Thursday, March 31, 2011

Washington DC Has a Special Welcome for LeBron James

On Monday night the LeBron James and the Miami Heat traveled to Cleveland Ohio to take on the Cavaliers. Typically James has elaborate entrances, and never misses a chance to put his name in the spotlight. However, on Monday night LeBron was unable to control his bodily functions and was forced to miss the announcement of the starting lineups.

Of course we all know the reason that LeBron chose to skip the starting lineups on Monday night. He wanted nothing to do with the hostile Cleveland fans who he abandoned nine months ago.

On Tuesday night the LeBron James and the Heat were back in action, this time in Washington DC. While a few years past this would be considered a rivalry game, things have since cooled. However, there is plenty of anti-LeBron sentiment in Washington DC. One broadcaster decided to take it upon himself to make sure that LeBron felt welcomed when he arrived in the District.



You may be able to skip introductions, but you can't avoid the wrath of the fans forever LeBron.

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Springboks Reveal Jerseys for Rugby World Cup


The 2011 Rugby World Cup is just around the corner, and all the teams participating are gearing up for the big event. As with every World Cup each team makes a special version of their jersey that the teams will wear throughout the tournament, and yesterday the South African Springboks showcases their new jerseys for the first time, and fans are not too happy.

The issue that has most fans throwing a fit is the location that rugby apparrell maker Cantebury has placed the trademark leaping Bok that the Springboks have become associated with. Traditionally the leaping bok has been placed on the chest of the South African jerseys over the players heart. However due to sponsorships and the Rugby World Cup logo, the bok have been moved to the left sleeve of the jersey.

Many longtime Springbok supporters are concerned that the bok emblem is close to becoming an endangered species on the South African jersey. The bok has been the symbol of pride and unity for a country that has a proud rugby tradition, and the possibility of the bok going away is simply too much for some to handle.

"It is just wrong to have the Springbok anywhere else but on the chest,” -Khanyisa Dyubeni of Gugulethu



Monday, March 28, 2011

NFLPA Agrees to Not Interfere with NFL Draft


According to sources from CBS Sports, and ESPN, the NFLPA have come to a conclusion that says they will not interfere with any of the NFL's activities during the NFL Draft at the end of April. Instead of hosting their own party for NFL rookies, as the NFLPA had previously mentioned. Instead the NFLPA has announced they will hold a party on Saturday night for all rookies drafted during the NFL Draft.

One source close to the NFLPA had the following comment: “We want players to have their moment.”

The move to not interrupt the NFL Draft is a smart one for the NFLPA. It is not fair for them to put the players between the current players and the owners. At the end of the day, the rookies coming out of college have the right to experience the joy of being drafted, even if they don't have to report to work right away.

Alabama standout receiver Julio Jones put it best: “Hopefully I will be there to shake the commissioner’s hand… Yes, sir, I want an opportunity to go to New York and be able to experience that.”


Thursday, March 24, 2011

Italian Rugby is Much Improved, Check Out These Skills

The entire rugby world was shocked a few weeks ago when Italy knocked off France in a 6 Nations match, and as a result they managed to avoid receiving the wooden spoon yet again. However, after some revealing video, we now know how the Italians became so successful. Check out these ball handling skills from the the Italian forwards. Honestly who can compete with this?



Wednesday, March 23, 2011

JaVale McGee Blocks Wesley Matthews, Amazing Play

Not a lot has gone well for the Washington Wizards this season. All you need to do is look at their record, or watch their embarrassing performances on the court. However, even a bad team can make an amazing play, and we saw evidence of that last night during the Wizards vs. Trailblazers game. Wizards guard JaVale McGee is known for his ups, and usually he showcases them when dunking on someone. Last night McGee used his athletic ability to show he can defend a little bit as well.

Check it out.



Tuesday, March 22, 2011

England Celebrates Grand Slam Too Early

Throughout sports history, there are teams and athletes who have been known to celebrate a victory before actually earning it on the field. Sometimes, it works out in their favor, check the 85 Bears who recorded the Super Bowl Shuffle two weeks before the Super Bowl, other times a premature celebratory video can bite you in the ass. Look no further than the 2011 English Rugby team for an example of this.

