broncofan13000
Footballguy
cstu said:
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2007 Rookie Draft Picks (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter vandelyons
- Start date
Buying all day long. I have 3 of the top 14 so far.
Cannon Fodder
Footballguy
In my one dynasty leagues I knew I didn't have much of a shot of winning it so I started trading away alot of my players for rookie picks. I did this with the hopes of mine being the 1.1 and maybe some of the other 1sts could end up being good value. I have 5 already and I don't plan on stopping at any point. The problem is I'm running out of talent to trade. What do you think a kidney could get me?cstu said:
wannabee
Footballguy
I am in this league. He accumulated these picks through trading back in the initial draft. He still has a VERY solid team. And, this league is one full of strong owners who you would know from around here.cstu said:
Cannon Fodder
Footballguy
Yeah, that's why I'm doing it. I didn't want to have an average team year in and year out. Plus I had Peyton and Eli, wanted to get rid of one of them, and all my RB were old. I like the way this class is shaping up. I've been a fan of Peterson for a while now and I've been waiting to have him on my team. I will overpay by a big ammount to make sure he is on my roster. He's been dominating wherever he goes and I think he will continue to do so in the pro's. And Calvin Johnson is a FREAK too. With the picks I have I would love to walk away with Peterson, C.Johnson and Brady Quinn. That's a nice squad to build a team around for a decade or so.
Cannon Fodder
Footballguy
Is it a Zealots league?I am in this league. He accumulated these picks through trading back in the initial draft. He still has a VERY solid team. And, this league is one full of strong owners who you would know from around here.cstu said:
The_U
Footballguy
I think Rice will come out Bloom. Good analysis on the pick tiers.
wannabee
Footballguy
no. It is the HyperActive league. It is a 2 conference (each with 12 teams) league. Notables such as (in no order):Jeff Pasquino, Johnny U, Nightshift, CSTU, Blue Onion, The Fanatic, WhoDat, Family Matters, Ninersfan, Jeter23, Hear-thefoot-steps, coolnerd, radballs, Patoons, V1LL (formerly known as bts4brkfst), Pimpin aint easy, JAA, EBF, SofaKings, Hawkeyeskin, Super Aent Money Moves, Peens, and one other I do not know his fbg name.Is it a Zealots league?I am in this league. He accumulated these picks through trading back in the initial draft. He still has a VERY solid team. And, this league is one full of strong owners who you would know from around here.cstu said:
Cannon Fodder
Footballguy
Wow, that sounds like a fun league to be a part of.no. It is the HyperActive league. It is a 2 conference (each with 12 teams) league. Notables such as (in no order):Jeff Pasquino, Johnny U, Nightshift, CSTU, Blue Onion, The Fanatic, WhoDat, Family Matters, Ninersfan, Jeter23, Hear-thefoot-steps, coolnerd, radballs, Patoons, V1LL (formerly known as bts4brkfst), Pimpin aint easy, JAA, EBF, SofaKings, Hawkeyeskin, Super Aent Money Moves, Peens, and one other I do not know his fbg name.Is it a Zealots league?I am in this league. He accumulated these picks through trading back in the initial draft. He still has a VERY solid team. And, this league is one full of strong owners who you would know from around here.cstu said:
cstu
Footballguy
Luckily I don't have the pick from your 2-0 team. Keep winning.I am in this league. He accumulated these picks through trading back in the initial draft. He still has a VERY solid team. And, this league is one full of strong owners who you would know from around here.cstu said:
King of the Jungle
Footballguy
Is Manningham (WR - MI) draft eligible?
The Man Who Met Andy Griffith
Footballguy
Nope, true sophomore.
cstu
Footballguy
Also, keep an eye on Iowa State's QB Bret Meyer (avatar) who is an multi-dimensional threat. He's a junior but may declare if he has a good enough year since ISU is losing a lot players next year. RB Stevie Hicks hasn't lived up to expectations but could be a decent pro prospect.
wannabee
Footballguy
I have seen some of ISU's games. Hicks could be a good pro. I like the way he runs. But, he seems to disappear a lot. Meyer has played well, too. But, I think Hicks might be a better pro ... depending on how he measures at the combine
broncofan13000
Footballguy
That's a very nice position to be in, especially if you still have decent talent going forward :jealous: Has anyone had success trading for a potential top 3 pick this year? What did you have to give up?I am in this league. He accumulated these picks through trading back in the initial draft. He still has a VERY solid team. And, this league is one full of strong owners who you would know from around here.cstu said:
broncofan13000
Footballguy
Bump.
To the Dynasty Experts out there, how does the 2007 draft grade out for 2nd rounders? Aquiring 2nd rounders in dynasty drafts is alot easier, and the draft seems to be fairly deep in talent...who do you see falling to the second round? Any discussion would be appreciated...
To the Dynasty Experts out there, how does the 2007 draft grade out for 2nd rounders? Aquiring 2nd rounders in dynasty drafts is alot easier, and the draft seems to be fairly deep in talent...who do you see falling to the second round? Any discussion would be appreciated...
wannabee
Footballguy
I am no expert, but I try to acquire 2nd rounders. Many guys around here know more than I do, but I look at the following dynasty players as very good 2nd rounders this past year:Jennings - his value is skyrocketingBrandon Marshall - waiting for his chanceJerome Harrison - has decent dynasty valueTarvaris Jackson - only behind Brad Johnson (when recovers from surgery in a month)Kellen Clemens - played well in campthis list goes on. I think this coming year has an even deeper class than 2006. There will be strong RBs and WRs drop to 2nd round.
