SmithNewton fun, but what about facts? NFL Nation Blog ESPN One more item on this Alex SmithCam Newton thing, and some will say the story has played out. Wait, too late for that. "Can't believe this is still a big story," niners4life12 wrote in the comments of our Monday item. Big story? Nope. Fun story? Yep. Educational one? Not yet,Cheap Derrick Mason Jersey, but we can make it one with assists from the NFC West mailbag and ESPN Stats & Information. Dan from Salt Lake City read Smith's comments and wanted to see winning percentages for 300yard passers. "Is it true that if you are throwing for more than 300 yards in a game, your odds of winning become significantly less?" Dan asks. Not in the increasingly passhappy NFL, it turns out. 300yard Passer WL RecordsYr.LoneHigher of 2All2011423171766552010343667474920095626656737All132931929180141Teams with 300yard passers have gone 180141 over the past three seasons, according to Jeremy Mills of ESPN Stats & Information. That includes 13293 in games featuring a single 300yard passer. Fortyeight other games featured two 300yard passers, and in those, the QBs with fewer yards went 2919, affirming the adage that losing teams pass to keep pace. These wonlost records, displayed in the chart, mesh with NFL trends in recent seasons. Teams are relying more heavily on the passing game by choice,Cheap Derrick Burgess Jersey, not just when falling behind. Passoriented teams are winning. The 49ers excused themselves from the trend last season. They joined the Jacksonville Jaguars as the only NFL teams without a 300yard passer. One question this season is whether the 49ers' emphasis on adding offensive weapons Randy Moss, Mario Manningham, A.J. Jenkins and LaMichael James are among the newcomers will produce a more aggressive approach offensively. The NFC West in general hasn't caught on to the proactive passing trend. The Seattle Seahawks went 02 when producing a 300yard passer, with Tarvaris Jackson racking up yardage while playing from behind against Atlanta and Cincinnati. The St. Louis Rams were also 02 with a 300yard passer, losing to the Giants and Green Bay by wide margins even though Sam Bradford combined for 659 yards in those games. The Arizona Cardinals were 30 with a 300yard passer (20 with John Skelton, 10 with Kevin Kolb). They prevailed in two of those games against Carolina in the opener and against Cleveland in Week 15 thanks largely to clutch punt returns from Patrick Peterson. This was not a division marked by freewheeling passing attacks, in other words. Smith came closest to 300 yards during the 2011 regular season with a 291yard game against Philadelphia. The 49ers fell behind by 20 points in that game before rallying for a 2423 victory. The Eagles' Michael Vick passed for 416 yards and lost what was, by any measure,Cheap President Obama Jersey, a strange game. Smith did not throw for all those yards by design. He did so the oldfashioned way: out of necessity. It was fitting, I thought, when Smith passed for 299 yards instead of 300 or more during the 49ers' playoff victory over Drew Brees (462 yards) and the New Orleans Saints. Again, that game was a strange one. It featured Smith running 28 yards for a critical touchdown. But the 49ers did take a more aggressive approach to offense at various points, including on Smith's 49yard touchdown strike to Vernon Davis. The 49ers proved all season that dominating defense and special teams could carry a limited offense to the brink of a Super Bowl. “ ” 49ers QB Alex Smith Smith's comment about 300yard games being overrated was consistent with the 49ers' experience. San Francisco went 31 during the regular season when the opposing passer reached 300 yards, beating Vick, Ben Roethlisberger (330 yards) and Eli Manning (311). Dallas' Tony Romo needed overtime to reach 345 yards as the Cowboys overcame a 10point fourthquarter deficit to win at Candlestick Park in Week 2. Of course, Smith was not addressing every team that had a 300yard passer recently. He was referring specifically to the Carolina Panthers "going nohuddle the entire second half" and not winning much even though Newton "threw for a lot of 300yard games." This is where Smith erred. Newton finished his rookie season with only three 300yard games, all in the first four weeks of the season. The Panthers were 03 in those games, each decided by seven or fewer points. Carolina allowed a punt return for a touchdown in two of those defeats. That could help explain why the Panthers needed Newton to pass for so many yards. Newton did what he had to do to keep his team competitive. Meanwhile, Smith benefited from the 49ers' dominant special teams, including when Ted Ginn Jr. scored on two return touchdowns against Seattle in Week 1. The 49ers ranked 31st in thirddown conversion rate (the Panthers were 10th). Their touchdown percentage in the red zone fell to 40.7, the lowest for a 49ers team since 2005 (the Panthers were at 57.9 percent, seventhbest in the NFL and the highest rate for a Carolina team since 2005). Newton, who also rushed for 706 yards and 14 touchdowns, was often carrying his offense up a hill and falling just short. Smith was often guiding his offense down a hill and succeeding. Both did what they had to do. Smith was correct when he downplayed yards per game as a measure for QB play. But we already knew that wasn't always a reliable guide. The NFL hasn't determined its passing champ by yardage since 1937. Still, a spike in passing yardage for the 49ers could be a welcome development, provided it reflected the additional opportunities that come with converting more consistently on third down. That's something we can all agree upon. This is the honest truth: I could absolutely care less on yards per game. I think that's a totally overblown stat. Because if you're losing games in the second half, guess what? You're like the Carolina Panthers and you're going nohuddle the entire second half and, yeah, Cam Newton threw for a lot of 300yard games, that's great. You're not winning, though. The author introduces： QM Cheap Cam Newton Jersey on sale 851 YJ Cheap John Lynch Jersey on sale 253 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

Matt Cassel getting used to new center NFL Nation Blog ESPN As Matt Cassel prepares to play in Brian Dabolls offense,Cheap Shaun Alexander Jersey, the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback is dealing with another major adjustment. Facing a new rear end. The Chiefs are transitioning from center Casey Wiegmann to secondyear center Rodney Hudson. Cassel and Hudson have spent major time this offseason, getting acclimated with each other. So far, so good, says Cassel. "Its always different when you have a different rear end in front of you, so to speak," Cassel said in quotes distributed by the team. "I cant say enough about Rodney and what hes done so far." Cassel praised Hudson for his ability to mentally grasp the new position. "Hes done a great job adjusting so far and hes been handling a lot of calls up front, and hes done a great job recognizing front and blitzes and doing all that, so like I said, hes caught up to speed right now and I expect good things from him," Cassel said of the Hudson,Cheap Green Bay Packers Jerseys, a secondround pick from Florida State in 2011. One of the reasons why Cassel is confident in Hudson is because he saw Hudson learn from Wiegmann, who has played more than 11,Cheap Donald Driver Jersey,000 consecutive snaps. He is expected to retire. "Casey Wiegmann is a guy that had an unbelievable career, was a staple for us these last few years, a guy with tremendous experience," Cassel said. "Now, Rodney is coming up and hes done a great job so far, and hes also learned a lot from Casey. I think it was a great year for him to be able to learn from such a professional like Casey." The author introduces： GU Cheap Carson Palmer Jersey on sale 880 QR Cheap Jason Witten Jersey on sale 343 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

