Tex's Week Two Picks!
(I'm in a rush to get out of the door, and won't be able to type a detailed description of how I believe the games will go in time, so I'm just going to type who I believe will win, and when I get home a few minutes before advance I'll edit it to my liking.)
Titans @ Bills - Bills
Bucs @ Browns - Buccaneers
Rams @ Chargers - Rams
Broncos @ Chiefs - Chiefs
Dolphins @ Colts - Colts
Eagles @ Cowboys - Cowboys
Bears @ Falcons - Bears
Patriots @ Jaguars - Patriots
Lions @ Jets - Lions
49'ers @ Raiders - Raiders
Panthers @ Ravens - Panthers
Giants @ Saints - Saints
Cardinals @ Seahawks - Seahawks
Bengals @ Steelers - Steelers
Redskins @ Texans - Redskins
Packers @ Vikings - Vikings
49'ers Falls Back to Last Years Mistakes During Opening Week Loss to San Diego
The defense for the 49'ers held their own for the most part, but the offense however was a complete disaster. Credit a lot of it to the Chargers defense as Bosa was a one man wrecking crew, and their secondary shut down newly required weapons White and Wilson.
"Yes, we gave up 20 points, but when you put them (The 49'ers defense) out there for that long, you're bound to give up something." Said Coach Edwards in his press conference after the game. "Heck, they are responsible for our only touchdown of the game."
Let's start off with what went wrong in the opener for San Fransisco, and there's a long list here. Cousins was definitely not his game, throwing three interceptions, two of them coming within the 30 yard line or closer, killing any drives the 49'ers were able to put together. However, you can't put all the blame on Cousins, as the wide receivers for San Fransisco could not create nay seperation from the Chargers secondary. This forced Cousins to make throws he normally wouldn't make, resulting in his three interceptions. Next, the running game. Hyde could not get anything going on the ground. This was some what to be expected with a brand new offensive line, however, I don't think people thought it would be -this- bad. It seemed as if it was a miracle if he were to pull off a three yard gain. This will certainly be a work in progress. Don't give up on them yet though. The average age of the line is roughly 23 years old. This will take time. However, football fans aren't known for their patience, so how long will Coach Edwards have to improve this offense?
There is a silver lining however in week one's loss. The defense, for as long as they were on the field, played extremely well. Sure they gave up quite a few yards to Gordon, but it was the big plays that hurt the 49'ers defense, and that's to be expected when you are tired, and one missed tackle can make all the difference on 60 yard runs. Sadly, the only Touchdown the 49'ers were able to put together was an interception on a screen play by Lynch that he took back 30 yards for a touchdown.
Probably the biggest positive to take from this game, was the play of number one pick Drico Poyer. When you are drafted number one overall, you have expectations. Extremely...high expectations, unrealstic expectations, but Poyer may have surpassed those "Unrealistic" expectations. His stat line at the end of the day was incredible, putting together 14 tackles, an intercetpion, and a forced fumble which almost lead to a touchdown, but sadly Armstead couldn't pick it up cleanly and was forced to fall on top of the ball.
"I just tried to help the team any was possible." Said Poyer after the game. "I feel like we can be a very tough defense for opponents, but we have some work to do."
We knew coming into the season that this team was going to have to go through the hard times in order to reach a level to where they can compete for a playoff spot, so a ten point loss to a solid Chargers team isn't exactly the worst thing this franchise has seen. That being said, fans want progress now. So I ask the question again, how long will Coach Edwards have to turn this team into a contender? The clock is ticking.
Will make it more fancy in just a 'bit, also with my predictions later. Here's the schedule for week 1!
Broncos @ Ravens - Broncos still throwing out a solid defense, but I feel like the Ravens are a more balanced team when it comes to having weapons on both sides of the ball. Weddle and Jenkins will make some plays on the defensive side, while Le'Veon Bell and Carr will do their thing, giving the Ravens a 24-14 win.
Chiefs @ Bengals - This is the old school Offense vs Defense show. Cam Newton and Bernard against Justin Houston and Berry. You know me, defense wins championships. Give me the Chiefs in a low scoring affair, 14-10.
Jaguars @ Texans - Can Brisett lead the Jags to an early AFC South win? Just about anyone but Osweiler in my opinion. The Texans may have a great defense, but until they fix their situation at quarterback, I'm going to go with the Jags, 24-10.
Panthers @ Saints - Another early division battle with an NFC South game with the Panthers heading to New Orleans. Ugh, I like me some Panthers I really do, but look at that WR core for the Saints? Cooks and TY Hilton on the field at the same time. Is that even fair? That's just too much fire power to contain IMO. Saints put up 31 in this one, taking it 31-21.
Cowboys @ Giants - How 'bout them Cowboys?? Well, how about them? For years, I've picked the Cowboys to win it all. For years I've been wrong. I'm going to give them one more chance then that's it! I will officially be off the bandwagon if they let me down again. I'll take the Cowboys 34-17.
Lions @ Dolphins - The Lions are an interesting team. I always feel they "Over Achieve." Well, they've been over achieving for years now, so how about I just call them good? The Lions are for real in my book. Give me the Lions in this one even if they're on the road, 28-14.
Browns @ Falcons - I was told by an Inside Source to not believe in the Browns. When someone tells me that, you know what I'm going to do...I believe the Falcons will turn things around from the previous year with their new Coach, but when someone tells me not to pick Believeland, I can't help but go with the Browns. It may be an ugly one, but I still have the Browns winning 17-10.
Buccaneers @ Steelers - Well, I'm a fan of the Bucs. They have a lot of fire power, but there's just one problem. Winston can't stay on the field. The man gets suspended more than A-Rod. However, he'll get to play in this first game, so at least there's that guarentee. Problem is they're going up against a tough Steelers team. When you have Big Ben on your team, you're never out of it. Ugh, this is the toughest one of the week for me, but I'm going to take the Steelers in a high scoring affair, 34-31.
Raiders @ Cardinals - I like the Cardinals. I like both sides of their team. The ONLY problem with this team, is the Coach. Now let me make this very clear, he is a GREAT coach, but he has got to keep it together. If this team is going to succeed, he has to believe in himself, believe in his players, and not let his emotions get the best of him. Now week 1 he's going against a new Raiders Coach, so I'm going to give the edge to senoirity, but going forward I belive the Cardinals can shock a lot of people, if the Coach can keep his emotions in check. Cardinals start the year off right 24-14.
