Detroit Lions Draft Reaction

   I’m not quite sure what to think of the Lions draft at this moment, but as always with the draft, only time will tell.

  The Lions threw us a curve ball by drafting Nick Fairley in the first round, but I have no problem with that pick what so ever. He was the best player on the board and he will obviously make their line even more menacing than it already is. He’s big, strong and very quick for his size. He could probably be an option at defensive end if they wanted. He also has a mean streak. He’s going to punish you and let you know about, but he’s been known to hit people after the play is over. He has been rumored as a dirty player at times, but I don’t mind having that mean nasty guy on our team. Better ours than theirs. He’s going to be a beast. Hopefully he can learn to control his aggression so he doesn’t hurt the team with penalties. Other than that, taking Fairley was a great pick at 13.

  As for their second round pick, I don’t really like who they got. Yeah…they say Titus Young is a good player, but is he going to be the deep threat that the Lions are looking for? I’m not so sure. First of all, he’s only 5’11” 175 pounds. He’s probably going to struggle against press coverage. He played in the WAC, probably not too many corners from the WAC going to the NFL. His speed is ok, he ran a 4.56 in the 40. He’s has good quickness and play making ability and is better suited to be a slot guy. The Lions already have one of those. A good one! To be honest, I don’t mind picking a wide out and he’ll probably be a good player for them, but I just think there was a better guy there who could have fit that deep threat the Lions were looking for.

  Torrey Smith from Maryland was still available at the time. Torrey Smith was one of the best receivers in college football last year. He has good size at 6’1” 204 and has very good speed. He ran a 4.43 at the combine. Smith’s is bigger, faster and played better competition. He would have been a better fit for what the Lions were looking for and I guarantee he’ll be a better pro. I’d rather they picked just about anybody but him at that slot to tell you the truth. I don’t mean to hate, but COME ON! Hopefully he makes me eat my words.

  Another strange move was trading their 3^rd and 4^th round picks to move up and grab Mikel Leshoure in the middle of the second round. I don’t mind this pick either. I knew the Lions were looking for a bigger back to share carries with Best. Leshoure was very productive at Illinois rushing for 1,900 yards and 20 TD’s last year. He’s the between the tackles runner the Lions were looking for. But, just because he’s 230 doesn’t necessarily mean he can’t make big runs. Leshoure had 15 runs for over 30 yards last season and had 3 for over 50. He has a nose for the goal line and ability to catch the ball will add another dimension to Detroit’s redzone offense. Another good pick!

  After all is said and done after 3 rounds, the Lions got 2 really good players and a descent one. The only thing that concerns me is that they haven’t even filled any of their glaring needs like LB and CB. Even more concerning, they only have a 5^th and a 7^th round pick left. They’re probably not going to get a very good player with those picks, but you never know. Looks like the Lions will depend on free agency to fill their remaining holes. If Detroit can bring in some good players through free agency to go along with this years draft picks and with Stafford coming back, the Lions are going to be scary good this year. You’ll see…

Saginaw Sting Coaches - Week 9

Saginaw Sting Coaches Show - Week 8

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Saginaw Sting edges Canton Cougars 62-61 for fourth straight victory

Published: Friday, April 15, 2011, 11:20 PM     Updated: Saturday, April 16, 2011, 8:31 AM

 By Geoff Mott | The Saginaw News 
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SAGINAW — Don't expect the Saginaw Sting to shed any tears for the Canton Cougars any time soon.

After the Sting started its Ultimate Indoor Football League season with a 2-0 start, then lost a pair of one-point games — including a 53-52 decision at Canton on March 21 — to drop their record to 2-2.

Saginaw returned the favor at home Friday, allowing the Cougars to rally from an early 21-point deficit to scoring a touchdown with 9 seconds left to pull within a point.

But Canton kicker Lawrence Vickerstaff pushed the extra point right and the Sting won their fourth-straight game with a 62-61 decision in front of a crowd of 1,913 at The Dow Event Center.

"I don't have a bit of remorse (for the missed kick)," Saginaw coach Vince Leveille said. "We've lost a couple close ones that way. This is a little bit of revenge for us."

The Sting improved to 6-2 and remain in second place in the UIFL heading into the second half of the season. Saginaw travels to UIFL leader Northern Kentucky River Monsters at 7:30 p.m. next Saturday for a chance to draw even at the top of the standings.

"This was a good win," Leveille said. "We had a great crowd and it made it tough on them.

"But we have to get a little better. We have to eliminate mistakes on special teams and put more pressure on the quarterback."

The Sting have put in extra time at practice on special teams and it paid off in a big way on Friday.

After Canton took a 14-7 lead midway through the first quarter on its second touchdown pass of the game, Saginaw receiver LaVaughn Macon returned the ensuing kickoff for a touchdown from inside the Sting endzone. Chris Kollias connected on the first of his eight extra point kicks to tie the game at 14-14.

