RugbyMuffin
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Wow! What a craptacular week. Starts with getting lyme's disease, and ends with full scale exhaustion, and self-stupidiy (more then usual I might add).
Any way, it is Friday morning I am off from work today (I work 9 days every two weeks at "10hrs" a clip, usually longer than that but I digress, I need no sympathy and that is not the point, just happy to talk football today......), it is time to talk about football. Always nice to have some generic, exciting yet bland, subject that is not serious, and fun to talk about. Great way to relax, and forget the challenges (which is not a bad thing, btw) the life likes to throw at you. Thus excuse the poor grammar, and spelling, not 100% on my game today.
Camp starts Tuesday I believe, 7/24 ?
Why not one more breakdown for the sake of just talking about the exciting and vastly uncertain season that lay ahead of this organization, and the fans.
I warn you all these, are MY OPINIONS, on certain subjects, the "factual-ness" of said statements are in the eye of the reader. There will be plenty of "WTF is this guy talking about" said at computer screens. Arm yourselves with an arsenal of smilies and biting sarcasm.
First off when it comes to camp. I am starring at the roster, and looking at it real hard every day. Yet, the final 53 are almost set already. It is not like this team is void of talent, there is just something missing here, and missing there, and missing at QB. There are very few places for competition right now. I hope that means this camp is all about the future, cause that is where this organization needs to be. If we don't obtain some youth on the offensive line, or at linebacker this organization is in big time trouble.
Coaching:
Kind of tired of our Head Coach when it comes to how he handles the offense. I like Whiz as a manager of the team. When he is not calling plays, and focusing on the overall organization of the team, and staff, I think he shows a strength that not many people have. As a major part of the offense, and there is no doubt Whiz is a major voice in the offensive system, in my opinion, and assuming from what I see, he surrounds himself with too many "yes men" who all agree on what should be done, and who should be playing. It is not working. This is a complete assumption, but I cannot see Miller or Grimm butting heads with Whiz, like a Kurt Warner, or Haley would do. Bringing up Warner, I don't see a QB that is going to question the head coach either. We are 5 seasons into this run with Whiz, and the offensive line is still not even close to a NFL caliber line, it lacks youth, and ability. I will say the tight end group is better, the running backs are a little better, but that is it. We lack a QB, and our receiver core is Larry Fitzgerald, with players to be named later (tip of the hat to Shane's guy - Andre Roberts). Two years ago, Whiz made me wake up from the dream of watching a successful football team, the obvious warts on those successful teams became reality, and I have lost my trust with Whiz on many, many things. In my opinion, he is not doing half of the job the hype around him gives him.
Then comes Ray Horton. The guy knows who he wants, what he wants, and then based on his players ability he fits schemes around his talent. Not the other way around. If players can't grasp or physically do a requirement of his system then he throw out the play, or system. No forcing the square peg in the round hole, he just moves on to the next idea. He took an aging Adrian Wilson and revived his career. Took Calias Campbell and got him playing at the next level. He got production out of his OLB'ers, and was able to put together a defensive back field that consisted of a has been in Richard Marshall, a never was in Rashad Johnson, and a rookie conerback. Not to mention zero depth at the position during the year. There is no denying, when you see success. Horton has so far, been very successful with putting together his system, and doing so very very quickly. It is tough to talk about how well Horton has come along because the very real fear of him leaving this organization is always in the back of my mind. I only half joke when I say that I would fire Whiz to save Horton.
I still think Whiz has A LOT to prove with his ability to put together and offense. He has proved to me he can run an entire team, and get a routine together that players can by into, but has for his specialty, the offense, it is not up to par. As for Horton, I am just excited for what we will have this team doing next.
Quarterback
The competition is wide open, and let the best man win. That is it. We all must learn from 2008. Whomever is the best player at said position, should be the guy. John Skelton (aka Double Deuce) is always going to be the guy I want behind center, but I must be honest in the fact the both QB's are not very good at this moment. Skelton has great, great ability to be clutch, and to comeback in games, but HOOOOWWEEEEEE, he can really suck in the beginning of games. Kolb......I have said my piece about Kolb, IMO, he is not the answer.
Yet, they will compete, and if we find a "Dilfer-type-QB" that can manage the offense, and keep turnovers/sacks to a minimum then, IMO the Cardinals have what they need to be competitive. If one of the two step up, and get to that Flacco, Shaub, Fitzgerald type level, then so much the better.
