draft – The Cover 4

The Bad Kid’s My Best Friend: Being a Seahawks Fan in the Age of Richard Sherman

October 10, 2013 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

The Cover 4.com presents you with The Bad Kid’s My Best Friend: Being a Seahawks Fan in the Age of Richard Sherman! Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter at @thecover4 or facebook at theCo VerFour

Growing up I had one sports idol, Edgar Martinez. I learned early on to pick sports heroes that you actually had the physical abilities to dream about being. Edgar was short, kinda fat and hit doubles. I wasn’t short, but I was fat and I hit lots of doubles. Done and done.

But the first player I wanted to be like in every other aspect of life was Gary Payton. I went to a game circa 1994 with my dad and could not take my eyes off The Glove. Sure he was an amazing player with incredible body control, the quickest hands I’ve ever seen and (eventually) a nice jump shot, but it was more than that. Payton was never just about his basketball skills. Payton mentally owned whichever player he was on the court with.

The shit talking, the chest bumping, the way he always seemed to be talking out of the side if his mouth. GP didn’t beat guys, he owned them. Being a Sonics fan at the time was like being best friends with the bad kid in school. Sure, he never stopped talking, was always challenging authority and sometimes got you sent to detention with him. But that detention was a whole hell of a lot more fun than eating lunch at the quiet table.

After the Sonics traded GP in 2003, Seattle fans went a while with no bad kids in our circle of friends. Shaun Alexander couldn’t stop smiling. Ray Allen was awesome, but ultra-focused and was a bit of a recluse off the court. Matt Hasselbeck won our hearts, but in the “I’d want my sister to marry him” kind of way. If you call Felix Hernandez anything that involved the word bad, the King’s Court will try to fight you. Those guys all worked great in different ways. Seattleites pride themselves on their polite, because they’re not dicks, reputation, so those heroes worked.

With the 154^th pick in the 2011 draft, the Seahawks selected a converted wide receiver out of Stanford. And with that move, Seattle had its bad friend back.

Richard Sherman is a package made for Seattle fans. He always believes he’s the smartest guy in the room (or the best at life depending on the audience). He has never held back in saying whatever he wants. He has a sense of humor that led to him hiring the ref that called Golden Tate’s touchdown against Green Bay as the ump for his celebrity softball fundraiser. He writes articles for Sports Illustrated. He’s the loudest, most charismatic, biggest troublemaker in school. And we love being friends with him.

Seattleites embracing the bad kid seems like a bit of a contradiction. Seattle is full of the quieter, rebellious within-the-lines kind of people (you may call them hipsters). But when it comes to football, the city’s inner party animal comes out. And when the animal is loose, it wants to run with Sherman.

Being friends with the bad kid means you have to put up with defending your friend to a lot of people who do not share your view of that friend. He talks too much, he got burned in the Atlanta game at times, he’s not all he’s cracked up to be. But when the bad kid backs up all the ish he talks, oh man is it fun. Sherman tells teams he’s going to beat them. Then he beats them. Then he reminds them that he said he was going to beat them and then beat them. And we as fans get to ride at his side, cackling the whole time.

It’s been a long time since Seattle had the baddest kid in school as its friend. But we’ve been waiting for him to come back. And now that he has, we can’t stop egging him on and rejoicing in his success. Winning is always going to be the key that holds it together. But winning in detention will always be more fun than treading water at the quiet table.

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Filed Under: Football Tagged With: back, Bad Kid, draft, Edgar Martinez, Facebook, Facebook Twitter, Felix Hernandez, Gary Payton, Golden Tate, GP, Michael Baldwin, Ray Allen, Richard Sherman, Shaun Alexander, Sports Illustrated, thecover4, time

NHL Season Preview Part 2:Central Division

September 30, 2013 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

The Cover 4.com presents you with the NHL Season Preview Part 2:Central Division! Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter at @thecover4 or facebook at theCo VerFour

In round two of our 2013-14 season preview, we are going to head out west, to arguably one of the tightest divisions in the NHL, the Central Division. The Central is one of the most different divisions after realignment as longtime division champ Detroit and the Columbus Blue Jackets have both been moved to the Eastern Conference. In come the Winnipeg Jets and Dallas Stars who are both going to benefit tremendously from their division alignment this year. Let’s break it down for you, starting with Chicago.

CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS

Well, not much to say about the Blackhawks. They are the defending Stanley Cup champions, and they were fortunate to not have much turnover this offseason. The extended their goaltender Corey Crawford long term, and although backup Ray Emery left Chicago for the greener goaltending pastures of Philadelphia, they brought back Nikolai Khabibulin to fill that void. Viktor Stalberg is gone too, but the Hawks were able to resign playoff hero Bryan Bickell, and bring in rugged Theo Peckham on defense. They also retained crucial second-line center Michal Handzus who will attempt to offset the loss of long-time Hawk Dave Bolland. With a bevy of established star power in Patrick Sharp, Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, Marian Hossa, Brent Seabrook and Duncan Keith, along with the emergence of rookie Brandon Saad, the Hawks will be a force to be reckoned with again this season.

COLORADO AVALANCHE

It is a bounce-back season for the youthful Avs, as they finished last in the Western Conference last season, and sported the second-worst record in hockey, earning them the No. 1 overall pick in the draft, with which they chose Nathan MacKinnon. With such a young team, the Avs certainly suffered from a lockout-shortened training camp, and the Ryan O’Reilly holdout didn’t help, nor did the extended absence of their young captain Gabriel Landeskog. Both are in camp and ready to go this year, along with MacKinnon and budding superstar Matt Duchene. Combined with gritty power forward Steve Downie, underrated winger PA Parenteau, and former No. 1 . overall pick Erik Johnson, as well as the Avs goaltending duo of Semyon Varlamov and J.S. Giguere the Avs should be competitive and fighting for a playoff spot.

DALLAS STARS

The Dallas Stars will be an interesting team to watch this season. Along with a re-branded logo and image, the team that takes the ice will be quite different from last season. For starters, longtime Sabres coach Lindy Ruff is the new bench boss. In addition to Ruff, their heart and soul and face of the franchise in captain Brenden Morrow was dealt to the Penguins at last season’s trade deadline, and his leadership will be sorely missed. In addition to the departure of Morrow, the Stars shipped perhaps the most underrated player in the league in Loui Erikkson to the Boston Bruins, but in exchange, they received Tyler Seguin, who has superstar potential, and Rich Peverley who will solidify their bottom-six forwards and their top PK unit. Jamie Benn had a tough season last year after a contract holdout that followed the league lockout. Benn will look to have a bounceback season, and my money is on him to receive the captain’s C to replace Morrow. Goaltender Kari Lehtonen continued his evolution into a top netminder, and will look to pick right back up where he left off. In addition, realignment has benefited Dallas more than most as they will now play in the Central Division, which will help TV ratings when the team is on the road, which will go a long way to financial security, something this club really needs.

MINNESOTA WILD

The Wild enjoyed a ride back to the postseason last year on the backs of free agent signees Zack Parise and Ryan Suter (who finished as a Norris Trophy finalist) and longtime goalie Nicklas Backstrom. Unfortunately for the Wild, they finished eighth in the West, drawing the eventual Cup champs in the Blackhawks in the first round of the playoffs, and to make matters worse, their goaltender was hurt in warm ups of Game 1, and missed the entire series. The Wild will look to bounce back this year with the majority of the same team from last year. The loss of underrated center Matt Cullen will hurt along with the physical presence of Cal Clutterbuck, who was dealt to the Islanders at the draft for top prospect Nino Neiderreiter. Matt Cooke was brought in to replace Clutterbuck’s physical presence, and he adds a tad more skill, along with the highly skilled Neidereiter. They added depth on the blue line with the addition of Keith Ballard from Vancouver. Parise and Suter, with one year of leading this team together under their belt, will look to pick up where they left off and with second-year stud Jonas Brodin and longtime captain Mikko Koivu, the Wild will be right in the thick of it this season.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS

The Predators will look to rebound after a disappointing season last year. Unlike last offseason, the Preds won’t be reeling from a free agency loss as they were with Ryan Suter. Nashville will ice a slightly more talented team than last season. Viktor Stalberg and Matt Cullen join the mix along with young star Filip Forsberg. First-round pick Seth Jones who surprisingly fell to the Preds at No. 4 overall in this summer’s draft, will be on the team and will add a dimension on the blueline that the Preds have not had in some time, and that is a legitimate offensive defenseman. In addition to the talent, Nashville solidified their character players by signing Matt Hendricks and Eric Nystrom, both of whom will go along way in a playoff series. As always, it will boil down to goaltending, and Nashville boasts one of the league’s best in Pekka Rinne. Look for Nashville to sneak into the playoff hunt again this year.

ST. LOUIS BLUES

The Blues suffered a heartbreaking defeat in the first round of last year’s playoffs, but that shouldn’t sour anyone on this team. They still have one of, if not the best, goaltending tandems in the league with Brian Elliott and Jaroslav Halak. Veteran Brenden Morrow signed late in the preseason at a discount because he believes they have a legitimate shot at a Stanley Cup. Young power forward Magnus Paajarvi was acquired from the Oilers in exchange for oft-injured, yet talented winger David Perron. Franchise defenseman Alex Pietrangelo just extended his contract for seven more years, and center Derek Roy was brought in for depth. Agitator extraordinaire Max Lapierre was brought in to help provide some grit and sandpaper to the lineup. The Blues have a diverse line up of skill, grit, and speed, and should be another contender for the Cup this year.

WINNEPEG JETS

The Jets will benefit from a vastly reduced travel schedule, and are arguably the biggest winners of NHL realignment. The former Atlanta Thrashers played the last two years in the Southeast Division, but now will play in the Central. It could be argued that the team’s late season breakdown last year was caused by the grueling post-lockout schedule mixed with their insane travel schedule. The Jets should contend for a playoff position this season if they can stay healthy. Led by Dustin Byfuglien, the Jets should provide a pretty potent offense. Bryan Little is getting better each year, and Evander Kane is a bonafide star. The acquisitions of Michael Frolik and Devin Setoguchi will help solidify the secondary scoring, and depth players like captain Andrew Ladd, Matt Halischuk and Olli Jokinen will help stabilize the Jets in all three zones, and youngster Mark Scheifle has star written all over him. Tobias Enstrom helps QB the power play and Mark Stuart is an every situation type of defensemen. Goaltending will ultimately decide the Jets fate, as Ondrej Pavelic has shown a lot of potential over the past few seasons.

