Houston Texans
Last Season : 6 - 10
Drafted Players
1st Round - J.J Watt DE
2nd Round - Brooks Reed DL
2nd Round - Brandon Harris DB
4th Round - Rashard Carmicheal DB
5th Round - Shiloh Keo DB
5th Round - Taylor Yates QB
7th Round - Derek Newton OL
7th Round - Cheta Ozougwu DL
Players in
Lawrence Vickers FB
Bryant Johnson WR
Brad Maynard P
Andrew Gardner OT
Tim Dobbins LB
Johnathan Joseph CB
Danieal Manning S
Players out
Vonta Leach FB
Matt Turk P
Mark Anderson DL
Amobbi Okoye DL
Mitch Unrein DL
Xavier Adibi LB
Kevin Bentley LB
Antwaun Mouldon CB
Bernard Pollard S
The Houston Texans are coming off a very disappointing year, but are once again seen as the major challengers to the Colts. The Texans don't have any problems on offense. They scored a bucket load of points last year, and are fully expected to do the same again. One minor concern for the offense is the health of RB Arian Foster. Foster has been struggling with a hamstring injury recently, but expects to be at full fitness for their week 1 clash with the Colts.
The big problem for the Texans last year was their very poor defence, especially the secondary. They have reacted this season by bringing in former Cowboys HC Wade Phillips, as their DC. Phillips has a great track record as a DC. They also bought in very talented players CB Johnathan Joseph (from Bengals) and S Danieal Manning (from Bears). These 2 should make that secondary alot better. The Texans also drafted 6 defensive players, out of their total of 8. Their first round pick DE J.J Watt has been looking really good in the preseason. I think that this division is between the Texans and the Colts, with the week 1 clash in Houston, a very big factor.
Indianapolis Colts
Last Season : 10 - 6
Drafted Players
1st Round - Anthony Castonzo OL
2nd Round - Ben Ijalana OL
3rd Round - Drake Nevis DL
4th Round - Delone Carter RB
6th Round - Chris Rucker DB
Players in
Kerry Collins QB
Chris Gronkowski FB
Tyson DeVree TE
Jamaal Anderson DL
Tyler Brayton DL
Ernie Sims LB
Vuna Tuihalamaka LB
Micheal Hamlin FS
Players out
Charlie Johnson OT
Kyle DeVan OG
Jacques McClendon OG
Keyunta Dawson DL
Daniel Muir DL
Clint Session LB
Kelvin Hayden CB
Aaron Francisco S
Bob Sanders S
The Colts again won this division last year, even with half the team injured. The Colts had so many players injured last year, but their inspirational QB Peyton Manning still managed to get the job done. The major concern this year is though the neck injury to Manning. The Colts expect that Manning won't miss to many games, but may well be missing for week 1 in Houston. If this is the case, I give the Texans a big advantage, not only in that game, but for taking the division title.
The Colts defence will have a new look to it this year. Players such as LB Clint Session, CB Kelvin Hayden and S Bob Sanders have all left their starting positions vacant. They have bought in DL Jamaal Anderson, DL Tyler Brayton, LB Ernie Sims and S Micheal Hamlin to try and fill these holes. The Colts have looked terrible during the preseason, and yes - it is only the preseason, but this defence needs to get better in a hurry. If it doesn't, I think the Colts will be playing catch up all year, with a new and improved Texans team.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Last Season : 8 - 8
1st Round - Blaine Gabbert QB
3rd Round - William Rackley OL
4th Round - Cecil Shorts WR
4th Round - Chris Prosinski DB
5th Round - Rod Issac DB
Players in
Matt Turk P
Durant Brooks P
Tony Moll OT
Jason Spitz C
Paul Posluszny LB
Matt Roth LB
Clint Session LB
Gerris Wilkinson LB
Drew Coleman CB
Dawan Laundry S
Dwight Lowery S
Players out
Trent Edwards QB
Nate Hughes WR
John Matthews WR
Mike Sims-Walker WR
Adam Podlesh P
Adam Terry OT
Derrick Harvey DL
Kirk Morrison LB
Sean Consintine S
Micheal Hamlin S
The Jaguars went 8 - 8 last year, but I believe that they will struggle to get that many wins again this year. They selected QB Blaine Gabbert with their 1st round pick in the draft. I believe that this is to put some pressure on inconsistent QB David Gerrard. But here is my problem with this, neither QB has a player to throw the ball to. They allowed last years main WR Mike Sims-Walker leave, along with 2 more WR's. I believe that both QB's will struggle, and the starter may change back and forth a few times. This is never good for an offence. RB MJD will be expected to carry the offence, but how long can he stay healthy. At his size, carrying the ball as many times as he will have to, injury is a major concern. If MJD was to get hurt, the Jags would struggle to win a game!
The Jags have improved their defence. They bought in a total of 4 LB's, 3 of which I expect to start. Posluszney, Session and Roth will greatly improve their LB core. They also bought in 2 S's - Dawan Laundry and Dwight Lowery. Again I believe that these 2 are a fantastic upgrade to that defence. The Jags will concede alot less points this year, but will really struggle to score themselves. This could be a long year for the Jags.
