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Juiced Sports Presents: 2012 Mock Draft, Final Edition

mkaye — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 21:14:12 +0000

MIKE KAYE

With the draft just a week away, draft boards are likely set in stone. After numerous mock drafts, we at Juiced Sports give you one last look at what can happen next week. As always, a few surprises are promised in this three round mock.

Disclaimer: Remember these picks are not who I would take at each position, but who I think the teams will select with the scenarios given. With so many picks, I will not be conducting trades in order to maintain accuracy.

Round 1

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

While it hasn’t been reported, with a week to go, negotiations have likely started between Luck’s agent and the Colts. Luck has a high ceiling and a high floor which makes him a rarity in quarterback draft picks. That’s why he has to be the number one pick in this draft. You won’t have to worry about him being Ryan Leaf or Matt Leinart. At worst, he’ll be Carson Palmer with mobility.

2. Washington Redskins (STL): Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

RG3 will answer a lot of Washington’s issues on offense, as long as Mike and Kyle Shanahan mold their plans to his strengths. Griffin is a superb athlete who has a higher ceiling but a much bigger boom or bust ratio than Luck. No matter what happens with Griffin, this pick is a victory for a now-dormant franchise.

3. Minnesota Vikings: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

Vikings GM Rick Spielman seems to be down on drafting an offensive tackle so early. While a lot of pundits see that as a smokescreen, I do not. Remember, these picks aren’t what I would do, they are what I think the teams will do. With that said, the Minnesota secondary is awful and Claiborne in a top five player in this draft. He also have return ability, so that’s less damage for Percy Harvin.

4. Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson, HB, Alabama

Trent Richardson is a premiere playmaker with a pedigree to match. The Browns do need help at wide receiver but no prospect at that position is worth taking here (trust me). The most important thing for Cleveland, is to successfully get the ball out of Colt McCoy’s hands.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Matt Kalil, OT, USC

With the Vikings’ pick, Kalil (who I think is the best offensive tackle prospect since Jonathan Ogden) falls. The Bucs lose out on Claiborne, who they were targeting. Kalil has phenomenal value here, so a trade is very likely, but for this article’s sake, Kalil goes to the Bucs. This move would allow Donald Penn to swing to the right tackle spot where he is a huge upgrade over Jeremy Trueblood.

6. St. Louis Rams (WAS): Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi St.

Cox has climbed draft boards in the last few months and the Rams have a ton of draft picks to fill all of their many needs. The Rams lack a true presence in the middle of their defensive line and Cox can do it all. A lot of readers may see this as a reach, but Cox is by far the best defensive lineman in the draft and will be Pro Bowler before you know it.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma St.

The Jags need playmakers, especially with MJD sitting out for a new contract and Laurent Robinson as their number one guy. Blackmon has all the tools needed to be a top guy and Jacksonville lacked threat since Jimmy Smith left town years ago.

8. Miami Dolphins: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

Miami needs to be smart with this pick after failing to get Peyton Manning, Matt Flynn, RG3 and trading Brandon Marshall. The last move means they have no one to throw the ball to, which would make a really tough assignment for a rookie QB. Ryan Tannehill has always been a reach here, so passing on him is not a horrible decision. Floyd gives the Fins size and talent at the wide receiver position. He can be a Pro Bowler.

9. Carolina Panthers: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU

After missing out on Cox, the Panthers solve their interior issues with Brockers. While he is a bit of a one-year wonder, he has enormous potential. He is already a monster against the run, but he has the measurements and athleticism to excel in rushing the passer as well.

10. Buffalo Bills: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

The Bills are the likeliest candidate to trade up for Kalil if the Vikings, Browns, and Bucs want to field offers. As I’m not opening up the labyrinth that is mock trades, the Bills are stuck at 10. Dre Kirkpatrick made a bonehead mood before the Combine, but there is no questioning his talent. The Bills ranked in the bottom three of virtually every passing defensive category. Kirkpatrick’s size and coverage skills will be welcomed.

11. Kansas City Chiefs: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M

The Chiefs are in this position because of injuries, not a lack of talent. The team just doesn’t have a ton of needs, so they go with competition at their most important spot. Tannehill falls to KC, who looked at adding Peyton Manning this off-season. Matt Cassel is a good player, but the Chiefs need someone to push him to be great and eventually take over him.

12. Seattle Seahawks: Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina

Seattle lacks pass rushers outside of Chris Cleamons who is getting older. Ingram may be the best pass rusher in the draft and would definitely help Pete Carroll’s defense. With Floyd, Blackmon, and Tannehill gone, this pick is an easy one.

13. Arizona Cardinals: Reily Reiff, OT/OG, Iowa

The Cardinals have constantly struggled to protect their quarterbacks, no matter who they are. With John Skelton’s lack of mobility and Kevin Kolb’s injury history, protecting them is more important than ever. Reiff projects as more of a right tackle but can play most positions on the line. While I am not a huge fan of his, I think the Cardinals take the big man from Iowa.

14. Dallas Cowboys: Quintin Coples, DE/DT, UNC

This a great spot for Dallas to be in. They have the choice of David DeCastro, Mark Barron, and Coples, who are all high their boards (IMO). The ‘Boys lack a pass rushing presence in their front, so they go with the talent of Coples over the stability of DeCastro and the need for Barron. Coples falls because of his reported lack of enthusiasm for the sport and his work ethic.

