Beantown Sports Guys

Mock Draft

It's been far too long since my last post. This has been a true labor of love - I've always felt overwhelmed to keep updating all the time, and being in New England there is a lot to write about. But I've realized I don't need to write 1000 word breakdowns of what went on that day or week, so here is to revitalizing the blog.

This is my favorite time of year. Traditionally I've done Mock Drafts that were written, with really long descriptions. They took me forever because I put a lot of thought into every pick and explained each. This year I am switching it up a bit. I used ESPN's Mock Draft machine and will post my 1st Round Mock and give thoughts and insights into some of the picks. I did this for a very specific reason - it used to take me so long to finish that sometimes major trades happened while I was writing. I'd have to shift things around and that is very tough since each pick depends on the last.

So here we go. My first round mock:

Earlier this week I had my mock done and then Buffalo went and traded OT Jason Peters to Philly (giving them another 1st round, #28) and it shifted everything. Oh and you may have heard: the best TE (numbers wise) in NFL history was just traded from the Chiefs to the Falcons.

Stafford is a foregone conclusion, right? Right. Detroit needs someone to believe in like Atlanta did with Matty Ryan. They need Stafford to be the savior. Or at least they think they need him. Maybe all they need to do is not draft a wide receiver with the 1st overall.

If the Rams didn't have Chris Long they would be after Curry here, but Smith is a want and a need because of Orlando Pace's exit.

Curry is the hype in the draft - awesome character, great build and speed, but can he pass rush? KC needs it.

Seattle is that mystery team in the top 5 - do they go Sanchez or do they stay with Hasselbeck and snag Crabtree? Could be interesting.

Cleveland likely snags Mr. Crabtree, especially if they ship Braylon Edwards off the the Giants for Kiwanuka and a future 1st rounder. That deal probably won't be happen but I've been surprised before.

Cincy needs to protect Palmer, so Monroe is a no brainer. I would have said Andre Smith but people question his maturity level. And do you blame the Bengals for not taking a chance with a potential character issue?

Defensive Ends fly off the board in picks 8-10. Flip a coin. Any could land on any of these teams.

Andre Smith is a great value here. Sure he's immature, but he can play. Protecting Edwards to give him enough time to get to Owens and Lee Evans and company is paramount to succeed in the AFC East.

Raji is fantastic value here with Denver. Could go top 10 easily.

Ayers is like a Jevon Kearse type - that Tweener that has speed and presence. Washington would kill to get Sanchez, but they'll likely have to kill many GMs to get him. And that is unlikely. Kinda.

Cushing was dumbed a New Jersey Meathead by Mike Mayock at the Combine. And loved it. He's a thumper, smart, fast, and trains with Joe DeFranco. Awesome work ethic, and I'd be stupid happy if somehow he fell to the Pats at 23. But he won't.

Houston would snag Raji here but he won't be there. Jerry is the 2nd best DT in the draft, and it's a bit of an early reach but its a need and he is talented so I can see this happening.

Jenkins is a shutdown corner. San Diego has Cromartie, Weddle, and Jammer in their secondary, so why would they take Jenkins? Because they are drafting for best available right here. They need a pure Right Tackle. But there isn't one even close in this area of the draft. Jenkins will be great for Nickel and Dime packages.

With Rex Ryan as the coach for the Jets now, I had a tough time. Do they go defense? Or offense? They really need a QB, but do they take Josh Freeman? I think they address other needs first and hope for pulling in a veteran QB from around the league and maybe using a 5th round pick on a QB. That's why they go WR here. Coles is gone, and Heyward-Bey is solid.

Speaking of Freeman, Denver takes him here. Why? Because McDaniels thinks he can use him now. He needs to use him now. He thinks he fits into his system and he is the only QB left probably for a few rounds that can likely run his system effectively. He wants Sanchez and likely could package Denver's 1st round picks together and slide into the top 5, but will Sanchez be there? Yes...if they give those picks to Seattle. Other than that all bets are off.

Matthews is a solid pick. His pedigree is untouched - his father and uncle both played forever in the NFL as did his grandfather if I'm correct. He's smart, grew up all around football at a high level and fits an aging LB Corps in Tampa.

Oher is what Detroit needs - provided they take Stafford with their #1 pick. Protect your investment.

Moreno is so talented it's almost shocking he is this far down the board. It's all based on need for the most part in the top part of the draft, and interestingly enough, the Eagles need another RB, one that can stay healthy. He'll work in tandem with Westbrook who is is modeled after. Awesome fit.

Minnesota lacked the deep threat, someone that can make you miss. They also lack a good QB and they let Cutler get away. They'll go with Harvin here.

The Patriots are the hardest team to read. If you look at 10 mock drafts you'll see 10 guys in that spot. My gut says they take Laurinaitis here. My brain says they might opt for Donald Brown because of the uncertainty about Maroney. Personally, I doubt that - they picked up Fred Taylor, and have Sammy Morris, Kevin Faulk, and the emerging Benjarvis Green-Ellis. I think Maroney will bounce back, but if not, those are good insurance policies. They need to get younger at defense and hit another home run like they did with Mayo last year. With this pick they can do that.

Atlanta made a huge upgrade on offense getting Tony G, and they need safety help. Delmas is the best available so why not make the move?

Miami could use another CB to shore up their secondary, and Davis helps with that. He has speed and size, and he's a competitor. Just like his brother in San Fran, Vernon Davis.

Baltimore loved Todd Heap. I say loved because it's like he's been slowly dying on the field (and my fantasy teams) for the last couple years. They need to go TE here for Flacco, he needs a reliable TE and Pettigrew falls into their lap because of Tony G going to Hotlanta.

Indy needs a DT. Simple as that. Evander Hood is the 3rd best (behind Raji and Jerry). He may be a little reach here but he is talented and has some size, plus he fits their need.

Buffalo lucks out again here - Marshawn Lynch is in trouble with the NFL, they trade a OT, get a solid one in Andre Brown, they get TO, and now they get what I think is the best most complete back in the entire draft in Donald Brown. They should be a force to reckon with this season on offense.

The Giants are preparing for life without Plaxico, which is why they are trying to get Braylon Edwards. Only they don't want to pay for him it seems. Oh well, you need to give something to get something right? If they don't get him, Hakeem Nicks is the pick. Bet on it. Houshmazilly.

Tennessee needs a little more defensive firepower. They will be hurting losing their big man up front in Haynesworth but there are no stud DT up the middle here so they go LB and take Rey Maualuga. He's smart, levels people and can cover. Word has it they might be working on a trade to Arizona for Boldin, so if they do, don't be shocked if they give up a LB to get him and take Maualuga here.