49'ers @ Chargers - Well, the 49'ers won two games last year. In both of those wins, the Coach was out with two seperate surgeries. Well, he's on the sidelines for this one facing the same team that embarrassed them last season. So this means the Chargers should have an easy win right? Not so fast my friend! The 49'ers shock the SGC world, and start off the season 1-0. 17-10.
Jets @ Vikings - I think the Jets are moving in the right direction with their young players, but the Vikings D is just too good at the moment, and don't sleep on their defense! They have some play makers that can make the defense's job even easier. 17-0. Vikings with the only shut out of Week 1!
Bears @ Rams - This is an interesting one. The Bears are certainly an up and coming team, but the Rams have some serious fire power on the offensive side of the ball. This isn't really a knock on the Bears, but until I see more out of them, I'm going to with the Rams in a high scoring affair. 31-28 Rams.
Colts @ Bills - The Colts look to keep their WR Core ON the field this year, as just like the Bucs, suspensions haunted them all year. However, this one I'm going to take the high powered Colts offense against an up and coming Bills team, 34-24.
Redskins @ Eagle - The Redskins -were- going to be my pick to win it all, if my heart didn't pull me to the Cowboys once more. Don't sleep on the Eagles though. They've been building and building each year, and now I truly believe they are ready for that wild card birth. However, I'm not sure they're ready for the Skins. I'll take the Skins 37-24.
Packers @ Seahawks - Can Reedy carry the Packers to a Super Bowl by himself? Green Bay better hope so, because they just don't have the talent around him to help out in any way. The Seahawks have a talented roster, but again, can they make that push to get into the playoffs and go far? Or are they the type of team that's fine with just settling for a playoff birth? We'll find out. As for this week one match up, I have the Seahawks edging out the Packers in a low scoring one, 17-14.
Titans @ Patriots - Last prediction of the night! My pick for the AFC in the Patriots host the Tennessee Titans. On paper, both teams have a LOT of talent, however with the Titans coach currently away from the team, I'm going to have to go with the Patriots. I think this one gets ugly with out the Titans Coach around, with the Patriots taking this one 34-10.
Hope everyone enjoys Week 1! Get your Pick 'ems in before Advance each week for your chance at a FREE Madden 18!
How Will The 49'ers Hold Up On Offense? We Dive Into That Here!
Coach Edwards told 49'er fans to give him "One Year." One year to fix all of Chip Kelly's problems (Seems more like a 10 year mission doens't it?), and to make San Fransisco a contender again. Ok, even I can't help but laugh as I'm writing this opener. In Coach Edwards' first season as Head Coach of the 49'ers, they were close to last in almost every statistical category. So how in the world are they supposed to be a playoff team? Well, if you believe Coach Edwards, this is the year where they climb over the hump, and in this writers opinion, shock the NFL fans around the world and be one of the final 12 standing after week 17.
Ok, I'll play along. Let's talk about the positive changes made to the 49'er organization that could possibly push them in the right direction. Let's start on the offensive side of the ball.
If the 49'ers are going to go anywhere, they'll need a solid, sterdy player leading them, and they have just that in Kirk Cousins. No, he's not the sexy pick to lead an NFL team, but he's exactly what any team with young talented receivers need. A capable quarterback that can make the right throws, and occasionally the spectacular one. Kevin White and Marquess Wilson are coming over from Chicago where the quarterback situation was a mess. They have yet to play for a quarterback than could at least give them a chance to make plays, and that's where Cousins comes into play. White is the type of receiver that can turn a ten yard slant route into an 80 yard touchdown with his speed. Then you have Marquess Wilson, someone that can simplify the game for both Cousins and offensive coordinator Justin Roque. Fade routes were a thing of the past, and when I say past I mean T.O. past, for the 49'ers. Now, they are a possibility with the 6'4 athletic receiver Marquess Wilson. Cousins can simply throw it up, and let him go get it to mix up play calling in the red zone, but he's not just limited to that [when speaking of Wilson's receiving ability].
"He's so much more than that." Said Coach Edwards of Wilson. "He has speed on top of his leaping ability. He can be a game changing receiver if given the chance." Well, now he has that chance as he most likely will line up as the number two receiver for the new look 49'er offense. So who will be the slot receiver for San Fransisco? Well, there has been rumor after rumor concerning that very question. There was talk of a possible trade with the Titans that would include the young Wide Receiver for the Tennessee Titans Tajae Sharpe. At just 23 years old, he would be thrown into the number three spot. Is he ready for that? Well, we may not find out as that trade has slowly been dying as of the past few days. If you are looking for a certain in the midst of rumors, there is the wide receiver Shawn Wortham, the 6'6 giant taken 2nd in the fifth round in Tuesday's draft. "He's raw, but I'm not going to sit here and say he can't contribute to this team." Said Coach Edwards on Wortham's role with the current situation. What it looks like, is that even if Sharpe is brought over from the Titans, or any other outside receier, he will have to compete with Wortham for the job. As for a fourth receiver, there aren't many packages for all four in Coach Edwards' offensive playbook. Most heavy pass plays involve three receivers and a tight end, and that leads up to, you guessed it, the tight end position.
There are three tight ends on the roster as of now, battling it out to be one of the two starters opening night. One of the spots seems almost a given to be handed to Vance McDonald. The reason being is that he may be the only one on the roster that actually konws -how- to run block. I wish I were kidding as I wrote that, but out of the three, the other two being Mychal Rivera and Neal Sterling, who are good looking receivers out of the Tight End spot, but are lacking horribly in the run blocking department. So McDonald who and who? The fight is between 27 year old Mychal Rivera, and 26 year old Neal Starling. Rivera seems to be a little more polished at the position in terms of route running and some run blocking skill, but don't sleep on Sterling as he has the type of speed coaches dream of out of that position. Look for Coach Edward sto start McDonald and Rivera at the beginning of the season, but I truly believe Sterling will take Rivera's spot at some point, not neccessarily because of poor play, but just the upside, and big play potential of Sterling.
None of this matters however with out a solid offensive line in front of you. This is a scary unit. By scary I don't mean scary good, although they have the potential to be outstanding in the long run, but scary as in you have no idea what to expect from this group. They are just too young to predict how they will shape up during the season. "We are going to shake things up pretty good", said Coach Edwards of the offensive line. Apparently it's going to have a complete overhaul. Some new players will be added to the line, along with some of the young players who got to test the waters last season may be playing a complete new position on the line for this season, such as last years starting Center Jackson Ottis, who by all accounts had a solid year last season, will be getting looks at the Left Tackle position to begin the season.
