Peyton – The Cover 4

Fantasy “Start Em Or Sit Em”

September 7, 2013 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

Ahh it’s time to offer up some “Start em Sit em” advice and though its not as epic as offering pre draft insight it’s still fun. The obvious weekly basis starts (Brees, Peterson, Megatron, Graham etc.) will not be mentioned.

– Note: This was done before the Thursday Game but did not run on the site !

Start em

Matt Ryan: Matty Ice is playing in New Orleans. I repeat, Matty Ice will be going up against the Saints defense. Expect a shootout between him and Brees. ‘Nuff Said.

Andrew Luck: Luck’s starting his sophomore season off against Oakland at home. You can expect him to try and get ahead of the Sophomore slump whispers and the opportunity to take advantage of what will most likely be a lack luster defense, is only going to help.

RB – I think outside the obvious RB 1’s there are some sweet starts to either plug into that RB2 or your flex slot.

Shane Vereen: At Buffalo you can expect the Patriots to do two things offensively. Run the ball, and get Tom Brady on page with his new weapons. I think Vereen will get a few carries, more receptions, and close to 100 total yards and a TD.

Daryl Richardson: Going up against Arizona DRich isn’t exactly a safe bet, but look for the Rams to split him out wide. He’s the Rams starting RB. I think he comes out and shows he deserves that role. I bet you he catches 50 passes this year as a nice little bonus for PPR owners.Ben Tate: If you’re searching for a nice RB 2 or flex option Ben Tate is another worthy start. Adrian’s not getting a full workload the first game according to Gary Zubiak. Tate’s gonna get more touches than usual, and he runs really well in that zone run system.Ahmad Bradshaw: I like his chances against Oakland. I like anyone’s chances against Oakland but Ahmad is a good back. Indy will always look to establish the run whether its with Bradshaw or Ballard is a different story. This week I like Bradshaw.

Hakeem Nicks: Nicks hasn’t been getting the love he deserves in drafts, many owners have him as their 3rd WR and/or flex guy. Nicks is in a contract year and football players like getting paid. He’ll want to start well and despite common belief, Nicks is Eli’s favorite target especially in the red zone.

Danny Amendola: His value really shot up by the time owners were drafting so he may be a WR1 in most cases inevitably making him an obvious start making him a guy who should go unmentioned. I don’t care some got him as their WR2 and some guys even have him as their flex. So here it is. Start Amendola, he may not play a full 16 game season judging by his injury history. But he’s playing this game, and he’s going to score points.

Kenbrell Thompkins: Another Patriot receiver. The hype is oh so real. Start the man if your flex is still up in there, just play him. I’m thinking he’s a sure bet for 6-8 receptions and maybe more. PPR gold as I’ve said before. TDs may be his only downside due to the Pats love of the play action pass to the TE. But he’ll score a few.

Greg Jennings: This is a bit of a weird one. I find it funny he’s somewhat of a no name fantasy receiver this year. Jennings can play, his QB is horrible but the Vikings’ intentions are clear. They desperately need to make defenses respect the deep ball even if its just a little bit. Giving Adrian a little more room will pay off big time, they drafted Patterson who I think will be involved, but Jennings is the proven receiver. I think they’ll try to get him the ball deep right off the bat in week 1 to get it on tape for opposing defenses coming later in the year. I think he catches a TD in this game, and a long one.

Zachary Sudfeld: While I’m not exactly sold on this guys hype despite my bias being a Pats fan I think if you’re going to play him, nows a pretty good time. Ron Gronkowski isn’t expected to play and any time that’s the case Sudfeld should probably make your lineup.

Julius Thomas: Again I’m trying to stay away from obvious guys to play. I think if you have a choice between say Greg Olsen and Julius Thomas you should start Thomas this week. Olsen is playing Seattle and Thomas has been drafted as a backup pretty consistently in fantasy drafts this year. If not check your waiver wire and get him. More on Olsen in the sit em part of this spectacular article.

Defense/Special Teams

New England: They’re playing Buffalo and though they’ll struggle with Spiller like any defense they should have fun with the EJ Manuel experiment.

Tampa Bay: Tampa for two reasons. Darrell Revis gets his revenge on the Jets and Geno Smith is absolutely horrible and is starting for NY. This should be a ridiculous year. Play any defense playing the Jets every week!

Kicker

No one should have backup kickers! Play who you got sonny!

You never see specific predictions like this! Cover 4 baby.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Sit em

Both Aaron Rodgers and Cam Newton will have their worst weeks this season in week 1. But you really can’t sit Rodgers and in many cases you can’t sit Cam either. Both are playing the best defenses in the league (Rodgers @SF, Cam has SEA at home) so if you have excellent backups with good match ups then I don’t blame you. I’m scared for Rodgers’ life going against the best pass rusher in the game in Aldon Smith with a rookie left tackle to boot, and Cam well, he likes to run so he’ll be taking hits from a very physical Seattle defense no matter what. Scary stuff. If you drafted right you start whomever you took first at the QB position however these are two guys to look at.

Arian Foster: Head coach Gary Zubiak has said they will gradually get him involved in week 1 considering he didn’t play a snap in the preseason. Ben Tate may be getting more carries in this one or the Texans may be bluffing. I like Tate more than Arian week 1.

DeAngelo Williams: Please don’t play this guy against Seattle, please don’t.

Eddie Lacy: Welcome to the NFL rook, have fun against San Fran, Pat Willis and company.

Isaac Redman: If you don’t have to I wouldn’t. He is going to start for PIT for awhile while Bell is out but he’s a fill in at best. That’s something you shouldn’t have to worry about week 1.

Wes Welker: I’m not so sure Peyton is impressed and I think he’d probably even rather have Stokely I’m the slot considering he’s worked with him for so long. Give Welker time to get accustomed to what Peyton wants from him I don’t think you’ll get much from Wes early.

Steve Smith: Smith is facing one of the better cornerback tandems in the league in Browner and Sherman. They are massive compared to Smith and just as fast. He’ll struggle. If you’re sensing a theme you’re getting it, stay away from Carolina guys this week with Seattle in town.

Cecil Shorts: Love the guy but he’s simply not as talented as Blackmon and Gabbert is awful. Play KC’s defense is very underrated and should have some fun playing Jacksonville.

