Overs and Unders: Early Predictions of the 2011 College Football Season

The Surprises:

• South Florida - They are not a powerhouse program but have managed to field some high quality teams over the last five years. The defense looks stout with a strong D-line leading the way. DE Ryne Giddens could emerge as a pass-rushing force. LB's Sam Barrington and DeDe Lattimore look like All-Big East players as well. QB B.J. Daniels digressed in 2010 from his '09 form. He needs to be more consistent and produce more big plays that result in TD's. With RB Darrell Scott, a transfer from Colorado, and RB Demetrius Murray, a transfer from Auburn, to hand the ball off to a lot of pressure will be lifted this fall. Stout defense + reliable running game = lots of wins.
• Penn State - The Nittany Lions have two young QB's that possess the raw talent to start for a lot of college teams in Robert Bolden and Mathew McGloin. The chances that one of these guys is going to emerge for them this fall are good. Even if they both struggle a bit Silas Redd is ready to lead the running game and the defense will be strong enough to keep them in most games. Michael Mauti and Gerald Hodges are two of the best LB's in the Big Ten and both will play on Sundays.
• Southern Miss -The Golden Eagles were 18th in the country in total offense last season and return seven starters on that side of the ball, including senior QB Austin Davis. Davis is set to become the all-time career passing leader in Hattiesburg. He has a very good group of receivers to play with too and sophomore RB Kendrick Hardy has the ability to become one the nation's leading rushers. They were also 13th in the country in run defense with five starters in the front seven returning. Sophomore CB Deron Wilson looks like he could eventually develop into a solid pro prospect. Do not be surprised if this team climbs into the top 20 at some point this fall and finishes the season with 11 wins.
• Michigan - If you haven't heard about Denard Robinson you better take note. He averaged nearly seven yards per carry, rushed for 14 TD's, and threw for another 18 TD's on his way to becoming a 1st team All-American as a sophomore last season, and the only player to ever pass for 2,500 yards and rush for another 1500. His rushing attempts will mostly likely go down this season with the team moving back to a power running game, but he will get his fair share of big runs. WR, TE, and OL are all well-stocked with enough talent to compete with anybody. The defense on the other hand, was atrocious the last three years under Rich Rodriquez and defensive coordinator Greg Robinson. New HC Brady Hoke and DC Greg Mattison will get the unit in much better shape this year. The D-line looks like it could be very good this fall. DT Mike Martin is an All-American candidate and LB Kenny Demens could be the best player the team has had in the middle since 1996. The real deal-breaker though could be the return of senior CB Troy Woolfolk from a knee injury that forced him to miss the entire season last year. He could emerge as a leader, which is something the secondary desperately needs. Overall, we should see a different attitude whenever the Wolverine's defense takes the field this fall and that alone could make all the difference in the world.
• Ohio St - After what this program has gone through in the last six months many folks are expecting the Buckeyes to fall off the map, but they have enough talent throughout the roster to still get 10 wins in another weak year for the Big Ten. RB's Rod Smith, Dan Herron, and Jaamal Berry can grind it out and take pressure off whoever plays QB. DeVier Posey is an All-Big Ten performer at WR and Mike Brewster is the top NFL prospect at center in the entire country. DE's Nathan Williams and John Simon will also play on Sundays very soon. The back seven of the defense is a bit green but it's full of top notch recruits from two or three years ago. It really wouldn't surprise me to see them win the Leaders Division and compete in the new conference championship game on December 3rd, while also grabbing a spot in a major bowl game.

The Disappointments:

• Florida - This was one of the biggest groups of underachievers last season considering how much talent is on the team. QB John Brantley lacks confidence and he should be challenged by freshman Jeff Driskel at some point if he doesn't step it up as a leader. There is a ton of speed at RB and WR but the entire offense lacks any real toughness. The O-line is young too. CB Janoris Jenkins, who was one of the Gator's best defenders, was dismissed from the team for personal reasons. The D-line should be very good and Jelani Jenkins looks like the real deal at LB. However, with five sophomores probably starting the defense will be a little too green and I can see this team slipping to another five losses despite getting their toughest opponents (Alabama and Florida State) in the Swamp.
• Texas - The roster wreaks of talent but they are fairly young and seemed to not be getting it last season while stumbling to a 5-7 record and no bowl appearance. QB Garrett Gilbert has the opportunity to gain some confidence and get his game going but he definitely needs to improve his play. Throwing only 10 TD's compared to 17 INT's just won't cut it in Austin. The defense could be very good with some great talent at LB, but they need to find a way to take over games if this team wants to get back to a bowl. With five sophomores with no starting experience on defense that will be a very tough task.
• Michigan State - This is one of the best teams the Spartans have fielded talent-wise with a lot of good players returning from an 11-2 team, but after getting run over by Alabama in the Capital One Bowl (49-7) it is possible that the entire team's confidence has been hit. The real problem, however, exists in the schedule more than anything else as they have to travel to Notre Dame, Ohio St, Nebraska, Iowa, and Northwestern. They also have Michigan and Wisconsin coming to town in back to back weeks. Another 11 win season will be very hard to accomplish and I have a feeling many fans in East Lansing will be severely disappointed this fall.
• Iowa - It may not really be much of a surprise if the team loses five games again in 2010, considering they only return nine starters and the depth chart is littered with underclassmen. It appears that their schedule is not too bad with four of their five road games at Iowa St, Penn St, Minnesota, and Purdue, but an early season loss to Pitt at home could really damage the team's psyche, like what happened after the team got beat in a come-from-behind defeat at the hands of Northwester, who come to town on Oct. 15th. Michigan and Michigan St come on back to back weekends in November and the Hawkeye's final game is in Nebraska on Nov. 25th. Could the team miss the bowl season entirely this year? I wouldn't really bet against it.
• Ohio St - Yes, one of the nation's biggest surprises could also be a big disappointment. In actuality, they have already let their school down by getting into trouble in the first place. It is hard for programs to adjust after losing a respective head coach in the manner that Ohio St lost Jim Tressel and it may surprise a lot of people if the Buckeyes finish in the top 25 at all, but for most Buckeye fans it would be disappointing for them to not win 11 games in any given season. Fans have gotten way too comfortable dominating competition week in and week out and one or two losses early in the season could really rattle Buckeye nation and cause a domino effect that carries them all the way to their first season of not winning the conference championship in over six years.

Why Kolb Over Orton?

One of the big issues on sports talk radio and television shows lately has been the debate over where Kevin Kolb, the former second round pick and current backup to Mike Vick in Philadelphia, will end up playing this season. In all likelihood, that appears to be Arizona. My question though is this: Why is Kolb so highly sought-after?

At the moment the 26 year-old passer has seven starts in four seasons for the Eagles with a 60.8 completion percentage, 11 TD's, and 14 INT's. He has also been sacked 20 times and has a QB rating of 73.2, which is not very good. During his seven games played and five starts in 2010, while Vick was out with an injury, Kolb delivered only seven TD's compared to seven INT's with a 76.1 rating while winning only two games. It seems to me that there is a lot of hype over a guy that has not proven anything up to this point. Aren't there any better options out there?

28 year-old veteran QB Kyle Orton is entering his seventh season and might be heading to Miami to throw the ball to Brandon Marshall and company. In his six seasons with the Bears and Broncos he has compiled a 32-30 record with 71 TD's and 48 INT's. Last season, while playing for the hapless Broncos, he threw for 3,653 yards, 20 TD's, and only nine INT's. Had he been playing for a team that didn't have the worst defense in the league he probably would've won more than three games.

The San Francisco 49ers resigned 27 year-old Alex Smith to compete at QB. While the former number one overall pick in the draft has not lived up to expectations, he still played better than Kolb last season with 14 TD's, 10 INT's, and an 82.1 QB rating while splitting time at the position with Troy Smith. He may have not won a lot of games over the years but it can be argued that the 49er organization has been a complete mess for several years now.

If Orton does finally end up in a Dolphins uniform this fall you can chalk up a win this off-season for Miami. Now they will have a proven winner reaching the pinnacle of his career in Orton and a young, developmental player with starting experience backing him up in Chad Henne.

As for Arizona, they may be trading away some valuable draft picks for a guy that has only been known so far in his career as the guy that got blind-sided by the Mike Vick experiment in Philly. All-pro WR Larry Fitzgerald is entering the last year of his contract in Tempe. If Kolb is not the player that everybody seems to think he is I can't see him resigning with the Cardinals. So in the end, they may just end up with a career backup as starter at QB while the guy that almost won them the Super Bowl a few years ago walks in free agency.

NCAA Football Players to Watch This Fall

Follow the link below to get to our list of top 50 college football players thathttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif will make a huge difference in the upcoming season. Alabama appears to be loaded with defensive studs, especially at linebacker, and there may be a few QB's in that list that you have never even heard of before!

Check it out!