Tennessee Titans
Last Season : 6 - 10
Drafted Players
1st Round - Jake Locker QB
2nd Round - Akeem Ayers LB
3rd Round - Jurrell Casey DL
4th Round - Colin McCarthy LB
4th Round - Jamie Harper RB
5th Round - Karl Klug DL
6th Round - Byron Stingly OT
7th Round - Zach Clayton DT
7th Round - Tommie Campbell DB
Players in
Matt Hasselbeck QB
Daniel Graham TE
Adam Terry OT
Shaun Smith DL
Barrett Ruud LB
Frank Walker CB
Jordan Babineaux S
Anthony Smith S
Players out
Kerry Colins QB
Vince Young QB
Randy Moss WR
Bo Scaife TE
Nevin McCaskill OL
Jason Babin DL
David Thornton LB
Patrick Trahan LB
Stephen Tulloch LB
The Titans had that shocking 0 - 6 start last year, when they were expected to challenge for the division title. This year, I wouldn't be surprised if they didn't win a single game. This team looks awful to me. Their main offensive threat RB Chris Johnson has only just reported for the year, following a lenghtly holdout, due to his contract. Johnson is undoubtedly one of the best RB's in the league, and was only due to be paid the minimum salary for this year. I can completely understand his holdout. The Titans held firm until this week, and then completely caved in, in my opinion, they are now overpaying Johnson. The lack of practice is a major concern for me regarding Johnson. He will surely be more susceptible to injury. Like the Jaguars, if the Titans were to lose their star RB, I believe they would also struggle to win a game. They have bought in veteran QB Matt Hasselbeck who is surely here to keep the seat warm for 1st round draft pick Jake Locker. The problem again though, is who will either QB throw to. WR Kenny Britt undoubtedly has a huge amount of talent, the only problem is that the guy is a numpty. He is likely to get suspended at any moment.
The Titans defence will struggle following the loss of DL Jason Babin and LB Stephan Tulloch. The defence will concede alot, and the offence will be inconsistent. Doesn't sound like a recipe for success to me!
So here it is!!! A view of the NFL for UK fans, wrote by UK fans. Here we will give you game previews, predictions and reports. We will give you news, as it happens from the NFL quicker than any other UK based outlet. Enjoy people, its GAME TIME!!!
Showing posts with label colts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label colts. Show all posts
Monday, 5 September 2011
Saturday, 20 August 2011
Pre Season Week 2 : Friday Nights Games
Here are the highlights from all the games on Friday night:
Redskins 16 Colts 3
Chiefs 13 Ravens 31
Lions 30 Browns 28
Panthers 10 Dolphins 20
Cardinals 20 Packers 28
Falcons 13 Jaguars 15
Redskins 16 Colts 3
Chiefs 13 Ravens 31
Lions 30 Browns 28
Panthers 10 Dolphins 20
Cardinals 20 Packers 28
Falcons 13 Jaguars 15
Tuesday, 9 November 2010
Game of the Week
Colts 24 Eagles 26
The 'Game of the Week' and the late game on Sky from week 9 came from Philly. It was a clash between the best QB in the league (Colts - Peyton Manning) and one that is probably the most exciting on his day (Eagles - Micheal Vick). Vick was returning following a month out sidelined with a rib injury. The Eagles were on their bye last week and had therefore had plenty of time to prepare for Manning and co. The Colts, who had played against the Texans on Monday night, had plenty of injuries all over the field, and there was concern at the fact they had only had a short week. The first play from scrimmage in the game seemed to show the difference in conditioning between the 2 teams as Eagles RB Lesean McCoy scampered for 62 yards, to the Indianapolis 10 yard line. Just 2 plays later Vick found the other returning superstar WR DeSean Jackson, for a 9 yard TD pass.
The Eagles were concerned all week leading up to this game about the ability of Peyton Manning, but on just his 2nd pass of the game, CB Asante Samuel picked him off, and the Eagles turned that into a K David Akers FG, 10 - 0 Eagles, with just over 3 minutes off the clock. The Colts did manage to sustain a bit of a drive on their next possession, but eventually had to punt. Vick and the Eagles answered with another big play to WR Jackson, this time for 58 yards, and the Eagles were back within striking distance. The Eagles were unable to get a TD here, even though they were in the redzone, but still had a commanding 13 - 0 lead after just 1 quarter.
Manning and the Colts then started to drive as Manning continually found TE Jacob Tamme (in for injured star TE Dallas Clark) and WR Reggie Wayne. He eventually found Tamme from 3 yards, 13 - 7. The Eagles though answered straight back. Vick scrambled for 24 yards, before finding WR Jason Avant for 34 yards, and moved into the red zone. Their red zone woes continued though and they had to settle for a 2nd David Akers FG, to give them a 9 point lead. Manning though was in no mood to be out done, as he returned to the field with just 6 minutes till the half, but drove down field before RB Javarris James (cousin of former Colts RB Edgerrin) punched it in from the 6 yard line. He also managed to get into position, after a poor series from the Eagles, for K Adam Vinateri to kick a FG. 17 - 16 Colts at the break.