"It's certailny something I wouldn't of dreamed of coming into the NFL." Said Ottis hours before the first pre season game of 2018. "All my life, I've only played one position, Center. Now, to go from that to the most demanding and important position on the line in Left Tackle, it's going to be a challenge, a fun challenge." He was right about it being a challenge, now whether or not it's -fun- is yet to be seen. Offensive line however was a big focus on Tuseday for the 49'ers, taking two of the top offensive linemen in the entire draft in Center Brayden Heiden, Center out of Maine, and Mitch Volk, the Right Guard out of Minnesota. Both slipped mainly due to the school they were coming out of. Maine and Minnesota aren't exactly spilling with top notch NFL talent. However, I truly believe these two could be the top linemen to come out of this draft. Where will they be playing? That's another question entirely.
If we go by week one's pre season game, it looks to be something along the lines of the following: Starting at the tackles, you have Jackson Ottis on the Left, and and Mitch Volk on the right. Yes, you heard right, a Center starting at Left Tackle, and a Right Guard starting at Right Tackle. With me so far? Didn't think so. Now to the Guards. Left Guard will be Joshua Garnett, the only returning offensive lineman actually returning to play his original position, and opposite of him at Right Guard will be Spencer Long, recently required from the Redskins in a deal involving both he and Knighton, the 49'ers new nose tackle. Finally rounding it all out at Center, 2nd round pick Brayden Heiden. Most quarterbacks would be absolutely terrified to take a snap behind a line this scrambled. "I believe in them." Spoke Cousins about his new front 5, "They may be in different positions, taking on new roles, but it's still the same game. They keep people from hitting me, and they pave the way for Carlos." Cousins laughed as he walked away from the interview. Will he be doing that in a few weeks though is the big question? Well, will he be doing either? Laughing...and walking?
The million dollar question to those that actually read this article, yes I will write out the depth chart, or the projected depth chart for the 49'ers, and here it is!
LT - Jackson Ottis
LG - Joshua Garnett
C - Brayden Heiden
RG - Spencer Long
RT - Mitch Volk
Honorable mentions competing for back up roles will be Rookie LT D.J. Combs, Right Guard Anthony Davis, who can also play tackle as well if needed, and Trent Brown, another big body who can play both Tackle and Guard.
Now looking behind the center, where things become much more clear as to who will get the time.
QB - Kirk Cousins
RB - Carlos Hyde
FB - Nikita Whitlock
Here you have a veteran quarterback in Kirk Cousins, and a talented running back in Carlos Hyde. Don't sleep on those two. Cousins will definitely be better than any quarterback Chicago was able to throw out for White and Wilson, who we will talk about in just a minute, and Carlos Hyde will finally see a defense with out 8 or 9 players in the box waiting for him. Whitlock also provides a solid blocker in the run game as well.
Speaking of wide outs, two are certain to be out there on opening day...
WR - Kevin White
WR - Marquess Wilson
Both have great height, Kevin standing at about 6'3, while Wilson sits at 6'4. Speaking of height...the answer to who may be the number 3 receiver in the core could be 6'6 in Shawn Wortham. Other possibilities outside of a trade are
WR - Javier Scroggins (Ouch...scratch that, he was just sidelined for 6 weeks due to a recent injury suffered in Tuesday Nights loss to the Rams)
WR - Jeremy Kerley
WR - Hunter Sharp.
However, as we mentioned earlier, most of if not all of Coach Edwards' pass heavy sets consist of three wide outs and a tight end. Meaning McDonald and Rivera will get the looks in double TE formations, while Rivera will be the fourth receiver in heavy pass formations.
There you have it folks, the 49'ers recipe for success for the 2018 season on the offensive side of the ball! Or is it their recipe for failure? It's hard ot tell with this franchise as of late. All 49'er fans want at this point is hope. Something to believe in, something to give them faith that they are heading in the right direction and not just "Rebuilding" due to losing season after losing season.
My prediction? Kevin White and Wilson have break out years for the 49'ers, with White putting up over 1,000 yards, and Wilson being very close to it, and Carlos Hyde eclipsing the 1k mark on the ground, making this an offense that defenses will have to plan for. The days of looking past the 49'ers offense are over. Will the defense be able to force the same attention? Find out tomorrow night for Episode II of "Niner's Nation!"
A deeper look into the 49'ers and Coach Edwards, by SGC Weekly
Stop me if you've heard this story before. The 49'ers are a young and up and coming team. Ok, give me at least a chance to explain as to why this is actually going to be true this time.
These 49'ers aren't just rebuilding, they have actual talent along with the pieces that they are aquiring from free agency and most recently a very successful draft. Players such as Carlos Hyde, DeForest Buckner, and Aaron Lynch have all been apart of the "Process." They were supposed to be the ones that turned this franchise around. Instead, they were extremely talented players, surrounded by horribly sub-par teammates. Hyde was given no quarterback to keep defenses from stacking the box against him, and no offensive line to run behind, while Lynch and Buckner were top pass rushers, but no help at all in the secondary. It's rather difficult to rush the quarterback when he only needs roughly one to two to find a wide open receiver. When Michael Edwards took over the Head Coaching job in San Fransisco, he was promised by ownership that he would have heavy input in the teams decision making roster wise.
In an article of the SGC Weekly, Coach Edwards shed some light on his decision to coach the 49'ers. "A lot of friends asked me the obvious question as soon as I told them where I was going to be coaching after my stay in Tennessee. Why? Why the 49'ers?" It's a fair question. The Titans were looking like a team that had serious playoff chances, something they hadn't seen since 2008.
"My heart was always in California." Said Coach Edwards, who as you know, spent his college coaching career running the team at Cal. "I always told myself if the situation presented itself, I'd end up back there once more, hopefully as my last stop of my coaching career. Sure enough, the 49'er job opened up, and I was thrilled to be one of the top choices."
Don't get me wrong, coaching anywhere in the NFL is a dream job for pretty much anyone that loves sports. However, if you are lucky enough to be wanted in the NFL for your coaching talents, the 49'er job isn't exactly a job that makes you say "Wow!"