Top 50 College Players to Watch This Fall

NCAA Football Pre-Season Top 25

1. Oklahoma - A talent-packed roster with Heisman-hopeful QB Landry Jones running the offense. Jones also has one of the best groups of receivers to throw to downfield. Overall, they are arguably the most talented team in the country and they should blow through most of the Big 12 conference on their way to the BCS National Title game in New Orleans.
2. Alabama - The Tide lose Heisman Trophy-winning RB Mark Ingram, explosive WR Julio Jones, dependable QB Greg McElroy, and star DT Marcell Dareus, but talent is still simply oozing out of this roster once again. The defense, which has four All-American candidates and several pro prospects, should be one of the country's best. The SEC is relatively weak compared to other years so the Tide could simply roll on to meet the Sooners in New Orleans. They could just as easily be number one right now as anybody.
3. Notre Dame - This may seem like a reach to most folks but when you really study the talent on the depth chart it's hard to imagine this team not putting together one of its best seasons in recent memory. QB Dayne Crist will need to stay healthy and highly touted RB's Cierre Wood and Jonas Gray need to put together great seasons if the team wants to finally compete for a national title. WR Michael Floyd and LB Manti Te'o are two guys the pro scouts have ranked among the best at their respective positions. IF they can get through their first four games unscathed (South Florida, Michigan, Michigan St, and Pitt) they should be in position to grab a BCS bowl berth before facing Stanford to end the season.
4. LSU - 15 starters return on a deep roster from an 11-2 Tiger team last year. A lot will be hinging on senior QB Jordan Jefferson, who needs to finally put together a strong season from start to finish. They face Oregon on September 3rd in Arlington, TX to start the season and have to travel to Tuscaloosa to face Alabama on November 5th. Those are not easy tasks but if they can pull off a pair of wins in those games it will be hard to overlook them. Can Jefferson pull off a Cam Newton-like performance?
5. Boise State - This team has been dominating a weak WAC conference over the years and now move to a tougher MWC and open the season in Atlanta against Georgia. QB Kellen Moore was a Heisman finalist last season and OT Nate Potter is one of the nation's best. The Broncos won't make it to New Orleans on January 9th but they could go undefeated once again while playing a relatively weak schedule overall.
6. Oregon - RB LaMichael James is as explosive of a player as there is in the country and the offense as a whole is fun to watch. This team was just three points shy of a national championship last season and they should make another fine run, but I have a feeling that some teams will have them figured out this season. Illegal recruiting allegations also may be a bit of distraction but don't count the Ducks out just yet. They open the season against LSU and the winner of that game could go on to play for it all.
7. Florida State - Another solid program with a ton of talent that may just finally put together a great season once again. The D-line looks to be one of the country's best and if the young LB's show up and play well the defense will be stout from top to bottom. DE Brandon Jenkins could be a top ten pick in the draft in 2012.
8. Virginia Tech - This team saw its 2010 season blow up in their faces very quickly after losses to Boise St and James Madison in the first two weeks. The Hokies always put together great defense and special teams units and if first-year starting QB Logan Thomas, a former TE, and RB David Wilson can put together great seasons this team will march into a BCS bowl come January.
9. Texas A & M - The Aggies ripped off late wins against Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Texas last season and return 18 starters! QB Ryan Tannehill, RB Cyrus Gray, and WR Jeff Fuller are one of the nation's best offensive combos and the defense should continue to improve. They have to travel to Oklahoma to play the Sooners but they get Oklahoma St and Texas at home and Nebraska is now gone to the Big Ten.
10. Nebraska - Looking to take the new-look Big Ten Conference by storm, the Cornhuskers have all the right pieces in place to make a run. However, with some tough road games against Wisconsin, Penn St, and Michigan, it's hard to see them getting through undefeated. An 11-1 season and a bid in the first ever Big Ten Championship game is not out of reach though.
11. Georgia - This has been one of the biggest underachieving programs in the entire country and they were very inconsistent last season. Perhaps this young, talented squad has matured over the off-season and looks to take advantage of a terrible SEC East this year. Boise St (in Atlanta), Florida (in Jacksonville), South Carolina (in Athens), and Auburn (in Athens) are the biggest tests and they do not play any of them on hostile turf. Sophomore QB Aaron Murray could be emerging as the best in the conference.
12. Stanford - Despite the change in head coaches this is a talented squad that isn't really changing too much in schemes. QB Andrew Luck is considered the best pro prospect in the country and he's got some quality blockers in front of him. The defense ranked 21st in the country and returns six starters. WR Chris Owusu is one of the best kick returners in the country. Another 11-1 season, a Pac 12 Championship, and a Rose Bowl appearance seems possible.
13. Southern Cal - The Trojans may not be able to play for a Pac 12 Championship and they may not be able to participate in a bowl, but they still have a very good team with a bunch of pro athletes. QB Matt Barkley is as good as any other USC QB in the last couple decades. That says a lot about his abilities.
14. South Carolina - RB Marcus Lattimore and WR Alshon Jeffrey will give coach Steve Spurrier two of the country's top weapons to design his offense around. Too much may be riding on senior QB Stephen Garcia, who needs to throw more TD's and less INT's, and incoming freshman DE Jadeveon Clowney, who had 52.5 sacks his last two years in high school, for the Gamecocks to really compete for an SEC championship.
15. Arkansas - The offense will be explosive once again with a fine set of backs and receivers. The defense should be one of the SEC's best as well. Trips to Tuscaloosa and Baton Rouge will be tough but at worst they look like a three loss team, which should still be enough to get them into a quality bowl game.
16. Wisconsin - With the addition of QB Russell Wilson, who transferred from NC State, the offense looks like it will be one of the best in the Big Ten. RB's Montee Ball and James White both had over 1,000 yards rushing last season and might be the nation's best running back tandem. WR Nick Toon also returns from injury. The defense does not appear to be as strong as usual but they are not talentless either. They also get their toughest opponents at home this year with the real road challenges at Ohio St and Michigan St.
17. TCU - The Horned Frogs are one of the best programs in the country at developing their players and continue to field strong defenses every year. With the biggest test being Boise St they could find themselves playing in a big bowl game.
18. Texas - Once again they are one of the most talented teams in the country but they severely broke down and stumbled to a 5-7 record in 2010 so it's hard to predict just where they will end up this year. QB Garrett Gilbert needs to step up and be a leader but he seems to lack confidence ever since filling in for Colt McCoy and getting smacked by Alabama in the '09 BCS Title game. It is time to take the next step or somebody else will be given the chance.
19. Oklahoma State - QB Brandon Weeden and WR Justin Blackmon could become household names this fall and RB Joseph Randle should average over five yards per carry once again. If the young defense can overachieve a bit this team could surprise everybody once again after going 11-2 last year. The schedule is brutal though and it's hard to imagine them not losing at least two games.
20. Ohio State - They will slip a little bit in the new Big Ten after losing HC Jim Tressel and QB Terrelle Pryor, but don't count this team out of anything. They still have one of the most talented college rosters in the country due to top recruiting classes over the last several years. The defense will be very good and it would not surprise me one bit to see this team roll off 10 wins and claim a spot in a major bowl game.
21. South Florida - The Bull's defense looks like a top 20 unit and they could also be fielding the best offensive backfield in the Big East. QB BJ Daniels didn't play as well last year as he did in '09. If he can get back to form this could be a 10 win team.
22. Arizona State - The Sun Devils have a lot of potential and could be the surprise team in the Pac 12 this year. Their defense should be solid enough to keep them in most games and compete for a conference championship.
23. Michigan - Most people don't even have the Wolverines ranked in the top 40, but from a strictly talent standpoint this ranking makes total sense and when you see what's going on in Ann Arbor these days it's reasonable to say the team has made great strides since new head coach Brady Hoke was hired. QB Denard Robinson and WR Roy Roundtree are threats to score on any given play and the defense will be much improved.
24. Penn State - As good of a college football program as you will find anywhere. They have the players to field a very competitive team once again in 2011 but they finish out the season with back to back road trips to Ohio St and Wisconsin.
25. North Carolina - There are some quality players on this roster, especially in the defensive front seven. If one of the young QB's steps up this team could challenge for an ACC title.
Other teams getting top 25 consideration: Pitt, Miami (FL), Southern Miss, Houston, Michigan State

Women's World Cup Soccer

Congratulations to Japan on becoming the 2011 Women's World Cup Soccer (Football) Champions! You all worked so hard and played so patiently as a team. The entire world witnessed the type of bravery and poise that your country possesses. I wish you all the best as a nation.

Just as much, we as a country are proud of our ladies for standing up and competing against some serious competition throughout the World Cup tournament. With some serious heroics of your own you captivated a nation and brought us all together once again. I appreciate all that you have done to progress the sport of women's soccer by playing up to any and all challenges. I look forward to watching more of you all in the future.

Thanks to all the World Cup organizers, sponsors, and of course all the athletes. Your contributions to the world are appreciated. Peace, love, and best wishes to all!

Early Summer Rankings

As we near the end of June there is realistically no training camp in sight quite yet, and until the owners settle their differences amongst themselves and the players we as fans cannot plan on the season starting on time. That doesn't mean we will not have a season though. As I've said before, I believe the show will go on sooner or later because there is too much at stake for everybody.

Having said that, it is time to start evaluating each team's roster based on the talent they have on hand at the moment. A lot could change in the next few months, especially if free agency happens, but it is obvious to me which direction each team is going.

