Break Down the Tape - Steve Slaton (1 Viewer)

[ConstruxBoy]

Hi guys,

Check out this week's BDTT here.

Let me know what you think.

 

[LHUCKS]

I think he's overrated...Antonio Pittman pard deux.(in that he's overrated because of TV exposure/hype)

Agree with his vision being subpar for an NFL RB...if you don't have vision you need to have explosive power in the NFL and lights out quicks...he doesn't have any of these.

The real NFL prospect on this team is Devine.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

I think he's overrated...Antonio Pittman pard deux.(in that he's overrated because of TV exposure/hype)Agree with his vision being subpar for an NFL RB...if you don't have vision you need to have explosive power in the NFL and lights out quicks...he doesn't have any of these.The real NFL prospect on this team is Devine.

Thanks, I obviously agree with you. And I definitely agree on Devine. He is truly the next Barry Sanders. Just ridiculous moves.

 

[Chaos Commish]

Every year there's a half handful of very polarizing players. Cutler, Young, Bush a couple years ago. Ginn and Russell stand out this year. It looks like Slaton will be this years along with some others yet to generate loud doubters. In every case, the polarizing player flashes great skill and production but has some quirks or whatever that create the doubters. In every case, I think the very talented player will prevail with the names above and of course with Slaton.

Slaton is very strong, weightroom strong. He is also extremely dedicated to his craft. He is notorious for being the hardest worker on the team. First in the gym and last to leave kind of dedication. He plays hurt and still puts up huge numbers. Sharing with other players putting up fancy stats, he will not always impress, but the stuff he does well, speed, quicks, hit the hole, make people miss, catch the ball, fight for the tough yard, get in the endzone, play tough, block hard, all translate... not just to a nice player, btw, but to a Clinton Portis type of RB with great hands.

He moves piles all the time and hits the hole very hard. This game is easy for him because of the system he is in, but when asked/forced to flash the big time NFL skills, he really shines. He is blazing fast and has sick quicks and ankle breaking moves like Reggie Bush. He is probably the best receiving RB in the country and has made many catches that top notch WRs drop. Bloom and I have discussed this aspect of him before.

Nice player. Pray your favorite team's GM does not pass on him after 5 or 6 picks in next years draft. Those who do will regret it. The key to modern NFL offenses is mismatches and Slaton creates them like Reggie because of his hands and speed.

I've recently seen a mock that had him going RB3 near the end of the first to Dallas. All the bad press in the world couldn't cause Ted Ginn Jr. to fall, but maybe the coming flawed criticisms of Slaton will... and no one will be happier than me if Dallas gets an early non RB stud from Cleveland's pick and this kid slides to them later. That would be better than McFadden and whoever.

Glad to clear things up for the readers around here.

Let the polarization begin.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

Every year there's a half handful of very polarizing players. Cutler, Young, Bush a couple years ago. Ginn and Russell stand out this year. It looks like Slaton will be this years along with some others yet to generate loud doubters. In every case, the polarizing player flashes great skill and production but has some quirks or whatever that create the doubters. In every case, I think the very talented player will prevail with the names above and of course with Slaton. Slaton is very strong, weightroom strong. He is also extremely dedicated to his craft. He is notorious for being the hardest worker on the team. First in the gym and last to leave kind of dedication. He plays hurt and still puts up huge numbers. Sharing with other players putting up fancy stats, he will not always impress, but the stuff he does well, speed, quicks, hit the hole, make people miss, catch the ball, fight for the tough yard, get in the endzone, play tough, block hard, all translate... not just to a nice player, btw, but to a Clinton Portis type of RB with great hands. He moves piles all the time and hits the hole very hard. This game is easy for him because of the system he is in, but when asked/forced to flash the big time NFL skills, he really shines. He is blazing fast and has sick quicks and ankle breaking moves like Reggie Bush. He is probably the best receiving RB in the country and has made many catches that top notch WRs drop. Bloom and I have discussed this aspect of him before. Nice player. Pray your favorite team's GM does not pass on him after 5 or 6 picks in next years draft. Those who do will regret it. The key to modern NFL offenses is mismatches and Slaton creates them like Reggie because of his hands and speed. I've recently seen a mock that had him going RB3 near the end of the first to Dallas. All the bad press in the world couldn't cause Ted Ginn Jr. to fall, but maybe the coming flawed criticisms of Slaton will... and no one will be happier than me if Dallas gets an early non RB stud from Cleveland's pick and this kid slides to them later. That would be better than McFadden and whoever. Glad to clear things up for the readers around here. Let the polarization begin.

Ankle-breaking moves? Are we watching the same player? Did you watch the Marshall game?

 

[EBF]

I don't know what to make of this guy just yet. He has great long speed, but a lot of his big gains come from easy tosses and sweeps where he just busts through a huge hole and runs in a straight line. He doesn't show the lateral agility of a guy like Bush or Tomlinson. And while his stats are extremely impressive, let's not forget that this is the same system that made Quincy Wilson, Kay-Jay Harris, and Avon Cobourne look like NFL prospects. Slaton is better than all of those guys by a wide margin, but is he really an elite first round talent? It's tough to say. He has a little bit of Willie Parker in him and I think he has a chance to be very successful at the next level, but as of today I do think he's probably somewhat overrated by the FF masses.

 

[Islander]

I think he's overrated...Antonio Pittman pard deux.(in that he's overrated because of TV exposure/hype)

If the NFL draft was held today, Slaton would probably go in the late 1st round. A Pittman = 4th round pick. Comparing Slaton to A Pittman is not something I would expect to read from LHUCKS.I could buy the argument that Slaton might be overrated... but A Pittman should not be in this conversation.