Norwood and Jones-Drew fell to the 2nd in a lot of drafts, especially IDP drafts. Scheffler was yet another terrific pick in the 2nd. I agree that there's definite value in the 2nd, assuming you've done your homework.
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wannabee
Footballguy
good call, Bloom. I do not play in IDPs, but Norwood did fall to early 2nd in some non-IDP drafts. But, it does amaze me hoe cheap people will "sell" their 2nd rounders for during the season.
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
I don't think so. I think the elite talent at skill positions is a little stronger at QB, RB, and definitely WR, a little lower at TE, but the depth isn't quite the same. We won't see good depth at RB unless unknowns like Germaine Race really step up. We had nice depth this year. There should be better depth at QB, but rookie QBs are such long term projects. WRs look great at the top tier, but the depth is nothing like this past year. This will be especially true in IDP drafts. Last year was loaded with premium talent. This year just isn't that strong. A handful of capable corners but nothing spectacular, 4 or 5 really good safeties, LBs and DLs look very very shallow.
The premium talent could make the 2nd round better than last year...
Ahhh phooey.
Let's mock a rookie draft (w/o idp)...
1.1 Adrian Peterson
1.2 Calvin Johnson
1.3 Marshawn Lynch
1.4 Ted Ginn Jr
1.5 Dwayne Jarrett
1.6 Kenny Irons
1.7 Brady Quinn
1.8 Brian Brohm
1.9 Sidney Rice
1.10 Jeff Samardzija
1.11 Michael Bush
1.12 Tyrone Moss
Far from perfect, but my best guess (and not my rankings), so who's left for round 2?
QBs:
Drew Stanton *
Troy Smith *
RBs:
Ally Broussard *
Kenneth Darby
Garrett Wolfe *
DeShawn Wynn
Tony Hunt
Lorenzo Booker
WRs:
Jason Hill *
Steve Smith
Dallas Baker
Many more but who knows at this point?
TEs:
Zach Miller
Joe Newton
Greg Olson
Of the 14 possible 2nd rounders, I'm barely interested in five (and one's an undersized QB). Of course it's not even October yet, but I don't like this depth.
broncofan13000
Footballguy
wannabee
Footballguy
fair enough. But what would you have said this time last year about the 2006 class?
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
A good point, but I was foaming at the mouth this time last year. It was a spectacularly deep class even in my earliest opinions. Then the underclassmen blew the lid off the thing. That included IDP and OL. BUT, you are correct. Many many more solid prospects could emerge and the presence of better elite talent is a very good sign for the 2nd round.
aardball44
Footballguy
Looking to join my first keeper league in 2007. Never too early to start doing my homework.
This is a fantastic post. I don't suppose you can do one for this weekend as well? My problem with college ball is that some players look great, but they're just playing crappy defenses. I don't have as good a handle on overall team defenses/offense as I do for the NFL, so I can't judge talent as well.
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
I got tomorrow/today covered.
Thursday, Sept. 28
BYU at TCU, 6 p.m. - If the game is anything like last year's 51-50 OT classic, tune in and don't worry about the prospects.
BYU has three maybe four. QB John Beck had some monster games last year. He's a smart QB, and has a pretty loud blip on the NFL radar. I'm not too optimistic. His favorite receiver is 6-4 240 slot/TE/WR Johnny Harline. He aspires to be the next MColston. Not ready for the draft but much deserving of your attention is Soph RB Fui Vakapuna. He could be in committee, but his skillset has NFL written all over it. The leader of the defense is Cameron Jenson, one of those older cats with missionary work behind him, but a two time team leader in tackles and pretty decent LB prospect.
TCU doesn't have any NFL prospects of interest to fantasy football, as far as I know. I've heard some strong praise for a couple of the RBs, but... okay, I'll watch Soph Aaron Brown closely. I hear he's some burner.
Auburn at South Carolina, 7:30 p.m., ESPN
You can surf away from the Mountain West for some serious SEC action here.
Two studs who should be in the first round of all rookie drafts will be on display. Auburn RB Kenny Irons has some serious hype among draftniks and dynasty experts. I'm not so impressed. Some consider him a better NFL prospect than AD and/or Lynch! I've predicted a half dozen backs will be drafted ahead of him. He's been held under 100 in his last three games (well, 2 really because the Buffalo game was about 2nd teamers), but still he hasn't impressed me, so give him a watch and let's hear it. Auburn has two WRs worth watching. Taylor is the #1 and steady, but Rodriguez, a juco transfer last year, is 6-4 and blazing fast with excellent hands. He may be the better pro prospect.
South Carolina WR Sidney Rice is a better prospect than any WR in last April's draft, and it isn't close. He may be the 4th best WR prospect this year. He could be the best though (I know Calvin fans turn red when someone suggests he isn't worthy of unbridled worship), so give him a watch too. I think he's a can't miss prospect. He grabbed 5 tds last week on 9 receptions for 160 yards. The week before he grabbed 7 for 150. Problem is Auburn has the best secondary in the conference and Rice could be a nonfactor in a blowout. Hope not. He's fun to watch.
