Well it finally got to Gregg Williams like it got to the rest of us fans...He's tired of hearing all of the negativity. In a unusual step in to the spotlight Williams finally exploded on the media, and justifiably so. Said Williams "I keep hearing you guys talk about this Super Bowl hangover, and it's starting to chap me a little bit, it really is." He went on to say that the leaders of the team, like Drew Brees and Jonathan Vilma, were the reason there would be no drop off from last year. Basically they(the leaders) are the engine that drives this team. The players all realize that they have an unprecedented opportunity and they intend on taking full advantage of it. Kudos to Gregg Williams for letting the media have it. As fans we are behind you Coach Williams 100%! The one thing that has impressed me as a fan is what I keep hearing from everyone in the organization...We must get better! Now I am not sure what was said by other Super Bowl Champions but I don't recall many of those players talking about getting better. They talked about repeating and defending the Title and everyone will be out to get us. But I really don't remember any of them saying we need to get better. I truly believe Drew Brees when he says I need to improve my game. I also believe the rest of the players when they say the same thing. I believe all of them will tell you there is room for improvement. THAT is a good thing!
In other camp notes...It looks like we will have another good crop of receivers plus a few good ones that will not make the team. All should be healthy and 100% by the start of the season and if not guys like Adrian Arrington and Rod Harper will make nice fill ins should we need them. Even Courtney Roby could make an appearance if necessary...Don't be surprised if Patrick Robinson gets a crack at running back punts and kicks. With his speed it might just be another way to get him on the field to make a play...After a couple of practices it appears as if Gregg Williams is trying to light another fire under Darren Sharper. Sharper who is limited right now watched from the sidelines as Malcolm Jenkins started in his place with the 1st string defense. "Darren Sharper had a chip on his shoulder last year. He wanted to prove me wrong, Mickey Loomis wrong, and the Minnesota Vikings wrong, and he did. Now, is he going to have that chip on his shoulder this year?" said Williams. Then Williams went on to say if not he'll be competing for another job...in the media. If that's not calling Sharper out I don't know what is. As long as Sharper comes back healthy, he should regain his starting position. If not Jenkins will do well. He showed several times last year why the Saints drafted him. He has a nose for the ball.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
Road to Repeat Begins
Well today is the 1st day of Training Camp for the Black & Gold and the start of something new for our boys... Defending a Championship. Of course the pundits are already saying that we need to see lots of energy on the first day to determine if we are serious about defending the Title. I say RIDICULOUS! Anyone with half a brain will tell you that you know absolutely SQUAT after the very first practice. We will have a more solid idea around the end of August after a couple of preseason games under our belt...Enough said about that.
A few players to keep your eye on during the preseason warm ups...Patrick Ramsey for one will have to prove he is no Joey Harrington. Otherwise Chase Daniel with a year in the system under his belt could easily win the backup position...don't believe all that BS about needing experience behind Drew. We all know if Drew goes down for any considerable period of time our shot at repeating will be just as challenging no matter who's under center. I don't buy in to that "we need a veteran" stuff. What we need is a capable QB that will run our system and manage the game with as few mistakes as possible and use the talent around him to win games. I am still on the fence as to whether that individual must be a veteran. Ultimately, the preseason should tells us who will do the best job. Sean Canfield will have to show quite a lot to keep himself off the developmental squad.
Another player to watch is the continuing development of number 30, Lynell Hamilton. He really finished the season strong which made letting Bell go to the Eagles easier to stomach. Hamilton is a tough kid and should secure his place behind Pierre Thomas. We know he will get a lot more touches this year than last. Whlie we are talking running backs don't be surprised if P.J. Hill makes the team this year. The kid had a strong preseason last year and just got caught up in the numbers.
Barring any injures the Saints will keep 3 tight ends...Shockey, Thomas, and of course the rookie Jimmy Graham. Look for Graham to get lots of playing time in the preseason. He will be basically taking a crash course in Football 101.