England cruised through the first four games of their 2011 6 Nations rugby campaign, and entering this past Saturday's finale against Ireland, all the English had to do was win the game and they would lock up a 6 Nations title, and the Grand Slam Championship. However, despite a poor showing two weeks ago against Wales, the Irish would not go down without a fight. Ireland destroyed England and ruined their chances at a Grand Slam. Unfortunately for England, they had already recorded this video keeper.




Monday, March 14, 2011

Roger Goodell Take A Paycut and Blames the Fans


As we brought up a few weeks ago, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell toll the media he was willing to take a pay cut for every month there was a NFL labor lockout. Being a man of his word, (on this at least) Roger Goodell cut his own salary over the weekend to $1 a month. Don't worry he's been banking about $10 million a year since taking over as NFL commissioner. However, even though Goodell lived up to his end of the bargain and took the pay cut, it should be noted Roger Goodell did not go quietly into the night. Look no further to this email Goodell sent to NFL fans, and see there are plenty of unresolved issues, and we have a long way to go in this lockout.

Dear NFL Fan,

When I wrote to you last on behalf of the NFL, we promised you that we would work tirelessly to find a collectively bargained solution to our differences with the players' union. Subsequent to that letter to you, we agreed that the fastest way to a fair agreement was for everyone to work together through a mediation process. For the last three weeks I have personally attended every session of mediation, which is a process our clubs sincerely believe in.

Unfortunately, I have to tell you that earlier today the players' union walked away from mediation and collective bargaining and has initiated litigation against the clubs. In an effort to get a fair agreement now, our clubs offered a deal today that was, among other things, designed to have no adverse financial impact on veteran players in the early years, and would have met the players’ financial demands in the latter years of the agreement.

The proposal we made included an offer to narrow the player compensation gap that existed in the negotiations by splitting the difference; guarantee a reallocation of savings from first-round rookies to veterans and retirees without negatively affecting compensation for rounds 2-7; no compensation reduction for veterans; implement new year-round health and safety rules; retain the current 16-4 season format for at least two years with any subsequent changes subject to the approval of the league and union; and establish a new legacy fund for retired players ($82 million contributed by the owners over the next two years).

It was a deal that offered compromise, and would have ensured the well-being of our players and guaranteed the long-term future for the fans of the great game we all love so much. It was a deal where everyone would prosper.

We remain committed to collective bargaining and the federal mediation process until an agreement is reached, and call on the union to return to negotiations immediately. NFL players, clubs, and fans want an agreement. The only place it can be reached is at the bargaining table.

While we are disappointed with the union's actions, we remain steadfastly committed to reaching an agreement that serves the best interest of NFL players, clubs and fans, and thank you for your continued support of our League. First and foremost it is your passion for the game that drives us all, and we will not lose sight of this as we continue to work for a deal that works for everyone.


Yours,
Roger Goodell

With words like that, it's not hard to see why the NFL labor situation is in such bad condition.

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Updated NFL Mock Draft


With all the film from the 2011 NFL Combine evaluated, and the early pro-days of some elite NFL prospects underway, we decided it was a good time to publish our latest edition of our NFL Mock Draft. Due to their recent performances, a few players have found themselves on the move on our draft board. For the most part this is a good thing, but there are few exceptions. Remember this draft board is far from being finalized, and you can expect updates as we move closer to the actual NFL Draft.

1) Carolina Panthers: Da'Quan Bowers DE, Clemson: Unlike many recent years, the No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft is not a lock, and as a result the Carolina Panthers have a lot of options (and needs) at this position. A few mock drafts have Cam Newton going to the Panthers as the first pick, but I simply did not see enough out of him in his pro-day or at the Combine to justify him as the top pick in the draft. In Da'Quan Bowers, the Panthers go the safe route, and get a guy who is a play maker. Bowers wants to be the next Julius Peppers, and he has all the tools to achieve that goal. Missouri's Blaine Gabbert could make a late push for this spot, but I'll have to watch him throw at his pro-day before pumping him up the board.

