Month: July 2016

Top 5 NFL Tight Ends Entering 2016

Football, Media, NFL, Sports

 


Note: This list is who is the best tight ends right now.  Past accolades and accomplishments alone will not move you higher on the list.  This list is based on skill, talent, age, and the ability to perform.

Honorable Mentions:

Delanie Walker (Titans); Antonio Gates (Chargers); Jimmy Graham (Seahawks)

 

5) Travis Kelce, Chiefs

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Before Jeremy Maclin joined the Kansas City Chiefs last season, their passing game was almost nonexistent. Not one wide receiver caught a touchdown during the 2014 season. Besides Jamaal Charles, Travis Kelce has been “Mr Reliable” during his tenure there. He’s not the fastest but he has great hands and a high motor. With Charles still recovering from his torn ACL, Kelce might become the go to option again.

4) Jordan Reed, Redskins

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Jordan Reed is injury prone but when healthy, he’s explosive in the passing game. His speed is deceiving, and his hands are incredible. Reed always finds a way to get open with his exceptional route running. He has to stay on the field in order for the Washington Redskins to continue to have success.

3) Tyler Eifert, Bengals

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This prototype came into his own last season, scoring a league high 13 touchdowns at his position. Tyler Eifert has been everything the Cincinnati Bengals hoped for when they drafted him in 2013. The only knock on him, like most players, is the inability to consistently stay on the field.

2) Greg Olsen, Panthers

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Greg Olsen has been Cam Newton’s most consistent target and producer during his tenure in Carolina. Olsen has outstanding hands, exceptional route running capabilities, high football IQ and awareness. Olsen has performed in the clutch and doesn’t back down from the big stage. You almost can’t ask for better player on your team.

1) Rob Gronkowski, Patriots

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At the end of the day, nobody is better than “Gronk” at the tight end position. At 6 foot 6 inches, 265 pounds, he’s too big for defensive backs to cover and too fast for linebackers. And what makes matters worse, he’s only 27 years old and Tom Brady is his quarterback (except the first four games of this upcoming season due to his suspension). He will continue to horrifying opposing defenses for many more years to come.

JGOOD 

Shiree’s Top Five Entering 2016: Running Backs

Sports

Check out her list!

Shiree Talks Too Much!!

Gone are the days of NFL teams relying heavily on their run game. In such a pass-heavy league, it takes a heavyweight running back to stand out.

Let’s take a look at the top five running backs, ready to pound the ground in 2016:

5. Ezekiel Elliot

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This guy hasn’t even taken a hand-off yet and is already making a statement in the league, and no I’m not talking about with his crop top.

The Dallas Cowboys rookie was a work horse for Ohio State recording ridiculous numbers something to the tune of 23 touchdowns and 1,821 yards. That was just his junior season.

Dallas released DeMarco Murray two seasons ago and has since relied on Darren McFadden to carry the run game for them.

With the addition of a stud like Elliot, it might help to bring balance to the offense and give Tony Romo a much-needed break.

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Top 5 NFL Wide Receivers Entering 2016

Fantasy Football, Football, Media, New York, NFL, Rivalry

 

Note: This list is who is the best wide receiver right now.  Past accolades and accomplishments alone will not move you higher on the list.  This list is based on skill, talent, age, and the ability to perform.

Honorable Mentions: 

Mike Evans (Buccaneers), AJ Green (Bengals), Jordy Nelson (Packers)

5) O’Dell Beckham Jr., Giants

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O’Dell Beckham Jr. might be the most gifted receiver in the NFL since Randy Moss.  His ability to light up the hi light reel is second to none.  Once he continues to put in more work he will climb this list. 

4) DeAndre Hopkins, Texans

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After the departure of Andre Johnson, the potential of DeAndre Hopkins blossomed despite having mediocre quarterback play from Brian Hoyer and Ryan Mallett. The addition of Brock Osweiler will help elevate him to the next level.

3) Dez Bryant, Cowboys

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Dez Bryant has been an elite receiver in this league since the first day he walked on the field.  When he was younger immaturity got in the way of his true potential.  He has matured as he aged to  become rguably the best wide receiver. The Dallas Cowboys are in win now more so I’m curious to see if Dez will take his game to yet another level.

2) Julio Jones, Falcons

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Julio Jones, like Dez Bryant, has been in the elite category since his first day. Not only is Jones the quintessential deep threat, he also has the ability to burn you on a 5 yard slant pattern.  Other defenses know this and he is consistently double teamed.  That doesn’t stop Julio from making an impact on every game he is in.