Saginaw's defense stopped Canton on its next possession and after Vickerstaff missed the field goal, Saginaw's Kevin Brown fielded the miss and returned the kick all the way to the Canton 1-yard line. Vernon Burdon strong-armed his way into the end zone for a rushing touchdown on the next play for a 21-14 lead.

Three plays into the Cougars next possession, Canton quarterback Ray Marrow misfired on a quick lateral pass that Saginaw defender Phillip Smith scooped up and returned 25 yards for another touchdown, pushing the Sting lead to 28-14.

After Saginaw stuffed Canton at the goal line on the next possession, Sting quarterback Tommy Jones connected with former Saginaw Valley State University receiver Andrew Beaver for a 16-yard TD pass, giving Saginaw a commanding 35-14 lead.

Canton responded with a 19-yard touchdown pass with 33.3 seconds left in the first half and added another touchdown on a fumble return to cut Saginaw's lead to 35-28, but Beaver returned the kickoff 50 yards for a touchdown and a 42-28 halftime lead.

"We've worked long and hard and special teams and it definitely paid off today," Leveille said.

Canton closed in on Saginaw in the second half as Cody Smith returned an interception 40 yards for a touchdown, cutting the Sting lead to 42-41 after Vickerstaff missed an extra point.

Jones found Zac Nichols for a 12-yard TD pass in the closing moments of the third quarter for a 49-41 lead and after an interception from Sting linebacker John Jacobs, Jones connected with Beaver for a 40-yard TD strike, giving Saginaw the 56-41 lead.

After a Canton score, Jones hit Beaver again on a short TD pass, but Canton scored again to cut the lead to 62-55 with 3:05 left in the game. Saginaw had a chance to ice the game but Jones had a third down pass picked off with 1:40 remaining. Canton drove all the way to a third and goal and scored with 9 seconds left on a wide open TD pass. That's when Vickerstaff missed the extra point.

"It shouldn't have been that close," Leveille said. "That was an ugly win. But we'll take an ugly win any day."

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Tigers Need A Win...BAD!

  After coming home with a 3-5 record on the season opening road trip, everybody, including me, thought the Tigers were going to come home and take care of business. But over the last 3 games the Tiger bats were silenced by KC, TEX and people are already becoming concerned.

  It all started on Saturday, when Bruce Chen held the Tigers scoreless for 6 innings, while striking out 7 and allowing only 3 hits. Turned out to be a waste of a great start from Phil Coke who went 6.2 innings allowing only 2 runs on 3 hits while striking out 7 as well. The Tigers only scored 1 run in the game from a solo blast from Ryan Rayburn in the 9^th.

  On Sunday, the Tigers had trouble hitting Luke Hochevar who gave the Royals 7 strong innings while only surrendering 3 runs. The Tigers did have some success with the bats, but the Tigers pitching couldn’t get anybody out as the Royals pounded out 15 hits on their way to a 9-5 win and a series victory. Rick Porcello took the loss as he gave up 9 hits and 5 runs in just 5 innings. He falls to 0-2 so far this season.

   Yesterday, the Tigers squandered another beautiful pitching performance, this time by Justin Verlander. He threw a complete game allowing only 2 runs and 6 hits, while striking out 4, against a really good Texas lineup. The Tiger bats were shut down for the second time in 3 days, managing only 4 hits and 0 runs.

  Now I’m not one to panic, but I absolutely hate when the Tigers lose. Was I upset watching the last couple games? Hell yes! But it is going to be a very long season and it’s way to early to start panicking. I figure we need to give them another month or so before we find out how good they really are.

  It’s time to stop the bleeding tonight though. The Tigers have Texas at home for the next 2 days and will head to the west coast for a 7 game road trip against Oakland and Seattle. The Tigers don’t typically play well out west, but then again, you never know with baseball. Either way, the Tigers need to get these next 2 games at home so they can have something to build off of going out west. Go get em boys!!

Welcome to Detroit!

  The Tigers 2011 home opener started off with a bang as newly acquired Victor Martinez had a bases clearing double in the first inning that got the Tigers rolling on their way 5-2 win Friday at Comerica Park.

  This game should be a preview of what to come for this Tiger lineup. Having the best hitter in the game is one thing, but having the guys around him in the lineup is the key. Going out and getting Victor Martinez was a huge pick up and served true today, but Maggs and Brennan Boesch are no slouches by any stretch. It’s going to be hard to face those 4 hitters in a row without taking some damage.

  Today was a perfect example. In the first inning Rhymes gets on with an infield hit, Maggs walks, Cabrerra walks and Martinez knocks em in. Just like that…3 runs on the board. Jhonny Peralta joined in on the action as well with a double in the first to score Martinez and an RBI in the 6^th to score Cabrerra. Now the Tigers will obviously need to get some help from the rest of the lineup, but it will be the 3 through 6 hitters who will be doing most of the damage.