On the Defensive Side of the ball Gregg Williams will be looking for the most aggressive and intelligent players of the assembled cast. There will be some new names that make the team. Players to watch...At Linebacker look for Stanley Arnoux to push for a spot on the roster. Although injured last year the Saints like this kid and he will get a fair shot. Dunbar and Casillas have shown flashes. The Saints have 9 Linebackers in camp and only 6 will make the team. This will be a tough cut for a couple of players...Along the defensive line the Saints are deep and this will also be a tough cut. Look for Al Woods to make the developmental squad unless injuries occur...At defensive back again plenty of depth. I would like to see Chris Reis return to the type of player he was his rookie season when he intercepted 2 passes in preseason and was all over the field. Unfortunately for Reis, if he doesn't come on strong in camp and preseason this year he will succumb to the Turk. With Malcolm Jenkins moving to safety along with Usama Young, Reis is a bubble guy. Also, on the bubble is Roman Harper. He still made a lot of mistakes last year and he is another player that has not shown a lot since his rookie year. Of course Darren Sharper's health will play a big part in what happens with these players chances.
So, there you have it...my prognostication of the coming Training Camp watches. Give me your opinions. Let's hear what you have to say.
A few players to keep your eye on during the preseason warm ups...Patrick Ramsey for one will have to prove he is no Joey Harrington. Otherwise Chase Daniel with a year in the system under his belt could easily win the backup position...don't believe all that BS about needing experience behind Drew. We all know if Drew goes down for any considerable period of time our shot at repeating will be just as challenging no matter who's under center. I don't buy in to that "we need a veteran" stuff. What we need is a capable QB that will run our system and manage the game with as few mistakes as possible and use the talent around him to win games. I am still on the fence as to whether that individual must be a veteran. Ultimately, the preseason should tells us who will do the best job. Sean Canfield will have to show quite a lot to keep himself off the developmental squad.
Another player to watch is the continuing development of number 30, Lynell Hamilton. He really finished the season strong which made letting Bell go to the Eagles easier to stomach. Hamilton is a tough kid and should secure his place behind Pierre Thomas. We know he will get a lot more touches this year than last. Whlie we are talking running backs don't be surprised if P.J. Hill makes the team this year. The kid had a strong preseason last year and just got caught up in the numbers.
Barring any injures the Saints will keep 3 tight ends...Shockey, Thomas, and of course the rookie Jimmy Graham. Look for Graham to get lots of playing time in the preseason. He will be basically taking a crash course in Football 101.
On the Defensive Side of the ball Gregg Williams will be looking for the most aggressive and intelligent players of the assembled cast. There will be some new names that make the team. Players to watch...At Linebacker look for Stanley Arnoux to push for a spot on the roster. Although injured last year the Saints like this kid and he will get a fair shot. Dunbar and Casillas have shown flashes. The Saints have 9 Linebackers in camp and only 6 will make the team. This will be a tough cut for a couple of players...Along the defensive line the Saints are deep and this will also be a tough cut. Look for Al Woods to make the developmental squad unless injuries occur...At defensive back again plenty of depth. I would like to see Chris Reis return to the type of player he was his rookie season when he intercepted 2 passes in preseason and was all over the field. Unfortunately for Reis, if he doesn't come on strong in camp and preseason this year he will succumb to the Turk. With Malcolm Jenkins moving to safety along with Usama Young, Reis is a bubble guy. Also, on the bubble is Roman Harper. He still made a lot of mistakes last year and he is another player that has not shown a lot since his rookie year. Of course Darren Sharper's health will play a big part in what happens with these players chances.
So, there you have it...my prognostication of the coming Training Camp watches. Give me your opinions. Let's hear what you have to say.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Questions Abound!
If you are a true fan as I am you are probably as sick of the all of the stupid questions about the Saints upcoming season. We all know the statistics...Over the last 11 years only one team managed to repeat as Super Bowl Champions. Five missed the playoffs altogether and 10 out of 11 did not make it to the conference championship. BLAH! BLAH! BLAH! It wasn't that many months ago(6 months) that we were hearing from all of the gurus that NO team had ever lost its last 3 games and made it to the Super Bowl let alone winning it. I believe that myth is BUSTED!