1. Green Bay Packers - The defending Super Bowl Champs are also one of the youngest teams in the league. Their draft was solid overall but lacks any real firepower. Derek Sherrod, Randall Cobb, and D.J. Williams are nice additions as far as depth goes on offense but the rest of the crop could easily be training camp fodder, if there is a training camp this year. That brings up an interesting thought: Would most of these rookies even get a shot to make the team if there is no pre-season?
2. Pittsburgh Steelers - You have to give the defending AFC Champs credit, as they continue to find ways to win year after year in a league filled to the brim with quality talent and parity. First round pick Cam Heyward has the skills to be a dominant DE in their scheme.
3. New Orleans Saints - Even though they got thumped by Seattle in the first round of the playoffs last year, the Saints are a talented team that got a lot better on draft day. RB Mark Ingram and DE Cam Jordan could both start immediately, helping the run offense and the run defense.
4. Baltimore Ravens - It is very difficult to look at this roster and think that they do not have a chance at making a strong run for a conference championship. All the pieces are in place and the team drafted some nice prospects, including CB Jimmy Smith from Colorado, who may have been the best pure cover-corner in the draft, and WR Torrey Smith, who brings speed and great run-after-the-catch ability to the position.
5. Philadelphia Eagles - Michael "Madden" Vick put on a show last year and looks to do that all over again. This is one of the fastest teams in the league and they should challenge for the NFC championship. The draft produced 11 picks that should help on special teams and improve the overall depth of the team.
6. New York Jets - One of the most over-rated teams in the league, the Jets need to learn to just keep their mouths shut and play ball. They do have the talent to beat anybody but they are a little too green at some key positions, including QB. Do not be surprised if a team like Miami beats them out for a playoff spot.
7. San Diego Chargers - The biggest underachievers in the league, the Chargers led the league in both total offense and total defense in 2010 but failed to make the playoffs in a weak AFC West division. With all the talent here they should be competing for the Lombardi Trophy in 2011 but the odds are they won't.
8. Atlanta Falcons - Another team with a lot of nice pieces in place, including Pro-Bowl players in QB Matt Ryan, RB Michael Turner, and WR Roddy White. However, the defense seems to be missing the right type of attitude and leadership it takes to compete for a ring. Somebody needs to step up at DT and LB. With the addition of first round pick WR Julio Jones maybe the Falcons think they can outscore the likes of Green Bay or New Orleans.
9. New England Patriots - Tom Brady and company will look to make another Super Bowl run, but the team still needs to address its outside pass-rush. The draft brought some promising talent to the OT and RB positions, and QB Ryan Mallet could turn out to be a quality backup.
10. New York Giants - I love the drafts they have put together in recent years and if everybody stays healthy they should put together a nice season. In the end, this team may just be loaded with enough talent to take it all again.
11. Indianapolis Colts - Whenever QB Peyton Manning, the NFL's wealthiest man, is on the field you have a chance to put points on the board. This team just needs to improve on its 20th ranked defense in order to put another title run together. The team did take some nice steps towards protecting their prized QB by drafting OT's Anthony Costonzo and Ben Ijalana in the first two rounds of the draft. Third round DT Drake Nevis could be a steal as well.
12. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - No other team has drafted better than the Bucs over the last few years. Third-year QB Josh Freeman is possibly on the verge of becoming one of the NFL's top passers and the DL is loaded with young talent. The team started several rookies at RB, WR, OL, DL, and S in 2010 while putting together a 10 win season. This is definitely a team on the rise.
13. Houston Texans - Third in total offense and 30th in total defense is the tale of the tape here. I love the J.J. Watt pick in the draft as the team needs bigger DE's to run the new 3-4 defense. Linebackers DeMeco Ryans, Brian Cushing, and second round OLB/DE Brooks Reed could all have big years in the new D. They will have to in order for them to make a run in the AFC South.
14. Kansas City Cheifs - The surprise team of the AFC West should be competitive again. The Chiefs put together one hell of a draft that should at least improve the overall depth of the team, despite the fact that they reached for WR Jonathan Baldwin in the first round. A 10 win season is likely but another playoff berth will be tough to accomplish. Watch out for them in another year.
15. Chicago Bears - This team is over-rated as they squeaked their way into a division title and a first round bye in the playoffs. Jay Cutler is not, and never will be, an elite QB, especially with a horrendous O-line in front of him. Taking DT Stephen Paea in the second round was brilliant and he should help the run defense immediately. Overall, this looks more like an 8-8 team than anything.
16. Detroit Lions - Another team on the rise, the Lions possess two of the NFL's best players at their respective positions in WR Calvin Johnson and DT Ndamukong Suh, and they have several others on the verge of breakout seasons, including QB Matt Stafford and TE Brandon Pettigrew. The additions of DT Nick Fairley, WR Titus Young, and RB Mikel Leshoure in the draft could help solidify things just enough in terms of depth to get the team over the hump and nab a playoff spot.
17. Miami Dolphins - I believe the talent is there in all the right places for this team to make a run. A lot is hinging on QB Chad Henne's ability as a starter, although I believe it's way too early to call him a bust yet. Taking RB Daniel Thomas in the second round is a move that could pay off immediately and help take pressure off the young passer. The defense, which was sixth overall, will be the key to any success.
18. Seattle Seahawks - They surprised everybody with a convincing playoff win against the Saints after being the first team to make the post-season with a losing record. The truth is, however, that they should not have been there in the first place and it exposed a hole in the NFL's system of determining playoff teams. This team is still a couple years away from really being good but they will at least be competitive again in 2011.
19. Jacksonville Jaguars - With the addition of QB Blaine Gabbert through the draft the team seems well-stocked at the position and they could challenge for a playoff spot in a competitive division. However, it appears they could be headed for L.A. so forgive the fans in J-ville if they are not too excited.
20. Dallas Cowboys - The biggest underachievers in the NFC did improve their overall talent on the roster through the draft. OT Tyron Smith is a smooth athlete and is intelligent enough to pick up the pro game and RB DeMarco Murray could help take a lot of pressure off Tony Romo. They still need a lot of work though before they become winners again.
21. Washington Redskins - One of the worst franchises in all of American sports when you consider how much money is put into a lackluster product on the field, the Redskins have too many question marks to make me want to put money on them. I do love the drafting of DE/OLB Ryan Kerrigan, DE Jarvis Jenkins, and WR Leonard Hankerson.
22. Cleveland Browns - I love the draft picks this team has made over the last few years and Colt McCoy might just have the "it" factor to be a good NFL QB. It's just really too bad they have to play the Steelers and Ravens twice each year, but they do get to play the Bengals twice too and the schedule could be weak enough overall with away games in San Francisco, Oakland, and Arizona, and home games against St Louis, Seattle, and Tennessee, to put them in position to nab a playoff spot.
23. St Louis Rams - QB Sam Bradford is making believers out of many folks and the addition of TE Lance Kendricks and WR's Austin Pettis and Greg Salas in the draft should bolster the receiving arsenal a bit. First round pick Robert Quinn could be the pass-rusher the defense needs to take the next step. Lucky for them they play in the league's worst division.
24. San Francisco 49ers - The defense was decent last year, ranking 13th overall, but they did not get much help from the offense, which ranked 24th. This team will go only as far as whoever plays QB will take them but Head Coach Jim Harbaugh could be the difference-maker that they need on the sidelines. Could Kevin Kolb be an option at QB?
25. Minnesota Vikings - There may be a huge question mark at QB but the roster is solid enough overall to put together some wins. RB Adrian Peterson may be facing a tough road ahead in 2011, unless rookie Christian Ponder or second-year passer Joe Webb can get the ball out to the receivers.
26. Oakland Raiders - The biggest problem with this franchise is the owner. If the O-line and the secondary can hold their ground this team could be the big surprise of 2011. Just give Jason Campbell some protection and he will be just fine.
27. Carolina Panthers - Until Cam Newton delivers at QB the team will rely on its running game to get things going on offense. Jimmy Clausen could step in if Newton takes a while to adjust to the pro game. The defense could've used a boost against the run, and maybe third round DT Terrell McClain will help, but that is a lot to ask of the young man. They need a lot of help at WR and DB.
28. Tennessee Titans - They reached for QB Jake Locker in the draft but he should be a big step up from Vince Young in the long run. WR Kenny Britt might be going to jail for a while too so the passing game may take a while to develop. The team drafted several guys that should be solid contributors on defense and special teams down the road, including LB Akeem Ayers, DT Jurrell Casey, LB Colin McCarthy, and DE Karl Klug.
29. Denver Broncos - I am not a believer in Tim Tebow or Knowshon Moreno but but the defense will get better with the return of OLB Elvis Dumervil and the drafting of OLB Von Miller. Of course, they did rank dead last in total defense in 2010 so there is only one way to go.
30. Cincinnati Bengals - I do like the young talent on the roster but it is hard to accomplish much in this league with a rookie QB. They are in rebuilding mode but could be a force in two or three years.
31. Arizona Cardinals - Without a legitimate starting QB it really doesn't matter how good your receivers are downfield. CB Patrick Peterson and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie have the talent to become the best cornerback tandem in the league, but that will take a lot of hard work. Get a QB and things will get better in Tempe.
32. Buffalo Bills - DT Marcel Dareus is a huge upgrade on the DL, literally. The league's worst run defense should get better with him in the mix. The roster is not that bad overall but the guys they have need to play more consistently as a team. I have never been a fan of Head Coach Chan Gailey so it may come as no surprise that I believe he is the biggest problem.

Checking In and the Top Ten Things to Do if There is No NFL Season

It has been nearly three months since the 2011 NFL Draft and nothing more concerning business on the field has been conducted due to the current lockout situation. For any of you that are not aware of this holdup you obviously have not been paying too much attention, which is not a bad thing. This labor dispute between the league and the players concerning $900 million in revenue ultimately has nothing to do with us as fans, and hopefully the multitude of Americans that watch the NFL actually have something better to do than worry about what kind of deal is being worked out.

I for one do not care about the details of the business side of things concerning football. First of all, it is really none of my business. Secondly, I do have a life of my own. I understand that I am just a fan that willingly pays to see the NFL product one way or another, and I even go one step further and write about it for virtually nothing in return. I do not have any real vested interest in the NFL so I do not have a say in how things operate. I am just too damned busy enjoying myself to worry about what kind of deal those running the league are working out amongst themselves and the players anyway. When they get their stuff in line I will gladly indulge without taking anything personally. After all, it is just a business and my ultimate happiness does not hinge on other people's business dealings.

I know a lot of fans, especially the blue collar folk out there, feel like they have been slapped in the face over this multi-million dollar disagreement. As far as I am concerned no fan has any real justification for being upset. I'd like to think that this is still a free market capitalist society that thrives on the theory of supply and demand. If it is then there will most-likely be an NFL season to look forward to in our near future. However, if the league decided to close up shop for good that is their decision and they have every right to do just that, just as Post Cereals has a right to stop producing Fruity Pebbles if that is the direction they want to go as a business. Whether or not thousands of college kids that cannot cook for themselves go hungry is not the company's responsibility.