Arizona needs a sturdy game breaking RB that is young. Beanie Wells has that explosion, he has the hands. Coach Ken will love him.

Pittsburgh takes a OT. Because it's an unsexy pick. And they always do that.

Did A-Rod really leave it all behind?

Alex Rodriguez claims now that he is now really leaving all that baggage behind, moving forward and ready to start the 2nd phase of his career.

But did he?

Or is he still lying? I watched the entire interview, and have mixed feelings about it. For the most part, I believe him - I believe that it was the first time he did it in his career, that the environment was so loose it really was acceptable in that culture, and that he was stupid. I believed most of the raw emotion I saw - he was fidgety, chose his words carefully at times so not to breakdown, and he generally was not comfortable.

But that's where it gets fuzzy for me.

I question whether he "knew he made a mistake with Katie Couric and lied because how could he be truthful with her when he couldn't be truthful with himself". I think he didn't say anything because he figured it would never come to light.

I question whether "decided to end his steroid use because of a neck injury". I think he ended it because he knew he was already caught in 2003 and why risk it all now when he escaped that incident?

I question whether he truly is sorry about it, and whether he is just sorry he got caught.

What I don't question though is that he did the right thing. And for that he has my respect. He could have gone the Clemens route, but didn't. He could have gone the Bonds route, but didn't. He could have gone the Palmeiro route and shake his finger at Couric, but didn't.

If he is clean from here on out and plays are the level he has been the last few years for the majority of those years I think he gets into the Hall of Fame. Maybe not first ballot, but he'll be there. And with his numbers, he should be.

And if a diehard Red Sox fan like myself can write that, I guess that should say something.

But it won't stop me from yelling "A-Roid" or "A-Fraud" at Fenway this year.

Breaking News: Pats offensive coordinator McDaniels hired as head coach of Broncos

It's being reported that Patriots Offensive Coordinator Josh McDaniels has just been hired as the head coach of the Denver Broncos. Terms are not being reported at this time.

Some may think the gaudy offensive numbers Brady and Moss put up last season are the reason why so many teams were after McDaniels; however, the real testament to his worthiness is what he did this season with QB Matt Cassel, who pushed the Patriots to an 11-5 record and almost into the playoffs.

This will just add another wrinkle into the contentious rivalry between the Broncos and the Patriots, who are scheduled to play each other in Denver in the 2009 season.

Tebow will come back for his Senior season

It's a rarity for me to "like" a Florida Gator. I've been a Florida State fan for as long as I can remember, and it's just not in my blood to like them; however, Tim Tebow is growing on me.

Maybe it's because Urban Meyer is BFFs with Bill Belichick. Maybe it's because the Pats have a knack for drafting former Gators. Or maybe its because Tebow is a rarity in all of college football.

It's not just about his numbers - simply put they are staggering. It's about his poise, posture, and maturity...off the field.

It's not just about his volunteer mission work in the Phillipines. Or his countless hours of community service. It's the fact that he wants to do it. He doesn't want the credit for it. He wants to feel like he is making a difference.

And that's what fueled him coming back to Florida for his Senior season. Not just because he wants to win another title and improve his draft stock to the naysayers. Not just because he likes the college lifestyle. It's because he feels a strong sense of loyalty to his team and teammates. He wants to make a difference.

And he will.

Yanks sign Texieria

Below are excerpts from four diehard Sox fans (most who have contributed to the blog) about the signing of Tiexieriaiairria or however you spell his name. Contrary to what the national media is reporting, most of Red Sox Nation is not pissed off at Theo and the Sox for not pulling the trigger. Enjoy.

Yanks sign Texieria

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Hyndsy
To: Steve, Wun
Free agent first baseman Mark Teixeira has reached agreement with the New York Yankeeson an eight-year contract worth more than $170 million, a source involved in the negotiations tells ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney. The Yankees swooped in on Teixeira on Tuesday when it was believed the Boston Red Soxor the Washington Nationals were the likeliest of his future employer. The Red Sox's offer was believed to be in the range of $170 million, and the Nationals reached out with an offer perhaps greater than that of Boston.

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Steven
To: Hyndsy, Wun
In all seriousness, for me, the only thing that sucked was Tex going to the Yanks.  If he chose the Nationals, that would have been perfect.  Personally I don't think Tex is worth that committment and money.  I don't think he is a sure thing for 8 seasons and I hate getting stuck with guys.  Yanks gave him a no-trade clause!  F that!  None of us have any idea what the guy is going to do after these next 2 seasons!!  What if he suddenly goes Travis Hafner or Victor Martinez and can't hit???  I think this could be a blessing in disguise.  Tex isn't that money!  30-35 HRs and 120 RBIs can be put up and will be put up by many up and coming guys.  Plenty of guys.  Longoria anyone??  Some young guys come out of nowhere and are suddenly the guy to have.  Someone will have a breakout year this year and be the next Tex.  I may be in the minority but I am glad the Sox held their ground and didn't give in to Boras ridiculous contract.    I agree Tex would have given us what we lost somewhat with Manny leaving as a big bat for the middle of our lineup and would have been nice for the short term.  And I do think for the short-term, the Yanks seriously upgraded with their signings and Tex is huge for them to balance those pitcher signings.  But Theo shouldn't be done.  Maybe he gets creative with a trade.  If he goes out and gets Peavy, that would be better than anything the Yanks did in my mind.  Take a chance on Sheets as well.  Put some money into extending Jason Bay.   2 seasons ago, Tex was a first round fantasy pick and he was a bust.  Last year he put up close to the same numbers as Youk.  He is not other-worldly.  I am hardly in mourning over this today.  It just sucks it was the Yanks who got him basically.

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Hyndsy
To: Steve Cc: Wun, Thomas
You know what sucks? The Yanks swooped in and stole KEVIN CASH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WTF!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Honestly, if we protect Bay and put people around him I think he can put up similar numbers. I mean it.  I agree 100%. I am not upset about it. What I am upset about is Cash AND the fact that the country thinks that all of us Boston fans are pissed about the non-signing and that they STOLE him. They didnt. If you check out the Globe, 54% of the people in the poll said they didnt want him for that kind of money and commitment and they backed Theo. 23% said they should have upped the ante. Boo hoo.