The Central Division looks to be one of the tightest and most contested divisions in the league this season, as it always is. Don’t be surprised if the maximum number of playoff teams (5) that a division can send to the playoffs comes from the Central this year. With Detroit out of the picture in the Central, the throne at the top is vacant, and these guys will all be battling for supremacy. Thanks for joining us for the Central Division breakdown, please stop back tomorrow to check out the Pacific Division preview. For now, we will leave you with our three picks for the divisional playoff bids:

Chicago

St. Louis

Minnesota

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Filed Under: Hockey Tagged With: back, Brenden Morrow, Central Division, Dallas Stars, draft, nhl, playoffs, Ryan, Ryan Suter, season, Season Preview Part, Stanley Cup, thecover4, Viktor Stalberg, year

NFL Power Rankings: The Race for the Lombardi

September 2, 2013 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

Well, the NFL season is almost upon us. In 2013, you would have to try really hard to avoid any type of coverage on upcoming season. This season looks to be a doozy (as always) with a bunch of storylines that are both extremely interesting and extremely annoying because it has been replayed over and over again (the Robert Griffin saga and the New York Jets sitcom). Before I present to you my nfl power rankings, I should mention that the entire team’s preseason play had no effect on their placement. However, I do pay attention to individual performance and think that is something tangible that carries over to the regular season. So without further ado, here we go:

1. Seattle Seahawks

The Seahawks claim the metaphorical throne of the inaugural 2013 NFL Power Rankings. They may have lost Percy Harvin before he actually got to see real action on the field for them, but almost all of the teams in the top 5 have suffered significant injuries/suspensions before the season even started. Speaking of suspensions, let’s hope the Seahawks stingy defense stays away from the deer antler spray and other performance enhancers. Just blame it on the Adderall, though. That little tangent aside, Russell Wilson should look to improve in his second season at quarterback, even if he might not put up as good of numbers he did in his rookie campaign. This team is solid all the way through.

2. San Francisco 49ers

What a competitive division. I gave the Seahawks the slight edge because I think their defense is a little bit better well rounded. San Fran lost their safety Dashon Goldson to free agency and cornerback Chris Culliver to injury, depleting their secondary. Additionally, the 49ers are in a similar predicament with their star wideout, Michael Crabtree, who is also out for an extended period of time. I am expecting Colin Kaepernick to develop into a better, more complete quarterback just like Wilson. Don’t get me wrong, the 49ers are an awesome team despite me picking nits with their secondary. On paper Seattle might be the better team, but if these two teams come face to face in the playoffs, it will be a toss up.

3. Denver Broncos

I thought the Broncos were overrated last season. After having the toughest first five games in the league, they had a ridiculous cupcake-y schedule the rest of the way through. But this is 2013, and I think Denver is going to be really good. No matter how much Wes Welker has left in the tank, that signing was great. Their running game should be better also, because I think Manning knows the ideal times to rush with his amazing ability to read defenses and adapt. If he can make Knowshon Moreno look good, I’m pretty sure Montee Ball/Ronnie Hillman will be fine. The big problem I have with them is their defense. Even if Champ Bailey continues to defy Mother Nature’s aging process, losing the NFL’s second best defender (Von Miller) for six games is a glaring hole; not to mention the whole Elvis Dumervil contract disaster. Even though I like the Kansas City Chiefs as a bounce back team this year, the Broncos have a very easy road to another division title and possible first round bye.

4. Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons just re-signed quarterback Matt Ryan, who is in the prime of his career. Needless to say, their window to win is now. The knock on Atlanta is that they can’t win the big game, which they somewhat proved wrong last year but not completely. People tend to forget San Francisco got just a couple more breaks to go their way to make it to the Super Bowl. Everyone knows how potent and capable this offense is, so I won’t go into that with much detail though I will say I liked the Steven Jackson signing. The offense will have to lead this team to the big game, because the defense certainly will not. They took a step back this year; losing their best pass rusher (John Abraham) and losing a serviceable corner (Dunta Robinson) which depletes their already suspect secondary. Asante Samuel is nice, but he can barely tackle a scarecrow. This team is almost a 100% guaranteed playoff lock, but it will be up to Matt Ryan to see how far they go once they get there.

5. Green Bay Packers

Notice a trend? The NFC is stacked. The conference has three out of the four most promising young quarterbacks in the game, and they also boast the best one in the league. Aaron Rodgers should look to have another MVP caliber season. Everyone knows Randall Cobb is the new breakout star, softening the blow of losing Greg Jennings to the division rival Minnesota Vikings. They also drafted running back Eddie Lacy, who unfortunately slimmed down after training camp and limited my ability to draw comparisons with my ‘Eddy Curry is overweight’ jokes. No matter, now that they have some semblance of a running game, this offense should be better than their 2012 version. Another NFC trend: great offense, mediocre defense. Of the four teams in the top five, the Packers have it the worst. Who knows if they’ll be able to stop the vaunted read option after sending all their personnel to Texas A&M to be better acquainted with that type of offense. We’ll see if they improve, but this defense doesn’t impress me.

6. New England Patriots

Full disclosure: I’m a huge Pats fan. But it should be known that I was trying to decide rankings it was basically a coin flip between them and the Baltimore Ravens, until I realized this was the regular season power rankings. The Ravens always seem to have the Patriots’ number, but I think New England is ultimately the better team. Everyone loves to talk about their offense, so you probably already know the details about it. My two cents: people are overreacting to letting Welker walk, and New England’s offense will adapt as they always do. Their rookie wide receivers will hit a few speed bumps as expected, but with Tom Brady under center they will be just fine. To their defense, real quick: I think they will be better than people expect. The lynchpin of this is Alfonzo Dennard, however. If he misses time due to violating his probation, it moves Devin McCourty to 2^nd corner (he’s much better as a safety) and forcing either incompetent Tavon Wilson or unproven rookie Duron Harmon to safety.

7. Baltimore Ravens

At first glance, you think their defense has taken a big step back. Granted, they let Darnell Ellerbe and Paul Kruger go and the loss of their two defensive leaders Ed Reed and Ray Lewis are obviously huge. But they still have Terrell Suggs and Haloti Ngata and lost amidst their Super Bowl run was the massive blow of losing Ladarius Webb early in their season. Additionally, the Ravens are known for having bench and situational players step up big when they’re promoted to full time. Know how I know that? Because Kruger and Ellerbe just got a ridiculous amount of money to play for the Cleveland Browns and Miami Dolphins, respectively. For their offense, people are overreacting to the loss of Anquan Boldin. Not taking away from his fantastic postseason, but his regular season was remarkably average. The loss of Dennis Pitta is huge because he was Joe Flacco’s security blanket, but the offense as a whole should be fine assuming there are no significant injuries.

8. Houston Texans

Again, this is regular season rankings. I like the Texans, but they aren’t going far if Gary Kubiak doesn’t stop being stubborn about sticking to his offensive gameplan regardless of how the game is going. That aside, Houston drafted DeAndre Hopkins who should look to finally compliment All-Pro Andre Johnson lined up across from him. Owen Daniels is a good tight end and Arian Foster is Arian Foster. Matt Schaub is an above average QB. I’m not sure he can win you a Super Bowl, but he can certainly lead this team to 11-12 wins in a weak AFC South. Their defense is still above average, even though they lost Glover Quin. Ed Reed is obviously a big name but it is unknown how much he has left in the tank. JJ Watt will still continue to wreak havoc, which will always make this team dangerous on the defensive end.

9. Chicago Bears

I like the Bears a lot this year and will be a very strong wild card team (same division as Packers). I think Jay Cutler is primed for a big year this year for a couple reasons. One is that he’s in a contract year, but also he has a new offensive coordinator (and head coach). I’m assuming that means Brandon Marshall won’t be targeted 194 times, which is absurd. Everyone knows how good Chicago’s defense is, even if less intelligent people are convinced they won’t be the same without Brian Urlacher. He was a shell of his former self the last couple years, so it’s not that big of a loss. The biggest question mark of this team is if their offensive line can improve to even be a league-average line.

10. Cincinnati Bengals

Yep, the Bengals! Did you know they had the 8^th best scoring defense last year? You already know they have Geno Atkins (who is threatening to be overrated because of how many people love to call him underrated) but they also have a solid secondary and an underrated linebacker core. However, Andy Dalton needs to step up in a massive way. This organization surrounded him with enough weapons to make it out of the first round of the playoffs at least, and if can’t show he has what it takes, this team isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

11. Washington Redskins

By the time I started writing this, Robert Griffin III is confirmed a go for Week 1. Obviously he is the entire key to this team, so let’s move on. Alfred Morris is a great story, but he is definitely a product of Mike Shanahan’s running scheme. Regardless, that is incredible value at the 6^th round. Their defense is average, but they virtually played the entire season with elite pass rusher Brian Orakpo. Paired along side Ryan Kerrigan, this pass rush is one of the best in the league.

12. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

I love this team. Couple reasons: Josh Freeman is in a contract year, and I think he has some serious potential. An overlooked storyline last year was that Tampa Bay lost their two best lineman early in the season, making Doug Martin’s already impressive rookie year last year even more legitimate. A certainly well discussed storyline was their acquisition of Darrelle Revis, a trade I would make 100 times out of 100. Also they signed Dashon Goldson, albeit at a pretty high clip but give them credit for fixing the weakest spot on their team.

13. New Orleans Saints

Man, another stacked conference in the NFC. Sean Payton is going to make a huge difference to this team and Drew Brees and all his awesomeness doesn’t need to be rehashed here. This defense is pretty miserable, but I am also pretty confident that their offense will be able to cover for their mistakes and missteps.

14. New York Giants

The reason this team isn’t higher is because they are not a good a regular season team, historically. Eli Manning will be his normal, hot & cold self. This defense, who has an above average defense line and secondary, also has an atrocious linebacker core that could end up being their Achilles heel.

15. Indianapolis Colts

This team is a popular pick for a regression season, for good reason. They exceeded their Pythagorean expectation by 3.8 wins (you can read more about that here) and should fall into the 8-8, maybe 9-7 category. Pushing stats aside though, this team does have a fight in them, winning numerous close games last year because Andrew Luck is the real deal. Despite the evidence pointing towards a regression, they certainly didn’t help their case by making questionable free agent signings (Erik Walden and the marshmellow man LaRon Landry)

16. Kansas City Chiefs

Alas, we are halfway through the rankings. Are you surprised by my pick of the Chiefs? Don’t be, I think this team is legit. Everyone points to the Andy Reid signing as a big event, which it is, but I think this is a secondary point. The upgrade from the Matt Cassel/Brady Quinn debacle to slightly above average Alex Smith could be potentially huge (as Bill Barnwell explains). Besides, he has Jamaal Charles and Dwayne Bowe. The defense is really good also, their 2-13 record was more of a product of their quarterback play, or lackthereof.

17. Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings season hinges on Christian Ponder. He’s a tough read as a signal caller, considering Minnesota handedly beat Green Bay last year as Ponder scored all their touchdowns that game. And then there’s the other Ponder that we are typically used to. He doesn’t have Percy Harvin this year, who was an early MVP candidate before he got hurt. Adrian Peterson is great, but there is almost no way he replicates his year from last year. For the defense, long time cornerback Antoine Winfield isn’t there anymore, and their linebacking core is spotty. We’ll see if they hold up.