  On the other end of things, Max Scherzer was just cruising along. Scherzer had his good stuff today throwing his fastball with control and keeping the Kansas City hitters off balance with his slider. He did get himself in a jam in the 4^th inning by loading the bases with 2 outs, but got Alcides Escobar to ground out to end the threat. Scherzer gave up 7 H, 2 BB while striking out 3 and only surrendering 1 run in 6 innings.

  Brayan Villarreal started the seventh inning and made a few big plays. He made a great play snagging a hard hit ball right back to him, taking a hit away from the Royals. He also picked a guy off of first base which end up saving a run. Villarreal gave up 1 run on 3 hits in 2/3 of an inning and Daniel Schlereth finished the 7th. Benoit and Velverde had no problems closing out the 8^th and 9^th allowing only 1 hit combined and struck out 2.

  The Tigers move to 3-4 on the season and will be looking to continue its success tomorrow in game 2 of the series against the Royals. Phil Coke will be making his first start of the season for the Tigers and will face Bruce Chen in Saturday’s matchup.

 Just a few notes: Will Rhymes had a couple hits today and a diving, run saving catch in the 7^th inning to end a threat. Austin Jackson continues to struggle so far this season going 1-5 today keeping his average at just .200.

Click here to see Victor Martinez's Home Run

Saginaw Sting Coaches Show - Week 7

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Tigers Serving Meatballs

  The Tigers pitching continued to serve up long balls Saturday in New York as the Yankees put up a 10 spot to hand the Tigers their second consecutive loss to start the season.  A three run shots by Mark Texiera and Russell Martin were too much for the Tigers to overcome in a 10-6 loss at Yankee Stadium.

  Tiger’s starter Brad Penny gave up three runs in the first inning, “no thanks” to his defense. After Penny retired the first batter, Will Rhymes couldn’t make a tough play on a ground ball by Jeter, who ended up scoring on a double by Alex Rodriguez. After a walk to Texiera, Jhonny Peralta booted a ground ball to short by Cano as Texiera scored and A-Rod moved to third. Nick Swisher hit a sac fly to left field, scoring Rodriguez and the Yanks jumped out to a 3-0 lead.

  In the top of the 2^nd, the Tigers had a chance to strike back and failed in typical Tigers fashion. Miguel Cabrerra, lead of with a double and was stranded there. Victor Martinez and Brennan Boesch struck out back to back and Peralta flied out to Granderson to end the threat.

  Bad luck struck Penny again in the second. With 1 out and Bret Gardner on 2^nd, Jeter hit a ground ball to short and Peralta’s attempt to throw out Gardener at 3^rd was unsuccessful. Instead of 2 outs and 1 on, there were men on first and third with 1 out. Mark Texiera would make the Tigers pay as he went deep for a three run jack for the second straight game to put the Yanks up 6-0.

  The Tigers were able to cut the lead in half by the top of the fifth inning, but should have gotten more. After back to back singles to start the inning, Alex Avila scored Brennan Boesch on a ground ball through the infield. The Tigers eventually had the bases loaded with 1 out, but were only able to get one more across on a fielder’s choice ground ball by Rhymes. Ordonez struck out swinging to end the threat.

  Just as the Tigers seemed to be in business, the long ball bit them again. Penny was pulled in the bottom half of the 5^th with two runners on. Brad Thomas came in to get Granderson to ground out, but with 2 outs, served up a no doubt, three run homer to Russell Martin and the Tigers were down 9-3.

  Penny allowed 7 hits, 4 walks and 8 runs in just 4 1/3 innings in his first regular season start as a Tiger. Penny didn’t look particularly sharp, but I think things might have been different had a couple plays went his way. But hey, that’s baseball. Penny knows you just have to have to put it behind you and move on, “It’s over with. My work begins again tomorrow morning.”

  On a positive note, Austin Jackson matched his homerun total from last year with one in the 3^rd inning and Victor Martinez hit his first homerun as a Tiger with a 2 run shot in the 8^th. Also, the Tigers bullpen didn’t allow a hit past the 6^th inning.

  The Tigers will wrap up the series with the Yanks today at 1:05. Max Sherzer will make his first start of the season and will be looking to bounce back after a disastrous final outing of the preseason. The Yankees will counter with RHP Phil Hughes.

                                                      Victor Martinez home run in the 8th

A Little Extra Protection Never Hurts

  The Tigers are two days away from opening day against the Yankees and one thing is for certain…they are going to be good. But the question is…are they going to be good enough to make the post season?

  I think the one thing we can count on is the Tigers offense. There is no doubt they are going to score some runs. Lead by MVP runner up Miguel Cabrerra, the Tigers have plenty of good bats in their line up. But in order for Cabrerra to do major damage, the Tigers need someone to protect him in the lineup. Last year Brennan Boesch tore up majors for the first half of the season, which resulted in the Tigers leading the Central heading into the All Star Break. After the break though, Boesch struggled horribly and as a result opponents stopped giving Cabrerra anything to hit.