Friday, Sept. 29
Rutgers at South Florida, 8 p.m., ESPN2
Saturday, Sept. 30
Purdue at Notre Dame, 2:30 p.m., NBC
Boise State at Utah, 3 p.m., Versus
USC at Washington State, 4 p.m., TBS
Ohio State at Iowa, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN or ESPN2
Michigan at Minnesota, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN or ESPN2
Tennessee at Memphis, TBD, ESPN or ESPN2
Thursday, Sept. 28
BYU at TCU, 6 p.m. - If the game is anything like last year's 51-50 OT classic, tune in and don't worry about the prospects.
BYU has three maybe four. QB John Beck had some monster games last year. He's a smart QB, and has a pretty loud blip on the NFL radar. I'm not too optimistic. His favorite receiver is 6-4 240 slot/TE/WR Johnny Harline. He aspires to be the next MColston. Not ready for the draft but much deserving of your attention is Soph RB Fui Vakapuna. He could be in committee, but his skillset has NFL written all over it. The leader of the defense is Cameron Jenson, one of those older cats with missionary work behind him, but a two time team leader in tackles and pretty decent LB prospect.
TCU doesn't have any NFL prospects of interest to fantasy football, as far as I know. I've heard some strong praise for a couple of the RBs, but... okay, I'll watch Soph Aaron Brown closely. I hear he's some burner.
Auburn at South Carolina, 7:30 p.m., ESPN
You can surf away from the Mountain West for some serious SEC action here.
Two studs who should be in the first round of all rookie drafts will be on display. Auburn RB Kenny Irons has some serious hype among draftniks and dynasty experts. I'm not so impressed. Some consider him a better NFL prospect than AD and/or Lynch! I've predicted a half dozen backs will be drafted ahead of him. He's been held under 100 in his last three games (well, 2 really because the Buffalo game was about 2nd teamers), but still he hasn't impressed me, so give him a watch and let's hear it. Auburn has two WRs worth watching. Taylor is the #1 and steady, but Rodriguez, a juco transfer last year, is 6-4 and blazing fast with excellent hands. He may be the better pro prospect.
South Carolina WR Sidney Rice is a better prospect than any WR in last April's draft, and it isn't close. He may be the 4th best WR prospect this year. He could be the best though (I know Calvin fans turn red when someone suggests he isn't worthy of unbridled worship), so give him a watch too. I think he's a can't miss prospect. He grabbed 5 tds last week on 9 receptions for 160 yards. The week before he grabbed 7 for 150. Problem is Auburn has the best secondary in the conference and Rice could be a nonfactor in a blowout. Hope not. He's fun to watch.
Friday, Sept. 29
Rutgers at South Florida, 8 p.m., ESPN2
Saturday, Sept. 30
Purdue at Notre Dame, 2:30 p.m., NBC
Boise State at Utah, 3 p.m., Versus
USC at Washington State, 4 p.m., TBS
Ohio State at Iowa, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN or ESPN2
Michigan at Minnesota, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN or ESPN2
Tennessee at Memphis, TBD, ESPN or ESPN2
gocats
Footballguy
I dont like Jarrett, he has a bad attitude, poor work ethic, drops a #### load of passes, and is slow, Mike Williams was a similar player to Jarrett, except he could catch a beebee in the dark, and was very powerful off the line of scrimmage, if BMW is a bust than Im sure Jarrett will be also
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Chaos Commish
Footballguy
Ouch. The drops were his Freshman year. He was amazing last year. I cannot recall seeing better hands on a college receiver. Period. Some of the one handers just defied logic. He does have a glaring TD drop this season. He looks slow, but he's always separating. I've heard the opposite about his work ethic. It was his addiction to the game that hooked him and Leinart up, according to some old puff piece in the DT. Any examples of attitude problems? My understanding is he was a very immature kid who had big time homesickness, but otherwise is a solid citizen. My defense aside, he is slipping in my mind, and there is validity to your comments about speed, hands, and strength. I just see a freak. Could be a big Brandon Lloyd though. He's one of the reasons I'm not as high on these WRs as most. I don't grade Calvin Johnson at the god level either.
gocats
Footballguy
He still drops quite a few passes, he can be hit right in the numbers and not catch the ball, I dont think I can recall an acrobatic catch he made, are you sure it wasnt Steve Smith or Fred Davis? He has some of the worst hands I have seen from our receivers, I dont think his hands have gotten better, he still makes key drops continually. See the Arizona game, or the Fresno State game for verification on that. The only reason he gets good seperation is because of his hight, if he were 6'0'' there's no way he would be a first round prospect. Plus his work ethic is bad, Keffin called him out on it two games ago before playing Nebraska and its supposedly improved a little, I really dont see what the fuss is with this guy, he has bust written all over him.
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
It's just to freaky for this Bruin fan to defend a Trojan to a Trojan. You Go Gocats!
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
Auburn/South Carolina
Well, Irons and Rice left me nonplussed last night. I need someone to explain to me why Kenny Irons is being discussed with so much praise. He is a slow, weak, straight ahead, undersized, useless in the passing game, boring RB given a lot of work behind a solid 0-line. 27-117-2; not a bad night, but physically this RB is as mediocre as they come. I must be missing something. Btw, his brother David is an overhyped CB playing for Auburn also. Niether one looked NFL caliber to me.
Rice was double and triple teamed all night. I didn't expect much against that secondary, and he looks impossibly difficult to matchup with one on one, but he too disappointed. Spurrier has his WRs wasting a lot of time getting off the line of scrimmage with some tap dance kung fu jitterbug. Rice needs to explode downfield and stop dancing. He also had some horrible QB play limit him, but I expected more. He's known for adjusting to the ball, making circus catches, etc., but last night he reacted a little slowly when the opportunity was there and blew a couple chances to be a hero. That might not be fair because he was dealing with bad forced passes and great coverage, but he could have overcome it all a little better, imo.