It will be all for naught tho. The Cardinals have to be looking to upgrade the QB position regardless of Kolb's HUGE salary at some point in the very near future.
This year it is, what it is. Find the best player, and he will be starting. IMO, it will be Kolb to start the year, and I don't see it going any other way. Skelton needs a Kurt Warner type of surge to unseat Kolb, and I don't think Skelton has that in him right now. But, as I have said before, with the offensive line we have, we are going to need both QB's. Actually, after typing that I realized we will need both QB's and Rich Bartel's phone number.
Running Back:
Again, another position of nebulous uncertainty. Wells was battered, and Williams was broken last year. I thought Wells played very well for this team. Not only that, by year's end I was turning on the game to watch him play. Ladies and Gentlemen, in any sport, the more you get hit, the more it effects you. I do not care if you are a world class athlete. Every hit makes you a little less aggressive, a little slower, a little weaker, etc., etc. If we played Madden on a video game system, and after every play where I made a "big hit" I hit you across the back with a bat, by halftime you would be having your players dive on the ground before getting tackled.
My point ? A Chris Wells 2 yard run last year, was 2 yard, and a lot of pain for the poor LB'er or DB that had to tackle the man. Wells CRUSHED some players last year. Yeah the highlight from the Vikings game was great but he had some inside the tackles runs that were just vicious.
Yet, how long does Wells last as a power running how seems to get dinged a lot ? I dunno but he needs some help. Ryan Williams, aka the greatest running back you never saw is coming back. Color me skeptical about a 2nd round pick who already has had major surgery on a knee. A back whose big part of his game is cutting on that knee. Plus he is virtually a rookie this year. This is a HUGE risk for the Cardinals, IMO. If Williams shows something he could have a big year, and benefit from Wells' running style. It would suck for Wells' numbers, but Wells pounding the line, and then sending Williams in could set up some big runs for Williams. But, please, to all fans, respect the team aspect of the game. It is Wells' thunder that sets up the lightning.
As for LSH, and Antonio Smith. I like both backs. They have their role, and IMO, are excellent fits for both roles on the team. While Smith is not much of a story, he just has to keep doing what he has done for this team. LSH is a little more of a story. With kick returns becoming a non-factor, and Ryan Williams being close to the type of back LSH is, as much as I thing LSH is a great player for this team, is he important enough to spend a lot of money on after this season ? I don't know, but based on what you read about LSH, he knows his situation, and is one of those players, I am looking to see have a "break out season". I just would not be surprised to see LSH bring more to the table then he ever has this year.
Fullback:
Anthony Sherman. He is like that co-worker, or employee that just comes to work does his job, does it well, and goes home. Under appreciated, but doesn't care. I couldn't be happier with his play. No one is taking his spot, and the only question is who is going to be the back-up. Unless Martell Webb wows at camp, I would say Dray will be his backup again.
Tight End:
Rob Housler, is the best thing since Bryant Johnson. Mark me as one of the people that doesn't see what the rest see in Rob Housler. I will be rooting to be wrong, but I don't see this great coming out year for Housler, I just don't see it. He plays small for his size, his hands are questionable, and all that speed don't mean jack if you can get the ball, and break out of some contact. Not to mention his blocking is questionable. If Housler breaks out, it won't be this year, IMO, if ever.
That leads me to my guy! Jeff King. Please, Cardinals, please. Just start him. Do the right thing and start Jeff King, every game. The guy blocks better than any TE we have had in 10 years, maybe more. He can get the job done as a receiver. He is smart, and does all the standard things you need from a TE. He is not that offensive nightmare match up weapon that is the new trend in the NFL, but neither is he Fred Wakefield. Like Anthony Sherman, you plug him in and forget it, because he can be trusted to do his job, and do it well.
Todd Heap is an expensive novelty at this point. I have no problem having him on the team, and taking whatever production he can provide. Yet, he is not a needed player, and what happens to him this season, is of no real concern, IMO. Drop him, trade him, keep him, it don't matter. And Jim Dray ? Though I was excited about Martel Webb for his size, speed, and hands. Are we really going to take him instead of Jim Dray who can play TE, FB, and long snap in a pinch ? I don't think you get rid of a versitile player like that.
Wide Reciever:
Fitz = Cardinals.