"I always kept an eye on them [the 49'ers]. I kept up to date with their roster, -just in case-. I saw a running back that could be a top five running back in the SGC with the correct surroundings. I saw a defense that could be a nightmare for oposing offenses if they were given the right structure. I saw them as a unified team, that was just a few seasons away from being a playoff team. Well, here we are, a few years later and it's time for me to show the fans that I am going to make good on my promise."
What a story that would be. However, Coach Edwards has the chips stacked against him. His division isn't exactly a cake walk, with the Rams, Cardinals, and Seahawks all talented teams on paper, but unlike the 49'ers, their talent has been seen on the field as well. The 49'ers talent however, has yet to step foot off the paper.
Coach Edwards has now been given a full season so far to begin his fixing of the 49'ers. During this time, the team has made a two big trades, and by a couple of GM's words, had a very successful draft. Will this be the year San Fransisco finds the elusive playoff spot? Or will it be another year where Coach Edwards ends the season ending post conference with the phrase "We're close" once more?
My money is on another depressing season for 49'er fans, but everyone loves an underdog story...
With Over 5 Picks In The First Three Rounds, the 49'ers Look to Shape Their Future - By Michael Edwards
I think the entire NFL knew before the season started, this was going to be a tough if not impossible year for the San Fransisco 49'ers. They were young and inexpeirienced in many key positions, with little verteran leadership surrounding them, but not exactly talented veterans outside of quarterback Kirk Cousins.
The saying goes however, it's always the darkest before the dawn. So with all of the pain that the players, the fans, the management had to endure, they now will most likely have a top three pick in the NFL draft, along with three, -yes you heard me- three second round picks, and two third round picks! This is a wonderful time to be the General Manager of the 49'ers, but it's also a make or break moment as well. If management does not draft well this off season, that's it for their run. It's over. There's no more excuses to hide by. That is -Six- draft picks in the first three rounds. Now the next question - Where do they start?
We won't go into names at the moment, as we will wait until the combine comes out to start throwing names at certain teams, but instead we will go by what poisitions fit each team the best with each pick.
Let's start with what the 49'ers -Don't- need. This may be a short list, but they do have some young talented players at a few positions that they can afford to skip and focus on others.
QB - Kirk Cousins
RB - Carlos Hyde
WR - Torrey Smith
WR - Josh Huff (Slot)
TE - Brent Celek
TE - Vance McDonald
These are the offensive position players that I don't see leaving due to contract issues, or young potential. Hyde is the 49'ers RB for the present/future, they are solid at the TE position, and Cousins with his contract, and veteran leadership will help the WR's for the 49'ers now, and the young ones that they may get in this draft, or mainly next years draft. So that leaves the offensive line.
LT - Joe Staley (Age 33)
LG - Joshua Garnett (Age 23)
C - Jackson Ottis (Age 21)
RG - Anthony Davis (Age 27)
RT - Trent Brown (Age 24)
The 49'ers are in a tough situation with LT Joe Staley. He is an oustanding tackle, one of the best in the league, but is he is not getting any younger. They most likely will look to trade him, but with the penalty they will be forced to pay, they will want a solid return for him, something I'm not sure most teams will be willing to give up. As for the rest of the line, they are set up quite nicely for the future. I believe Garnett, Ottis, and Trent Brown will be studs in this league for years to come, and if they can find another Tackle/Guard through whether it be Free Agency or the Draft, they will have one of the better offensive lines in football down the line. Not now, but down the line. That being said, I don't see the 49'ers going offensive line during the first three rounds, unless someone falls that makes it impossible to pass up.
So here are the positions that I could see the 49'ers going with their -First- pick in the draft, whether it be first, second, or third.
WR - Although they have two Wide Receivers that they see as part of the team next year, they are still missing that "Number 1" type receiver. If they can find one that they feel is a difference maker, they will have a quarterback in Kirk Cousins that could help him grow quickly, rather than throwing said WR into the fire with a rookie Quarterback.
Short list right? Well, that's just offense. Now we head to defense, where the REAL problems are.
As we did with the offense, here is a short list of Defensive Players that we feel are talented enough, or just too young to replace, and will have a place on the 49'er roster for at least next year, if not years to come.
DE - Arik Armstead (Age 23)
DE - Aaron Lynch (Age 24)
DT - DeForest Buckner (Age 25)
DT - Tank Carradine (Age 28)
MLB - NaVorro Bowman (Age 29)
CB - Jimmie Ward (Age 26)
CB - Dontae Johnson (Age 25)
FS - Eric Reid (Age 25)
So there you hvae the list of the players I believe will be on the field to start opening game next season. So that leaves key positions such as both Outside Linebacker positions, two possible Cornerback positions, and the Strong Safety spot. Now some could argue that San Fran is hoping that one of two young safeties -Deon Bush or Aundre Timmons- will be able to take over at Strong Safety, I'm not exactly sold on that idea. Both are extremely raw, and there are quite a few Safeties in the draft that would be a huge upgrade over both of those players.
So here is my "Big Board" for the 49'ers. I rank it by positional need. Which would make the biggest impact for their team? Which position has a player in the draft that I like that can fit that high bill of "First Round Pick" status.
1) Cornerback - The reason I go here with my first pick if I'm the 49'ers, other than the obvious that it's an extremely important position on the field for any team, is the fact that they have a solid front 4 on their defensive line already that constantly gets pressure on opposing teams, and is capable of shutting down running backs by just themselves. If you are San Fransisco and you can bump every Cornerback they have down one spot on the depth chart, and insert a top notch shut down Defensive Back from this years draft, it could do wonders for this defense, and could make the quickest turn around for them in my opinion.
2) Wide Receiver - If Cornerback is not a viable option, then it is Wide Receiver with out a doubt. You already have Carlos Hyde in the back field that draws more defenders into the box pre play, and now if you can add a player maker at the number one WR spot that can spread the defense out, and give them the deep ball threat they so desperately need, then it would be hard not to pull the trigger on it. However, in my opinion it would have to be a can't miss Wide Out to spend a top 3 pick on. Not just some guy because he's the best left on the board.
3) Trade Down - Now there's the third option that I feel is the best option for the 49'ers, but may be the hardest to pull off, and that is trading their top pick, to move down in the draft. If they can do this, they can possibly add two first round draft picks to their board, instead of having just one. This will open up depth like we have never witnessed in the SGC before on draft night.
Say it with me...