Obviously, I for one do not find too much value in traditions but don't misinterpret my words. I would not be happy to see us lose one single season of pro football. The point I am trying to make here is simply that professional football is THEIR business, not OURS. They, being the league and its owners, have every right to do what they want with their product no matter what we as fans might think. The players do not have to like it either, as they too have other options.

If the players decide that they should take their business elsewhere there is always the CFL (Canadian Football League) or the UFL (United Football League). If they are not happy with any of those options either there is always the possibility of them starting their own league, owned and operated by the players for the pure enjoyment of the fans. Now think about that for a minute. Do the players really need the NFL? I don't think so. Even if most of the uber-elite players in the NFL, such as Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, decided to stick it out with Commissioner Roger Goodell and the owners, imagine if a large group of players, consisting of the likes of Reggie Bush, James Harrison, Chad Ochocinco, or Donovan McNabb decided it was in their best interest to explore other avenues for employment. Most of us would probably watch it at least a little bit, especially if there was no NFL season.

Of course most fans would have a hard time not rooting for their favorite NFL franchise. Some habits do indeed die hard. I do believe though, that if we the fans were left with no other choice than to watch the UFL, or some other form of professional football, we would. I know I would. I even watched the XFL, despite its laughable attempt to make the game more entertaining. Remember, the Super Bowl was not always as big as it is today, with the first title game having over 30,000 empty seats in the L.A. Coliseum. In fact, all the fans in attendance of Super Bowl I were moved to the center of the stands to make it appear as if the stadium was full on TV. As we all know today regular season tickets average about 100 bones and one should expect to dish out a few grand to make it to the Super Bowl.

In all, do not expect me to weigh in too much on what is going on behind closed doors in the NFL. Let them conduct their business as they see fit. Things will work themselves out eventually. Until then find something else to do. In fact, here is a list of ten things to do this fall if there is no NFL season:

1. Watch College Football and argue about the need for a playoff system.
2. Watch the MLB playoffs and the World Series.
3. Watch the beginning of the NHL season (Looks like the NBA is headed for a lockout as well so forget about pro basketball)
4. Go for a hike.
5. Make a baby.
6. Celebrate Oktoberfest.
7. Plan and stock up for the 2012 apocalypse.
8. Go fishing.
9. Listen to the new album by The Deal with 44 due out sometime in November.
10. Watch the CFL and UFL.

Remember, these are just suggestions. If anybody has any better ideas please let me know what they are as I am always looking for something new to try.

Quick First Round Analysis: Surprise!

1. Carolina Panthers: QB Cam Newton - A big risk here but I cannot criticize it because I had this one pegged in my first mock, and in the end it could be one well worth making. I have never denied Newton's ability as an athlete and a college player, but the NFL is a whole new ballgame. Whether or not he is up to the task is up for debate. We will just have to wait and see.
2. Denver Broncos: LB Von Miller - Possibly the best player in the draft, Miller should help out on defense immediately. I love his attitude as well as his ability on the field. He and Elvis Dumervil cold be destroying QB's for a long time.
3. Buffalo Bills: DT Marcel Dareus - As soon as he got through the first two picks I figured this was a lock. He could have just as easily gone first overall. The league's worst run defense just got better.
4. Cincinnati Bengals: WR AJ Green - Somebody has to eventually replace Batman and Robin, so it may as well be the best WR prospect we have seen since Calvin Johnson came out.
5. Arizona Cardinals: CB Patrick Peterson - A lot of raw ability as an athlete and could turn out to be the best player overall. I don't think anybody had this one pegged but you definitely cannot knock the organization for taking Peterson over anybody, especially Blaine Gabbert.
6. Atlanta Falcons: WR Julio Jones - A big move up for the Falcons but they now have the guy they wanted. Despite his case tendency to drop the ball, Jones is big, strong, and can leap with the best of them. His monster workouts bumped his stock up the last couple months.
7. San Francisco 49ers: DE Aldon Smith - The word is that Smith probably could have been a top five pick next year as he is young and still developing. I figured Jim Harbaugh and gang would go defense, I just didn't think it would be Smith.
8. Tennessee Titans: QB Jake Locker - A year ago this would have not been a surprise, but this year most folks, including myself, had him pegged as a second round value. They saw something they liked in him and took him. Despite his ugly stats, this guy is a winner that could have done greater things on a better college team.
9. Dallas Cowboys: OT Tyron Smith - The first pick that turned out just the way I predicted brings a great athlete to the 'Boys O-line, which is something they have needed for a couple years now. It may take a while but Smith could turn out to be something special.
10. Jacksonville Jaguars: QB Blaine Gabbert - The organization is comfortable with David Garrard for now but they obviously believe they need an upgrade soon in order to be a playoff contender. Give him some time and he could give them the same type of play that Ben Roethlisberger gives the Steelers.
11. Houston Texans: DE J.J. Watt - Great hustler that fills a need as this team has to improve on defense in order to make the playoffs. Watt could play end or tackle for the Texans.
12. Minnesota Vikings: QB Christian Ponder - A bit of a reach for sure, as this guy would have been available late in round one. However, I like the fact that the team needed a QB and they didn't hesitate to go after one.
13. Detroit Lions: DT Nick Fairley - Chris Berman said it best when he exclaimed "Wow", as in Watch Out World. Fairley and (Ndamukong) Suh will be a pair of names that we all will hear a lot of in the near future.
14. St Louis Rams: DE Robert Quinn - The pass-rusher that the team needs dropped from the top ten right into their laps. They would have taken Fairley if he hadn't gone one pick earlier.
15. Miami Dolphins: OG/C Mike Pouncey - This was an easy one to pick in my opinion, as the 'Fins needed blockers and they may have gotten the best one the entire draft in Pouncey. Sure he had some rough moments snapping the ball in 2010 but he was still the Gator's best offensive player.
16. Washington Redskins: DE/OLB Ryan Kerrigan - Nice pick here as Kerrigan attacked the line of scrimmage better than anybody else in college football last season while leading the nation in tackles for a loss.
17. New England Patriots: OT Nate Solder - This draft has been full of surprises so far and this pick is another one. I don't think it is too wise to criticize the Pats organization though, as they can easily make you look stupid in the end.
18. San Diego Chargers: DT Corey Liuget - Could have been a top ten pick as everybody loves his quickness and hustle. Liuget was not really considered to be a great fit in the 3-4 going into the draft but I do not doubt that he has the ability to be a very effective defender for the Chargers.
19. New York Giants: CB Prince Amukamara - The best player available should at least help out at the nickel spot immediately and become a fixture as a starter very quickly.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: DE Adrian Clayborn - Looks like a great fit in my opinion. He is the type of tough guy that this team was known for having on defense several years ago. He was widely considered one of the top overall prospects going into the 2010 season.
21. Cleveland Browns: DT Phil Taylor - He will help plug up running lanes no matter what defensive scheme the Browns run. I actually like him in the 4-3 more than the 3-4 as he reminds me of the Vikings' Pat Williams a lot.
22. Indianapolis Colts: OT Anthony Castonzo - Definitely fills a need and could turn out to be a very good left tackle very quickly.
23. Philadelphia Eagles: OG Danny Watkins - This 26 year-old rookie should start immediately and help bring some consistency to the position.
24. New Orleans Saints: DE Cam Jordan - The Saints had their pick of quality talent here and taking Jordan seems like a great fit for them. He should at least be a steady player for the next ten years.
25. Seattle Seahawks: OL James Carpenter - Lots of upside as a guard or tackle, Carpenter is a huge prospect (6'4" 324 lbs) with the feet to mirror pass-rushers. I think he is going to end up being a pro-bowl caliber guard.
26. Kansas City Chiefs: WR Jonathan Baldwin - Another reach in my opinion, but his size (6'5" 228 lbs) and skills are much needed assets at the position for KC.
27. Baltimore Ravens: CB Jimmy Smith - A strange pick as the team technically missed their pick at #26 and then had to wait a turn. Smith is a top 20 talent with some character concerns. Maybe some quality time with John Harbaugh, Ray Lewis, and Ed Reed will do him some good.
28. New Orleans Saints: RB Mark Ingram -Well, after spending a 2012 first round pick to move up and get Ingram here, it is evident that the team really believes it got a steal in Jordan four picks earlier. The NFC South is really shaping up to be a very interesting division.
29. Chicago Bears: OT Gabe Carimi - No doubt the Bears need help on the O-line and they feel lucky to have Carimi fall to them. There were no decent receivers worth taking here.
30. New York Jets: DL Muhammad Wilkerson - A big guy that should make a nice end in the 3-4 with his power and agility.
31. Pittsburgh Steelers: DE Cam Heyward - I love this pick as Heyward fits the mold of a classic Steelers' end that can stand up linemen, chase down ballcarriers, and occasionally punish the opposing QB.
32. Green Bay Packers: OT Derek Sherrod - A quality pick for the Super Bowl champs as Sherrod not only fills a need, but he fills it with a large frame (6'5" 320 lbs). He also has the feet to be an effective pass-protector and should team with last year's first round pick, OT Bryan Bulaga, to give Aaron Rodgers some quality protection for a long time.