The 3rd quarter didn't quite live up to the play in the first half, as there was only one score, another FG from the Eagles, from 44 yards. There was quite a lot of good defence from there on in as punts rained in from both teams. The Eagles did though start the 4th quarter with a bang as QB Vick went in on a QB keeper from 1 yard out. Both teams had long drives that resulted in punts, before the Colts got back to within 2 points thanks to RB James going in for his 2nd TD of the day from 1 yard, but we were already after the 2 minute warning. The Colts did get the ball back for one last chance though, but on a 3rd and 10 from their own 41 yard line, Manning was picked off for a 2nd time by CB Samuel, and the game was over.
The Eagles were very impressive in this game. They showed they have big play ability, and can stop even the best teams. They need to work on their red zone offence, but now have a legitimate shout at being the best team in the NFC. The next 2 games should tell the tale for them as they play the Redskins and Giants in 2 HUGE NFC East games. The Colts don't need to worry to much about this loss. Even though they are banged up, and were nowhere near as fresh as the Eagles, they still managed to hang around. Manning will win a lot of games for this team the rest of the way.
The 'Game of the Week' and the late game on Sky from week 9 came from Philly. It was a clash between the best QB in the league (Colts - Peyton Manning) and one that is probably the most exciting on his day (Eagles - Micheal Vick). Vick was returning following a month out sidelined with a rib injury. The Eagles were on their bye last week and had therefore had plenty of time to prepare for Manning and co. The Colts, who had played against the Texans on Monday night, had plenty of injuries all over the field, and there was concern at the fact they had only had a short week. The first play from scrimmage in the game seemed to show the difference in conditioning between the 2 teams as Eagles RB Lesean McCoy scampered for 62 yards, to the Indianapolis 10 yard line. Just 2 plays later Vick found the other returning superstar WR DeSean Jackson, for a 9 yard TD pass.
The Eagles were concerned all week leading up to this game about the ability of Peyton Manning, but on just his 2nd pass of the game, CB Asante Samuel picked him off, and the Eagles turned that into a K David Akers FG, 10 - 0 Eagles, with just over 3 minutes off the clock. The Colts did manage to sustain a bit of a drive on their next possession, but eventually had to punt. Vick and the Eagles answered with another big play to WR Jackson, this time for 58 yards, and the Eagles were back within striking distance. The Eagles were unable to get a TD here, even though they were in the redzone, but still had a commanding 13 - 0 lead after just 1 quarter.
Manning and the Colts then started to drive as Manning continually found TE Jacob Tamme (in for injured star TE Dallas Clark) and WR Reggie Wayne. He eventually found Tamme from 3 yards, 13 - 7. The Eagles though answered straight back. Vick scrambled for 24 yards, before finding WR Jason Avant for 34 yards, and moved into the red zone. Their red zone woes continued though and they had to settle for a 2nd David Akers FG, to give them a 9 point lead. Manning though was in no mood to be out done, as he returned to the field with just 6 minutes till the half, but drove down field before RB Javarris James (cousin of former Colts RB Edgerrin) punched it in from the 6 yard line. He also managed to get into position, after a poor series from the Eagles, for K Adam Vinateri to kick a FG. 17 - 16 Colts at the break.
The 3rd quarter didn't quite live up to the play in the first half, as there was only one score, another FG from the Eagles, from 44 yards. There was quite a lot of good defence from there on in as punts rained in from both teams. The Eagles did though start the 4th quarter with a bang as QB Vick went in on a QB keeper from 1 yard out. Both teams had long drives that resulted in punts, before the Colts got back to within 2 points thanks to RB James going in for his 2nd TD of the day from 1 yard, but we were already after the 2 minute warning. The Colts did get the ball back for one last chance though, but on a 3rd and 10 from their own 41 yard line, Manning was picked off for a 2nd time by CB Samuel, and the game was over.
The Eagles were very impressive in this game. They showed they have big play ability, and can stop even the best teams. They need to work on their red zone offence, but now have a legitimate shout at being the best team in the NFC. The next 2 games should tell the tale for them as they play the Redskins and Giants in 2 HUGE NFC East games. The Colts don't need to worry to much about this loss. Even though they are banged up, and were nowhere near as fresh as the Eagles, they still managed to hang around. Manning will win a lot of games for this team the rest of the way.
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Monday, 26 July 2010
The keys to Training Camp - AFC South
Houston Texans
The Texans finished up 2009 with a 9 - 7 record, the first time in the teams history that it has recorded a winning record. This is great news for the Texans, a real sign that they are moving in the right direction, about time to with the talent of QB Matt Schabb and WR Andre Johnson. The next step for the Texans is to push on and gain a place in the playoffs. Will it be this year?? Here are the things to look out for at training camp.
Who will be the kicker??
Ever since the Houston Texans came into the NFL in 2002, their kicker has been Kris Brown. The Texans have come really close in many tough games against the Colts, as well as others, and it has come down to a last ditch kick from Brown. Unfortunately, Brown has missed a few of these kicks, and this has cost the Texans dearly. This off season the Texans bought in former Cardinals kicker Neil Rackers (pictured). This will make for a kicker competition in camp. It will be very interesting to see which of these players will get the job full time, and which will get released.