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Steve
To: Hyndsy Cc: Wun, Thomas
I know, love how the national media thinks we all wanted him.  UM, sorry, but he is not worth all that!  Yanks beat the Sox??  Haha, that's fine.    I totally agree about Jason Bay... I seriously think he could EASILY match Tex's production!  He should be more comfortable going into this season also.  Sox should lock him up now in my opinion with a contract similar to Pedroia and Ortiz and Beckett.  Give him some money and security now but don't break the bank on him like Tex would have.   I want our pitching rotation to look like this: Beckett, Peavy, DiceK, Lester, Sheets   Trade Bucholtz and Bowden to get Peavy and his managable contract for the next few years.  Sign Sheets to a 1-2 year deal which won't be too high since no team is going to be willing to over-extend for his services so he will come cheap.

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Hyndsy
To: Steven Cc: Wun, Thomas
Honestly, I feel bad for Yankees fans. They needed something like this to feel good after missing the playoffs and being relatively insignificant over the past few years. You heard it here first - AJ Burnett will do well...until he gets hurt aka Carl Pavano. They spent WAY too much on him. I would much rather make a trade for a Peavy or Sheets that dont have a long history of injuries than him!!! I wonder if Cash's agent is Boras...you know, have him sign with the Yankees and then make the Sox overpay for Tek...sounds like him

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Steven
To: Hyndsy Cc: Wun, Thomas
sad part is we do need Tek

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Thomas
To: Steven Cc: Hyndsy, Wun
i don't know about sheets and peavy in our rotation. i think the sox will sign some stud pitcher this year or next in the event the beckett is out of here (i have no proof of it, but i just feel it). i'm more inclined to pursue peavy but i don't know about giving up two stud pitching prospects.  i'd do buch or bowden and a hitting prospect (san diego can't hit for shit) not named lars anderson or chris carter.

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Hyndsy
To: Thomas Cc: Steven, Wun
Brewers might be willing to part with Sheets, Peavy is on the market for sure, they just want the right combo of guys I think. I thought Chris Carter was working on ANOTHER X-Files movie or is that just hearsay?

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Steven
To: Hyndsy Cc: Wun, Thomas

To my knowledge, Peavy would need to be traded for but Sheets is a free agent right now.  Brewers have no say I don't think.  So to sign Sheets would be free, just money, whereas Peavy is tougher since it requires players to be dealt.  BUT Peavy is way better and way worth it.  We have no room for Buch and Bowden anyway.

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Hyndsy
To: Thomas Cc: Steven, Wun

True! I forgot he is a FA....man, I'd love to have Sheets if we can't get Peavy.

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Steven To: Hyndsy Cc: Wun, Thomas
Peavy is the real prize though   Landing him could almost trump all the Yankees signings

Bradford takes home the Heisman

Tim Tebow. Sam Bradford. Colt McCoy.

Three amazing Quarterbacks. Three QBs with amazing stats. Only one winner.

Sam is the man.

Although Bradford received fewer first place votes (300 to Tebow's 309), he received more total points (1726) than 2nd place finisher Colt McCoy, who finished with 1604. Tim Tebow hoped to become the 2nd 22-time Heisman winner, but landed in 3rd place with 1575 points. Texas Tech QB Graham Harrell, who was controversially not invited for Heisman Weekend finished 4th with only 213 points.

All four (Harrell included) were worthy, but Bradford stood out, pushing the Oklahoma Sooners to a record 5 games straight in scoring 60 or more points in each contest.

Don't feel bad for Colt McCoy - it's been reported he wishes to return to Texas for his Senior season next year, where he should be back in the mix for the Heisman.

Brady vs. Cassel: No brainer...right?

All I hear when I turn the TV on is that Matty Cassel is the new messiah and that Patriot Nation can rest easy that our QB issues are on hold. Even though Cassel is a free agent after this season, we do have options. 

Slapping the franchise tag on Cassel could be dangerous but it would assure we'd have the luxury of choosing between Cassel and Brady next season. What if Brady doesn't respond to rehab? Or bounce back like he used to (ala Carson Palmer, anyone...)? An expensive insurance policy some may say, since franchise tagged players are paid the average of the top 5 players at that position. Right now Cassel is getting paid $540,220 for this season. He's practically guaranteed at least $5 million a year if he signs elsewhere next year. 

Here are the top 5 QB salaries this season:

Player	Team	Position	Cap Number ($)
Manning, Peyton	Colts	QB	18,700,000
Brady, Tom	Patriots	QB	14,626,720
Palmer, Carson	Bengals	QB	13,980,000
Manning, Eli	Giants	QB	12,916,666
Favre, Brett	Packers	QB	12,800,000

As you can see, the average salary for Cassel would be about $14.6 million. Not really manageable...

However, the Patriots could offer him a contract now, say one for $3 million with incentives and pay him something for what he's done now, as well as what we could pay him if Brady doesn't take X number of snaps next season or play in X number of games, etc. 

It's important for Cassel to learn and realize that not one free agent that has ever left the Patriots has ever come back to bite them in the ass, save for maybe Adam Vinatieri, however his golden leg is the exception. The system is what made people successful, even Coach Charlie Weis and Romeo Crennel. Look at the track record of players the Patriots have cut or not re-signed. It's not a coincidence. Sure he might be able to go to Chicago in the offseason and get a huge contract but will he succeed in that system? Doubtful.

I'm not saying the players the Patriots allow to walk are not talented: if they weren't they wouldn't be on the field.

Time will tell, and the Cassel Bandwagon is overflowing and Brady's has no one at the moment other than Gisele. This isn't a bad thing for Patriots fans.

Afterall, what has happened in the past when people doubted Tom Brady?

Patriots look to push Manning's record to 5-16 against New England

If we care to revisit my preseason predictions we'll see I picked the Colts to take their division, as well as the Pats to get to the Super Bowl. That was before Brady had his knee caved in and Manning had his 2nd (secret) knee surgery. 

(You can also gloss over the fact that I said Dallas would win the NFC East and the Giants wouldn't even make the playoffs.)

This may not have all the luster or buildup of previous Colts/Pats games but it's just as important, especially for the Colts. After losing to divisional rival Tennessee last week they are in danger of missing the playoffs themselves. They seem to be getting healthy at just the right time, welcoming back Safety Bob Sanders and Running Back Joseph Addai. But will that be enough for the Colts?

To tell you the truth, the Colts looked solid in the first half against the Titans last week, while the Patriots did what they needed to to get the win against St. Louis. The Colts defense is now without CB Marlin Jackson which could spell more trouble than when they were without Sanders. Cassel will need to exploit whoever is in place of Jackson, early and often if they want to win. They'll be without Running Backs Lamont Jordan and Sammy Morris, and will rely heavily on Kevin Faulk. Faulk has a penchant for having big games against the Colts though. That's precisely what it will take to beat the Colts.