2) Denver Broncos: Nick Fairley DT Auburn: Why? The Broncos were last in the NFL last season with 23 sacks. John Fox is a defensive minded coach, who likes to build around his defensive line. Fox has already gone on record noting he is happy with the current defensive ends on his roster. In Nick Fairley the Broncos get a big defensive tackle who is athletic enough to make plays in the backfield, and he has a bit of a mean streak in him, that will help give an identity to that unit. Another option for the Broncos with this pick is Alabama's Marcell Dareus, who tested out slightly better than Fairley when it comes to physical attributes. However due to the attitude Fairley possess, I prefer him as the better option.

3) Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton QB Auburn: The Bills have a ton of needs, and oddly enough quarterback is not at the top of that list. However, history has shown us that what Bills owner Buddy Nix wants, Buddy Nix gets. Last year he went on about running a pass catching RB, and he reached and signed C.J. Spiller. This year, Nix has already gone on record about his desire to have a franchise quality quarterback. Combine that with head coach Chan Gailey's love for athletic and mobile quarterbacks and you have a match made in heaven with Cam Newton. We all know what Cam can do with his legs, and with his size he should be able to handle the wear'n'tear of the NFL. The biggest question surround the Heisman Trophy winner is can he throw the ball with enough accuracy to be competitive at the NFL level? Even after his pro-day, Newton left plenty of questions unanswered. Other possible picks at this spot are LB Von Miller, DB Patrick Paterson, or DT Marcell Dareus.

4) Cincinnati Bengals: Blaine Gabbert QB Missouri: If Carson Palmer holds true to his promise of retiring if the Bengals fail to trade him, then Cincinnati has no choice but to draft a quarterback, seeing that most likely two of the QB's currently on their roster will be gone come September (Jordan Palmer, Carson's brother, is currently the 3'rd QB). Should Cam Newton fall, the Bengals will likely jump at him, but they will not blink twice at the thought of signing Gabbert if they need to. Gabbert will have a steep learning curve in the NFL, but he has the talent to compete at this level. Other possible picks include A.J. Green should the Bengals be able to workout their quarterback situation pre-draft.

5) Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller LB Texas A&M: Von is an amazing athlete, who was made to play rush linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. Miller lit it up at the Combine showing he has the raw athletic skills that make him one of a kind. Von Miller has improved his skill set vastly over the past season transform from a pure pass rusher to an all around defender. With Joey Porter on his way out in Arizona, Miller actually provides an upgrade at linebacker from what the Cardinals currently have. Other possible choices at this position is CB Patrick Paterson, he's arguably too good of a player to pass on.

6) Cleveland Browns: A.J. Green WR Georgia: The Browns have named Colt McCoy as their starting QB for 2011, now they need to get him some reliable targets. A.J. Green proved he is fast enough, 4.48 sec 30, and big enough 6'4 211 lbs, to play in the NFL. Green has all the tools to be a No.1 receiver and when paired with a guy like McCoy, the Browns could finally be on the right rebuilding track.

7) San Francisco 49'ers: Patrick Paterson CB, LSU: It's not often I agree with ESPN's Mel Kiper, but when it comes to Patrick Paterson I do. Paterson is the best overall player available in this year's draft. However, due to the position he plays, it's difficult for a lot of teams to perceive taking him with a high draft pick. The 49'ers most likely would prefer to pass on Paterson as well if it was up to them. While they would be happy to have a player of his caliber, what San Fran really needs is a quarterback. If the teams ahead of them continue to show a strong interest in Cam Newton and Blaine Gabbert, do not be surprised if the 49'ers make an attempt to trade up in the draft to pick one of those quarterbacks. However, if a trade is not possible, there is no doubt Patrick Paterson is the best player available, and there is no way San Fran will pass.

8) Tennessee Titians: Marcell Dareus DT Alabama: The Titians are entering the post Jeff Fisher era, but many of the things we've come accustomed to will remain the same. Ever since Albert Haynesworth left for Washington the Titans have had a massive hole on their defensive line. Marcell Dareus comes from a 3-4 scheme, but he has all the skill to become a terror in Tennessee's 4-3 scheme.

