Thanks to Vinnie the Fly, my top operative, I have a necktie candidate for you. (You'll need to provide your own ropes and torches).
And I was wr...wronn...incorrect. I had supposed that the defensive problems were Romeo's fault, and that he was inhibitting Grantham. After all, the defense was pretty good prior to the hand grenade rolling under the tent-flap last season. And when Romeo was the coordinator here under Butch Davis, I was driven insane by defensive backs playing like FIFTEEN YARDS behind recievers.
I WAS correct about my view (view: I listen on radio haha) of what's wrong. The lack of pressure on enema QB's, AND the frequency of enema running backs going wild are at least partly due to a passive scheme and passive play-calling.
Here is what one player...who shall remain nameless but can be immediately narrowed down to a member of the front seven--said--along with my comments sprinkled in:
“We were more aggressive last season, with less talent on the field", the OBR was told. "Our corners can cover, we have guys that can get to the quarterback... but when we are schemed out of the play, what can we do?
The opposition sees this and attacks. We are better than we are showing, but until the leash is taken off or Coach (Crennel) gets really involved again, we are going to have issues.”
If you hadn't been boycotting me, you would have read me asking for Bud Carson to please give Grantham a call, and bemoaning what I percieved as a lack of aggression.
This is a 3-4 defense, designed for aggression. Pittsburgh uses run-blitzes on probable runs, actually sending both inside linebackers through interior gaps. They force runs wide or blow them up, and if you try to pass they're in your face anyway. Clearly, I now know, the Browns don't.
As the defense has struggled early in the season, the most evident problem has been on the inability of the team to stop the run and prevent big plays in the passing game. While the defense was beaten over the top in the Browns first three games, the play of the defensive backfield has been somewhat improved in recent weeks.
The OBR is being told that changes might be in the works as the team's head coach, with several decades of experience as a defensive coordinator, begins to step in.
“The problem is, we have not fully committed to stopping the run. We show seven or eight up, but often we are backing off. I see some changes in the way we are going to play, as Coach (Crennel) has been more involved,” the source continued. “He (Crennel) likes an aggressive defensive, as long as the corners can cover"
And ours sure as hell can. Wright would do much better in man/press coverage than in the more complex zone scheme...with the huge, massive pads which makes you people in Oblivia bitch about how wide open guys are.
Bodden and Wright, and either safety--if allowed to--can man-cover tight ends.
Man coverage is what Hanford Dixon expected to see once Wright was drafted. Wright is a shut-down guy who can rely on his raw talent to stay on a guy, and Bodden has established himself as a top cover guy.
Quick-hitters will burn zone coverage, but are not possible with well-executed man coverage. The QB has to either hold the ball for five seconds, or else find a tertiary or even bail-out reciever. This is why with Dixon/Minniefield, Marty flooded enemy backfields with frequent blitzes. Wright played center field and came up hard and fast for short stuff or runs, and Rockins remained shallow and often keyed the running back, and it worked beautifully.
Antwan Peek is wasted unless he is attacking the backfield. Every other player on the defense can blitze aty any given time.
Grantham. Read that? This guy wants Romeo to step in and turn the dawgs loose! It's been Grantham all along, making them sit back trying to react to what offenses are doing. With these guys? We lack depth on the D-line? No we don't. I mean, if you want the two young guys to stand there locking up a guard or tackle each and then try to make a play, we do. But if you want those two to attack and penetrate, we don't, see?
It doesn't matter a whole lot if a linebacker is engulfed by a guard if the DE has just strip-sacked the QB. Don't you know that offenses have to get hats on everybody anyway? Why not make them CHASE the DE's?
Sure, You give up some runs on cut-backs and the DE's get out of position sometimes, but this defense has the speed and talent to turn every series into a slugfest if they attack. Oh...burn us for nine yards, huh? First down--ouch. SACK second and sixteen how ya like that? Gonna run it again?
Chud seems to be a real genius and another brilliant move by Savage. This offense is among the lead leaders in scoring, and hasn't even fully implemented the (thank God) finesse blocking scheme yet. As it stands, this PASSIVE, leashed, defense is maybe the worst in the NFL.
Can it get worse? Don't think so. Would sending at least four and sometimes five or six hurt? Hell no. Want to stop the run? Nail the running back at the hand-off. Teams have a hard time running on second and thirteen.
Todd? YOU STAND CORRECTED.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Intra-game I-told-you-sos
Too bad only people who don't know me ever read this stuff.
Anyway, Harrison just tore up Miami's defense. Wright is doing the same, of course, in his different way--but the point is, the people who were shoveling dirt on Jerome are dummies, and I am not. I told you he'd play and make plays, and this he's doing.
In reality...which is in a whole different zip code from Oblivia--the Wright-Harrison thing is the same as the Anderson-Quinn thing. Wright (who reminds me a lot of Earnest Byner, now that I've seen him a little) is a very good all-purpose back. Fast, but not very. Strong, but not very. Quick and elusive, but not very. Guts, intelligence, heart. Runs sideways or backwards, jumps, dives, squirms and wiggles for every extra inch. LOVE the guy!
Harrison was initially drafted as a change-of-pace, third down back type. He was specificly chosen for his speed and recieving (and returning) abilities. But good GM's like Savage think ahead. That means he anticipates what Harrison might be in 2 or 3 years. DO YOU UNDERSTAND?
Priest Holmes, Tiki Barber, and about ten other "third-down" backs started this way.
Harrison returned in his second season at over 210 lbs. This instantly changed everything. You in Oblivia didn't even register this, but Phil and I did. The dude was unstoppable in college as a shrimp, and came equipped with NFL recieving skills. He can go all the way from any point on the field, and even as a shrimp proved in preseason as a rookie that he could go up the gut.
At over 210, his upside is nearly unlimitted. He would have displaced Wright this season had he clearly outperformed him (he didn't--it was pretty much a tie). Also, he fumbled, more than once. This was decisive.
But most running backs who fumble early in their carreers get better at protecting the ball, and Harrison should. Once he proves this...over time...he'll move ahead of Wright, and most likely is Jamal Lewis's heir apparant.
I do really like Jason Wright, and would hate to see him go, or even get kept on the bench. I'd keep both him and Jerome, and work in more 2-back...but this is for down the road.
Right now, the Miami game is 24-3 and turning into a blowout. Brown has made a couple plays, but couldn't accomplish much before the score forced Miami into pass-mode. (The defense did a great job.)
Now, are they going to put Quinn in and get him some valuable real-game experience? Unless Miami is able to close the gap significantly, I sure would, for the whole second half. Miami has just marched to the 24 and got a penalty vs. what I'm pretty sure had to be a prevent defense.
I don't mind the prevent, but you can get pretty rediculous with it--like playing TEN YARDS behind the recievers. Here...they just got six yards, but needed 24. That's how the nickel works. The clock is still ticking--they just got eight more yards, took it to 2 minutes, and still need more for a first down. Use up the clock with a lead. The prevent works, when well-executed.
The thing is those huge pads. Bodden and Wright have the recovery speed to easily play less than five yards behind the recievers, and be in position to pick off an inaccurate throw, knock the ball loose, or at least make sure to nail the reciever as he catches it. There goes 16 more yards, and they're inches from a first down.
I can't see it, but I'll bet you nobody was close to that guy. Don't blame players. Blame coaches. Everybody was probably in coverage (so no pass-rush), and miles away from everybody. Dammit TD Miami. Guess this is the prevent-the-win (and Quinn) defense.
Still 14 points is a good lead. They can run and pass short now. Alternate Harrison and Wright.
They should be able to score some more, and maybe we can still get Quinn in for a quarter.
Unless Romeo's Martonian tendancies prefent him from putting the kid in.
Wright gets 13 yards. You know, this is the blocking. The offensive line is clearly opening nice holes. Earlier, on a Harrison run, Doug and Jim talked about how long he waited for the blocks to set up. A back can't let himself do that unless he trusts those guys...