Just how good is the secondary?
The major key to beating division rival Indianapolis Colts is to stop Peyton Manning, and the passing game. The Texans though, allowed their number 1 CB from last year, Dunta Robinson, to leave and join the Falcons. This, obviously is a major concern. The Texans tried to address this problem by selecting CB Kareem Jackson (pictured), from NCAA champion Alabama, with their first round pick in this years draft. Kareem will probably start, but it will be interesting to see who will start around him in the secondary. Potential candidates for this are Glover Quinn and Brice McCain.
Who will be the starting RB?
Last years starter Steve Slaton (pictured) had alot of fumbling problems during the year, and received heavy competition for his starting job. This Texans took RB Ben Tate with their 2nd round pick. He is expected to push Slaton all the way for the starting job this camp. It is vital that the Texans improve their running game. Last year their offence was one of the top offences in the league. It actually was the best pass offence, but was then ranked 30th in run game. If they can get this run game going, look out for the Texans this year.
Indianapolis Colts
Last year the Colts finished with a 14 - 2 record. This could have been even better if they did not rest their starters at the back end of the regular season. They then picked up where they left off in the playoffs, beating the Ravens and Jets, before losing to the Saints in the Superbowl. What do they need to get back to that stage, and go one better?
Will there be a Superbowl hangover?
The last time that a Superbowl losing team got back to the Superbowl the following year was in 1995 - the Buffalo Bills. Can the Colts break this trend? I feel that teams usually struggle with this because they struggle to lift their spirits, and motivate themselves. Will the Colts have these problems? Not if legendary QB Peyton Manning (pictured) has anything to do with it. Peyton is one of the very bet leaders in the NFL. He is a perfectionist, and there is no doubt that that INT in the Superbowl, that was returned for a TD by Tracey Porter, has been replayed over and over in his head. Manning will want to put this right, and this is the reason I believe there will be no Superbowl hangover for the Colts this year.
Will the change of Offencive coaches effect Manning?
Ever since Peyton Manning came into the NFL, he has played under the coaching of Tom Moore and Howard Mudd (pictured). Alot of what the Colts offence does on the field is called by Manning, and therefore people believe that the departure of Moore and Mudd, will not effect this team at all. I think though that the trust that Moore and Mudd have placed in Manning, as well as the knowledge that they undoubtedly supply him with during the game will be heavily missed. I'm not saying that Manning and the Colts will not be as effective this year, but I believe there will be some knock on effect - what will this be? and how much will it effect Manning?
Which players will start in the Safety positions?
Bob Sanders (pictured) is seen as one of the best S's in the NFL. He is immense against the run, and his presence is sorely missed by the Colts when he is not in the lineup. The problem that Bob has is that he is very injury prone. In the last 2 seasons, Bob has only managed to start 8 games (2 in 2009). This problem has obviously had to be looked at by the Colts. Last year the players that stepped up were Antonie Bethea and Melvin Bullitt. These 2 players obviously did a fantastic job as the team went to the playoffs. Bethea has just received a big contract, and the Colts really like Bullitt. This will be an interesting battle during camp.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars finished last season with a 7 - 9 record, a record that saw them finish last, in this very competitive division. This was hugely disappointing as they went into December in prime position to take a wildcard spot. There is no doubt that this division will be just as good this year, so how can the Jags lift themselves off the bottom, and push on towards the playoffs?
Has the defence got better?
Kampman (pictured) during free agency, and also selected DE Tyson Alualu with their 1st round draft pick. In fact the Jaguars selected D Linemen with their first 4 picks in this years draft. This should lift the level of competition at the position, and competition can only produce improvement. Look for Kampman to have a big year, returning to his preferred 4 - 3 defence.
Can they protect their QB?
The Jaguars had a huge problem keeping QB David Gerrard up right last year. In fact, he was sacked a total of 44 times. This kind of pressure obviously will not help a QB. The Jaguars did have 2 rookie T's on the field last year, and this may help to explain this problem. Hopefully with a year under their belts, they will be better this year. This pressure on Gerrard caused him to fumble the ball 14 times in 2009. This is one of the main reasons that people are starting to question Gerrards ability.
Has the passing game improved?
Another area where the Jags offence struggled last year was the passing game. This is frustrating for a team that had the 10th best rushing attack (mainly down to pocket rocket MJD) and it could only come in 19th place in the passing category. This is another reason why QB David Gerrard's postion at QB is under question. I believe though, that the problems in the Jags pass game are not of Gerrard's doing. I think that the WR's and TE's need to step up and start making plays. Last year Mike Sims-Walker (pictured) led the Jags in receptions with 63. The next person on the list was RB MJD, with 53. This shows that plays just aren't being made by the WR's. Who will step up to the plate this year? To help drive this offence on.