9) Dallas Cowboys: Prince Amukamara CB Nebraska: Sure the Cowboys need help on the offensive line, but anyone who saw Dallas get torched by David Garrad, Rex Grossman, and Shaun Hill respectively know the Cowboys need a serious upgrade in their defensive backs. Prince Amukamara is the best pure corner available in this year's draft. Patrick Peterson grades out about him due to his athletic abilities, but when it comes to technical skill Amukamara is the best. It's possible the Cowboys could trade down in an effort to pick up an offensive linemen, but Prince Amukamara is a play maker, and that's right up Jerry Jones' alley.

10) Washington Redskins: Julio Jones WR Alabama: The NFL Draft could get very interesting come the 10th pick, because it's difficult to gauge what the Washington Redskins will do. It's pretty obvious Washington needs to make a move to address their quarterback situation as the McNabb/Shannahan partnership is already over. However, with Cam Netwon and Blaine Gabbert off the board, logic tells you the Redskins will not reach for a quarterback at this position. In addition, the Redskins do not have enough draft picks stockpiled to make any serious trades to move up in the draft. With no serious quarterback options on the board, Washington will address one of their obvious glaring needs, receiver. Julio Jones, is a big bodied receiver who made a ton of plays, in an offense that is not designed for success at the wide out position. Most importantly Jones provides a big target for whoever will slot in at quarterback for the Redskins.

11) Houston Texans: Robert Quinn DE/OLB UNC: Last year this time there was a serious chance that Robert Quinn could have become the No.1 overall prospect entering this year's draft. However, thanks to a horrible ruling by the NCAA Quinn was forced to sit out all of last season. The result was too many people forgot about Quinn's potential, and there's simply not enough film on the guy. What we do know is he can flat out play when he's allowed on the field. Quinn showed that in the senior bowl, and in his test at the NFL Combine. The Texans are moving to a 3-4 scheme, and with Cushing and company moving to the inside LB position, Quinn gives new defensive coordinator Wade Philips a great option as a speed rush OLB.

12) Minnesota Vikings: Ryan Mallett QB Arkansas: Who would have thought drafting a potential franchise caliber quarterback in the first round of the NFL Draft would be considered a quiet off season. However, that is life for the Vikings in the post Bret Favre era. Mallett raised plenty of eyebrows with the way he handled the media at the Combine. There are plenty of questions about Mallett's maturity, but it appears he is doing his best to answer those since the Combine.

13) Detroit Lions: Tyron Smith OT USC: The Detroit Lions have made major strides in the past few seasons, and they have all the tools to take a big step in the right direction in 2011. However, if the Lions want to become contenders they will need to do with with Matt Stafford, that means keeping the young quarterback healthy, and upright in the pocket. Tyron Smith had an impressive combine, and is shooting up peoples draft boards. If drafted by Detroit he could be the long term fix the Lions desperately need to anchor a struggling offensive line.

14) St. Louis Rams: Corey Liuget DT Illinois: The Rams would love to get a receiver to help the quickly developing Sam Bradford, but it's unlikely they want a wideout bad enough to trade up for one. If the Rams cannot get an offensive weapon, they will look to beef up their defensive line which is young and coming together nicely. Liuget has great leverage, and has proved to have a great motor.

15) Miami Dolphins: Mark Ingram RB Miami: Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams are both scheduled to be free agents this offseason, and while being serviceable backs neither one would be considered an elite back. Mark Ingram won the Heisman as a sophomore in college, then suffered through an injury riddled junior year. However, he came on strong in the Capital One Bowl and he was great the the NFL Combine. Many compare Ingram to Emmitt Smith, and that is very accurate when considering his running style. Mark Ingram is a throwback to the the running backs of Smiths generation where backs served as every down players. Ingram would be an instant upgrade in the Dolphins backfield.

16) Jacksonville Jaguars: Cameron Jordan DE Cal: The Jaguars defense made huge strides last season, and they will look to continue that trend in 2011. Another trend they will stick with is selecting a first round draft pick from Cal. Cameron Jordan is an athletic D-end who has the speed to rush the passer on the edge, but he also has enough strength to stay inside and become a strong run blocker. Other possibilities with this pick are DE/OLB Ryan Kerrigan.