Yeah they're getting close to a field goal with 15 seconds left. I'm glad they didn't just sit on it. Go for the throat, I always say sometimes. Kick them when they're down. More points. Beat up that defense. Haha! Take Edwards out? There's K2 haha! Joey who?
Incomplete-field goal ok. Better than what the Browns used to do. Run-run, milk that clock, go in with just the 14 points. With 14 points, Miami might have been able to use Ronnie Brown more, but needing three scores and at least 2 TD's in a half even to tie, they'll just have to throw now.
Anyway, Harrison just tore up Miami's defense. Wright is doing the same, of course, in his different way--but the point is, the people who were shoveling dirt on Jerome are dummies, and I am not. I told you he'd play and make plays, and this he's doing.
In reality...which is in a whole different zip code from Oblivia--the Wright-Harrison thing is the same as the Anderson-Quinn thing. Wright (who reminds me a lot of Earnest Byner, now that I've seen him a little) is a very good all-purpose back. Fast, but not very. Strong, but not very. Quick and elusive, but not very. Guts, intelligence, heart. Runs sideways or backwards, jumps, dives, squirms and wiggles for every extra inch. LOVE the guy!
Harrison was initially drafted as a change-of-pace, third down back type. He was specificly chosen for his speed and recieving (and returning) abilities. But good GM's like Savage think ahead. That means he anticipates what Harrison might be in 2 or 3 years. DO YOU UNDERSTAND?
Priest Holmes, Tiki Barber, and about ten other "third-down" backs started this way.
Harrison returned in his second season at over 210 lbs. This instantly changed everything. You in Oblivia didn't even register this, but Phil and I did. The dude was unstoppable in college as a shrimp, and came equipped with NFL recieving skills. He can go all the way from any point on the field, and even as a shrimp proved in preseason as a rookie that he could go up the gut.
At over 210, his upside is nearly unlimitted. He would have displaced Wright this season had he clearly outperformed him (he didn't--it was pretty much a tie). Also, he fumbled, more than once. This was decisive.
But most running backs who fumble early in their carreers get better at protecting the ball, and Harrison should. Once he proves this...over time...he'll move ahead of Wright, and most likely is Jamal Lewis's heir apparant.
I do really like Jason Wright, and would hate to see him go, or even get kept on the bench. I'd keep both him and Jerome, and work in more 2-back...but this is for down the road.
Right now, the Miami game is 24-3 and turning into a blowout. Brown has made a couple plays, but couldn't accomplish much before the score forced Miami into pass-mode. (The defense did a great job.)
Now, are they going to put Quinn in and get him some valuable real-game experience? Unless Miami is able to close the gap significantly, I sure would, for the whole second half. Miami has just marched to the 24 and got a penalty vs. what I'm pretty sure had to be a prevent defense.
I don't mind the prevent, but you can get pretty rediculous with it--like playing TEN YARDS behind the recievers. Here...they just got six yards, but needed 24. That's how the nickel works. The clock is still ticking--they just got eight more yards, took it to 2 minutes, and still need more for a first down. Use up the clock with a lead. The prevent works, when well-executed.
The thing is those huge pads. Bodden and Wright have the recovery speed to easily play less than five yards behind the recievers, and be in position to pick off an inaccurate throw, knock the ball loose, or at least make sure to nail the reciever as he catches it. There goes 16 more yards, and they're inches from a first down.
I can't see it, but I'll bet you nobody was close to that guy. Don't blame players. Blame coaches. Everybody was probably in coverage (so no pass-rush), and miles away from everybody. Dammit TD Miami. Guess this is the prevent-the-win (and Quinn) defense.
Still 14 points is a good lead. They can run and pass short now. Alternate Harrison and Wright.
They should be able to score some more, and maybe we can still get Quinn in for a quarter.
Unless Romeo's Martonian tendancies prefent him from putting the kid in.
Wright gets 13 yards. You know, this is the blocking. The offensive line is clearly opening nice holes. Earlier, on a Harrison run, Doug and Jim talked about how long he waited for the blocks to set up. A back can't let himself do that unless he trusts those guys...
Yeah they're getting close to a field goal with 15 seconds left. I'm glad they didn't just sit on it. Go for the throat, I always say sometimes. Kick them when they're down. More points. Beat up that defense. Haha! Take Edwards out? There's K2 haha! Joey who?
Incomplete-field goal ok. Better than what the Browns used to do. Run-run, milk that clock, go in with just the 14 points. With 14 points, Miami might have been able to use Ronnie Brown more, but needing three scores and at least 2 TD's in a half even to tie, they'll just have to throw now.
A Little Co--
Context. Common sense.
The Browns defense is weak vs. the run. Vs. a healthy Rudy Johnson, Morris and the Pats, the Raiders, and Pittsburgh. These are four of the most effective running offenses in the NFL. While they've been out of position and tackling has been poor---get a grip.
The Browns defense ranks near the bottom. Refer to previous paragraph. They did better against the Pats than any of that team's four previous opponents, and the Pats were helped by a fumble TD return and offensive miscues. Sure, the Pats pretty much dominated, but that's nothing new. It's too soon with this young team to elevate the standards you judge it by above the NFL median. Can't you understand WHY so many of the "experts" prior to this season, projected the Browns to win four or fewer games, and called them the worst...THE worst team in the NFL?
It was not their lack of talent--except for a few ignoramusses in Oblivia--it was YOUTH, and their QB situation, which made so many of these ex-GM's players, and coaches skeptical about the '07 Browns.
Early in the growth curve, progress is most rapid. That's why you need to throw out the Pittsburgh game and, starting with the admittadly crappy defensive performance against the Bungles, step back and see the progress the defense has made, including against the run.
The best news about the Pats game was that Anderson played well. Romeo wasn't playing politics when he said this. Deflected interceptions are usually not dumb throws. Anderson was not befuddled by the shifting coverages, not intimidated by the well-timed jailbreak blitzes. At this stage in his brand-new carreer, and vs. this elite, cerebral defense, that was impressive.
By the way, if Winslow has two good shoulders, he doesn't give up any footballs. I know--I had a similar shoulder injury. When you pull the arm away from the shoulder, the muscles in your arm, and your grip, go numb. K2's wasn't as bad as mine, and it should be much better in a couple weeks.
Ronny Brown has been tearing everybody a new one, and the Browns will probably go to the air against a weak secondary out of the gate. They'll want to do what the Pats do, and get an early lead. They need that lead to take Brown out of the game.
Much has been made of Jason Taylor. Taylor is 33, and he's going against Joe Thomas.
Joey Porter does need a hug, or something. Winslow doesn't sweat him because Joey doesn't have his crew to hold K2 while Joey hits him. Kellen should be more careful if he goes to Las Vegas, however, and take somebody to watch his back. Levi Jones, maybe.
Normally when a player says something like "he doesn't block", I pay attention. Players are the best sources. But this is Joey Porter, so I disregard it. I don't really know about K2's in-line abilities, but he's a very good blocker in space and downfield, and that's how a smart coach uses him. Heiden is the total-package TE they use for more traditional stuff. And Joey is a moron.
I'm sick of Jason Wright being called "unproven". When he steps in for Lewis, there is zero drop-off, and the playbook expands. Lewis plays ahead of Wright because he's much stronger and can break tackles which Wright or Harrison can't. With Lewis, defenses can't really rely on a safety to come up and stop him. They have to take people out of coverage.
But Wright is a very good running back, with sufficient size and durability to carry the load, expecially in this game, which will probably mean more passing.
Harrison: He is NOT an afterthought. He's a big-play back. He was only inactive because the more experienced Wright never fumbled...that's it--the only reason. Expect Harrison to be used in this game, and to make some plays.