,Cheap Denarius Moore Jersey Could be time for Aldon Smith to reassess NFL Nation Blog ESPN It's looking like Aldon Smith might be wise to alter his social life in the interests of his career and overall wellness. SmithLess than six months after incurring drunkendriving charges in Miami, the San Francisco 49ers' talented outside linebacker incurred injuries during an incident,Cheap New York Giants Jerseys, this one near the team's headquarters, that left two others shot and one stabbed. We do not yet know whether Smith has done anything wrong. We can safely say he's put himself in dangerous situations. This time, Smith things reportedly got out of hand at "large house party" in Santa Clara. The stakes are especially high for Smith given the lifestyle afforded NFL players with the ability to collect sacks the way Smith did as a rookie (14 in 2011). It's time for Smith to reassess before he's associated with something more serious. "(We) are aware that Aldon Smith incurred minor injuries during an incident last night,Cheap Maurkice Pouncey Jersey," a 49ers statement said. "We are in contact with Aldon and thankful that his injuries were not more serious and that he is recovering comfortably. The 49ers are also in communication with local authorities as they gather information regarding the incident, and will reserve further comment at this time." The author introduces： ZK San Francisco 49ers Jerseys on sale 036 XJ Cheap Plaxico Burress Jersey on sale 381 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

,Cheap Reggie Nelson Jersey No room for Brian Xanders in Denver NFL Nation Blog ESPN The threeman leadership structure is Denver is down to two. General manager Brian Xanders is no longer with the team. Denver leader John Elway and Xanders told the Denver Post that the team and Xanders have mutually parted ways. Elway told the paper the Broncos are streamlining their leadership structure and Xanders will not be replaced. I think the move was made because Elway is comfortable in his role. The legendary quarterback became Denvers primary football decision maker in Jan. 2011. Elway released this statement: "Brian deserves a tremendous amount of credit and recognition for the contributions he made to the Broncos during his four years with the organization. His hard work and dedication played a major role in the recent success of our team, most notably last seasons division title and playoff win. "Brian and I had a very productive conversation earlier today. Although it was an extremely difficult decision,Cheap Dolphins Jerseys, it became clear that it was best for both the Broncos and Brian to part ways. I believe a change to the structure of our football operations will be mutually beneficial, allowing the department to improve its efficiency while affording Brian the opportunity to continue his promising career with another NFL team. "My responsibility to the Broncos and our fans is to build a championship football team. The setup we have throughout every phase of our football operations will better position us for success going forward. "Making a change with someone of Brians caliber is not easy. I thank him for everything he did for the Broncos and wish him all the best as he continues his career." In the past year it became clear the Broncos were top heavy. Elway and coach John Fox have a terrific working relationship and there is a great comfort level between the two. Simply put, there just wasnt enough for Xanders to do. Elway is essentially the general manager and Xanders role was decreasing. After a little more than a year into the ElwayFox relationship,Cheap Kevin Kolb Jersey, the Broncos felt comfortable moving on with a smaller leadership core. Mike Shanahan brought in Xanders in 2008 and was promoted to general manager early in the Josh McDaniels era in 2009. When Elway became the leader in Denver, Xanders future was clear. This decision is another sign that the Broncos are Elway's team. The author introduces： PB Cheap Andre Tippett Jersey on sale 189 ZA on sale 020 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

Kansas City Chiefs schedule analysis NFL Nation Blog ESPN Breakdown: Tony Gonzalez is coming back to Kansas City in Week 1. In his first meeting against his former team, the superstar tight end will try to ruin the opening game of the permanent Romeo Crennel era. The Chiefs have an interesting stretch after their Oct. 21 bye. They host Oakland on Oct. 28 and then play in a primetime game at San Diego four games later on Nov. 1. After a long layoff,Cheap Robert Meachem Jersey, the Chiefs are back on prime time in their lone Monday night game in Pittsburgh on Nov. 12. The Chiefs will face former head coach Todd Haley, who is now the Steelers offensive coordinator. Then, the Chiefs have three straight home games, against Cincinnati, Denver and Carolina before playing three of their final four on the road. Complaint department: The Chiefs schedule has two trouble spots. Playing backtoback primetime roadies at San Diego and Pittsburgh is not ideal. Having one home game in the final quarter of the season is challenging as well. The Chiefs must enter the final stretch is good shape. BerryJohnson meeting: There will be some juice involved in the Chiefs Week 2 trip to Buffalo. Kansas City star safety Eric Berry suffered a torn ACL when he was hit by Stevie Johnson in Week 1 last season. Berry has openly questioned the hit. Johnson has denied that it was dirty. Expect emotions to be high. Chiefs RegularSeason Schedule (All times Eastern) Week 1: Sunday, Sept. 9, Atlanta, 1:00 PM Week 2: Sunday, Sept. 16, at Buffalo, 1:00 PM Week 3: Sunday, Sept. 23, at New Orleans, 1:00 PM Week 4: Sunday, Sept. 30, San Diego, 1:00 PM Week 5: Sunday, Oct. 7, Baltimore, 1:00 PM Week 6: Sunday, Oct. 14, at Tampa Bay, 1:00 PM Week 7: BYE Week 8: Sunday, Oct. 28, Oakland, 4:05 PM Week 9: Thursday, Nov. 1, at San Diego, 8:20 PM Week 10: Monday, Nov. 12, at Pittsburgh, 8:30 PM Week 11: Sunday, Nov. 18, Cincinnati,Cheap Art Monk Jersey, 1:00 PM Week 12: Sunday, Nov. 25, Denver, 1:00 PM Week 13: Sunday,Buccaneers Jerseys, Dec. 2, Carolina, 1:00 PM Week 14: Sunday, Dec. 9, at Cleveland, 1:00 PM Week 15: Sunday, Dec. 16, at Oakland, 4:15 PM Week 16: Sunday, Dec. 23, Indianapolis, 1:00 PM Week 17: Sunday, Dec. 30, at Denver, 4:15 PM The author introduces： Rick Spielman- Crazy smart or just crazy- - NFL Nation Blog - ESPN_1567 NZ Cheap Ray Nitschke Jersey on sale 305 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

,Cheap Bernard Berrian Jersey Houston Texans schedule analysis NFL Nation Blog ESPN Breakdown: The lone primetime game in 2011 was on the road, and the AFC South champs didnt feel like they had a sufficient chance to show off to a broad audience. They'll get that chance in 2012. Five times they will play in the national spotlight, but only one of those games will be at Reliant Stadium Oct. 14 against Green Bay. Thats one of two games in the best of the primetime slots, "Sunday Night Football" on NBC. The other is at Chicago on Nov. 11. Also nationally televised: at the Jets on Oct. 8, at New England Dec. 10 on "Monday Night Football," and at Detroit on Thanksgiving, From Oct. 14 through Nov. 4 the Texans wont leave Houston, with three home games and their bye. That includes a Nov. 4 visit from the Buffalo Bills and defensive end Mario Williams, who left Houston for the Bills as a free agent. Complaint department: The Texans drew two cold weather games. Theyll play at Chicago on Nov. 11 and at New England on Dec. 10 in a couple of games that will be a challenge. But if they can block for Arian Foster, they'll be able to handle the weather slowing down their precision, rhythm passing game. Four of the teams final six games are on the road. Major gift: No matter how good Andrew Luck gets in his first NFL season, the Texans have to love their final three games the Colts at home; the weakest team in the NFC North, the Vikings, at home; and at Indianapolis. Houstons chances for a big finish look good on paper. (I renew my complaint over a major pet peeve. Games between division rivals should take place a minimum of one month apart.) Texans RegularSeason Schedule (All times Eastern) Week 1: Sunday, Sept. 9, Miami, 1:00 PM Week 2: Sunday, Sept. 16, at Jacksonville, 1:00 PM Week 3: Sunday, Sept. 23, at Denver, 4:15 PM Week 4: Sunday, Sept. 30, Tennessee,Cheap Texans Jerseys, 1:00 PM Week 5: Monday, Oct. 8, at N.Y. Jets, 8:30 PM Week 6: Sunday, Oct. 14, Green Bay, 8:20 PM Week 7: Sunday, Oct. 21, Baltimore, 1:00 PM Week 8: BYE Week 9: Sunday, Nov. 4, Buffalo, 1:00 PM Week 10: Sunday, Nov. 11, at Chicago, 8:20 PM Week 11: Sunday, Nov. 18, Jacksonville, 1:00 PM Week 12: Thursday, Nov. 22, at Detroit, 12:30 PM Week 13: Sunday, Dec. 2, at Tennessee, 1:00 PM Week 14: Monday, Dec. 10, at New England, 8:30 PM Week 15: Sunday, Dec. 16, Indianapolis, 1:00 PM Week 16: Sunday, Dec. 23,Cheap Barrett Ruud Jersey, Minnesota, 1:00 PM Week 17: Sunday, Dec. 30, at Indianapolis, 1:00 PM The author introduces： FM Cheap Jeremy Maclin Jersey on sale 695 CR Cheap Malcolm Jenkins Jersey on sale 080 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