Anquan Boldin: I hope you didn’t draft this guy to start him. Don’t think you’ll be happy this year. He’s a big physical guy who will help block for the run game. He’s very similar to the type of player Hines Ward was.

Greg Olsen: Carolina guy taking on Seattle. Olsen is far from a safe bet. However I do think if anybody scores on Carolina not named Cam Newton, it’ll be this guy.

Owen Daniels: I’m so over this guy as a legit starting TE for fantasy teams. He’s so boring. Never anything spectacular you’re better off going for someone with high upside like a Sudfeld or Pettigrew. Maybe even Rob Housler from Arizona.

Defense/Special Teams:

Buffalo: I think they’ll be improved this year but they have Tom Brady in week one. If they’re defensive line shows up they’ll do alright.

Atlanta: Enter Drew Brees.

Kickers

Enough with the kickers already!

__________________________________________________________________________

Thank you for reading The Cover 4! Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook & Twitter.

Oh yeah, tell your friends too!

Christian Stinchfield
Sports Activist for The Cover 4
http://www.facebook.com/thecover4
http://www.twitter.com/thecover4

Filed Under: Fantasy Sports, Football Tagged With: Ben Tate, Brees, Cam Newton, Christian, ESPN, fantasy football, James Kaikis, Matty Ice, Peyton, PPR, QB, RB, Rodgers, season, sit, start, starting, TD, TE, the cover 4, time, Tom Brady, WR, yahoo, year

Your Quarterback is Which Actor?

January 25, 2013 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

Your Quarterback is Which Actor?

There are always comparisons between quarterbacks, ranging from Andrew Luck to Peyton Manning or RG3 to Cam Newton. It is quite popular to compare an incumbent to their contemporaries to paint a picture to the public for the future.

Are we going to do that here? Nope. In lieu of comparing current NFL quarterbacks to their predecessors, we are going to compare them to actors. Yes, actors.

For a little appetizer, think of Jamarcus Russell like Lindsay Lohan with all the potential and tools, but caught up in out-of-work trouble. Purple Drink!

Here we go:

NFC East

Eli Manning – Joaquin Phoenix

Both are extremely eclectic people that find ways to put on great performances in crucial times. They are recognized as the most important person in their biggest career moments. In Gladiator, Phoenix supported the role of Russell Crowe, much like Manning managed the Giants to their first Super Bowl win. Next, each person rose to the starring role with Manning guiding the Giants over the Patriots for a second time and Phoenix presenting a remarkable performance in Walk the Line.

Tony Romo – Mark Wahlberg

Ever see someone begin from nothing but, when given their first shot, show such immense potential? Much like Romo, Wahlberg began great with the Italian Job, and continued to show prominence in Invincible and Shooter, but follows up with Ted and The Other Guys. It is head scratching as much as Tony Romo, but it is undeniable that both men expose themselves to seriously low moments in their career that make you question them.

Michael Vick & Nick Foles – Jackie Chan & Chris Tucker

We have a flashy stunt man, who really does not know how to hone or master his craft (whether it be either acting or quarterbacking). Their counterpart is serviceable, by carrying the traditional acting techniques, and although either are unproven or average, both Tucker and Foles show flashes of having potential. Ultimately, neither actor nor quarterback is taken seriously in their profession.

Robert Griffin III – Justin Timberlake

Each person was successful in the early phase of their career, and transferred that into the next level of exposure and immediately succeeded. RG3 won the Heisman at Baylor and JT went from the front man of Nsync to a prominent solo music career. At their transition phases, RG3 led his Redskins to the playoffs in his rookie year, and Justin hit the big screen with a splash in The Social Network. Great things are still to come from these two.

NFC North

Aaron Rodgers – Leonardo DiCaprio

Both of these men are at the top of their respective profession right now and are a must see on the big screen or the football field. Rodgers continues to get better and better playing the position at such a consistent high level. Concurrently, Leo manages to remain in elevated form by rolling out Catch Me If You Can, The Departed and Inception just to name a few.

Jay Cutler – Robert Downey Jr.

The overall “I don’t give a $h*!” attitude resemblance between these two is very uncanny. At the same time, when focused and motivated, Downey and Cutler can put together stretches of absolute brilliance that remind you they are formidable in their respective fields.

Christian Ponder – Josh Hartnett

Essentially, both of these men peaked way too early. Ponder was drafted well before he should have ever been considered and Hartnett has been on a steady decline since Black Hawk Down. However, they both have capabilities to present manageable performances with Ponder being efficient and Hartnett with 40 Days and 40 Nights.

Matthew Stafford – Ben Affleck

Affleck and Stafford flourish with talent around them and in the right setting. Stafford has been fortunate to have Calvin Johnson and numerous weapons to generate his massive yardage seasons. As much as Affleck has captured us with Good Will Hunting and The Town, he has released some big flops like Gigli and Daredevil, resembling the disgusting sidearm sling Matthew Stafford continually resorts to.

NFC South

Matt Ryan – Jeremy Renner

Matt Ryan revitalized a struggling franchise with his first NFL pass going for a touchdown and he has not looked back since. The same can be said for Jeremy Renner, who really hit us with The Hurt Locker and continued to get better with The Town. Each of these men is on the rise and aimed for greatness with their professions.

Cam Newton – Gerard Butler

Utterly mind-blowing physical specimens from their initial roles from 300 or Cam’s rookie year, but their dropoff cannot be argued. It seems both get complacent with their initial success, and relies on their physical tools rather than developing their craft.

Drew Brees – Brad Pitt

Brees’ career began very prominent and flashy in San Diego, which is very reminiscent of Brad Pitt in Fight Club. Although, each of them went through a dry spell or injury span, they both developed their potential into either a Super Bowl winner or hits with Benjamin Button and Inglorious Bastards.

Josh Freeman – Chris Hemsworth

The physical traits of both men naturally set them above the rest from the beginning. Additionally, they have displayed moments of brilliance in key moments. Hemsworth separated himself from the bottom feeders of the comic remake world, and lined up multiple runs of Thor. Freeman has shown to be more than clutch in critical moments leading the volatile Bucs to come from behind wins and fourth quarter drives.