The defense here will probably seek to stop Brown first. Miami doesn't have a great passing game. Lemon has showed promise, and this past preseason was as good as, if not better than Green. But my impression is that he's been a bit over-hyped by unhappy Dolphins fans. Naturally, this is his big chance, he'll have a full week with the first team, he'll be ready with his A-game, and the Browns won't have much film on him. And then, he's young, and can be expected to be better than he's been in the past.
Yeah, that makes me nervous. YOUNG, improving, hungry, and talented players make any intelligent analyst nervous. But Lemon can be fooled into mistakes, probably won't react as well to pressure as a vet, and has limitted weapons.
The Browns defense is, as I've said, underrated because of the juggernauts they've had to play so far. The statistics are skewed by the level of competition.
Poole is probably out. His backup is the free-safety semi-cornerback who excels in coverage. Won't help alot against Brown, and they'll probably use Jones more in a strong-safety type role--possibly even as the linebacker in the nickel, in place of Poole.
Thing is, Anderson over the last three weeks has been pretty consistant and is definitely improving. No more yo-yo stuff. He's emerging as a legit starting NFL QB who makes good decisions. The Offensive line is likewise improving by the game, and is already among the better ones in the NFL. Still wonder about the run-blocking stuff a little, but that sounds like it's ok as well.
Yeah, Lewis only got 2.8 YPC vs. the Ravens. And the Ravens had held everybody else, inc. Cinci, to under 2.7 YPC. When you bring something like this up, your bias and subjective thinking shows. Get your feet back on the ground.
I had to give up 4.5 points. Good deal.
I have to say this: One Browns fan said of Harrison: "I was a big Harrison fan, but obviously he hasn't panned out. He needs to improve his blocking and become a better reciever."
Harrison in preseason blocked EXCEPTIONALLY well, piled up massive yardage as a college reciever, was put in the slot here out of the gate, and...god, the stupidity is astonishing. If two guys are pretty much equal (for the moment), but one is more experienced and protects the ball better, you...duh...rank that one ahead of the other one. If your offense uses both fullbacks and extra tight ends, you de-activate your third running back.
Got it? Good.
YOU STAND CORRECTED.
Revised predictions: 13-3. Browns 77, Dolphins 2.
The Browns defense is weak vs. the run. Vs. a healthy Rudy Johnson, Morris and the Pats, the Raiders, and Pittsburgh. These are four of the most effective running offenses in the NFL. While they've been out of position and tackling has been poor---get a grip.
The Browns defense ranks near the bottom. Refer to previous paragraph. They did better against the Pats than any of that team's four previous opponents, and the Pats were helped by a fumble TD return and offensive miscues. Sure, the Pats pretty much dominated, but that's nothing new. It's too soon with this young team to elevate the standards you judge it by above the NFL median. Can't you understand WHY so many of the "experts" prior to this season, projected the Browns to win four or fewer games, and called them the worst...THE worst team in the NFL?
It was not their lack of talent--except for a few ignoramusses in Oblivia--it was YOUTH, and their QB situation, which made so many of these ex-GM's players, and coaches skeptical about the '07 Browns.
Early in the growth curve, progress is most rapid. That's why you need to throw out the Pittsburgh game and, starting with the admittadly crappy defensive performance against the Bungles, step back and see the progress the defense has made, including against the run.
The best news about the Pats game was that Anderson played well. Romeo wasn't playing politics when he said this. Deflected interceptions are usually not dumb throws. Anderson was not befuddled by the shifting coverages, not intimidated by the well-timed jailbreak blitzes. At this stage in his brand-new carreer, and vs. this elite, cerebral defense, that was impressive.
By the way, if Winslow has two good shoulders, he doesn't give up any footballs. I know--I had a similar shoulder injury. When you pull the arm away from the shoulder, the muscles in your arm, and your grip, go numb. K2's wasn't as bad as mine, and it should be much better in a couple weeks.
Ronny Brown has been tearing everybody a new one, and the Browns will probably go to the air against a weak secondary out of the gate. They'll want to do what the Pats do, and get an early lead. They need that lead to take Brown out of the game.
Much has been made of Jason Taylor. Taylor is 33, and he's going against Joe Thomas.
Joey Porter does need a hug, or something. Winslow doesn't sweat him because Joey doesn't have his crew to hold K2 while Joey hits him. Kellen should be more careful if he goes to Las Vegas, however, and take somebody to watch his back. Levi Jones, maybe.
Normally when a player says something like "he doesn't block", I pay attention. Players are the best sources. But this is Joey Porter, so I disregard it. I don't really know about K2's in-line abilities, but he's a very good blocker in space and downfield, and that's how a smart coach uses him. Heiden is the total-package TE they use for more traditional stuff. And Joey is a moron.
I'm sick of Jason Wright being called "unproven". When he steps in for Lewis, there is zero drop-off, and the playbook expands. Lewis plays ahead of Wright because he's much stronger and can break tackles which Wright or Harrison can't. With Lewis, defenses can't really rely on a safety to come up and stop him. They have to take people out of coverage.
But Wright is a very good running back, with sufficient size and durability to carry the load, expecially in this game, which will probably mean more passing.
Harrison: He is NOT an afterthought. He's a big-play back. He was only inactive because the more experienced Wright never fumbled...that's it--the only reason. Expect Harrison to be used in this game, and to make some plays.
The defense here will probably seek to stop Brown first. Miami doesn't have a great passing game. Lemon has showed promise, and this past preseason was as good as, if not better than Green. But my impression is that he's been a bit over-hyped by unhappy Dolphins fans. Naturally, this is his big chance, he'll have a full week with the first team, he'll be ready with his A-game, and the Browns won't have much film on him. And then, he's young, and can be expected to be better than he's been in the past.
Yeah, that makes me nervous. YOUNG, improving, hungry, and talented players make any intelligent analyst nervous. But Lemon can be fooled into mistakes, probably won't react as well to pressure as a vet, and has limitted weapons.
The Browns defense is, as I've said, underrated because of the juggernauts they've had to play so far. The statistics are skewed by the level of competition.
Poole is probably out. His backup is the free-safety semi-cornerback who excels in coverage. Won't help alot against Brown, and they'll probably use Jones more in a strong-safety type role--possibly even as the linebacker in the nickel, in place of Poole.
Thing is, Anderson over the last three weeks has been pretty consistant and is definitely improving. No more yo-yo stuff. He's emerging as a legit starting NFL QB who makes good decisions. The Offensive line is likewise improving by the game, and is already among the better ones in the NFL. Still wonder about the run-blocking stuff a little, but that sounds like it's ok as well.
Yeah, Lewis only got 2.8 YPC vs. the Ravens. And the Ravens had held everybody else, inc. Cinci, to under 2.7 YPC. When you bring something like this up, your bias and subjective thinking shows. Get your feet back on the ground.
I had to give up 4.5 points. Good deal.
I have to say this: One Browns fan said of Harrison: "I was a big Harrison fan, but obviously he hasn't panned out. He needs to improve his blocking and become a better reciever."
Harrison in preseason blocked EXCEPTIONALLY well, piled up massive yardage as a college reciever, was put in the slot here out of the gate, and...god, the stupidity is astonishing. If two guys are pretty much equal (for the moment), but one is more experienced and protects the ball better, you...duh...rank that one ahead of the other one. If your offense uses both fullbacks and extra tight ends, you de-activate your third running back.
Got it? Good.
YOU STAND CORRECTED.
Revised predictions: 13-3. Browns 77, Dolphins 2.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Adam Caplan Chat Corrections
Adam Caplan: Hi all
So Adam, Browns win by 20 or 30 points?
Adam Caplan: Mark: Have a party if they lose by 10 or lessAdam Caplan: Anderson will throw at least three INTsAdam Caplan: he won't handle it
Adam, how much do Willie McGinest bring to the defense?
Adam Caplan: RAM: Good leadership and pass rush
So you're calling for an unmitigated disaster from the Browns, then?
Adam Caplan: MARK: this week, yesAdam Caplan: no reason to think they can hang with NEAdam Caplan: with that defense
Adam: do feel this team is much improved over last season?
