Players Voice Their Opinions Following Monday Night's Seattle, Green Bay Controversy
By: Lily Zhao
This story is just too good to ignore. In the few weeks that the replacement referees in the NFL have been at work, stories upon stories have piled up to make a case against replacing these replacement refs with the original ones. I'm sure Roger Goodell's mailbox is filling up with comments from angry NFL fans.
There were certainly some dubious officiating calls, such as a defensive pass interference call against Green Bay's Sam Shields. That would give Seattle another chance to win the game, only down 12-7 at that point.
But of course, the most talked about play is this one:
A controversial call on a Hail Mary pass from Seahawks QB Russell Wilson to receiver Golden Tate. Footage from the video shows M.D. Jennings gaining possession of the pass, which would make it an interception and seal the victory for the Packers. Then how was it ruled a touchdown by Tate then?
This picture is telling:
Photo credit: Otto Greule Jr, Getty Images
Even they can't get it right... one ref signals a touchdown... the other one does not.
Following the loss, Green Bay Packers players hit Twitter to voice their opinions:
What did you think of this call?
Friday, July 27, 2012
Baylor's Ahmad Dixon on the Bear's upcoming season
By: Lily Zhao
Nickelback Ahmad Dixon was a key player on Baylor's team last season with 89 total tackles. Now that Heisman winner Robert Griffin III has left the Bears, how's the team look this season? I spoke with Dixon to find out.
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Oklahoma State DE Speaks Out About Impending College Football Playoffs
By: Lily Zhao
After last season's BCS Title Game repeat between Alabama and LSU, Oklahoma State was the lone college football team left on the outside looking in. Hear what Oklahoma State's Cooper Bassett says about a potential college football playoff.
New Traditions for the Kansas Jayhawks
By: Lily Zhao
What Notre Dame tradition is new Kansas football coach Charlie Weis bringing over to the Jayhawks? I caught up with the coach at Big 12 Media Day to find out.
After a summer vacation hiatus, Inside the Playbook returns with coverage of this year's Big 12 Media Day... stay tuned!
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Quick Analysis: Boston Celtics v. Philadelphia 76ers Eastern Conference Semifinals Game 1
By: Lily Zhao
After defeating Chicago 4-2, the Philadelphia 76ers head to Boston to face the Celtics who also took care of business against Atlanta 4-2 to advance to the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Here are three quick aspects to focus on tonight during game one of the semifinals series between the Celtics and Sixers:
1. The Tempo
As evidenced in its first round match-up between Chicago, Philadelphia sure can run. This team is one of the better teams in the league scoring in transition, and they like to up the tempo of the game. With a speedy point guard like Jrue Holiday and wings like Andre Iguodala, Evan Turner, Lou Williams and Thaddeus Young, the Sixers are seventh in the league in fast-break points per game. They scored 25 fast-break points in the series-shifting game 2 against Chicago, and then scored another 21 points in the series ending game 6.
(bleacherreport.com)
Now on the other end of the court, Celtics coach Doc Rivers has emphasized the value of the ball and not turning it over. The Sixers average 17.8 points off turnovers in the playoffs, good enough to be rankd fifth in the league. With that said, the Celtics are more prone to turnovers when they are playing at a very high pace, which gives the Sixers the advantage. The Celtics will look to slow down the Sixers into playing ball in the half court because while the C's are a top two team in the league in seven different defensive categories, transition defense is not one of them.
2. Health
(celticshub.com)
Heading into tonight's game, the Sixers have been relatively healthy. The Celtics on the other hand, have been pretty banged up. Paul Pierce has a sprained MCL in his left knee, while Mickael Pietrus is also nursing an ailing knee. Ray Allen's ankle has regressed since he first returned to the court in game 3 of the first round. Avery Bradley's shoulder pains and Kevin Garnett's nagging hip flexor could all present issues for a Boston offense that has struggled to generate consistent points this season.
Because of the C's ailing state, if the Sixers can put the game on full-throttle, get Iguodala and Holiday out on the break, Philadelphia could put Boston in some compromising positions. For the Celtics, someone on the bench will need to be the player scoring the bulk of the points. However, since the bench is more defensive minded, it might need an offensive spark elsewhere.