Tonight
Rutgers @ South Florida
Rutgers HC Greg Shiano has a bunch of enemies in the draftnik community. These are the people who pimped RB/FB Brian Leonard as a Heisman candidate only to see another RB get most of the carries. Leonard is what he is, a combination of a faster Heath Evans and a smaller Mike Alstott with a cloudy NFL future ahead of him, and no shot at the Heisman. If asked to be an NFL fullback, he's the pass catching 3rd down variety, not the bulldozing blocker type. He is a really good football player, very versatile, good size, good speed, good athleticism, good hands, good blocker; just not great. If turned into an RB, he could be good in the NFL. Not a super star, but a nice package to work with. Ray Rice is the featured RB at Rutgers. Just a Sophomore, watch him if you get the chance. He is getting the carries ahead of Leonard because he is good. I mention somewhere in this thread another excellent TE class is emerging. 66-265 pound Clark Harris may be the best 07 NFL prospect in this game. He caught my eye in his bowl game last year. Very complete package. Rutgers should not have so much to discuss, but Soph SS Courtney Greene is going to be a beast if he bulks up a little (he should), and MLB Devraun Thompson is the type IDPers need to keep an eye on. I think Greene will be a stud in the NFL someday, Thompson lucky to make it.
South Florida doesn't have much to offer fantasy fans at the moment. With Andre Hall gone the offense is a desert. They do have a great LB headed to the NFL next year-- Stephen Nicholas. I see him ranked in the top 10 OLBs here and there, and I think he is way underrated at the moment.
Well, Irons and Rice left me nonplussed last night. I need someone to explain to me why Kenny Irons is being discussed with so much praise. He is a slow, weak, straight ahead, undersized, useless in the passing game, boring RB given a lot of work behind a solid 0-line. 27-117-2; not a bad night, but physically this RB is as mediocre as they come. I must be missing something. Btw, his brother David is an overhyped CB playing for Auburn also. Niether one looked NFL caliber to me.
Rice was double and triple teamed all night. I didn't expect much against that secondary, and he looks impossibly difficult to matchup with one on one, but he too disappointed. Spurrier has his WRs wasting a lot of time getting off the line of scrimmage with some tap dance kung fu jitterbug. Rice needs to explode downfield and stop dancing. He also had some horrible QB play limit him, but I expected more. He's known for adjusting to the ball, making circus catches, etc., but last night he reacted a little slowly when the opportunity was there and blew a couple chances to be a hero. That might not be fair because he was dealing with bad forced passes and great coverage, but he could have overcome it all a little better, imo.
Tonight
Rutgers @ South Florida
Rutgers HC Greg Shiano has a bunch of enemies in the draftnik community. These are the people who pimped RB/FB Brian Leonard as a Heisman candidate only to see another RB get most of the carries. Leonard is what he is, a combination of a faster Heath Evans and a smaller Mike Alstott with a cloudy NFL future ahead of him, and no shot at the Heisman. If asked to be an NFL fullback, he's the pass catching 3rd down variety, not the bulldozing blocker type. He is a really good football player, very versatile, good size, good speed, good athleticism, good hands, good blocker; just not great. If turned into an RB, he could be good in the NFL. Not a super star, but a nice package to work with. Ray Rice is the featured RB at Rutgers. Just a Sophomore, watch him if you get the chance. He is getting the carries ahead of Leonard because he is good. I mention somewhere in this thread another excellent TE class is emerging. 66-265 pound Clark Harris may be the best 07 NFL prospect in this game. He caught my eye in his bowl game last year. Very complete package. Rutgers should not have so much to discuss, but Soph SS Courtney Greene is going to be a beast if he bulks up a little (he should), and MLB Devraun Thompson is the type IDPers need to keep an eye on. I think Greene will be a stud in the NFL someday, Thompson lucky to make it.
South Florida doesn't have much to offer fantasy fans at the moment. With Andre Hall gone the offense is a desert. They do have a great LB headed to the NFL next year-- Stephen Nicholas. I see him ranked in the top 10 OLBs here and there, and I think he is way underrated at the moment.
One "sleeper" to keep an eye on is Trent Edwards, QB for Stanford.
The guy has as much pure talent as any QB in the country. The problem for him is that he as absolutely zero talent around him, and I truly mean that. It's almost comical what has happened to Stanford:
Nick Frank, who was a pretty decent RB for them last season, announced his retirement from football two weeks ago because of a cervical spine condition.
Their star receiver, Mark Bradford, tore knee ligaments in the second game this season and is out, possibly for the rest of the season. In the opener against Oregon, Bradford had 9 catches for 108 yards.
Their other star receiver, junior Evan Moore, has a stress fracture in his foot that has him out indefinitely. Moore was injured toward the end of his freshman season, and then injured again a year later, which made him miss his entire sophomore season.
Stanford's third best receiver, senior Marcus McCutcheon, has been out since injuring his knee in the season opener.
Stanford's starting center, Tim Mattran, went down before the season with a leg injury.
Edwards has actually done a pretty decent job this season, despite being on such a decimated offense. He's been very accurate with his throws, but it's tough going when you are throwing to your 4th, 5th, and 6th receivers - players that aren't able to get open, and make the catches.