  Since the Tigers acquired free agent Victor Martinez in the offseason, they should not have a problem protecting Cabrerra this season. Martinez is 4 time All Star with a career batting average of .300 with good RBI production. Now it will be hard for opponents to pitch around Cabrerra this year and if they do, will more than likely end up paying for it. The Tigers made some good moves in the offseason this year, but none more important than signing Martinez.

  Hopefully Martinez’s production will continue to be steady. If it does, I would expect Cabrerra and the Tigers to have a great season and hopefully make the post season for the first time since 2006. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see.

  

Stafford Feeling Good

  The Detroit Lions and its fans have been getting some promising news from its franchise quarterback over the past couple of weeks. Matt Stafford, who recently opened a Twitter account, has been talking about the progress of his surgically repaired right shoulder.

  “Feeling good after throwing a lot yesterday” said Stafford on his Twitter account.

  This is exceptional news for the Lions who are depending on their franchise quarterback to be completely healthy and ready to go when it is time to play football again. (whenever that may be) Stafford has had a rough go during his short NFL career, in which he has only started 13 games in 2 seasons.

  In Stafford’s rookie campaign, he missed 6 games due to a knee and left shoulder injury. Even though he did have injury problems that season, he did show extreme toughness and courage during a game against the Cleveland Browns on Nov. 22 2009. After separating his left shoulder on the previous play, Stafford came back in for the final play and threw a TD to Brandon Pettigrew to win the game with no time remaining. This was a moment in which Stafford would gain the respect of not only Lions fans, but the whole National Football League and a moment I will never forget.Click this link...MUST SEE!

  With hopes higher than ever to start the 2010 season, Stafford was bitten again by the injury bug. Stafford separated his throwing shoulder in the first game of the season, crushing all hopes of a promising season.

  Stafford would sit for the next 6 weeks and would return week 8 against the Redskins. He would throw for 4 touchdowns in 37-25 win at Ford Field. Things were starting to look even better the next week as Stafford scored 3 TD’s and seemed to have the Jets beat. But, on a seemingly harmless play, Stafford simply fell on his right shoulder and separated it once again, ending his season.

  Though only playing in 3 games last season, it was obvious that Stafford is an outstanding talent and will be the guy, who will lead the Lions back to glory. It all depends if he can stay healthy.

  So, what are the chances of that happening…Pretty good in my opinion. Let me tell you why…

  To be honest, I don’t think he was fully healed when he came back against the Skins. Yeah, he threw the ball well, but the shoulder obviously wasn’t completely healed if he can just fall on it and separate it again. The kid is obviously tough, but you just can’t play quarterback in the NFL with a separated throwing shoulder.

  There have been players who have come back from shoulder injuries and have performed quite well. Drew Brees ring a bell? How about Sam Bradford? Both of their injuries were significantly worse and they have rebounded wonderfully.

  Also, Dr. James Andrews, who is considered the best sports injury surgeons in the world, operated on Stafford’s shoulder. If that don’t put you at ease, I don’t know what will. Plus, Stafford will have much more time for his shoulder to heal this time. He can take it slow and be cautious.

  So, to all of you who want to call Stafford a “china doll” try having a 290 pound monster drive your shoulder into the ground and see how you hold up.  All I ask, is that you to give the kid one more chance. If he gets injured again next year, I’ll agree that he’s injury prone. Until then, just have some faith and believe that something good will eventually happen for the Lions. I do!

  

Safety Concerns Prompt Rule Changes

  Over the past couple of days, the NFL Competition Committee has proposed a number of rule changes, some will be good for the game and some will not. It all depends who you are.

  One of the most notable proposals will change the rules of kickoff returns. The proposal will have teams kick off from the 35 yard line instead of the 30 and touchbacks will be moved to the 25 yard line instead of the 20. Also, the kickoff coverage team will only have a 5 yard running start and no more wedges. Although I think this rule change would take some excitement away from the game, it is definitely something that will benefit the safety of the players. Co-chairmen of the NFL Competition Committee Rich McKay explains:

"This is a rule 100 percent based on player safety. We've seen higher rates of injuries than we are comfortable with and we're trying to remedy it."

  But, there have already been players and coaches who have voiced their displeasure with this possible change. Devin Hester from the Chicago Bears has made it known that he does not want this rule to change. Hester is a kick returner for the Bears and it is no surprise that he does not want this to change. Hester has made his living on kick returns and the rule change would reduce his role with his team and with the NFL.

   It is obvious that the rule change would take away the advantage of some teams who are particularly good at returning kicks, but the competition committee claims there will not be a significant drop of in kickoff returns. Co-chairmen of the NFL Competition Committee Rich McKay, claims that research shows that there should only be about a 20% drop in kickoffs returned, if the rule is put into effect.  

  As a fan, I would like the NFL to keep the rules the way they are, but I understand the concern for the player’s safety. The speed at which players are moving during a kickoff probably makes it the most dangerous play in football. Ultimately, the NFL and the owners are trying their best to protect their players and I commend them for that.