3. Defense
(espn.com)
Defenses win championships, and that's why both Boston and Philadelphia have shutdown defenses. During the regular season, the two teams ranked second and third respectively in the league in points per game allowed. The Celtics are only allowing a little over 82 points per game, while the Sixers are allowing a little over 84 points per game. Whichever team can find a way to consistently manufacture points will likely advance to the Conference Finals.
Monday, April 30, 2012
AFC East Draft Analysis
By: Lily Zhao
Now that the NFL Draft is over and players are reporting to their respective teams, which AFC East teams did the best job in addressing their needs and came out the winner of the 2012 NFL Draft? Well, the Jets, Bills and Dolphins have been making moves all off-season, especially during the free agency and now the draft to close the gap between themselves and the perennial top-seed, the Patriots.
Here's a look at how each team stands after the draft:
MIAMI DOLPHINS
(NBC.com)
Could the Dolphins have a new Dan Marino in their grasp? They certainly hope so. Former Texas A&M quarterback Ryan Tannehill was the first quarterback taken in the first round by Miami since Marino in 1983. With the Dolphins drafting Tannehill at number 8, they must believe he'll be the franchise quarterback they're looking for. Coming into the season, the reality of having the rookie quarterback jump incumbent starter Matt Moore and the free-agent signing of David Garrard is not likely. However, Tannehill has all the skills to be that starter two or three years down the road. He's already somewhat familiar with offensive coordinator Mike Sherman, who coached him while he was with the Aggies.
But, to make Tannehill that franchise quarterback, he will need the right pieces around him to succeed. With that said, Tannehill will need weapons in the open field to throw to. After trading veteran wide receiver Brandon Marshall, it's boggling why the Dolphins signed another receiver, B.J. Cunningham from Michigan State, in the sixth round. Cunningham had a mediocre career with the Spartans and has had some off-the-field issues. Furthermore, head coach Joe Philbin made sure to get Tannehill lots of protection up front, drafting OT Jonathan Martin, who could play alongside Pro Bowler Jake Long.
Grade: C
Media analysts believe the Miami Dolphins fared the best out of all the other AFC East teams following the first round of the NFL Draft, where the Dolphins drafted Texas A&M quarterback Ryan Tannehill.
NEW YORK JETS
(Newyorkjets.com)
GM Mike Tannenbaum and head coach Rex Ryan decided to draft wide receiver Stephen Hill who impressed during the NFL Combine, running the 40-yard dash in a blazing 4.38 seconds. A standout at Georgia Tech, Hill mastered the triple-option, but now has to translate those skills to the Jets offense. The 6-foot-4, 215-pound receiver also adds a big body to the Jets offense. With great hands and speed, Hill will be among fellow veteran receivers Santonio Holmes, Jeremy Kerley and Dustin Keller. However, New York failed to address two big weaknesses on its offensive line, left guard and right tackle.
Rex Ryan also decided to take a big gamble drafting North Carolina defensive end Quinton Coples. Following an average senior season, Coples failed to deliver on his immense potential. However, the team is hoping he can be the big-time pass rusher they need. But, drafting safeties Antonio Allen and Josh Bush helps the Jets bring in some play-making ability to the team's secondary. At South Carolina, Allen played a safety/linebacker hybrid position and is a sure tackler, especially on the line of scrimmage. What he'll need to work on is learning how to read NFL defenses. Bush recorded six interceptions last season with Notre Dame and has the ability to help the Jets with their weakness at corner, due to his ability to cover tight ends and receivers in the slot, especially in open field.
Grade: B-
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
(sportsagentblog.com)
The Patriots did something no one expected them to do... trade up twice in the first round. Bill Belichick has only done that twice in the past 12 drafts, which should mean he believes Syracuse DE Chandler Jones and Alabama LB Dont'a Hightower will be able to shore up the Patriots defense immediately. Outside of the first round, the Patriots' second-round pick of Illinois defensive back Tavon Wilson was a bit surprising. Wilson recorded 74 tackles and 1 INT last season playing with the Illini.
New England also drafted Nebraska cornerback Alfonzo Dennard who slipped all the way to the seventh round due to an April 21 arrest. Dennard, aside from his off-the-field problems, is a physical cornerback who can play strong at the line and plug up holes. He has good closing speed and good instincts, and the talent to compete for a starting position if he cleans up his act. Last season, he recorded 31 tackles.
Belichick did a solid job in restocking his defense with players who fit the team's profile. If the first-rounders can live up their expectations and if Dennard pans out, this will have been a successful draft for the Patriots.