NFC West

Alex Smith & Colin Kaepernick – Tobey Maguire & Jesse Eisenberg

Smith came in as a number one overall pick with the expectations to revive a franchise, but failed to do so. The same result can be seen from Tobey Maguire’s attempt at the Spiderman series; an utter disaster. Maguire was capable of carrying a movie throughout with Pleasantville or Seabiscuit, but failed to present anything spectacular. Conversely, Colin Kaepernick has come in a thrived as an absolute star much like Eisenberg in The Social Network. Look for both Kaepernick and Eisenberg to entertain us for the next generation of professionals.

Russell Wilson – Joseph Gordon Levitt

Levitt’s respectable beginning in TV started with 3rd Rock from the Sun and that can be comparable to Wilson’s stint in minor league baseball, but their adaptation to the professional level has better utterly amazing. Whether it be Inception, Looper, or leading a Seahawks franchise to the playoffs with utter poise and composure; both of these future stars will be around for a long time to come.

Sam Bradford – Chris Pine Can

Chris Pine showed he was capable of supporting Denzel Washington in Unstoppable and left the public wanting more for the recreated Star Trek franchise. Similar to Pine, when Bradford gets comfortable and gains weapons around him, the Rams will continue their positive direction to a reputable franchise again.

Kevin Kolb & Crew – Jon Heder, Jon Gries, Aaron Ruell

Coach put Uncle Rico in and we saw how that went….

AFC East

Tom Brady – Denzel Washington

Thriving in roles with good looks and masterful performances symbolizes these two dynamic personalities perfectly. Denzel began his career being acclaimed in a supporting role and prospered into a top leading man for an extended duration from Training Day to recently released Flight. Brady stepped in for an injured Drew Bledsoe and never looked back creating a decade of dominance for the New England Patriots.

Ryan Tannehill – Zac Efron

With a limited sample size with one year in college and a rookie NFL year, Ryan Tannehill has shown to have immense potential with absolutely no talent around him. Looking past Efron’s High School Musical days, he has displayed some notable performances with 17 Again and Charlie St. Cloud by showing he can exceed expectations and carry a movie throughout. It is early, but both Tannehill and Efron have shown glimpses of having a reputable future in their industries. Plus have you seen their girl friends or wife? Bonus points!

Ryan Fitzpatrick – Vince Vaughn

Vince Vaughn’s natural sarcastic humor resembles the intelligence of a Harvard graduate like Fitzpatrick. Essentially both are serviceable in their industry with spotty high moments, but won’t produce anything award winning.

Mark Sanchez – Colin Farrell

They try so hard but it does not work. We can equate SWAT to Sanchez’s early years with nice playoffs runs, but it has been a steep decline ever since. Sanchez tried to be an efficient manager but failed. Farrell tried to match Brad Pitt’s Troy with Alexander, but that was a disaster. They will remain in their industries, but will never prevail to anything special.

AFC North

Joe Flacco – Matt Damon

Damon’s character in the Ocean’s Eleven series represents Flacco beyond a reasonable doubt. Damon struggled to be acknowledged as a main contributor, but gradually was given more respect as each movie continued. At the same time, Damon carried an entertaining Bourne series for almost a decade and, although it wasn’t award winning, it was very entertaining. Flacco has shown utter moments of brilliance in big moments, much like Damon in Good Will Hunting and The Departed.

Andy Dalton – John Cho

You may know Cho has Harold from the Harold and Kumar series, but he quietly has strung together a few noteworthy performances with American Beauty and Star Trek. He looks to still be a constant within the revitalized Star Trek series, resembling Dalton’s potential lengthy and serviceable NFL career. It is hard to tell what each person will ultimately become, but each has shown potential that they can be taken seriously looking forward in their future.

Ben Roethlisberger – Christian Bale

Bale and Big Ben can cause some controversy outside the office, but when focused, they compete to be the best in their fields. Bale transformed the Batman series and was outstanding in The Fighter, while Roethlisberger led the Steelers to Super Bowl appearances and a victories after years of Tommy Maddox and Kordell Stewart.

Brandon Weeden – David Caruso

This one may be self explanatory. Both were given a shot at an older age and it may work out for Weeden, but if it does expect nothing more than a Lieutenant Horatio Caine performance in CSI: Miami.

AFC South

Matt Schaub – Alec Baldwin

Neither was intended to take on a leading role at the highest level. Baldwin is perfect at 30 Rock and Schaub was an effective back-up for an injury prone Michael Vick in Atlanta. Schaub has never quite lived up to a franchise starting quarterback, much like Baldwin in the main character role of a major motion picture. Both have had memorable moments from big games to priceless lines in The Departed.

Andrew Luck – Tom Hardy

Luck and Hardy came in with all of the physical and mental tools to be successful from the beginning, and lived up to the hype. Luck led a 2-14 Colts team to the playoffs and Hardy thrived inInception, Warrior and The Dark Knight Rises. Future success exudes from both of these professionals in such a short sample size already.

Blaine Gabbert & Jake Locker – Taylor Lautner & Robert Pattinson

Gabbert & Locker have proved they are products of the combine hype and beneficiaries of tremendous arm strength, as their on-field product has not been worthy of first-round draft picks. Translate the aforementioned sentence to motion pictures, and you have Twilight. The CFL and ABC Family cannot wait for these guys.

AFC West

Peyton Manning – Tom Hanks

Starting as the number one pick in the NFL draft and winning best actor in a children’s movie just conveys the early success of the methodical and surgical (Trent Dilfer talk) careers for Peyton Manning and Tom Hanks. Both men bring extremely dedicated and intellectual approaches to their roles transcending generations that made up for any physical deficiencies.

Phillip Rivers – Sam Worthington

Has anyone hit the big screen faster and harder than Sam Worthington? In the blink of an eye, he starred in Terminator and Avatar, but then dramatically took steps down with Clash of the Titans and Man on a Ledge. This sounds eerily similar to Chargers’ quarterback Phillip Rivers, with his tremendous start under Marty Schottenheimer to his most recent two season decline. Both began to enter the “elite” conversation, but have quickly entered the above average.

Carson Palmer – Nicholas Cage

This is one of my favorites. Cage showed some flashes of brilliance when next to Sean Connery in The Rock similar to Carson Palmer surrounded with weapons in Cincinnati. Both of them believed themselves to be far more talented than what they really are, but show their true worth either in Oakland or anything Nicholas Cage does. Cage is veteran garbage like Palmer.