Rush256 Yds977 TD7 Rec37 Yds418 TD1 The team opted to give safety Tyvon Branch the franchise tag. That means Bush is likely on his way to free agency. A key backup, the Raiders would likely want to keep Bush in a perfect world. But because the Raiders have other needs and will likely have some cap limitations, Bush might get a better offer elsewhere. Lets see if he fits in with the other three teams in the AFC West: Denver: I would list Denver as the favorite in the division to land Bush, and among the favorites in the league to sign him if he leaves Oakland. I think this is a perfect fit. The Broncos have a need at the position,Cheap Stewart Bradley Jersey, and will likely draft a running back early if they dont address the position in free agency. The Broncos were the No. 1 running team in the NFL last season. Going from one strong running offense to another would likely appeal to Bush. The Tim Tebowled offense is best when the Broncos run the ball. Pairing Bush with Willis McGahee who was a star last season would likely be attractive to everyone involved. It would allow Bush to be the primary back, and allow McGahee to go back to a secondary role, where he might be best suited because of his age (hell turn 31 during the season), and because he suffered several injuries last season. Kansas City: This would be a similar situation to Oakland. Like he was to Darren McFadden, Bush would be a bigger,Cheap Malcom Floyd Jersey, changeofpace and injury option for Jamaal Charles, who is coming back from a torn ACL. The Chiefs have a lot of money to spend, so perhaps theyd be able to convince Bush to sign there. San Diego: The Chargers,Cheap Logan Payne Jersey, who tried to trade for Bush a few years ago, could be interested if they do not resign Mike Tolbert. 2011 STATS Will Michael Bush remain in the AFC West? NFL Nation Blog ESPN The odds now favor Michael Bush leaving the Oakland Raiders in free agency. Michael Bush #29 RB Oakland Raiders The author introduces： JK Cheap Houston Texans Jerseys on sale 868 CC Cheap Albert Haynesworth Jersey on sale 777 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

Next likely step for Simpson is suspension NFL Nation Blog ESPN The good news for Bengals free agent wide receiver Jerome Simpson is his 15day jail sentence will allow him to participate in a team's offseason program (that is, when a team signs him). Simpson The bad news for Simpson is he likely won't be suiting up at the start of the regular season. Simpson was sentenced to 15 days in jail and three years' probation Thursday for a felony charge resulting from about two pounds of marijuana shipped to his northern Kentucky home in September. That is less jail time than the 60 days recommended by prosecutors in a plea agreement. The NFL, though, hasn't had its say on the matter yet. And,Cheap Steve Atwater Jersey, as you can tell by the bounty scandal, the league is not as lenient as the legal system. It's expected that the league will suspend Simpson at least four games. Simpson might have some options on where to play next season because NFL teams apparently can't resist a somersaulting wide receiver who will come at a bargain rate. The Rams flew in Simpson for a visit before today's sentencing, and the Bengals haven't ruled out resigning him. As I blogged last month, the Bengals need to part ways with Simpson even though they have yet to address the No. 2 wide receiver spot. In addition to his jail sentence,Cheap Lights Out Black Jerseys, Simpson also will have to serve 200 hours of community service,Cheap John Riggins Jersey, undergo drug testing and pay a $7,500 fine. The author introduces： MR Reggie White packers Jersey on sale 814 WY Patriots Jerseys on sale 880 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