Edwards is the type of player who will probably go to the NFL Combine this season and absolutely tear it up. At least some of you not on the west coast will actually have heard of him prior to that point.
The guy has as much pure talent as any QB in the country. The problem for him is that he as absolutely zero talent around him, and I truly mean that. It's almost comical what has happened to Stanford:
Nick Frank, who was a pretty decent RB for them last season, announced his retirement from football two weeks ago because of a cervical spine condition.
Their star receiver, Mark Bradford, tore knee ligaments in the second game this season and is out, possibly for the rest of the season. In the opener against Oregon, Bradford had 9 catches for 108 yards.
Their other star receiver, junior Evan Moore, has a stress fracture in his foot that has him out indefinitely. Moore was injured toward the end of his freshman season, and then injured again a year later, which made him miss his entire sophomore season.
Stanford's third best receiver, senior Marcus McCutcheon, has been out since injuring his knee in the season opener.
Stanford's starting center, Tim Mattran, went down before the season with a leg injury.
Edwards has actually done a pretty decent job this season, despite being on such a decimated offense. He's been very accurate with his throws, but it's tough going when you are throwing to your 4th, 5th, and 6th receivers - players that aren't able to get open, and make the catches.
Edwards is the type of player who will probably go to the NFL Combine this season and absolutely tear it up. At least some of you not on the west coast will actually have heard of him prior to that point.
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
Nationally Televised - Saturday, Sept. 30
Purdue at Notre Dame, 2:30 p.m., NBC
No secret about who to watch for Notre Dame. Brady Quinn and Jeff Samardzija, both projected first rounders next April, and both projected first rounders in dynasty rookie drafts. Expect Purdue to blitz all day, so there should be fireworks. A couple other Irish deserve mention. WR Rhema McKnight was once regarded as a better prospect than Samadzija, but injuries set him back. I think Samardzija bloomed and is the far better prospect, but both are headed to the NFL, and I believe FBG's Mr. Bloom likes McKnight better. RB Darius Walker doesn't get enough respect on this team loaded with skill position draft picks. He's a Junior, but could surprise and come out early. The RB class isn't deep and this kid has game-- tough inside, extremely quick, good hands, solid blocking, nose for the endzone, wears down defenses. He'll get a shot at playing on Sundays.
Purdue's best player is Sophomore RB Kory Sheets. Remember the name. We'll be talking about him and Edgerrin James in the same sentence in a year or two. Vrooom. The Boilermakers also have another excellent Big 10 WR prospect-- Dorein Bryant. He's a Junior. He'll probably stay in school. He is very talented.
PS. Purdue could put up a fight in this one.
Boise State at Utah, 3 p.m.,
All I can say about Boise Sophomore RB Ian Johnson is "wow, who knew?" This kid is amazing. Seriously. Why they buried him last year in a 4 deep committe is inexplicable. I know there's a ground swell of support for QB Jared Zabransky as an NFL prospect. Meh. I've seen enough. Not ready for prime time. LB Korey Hall is probably the best prospect for next year's draft. He's a gamer.
Utah SS Eric Weddle is one of my favorite collegians. I think he's the best DB in the country. LaRon Landry and Brandon Merriweather can have all the pub, this Weddle character is going to be a stud for years. If you saw Utah destroy Ga Tech last bowl season and wondered what happened to Calvin Johnson, the answer is Weddle. He took him man up and dominated Calvin for four brutal quarters that left Johnson with alligator arms and very much on alert for Weddle. It was impressive. Weddle made Johnson look terrible. No two ways around it. Johnson is a stud. What is Weddle? Ronnie Lott is my favorite comparison. Last week against my beloved Aztecs, Weddle had 4 solos, three interceptions, took two of them back for TDs and also carried the ball three times for another TD! BEAST!! Utah has two NFL caliber QBs. Brian Johnson was arguably the best offensive weapon in the Mountain West when he went down to injury and his replacement Brett Ratliff had the two most impressive QB performances of last season this side of VY in the Rose Bowl. Ratliff is starting but doesn't look the same. He lost two great receivers. Like Cutler you have to watch the player not comment on the boxscore. This QB is very good.
I might write these up late tonight.
USC at Washington State, 4 p.m., TBS
Ohio State at Iowa, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN or ESPN2
Michigan at Minnesota, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN or ESPN2
Tennessee at Memphis, TBD, ESPN or ESPN2
Purdue at Notre Dame, 2:30 p.m., NBC
No secret about who to watch for Notre Dame. Brady Quinn and Jeff Samardzija, both projected first rounders next April, and both projected first rounders in dynasty rookie drafts. Expect Purdue to blitz all day, so there should be fireworks. A couple other Irish deserve mention. WR Rhema McKnight was once regarded as a better prospect than Samadzija, but injuries set him back. I think Samardzija bloomed and is the far better prospect, but both are headed to the NFL, and I believe FBG's Mr. Bloom likes McKnight better. RB Darius Walker doesn't get enough respect on this team loaded with skill position draft picks. He's a Junior, but could surprise and come out early. The RB class isn't deep and this kid has game-- tough inside, extremely quick, good hands, solid blocking, nose for the endzone, wears down defenses. He'll get a shot at playing on Sundays.
Purdue's best player is Sophomore RB Kory Sheets. Remember the name. We'll be talking about him and Edgerrin James in the same sentence in a year or two. Vrooom. The Boilermakers also have another excellent Big 10 WR prospect-- Dorein Bryant. He's a Junior. He'll probably stay in school. He is very talented.