Golfing for free is always fun

There are two things about me that everyone knows: I love to write and I love video games. They go hand in hand like PB and J for me. I first started writing video game, music, and movie reviews on a site called Planet42 that has since lost it's way. In any event, for a moment I am back in the review game (weak pun intended).

The World Golf Tour put together a pretty fine free online golf game for anyone to play. The learning curve isn't steep at all, but that doesn't mean you'll be able to master it on your first try, much like the game of golf in real life.

One of the best features of the game is the fact that you can create your own profile and it will track how you improve, giving you trophies and bragging rights over your friends. You can play as often as you like and still have the chance to enter into tournaments and have an opportunity to win cash and prizes. Doesn't really get much better than that, right? Wrong. Did I mention you can customize your player and even upload your own picture?

The graphics are the most realistic I have seen for just about any sports game. Period. The first time I loaded the game it took a minute for everything to load and be smooth but after that it was smooth sailing, even when I came back to it hours later. It's 100% browser based, and I was happy to see I could run it in Firefox without any issues at all. I have no idea how they got the game to be so realistic, but it's a fine blend of real pictures and graphics. It's quite amazing. Even if you don't like golf at all its impressive nonetheless.

The gameplay is solid as well. Right now there are two courses, where you get one swing to see how close to the pin you can get, and based on how close you get you are awarded points. Swinging isn't hard at all, but the accuracy is where the challenge really lies. Much like in Madden when you are kicking field goals, once it gets to the optimal point you mouse click. Depending how close you get to the point on the meter you want to hit, you can either hit it dead on or shank it, and trust me, I know all about the latter. When you hit it dead on it gives you a sound up pops up PERFECT!, but that doesn't mean it will land in the cup. You still need to take wind into account as well as the pitch of the green.

I can't count how many games I played, but I definitely improved the more I played. Like I said before, the learning curve is not steep at all, and the on screen instructions when you first start are all you need to get going and get into the swing of things (better pun this time). Before I knew it I was hitting it onto the green 7 out of the 9 holes consistently. One time I even hit it and it hit the pin, only to bounce back. My goal is to hit 9 out of 9 and see if I can get it to go into the cup. Remember, you get one shot to get it in there and there is no putting

I am looking forward to seeing where this game is headed. I am sure they will add more courses, more challenges, and even potentially a full game where you can play 18 holes from the first tee to the final hole. The World Golf Tour has a winner here and we all win by getting a free game out of it. Can't beat that.

The magic ran out

For the first time in a long time, I am content with the Sox not winning. Sure, it was Game 7, but by many accounts they shouldn't have even been there and been gone in 5 games. But they hung in there.

After we squandered bases loaded in the 8^th I just had a sense that the magic for the Sox had run out. And I was fine with it. Does it make me any less of a Sox fan? No, and here is why:

1. The Sox made me proud getting that far without Manny (always comes back to ManRam, doesn't it?). We got there with solid pitching, timely hitting, and that Dirt Dog mentality. We lost some close games, but at the same time Tampa won those close ones just as much as we lost them.
   
   
2. No one said it would be easy. We got past the Angels and broke their hearts again and knew we were up against a wall against Tampa (funny to still hear that…), but my rally cap is off to them. They didn't want it more than the Sox, they just got the hits they needed when they needed them. Not to mention they had solid pitching overall.
   
   
3. You can't win every time, right? That doesn't mean you don't want your team to win, but let's not become like Yankees fans and walk around like we have an air of "We should win every game, every time we suit up just because we are New York".
   
   
4. The Sox gave everything they could. It's as simple as that. The fact that they kept themselves in games with amazing defense, with a less than healthy Beckett and Ortiz, and an offense that just couldn't push guys around the bases (we must have left 100 on base in the series), I'm content with their effort.

The offseason will be quite interesting: Will Schilling come back? Will Wake retire? Will 'Tek take his money and run? Will  Theo get rid of Lugo (and how)? A lot of questions.

Great season, Sox. Thanks again.

How ‘bout that 1st inning?

Oh, you didn't see it either? Maybe TBS should have had a contingency plan for when they lose power down in Atlanta, causing the entire country part of Game 6 of the ALCS.

I had to watch a live boxscore feed from Boston.com to see what was going on. So I missed Coco bunting his way to first, only to get picked off, and the B.J. Upton hit another moon shot to go up 1-0.

Let's get serious for a second: this would never, ever, ever happen if this was the Super Bowl. EVER.

Unacceptable.

ALCS and NLCS Schedule

The ALCS and NLCS schedule is set.

BoSox slam door shut on Halos, advance to ALCS

You can't point to one guy in this win and say he was the reason why they won. It was an all-around effort. On both sides.

The Angels hung in there for a while, while Lackey did what he could to keep the Sox at bay, his fielders behind him weren't at the top of their game (save Texieria).

Varitek's tag on a squeeze play that would have put the Angels up a run in the 9th was both controversial and pivotal. Tek tagged Reggie Willits as he was retreating to third base and after he tagged him out, he stumbled and the ball popped loose when he hit the ground. It was made clear by MLB that the right call was made by Umpire Tim Welke who noted that it was not a case where the ground can cause a fumble.

"That's the NFL," said Steve Palermo, the Major League supervisor of umpires, after the game. "We don't have that in baseball. He had possession of the ball when he made the tag."

Tek certainly had possession of the ball, and Welke signaled Willits was out even before the ball popped out.

In the bottom of the 9th Jason Bay hit a ground rule double that bounced into the stands as Willits dove for it. Had the ball not hopped into the stands, there was a good shot that Bay could have ended the game with a walk-off inside the park HR.

But he didn't need to.

Jed Lowrie came up to the plate and lined it to the outfield and Bay rounded third with a head of steam, diving headfirst into home and slapping home before jumping up and being mobbed by his teammates.

The Angels were arguably the team to beat in all of MLB, and the Red Sox took their best shot. But now they head to Tampa for what will surely be a series that goes to 7 games and will have it all: solid pitching, good hitting, and great fielding, from both clubs.

This is why we love October.

Bay, Lester come up big for Sox, shuts down Halos

Before things went south with Manny Ramirez this season, if you asked the Red Sox who they would rather have in their lineup: Ramirez or Jason Bay, who do you think they would have picked?

The answer was clear then and even more clear last night, but for different reasons.

Manny hit his 25^th playoff home run. Jason Bay's two-run home run in the sixth inning last night against the Angels is probably the biggest home run he has ever hit in his career.