2 First Rounders
3 Second Rounders
2 Third Rounders....
You cannot sit there and tell me that there aren't OLB's, WR's, CB's, Safeties, anywhere in those first three rounds!? This would be a HUGE win for 49'er fans. It may not be the sexy move, but it would be the move that could finally give fans a reason to "Trust the process" (Sorry Philly, we had to steal it for that!)
Now, the -only- reason I've added option number three is because of the rumors that have been flying out of San Fransisco, about such a trade. Is it true or not? Nobody knows, but it is an interesting possibility now that you think about it.
So that's my list to this date. Cornerback first if they choose to stick with their initial pick, Wide receiver if Corner isn't available, then option three if neither is a perfect fit for the 49'ers which is trade down as quick as you possibly can.
One thing is for sure, it's going to be exciting to watch them draft, with the amount of picks they have in this years upcoming draft. Will they screw this up? Can they with these amount of picks? If so, management will be gone faster than you can say Chip Kelly.
Projection Time!
49'ers trade their Top Pick for two Mid to Late first Round Draft Picks
1st Pick - (First Round) - CB
2nd Pick - (First Round) - WR
3rd Pick - (Second Round) - OLB
4th Pick - (Second Round) - OLB
5th Pick - (Second Round) - MLB
6th Pick - (Third Round) - SS
7th Pick - (Third Round) - CB
8th Pick - (Fourth Round) - OL
9th Pick - (Fifth Round) - OL
10th Pick - (Sixth Round) - CB
11th Pick - (Seventh Round) - QB
49'ers Try To Find Silver Lining From Miserable Season - By Michael Edwards
It has been a tough year for 49'er fans. They've had to endure one of the leagues worst offenses (26th In Points), and an even worse defense (31'st in both Passing Yards and Total Yards Per Game). They tried desperately to hold on to the fact that their players were young, and had a bright future. Players such as stud running back Carlos Hyde, who barely has 600 yards rushing after an injury plagued season so far. On one hand it's good that their biggest receiving threat is 25 years old, the bad is that it's Josh Huff, not exactly a Receiver that has "Star" written all over him. He'll be a good slot receiver for the 49'ers, don't get me wrong, but they have a lot of work to do on the receiving side of the ball. Some may blame Cousins, but he's been a steady quarterback this year.
Defensively, it's been a mixed bag. There is a LOT to look forward to in the future from three out of those four defensive linemen. Buckner, Armstead, and Lynch are going to be a pain for opposing offensive lines for many years to come. Sadly, that's where it ends on the defensive side of the ball outside of stud Free Safety Eric Reid. We may never know how good the defensive front four for San Fransisco can be if they never have the corner help they deserve. Right now, they have absolutely zero help in the coverage department. Jimmie Ward and Dontae Johnson may be decent cover corners, but they are not number one/two corners. They are more along the lines of a third and fourth option at cornerback.
So what do you the 49'ers do from here? They have plenty of draft picks, and quite some money to spend in the off season. However, it would be a mistake in my opinion for them to shell out money to 27-29 year olds, players that are outside the range of their prime players such as Carlos Hyde, Armstead, and the rest of their young talent.
There is a chance however. With the draft coming up, they have 6 plus picks in the first three rounds. That is plenty of chances to fill holes at Cornerback, Wide Receiver, Outside Linebacker, and the two missing links on their Offensive Line. This is a very deep draft with a lot of talent at the positions of need for the 49'ers. Can their GM strike gold during the Draft/Off-Season? If so, the 49'ers may be closer to competing than you may think. Don't laugh!
(Definitely will be much more creativity put into this article. More pictures, more in depth information, more stylish)
NFC East
Cowboys
America’s team. Whether we like it or not, they are the most talked about NFL Franchise to date, and most likely will be for years to come. Now, whether or not that’s a good or bad thing is yet to be seen. Lately, it’s been the latter, with certain character issues for recent draft picks and signings of Cowboys players, followed by the star player of the team being a question mark pretty much to start every single season.
Let’s dive into last year before we begin. It was a failure. Even if you were the Cleveland Browns, their season last year would still be described as a failure. For “Americas Team” to go 4-12 is unacceptable. The Cowboys had high expectations heading into 2015. They had their star quarterback in Tony Romo, an aging but reliable TE in Jason Witten, one of the best wide receivers in the NFL in Dez Bryant, and what doesn’t get talked about enough is one of, if not the best offensive lines in football. I mean seriously, they could have made Bishop Sankey a 1500 yard rusher with that offensive line. So it all looks good on paper right? Cowboys heading back to where they belong! The playoffs and eventually a super bowl! Game one was basically Romo showing the world that he was ready roll that year. Finishing the game with 356 yards on 36/45 passing with one of those 36 completions being an 11 yard touchdown pass to best friend Jason Witten with just seven seconds remaining for the win, edging out their divisional foes New York Giants 27-26. Yes, he had two interceptions, but Tony came through when it counted. That’s not the problem with Romo. When he’s on the field, he produces. I repeat, “When he’s on the field.” So game one was in the books, and most Cowboys fan put a check mark by that game, not just to acknowledge the win, but also to acknowledge one game was in the books where Romo wasn’t injured, just 15 more to go until the playoffs! Next came week two against another divisional rival in the Philadelphia Eagles. This is a game Cowboys fans wish never would have happened, and what pretty much every non Cowboy fan would like to say they predicted would happen sooner or later. The Cowboys came out with the victory, beating the Eagles 20-10, but that was hardly the storyline. Star quarterback Tony Romo injured his to his left shoulder during the game, and the rest is history.