15. Philadelphia Eagles: Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College

Much like Dallas, this scenario is beneficial for Philly. Kuechly led the nation in tackles the past two seasons and that is one of Philly’s biggest weaknesses. With Cox and Brockers off the board, Keuchly can be the short term answer at SAM linebacker and could eventually take over for the newly-acquired DeMeco Ryans in the middle.

16. New York Jets: Courtney Upshaw, OLB/DE, Alabama

Rumors are that the Jets really want Melvin Ingram, but since they missed out on him , they add another pass rusher. Upshaw has gone up and down boards since the BCS Championship game, but this is likely good value for him. The Jets need a guy who can get pressure on the quarterback as well as other teams get pressure on Mark Sanchez.

17. Cincinnati Bengals (OAK): David DeCastro, OG, Stanford

As the Bengals continue to evolve their offense, keeping Andy Dalton upright, should be one of their biggest concerns. With numerous early round picks, the Bengals can go for the offensive line in the first. DeCastro has multi-Pro Bowls written all over him.

18. San Diego Chargers: Nick Perry, OLB/DE, USC

Much like the Jets, the Chargers need a REAL pass rusher. They go local with Perry who is fireball with long arms. The Chargers could go wide receiver here, but pass rusher is much more likely.

19. Chicago Bears: Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois

The Bears failed to take away protection from Julius Peppers last season, which hurt against opposing offenses. Mercilus hasn’t got a tremendous amount of success in college on his resume but he was lights out last season. The Bears should be familiar with him as a he’s a local product with huge upside.

20. Tennessee Titans: Chandler Jones, DE, Syracuse

The Titans are likely to take the best defensive player on the board that isn’t a safety. Jones has been a huge riser in recent weeks, with his Pro Day and Combine. He is the best defensive end available and I expect him to go around here.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Mark Barron, SS, Alabama

This is a huge coup for the Bengals. With Chris Crocker on the streets, Barron can definitely fill his role. The safety from Alabama is the best at his position and would be a huge upgrade for the Cincy secondary.

22. Cleveland Browns (ATL): Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford

The moto for the Browns this draft is: “we need playmakers.” At this point, the value is kind of low for number one guys with Kendall Wright and Mohamed Sanu likely slot players. The best safety valve for a young QB is a great tight end and Fleener is the best of the bunch.

23. Detroit Lions: Cordy Glenn, OT/OG, Georgia

Glenn was originally projected as a guard but with an explosive Combine and Pro Day, scouts are starting to see him as a tackle. Glenn can begin his career at right tackle and then eventually take over for Jeff Backus on the left side.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Dontari Poe, NT, Memphis

The key to a successful 3-4 defense is a nose tackle. Poe has a ton of potential but little to show for it in college. The Steelers are great at developing talent so they take flyer on Poe.

25. Denver Broncos: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

Andre Caldwell is a decent player, but Peyton Manning can always use more playmakers. Wright is a guy who can play outside but can thrive in the slot and in the return game. The Broncos would love to add a defensive tackle here, but the premiere guys are gone.

26. Houston Texans: Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford

As much as Stephen Hill would be a welcomed site in Houston, with Eric Winston on the Chiefs, the Texans really need a right tackle. Martin slides down to 26 for a lack of faith in his athleticism. A lot pundits view him as a right tackle so he loses value. Houston will take advantage of other team’s lack of interest.

27. New England Patriots (NO): Rueben Randle, WR, LSU

The Patriots have added tons of wide receivers in the off-season but they still lack size at the position. Randle is still developing but can be used as a redzone target right away.

28. Green Bay Packers: Jerel Worthy, DE/DT, Michigan St.

The Packers missed Cullen Jenkins last year. Worthy is a guy with similar five-technique, pass rushing ability. He has a high motor and size that could improve the defensive front of the former champs.

29. Baltimore Ravens: Andre Branch, OLB/DE, Clemson

The Ravens let starter, Jarrett Johnson, walk in free agency, so they need a guy on the strong side of their 3-4 defense. Branch can serve as a bookend to Terrell Suggs.

30. San Francisco 49ers: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech

They may have added Randy Moss, but Hill reminds me of a younger version of him. What a better way for Hill to learn how to play like Moss, then having Randy on the team with him? Hill has great size and speed and would settle the Niner’s wide receiver position.

31. New England Patriots: Dont’a Hightower, ILB, Alabama

Bill Belichik is a fan of linebackers and needs a guy next to Jerod Mayo in the middle. Hightower has a winning pedigree and would be a big upgrade over the departing Gary Guyton (signed with the Dolphins).

32. New York Giants: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State

The Giants have very few holes as the defending champs, but one place they can afford to upgrade is at offensive tackle. Kareem McKenzie is gone, so they need a replacement as a starter. Adams is a good player who can the Giants can plug-and-play right away.

Round 2

33. St. Louis: Bobby Massie, OT, Mississippi

The Rams need to get protection for Sam Bradford and Massie is the best left tackle on the board.

34. Indianapolis: Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson

With Fleener gone, Allen becomes the Marcus Pollard/Dallas Clark for Andrew Luck.

35. Minnesota: Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina

Minnesota passed on Blackmon and get a great potential with Jeffery, who could turn out to be the stud of this class (doubt it though).

36. Tampa Bay: Lamar Miller, HB, Miami

The Bucs have become one-dimensional in their running game with LaGarrett Blount, so they add some lighting to his thunder with Miller.

37. Cleveland: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama

Sheldon Brown is getting older and may transition to safety, so Cleveland needs someone opposite Joe Haden. Jenkins may have character issues but there is no doubting his talent.