Grade: B-
BUFFALO BILLS
(postandcourier.com)
The Bills could provide the most competition moving forward this season. Although the team didn't make any flashy picks, the Bills did address their immediate concerns in the secondary and on the offensive line. Following a free agency period where the Bills brought in pass rushers Mario Williams and Mark Anderson, the team also drafted talented cornerback Stephon Gilmore and offensive tackle Cordy Glenn. Gilmore and Glenn have the play-making ability and potential to both be starters this coming season.
Another need Buffalo addressed was on offense. Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick will hopefully have a new wide receiver to throw to in order to take the pressure off receiver Steve Johnson, and that player could be receiver T.J. Graham. The 6'0'', 188-pound receiver out of NC State caught 46 passes for 757 yards and seven touchdowns last season. He has the speed to compete in the NFL, and was NC State's top return man as well.
Grade: B+
AFC East Draft Picks
By: Lily Zhao
Here are all the draft picks for each AFC East team:
Patriots.com reporter Brian Lowe says the Patriots knew what they were doing when they traded up to draft Syracuse DE Chandler Jones.
Friday, April 27, 2012
VIDEO: Bill Belichick Press Conference
By: Lily Zhao
Coach Bill Belichick addresses the media following the Patriot's first round of draft picks Thursday night.
Grading the Patriots first round picks
By: Lily Zhao
Following the first day of draft picks, the Patriots ended up doing something surprising... trading up... twice. Bill Belichick has only traded up in the first round twice in the past 12 drafts. The Patriots gave up a third-round pick to move up from 27 to 21 to acquire Syracuse DE Chandler Jones. The team then acquired its 25th pick from the Denver Broncos, selecting Alabama LB Dont'a Hightower.
The question now is how these two defensive players fit into the Patriots defensive scheme. Last season, New England ran a 4-3 out of necessity due to the lockout, which severely shortened the team's ability to workout during the offseason. However, as the season progressed, the defense reverted back to its old 3-4 defensive scheme. And now with Jones and Hightower coming in, it seems the Patriots' defensive scheme could revert back to the 4-3 scheme.
But can Jones and Hightower make an impact next season? Here are my grades for the Patriots' first round selections.
No. 21: CHANDLER JONES, DE, Syracuse
The 6'5'', 265-pound defensive end shot up the draft boards late in the first round. His versatility on the field and his wingspan give New England a big boost on the defensive side of the ball. The Patriots ranked 31st in the league in yards allowed and 14th in the league in sacks last season. Jones was known at Syracuse for his ability to defend the pass rush, but his run defense has been extremely underrated. He has the ability crash the line inside to stop short yardage plays and can frequently get into the backfield to disrupt the quarterback. Furthermore, Jones is versatile. He can play the defensive end position or outside linebacker. His skill set will allow Belichick to move him all over the field. However, his absence in five games last season due to an injury sustained in the Orange's game against Wake Forest means he might be a little raw and could need help adjusting to playing alongside veterans like Vince Wilfork and Jonathan Fanene.
*Does Chandler Jones fit in with the Patriots?Watch the video analysis here.
Grade: B+
No. 25: DONT'A HIGHTOWER, LB, Alabama
(bleacherreport.com)
This 6'4'', 260-pound linebacker was one of the leaders of National Champion Alabama's top-ranked defense last season. He uses his size to plug up the interior gaps on the line due to his great speed and ability to shed blocks. He can also get to the ball-carrier, recording four sacks last season. Furthermore, his versatility on defense and his know-how of picking up on complex schemes will be crucial as a Patriots player. As a student of Nick Saban, one of Belichick's closest friends, Hightower has been trained well for his trip to New England. If he can translate his skills well to the pros, the linebacker corps for the Patriots might be shaping up to be Jerod Mayo, Brandon Spikes and Dont'a Hightower.
*Can Dont'a Hightower make an impact his rookie season? Watch the video analysis here.
Grade: A-
VIDEO: Mike Reiss talks Patriots offensive draft needs
By: Lily Zhao
ESPNBoston.com's Mike Reiss spoke to me about what the Patriots need offensively, following the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Mock Draft: New England Patriots 2012
By: Lily Zhao
It's no question the Patriots need defensive players in this year's NFL draft. The main concerns on defense? Well, it comes down to the secondary, mainly the safety, cornerback and defensive end positions. However, New England also needs someone on special teams and on the offensive line. The Patriots have two picks late in the first round, and here are the potential picks I believe the Patriots should take.