Tennessee Titans
The Titans finished 2009 with a 8 - 8 record, in 3rd place in the AFC South. This record was seen as quite a good finishing point for a team that actually started the season 0 - 6. QB Vince Young came back into the lineup at the 0 - 6 mark, and helped turn the team around. RB Chris Johnson ran for over 2,000 yards, which really helped this team. Can these two, with the support of the rest of the team, carry the Titans to the playoffs?
Can Vince Young carry this team?
VY (pictured) has had a very interesting career so far in the NFL. In his previous 4 seasons he has started 39 games, been the backup and has had alot of off field problems. This will be his 5th season, he will be the starter - Time to grow up Vince! We all know VY has the ability, he has shown it time and time again, especially against the Cardinals last year, when he drove the field, getting a end of game, match winning TD. What he now has to do is become a leader, and stop getting into trouble off the field. He has the perfect situation in which to succeed. I'm sure there are alot of QB's around the league that would love to have Chris Johnson as their RB. Having Johnson on the field means that defences often go out to stop the run, leaving gaps for Young to exploit in the pass game. I believe VY can get it right this year, lets hope he does.
Who are the leaders?
During the off season the Titans lost a number of players that you would consider being the leaders on this roster. C Kevin Mawae (pictured), DE Kyle Vanden Bosch and LB Keith Bullock were all declared as free agents in March. This veteran leadership will undoubtedly be missed on both sides of the ball. The Titans played many close games over the course of last season, and the most important thing during close games is leadership. I just wonder if they have alot of close games this year, who will step up, and be those much needed leaders?
How happy is Chris Johnson?
A 'HUGE' talking point surrounding the Titans this off season was Chris Johnson's contract. If you keep in touch with nflgbview regular you will be well aware of this situation. The Titans have finally decided to pay Chris more money for this season, but the problem will defiantly arise again during the next off season. The question for me is just how happy is Johnson with the deal he got? Yes, Johnson will now make alot more money than he would have done without this contract redo, but he is still on nowhere near the same money as rival RB Adrian Peterson for example. Just how much will this impact on his game this year? The Titans will have to hope that it won't, because in all honesty, he IS the Titans offence. Looking forward to seeing 'CJ2K's' commitment this year.
Check back tomorrow for a look as we wrap up the AFC, with a look at the AFC West.
The Texans finished up 2009 with a 9 - 7 record, the first time in the teams history that it has recorded a winning record. This is great news for the Texans, a real sign that they are moving in the right direction, about time to with the talent of QB Matt Schabb and WR Andre Johnson. The next step for the Texans is to push on and gain a place in the playoffs. Will it be this year?? Here are the things to look out for at training camp.
Who will be the kicker??
Ever since the Houston Texans came into the NFL in 2002, their kicker has been Kris Brown. The Texans have come really close in many tough games against the Colts, as well as others, and it has come down to a last ditch kick from Brown. Unfortunately, Brown has missed a few of these kicks, and this has cost the Texans dearly. This off season the Texans bought in former Cardinals kicker Neil Rackers (pictured). This will make for a kicker competition in camp. It will be very interesting to see which of these players will get the job full time, and which will get released.
Just how good is the secondary?
The major key to beating division rival Indianapolis Colts is to stop Peyton Manning, and the passing game. The Texans though, allowed their number 1 CB from last year, Dunta Robinson, to leave and join the Falcons. This, obviously is a major concern. The Texans tried to address this problem by selecting CB Kareem Jackson (pictured), from NCAA champion Alabama, with their first round pick in this years draft. Kareem will probably start, but it will be interesting to see who will start around him in the secondary. Potential candidates for this are Glover Quinn and Brice McCain.
Who will be the starting RB?
Last years starter Steve Slaton (pictured) had alot of fumbling problems during the year, and received heavy competition for his starting job. This Texans took RB Ben Tate with their 2nd round pick. He is expected to push Slaton all the way for the starting job this camp. It is vital that the Texans improve their running game. Last year their offence was one of the top offences in the league. It actually was the best pass offence, but was then ranked 30th in run game. If they can get this run game going, look out for the Texans this year.
Indianapolis Colts
Last year the Colts finished with a 14 - 2 record. This could have been even better if they did not rest their starters at the back end of the regular season. They then picked up where they left off in the playoffs, beating the Ravens and Jets, before losing to the Saints in the Superbowl. What do they need to get back to that stage, and go one better?
Will there be a Superbowl hangover?
The last time that a Superbowl losing team got back to the Superbowl the following year was in 1995 - the Buffalo Bills. Can the Colts break this trend? I feel that teams usually struggle with this because they struggle to lift their spirits, and motivate themselves. Will the Colts have these problems? Not if legendary QB Peyton Manning (pictured) has anything to do with it. Peyton is one of the very bet leaders in the NFL. He is a perfectionist, and there is no doubt that that INT in the Superbowl, that was returned for a TD by Tracey Porter, has been replayed over and over in his head. Manning will want to put this right, and this is the reason I believe there will be no Superbowl hangover for the Colts this year.
Will the change of Offencive coaches effect Manning?