38. Jacksonville: Vinny Curry, DE, Marshall

After going offense with their first pick, the Jags go pass rush with Curry who is a monster of a man.

39. St. Louis (WAS): Lavonte David, OLB, Nebraska

The Rams need a weakside linebacker and David is a guy who can solve those problems and be a star in Jeff Fisher’s defense (he’s one of my dark horses for Defensive Rookie of the Year).

40. Carolina: Bobby Wagner, OLB, Utah State

Carolina has a ton of injury-prone backers, so it makes sense to add depth. Wagner can play all three spots much like Dan Connor who left in free agency.

41. Buffalo: Zebrie Sanders, OT, Florida State

Buffalo passed on Reiff in the first, so they have to go tackle in the second. Sanders needs a bit of work, but he can start at right tackle if needed.

42. Miami: Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma St.

The Dolphins were smart with their first pick (finally), so they add a QB in the second to throw to Floyd. If Weeden was 24, he’d be a top ten pick.

43. Seattle: Kevin Zeitler, OG, Wisconsin

This is kind of low for Zeitler but Seattle loves the value and takes him to replace Robert Gallery.

44. Kansas City: Peter Konz, OL, Wisconsin

Casey Wiegmann can’t play forever and Konz is the best center in the draft. Konz comes from the offensive lineman factory in Wisconsin and can start right away.

45. Dallas: Doug Martin, HB, Boise State

Dallas is rumored to be shopping Felix Jones (can’t say I blame them), so adding a guy to the mix is important. DeMarco Murray is definitely the starter, but he is injury prone so it’s good to have a backup that can start. Martin is potential first round pick.

46. Philadelphia: Kendall Reyes, DT, Connecticut

With linebacker taken care of, the Eagles add depth to their rotation at defensive tackle. Reyes has the athleticism to thrive in Jim Washburn’s Wide 9 formation.

47. New York Jets: Harrison Smith, SS, Notre Dame

The uncertainty surrounding Jim Leonard (will he sign?) means the Jets have questions at safety. Smith can fill Leonard’s role right away.

48. New England (OAK): Devon Still, DE/DT, Penn State

The Patriots keeps adding to their defense that really struggled last year. Still was initially considered a first rounder, but I think he fits in the second.

49. San Diego: Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska

Quentin Jammer is no spring chicken, so it would serve San Diego well to add a youth at corner. Dennard can play safety or corner, so he could fill the void at strong safety if Bob Sanders doesn’t stick around.

50. Chicago: Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson

Amobi Okoye is no longer in Chicago, so a good run stopper is needed. Thompson is a bit raw but can provide depth immediately.

51. Philadelphia (ARI): Brandon Boykin, CB, Georgia

Asante Samuel is likely to be traded and Joselio Hanson was exposed in the slot last season, so the Eagles go nickel corner with Boykin. The little dude from Georgia spent most of his time in the slot, so Boykin wouldn’t need to adjust all that much to the position.

52. Tennessee: Josh Robinson, CB, Central Florida

Cortland Finnegan is no more, so the Titans added a speedy corner to take his place. Robinson will provide good competition for Tennessee’s young secondary.

53. Cincinnati: Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers

The Bengals need a guy that’ll compliment A.J. Green. Sanu can be plugged in the slot and play a Welker-like role for the Bengals.

54. Detroit: Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma

The Lions need help in their secondary and Fleming comes from a good program, where he clearly excelled. He won’t start right away but he could be a difference-maker down the road.

55. Atlanta: Zach Brown, OLB, UNC

With the arrival of new defensive coordinator, Mike Nolan, there has been a lot of transition at linebacker for the Falcons. Sean Weatherspoon and Akeem Dent are two starters, but they need a guy on the weakside. Brown needs to be motivated, but he has plenty of talent if chooses to use it.

56. Pittsburgh: David Wilson, HB, Virginia Tech

Rashad Mendenhall is likely to miss this season, while recovering from injury. Wilson not only fills his spot now, but likely for the future as well.

57. Denver: Jared Crick, DT/DE, Nebraska

Denver went offense in the first round but still need a run-stopper at defensive tackle. Crick is a good player, who excels against the run and could start right away.

58. Houston: Mychal Kendricks, ILB, California

DeMeco Ryans is in Philly and Daryl Sharpton is pegged to start in his place in Houston. With Sharpton in the starting lineup, the Texans could use some depth. Kendricks was a standout at Cal and could provide some great competition for Sharpton next to Brian Cushing.

59. New Orleans: Forfeit

New Orleans has forfeited this pick due to punishments given by the NFL.

60. Green Bay: Chris Polk, HB, Washington

The Packers running game was awful this past season, so with Ryan Grant being shown the door, Polk comes in to add some energy to the backfield.

61. Baltimore: Kelechi Osemele, OG, Iowa St.

Ben Grubbs is no longer with the Ravens, so they need to find a new left guard. Osemele could start right away.

62. San Francisco: Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech

The 49ers have a great defense put could always add depth. Hosley was widely successful at Va Tech and could be make an immediate impact as a nickel corner.

63. New England: Ronnell Lewis, OLB, Oklahoma

The Pats want to improve their pass rush and Lewis excels at that. He will be a starter by mid-season.

64. New York Giants: Bernard Pierce, HB, Temple

The Giants need to add a runner to their rotation and Pierce absolutely blew up at his Pro Day. Pierce could eventually be the starter as Ahmad Bradshaw’s career comes to a close.