Danny Moloshok/Reuters

Bay hustled all over the field last night, but Manny got an infield single. I cannot remember the last time Manny sprinted down the first base line.

So who would I rather have in the lineup in the postseason, where it matters most?

Jason Bay.

Not because Manny left Boston on such a sour note, but because Bay has shown he can handle Boston and Boston loves him for it. Boston loved Manny when he was doing things we would chastise other clubs for letting players get away with. Bay plays hard every single game for the Sox. Did Manny? Not even close. I don't care what he says, he was like Clemens, finding a way out of Boston, claiming injuries. As soon as he leaves, he's hitting over .400, has almost as many HRs in a couple months than he did the entire season and he could be the NL MVP. What does that say about Manny's character? It tells me he isn't someone I respect as a person. As a player? Sure. But you get the whole package of an individual when they play for you.

The media went crazy when Francona pushed Beckett to start the 3^rd game, rather than the first. Red Sox Nation didn't bat an eye. Lester has been spot on, and last night he showed that the Sox don't have just one ace, they arguably have 2, maybe 3. Allowing only one unearned run on an muffed lazy grounder to Jed Lowrie, Lester shut down the bats of the Angels giving up only 1 walk, 6 hits, and striking out 7 in 7 innings of work. Masterson gave up a pair of hits in the 8^th, but he got out of the inning unscathed to give way to Papelbon who gave up a hit and struckout all three to secure the save.

The Sox turn to Dice-K tomorrow while the Angels how Ervin Santana can stop the bleeding. There is nothing the Sox want more than to leave Anaheim up 2 games with arguably October's best pitcher in baseball taking the mound on Sunday.

 

It’s on, like Donkey Kong

The tentative ALDS and NLDS schedule is ready (taken from my email):

TBS does a great job of covering the post season so I look forward to that. What I don't look forward to are the late, late, late nights. God I had playing West Coast teams.

Bring on the Angels?? I’ll take it

What a season this has been for the Red Sox. The regular season is over and the new season begins: playoffs.

For the first time since I personally can remember, the Yankees are at home already which is an impressive feat in itself. They did everything they could to hang in there, Mussina got his 20 wins finally, and they said goodbye to Yankee Stadium in grand fashion. My only question is why not close Yankee Stadium on the last series of the season, against the Red Sox? I think it would have been even better if the Sox were there. Win or lose, the Yankees gave the fans what they wanted when they said goodbye to the House that Ruth Built. And Red Sox fans said goodbye to them as they entered the post season and look to defend their World Series title.

This year more than any will be the toughest. The Sox are facing the best hitting team in baseball and arguably the best pitching team. They play small ball and are no strangers to the long ball. They play hard through every inning and have one of the best closers in baseball in K-Rod, who is now the proud owner of the most saves in a season category.

Here are just a few reasons I think the Sox have a shot at upsetting the Angels:

1. Psychological Edge – BoSox have bounced the Angels from the playoffs how many times in recent years?
2. Nothing to lose mentality – BoSox have been up and down all season and lost the division to the Rays.
3. Fenway – in October, Fenway is insane. If they come home with a 1-1 split, I think they have a good shot at winning.
4. Pitching matchups – They are fairly even, but Beckett (when healthy) is the best October pitcher in baseball. Lester is lights out and Dice-K can't seem to lose.
5. Ortiz – he's heating up at just the right time.

The Angels are a great team. They win close games, they have hitting, they have fantastic manager. This could be the year for them.

But don't bet against the Sox in October.

Pats confirm the worst: Brady done for the season

The worst news for the NFL (as a whole) and Patriot Nation just came off the wire – Brady is done for the season.

Brady injured his left knee yesterday during the Patriots 17-10 win over the Chiefs when safety Bernard Pollard dove into his knee in the first quarter.

The Patriots just released the following statement regarding Tom Brady:

"After extensive tests this morning, it was revealed that New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady's left knee, which was injured in the first quarter of yesterday's game, will require surgery. He will be placed on injured reserve and will miss the remainder of the 2008 season."

Going forward, this means if the Patriots make the playoffs, he is still ineligible to play because he will be placed on the IR.

Contrary to other reports the Patriots did not have Chris Simms in today for a physical and tryout, nor have they worked out any other QB at this time. Tentatively they have no tryouts scheduled according to Coach Bill Belichick.

Belichick is confident in Matt Cassel, as he's "grown up through our system" and is talented despite his preseason woes.

Belichick put it quite simply, as far as how Cassel will fill in as Brady sits out the season. "Everyone has a job to do and that's how we approach it".

2008 NFL Season Predictions

The 2008 NFL season kicks off in a little under an hour. Who will be the biggest surprise this season? The biggest bust? Rookie of the year? We'll find out as the season unfolds.

This is how I see the season shaking out:

AFC East – New England Patriots

AFC South – Indianapolis Colts

AFC North – Pittsburgh Steelers

AFC West – San Diego Chargers

Wild Card – Denver Broncos

Wild Card – New York Jets

None of these are sexy picks, but they're realistic. Being a New England fan, it's good to see they have one of the easiest schedules of any AFC team. Can they get another perfect season and win the Super Bowl? Maybe, maybe not. But I know I wouldn't bet against them. Would you?

The Colts' season hopes rest solely on the strength of Peyton Manning's knee and infected bursa sac. Even if he is mediocre for them, they'll win their division.

The Steelers are a no brainer here: the Ravens are hurting QB-wise and will have to rely on Joe Flacco to lead them to the playoffs. He's good, but not that good. The Browns have some offensive line woes to deal with, and their biggest question is whether spending the money on Derek Andersen was worth it or was he a one season wonder. Could Brady Quinn have done the same for the Browns this season? We just might find out with Andersen already having sustained a mild concussion in the preseason.

The Chargers are one of the easiest picks here, especially if Antonio Gates gets back to his old form. They are in a division that features the Raiders and the Chiefs, both having major issues at the WR and QB positions. The Broncos are a threat here but the Chargers look like they have an easier schedule.

The Broncos have a good defense, and their offense is always solid. The big question is whether or not Cutler is a liability or the next chosen one. Shutting down Denver with Cutler means shutting down the running game for the Broncos. That means Cutler will need to take control. If he can, they'll be fine. If not, they'll be bounced out of the playoffs faster than you can saw "Where is Elway?"