Matt Cassel – Seann William Scott

Do you remember Steve Stiffler from the American Pie series? He was barely in the first one, but his roles progressively grew in an entertaining fashion. Unfortunately, Seann William Scott cannot be a lead actor. He was amazing in Role Models because he fed off of Paul Rudd. The Chiefs gave Cassel the keys to the car and how did that turn out?

Note from the Chief : I believe this to be one of the coolest and funniest articles I have ever seen. I would appreciate it if you would help us spread the word on this article more-so than others. With the Pro Bowl and Super Bowl upon us, this is a perfect time to bring some excitement to the game. Thank you

____________________________________________________________________________
Thank you for reading The Cover 4! Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook & Twitter.

Oh yeah, tell your friends too!

Long Island Sound
Sports Activist for The Cover 4
http://www.facebook.com/thecover4
http://www.twitter.com/thecover4

Filed Under: Football Tagged With: 1, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 2, 3, 4, 49ers, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, Aaron, Accurate, activist, adrian, AFC, Affleck, alec, Alex, American, Analysis, andrew, andy, Arizona, Atlanta, Away, back, baldwin, bale, baller, Baltimore, Bay, Bears, ben, Bengals, Big, Bills, blaine, Bowl, Brad, Bradford, Brady, brandon, Brees, Broncos, Browns, Buccaneers, Buffalo, Butler, cage, Cam, Can, Cardinals, Carolina, carson, caruso, cassel, Center, Chan, Chicago, chief, Chiefs, cho, Chris, Christian, Cincinnati, City, Cleveland, coach, Colb, Colin, Colts, comeback, Corner, cover, Cowboys, Cutler, Dallas, dalton, damon, david, Defense, defensive, Denver, denzel, Detroit, Dicaprio, Dolphins, Downey, drew, Eagles, east, efron, Eisenberg, Eli, End, England, Falcons, fantasy, farrell, favorite, fitzpatrick, Flacco, Foles, football, for, Francisco, Freeman, gabbert, Game, gamer, Gerard, Giants, gordon, green, Gries, Griffin, Guard, hanks, hardy, Hartnett, Heder, Hemsworth, home, Houston, III, Indianapolis, Jackie, Jacksonville, Jaguars, jake, jay, Jeremy, Jesse, Jets, Joaquin, joe, John, Jon, Joseph, josh, jr, JT, Justin, Kaepernick, Kansas, Kevin, Key, lautner, league, Leonardo, Levitt, Line, Linebacker, Lions, locker, Lose, Louis, luck, Maguire, Manning, mark, Matchup, matt, Matthew, Miami, Michael, Minnesota, most, MVP, National, New, Newton, NFC, nfl, nicholas, Nick, north, Oakland, of, of the year, Offense, offensive, Orleans, Packers, palmer, Panthers, Patriots, pattinson, peterson, Peyton, Philadelphia, philip, Phoenix, pigskin, Pine, Pitt, Pittsburgh, Player, Ponder, predictions, Quarterback, Raiders, Rams, Ravens, Receiver, Redskins, Renner, RG3, rivers, robert, Rodgers, roethlisberger, Romo, rookie, Ruell, running, Runningback, russell, Ryan, ryan.tannehill, Safety, Saint, Saints, Sam, San, Sanchez, schaub, Score, scott, Seahawks, sean, Seattle, Slot, Smith, south, special, sports, St. Louis, Stafford, Steelers, Stud, Super, Tackle, Tampa, taylor, teams, Tennessee, Texans, Thanksgiving, The, Tight, Timberlake, Titans, Tobey, tom, Tony, Touchdown, Tucker, Twelve, Underdog, valuable, vaughn, Vick, Vikings, vince, Wahlberg, Washington, weeden, Week, West, Wide, williams, wilson, Win, worthington, year, York, zac

NFL Season Wrap Up: Analysis, Awards and Much More.

January 5, 2013 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

The greatest sport in America has played its final regular season game. As I sit here writing this article, I am both excited and sad at this reality. Part of me is excited for the playoffs to start, but the other part is upset this regular season is over. We have a number of story lines each season but this year just was different; it was a special year to say the least.

I could write all day about the things that really impressed me but I will only talk about a few of my favorites:

Record Breakers & Chasers

Calvin Johnson- I wanted to see Calvin eclipse the 2000 receiving yards this season. I think what Jerry did was more spectacular (given it is the age of the quarterback and enormous offensive outputs) but you can’t take that away from Megatron. Madden Curse?

Adrian Peterson- Can you believe it? I think that may have been the greatest second half I have seen out of a running back, ESPECIALLY one coming off a major knee surgery. I really wish AD broke that record in a passing era.

Single Season Sack Record- What a chase we had going down to the final days between Watt, Smith & Von Miller. Ultimately the record wasn’t broken but it was great to watch these three defensive player of the year candidates make it interesting.

Rookie Quarterbacks

The ideology of allowing rookie quarterbacks to learn on the bench is in the past; I believe this to be due to increased responsibilities and expanded offenses on both the high school and college levels. Luck and RGIII were different breeds of quarterbacks coming into the draft but look at Russell Wilson & even Ryan Tannehill. Luck, RGIII and Wilson all have led their teams to the playoffs! TO THE PLAYOFFS!! Wilson is such a great story; he was a cast off of his college team, transfer to Wisconsin, drafted as a project and now is in the Rookie of the Year race. Even Foles & Weeden did well, at times, this season.

Injury Comebacks

Do I really need to expand on this one? Peyton Manning is back and possibly better than ever after dangerous neck surgery. He started the season off a little slow but Manning picked it up to usual form. When his career is all said and done, I think he may go down as arguably the best to have ever played the game. There is a very elite group and he is definitely in it.

Adrian Peterson. I can’t say enough about this guy as he is a freak of nature; I think he may be the only human that could have responded from the injury like he did.

Passing Records Were Meant to Be Broken…Unfortunately.

The NFL is ever-changing and as fans we must learn to deal with the changes. I have a firm stance on NFL Passing Records being broken; I am not very impressed. Rules have changed to allow offenses to flourish thus teams are now passing 40/50 times per game instead of the 20/30 in the past. I commend players on passing for 5000 yards and breaking rookie passing yard records but it’s not my thing.

It’s not about how you start, but how you finish.