How this receiving core has fallen. Floyd, Roberts, Doucet, and misc. At one point it was Fitzgerald, Boldin, Breaston, Doucet, and misc. Floyd is exactly what I think this offense needed. In my opinion, he is never going to be a 1st round talent. I don't see it in his mindset, or his skill set. But, to make this offense he does not have to be that type of guy. I absolutely hate watching Andre Roberts, or Doucet playing on the outside as a WR, and watch them suffer to get off the line. Watch them try to create space without the quickness, size or power to create it. Floyd will come in and be that second option to move the chains. He can use his power, and body to create space and "be open when covered". Yet, it is not a 100% certainty. The big question is if this guy's hands are NFL quality. If they are he may not have big numbers this year, but he will have big plays.
Roberts, and Doucet move inside to the slot positions, where they go from average to dangerous. Wes Welker makes a living on playing the slot, and using the space he is given to shred ankle ligaments, and drive teams crazy. Neither Doucet or Roberts are in Welker's league, but they are effective, and can break a big play if they are not respected.
The 5th spot, is a ho-hum player. I like my hometown guy is Isiah Williams, but who gets the spot is going to be interesting. There are a lot of bodies at WR and one open spot, barring injury. Plus if Housler does the unexpected, he would be the psuedo 5th WR, and give our empty backfield a little more versitilty. We will see.
Yet, I exepect this WR core to be better as a team, they will have lesser individual numbers, but more success at a full unit because they are more balanced, IMO.
Offensive Line
#1 - it is not easy to put together an offensive line in the NFL. That is understood, and it is getting harder by the year (but that is a story for another day). Do all the reading, research, and thinking about this situation you want. Many on this board spend too much time thinking about this situation. But, why wouldn't we ? Seriously, the offensive line situation in Arizona is like Briggs & Stratton motors in my yard. For some reason, they just will not work like they are supposed to.
Levi Brown, Adam Snyder, Jeremy Bridges. Those are liabilities. Daryn Colledge, and Lyle Sendlien are players that could succeed but need others to shoulder most of the job, role players, "weak links on a good line". Expect more of the same from this offensive line. I don't buy into continuity when you are trying to make talent that is not good enough work. It is like planning to build the most perfect structure that weighs 1000 pounds, on a base that can only hold 800 pounds, and expecting to build on it. It won't work.
I was excited after the draft this year, and still want to be excited after the draft this year. But, I remember the last time we drafted some offensive linemen, and I was excited about it. It didn't last long. Herman Johnson ? Gone. Brandon Keith ? Gone. Russ Grimm head coaching prospects ? Gone. It has been a train wreck, and as much as I want to believe that Bobby Massie, Senio Kelemete, Nate Potter, and company show promise, I cannot get too excited because when was the last time this offensive staff found and played a good offensive lineman ? How well is Rex Hadnot doing these days ? I am hoping for the best, and expecting the worst.
Overall on Offense:
Case in point about our offense. What the heck is the focus ? Are we are run 1st team, past first team ? If we past so much, why do we have these huge tackles that can't move ? If we run so much, why do we have interior linemen that can't push the pile ? If we run so much, why are we relying on battered running backs ? If we pass so much, why are we relying on two QB's that can't carry the game on their backs ? IMO, there is no plan, it is just a mess.
Defensive Line
Ah, the defense! So much more fun to talk about, and there is less to say. Calais Campbell, Darnell Dockett, Dan Williams, David Carter, Nick Eason, and Vonnie Holliday. Where is the problem ? I don't see it. And that is your core going into next season, just look at the roster, there is NO ONE that has a chance, and there is barely any camp fodder at the position. I guess the one question is between Dan Williams and David Carter, but what is the question ? Who is going to start ? Who cares, they are both needed, and both can play well. That is to be celebrated, not lamented.
Linebacker
Daryl Washington is going to put the Cardinals in a very rough position. He is going to breakout this year. The guy is a perfect new age linebacker. Fast, quick, and smart. He can lay a hit, but he knows his game is not power. He plays with finesse, and brains. If he keeps improving he will start to get more attention outside the valley. Good for him, bad for the Cardinals and there wallet. Washington is one of the guys I am turning on the TV to watch this year.