1) Antonio Brown, Steelers

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Antonio Brown is not the fastest, strongest, or the quickest person on my list. He also is under 6 feet tall.  That didn’t stop him from topping my list.  How? His work ethic is legendary. His route running and hands are flawless. His speed, acceleration, and agility is deceivingly underrated. That combined with a very high football IQ made him an easy decision.

JGOOD.

Shiree’s Best of 2016:QBs

Sports

Another perspective on the NFL’s top quarterbacks

Shiree Talks Too Much!!

The NFL bug has bitten me, as it usually does about this time of year. It’s my least favorite time because basketball is over which leaves an empty window for a few months.

So my boy JGoodwithsports gave me the idea to reflect on last season and compile some lists of top five best and worst of some notable positions in the league.

We’ll start with the Top five quarterbacks heading into this season:

5. Carson Palmer

carson palm Photo courtesy Foxsports.com

Palmer finished the 2015 regular season with 4,671 yards and 35 touchdowns on 342 completions. After leading his squad to a 13-3 season and number one spot atop the NFC West, he went on to take a 49-15 pummeling in the NFC championship game against the number one-seeded Carolina Panthers. Having said that, the Cardinals will open their season at home against a Tom Brady-less New England team, which should…

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Top 5 NFL Running Backs Entering 2016

Chicago, Fantasy Football, Football, New York, NFL, Sports

Note: This list is who is the best wide receiver right now.  Past accolades and accomplishments alone will not move you higher on the list.  This list is based on skill, talent, age, and the ability to perform.

Honorable Mentions: 

Doug Martin (Buccaneers) David Johnson (Cardinals), LeSean McCoy (Bills)

5) Matt Forte, Jets

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Forte is one the most complete running backs in the NFL. From day one he’s showed his elite ball carrying vision.  He has excellent hands and exceptional speed in the open field. He should adjust well in New York’s run heavy offense. 

4) Todd Gurley, Rams

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This phenom has the rare combination of strength and speed. He missed the first 3 games last season due to recovering from a torn ACL he suffered in college. However, once he was fully recovered he made and immediate impact for the Rams Organization.   

3) Jamaal Charles, Chiefs

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When healthy, he’s the fastest running back in the league. Once he sees a hole, it’s “curtains” for the opposing defense. You add his ball carrying vision, agility, and above average hands, you have yourself an elite threat out the backfield. 

2) Le’Veon Bell, Steelers

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When I think of Le’Veon Bell, I see a younger, stronger Matt Forte.  Bell is the most complete running back in the NFL.  He can run and catch effectively.  His pass blocking is exceptional for his position. The torn MCL injury that he suffered last season and the 4-game suspension to begin this season are  the only reasons why he’s number 2 at the moment.

1) Adrian Peterson, Vikings

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This specimen is the LeBron James of the NFL.  He’s strong, fast, elusive, and has a high motor. Similar to recently retired Marshawn Lynch, it usually takes more than one defender to take him down. One such hi light, Peterson threw a Cleveland Browns corner out of bounds as he kept running down the sideline for a touchdown.  Another time he ran through a Pittsburgh Steelers corner as if he wasn’t there to pick up 13 more yards.  He is the elite of running backs and tops my list. 

JGOOD

Top 5 NFL Quarterbacks Entering 2016

Fantasy Football, Football, NFL, Seattle, Sports

Note: This list is who is the best wide receiver right now.  Past accolades and accomplishments alone will not move you higher on the list.  This list is based on skill, talent, age, and the ability to perform.

Honorable Mentions: 

Andrew Luck (Colts), Carson Palmer(Cardinals), Drew Brees (Saints)

5) Ben Roethlisburger, Steelers

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When Jerome Bettis retired “Big Ben” was given the keys to the offense.  Roethlisburger’s passing numbers have gotten better every season.  When Pittsburgh added weapons Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell, Roethlisburger numbers started to excel.  Now the team is a contender again despite a subpar defense.

4) Russell Wilson, Seahawks

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In the past, Seattle’s success came in the running game. However, with Marshawn Lynch and Thomas Rawls being banged up last season, Wilson was forced to win games with his arm.  Doug Baldwin had a career year due to Wilson’s efficiency. You add that with his mobility and intangibles, the newlywed is hard to stop.

3) Aaron Rodgers, Packers

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Rodgers is the most gifted passer in the NFL. As a Chicago Bears fan, I despise him, but he’s phenomenal. Last season, Rodgers struggled without his number one target, Jordy Nelson. With Nelson back, that offense joins the best in the league. We’ll probably see more discount double checks in the near future.
2) Tom Brady, Patriots

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Brady has been elite for the past 12 seasons. System or no system, Brady continues to be consistent and dominate no matter what weapons he has around him.  However, he does have a great weapon this year in Rob Gronkowski.  Brady’s high football IQ and allows him to succeed no matter what obstacles. 