The Chicago Bears looked like a lock to make the playoffs. We are now finished with the regular season and the Bears will be watching the playoffs from their homes. In the last five games of the NFL regular season, the following teams finished:

Packers 4-1, Vikings 4-1, Seahawks 5-0, Redskins 5-0, Bears 2-3, Giants 2-3, Bengals 4-1, Colts 4-1, Patriots 4-1, Broncos 5-0, Ravens 1-4, Steelers 2-3, Texans 2-3.

Do I need to say much more?

Defense Wins Championships..and Offense too.

Of the Top 10 teams for Total Offense and Total Defense, 6 of the top 10 offenses made the playoffs while 5 of the top 10 defenses made the playoffs. The old saying was offense wins games ans defense win championships but, in this new NFL, you need an offense or you won’t keep up.

… Moving Forward (and backwards)
Preseason Picks

In the AFC, I was correct on 3 of 4 division winners and 4 of 6 playoff teams (Really Pittsburgh?!). The Bills- what a great pick by me.

As for the NFC, 2 of 4 division winners and 3 of 6 playoffs teams. Two teams (Cowboys & Bears) were down to the final game. Giants not making playoffs? Called that one…

My Super Bowl Prediction was: Packers over Ravens. I think I am still in good shape on this one (Green Bay at least) but I think the sputtering Ravens may not make it. I remember when I was doing my preseason picks and I couldn’t decide between the Ravens & the Texans. In the end, I chose the Ravens because I thought they would be healthier than the Texans, who seem to end up hurt every season. Well, looks like I was wrong on who would have more injuries…

Current NFL Playoff Predictions

When the Broncos were everyones preseason pick, I thought it was just a fad. Peyton Manning and that Bronco defense are the real deal and I expect them to come out of the AFC.

Part of me wants to take my preseason pick of the Packers but I think the 49ers do it this year.

In all reality, I believe both conferences are wide open and I would not be surprised to see any NFC team in the Super Bowl and the majority of the AFC teams (besides the Colts & Bengals) as well.

…Now the Good Stuff

NFL Awards Predictions

Coach of the Year

The Candidates: Pete Carroll, Jim Harbaugh, John Fox, Mike Smith, Chuck Pagano (kinda?), Mike Shanahan

The Winner: Carroll. Call it what you like, the Seahawks were the best team at home this season. They nearly won the NFC West with a rookie quarterback. I think Harbaugh is a close second, especially after making a gutsy move to the second year quarterback.

Comeback Player of the Year

The Candidates: Peyton Manning, Adrian Peterson

The Winner: Manning. I want to give AD my vote but Manning came back from a surgery that may have ended his football career. What Peterson did was absolutely remarkable but Manning couldn’t throw a football this time last year (granted AP probably couldn’t walk that well).

Defensive Rookie of the Year

The Candidates: Janoris Jenkins, Luke Kuechly, Bobby Wagner, Casey Hayward

The Winner: Jenkins. I was so impressed with Jenkins every game this season because he is a game-changer. The rookie had the ability to defend any wide receiver in the NFL. Kuechly may lead the league in tackles but Jenkins top 10 ability showed. This kid is going to be a superstar for a long time (IF, and a big IF, he can keep his act together)

Offensive Rookie of the Year

The Candidates: Robert Griffin III, Andrew Luck, Russell Wilson

The Winner: RGIII. I honestly think all three deserve this award but RGIII will take it in the end. Wilson and RGIII have nearly identical numbers besides a few hundred rushing yard difference. I really like what Andrew Luck did this season but I do think he finishes third in this race.

Defensive Player of the Year

The Candidates: Von Miller, Aldon Smith, J.J. Watt

The Winner: Watt. I think Miller is a very close second but Watt was the most dominant player on the field for the majority of the season. While Miller may be the more complete player, Watt wrecked havoc week after week; he even had 16 pass deflections!!

Offensive Player of the Year

The Candidates: Tom Brady, Calvin Johnson, Peyton Manning, Adrian Peterson

The Winner: Peterson. Truly the OPOY! Again, I really wish Peterson broke the rushing record but the second most all-time is pretty damn impressive. Calvin Johnson may finish second in this statistic race.

Most Valuable Player

The Candidates: Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Adrian Peterson

…… Drum Roll Please…..

The Winner: Manning. I truly think Peterson is the Most Valuable Player to his team (cuz we all know how highly I value Christian Ponder) but we know how the media really votes on these awards; its a quarterback award. The Vikings getting into the playoffs really helped Petersons resume but a rushing record would have even more. Manning was not only good, he was great. 68.6 completion percentage, 4,659 yards, 37 touchdowns, 105.8 Rating. More than impressive. Just a few weeks ago I wanted to vote Brady but after a few subpar weeks (for his standard), I think he finishes behind.

Thanks for reading!

Onto the playoffs!!

____________________________________________________________________________
Thanks for reading. Dont forget to follow us on Facebook & Twitter.
James Kaikis
Chief Sports Activist for The Cover 4
http://www.facebook.com/thecover4
http://www.twitter.com/thecover4
http://www.facebook.com/jameskaikis

Filed Under: Football Tagged With: Adrian Peterson, Awards Predictions, Calvin Johnson, Defense Wins Championships, Injury Comebacks, Manning, nfl, Passing Records, Peyton, Peyton Manning, Playoff Predictions, Preseason Picks, RGIII, Rookie Quarterbacks, year

Week 15 NFL Power Rankings: Is Anyone Really Good Besides New England?

December 13, 2012 by James Kaikis 1 Comment

Can anyone stop Tom Brady?!

Who doesn’t like end of the season power rankings? Everyone wants to know who is the top dog right now and how would you rank the teams after 14 games of the season. Heres how General Peppers of The Cover 4 ranks them:

1. New England Patriots

And it isn’t even close. After a slow start, including a loss at home to the NFL Record Holding Worst Blowout Ever Arizona Cardinals, the New England Patriots have distanced themselves from the rest of the NFL. They’ve beaten the other best teams in the AFC, The Broncos and Texans, by an average of nearly 20 points. They’ve dropped 50+ twice. They lead the league in both yards and points, and this with both of their elite tight ends missing extensive time on the field. They can run the ball efficiently, beat you deep, short, over the middle, in the red zone. This offense has no weaknesses and is lead by quite possibly the greatest quarterback of all time. What makes them scary is that their defense is finally clicking on all cylinders. Their first round picks, Dante Hightower and Chandler Jones, have given the Patriots their most athletic defense in nearly a decade. Fun stat: Did you know the Patriots are 21-0 over the past 2 and a half years in the second half of the season. Belichick’s ability to improve a team is legendary.