 

[LHUCKS]

If the NFL draft was held today, Slaton would probably go in the late 1st round. A Pittman = 4th round pick. Comparing Slaton to A Pittman is not something I would expect to read from LHUCKS.

I wasn't comparing their talent, running style etc. etc.The similarities are that they are both overhyped by the media...and if somebody takes Slaton in the first round they are a moron.

 

[Islander]

If the NFL draft was held today, Slaton would probably go in the late 1st round. A Pittman = 4th round pick. Comparing Slaton to A Pittman is not something I would expect to read from LHUCKS.

I wasn't comparing their talent, running style etc. etc.The similarities are that they are both overhyped by the media...and if somebody takes Slaton in the first round they are a moron.

I see. But I think it's more than 50% likely that someone will be a moron as you say.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

If the NFL draft was held today, Slaton would probably go in the late 1st round. A Pittman = 4th round pick. Comparing Slaton to A Pittman is not something I would expect to read from LHUCKS.

I wasn't comparing their talent, running style etc. etc.The similarities are that they are both overhyped by the media...and if somebody takes Slaton in the first round they are a moron.

I see. But I think it's more than 50% likely that someone will be a moron as you say.

He'll probably go in the first, but I would guess that it's near the end of the first.

 

[NatronIsMean]

I think an interesting guy to watch is Mendenhall from Illinois. He'll be a senior next year, but may leave early. Looks really solid thus far.

 

[notapplicable]

Yeah, the comp. to Pittman isn't adequate at all, but I think you guys may be right about the vision part. Jon Stewart from Oregon will probably be a better NFLer than Slaton.

And oh yeah, if Devine can stay out of trouble he's going to be something else...

 

[Cleat Spike]

This has got to stop about Devine being in trouble? What do you have to go off of that he is in trouble all the time. The guy couldn't be more humble and driven. I love that....He's automatically lumped into the troubled player category. What has he done in the past to make you think he's going to get into "trouble"? Only thing he has to worry about is grades, and it doesn't seem like that's the trouble you're referring to. What has he done in the past that leads you to believe he's a thug. Have you watched or read anything about him at all? The guy's here to play. Stop the generalizations on him.

 

[Chaos Commish]

This has got to stop about Devine being in trouble? What do you have to go off of that he is in trouble all the time. The guy couldn't be more humble and driven. I love that....He's automatically lumped into the troubled player category. What has he done in the past to make you think he's going to get into "trouble"? Only thing he has to worry about is grades, and it doesn't seem like that's the trouble you're referring to. What has he done in the past that leads you to believe he's a thug. Have you watched or read anything about him at all? The guy's here to play. Stop the generalizations on him.

and he's so cute when he plays!

 

[Reservoir Dog]

Slaton is great, but I think Mike Hart will be the better pro. The kid is a warrior! He's a bit small, but he's very strong for his size (and very tough). He has the kind of elite balance/vision that few NFL RB's possess. Not a burner, but has good speed and decent hands (hasn't fumbled in 2 years). The only negative I can think of is that he's been a 4 year starter at Michigan (he's had alot of carries in college).

 

[DinkinFlicka]

I've only seen highlights on ESPN of this kid, so I am wondering if anyone can help answer a few questions I have about him as well as discuss some other positives I see.

What is his 40 time? While it may not be the best test of true football speed it can help predict his impact on the next level. I read about him being a consensus late first round pick, but if he puts up blazing 40 times at the combine I think that could change.

I don't get the Clinton Portis comparison. Portis is 220, he's an entirely different beast compared to a 190 lbs back. Clinton has great speed, but he looks to hit and thinks of himself as a "headbussa".

Does he keep his feet moving after contact? Do he ever have problems with the pitter pat like Jamal Lewis behind the line? Does he know when to fight for extra yards and when to go down to avoid big hits?

What kind of leader is he? Does he elevate the play of those around them? Does he bring confidence to his team in crunch time? Any off the field incidents of note?

Reading the NFLDraftGuys report, I noticed that he has 0 fumbles, 0 lost in 2 seasons. That is significant considering the number of touches he had. I was also impressed with all the different things he did throughout the game. He seems to smart enough to grasp all that stuff which is important. By the report he seemed to be a willing blocker picking up blitzers and getting downfield, but his effort was questioned on some blocks. It's only 1 game, but is that a common theme with him? I haven't seen him play but is his heart questionable or was it nit picking?

How has he played in big games in his career? Against tough competition? Is he in an NFL style offense or a college gimmick system?

Does he return kicks and/or punts?

It sounds like his vision is a big question as well as his cuts, but from the report it seemed like he made plenty of people miss and ran the ball well throughout the game. The play by play sounded like he ran the ball up the middle just fine and was finishing runs late in the game. What was the score of the game though?

 

[Chaos Commish]

Good questions

What is his 40 time?

He flies. It will be elite, sub 4.4, probably 4.35.

I don't get the Clinton Portis comparison. Portis is 220...

Right. Portis weighed 199 at his pro day. He was listed at 204 on his rookie card. He didn't break 210 until two years ago when his "metabolism slowed down" according to him. Tomlinson was a slim 205 at his Combine. People have to remember how young these kids are and how much some of them grow. Slaton reminds me a lot of Portis and Tomlinson when they were in college. He has the same kind of arms and shoulders, lower body and basic running style. He will get bigger. He is just a pup.

Does he keep his feet moving after contact?



Yes. Some great examples of that whenever they are in the redzone.

Do he ever have problems with the pitter pat like Jamal Lewis behind the line?

No. He is being accused of not having a good lateral game because he doesn't do that. He hits it. In space he will break ankles, but in trash he goes downhill... fast.

Does he know when to fight for extra yards and when to go down to avoid big hits?

Yes, imo... he could avoid a little more contact, but I don't get mad at RBs for skipping out of bounds.

What kind of leader is he?