The Jets could be a reach, but I have a few reasons why I chose them over teams like the Browns, the Jaguars, the Titans, and Baltimore. They had the best offseason as far as free agency, they had a solid draft, and they replaced their weakest position with one of the all-time greats in Brett Favre. I think they get to 9, maybe 10 wins with Favre and a solid running game with Thomas Jones. With a good defense to back them up, they could make some noise.

I see the Pats and Colts getting byes, and the Chargers playing (and beating) the Jets, while the Steelers beat the Broncos. I see the Pats beating the Chargers at Foxboro, and the Colts beating the Steelers. The Pats would then go on to beat the Colts to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl.

Onto the NFC, which is a bit murkier.

NFC East – Dallas Cowboys

NFC South – New Orleans Saints

NFC North – Green Bay Packers

NFC West – Seattle Seahawks

Wild Card – Philadelphia Eagles

Wild Card – Tampa Bay Buccaneers

A bit of a surprise the Giants aren't in the playoffs? Not really. Their defense is what got them their last year and injuries (and a retired Strahan) will spell an early demise to the Giants playoff hopes. The Cowboys are looking to get to the big game after losing last season when they should have met the Patriots in Arizona. They'll have very few problems this season.

For me it's between the Saints and Tampa Bay for the South, but I went with the Saints because the Bucs have to play the Seahawks and the Cowboys back to back late in the season. They'll make the playoffs as a Wild Card though and turn some heads.

The surprise pick is the Packers. Everyone is screaming that the Vikings are hot and they will dominate. Not so fast: we'll have to see if Adrian Peterson can be the workhorse for all 16 games and Tavaris Jackson is still a learning QB that has trouble reading defenses. He's very hot and cold. Aaron Rodgers on the other hand I think will make people happy with Packers management for giving him the helm. With Driver, Jennings, and Lee, along with Ryan Grant, I think he'll do just fine.

The Seahawks? More of the same: dominating at home, and if they can get past their road wonders I think they'll be just fine. With Julius Jones getting handoffs the Seattle fans will quickly forget about the Supersonics leaving town and a guy named Alexander.

The Eagles are my dark horse, and I see special things from them. A healthy McNabb, a blossoming DeSean Jackson, and a super dangerous Westbrook, this is the team to watch out for in the NFC.

I see Dallas and the Seahawks winning the first round byes, and pitting the Packers against the Saints, and the Bucs against the Eagles. Eagles will beat the Bucs with the Saints beating the Packers. Dallas is a fresh and faces Eagles, only to lose to Philly, while the Saints beat the Seahawks. The Saints show off against Philly, and lose a heartbreaker. Philly goes on to the Super Bowl for a rematch against the Patriots.

This Super Bowl would have 1000 storylines: Asante Samuel vs. his old team. Can McNabb beat the Pats the 2^nd time around? How will Moss do against the Eagles secondary? In the end, I see the Patriots winning by two TDs, giving Randy Moss his 1^st ever Super Bowl ring, and bringing New England fans back to life after last season's shocker.

If the Patriots didn't get an easy schedule this season, and Manning's knee was 100%, I might be leaning elsewhere.

Pedroia: MVP?

When Manny left Boston everyone looked to Jason Bay to see if he would be able to fill his shoes. Comparing the two outright, it looks like the better hitter is playing elsewhere…

Bay:

G   PA  AB  R   H  2B 3B HR RBI  BB IBB  SO HBP  SH  SF GDP  SB CS   BA   OBP   SLG   OPS

+---+---+---+---+---+--+--+--+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+--+-----+-----+-----+-----+

29 132 118  24  36  7  2  4  29   9   1  30   2   0   3   3   3  0  .305  .356  .500  .856

 

Manny:

G   PA  AB  R   H  2B 3B HR RBI  BB IBB  SO HBP  SH  SF GDP  SB CS   BA   OBP   SLG   OPS

+---+---+---+---+---+--+--+--+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+--+-----+-----+-----+-----+

32 140 113  22  46  7  0 10  29  21  10  21   3   0   3   4   2  0  .407  .500  .735 1.235 

 

But getting Manny out of Boston wasn't just about one player because you can never replace a player like Manny's numbers in the lineup with one guy. He's a once in a generation player, he's THAT good.

What you can do though is hope other guys will rise to the occasion. What about these stats for a player since Manny left?

  G   PA  AB  R   H  2B 3B HR RBI  BB IBB  SO HBP  SH  SF GDP  SB CS   BA   OBP   SLG   OPS

+---+---+---+---+---+--+--+--+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+--+-----+-----+-----+-----+

 30 147 133  37  52 13  1  8  28  12   1   9   0   0   2   4   6  0  .391  .435  .684 1.119 

That's right, Pedroia's numbers are even better since Manny was bounced. In his last 8 games, he's had 5 games where he has had at least 3 or more hits. In two of those games he had 4 hits (back to back, first time a Sox player has done it since I was a 1 years old, back in 1981 when Wade Boggs did it).

People are saying Pedroia is the front runner to win the MVP. And he should. Bay has done a serviceable job, and Boston loves him. But Pedroia has really picked it up in the 2^nd half of the season and pulled the Sox out of major trouble time and time again. Tampa Bay Rays Evan Longoria was easily on pace to win it comfortably, and Pedroia will have some competition from Carlos Quentin and A-Rod, but if the Sox manage to steal the AL East from the Rays (funny I am even writing that at this point in the season, isn't it?) I think Pedroia has to get the nod.

Pedroia's defensive stats are as impressive as his offense numbers, and he's pushing his team into the playoffs. That's an MVP to me.

Michael Phelps: What’s the limit?

Michael Phelps is going for a record 8 Olympic Gold Medals in Beijing. The question I have isn't whether or not he will make it: it's how many in his Olympic career will he end up with?

15?

20?

25?

The sky is the limit for him. He is the type of athlete that people are interested in, even if they aren't someone that watches the Olympics regularly.

Some call him a freak, some call him a phenom. What about the fact that he puts in more work in the pool than anyone? That he takes in over 10,000 calories a day and never gains a pound? That he drinks over 2,000 calories a day, just in drinks like Gatorade and Powerade? That's enough for

And he's about as close to zero body fat as humanly possible. At 6'4", 195 lbs., that's not just genetics. That's hard work.

Freakish? Phenom?

Maybe.

Incredible work ethic?

Absolutely.

Here is to hoping Phelps can realize his dream of passing Mark Spitz's record of 7 Olympic gold medals and coming away with 8.

So long, Manny

No sooner did I finish my writeup of Manny staying in Boston, he left town. I'm not shocked to tell you the truth. The basis of my writeup still holds true: Scott Boras is an evil, evil man.