These Patriots have a sense of urgency NFL Nation Blog ESPN David Butler II/US Presswire Tom Brady leads the Patriots into the AFC title game on a ninegame winning streak.FOXBOROUGH, Mass. These are not your 200910 New England Patriots. These Patriots didn't go oneanddone. These Patriots crushed the myth of Tim Tebow with a convincing 4510 victory over the Denver Broncos. These Patriots have a killer instinct in the postseason. These Patriots aren't playing around. Want proof? New England led by as many as 35 points in the second half and starting quarterback Tom Brady played every snap. He threw for 363 yards and tied an NFL playoff record with six touchdown passes. Divisional Round Coverage •Graziano: Coughlin, a coaching Giant •Seifert: Packers drop the ball •Hensley: Ravens survive Texans •Kuharsky: Season ends in near miss •Clayton: Last Call •Chadiha: NFC title game questions •Yasinskas: Saints overload Brees •Sando: Smith, Davis deliver for 49ers •Walker: Patriots show urgency •Williamson: Future bright in Denver •Chadiha: 49ers' toughness shines •Playoff page: Giants49ers •Playoff page: RavensPatriots •Road to Indy These Patriots are scary. They saved their most complete game of the season on both sides of the football for the playoffs. These Patriots are dangerous. They won an NFLhigh ninth game in a row. These Patriots even brought a few smiles to coach Bill Belichick's face after the game. Everyone knows that's no small feat. "I'm really happy for the players; I'm really excited for them," Belichick said. "They worked hard, and they put up with me. So they deserve this." These Patriots have tight end Rob Gronkowski. And Aaron Hernandez. There is no better tight end duo in the NFL. Gronk tied an NFL record with three firsthalf touchdowns. He finished with 10 receptions and 145 yards. The 22yearold could be on his way to a Hall of Fame career. Hernandez caught four passes for 55 yards. To everyone's surprise, he also is a pretty good running back. Belichick had two weeks to prepare for Denver and added another wrinkle by giving Hernandez five carries for 61 yards. New England's versatile backup tight end, who played some running back in high school,Cleveland Browns Jerseys, led the team in rushing. "Everybody makes plays on this team, and that is why our offense is so dangerous," Hernandez said. "It is hard [for the defense] because they dont know who to cover." Patriots Pro Bowl guard Brian Waters played most of his career with another great tight end in Kansas City: Tony Gonzalez. But Waters said he's never had two tight ends on the same team who were this talented. "I mean,Cheap DeAngelo Hall Jersey, what do you do?" Waters asked. "The fact that Gronk is able to block as well as he does and the fact that he can be a mismatch problem anywhere on the football field is a great thing. But his ability to block allows us the ability to do some things with Aaron that a lot of teams can't do." These Patriots don't have a great defense. But that's OK. At least it played lightsout for one postseason game. [+] Enlarge Mark L. Baer/US PresswireRob Gronkowski, here making one of his three touchdown catches, leads the Patriots' formidable tightend duo.These Patriots held the Broncos to 252 total yards and made Tebow look like a Division II quarterback. He was baffled and battered. He was 9for26 for 136 yards and a fumble. He also was sacked five times. Can these Patriots keep up this level of defense the entire playoffs? Who knows? But New England's defense looked great for one night. "Really, this was our first fourquarter game," Patriots linebacker Rob Ninkovich (1.5 sacks) said of the defense. "This is a onegame season now. So coming into this game, we knew the loser is going home and theyre not playing again. So we put in a lot of work." Enough about the defense. Because New England's offense is averaging 40.5 points in its past four games. These Patriots are extremely hard to beat with that kind of production. On Saturday, these Patriots had 42 points with 11:53 left in the third quarter. How scary is that? Most importantly, these Patriots have Brady. He looks as sharp and focused as ever. Brady, 34, knows his title window won't stay open forever. He sliced the Broncos with precision and completed 26 of 34 passes. These Patriots have a chance as long as Brady is at the top of his game. With Drew Brees eliminated Saturday, Aaron Rodgers is the only playoff quarterback remaining on Brady's level. But Brady won't have to see Rodgers unless they meet in Indianapolis. Speaking of the Super Bowl, these Patriots have an intense sense of urgency to get there. In large part, it comes from Brady, who is already looking beyond Saturday's recordsetting performance. "I think we have eight days until the biggest game of the year," Brady said. "From this point on, everyone will be focused on what we need to do to be better next week and hopefully come out and play for another championship." These Patriots (143) will host the AFC Championship Game next week at Gillette Stadium against the Houston Texans or Baltimore Ravens. These Patriots will be favored at home against either team,Cheap Tim Hightower Jersey, especially after a 35point drubbing of Denver. This AFC East blogger predicted these Patriots would represent the AFC in the Super Bowl. These Patriots are one step away from getting the job done. 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Ravens' John Harbaugh: Read and React NFL Nation Blog ESPN The AFC coaches met with the media today at the NFL owners meetings. Here are the top five issues addressed by Ravens coach John Harbaugh (via the Baltimore Sun) and my reaction: On bringing in competition for kicker Billy Cundiff: "If we can get a kicker that is capable of competing with Billy, well do it. Do you have to draft a guy? Is there a free agent? Is there a guy that will be on the street. Thats kind of hard to determine. We want competition for pretty much every position. I say that so Im not ruling anything out, but Billy is our kicker." Hensley's reaction: The Ravens simply can't give the job back to Cundiff after he missed the gametying field goal in the AFC Championship Game and missed it badly. His struggles go beyond hooking one critical kick. After a Pro Bowl season in 2010,Cheap Percy Harvin Jersey, Cundiff missed 10 field goal attempts in 2011, all of which came on the road. Harbaugh needs to bring in competition even if it's Shayne Graham again. On the importance of upgrading the offensive line: "I think we have to upgrade the offensive line. I dont even know if we have a full complement of linemen to be on our 53man roster right now. We dont have our five starters set. We have guys where [you say],Cheap Jake Long Jersey, Can they play a position or not? Were talking about Jah [Reid]. Can he play left guard? The thing Ive learned over the years in Philadelphia and everywhere else, it starts with the offensive line on offense." Hensley's reaction: The left guard position is the biggest hole on the team. I still think they look to the draft to fill this spot and use Reid as a fallback option. On whether Ray Rice will hold out to protest the franchise tag: "I dont know what their strategy will be, if they feel like they even need a strategy. That kind of goes back to the agent more than the player. But Ray Rice is a man. He loves football. He wants to be in there with his teammates. Im hoping hell be there from Day 1. I would expect him to be there from Day 1. But if hes not, Im not going to hold it against him as a coach. We just need the best Ray Rice thats possible for the first game." Hensley's reaction: Even if Rice holds out, there shouldn't be any concern about his conditioning. He's as dedicated to the weight room during the offseason as he is during the season. Rice will be ready for the season opener. On linebacker Paul Kruger: "I think Paul is probably the leading candidate for the SAM linebacker job. I could very definitely see him doing that. When we lost Jarret [Johnson],Cheap Kevin Kolb Jersey, I went back and watched all of Pauls tape. I watched every one of his plays from last year, just to try and get a feel just for whether or not wed be comfortable with him in there. He did a nice job in coverage, he set the edge well. Obviously, hes a very good passrusher. I believe Paul can do it. I think he will do it. I talked to him on the phone. Hes committed to doing it. It means everything to him." Hensley's reaction: It's been a struggle for the Ravens to find a position for Kruger, who has bounced every year from linebacker to defensive end to linebacker again. I think he can handle the linebacker position on passing downs, whether it's rushing the passer or playing in coverage. His biggest challenge will be stopping the run. On adding a kick returner: "We definitely think we could add a returner. Not to say that we dont have guys inhouse that could do it because we do. But we want to put some competition in there. We tried to do it in the offseason and it hasnt worked out so far. Well keep trying and the draft is certainly a big part of that." Hensley's reaction: The Ravens missed their opportunity when they let Ted Ginn Jr. leave without a contract, but they weren't the only ones (the Lions and Vikings did also). It seems like the Ravens aren't comfortable going with Lardarius Webb on punt returns and turnoverprone David Reed on kickoffs. The author introduces： MC Cheap Eddie Royal Jersey on sale 546 UA Cheap Mark Ingram Jersey on sale 410 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