Supposedly top notch intangibles. Never know for sure, and psychological issues are something I avoid. You just never know. When someone questions his heart, I can only point out he put up 1700 yards and 20 some odd TDs last year playing with a very painful broken wrist all year. That is a leader and not someone who lacks heart.

Does he elevate the play of those around them?



Absolutely. This is the main reason I grade him higher than a Ray Rice or Jon Stewart. He cannot be covered by any LB anywhere. He forces a defense into mismatches. He is a dual threat like Bush, just as fast, same size, less jitterbugging, more downhill.

Does he bring confidence to his team in crunch time?

Dunno.

Any off the field incidents of note?

No

I haven't seen him play but is his heart questionable or was it nit picking?

Absolutely the nitpicking of a critic.

How has he played in big games in his career? Against tough competition? Is he in an NFL style offense or a college gimmick system?

He had a disappointing game last year in a big one against Louisville. He had a couple bad fumbles. Word leaked out about how bad his wrist was and they went for it. But get this. He carried 18 times for 158 and caught 3 passes for another 74 yards and a score. 230 yards of offense and Construx criticized him then, as I recall. He was broken hearted but all heart in that one.

As a Freshman in the big one against the Cards he stepped up to epic levels. He carried 31 times for 188 had 5 rushing TDs and a receiving TD. Awesome and in a huge game. They won 44-42. This kid never tires and gets stronger with carries 25-30 when asked to carry the load.

His biggest game that year was against Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. Georgia was ranked 8th in the country and had a great defense. Slaton scored 3 times, carried 26 times and went for over 200 yards breaking Tony Dorsett's record.

His competition hasn't been that tough as a general rule. It's the Big East, but his best games have come against ranked teams. It is a gimmicky offense, a spread with a running QB. But whenever the going gets tough, they line up in a more traditional set and that is often when Slaton takes over.

Does he return kicks and/or punts?

He certainly could and be very good at it. I'm positive that he will in the NFL early in his career, like Bush.

Yes Construx, I saw the Marshall game. Did you see the Marshall game last year? I did. I've seen 14 of his games. Did you see the Sugar Bowl game against Georgia? Ask those guys about broken ankles. He was unreal in that regard. How about the Pitt game last year. Broken wrist, angry about the Louisville game, he combined for 340 yards and scored 4 TDs in a relentless display of freakish running skill... he made the whole defense miss him on a 55 yard TD run. It may have been the most impressive 2nd half RB performance (over 300 yards in the 2nd half) I have seen since some of Barry's games. This kid is for real. This class of backs is very impressive. There is a changing of the guard coming to the NFL over the next couple of years and Slaton will be part of it.

 

[DinkinFlicka]

You said he fumbled, the stats on that review page have fumbles listed as 0. Am I missing something?

 

[ConstruxBoy]

Good questions

What is his 40 time?

He flies. It will be elite, sub 4.4, probably 4.35.

I don't get the Clinton Portis comparison. Portis is 220...

Right. Portis weighed 199 at his pro day. He was listed at 204 on his rookie card. He didn't break 210 until two years ago when his "metabolism slowed down" according to him. Tomlinson was a slim 205 at his Combine. People have to remember how young these kids are and how much some of them grow. Slaton reminds me a lot of Portis and Tomlinson when they were in college. He has the same kind of arms and shoulders, lower body and basic running style. He will get bigger. He is just a pup.

Does he keep his feet moving after contact?



Yes. Some great examples of that whenever they are in the redzone.

Do he ever have problems with the pitter pat like Jamal Lewis behind the line?

No. He is being accused of not having a good lateral game because he doesn't do that. He hits it. In space he will break ankles, but in trash he goes downhill... fast.

Does he know when to fight for extra yards and when to go down to avoid big hits?

Yes, imo... he could avoid a little more contact, but I don't get mad at RBs for skipping out of bounds.

What kind of leader is he?

Supposedly top notch intangibles. Never know for sure, and psychological issues are something I avoid. You just never know. When someone questions his heart, I can only point out he put up 1700 yards and 20 some odd TDs last year playing with a very painful broken wrist all year. That is a leader and not someone who lacks heart.

Does he elevate the play of those around them?



Absolutely. This is the main reason I grade him higher than a Ray Rice or Jon Stewart. He cannot be covered by any LB anywhere. He forces a defense into mismatches. He is a dual threat like Bush, just as fast, same size, less jitterbugging, more downhill.

Does he bring confidence to his team in crunch time?

Dunno.

Any off the field incidents of note?

No

I haven't seen him play but is his heart questionable or was it nit picking?

Absolutely the nitpicking of a critic.

How has he played in big games in his career? Against tough competition? Is he in an NFL style offense or a college gimmick system?

He had a disappointing game last year in a big one against Louisville. He had a couple bad fumbles. Word leaked out about how bad his wrist was and they went for it. But get this. He carried 18 times for 158 and caught 3 passes for another 74 yards and a score. 230 yards of offense and Construx criticized him then, as I recall. He was broken hearted but all heart in that one.

As a Freshman in the big one against the Cards he stepped up to epic levels. He carried 31 times for 188 had 5 rushing TDs and a receiving TD. Awesome and in a huge game. They won 44-42. This kid never tires and gets stronger with carries 25-30 when asked to carry the load.

His biggest game that year was against Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. Georgia was ranked 8th in the country and had a great defense. Slaton scored 3 times, carried 26 times and went for over 200 yards breaking Tony Dorsett's record.

His competition hasn't been that tough as a general rule. It's the Big East, but his best games have come against ranked teams. It is a gimmicky offense, a spread with a running QB. But whenever the going gets tough, they line up in a more traditional set and that is often when Slaton takes over.

Does he return kicks and/or punts?

He certainly could and be very good at it. I'm positive that he will in the NFL early in his career, like Bush.