Adam Caplan: DAW: Much, no, improved, yes in a way
CORRECTION: What a dumbass statement. Top LT, Pro-Bowl quality LG, healthy, mature Edwards, Eric Wright, three key LBs' entering second seasons, Bodden back, solid RG, Poole improving by the game, 2 Smiths on DLine..."in a way"? "Not much"?
Adam, how do we get any pressure on Brady?
Adam Caplan: SUGG: No reason to think they canAdam Caplan: NE plays 70% shotgunAdam Caplan: BTWAdam Caplan: same as GB
CORRECTION: Blitze inside. Poole is nickel LB.
Adam, after Roye comes back do you see Shaun Smith going to NT? If so do you see Washington sitting permanently?
Adam Caplan: NU: Look for smith to play more at NT SundayAdam Caplan: rotating and some at DE
CORRECTION: He played DE only due to injuries. Washington's uselessness is becoming too obvious for even RAC to deny. He MUST play more there, and soon.
Adam - Does Crennel have them play the game and just try to keep improving.
Adam Caplan: RAM: I think this week will be an aberration, no one can compete with with NEAdam Caplan: really except IND
Adam, from an individual standpoint, what does Braylon need to do to improve his game? He seems to have improved on his consistency.
Adam Caplan: TU: Route runningAdam Caplan: but he's doing well thoughAdam Caplan: in most phases
Adam, with Carter being so ineffective, any chance we will see Travis Wilson any time soon? If not, is he that bad?
Adam Caplan: TIM: No indication for him and Harrison to playAdam Caplan: pretty tellingAdam Caplan: in year two both are inactive
CORRECTION: Jason Wright has been too effective for Harrison to dislodge. As the younger player who has fumbled, this means nothing. Wilson is in for head-extraction surgery, with an indeterminate recovery time.
Adam, will Tucker be used at Guard now more than Tackle?
Adam Caplan: SUGG: Probably swing in some roles
adam: why does tim carter continue to get playing time?
Adam Caplan: DAW: They need to use Cribbs more
AMEN
Adam how's KW2's shoulder. Will it be a lingering injury?
Adam Caplan: BLE: He's doing the best he canAdam Caplan: He will be in some pain every week with that injuryAdam Caplan: he's tough as nails
I agree
Adam Caplan: DAW: I really like the way their OC is moving him and EdwardsAdam Caplan: aroundAdam Caplan: especially WinslowAdam Caplan: OL is really doing well nowAdam Caplan: Thomas graded out well last weekAdam Caplan: good sign
Any information on possible DEF help via trade or free agency?
Adam Caplan: TIM: Haven't heard anything, that usually happens closer to the trading deadline-10/16
Adam, Do you have any updates on Bentley and Baxter?
Adam Caplan: RAM: Nothing newAdam Caplan: Bentley is less than 50-50 to play this yearAdam Caplan: they have until week 10 reallyAdam Caplan: he won't play in week 7Adam Caplan: Baxter could start practicing fully starting next week or so
Adam, Do you see Ryan Tucker at RG or RT?
Adam Caplan: RAM: Backup at both spotsAdam Caplan: he would be a solid swing OLAdam Caplan: they could use oneAdam Caplan: too
So he fills in for the first one who goes down with an injury
Adam Caplan: RAM: Pretty muchAdam Caplan: If they can just fix the defenseAdam Caplan: secondary did better last week
Adam. Are you still doing Friday night on Sirius?Adam Caplan: RAM: Yep, every Friday though week 17Adam Caplan: then I'm on weekends etc March-August
How many points do you see us scoring against NE on Sunday?
Adam Caplan: Mog: 14-17Adam Caplan: NE-40Adam Caplan: sorryAdam Caplan: You know me, I'm always honest. I hope I'm wrong
Adam, How do we get more physical on D especially against the run? Do we completely lack the personnel?
Adam Caplan: SUGG: Personnel is a big part of itAdam Caplan: I would blow up the front seven after the season
CORRECTION: Throw the linebackers out with the bathwater? Are you nuts? See now the young DE's and Smith progress. Draft and sign stud DLinemen. The linebackers are exceptional. They've blown assignments and in some cases have lacked discipline. Peek should be on the bench recovering, as he's playing lame and is less effective than the two other guys they have to replace him. Three linebackers are second year players--yeah let's blow them up too...JEEZ!
I smell real trouble for Anderson this Sunday.......ne will confuse the heck out of him........i hope chud makes the game plan simple
Adam Caplan: DOG: Agreed Adam, when you discuss Eric Wright and Pool, they both need experience to get to the next level?
Adam Caplan: Ram: Wright was better last weekAdam Caplan: Pool is too inconsistentAdam Caplan: but he just needs to keep playingAdam Caplan: scary when Brady says they didn't do well at CIN in the first halfAdam Caplan: Guys: Don't think this week's game is what they are, they really don't have a shot but they can compete against most teams nowAdam Caplan: that's the point
Is the front 7 something Savage can realistically fix in 1 year. At least enough to be competitive on D?
Adam Caplan: SUG: Older guys have to get lesser roles or goAdam Caplan: Bottom line
CORRECT: Washington is DONE. McGinnist should fill in. Suggs: Front T H R E E.
Adam, what are the chances Romeo is still here in 2008?
Adam Caplan: TIM: 50-50Adam Caplan: they have a long way to goAdam Caplan: They have to go 7-9 for him to stay I would think
Adam, Do you like Chud's game plans and scheme?
Adam Caplan: Ram: like what Chud is doing so farAdam Caplan: Offense is about the best to expect
CORRECTION: BETTER.
Jamal Lewis...contract extension?
Adam Caplan: JLewis is what he isAdam Caplan: can't get any betterAdam Caplan: he has to go next year
CORRECTION: He has been as effective as any RB vs. the defenses he has attacked.
Adam Caplan: Turner they could target
Absotively.
Adam, Is Roye now healthy?
Adam Caplan: RAM: Better
I love the size we have at receiver with JJ and Braylon who has really matured. How good can he be?
Adam Caplan: SUGG: Edwards just needs to control his emotions
80s, Adam picked the browns to win this weekend
Adam Caplan: Tu: It's the Costanza pick
Adam: will Chaun Thompson get a start, he seems to get more pressure on the QB than Peek
Adam Caplan: DAW: Peek shouldn't play as much with McGinest back
CORRECTION: Until he is healed. He's best for this scheme when healthy.
Adam - When are they going to cut Washington or will he actually be able to make 5 to 10 good plays per game.?
Adam Caplan: Ram: No way he's back next seasonAdam Caplan: can't see it
I was thinking he would not last half the season.
Adam Caplan: Ram: He has to weigh close to 400
do they regret letting Baba go?
Of course they do.
Adam Caplan: Tim; Too bad he wasn't on their practice squad
He appears to slow out of the stance to do anything.
Please apply for a job with the Browns. VP Common Sense and 20/20 vision.
Adam Caplan: RAM: When Fraser gets the snaps he does, you know something is going on
Adam, look into your crystal ball...... The Browns starting running back in 2008 is......???
Adam Caplan: SUGG: Turner makes a lot of senseAdam Caplan: No way Lewis is backAdam Caplan: if Savage has a clue to what he's doingAdam Caplan: They are so limited running the ball
CORRECTION: Was Jamal rude to you or something? I can recommend some nice lasik surgeons, ya know. Lewis is an inside runner who has now demonstrated a great ability to catch passes as an outlet guy...outside the tackles. He's 27 and does NOT appear used up.
can turner carry the load?
Should be able to. Adam is right in calling him an upgrade--dude can kick butt.
Adam Caplan: DAW: SD thinks so
Adam, do you like Fraser?
Adam Caplan: RAM: Good hustlerAdam Caplan: gets all he has out of his talent
Is Turner worth franchise money?