  Yes the rule will change the game a bit, but there are too many great things about this game that will still live on and eventually people will adapt to the game, no matter how it is played. NFL Football is the greatest game on earth and it would take a lot changes for me not to watch. I think that the safety of the players is the most important issues in football and whatever they can do to protect the players should at least be considered.

 

Late Rally Falls Short For Michigan

 

Michigan was coming in hot against Ohio State, winning 9 of 12 and playing their best ball of the year. But their Big Ten Tourney run is over after Jared Sullinger and John Diebler were just too much, as Ohio State topped Michigan 68-61.

  The Wolverines played tough the whole first half. They played Sullinger well, but John Diebler had a big first half with 12 points, scoring inside and from deep. Michigan’s offense was balanced with 5 different players scoring and Darius Morris leading the way 9 points. Michigan trailed 31-27 at the half.

  To start the second half, the Buckeye’s pushed the lead to 11 with 16:00 left, but Michigan would counter with a fantastic run, lead by Morris. He scored 7 straight points to bring Michigan within 6. Tim Hardaway Jr. finished off the run with seven points of his own, as the Wolverines cut the lead to 2 points with 9:53 left.

  Unfortunately, the Wolverines went cold, shooting 0-9 from the field over the next 5 minutes. Over that stretch, Ohio State was able to push the lead to 18, which was ultimately too much for the Wolverines to recover from.

  Though being down 63-45 with 4:30 left, Michigan had one more run in them. Zack Novak and Evan Smotrycz had two 3’s a piece, as Smotrycz’s last 3 pointer brought Michigan within 4 with 21 seconds left. But the rally would come up short as Smotryzc’s 3 missed with the Wolverines down 5 and the Buckeyes were able to pull out the victory.

  Ohio State (31-2) will move on to the Big Ten Championship Game, as expected. Sullinger ended up with 14 points and 13 rebounds. Buford chipped in with 14 points as Diebler finished with 16.

  The Buckeyes have one of the best inside players in the nation in Sullinger and a bunch of good, solid players like senior David Lighty, William Buford and John Diebler who make them hard to defend. They have probably been the most consistent team in college basketball this season. There is no doubt they are one of the best teams in the country and have a real good shot at winning the whole thing.

  As for Michigan (20-13) Darius Morris led the team in scoring with 16 points as Tim Hardaway Jr added 15. Evan Smotrycz also contributed 9. This was the 3^rd loss to Ohio State this season, but the young Michigan team knows that they can play with anybody. Michigan played the Buckeye’s very tough in all three games this year and took another potential 1 seed Kansas to overtime. There is no doubt that Michigan is young, but they have shown their not afraid of anybody and they will be coming at you until the buzzer sounds.

 
   I think Michigan has confidence and ability to win some games in the tournament this year and don’t be surprised if they do. They have 2 NBA caliber players with Morris and Hardaway, plus a bunch of good shooters and they’re all playing with a tremendous amount of confidence. If Michigan can shoot well from 3 in the tournament, I don’t see why they can’t win 2 or 3 games. They know they can play with anybody, but will they be able to play well on the biggest of all stages. I guess we’ll see…

Photos: Sullinger/Associated Press
                 Hardaway/Associated Press

Michigan Shows Some Guts

   Going into Friday’s game between Michigan and Illinois, both teams were projected to be on the bubble and in danger of missing the post season. Thanks to a 21-4 run late in the second half, which included holding Illinois without a field goal for over 7 minutes, Michigan defeated Illinois 60-55. Michigan will be moving on and more than likely, into the NCAA Tournament as well.

   The game was very close for most of the first half. Darius Morris and Zack Novak led the way for Michigan combing for 14 points midway trough the first half. Illinois did pull away late, ending the half with a 10-1 run that lasted 4:33. Illinois led at the half 34-23.

   Back to back 3’s by Novak and one by Stu Douglas kept Michigan in the game early in the second half. Though Michigan was still down by 12 with 10:03 left in the game, the kids never gave up and and it eventually paid off.

   Tim Hardaway Jr. started the Michigan run with a 3 pointer and Evan Smotrycz and Darius Morris scored the next 10 points for the Wolverines. Smotrycz hit two huge 3’s, while Morris began to score in the lane and officially brought Michigan even at 51 with a short jumper with 3:31 left.

  After exchanging free throws, Michigan’s Tim Hardaway Jr. hit a gigantic 3 with 1:47 left to put Michigan on top for good. Hardaway and Novak hit 4 out of 4 free throws to ice the game.

  It was just a gritty performance by the Wolverines. Being down 12 on a neutral court and having the composure to stick with it, is showing how far this team has come and how much better they really are. Darius Morris, who had 17 points and 7 assists, knew what it was going to take to make a comeback. “We knew we were going to need stops. We knew if we got some, we could get back in the game. We had to play possession by possession.”