Yes Construx, I saw the Marshall game. Did you see the Marshall game last year? I did. I've seen 14 of his games. Did you see the Sugar Bowl game against Georgia? Ask those guys about broken ankles. He was unreal in that regard. How about the Pitt game last year. Broken wrist, angry about the Louisville game, he combined for 340 yards and scored 4 TDs in a relentless display of freakish running skill... he made the whole defense miss him on a 55 yard TD run. It may have been the most impressive 2nd half RB performance (over 300 yards in the 2nd half) I have seen since some of Barry's games. This kid is for real. This class of backs is very impressive. There is a changing of the guard coming to the NFL over the next couple of years and Slaton will be part of it.

If I didn't know better, I would say you're taking this personally. Although I've seen him in other games (probably not 14), I think he's looked very good, but not elite. I felt somewhat vindicated yesterday when during the East Carolina telecast, announcer Andre Ware said that he was watching WVU tape of games this year to prepare for the game and he thought Slaton looked lethargic. He did look better yesterday though. I stand by my opinion that he benefits from the wide open spaces that his offense and the Big East defenses provide and that he'll find it a lot more difficult in the NFL. If I saw some great vision, I think he could become a star in the NFL. But I just don't see that vision. Sorry.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

Yeah, the comp. to Pittman isn't adequate at all, but I think you guys may be right about the vision part. Jon Stewart from Oregon will probably be a better NFLer than Slaton. And oh yeah, if Devine can stay out of trouble he's going to be something else...

I'm hoping to have Jonathan Stewart's BDTT up by the end of the week.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

Slaton is great, but I think Mike Hart will be the better pro. The kid is a warrior! He's a bit small, but he's very strong for his size (and very tough). He has the kind of elite balance/vision that few NFL RB's possess. Not a burner, but has good speed and decent hands (hasn't fumbled in 2 years). The only negative I can think of is that he's been a 4 year starter at Michigan (he's had alot of carries in college).

I disagree a little bit. I'll actually be doing this feature on Hart from the game yesterday with Penn State and he was a warrior. But I think his quickness/speed/acceleration is lacking to make it big in the NFL.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

You said he fumbled, the stats on that review page have fumbles listed as 0. Am I missing something?

The stats are only for prior years. They're from ESPN and they didn't include Fumbles when I used them last season, so I don't know how accurate they are.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

This is great discussion by the way and that is what I intended with the feature. However some times you run into people that are very attached to certain players and defend them to the end. This difference of opinion is great, but I hope it doesn't ruin the thread.

 

[Jene Bramel]

This is great discussion by the way and that is what I intended with the feature. However some times you run into people that are very attached to certain players and defend them to the end. This difference of opinion is great, but I hope it doesn't ruin the thread.

CBIf you'll allow a lurker/outsider opinion from someone who doesn't watch much college football...I love these features and agree that the discussion is what makes these threads great. In fact, this thread should be what the Shark Pool is all about. There's been no sniping, no one-line throwaway comments with nothing to back them up.For those of you new to this forum and not familiar with the usual folks in these threads (which usually mostly took place in the offseason before NFLDG), there at least ten or so extremely knowledgeable college football fans/amateur scouts here. They all have different posting styles, but every one of them brings a considered, well-thought out opinion. Because it's so well researched and considered, it's also a very strongly held and passionate opinion. CC is a great example of that.I can see how a new forum member might see CC (or another poster) as abrasive and closed-minded at times from the tone of the internet. As CB acknowledged above, though, it's not personal and CC (and the other stud posters in these threads) has and will amend his opinions as things change. The fact that these posters see things differently and can express themselves so clearly makes these threads what they are.If only all our Shark Pool threads were like these. It's a great reason to stick around these forums ALL year long. Some of the best discussions are the "How will this college player translate to the NFL?" threads. If you're a football fan, you should be here all year long.I'll testify that I couldn't have cared less about college football and didn't pay much attention to the draft until mid-April until I found the preachings of CB, Bloom, CC, Dufresne, Dowling, Lammey, Faletti, Baca, nshelat1, coolnerd, aposulli and a number of others that I apologize for leaving out.CB, you guys keep these up. It's very much appreciated and every bit the discussion you give it credit for.

 

[JohnnyU]

Good questions

What is his 40 time?

He flies. It will be elite, sub 4.4, probably 4.35.

I don't get the Clinton Portis comparison. Portis is 220...

Right. Portis weighed 199 at his pro day. He was listed at 204 on his rookie card. He didn't break 210 until two years ago when his "metabolism slowed down" according to him. Tomlinson was a slim 205 at his Combine. People have to remember how young these kids are and how much some of them grow. Slaton reminds me a lot of Portis and Tomlinson when they were in college. He has the same kind of arms and shoulders, lower body and basic running style. He will get bigger. He is just a pup.

Does he keep his feet moving after contact?



Yes. Some great examples of that whenever they are in the redzone.

Do he ever have problems with the pitter pat like Jamal Lewis behind the line?

No. He is being accused of not having a good lateral game because he doesn't do that. He hits it. In space he will break ankles, but in trash he goes downhill... fast.

Does he know when to fight for extra yards and when to go down to avoid big hits?

Yes, imo... he could avoid a little more contact, but I don't get mad at RBs for skipping out of bounds.

What kind of leader is he?

Supposedly top notch intangibles. Never know for sure, and psychological issues are something I avoid. You just never know. When someone questions his heart, I can only point out he put up 1700 yards and 20 some odd TDs last year playing with a very painful broken wrist all year. That is a leader and not someone who lacks heart.

Does he elevate the play of those around them?



Absolutely. This is the main reason I grade him higher than a Ray Rice or Jon Stewart. He cannot be covered by any LB anywhere. He forces a defense into mismatches. He is a dual threat like Bush, just as fast, same size, less jitterbugging, more downhill.