Giants' DBs don't feel 'secondary' NFL Nation Blog ESPN EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. It's tough playing cornerback for the New York Giants, where the defensive line gets all the love and the best cornerback in the league plays for the other New York team. And for much of this season, the Giants' secondary was the team's Achilles' heel a nearlaughingstock that was famously ridiculed on national TV by Cris Collinsworth and obviously targeted by opposing offenses. But anyone who's played defensive back in the NFL will tell you how important it is to have a short memory and a ton of confidence, no matter how much attention anyone's paying to you. As the Giants prepare to play the Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI, their secondary remains unbowed and as confident as ever. [+] Enlarge Andrew Mills/US PRESSWIRECorey Webster and the Giants secondary began turning the corner against the New York Jets in December."If you keep doing your job, the attention will come," Giants cornerback Corey Webster said Friday. "Me, I think I'm great. I think I'm the best thing out there. I'm sure Aaron Ross feels the same way,Cheap Jake Long Jersey, and our whole secondary feels the same way. That's how you're supposed to feel when you take that field." There were certainly times this year when the men in the Giants' secondary could have justifiably felt otherwise. Only three teams gave up more passing yards than the 4,082 the Giants allowed. And while those three Green Bay, New Orleans and New England were among the very best teams in the league, a number like that still isn't good for your personal or professional pride. After a fourgame losing streak in which they allowed an average of 304 passing yards per game, a victory over Dallas in which they allowed 305 more and a loss to the Redskins in which Rex Grossman was 7for10 on third downs, the Giants' secondary looked like such an easy target that Mark Sanchez and the Jets threw 59 passes against them in the Christmas Eve game. That turned out to be a huge mistake, however, as the Giants' secondary was in the process of turning a corner. They blanketed the Jets' receivers, won that game and haven't lost since. And while the defense still lives and dies with the performance of its passrushing linemen, the performance of the secondary has been a big part of the fivegame win streak that has landed the Giants in the Super Bowl. "Our play speaks for itself," said Giants safety Antrel Rolle, who does more than his own fair share of speaking. "There are a lot of reasons we've played better. We're more focused. We're on the same page with our defensive coordinator. And we're on the same page with each other, and that's the biggest improvement." The enduring images of the Giants' secondary from last Sunday's NFC Championship victory over the 49ers are the two times San Francisco tight end Vernon Davis got behind them for long touchdowns. But true to the defensive back's code, the Giants' DBs were pointing out this week that Davis only caught one other pass, that the 49ers only caught 12 total and that six of those were caught by the running back. Safety Deon Grant said the first Davis touchdown wasn't the result of Rolle getting beat, but rather the result of zone coverage that wasn't executed correctly,Cheap Tom Brady Jersey, and that the Giants' safeties and cornerbacks relish the challenge of slowing down the Patriots' great tight ends the way they did the Packers' Jermichael Finley two weeks ago in Green Bay. "Those tight ends are more like tight end/wide receiver combinations, so it falls right into what we do," Grant said. "We have safeties who can cover, corners who can cover. When we're matched up against these best tight ends out there, we don't want to play zone. We want to play mantoman and show off our skills." Super Bowl XLVI Get all the news and commentary on the PatriotsGiants matchup on ESPN.com's Super Bowl Central. •Playoff Centers: Patriots | Giants •SportsNation: Who will win? •Blog network: Patriots | AFC East | Giants | NFC East You can't play defensive back in the NFL without that level of confidence, whether justified or not. And the Giants' defensive backs are a case study in forgetting the bad stuff quickly. If cornerback Aaron Ross had wallowed in earlyseason struggles that got him benched in Week 2, the Giants would have been floundering even more than they already were on pass defense through November and early December. But Ross shook it off and helped fill the gap created by preseason injuries to Terrell Thomas and firstround draft pick Prince Amukamara. "Aaron was a guy they drafted in the first round,Cheap Malcom Floyd Jersey," Grant said. "He was a guy who was here when they won the Super Bowl the last time. And now you're seeing that same firstround guy and that same guy who helped win that Super Bowl. He's back. He's healthy. And he's the old Aaron Ross again." Plenty of swagger and no desire to look back. That's the way these Giants' defensive backs are built. When practice ended Friday, Rolle shared a friendly handshake with Collinsworth, who'd called the Giants' coverage "amateurish" and said Rolle had been "barbecued" by Dez Bryant in the first game against the Cowboys. In the days following that game, Rolle was critical of such analysis and explained in detail what had really happened on the play in question. But on Friday, when Collinsworth showed up for practice as part of NBC's preparations for the Super Bowl, all was forgotten. "We're cool," Rolle said. "There's no hard feelings in this league. Collinsworth and I, we've always gotten along." The defensive back's code: What happened in the past stays in the past. And none of it matters to the Giants now. The author introduces： ZH Cheap Roger Staubach Jersey on sale 665 LM Cheap Vince Young Jersey on sale 842 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

Colts Camp Watch NFL Nation Blog ESPN » NFC Camp Watch: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South » Dates Three thoughts as training camps open around the NFL: One thing I'm certain of: Andrew Luck is going to draw huge interest. After the big 2011 rookie season for Cam Newton in Carolina and a solid showing by Andy Dalton in Cincinnati, expectations for highly regarded, firstyear quarterback are likely to soar. And Luck wasnt just the No. 1 pick in the draft,Cheap Patrick Chung Jersey, he was the guy who made the Colts move forward with a divorce from Peyton Manning and an organizational reset. Luck is a smart,Cheap Lee Evans Jersey, athletic quarterback who will be working under offensive coordinator Bruce Arians, the same coach who was in Indianapolis at the start of Mannings career. The organization has done a lot of work trying to ensure Luck has the best possible chance at early success. Newcomers should fill at least three of the starting offensive line spots. Veteran receiver Reggie Wayne was resigned and should be available to Luck on a lot of third downs while two new tight ends, second and thirdround picks Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen,Cheap Richard Dent Jersey, will give Luck prime options and assist in protection. Those relationships will have to develop quickly. One thing that might happen: Special teams could make a big improvement. While kicker Adam Vinatieri and punter Pat McAfee are good at their jobs, the previous regime didnt put much emphasis on special teams beyond those two legs. The topheavy salary structure of the team didnt allow for many veteran backups, so the core of the special teams was not as strong as much of the Colts competition. To oversee his teams special teams, Chuck Pagano hired Marwin Maaloof, who was a special teams assistant in Baltimore where both worked last season. He replaced Ray Rychleski, who didnt fare well as Jim Caldwells handpicked guy for the Colts. Bad field position wasnt something Manning couldnt overcome. It would be nice if Luck doesnt have to overcome it often in his first trip through the league. Constructing better special teams will be a big preseason project. One thing we won't see: Im not expecting topflight coverage. The Colts' best cornerback, Jerraud Powers, will be supplemented by a cast of guys with minimal résumés. Kevin Thomas was the No. 2 guy during offseason work. Other holdovers as the team converts to more of a man scheme include Chris Rucker, Terrence Johnson, and Brandon King. None of them were brought in by the previous regime as Cover 2 guys, not players whod play a lot of man. The teams also brought in several lowcost outsiders: Cassius Vaughn (via trade with Denver), DJ Johnson (in a trade from Philadelphia), Justin King (as a veteran free agent), Korey Lindsey (as a waiver claim) and Antonio Fenelus and Buddy Jackson (undrafted rookies). The author introduces： JP Cheap Mike Jenkins Jersey on sale 734 SX Cheap Shaun Alexander Jersey on sale 183 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

AFC North team needs: Steelers NFL Nation Blog ESPN Free agent officially kicks off at 4 p.m. ET Tuesday, so let's take a look at the three biggest needs for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are historically minor players in free agency: 1. Nose tackle: Casey Hampton turns 35 before the season begins and had ACL surgery in January, which means the Steelers need to find their future anchor of the defensive line. Longtime backup Chris Hoke retired, and Steve McLendon isn't a fulltime starter in the middle. The Steelers might consider starting Ziggy Hood at nose tackle, even though he is a little undersized for that position. The Steelers would be ecstatic to take Memphis' Dontari Poe in the first round, but he's now considered a top15 prospect. Other nose tackle prospects who could be on the Steelers' radar include: BYU's Loni Fangupo (second round),Cheap Troy Polamalu Jersey, Washington's Alameda Ta'amu (third round) or Alabama's Josh Chapman (fourth round). In free agency, Ravens backup nose tackle Brandon McKinney would be an upgrade over McLendon. 2. Offensive line: The Steelers have a hole at left guard and need to improve their depth at offensive tackle. Pittsburgh benched mistakeprone Chris Kemoeatu at left guard and replaced him with Doug Legursky, whose strength is being a versatile backup. The Steelers could stick with Legursky at guard,Cheap Rey Maualuga Jersey, but that wouldn't be their top choice. Pittsburgh is expected to switch Marcus Gilbert from right to left tackle, a move he handled well in the playoff game in Denver. The risk is giving the right tackle job back to Willie Colon, who has missed two seasons with injuries. If something happened to Colon again, the Steelers would turn to Jonathan Scott, who has struggled mightily every time he has stepped onto the field. The Steelers could always go back to freeagent standby Max Starks once he is recovered from ACL surgery. 3. Inside linebacker: The Steelers need another starter to go with Lawrence Timmons after they released James Farrior. Pittsburgh still has backup Larry Foote, but he isn't an everydown linebacker anymore. The Steelers don't have a great amount of cap room to find someone in free agency, so look for them to address inside linebacker early in the draft next month. Alabama's Dont'a Hightower has been heavily linked to Pittsburgh in the first round. He's a great athlete and has experience in a 34 defense. Hightower,Cheap Jermichael Finley Jersey, who was also the signal caller for the Alabama defense, would eventually take over some of Farrior's leadership role. The author introduces： VQ Cheap Stephen Cooper Jersey on sale 215 DW Cheap Marques Colston Jersey on sale 750 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