Round 3

65. Indianapolis: Bruce Irvin, OLB, West Virginia

The Colt’s new 3-4 defense needs a lot of pass rushers with Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis in their 30’s. Irvin can start out as a rotation guy and then ascend to the starting lineup.

66. St. Louis: Ben Jones, OL, Georgia

Stephen Jackson needs holes to run through and Jones’ big body can open those gaps.

67. Minnesota:Mitchell Schwartz, OT, California

Minnesota teams Mitchell Schwartz with his brother Geoff to (at least attempt to) improve their deplorable offensive line.

68. Cleveland:Kirk Cousins, QB, Michigan St.

Colt McCoy hasn’t been a “franchise guy,” so the Browns bring in competition with Cousins.

69. Tampa Bay: Sean Spence, OLB, Miami

Tampa Bay is a little light at linebacker and Spence can start right away at weakside, as the Bucs double dip on the U.

70. Washington: Billy Winn, DE, Boise St.

The Redskins could afford to upgrade, as Kentwan Balmer and Adam Carriker aren’t going to scare anyone. Winn is a WINNer (yes, the caps were on purpose).

71. Jacksonville: Orsen Charles, TE, Georgia

Mercedes Lewis struggled last year, so going to a two-tight end formation could be beneficial. Charles is a big body that can block and get open.

72. Buffalo: Juron Criner, WR, Arizona

Buffalo needs a guy a opposite Stevie Johnson and Criner has size and speed that can take some of the attention away from him.

73. Miami: Shea McClellin, DE/OLB, Boise St.

This is a little low for McClellin, but I am not so sold on him being a pro defensive end. The Dolphins like his potential and versatility, so they grab him.

74. Miami (CHI/CAR): Josh Kaddu, OLB, Oregon

The Dolphins are running a hybrid defense, so in a 4-3 look, they need a weakside guy. Kaddu could fill that need.

75. Kansas City: Alameda Ta’amu, NT, Washington

The Chiefs have lacked a strong nose tackle since they transitioned to a 3-4. Ta’amu is the perfect fit for Romeo Crennel’s defense.

76. Seattle: Mike Martin, DT, Michigan

Seattle continues to add value and depth to their defensive line with Martin. He’ll start by year two.

77. Houston (PHI): Markelle Martin, FS, Oklahoma St.

While the secondary did improve with Wade Phillips calling the plays, they still could upgrade over Daniel Manning at free safety.

78. New York Jets: Greg Childs, WR, Arkansas

Outside of Santonio Holmes, there isn’t much at wide receiver for the Jets. Childs would be, at worst, their third best pass catcher.

79. Oakland: Forfeited (2010 Supplemental Draft-Terrell Pryor)

The Raiders used this pick to draft Terrell Pryor in the 2010 Supplemental Draft.

80. San Diego: LaMichael James, HB, Oregon

The Chargers really missed Darren Sproles last year and adding James can give them the wildcard guy they need to replace him.

81. Chicago: Dwight Bentley, CB, Louisiana-Lafayette

Losing Zachary Bowman won’t hurt, but the Bears could use some youth in the secondary. Bentley is a small school prospect with big league ability.

82. Arizona: James-Michael Johnson, ILB, Nevada

Arizona needs to give Daryl Washington some help in the middle and Johnson is just what the doctor ordered in this scenario.

83. Dallas: Brandon Washington, OG, Miami

The Cowboys signed a few veterans for their interior line, but youth is needed for the future. Washington is a raw blocker but has the potential to be great.

84. Tennessee: Demario Davis, OLB, Arkansas St.

Davis is one of the gems of this draft. While he may not have a huge following, I think he can be a starter for the Titans who lack depth at linebacker.

85. Cincinnati: Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia

Leon Hall is coming off a major injury, so they need to cover themselves in case he struggles to come back. Minnifield still needs to improve his cover ability but he gives the Bengals depth.

86. Atlanta: Ladarius Green, TE, Louisiana-Lafayette

Tony Gonzales can’t play forever but Green can serve as a backup until Gonzo is ready to hang it up.

87. Detroit: Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia

The Lions seem to have a ton of defensive line talent but with Kyle Vanden Bosch getting up there in age and Cliff Avril not happy with the Franchise Tag, adding depth is important.

88. Pittsburgh: Josh Chapman, DE/DT, Alabama

The Steelers love adding to their front and Chapman is a great player with a championship pedigree.

89. Denver: George Iloka, FS, Boise St.

Brian Dawkins is likely to retire, so the Broncos needs to fill his spot on the roster. Iloka is a good player that can player either safety spot.

90. Philadelphia (HOU): Chris Rainy, HB/KR, Florida

The Eagles need a running back and a kick returner. After flirting with Darren Sproles last year, they pick his clone in Rainey.

91. New Orleans: Ron Brooks, CB, LSU

Tracy Porter took his talents to Mile High, so Brooks replaces him with the Saints first pick in the draft.

92. Green Bay: Brock Osweiler, QB, Arizona St.

Mike McCarthy loves developing quarterbacks and Osweiler is definitely a project.

93. Baltimore: Trumaine Johnson, CB, Montana

Baltimore drafted Jimmy Smith last year and have Ladarius Webb, but could use a good nickel corner. Johnson is a great player who is suffering from his off-the-field issues.

94. San Francisco: Michael Egnew, TE, Missouri

Egnew is a serious playmaker and would allow the Niners to give Alex Smith a two-tight end look.