1) Cam Newton, Panthers

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Newton is the true definition of growth. It’s hard to find any flaws.  Physically he is 6’5, 240 pounds. His running ability gives him leverage over the other quarterbacks on this list. Last season he took an big step with his passing despite not having his best wide receiver. He elevated the play for the wide receivers he did have.  Wide receivers who would not be starters on any other team. Without Von Miller, the Carolina Panthers are more than likely your defending champs.

JGOOD 

The Big Fundamental

Basketball, Media, NBA, Rivalry, Sports

Tim Duncan is one of the last NBA players to have played when Michael Jordan was still on the Chicago Bulls. With his retirement, the San Antonio Spurs won’t be the same. His legacy comes second to only a handful, and can definitely make a case to be in “the conversation” for THE GREATEST (particularly at his position). 

In his 19 seasons in the NBA, Duncan has never missed the playoffs. He’s won 5 NBA Titles (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2014), 3-time NBA Finals MVP, 2-time league MVP, 15-time all star and is the master at shooting the ball off the glass. He’s definitely a top 10 player of all-time and can make a case for top 5 in my eyes.

Where do you rank Tim Duncan all-time?

How is his legacy compared to Kobe Bryant?

Compared to Shaq?

Will anybody that’s currently in the NBA be able to surpass his greatness at the Power Forward position?

How will you remember Tim Duncan now that his career is over?

JGOOD

NBA Free Agency: Winners, Losers and Hornets…

Sports

Shiree Talks Too Much!!

Christmas in July is a statement that is ringing true for the NBA’s biggest fans as we’ve immersed ourselves into the saga that is free agency.

The last six days have been filled with top-notch additions for some franchises while others have been left picking up the pieces after some major departures.

Let’s take a look at some of the biggest winners and losers.

stephen-curry-draymond-green-nba-charlotte-hornets-golden-state-warriors-590x900Golden State Warriors- hands down THE biggest winner of free agency. After winning their first title back in 2015, they went on to lose a 3-1 lead over the Cavs and their second straight title. It was a devastating loss, but it didn’t stop the team from moving on and preparing to go at it again next season.

Their biggest acquisition came from the Oklahoma City Thunder when small forward Kevin Durant announced he would leave his home for the last nine years, to join the…

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NBA Free Agency: Biggest Winners And Losers

Basketball, Bay Area, Chicago, City, Media, Miami, NBA, Sports

What a free agency that we are experiencing!! I’ve already mentioned the insane contracts that are being handed out. Now the only question left is who is actually benefiting from this event. Here’s the biggest winners and losers of this summer:

WINNERS

Golden State

Last year the Spurs locked down Lamarcus Aldridge on Independence Day. This year Kevin Durant declared his independence and joined the 2-time reigning Western Conference champs. This is the first time ever that former MVPs are on the same team in their respective primes. The Warriors were on the verge of a repeat without KD. With Durant, this team has dynasty potential (similar to when LeBron joined the Miami Heat).

San Antonio

Even though they missed out on Kevin Durant, they was able to sign Pau Gasol, who they have coveted for years. Having him and Lamarcus Aldridge makes their offensive difficult to stop. They are interchangeable between the low and high post and Gasol is a skillful passer. If Duncan decides to return, they will make a formidable front court. Oh, and not to mention Kawhi Leonard and others.

Indiana

The Pacers was relevant in the Eastern Conference 3 years ago but fell off due to a leg injury by Paul George and roster changes. They had already traded for Thaddeus Young and Jeff Teague before free agency started. Them signing Al Jefferson, along with already having Monte Ellis and their superstar Paul George, has made them a dark horse to get back to competitive status. I’ve heard they may bring back Lance Stephenson as well.

New York

A month ago, the Knicks didn’t look like they would improve too much this summer but that all changed after trading for Derrick Rose. Phil Jackson added Joakim Noah, Courtney Lee, and Brandon Jennings for much needed depth. New York should be a contender in the East. Just when you thought Phil didn’t care about the Knicks organization, he pulls off some impressive transactions.

Chicago

When Derrick Rose was traded, management said that they wanted to get younger and more athletic, but also didn’t want to completely rebuild. They turned around and signed Rajon Rondo and Dywane Wade. That’s definitely goes against what was said  in he first part, but nonetheless the additions with Jimmy Butler makes the Bulls lineup intriguing. The team has the potential to do great things.

LOSERS

Oklahoma City

Losin Kevin Durant makes them the biggest loser of the summer by default. They went from a title contender to a team that will struggle to make the playoffs. What’s even worse, unless Russell Westbrook decides to sign a contract extension, the Thunder would be wise to trade him now so this situation doesn’t happen again a year from now.