Final 2011 Mock Draft

1. Carolina Panthers (2-14): CB Patrick Peterson, 6'1" 211 lbs. LSU - I know this is going against the grain a bit but in the end Peterson is the best prospect in the draft due to his combination of size, speed, and athleticism, as well as his solid production on the field in college the last three years. He could turn out to be the type of DB that can do the things that Darrel Revis does for the Jets. The second and third rounds should be decent spots to take a QB or a D-lineman.
2. Denver Broncos (4-12): DT Marcel Dareus, 6'3" 306 lbs. Alabama - Could very easily go first overall but if not, Denver would be more than willing to add Dareus to the mix in their front line of defense. His work ethic and scheme versatility bode well for him in the pros.
3. Buffalo Bills (4-12): OLB Von Miller, 6'3" 238 lbs. Texas A & M - The best overall linebacker and pass-rushing prospect in the draft should help out immediately on the Bills' defense. The team may go after a QB in round two.
4. Cincinnati Bengals (4-12): QB Blaine Gabbert, 6'4" 235 lbs. Missouri - Even though it will take a few years for Gabbert to develop, this pick quickly solves any Carson Palmer issues for the team in the future.
5. Arizona Cardinals (5-11): DE Robert Quinn, 6'5" 260 lbs. UNC - An athletic pass-rusher that could play up or down. He should help make things interesting on any defense.
6. Cleveland Browns (5-11): WR AJ Green, 6'4" 208 lbs. Georgia - Cleveland would like to trade down but if they don't find a willing partner Green would be worth the pick here. He has the skills to become a huge difference-maker on offense.
7. San Francisco 49ers (6-10): CB Prince Amukamara, 6'0" 200 lbs. Nebraska - Even though new coach Jim Harbaugh played QB, he is a very defense-minded coach. There are not many highly sought after DB's this year either so I wouldn't be surprised to see San Fran jump on one early. Amukamara possesses a well-rounded game and he should contribute early.
8. Tennessee Titans (6-10): DT Corey Liuget, 6'3" 300 lbs. Illinois - A bit of surprise with Nick Fairley still on the board but Liuget is almost as complete of a prospect as you can find and has been considered a top 15 talent by most analysts for a while now. His stock continues to rise and the lack of red flags makes him hard to pass up for a team that needs to retool its defense a bit.
9. Dallas Cowboys (6-10): OT Tyron Smith, 6'5" 307 lbs. USC - Name another position on the Cowboys that needs talent more than the O-line. This is one of the few picks that hasn't changed since my last mock update as Smith should be able to quickly find a home on the 'Boys roster.
10. Washington Redskins (6-10): WR Julio Jones, 6'4" 208 lbs. Alabama - It's either Jones or Cam Newton here and I believe the 'Skins will go with the "safer" pick as the WR performed as good as anybody at the combine after dominating the college gridiron for the last three seasons.
11. Houston Texans (6-10): DT Nick Fairley, 6'3" 298 lbs. Auburn - The team has tried several times to shore up the D-line and Fairley could help bring a lot of pressure up the middle to assist the porous pass-defense. Amukamara would be an ideal pick here but despite his stock slipping a bit Fairley still possesses a huge upside that could turn out to pay off for the Texans.
12. Minnesota Vikings (6-10): QB Cam Newton, 6'5" 248 lbs. Auburn - I really do not care to hear any comparisons to Daunte Culpepper as Newton is a different type of QB prospect. His combination of size, athleticism, and confidence could help him develop into a type of player that revolutionizes the QB position in the NFL.
13. Detroit Lions (6-10): DE Da'Quan Bowers, 6'4" 280 lbs. Clemson - May not fill the biggest need for the Lions but Bowers should be another piece that helps turn the D-town D-line into one of the best in the league. He was widely considered the top prospect this year until some health issues caused him to slip.
14. St Louis Rams (7-9): OT Anthony Castonzo, 6'7" 300 lbs. Boston College - A four-year starter that is closer to being NFL-ready than most of the other O-line prospects in the draft. This is a bit of a reach but the Rams are determined to put together a solid O-line.
15. Miami Dolphins (7-9): G/C Mike Pouncey, 6'5" 311 lbs. Florida - The 'Fins still need help on the O-line too and Pouncey seems like one of the top two prospects there. His potential is high due to his versatility alone.
16. Jacksonville Jaguars (8-8): DE Adrian Clayborn, 6'3" 285 lbs. Iowa - The Jags continue trying to improve at end to assist the rising talent at tackle. Clayborn has some health issues but he was once considered a top five pick and gets rave reviews from former coaches, teammates, and opponents.
17. New England Patriots (14-2/from Raiders): DE J.J. Watt, 6'5" 290 lbs. Wisconsin - A versatile prospect that hustles himself into a lot of plays. Watt should fit right in at end in the Pats D.
18. San Diego Chargers (9-7): DE Cam Jordan, 6'4" 287 lbs. Cal - Another versatile end that should be able to aptly play the "5" in the 3-4 defense.
19. New York Giants (10-6): RB Mark Ingram, 5'9" 215 lbs. Alabama - Might as well grab the best player on the board since there is no linebacker worth taking here. Ingram is as tough of a runner as you will find in the draft.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-6): Muhammad Wilkerson, 6'4" 315 lbs. Temple - May not be the speedy pass-rusher that everybody seems to covet, but Wilkerson is a big, strong player with the athleticism to help seal up some running lanes and collapse the pocket. The Bucs were one of the worst teams in the league against the run last year and they will seek to improve in that area.
21. Kansas City Chiefs (10-7): DE Ryan Kerrigan, 6'4" 264 lbs. Purdue - Led the nation in tackles for a loss last year and should take over for the aging veteran Mike Vrabel.
22. Indianapolis Colts (10-7): OT Nate Solder, 6'8" 319 lbs. Colorado - It seems that the Colts could go any number of ways here but Solder is one of the few real left tackle prospects available and was once considered a sure-fire top 20 prospect that some, including myself, have grown cold on. Does he have enough sand to anchor against big, strong NFL defenders?
23. Philadelphia Eagles (10-7): CB Aaron Williams, 6'0" 204 lbs. Texas - Williams is a guy that is creeping up draft boards a little bit and could go as high as this in the first round. If the Eagles can improve on defense they could be THE team to beat in 2011.
24. New Orleans Saints (11-6) Aldon Smith, 6'4" 263 lbs. Missouri - I do not have Smith rated as high as other writers but I still think he is a good prospect worth looking at here. I just have a feeling it might take a bit for him to adjust to working in the NFL and he will need to add the bulk required to handle it full time.
25. Seattle Seahawks (7-10): OT Gabe Carimi, 6'7" 314 lbs. Wisconsin - Instead of reaching for a QB here the 'Hawks will either seek a trade down or take Carimi, who is a very good right tackle prospect that could help pave the way for the running game.
26. Baltimore Ravens (13-5): DE Cam Heyward, 6'5" 294 lbs. - Could be another Trevor Pryce-type of player at end, which the team would love to have for another ten years.
27. Atlanta Falcons (13-4): CB Jimmy Smith, 6'2" 211 lbs. Colorado - I had Atlanta taking Aaron Williams here but if he's gone they could go after the next best thing. If Smith can grow up he could become a very good starting corner.
28. New England Patriots (14-3): OL Derek Sherrod, 6'5" 321 lbs. Mississippi State - The team could go defense again here but Sherrod is an intriguing OT prospect that a lot of NFL coaches would love to get their hands on.
29. Chicago Bears (12-6): DT Stephen Paea, 6'1" 303 lbs. Oregon State - Strong player that should help stop the run, create room for the linebackers, and occasionally get in the QB's face.
30. New York Jets (14-6): TE Kyle Rudolph, 6'6" 259 lbs. Notre Dame - Could help out immediately in the passing game and should be more NFL-ready than any of the other receiver prospects that are left on the board.
31. Pittsburgh Steelers (14-5): OG Danny Watkins, 6'4" 310 lbs. Baylor - Another brick to add to the front wall. Watkins should look good next to last year's first rounder and rookie pro-browler, Maurkice Pouncey. An OT or a CB might be more of a need but there are not any as good as this OG.
32. Green Bay Packers (14-6): DE/OLB Brooks Reed, Arizona - Yes, I realize that OLB Akeem Ayers is still on the board but he does not seem to have the fire in his belly or the short area quickness that Reed possesses. He and Clay Mathews could absolutely terrorize opposing offenses for a long time.

The Next Generation Part II: Adding Bricks and Mortar

Back in January I posted a piece highlighting four teams that did not make the playoffs in 2010 but I considered them to be young and on the verge of a post-season run. These teams were the Detroit Lions, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Miami Dolphins, and San Diego Chargers. With the upcoming NFL draft looming in the near future it is time to continue the watch over these teams as they prepare to make some key decisions in their team-building projects.

Included in the following reports are a list of needs, some quick notes, and a full seven round draft analysis for each of the four teams that I consider "teams on the rise". I will be keeping a close eye on them as the decisions made now in April will have drastic effects on how these respective teams develop over the next few years.

NFC

The Detroit Lions (6-10)

Five Top Needs: cornerback, left guard, wide receiver, outside linebacker, o-line

Notes: With only five total selections in the draft the Lions may look to trade down from the 13th spot in the first round. There will be lots of decent talent to choose from in the second, third, and fourth rounds so one or two extra picks in that part of the draft could go a long way towards solidifying the overall roster a little more.

Round One, Pick #13 - CB Prince Amukamara (Nebraska) would be an ideal selection here as he has great size (6'0" 200 lbs) and enough ability to be a solid all-around defender. If he is not available the team might really want to seek a trade down and go after one of the O-linemen that will still be available later. I do not believe any of the top OL prospects are really worth taking this high. Besides, the team only gave up 27 sacks in 2010, which was 6th in the league. WR Julio Jones (Alabama) would be a possibility here too if he's still on the board as there is literally no depth at wide receiver.

Round Two, Pick #44 - This might be a great spot to land an offensive lineman, particularly a guy that can play left guard. Ben Ijalana (Villanova), Orlando Franklin (Miami, FL), and Danny Watkins (Baylor) all could fit the bill. OLB Bruce Carter (UNC) seems to be the popular pick here though, as he seems to possess the raw athleticism, skills, and work ethic to become a good starter in the NFL. The Lions need somebody to take over for veteran Julian Peterson, who is well-beyond his prime. WR Torrey Smith (Maryland) has visited the Lions recently and even said that he thinks Detroit is a "beautiful city". His moves on the field are beautiful too.