Pick #27: New England needs to go with a defensive guy is versatile and has the skills to rush the passer. Defensive lineman Kendall Reyes from Connecticut is a guy who I think will still be left for the Patriots to snag at this pick. And although he will probably be gone this late into the first round, Alabama lineback Dont'a Hightower is another great prospect on defense. He is one of the best rushing the passer and has the natural strength to run through blocks. He can change direction extremely well and runs well downfield.
Pick #31: Janoris Jenkins out of North Alabama could be another player the Patriots should look out for. Despite his troubled past in Florida, Jenkins is one of the best cover corners in the draft. He might be a risky pick, but many scouts have said Jenkins has put his past behind him. If the Patriots draft him, he could do wonders in the backfield, especially since the Patriots were ranked 31st in pass rush last year.
Wildcard Pick:Brandon Boykin out of Georgia could help the Patriots on special teams, especially kickoff returns. He has the speed to out run most defenders and has the hands to play on defense as well. Look for him, along with offensive lineman Brandon Washington from Miami to get some recognition. The Patriots needs to add depth on the offensive line and Washington adds range. He has the ability to and experience at both guard spots and left tackle and has improved manning the blind side.
Thoughts and Predictions: Patriots Draft Needs
By: Lily Zhao
As the NFL Draft nears, the New England Patriots have been given six picks all before the fifth round. What are the team's needs? Will they even use all six picks or will Bill Belichick trade up or trade down? Here are my thoughts and predictions for the Patriots for this year's NFL Draft.
1. This year's draft is all about defense. Last year, the Patriots were all about the offense and this year Belichick needs to focus on the defensive side of the ball. New England needs to address their secondary issues, specifically at cornerback and safety, especially since the team was ranked 31st in pass defense. I expect the Pats to focus their #27 and #31 draft picks on getting defensive players.
(nfldraftmonsters.com)
2. Another thing to keep an eye out for is what the Patriots do if they choose to elect a player on the offensive side of the ball. Out of all the positions, a receiver who has the talent and ability to develop into Belichick's offense will be someone to look out for. I think Greg Childs out of Arkansas has the height, speed and hands to be a potential pick on offense. However, I think he goes late in the fourth or fifth round, so if Belichick trades down, this pick could work.
3. There really are no immediate team needs. During the free agency period, Belichick signed 14 players, which was the most in the league. However, looking down the road, Belichick needs to build the team, not so much collect the most talented players out there. He took a chance at drafting Brandon Spikes and Aaron Hernandez later in the draft and that paid off. So, with no picks between the fifth and seventh round this year, I expect Belichick to trade down to get some picks late. By doing so, he can get some players with talent, value and can create a sustainable culture.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Top 5 Weekly Countdown
By: Lily Zhao
Here are the top sports stories this week on my "Top 5 Weekly Countdown":
(sports.yahoo.com)
1. Pat Summit has stepped aside as the head coach of the Tennessee Lady Volunteers. The 59-year-old has guided the Lady Vols to eight national titles and has kept the Tennessee program in the top echelon of women's basketball. This move comes less than a year after her diagnosis of early onset dementia and Alzheimers. Summit coached at Tennessee for 38 years.
2. It's "The Decision-Kentucky Wildcats Edition". The starting five who helped Kentucky win 2012 men's basketball championship will now disband. Kentucky's entire starting lineup of freshmen Anthony Davis, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and Marquis, and sophomore Terrence Jones and Doron Lamb have declared for the NBA draft. The group dominated the Southeastern Conference, going unbeaten during the regular season and was the first number one overall since Florida in 2007 to win the NCAA men's basketball title. The five youngsters will join seniors Darius Miller and Eloy Vargas in the draft.
3. It seems to be a southern tradition. The defending BCS national champions Alabama Crimson Tide's $30,000 crystal BCS trophy was shattered earlier this week. The Coaches' Trophy shattered when a player's father got his foot caught on a rug that sat beneath the trophy display. Alabama joins Florida (2008) and Florida State (2004) who have also had their glass trophies shattered following a national title.
4. You can find more "Linsanity" and "Tebowing" in Time magazine's "Top 100 Most Influential People in the World." New York Knicks point guard Jeremy Lin and New York Jets quarterback Tim Tebow were both selected to be part of the prestigious list Time Magazine has every year.