   This was Michigan’s 9^th win in 12 games and their playing their best ball of the season. Zach Novak had 14 points and Hardaway had 16, while Stu Douglas led the Wolverines in rebounding with 7. The Wolverines have a lot to be excited about. They have a great point guard in Morris, a rising star in Hardaway Jr. and a bunch of guys who can really shoot the 3. The more confident they become, the more dangerous they will become, come tournament time.

  With this win, I completely expect the Wolverines to be a lock for the tournament. Considering what was riding on this game, I think we found out a lot about their team and how resilient they are. They never gave up and found away to win. I would have to consider this win the biggest of the season and just a glimpse of what we can expect from this team in the future. 

Michigan will play Ohio State tomorrow. Michigan has lost twice to the Buckeye’s this year, but have played them well both times.  Tip: ESPN 1:40 PM

   Photo by: The Associated Press
   Stats: http://espn.go.com/

My 2011 Detroit Lions NFL Draft

  Over the past couple of months there has been a lot of speculation and opinion on who the Lions should take in this April’s NFL Draft, so I figured that I might as well join in. This is what I think they should do.                                          
  
   Everything that I’ve been hearing has been saying the Lions want CB Prince Amukamara out of Nebraska. Well…I agree, but will he be there? If Amukamara falls to 13 they have to take him. The end! If he's not, the only other guy that I think is worth taking with the 13th pick is J.J. Watt out of Wisconsin. (Unless Quinn falls that far, which isn't going to happen) Watt is a mad man! At 6'6" 290, is just as quick as Ryan Kerrigan (Purdue) and Aldon Smith (Missouri), who are other top prospects at DE that should be available, but is 30 lbs heavier. He was faster than both guys in the 3 cone drill and is also much stronger. He's longer than both guys and believe it or not, has a higher vertical than both as well. And if needed to, could probably play inside as well. As for Julio Jones...sounds sexy, but I just don't think they can do it. Anyways, if they can't get Amakumara or Watt, they should trade down in my opinion and hopefully get a third or fourth round pick in return.

   If they traded down a few spots, they still might be able to get CB’s Jimmy Smith (Colorado) or Brandon Harris (Miami, Fl.). Or, they could also go with the best available DE. If they can't get one of the top 5 DE's though, I wouldn't even draft one at all. Maybe, LB Akeem Ayers (UCLA) wouldn't be such a bad idea at that slot, but I really don't like him that much and would rather they wait till the second or third round to draft a LB           .                                                                                              

   With their second pick, I really like C/OG Mike Pouncey out of Florida. He stands 6'5", 320 and is a force in the running game, which is something the Lions should be looking for, considering Center Dominic Riola and Guard Stephen Peterman are both terrible. Pouncey's versatility would make him a candidate to take over at center or guard for many years to come. I really do like LB Bruce Carter (North Carolina), but I like Pouncey more because of the depth the draft offers at LB. It would be nice if they could get him in the third round, but I don't think he'll be there. I agree that there is a good amount of talent at LB in this draft, but I don't think most of the players mentioned are going to last as long as everybody thinks. With that being said, I think LB’s like Mark Herzlig (Boston College), Dontay Moch (Nevada), and maybe Casey Matthews (Oregon) could be available in the 3rd round.

   If they haven't taken a LB in the first two rounds, they must take one in the third. Like i just mentioned, there should still be a damn good LB available. I think Herzlig or Moch would be steals in the 3rd and i would be extremely happy with either one. If those guys aren't available, they should draft a WR or maybe a RB and look at Casey Matthews, Greg Jones (Michigan State) or Nick Bellore (Central Michigan) in the 4th. And remember...if they trade down, they might have another 3rd or 4th round pick to work with. So, maybe they can get a couple LB's and a WR or RB, or they could get one of each in rounds 3 and 4. Hope that doesn't sound too confusing. Anyways, that's as far as i'm gonna go.

Listen to my latest opinion on what the Lions should do Draft Day on my new podcast...coming soon to this web page.

BTW...EXPECT BIG THINGS NEXT YEAR!!  AND YES...I'M TALKIN PLAYOFFS!   GO LIONS!!!

What About Mr. Big Shot?

   When the New York Knicks traded for Carmello Anthony earlier this week, you would hardly know that Chauncey Billups was even involved in the trade. Yes, I realize that Carmello is one of the best players in the game and that he was obviously the main piece in the deal, but I think that people are underestimating how important Billups will be to the Knicks success.

   Ever since the trade, all I’ve been hearing about is Carmello and Amare. Yeah, they are great players and I understand why they are getting all of the hype, but think people are forgetting how good of a player Billups has been…and still is. Everybody knows that you must have good point guard play if you’re going to compete with the best, so I believe that Billups is going to be the key for New York.