95. New England: Casey Hayward, CB, Vanderbilt

The annual cornerback pick for the Patriot is the talented Casey Hayward. Congratulations.

96. New York Giants: Nick Toon, WR, Wisconsin

The Giants take Toon to replace Mario Manningham.

97. Oakland (compensatory): Keenan Robinson, OLB, Texas

The Raiders spend their first pick on a talented linebacker, Robinson, who could start right away on the outside.

Juiced Sports Presents: The 2011 Take it to the Bank NFL Awards

mkaye — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 06:27:41 +0000

MIKE KAYE

Week 17: 9-6 (60%) / Season: 158-84 (65%) / Scott Picks: 6-8-1 (1-0)

Welcome everybody to the first annual Take it to the Bank NFL Awards (previously known as the Double Coverage NFL Awards). This season has been crazy with offenses reaching new heights and some well-established teams reaching new lows. The NFL unveils the AP awards during the playoffs, but we at Juiced Sports think a few hours after the end of the season is appropriate. The categories are the same as the AP’s but runner-ups will be named as well. Take it to the Bank will be back next season and we hope you have enjoyed our weekly pick-torial (get it?). With the draft coming up in just a few months, the column will turn into weekly offseason notes and a bunch of mock drafts for your reading pleasure. So stick around as we hit the fun part of the downtime between play. Without further ado, here’s the 2011 Take it to the Bank Awards.

NFL MVP: Aaron Rodgers / QB / Packers

If you watch the football in any shape or like insurance commercials with abnormally ugly commercial actors yelling in the outdoors while banging on window glass, you know who Rodgers is. While he did not lead the league in yardage, his team led the league in wins. He is the best player on the best team in the league. The Defending Champs have looked like chumps for most of the year on defense, so Rodgers value has increased. His 45 touchdowns put him in elite company with guys like Dan Marino, Peyton Manning, Drew Brees (46 TDs in 2011) and Tom Brady. On top of all the aforementioned, he makes everyone (including the defense) look much better than they are. “The defense?” you ask. Well he keeps his offense on the field, letting the other side of the ball rest, plus he puts up some many points, opposing teams are forced to catch up which leads to mistakes and easy turnovers. For a team without much of a running game for a majority of the season (last year’s playoff hotshot, James Starks, has been injured and Ryan Grant is the not the Ryan Grant of a few years ago) the Packers put up a boatload of points without the fear of a rushing attack. Rodgers makes the team work, much like Brady and Manning make their teams work.

Close to cashing in:

1. Drew Brees / QB / Saints

He’s a great leader, 46 touchdowns and has the respect of opposing defenses but Rodgers’ Packers beat him.

2. Calvin Johnson / WR / Lions
He put his stamp on the best WR in the league and got his team to the playoffs for the first time in 12 years.

3. Tom Brady / QB / Patriots
To put it simply, if Brady doesn’t put up 30 points, the Pats don’t win.

Offensive Player of the Year: Drew Brees / QB / Saints

Drew Brees led the league in touchdowns (to be fair, Aaron Rodgers sat the last game and his back-up had six touchdowns on the Lions) and was the first player to break Dan Marino’s long-standing passing yard record. Brees’ ability to involve every player on offense is almost unmatched (Rodgers is equally gracious). He is not the prototypical quarterback that Rodgers or even Peyton Manning is but he is just as good of a passer, leader, and valuable to his team. With Brees, the Saints can put up points with the best of them and they have.

Close to cashing in:

1. Aaron Rodgers / QB / Packers
Considered giving him the nod, but that would come off as favoritism (44 touchdowns people!!!).

2. Maurice Jones-Drew / HB / Jacksonville Jaguars
Despite his team’s struggles on offense, Mojo has had quite the year without any threat from the Jags’ passing attack.

3. Lesean McCoy / HB / Eagles
McCoy broke numerous franchise records that stood for over 60 years and led the league in first downs and rushing touchdowns (17).

Defensive Player of the Year: Patrick Willis / ILB / 49ers

In a season where defenses have served as secondary units, San Francisco has been one of the few teams that have found their success on that side of the ball. Patrick Willis is by far the team’s best player and while he has been injured at times during the season, he has proven valuable against the run (49ers have given up only 2 rushing touchdowns and only Marshawn Lynch has had 100 rushing yards against them). His cover skills are also very notable and his influence on fellow inside linebacker, Navarro Bowman (remember his name, he will be a perennial Pro Bowler) has been unbelievable. Willis is the quarterback of the defense and allows Jim Harbaugh to rely on that unit.

Close to cashing in:

1. Jason Pierre-Paul / DE / Giants
An athletic freak with a style of play to match, Pierre-Paul could be the steal of the 2010 Draft.

2. Demarcus Ware / OLB / Cowboys
Ware continues to dominate opposing offensive tackles despite having little help around him.

3. Jared Allen / DE / Vikings
He almost broke the sack record, but that doesn’t matter when you play for the third-worst team in the league.

Offensive Rookie of the Year: Cam Newton / QB / Panthers

The decision over the Offensive Rookie of the Year is a tough one. You have to decide what has more value, wins or statistics. If wins you covet, your pick has to be Andy Dalton. If you are a yardage and points man, the choice is clear, Cam Newton. Since the Panthers went on a late season run, Newton gets Take it to the Bank’s vote of confidence. Newton has not only broken most rookie QB records but has also shattered numerous QB rushing highs as well. The once-questioned stud from Auburn is now among the best of the pro leagues; having a rookie season that will be tough to rival.