17) New England Patriorts: Ryan Kerrigan OLB/DE Purdue: Should he be available, the Patriots will be all over Kerrigan. He's the type of player Bill Billichick loves. Thanks to a solid workout Kerrigan proved he is talented enough to be an end in the 4-3 or an OLB in the 3-4 which is important since the Patriots swap between the two schemes. Kerrigan is a four year player, a three year starter and an academic All American. This means he's seen and played a lot of football, and he has the ability to learn, all of these are qualities the Patriots love in their defensive players.

18) San Diego Chargers: Aldon Smith OLB Missouri: The Chargers need an upgrade at the linebacker position and Smith gives them an instant burst of energy. Smith only played two seasons at Missouri and missed time due to a broken leg, but that has not affect his overall athleticism. He showed growth in his time at Missouri and he still has the ability to learn more.

19) New York Giants: Mike Pouncey C/G Florida: Mike's brother went in the first round of last year's draft and turned into a Pro-Bowl center for the Steelers, the Giants are hoping they will be as lucky by drafting Mike Pouncey. The big center is able to play either guard spot or move down to center. He has great footwork and is able to get to the second level and make blocks down field. Pouncey will be a big asset in recharging a once powerful New York rushing attack.

20) Tampa Bay Bucs: Adrian Clayborn DE Iowa: The Bucs are the youngest team in the NFL, and they don't see that as a problem. Tampa Bay has a young defensive front, but they get after the ball and they make plays. However, one area the Bucs lacked in last season was sacks. The team leader Stylez G. White only had 4.5. Adrian Clayborn had the potential to be a top 10 draft pick, but thanks to a horrible year both on and off the field, he has fallen. Under the Tampa Bay coaches Adrian will get the guidance he needs, and provide the outside pass rush the Bucs need.

21) Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Houston OLB Georgia: The Chiefs have found success when drafting defensive players from the SEC, and in Justin Houston they should find another winning pick. Mike Vrabel has played well for Kansas City but his time as a full time player in the NFL is coming to an end. Justin Houston is the perfect fit to step in and fill the impending void.

22) Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Castonzo OT Boston College: The Colts need to upgrade on their offensive line. Peyton Manning is still the best quarterback in the NFL, but he needs time to make plays in the pocket. Castonzo is arguably the best tackle available in the year's draft and he's a perfect fit for the Colts offense.

23) Philadelphia Eagles: Gabe Carimi OT Wisconsin: The Eagles gave up 53 sacks last season, and that's with the elusive Mike Vick at quarterback. It's time for Philadelphia to upgrade their offensive line. Carimi loves to run block and playing in the Big 10 last season he had the opportunity to go against some of the best defensive linemen in the country. It is likely Carimi will replace Winston Justice who was benched for poor play during the Eagles playoff game.

24) New Orleans Saints: Muhammad Wilkerson DT Temple: Yes, that's right a Temple player is going to be drafted in the first round. Thanks to great player during his career, and solid workouts Wilkerson finds his draft stock rising. It's possible he could be gone by the 24th pick.

25) Seattle Seahawks: Jimmy Smith CB Colorado: Currently the Seahawks secondary consist of Earl Thomas and a group of serviceable vets. If they want to hold on to their slim advantage in the NFC West, they will need some serious upgrades Some look at Jimmy Smith's stats and they are not impressed, however, I'd argue he suffered from Primetime syndrome. Smith's stats are lackluster this season because no one was willing to throw in his direction. That's the ultimate compliment for a defensive back.

26) Baltimore Ravens: Derek Sherrod OT Mississippi St: The Ravens have done a lot to upgrade their offense during the past few offseason's however, if you saw them throughout the season it was obvious their rushing game has suffered due to turnover and injuries on the offensive line. Derek Sherrod is a reliable run blocker who should be able to slot in and replace the oft injured Jared Gaither.

27) Atlanta Falcons: Aaron Williams CB Texas: Williams has the size of a safety but the speed and footwork of a CB. This is great for the Falcons as they will be able to use him in a variety of ways. No matter how they decide to use the young player, one thing is for certain he will upgrade the Atlanta secondary.