Paris Lenon, Stewart Bradley, Reggie Walker, Quan Sturdivant, Paul Vassallo, Colin Parker, and Marcus McGraw. Bueller ? Anyone ? Anyone ? Paris Lenon who is the second coming of Ronald McKinnon does the job. But, with one more year left in the desert, it makes me nervous. No matter how much I want it to happen, I don't think Stewart Bradley will get back to where he was two years ago, in Philly. If that player ever shows up, man, what a difference in our defense. Bradley was big, strong, smart, a leader, everything you want in a SILB in a 3-4. But, what we see now is a player that has lost a step, lost confidence, and is in no shape to lead because he can't set the example he needs to. Not to mention Bradley has a big salary to his name. By this time next year Lenon and Bradley may be gone. That is where the excitement for this camp comes in. Reggie Walker, Quan Sturdivant, Paul Vassallo, Colin Parker, and Marcus McGraw, are they the answer ? Again, I am hoping for the best and expecting the worse. One of the guys I will be rooting for, just because I like his play, and size is Paul Vassallo, so I will enjoy that little dream until he is cut, LOL.
At outside linebacker, I am very happy with what we have. I have a lot of confidence in Sam Acho, and O'Brien Schofield as pass rushers. Where my confidence in Schofield against the run starts to wane, Clark Haggans being a part of the core helps regain confidence in the core. Pass rushers are a rare talent, and even marginal talent (see Kamerion Wimbley) is very expensive. It is tough to find depth. Yet, that Cardinals have done a good job, IMO, in finding some prospects. Quetin Groves, and Antonio Coleman have played in the NFL before, and Brandon Williams has shown enough promise to stick around. They won't show too much, IMO, and probably will never be starters but for sifting through the pile of low-tier pass rushing prospect, I like who they brought into camp. You can never have too many pass rushing prospects So while depth is a concern, it will always be a concern, on any team, IMO. So, again, I am good with our OLB'ers for the first time in a long, long time.
Defensive Backfield:
The confidence and excitement that I want to have in the offensive line is what I do have in the secondary for this organization. I am excited about bringing William Gay, Jamell Flemming, and Justin Bethel. I think Greg Toler is going to come back and play well, and I think Kerry Rhodes has had enough of hearing constant negativity surrounding his name.
I can't help to be excited for what we have in Patrick Peterson, the resurgence of Adrian Wilson, what we know Toler can do, what we know Rhodes can do, for what confidence we should have in Horton bringing in Williams Gay, what has been put in print about Flemming's ability, the improvement in Rashad Johnson, and the promise that is Justin Bethel. That is not even bringing into the fact you still have James Sanders, Michael Adams, AJ Jefferson, and Crezdon Butler in camp. There seems to be a good balance in the secondary. A lot of opportunity for a lot of players to play a role and be effective. A good mix youth and experience. Plus they can all tackle! I think that this unit, more than any other will provide the most surprises when it comes to who is on the roster at the end of camp, and who plays where.
Overall Defense:
"I want big guys that can run, and small guys that can hit." In one season, Horton has what he wants. Granted I bet he would like some upgrades in some positions, but all in all he definitely has what he needs. He has a plan, he knows what he wants and needs at each position, and has done what he needs to get players in those positions. After all that, he understands what each player brings to the table, and then sets them up in positions where they can use there strengths out on the field and produce. It is almost the opposite of what we have seen year after year for the Cardinals offense.
Special Teams:
:kicksdirt:
I just don't know. Maybe I am wrong, but the opportunity for the Cardinals to make this an asset was wasted this offseason. The Cardinals have a very good core of special teams players. They are fast, athletic, and play very hard. I think we will all be disapointed this year every time a FG is not blocked, LOL. But, it will be in kickers heads this year, I am sure of that. A lot of players known for blocking kicks will be out there.
Peterson, and LSH are good at their trade, even thought the new rules really take LSH and his kickoff returns out of the game. But, that makes Peterson's abilities in the punt return game even more valuable.
Taking the long snapper out of the conversation, our punter is awful, and is a big problem that I have from last year. Seriously ? With the advantage this team COULD HAVE HAD in the 3rd part of the game of football the Cardinals decide to take what could have been a strength and make it a weakness. Ugh. Just Ugh. I hope, we find some vast luck, and some how find a better punter. Feely is fine, but an upgrade is needed, IMO. Really, what is comes down to is an upgrade at punter could really help a team like the Cardinals, and there no offense, big defense setup they have going into the season.
Well, that was fun. Just re-hashing the obvious, I know that, but it was relaxing and gives something to read, and discuss (hopefully) before camp. I must admit, I am looking forward to football this year. Getting ready for fantasy football drafts, and the pre-season games. The promise of a new season, etc., etc.
As for the Cardinals. I don't know. They could easily go 3-13, the could easily go 8-8, and with some luck, and some things "working out as planned" they could win the division and get 10 wins. We will see! Can't Wait!