5. It's getting pretty "Goonish" in the NHL. Pittsburgh Penguins' James Neal has been suspended for one game after knocking down an unsuspecting Sean Couturier with a hard check, while Craig Adams and Arron Asham are also suspended. Phoenix Coyotes' Raffi Torres was also in hot water following his hit on Chicago's Marian Hossa, who had to later be carried off on a stretcher. Torres has been suspended indefinitely.
As the NFL Draft draws near, Bill Belichick and his staff will be evaluating which positions which will need the most help. What this means is players are not guaranteed anything until the start of the season.
Guys like Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez pretty much have their positions set in stone. But what about the rest of the team? These position battles will be changed even more as more players get drafted in late April, but as now, here are some key position battles to pay attention to heading into the summer.
(Kelvin Ma)
Wide Receiver: Following the team's Super Bowl controversy, Belichick took a deep look at his receiving corps and signed Brandon Lloyd, Anthony Gonzalez and re-signed Deion Branch to give Tom Brady some more targets to throw to this season. New England has nine receivers, with only two--Wes Welker and Lloyd--guaranteed to make the starting roster. Matthew Slater and Julian Edelman are coming into their own, but the rest of the receiving corps has been inconsistent. Chad Ochocinco has not lived up to the enormous expectations he had coming into New England, Donte Stallworth's production has declined to the point where he's only caught 41 passes since leaving the team in 2007, and Anthony Gonzalez is injury prone. Tiquan Underwood was released days before the Super Bowl and Britt Davis, the late-season practice squad pickup, faces even longer odds of making his presence on the field. This summer, can Stallworth prove he still has the speed and quickness he used to possess? Can Ochocinco learn the Patriots playbook by heart? Those are some of the key questions heading into the summer.
Running Back:BenJarvus Green-Ellis was the workhorse Belichick needed running the ball. Now that he's gone to Cincinnati, that leaves Stevan Ridley, Danny Woodhead and Shane Vereen at the position. It seems Ridley will be the best option to replace Green-Ellis. A star at LSU, Ridley played substantial minutes last season, averaging over 4 yards per carry. He has a similar physical running style as Green-Ellis; however, fumbles have been his issue. If Ridley can hold onto the ball, he could challenge Woodhead for the starting position.
(nfldotcom.com)
Cornerback: Having the second-worst pass defense in the league last season has forced Belichick to upgrade the secondary completely. Kyle Arrington, Devin McCourty and Ras-I Dowling are the top three favorites heading into training camp to be the starter. However, upstart Sterling Moore could dial up the competition at the cornerback position. The undrafted rookie will have to prove his Cinderella rookie season wasn't just a one and done deal. The Patriots also signed Will Allen from the Miami Dolphins. At 33, Allen still has the quickness and hands necessary to compete in the backfield. Rumors are also swirling in New England about the possibility of signing Northern Alabama's Janoris Jenkins. Jenkins was a sure first rounder when he was at Florida, but a slew of run-ins with the law make him a risky pick.
The Top Three: Florida Gators head into the season feeling more confident
By: Lily Zhao
Here are three points of emphasis for the Gators heading into its annual Orange and Blue spring game.
1. One year later, he's one year wiser. It was a tumultuous first year for first-time head coach Will Muschamp, but the head Gator still has faith the team will be back in full force this season.
(bleacherreport.com)
"The physicality of our football team is much better than it was a year ago," Muschamp told the Gainesville Sun. "I can assure you of that. It needs to carry over to game day."
That was one of the points Muschamp emphasized heading into the back part of the 2011 season. Following a disastrous October month where the Gators went 0-4 and then ended its regular season losing 24-17 to archrival Florida State, Muschamp called his players soft.
He said they were a bend and break team with no sense of toughness.
Since then the team has been in the weight room working under a new regiment from new strength and conditioning coordinator Jeff Dillman.
"The kids see themselves getting stronger. It's carried over to spring practice. It's fun to watch Jon Bostic hit a guy in a hole and knock him back," Muschamp said. "Those are things where guys are seeing improvements."
2. Saturday's spring game will feature a spring rejuvenation.
This Gators team will feature fresh new faces on both sides of the ball. Fans who attend will be looking to see which quarterback, Jacoby Brissett or Jeff Driskel, can take the reigns. However, don't expect to know who will start the opener until the week of the first game.