18. Dallas Cowboys

Ah yes, the Cowboys. What a miserably run franchise. Anywho, let’s push their playoff drought out of our minds for a second and focus on the regular season. Although the new 100 million man Tony Romo led the league in interceptions last year, he also led the league in comebacks in 4^th quarter with five. Jason Witten is still his same old All-Pro self, and Dez Bryant is emerging as a legitimate top 5 wideout. Their defense is another story, though. Sean Lee is back, who is an underrated linebacker. DeMarcus Ware is also a premier pass rusher, but that’s where the praise stops. The rest of this defense is bloated with bad contracts and replacement level players at critical positions. I think America’s Team misses the playoffs again this year though.

19. Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers are one or two seasons away from being a full blown mess. We saw last year how abysmal they can be without Ben Roethlisberger, and even if I believe that Mike Wallace is badly overrated his loss is still big. As of right now, Heath Miller is on the PUP list also; a favorite target of Big Ben’s in the redzone. Can Emmanuel Sanders be a number one receiver? I don’t think so, but Steelers fans should certainly hope so. Even worse than their offense is their rapidly aging defense. Troy Polamalu is a shell of his former self and their once feared linebacker group is also showing its age. Bad times this year, but even worse years in the future for the Steel Curtain.

20. St. Louis Rams

I like the Rams, but they are stuck in a very good division. Tavon Austin is as safe of a bet as you can get for a rookie playmaker, but we know what we’re getting with Sam Bradford: a slightly above average quarterback. Their running game has the chance to be good or be really bad with two young guns platooning.

21. Miami Dolphins

Miami went on a big spending spree this offseason, paying big bucks to the previously mentioned Wallace and Ellerbe. Interesting decisions to say the least, because they let Reggie Bush walk to free agency and he was big for them last year. Their defense is better than people give them credit for; Cameron Wake is a beast but they did lose Sean Smith, a pretty reliable cornerback.

22. Detroit Lions

The Lions were absolutely putrid last year for all the talent they have. Obviously we all know about Charles Rogers Roy Williams Mike Williams Calvin Johnson, but they also finally got a running back (Bush) to help out Matt Stafford. Their defensive line is awesome but the rest of their defense is pretty bleak. This team doesn’t move up in the rankings until they smarten up and stop taking dumb unsportsmanlike conduct penalities.

23. Carolina Panthers

This is a tricky team. As always, their success or lack thereof depends on their quarterback, Cam Newton. The talent is there, but the intangibles are not. He’s not a leader on the field, and that inevitably grounds the Panthers from being successful. On top of that, this team is bloated with bad contracts and that hinders them from being more successful. Like Newton, you can see the potential in this team but it isn’t going to come to fruition this year.

24. Philadelphia Eagles

Oh boy. I don’t necessarily hate the Eagles, but I know a lot of people like to make a hobby out of it. I will admit though they deserve everything they got last year, after that bonehead Vince Young painted a target on his team’s back with the “dynasty talk”. The nightmare of Nnamdi Asomugha is over, but their defense is still awful. Worse yet, that’s not even their Achilles heel. That would be their offensive line; and if it’s not improved this team is going absolutely nowhere. Chip Kelly is probably a good offensive coach, but if the line can’t block it doesn’t matter what offense he has the Eagles run.

25. Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals’ record this year will not reflect the talent of this team because the division they are in is so good. But much like the Chiefs, the fact that even a competent quarterback is under center instead of the train wreck of last year is a big jump. However, the Chiefs have a great offensive line while the Cardinals are the complete opposite. Arizona’s defense is top notch, and will keep them in a lot of games and not force Carson Palmer to play above his talent level.

26. Tennessee Titans

As we get to the bottom feeders of the NFL, you start to see a pattern. Much like the Panthers, this team has some bad contracts. Chris Johnson is a good running back, but I can assure you he’s not worth $13 million a year. The Shonn Greene signing was just an atrocious decision, excuse me because I just threw up my lunch thinking about it. I like Jake Locker as a QB, but he’ll never be anything more than a league average signal caller.

27. Cleveland Browns

Surprisingly, Brandon Weeden had a pretty good end of the year last year. I’m not trying to vouch for him, because anytime you can draft a 29 year old quarterback in the first round you have to pull the trigger (kidding). Regardless, they’re under new management and are off to a solid start. They admittedly overpaid for Paul Kruger; but when you are the Browns you don’t have much say in free agents to start rebuilding with.

28. San Diego Chargers

Alright, last five. Philip Rivers fell off the map fast, and the team did as well. Ryan Mathews is a walking porcelain doll, and despite some well known names, the wide receivers produced terribly last year. Their defense is entirely forgettable save for Eric Weddle who is criminally underrated. Thank me later for sparing you a Manti Te’o joke.

29. Buffalo Bills

Not much to say here. Their pick of EJ Manuel was curious, but it wasn’t as preposterous as people made it out to be. CJ Spiller is a nice player, but I am dubious of him replicating his great year last year. Their defense has some bright spots (Mario Williams and Jairus Byrd) but as a whole the unit is below average.

30. New York Jets

I hope everyone is as sick of the Jets as I am, so let’s power through this. The Jets are straight up awful. A once respectable defense has lost their top cornerback, and they resigned above average players to salaries that paid them like stars. Now they’re old and slow and overpaid with no end in sight. Obviously it gets worse, because their offense is almost impossible to watch. Everyone loves to bash Mark Sanchez; but seriously can New York throw him a bone and get him some weapons to work with? They’re under the impression that Santonio Holmes is actually good, and Dustin Keller (Sanchez’s security blanket) is gone. This is going to be another miserable season for them.

31. Jacksonville Jaguars

This is Blaine Gabbert’s year. If he’s successful, then it will be his job for the future. If he plays like, well, Blaine Gabbert, then we’ll probably be seeing Teddy Bridgewater suit up for the Jags next season. Besides that little storyline, I can’t think of one other topic involved with this team that warrants a mention.

32. Oakland Raiders

Jadeveon Clowney, step right up! God, where to start? By all accounts Matt Flynn should be charged for robbery because his 480 yards 6 TD passes on the Packers was the biggest fluke of the century. So Terrelle Pryor step right up as the Raiders QB? Sorry you are being subjected to this. All joking aside, GM Reggie McKenzie is doing the best he can, by signing cheap veteran players and rebuilding through the draft which is the right way to do it. This team is going to be bad for a while, but if McKenzie can push all the right buttons, relevance could be in the future for Raider Black.

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So that concludes the 2013 NFL Power Rankings. There was some praise for the top organizations, but definitely more uncalled for jokes about teams. The NFL is the definition of parity so after a couple weeks there could be some major moves either up or down on this list. Anyways, let’s hope this upcoming season is one to remember and thanks for reading.

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Filed Under: Football Tagged With: 2013, 49ers, back, Ben Roethlisberger, Blaine Gabbert, draft, EJ, England, Heath Miller, Miami, New England, New York, NFC, nfl, Power Rankings, PUP, QB, quarterback, Ryan, season, start, Super Bowl, Tavon Austin, time, year

Fantasy Football Preview: A Guide to Win Your League

August 30, 2013 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

Who to Target, Who to Avoid

Round 1:

Yes, you’re going to want to go RB here, big surprise. The only non-RB I’m targeting is Calvin Johnson. Outside of Megatron, I’m taking a top-12 back to help sure up that position.

Who to Target:

CJ Spiller: Spiller’s going to have a monster year. Barring injury I’m willing to put my fantasy credibility on the line and say he’s a legitimate candidate to rack up 2000 total yards. He’s my No. 2 pick after Adrian Peterson.

Doug Martin: Dougie has my attention. I think he’s worth the third pick considering he’s got an elite offensive line clearing holes for him and Greg Schiano said the Bucs will be leaning on him. If he and his line stay healthy, look for his numbers to improve even after a stellar year last season.

Ray Rice: I’ve seen Rice fall out of the top 5. At six it’s a no-brainer. Many are afraid of him due to the slight emergence of his backup, Bernard Pierce. Pierce is an added bonus in my eyes. John Harbaugh has said Rice will be lined up in the slot when Pierce is in the backfield which sounds like PPR gold to me. Pierce can also keep Rice fresh throughout the year which could bring a welcomed consistency to Rice’s fantasy performance. Draft Pierce as an insurance policy.

Calvin Johnson: If I don’t get AP, Spiller, Martin or Rice and I’m sitting at six with Megatron on the board, I’m taking him. He’s a monster in PPR leagues and I think his TD numbers will be up a whole lot from last year. Calvin owners from last year won their league 25 percent of the time, the highest winning percentage by any player outside of AP. Expect to get Stevan Ridley and Darren Sproles as your first and second backs and I’d recommend going after a Shane Vereen or Daryl Richardson as well. Either way you’ll want to pay attention to the RB position later in your draft.

Al Morris/Matt Forte: These two are going at the end of round one and in some drafts, the beginning of round two. If you have the last pick this year there’s a good chance you end up with both of these guys. You gotta love that. When it comes back around you can focus on snagging a couple high-end WRs. You could take one WR and an elite TE or QB such as Jason Witten or Drew Brees/Aaron Rodgers, a really solid draft strategy.

Who to Avoid:

Jamal Charles: I had a terrible experience with Charles, taking him with the No. 2 overall pick the year he tore his ACL. I may be biased on this guy, but I’m not convinced he’s who I want to count on as my No. 1 RB. I look for reliability with the first RB I take enabling me to take risks on high upside guys later. If you must take Charles, look to follow him with a pick like Ridley. I like Ridley’s ability to remain consistent.

Arian Foster: I love Arian Foster, I took him first overall last year and won my league thanks in large part to him. There are so many questions surrounding Foster this year I’m almost sure I’m avoiding him completely. The only chance I’m taking Foster is if he falls to me at six or later and Megatron isn’t available. I don’t think that will happen in most drafts. If you take him, Ben Tate is a must-draft later on.

Marshawn Lynch: Why did the Seahawks take a RB in the second round in this year’s NFL draft? On top of that Christine Michael has really impressed in camp and in preseason games. He could steal a few carries. Plus Lynch doesn’t really catch the ball. I’d take him if it was between him and Morris at the end of the first, but that seems unlikely.

Jimmy Graham/Dez Bryant: Expect huge years for these guys. I want them both on my team. But I’m not spending a first-round pick on either.

5 Sleeper WRs to Keep Your Eye On:

Justin Blackmon: Blackmon isn’t that under the radar; however he’s still going extremely late in drafts for some reason. Even with the four-game suspension he’s worth it because by the time he falls in drafts teams already have their starting WRs as well as a backup or even two. You can’t go wrong with Blackmon. I’m sure he’ll produce even with the QB situation in Jacksonville. The old Phil Simms quote applies here, “even when he isn’t open, he’s open.” I could get this guy the ball.