Jacoby Jones plowing ahead, unworried NFL Nation Blog ESPN As the Houston Texans let go of right tackle Eric Winston and traded inside linebacker DeMeco Ryans, fans of the team peppered me. Why, they lamented, is receiver and returner Jacoby Jones still on the team? [+] Enlarge AP Photo/Bill BaptistJacoby Jones said he's staying positive despite a potentially uncertain future in Houston.The answer is that Texans coaches and brass like Jones a lot better than fans do. Jones can make some spectacular plays. He can offset them with spectacular flubs. His foolish handling of a punt in Baltimore helped kill the Texans in their playoff loss to the Ravens in January. I saw Jones today in Nashville where he appeared on 104.5 The Zone helping to promote Dominique RodgersCromarties charity basketball game this weekend at Tennessee State University. I asked him, first, about the projection that Houston will take a wide receiver with the 26th pick in the draft on April 26. "Its a business," he said. "I love Houston. I would love to stay there. And Ive been working hard in the offseason. If it happens, it happens,Cheap Buffalo Bills Jerseys,. If they bring somebody in I will take him under my wing and show him the ropes. Whatever happens, happens, but Im still ready to play." Jones is due a $3 million base, which is too much. He could rank as high as second or as low as fourth in the receiver pecking order when games, and paydays, arrive. He signed a threeyear deal in 2011 worth $10.5 million with $3.5 million guaranteed. Barring a sterling camp and a claim of the No. 2 job, I think that base salary will need to come down. He said he forgot the muffed punt the only one of the season, he said. in relative short order,Cheap Tyron Smith Jersey, because hes a football player and football players have to forget bad stuff and move on. As for fan venom .. "Fans are fans,Cheap Plaxico Burress Jersey, they always look for somebody to point the finger at," he said, without any contempt in his voice. "If they want to point the finger at me, fine. That years gone, in my past. Im not dwelling on it anymore. Ill still play for my teammates, my family, those coaches and everybody in that front office." Hes trained in New Orleans since the season ended, but will return to Houston Saturday. A nagging spotlight will follow. It's his job to make it fade. The author introduces： XH Cheap Nathaniel Allen Jersey on sale 769 TP Cheap Houston Texans Jerseys on sale 914 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