Does he bring confidence to his team in crunch time?

Dunno.

Any off the field incidents of note?

No

I haven't seen him play but is his heart questionable or was it nit picking?

Absolutely the nitpicking of a critic.

How has he played in big games in his career? Against tough competition? Is he in an NFL style offense or a college gimmick system?

He had a disappointing game last year in a big one against Louisville. He had a couple bad fumbles. Word leaked out about how bad his wrist was and they went for it. But get this. He carried 18 times for 158 and caught 3 passes for another 74 yards and a score. 230 yards of offense and Construx criticized him then, as I recall. He was broken hearted but all heart in that one.

As a Freshman in the big one against the Cards he stepped up to epic levels. He carried 31 times for 188 had 5 rushing TDs and a receiving TD. Awesome and in a huge game. They won 44-42. This kid never tires and gets stronger with carries 25-30 when asked to carry the load.

His biggest game that year was against Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. Georgia was ranked 8th in the country and had a great defense. Slaton scored 3 times, carried 26 times and went for over 200 yards breaking Tony Dorsett's record.

His competition hasn't been that tough as a general rule. It's the Big East, but his best games have come against ranked teams. It is a gimmicky offense, a spread with a running QB. But whenever the going gets tough, they line up in a more traditional set and that is often when Slaton takes over.

Does he return kicks and/or punts?

He certainly could and be very good at it. I'm positive that he will in the NFL early in his career, like Bush.

Yes Construx, I saw the Marshall game. Did you see the Marshall game last year? I did. I've seen 14 of his games. Did you see the Sugar Bowl game against Georgia? Ask those guys about broken ankles. He was unreal in that regard. How about the Pitt game last year. Broken wrist, angry about the Louisville game, he combined for 340 yards and scored 4 TDs in a relentless display of freakish running skill... he made the whole defense miss him on a 55 yard TD run. It may have been the most impressive 2nd half RB performance (over 300 yards in the 2nd half) I have seen since some of Barry's games. This kid is for real. This class of backs is very impressive. There is a changing of the guard coming to the NFL over the next couple of years and Slaton will be part of it.

If I didn't know better, I would say you're taking this personally. Although I've seen him in other games (probably not 14), I think he's looked very good, but not elite. I felt somewhat vindicated yesterday when during the East Carolina telecast, announcer Andre Ware said that he was watching WVU tape of games this year to prepare for the game and he thought Slaton looked lethargic. He did look better yesterday though. I stand by my opinion that he benefits from the wide open spaces that his offense and the Big East defenses provide and that he'll find it a lot more difficult in the NFL. If I saw some great vision, I think he could become a star in the NFL. But I just don't see that vision. Sorry.

Flipping the channels yesterday I happen to see ONE Slaton run. He was running wide left and everything looked clogged up, he made a a sharp cut back to the inside and got 8 yards. His vision looked pretty damn good on that run.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I've talked draft talk with CC for the last two years now and he always has a couple guys that he's willing to "go to the mattresses" over. Last year it was Ginn, this year it's Slaton. Try not to think of it as abrasive as much as it is dogmatic.

I'm the guy that mocked (coming Monday to a draft board near you) Slaton to the Cowboys in the late first.

He's right in saying that the criticisms about his 190lbs being too small MAY be overstated. But if he doesn't top 200 by the time the combine comes around, I don't believe they are. As it is he's going to be too small to play THE guy in an NFL offense.

The best fit seems to be the Reggie Bush (hi, I'm Eric Metcalf reincarnated) role and would be a terrific complement to Barber (assuming the 'Boys resign him) next year.

 

[notapplicable]

This has got to stop about Devine being in trouble? What do you have to go off of that he is in trouble all the time. The guy couldn't be more humble and driven. I love that....He's automatically lumped into the troubled player category. What has he done in the past to make you think he's going to get into "trouble"? Only thing he has to worry about is grades, and it doesn't seem like that's the trouble you're referring to. What has he done in the past that leads you to believe he's a thug. Have you watched or read anything about him at all? The guy's here to play. Stop the generalizations on him.

Well, can't find the articles that I read that last year around this time on him, but I believe he was suspended a game or two last season. Also, the guy is 18-19 years old and has 2 kids by 2 different mothers. Not like that's anything criminal or anything, but not a model citizen either...

 

[ConstruxBoy]

I've talked draft talk with CC for the last two years now and he always has a couple guys that he's willing to "go to the mattresses" over. Last year it was Ginn, this year it's Slaton. Try not to think of it as abrasive as much as it is dogmatic. I'm the guy that mocked (coming Monday to a draft board near you) Slaton to the Cowboys in the late first.He's right in saying that the criticisms about his 190lbs being too small MAY be overstated. But if he doesn't top 200 by the time the combine comes around, I don't believe they are. As it is he's going to be too small to play THE guy in an NFL offense. The best fit seems to be the Reggie Bush (hi, I'm Eric Metcalf reincarnated) role and would be a terrific complement to Barber (assuming the 'Boys resign him) next year.

Hey Andy, Thanks for the nice words in these two posts and I do know that CC is very knowledgeable and does "fall in love" with guys. I remember the Ginn discussions quite well last season, although I was on his side and actually drafted Ginn in one of the leagues we're in together. One of the problems with doing this for a specific game is that you may catch a bad game. I doubt even the stoutest Slaton supporters (love the alliteration there) can argue that the Marshall game was not a great one for him. However, the format for this last year was to look at a YouTube highlight tape and those generally would only show the real good plays a player had (other than the Michael Bush one, lol). So there's a trade off either way. I'm happy to hear that some other knowledgeable posters here have agreed with me on the vision thing and I was really happy to hear Andre Ware yesterday mention Slaton looking lethargic in prior games this season. I look forward to these threads and discussions all the way up until the draft. Jonathan Stewart is next and he's a pretty safe one, but Mike Hart is after him and that could lead to another great thread.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

Good questions

What is his 40 time?