(Picture will be inserted (Most likely the one with Simba trying to wake Tony up :( )
Let’s fast forward to 2016 and try to put the 4-12 record on the back burner, and focus on this year, and the “potential” of this Dallas Cowboys team. Again, you have a great quarterback in Tony Romo, who is supposedly healthy and ready to go. You have a stud wide receiver who also battled injuries last season and is apparently also ready to go. So what’s holding back this loaded offense with the addition of the highly talented Ohio State Running Back Ezekiel Elliott? Injuries. That’s it. May seem simple enough for most teams, but with a Cowboys team lead by a quarterback that just can’t seem to stay on the field, injuries are a big concern. Now, if this offense does the impossible and avoids the BIG injury, I honestly don’t see a team with a more balanced attack of both running the football and throwing. Elliott will battle with newcomer Alfred Morris, and returning running back McFadden. However, when it’s all said and done, the only person standing in the way of Elliott starting game one in Jerry World is Elliot, and there’s not a better situation for any running back to come into. You have passing attack that will keep teams honest, and more importantly an offensive line that will get after it, and do the dirty work, and Elliot will just have to be the same kind of back as he was at Ohio State, and he’ll be just fine. At receiver, of course there’s Dez Bryant, who is also coming back from an injury riddled 2015 season, with a support cast of Terrance Williams and Cole Beasley. Normally I would say that’s not enough support for a star wide out like Bryant, but we all know that the ageless wonder at Tight End Jason Witten will magically have another great season. Again, the attention in my opinion belongs to the offensive line. When you have a line consisting of players such as Tyron Smith, Travis Frederick, and Zack Martin, there’s no excuse for Tony not to stay upright, and for Elliott not to at least rush for 1200 if given the start week one.
(Picture of Cowboys Oline Huddled up)
Now, let’s get to the defensive side of the ball. Forgive me if it I don’t seem too excited to talk about this unit. The defensive line is nothing to write home about, with rookie Randy Gregory being the lone potential of that group. After that you reach the line backing core, a group lead by OLB Sean Lee, but really outside of Lee, is a very mediocre group, leaving a lot to be desired from the front seven of the Cowboys. Next you have the secondary, which again, at least at the cornerback position is lead by one solid player in Orlando Scandrick, but followed by a long list of average players at best. If you’re counting on Brandon Carr as your number two corner to lead you to a division title, you may have some problems on the defensive side of the ball. Barry Church and and youngster Byron Jones will be the safeties to finish off the defense for the Cowboys. Byron Jones may be young, but his playmaking skills could make him exciting to watch this season. It’s not like this defense has to be the heart and soul of this team for the Cowboys to be able to compete for an NFC East Championship, with the Eagles, Giants, and Redskins not exactly screaming “Title Contenders.” They will just have to do enough to allow an explosive offense to do its job and win you football games. Not giving up 28+ points a game shouldn’t be too hard should it?
Now for the fun “Rumor Mill” section. Nothing’s ever “Good enough” for a Jerry Jones led Dallas Cowboys team, as there have been numerous rumors involving a possible deal, with the divisional foe Giants none the less. Now, who is involved? We don’t know. However, from what I’ve been hearing, this isn’t just an everyday small trade to fill out some roster needs. Could it involve a star from either team? Could you imagine Dez Bryant as a Giant? Let’s not go that far, as I’m sure it’s not that big of a trade, but hey, nothing wrong with a harmless guess right?
(Photo shopped image of Dez in a Giants Uniform)
So we’ve gone over what’s plagued these Cowboys in the past, but we’ve also talked about what could happen if this team actually clicked, and managed to stay healthy as well. We know what kind of offense they are capable of having, but can the defense do a half way decent job? Or will they be the downfall of this Cowboys team? Well, that or injuries. (Sorry Cowboys fans, you know I had to add that in there.)
It’s hard to state a prediction for the Cowboys with so many “What ifs” on the table. I’ve honestly never seen a team with so many scenarios that could just destroy a team’s season. Here are my predictions for “Americas Team.” Yes, I will continue to put that in quotations until you actually win a super bowl in the 2000’s.
If Tony Romo is able to stay healthy, and yes that is certainly the biggest if of the season, I see no reason why this Cowboys team can’t reverse their record from last year and go 12-4, giving them the NFC East Championship. I believe Romo is capable of leading the Cowboys to this record, but I have them being eliminated from the playoffs rather quickly? Tony’s fault? Absolutely not. I just don’t believe their defense can keep up with others around the NFC.
Now if Tony is inured anytime during the season especially toward the beginning, than I feel this will be another train wreck of a season, as they really didn’t go out and address the backup quarterback position. If this happens, it could be another 4-12, 5-11 record, depending on the week of Tony’s injury, leaving the race for the NFC East wide open for the remaining three contenders.
(Picture of Romo in a sling)
That being said, push come to shove, I have the Dallas Cowboys as your NFC East Champions, only to be knocked out in the first round of the playoffs. Hey, it’s an improvement from last year though right?
(Picture of Romo smiling)
Dallas Cowboys 2016 Projected Starting Line ups (Trades Pending)
Offense
QB – Tony Romo (Thumbnail of Tony Romo Picture, and so on for the rest of the mentioned players)
HB – Ezekiel Elliott
WR – Dez Bryant
WR – Terrance Williams
TE – Jason Witten
TE – James Hanna
LT – Tyron Smith
LG – La’el Collins
C – Travis Frederick
RG – Zack Martin
RT – Doug Free
Defense
LE – Demarcus Lawrence
DT – Tyrone Crawford
DT – Cedric Thornton
RE – Randy Gregory
LOLB – Justin Durant
MLB – Rolando McClain
ROLB – Sean Lee
CB – Orlando Scandrick
CB - Brandon Carr
FS – Byron Jones
SS – Barry Church
(Haven't decided yet, probably will add a different article for the Cowboys page on "Players to watch out for")
It was the Portalnd Seahawks first game as an expansion team, and they did not dissapoint. "We played with the emotion and focus that I know we're capable of playing." Said Coach Wiz after the game.
The offense looked great other than the one pick from Mettenberger. Mett ended up throwing two touchcdowns, while Sankey rushed for over 100 yards. "I'll take that every day." Said offensive coordinator Jacob Brzozoski. "The one thing we have to do however, is find a way to get Wright the ball. Chicago did a great job of shutting him down down."
As for defense, the line backers showed up in a big way. Zach Browsn showed why he deserved his contract, with one interception asd a forced fumble which turned the momentum around in a big way. Also, both outside line backers Grayson and Aiken had a sack to add to the contribution. "We feel as we have one of the stronger defensive line backing core in all of the NFL. They're young, hungry, and talented." Said Defensive Coordinator Patrick Gray. Jason McCourty picked up where he left off, picking off two passes and once again changing monetum of the game. "We have to stop the big plays though, they killed us over the top on multiple pass plays." Added Jason.
Next, the Seahawks travel to Cincinatti. to face a tough Bengals squad that barely lost to an enormously talented team in the Texans. Mett willl have to cut down the turn overs, and the defense will have to limit the big plays if they want to win this one.