Round Three, Pick #75 - This might be a great time to add another receiver. Greg Little (UNC), Leonard Hankerson (Miami, FL), and Jerrel Jernigan (Troy) all possess some intriguing traits and each of them are capable of immediately finding a home as the third receiver on this roster. CB's Kendric Burney (UNC) and Ras-I Dowling (Virginia) are both interesting prospects that could be available here as well.

Round Four, Pick #107 - The great thing about this year's draft is that there should still be some strong talent available to choose from in the fourth round. DE Jeremy Beal (Oklahoma), DT Drake Nevis (LSU), LB Casey Mathews (Oregon), and OL Stefan Wisiewski (Penn St) could all be available when the Lions pick here and any one of them would be welcomed additions to the team.

Round Five, Pick #155 - LB Greg Jones (Michigan State) would be an absolute steal here. OT Jah Reid (UCF), WR Darvin Adams (Auburn), and RB Stevan Ridley (LSU) all could help with depth on offense immediately.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-6)

Five Top Needs: defensive end, cornerback, offensive line, wide receiver, running back

Notes: It looks like starting CB Aqib Talib could be sitting out for a while due to a federal gun charge so a replacement may be needed. EJ Biggers, Elbert Mack, and Myron Lewis all will get first crack at the job though so the team should not panic and reach for a player in the first. There looks to be some decent corner talent in the second and third rounds, which is where the team has had luck drafting corners in the past.

Round One, Pick #20 - There will be a load of talent to choose from here so the Bucs should walk away with a guy they are extremely happy in taking. Ryan Kerrigan (Purdue), Aldon Smith (Missouri), and Cam Jordan (Cal) all could help out immediately at end on defense, while Anthony Castonzo (Boston College), Gabe Carimi (Wisconsin), and Mike Pouncey (Florida) all could contribute on the O-line. There doesn't appear to be much secondary talent to really consider here.

Round Two, Pick #51 - CB Ras-I Dowling has the size and zone-coverage skills that the Bucs love at the position but DE Allen Bailey might be a great fit on the left side of the D-line. DE Jabaal Sheard is a nice talent worthy of a look here too.

Round Three, Pick #84 - TE Luke Stocker (Tennessee) has about as good a chance as anybody to get taken here. He has the size (6'5" 260 lbs) and all-around ability to develop into a nice pro and the Bucs could use some more depth behind starter Kellen Winslow Jr. RB's Demarco Murray (Oklahoma), Johnny White (UNC) and Jacquizz Rodgers (Oregon State) wouldn't be bad choices here either.

Round Four, Pick #115 - DE Pernel McPhee (Mississippi St), WR Austin Pettis (Boise St), TE DJ Williams (Arkansas), and LB Casey Mathews would all be nice picks here.

Round Five, Pick #151 - CB Davon House (New Mexico St) might be a steal here while OT Demarcus Love and could also be available, but OT Zach Hurd (UConn) might be a sleeper worth taking here too. Hurd is big (6'7" 316 lbs.), strong, and quick enough to get out to the second level of the defense.

Round Six, Pick #187 - This might be a good time to stock up on some athletes that can play special teams. There are a lot of receiver prospects with the potential to develop. Dane Sanzenbacher (Ohio St) and Ronald Johnson (USC) are just two of those guys.

Round Seven Picks #222 and #238 - With two picks in the seventh the Bucs will have a couple chances to grab whatever is left of the remaining talent. Some players to keep an eye out for this late include OG Justin Boren (Ohio St), OLB Mark Herzlich(Boston College), RB Noel Devine (West Virginia), WR Jeff Maehl (Oregon), and ILB Greg Lloyd (UConn).

AFC

Miami Dolphins (7-9)

Five Top Needs: outside linebacker, offensive line, wide receiver, running back, quarterback

Notes: QB Chad Henne is still young and has a shot to make some real gains in 2011 as long as he can stay healthy and play more consistently. He could benefit greatly from an improved running game.

Round One, Pick #15 - I like RB Mark Ingram (Alabama) going to the Dolphins here. He may not be fast but he is a tough, down-hill runner that would be a nice compliment to the multi-dimensional Ronnie Brown while assisting in taking some of that pressure of Henne. OLB Akeem Ayers (UCLA), G/C Mike Pouncey (Florida), and OT Tyron Smith (USC) all would be nice selections for the 'Fins. Do not be surprised to see another D-lineman go here as this team always wants to solidify the position.

Round Three, Pick #79 - LB Martez Wilson (Illinois) would be a great pick here in the third if he is still available. He can play inside or outside and possesses enough pass-rush ability and speed to make things a little more interesting on defense. OG John Moffit (Wisconsin) and OT Lee Ziemba (Auburn) are capable of providing some help on the O-line immediately, at least in terms of depth. Jake Locker (Washington), Andy Dalton (TCU), and Colin Kaepernick (Nevada) are three QB's worth watching out for here, although all three should already be gone.

Round Four, Pick #111 - OLB Dontay Moch (Nevada) seems to have the pass-rush skills that Miami could use but he might take a while to truly develop his game. OT Joe Barksdale (LSU) might be able to help a little sooner on the O-line as he is big (6'5" 324 lbs) and versatile (played left and right tackle).

Round Five, Pick #145 - WR's Ricardo Lockette (Fort Valley State) and Terrence Tolliver (LSU) are the type of big, well-rounded players that teams look for in the middle of the draft. The 'Fins seem to always need pass-catchers and these guys could possibly help on special teams too.

Round Six, Pick #179 - DE/OLB Craig Marshall (South Florida), RB John Clay (Wisconsin), and TE Weslaye Saunders (South Carolina) all would be worth a shot right here.

Round Seven, Picks #216, #217, and #234 - The team could possibly use some of these late round picks to move around earlier in the draft. RB Matt Asiata (Utah), C Kris O'Dowd (USC), OT Richard Lapham (Boston College), LB Cobrani Mixon (Kent State), and QB Pat Devlin (Delaware) are a number of guys that could still be hanging around at this point. Take your pick.

San Diego Chargers (9-7)

Top Five Needs: outside linebacker, defensive end, offensive line, wide receiver, safety

Notes: The leagues perennial let-down and all-time paper champs, it can easily be argued that the Chargers have been the team with the most talent over the course of the last ten years. The problems is that they do not have much to show for it at this point. Despite having both the top-rated offense and defense in the league last season, they allowed Kansas City to run away with the AFC West Division Championship and a playoff berth. Excuse the players though if they don't really care because from what I hear nobody's upset due to the weather being great.

Round One, Pick #18: OLB Akeem Ayers could be a nice addition here as the team is in need of an all-around player on the edge of the defensive front seven. DE's Cam Jordan (Cal), Muhammed Wilkerson (Temple), J.J. Watt (Wisconsin), and Cam Heyward (Ohio St) are possibilities as well. Anybody that could immediately help with clogging running lanes or rushing the passer would be fine, and the organization has a reputation of going out of their way to get the guys they covet. They do have extra picks in rounds two and three to entertain plenty of trade opportunities.

Round Two, #50 and #61: DE Allen Bailey (Miami), WR Jonathan Baldwin (Pitt), WR Torrey Smith (Marlyland), OG Clint Boling (Georgia), LB Martez Wilson (lllinois), and OLB Justin Houston (Georgia) are on the watch list of players to be taken at one of these two spots.

Round Three, Pick #82 and #89: LB's Quan Sturdivant (UNC) and Dontay Moch (Nevada) are possibilities here, as are OG's William Rackley (Lehigh) and John Moffit (Wisconsin). Vincent Brown (San Diego St) might be somebody worth adding to the receiving corps right here too.

Round Six, Pick #183 and #201: If S DeAndre McDaniel (Clemson) is still around he might not make it past here. Eric Hagg (Nebraska) and Deunta Williams (UNC) are a couple other safety prospects that could contribute as rookies and develop into solid pros. RB Graig Cooper (Miami, FL) is a crafty player that could find a role in the NFL very quickly. This could actually be a good round for RB's this year.

Round Seven, Pick #234: WR Armon Binns (Cincinnati) would definitely be an attractive prospect here, if he's available. DT Jerrell Powe (Mississippi) has the size (6'2" 335 lbs.) and quickness to be a factor in the front line of defense, but he could be gone too. There may just be a bevy of decent defensive backs to choose from here as well. Scoring a special teams coverage player here would be pure gold.

Scot Acocks also writes for the NFL Draft Dog as an NFL Team Columnist and Beat Writer.

Mock Draft Quick Board

As we creep closer and closer to the draft some things are becoming more clear while others are becoming more foggy. The smokescreens have been implemented a long time ago but visibility has not gotten any better. "Experts" everywhere are left virtually clueless as to what may actually pan out in this year's extravaganza while scouts, coaches, and general managers continuously tweak their draft boards and draw up their game plans.

I too have been changing things along my mock. Everyday it seems I feel a little bit different about certain prospects, particularly the quarterbacks that are available. Personally, I am not very high on any of them. To me it seems that the defensive players that are available, such as Marcel Dareus, Patrick Peterson, and Da'Quan Bowers, are far more valuable and worth the picks at the top of the draft class.

With that mind, here's a look at my updated draft board. Needless to say, it will change again before draft day comes.