Any way, it is Friday morning I am off from work today (I work 9 days every two weeks at "10hrs" a clip, usually longer than that but I digress, I need no sympathy and that is not the point, just happy to talk football today......), it is time to talk about football. Always nice to have some generic, exciting yet bland, subject that is not serious, and fun to talk about. Great way to relax, and forget the challenges (which is not a bad thing, btw) the life likes to throw at you. Thus excuse the poor grammar, and spelling, not 100% on my game today.
Camp starts Tuesday I believe, 7/24 ?
Why not one more breakdown for the sake of just talking about the exciting and vastly uncertain season that lay ahead of this organization, and the fans.
I warn you all these, are MY OPINIONS, on certain subjects, the "factual-ness" of said statements are in the eye of the reader. There will be plenty of "WTF is this guy talking about" said at computer screens. Arm yourselves with an arsenal of smilies and biting sarcasm.
First off when it comes to camp. I am starring at the roster, and looking at it real hard every day. Yet, the final 53 are almost set already. It is not like this team is void of talent, there is just something missing here, and missing there, and missing at QB. There are very few places for competition right now. I hope that means this camp is all about the future, cause that is where this organization needs to be. If we don't obtain some youth on the offensive line, or at linebacker this organization is in big time trouble.
Coaching:
Kind of tired of our Head Coach when it comes to how he handles the offense. I like Whiz as a manager of the team. When he is not calling plays, and focusing on the overall organization of the team, and staff, I think he shows a strength that not many people have. As a major part of the offense, and there is no doubt Whiz is a major voice in the offensive system, in my opinion, and assuming from what I see, he surrounds himself with too many "yes men" who all agree on what should be done, and who should be playing. It is not working. This is a complete assumption, but I cannot see Miller or Grimm butting heads with Whiz, like a Kurt Warner, or Haley would do. Bringing up Warner, I don't see a QB that is going to question the head coach either. We are 5 seasons into this run with Whiz, and the offensive line is still not even close to a NFL caliber line, it lacks youth, and ability. I will say the tight end group is better, the running backs are a little better, but that is it. We lack a QB, and our receiver core is Larry Fitzgerald, with players to be named later (tip of the hat to Shane's guy - Andre Roberts). Two years ago, Whiz made me wake up from the dream of watching a successful football team, the obvious warts on those successful teams became reality, and I have lost my trust with Whiz on many, many things. In my opinion, he is not doing half of the job the hype around him gives him.
Then comes Ray Horton. The guy knows who he wants, what he wants, and then based on his players ability he fits schemes around his talent. Not the other way around. If players can't grasp or physically do a requirement of his system then he throw out the play, or system. No forcing the square peg in the round hole, he just moves on to the next idea. He took an aging Adrian Wilson and revived his career. Took Calias Campbell and got him playing at the next level. He got production out of his OLB'ers, and was able to put together a defensive back field that consisted of a has been in Richard Marshall, a never was in Rashad Johnson, and a rookie conerback. Not to mention zero depth at the position during the year. There is no denying, when you see success. Horton has so far, been very successful with putting together his system, and doing so very very quickly. It is tough to talk about how well Horton has come along because the very real fear of him leaving this organization is always in the back of my mind. I only half joke when I say that I would fire Whiz to save Horton.
I still think Whiz has A LOT to prove with his ability to put together and offense. He has proved to me he can run an entire team, and get a routine together that players can by into, but has for his specialty, the offense, it is not up to par. As for Horton, I am just excited for what we will have this team doing next.
Quarterback
The competition is wide open, and let the best man win. That is it. We all must learn from 2008. Whomever is the best player at said position, should be the guy. John Skelton (aka Double Deuce) is always going to be the guy I want behind center, but I must be honest in the fact the both QB's are not very good at this moment. Skelton has great, great ability to be clutch, and to comeback in games, but HOOOOWWEEEEEE, he can really suck in the beginning of games. Kolb......I have said my piece about Kolb, IMO, he is not the answer.
Yet, they will compete, and if we find a "Dilfer-type-QB" that can manage the offense, and keep turnovers/sacks to a minimum then, IMO the Cardinals have what they need to be competitive. If one of the two step up, and get to that Flacco, Shaub, Fitzgerald type level, then so much the better.
It will be all for naught tho. The Cardinals have to be looking to upgrade the QB position regardless of Kolb's HUGE salary at some point in the very near future.