2. New York Giants

Colin Cowherd said it best, “I Trust the Giants.” It’s the greatest compliment one can give a football team. I know they’re gonna lose ugly games to bad teams. I also know they’ll probably lose to the Falcons on the road this week. But with everything on the line, do you think the Falcons are within 10 points of the Giants? Me neither.

3. Denver Broncos

Fact: This is the best defense Peyton Manning has ever had.
Opinion: Demaryius Thomas ight be the most athletically gifted player Peyton Manning has ever had on offense.
Fact: The Denver Broncos have beaten 2 teams with a winning record.
Fact: Both those teams are 7-6 and in the AFC North.
Fact:The Broncos 3 losses all came against teams leading their divisions
Fact:The Broncos were down by 14+ points in all three games.
Opinion: I have no clue how good the Broncos really are but it’s Peyton Manning and that’s better than 95% of the league.

4. Houston Texans

Two blowout losses to two high powered offenses. The Texans have distinct problems, but a majority of them are chalked up to injuries. The one truth is this: Texans cannot get behind early. They need to be able to run the ball and achieve big plays through play action. No play action and this offense shuts down.

5. San Francisco 49ers

The AFC’s Houston Texans. With a lead this team is nigh unbeatable. But if you are able to beat or stalemate them at the line of scrimmage you can bring this offense to a stand still. Still, elite players at every defensive position and depth at all offensive skill positions.

6. Green Bay Packers

Do not be shocked when the Packers make it to the Super Bowl. This is, without a doubt, the most injured team in the NFL. These players are slowly coming back. Aaron Rodgers will not forget how quickly you buried him.

7. Seattle Seahawks

There are 4 things we know about the Seattle Seahawks:
1. Pete Carroll, despite his flaws, knows how to coach a defense. His teams tackle in space, don’t give up big plays, and are efficient at all 3 levels.
2. The Seahawks have the best secondary in the NFL. Ask New England. Ask Green Bay. They also have a top 5 special teams. This combination has a history of working well.
3. The Seahawks have the best home field advantage in all of sports. In a league where parity rules, the Seahawks, no matter how bad they may be, always win at home. If they get a home game in the playoffs they will win it. Ask the Saints.
4. Russel Wilson has gotten better every week and so has the Seattle Offense. Sidney Rice is recovering from his knee(finally) and Golden Tate has exploded in his third year(the typical break out year for WRs). Lynch looks stronger than ever.

8. Atlanta Falcons

Giants v. Falcons. In Atlanta. 2nd Round of the Playoffs. Atlanta -2. Who here isn’t taking New York on the Money Line? Exactly. This is the worst best team I’ve ever seen. They are average to below average in all facets excluding throwing the ball, and even that has slipped recently. They’re gonna win this weekend and I won’t move them an inch.

9. Baltimore Ravens

There isn’t more talent on any team in the NFL outside of New England. For the Ravens it’s about putting it together. Oh yeah, and Flacco not throwing up ducks in the playoffs. Good luck with that.

10. Indianapolis Colts

If I have to hear one more person talk about how RGIII has thrown fewer picks than Andrew Luck I’m going to start breaking things again. Andrew Luck has been given the entire playbook. No babysitting, no holding back. They didn’t craft a college offense around him and ask him to throw bubble screens and safe passes. He’s asked to throw it 50 times a game down the field to rookie receivers and tight ends. He is, without a doubt the greatest rookie I’ve ever seen. Rookie of the Year shouldn’t even be a close vote.

______________________________________________________________________________
Thank you for reading The Cover 4! Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook & Twitter. Oh yeah, tell your friends too!
General Peppers
Sports Activist for The Cover 4
http://www.facebook.com/thecover4
http://www.twitter.com/thecover4

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=852744164

Filed Under: Football Tagged With: Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, England, Green Bay Packers, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, New England, New England Patriots, New York, New York Giants, nfl, Peyton, San Francisco, Seattle Seahawks

NFL Halfway Season Awards

November 2, 2012 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

The Cover 4 will feature a number of writers to cover a variety of topics. This article is by our very own Bru General Peppers, Sports Activist.

NFL Halfway Season Awards (or How I learned to Stop Parlaying the Packers on Three Teamers)

Original? Nay, but this is the NFL we’re talking about here, where originality is looked at with the same disdain as undersized quarterbacks and SEC skill players with “character issues”. We’ve reached the half way point of the NFL Season and it’s time to make presumptions based on a few facts and a whole lot of redundant opinions. I’m psyched.

MVP: Ben Rothlisberger

While everyone else fawns over Matt Ryan, Big Ben has quietly carried the Steelers to a 4-3 record despite injuries that have kept Troy Palomalu out of nearly every game, James Harrison out of half of them, 4/5ths of his offensive line seeing injury at some point, and his three top running backs missing various amounts of time. He’s Top 5 in QB Rating, Top 10 in Yards and Touchdowns, and is doing so with a patchwork offensive unit. He is single-handedly carrying a banged up Steelers squad to a top unit in the AFC. He’s the most under-rated player in the NFL and it’s not even close.

Offensive Player of the Year: Peyton Manning

Kurt Angle once won a gold medal with a broken neck. True story. What does this have to do with Peyton Manning? Nothing, really. I just love relaying Kurt Angle facts where I can. Peyton Manning is going to win the AFC with a surgically repaired neck and he’s going to make it look easy.

Defensive Player of the Year: J.J Watt

Let me say what everyone’s been thinking, “When did white guys take over the defensive side of the ball”. Between Jared Allen, Clay Matthews, Justin Smith, and now J.J Watt, the astigmatism towards Caucasian defensive players has been blown out of the window.

Comeback Player of the Year: Adrian Peterson

You could switch this award with Offensive Player of the Year and I’d be ok with it. What Adrian Peterson has done is beyond amazing; recovering from an ACL Injury with a normal recovery time of 10 months in only 4 months is a feat in itself, but coming back at full strength with no signs of debilitation is an evolutionary miracle. He’s no longer AD; from now on we’re calling him Wolverine.