Kembrell Thompkins: Another guy who the secret is out on. Thompkins is going to start alongside Danny Amendola and we don’t see Amendola playing a full 16-game season so Thompkins may be the No. 1 in some weeks. This kid is going a round or two after Blackmon, so when you take him it’s most likely you’ll already have 4 WRs. You have to take him if that’s the case. He could be a 75-plus reception guy as he’s run both the deep routes and the Wes Welker-style routes for the Pats.

Markus Wheaton: Wheaton can absolutely fly. Emmanuel Sanders and Antonio Brown are the starters for the Steelers but expect Wheaton to be on the field a whole lot for Pittsburgh. The Steelers could cause some problems for defenses with both Brown and Wheaton out there. That’s a serious amount of speed.

Kenny Stills: He’s the third WR for New Orleans and he’s a talent for sure. Drew Brees has already shown a lot of trust in the rookie in just a few preseason games. He’ll go undrafted without a doubt, so pick him up if you don’t like how your WR corps looks immediately after your draft. After 70 yards and a TD in Week 1 it will be a race to waiver wire for him anyway.

Brandon LaFell: LaFell showed he can contribute as a No. 2 receiver for Carolina. Cam Newton has found him in the red zone a few times as he’s much bigger than Steve Smith. If you need a fill in, you could get a TD out of him.

5 Sleeper RBs to Keep Your Eye On:

LaMichael James: The 49ers began to get him involved last year and this year he should see even more action. James possesses big play ability and is the young guy knocking on the old veteran’s door. I remember a similar situation last year in San Fran involving a former No. 1 overall pick and some guy name Colin Kaepernick. Hmm.

Christine Michael: This kid fits right into the “beast mode” mentality in Seattle. Michael is a physical runner who punishes defenders with every attempted tackle. The Seahawks drafted him in the second round with no apparent need at RB, so we ask… Why?

Knowshon Moreno: Still can picture him leaping over defenders in that Georgia uniform. He’s a talented player who came on strong after Willis McGahee went down last season. He is probably the most seasoned RB the Broncos have when you factor in pass protection, ball protection and receiving ability. He’s worth the late pick it costs to get him.

Kenjon Barner: Jonathan Stewart’s been placed on the PUP list and even after he gets back I feel the tiny Oregon product, Barner, can show he deserves his touches. If he outplays DeAngelo Williams in the first six weeks, look out.

Isaac Redman: Went undrafted in my 12-team PPR high stakes league. I scooped him off the waiver wire because LeVeon Bell’s out for awhile and sure enough Pittsburgh named him the interim starter. Nothing special here but he’ll carry the ball more than anyone on his team. There are only 32 of those guys out there ya know.

The Trick to Adding Depth and My Famous Jason Witten Pick

Year after year my favorite player to draft is Jason Witten. For the past two or three years explosive guys like Jimmy Graham and Vernon Davis garner all the attention and it’s made it even easier for me to go under the radar and snag Witten in the fifth round. At that point I have my starting RBs and WRs, and while people are “adding depth” at those positions, I’m stealing a 20-30 point player (referring to points per game) giving me an edge every week at the TE position.

The only matchup I’m losing is Witten vs. Graham (or Witten vs. a healthy Rob Gronkowski) and even then I’m competing with them, scoring enough at the position to allow my other players win me the week. Graham goes in the mid-to-late second round and scores a little more than Witten. Witten goes three rounds later and really gives you an edge since you took a stud RB or WR in the same round that Graham was picked.

With the next two picks you add either another RB and WR, or one of the two and an elite QB who’s fallen right to you. I find myself in this position every draft, a possible top-three guy like Tom Brady or Tony Romo falling right in my lap in the seventh round holding a big sign saying, “Draft Me!” So through seven rounds all starting positions (outside of DEF/ST and kicker) are filled and everyone of those guys flat out score points. Plus, you have the luxury of not having to worry about a finding a QB who can get you 20 points weekly or a TE who’ll get you 10. Why? Because you stole both Witten and Brady/Romo, who can be counted on to score a substantial amount of points throughout the year.

Now you can focus on depth. You already know you’re getting points from your workhorses. Now is the time to take risks and target sleepers or undervalued guys. Snatch up guys like Kenny Britt or Lance Moore, DeAngelo Williams or Daryl Richardson adding more starters for their respective teams and late at that. Then take your risks like Kenbrell Thompkins or Justin Blackmon. Then add a solid defense and kicker one round earlier than most in an attempt to get a leg up on those positions knowing you can get Kenny Stills or Isaac Redman (who have been going undrafted) with your last pick. A good defense and kicker to target just a tad early would be New England and Sebastian Janikowski. Try it out in mocks and see if you like your team. I always do.

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Filed Under: Football Tagged With: ap, Arian Foster, back, Bernard Pierce, Calvin Johnson, Christine Michael, cover 4, draft, Draft Pierce, fantasy football, James Kaikis, Jason Witten, nfl, PPR, preview, QB, ray rice, RB, round 1, season, sleepers, Spiller Spiller, starting, TD, TE, the cover 4, the wiz, time, WR, year

The Cover 4 Fantasy Football: Time to win your league

August 28, 2013 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

Here at The Cover 4 we pride ourselves on the fact our primary goal isn’t to provide readers with a daily update on the underwear Tim Tebow has decided to roll with that particular day. Nor do we spend time focusing on the recession of LeBron’s hairline. We don’t care that Brett Favre texted a picture of his man region to an attractive lady reporter, in fact I think I speak for everyone here at The Cover 4 when I say I hope it worked out for him (it didn’t). It is my honor to apply this philosophy to fantasy sports. I’m from Boston, I promise to work “wicked hahd.”

With the start of the 2013 NFL season, fantasy owners everywhere are discussing projections and draft strategies religiously. At this point drafts are taking place and it’s the perfect time. The third weekend of preseason games is prime for draft day. Imagine if you drafted before the first game of the preseason and wound up with Danario Alexander, an exciting sleeper option at WR a few weeks ago, only to learn he suffered an ACL tear and his season is over.

We promise not to list 200 players and call it a day. Instead we’d like to offer a more in-depth approach to preparing for your draft. You can expect round-by-round pointers and analysis as well as a very important undervalued and overvalued player portion ensuring you fully understand what you’re paying for and whether it’s worth it. Each player you add to your team costs a draft pick, so spend wisely fellas. (To all female fantasy football owners, we love you, but you are a precious few. Call me.)

I want to quickly touch on scoring settings. Please don’t get cute and go with two QB leagues or have passing TDs earn you six points each. The traditional PPR (point per reception) scoring settings are in place for a reason. They offer the most realistic experience possible. Fantasy owners have full reign over their respective teams. You are Jerry Jones or Bill Belichick to your team. When you win, you get the credit. When you lose, you are to blame. At least have it be as real as possible. Fantasy football has become a way of life, a hobby to some, an investment to others. Six points per passing TD makes Drew Brees a fire-breathing dragon who needs be the first overall pick in every draft, whereas four points levels the playing field considering QBs touch the ball on every offensive play. These “cute” leagues as I have become accustomed to calling them are the Miller Lite or Natural Ice of fantasy football. They’re light, cheap, and no matter what anyone says, they are not enjoyable. The traditional PPR is your craft beer. It’s full bodied, packs a punch, just a beautiful thing. It only takes one to have you hooked. Your taste is altered, your perception is changed. Everything not is not that simply falls short. Take my word for it and give in to the temptation. You’ll probably lose your marriage over it. It’s perfect.

In the weeks leading up to your draft you are a man on a mission. This season you’re winning the money, the bragging rights, the shiva, whatever the prize may be, this is the year you are taking it. During the season each week brings the latest story, a tragic injury placing you a RB short of two full-time starters or a welcomed injury where all of a sudden a RB who hasn’t left your bench all year is now the guy getting all the carries on his team. Players come out of nowhere and it’s a race to the waiver wire to bid on an undrafted free agent. Maybe your backup QB is facing the worst passing defense in the league and you’re pondering starting him over your mainstay who’s been great for you all year. So many possible circumstances, so many possible outcomes, you don’t want to be kicking yourself after the draft or after you started a WR who didn’t end up playing.

Cover 4 will have you feeling confident going into your draft and sure of your weekly lineup adjustments. That’s why we’re here. That’s why a lot of services are here. So far no one has separated themselves from the pack. It’s all the same. There isn’t a website that has truly broken down the draft process and showed you recommended strategies bringing you maximum values with all your picks. We refuse to rank players and not explain why. We refuse to tell you a player is a sleeper and have him cost you a fourth-round pick. You will not be wasting your third pick on a “sleeper.” You want to score more points than the other guy, and you want to do it every week. We’re the PPR league, we’re the craft beer. Cover 4 is going to level the playing field. We’re going to change your perception. The 2013 NFL season is here gentlemen, another year of epic fantasy football action. Let’s go.

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Filed Under: Football Tagged With: 2013, Brett Favre, Danario Alexander, draft, fantasy football, football, injury, nfl, PPR, QB, RB, season, starting, Tim Tebow, time, WR, year

Don’t Be “That Guy” During your Fantasy Draft

August 21, 2013 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

It’s officially August, and that means it’s the time of year that sports fans forget about all other fantasies that don’t involve fantasy football. Although many of us have been doing mock drafts and rating running backs since the Super Bowl ended, draft time is officially right around the corner. With crimes being so rampant in the NFL right now, I’m here to make sure you don’t commit one during your draft. Don’t be the one who ruins their league’s draft and gets his trades vetoed all season long. Everyone hates “that guy.” Nobody wants to be “that guy.” So, don’t be “that guy.” Protect yourself and don’t act as any of the following:

The Delay of Game

Don’t be the guy who shows up late to his draft. Odds are you’ve known about the date and time for weeks. If you’re doing an online draft, all it takes is one or two auto drafts and not only can your team be ruined, but the whole league drastically changes. If you are all drafting in person, you are making the whole league wait on you. We all know that fantasy drafts are a process that will take hours to get done. Also, by being late you drastically increase the risks that the beer will be gone before the kickers start going. If you make the league wait for the draft, you will wait on the league during the draft. Enjoy being the guy to grab everyone’s beers from the fridge.

The Bum

If you’re playing in a money league, don’t show up to the draft without having paid your dues. Asking someone for money is always an awkward situation, so do your best to avoid it and pay on time. Don’t be the douche that keeps trying to get out of paying because he doesn’t like the team he drafted. The earlier that all the money is collected, the better it is for the entire league. Good luck trying to get a guy that is 2-10 to fork over $100 come playoff time. Make it easy for everyone and don’t be the bum that can’t pay.

The Caveman

This is the guy who has been living under a rock, sat in the dark, or suffered a serious head injury the day before the draft. You know, the guy who is going to draft Aaron Hernandez in the fourth round and think he got a steal. You’ll know you are this guy because you will draft a person and immediately hear the entire room laugh out loud at you. Not only will you ruin your draft, but you will be the butt of every joke the entire season.

The Whiner

We’ve all heard them before: “I never get the first pick,” “this is the worst year to pick eighth,” or “if I had your pick my team would be so much better.” There’s always that guy who decides to whine about his draft position. Nobody wants to hear your excuse for why your team sucks. It’s not where you drafted, it’s just you.