NFC East: Trading up to chase the champs NFL Nation Blog ESPN Three of the teams in our division traded up in the first round of the NFL draft on Thursday night. Technically, the Washington Redskins did it last month, but you get the idea. The Redskins moved up to get quarterback Robert Griffin III. The Dallas Cowboys moved up to draft cornerback Morris Claiborne. The Philadelphia Eagles moved up three spots to take defensive tackle Fletcher Cox, whom they felt was a key missing piece for their defense. The only NFC East team that didn't trade up in the first round was the Super Bowl champion New York Giants. And it makes sense, when you think about it,Cheap Clay Matthews Jersey, because those other three teams were making the moves they thought they needed to make to catch the Giants. By following a flawed, fitful 97 season with a dazzling, dominating Super Bowl run, the Giants have had a profound dual effect on their division rivals. They have convinced the other three teams in the NFC East that the division title is not only attainable, but that it carries with it the potential for the ultimate reward. It appears attainable, you see, by virtue of simple math. The Eagles and the Cowboys each finished 88 last year, just one game behind the Giants in the division race. Had the Cowboys won the final game of the season in the Meadowlands, they'd have been in the postseason and the Giants would not. Had the Eagles won just one more game against an NFC West team, it could have been them making that Super Bowl run. And while the Redskins won only five games, they did beat the Giants twice, and in rather convincing fashion. Each of the Giants' three division rivals came out of the 2011 season with reason to believe they weren't too far away from the playoffs in their own right. 2012 NFL Draft: Round 1 •Fox: Claiborne feels no pressure •Seifert: Order restored in Minnesota •Hensley: Cleveland goes 'older' •Sando: Irvin caps wild NFC West night •Williamson: Crennel key to Poe pick •Walker: Dolphins 'all in' on Tannehill •Graziano: RG3 knows it gets tougher •Yasinskas: Barron is 'Buccaneer Man' •Hensley: Richardson brings spark •Kuharsky: With Luck comes obligations •First round photo gallery •Players react on Twitter | On radio •NFL Nation | Draft home | Tracker I think this explains, in part at least, the behavior we saw in the first round. The Redskins made their huge deal with the Rams to get the No. 2 pick because they couldn't stomach the idea of being without a franchise quarterback any longer. Eli Manning was a key reason the Giants were able to cash in their division title with a second Super Bowl win in five years,Cheap John Elway Jersey, and the Redskins know they need an Eli of their own. Convinced Griffin can be that, they have decided he's worth not having another firstround pick until 2015. The Cowboys, with myriad needs across their roster, traded their firstround pick and their secondround pick for the No. 6 pick in this year's draft and took Claiborne, who addresses their biggest 2011 weakness. And losing the secondrounder (and spending the firstrounder on a position they'd already addressed in free agency) hinders their ability to address other weaknesses,Cheap Greg Olsen Jersey, they don't care. They may well have been a Morris Claiborne away from that ninth win last year, and last year convinced them they don't need to be a 14win team to have a shot at a title. The Eagles believe, to this day, that last year's roster should have been good enough to win at least nine or 10 games and edge the Giants for the division title. They believe that, if the Giants had lost to the Jets in Week 16 and left the door open for them to win the division, that they could have been the NFC team no one wanted to play in the playoffs even though they'd barely got in. They had fewer needs this offseason, but one was to beef up the middle of their defense. Cox does that and also offers passrushing ability from a defensive tackle spot. The Eagles thought they might have to move up as high as No. 6 to take him, but once he dropped to 12, they were more than happy to give up a fourthrounder and a seventhrounder to move up three spots and take him. He could be enough to push them past the Giants and into a playoff run of their own. This is the motivation the nonGiant teams in the NFC East had that if they could take just one little step forward, they could surpass last year's division winners and take their own shot in the NFL's postseason tournament. There's no guarantee they're right, of course. Last year was the only 16game season in history in which the NFC East champion didn't have at least 10 wins, and it's unlikely it can be won again with merely nine. But by sneaking in at the end with such a thin resume and then making the run they made in spite of nearly missing the playoffs altogether, the Giants gave their division rivals hope. And that hope made them all aggressive when they saw chances to fix their biggest problems in the first round of the draft. 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Yes, improving Blaine Gabbert can rebound NFL Nation Blog ESPN Zuma Press/Icon SMIBlaine Gabbert is pleased with his progress as he works to put an ugly rookie season behind him.JACKSONVILLE, Fla. I came to the Jaguars' headquarters at EverBank Field in search of specifics. Blaine Gabberts terrible rookie year was welldocumented. But his new coaches believe he still can become a quality NFL quarterback. What have they seen that fuels their confidence in him? And can we expect to see improvement in summer camp and fall games? Weve heard from coach Mike Mularkey about how he respected the way Gabbert dealt with all the negativity connected to his completion percentage of just over 50.0, the 40 sacks he absorbed, the 12 touchdown passes against 11 interceptions, his 14 fumbles (five of them lost) and 65.4 passer rating. Offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski offered some analysis of what needed fixing in this "Evening with the Coaches" talk early in the offseason. I wanted to pick up on that. Enduring early lumps is part of the deal for virtually every quarterback early in his career. Now, with a new start, tell me about what hes doing better, I asked. The initial request was a long shot, but I was still disappointed that Gabbert and his coaches were unwilling to show me one play on film comparing and contrasting what Gabbert did with it in last years training camp or during last season, and what hes doing now. No, they dont need to go into that sort of detail or offer that level of information. But what would it have hurt? Short of that, Bratkowski offered the most detail in discussing Gabberts improvements so far, circling back to what he touched on in that chalk talk. [+] Enlarge AP Photo/Paul SpinelliCoordinator Bob Bratkowski believes better footwork is crucial for quarterback Blaine Gabbert."Fundamentally, there were some times last year in his drops when he was getting a little bit long with his footwork and getting a little too fast," Bratkowski said. "So what weve tried to do is get him to slow his feet down just a little bit, take shorter steps and stand taller in the pocket. "Those are some things we identified when we first looked at him, and hes improving on those things out there right now. You can see him carrying it into the actual plays were running in team situations." After a fast drop that took him too deep,Cheap Johnathan Joseph Jersey, he typically wound up shuffling forward as soon as he completed his drop, and his busy feet hurt his ability to make sound throws. Gabbert said forming the new habit isnt hard. "The biggest thing all the quarterbacks are working on is just calming our feet down, staying in the pocket,K.Williams vikings Jersey, not getting too long, not taking too long of a drop," Gabbert said. "Because at some point in time, the angles get off with our offensive tackles when theyre trying to block a rush end .. "A lot of the footwork is dictated on the route concepts, the type of offense you run, the style of offense you run. And we have a different offense. We have different plays, and the drops go with those types of plays." Mularkey said the Jaguars' offense is about half installed at this point. Reporters are dismissed from OTA sessions once the team reaches the installation phase. So, despite the reportorial desire to be shown, not told, those of us trying to track the team are left to rely more on conversations than observations regarding Gabbert and everything else. In the handful of team plays I saw, one horrific pass stood out: a short throw over the middle that bounced well behind the intended receiver. At another point, as the quarterbacks threw to a couple of stationary receivers while running through some red zone possibilities, they were aiming for a target at the front left corner of the end zone. The situation required a high, firm pass. After Gabberts first try wasnt loopy enough, quarterbacks coach Greg Olson assumed the position of a cornerback the pass needed to get over. He stood with his back to the throw, an arm extended. But as he anticipated the balls arrival, he jokingly pulled his hands back to cover his head. "Can I trust you?" he joked as he turned back to Gabbert, whose second attempt at the pass had cleared Olson and landed where it needed to, proving him trustworthy. It was rhetorically symbolic, I thought. "It really is about that to me, at any position with any position coach there's got to be a trust factor," Olson said. "He's got to feel that everything I tell him is meant to get him better. Three months into the relationship, I think we are developing that trust factor. If there is no trust there, you have no chance to grow." Gabbert's teammates have big expectations for a big bounceback after a rookie season that included the team's being sold and former coach Jack Del Rio getting fired during a 511 season. "I dont know that Ive ever heard of a situation where a quarterback gets thrown into a starting role that early with the deficiencies in personnel that we had at that time, with a lot of things stacked against him," said guard Uche Nwaneri. "I think people kind of teed off on him. There were some things that he did that werent particularly the best, but,Cheap Peyton Hillis Jersey, you know, he was a rookie. There were so many things happening that affect the quarterback as the result of protection, route running, guys getting open." Look, its somehow fashionable to say that the bad things Gabbert put on display last year serve as indisputable evidence he cant be a successful NFL quarterback. I understand his footwork isnt the only thing that gets sped up our assessments come faster than ever. But judging a quarterback on 15 games and 13 starts with a bad team is simply too hasty. Nowhere To Go But Up Gabbert is not going to be Peyton Manning or Troy Aikman. But those guys were awful as rookies, too. Manning threw 28 interceptions, and his Colts were 313. Aikman threw 18 interceptions and didnt win a game for the Cowboys. Two things struck me as I spoke with Gabbert that I think are significant for right now. Several times he talked about hows hes having fun, how football is fun, how the new offense is fun. And he still looks and sounds the part hes got confidence as he talks, and in the way he carries himself. He doesnt look like a broken guy. He looks like a kid ready to go give it another try. The biggest issue is dealing with the rush. Olson said the team is trading some sevenonseven passing situations (where there are no linemen) for team periods where Gabbert has to feel pressure and sort it out. In drills without defenders, a coach or an equipment guy typically charges at him with flailing arms. "For a guy coming out of a system in college where he wasn't only in the shotgun, but they had him lined up 7 yards deep, it was new to him last season," Olson said. "We're just hoping he'll be more comfortable with that environment, coming out from underneath center, taking a drop with an oncoming rush. That's all you can hope for right now, is the comfort level gets much greater. And it's been good." Not having OTAs and minicamps didnt hurt Cam Newton when it came to posting big rookie numbers for the Panthers, and it didnt stop Andy Dalton from leading the Bengals to the playoffs. Gabbert didnt get off to the same kind of start, and maybe hell never earn his way into a conversation about the top quarterbacks of the 2011 draft class. Hes getting that OTA time now. There is time to build slowly. Its a different deal. I wondered if Gabbert was appreciating the pace now, or finding himself anxious to get to the Jaguars' Sept. 9 opener in Minnesota, so he could do something to start to erase the dud of a first season. "Everybodys eager," he said. "When you have a season where things dont go the way you want them to, youre always eager to get back out there. But its a process." The important people are willing to give him the time to go through it. The rest of us will just have to wait. Here's a list of rookie quarterbacks who've thrown at least 11 interceptions, taken at least 40 sacks and posted a passer rating of 65.4 or worse: Blaine Gabbert, Jaguars, 2011 Andrew Walter, Raiders, 2006 David Carr, Texans, 2002 Jeff Komlo, Lions, 1979 Dennis Shaw, Bills, 1970 Source: Katherine Sharp, ESPN Stats and Info The author introduces： RA Cheap Braylon Edwards Jersey on sale 623 No serious damage to Ed Reed's ankle - NFL Nation Blog - ESPN_3852 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

Packers: Dream/nightmare scenarios NFL Nation Blog ESPN » AFC Scenarios: East | West | North | South » NFC: East | West | North | South Yes, the start of training camps is two months away, but its never too early to consider the coming season. A look at the bestcase and worstcase scenarios for the Green Bay Packers in 2012. Dream scenario (160): The Packers' passing offense picks up where it left off in a recordbreaking 2011 season. The scheme is enhanced by a new approach to the running game,Cheap Torry Holt Jersey, center Jeff Saturday takes over a leadership role from the departed Scott Wells and Marshall Newhouse proves to be a franchise left tackle. The defense rebounds from last season's slump thanks to the infusion of draft picks Nick Perry,Cheap Santonio Holmes Jersey, Jerel Worthy and Mike Daniels. The Packers find a suitable longterm replacement for safety Nick Collins and, a season after falling five points short of a perfect season,Cheap Hines Ward Jersey, the Packers pull it off in 2012. Nightmare scenario (88): The Packers' running game falters when presumed starter James Starks can't stay on the field. Opponents find new ways to approach the Packers' passing game and the defense isn't any better because their slew of rookies aren't ready to play yet. Veteran Charles Woodson is forced to move to safety, and the Packers don't have a suitable replacement for him at cornerback. Despite these problems, it's hard to imagine the Packers finishing below .500. The author introduces： Listening to Williams can cause headaches - NFL Nation Blog - ESPN_986 DW Cheap Denver Broncos Jerseys on sale 648 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