Then we have the what I call the "What If er"s". What if Darren Sharper doesn't return to ProBowl form? What if Sedrick Ellis cannot stay healthy? What if we can't stop the run? What if we cannot find a suitable replacement for Charles Grant? And of course the most common "what if"...What if Drew Brees gets hurt? Football is a team sport and while I agree that the Saints can't afford to lose a great player to injury neither can 99% of all the other teams in the NFL. So, how do we respond to all of the doom & gloom media? It's simple. We ignore them and put our faith in the only coach to take the Saints to the promise land. I know he's not a miracle worker but he is doggone close. Trust me Saints fans he has a backup plan.
Another question...how will the fat and sassy Saints get motivated to win another Championship? My guess is that Sean Payton will use the above statistics telling his team if they don't work twice as hard they will end up as just another statistic. We know Sean Payton is a great motivator so if anyone can find a way he will. As camp opens up today I envision a Team Meeting sometime tonight spelling out exactly what the team is up against this year. He will tell them that history is against them. The stats are against them. That every team has a huge bullseye on the Saints with their particular game against us circled in red. Payton will also point out the importance of starting strong out the gate against a very motivated and pissed off Vikings team. He will tell them that the window of opportunity only opens for a brief period and as their motto is this year states it is "Our Time"! The Saints have a chance to be one of the best. This team has enough leaders to keep everyone focused.
Then we have the what I call the "What If er"s". What if Darren Sharper doesn't return to ProBowl form? What if Sedrick Ellis cannot stay healthy? What if we can't stop the run? What if we cannot find a suitable replacement for Charles Grant? And of course the most common "what if"...What if Drew Brees gets hurt? Football is a team sport and while I agree that the Saints can't afford to lose a great player to injury neither can 99% of all the other teams in the NFL. So, how do we respond to all of the doom & gloom media? It's simple. We ignore them and put our faith in the only coach to take the Saints to the promise land. I know he's not a miracle worker but he is doggone close. Trust me Saints fans he has a backup plan.
Another question...how will the fat and sassy Saints get motivated to win another Championship? My guess is that Sean Payton will use the above statistics telling his team if they don't work twice as hard they will end up as just another statistic. We know Sean Payton is a great motivator so if anyone can find a way he will. As camp opens up today I envision a Team Meeting sometime tonight spelling out exactly what the team is up against this year. He will tell them that history is against them. The stats are against them. That every team has a huge bullseye on the Saints with their particular game against us circled in red. Payton will also point out the importance of starting strong out the gate against a very motivated and pissed off Vikings team. He will tell them that the window of opportunity only opens for a brief period and as their motto is this year states it is "Our Time"! The Saints have a chance to be one of the best. This team has enough leaders to keep everyone focused.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Not All Saints...
Being a football fanatic sometimes means commenting on more than just the home team....Condolences to Jack Tatum's family one of the Great's to play the game. Tatum who played for the Oakland Raiders was a punishing safety and one of the NFL's most feared hitters/tacklers. Unfortunately for Tatum he will always be remembered as the guy who paralyzed Darryl Stingley. Stingley a 5-yr veteran wide receiver at the time for the New England Patriots ran a slant route across the middle of the field and as he and Tatum left there feet to go for the ball, a major collision occurred leaving Stingley with severed fourth & fifth vertebrae and paralyzed from the neck down. Stingley went on to lead a productive life working 12 years as a consultant with the Patriots as well as writing a couple books. He never blamed the "game" for anything always having a forward view positive attitude. He died at the age of 55 in 2007.