First Round

1. Carolina Panthers (2-14): DT Marcell Dareus, 6'3" 306 lbs. Alabama
2. Denver Broncos (4-12): CB Patrick Peterson, 6'1" 211 lbs. LSU
3. Buffalo Bills (4-12): QB Blaine Gabbert, 6'4" 235 lbs. Missouri
4. Cincinnati Bengals (4-12): DT Nick Fairley, 6'3" 298 lbs. Auburn
5. Arizona Cardinals (5-11): OLB Von Miller, 6'3" 238 lbs. Texas A & M
6. Cleveland Browns (5-11): DE Da'Quan Bowers, 6'4" 280 lbs. Clemson
7. San Francisco 49ers (6-10): WR AJ Green, 6'4" 208 lbs. Georgia
8. Tennessee Titans (6-10): DE Robert Quinn, 6'5" 260 lbs. UNC
9. Dallas Cowboys (6-10): OT Tyron Smith, 6'5" 307 lbs. USC
10. Washington Redskins: (6-10): WR Julio Jones, 6'4" 208 lbs. Alabama
11. Houston Texans: CB Prince Amukamara, 6'0" 200 lbs. Nebraska
12. Minnesota Vikings (6-10): QB Cam Newton, 6'5" 249 lbs. Auburn
13. Detroit Lions (6-10): OT Anthony Castonzo, 6'7" 311 lbs. Boston College
14. St. Louis Rams (7-9): DT Corey Liuget, 6'3" 300 lbs.
15. Miami Dolphins (7-9): RB Mark Ingram, 5'9" 215 lbs. Alabama
16. Jacksonville Jaguars (8-8): DE Adrian Clayborn, 6'3" 285 lbs. Iowa
17. New England Patriots (14-2/from Raiders): DE Muhammed Wilkerson, 6'4" 315 lbs. Temple
18. San Diego Chargers (9-7): DE Cam Jordan, 6'4" 287 lbs. Cal
19. New York Giants (14-6): OT Nate Solder, 6'8" 315 lbs.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-6): DE Ryan Kerrigan, 6'4" 263 lbs. Purdue
21. Kansas City Chiefs (10-7): G/C Mike Pouncey, 6'5" 311 lbs. Florida
22. Indianapolis Colts (10-7): DE J.J. Watt, 6'5" 290 lbs. Wisconsin
23. Philadelphia Eagles (10-7): CB Jimmy Smith, 6'2" 211 lbs. Colorado
24. New Orleans Saints (11-6): DE Aldon Smith, 6'4" 263 lbs. Missouri
25. Seattle Seahawks (7-10): OT Gabe Carimi, 6'7" 314 lbs. Wisconsin
26. Baltimore Ravens (13-5): DE Cam Heyward, 6'5" 294 lbs. Ohio St
27. Atlanta Falcons (13-4): FS Rahim Moore, 6'0" 202 lbs. UCLA
28. New England Patriots (14-3): LB Akeem Ayers, 6'3" 254 lbs.
29. Chicago Bears (12-6): DT Stephen Paea, 6'1" 303 lbs. Oregon St
30. New York Jets (14-6): NT Phil Taylor, 6'3" 334 lbs. Baylor
31. Pittsburgh Steelers (14-5): TE Kyle Rudolph, 6'6" 259 lbs. Notre Dame
32. Green Bay Packers (14-6): OG Danny Watkins, 6'5" 311 lbs. Baylor

The Value Board

Do not confuse this list with a mock draft. This is just a list of how I rate the prospects based on their overall value as a player, coupled with where I believe they are worth the taking.

1. CB Patrick Peterson, LSU
2. DT Marcel Dareus, Alabama
3. WR AJ Green, Georgia
4. DT Nick Fairley, Auburn
5. OLB Von Miller, Texas A & M
6. DE DaQuan Bowers, Clemson
7. CB Prince Amukamara, Nebraska
8. QB Blaine Gabbert, Missouri
9. DT Corey Liuget, Illinois
10. QB Cam Newton, Auburn
11. DE Robert Quinn, UNC
12. WR Julio Jones, Alabama
13. DE Adrian Clayborn
14. RB Mark Ingram, Alabama
15. DE Cam Jordan, Cal
16. OT Anthony Castonzo, Boston College
17. DE J.J. Watt, Wisconsin
18. OG/C Mike Pouncey, Florida
19. DE Ryan Kerrigan, Purdue
20. OT Nate Solder, Colorado
21. CB Jimmy Smith, Colorado
22. OT Tyron Smith, USC
23. OLB Akeem Ayers, UCLA
24. DE Muhammad Wilkerson, Temple
25. DE Aldon Smith, Missouri
26. DE Cam Heyward, Ohio State
27. OT Gabe Carimi, Wisconsin
28. DT Phil Taylor, Baylor
29. TE Kyle Rudolph, Notre Dame
30. DT Stephen Paea, Oregon State
31. OT Ben Ijalana, Villanova
32. FS Rahim Moore, UCLA

2011 NFL Mock Draft

With the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race finally coming to an end and my bracket being totally busted in the Sweet 16, I have finally turned my attention to the NFL draft. Personally, I think it's a great year for talent, especially in the second round. As you will see here, teams looking to upgrade key positions should not have any trouble finding the talent they desire.

The strongest and deepest position this year is defensive end, and it is not really even close. In fact, I am predicting that as many as nine players listed as ends will get drafted in the first round, with another three or four going in the second. Defensive tackle should be second with possibly five of them being taken in the first 32 picks. So get 'em while they are hot!

Look for team updates and other mock drafts at the NFL Draft Dog.

First Round

1. Carolina Panthers (2-14): QB Cam Newton, 6'5" 248 lbs. Auburn - The Panthers probably will make this pick for the simple fact that Newton has the potential to be a big star and the organization needs somebody to help put butts in the seats. He is an intriguing story that could turn out to be a revolutionary player at the position.
2. Denver Broncos (4-12): CB Patrick Peterson, 6'1" 211 lbs. LSU - This guy is big, fast, and was one of the best athletes coming out of high school three years ago. Peterson should eventually take over for either the aging Champ Bailey or Brian Dawkins. Either way, many scouts think he is the best player in the entire draft and he should be a pro-bowl player. The Broncos can wait until later to address the front seven.
3. Buffalo Bills (4-12): DT Marcell Dareus, 6'3" 306 lbs. Alabama - Dareus is a good defender that can clog running lanes and rush the passer up the middle. He is the type of active, versatile player that coaches love. The Bills ranked dead last in rushing D. You cannot expect to win many games if you cannot stop the run. This pick to me is a no-brainer if he's still on the board.
4. Cincinnati Bengals (4-12): DE Da'Quan Bowers, 6'4" 280 lbs. Clemson - The Bengals could take Gabbert here to possibly fill the hole at quarterback. Bowers has the ability to be a star on defense though so I recommend they "settle" for him.
5. Arizona Cardinals (5-11): OLB Von Miller, 6'3" 238 lbs. Texas A & M - After collecting 28 sacks over the last two seasons Miller will attempt to pump some life into the Cardinals D. He had his biggest games against the Aggies' toughest opponents in college.
6. Cleveland Browns (5-11): WR AJ Green, 6'4" 208 lbs. Georgia - Your number one receiver should catch at least 50 passes. The only player to do that for the Browns was TE Ben Watson. Green is long, lean, and scored nine TD's in 2010 despite missing four games. If the Browns leave NYC with either Green, Miller, or Dareus it will be a step in the right direction.
7. San Francisco 49ers (6-10): QB Blaine Gabbert, 6'4" 235 lbs. Missouri - It's probably time for Alex Smith to move on and I doubt the organization feels Troy Smith is the answer either. Gabbert is arguably the best QB prospect in the draft with his leadership abilities just as much as his throwing.
8. Tennessee Titans (6-10): DT Nick Fairley, 6'3" 298 lbs. Auburn - I originally had Robert Quinn going here but Fairley's ability to manhandle opponents and make big plays at critical times makes him a perfect fit for the Titans. He reminds me of Warren Sapp, who wasn't any bigger when he came out either.
9. Dallas Cowboys (6-10): OT Tyron Smith, 6'5" 307 lbs. USC - Smith is a strong kid that is still improving his technique. He definitely has the tools to develop into a good left or right tackle in the NFL and the 'Boys need some help up front.
10. Washington Redskins: (6-10): DE Robert Quinn, 6'4" 260 lbs. - Amukamara would be a nice pick here too but the combination of Quinn and Brian Orakpo could wreak havoc on opposing QB's in much of the same way that those guys over in Pittsburgh do.
11. Houston Texans: CB Prince Amukamara, 6'0" 200 lbs. Nebraska - There weren't many other teams out there that could've used a player of Amukamara's talents more than the Texans did last season. He should be an instant upgrade at one of the corner spots.
12. Minnesota Vikings (6-10): DT Corey Liuget, 6'3" 300 lbs. Illinois - An active player that should help continue the Viking tradition of having outstanding players in the middle of their D-line. Liuget's presence should help ease the eventual loss of NT Pat Williams to retirement.
13. Detroit Lions (6-10): WR Julio Jones, 6'4" 208 lbs. Alabama - The Lions really want Amukamara but know they will probably have to move up in order to get him. I know I will get slammed for this pick by some fans but is there another prospect out there that is any better? The Rams, Ravens, Chiefs, or Bears might be willing to trade up for Jones but if they don't the Lions will get a player that will instantly upgrade the offense as a whole. He could challenge veteran Nate Burleson for the #2 spot and he should fit perfectly in the slot with his ability to run after the catch. A pass-protector is much needed as well but there are not any really worthy of being taken here.
14. St. Louis Rams (7-9): DE Adrian Clayborn, 6'3" 285 lbs. Iowa - Clayborn is a great prospect with a few health concerns. He could be a huge piece to the puzzle on defense for the Rams. However, the team would really like Julio Jones and may just move up to get him.
15. Miami Dolphins (7-9): RB Mark Ingram, 5'9" 215 lbs. Alabama - The best player in college football in 2009 was also perhaps the best player in the 2010-11 bowl season as he completely tore open the Michigan State defense in the Citrus Bowl. Ronnie Brown (29) and Ricky Williams (33) both won't be around forever so this pick shouldn't surprise anybody. I believe an Ingram/Brown duo would be deadly.
16. Jacksonville Jaguars (8-8): DE J.J. Watt, 6'5" 290 lbs. Wisconsin - No team in the league has had worse luck with drafting ends in the first round. Watt could finally help solidify a perennial area of weakness on the defense with his all-out hustle and versatility.
17. New England Patriots (14-2/from Raiders): DE Muhammed Wilkerson, 6'4" 315 lbs. Temple - Looks the part of an end in the 3-4. Wilkerson can take on blockers and punish ball-carriers with his size and strength. Belichick loves these types of guys in the first round.
18. San Diego Chargers (9-7): DE Cam Jordan, 6'4" 287 lbs. Cal - A versatile player who looks like a good fit at end in the 3-4 due to his strength and size. He also ran really well in pre-draft workouts so he will at least improve the overall speed of the Chargers' front line.
19. New York Giants (14-6): OT Nate Solder, 6'8" 315 lbs. - Eli Manning threw a lot of INT's in 2010. The team needs to do some things to help instill some confidence back in him. Solder might be the man for the job as he is a very intriguing left tackle prospect, capable of keeping defenders off Manning's back.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-6): OT Anthony Castonzo, 6'7" 295 lbs. Boston College - A defensive end is a priority but it is no more important than protecting the rising star the team has in QB Josh Freeman. Castonzo was a four-year starter and can play either side of the line. He might be the most NFL-ready left tackle prospect in the draft.
21. Kansas City Chiefs (10-7): OT Gabe Carimi, 6'7" 314 lbs. Wisconsin - A mauler that can get after defenders and make them disappear once he locks on, Carimi will help make life easier for QB Matt Cassel and RB Jamal Charles.
22. Indianapolis Colts (10-7): G/C Mike Pouncey, 6'5" 311 lbs. Florida - With his skills he should be able to find a home somewhere in the interior of the Colt's starting line. His twin brother Maurkice made the pro-bowl as a rookie with the Steelers, which definitely helps Mike's cause.
23. Philadelphia Eagles (10-7): CB Jimmy Smith, 6'2" 211 lbs. Colorado - With the offense looking to be explosive with Vick at QB, the Eagles will work on improving their overall game on defense. Linebacker Akeem Ayers could be an option here as well.
24. New Orleans Saints (11-6): DE Aldon Smith, 6'4" 263 lbs. Missouri - Good measurables and a solid body of work on tape, Smith should work himself into the Saint's rotation early and eventually take over as a starter.
25. Seattle Seahawks (7-10): DE Ryan Kerrigan, 6'4" 264 lbs. Purdue - Led the nation in tackles behind the line of scrimmage. Kerrigan should help the 'Hawks pass-rush.
26. Baltimore Ravens (13-5): DE Cam Heyward, 6'5" 294 lbs. Ohio St - Might remind some fans of Trevor Pryce. You know it's a good draft when you can find talent like Heyward this late in the first round.
27. Atlanta Falcons (13-4): CB Aaron Williams, 6'0" 204 lbs. Texas - The idea here is to add a guy that can help slow down the Saints' and Packers' passing games.
28. New England Patriots (14-3): LB Akeem Ayers, 6'3" 254 lbs. UCLA - The Patriots need more talent on defense to help stop the run and/or rush the passer. Ayers should be able to fill one of those roles for them, perhaps both. He seems to have the makeup of a quality NFL linebacker.
29. Chicago Bears (12-6): DT Stephen Paea, 6'1" 303 lbs. Oregon St - A tremendous talent with great value here. Paea could become a star fairly quickly in Chi-town.
30. New York Jets (14-6): NT Phil Taylor, 6'3" 334 lbs. Baylor - A brawler in the middle with the ability to clog running lanes and push the pocket as long as he does not have to play every down.
31. Pittsburgh Steelers (14-5): WR Randall Cobb, 5'10" 191 lbs. Kentucky - More big-play potential for the Steelers' offense.
32. Green Bay Packers (14-6): OG Danny Watkins, 6'3" 310 lbs. Baylor - The Packers will keep adding talent up front in order to keep Aaron Rodgers upright. Watkins should help improve a weak running game too.