AFC South combine primer NFL Nation Blog ESPN INDIANAPOLIS With the NFL scouting combine under way, a look at some storylines that will develop at Lucas Oil Stadium and the meeting rooms in the Indiana Convention Center. Hello Mr. Luck: Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck was here briefly during Super Bowl week for a Gatorade promotion. But his podium session Friday will be viewed as the first of many times he will dissect his play at LOS, which everyone expects will become his home stadium when the Colts draft him first overall at the end of April. [+] Enlarge Cliff Welch/Icon SMI Defensive end Quinton Coples cemented his status as an elite draft prospect at the Senior Bowl.Will the Jaguars fall in love with Quinton Coples? A year ago, virtually every analyst had the Jaguars taking defensive end Ryan Kerrigan in the first round. And thats what they would have done if they had not jumped up with a trade to take Blaine Gabbert. Now it looks like the team will be paired with North Carolina defensive end Couples. Do the Jags develop the same affection for him that they did for Kerrigan a year ago? Barrons health: Mark Barron is recovering from double hernia surgery. Does the lack of field work here and at the Crimson Tides pro day affect his draft stock? And can that be a positive thing for the safetyneedy Titans,Cheap J.J. Watt Jersey, who pick 20th and would have to consider him if he lasted that long? After Barron, the position doesn't offer a great deal in the draft. Houstons needs: The Texans are the least likely team in the division to add a significant outsider in free agency, because they have salarycap issues. Their draft needs could be shaped by what happens with their own pending free agents. If Mario Williams leaves, theyll need another outside linebacker for their 34. If Chris Myers gets away, center becomes an issue. But more than anyone in the division, the Texans should set up to be able to draft the best players they see. Being unpressured by a giant need is always somewhat of a relief. Learning philosophies: Colts general manager Ryan Grigson and coach Chuck Pagano have been doing a lot of behindthescenes work to get their house in order and lay the groundwork for their plans. We should start to learn more about their philosophy and intentions in the coming days. How far can they take a hybrid 34 in the first year? What will an offense under a new staff look like? And what kind of players here can make those schemes go? The influence of Khan: Jacksonville general manager Gene Smith is now preparing for his first draft with a new boss. Shahid Khan has said hes all in, so the Jaguars could do some significant spending in free agency before the draft arrives. If Smith was lacking in any resources before, such things should not be an issue now. Websters influence: A year ago,Cheap Terence Newman Jersey, Ruston Webster had a big influence over the Titans' draft, and it produced a very good looking class. Now Webster has been promoted to general manager. So this draft wont only have his fingerprints on it, itll have his signature on it. Hes a highly respected personnel man who appears to be a steady,Cheap Aldon Smith Jersey, methodical guy who can find productive people who fit what Mike Munchak and his staff want to do. Phillips opinions: In his first year as the Texans' defensive coordinator, Wade Phillips had a big influence on the Texans' draft. End J.J. Watt and outside linebacker Brooks Reed were giant contributors in their rookie seasons. The Texans showed great defensive depth, but can still stock up help at every level of the defense. Can Phillips help general manager Rick Smith and the front office tab a few more topflight contributors? Thin spots: Matt Williamson of Scouts Inc. says he sees safety as the thinnest overall position and offensive line as less than stellar. Thats bad for Tennessee and Indianapolis as both teams need help at both spots. Thats good for Houston and Jacksonville, which did good work filling safety spots in 2011 and wont have a lot of offensive line work, though the Jaguars' pass protection needs to improve. The author introduces： LU Cheap Tamba Hali Jersey on sale 347 RL Cheap Harry Carson Jersey on sale 185 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

Vikings stadium: 'A reality check' NFL Nation Blog ESPN By all accounts, Minnesota's political leaders received a clear message Friday morning in a meeting with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and Pittsburgh Steelers president/coowner Art Rooney. "This is it, folks," Gov. Mark Dayton said during a postmeeting news conference. "They served us a reality check," state Sen. Julie Rosen said. "Things will have to be moving a little bit more quickly," House Speaker Kurt Zellers said. "The writing is on the wall," Dayton added. Legislators from both houses and parties emerged with clear marching orders: Revive a stadium bill that died in a committee earlier this week or face the departure of the franchise. Goodell said he made "no implied threats or any threats at all,Lights Out Black Jerseys," but in reality he didn't need to. As we discussed Thursday, the team and league are giving the state another 10 or so days of exclusivity before opening the door to relocation alternatives. That in itself wouldn't lead to relocation, but it would put Minnesota in competition with other municipalities for the first time in the 10plus year battle on this issue. The legislative leaders offered different recollections of the extent to which the Los Angeles market was discussed, especially after reports that owner Zygi Wilf's plane was spotted in Southern California, where he often visits to maintain real estate investments. But Rosen, one of the bill authors, said Goodell answered a question about the subject by "clearly" labeling it "an open market" and pointing out that the Vikings "do have the right to move or be sold." Focus now shifts to the Minnesota Senate, where the bill will be heard in a committee Friday afternoon while parallel efforts to revive it in the Minnesota House are under way. But the larger question is not whether state leaders agree on the issue. It's how effective they can be,Cheap Darren Sharper Jersey, or how willing they are, in strongarming enough dissenters into pushing the bill to a vote of full membership. From what I understand,Brett Favre packers Jersey, the Vikings feel confident that enough legislators will vote for the bill if it makes it to that level. That makes the next seven10 days the most important in the history of the franchise. Stay tuned. The author introduces： UE Cheap Ryan Torain Jersey on sale 315 JY Reggie White eagles Jersey on sale 616 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More

Bunkley's departure is a blow in Denver NFL Nation Blog ESPN It will be lost in the specter of Peyton Mannings arrival and Tim Tebows departure,Cheap Terrell Owens Jersey, the loss of Brodrick Bunkley is significant in Denver. ESPNs Adam Schefter reports Bunkley has signed a fiveyear, $25 million deal with the Saints with $9 million in guaranteed money. It is a pricey deal, but hes a valuable player. Many scouts thought Bunkley was a key to Denvers defensive success last year. An underrated player, he was a major cog in the middle. This is a blow for a defense that must continue to get better. The Broncos needed to add to the position even if they brought back Bunkley. Now,Cheap Torry Holt Jersey, they need several additions to the spot. They need to bring back Marcus Thomas and make other additions. Among the freeagent defensive tackles available are Antonio Garay, Aubrayo Franklin, Trevor Laws and Pat Sims. Expect Denver to take a defensive tackle (its a strong class) with the No. 25 pick. The last time Denver took a defensive tackle in the first round was in 1997 when they took Trevor Pryce. Meanwhile, the Broncos, who are in talks with several defensive free agents,Cheap Jordan Shipley Jersey, need to continue to get the overall unit better. The author introduces： KG Cheap Adrian Wilson Jersey on sale 905 JT Cheap Eli Manning Jersey on sale 718 365d JERSEYS is a privately owned sports goods company with a history of nearly 4 years.We have the professional factory behind us manufacturing all sports jerseys.Click here Read More