He flies. It will be elite, sub 4.4, probably 4.35.

I don't get the Clinton Portis comparison. Portis is 220...

Right. Portis weighed 199 at his pro day. He was listed at 204 on his rookie card. He didn't break 210 until two years ago when his "metabolism slowed down" according to him. Tomlinson was a slim 205 at his Combine. People have to remember how young these kids are and how much some of them grow. Slaton reminds me a lot of Portis and Tomlinson when they were in college. He has the same kind of arms and shoulders, lower body and basic running style. He will get bigger. He is just a pup.

Does he keep his feet moving after contact?



Yes. Some great examples of that whenever they are in the redzone.

Do he ever have problems with the pitter pat like Jamal Lewis behind the line?

No. He is being accused of not having a good lateral game because he doesn't do that. He hits it. In space he will break ankles, but in trash he goes downhill... fast.

Does he know when to fight for extra yards and when to go down to avoid big hits?

Yes, imo... he could avoid a little more contact, but I don't get mad at RBs for skipping out of bounds.

What kind of leader is he?

Supposedly top notch intangibles. Never know for sure, and psychological issues are something I avoid. You just never know. When someone questions his heart, I can only point out he put up 1700 yards and 20 some odd TDs last year playing with a very painful broken wrist all year. That is a leader and not someone who lacks heart.

Does he elevate the play of those around them?



Absolutely. This is the main reason I grade him higher than a Ray Rice or Jon Stewart. He cannot be covered by any LB anywhere. He forces a defense into mismatches. He is a dual threat like Bush, just as fast, same size, less jitterbugging, more downhill.

Does he bring confidence to his team in crunch time?

Dunno.

Any off the field incidents of note?

No

I haven't seen him play but is his heart questionable or was it nit picking?

Absolutely the nitpicking of a critic.

How has he played in big games in his career? Against tough competition? Is he in an NFL style offense or a college gimmick system?

He had a disappointing game last year in a big one against Louisville. He had a couple bad fumbles. Word leaked out about how bad his wrist was and they went for it. But get this. He carried 18 times for 158 and caught 3 passes for another 74 yards and a score. 230 yards of offense and Construx criticized him then, as I recall. He was broken hearted but all heart in that one.

As a Freshman in the big one against the Cards he stepped up to epic levels. He carried 31 times for 188 had 5 rushing TDs and a receiving TD. Awesome and in a huge game. They won 44-42. This kid never tires and gets stronger with carries 25-30 when asked to carry the load.

His biggest game that year was against Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. Georgia was ranked 8th in the country and had a great defense. Slaton scored 3 times, carried 26 times and went for over 200 yards breaking Tony Dorsett's record.

His competition hasn't been that tough as a general rule. It's the Big East, but his best games have come against ranked teams. It is a gimmicky offense, a spread with a running QB. But whenever the going gets tough, they line up in a more traditional set and that is often when Slaton takes over.

Does he return kicks and/or punts?

He certainly could and be very good at it. I'm positive that he will in the NFL early in his career, like Bush.

Yes Construx, I saw the Marshall game. Did you see the Marshall game last year? I did. I've seen 14 of his games. Did you see the Sugar Bowl game against Georgia? Ask those guys about broken ankles. He was unreal in that regard. How about the Pitt game last year. Broken wrist, angry about the Louisville game, he combined for 340 yards and scored 4 TDs in a relentless display of freakish running skill... he made the whole defense miss him on a 55 yard TD run. It may have been the most impressive 2nd half RB performance (over 300 yards in the 2nd half) I have seen since some of Barry's games. This kid is for real. This class of backs is very impressive. There is a changing of the guard coming to the NFL over the next couple of years and Slaton will be part of it.

If I didn't know better, I would say you're taking this personally. Although I've seen him in other games (probably not 14), I think he's looked very good, but not elite. I felt somewhat vindicated yesterday when during the East Carolina telecast, announcer Andre Ware said that he was watching WVU tape of games this year to prepare for the game and he thought Slaton looked lethargic. He did look better yesterday though. I stand by my opinion that he benefits from the wide open spaces that his offense and the Big East defenses provide and that he'll find it a lot more difficult in the NFL. If I saw some great vision, I think he could become a star in the NFL. But I just don't see that vision. Sorry.

Flipping the channels yesterday I happen to see ONE Slaton run. He was running wide left and everything looked clogged up, he made a a sharp cut back to the inside and got 8 yards. His vision looked pretty damn good on that run.

I think I saw that play too and yes, he looked a lot better yesterday than in the Marshall game.

 

[DinkinFlicka]

It's hard to quantify "vision", but who would you say is a fair comparison to Slaton vision-wise in the NFL and why exactly?

What types of things do you look for to say this guy has vision or this guy lacks vision? Is it following blocks, noticing presnap keys, setting up blocks with creativity and seeing the play in slow motion before it happens, knowing when to detour from the actual play design to find some space? You can't expect everyone to see the play before it's there like they are Larry Bird or something, but to what extent does a guy with this type of speed/hands/running ability need vision before it begins to negate his athleticism in games? How much of this stuff can be taught and how much is just instinctive?

Can anyone confirm combine type stats? An official 40 time, shuttle, cone? Bench reps? And an official vertical? I just want to gauge what kind of athlete he is overall? Is he a basketball player? Has he played other positions in football? QB? DB? Does he have knowledge of the game from a different point of view like that?

Another thing I meant to ask was what type of blocking scheme(s) does he run behind now? Is he better suited for a zone blocking scheme or does it not really matter?