The Jake Delhomme Anti-MVP of the Year: Michael Vick

This has alot to do with my Mike Holmgren Worst Coach of the Year Award Selection(Spoilers: It’s Andy Reid) but 15 turnovers in 7 games is hard for any coach to deal with. He’s got a sub 80 passer rating, sub 60% completion percentage, and isn’t even running well. He’s cost the Eagles at least 3 games this season.

The Mike Holmgren Worst Coach of the Year Award: Andy Reid

Let’s say you worked as a manager at McDonalds and your boss told you “if you don’t increase the amount of money your store makes, then you’re fired.” Let’s say you had the ability to bring back the McRib and you just decided “Screw it, we’re good without it.” Andy Reid is the McDonald’s manager and LeSean McCoy is the McRib. Andy Reid is doing such a bad job with so much talent that I he bumped Norv Turner from his 5 year winning streak. That’s impressive.

The Paul Heyman Award (Coach/Manager of the Year): Joe Philbin

If you are like me and 99% of the rest of America then you love Honey Boo Boo. You also watched Hard Knocks and thought, “Man, this team has literally nobody I know.” They’re currently leading the AFC East with a rookie QB, no Vontae Davis, and three wideouts who can’t ride certain rollercoasters at Six Flags due to height demands.

Rookie of the Year: Andrew Luck

Robert Griffin is the more flashy of the two but Andrew Luck has done more with less and is carrying a winning record to boot. He’s been flat out amazing while throwing 42 times a game, a record for rookie quarterbacks. This is the same team that went 1-15 last year, and frankly, he’s the only thing that’s changed. If this team ends up with 7 wins he should get MVP nods because the Colts stink.

Best Team: The New York Giants

I have never been more wrong in my life. I thought the Giants would fall off and not even make the playoffs. I thought the loss of Jacobs and Manningham would crush this offense. I thought the injuries would catch up to them, but nothing phases these guys. They can run. They can pass. They can rush the passer and stop the run. They’re the best road team we’ve ever seen. They can win shootouts(See Giants/Bucs) or they can win tough defensive battles. Barring major injury this team will be in the NFC Title Game.
Most Disappointing Team: The San Diego Chargers

Congratulations A.J Smith, you’ve now won this award for 7 years straight! Since Norv Turner showed up, the San Diego Chargers have gotten progressively worse each year. The vaunted rushing game? Dead. Philip Rivers ascent to elite? Dead. The Elite Scoring Defense? Dead. Vincent Jackson, LT, Merriman? Gone. They’re losing to the Browns 7-6 and giving up 35 points in a half to a guy with half a neck. They don’t draft well, they don’t do the little things well, they don’t do…well…anything well.

Super Bowl Prediction: The Giants v. The Steelers

When the Steelers win the next 4 games and sit at 8-3 and the Giants continue stomping everything in their path, you’ll hear more and more about this matchup.

Bru General Peppers

The Cover 4 Featured Sports Analysis

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=852744164

Filed Under: Football Tagged With: Adrian Peterson, AFC, Andrew Luck, Andy Reid, Ben Rothlisberger, Jake Delhomme Anti, Manning, MVP, New York, nfl, Peyton, Peyton Manning, San Diego Chargers, Super Bowl, Vick, year

Wild Week Eight Predictions!

October 26, 2012 by James Kaikis Leave a Comment

Which quarterback will lead his team to victory this Sunday?

As week eight has arrived we are roughly approaching the half way point of the season. The next few weeks will be very critical for a number of teams as teams will determine who are the contenders and who are the pretenders.

Week seven was a redemption week for me as I finished 12-1 on predictions with my only loss on a one-point Tennessee upset over the Bills (c’mon Buffalo, I thought you would do much better this season). With last weeks results, I am back up to 62% winning percentage on the year. Although last week was more of a “favorites” type of week, this week should prove to be much better for the ‘dogs.

To start off the week, I chose incorrectly on Thursday Night Football Game despite touting the Buccaneers to a number of people earlier in the day. I apologize for the lack of proper grammer in the following text message but had to show it for verification purposes (looks as though I was preoccupied doing something else while having a lot to say). I will omit the individual I was texting but they know who they are.

(Yeah Ponder has sucked lately and Freeman playing very well. Ap has that injury. Thursday games are very hard to predict and all have come down to the wire. No time to game plan on a short week. I might take tampa to win outright on the upset.)

But what do you know? I go ahead and make this prediction just a few hours later.

Oh man I was wrong; 0-1 to start the week off. I love Josh Freeman and I have since he arrived in the league. Despite some struggles last season and earlier this season, the Buccaneers are putting it together on offense. With the addition of Vincent Jackson plus emergence of rookie Doug Martin, the Buccaneers are showing signs of life on offense (LeGarrette Blunt is finally not the lead back). The Vikings again will only go as far as Christian Ponder will take them. Adrian Peterson, only 10 months removed from an ACL tear, looks better each week while Percy Harvin looks like an offensive MVP. Are the Buccs that good or are the Vikings just that overrated?

While you Ponder on that (see what I did there?), lets look at the interesting matchups we have for week eight.

New England Patriots “@” St. Louis Rams

Analysis: This is a home game for the Rams but the two teams will be squaring off in England of all places. The Rams have struggled on the road and I dont expect them to change that this week. New England comes back after a close OT game versus the Jets last week.

Key Players: Stevan Ridley. The running back has struggled in his last two games to go along with some problems holding onto the ball. If Ridley gets things going, it will allow the Patriots offense to spread the ball around more effectively.

Indianapolis Colts @ Tennessee Titans

Analysis: Again I bet against the Titans. Although they were road dogs last week and are home favorites this week, I am testing my Luck with the Colts (how many Luck comments can I make in one season?). Andrew Luck should be able to find his targets early and often. I expect this to be a high scoring affair.

Fantasy Stud: Chris Johnson. CJ continues to improve as a runner and the matchup certainly favors him in this game. Johnson’s home run ability has allowed the Titans to stay competitive (as of recently). Johnson is starting to hit the holes much better but which Colts D will show up to play? I expect CJ to have a nice game again this week.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Green Bay Packers

Analysis: No explanations needed here. Packers will win this one easily. (But I gotta add I feel for Jennings as he is in a contract year and can’t get on the field).