Adam Caplan: SUG: Good enough to be the RB for a while
There too much gravimetric attraction between Washington's gut and the earth for him to move fast from his stance.
Adam Caplan: NU: Great guy but can't playAdam Caplan: any moreAdam Caplan: back in the day he was a dominant NT
And RAC thinks he still is.
Adam, When is Shaun Smith going to make an impact?
Adam Caplan: RAM: When he plays NT exclusively
Then I think we're in trouble. lol
Dumbass.
Adam Caplan: IC: He's not that type of playerAdam Caplan: he has a good first step and can play their scheme well for 20-30 plays if all goes well
DO YOU UNDERSTAND?
Adam what do you think of Robaire Smith so far?
Adam Caplan: DAW: Not muchAdam Caplan: thought he would be betterAdam Caplan: againt run
Are teams running near him?
Adam, what more can you say about the o-lines pass protection of late? Seem like DA has a lot of time.
Adam Caplan: SUGG: TotallyAdam Caplan: he still makes bad decisions and footwork isn't the greatest
Adam, Wimbley has been better than average, but not great. Chalk it up to poor help around him or other factors?
Adam Caplan: TU: Doesn't play run wellAdam Caplan: goes up field too much
CORRECTION: He is SENT up the field almost 50% of the time. T H R E E - F O U R.
Does Cleveland have a chance to get Turner? What other teams will be looking?Adam Caplan: JIM: Yes, they should be in good cap shape
Adam, do you think we will see Brady play at all this year?
Adam Caplan: CLE: Yes, once they are out of playoff raceAdam Caplan: if not beforeAdam Caplan: two bad games for Anderson could get him in there
Adam, Who is going to provide the pass rush to offset Wimbley?
Adam Caplan: RAM: Peek once foot is 100%Adam Caplan: McGinest a little
You see, when a player is i n j u r e d...hey, Ram, you just like getting your name on the screen, don't you? Could you let somebody else ask some more intelligent questions please?
Adam, just your opinion. How good would Brady be right now if he were starting?Adam Caplan: SU: Not very goodAdam Caplan: rookie QBs rarely do wellAdam Caplan: Manning had a terrible first half of rookie season
CORRECTION: Manning was thrown into it. Brady is even better-prepared by his offensive scheme and coaching in college. The offensive line has been stellar. He has great weapons. he has learned from the sidelines. He was awesome in preseason. You make too many assumptions, and you stick to your convictions despite contrary evidence. Update your database. Lewis is still a good RB, and Quinn is likely to hit the ground running, like Leinart, Cutler, and Smith last season.
Adam, Now that McGinest is back, and Chaun Thompson, why not sit Peek to get him healthy
Adam Caplan: RAM: Kind of agree to a point there
What did you think of the Steelers loss - does anybody realize thats how you beat them that game tape should be stolen by CLEVELAND
Adam Caplan: OSU: They lost some players in the second half and that was an issueAdam Caplan: ARI D is good though
Is it true that Romeo blocked the release of Ted Washington?
Adam Caplan: FOG: Can't say but I can tell you it could happen at some point during the seasonAdam Caplan: if all of their front seven is healthy
In the absence of anything else that makes sense, and given RAC's Martonian propensities, it's very extremely possible that RAC interceded with Savage for his old pal. Savage is trying to build the team to last. Romeo wants o l d buddies.
Adam, why play Tucker? OL is meshing real well
Adam Caplan: TIM: He won't starterAdam Caplan: startAdam Caplan: swing or backupAdam Caplan: would make no sense to start himAdam Caplan: that's what I said two weeks ago
Adam, if Ted goes, who takes his roster spot? Sign Baba off daaah Bearce PS?
Adam Caplan: CHI: I would imagine they would sign a younger veteran who fits their schemeAdam
Caplan: could be NT or DEAdam Caplan: either or
True. Shaun Smith is capable, although the position could use better depth or an upgrade. Oshi is not a first choice--they'll look for a bigger body first, unless they mean to alter the scheme.
Adam how's Quinn's progress coming?
Adam Caplan: OSU: Good knowledge of offense
how bad is Winslow's injury
Adam Caplan: DAW: He will have to deal with it for a whileAdam Caplan: BTW, Heiden is one of the better backup TEsAdam Caplan: no one talks about himAdam Caplan: but he's solidAdam Caplan: Heiden can really blockAdam Caplan: and has good hands
THANK YOU!!! Understatement as usual...Heiden STARTS for the majority of NFL teams.
Adam, have any input on the best available free agent 3-4 DL going into next season?
Adam Caplan: IC: I'll look at that later in the year
How's the rest of the league regard Josh Cribbs? I keep waiting for the direct snap to him and then he sets up to pass.
Adam Caplan: FOG: Many think he needs to get plays on offense every week
BIG ten-four.
Adam, do you see Brodney Pool improving with time?
Adam Caplan: TUT: Yes, the more snaps he gets
err...oyeeee--
Why don't the browns do more of a move around the defense to confuse teams have guys come to line and then back off somewhat like the stillers or pats
Adam Caplan: OSU: I see what you're saying, they done zone blitz like PIT who you can't figure out what they are doing
Excellent question. Obviously Adam has no idea. Could be the youth and inexperience of several principles. Grantham might be insisting on a mastery of the basics before getting fancy. Basics like positon, and tackling. Real complex stuff like that. At least I hope that's the reason.
Anything to the rumor that TB wants McKinnie & Taylor?
Adam Caplan: CHI: NoneAdam Caplan: MIN wants to deal MooreAdam Caplan: I could tell that when I talked to Childress at owners meetings
Adam, how much better are the Steelers than the rest of the division, and do you like coach Tomlin?
Adam Caplan: SUGG: Not that muchAdam Caplan: like Tomlin
Adam, do you see any trades in the league before the 16th?
Adam Caplan: RAM: A fewAdam Caplan: minor ones BrownsAdam Caplan: RAM: DL or WRAdam Caplan: They need both badly
Or Both
Adam Caplan: yepAdam Caplan: Savage knows itAdam Caplan: just a matter of finding the right fits
Adam, Indians or Yankees?Adam Caplan: SUG: YanksAdam Caplan: go tribeAdam Caplan: and I'm a tribesmanAdam Caplan: lol
Adam I heard a rumor that Savage was talking to Urban Meyer? Any truth to that??
Adam Caplan: CLE: None
until we beat Pittsburgh we wont get any respect
Adam Caplan: OSU: Probably so
any truth to Kosar being Pres?
Adam Caplan: TIM: NoAdam Caplan: but they should bring him in for a roleAdam Caplan: would make some sense
when you say our Defensive front seven could get blown up this offseason, who will stay? Wimbley and Jackson?
Adam Caplan: ROY: Both
No! Obviously they should cut Jackson or Wimbley! Yeah they're the whole problem! Sure wish I was as smart as you, to ask that brilliant question!
Adam, we all know you are an NFL expert, but how closely do you follow college football?
Adam Caplan: SUGG: Not much until bowl season
is DA a starter somewhere next year?
Adam Caplan: TU: can't see itAdam Caplan: he's what I thought he would be, big armAdam Caplan: not accurate as much as you would like and mechanics aren't consistent
Hopefully a backup for Quinn.
he is what he thought you would be? there's a dennis joke in there somewhere...
Adam Caplan: HE IS WHAT WE THOUGHT IT WAS, YOU CAN CROWN HIS.......
Do you see Williams in the front 7?Adam Caplan: CHI: rotationalAdam Caplan: backup
CORRECTION: Whether or not he starts, he'll get roughly the same snaps as Jackson or Davis. Williams is another guy who Adam had his mind made up about around a year ago. He's a hellacious talent with great speed and instincts. He has more upside than any player on this defense except Wimbley, or perhaps Poole. He could even render AndrA Davis trade-bait.
Adam Caplan: Good chat, later all
YOU STAND CORRECTED.