Yesterday, over 50 emails transpired between myself and a few of my Sox buddies, and the overall theme was we needed to make a move and get rid of Manny, almost at any cost. We kicked around various trade scenarios we thought would better the team, but in the end, it always came back to a team without Manny. Not because of his bad or glove. But because he became the cancer in the clubhouse. That was a departure from previous seasons. Whenever the trading deadline neared, Manny would talk and people would take notice, but it wasn't until this season, when he took on Scott Boras as an agent that it got evil and vindictive. That's when we were content with saying goodbye.


(Jim Rogash / Getty Images)

My buddy Steve, who writes for this blog, said it quite succinctly in our fantasy league forum:

Yep, sucks it had to come to this, but this is all about Manny shooting his way out of town for a new longer contract. Evil Scott Boras obviously somewhat behind this. They never wanted the Sox to pick up next years $20 mil option and then be able to wait to pick up another option the year after. Boras gets nothing with that and Manny gets no lengthy security. So really what else could the Sox do here? They forced the team to trade him and us fans all lose out.

We all loved Manny's hijinks as long as he produced with the stick and he always did. Esp in the clutch and when it mattered most in the playoffs. He even flashed leather here and there which would have you shaking your head and laughing.

We all would have enjoyed him ending his career here and retiring with the Sox. Going into the Hall with a Sox jersey and being proud. He could have enjoyed his fame here long after his playing years had ended. But as usual with these players, they lose perspective and get too greedy. And like this guy really had to after the contract he has had all this time.

So for the short term, the Sox lose out and the Dodgers win this trade. They get Manny got FREE for the rest of the season for a couple of who cares prospects.

But since the Sox HAD TO MAKE THIS MOVE and get something for him, I really actually like the deal. Jason Bay should be good enough and is better defensively and constant hustler and we have him under contract for the rest of this year and all of next for chump change. Sure I would have liked Holliday better, but Bay was the next best thing. And was good to NOT have him go to Tampa!

I did think the Sox paid too much having to add in Hanson and Moss, but when ya think about it... Hanson has absolutely sucked since we have drafted him!!! Moss is nothing special. I thought David Murphy was a much better prospect and sure enough he was... I don't expect Moss to go David Murphy on us here. Yes it sucks the Sox lose a couple of chips they could have used for another trade, but I can't say I will miss either of them.

Manny and Boras really put the Sox organization in a tough spot and I think the Sox are fortunate they landed Bay at all. I am actually excited to watch a new player with his talent here.

The Pirates really get screwed not getting either of the top two players in the 3 way deal. Have fun with 4 prospects Pitt!

Of course if the Dodgers miss the playoffs, they will be the biggest losers as Manny will be a free agent and sign elsewhere for whatever sucker team is going to pony up $100+ mil for the next 4-6 years. Dodgers will be left with nothing.

So see ya Manny, your act did indeed grow fucking tired here - really for me just in the past couple weeks opting out of big games where you could finally see the writing on the wall. Thanks for the 2 world series wins and have fun joining all the other dummies who could have stayed here if they weren't so greedy like Nomar and Damon and Pedro and then see their careers plummet and just vindicate the Sox brass choice of letting them walk.

Yanks, you can have him in the twilight of his career and pay him that ridiculous money as he pushes 40!

Overall, good job Sox!

And he's right. I told everyone in the slew of emails I expect Manny to be a New York Yankee next year, and he will. Absolutely. The Yanks will throw $100 million at him for 4 years, and they'll be giddy to get him. But will his production continue? Time will tell.

 

Here is a general roundup of our email exchange yesterday:

Steve said:

At this point with all the smack Manny is tossing around, I guess its better they deal him.  It has never gotten this bad.  And if they can get Jason Bay, it looks like that is about the best they are gonna get.  Doesn't look like 'Rado is moving Holliday.  And frankly, Bay and Manny do have similar numbers if you looks at their runs, HRs and RBIs.  The fact that Bay is doing it in a not so lethal Pitt lineup makes him look even better.  He did have that stud year back in '05 and 06 was just a bit of a dropoff from that.  Only '07 was real bad for him, but he looks to be rebounding back on this season (once Kraig gave up on him for his fantasy team)  so I kinda hope they make the deal now.  Get Bay for rest of this season and next year for only 7.5 mil and then he'll prolly be gone since his agent is also big bad Boras who will want to get paid.  God I hate Boras!!! 

Tom:

There's a part of me that believes that the Rockies would part with Holliday at the right price.  There's not much the Sox can do to prevent the Yankees from getting Manny the second we decide not to exercise his options or shred those up and give him a 3/4 year contract.  As much man-love as i have for Manny.  it's over.  you can love the girl you're with because she's got a nice rack of lamb or does other things well, but in the end if she proves to be more cancerous than not, it's time to get a babe.  Jason Bay doesn't exactly rev my engine...i'm gonna be real and say that we could probably entice the Rockies to give us Holliday (whom they certainly can't keep after next season) and possibly Fuentes or Corpas for Manny, Buchholz, and an A-level and B-level pitching prospect.  The Sox farm system is loaded with pitching and we're inevitably going to have to use them as trade bait for bats, which we don't have many.  

 

Me:

I would also love to get Holliday and Fuentes. It would be a win-win for Manny because the air would inflate his numbers, thus improving his ability to sign a bigger contract, plus he gets out of Boston. I would send Manny and Hansen out there along with someone that is low on the totem pole that shows promise. I'd be more than fine with that.

Look at his numbers compared to Manny's, last three years:

Last 3 years	Team	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	BB	K	SB	CS	AVG	OBP	SLG	OPS
2006	COL	155	602	119	196	45	5	34	114	47	110	10	5	.326	.387	.586	.973
2007	COL	158	636	120	216	50	6	36	137	63	126	11	4	.340	.405	.607	1.012
2008	COL	92	360	66	123	25	2	18	63	51	66	14	1	.342	.429	.572	1.001

 

Last 3 years	Team	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	BB	K	SB	CS	AVG	OBP	SLG	OPS
2006	BOS	130	449	79	144	27	1	35	102	100	102	0	1	.321	.439	.619	1.058
2007	BOS	133	483	84	143	33	1	20	88	71	92	0	0	.296	.388	.493	.881
2008	BOS	100	365	66	109	22	1	20	68	52	86	1	0	.299	.398	.529	.926

Something that should jump out to everyone is not only run production but sheer GAMES PLAYED. Manny taking almost 30 games off a year, while Holliday is always in there. Hits for a much higher average, slugging is close too. He doesnt walk as much as Manny but his power numbers are there, plus look at his triples, hits and overall runs.