Ever since Peyton Manning came into the NFL, he has played under the coaching of Tom Moore and Howard Mudd (pictured). Alot of what the Colts offence does on the field is called by Manning, and therefore people believe that the departure of Moore and Mudd, will not effect this team at all. I think though that the trust that Moore and Mudd have placed in Manning, as well as the knowledge that they undoubtedly supply him with during the game will be heavily missed. I'm not saying that Manning and the Colts will not be as effective this year, but I believe there will be some knock on effect - what will this be? and how much will it effect Manning?
Which players will start in the Safety positions?
Bob Sanders (pictured) is seen as one of the best S's in the NFL. He is immense against the run, and his presence is sorely missed by the Colts when he is not in the lineup. The problem that Bob has is that he is very injury prone. In the last 2 seasons, Bob has only managed to start 8 games (2 in 2009). This problem has obviously had to be looked at by the Colts. Last year the players that stepped up were Antonie Bethea and Melvin Bullitt. These 2 players obviously did a fantastic job as the team went to the playoffs. Bethea has just received a big contract, and the Colts really like Bullitt. This will be an interesting battle during camp.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars finished last season with a 7 - 9 record, a record that saw them finish last, in this very competitive division. This was hugely disappointing as they went into December in prime position to take a wildcard spot. There is no doubt that this division will be just as good this year, so how can the Jags lift themselves off the bottom, and push on towards the playoffs?
Has the defence got better?
Kampman (pictured) during free agency, and also selected DE Tyson Alualu with their 1st round draft pick. In fact the Jaguars selected D Linemen with their first 4 picks in this years draft. This should lift the level of competition at the position, and competition can only produce improvement. Look for Kampman to have a big year, returning to his preferred 4 - 3 defence.
Can they protect their QB?
The Jaguars had a huge problem keeping QB David Gerrard up right last year. In fact, he was sacked a total of 44 times. This kind of pressure obviously will not help a QB. The Jaguars did have 2 rookie T's on the field last year, and this may help to explain this problem. Hopefully with a year under their belts, they will be better this year. This pressure on Gerrard caused him to fumble the ball 14 times in 2009. This is one of the main reasons that people are starting to question Gerrards ability.
Has the passing game improved?
Another area where the Jags offence struggled last year was the passing game. This is frustrating for a team that had the 10th best rushing attack (mainly down to pocket rocket MJD) and it could only come in 19th place in the passing category. This is another reason why QB David Gerrard's postion at QB is under question. I believe though, that the problems in the Jags pass game are not of Gerrard's doing. I think that the WR's and TE's need to step up and start making plays. Last year Mike Sims-Walker (pictured) led the Jags in receptions with 63. The next person on the list was RB MJD, with 53. This shows that plays just aren't being made by the WR's. Who will step up to the plate this year? To help drive this offence on.
Tennessee Titans
The Titans finished 2009 with a 8 - 8 record, in 3rd place in the AFC South. This record was seen as quite a good finishing point for a team that actually started the season 0 - 6. QB Vince Young came back into the lineup at the 0 - 6 mark, and helped turn the team around. RB Chris Johnson ran for over 2,000 yards, which really helped this team. Can these two, with the support of the rest of the team, carry the Titans to the playoffs?
Can Vince Young carry this team?
VY (pictured) has had a very interesting career so far in the NFL. In his previous 4 seasons he has started 39 games, been the backup and has had alot of off field problems. This will be his 5th season, he will be the starter - Time to grow up Vince! We all know VY has the ability, he has shown it time and time again, especially against the Cardinals last year, when he drove the field, getting a end of game, match winning TD. What he now has to do is become a leader, and stop getting into trouble off the field. He has the perfect situation in which to succeed. I'm sure there are alot of QB's around the league that would love to have Chris Johnson as their RB. Having Johnson on the field means that defences often go out to stop the run, leaving gaps for Young to exploit in the pass game. I believe VY can get it right this year, lets hope he does.
Who are the leaders?
During the off season the Titans lost a number of players that you would consider being the leaders on this roster. C Kevin Mawae (pictured), DE Kyle Vanden Bosch and LB Keith Bullock were all declared as free agents in March. This veteran leadership will undoubtedly be missed on both sides of the ball. The Titans played many close games over the course of last season, and the most important thing during close games is leadership. I just wonder if they have alot of close games this year, who will step up, and be those much needed leaders?
How happy is Chris Johnson?
A 'HUGE' talking point surrounding the Titans this off season was Chris Johnson's contract. If you keep in touch with nflgbview regular you will be well aware of this situation. The Titans have finally decided to pay Chris more money for this season, but the problem will defiantly arise again during the next off season. The question for me is just how happy is Johnson with the deal he got? Yes, Johnson will now make alot more money than he would have done without this contract redo, but he is still on nowhere near the same money as rival RB Adrian Peterson for example. Just how much will this impact on his game this year? The Titans will have to hope that it won't, because in all honesty, he IS the Titans offence. Looking forward to seeing 'CJ2K's' commitment this year.
Check back tomorrow for a look as we wrap up the AFC, with a look at the AFC West.
Tuesday, 20 April 2010
Draft Previews
Cincinnati Bengals
Last season - 10 - 6 1st in AFC North
Team needs - TE, S, OL, DL, LB
Players in - Antonio Bryant WR.