If you would have told me, the Titans rookie running back Bishop Sankey and rookie quarterback Zach Mettenberger would have completely taken over the Titans offense by week 6, I would have picked their record to be aroud 1-5, and panicking fast.
However, that's not the case. They're sitting at a steady pace of 3-3, with Mettenberger coming off his best, and only start as a pro, throwing for three touchdowns, and only one interception, while rookie running back Bishop Sankey took the first carry of his new starting performance for an 81 yard touchdown run.
"I'd say they were ready." Said Coach Wiz jokingly after the game Sunday. "Mett showed great poise when trailing by as much as we did, and to not panic, as a rookie quarterback in his first start, truly shows there is something special about him.
"What can I say, he threw it and we caught it." Said Tight End Walker after the game who also had a receiving touchdown. "When we needed a big throw he made it to keep the drive alive. That's all you can ask of your quarterback."
However, not everything was sunshine and rainbows. The Titans defense did give up quite a lot of points to an injured, young Jaguars team.
"We just can't allow that to happen." Said defensive coordinator Ray Horton. "So next week we're going to mix some things up on defense, try to add some more speed, some more impact type players to our defense."
While he wouldn't let the specifics be known, I believe young MLB Williamson and the OLB speedster Dontay Moch would be involved in the process. They'll have a tough task ahead as they'll have to be chasing RGIII the entire game, but hopefully the new found speed on the edges can help with that.
Tex's Pick'ems Week 4 Edition!
Patriots @ Chiefs - This is going to be a good one. You have a tough Chiefs defense going against a dynamic offense in the Patriots. I love great defenses, but the Patriots are going to be just too much for the Chiefs to handle.
Winner - Patriots
Packers @ Bears - Ask me before the season starts, and I'd say the Packers hands down. However, the Bears are off to a hot start, and I don't see them slowing down. Look for Cutler to eploit the Green Bay defense and have an outstanding game.
Winner - Bears
Bills @ Texans - The Bills are off to a rough start this year, and although I see them turning things around, it just won't be this week. The Texans have something to prove after a rough start as well, and they are just too talented to be playing at this level. Look for the Texans to have a bounce back game and start a winning streak tonight when they face Buffalo.
Winner - Texans
Titans @ Colts - This has been an AFC South Rivalry for some time now, with the majority of wins leaning towards the Colts way as of late. The Titans are over achieving some may say, and the Colts are playing the way they should be with their talented roster. I see it being a close game, but the Colts winning late, maybe by a couple of field goals.
Winner - Colts
Panthers @ Ravens
Talk about two opposite starts to a season. The Panthers start off the season 2-0, while the Ravens start out losing their first two. So the Panthers should win this one easily right? Not so fast my friend! Upset alert for this game as I see the Ravens defense showing up in a big way as they are the difference maker in a much needed win for Baltimore.
Winner - Ravens
Lions @ Jets
Jets like the Ravens are off to a rough start, 0-3 to be correct. However, some of those games have been close, heart breaking losses. The Lions aren't exactly tearing things up either with a 1-2 start. I feel the Jets are due for a win, so I see Geno having a solid start, with a big help from the defense.
Winner - Jets
Bucs @ Steelers - The Bucs are a talented team that are off to a slow start. While the Steelers are a talented team playing the way they should be. Will the Bucs start to click and come away with the upset? Sorry Bucs fans, not this week. The Steelers are just too much to handle right now.
Winner - Steelers
Dolphins @ Raiders - Da Raiders have some young, up and coming talented players that I really like. However, the Dolphins lead by Wake may be too much for the young Raiders team to handle. Look for Wake to have a two sack game and set the tone for another Miami win.
Winner - Dolphins
Jaguars @ Chargers - Phillip Rivers, Gates, surely the Chargers win this game right? One more not so fast my friend! The Jaguars have shocked the NFL by their 2-1 start in a tough AFC South division. Am I actually picking the Jaguars to start the seeason 3-1? Yes....yes I am.
Winner - Jaguars
Eagles @ 49'ers - The Eagles have plenty of weapons on offense with players such as Foles, McCoy, Sproles, and the list continues. However, for some reason they just haven't clicked yet. I do see them coming around like I said about the Bills, but it's a tough time to start when you're facing a team like the 49'ers. San Fran is off to a hot start, and it's only going to get hotter after their win against Philly.
Winner - 49'ers
Falcons @ Vikings - Talk about two talented teams off to a horrid start. Something must be in the water in Atlanta and Minny, as both teams start off the season 0-2. How can two teams with players like Matt Ryan, Julio Jones, and Adrian Peterson both start the season off 0-2? The good news is somethings going to have to give and one team will come away with a win. I see AP having a monster game and setting the tone for a run for the Vikings.
Winner - Vikings
Saints @ Cowboys - The Saints are a talented team, but their defense raises questions, while the Cowboys....are the Cowboys. You just don't know what team will show up. Will the Cowboys team that dominated the Titans come to play? Or the team that couldn't beat the Rams (No offense St. Louis.) The Cowboys have just been too streaky for me, so I'm going Saints in a shoot out.
Winner - Saints
Giants @ Redskins - Talk about one of the best teams in football right now, the Giants are just dominating at the moment. The Redskins got off to a solid start against the Texans but have recently fallen off, with their last loss being against the Jaguars. I dno't want to waste your time with this pick, Giants win easily.
Winner - Giants
Tex's Week 2 Pick'ems!
Eagles @ Colts - The Eagles are coming off of a heart breaking loss to the Jags, while the Colts are coming off of a dominating performance to say the least.
Winner - Colts
Dolphins @ Bills - Miami has shown a lot of growth over the past year and it seems to be carrying over to this season. I just don't think the Bills have the weapons to keep up with Miami. I do think it will be a close one, but I'll have to go with Miami.
Winner - Dolphins
Jaguars @ Redskins - The Jaguars shocked everyone with their week one win over the Eagles, while the Redskins took care of business against a talented Texans team. Just not enough talent on that Jags roster for me to go with them.
Winner - Redskins
Cowboys @ Titans - The Cowboys can't start off the season 0-2 can they? While the Titans did win their opener against a talented Chiefes team, I believe the Cowboys boucne back and take this one in a game that goes down to the wire.
Winner - Cowboys
Cardinals @ Giants - This is a tough one for me. They seem evenly matched, and feels more like a toss up. When it comes down to it though, I'm going to have to go with the veteran Eli to lead the Giants to a 2-0 record.