Now compare to Bay:

Last 3 years	Team	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	BB	K	SB	CS	AVG	OBP	SLG	OPS
2006	PIT	159	570	101	163	29	3	35	109	102	156	11	2	.286	.396	.532	.928
2007	PIT	145	538	78	133	25	2	21	84	59	141	4	1	.247	.327	.418	.746
2008	PIT	106	393	72	111	23	2	22	64	59	86	7	0	.282	.375	.519	.894

Not too bad, but Holliday is the better choice I think here, and the numbers prove it. I like Bay, but I'd be giddy if we got Holliday.

 

Mark said:

I'm happy w/ the deal. Here is why.

It seems over the last few years w/ the addition of Youk, Pedroia, Elsbury, & Papelbon that all Sox fans are now in love with all of our prospects; remember they are only prospects.

   

Hansen didn't do anything when he was called apon & Moss was never going to play in Boston's OF unless someone got hurt.  

   

We get OF Bay who 2 out of the last 3 years had over 100R, 100Rbi, 30HR, & 20SB. He did slump a little last year w/ only 21HR, but he already has 22 this year. Expect more HR because of the shorter LF & expect more rbi because he's in Boston & not Pittsburgh. He has decent speed & will run out plays in the field & on the base path.

   

If we had kept Manny till the end of the year, the Sox weren't going to pick up his option(s).

We have Bay for next season too, which gives Theo a year & change to evaulate Bay to see if he fits in Boston. Wondering who our LF is going to be is 1 less thing to worry about in the offseason. If Bay performs, he very well could be the Sox LF for years to come.

   

Paying the Dodgers to take Manny does sting a little bit, but I'll take the hit knowing we have Bay secure for next season for under $10mil. The Sox can use that extra cash to look for a solid RP.

 

In the end, we all are happy that we're getting fresh blood in town, and getting rid of a giant headache. We'll miss Manny and his playful antics, but Red Sox Nation was turned upside down when he turned against us. We thank him for his service, we'll remember the good times, and with Bay in a Sox uniform we'll look to forget the bad times…sooner rather than later.

Good luck in L.A., Manny.

 

 

 

When Manny isn’t traded…

When the Sox can't find the deal they want today before the trade deadline one thing I am 100% certain of:

Manny will act as if he never wanted to leave.

He's done it before, he'll do it again. It's his version of saying he is sorry for the raucous and damnit, let's win another World Series.

And the fans will love him for it, but management…not so much.

I don't expect he'll sit idly by and wither away on the bench. On the contrary, I think his bat and step will come to life. Afterall, he could be playing for the last contract of his career.

You see, the Sox could sit down, talk it over with Manny, get on the same page, and be content and pick up this next year. And if he is being the lovable Manny everyone loves, pick up his second option.

But there is a catch: Manny needs to do it without Scott Boras.

A-Rod will tell Manny that Boras is the reason why Yankee Country hated him so much in the offseason. And if Manny is listening, he'll ignore Boras here and he'll be upfront and honest to the Sox, behind closed doors, and not try to manipulate them through the media, ala Boras/A-Rod. Because where did that ultimately get both of them?

My gut says that Manny really does love Boston: he loves the fans, he loves playing with Ortiz and Lugo and Delcarmen. He loves the Green Monster. He loves being himself. And we get that. And we're fine with that.

But Boston is not fine when he says Boston doesn't deserve him. That is Boras talking, don't ever be fooled into thinking otherwise. That is his modus operandi: great distention between player/city/team and drive a wedge between them all.

If Manny is to stay in Boston, long-term, he should step away from the mic and the reporters and talk to the Sox in person. Because nothing is lost in translation. Remember, he speaks Spanish, and so some of the things he does say I imagine are turned and twisted, where in his mind they mean next to nothing. I'm not putting the blame on reporters or writers or anyone here, it's just something to think about.

Patriots sign LaMont Jordan

The Patriots made an impressive move this weekend by swooping in rather quickly after the Raiders released RB LaMont Jordan, signing him to a contract.

Even though the Patriots still have RBs Sammy Morris under contract as well as Kevin Faulk, depth is never a bad thing. RB Laurence Maroney will benefit from Jordan coming to town, as Jordan is similar to ex-Pat Corey Dillon's running style and should give Maroney the fresh legs he needs. Morris and Faulk are more change of pace backs that are good 3^rd down options.

Jordan brings a veteran presence, he's a guy that's tough to tackle, he's a hard runner, loves to dole out punishment, and he is a great receiving back. Even though he has some decent bulk to him ( 5'10", 230 lbs.) he has the speed to run outside and even return kicks.

The timing of the signing could not be any better: New Orleans Saints RB Deuce McCalister seems to be having issues with his surgically repaired knee, and the Saints might need to sign a veteran back to pick up the slack if he misses any time.

Lucky for the Pats, it won't be Jordan signing with them.

Mayo signs with Pats: all draft picks signed

Training camp opens today and all signs were pointing to 10^th pick overall Jerod Mayo not being there and missing out on important reps.

Not so fast.

It's being reported that the Patriots have reached a deal with Mayo, and that the rookie inside will be in attendance at the afternoon practice session today, the 2^nd of two practices on the opening day of training camp.

The 6'1" 242 lb. linebacker from the University of Tennessee is expected to immediately compete for playing time at inside linebacker.

Kaczur pleads guilty

Nick Naczur made a mistake.

According to police reports, Kaczur had 202 OxyContin pills on him when he was pulled over April 27 by state troopers near Utica, New York. Since then, he has helped the feds arrest the man who was accused of supplying him with the drug.

The 28-year-old Kaczur was ordered to pay $355 in fines and fees by a judge, who said the drug possession charge will be dismissed, provided he is able to keep himself out of trouble for the next half year.

Is there any doubt he'll be able to stay out of trouble? Absolutely not.

Kaczur is not like Mr. Willie Andrews, who was brought up on some drug charges of his own, and recently released by the Patriots. Andrews was given a second chance with the Pats, but lost that chance when he reportedly pointed a gun to his girlfriend's head and was promptly arrested.

The Kraft family will give anyone a second chance: ask Kevin Faulk. Ask Corey Dillon. Ask Randy Moss. And now, ask Nick Kaczur.

In typical Patriots fashion, they declined to comment, but none was needed: the Kraft family does all the talking they need through their actions. They are an understanding and forgiving family, but don't take that to mean they are pushovers.

Just ask Mr. Willie Andrews.