Close to cashing in:

1. Andy Dalton / QB / Bengals
The Red Headed Rocket (another new nickname) from TCU was impressive in the win department but had games where he was mediocre at best.

2. A.J. Green / WR / Bengals
Everything the Bengals though he was and more, Green is already a special player (and Pro Bowler).

3. Demarco Murray / HB / Dallas Cowboys
He dropped in the draft due injuries concerns with a late season injury causing him to miss out on a 1,000 yard season in year one.

Defensive Rookie of the Year: Aldon Smith / OLB / 49ers

Aldon Smith was kind of a question mark coming out of college (he only had one HUGE year at Missouri), but has been absolutely dominant for the Niners this season. Smith had 14 sacks this year, which is pretty astounding, considering he didn’t start in a game all season. Jim Harbaugh is using Smith to rush the passer and that is about it. Fans may question Smith getting the award for that very reason, but Take it to the Bank appreciates players that are successful at what they are asked to do, which is what Smith does with rushing the passer. The long and lanky but tough Smith is just a puppy in the league, so is his potential as a dog is pretty scary (like Lawrence Taylor/Derrick Thomas scary).

Close to cashing in:

1. Von Miller / OLB / Broncos
Much like Smith, Miller was a monster against the pass rush but as a 4-3 strongside linebacker. An injury derailed his numbers but what stops him from the award is his team’s record. He is going to the Pro Bowl (so we shouldn’t we bad for him).

2. Patrick Peterson / CB / Cardinals
Peterson has proven to be dynamic in the returning game but still has much to learn as a defender. He could also use some help from his counterparts on defense as well.

3. Ryan Kerrigan / OLB / Redskins
The youngster looks like a Clay Matthews in the making with his impressive first season.

Comeback Player of the Year: Matt Stafford / QB / Lions

This award is normally given to a player that comes out of nowhere to lead his team to success or enjoys personal improvement after dealing with adversity. Matt Stafford is a household name, but has never been able to put together a full season of play at the pro level. In 2011, Stafford did and enjoyed great accomplishments both personally and for his team (Lions are in the playoffs, he went over the once-unreachable 5,000 yard mark, and had 41 TDs). The former Georgia Bulldog has shown that even young guys can be leaders, while also putting up major numbers. The media gave Calvin Johnson (much deserved) credit for his streak of multiple touchdown games, but remember, Stafford was the guy throwing to Megatron.

Close to cashing in:

1. Plaxico Burress / WR / Jets
Burress returned to the league after a two year absence but he was rarely missed in the Redzone (both channel and actual part of the field) this season.

2. Kevin Smith / HB / Lions
The only thing stopping Smith from getting this award is that he was signed in Thanksgiving. No one wanted this guy but his comeback came was the stuff of a Hollywood blockbuster.

3. Tony Romo / QB / Cowboys
How quickly everyone forgets that Romo was injured for half of the 2010 season. His numbers have been good this season but his decision-making (or rather his coach’s) continues to haunt him.

Coach of the Year: Jim Harbaugh / 49ers

As if Take it to the Bank couldn’t praise the Bay Area Bread Winners (yes I just coined a phrase) enough, their coach likely deserves the most credit. Alex Smith has been reworked to be productive, Frank Gore is having one of his best season, and the defense has been tough to run on. Harbaugh (a former NFL QB) brought toughness to a flaccid team and has made them winners. Packers’ signal-caller, Mike McCarthy, might have almost gone undefeated but his team has significantly more talent. Harbaugh has done something that Bill Belchick has been praised for in New England; he has taken players that teams thought were past their prime (Carlos Rogers, David Akers, Donte Whitner) and made them winners.

Close to cashing in:

1. Mike McCarthy / Packers
McCarthy is a defending champ and an offensive genius, but as alluded to earlier, he did a lot with a lot of great talent.

2. Jim Schwartz / Lions
It is a pretty big accomplishment to get a perennial loser to the playoffs for the first time in over a decade, but a midseason slump almost stopped Detroit’s dream season.

3. Bill Belchick / Patriots
Teams with the worst defense in the league normally sit at home come playoff time, but Bill is sitting at home with a first-round bye as a top team in the AFC.

Photo: Reuters

Watch Out For This Kid Next Year…| Johnnie Lee Higgins

Josh Dhani — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 18:27:20 +0000

There comes a time in the NFL where there is a player that no one expects of him to be a star or make an impact anywhere for his team. Countless times, we have seen players who make a difference despite being a drafted late in the NFL Draft and being expected to not do anything for his team.

Guys like Terrell Davis, Terrell Owens, Robert Mathis and so many other guys have made an impact with their teams despite being drafted late in the NFL Draft or not being drafted at all.

Then there are some players who did nothing in their first year and made some impact in their second year. Nobody is really like that, but there is someone that comes to mind who is exactly like that. Fellas, let me introduce you to Johnnie Lee Higgins.

Coming out of Texas-El Paso, he was drafted in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He didn’t make any amount of impact in his first season of playing due to the fact some people doubted him. He was small, too, being 5′11″ and 185 pounds.

In his first season, he recorded six receptions for only 46 yards. It wasn’t good, not good at all. He did receive some time in punt-returning as he notched 103 yards. But that wasn’t all good either because every punt return was averaged for about five yards.

It’s just horrible to see that. But yet, he was a third-round pick and nobody really expected anything out of him. It is sad to see things like these happen in the National Football League.