Looking at the defensive side of the ball, UF's depth is much better this spring than last year. However, starters Dominique Easley and Lerentee McCray will be out for the spring following injuries. Their absence means players like junior linebacker Ronald Powell will get another chance to shine. This defense will once again be anchored by Jon Bostic.
On the offensive side of the ball, freshman wide receiver Latroy Pittman has impressed the coaches. The offense has been the main source of problems in the past, especially in the wide receiver corps. Aside from Andre Debose, Quinton Dunbar, Frankie Hammond Jr. and Solomon Patton, this is another area to pay attention to during the Orange and Blue game. This particular offensive unit has been plagued by inconsistent play and youth, so the scrimmage will be the first time to see young wide receivers like Ja'Juan Story and Pittman play.
3. There's a new man wearing the iconic No. 15. Loucheiz Purifoy, the sophomore cornerback from Pensacola, FL is carrying high expectations while wearing Tim Tebow's number.
(buckeyextra.com)
Purifoy is currently listed as a starter opposite Marcus Roberson, and is expected to shine in the secondary. Purifoy played in all 13 games last season, but an injury in training camp stunted his growth early on.
The 6-foot-1, 186-pound cornerback made an impact on kickoff coverage, recording a team-best 22 special teams tackles.
In the Gator Bowl against Ohio State, Purifoy had a career-best five tackles and caused his first career turnover. Expected to play in the Orange and Blue game, it'll be time for Purifoy to show he can handle the legendary number he wears.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Patriots Draft Analysis: Defensive Needs
By: Lily Zhao
It seems Bill Belichick is taking after the mantra: "Defense wins championships." Here are three areas of concern the Patriots need to fill for the 2012 season.
(boltbeat.com)
Defensive End/Outside Linebacker:Rob Ninkovich is holding down the fort for the Patriots on pass rush. His partners Mark Anderson and Andre Carter will be unreliable, as Anderson is gone to the Buffalo Bills while Carter is a free agent, recovering from a torn quad. Anderson and Carter combined for 10 sacks last year. Because the defense transitioned to a 4-3 defense, it will be crucial come draft day to get a disruptive pass rusher. While the pass rush for the Patriots was not too effective last season, it did improve their sack total and it was important in limiting opponents on third-down. A defensive end like Alabama's Courtney Upshaw could one of the cures for this ailing part of the New England defense.
(espn.com)
Safety: While Sergio Brown stepped up at the safety position and Matthew Slater elevated his play late in the season, the Patriots need depth. While Patriots helped this position by signing former San Diego Charger Steve Gregory in free agency, they will need more help. Last season, New England was brought down by subpar safety play, as well as the early releases of James Sanders and Brandon Meriweather. Reliable safety Patrick Chung was also hampered by injuries the first half of the season. Looking toward the draft, another member of the Crimson Tide could help elevate this position. Mark Barron knows how to read a defense and has excellent wrap around tackling skills.
(yahoosports.com)
Defensive Line: For the past couple of years, the Patriots have been tested at this position. Guys like Brandon Deaderick, Kyle Love and Myron Pryor do not constitute a stout defensive line because they're essentially the B team. Looking at the current depth chart, New England should bring in a young, disruptive force that can be counted on to contribute big-time snaps. Vince Wilfork, Shaun Ellis and Gerard Warren are all in their thirties and their initial burst off the line isn't as good as it was a couple of years ago. Guys like Connecticut's Kendall Reyes and LSU's Michael Brockers could give the defensive trenches a boost.
Patriots Draft Analysis: Offensive Needs
By: Lily Zhao
There are still some offensive holes that need to be filled for the New England Patriots.
Branch caught five touchdowns and 51 catches for 702 yards last season. He will join the a deep wide receiver corps that added free agents Brandon Lloyd, Anthony Gonzalez and Donte Stallworth.
Fiammetta spent last season with the Dallas Cowboys, while Larsen played two different positions for the Denver Broncos.
Despite what looks like a talented offensive corp, especially if you add them in with Wes Welker, Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez, it may seem that defense is what Bill Belichick should be focusing on for the upcoming NFL Draft.
However, it looks like the Patriots may still go wide for the draft.