PS. Purdue could put up a fight in this one.
Boise State at Utah, 3 p.m.,
All I can say about Boise Sophomore RB Ian Johnson is "wow, who knew?" This kid is amazing. Seriously. Why they buried him last year in a 4 deep committe is inexplicable. I know there's a ground swell of support for QB Jared Zabransky as an NFL prospect. Meh. I've seen enough. Not ready for prime time. LB Korey Hall is probably the best prospect for next year's draft. He's a gamer.
Utah SS Eric Weddle is one of my favorite collegians. I think he's the best DB in the country. LaRon Landry and Brandon Merriweather can have all the pub, this Weddle character is going to be a stud for years. If you saw Utah destroy Ga Tech last bowl season and wondered what happened to Calvin Johnson, the answer is Weddle. He took him man up and dominated Calvin for four brutal quarters that left Johnson with alligator arms and very much on alert for Weddle. It was impressive. Weddle made Johnson look terrible. No two ways around it. Johnson is a stud. What is Weddle? Ronnie Lott is my favorite comparison. Last week against my beloved Aztecs, Weddle had 4 solos, three interceptions, took two of them back for TDs and also carried the ball three times for another TD! BEAST!! Utah has two NFL caliber QBs. Brian Johnson was arguably the best offensive weapon in the Mountain West when he went down to injury and his replacement Brett Ratliff had the two most impressive QB performances of last season this side of VY in the Rose Bowl. Ratliff is starting but doesn't look the same. He lost two great receivers. Like Cutler you have to watch the player not comment on the boxscore. This QB is very good.
I might write these up late tonight.
USC at Washington State, 4 p.m., TBS
Ohio State at Iowa, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN or ESPN2
Michigan at Minnesota, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN or ESPN2
Tennessee at Memphis, TBD, ESPN or ESPN2
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
Rice looks very good for a Sophomore. What's the difference in him and Kenny Irons? Rice has two more years to improve.
Nicholas got hurt, and the announcers are in love with Moffit. If you're watching closely you can see Nicholas is the guy with big time game. Speaking of big time game, maybe my eyes are deceiving me, but USF's corners are studs, both of them. Mike Jenkins is well known in the scouting/draftnik community and he could be a first day pick. Nice package for a corner. But where did Trae Williams come from? They said he converted from RB as RS Freshman. He's getting it. I won't be surprised to see him drafted fairly high. Both these DBs are juniors.
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
Hey GDogg, I've been pimping Edwards as "performing" better than Leinart since last season. I think he could be the better QB. Like Ratliff in my post above, you cannot judge Edwards by his boxscores. I think your post explains that well enough.I would add that I doubt he tears up the Combine though. He's not a physical freak. He's a very good QB. Hopefully he gets an invite to the Senior Bowl. There, in comparison to his peers on the field of play, I think he could tear it up.
cstu
Footballguy
People have sort of forgotten about Edwards since he's been out of the limelight but he was the #2 QB coming out of high school (behind UCLA's Ben Olson).
JayMan
Footballguy
We all know that if all available underclassmen declare for the upcoming NFL draft... the talent pool at WR will be tremendous...
So, let's suppose that you need a uberstud at the WR position for your [DYNASTY] squad (who doesn't?)...
Assume also that you will haven to draft the guy at the spot he's projected to go in rookie drafts (which means trading up or down accordingly if you can afford to trade down or need to give something up to trade up)...
Make your case for the WR you would target... telling us what you see in his game that will translate perfectly to the NFL...
Most prominent names are:
Calvin Johnson - Georgia Tech (would need a top3 pick);
Tedd Ginn Jr - Ohio State (1.04-1.06 range)
Dwayne Jarrett - USC (1.04-1.06 range);
Sidney Rice - South Carolina (1.07-1.09 range);
Jeff Samardzija - Notre Dame (end of 1st round pick);
others (2nd round +)... Jason Hill / Paul Wilson / Robert Meachem / else...
Let's discuss...
So, let's suppose that you need a uberstud at the WR position for your [DYNASTY] squad (who doesn't?)...
Assume also that you will haven to draft the guy at the spot he's projected to go in rookie drafts (which means trading up or down accordingly if you can afford to trade down or need to give something up to trade up)...
Make your case for the WR you would target... telling us what you see in his game that will translate perfectly to the NFL...
Most prominent names are:
Calvin Johnson - Georgia Tech (would need a top3 pick);
Tedd Ginn Jr - Ohio State (1.04-1.06 range)
Dwayne Jarrett - USC (1.04-1.06 range);
Sidney Rice - South Carolina (1.07-1.09 range);
Jeff Samardzija - Notre Dame (end of 1st round pick);
others (2nd round +)... Jason Hill / Paul Wilson / Robert Meachem / else...
Let's discuss...
nightshift
Footballguy
FWP, weak? You are high dude. Steelers need depth, I'll grant that. Which team doesn't draft for RB depth?Of your list, Houston, Cleveland, & NYJ will be top canidates for a starter. STL, IND, DEN (always in hunt), SF, & possibly NYG (if Tiki retires) may also make a play for a top RB.Of your 3-6 starters, my guess is 2 will succeed. Which two? Your guess.You have to factor in trades for guys like Turner which will take a team or two off the market as well.