This year it is, what it is. Find the best player, and he will be starting. IMO, it will be Kolb to start the year, and I don't see it going any other way. Skelton needs a Kurt Warner type of surge to unseat Kolb, and I don't think Skelton has that in him right now. But, as I have said before, with the offensive line we have, we are going to need both QB's. Actually, after typing that I realized we will need both QB's and Rich Bartel's phone number.
Running Back:
Again, another position of nebulous uncertainty. Wells was battered, and Williams was broken last year. I thought Wells played very well for this team. Not only that, by year's end I was turning on the game to watch him play. Ladies and Gentlemen, in any sport, the more you get hit, the more it effects you. I do not care if you are a world class athlete. Every hit makes you a little less aggressive, a little slower, a little weaker, etc., etc. If we played Madden on a video game system, and after every play where I made a "big hit" I hit you across the back with a bat, by halftime you would be having your players dive on the ground before getting tackled.
My point ? A Chris Wells 2 yard run last year, was 2 yard, and a lot of pain for the poor LB'er or DB that had to tackle the man. Wells CRUSHED some players last year. Yeah the highlight from the Vikings game was great but he had some inside the tackles runs that were just vicious.
Yet, how long does Wells last as a power running how seems to get dinged a lot ? I dunno but he needs some help. Ryan Williams, aka the greatest running back you never saw is coming back. Color me skeptical about a 2nd round pick who already has had major surgery on a knee. A back whose big part of his game is cutting on that knee. Plus he is virtually a rookie this year. This is a HUGE risk for the Cardinals, IMO. If Williams shows something he could have a big year, and benefit from Wells' running style. It would suck for Wells' numbers, but Wells pounding the line, and then sending Williams in could set up some big runs for Williams. But, please, to all fans, respect the team aspect of the game. It is Wells' thunder that sets up the lightning.
As for LSH, and Antonio Smith. I like both backs. They have their role, and IMO, are excellent fits for both roles on the team. While Smith is not much of a story, he just has to keep doing what he has done for this team. LSH is a little more of a story. With kick returns becoming a non-factor, and Ryan Williams being close to the type of back LSH is, as much as I thing LSH is a great player for this team, is he important enough to spend a lot of money on after this season ? I don't know, but based on what you read about LSH, he knows his situation, and is one of those players, I am looking to see have a "break out season". I just would not be surprised to see LSH bring more to the table then he ever has this year.
Fullback:
Anthony Sherman. He is like that co-worker, or employee that just comes to work does his job, does it well, and goes home. Under appreciated, but doesn't care. I couldn't be happier with his play. No one is taking his spot, and the only question is who is going to be the back-up. Unless Martell Webb wows at camp, I would say Dray will be his backup again.
Tight End:
Rob Housler, is the best thing since Bryant Johnson. Mark me as one of the people that doesn't see what the rest see in Rob Housler. I will be rooting to be wrong, but I don't see this great coming out year for Housler, I just don't see it. He plays small for his size, his hands are questionable, and all that speed don't mean jack if you can get the ball, and break out of some contact. Not to mention his blocking is questionable. If Housler breaks out, it won't be this year, IMO, if ever.
That leads me to my guy! Jeff King. Please, Cardinals, please. Just start him. Do the right thing and start Jeff King, every game. The guy blocks better than any TE we have had in 10 years, maybe more. He can get the job done as a receiver. He is smart, and does all the standard things you need from a TE. He is not that offensive nightmare match up weapon that is the new trend in the NFL, but neither is he Fred Wakefield. Like Anthony Sherman, you plug him in and forget it, because he can be trusted to do his job, and do it well.
Todd Heap is an expensive novelty at this point. I have no problem having him on the team, and taking whatever production he can provide. Yet, he is not a needed player, and what happens to him this season, is of no real concern, IMO. Drop him, trade him, keep him, it don't matter. And Jim Dray ? Though I was excited about Martel Webb for his size, speed, and hands. Are we really going to take him instead of Jim Dray who can play TE, FB, and long snap in a pinch ? I don't think you get rid of a versitile player like that.
Wide Reciever:
Fitz = Cardinals.