28) New England Patriots: Nate Solder OT Colorado: The Patriots are the only team in this year's draft with the luxury of two first round draft picks. This gives them the flexibility to go in a number of different directions with this pick. Should Nate be available he may be too good a prospect to pass on. He has a massive frame, and his physical attributes tested out of the world at the Combine. The Patriots have the freedom to draft Solder and allow him time to grow into his body and his role as an NFL player.

29) Chicago Bears: Stephen Pea DT Oregon State: With the release of Harris, the Bears are suddenly in need of a 3-technique tackle. Pea is a solid contributor who saw his draft stock jump thanks to his record setting 49 reps on the bench press.

30) New York Jets: Akeem Ayers OLB UCLA: The Jets could go a lot of directions with this pick, despite being so close to the Super Bowl yet again, the Jets have plenty of glaring holes. The biggest hole is on the defensive line, but at the 30th pick it's hard to believe there will be a quality player available to take. If Ayers is available he could be the man to help bolster a lacking D-line despite not actually playing on it. Ayers is a great physical specimen who is aggressive and capable of putting his hand in the dirt and being a 4-3 end.

31) Pittsburgh Steelers: Danny Watkins G Baylor: Big Ben has made a living scrambling and making plays by moving the pocket but the Steelers would like to protect their QB from taking so many hits, and upgrade their offensive line. Watkins is a versatile linemen who can play several positions and on either side.

32) Green Bay Packers: Torrey Smith WR Maryland: The Packers won the Super Bowl on the arm of Aaron Rogers, and the play of his receivers. However, going into 2011 only Greg Jennings is a guarantee. In Torrey Smith the Packers get a solid speedester option on the outside which is something they lack no matter who comes back.

Wednesday, March 09, 2011

Questions Still Surround Cam Newton After Pro-Day

<a href="http://msn.foxsports.com/video?vid=02e87499-b5e7-450c-83d6-73b2bc63fc3a" target="_new" title="">Caplan: Newton's Pro Day</a>

On Tuesday former Auburn quarterback Cam Newton took to the field once again in his NFL Pro-Day at Auburn's Jordan-Hare Stadium. After a lackluster performance last week at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, Newton was in need of a strong showing to wow NFL Scouts, and prove he is ready to make the transition to a NFL roster. What the scouts saw on Tuesday, was exactly what they expected, a strong armed quarterback who still has a lot to learn.

Pro-Day workouts are orchestrated to showcase how talented a player is, and what they can accomplish at the next level. As a result, the workouts are specially designed and rehearsed. The participants are fully prepared for what they are doing, and generally they perform very well. This is why the results from a pro-day can be very misleading.

Cam Newton prepared for his pro-day by working with his personal quarterbacks coach George Whitefield Jr. The two prepared a workout that would see Newton throw a total of 60 passes. The throws included a variety of different passes a NFL quarterback would make during a game. Newton made passes from under center, including 3-step, 5-step and 7-step drops. In total Cam Newton completed 50-60 passes. Three of the incomplete passes were due to dropped balls by his receivers, while his receivers also made some solid plays on a few passes that were off target.

It's difficult to say what we really learned from Cam Netwon's pro-day. Once again he showcased he has a powerful arm. The ball obviously jumped off his hand, and he had plenty of zip on his out routes, and enough loft to hit the long ball. However, we knew all of this about Cam before Tuesday. What we still do no know about Newton is how much can he learn? and how quickly will he be able to make the adjustments to go to the next level?

Newtons footwork was great on Tuesday, he showed the ability to shift his weight from his back foot to his front, and drive his power into his passes. However, Newton still showed he lacks touch on his throws. This was showed as he still sailed passes over his targets head, and had trouble landing the deep ball. Newton will need to work on his accuracy if he wants to excel at the next level. Many NFL teams run timing based offenses, that require an accurate quarterback to operate them if they want to be successful.

We all know Cam Newton is a physical specimen, however it has yet to be seen if he possess all the other tools required to be an NFL quarterback. One thing is for sure Newton did not hurt his NFL Draft stock with his pro-day performance, but he also did not elevate it.