Adam Caplan: Mark: Have a party if they lose by 10 or lessAdam Caplan: Anderson will throw at least three INTsAdam Caplan: he won't handle it
Adam Caplan: RAM: Good leadership and pass rush
Adam Caplan: MARK: this week, yesAdam Caplan: no reason to think they can hang with NEAdam Caplan: with that defense
Adam Caplan: DAW: Much, no, improved, yes in a way
CORRECTION: What a dumbass statement. Top LT, Pro-Bowl quality LG, healthy, mature Edwards, Eric Wright, three key LBs' entering second seasons, Bodden back, solid RG, Poole improving by the game, 2 Smiths on DLine..."in a way"? "Not much"?
Adam Caplan: SUGG: No reason to think they canAdam Caplan: NE plays 70% shotgunAdam Caplan: BTWAdam Caplan: same as GB
CORRECTION: Blitze inside. Poole is nickel LB.
Adam Caplan: NU: Look for smith to play more at NT SundayAdam Caplan: rotating and some at DE
CORRECTION: He played DE only due to injuries. Washington's uselessness is becoming too obvious for even RAC to deny. He MUST play more there, and soon.
Adam Caplan: RAM: I think this week will be an aberration, no one can compete with with NEAdam Caplan: really except IND
Adam Caplan: TU: Route runningAdam Caplan: but he's doing well thoughAdam Caplan: in most phases
Adam Caplan: TIM: No indication for him and Harrison to playAdam Caplan: pretty tellingAdam Caplan: in year two both are inactive
CORRECTION: Jason Wright has been too effective for Harrison to dislodge. As the younger player who has fumbled, this means nothing. Wilson is in for head-extraction surgery, with an indeterminate recovery time.
Adam Caplan: SUGG: Probably swing in some roles
Adam Caplan: DAW: They need to use Cribbs more
AMEN
Adam Caplan: BLE: He's doing the best he canAdam Caplan: He will be in some pain every week with that injuryAdam Caplan: he's tough as nails
Adam Caplan: DAW: I really like the way their OC is moving him and EdwardsAdam Caplan: aroundAdam Caplan: especially WinslowAdam Caplan: OL is really doing well nowAdam Caplan: Thomas graded out well last weekAdam Caplan: good sign
Adam Caplan: TIM: Haven't heard anything, that usually happens closer to the trading deadline-10/16
Adam Caplan: RAM: Nothing newAdam Caplan: Bentley is less than 50-50 to play this yearAdam Caplan: they have until week 10 reallyAdam Caplan: he won't play in week 7Adam Caplan: Baxter could start practicing fully starting next week or so
Adam Caplan: RAM: Backup at both spotsAdam Caplan: he would be a solid swing OLAdam Caplan: they could use oneAdam Caplan: too
Adam Caplan: RAM: Pretty muchAdam Caplan: If they can just fix the defenseAdam Caplan: secondary did better last week
Adam Caplan: Mog: 14-17Adam Caplan: NE-40Adam Caplan: sorryAdam Caplan: You know me, I'm always honest. I hope I'm wrong
Adam Caplan: SUGG: Personnel is a big part of itAdam Caplan: I would blow up the front seven after the season
CORRECTION: Throw the linebackers out with the bathwater? Are you nuts? See now the young DE's and Smith progress. Draft and sign stud DLinemen. The linebackers are exceptional. They've blown assignments and in some cases have lacked discipline. Peek should be on the bench recovering, as he's playing lame and is less effective than the two other guys they have to replace him. Three linebackers are second year players--yeah let's blow them up too...JEEZ!
Adam Caplan: DOG: Agreed
Adam Caplan: Ram: Wright was better last weekAdam Caplan: Pool is too inconsistentAdam Caplan: but he just needs to keep playingAdam Caplan: scary when Brady says they didn't do well at CIN in the first halfAdam Caplan: Guys: Don't think this week's game is what they are, they really don't have a shot but they can compete against most teams nowAdam Caplan: that's the point
Is the front 7 something Savage can realistically fix in 1 year. At least enough to be competitive on D?
Adam Caplan: SUG: Older guys have to get lesser roles or goAdam Caplan: Bottom line
CORRECT: Washington is DONE. McGinnist should fill in. Suggs: Front T H R E E.
Adam Caplan: TIM: 50-50Adam Caplan: they have a long way to goAdam Caplan: They have to go 7-9 for him to stay I would think
Adam Caplan: Ram: like what Chud is doing so farAdam Caplan: Offense is about the best to expect
CORRECTION: BETTER.
Adam Caplan: JLewis is what he isAdam Caplan: can't get any betterAdam Caplan: he has to go next year
CORRECTION: He has been as effective as any RB vs. the defenses he has attacked.
Adam Caplan: Turner they could target
Absotively.
Adam Caplan: RAM: Better
Adam Caplan: SUGG: Edwards just needs to control his emotions
Adam Caplan: Tu: It's the Costanza pick
Adam Caplan: DAW: Peek shouldn't play as much with McGinest back
CORRECTION: Until he is healed. He's best for this scheme when healthy.
Adam Caplan: Ram: No way he's back next seasonAdam Caplan: can't see it
Adam Caplan: Ram: He has to weigh close to 400
Of course they do.
Adam Caplan: Tim; Too bad he wasn't on their practice squad
Please apply for a job with the Browns. VP Common Sense and 20/20 vision.
Adam Caplan: RAM: When Fraser gets the snaps he does, you know something is going on
Adam Caplan: SUGG: Turner makes a lot of senseAdam Caplan: No way Lewis is backAdam Caplan: if Savage has a clue to what he's doingAdam Caplan: They are so limited running the ball
CORRECTION: Was Jamal rude to you or something? I can recommend some nice lasik surgeons, ya know. Lewis is an inside runner who has now demonstrated a great ability to catch passes as an outlet guy...outside the tackles. He's 27 and does NOT appear used up.
Should be able to. Adam is right in calling him an upgrade--dude can kick butt.
Adam Caplan: DAW: SD thinks so
Adam Caplan: RAM: Good hustlerAdam Caplan: gets all he has out of his talent
Adam Caplan: SUG: Good enough to be the RB for a while
Adam Caplan: NU: Great guy but can't playAdam Caplan: any moreAdam Caplan: back in the day he was a dominant NT
And RAC thinks he still is.
Adam Caplan: RAM: When he plays NT exclusively
Dumbass.
Adam Caplan: IC: He's not that type of playerAdam Caplan: he has a good first step and can play their scheme well for 20-30 plays if all goes well
DO YOU UNDERSTAND?
Adam Caplan: DAW: Not muchAdam Caplan: thought he would be betterAdam Caplan: againt run
Are teams running near him?
Adam Caplan: SUGG: TotallyAdam Caplan: he still makes bad decisions and footwork isn't the greatest
Adam Caplan: TU: Doesn't play run wellAdam Caplan: goes up field too much
CORRECTION: He is SENT up the field almost 50% of the time. T H R E E - F O U R.
Adam Caplan: CLE: Yes, once they are out of playoff raceAdam Caplan: if not beforeAdam Caplan: two bad games for Anderson could get him in there
Adam Caplan: RAM: Peek once foot is 100%Adam Caplan: McGinest a little
You see, when a player is i n j u r e d...hey, Ram, you just like getting your name on the screen, don't you? Could you let somebody else ask some more intelligent questions please?
CORRECTION: Manning was thrown into it. Brady is even better-prepared by his offensive scheme and coaching in college. The offensive line has been stellar. He has great weapons. he has learned from the sidelines. He was awesome in preseason. You make too many assumptions, and you stick to your convictions despite contrary evidence. Update your database. Lewis is still a good RB, and Quinn is likely to hit the ground running, like Leinart, Cutler, and Smith last season.
Adam Caplan: RAM: Kind of agree to a point there
Adam Caplan: OSU: They lost some players in the second half and that was an issueAdam Caplan: ARI D is good though
Adam Caplan: FOG: Can't say but I can tell you it could happen at some point during the seasonAdam Caplan: if all of their front seven is healthy
In the absence of anything else that makes sense, and given RAC's Martonian propensities, it's very extremely possible that RAC interceded with Savage for his old pal. Savage is trying to build the team to last. Romeo wants o l d buddies.