The Patriots only have a hand-full of players capable of creating huge chunks of offensive plays in 2012. Wes Welker is carrying the franchise tag and considered the best hands player on the squad, his Super Bowl controversy aside. Lloyd, who was one of Sam Bradford's main targets last season at St. Louis, has the acceleration and ball awareness to become a reliable receiver for Tom Brady.
What the Patriots need to do this off-season is acquire players with talent and developmental depth.
They will also try to buck the notion that the team does not know how to develop wideouts following the draft. Taylor Price, Brandon Tate and Bethel Johnson were prime examples of either coaching, the New England system or a combination of something else gone wrong.
Coming into the draft, Belichick will have six draft picks, with two coming in the first two rounds. That means the Patriots could target a player like Georgia Tech's Stephen Hill or Rutgers' Mohamed Sanu.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
The Art of the Stolen Base
By: Lily Zhao
What tools do some of the best baserunners use to steal bases? I went down to Major League Baseball's spring training to find out.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Top-ranked Boston College dominates Minnesota-Duluth for a berth in the Frozen Four
Find out what tools some of the best baserunners use to steal bases. The video is coming soon.
Check out how Jimmy Rollins steals bases, below.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Jimmy Rollins, the Masterful Thief
By: Lily Zhao
There's an ongoing crime wave in baseball, and Philadelphia Phillies Jimmy Rollins is right in the thick of it. Runners like him are stealing... well, stealing bases that is.
(danny-wild.com)
For the past couple of years, base stealers like Rollins have been changing the game of baseball. The sport is slowly moving away from purely muscle and power, to one of quickness and stealth.
The three-time Gold Glove and former MVP shortstop entered his rookie season in 2001 and accumulated one of his most successful seasons yet. That year, he stole 46 bases and along with it, stole America's heart.
From then on, Rollins was known as That Guy, the one who stole lots of bases and got away with it. But the 33-year-old ball player isn't just quick, he's efficient.
Entering his 2011 season, Rollins had stolen 343 bases against just 70 times being caught, for an astounding 83.05% success rate. His rate of success ranked him 15th all time in baseball history for anyone with 400 attempts or more.
(nextlevelballplayer.com)
Rollins said his technique takes time and practice.
"You have to study, you have to know who is behind the plate, the situation, the hitter," Rollins said. "You [have to] know what the count on the batter is because that might dictate what he throws, so you [have to] take that all into consideration."
All this preparation starts in the clubhouse before games, where he evaluates the opposing pitcher's habits. He then analyzes the speed and accuracy of the opposing catcher's throws to second base, since that will determine how long he will actually have to get to that base.
"You go out there, you've done your homework, you get your read and if you see a sign that you know you've been studying, you take off," Rollins said.
But, that's if everything works out perfectly. Sometimes the key is to just wing it and go.
"Sometimes you throw it out the window," he said. "You know at the game and it's on the line and the situation calls for it... but you better be safe, you know, the more you're out, the more you cost your team some runs."
But, as he got older and his legs slowed, the questions and doubts fans had about Rollins' potential upside was amassing. In 2010, those doubts came to a head.
(usatoday.com)
That season, Rollins missed nearly three months of action due to calf, hamstring and foot injuries. In his 350 at-bats, he hit just .243 with eight home runs. However, what was more damaging was the number of bases he stole that year: 17. That was a significant decline from 2009, where Rollins stole almost double that amount, despite having another bad offensive season on top of that.
From then on, Rollins was forced to face many detractors. He doesn't get on base enough. He pops up too much. He tends to swing too early in the count. Five years removed from his MVP, he's still trying to be That Guy.
But this season, with many questions about what the Phillies' infield will even look like--key players Chase Utley and Ryan Howard are still injured--Rollins wants to be that guy to step up.
He wants to be that guy who can steal bases again, but most importantly steal back America's heart.
CLICK BELOW to hear what Rollins had to say about his expectations for himself and his team this season:
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Gators send Norfolk St. back to Earth, dominate 84-50
By: Lily Zhao
(Eric Francis/Getty Images)
When the clock ran out, so did the hopes of upset-minded Norfolk State.
No No. 15 seed has ever made it to the Sweet Sixteen, and the Spartans were no different.
Up 6-4 early in the first quarter, the Florida Gators went on a 25-0 run full of stifling defense, back-to-back three's and domination of the boards.