The Whistleblower

This is the guy who gets most hated by his fellow fantasy players. It’s bound to happen at some point during the draft, and odds are it will ruin the pick you had lined up. This is the guy who yells “How is (insert player here) still on the board in this round?!” If you scream about a player still sitting on the board, everyone who wanted that player will hate you and rightfully so. Odds are some people saw him, but didn’t want to blow their chance getting him by yelling it out. This is a fantasy no-no and may get you punched in the throat.

The Einstein

Big whoopdy doo, you watched NFL Network and ESPN all week long and are throwing around more facts than Biogenesis throws out steroids. Few things are more annoying than this guy. Just because you watched and read Matthew Berry all week doesn’t mean you should pretend to be him. Nobody likes a know-it-all and everyone hates a person who simply is ACTING like a know-it-all. No matter what you say, I don’t need to know the name of every center, tackle or guard and their lingering ankle, middle toe or nipple injury to draft my running back. Some things are better left unsaid.

The Computer Thief

If you’ve ever had to share your computer with someone during a fantasy draft, you’ll know that this is one of the worst things that can happen. Don’t be the guy who forgets to bring his laptop to the draft. When you make someone else share their computer with you, you take away their time to research, can look at their draft queue, and just all around piss that person off. Make sure to bring your own computer and charge it before the draft. Draft picks are like girlfriends, some things you just don’t share.

The Macaulay Culkin

This is the guy who brags about his fantasy championships throughout the draft even though he hasn’t won in years. The only champ that escapes being a Macaulay Culkin is the league’s champion from last year. If you won your league last year, boast away, you’ve earned it. If you have to talk about the 8-man league you won five years ago, nobody wants to hear it. You may have been a hit in the past and had some glory moments, but you’re washed up now.

The Snail

There’s a time limit on draft picks for a reason, so don’t be that guy who uses the ENTIRE time limit each and every time you pick. Fantasy drafts are already a long process and don’t need to be made longer by you taking forever to decide between kickers. Few things are more annoying than the first or twelfth pick taking the full time for their two picks in a row. It’s like being stuck in line at a drive-thru because the guy in front of you placed a huge order. Don’t be the guy that slows everything down to a snail’s pace.

The Ed Hochuli

This is the guy who is constantly asking about the rules of the league. He’s either complaining about them, asking what they are or suggesting new ones. He’s bound to bust out, “we should really go PPR” or “the flex position shouldn’t allow running backs,” if it would help his team out. All this does is make everyone else wish they hadn’t allowed you in the league. The draft is not the time to bring up issues with league rules.

The Sleeper

This is the guy who read a bunch of fantasy articles about this year’s fantasy football sleepers and proceeds to draft every player named. Not only does he draft every sleeper, he also makes sure everyone knows that the player is indeed a sleeper. If you say “this guy is going to be good, he’s my sleeper pick,” you’re guilty. He’s everyone’s sleeper pick and ESPN has shown him about 10 times in their fantasy sleeper segment. By the end of the draft this guy is bragging about his team’s potential and the entire league is hoping that they’re all busts.

The Roster-bater

So the draft is completely over and you managed to not commit any of the acts that’ll turn you into “that guy.” You’re not out of danger yet, however, and the last thing you want to do is be caught roster-bating. Roster-bating is when you simply stare at your team saying how good your team is and how much you love it. If you’re going to do it, don’t do it out loud or in public, you’ll only embarrass yourself.

Filed Under: Featured, Football, General Tagged With: Aaron Hernandez, ACTING, back, Computer Thief, draft, Ed Hochuli, ENTIRE, ESPN, football, Macaulay Culkin, nfl, PPR, super bowl, talk, time, year

Buc’n the Trend: A Pirates Fan’s View

August 11, 2013 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

It was just over a year ago when I was coaxed by one of my best friends to fork over a couple hundred dollars and purchase season tickets for the remaining two months of Pittsburgh Pirate games. At the time, it seemed like a good investment. The team was 10-plus games over .500 and had a favorable position in the NL Wild Card race. My buddy and I wanted to guarantee we’d be able to buy playoff tickets. But as everyone knows, the Pirates imploded. A team that was 63-47 on August 8 spectacularly collapsed, winning just 16 of its last 52 games. Despite having tickets to every game in September, I did not attend PNC Park at all that month.

So when it came time to renew my season ticket package in early 2013, I wanted no part. I dodged phone calls from any number that began with 412-325. This team had way too many question marks. Would A.J. Burnett regress from his 2012 form? How would Jason Grilli handle the closer role (even though I tend to believe the closer role to be overrated)? Hell, Jonathan Sanchez made the starting rotation. There wasn’t much belief that this team would be anything more than a 75 to 78-win team. Four months later, and the Pirates have captivated Pittsburgh. The Pirates are tied for the most wins in baseball and lead their division by four games. Various websites list their odds to make playoffs as 99 percent.

For the long-suffering Pirates fans, it’s nearly impossible to grasp the reality that not only will the Pirates break their 21-year-old streak of losing seasons, but that this Pirates team is, by winning percentage, the best team in baseball. We knew the Pirates would likely become contenders at some point this decade. One would think 21 consecutive years of losing seasons would produce talent from the resulting high draft picks, but when you give a pea-brained moron like former GM Dave Littlefield six years at the helm, you end up with nothing more some 100-loss teams and an empty PNC Park. It wasn’t until Littlefield was fired and replaced by Neal Huntington in 2007 that the franchise’s fortunes turned around. Sure, Huntington presided over five losing seasons, but under his leadership the Pirates have been drafting players like Pedro Alvarez, Gerrit Cole and Justin Wilson instead of Pacific Rim all-stars Danny Moskos, Bryan Bullington and Clint Johnston.

You could have made a case for Huntington to be fired after last season’s collapse. But he took a gamble this offseason on several players who have become key contributors. The demand for Francisco Liriano was so little that Liriano signed a contract that guarantees him just $1 million this season (to be fair, this came after it was discovered Liriano broke his non-throwing arm). Vin Mazzaro was acquired in a minor-league trade and then designated for assignment during spring training. Jeanmar Gomez was a head-scratching acquisition at the time. Now, Mazzaro and Gomez have provided front-end stability to the bullpen with an ability to eat innings. Mark Melancon spent much of last season in AAA but now sports a sub-1.00 ERA.

None of those moves were considered high-profile transactions. What they have done though is contribute to a team that has revived baseball in Pittsburgh. And after spending money to see such greats as Chris Stynes, Bobby Hill, Daryle Ward, Tony Armas, Mike Williams, Jose Castillo, John VanBenschoten and Tike Redman, winning baseball is way better than I thought. Oh, and I regret not renewing my tickets.
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Brendan Shorts
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Filed Under: Baseball, General Tagged With: 2013, A.J. Burnett, AAA, andrew mccutchen, draft, Francisco Liriano, jeanmar gomez, Jose Castillo, Mark Melancon, Mazzaro, Mike Williams, mlb, pirates, Pittsburgh, Tike Redman

Don’t Be “That Guy” During your Fantasy Draft

August 10, 2013 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

The Delay of Game

The Bum

The Caveman

The Whiner

The Whistleblower

The Einstein

The Computer Thief

The Macaulay Culkin

The Snail

The Ed Hochuli

The Sleeper

The Roster-bater

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Tye Masters
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Filed Under: Football, General Tagged With: cover 4, draft, fantasy, fantasy football, football, james kaikis, league, National Football League, nfl, NFL draft, preseason, rankings, that guy, trophy, tye masters, Win

Mock Draft: Version B

April 25, 2013 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

Mock Draft: Version B April 25, 2013

There’s only one day until draft day and it’s time to see whether your team’s pick will leave you smiling, yelling at the TV or simply nodding your head. While I’m sure there will be some trades made throughout the draft, this mock is composed if the order goes as is. Usually people build mock drafts that they think improve their old one, I’m going a different direction. It’s not more likely to happen, but a set of scenarios that could result in a completely different draft. Version B takes a few more chances and goes a little unconventional. Draft day always has a couple shockers though.

To view Version1: https://thecover4.com/2013/04/16/nfl-mock-draft-1-0/

(Please read Version 1)

1. Kansas City Chiefs

Positions of need: Defensive Line and Offensive Line

The Chiefs drafting Texas A&M offensive tackle Luke Joekel still makes too much sense. Andy Reid needs to protect Alex Smith if he wants to see him do anything productive. Yes, the Chiefs are still looking to trade down to snag some more picks but I don’t see any team trading picks to get the first overall pick. Again, we’re more likely to see Andy Reid in a Weight Watchers commercial before we hear of a trade happening. The Chiefs are going to bring in Joekel, trade Brandon Albert to the Dolphins and hopefully begin a new era in Kansas City. If the Albert trade doesn’t go through, the Chiefs are going to be stuck with more tackles than their run defense had last year.

Previous Pick: Luke Joekel

Pick: Luke Joekel

2. Jacksonville Jaguars

Positions of need: Quarterback, Linebacker, Offensive and Defensive Line

As seen from the positions of need for the Jaguars, they need help everywhere. It’s damn near impossible for the team to make a pick and have it not be a good move. They’re that bad. I still like the idea of taking a pass-rusher here. The entire team had less sacks than J.J. Watt last year. They need the help on the defensive line, and Oregon defensive end Dion Jordan provides that. While the Jaguars may be tempted to snag Ziggy Ansah, Jordan is the more polished of the two.

Previous Pick: Dion Jordan

Pick: Dion Jordan

3. Oakland Raiders

Position of Need: Defensive Tackle

Oakland fans, there is only one day left until the draft and your team has managed to keep its draft pick. Let’s hope they can make it through the next 24 hours. The Raiders lost both Tommy Kelly and Richard Seymour this off-season leaving them with a huge need at defensive tackle. I’d prefer Utah’s Star Lotulelei but the media has hyped up Florida’s Shariff Floyd as the go-to-guy for defensive tackle. The Raiders haven’t had a first rounder in a while and hopefully it’s something that they won’t mess up. The pick’s staying the same and rolling with Floyd.

Previous Pick: Shariff Floyd

Pick: Shariff Floyd

4. Philadelphia Eagles

Positions of need: Quarterback, Linebacker and Offensive Line

Hey, it’s our first change in the draft! From everything that has been coming out of the Eagles camp in the draft, Chip Kelly’s offense GOES. I’m personally about the “try and draft as many Eagles’ players as I can” in my fantasy draft. With this new offense, the Eagles are about to need some offensive linemen that can hustle and keep up. So, whose name will we see on a personalized post-workout smoothie in Eagles camp after the draft? They’ll get themselves an athletic offensive lineman and we’ll see Central Michigan offensive tackle Eric Fisher running up and down the field come September.