Adam Caplan: TIM: He won't starterAdam Caplan: startAdam Caplan: swing or backupAdam Caplan: would make no sense to start himAdam Caplan: that's what I said two weeks ago
Adam Caplan: CHI: I would imagine they would sign a younger veteran who fits their schemeAdam
Caplan: could be NT or DEAdam Caplan: either or
True. Shaun Smith is capable, although the position could use better depth or an upgrade. Oshi is not a first choice--they'll look for a bigger body first, unless they mean to alter the scheme.
Adam Caplan: OSU: Good knowledge of offense
Adam Caplan: DAW: He will have to deal with it for a whileAdam Caplan: BTW, Heiden is one of the better backup TEsAdam Caplan: no one talks about himAdam Caplan: but he's solidAdam Caplan: Heiden can really blockAdam Caplan: and has good hands
THANK YOU!!! Understatement as usual...Heiden STARTS for the majority of NFL teams.
Adam Caplan: IC: I'll look at that later in the year
Adam Caplan: FOG: Many think he needs to get plays on offense every week
BIG ten-four.
Adam Caplan: TUT: Yes, the more snaps he gets
err...oyeeee--
Adam Caplan: OSU: I see what you're saying, they done zone blitz like PIT who you can't figure out what they are doing
Excellent question. Obviously Adam has no idea. Could be the youth and inexperience of several principles. Grantham might be insisting on a mastery of the basics before getting fancy. Basics like positon, and tackling. Real complex stuff like that. At least I hope that's the reason.
Adam Caplan: CHI: NoneAdam Caplan: MIN wants to deal MooreAdam Caplan: I could tell that when I talked to Childress at owners meetings
Adam Caplan: SUGG: Not that muchAdam Caplan: like Tomlin
Adam Caplan: RAM: A fewAdam Caplan: minor ones
Adam Caplan: yepAdam Caplan: Savage knows itAdam Caplan: just a matter of finding the right fits
Adam Caplan: CLE: None
Adam Caplan: OSU: Probably so
Adam Caplan: TIM: NoAdam Caplan: but they should bring him in for a roleAdam Caplan: would make some sense
Adam Caplan: ROY: Both
No! Obviously they should cut Jackson or Wimbley! Yeah they're the whole problem! Sure wish I was as smart as you, to ask that brilliant question!
Adam Caplan: SUGG: Not much until bowl season
Adam Caplan: TU: can't see itAdam Caplan: he's what I thought he would be, big armAdam Caplan: not accurate as much as you would like and mechanics aren't consistent
Hopefully a backup for Quinn.
Adam Caplan: HE IS WHAT WE THOUGHT IT WAS, YOU CAN CROWN HIS.......
CORRECTION: Whether or not he starts, he'll get roughly the same snaps as Jackson or Davis. Williams is another guy who Adam had his mind made up about around a year ago. He's a hellacious talent with great speed and instincts. He has more upside than any player on this defense except Wimbley, or perhaps Poole. He could even render AndrA Davis trade-bait.
Adam Caplan: Good chat, later all
YOU STAND CORRECTED.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Browns to Upset Patriots!
That's right, the Cleveland Browns will upset the New England Patriots. They will lose by less than the 17 point spread, which should upset them. Also, at some point in the next decade or so, they should defeat them, which is certainly upsetting. And you can take this to the bank.
This is for copy/paste to my relatives:
I came across this great site about the Browns. This guy is a genius! He had Anderson pegged as the deserving starter and a promising talent a long time ago. He tore national "experts" a new one the instant they declared Jamal Lewis washed up based on the Pitt massacre. He's been lobbying for Josh Cribbs for months.
This guy called this offensive line one of the deepest and most talented even before the season began-- now that the Ravens, Raiders, and Bungles really weren't too timid, or too old, or too overconfident, like everybody else on the planet is saying to explain away Anderson's comfort zone--but that this line (and supporting staff) has been a WALL; it's simply that good!
He said that Eric Wright would start immediately, but might have trouble mastering the nuances of ZONE coverage--but had the brains to do it over the course of 3-5 games.
He wanted Ted Washington cut, Smith to start at nose tackle, predicted Edwards's emergence into the elite ranks, declared the Cravens overrated, said before the start of the season that a sixth rounder for Frye would be a bargain, anticipated many elements of the Chud offense, and it's effectiveness...
I just wish that I was as smart as this guy--but as you know so very well, I'm not. I'm just me, is all. So I know that I have nothing to offer, but at least I can find somebody who is really insightful and informative, and turn you onto him. As soon as I found him and read a little, I bookmarked it so that I could go back to check out what new brilliant stuff he had come up with, at least once a week.
Man, you should see him rip up the "experts" when they say dumb stuff. Here's the link: http://brownssanity.blogspot.com/.
Now: The line is 17 and I took the Browns. I think they can lose by less than that. I can't work up much hope for a win here.
Everybody is saying that the Pats will be all over Anderson, but they're full of crap. This offensive line and the backs and tight ends are way ahead of schedule as bodyguards. The evil spymaster will instead use trickery and deciet to con Anderson into throwing interceptions. He'll deploy a shell 2-deep coverage and use zone, and he won't often send more than four guys.
He'll tolerate Lewis gashing him a little, and some intermediate completions, going for turnovers and clock-bleeding.
Offensively, he'll just attack in every way possible. The Browns will mirror his defense in order to contain Moss and (ahem) Morris, and also hope for turnovers. Little chance of that, but it's all they got. A difference is that they will (or SHOULD) blitze liberally--and forget what you hear about how that's dumb vs. Brady. It's dumbER vs. Brady to give him time, and vis Morris to let him get rolling.
Fear not, however. I have secured some Brady hair and constructed a voodoo doll. If he breaks or stubs his right big toe, you will have me to thank for it. I have also sent ex-lax-laden Brownies to the Patriots, although I fear that the evil spymaster Belichick will detect it and foil this.
http://brownssanity.blogspot.com/
How bout them Injuns!?!
This is for copy/paste to my relatives:
I came across this great site about the Browns. This guy is a genius! He had Anderson pegged as the deserving starter and a promising talent a long time ago. He tore national "experts" a new one the instant they declared Jamal Lewis washed up based on the Pitt massacre. He's been lobbying for Josh Cribbs for months.
This guy called this offensive line one of the deepest and most talented even before the season began-- now that the Ravens, Raiders, and Bungles really weren't too timid, or too old, or too overconfident, like everybody else on the planet is saying to explain away Anderson's comfort zone--but that this line (and supporting staff) has been a WALL; it's simply that good!
He said that Eric Wright would start immediately, but might have trouble mastering the nuances of ZONE coverage--but had the brains to do it over the course of 3-5 games.
He wanted Ted Washington cut, Smith to start at nose tackle, predicted Edwards's emergence into the elite ranks, declared the Cravens overrated, said before the start of the season that a sixth rounder for Frye would be a bargain, anticipated many elements of the Chud offense, and it's effectiveness...
I just wish that I was as smart as this guy--but as you know so very well, I'm not. I'm just me, is all. So I know that I have nothing to offer, but at least I can find somebody who is really insightful and informative, and turn you onto him. As soon as I found him and read a little, I bookmarked it so that I could go back to check out what new brilliant stuff he had come up with, at least once a week.
Man, you should see him rip up the "experts" when they say dumb stuff. Here's the link: http://brownssanity.blogspot.com/.
Now: The line is 17 and I took the Browns. I think they can lose by less than that. I can't work up much hope for a win here.
Everybody is saying that the Pats will be all over Anderson, but they're full of crap. This offensive line and the backs and tight ends are way ahead of schedule as bodyguards. The evil spymaster will instead use trickery and deciet to con Anderson into throwing interceptions. He'll deploy a shell 2-deep coverage and use zone, and he won't often send more than four guys.