How this receiving core has fallen. Floyd, Roberts, Doucet, and misc. At one point it was Fitzgerald, Boldin, Breaston, Doucet, and misc. Floyd is exactly what I think this offense needed. In my opinion, he is never going to be a 1st round talent. I don't see it in his mindset, or his skill set. But, to make this offense he does not have to be that type of guy. I absolutely hate watching Andre Roberts, or Doucet playing on the outside as a WR, and watch them suffer to get off the line. Watch them try to create space without the quickness, size or power to create it. Floyd will come in and be that second option to move the chains. He can use his power, and body to create space and "be open when covered". Yet, it is not a 100% certainty. The big question is if this guy's hands are NFL quality. If they are he may not have big numbers this year, but he will have big plays.
Roberts, and Doucet move inside to the slot positions, where they go from average to dangerous. Wes Welker makes a living on playing the slot, and using the space he is given to shred ankle ligaments, and drive teams crazy. Neither Doucet or Roberts are in Welker's league, but they are effective, and can break a big play if they are not respected.
The 5th spot, is a ho-hum player. I like my hometown guy is Isiah Williams, but who gets the spot is going to be interesting. There are a lot of bodies at WR and one open spot, barring injury. Plus if Housler does the unexpected, he would be the psuedo 5th WR, and give our empty backfield a little more versitilty. We will see.
Yet, I exepect this WR core to be better as a team, they will have lesser individual numbers, but more success at a full unit because they are more balanced, IMO.
Offensive Line
#1 - it is not easy to put together an offensive line in the NFL. That is understood, and it is getting harder by the year (but that is a story for another day). Do all the reading, research, and thinking about this situation you want. Many on this board spend too much time thinking about this situation. But, why wouldn't we ? Seriously, the offensive line situation in Arizona is like Briggs & Stratton motors in my yard. For some reason, they just will not work like they are supposed to.
Levi Brown, Adam Snyder, Jeremy Bridges. Those are liabilities. Daryn Colledge, and Lyle Sendlien are players that could succeed but need others to shoulder most of the job, role players, "weak links on a good line". Expect more of the same from this offensive line. I don't buy into continuity when you are trying to make talent that is not good enough work. It is like planning to build the most perfect structure that weighs 1000 pounds, on a base that can only hold 800 pounds, and expecting to build on it. It won't work.
I was excited after the draft this year, and still want to be excited after the draft this year. But, I remember the last time we drafted some offensive linemen, and I was excited about it. It didn't last long. Herman Johnson ? Gone. Brandon Keith ? Gone. Russ Grimm head coaching prospects ? Gone. It has been a train wreck, and as much as I want to believe that Bobby Massie, Senio Kelemete, Nate Potter, and company show promise, I cannot get too excited because when was the last time this offensive staff found and played a good offensive lineman ? How well is Rex Hadnot doing these days ? I am hoping for the best, and expecting the worst.
Overall on Offense:
Case in point about our offense. What the heck is the focus ? Are we are run 1st team, past first team ? If we past so much, why do we have these huge tackles that can't move ? If we run so much, why do we have interior linemen that can't push the pile ? If we run so much, why are we relying on battered running backs ? If we pass so much, why are we relying on two QB's that can't carry the game on their backs ? IMO, there is no plan, it is just a mess.
Defensive Line
Ah, the defense! So much more fun to talk about, and there is less to say. Calais Campbell, Darnell Dockett, Dan Williams, David Carter, Nick Eason, and Vonnie Holliday. Where is the problem ? I don't see it. And that is your core going into next season, just look at the roster, there is NO ONE that has a chance, and there is barely any camp fodder at the position. I guess the one question is between Dan Williams and David Carter, but what is the question ? Who is going to start ? Who cares, they are both needed, and both can play well. That is to be celebrated, not lamented.
Linebacker
Daryl Washington is going to put the Cardinals in a very rough position. He is going to breakout this year. The guy is a perfect new age linebacker. Fast, quick, and smart. He can lay a hit, but he knows his game is not power. He plays with finesse, and brains. If he keeps improving he will start to get more attention outside the valley. Good for him, bad for the Cardinals and there wallet. Washington is one of the guys I am turning on the TV to watch this year.
