using him in the "wildcat" offense a few times a game - bull! He's a starting quarterback, not Josh Cribbs. Yes, I know he hasn't played in two years. But do you really think Tavaris Jackson is better than he is right now?
Vick is barely a lifetime 50% quarterback in terms of completing passes. That's not where he excelled. He excelled with his legs. The last time I checked, they didn't amputate either leg in the can. The guy can still run. As for his completion rate, a wise offensive coordinator will bring him along slowly until he regains some semblance of touch.
The question is - when will some team blink and take on the circus that awaits if you sign Vick? And no, I don't think it will be the Browns. Can you imagine the "dogpound" jokes if Vick plays in Cleveland?
I also expect Brett Favre to be in uniform by October. This guy simply craves the limelight too much. He not only played the game like a kid, but acts like one. You know the type - the kid that can't come inside after playing all day when mom calls hm in for dinner. He loves it too much and can't give it up. It isn't that complicated.
He doesn't care it's affecting his legacy somewhat. He's still going down as one of the best ever with all the records next to his name. If he's irritating some fans and media types by his childish behavior, so what? He's still a first ballot HOFer. That's not going to change. He's a kid, remember? Kids act stupidly at times.
Finally, let me reiterate what I want from the Mangini-led Browns in 2009 - be more physicial and more organized. That alone should get them to 7-9 in the medicocre NFL.
Those who "hope" for a six win season don't realize what league they play in. If you can run the football a little bit, stop the run some, play solid special teams and not turn it over much, you can win half your games in this league. The talent level is that even.
Unfortunately, in Cleveland, the generation that grew up in this current Browns Era
(1999-present) expects the roof to cave in by October.
Magini has a reputation of being a no-nonsense, well organized coach. Good. Let's see it play out and expect better than 6-10. It's about time the bar is set higher around here.
By the way, Brayon Edwards seems to be making great strides early during his contract year. He came into camp late and is hurt, although the injury is not ecpected to be serious. Nice.
I will be curious to see how Mangini handles this primadonna. My guess is BE will be on a short leash. How Mangini handles Edwards will be closely watched by the rest of the players who work for Mangini and company.
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