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Tenacious D
Footballguy
I'm extremely unimpressed with the senior RBs. I just finished assembling the notes from the games/film I've seen and research I've done so far in this article and most of the top seniors are moving down.
For the seniors, Tony Hunt is one I see moving up, mostly off his effort against OSU, and Thomas Clayton is a nice sleeper. If he can show some consistency, he could be a fast riser at the Combine a la Tatum Bell and Jerrious Norwood. Wolfe is a stud, but at his size, he's a Day Two pick and won't be viewed as having feature potential. The light seems to have gone on for DeShawn Wynn, but we'll see if he doesn't blow it again.
As far as falling, Kenneth Darby, Lorenzo Booker, Tyrone Moss, and Alley Broussard are all going in the wrong direction. Michael Bush's injury looks like a simple clean break, so I don't think it hurts his draft value too much, he didn't have anything left to prove, but you have to downgrade a guy until you see how he comes back and there is a partial natural human out-of-sight, out-of-mind/what-have-you-done-for-me-lately reaction, even for GMs. Irons is probably still the top senior RB, by default, if nothing else. I'm not nearly as negative about him as Chaos Commish, but agree he doesn't "wow" anyone when you watch him run.
As usual, the underclassmen will dictate the strength of a class. Adrian Peterson and Marshawn Lynch are likely to declare and alone in the top tier. After that, I don't know. Mike Hart is impressive, but he'll be challenged by his measurables as far as how high he'll go and bias against whether he can be a feature back. Tony Pittman is a guy who I think is moving up fast. He is running with more authority this year, breaking tackles and fighting. He reminds me of Anthony Thomas who, regardless of where his career ended up, was a second round pick and OROY. Dwayne Wright is a guy who has looked great this year and is moving up. Lynell Hamilton is hurt again, Albert Young, Yvenson Bernard and Darius Walker aren't building on last year.
So I see a pair of top underclassmen who salvage the top, but not much elite talent + measurables below them, and a very sketchy senior group. Some seniors need to turn their seasons around drastically and some others need to have better than expected speed for this class to be decent.
For the seniors, Tony Hunt is one I see moving up, mostly off his effort against OSU, and Thomas Clayton is a nice sleeper. If he can show some consistency, he could be a fast riser at the Combine a la Tatum Bell and Jerrious Norwood. Wolfe is a stud, but at his size, he's a Day Two pick and won't be viewed as having feature potential. The light seems to have gone on for DeShawn Wynn, but we'll see if he doesn't blow it again.
As far as falling, Kenneth Darby, Lorenzo Booker, Tyrone Moss, and Alley Broussard are all going in the wrong direction. Michael Bush's injury looks like a simple clean break, so I don't think it hurts his draft value too much, he didn't have anything left to prove, but you have to downgrade a guy until you see how he comes back and there is a partial natural human out-of-sight, out-of-mind/what-have-you-done-for-me-lately reaction, even for GMs. Irons is probably still the top senior RB, by default, if nothing else. I'm not nearly as negative about him as Chaos Commish, but agree he doesn't "wow" anyone when you watch him run.
As usual, the underclassmen will dictate the strength of a class. Adrian Peterson and Marshawn Lynch are likely to declare and alone in the top tier. After that, I don't know. Mike Hart is impressive, but he'll be challenged by his measurables as far as how high he'll go and bias against whether he can be a feature back. Tony Pittman is a guy who I think is moving up fast. He is running with more authority this year, breaking tackles and fighting. He reminds me of Anthony Thomas who, regardless of where his career ended up, was a second round pick and OROY. Dwayne Wright is a guy who has looked great this year and is moving up. Lynell Hamilton is hurt again, Albert Young, Yvenson Bernard and Darius Walker aren't building on last year.
So I see a pair of top underclassmen who salvage the top, but not much elite talent + measurables below them, and a very sketchy senior group. Some seniors need to turn their seasons around drastically and some others need to have better than expected speed for this class to be decent.
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
Tenacious D said:
The blog has activity!? Thanks for the heads up. And nice job.Tenacious D said:
We're probably not that far apart (like last year where we differed). My negativity is directly related to the overly enthusiastic hype on this board in particular. In other realms Irons is being discussed realistically for what he is, and I don't go negative on him. Something happened at FBG after the Wazzu game (Irons had big #s) and some wanted to boost him above Peterson and Lynch. I'm trying to put a stop to that. Irons, Darby, Hunt-- these are all basically the same guy; none are showing exceptional talent.Tenacious D said:
If Irons was being discussed with them, and I like your take on Hunt, then I wouldn't be so negative.
Pittman is looking more talented all the time.You have to be encouraged by the Sophomores. They'll be divided into two drafts but these are some very good looking RBs.Tenacious D said:
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
I'm interested in the discussion, and would like to read several takes, so I hope mine doesn't end it, but I need to see where these guys go. I confess to liking Ginn Jr. a little more than the rest, but he or another would have to really separate from the others (in my mind) for me to start maneuvering in the draft. I'm probably more apt to trade away from the most hyped, move down for the less hyped and grab a few extra picks or something. I don'thave all the names handy (there's over 20) and don't want to shoot from the hip, but there's a solid list of talented WRs coming out beyond the elite WRs we're discussing. I'll be drafting WRs in later rounds next rookie draft. I have little interest in the RBs, and the IDPs. Either that, or I may look to dump a few later picks to move up for Jason Hill, Rhema McKnight, or similar.JayMan said:
It's not looking like a deep draft for the NFL or dynasty leagues.