 

[ConstruxBoy]

It's hard to quantify "vision", but who would you say is a fair comparison to Slaton vision-wise in the NFL and why exactly?What types of things do you look for to say this guy has vision or this guy lacks vision? Is it following blocks, noticing presnap keys, setting up blocks with creativity and seeing the play in slow motion before it happens, knowing when to detour from the actual play design to find some space? You can't expect everyone to see the play before it's there like they are Larry Bird or something, but to what extent does a guy with this type of speed/hands/running ability need vision before it begins to negate his athleticism in games? How much of this stuff can be taught and how much is just instinctive?

I'm not sure of a real good "vision" compare for him, but what I saw during the Marshall game was a lot of running up the back of his blockers without really trying to go to either side to look for another crease. He would run very fast, straight ahead but wouldn't adjust his path much at all when there was a defender in the way. He actually looked like the kind of bigger, North-South runner that doesn't have the agility to change course. But I know that Slaton has the physical ability to do that, so I was wondering if maybe his vision was lacking. He did look better yesterday and I look forward to watching him the rest of the season to see if the Marshall game was just a blip for some reason.

 

[aposulli]

You said he fumbled, the stats on that review page have fumbles listed as 0. Am I missing something?

Fumbles lost are not tallied by official scorekeepers in college, but I can tell you he had a few big ones last year and people were wondering weather his technique would lead to fumble-itis.He hasn't had any fumbles that I've seen this year.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

You said he fumbled, the stats on that review page have fumbles listed as 0. Am I missing something?

Fumbles lost are not tallied by official scorekeepers in college, but I can tell you he had a few big ones last year and people were wondering weather his technique would lead to fumble-itis.He hasn't had any fumbles that I've seen this year.

Yeah, they added it to the ESPN stat page this year for RBs, but maybe I shouldn't include it because it doesn't seem to be correct. Or maybe they're going to start tracking it this season?

 

[EBF]

I admittedly haven't seen this guy play as much as some of the other posters, but I will say that I don't think the Tomlinson or Bush comparisons seem warranted. Those guys both possess the ability to plant their foot in the ground and change directions almost instantly without losing much speed. A lot of the great NFL backs have that ability. Even a guy like Marshawn Lynch, who isn't as fast as Slaton, flashes more shiftiness.

To me Slaton is a little more of a straight line runner in the mold of Willie Parker. I definitely think he has a chance to be good in the NFL, but as of right now he's not a bulletproof top 15 NFL draft pick to me. I think his FF profile exceeds his NFL draft profile. I think there will be some questions about his size and about whether or not he's a product of a system. Those questions could be enough to keep him out of the top 20-30 picks come April.

 

[LHUCKS]

If the NFL draft was held today, Slaton would probably go in the late 1st round. A Pittman = 4th round pick. Comparing Slaton to A Pittman is not something I would expect to read from LHUCKS.

I wasn't comparing their talent, running style etc. etc.The similarities are that they are both overhyped by the media...and if somebody takes Slaton in the first round they are a moron.

I see. But I think it's more than 50% likely that someone will be a moron as you say.

He'll probably go in the first, but I would guess that it's near the end of the first.

...unless he shows me something I haven't seen yet, that will be a huge reach.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

I admittedly haven't seen this guy play as much as some of the other posters, but I will say that I don't think the Tomlinson or Bush comparisons seem warranted. Those guys both possess the ability to plant their foot in the ground and change directions almost instantly without losing much speed. A lot of the great NFL backs have that ability. Even a guy like Marshawn Lynch, who isn't as fast as Slaton, flashes more shiftiness. To me Slaton is a little more of a straight line runner in the mold of Willie Parker. I definitely think he has a chance to be good in the NFL, but as of right now he's not a bulletproof top 15 NFL draft pick to me. I think his FF profile exceeds his NFL draft profile. I think there will be some questions about his size and about whether or not he's a product of a system. Those questions could be enough to keep him out of the top 20-30 picks come April.

Nice post and thanks for the comments. I think where he gets drafted will be a big determinate on how the NFL teams answer these questions themselves.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

If the NFL draft was held today, Slaton would probably go in the late 1st round. A Pittman = 4th round pick. Comparing Slaton to A Pittman is not something I would expect to read from LHUCKS.

I wasn't comparing their talent, running style etc. etc.The similarities are that they are both overhyped by the media...and if somebody takes Slaton in the first round they are a moron.

I see. But I think it's more than 50% likely that someone will be a moron as you say.

He'll probably go in the first, but I would guess that it's near the end of the first.

...unless he shows me something I haven't seen yet, that will be a huge reach.

Maybe. I would bet that most mock drafts here have him going in the mid-first though. Just have to wait and see how he does the rest of the season.

 

[aposulli]

I admittedly haven't seen this guy play as much as some of the other posters, but I will say that I don't think the Tomlinson or Bush comparisons seem warranted. Those guys both possess the ability to plant their foot in the ground and change directions almost instantly without losing much speed. A lot of the great NFL backs have that ability. Even a guy like Marshawn Lynch, who isn't as fast as Slaton, flashes more shiftiness. To me Slaton is a little more of a straight line runner in the mold of Willie Parker. I definitely think he has a chance to be good in the NFL, but as of right now he's not a bulletproof top 15 NFL draft pick to me. I think his FF profile exceeds his NFL draft profile. I think there will be some questions about his size and about whether or not he's a product of a system. Those questions could be enough to keep him out of the top 20-30 picks come April.

Nice post and thanks for the comments. I think where he gets drafted will be a big determinate on how the NFL teams answer these questions themselves.