Tuesday, March 08, 2011

Tiki Barber Set to Return to the NFL


According to his agent Mark Lepselter, former Giants running back Tiki Barber has filed papers to un-retire from the NFL.

Tiki Barber retired in 2006, to take a job with the NBC Today, and a few other NBC related news outlets. In 2009, Barber lost those jobs due to an off the air encounter with an employee.

"After seeing my brother still have fun at our age, it reignited the fire," Tiki Barber said, according to FOXSports.com. "I'm really looking forward to the challenge of seeing if I can get back to the level of where I was. I started working out again recently. It kind of shocked myself. I still had a lot of the strength I had before. I'm really looking forward to making a return."

One distinct difference between Tiki playing at 35 and Ronde playing at 35 is Ronde never retired. He has been a top contributor in the NFL. It's a lot easier to maintain your condition at a high level, rather than trying to start it up all over again. NFL comebacks are far from easy, especially at the running back position.



Tuesday, March 01, 2011

Fastest 40 Yard Dash Times at This Year's Combine


The 2011 Combine has come to a conclusion in Indianapolis, and all the coaches and participants have gone home where they will await school pro-days, and individual NFL team workouts. While there is plenty to take away from the NFL Combine, what everyone is really interested in is who ran the fastest times in the 40 yard dash. Lucky for all our readers, we a complete list of the fastest 40 times at this year's NFL Combine.

1) Demarcus Van Dyke DB Miami 4.28 sec

2) Patrick Peterson DB LSU 4.34 sec

2) Da' Rel Scott RB Maryland 4.34 sec

4) Edmond Gates WR Abliene Christian 4.37 sec

4) Ricardo Lockette WR Fort Valley St. 4.37 sec

6) Mario Fannin RB Auburn 4.38 sec

7) Julio Jones WR Alabama 4.39 sec

8) Chimdi Chekwa DB Ohio State 4.40 sec

8) Chris Culliver DB South Carolina 4.40 sec

8) Jordan Todman RB UConn 4.40 sec


NFL Combine Fastest 40 Yard Dash Times Cornerbacks


Today is the last day for on the field test at the NFL Combine, and that means the defensive backs are on the field. This year's class of DB's is as talented and deep as ever. The corners were up first, and in the tradition of Dion Sanders, this year's class of corner backs have blazing speed, including one sub 4.3 sec 40. Check out this year's fastest corner backs at the combine.

1) Demarcus Van Dyke Miami - 4.29 sec

2) Patrick Peterson LSU 4.34 sec

3) Chimdi Chekwa OSU 4.40 sec

3) Chris Culliver South Carolina 4.40 sec

5) Prince Amukamara 4.43 sec


Greg McElroy Wonderlic Score is Off the Charts


While it's widely known and understood that the NFL Combine measures all the tangibles a college football play has to offer, speed, strength etc. NFL scouts also use the combine to measure the intangibles as well. Teams rely on interviews and meetings to gain an insight into what a player is thinking and how they may react to an adverse situation. Another tool teams employ is the Wonderlic exam, an SAT like exam that measures intelligence and logic.

Typically when we talk about the Wonderlic, it is because a player has notched a low score. We all remember Vince Young's score of 16 (the test is out of 50), and all the eyebrows it raised. Last year Tim Teabow proved he was more than just muscle when he earned a 35 on the test. At this year's combine in Indy, once again a quarterback has wowed everyone with his score.

Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy never expected to blow any scouts away with his physical performance at the combine. However, people were curious to see how he would perform on the Wonderlic Test, and he blew it out the water. McElroy scored a 48 on the test, posting the highest score in over five years, and matching the highest score earned by a quarterback (here is a complete least of QB Wonderlic scores since 2006) The high score is twice the league average. It should come as no surprise that McElroy scored so well on the test, he was a multiple time Academic All-American, and he was a Rhodes Scholarship finalist last year.

The impressive score makes McElroy one of the smartest quarterbacks in history, in theory at list. His score matches Buffalo Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick. The only other starter in the NFL last year to post a score even close was Alex Smith who earned a 40. Rumor has it former Cincinnati Bengal's punter Pat McInally scored a 50.