Kenny Boynton scored 20 points as the Gators' balanced attack led to an 84-50 dominating win against the Cinderella Spartans. This is the second straight year that Billy Donovan's club has reached the regional semifinals.
The Gators relied on the law of averages. Having made only 4-of-23 3-pointers against Virginia on Friday, the Gators made sure to make the pendulum swing the opposite way in this game, making 10 three's on the night.
While Norfolk State shook up the West Regional with an upset of No. 2 seed Missouri, the Spartan's inability to get out of foul trouble and sink shots led to a 28 point deficit at halftime.
In the second half, things would get no better. Kyle O'Quinn the heralded star in the Spartan's 63-61 win last Friday, did not show up when he was needed. O'Quinn ended the game with a disappointing 4 points and 3 rebounds.
Florida led by as many as 38 points as five Gators finished in double figures. Along with Boynton, Erving Walker had 15 points, Bradley Beal scored 14, Mike Rosario scored 12 and Erik Murphy contributed 10.
With this win, the Gators are off to Phoenix to face No. 3 seeded Marquette this Thursday.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
First Week of Spring Training: Philadelphia Phillies
By: Lily Zhao
(phillysportsblogs.com)
SEASON PREVIEW: The 2011 Philadelphia Phillies set a franchise record of 102 victories, winning the NL East division for the fifth straight year. With the return of aces Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels, the Phillies will be strong on the mound once again. A strong veteran core returns, but the team is aging and still plagued by injuries. Star slugger Ryan Howard is recovering from his last Achilles tendon tear, while second baseman Chase Utley is battling knee problems. This season, the NL East looks to be top heavy. Aside from the Phillies, the Atlanta Braves bring in a strong pitching staff, but questions remain if young hitters Jason Heyward and Freddie Freeman can generate enough offense. There is also excitement from Miami Marlins fans. With the signing of Jose Reyes, a brand new name, manager, ballpark and higher expectations, it seems the Marlins are serious in being competitive in the league.
ON THE MOVE: Catcher Sebastian Valle's statistics last season were sufficient enough to supplant himself as Carlos Ruiz's possible replacement. With Ruiz likely to become a free agent after the 2012 season, Valle's defensive upside and work ethic is an encouraging sign for Phillies fans.
Phillippe Aumont is another player looking to make a splash this season. He was one of the players Philadelphia received when they traded Cliff Lee to the Mariners after the 2009 season. He initially struggled to adapt to the major leagues, but in a relief role last season, dominated with his fastball and curveball.
(ESPN.com)
KEY BATTLE: Pitcher Dontrelle Willis is also bidding for a starting position in an already star-studded pitching rotation. Signing Willis was a low risk move for manager Charlie Manuel, but it is still to be seen if Willis can be the player of old. In less than two innings during last Tuesday's game against the Houston Astros, he gave up five hits and five earned runs. Willis is also nursing a sore forearm which is affecting his ball delivery.
NEW FACES: Boston Red Sox fans can now see Jonathan Papelbon closing another door. After many years under the microscope in Boston, the closer is able to get a fresh start in Philadelphia. Papelbon signed a four year, $50 million contract and has already taken a step forward in Philly by pleasing the fans.
For those Phillies fans who remember Jim Thome, voted the nicest man in the MLB, he's back in the lineup. His second stint in Philadelphia includes a $1.25 million, one-year contract. Manuel's plan is to slowly get Thome back in the rotation. The 41-year-old hit .256 with 15 home runs and 50 RBIs with the Minnesota Twins and Cleveland Indian last season. Thome will be expected to add power off the bench and could be called upon to play first base because of the injury to Howard.
(blogs.suntimes.com)
BREAKING OUT:John Mayberry Jr. who hit 15 home runs last season in just 267 at-bats will be expected to fill the void that Raul Ibanez left. The Phillies need a right-handed power player to balance out a very left-handed lineup. Mayberry's maturity and development last season helped him move forward in plate development and refining his swing. For a team that is aging and needs a spark of offense, Mayberry could very well make 2012 his breakout year.
ALL EYES ON: As good as the trio of Halladay, Lee and Hamels are, the Phillies will need to get production out of their fourth and fifth starters. The final two spots will presumably go to Vance Worley and Joe Blanton. However, both Blanton and Worley still have areas of improvement they need to work on. Blanton gave up two hits and struck out one in two scoreless innings. Worley gave up two runs in his first start and is working on a new approach to his changeup.