Now it was time for the crucial second season. It was time for Johnnie to prove he was worthy of being on Oakland Raiders’ roster. He is the future receiver for this offense. He is the target for not only JaMarcus Russell, but the future of the return the black as well.

Entering into weeks one and two the 2008-09 NFL season, nothing came out of Higgins. Just nothing at all for number 15. We then trip on a rock into week three of playing with a brown ball.

Here we see Higgins making his first ever impact for not only the Oakland Raiders, he had to do it for himself and proving to all NFL fans that he is an NFL player that deserves respect in this league.

Although Raider fans weren’t happy in the 24-23 loss to the Buffalo Bills, Higgins created a spark for Oakland as he showed what he can do as he provided an 84-yard touchdown. It truly showed that Higgins deserved to be drafted by the Raiders.

However, it was only one catch he recorded for the Raiders that game. Despite that, it showed that Higgins was going to get playing time this year. And he did coming into next week recording four catches for 35 yards. The week after that, he only had one catch for 35 yards.

Basically, it wasn’t that all surprising in the two games after the 84-yard touchdown game. People were thinking it was somewhat rather disappointing actually.

Coming into week seven of NFL football, the Raiders beat Brett Favre and the New York Jets, 16-13. Higgins did not take part in that astonishing win, but did take place in the rushing, recording an 18-yard run.

All we know is that he was getting shots at playing, but not enough to prove he’s a star. Coming into the 29-10 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, it became more of disappointment as Higgins reeled in two catches for only 16 yards.

His statistics were getting lower and were getting less surprising. What Higgins had to do now was be nothing less than legendary. That was his goal.

But that goal never came until week twelve of NFL football when he came and made an amazing return for a touchdown in the Raiders 31-10 rout against the Denver Broncos. In week 14, he finally had shots on the receiving end of play.

He had placed two catches for 22 yards. Although you may think it’s not good at all, it was a start of something new as next week showed how Higgins rolled.

In the 49-26 loss to the New England Patriots, Higgins had three catches for 66 yards, including an exciting play for Raider fans that witnessed the amazing 56-yard touchdown by Higgins. The exciting play displayed Higgins’ speed and concentration.

Higgins was truly nothing less than legendary in the last three games of the 2008-09 season, resulting a 2-1 record the Raiders themselves as well. Higgins also had three touchdowns in his last three games also.

In the 27-16 win over the Houston Texans, Higgins had three grabs for 56 yards and one touchdown. In the last game of the season, Higgins had a career-high in catches with six, along with 52 yards and a touchdown.

Yep, it was definitely nothing less than legendary for Higgins.

He had 22 catches for 366 yards and four touchdowns that year. What was better is that every catch was averaged for about 17 yards, which is solid. He was also well known in his return abilities, notching 842 yards in kick returns and 570 yards and three touchdowns on punt returns.

It was truly an exciting thing to see, although I did observe from many stat sheets of Higgins that he only started three games. So having those stats while only starting three games is truly an honor actually.

So that brings to what is going to happen next year in the 2009-10 season. The Raiders recently just got Darrius Heyward-Bey, who looks to be a helpful and speedy receiver for JaMarcus Russell. There is also the tall, fast, and indestructible Chaz Schilens and the exciting Zach Miller.

It also adds up with Justin Fargas, Darren McFadden, and Michael Bush leading the way in the running game. Right now, the Raiders have a lot of targets on offense and Higgins takes big and key role in all of it.

He can return the ball, he can run, he can catch, he can just about anything you want him to do. Although Heyward-Bey can do that, the hands have to improve. I have to admit, Higgins is better than DHB, and I hope some people have to agree with that.

And also, have any of you NFL fans ever seen highlights of him? Remember that 56-yard touchdown against the New England Patriots. That was truly an amazing play. And seriously, what about that 90-yard touchdown against Seattle?

You can’t deny that. Higgins has been making a name for himself and I think he already has in Oakland. Can he make it bigger? Can he be Mr. Hot-Shot? We’ll see next year.

So when you watch the Raiders play, NFL fans, grab a beer and watch out for Johnnie Lee Higgins next year.

Cardinals 101: Because no fan should leave home without it!

sjacobs — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:41:40 +0000

The Cardinals franchise has had a long, albeit not very rich franchise history, but no one can deny them of this: since 1918 the oldest franchise in the NFL has certainly kept it interesting

SCOTT JACOBS

You know them. You do. You just don’t know them, know them.

You’ve heard their name. You’ve laughed at their futility. You’ve wondered aloud if they have the worst owner in professional sports. You know them. You just don’t know them, know them.

You’ve heard about their great wide receiver tandem, the one who’s set, and the one who’s upset. You’ve seen Kurt Warner, you know his name. You know they don’t win, and you’ve been told they had one playoff victory before this post-season started. You know their struggle. You make fun of their fans. It’s not exactly ‘chic’ to be a die hard Cardinals supporter. You’ve seen them let go of their good players, only for them to then become great players. You’ve seen them screw up drafts. You’ve looked at their partying backup quarterback and his rowdy pictures. You know them. You just don’t know them, know them.

But in the next two weeks, be prepared for your formal introduction to the Arizona Football Cardinals. The team that history has spit on, and that success has damned. The team that moved from city to city to city looking for fans that love them, and a stadium that could comfortably house them. You’ve heard their name. You’ve seen pictures, and maybe even read about them in the papers. But you’ve never been exposed to them like this. And for good reason. Sans this season, the Cardinals were considered a joke. They’re hardly ever on national TV, and outside of Arizona they rarely make national news. But you’re familiar with them. Because they lose. They lose a lot. They’re the Chicago Cubs of the NFL, only they’re not beloved.