My biggest question is his ability to break tackles. Aspects of his game like this and his ability to see holes are tough to gauge in the system he plays in.There is no doubting his speed and quickness. I think he is plenty shifty to be a scat back, he just doesn't need to display it that often as he has been able to run right by and around most Big East D's.I also have no questions about his size. For a speedy back his height and weight are ideal IMO.

 

[Reservoir Dog]

From what I seen tonight, Slaton doesn't look like an elite NFL prospect (however, it's possible he just had a bad game). Can anyone give some insight as to what Slaton has done against ranked teams?

 

[ConstruxBoy]

Bumping this thread because West Virginia is on ESPN right now. Watch Slaton and see what you think.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Still not big enough.

 

[posty]

As much as he has been struggling this year, I don't think he will be leaving early...

 

[LHUCKS]

BTW, these are the best in-season shark pool threads.

 

[cstu]

This has got to stop about Devine being in trouble? What do you have to go off of that he is in trouble all the time. The guy couldn't be more humble and driven. I love that....He's automatically lumped into the troubled player category. What has he done in the past to make you think he's going to get into "trouble"? Only thing he has to worry about is grades, and it doesn't seem like that's the trouble you're referring to. What has he done in the past that leads you to believe he's a thug. Have you watched or read anything about him at all? The guy's here to play. Stop the generalizations on him.

He's staying out of trouble now, but I'm not going to discount the head case Devine was in high school.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

BTW, these are the best in-season shark pool threads.

Thanks. Still got a lot of RBs to go, including Matt Forte. Ian Johnson and Jamaal Charles up next.

 

[JAA]

Super Steve Slaton looked HORRIBLE last night. He needs to Tiki this fumbling issue. HORRIBLE!!

 

[mdog1967]

This is great discussion by the way and that is what I intended with the feature. However some times you run into people that are very attached to certain players and defend them to the end. This difference of opinion is great, but I hope it doesn't ruin the thread.

CBIf you'll allow a lurker/outsider opinion from someone who doesn't watch much college football...I love these features and agree that the discussion is what makes these threads great. In fact, this thread should be what the Shark Pool is all about. There's been no sniping, no one-line throwaway comments with nothing to back them up.For those of you new to this forum and not familiar with the usual folks in these threads (which usually mostly took place in the offseason before NFLDG), there at least ten or so extremely knowledgeable college football fans/amateur scouts here. They all have different posting styles, but every one of them brings a considered, well-thought out opinion. Because it's so well researched and considered, it's also a very strongly held and passionate opinion. CC is a great example of that.I can see how a new forum member might see CC (or another poster) as abrasive and closed-minded at times from the tone of the internet. As CB acknowledged above, though, it's not personal and CC (and the other stud posters in these threads) has and will amend his opinions as things change. The fact that these posters see things differently and can express themselves so clearly makes these threads what they are.If only all our Shark Pool threads were like these. It's a great reason to stick around these forums ALL year long. Some of the best discussions are the "How will this college player translate to the NFL?" threads. If you're a football fan, you should be here all year long.I'll testify that I couldn't have cared less about college football and didn't pay much attention to the draft until mid-April until I found the preachings of CB, Bloom, CC, Dufresne, Dowling, Lammey, Faletti, Baca, nshelat1, coolnerd, aposulli and a number of others that I apologize for leaving out.CB, you guys keep these up. It's very much appreciated and every bit the discussion you give it credit for.

Like many dynasty leaguers I am also trying to evaluate the crop of potential 08' draft RB's coming out. I dont think I am getting the full pitcher by watching the highlight reels of these guys.This is my take so far, in no particular order.1. McFaddend: great at running away from defenders, fast, good hands. Have not seen him play live, I also do not find any highlights of his lateral cutting, sure their out there but havent found any good video of him doing the shake and bake.2. Slaton, seems average thru the line, no real moves to make you miss, but runs away from defenders. Have not found video of him on screen plays or catching the ball out of the back field. Seems to lack the wiggle displayed by a Marshawn Lynch Type.3. Michael Hart: Tough little guy that looks big when he's running, does not go down on first contact, good hands, good vision, can be caught from behind, a patient runner. Seems like a perfect fit for that one cut offense in the the NFL. Denver, Green Bay ETC. Love the stiff arm. Great acceleration to and thru the hole, 1st and 2nd gear but not Real real fast.Looking for any links or opinions from the College folks on all these backs and any others that are going to be drafted in 08.

 

[dparker713]

I admittedly haven't seen this guy play as much as some of the other posters, but I will say that I don't think the Tomlinson or Bush comparisons seem warranted. Those guys both possess the ability to plant their foot in the ground and change directions almost instantly without losing much speed. A lot of the great NFL backs have that ability. Even a guy like Marshawn Lynch, who isn't as fast as Slaton, flashes more shiftiness.

To me Slaton is a little more of a straight line runner in the mold of Willie Parker. I definitely think he has a chance to be good in the NFL, but as of right now he's not a bulletproof top 15 NFL draft pick to me. I think his FF profile exceeds his NFL draft profile. I think there will be some questions about his size and about whether or not he's a product of a system. Those questions could be enough to keep him out of the top 20-30 picks come April.

Nice post and thanks for the comments. I think where he gets drafted will be a big determinate on how the NFL teams answer these questions themselves.

My biggest question is his ability to break tackles. Aspects of his game like this and his ability to see holes are tough to gauge in the system he plays in.There is no doubting his speed and quickness. I think he is plenty shifty to be a scat back, he just doesn't need to display it that often as he has been able to run right by and around most Big East D's.

I also have no questions about his size. For a speedy back his height and weight are ideal IMO.

Havent gotten to watch much college football for about a month, but I was shocked the first couple of times I watched Slaton this year, he just seemed slower. Im pretty sure he put on some extra muscle this offseason and I dont think he's as fast as he was last season. At one point I thought he was a sure first rounder, but now Im not so sure.