crnerblitz
Footballguy
Tenacious D
Footballguy
I like Hunt a lot, I'm just not sure if he has the speed and quickness for the next level. Darby may be done. He sounds like a headcase now. I'm watching Bama@FLA now, replay official better look both ways crossing the street in Alabama after that no call on the first drive. Wynn is the guy I'm really interested in seeing in this game. He is a nice physical package if his attitude has changed, but things are going well now, I'm guessing he folds when the team runs in to adversity this year or he gets blame in a loss. Wynn has been stuffed on this drive...Oh yeah, back to Irons. I do think Irons has NFL-quality balance and vision, not sure about speed. He needs some bulk and he's not impressive between the tackles despite an excellent OLine. ...Jimmy Johns already in for Darby. I miss Tyrone Prothro.ETADarby fumble...wow, this guy is stuggling.Irons, Darby, Hunt-- these are all basically the same guy; none are showing exceptional talent. If Irons was being discussed with them, and I like your take on Hunt, then I wouldn't be so negative.
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King of the Jungle
Footballguy
I stocked up on 2007 picks two years ago in anticipation of Adrian Peterson. I am disappointed in how this class is evolving (admit, not an avid college football viewer). The players that people are gloating about:
Brady Quinn - He has the physical tools andd attitude to make it (IMO)
Brian Brohm - Never seen him play, based on what I have read he looks to be the top QB
Drew Stanton - If you cant lead your team to victory vs Illinois...what can you do?
Adrian Peterson - IMO opinion the top prize
Marshawn Lynch - I know he is a different back than JJ Arrington, but how elite is he?
Kenny Irons - I did watch him vs. the Gamecocks and came away unimpressed
Michael Bush - Hurt. Is he the next Eric Shelton?
Calvin Johnson - Looks great. I would like to know more about his passion/work ethic.
Ted Ginn - The Reggie Bush of WRs. Is he a glorified Santana Moss (good), or a Antwan-Randle type player (bad).
Sydney Rice - Big players make big plays when it counts. Didnt see it vs. Auburn
Dwayne Jarret - Mike Williams clone scares me - Lions fan
SUMMARY (again from somebody who doesnt watch much college football):
A very "light" draft class. Peterson is the prize. The rest is up for grabs (I also know nothing is guaranteed). Depending on where I end up drafting, I may trade some picks away straight up for 08' picks.
Brady Quinn - He has the physical tools andd attitude to make it (IMO)
Brian Brohm - Never seen him play, based on what I have read he looks to be the top QB
Drew Stanton - If you cant lead your team to victory vs Illinois...what can you do?
Adrian Peterson - IMO opinion the top prize
Marshawn Lynch - I know he is a different back than JJ Arrington, but how elite is he?
Kenny Irons - I did watch him vs. the Gamecocks and came away unimpressed
Michael Bush - Hurt. Is he the next Eric Shelton?
Calvin Johnson - Looks great. I would like to know more about his passion/work ethic.
Ted Ginn - The Reggie Bush of WRs. Is he a glorified Santana Moss (good), or a Antwan-Randle type player (bad).
Sydney Rice - Big players make big plays when it counts. Didnt see it vs. Auburn
Dwayne Jarret - Mike Williams clone scares me - Lions fan
SUMMARY (again from somebody who doesnt watch much college football):
A very "light" draft class. Peterson is the prize. The rest is up for grabs (I also know nothing is guaranteed). Depending on where I end up drafting, I may trade some picks away straight up for 08' picks.
coolnerd
Footballguy
I like the work that you have done on the Sr. RBs. I think the key for both fantasy players and real NFL guys is going to be in finding the 2nd day guys. Here are additional guys who I think may wind up draftable.Seniors:Tenacious D said:
Steve Hicks Iowa State
Curtis Brown BYU
John Cornish Kansas
Draft-eligible Sophomore
Andre Brown NC State
KoolKat
Footballguy
The fact that there are already guys like Peterson, Johnson, Ginn, Quinn, Lynch, Rice, Jarrett, and Irons on the scene bodes very well for next year's draft. I mean usually there are several players who come out of nowhere at the senior bowl and the combine. For example, last year at this time Jay Cutler, Vernon Davis, and Joseph Addai were not even being discussed. Today, they are very valuable in Dynasty Leagues. In addition, Chad Jackson wasn't valued highly until the combine. The same could be said for Sinorice Moss until the Senior Bowl. Also, there are always the guys who come out of relatively nowhere in the pre-season to become viable picks. Examples from this year would be Mike Bell, Greg Jennings, Marques Colston, Jerious Norwood, Jones-Drew, and Wali Lundy. Although Lundy has now lost his job, he was still worthy of a pick coming draft time. The fact that it is nearly a year before the 2007 season begins, and we can already name 10-12 viable players to pick makes me feel good about having 2 picks in the 1st round next year. I may get rid of both picks if they are low, to trade up for Calvin Johnson.
JayMan
Footballguy
I agree with you mostly - but I think that you are underevaluating this WR class... these four (along with Samardjiza and Hill) are terrific talents... I would have picked any of these four before anyone in last year's class (and I was able to snag Jennings in the 2nd round)... This might not be telling much - since last year's WR class was weak to say the least... But I strongly believe that this group is as talented as the '04 class (Fitz / Roy / ReggieW / Evans / MiClayton / Jenkins) - and that class was the best since '96...Don't sell your late 1st round pick too quickly...
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