He'll tolerate Lewis gashing him a little, and some intermediate completions, going for turnovers and clock-bleeding.
Offensively, he'll just attack in every way possible. The Browns will mirror his defense in order to contain Moss and (ahem) Morris, and also hope for turnovers. Little chance of that, but it's all they got. A difference is that they will (or SHOULD) blitze liberally--and forget what you hear about how that's dumb vs. Brady. It's dumbER vs. Brady to give him time, and vis Morris to let him get rolling.
Fear not, however. I have secured some Brady hair and constructed a voodoo doll. If he breaks or stubs his right big toe, you will have me to thank for it. I have also sent ex-lax-laden Brownies to the Patriots, although I fear that the evil spymaster Belichick will detect it and foil this.
http://brownssanity.blogspot.com/
How bout them Injuns!?!
Monday, October 1, 2007
Rodney Offensivelinefield
On Sirius NFL Radio, I earlier today heard Adam Schein say something like: "Well if I'm the Ravens, looking at that offensive line, I'd be attacking Anderson."
Yeah. We got a terrible offensive line, Adam. And the Ravens never blitzed or anything. Terrell Suggs just sort of felt sorry for the hapless Joe Thomas. Uh-huh.
Told ya! It couldn't possibly have anything to do with an offensive line including two pro-bowl alternates, a top draft pick, and two solid starting journeymen. Had to be the Ravens not bothering to put any pressure on Anderson.
...who also permanently sucks and must never improve.
Adam, the Ravens were blitzing all day, and the Browns offensive line (and Te's and RB's) simply shut their pass-rush down. And they did it (now read this slowly, three times)...because they're GOOD. This after an unprecedented three games together. They protected well against the Bungles (yawn) and the Raiders, as well. They're getting better not just game-by-game, but quarter-by-quarter.
They might still need some work on the run-blocking, although using data from games against the Raiders' and Ratbird's defenses might not be very realistic. And you saw the hovoc Jason Wright wrought...(hmmm...)
Of course, they've looked much better starting in the second half of the Pittsburgh game, when a quicker-firing Anderson replaced Frye, whose best game might be CHESS.
Bart Scott said, essentially, that the Ravens gave up big plays, and cast the blame on their own poor performance. That's ok, coming from a player who has to believe in himself and his team. I just get sick of hearing crap like that from analysts like Adam Schein. (Adam is actually very smart, knowlegable, and insightful...normally. But he has a real blind spot concerning the Browns, and was among those calling this team one of the worst in the NFL.)
To his credit, he admits when he's wrong, and has done so again, as he did when the Browns beat the Ben-Gals.
Pat Kirwin this morning demonstrated a little more thought. He said that Anderson was "grossly" underrated, and commented about how his quick releases have helped the offensive line.
Now, the issue is how long can Anderson hold off Brady Quinn? Before, it was how many games did he need to lose before the Oxbow bunch in fandom forced Quinn into the fire? (The fire? Implication: The offensive line, despite it's OBVIOUS depth and talent, would, for some inexplicable reason, never be able to protect any quarterback.)
Joe Thomas expressed what I've said: The offensive line is glad to have a QB who gets rid of the ball quickly. He makes their job easier (unmentioned: the idiots in the stands don't know a six second sack from a three second sack). They're all pros, of course, so they automaticly do their best--but we all know how that somehow becomes a little more when your fearless leader makes it easier on you. They appreciate it. They play at a different level for a QB like that, vs. one who they secretly resent.
Thomas also mentioned Lewis, saying that he's his own best blocker. They get a lot of satisfaction when they get him to the second level.
That was seasoned veteran top-flight pro-bowler Chris McCallister that Edwards burned repeatedly. His 79-yarder was on a play-fake which (I surmise) was good enough to make him hesitate. After all, Ray Lewis had them all convinced that Jamal had to be punished for his vicious insult.
But this shows another aspect of the offense: play-action WORKS when a defense fears the run. That's all Edwards or Winslow need, you know. Just a little hesitation. If either gets behind the guy trying to cover them, it's all vertical and all over from there. 6'5" and 6'3" respectively with a QB who can drop it over the defenders.
When Chud came in, he spoke of an attacking offense, and I now truly understand what he meant. It's really cool. Everybody knows that the running back's job is to hammer a defense until they have to stick an eighth guy in the box. But what they don't realize is that this works both ways.
The Ravens probably started out with eight in the box to stop the vicious slanderer Jamal Lewis, so the offense adapted to this and went for the throat over the top. That quickly forced the Bengals into shell coverage and enabled Lewis to steamroll them, and our big recievers to tear them up underneath. Against the Ravens, they stuck to stopping the run first, and paid for it a different way.
In short, it works, and Chud adapts well.
Anderson has now faced the Raiders and the Ravens defenses. Late in the Raiders game, he just about salvaged the victory, and if you go by quarters, you could say that you see progress through the last six, vs. elite talent.
Anderson himself might have been shooting for professional survival. Any QB with starting experience, who is young and cheap, is a good candidate to back up a stud QB somewhere. This is how Kelly Holcomb survived on the bench after coming out of college. And this is how most of them end up: Retiring healthy, and needing only splinter-extraction surgery and a gold-plated clip-board.
Now? Now, he realizes that he is pretty good. Good enough to start. He knows that the writing is on the wall for he and Quinn, but he's got to be working hard to make it impossible for the Coaches to replace him.
He has proven something here. Everybody (see Pat Kirwin) has noticed. This is another Kelly Holcomb here. (Well sort of. Anderson is stronger, Holcomb more accurate--but I just mean the carreer path.)
After these last two defenses, expecting him to regress is unreasonable. He's had a taste of Dick LeBeau's 3-4, so even the Pats defense shouldn't represent too many curve-balls for him.
Don't get me wrong: They WILL confuse him, and lure him into mistakes. I never said he was Peyton Manning. But it shouldn't be a total disaster.
After all, he has this great offensive line, Edwards, Winslow, and Jurevicious his security blanket. Those guys can out-reach and out-muscle people fighting for the ball, and turn a mistake into a mere incompletion, or even a big play. I don't doubt that on some of his dumb throws into coverage, he just felt that his guys would keep him out of trouble.
Waittilnextyear projected 8-8 this season, and I now think he's right. This whole thing is coming together. The defense is lagging a bit, but forcing turnovers and shutting people down in the red zone. Cinci and the Ratbirds were no flukes. From start to finish, they outplayed those teams. The Raiders game was infuriating, but attributable to youth; notably in the QB. Pitt? Hell, the first game of the year. Frye. Bad mistake by the punter. Poor coaching. O-line together for one week.
Now they've got their feet on the ground. They've beaten two GOOD teams. They no longer expect to lose.
I'm almost ready to even mention the "p"-word. I mean, clearly I was wrong about Pittsburgh--they appear to have a dominating team destined to win this Division. But Cinci? Baltimore? Let's do it again. We really ARE better than them, in their back yard or ours.
With San Diego in a tailspin, Denver looking very average--who knows?
Yep. Yep, the Browns are officially ahead of schedule. Why wait til next year?
THIS JUST IN! A couple posts by Craven fans. One is a homo sapiens. The other is not. See if you can see which is which:
1ravensfan
AOL
The ravens are the only team who go play action to throw a 4 yard pass. Get the damn ball to Mgahee he is good. he is definitely not one dimensional like J lewis. lets go back to the Cinci loss. Billick had * downs to get less than five yards and threw the ball. Get him the hell outta here. The defense will come back but imagine if our offense put up 27 points a game. the defense can then gamble and blitz more and create turnovers. we are playing tight on defense!!! Cleveland should never put up 27 on any team in the league. Don't be so hard on Mcalister he is solid and don't give up many- remember what Marvin Harrison did to Prime Time??
ScottG
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