   Billups was the probably the most important player to the Pistons success during their 7 year run, which included 6 straight Eastern Conference Finals appearances, 2 NBA Finals appearances and a NBA Championship in which Billups was named the NBA Finals MVP. So, it is no coincidence the Pistons haven’t been the same since Chauncey was traded away.

   Billups is a very smart, hard nosed, sharp shooting point guard who isn’t afraid to take and make the big shot….hence the name “Mr. Big Shot”. And it’s not like the guy is washed up. Billups averaged 19.5 ppg and 5.6 apg last year while being named to the All Star team for the 5^th straight year. This year Billups is averaging a very respectable 16.7 ppg and 5.4 apg, while shooting a ridiculous 43% from 3. Chauncey has averaged 23 points and 8 assists in his first 2 games with the Knicks and will most definitely bring solidity to New York’s point guard position.

   Everybody talks about how the Heat and Celtics have the big 3 and rightfully so, but why shouldn’t Carmello, Amare and Chauncey be mentioned in the same category. Now, I’m not saying the Knicks are going to win the NBA Championship this year, but they will definitely be a team to be reckoned with come playoff time and I think that Billups will have just as much to say about that as Amare and Mello.

   If anything, the Knicks need Billups just as much as much as they need Mello, so people need to start giving him some props. After all, he is the only player on that team who is an NBA Champion.

Actually, Ronny Turiaf is too, but he doesn’t count because he sat the bench for the Lakers.

Stats provided by NBA.com

Spartans Still Hanging Around

   Three weeks ago I wrote an article about how Michigan State needed to step it up if they want to dance in March. Well…After two awful 20 point losses to Iowa and Wisconsin, the Spartans have started to pick it. They have won 2 of their last 3, including a huge win last night over Illinois last night 61-57 at the Breslin Center.

   Kalin Lucas led all scorers with 25 points as he continues to be the glue that is barely holding the Spartans together. Lucas dominated the ball, taking 19 of the Spartans 50 field goal attempts. But, I guess that’s not a bad thing considering he’s still not getting much help from his teammates.

  Durrell Summers struggled once again, only scoring 8 points, while shooting 1 of 7 from the field. That’s just not going to cut it for the Spartans. Summers is an outstanding talent, but for whatever reason, he’s still struggling. I don’t know if his confidence is shaken or what the deal is, but he needs to play better. Guard play is critical in College Basketball and can win you lots of games, especially in the tournament. If Summers can get it going down the stretch, the Spartans will be dangerous.

   Delvon Roe led the bigs with 8 points and 7 rebounds as the inside game continues to be nearly nonexistent for Michigan State. Draymond Green was held to 5 points and 6 rebounds, while only shooting 1 of 3 from the field. But, it was the tough defense and rebounding that’s been made the difference. Michigan State basketball prides them selves on tough defense and physical play. If the Spartans stay dedicated on the defensive side of the ball, they will be tough to beat.

   Turnovers have also been a big problem for the Spartans this year. In their 11 losses, they are averaging 14 turnovers a game. And it’s not Lucas…he’s taking good care of the ball this season. There is no doubt that loosing good ball handlers Hill and Lucious has hurt them, but taking care of the ball takes a conscious effort from the players. Knowing that they have problems scoring the basketball, the Spartans can’t give away possessions.

   The Spartans are still hanging around, but they can’t afford anymore losses. It’s easy to see what State needs to do to finish the season strong, but it’s up to the players to step up. Tom Izzo can only do so much. If the Spartans are going to extend their streak of 13 straight NCAA Tournament appearances, they are going to have to focus, dig deep and lay it all on the line. State has 4 games left in the regular season, with tough games against Minnesota, Purdue and at Michigan to end the season. If they can’t win all of them, they will most likely have to win the Big Ten Tournament to get an invite to the Big Dance.

The Lions Should Pursue Sanders

   Three years after being named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Bob Sanders was cut by the Colts on Friday. Not really a surprise considering he’s only played 9 games over the past 3 seasons. Yes, he’s one of the best safeties in the league, but his injury problems have become a major concern.  So, now that he’s available, 31 other NFL teams must make a decision. Is he worth the risk?

   Bob Sanders in his prime was one of the most feared defensive players in the league and deservedly so. I mean, just look at the guy. He’s built like a linebacker! His devastating hits and playmaking ability combined with his freakish intensity earned him Pro Bowl honors in 2005, in just his second season. But, other than 05’ and 07’, Sanders hasn’t played more than 6 games in a season. With that being said, Sanders could help another team considerably if he stays healthy. Will teams be lining up for his services or will he have trouble finding a new home?