But starting this week you will see more segments, read more articles, and watch more videos of the Arizona football Cardinals then you ever could have imagined. The sad sack Cardinals. Cause now they’re good. Dare I say ‘Super.’ I’ve been following them for years. When I say that they are the invisible team of the NFL if there ever was one I do not joke. They’re hardly even the top show in their own state. The Dallas Cowboys still have a huge fan base in the Valley of the Sun. But forget that, it’s all moot now.

The Cardinals are in the Super Bowl. The Cowboys, well, they aren’t. So sit back, grab a cold one, and enjoy the ride. It’s an Arizona Cardinals tour, and you’re invited. Hands and feet inside the vehicle please. We’ll be leaving the station now. Here we go.

The Cardinals are old. They’re really, really old. How old? Try 1918. That’s when they began play in not Arizona, not St. Louis, but Chicago. And they weren’t the Chicago Cardinals then. Nope, they were the Racine Cardinals. Yup, the Cards are 90 years young. They’re the oldest team in the NFL. Of course, they didn’t start in the NFL. Nope. Their first two seasons were in the APFA. And contrary to their losing history, the Chicago Cardinals actually had a winning season their first year of play. They were 6-2-2. After two years in the APFA, they joined the NFL. Cost of admission to the new league: $100.

The Cardinals won 11 games in 1925. They won 11 games in 1948. They won 11 games in 1975. And that is it. Three times in 90 years, the Cardinals franchise has won 11 games in the regular season. Three!

Charles W. Bidwell, Sr. bought the Cardinals for $50,000 in 1932, and his family has owned the team ever since. Interestingly enough he was actually a vice president of the Chicago Bears at the time of the sale. If you’re keeping score at home, he left the powerhouse Bears to join the sad sack Cardinals. Yup, he dropped a pot of gold, to go search for pennies. Under his first year of ownership the Cardinals… lost. They finished 2-6-2, and it started one of the most unsuccessful stretches for a professional sports team in the history of human civilization. I’d like to say I’m kidding. I’m really not.

In 1959 the Cardinals played their final season in the Windy City. And did you know: their final win came against the Steelers.

From 1932-1945 the Cardinals were awful. They had one winning season (1935), and a lot of other years that were just plain atrocious. In back to back seasons (1943-1944) in which they lost 20 games… and won none.

Because of World War II, the Cardinals had to merge their team with– you guessed it– the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1944. The moral: even a historically brilliant franchise like the Steelers can suck, if you merge them with the Cardinals. That team went 0-10. But they did have a cool name: Card-Pitt. Did you know that? Because I’d be willing to bet you won’t hear it mentioned once this week.

In 1947 the Cardinals went 9-3, and won their first (and only to this date) NFL championship. They raced out to a 14-0 lead over the Philadelphia Eagles, and then held on for a 28-21 victory. Elmer Angsman cemented the win with a 70 yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter. The Bidwills probably thought this would be the first of many championships for the Cardinals franchise. It hasn’t uh, worked out that way as history might suggest.

Interesting side note: then Cardinals owner Charles Bidwill actually died in April, before Chicago was able to win the NFL Championship. Amazing, when you think about it. Chicago was terrible for most of his 15 years as owner. He suffered through what was at the time, the longest losing streak in NFL history at 29 games. Finally, the Cards became good, and won it all, and he didn’t live long enough to see it. Fitting in a way if you sum up the Cardinals and their mostly nightmarish franchise history.

The Cardinals were on the verge of back to back championships in 1948 after finishing 11-1, but it wasn’t meant to be as the Eagles got their revenge and beat Chicago 7-0. Steve Van Buren scored the game’s lone touchdown for the Iggles on a five yard rush in the fourth quarter. Ever since that day, the Cardinals never came close to sniffing a championship up until this year.

In 1959 the Cardinals played their final season in the Windy City. And did you know: their final win came against the Steelers. See, these teams have quite a history. Pittsburgh was the last ever team to lose to Chicago. After that, the Cardinals freefalled to six straight defeats, culminating in a 2-10 season, and a ninth losing season in 10 years. They fought the Bears, and the Bears killed them. Chicago, contrary to the belief of others only has room for one football team. That team is the Bears.

So in 1960, the Cardinals took their act to St. Louis. Another interesting fact: the Dallas Cowboys, arguably the Cardinals biggest nemesis, started play that very same year. St. Louis’ first win even came against those very Cowboys 12-10. In 1962 Cardinals owner Violet Bidwill passed away, and the team was passed on to her kids. The team owner changed, but the losing didn’t. The Cardinals threatened to bolt to a new home in 1987 amidst dwindling attendance figures. After Bill Bidwill let it be known he was going to move the team,he began receiving death threats. It got so bad that he couldn’t even attend the final few home games. The Cards were off to Arizona after 27 years in St. Louis. The Rams moved to St. Louis to replace them eight years later.

And that brings us to the here and the now. Since 1988, Arizona has had two winning seasons: 1998 and 2008. They had never been to the Super Bowl until now, and since 1960 they’ve made the playoffs an astonishingly pathetic five times.

But none of that matters now.

Because the team that once merged with the Steelers is now playing them for a world championship.

Funny how things work out.