~~Previous Pick: Star Lotulelei~~

Pick: Eric Fisher

5. Detroit Lions

Positions of need: Offensive Line and Defensive Line

The Lions lost Kyle Vanden Bosch, Cliff Avril and Jeff Backus this year. That leaves some major holes at the line of scrimmage. Rumor has it that they really want Alabama cornerback Dee Milliner as well. So do they go for a pass rusher or take the corner to protect from being destroyed by Aaron Rodgers twice a year? I think they’ll roll with Milliner rather than take the risk on Ziggy Ansah. Even though that ESPN article came out about Milliner’s surgeries, I think that’s more news to us than to NFL teams.

~~Previous Pick: Eric Fisher~~

Pick: Dee Milliner

6. Cleveland Browns

Positions of need: Cornerback and Linebacker

If Milliner fell to them I think they would take him, but they might not have the opportunity. It’s too much of a reach to take a linebacker, they don’t need the last top lineman available, and their dream cornerback tandem is gone. So, I think it’s between snagging West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith or improving their pass rush. I think Smith makes sense with this pick over Ansah. It might seem like a bit of a reach but what do the Browns have to lose? Brandon Weeden is not the future, take the best quarterback in the draft and see where it goes.

~~Previous Pick: Dee Milliner~~

Pick: Geno Smith

7. Arizona Cardinals

Positions of need: Offensive Line. They need something that can actually move.

The Cardinals are screaming that Oklahoma offensive tackle Lane Johnson made it to them. It wouldn’t surprise me at all if someone was willing to trade with the Browns to move up and snag the last of the elite tackles available. Johnson will never make it past the Cardinals. Old man Carson Palmer will be protected.

Previous Pick: Lane Johnson

Pick: Lane Johnson

8. Buffalo Bills

Positions of need: Quarterback

This is where I go a little crazy and completely buy into rumors. As much as I’d love to see Kevin Kolb Kolbing it up next year, I don’t see it happening. Kolb is the guy that enters the game and everyone you’re watching the game with knows he’s going to mess up, get hurt or both. Doug Marrone and the Bills coaching staff have a good relationship with their former Syracuse quarterback and it seems like they may just take Ryan Nassib with this pick, especially if Geno is gone. Do I think Nassib is a first-round pick? No, but it’s nothing new for me to be surprised on draft day.

~~Previous Pick: Geno Smith~~

Pick: Ryan Nassib

9. New York Jets

Positions of need: Defensive Line, Linebacker and Wide Receiver

I still think that Rex Ryan is taking a pass rusher, the name has just changed. I said in the first version of this mock draft that it was between BYU’s Ziggy Ansah and LSU’s Barkevious Mingo. The media have been talking up a storm about Ansah and may have just talked him past Mingo. It may be the case that Ryan develops Ansah into an absolute beast. The Jets will now be hoping that Ziggy will be able to cause more fumbles than the ass of Mark Sanchez’s lineman.

~~Previous Pick: Barkevious Mingo~~

Pick: Ziggy Ansah

10. Tennessee Titans

Positions of need: Offensive Line and Defensive Line

I still think that its too early to take a guard in this draft and after Lane Johnson there isn’t a lineman worth a top-10 pick. I think they’ll help bolster their pass rush and add LSU’s Barkevious Mingo. Mingo is one of the best pass rushers available in the draft and is a more polished product than Ansah.

~~Previous Pick: Ziggy Ansah~~

Pick: Barkevious Mingo

11. San Diego Chargers

Positions of Need: Offensive Line & Linebacker

I just said that guards are not generally top-10 picks and luckily this is pick number 11. The Chargers have a huge need on the offensive line and to give Philip Rivers some protection. Ideally, the Chargers would trade up to the Browns position or higher and take one of the elite tackles. If they’re not able to do that though, look for them to go to the next best thing and take North Carolina offensive guard Jonathan Cooper.

Previous Pick: Jonathan Cooper

Pick: Jonathan Cooper

12. Miami Dolphins

Positions of need: Offensive Line, Defensive Line and Cornerback

The Dolphins lost their staple on their offensive line when Jake Long decided to head to St. Louis and have had their eye on Brandon Albert. This pick is going to be contingent on whether the Dolphins feel they can get the deal done. I think the Albert deal gets done and the Dolphins will still focus on their offensive line. Ryan Tannehill just got some nice toys and is going to need time to play with them. Take a chance on Alabama offensive guard Chance Warmack and protect the quarterback.

~~Previous Pick: D.J. Fluker~~

Pick: Chance Warmack

13. Jets (From the Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

Positions of need: Cornerback, Tight End and Defensive Line

The Bucs got the deal done with Darrelle Revis and gave up the 13^th pick in the process. The Jets give themselves two picks in the top 13, but gave up arguably the best position player in football. I think the Bucs got a steal by not having to pay future guaranteed money to Revis, and the Jets will look to make a steal of their own with this pick. While Rex Ryan loves defense, the Jets need a playmaker on the offensive side of the ball. I think they take the best wide receiver in the draft and snag West Virginia’s Tavon Austin. The Jets somehow need to find a way into the end zone.

~~Previous Pick: Xavier Rhodes (Bucs)~~

Pick: Tavon Austin

14. Carolina Panthers

Positions of need: Defensive Line, Cornerback and Wide Receiver

The Panthers need to address their defensive issues. The Panthers are salivating at Utah defensive tackle Star Lotulelei falling to them in the draft. In my previous version, I had Lotulelei going fourth overall to the Eagles, but its very possible he falls here in the draft (especially considering his medical issues). He could be the steal of the draft if the Panthers can get him here. They’d be fools to not draft him.

~~Previous Pick: Sheldon Richardson~~

Pick: Star Lotulelei

15. New Orleans Saints

Positions of need: Linebacker, Defensive Line, Safety and Offensive Tackle

I still think that the Saints and Rob Ryan get themselves a pass rusher with this pick. D.J. Fluker is sitting there but Ryan will convince them to pass him up. Georgia linebacker Jarvis Jones didn’t do himself any favors with his draft or pro-day performance, but I STILL can’t see him falling below here. They keep with Jones.

Previous Pick: Jarvis Jones

Pick: Jarvis Jones

16. St. Louis Rams

Positions of need: Wide Receiver, Safety and Linebacker

The Rams have a need at wide receiver but they won’t be able to get the one they want. If Austin is gone at this point in the draft, they might as well snag the best safety in the draft and address their wide receiver issue later. They’ll roll with Texas’ Kenny Vaccaro and improve their secondary immediately.

~~Previous Pick: Tavon Austin~~

Pick: Kenny Vaccaro

17. Pittsburgh Steelers

Positions of need: Linebacker, Defensive Line, Safety and Tight End

While I didn’t think the Steelers would take an offensive player with their first-round pick, it’s entirely possible. With Kenny Vaccaro, the elite outside linebackers and defensive ends gone, the Steelers may look to potentially replace Heath Miller. Miller’s coming off of surgery and Notre Dame tight end Tyler Eifert is just getting more and more hype. I had him going 30^th last time but this could be the right fit and the right situation. Don’t be surprised if you hear Eifert’s name come pick 17.

~~Previous Pick: Kenny Vaccaro~~

Pick: Tyler Eifert

18. Dallas Cowboys

Positions of need: Offensive Line and Safety

As a Cowboys fan I want Kenny Vaccaro to be available here. If he is available and he is passed up, I will be screaming at the TV and hoping Jerry Jones can hear me. Odds are that it’s not going to happen so I think they look towards one of their lines. It’d be between Alabama offensive tackle D.J. Fluker to boost the offensive line or Sheldon Richardson to help the move to the 4-3 defense. Jerry invested heavy in Tony Romo this offseason and needs to protect that investment. Take Fluker and protect the quarterback.

~~Previous Pick: Chance Warmack~~

Pick: D.J. Fluker

19. New York Giants

Positions of need: Linebacker and Defensive Line

Although the Giants have a need on the defensive line, it wouldn’t surprise me if they addressed some secondary issues. With Florida State cornerback Xavier Rhodes on the board, I think they would be inclined to take the chance. If you think I’m overvaluing him, opposing receivers against him averaged just 5.7 yards per completion.

~~Previous Pick: Bjoern Werner~~

Pick: Xavier Rhodes

20. Chicago Bears

Positions of need: Linebacker and Defensive tackle

For the same reasons I said in version 1, if the Bears take the best player available, they take Georgia linebacker Alec Ogletree.

Previous Pick: Alec Ogletree

Pick: Alec Ogletree

21. Cincinnati Bengals

Positions of need: Cornerback, Linebacker and Running Back

I think its going Ogletree then Notre Dame linebacker Manti Te’o or Te’o then Ogletree. I think the pair are going in these two picks.

Previous Pick: Manti Te’o

Pick: Manti Te’o

22. St. Louis Rams (from the Washington Redskins)

Positions of need: Safety, Wide Receiver and Linebacker

The Rams do it right here. They get Kenny Vaccaro with their first pick and address their receiver issue with their second. They snag Tennessee’s Cordarelle Patterson and help boost a receiving corps in deep need of a threat. Patterson’s size and speed gives them a legit deep-threat receiver.

~~Previous Pick: John Cyprien~~

Pick: Cordarelle Patterson

23. Minnesota Vikings

Positions of need: Wide Receiver, Linebacker and Defensive Line

The Vikings need a receiver but with Patterson off the board, it’d be a stretch to grab one here. Also, the elite middle linebackers go right before them. The good news is that they can still address their defensive line issues. I think they’d be smart to snag defensive tackle Missouri defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson. He may just be too good to pass up.

~~Previous Pick: Cordarrelle Patterson~~

Pick: Sheldon Richardson

24. Indianapolis Colts

Positions of need: Wide Receiver, Cornerback and Safety

Same argument from version 1 and the same pick.

Previous Pick: Desmond Trufant

Pick: Desmond Trufant

25. Minnesota Vikings (from the Seattle Seahawks)

The Vikings have two picks in the first round. They address their defensive line problem in this version with their first pick, meaning they need to take a receiver here. California’s Keenan Allen comes off the board.

~~Previous Pick: Sylvester Williams~~

Pick: Keenan Allen

26. Green Bay Packers

Positions of need: Safety, Defensive Line, Linebacker and Running Back

Again, do the right thing Green Bay.

Previous Pick: Eddie Lacy

Pick: Eddie Lacy

27. Houston Texans

Position of need: Wide Receiver

The Texans still need a wide receiver but Allen is off the board in this version. They snag USC’s Robert Woods who is just as good, if not better.

~~Previous Pick: Keenan Allen~~

Pick: Robert Woods

28. Denver Broncos

Positions of need: Defensive line, Running Back and Linebacker

Same reasoning as last time to bolster the defensive line. The only difference is there are better players available in version 2. They still take a Williams, just a better one.

~~Previous Pick: Jesse Williams~~

Pick: Sylvester Williams

29. New England Patriots

Positions of need: Wide Receiver and Defensive Line

Like I said in version 1, the most dangerous passing game tries to take it to another level. They take the best receiver on the board.