Players out - Shaun Smith DT, Larry Johnson RB.
Draft Positions :
1st Round : 21st pick
2nd Round : 22nd pick
3rd Round : 20th pick, 32nd pick
4th Round : 22nd pick, 33rd pick
5th Round : 21st pick
6th Round : 22nd pick
7th Round : 21st pick
Total : 9 picks
New England Patriots
Last season - 10 - 6 1st in AFC East
Team needs - LB, RB, TE, T, DE, CB
Players in - Damion Lewis DT, Alge Crumpler TE, Torry Holt WR, Marques Murrell LB.
Players out - Ben Watson TE, Jarvis Green DE, Chris Baker TE.
Green Bay Packers
Last season - 11 - 5 2nd in NFC North
Team needs - OL, LB, S, CB
Players in -
Players out - Matt Giodano DB, Aaron Kampman DE, Mike Montgomery DE.
Philadelphia Eagles
Last season - 11 - 5 2nd in NFC East
Team needs RB, OL, DT, LB, S
Players in - Mike Bell RB, Hank Basket WR, Marlin Jackson CB.
Players out - Sean Jones FS, Will Witherspoon MLB, Jason Babin DE.
Baltimore Ravens
Last season - 9 - 7 2nd in AFC North
Team needs - WR, QB, TE, C, DT, S, CB
Players in - Corey Redding DE.
Players out - Dean Edwards DE, Justin Bannan DE, Adam Terry T.
Arizona Cardinals
Last Season - 10 - 6 1st in NFC West
Team needs - OL, DL, QB, TE, LB, RB, ILB, DT, S, CB
Players in - Derek Anderson QB, Joey Porter OLB, Paris Lennon OLB, Jay Feeley K, Rex Hadnot G.
Players out - Neil Rackers K, Jerheme Urban WR, Karlos Dansby MLB, Antrel Rolle S, Sean Morrey WR.
Dallas Cowboys
Last season - 11 - 5 1st in NFC East
Team needs - S, T, DE
Players in -
Players out -
San Diego Chargers
Last season - 13 - 3 1st in AFC West
Team needs - RB, DL, C, CB, LB, S
Players in - Donald Strickland CB, Nathan Vasher CB, Marcus Mason RB.
Players out - Brandon Manumaleuna TE, Eric Ghiaciuc C, Jamal Williams NT, Kassim Osgood WR, LaDainian Tomlinson RB, Charlie Whitehurst QB.
New York Jets
Last season - 9 - 7 2nd in AFC East
Team needs - DE, CB, WR, RB, OLB, S
Players in - LaDainian Tomlinson RB, Antonio Cromartie CB, Jason Taylor LB, Lance Laury LB, Brodney Pool S, Santonio Holmes WR.
Players out - Jay Feeley K, Wallace Wright WR, Thomas Jones RB, Marques Murrell LB, Donald Strickland CB, Howard Green DT.
Minnesota Vikings
Last season - 12 - 4 1st in NFC North
Team needs - S, CB, C, ILB, FS
Players in - Rhys Lloyd K, Mike Montgomery DE.
Players out - Chester Taylor RB, Karl Paymah CB, Artis Hicks G.
Indianapolis Colts
Last season - 14 - 2 1st in AFC South
Team needs - T, G, DT, CB, OLB, FS
Players in - Adam Terry T, Andy Alleman G.
Players out - Aaron Francisco S, Tim Jennings CB, Ryan Lija G, Jim Sorgi QB, Hank Baskett WR, Marlin Jackson CB.
New Orleans Saints
Last season - 13 - 3 1st in NFC South
Team needs OLB, DL, S, T
Players in - Jimmy Wilkerson DE, Alex Brown DE.
Players out - Scott Fujita LB, Mike Bell RB.
Last season - 10 - 6 1st in AFC North
Team needs - TE, S, OL, DL, LB
Players in - Antonio Bryant WR.
Players out - Shaun Smith DT, Larry Johnson RB.
Draft Positions :
1st Round : 21st pick
2nd Round : 22nd pick
3rd Round : 20th pick, 32nd pick
4th Round : 22nd pick, 33rd pick
5th Round : 21st pick
6th Round : 22nd pick
7th Round : 21st pick
Total : 9 picks
New England Patriots
Last season - 10 - 6 1st in AFC East
Team needs - LB, RB, TE, T, DE, CB
Players in - Damion Lewis DT, Alge Crumpler TE, Torry Holt WR, Marques Murrell LB.
Players out - Ben Watson TE, Jarvis Green DE, Chris Baker TE.
Draft Positions :
1st Round : 22nd pick
2nd Round : 12th pick, 15th pick, 21st pick
4th Round : 21st pick
6th Round : 21st pick, 36th pick
7th Round : 22nd pick, 24th pick, 40th pick, 41st pick, 43rd pick
Total : 12 picks
Green Bay Packers
Last season - 11 - 5 2nd in NFC North
Team needs - OL, LB, S, CB
Players in -
Players out - Matt Giodano DB, Aaron Kampman DE, Mike Montgomery DE.