Paris Lenon, Stewart Bradley, Reggie Walker, Quan Sturdivant, Paul Vassallo, Colin Parker, and Marcus McGraw. Bueller ? Anyone ? Anyone ? Paris Lenon who is the second coming of Ronald McKinnon does the job. But, with one more year left in the desert, it makes me nervous. No matter how much I want it to happen, I don't think Stewart Bradley will get back to where he was two years ago, in Philly. If that player ever shows up, man, what a difference in our defense. Bradley was big, strong, smart, a leader, everything you want in a SILB in a 3-4. But, what we see now is a player that has lost a step, lost confidence, and is in no shape to lead because he can't set the example he needs to. Not to mention Bradley has a big salary to his name. By this time next year Lenon and Bradley may be gone. That is where the excitement for this camp comes in. Reggie Walker, Quan Sturdivant, Paul Vassallo, Colin Parker, and Marcus McGraw, are they the answer ? Again, I am hoping for the best and expecting the worse. One of the guys I will be rooting for, just because I like his play, and size is Paul Vassallo, so I will enjoy that little dream until he is cut, LOL.
At outside linebacker, I am very happy with what we have. I have a lot of confidence in Sam Acho, and O'Brien Schofield as pass rushers. Where my confidence in Schofield against the run starts to wane, Clark Haggans being a part of the core helps regain confidence in the core. Pass rushers are a rare talent, and even marginal talent (see Kamerion Wimbley) is very expensive. It is tough to find depth. Yet, that Cardinals have done a good job, IMO, in finding some prospects. Quetin Groves, and Antonio Coleman have played in the NFL before, and Brandon Williams has shown enough promise to stick around. They won't show too much, IMO, and probably will never be starters but for sifting through the pile of low-tier pass rushing prospect, I like who they brought into camp. You can never have too many pass rushing prospects So while depth is a concern, it will always be a concern, on any team, IMO. So, again, I am good with our OLB'ers for the first time in a long, long time.
Defensive Backfield:
The confidence and excitement that I want to have in the offensive line is what I do have in the secondary for this organization. I am excited about bringing William Gay, Jamell Flemming, and Justin Bethel. I think Greg Toler is going to come back and play well, and I think Kerry Rhodes has had enough of hearing constant negativity surrounding his name.
I can't help to be excited for what we have in Patrick Peterson, the resurgence of Adrian Wilson, what we know Toler can do, what we know Rhodes can do, for what confidence we should have in Horton bringing in Williams Gay, what has been put in print about Flemming's ability, the improvement in Rashad Johnson, and the promise that is Justin Bethel. That is not even bringing into the fact you still have James Sanders, Michael Adams, AJ Jefferson, and Crezdon Butler in camp. There seems to be a good balance in the secondary. A lot of opportunity for a lot of players to play a role and be effective. A good mix youth and experience. Plus they can all tackle! I think that this unit, more than any other will provide the most surprises when it comes to who is on the roster at the end of camp, and who plays where.
Overall Defense:
"I want big guys that can run, and small guys that can hit." In one season, Horton has what he wants. Granted I bet he would like some upgrades in some positions, but all in all he definitely has what he needs. He has a plan, he knows what he wants and needs at each position, and has done what he needs to get players in those positions. After all that, he understands what each player brings to the table, and then sets them up in positions where they can use there strengths out on the field and produce. It is almost the opposite of what we have seen year after year for the Cardinals offense.
Special Teams:
:kicksdirt:
I just don't know. Maybe I am wrong, but the opportunity for the Cardinals to make this an asset was wasted this offseason. The Cardinals have a very good core of special teams players. They are fast, athletic, and play very hard. I think we will all be disapointed this year every time a FG is not blocked, LOL. But, it will be in kickers heads this year, I am sure of that. A lot of players known for blocking kicks will be out there.
Peterson, and LSH are good at their trade, even thought the new rules really take LSH and his kickoff returns out of the game. But, that makes Peterson's abilities in the punt return game even more valuable.
Taking the long snapper out of the conversation, our punter is awful, and is a big problem that I have from last year. Seriously ? With the advantage this team COULD HAVE HAD in the 3rd part of the game of football the Cardinals decide to take what could have been a strength and make it a weakness. Ugh. Just Ugh. I hope, we find some vast luck, and some how find a better punter. Feely is fine, but an upgrade is needed, IMO. Really, what is comes down to is an upgrade at punter could really help a team like the Cardinals, and there no offense, big defense setup they have going into the season.
Well, that was fun. Just re-hashing the obvious, I know that, but it was relaxing and gives something to read, and discuss (hopefully) before camp. I must admit, I am looking forward to football this year. Getting ready for fantasy football drafts, and the pre-season games. The promise of a new season, etc., etc.
As for the Cardinals. I don't know. They could easily go 3-13, the could easily go 8-8, and with some luck, and some things "working out as planned" they could win the division and get 10 wins. We will see! Can't Wait!
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