~~Previous Pick: Robert Woods~~

Pick: DeAndre Hopkins

30. Atlanta Falcons

Positions of need: Cornerback, Defensive Line and Tight End

Eifert is gone in this version so the Dirty Birds are going to go defensive. Their offense isn’t the reason they are not making Super Bowls. Take the other Florida State defensive end. When have people ever gone wrong with a guy named Tank?

~~Pick: Tyler Eifert~~

Pick: Tank Carradine

31. San Francisco 49ers

Position of need: Safety

There’s not too much change for the 49ers and not much change in the safeties. I like Florida’s Matt Elam slightly over Jonathan Cyprien and I think they stick with him.

Previous Pick: Matt Elam

Pick: Matt Elam

32. Baltimore Ravens

Positions of need: Linebacker and Safety

The Ravens are looking for a replacement for Ed Reed. Florida International’s Jonathan Cyprien is more than willing to try and step up. The safety from a small school is looking to make a big name for himself in the NFL.

~~Previous Pick: Kevin Minter~~

Pick: Jonathan Cyprien

Filed Under: Football Tagged With: boom, bust, draft, first round, football, james kaikis, mock draft, nfl, prospects, reach, rookie, salaries, steal, the cover 4, top pick, tye masters

NFL Mock Draft 1.0

April 16, 2013 by James Kaikis 2 Comments

Mock Draft 1.0 April 17, 2013

Who will be this year’s number 1 pick?

It’s that time of year where every NFL fan wonders who their team will take in the upcoming draft. Who will you watch pick up the phone when your team is on the board? By the way, wouldn’t it be great if the players messed with the cameras and every player in Radio City Music Hall picked up their phones every time so we wouldn’t actually know who was drafted until the pick is announced? Anyways, with only two weeks to go we’re putting out our first 2013 mock draft. Smile, frown or be angry at who I have your team taking. Don’t be afraid to comment or suggest changes, you may influence version 2.0.

1. Kansas City Chiefs

Positions of need: Defensive Line and Offensive Line

The Chiefs went out and got themselves a quarterback when they traded for Alex Smith. Smith has shown that he has the ability to play in the league given the right system, and new head coach Andy Reid should know how to use him. It would make sense for the Chiefs to trade down and pick a talented lineman later while also adding a defensive tackle. Though we have a better chance of seeing a skinny Andy Reid than a team trading up for the first pick. Therefore, drafting the best overall lineman in the draft makes sense for the Chiefs. They give some added protection to their quarterback and a strong body that can open up lanes for Jamaal Charles. They’ll take the safe route and draft Texas A&M’s Luke Joekel, but I’d rather see them take Star Lotuleilei and improve that 27^th-ranked run defense.

Pick: Luke Joekel, OT, Texas A&M

2. Jacksonville Jaguars

Positions of need: Quarterback, Linebacker and Defensive Line

Could you name me the Jaguars defensive ends? I hadn’t even noticed Jason Babin went there halfway through last year. The Jaguars are like a vacuum where players disappear, unless you’re MJD. Blaine Gabbert is not the future of the franchise. I would call him mediocre but the Kevin Kolbs and Nick Foles of the world may get insulted. They’ll take a quarterback this draft, but not in the first round. They can get a talented QB in the second. The Jaguars need to put pressure on the passer, leaving them with one of the top rated pass rushers ─ Oregon’s Dion Jordan. Jordan brings much-needed speed and strength off the edge and will be a player able to make an immediate impact.

Pick: Dion Jordan, DE, Oregon

3. Oakland Raiders

Positions of need: Defensive Tackle

The Raiders have a first round pick?! (I Google, Bing and Yahoo to make sure this is true) And they made a good trade for Matt Flynn?! What the hell is going on in Oakland?! The Raiders lost both Tommy Kelly and Richard Seymour this off-season, leaving them with a huge need at defensive tackle. This leaves them considering either Florida’s Shariff Floyd or Lotulelei. The scare of a heart condition caused Lotulelei’s stock to drop a bit, but health professionals have since ruled him perfectly healthy. I think the Raiders avoid the risk and play it safe by taking Floyd. Floyd brings about memories of Warren Sapp and can cause havoc at the line of scrimmage. So long as they take one of those tackles, not even the Raiders can mess this pick up. Then again, it’s the Raiders we’re talking about.

Pick: Shariff Floyd, DT, Florida

4. Philadelphia Eagles

Positions of need: Quarterback, Linebacker and Offensive Line

The Eagles have quite a few holes to fill and they have a lot of options available with the fourth overall pick. They can take Geno Smith, giving Chip Kelly a young, mobile quarterback to insert into his offensive scheme. They could take Utah’s Star Lotulelei, who would bolster their defensive line and is an absolute beast. Or they could take offensive tackle Eric Fisher, a player who many think is better than possible first-overall pick Luke Joeckel. I think it’s too big of a reach to take Smith here, and although they could use the offensive lineman, there’s no way they can pass up on Lotulelei.

Pick: Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah

5. Detroit Lions

Positions of need: Offensive Line and Defensive Line

The Lions lost Kyle Vanden Bosch, Cliff Avril and Jeff Backus this year. That leaves some major holes at the line of scrimmage. Although the Lions need a stout defensive line to handle the quarterbacks and running backs in the NFC North, I don’t think they can pass on Central Michigan’s Eric Fisher. He’s arguably the best offensive tackle in the draft, fills a position of need and protects Matt Stafford (who is no stranger to injury).

Pick: Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan

6. Cleveland Browns

Positions of need: Cornerback, Linebacker

The word is that the Browns are looking for a cornerback that can play opposite of Joe Haden. Well, it’s not going to get any better than Alabama’s Dee Milliner. Milliner instantly gives the Browns a great cornerback tandem and will improve a passing defense that ranked 25^th in the NFL last year. They may be tempted to snag Smith here but there will be skilled quarterbacks available in later rounds. Also, they may be tempted to add a pass rusher by drafting Barkevious Mingo or Ezekiel Ansah, but if they pass up on Milliner the few Browns fans remaining may call it quits. Milliner immediately strengthens the Browns secondary and won’t be afraid to line up against the AFC North’s receivers.

Pick: Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama

7. Arizona Cardinals

Positions of need : Offensive Line. They need something that can actually move.

Prior to trading for Carson Palmer, it was a no-brainer that they were going to take a quarterback in the draft. The franchise has seemed to put their faith in Palmer as Larry Fitzgerald and Cardinals fans everywhere are trying to convince themselves that he could be good. The Cardinals have a huge need to protect their 33-year-old quarterback and buy him time. Palmer is not going to be out-running many defensive ends or outside linebackers. The Cardinals would shit themselves for Joeckel or Fisher, but they’ll both be gone by the seventh pick. I think that the Cardinals go offensive tackle over guard and snag Oklahoma’s Lane Johnson. Johnson wowed scouts at the combine after the 300-pounder ran a 4.72 40-yard dash. (Why do people wonder how players get concussed?) And hey if Palmer doesn’t pan out, Johnson used to play a little quarterback in junior college. He couldn’t do any worse than Arizona’s quarterbacks last year .

Pick: Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma

8. Buffalo Bills

Positions of need: Quarterback

I don’t want to hear any “they picked up Kevin Kolb, they don’t need to draft a quarterback this high.” It’s Kevin Kolb. The guy couldn’t look good throwing to Larry Fitzgerald. Kolb has become the guy that enters the game and everyone you’re watching the game with know he’s going to mess up, get hurt, or both. This is a franchise that has to take the best quarterback in the draft if he falls to them. They can’t afford to take a gamble on a second-round project. Draft West Virginia’s Geno Smith and finally get yourself a quarterback for the future.

Pick: Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia

9. New York Jets

Positions of need: Defensive Line, Linebacker and Wide Receiver

Rex Ryan and Gang Green are going to go for a pass-rusher here. They have great options available to them with both LSU’s Barkevious Mingo and Ezekiel Ansah on the board. Ziggy Ansah is a project that may take some time to develop, something that Rex Ryan’s job status may not afford. Mingo is one of the top outside linebackers in the draft and instantly helps the Jets pass rush. An effective pass rush is a necessity in a division with Tom Brady. The Jets are hoping that Mingo will be able to cause more fumbles than the ass of Mark Sanchez’s linemen.

Pick: Barkevious Mingo, DE, LSU

10. Tennessee Titans

Positions of need: Offensive Line and Defensive Line

The Titans will probably be hoping that Lane Johnson is available here but I think they’ll be disappointed. They could take the best guard in Chance Warmack, but guards rarely go in the top 10. I think they go defensive line with BYU’s Ezekiel Ansah still on the board. Ansah, aka Ziggy, is 6 foot 5, 275 pound with elite speed, strength and agility (just look at his 4.6 40 time). Although he has only played football for a couple years, the Ghana native has near limitless potential. Ansah could be one of the elite pass rushers in the league in just a few years. If he falls out of the top five, he could easily fall here and be the steal of the draft.

Pick: Ziggy Ansah, DE, BYU

11. San Diego Chargers

Positions of need: Offensive Line and Linebacker

I’m hoping we will all get another year of seeing red-faced Phillip Rivers yelling at his o-line in his typical douchebag-like fashion. The Chargers want that to change and will be looking for a tackle to protect Rivers’ blindside. They would love a Joeckel, Fisher or Johnson here, but at this point they’ll be gone. This will leave the Chargers settling for a top guard. The Chargers need protection on the o-line and North Carolina’s Jonathan Cooper will provide it to Rivers. Congrats Cooper, I’ll soon see you on television getting yelled at by Rivers.

Pick: Jonathan Cooper, OG, North Carolina

12. Miami Dolphins

Positions of need: Offensive Line, Defensive Line and Cornerback

The Dolphins lost their offensive line staple when Jake Long decided to head to St. Louis. We have hit that draft position where the highest-rated offensive linemen, defensive tackles, pass-rushers and Dee Milliner (the cornerback considered far above the rest) are gone. Jeff Ireland spent a lot of money giving Ryan Tannehill some weapons to throw to but it won’t be any good if the kid is always on the ground. They’ll go for the best offensive tackle left on the board and snag Alabama’s D.J. Fluker. It’s a reach, but the Dolphins can’t afford to risk a tackle not being there in the second round. Even his face says pick me!

Pick: D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Positions of need: Cornerback, Tight End and Defensive Line

Rumors have it that the Bucs are going hard after Darelle Revis. I don’t see anything happening before the draft so it will remain a position the Bucs need to address in the draft. Tight ends don’t go this early in the draft, and they’ll be looking for a corner as it’s the bigger need. The Bucs like Florida State’s Xavier Rhodes. Barring the Bucs making a trade for Revis, they’ll address the cornerback problem and take Rhodes.