Key Player: Rashad Jennings. This is his opportunity to prove his worth in MJDs absence.

San Diego Chargers @ Cleveland Browns

Analysis: I feel as though this is a trap game of sorts. The majority of betting lines put this game at 3 or 3 1/2. With the way both teams have been playing, I would expect the Chargers to be at least six point favorites. Although the numbers are a bit skewed, Brandon Weeden is playing much better as of lately; his receivers need to learn how to catch the ball (pretend its toilet paper like in the little giants?).

Key Player: Coach Norv Turner. In a twist, Turner is the one to watch. If he loses this game then his seat (as well as GM AJ Smith’s seat) will be just a little hotter. The Chargers consistently underachieve and someone needs to take the blame. On the other side, Browns coach Pat Shurmur must win some games. With a new owner lurking and Holmgren on his way out the door, it doesn’t look like a story book ending for the Browns coach.

Atlanta Falcons @ Philadelphia Eagles

Analysis: Yes, I know the Andy Reid is 13-0 following the bye week and the Falcons have played in a number of close games and are probably due to lose one but I don’t think it is this week. Although the Eagles are favored to win this one, I believe Atl will get the best of this low scoring affair.

Key Player: Michael Vick. If he continues to turn the ball over, the Eagles have no shot at winning this game (don’t expect Matt Ryan to have a high turnover game as he did previously).

Seattle Seahawks @ Detroit Lions

Analysis: I hate to do this but I am picking against the Lions. I thought this team showed so much promise and hope but they look like they are the same old Lions (almost). The Seahawks are keeping games close so I expect them to squeak one out this week.

Keep an Eye on: Seahawks corner Richard Sherman (the self proclaimed Optimus Prime) vs. Calvin Johnson (Megatron). Calvin Johnson was held to 3 catches on 11 targets last week against the Bears (& corner back Charles Tillman who is playing lights out right now!). Megatron isn’t usually held in check for multiple weeks in a row but Stafford & Johnson are struggling to connect. This will be a great matchup to watch.

Miami Dolphins @ New York Jets

Analysis: This has the making to be a brutal game for both teams. Tensions are growing between the two teams with jabs being taken at each other via the media. The Jets looked much better last week agains the Patriots and almost upset New England in OT. I like the Jets to win this close game.

Key Player: You already know- Mr. Mark Sanchez. Which Sanchez shows up to play Sunday?

Carolina Panthers @ Chicago Bears

Analysis: Cam Newton looked great last year (mostly because he was behind every game thus was able to sit back and throw the ball around) but this year is a different story. Newtons play has been subpar (to say the least). Additionally, Newtons leadership is in question as the former number one pick has made a number of negative comments to the media in his post game interviews ( he is starting to sound like JaMarcus Russell and thats a terrible thing). The Bears defense is playing steller right now and I expect them to keep it up against the shaky Panthers.

Key Player: Matt Forte. Forte hasn’t produced as many expected him to at this point in the season. Look for him to get the ground game rolling in this one.

Game of the Week: Washington Redskins @ Pittsburgh Steelers

Analysis: I expect this game to be dogfight from start to finish. Last week the Redskins narrowly lost to the Giants while the Steelers were able to handle the Bengals. While the Steelers are suffering from injuries, the defense finally looks as though things are coming together (even though they are without Troy again this week). It remains to be seen if the Steelers pass rush can disrupt RG3 and slow down the Redskins run game.

Key Player: London Fletcher. The heart and soul of the Redskins defense, Fletcher has never missed a game in fourteen seasons in the league. Although Fletcher is listed on the injury report, I expect him to play. His presence is vital if the Redskins want to be competitive in this game.

Oakland Raiders @ Kansas City Chiefs

Analysis: It looks as though the Matt Cassel era may be over (or temporarily halted – depends on how terrible Brady Quinn plays). The Raiders, per usual, are up and down each week. One week the Raiders play the Falcons tough but the next they lay down and get lucky against a weak Jacksonville squad. Arrowhead is a tough place to play and while I like the Chiefs defense, I expect Quinn to struggle in this one.

Fantasy Stud: Jamaal Charles. Although I think the Raiders will be keying him very closely, I expect him to get plenty of touches in this game to make some noise in the fantasy box score.

New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys

Analysis: Eli Manning just finds ways to win; it has been the story of this team since he joined. Manning and crew should be able to get the W in this tough division matchup. Although I am a fan of the Cowboys secondary, the absence of Sean Lee may be the nail in the coffin for this defense. Lee, an Upper Saint Clair High School alumni, has been a monster for the Cowboys for years.

Key Players: The Giants Secondary. Last week the Cowboy receivers were relatively held in check by the Panthers secondary but this week may be a different story. After being targeted 28 times in the previous two games, Dez Bryant only had three balls thrown his way. The Cowboys must get more production out of their receivers (including Witten) if they want to win this game.

Keep an Eye on: Felix Jones. Jones has never lived up to the expectations he came into the league with. A homerun hitter, Jones has trouble staying healthy. While he may get the start this week, don’t be surprised if Phillip Tanner has more carries when the game is finished.

New Orleans Saints @ Denver Broncos

Analysis: Peyton Manning and the Broncos look to take control of the AFC West after finishing off the Saints this week; the Saints defense is just too porous to handle the Bronco attack. While I don’t like this matchup for Drew Brees, you have to expect he will keep throwing and putting up stats to keep his team competitive.

Key Players: The Saints Defense. If they allow early touchdowns, expect a long day in Mile High.

Fantasy Stud: Peyton Manning. Expect the quarterback to put up solid numbers this week.

San Francisco 49ers @ Arizona Cardinals

Analysis: The 49ers had plenty of time to get the kinks out after a tough Thursday matchup vs the Seahawks. Vernon Davis must get things going to help open up the niner passing game. The Cardinals just look helpless as they have no offensive line or running game. I still don’t understand how or why John Skelton doesn’t throw the ball to Larry Fitzgerald more often?! Fitz finished with 4 catches on 7 targets but he doesn’t seem to get the passes thrown his way with Skelton at the helm.

Fantasy Stud: Frank Gore & Kendall Hunter.

Well expect another wild NFL week. Thanks for reading.