   So, should the Lions make an offer to Sanders? Absolutely! Let me tell you why. Yes, Sanders has been injury prone, but he hasn’t been dealing with the same injuries over and over. In 2006, it was a knee injury that kept him out of 12 games.  In 2008, it was a high ankle sprain that caused him to miss 7 weeks and a lingering knee injury caused to miss the last 2 games of the season.  In 2009, Sanders played the first two games of the season before being put on the IR for an elbow injury. Last year he missed the entire season due to a torn bicep. I could see how it would be very concerning if he kept having the same injury, but it just hasn’t been the case. He’s about to turn 30 in next week, but his body hasn’t taken much punishment over the past two years. He’s had 2 years for the knee to heal and I consider the elbow and bicep injuries to be freak injuries. I have no doubt that Bob Sanders will be back crushing opponents in 2011, if there’s an NFL season.

   The Lions recently signed Safety Erik Coleman from Atlanta to add depth and experience to the defensive backfield, so taking a chance on Sanders would be worth a shot. If it worked out, imagine how scary it would be for opposing offenses having Sanders and Delmas patrolling the secondary. Just look how good Pittsburgh and Baltimore’s defenses are with Troy Polomalu and Ed Reed. With all the improvements the Lions have made at D-Line, bringing in a guy like Sanders could turn a much improving defense into a great one. It might be a long shot for the Lions to actually get Sanders, but the sooner they try the better. They need to move now…it’s time for Detroit to make the next step.

Tiger's Have Questions With Starting Rotation

   After two promising seasons which ultimately ended up in disaster, missing the post-season again, the Tiger’s need a number of players to step up if they want to make a push for the playoffs in 2011.  No, it’s not easy to make the post-season in baseball and a lot of things have to go right for a team in order to do so. It seems like with the really good teams, the ball always bounces their way. Injuries are also a concern and you can only hope you don’t get hit to hard. Other than that, it all comes down to talent…And the Tiger’s have it. But, there are some questions.

   Success in the MLB always starts with starting pitching. As of now, Detroit has 2 solid starters heading into spring training. Justin Verlander is with out a doubt, one of the best pitchers in the game. Even though Verlander’s strikeouts were down a little last year, he did have the best season of his career statistically. JV had a career low 3.37 ERA last year. Verlander will be the rock at the top of their rotation for years to come, so I wouldn’t worry about Justin, he’s money in the bank.

   After briefly being sent down to the minors last season, Max Sherzer proved to be the pitcher the Tiger’s had hoped he’d be. Sherzer had a break out season, with career high’s in innings pitched (195), strikeouts (184) and ERA (3.50).  Sherzer’s vicious fastball and devastating slider made him almost unhittable at times. He averaged over 6 strikeouts per outing and had performances where he struck out 14 and 11. He’s only 26 and seems to be in the prime of his career. He’s only going to get better and from what he showed last year, I think Sherzer will be a solid #2 for the Tiger’s this season.

   What about the other 3 spots? Rick Porcello, Phil Coke and Brad Penny are the other pitchers projected to be in the starting rotation. It is crucial that these 3 guys pitch well for the Tiger’s if they are going to compete for the Central Division Title. But, each of these guys have questions entering the season.

   Rick Porcello’s rookie season was a pleasant surprise for the Tiger’s on 2009. He pitched 170 innings, posted 14 wins and had an ERA under 4.00. And who could ever forget the amazing performance he had against the Twins in the 2009 “play-inn” game. But, last season Porcello regressed a bit. After beginning the season in the starting rotation, Porcello got knocked around for the first couple months and found himself down in the minors by June. After his stint in the minors, he did begin to return to form. Over his last 10 starts of the season, he went 6-3 and lowered his ERA a full run per game. Porcello is still very young and has much room to improve. The Tiger’s will need that improvement to start this season.

   Phil Coke was one of the Tiger’s best pitchers last year…coming out of the pen. Coke never threw more than 2 innings in game last year. To his credit, he did pitch a lot of innings out of the pen and was actually drafted by the Yankees as a starting pitcher, so he did once pitch as a starter. Coke will be the only lefty the Tiger’s will roll out there, so it is key that he pitches well. Coke has a mid to high 90’s fastball and has an excellent curveball, but will he be able to sustain his stuff over extended innings? Will he be able to throw the innings expected from a starting pitcher? These are all questions that will soon be answered. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see.

   Finally, we come to Brad Penny. 5 years ago, Penny was in his prime and looked to be one of the better young pitchers in the game. Penny’s best seasons were with the Dodger’s in 06’ and 07’ where he combined for 32 wins. That was also the last time he pitched close to 200 innings. Since his career best year in 07’, Penny hasn’t pitched more than 130 innings in a season and has combined for only 96 IP over the past 2 seasons due to injury. The Tiger’s took a chance on Penny and hope that he can return to being the pitcher he once was. He’s only 33, so he should have a couple good years left. It will all come down to if he can stay healthy. The Tiger’s are Penny’s 5^th team in 5 seasons and if he pitches well, Detroit might just become home.

   If Detroit is going to contend for the Division Title or a playoff spot this season, the starting rotation will have to lead the way. The potential is there, but will it happen? Only time will tell…

Go Tigers!!!

P.S. just a little something I learned. 

Did you know? Carlos Guillen is set to make $13 million this year. WOW!!