LA Clippers

The Clippers missed out on Kevin Durant and resigned Austin Rivers and Jamal Crawford. The bad part about this is that the teams that they have to beat to get to the NBA Finals (Spurs and Warriors) have gotten significantly better while they have stayed the same or gotten slightly worse. Unless DeAndre Jordan learns how to make free throws, the Clippers will always be inferior.

Houston

Look, 2 years ago the Rockets overachieved by going to the Western Conference Finals. Last season they barely sneaked into the playoffs like an 18 year old getting into a club with a fake ID. I don’t care how Dwight Howard was playing or his attitude, losing him and replacing him with Nene is not acceptable. Maybe this team will actually play better if James Harden starts playing defense or limit the isolation plays. Until then, this team is mediocre at best (Good luck making the playoffs next season).

Miami

Pat Riley and the Miami Heat are known to be aggressive when going after superstar free agents. However, striking out with Kevin Durant and then being stubborn and”playing chicken” with Dywane Wade has left Miami without their franchise player. Sure, they have plenty if cap space now and will be big players next summer but for time being, it’s not longer “Wade County” in Miami. Oh and not to mention, there’s still uncertainty on Chris Bosh’s future.

Washington

Last offseason, when the Wizards couldn’t keep Paul Pierce, the wheels started to fall apart (and other parts were dismantled as well in summer). First, Kevin Durant, who is from the D.C. area, doesn’t even request an interview with Washington. Next, the Wizards couldn’t land Dwight Howard or Al Horford. Lastly, they signed Ian Mahinmi (29 years old). He was a backup center for the Pacers making 4 million. The Wizards gave him 64 million over 4 years (16 million per season if the contract paid out equally). I know the contracts this offseason have been outrageous but to over pay an unproven player sounds desperate to me.

Decisions, Decisions

Basketball, Media, NBA, Olympics

We all make decisions in life. Some minor. Some major. Some might only effect yourself and some could impact others. Sometimes it can take days, weeks, months, or even years to decide OR it could take a split second. Regardless of the decisions that you make, just make sure you’re happy about it and can live with it. 

With all that being said, I’m sure the whole United States and parts of the world has heard about Kevin Durant’s career decision. The reactions have been mixed to say the least. He’s been called “weak”, a “coward”, and names far more vulgar than you can imagine. I’ve seen videos of Kevin Durant jerseys and shirts being set on fire and even obliterated with automatic weapons. I can’t say that this is the worst I’ve seen from a decision like this because LeBron’s choice had a similar impact in the city of Cleveland in 2010. 

I was one of the people who got on LeBron for leaving to form the big 3 in Miami. I felt like he ran from the challenge to make his life easier. I thought he lied to the city by promising them a title but bolted. The fact that he went on live TV to announce his decision wasn’t right. It was just unacceptable.

However, now I understand. If LeBron didn’t leave he wouldn’t have learned how to win. Playing with a proven winner like Dwyane Wade molded him. I don’t believe he would have the mental tools to bring a championship to Cleveland. Also, he was already getting criticized for not winning so he put himself in position to win multiple titles and that’s what he did. The same thing applies for Kevin Durant. He spent 8 years with the Thunder  organization (first year as the Supersonics) and only been to the NBA Finals once. When the Heat formed the big 3, Durant mentioned on Twitter that he didn’t understand why you need to team up with other stars. At the time, Kevin thought he would win a championship soon. When you keep losing year after year (meaning not winning a  championship), it will take a toll on you.

Kevin Durant went to the Golden State Warriors because playing with great teammates makes his job easier and he will have the chance to win multiple rings. People are stunned that he joined the team that eliminated him. In my opinion, I don’t think he thought of it in that way. I believe that this team gave him the best chance to win. The guy was already criticizing for losing (like LeBron was). If he chose any other team, he would’ve felt backlash as well (except maybe the Celtics). If he stayed in Oklahoma City and never won a championship, he would’ve been like Karl Malone or Charles Barkley: to win MVP, a Olympic gold medal, but no NBA championship. We always like to compare the great players to Michael Jordan. We know that Michael wouldn’t want to join the competition (he would want to beat them), but we have to realize and accept that KD or LeBron are not MJ.

He made the choice for himself and now he’s has to live with it. More pressure is on him to win and win now. To join the team that had the best regular season record in league history, winning is the only thing that’s acceptable. He can’t please everybody and I think he understands that, and everyone is not going to understand his decision either. At the end of the day, he made a life decision just like the rest of us.

JGOOD