Draft Positions :
1st Round : 23rd pick
2nd Round : 24th pick
3rd Round : 22nd pick
4th Round : 24th pick
5th Round : 23rd pick, 38th pick
6th Round : 24th pick
7th Round : 23rd pick
Total : 8 picks
Philadelphia Eagles
Last season - 11 - 5 2nd in NFC East
Team needs RB, OL, DT, LB, S
Players in - Mike Bell RB, Hank Basket WR, Marlin Jackson CB.
Players out - Sean Jones FS, Will Witherspoon MLB, Jason Babin DE.
Draft Positions :
1st Round : 24th pick
2nd Round : 5th pick, 23rd pick
3rd Round : 6th pick, 23rd pick
4th Round : 7th pick, 23rd pick
6th Round : 31st pick
7th Round : 36th pick, 37th pick
Total : 10 picks
Baltimore Ravens
Last season - 9 - 7 2nd in AFC North
Team needs - WR, QB, TE, C, DT, S, CB
Players in - Corey Redding DE.
Players out - Dean Edwards DE, Justin Bannan DE, Adam Terry T.
Draft Positions :
1st Round : 25th pick
2nd Round : 25th pick
5th Round : 25th pick, 26th pick
6th Round : 25th pick
Total : 5 picks
Arizona CardinalsLast Season - 10 - 6 1st in NFC West
Team needs - OL, DL, QB, TE, LB, RB, ILB, DT, S, CB
Players in - Derek Anderson QB, Joey Porter OLB, Paris Lennon OLB, Jay Feeley K, Rex Hadnot G.
Players out - Neil Rackers K, Jerheme Urban WR, Karlos Dansby MLB, Antrel Rolle S, Sean Morrey WR.
Draft Positions :
1st Round : 26th pick
2nd Round : 26th pick
3rd Round : 24th pick, 25th pick
4th Round : 25th pick
6th Round : 26th pick
7th Round : 26th pick
Total : 7 picks
Dallas Cowboys
Last season - 11 - 5 1st in NFC East
Team needs - S, T, DE
Players in -
Players out -
Draft Positions :
1st Round : 27th pick
2nd Round : 27th pick
3rd Round : 26th pick
4th Round : 27th pick
6th Round : 27th pick
7th Round : 27th pick
Total : 6 picks
San Diego Chargers
Last season - 13 - 3 1st in AFC West
Team needs - RB, DL, C, CB, LB, S
Players in - Donald Strickland CB, Nathan Vasher CB, Marcus Mason RB.
Players out - Brandon Manumaleuna TE, Eric Ghiaciuc C, Jamal Williams NT, Kassim Osgood WR, LaDainian Tomlinson RB, Charlie Whitehurst QB.
Draft Positions :
1st Round : 28th pick
2nd Round : 8th pick
3rd Round : 27th pick
4th Round : 28th pick
5th Round : 28th pick, 37th pick
7th Round : 28th pick
Total : 7 picks
New York Jets
Last season - 9 - 7 2nd in AFC East
Team needs - DE, CB, WR, RB, OLB, S
Players in - LaDainian Tomlinson RB, Antonio Cromartie CB, Jason Taylor LB, Lance Laury LB, Brodney Pool S, Santonio Holmes WR.
Players out - Jay Feeley K, Wallace Wright WR, Thomas Jones RB, Marques Murrell LB, Donald Strickland CB, Howard Green DT.
Draft Positions :
1st Round : 29th pick
2nd Round : 29th pick
4th Round : 26th pick
6th Round : 29th pick
7th Round : 29th pick
Total : 5 picks
Minnesota Vikings
Last season - 12 - 4 1st in NFC North
Team needs - S, CB, C, ILB, FS
Players in - Rhys Lloyd K, Mike Montgomery DE.
Players out - Chester Taylor RB, Karl Paymah CB, Artis Hicks G.
Draft Positions :
1st Round : 30th pick
2nd Round : 30th pick
3rd Round : 29th pick
4th Round : 30th pick
5th Round : 30th pick, 36th pick
6th Round : 30th pick
7th Round : 30th pick
Total : 8 picks
Indianapolis Colts
Last season - 14 - 2 1st in AFC South
Team needs - T, G, DT, CB, OLB, FS
Players in - Adam Terry T, Andy Alleman G.
Players out - Aaron Francisco S, Tim Jennings CB, Ryan Lija G, Jim Sorgi QB, Hank Baskett WR, Marlin Jackson CB.
Draft Positions :
1st Round : 31st pick
2nd Round : 31st pick
3rd Round : 30th pick
4th Round : 31st pick
5th Round : 31st pick
7th Round : 31st pick, 33rd pick, 39th pick
Total : 8 picks
New Orleans Saints
Last season - 13 - 3 1st in NFC South
Team needs OLB, DL, S, T
Players in - Jimmy Wilkerson DE, Alex Brown DE.
Players out - Scott Fujita LB, Mike Bell RB.
Draft Positions :
1st Round : 32nd pick
2nd Round : 32nd pick
3rd Round : 31st pick
4th Round : 32nd pick
6th Round : 32nd pick
7th Round : 32nd pick
Total : 6 picks
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