Pick: Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State

14. Carolina Panthers

Positions of need: Defensive Line, Cornerback and Wide Receiver

The Panthers need to address their defensive issues. At this point in the draft their best defensive option to fill that void would be to take Missouri’s Sheldon Richardson. He’ll be the best defensive tackle available at this point, and he even got an endorsement from veteran wide receiver Steve Smith. Cam Newton can only score so many points in a game and it’s time the Panthers focused on preventing the other team from getting into the end zone.

Pick: Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri

15. New Orleans Saints

Positions of need: Linebacker, Defensive Line, Safety and Offensive Tackle

As the third NFC South team in a row, the Saints will be on the receiving end of watching players they’d like go to their rivals. The Saints went out and got themselves Rob Ryan, who was unemployed for far longer than the five minutes he predicted. Ryan will want himself some pass rushers, and he’ll take a risk on a guy who slid a bit. Georgia’s Jarvis Jones didn’t do himself any favors with his draft or pro-day performance, but I can’t see him falling below here. The guy dominated in the SEC and upset me every week knowing that USC had let him go. Football speed is different than 40-speed and the guy can play. The Saints are snagging themselves a stud here that will fit right into their new defensive system.

Pick: Jarvis Jones, LB, Georgia

16. St. Louis Rams

Positions of need: Wide Receiver, Safety and Linebacker

The Rams have a MAJOR need for wide receivers. After losing both Danny Amendola and Brandon Gibson in free agency, the Rams starting receivers are Steve Smith, a 5-foot-11 receiver who hasn’t been relevant in a few years, and Brian Quick, last year’s second-round pick. The Rams will take the best receiver on the board with this pick, and it’s between West Virginia’s Tavon Austin and Cordarrelle Patterson. Although Patterson can play on the outside with his big body, Austin just has too much potential. Many compare him to Seattle’s Percy Harvin as he’s one of those guys that make plays as long as you get the ball to him. He’s a playmaker, something the Rams desperately need.

Pick: Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia

17. Pittsburgh Steelers

Positions of need: Linebacker, Defensive Line, Safety and Halfback

The Steelers are actually in a pretty good position at this point in the draft. Some mocks have the Steelers taking a wide receiver with this pick. The Steelers matched wide receiver Emanuel Sanders’ offer sheet earlier this week and this is the Steel Curtain we’re talking about. They would love a pass rusher but most of the top-rated pass rushers will already be taken at this point. Alec Ogletree looks good but the Steelers don’t like character issues or failed drug tests and DUIs. (And while their throwback jerseys look like prison stripe outfits, they don’t need someone who people think belongs in one). This will make them roll with Texas safety Kenny Vaccaro and stay true to their defensive roots. Vaccaro will provide some youth to the Steelers’ aging defense and help improve a secondary that was 27^th in total interceptions last year. They took Troy Polamalu with the 16^th pick 10 years ago, it’s time they brought in some help.

Pick: Kenny Vaccaro, S, Texas

18. Dallas Cowboys

Positions of need: Offensive Line and Safety

This draft pick is between an offensive lineman and a safety. The Cowboys will be cursing the Steelers for taking Vacarro with the previous pick. The Cowboys paid big this off-season by extending Tony Romo’s contract. Besides the infamous ‘unclutchness’ factor, Romo is a solid quarterback. The Cowboys will pass on the safety here with Vaccaro gone and the Cowboys need to protect their investment. They’ll draft Alabama’s Chance Warmack as long as he’s still there. If Warmack is still there it would be a steal for the Cowboys as they get one of the best guards in the draft with the 18^th pick. The Cowboys bought themselves a nice and expensive house, now they need a fence to protect it.

Pick: Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama

19. New York Giants

Positions of need: Linebacker and Defensive Line

The Giants need to be able to put pressure on the quarterback and stop the run. Osi Umenyiora is gone this year and Justin Tuck (and his crazy face mask) is a free agent next year. The Giants will happily take Bjoern Werner, a solid defensive end out of Florida State.

Pick: Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State

20. Chicago Bears

Positions of need: Linebacker and Defensive tackle

The Bears signed former Bronco D. J. Williams during free agency this year but they could still use another linebacker. Georgia’s Alec Ogletree fits perfectly for the Bears and could potentially be the replacement for Brian Urlacher. Ogletree’s speed and athleticism for his size in simply outstanding, and he’ll immediately impact the Bears defense. The Bears can transition smoothly from the Urlacher era by taking Ogletree with this pick.

Pick: Alec Ogletree, LB, Georgia

21. Cincinnati Bengals

Positions of need: Cornerback, Linebacker and Halfback

I think that the Bengals take a linebacker here. It’ll be between Ogletree or Notre Dame’s Manti Te’o depending on who is left on the board. The Bengals would be more than happy to take Te’o with the 21^st pick and would consider it a steal. Despite his fall from grace, Te’o can play football. The guy was a Heisman Trophy candidate for those of you that forgot. Although he wishes that his performance against Alabama was imaginary and his girlfriend was real, rather than the other way around, he won’t get past here.

Pick: Manti Te’o, LB, Notre Dame

22. St. Louis Rams (from the Washington Redskins)

Positions of need: Safety, Wide receiver and Linebacker

With Coradelle Patterson still on the board here, the Rams would be kicking themselves for not having snagged Kenny Vaccarro with the 16^th pick. The Rams need a safety and Florida International’s John Cyprien has established a name for himself as a top safety in the draft. The Rams won’t be able to get him if they pass on him here and he fills a position of need. It’s the right fit for the right team.

Pick: John Cyprien, S, Florida International

23. Minnnesota Vikings

Positions of need: Wide Receiver, Linebacker and Defensive Line

This pick is a no-brainer with Tennessee’s Cordarrelle Patterson sitting on the board. The Vikings pick up a great wide receiver that will spread the offense a little bit more for Adrian Peterson. We all know that Christian Ponder can use all the help he can get. The Vikings have a good amount of draft picks this year and can address their other needs in the later rounds. Patterson just makes too much sense here.

Pick: Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee

24. Indianapolis Colts

Positions of need: Wide receiver, Cornerback and Safety

I think that the Colts need to go cornerback here. The have Vontae Davis on one side but could use another standout in their secondary. Washington’s Desmond Trufant is arguably the best corner in the draft and should be available at the 24^th pick. The guy comes from some solid stock as his brothers Marcus and Isiaiah are both playing in the league. With Davis and Trufant playing alongside each other, the Colts should be able to handle opposing teams receivers and not make Luck throw 50 times a game.

Pick: Desmond Trufant, CB, Washington

25. Minnesota Vikings (from the Seattle Seahawks)

Hey look who’s already up again! The Vikings already snagged a wide receiver, so now they’ll be looking to bolster their defense. They would like a cornerback but the first rounders will already be gone at this point. I think they take North Carolina’s Sylvester Williams and keep in tradition with having huge dudes named Williams anchor their defensive line. There’s no way they can resist, and they snag the defensive tackle to help plug up the middle.

Pick: Sylvester Williams, DT, North Carolina

26. Green Bay Packers

Positions of need: Safety, Defensive Line, Linebacker and Halfback

It’s time the Green Bay Packers got Aaron Rodgers a little bit of help. Their current running back rotation of ‘one of these guys might be good’ just isn’t getting it done. The Packers should take the best running back in the draft and snag Alabama’s Eddie Lacy. Lacy presents an actual threat and will let Rodgers destroy opposing defenses even more efficiently than he currently does. Defenses even may actually believe it’s a run on play- action plays! Help Rodgers out Green Bay, do the right thing.

Pick: Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama

27. Houston Texans

Positions of need: Wide Receiver

Let’s be honest, after Andre Johnson the Texans wide receivers suck. If opposing defenses snuff out the Texans’ run game, the Texans have trouble moving the ball through the air. By taking a wide receiver with this pick, the Texans improve an already dangerous offense, and allow Johnson to not constantly face double teams. The Texans offense goes from good, to downright scary. It’ll be between wide receivers Robert Woods and Cal’s Keenan Allen. Woods has fallen a bit after a disappointing 2012 campaign and I think they roll with Allen. Allen has good size, speed and excellent body control. The Texans will be right back in the Super Bowl race next year.

Pick: Keenan Allen, WR, California

28. Denver Broncos

Positions of need: Defensive Line, Halfback and Linebacker

John Elway and the boys don’t have to do much to be back in the Super Bowl picture next year. I think that the Broncos will be thinking between running back and a body to bolster their defensive line. I think they decide to live with their running backs and take Alabama’s Jesse Williams. Williams will help the Broncos defense and improves a team that can easily be in the Super Bowl next season.

Pick: Jesse Williams, DT, Alabama

29. New England Patriots

Positions of need: Wide Receiver and Defensive Line

I would have put the secondary as a position of need but the Patriots recently got Adrian Wilson to start alongside Devin McCourty, solving their safety dilemma. It’s hard to predict what Bill Belichick will do this year, but with USC’s Robert Woods available, I think they take a wide receiver. The Patriots lost Wes Welker, Brandon Lloyd, and the Steelers matched their offer sheet to Emmanuel Sanders, so they could use some help at receiver. Woods is dangerous out of the slot and Tom Brady can never have too many weapons. While Woods has good, but not great speed, he is an excellent route runner. The Patriots offense demands good route-running skills and if Woods can get chemistry with Brady, watch out. If this happens, make sure to snag him in your fantasy drafts next year.

Pick: Robert Woods, WR, USC

30. Atlanta Falcons

Positions of need: Cornerback, Defensive Line and Tight End

The Falcons can use some defensive help but how do they resist passing up on the best tight end in the draft. Notre Dame’s Tyler Eifert could be the future replacement for Tony Gonzalez. We all know that Gonzalez is in his last season in the league, and who better to teach a young tight end. The move could even allow them to run some effective two tight end sets. Although they need the defensive help, I don’t see the Falcons passing up on Eifert.

Pick: Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame

31. San Francisco 49ers

Position of need: Safety

The 49ers defense doesn’t need much but with Dashon Goldson leaving the Super Bowl runner-ups, they need a safety. Florida’s Matt Elam is one of the top safeties in the draft and fits right into the 49ers’ needs. The 49ers have a bunch of picks in this draft and though they may make some moves, if Elam is on the board, they’re taking him. The best defense in the NFL may have just gotten better.

Pick: Matt Elam, S, Florida

32. Baltimore Ravens

Positions of need: Linebacker and Safety

I wish Manti Te’o was on the board so we could see him and Ray Lewis talking to each other later. It’d be such an awkward pair and Ray Lewis may even be able to inspire him to get a real girlfriend. With Te’o gone though, the Ravens still need to fill their hole in middle linebacker. They’ll take LSU’s Kevin Minter and begin to reload their defense. The Ravens blew up their team to give Joe Flacco his massive, dollar-devaluing contract, and Minter is the first piece in their hopes of remaining a contender.

Pick: Kevin Minter, LB, LSU

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Tye Masters
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Filed Under: Football Tagged With: boom, bust, draft, first round, football, james kaikis, mock draft, nfl, prospects, reach, rookie, salaries, steal, the cover 4, top pick, tye masters

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