Winner - Giants
Patriots @ Vikings - Who would have thought these two teams would be 0-1 to start the season? Not me that's for sure. That being said, I feel like the Patriots have the best chance to bounce back from a tough loss to even their record at 1-1.
Winner - Patriots
Saints @ Browns - Just too much fire power with that Saints offense, and just not enough for the Browns. Easy pick IMO.
Winner - Saints
Falcons @ Bengals - Atlanta was held scoreless in their opener, something I don't think we'll see again this season. They're due for a boucne back game with the weapons they have on offense.
Winner - Falcons
Lions @ Panthers - This is an interesting pick. On one side you have the most dominant wide receiver in the game, and on the other side, one of the most up and coming quarterbacks in the league. Defense however will play a huge role in this game, and I feel like the edge goes to the Panthers.
Winner - Panthers
Rams @ Bucs - The Rams surprised me with their week one victory, while the Bucs struggled mightly against the Panthers. I feel the momentum will continue for the Rams.
Winner - Rams
Seahawks @ Chargers - What else can you say? It's the Seahawks.
Winner - Seahawks.
Texans @ Raiders - The Texans looked like they kept some bad habits from last season and let it carry over into this one, while the Raiders shocked the Jets in a defensive battle. That being said, I just don't see the Texans offense being held in check like that again.
Winner - Texans
Jets @ Packers - The Jets struggled to score against the Raiders in week one, and they're going to have to find a way to correct that if they want to keep up with the high powered offense of Green Bay.
Winner - Packers
Chiefs @ Broncos - A talented Chiefs defense going up against the best quarterback in the league. However, the way the game ended for the Chiefs, you have to believe they're ready to get back out there for week two and show who they truly are.
Winner - Chiefs
Bears @ 49'ers - The Bears had a solid week one victory over the Bills in week one, but I just feel theirs too much talent on that 49'ers team for the Bears to compete with.
Winner - 49'ers
Steelers @ Ravens - There's absolutely no love loss between these two teams. They hate eachother, and they let the other know it too on and off the field. I can't wait for this one, as I feel it'll be a physical game that will come down to a final drive, in which I feel the Ravens will finish off to win it.
Winner - Ravens
There you have it! Tex's week 2 pick 'ems, hope you enjoyed them and I look forward to picking for week 3.
The Titans knew what was in front of them. Arrowhead Stadium, one of the toughest places to play. Jamal Charles, one of the best running backs in the League, and the 9th ranked defense in the NFL.
"We knew we were going to have to play mistake free football." Said Quarterback Jack Locker who went 16 for 22 throwing for 294 yards and a Touchdown. Besides the one interception thrown by Locker, that's exactly what they did.
The Titans jumped on the Chiefs early with a huge break out run by Shonn Greene resulting in a 48 yard touchdown run. The Chiefs fired back though behind the arm of Alex Smith as he connected with Anthony Fasano for a 41 yard touchdown pass.
"It was that kind of game." Said Free Safety Michael Griffin after the game. "It was a back and forth battle. Neither team let down at all.
Standing out for both teams were the star wide receivers Kendall Wright and Dwayne Bowe. Bowe had 129 yards on 5 receptions, while Kendall Wright had a whopping 189 yards on six receptions. It will be interesting to see if both receivers can keep up their pace, as unlikely as it may be, don't doubt on those two guys.
One of the key plays of the game came in the second half when Coty Sensabough picked off Alex Smith and ran it back for a touchdown, giving the Titans the momentum they desperately needed. With less than two minutes to go, the Titans held on to a 27-21 lead, but the Chiefs wern't done. They marched all the way down the field lead by Alex Smith, getting themselves all the way down to the one yard line, where the biggest play of the game occurred.
"We knew JC (Jamal Charles) was going to get it. We brought everyone, and it paid off." Said Defensive Tackle Jurrell Casey who made the game saving tackle on the one as the clock wound down before the the Chiefs could spike it.
"It was a team effort." Continued Casey, "Everyone did their part, and it feels great to start out the season with a win.
The experts picking were wrong about the Titans week one, but will they be wrong in week 2 when they host the Dallas Cowboys? We'll find out on Thursday Night Football on the NFL Network.
The Oilers have just announced the resigning of Wide Receiver Kendall Wright, and Defensive End Chandler Jones.
These two signings are huge for the Oilers, solidifying a dynamic duo at the ends with Jones and Morgan, and also giving the Oilers their slot receiver for the next 5 years.
Both were signed to 5 year, 30+ million dollar deals, more details to come...
In what was labled the "Battle for Houston" by fans from both fans, in what has become a heated rivalry over the years has turned rather one sided with the Texans owning the majority of the wins. However, today was a different story. "It was a game where everything came together, and we showed what we can do when we all play up to our potential." Again, it was Locker who didn't make a mistake, going 12/14 but more importantly connecting for four...yes four touchdowns, all to different receivers. "Jake played another outstanding game. He's growing at a huge time in the season for us." Added Coach Munchak. With a chuckling Locker, Jake added how easy it was to throw when you have a running back like Rodgers having the game he had to.
Speaking of Rodgers, he had a monster game, rushing for 182 yards, but zero touchdowns do to the touchdowns thrown by Jake. "You can say I ball hogged it today." Laughed Locker as he Jacquizz shared a laugh." Rodgers could not be stopped. First down after first down. "I was so close!" Yelled Rodgers talking about falling short at the 5 and 3 yard line. However, one of those touchdowns thrown by Jake was to Rodger, so at least he had that going for him.
As for the defense...all you can say is "Wow." This was the first game the nicknamed "Fantastic Four" defensive linemen were playing together at the same time this entire season! Morgan was just getting back from his recent suspension for violating league policy. "I realized the mistake I made, and I realized the toll it took on the team and the immaturity by me, but I've learned from it, and am here to stay." Boy is that good news, considering Morgan's first game back, he collected three sacks, while Geno collected one himself. Not only did they shut down Foster, they obviously disrupted Rivers passing game by getting to him and at least knocking him down if not sacking him. This allowed the secondary to once again prey on the pass rush as Griffin and McCourty each had an interception, never really allowing the Texans defense to get comfortbale.
The Oilers now are showing why they are a team to look out for come late in the season and possibly playoff time. If Locker can continue to play mistake free, and the defense shows up like they have been, look out, these Oilers could be on their way to a Super Bowl run.