Second Round

33. New England : RB Ryan Williams, 5'9" 212 lbs. Virginia Tech - A competitive guy that possesses a good all-around game. He could help toughen up the offense a little bit.
34. Buffalo: QB Jake Locker, 6'2" 231 lbs. Washington - Patience might pay off for the Bills who would like another option at QB in case Ryan Fitzpatrick doesn't pan out.
35. Cincinnati: QB Ryan Mallet, 6'7" 253 lbs. Arkansas - The guy who just might be able to make everybody forget about Carson Palmer sooner rather than later. Mallet has the strongest arm in the draft.
36. Denver: LB Justin Houston, 6'3" 270 lbs. Georgia - The Broncos just might have a home for a man of Houston's abilities, which include being able to rush the passer.
37. Cleveland: DT Jurell Casey, 6'1" 300 lbs. USC - The Browns need bodies up front and Casey might have the skills to be a good run-stuffer for them.
38. Arizona: TE Kyle Rudolph, 6'6" 259 lbs. Notre Dame - More of a wide-out in tight end's body, Rudolph should be a nice addition to their receiving corps after missing out on the top four QB's in the draft.
39. Tennessee: WR Torrey Smith, 6'1" 204 lbs. Maryland - Should at least provide some big-plays from the slot and should help in the return game, if the league still has one.
40. Dallas: FS Rahim Moore, 6'0" 202 lbs. UCLA - Might help provide some big plays on defense.
41. Washington: QB Andy Dalton, 6'2" 215 lbs. TCU - If the 'Skins pass on a QB early Dalton would be worth the risk here. Give him time and he could develop into a steady signal-caller.
42. Houston: OL Derek Sherrod, 6'5" 321 lbs. Mississippi St - Sherrod is a nice OL prospect with at least average overall ability.
43. Minnesota: OL Benjamin Ijalana, 6'3" 317 lbs. Villanova - Versatile and steady player will find a spot somewhere on the Vikings' O-line.
44. Detroit: OG Orlando Franklin, 6'5" 316 lbs. Miami (FL) - Could be the answer the Lions have been looking for at left guard. He can also play tackle too.
45. San Francisco: CB Brandon Harris, 5'9" 191 lbs. Miami (FL) - Depth in the secondary is always a priority in the NFL so the '9ers can't go wrong here.
46. Denver: DL Allen Bailey, 6'3" 185 lbs. Miami (FL) - A "power" end that can probably play the "5" technique in Denver's 3-4 defense.
47. St Louis: WR Tandon Doss, 6'2" 201 lbs. Indiana - A nice target for QB Sam Bradford, Doss has nice hands and can make big plays.
48. Oakland: CB Curtis Brown, 5'11" 185 lbs. Texas - If Nnamdi Asomugha leaves as a free agent the Raiders will be looking hard to fill that void. Brown should at least improve their overall depth.
49. Jacksonville: WR Titus Young, 5'11" 175 lbs. Boise St - Can he take his game to the next level after tearing up the WAC for the last few years? He's not a burner but his run-after-the-catch skills are about as good as any other receiver in the draft.
50. San Diego: DE/OLB Brooks Reed, 6'3" 261 lbs. Arizona - Should provide more competition at a critical area for the Chargers.
51. Tampa Bay: Jabaal Sheard, 6'3" 264 lbs. Pitt - Not an elite pass-rusher but a decent all-around end prospect with the leverage to anchor against the run. He reminds some scouts of former Buc DE Greg Spires.
52. New York Giants: OL Marcus Cannon, 6'5" 358 lbs. TCU - Size does matter when run-blocking and Cannon has plenty of it. He is also surprisingly versatile and possesses quick feet for a man of his stature.
53. Indianapolis: DT Terrell McClain, 6'2" 297 lbs. South Florida - Another plugger in the middle of the D-line would really do the Colts some good. McClain has been an underrated player for the Bulls the last two years.
54. Philadelphia: OG Clint Boling, 6'4" 309 lbs. Georgia - Football smarts and good instincts make him a top-notch guard prospect. He just needs to spend a year or two in the weight room.
55. Kansas City: WR Jonathan Baldwin, 6'4" 228 lbs. Pitt - Long-strider can catch anything throw at him. He could be a decent complement to Dwayne Bowe.
56. New Orleans: RB Mikel Leshoure, 5'11" 227 lbs. Illinois - A secure ball-handler with enough power to make defenders pay and enough skills to be a good all-around back in the NFL.
57. Seattle: WR Greg Little, 6'3" 231 lbs. UNC - Extra large wide-out with the ability to make big plays. He and Mike Williams could develop into a red-zone nightmare for defenses.
58. Baltimore: ILB Martez Wilson, 6'4" 250 lbs. Illinois - Solid run-stuffer could eventually take over for Ray Lewis if he ever slows down and decides to retire.
59. Atlanta: DT Marvin Austin, 6'3" 300 lbs. UNC - Once thought to be a top ten talent, his stock has slipped due to concerns about his commitment to the game. At this point he is worth the risk based on natural abilities. He could end up being a steal.
60. New England: OG William Rackley, 6'5" 303 lbs. Lehigh - Belichik knows the value of keeping your O-line stocked with talent. Rackley has all the tools to develop into a solid starter.
61. San Diego: WR Leonard Hankerson, 6'2" 209 lbs. Miami (FL) - Improved his stock at the combine and could become a nice third or fourth option for the Chargers in the passing game.
62. Chicago: CB Ras-I Dowling, 6'1" 198 lbs. Virginia - A good zone corner that could find a role very quickly in the Bears' defensive schemes.
63. Pittsburgh: ILB Quan Sturdivant, 6'1" 240 lbs. UNC - Everybody knows how much the Steelers love to stockpile linebackers and Sturdivant could develop into a quality starter for them inside.
64. Green Bay: WR Jerrel Jernigan, 5'9" 185 lbs. Troy - People in Wisconsin will be like "who?", until they see him run with the ball in his hands. Jernigan may not be a starter but he could become a threat whenever he touches the field, especially from the slot or while returning punts.