Tatum, 61 yrs old died of a heart attack. He recently within the last several years had been diagnosed with diabetes and had a leg amputated because of it. Jack Tatum played for 10 years in the NFL before retiring with 37 interceptions and enough vicious hits to be nicknamed the "Assassin". He was not only a part of a dark moment in the NFL, he also was a part of some of the most memorable plays in NFL history...One of which everyone has seen a million plus times on NFL films replays. In a 1972 playoff game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Raiders were leading the game 7-6 with 22 seconds left. With fourth down facing Terry Bradshaw and the Steelers, Bradsaw threw a pass down the field intended for John "Frenchy" Fuqua. As the ball arrived so did Jack Tatum with one of his signature hits sending the ball careening into the air, only to be scooped up just before hitting the ground by Franco Harris("Immaculate Reception") running in full stride in the direction of the Steeler endzone to complete a 60 yard touchdown play and give the Steelers the "Immaculate Win". Tatum, who never apologized for the way he played said "I play a hard hitting game. I just like receivers to think about me a little bit when they are trying to catch the ball". More than likely because of perceptions of being cold hearted, Tatum stays on the outside of the NFL Hall of Fame. However, it was the opinion of John Madden that Tatum never got over the hit to Stingley, " It was something that ate on him for his whole life" said Madden. What a shame that a player like Jack Tatum should be kept out of the Hall based on how other people feel about him. No one can know what really was going on inside Tatum's head except the man himself. We could all use a little forgiveness. Let's hope the Almighty is more forgiving to Tatum than the rest of us.God bless you, Jack Tatum.
Tatum, 61 yrs old died of a heart attack. He recently within the last several years had been diagnosed with diabetes and had a leg amputated because of it. Jack Tatum played for 10 years in the NFL before retiring with 37 interceptions and enough vicious hits to be nicknamed the "Assassin". He was not only a part of a dark moment in the NFL, he also was a part of some of the most memorable plays in NFL history...One of which everyone has seen a million plus times on NFL films replays. In a 1972 playoff game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Raiders were leading the game 7-6 with 22 seconds left. With fourth down facing Terry Bradshaw and the Steelers, Bradsaw threw a pass down the field intended for John "Frenchy" Fuqua. As the ball arrived so did Jack Tatum with one of his signature hits sending the ball careening into the air, only to be scooped up just before hitting the ground by Franco Harris("Immaculate Reception") running in full stride in the direction of the Steeler endzone to complete a 60 yard touchdown play and give the Steelers the "Immaculate Win". Tatum, who never apologized for the way he played said "I play a hard hitting game. I just like receivers to think about me a little bit when they are trying to catch the ball". More than likely because of perceptions of being cold hearted, Tatum stays on the outside of the NFL Hall of Fame. However, it was the opinion of John Madden that Tatum never got over the hit to Stingley, " It was something that ate on him for his whole life" said Madden. What a shame that a player like Jack Tatum should be kept out of the Hall based on how other people feel about him. No one can know what really was going on inside Tatum's head except the man himself. We could all use a little forgiveness. Let's hope the Almighty is more forgiving to Tatum than the rest of us.God bless you, Jack Tatum.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Another Draft Pick Signed and other things
2nd Round Pick Charles Brown inked his deal...time for 3rd round pick Jimmy Graham to sign his...once the guy in front of you(2nd rd pick) has signed and the guy behind you(4th rd pick) has signed there is enough leeway to get a deal done. Come on Jimmy Sexton(Graham's agent) let's get this guy to camp! 1st Round Pick Patrick Robinson is a different story. He probably will not roll into camp until later next week with so many 1st Round Picks unsigned.
Moving on....this Patrick Ramsey watch is got me kind of confused. If the Saints were so interested in him why not sign him ASAP on Thursday(Allowed by League to sign FA)before anyone else(if he's that good). Maybe Sean Payton knows Football a little more than some reporters do. Keep in mind Chase Daniel has been in the fold since last year and we also drafted a quarterback(Sean Canfield). Just maybe Sean Payton knows a little more than we do. We at least owe him the benefit of the doubt. Remember, there was a little known backup quarterback(Curt Warner) from the Arena League that carried the Rams to a Super Bowl victory as well as another unknown backup(Tom Brady) who has several Super Bowls under his belt with New England. Just maybe the Saints head coach with his background with quarterbacks might know something we don't. We still haven't gone to camp yet so anything is possible. I am just saying, let Coach Payton do what he does best....COACH!
A quick comment on the Brett Favre watch...JUST LEAVE HIM ALONE!!! If he comes back GREAT! We will remind him on Sept. 9th why he should have stayed retired. But if he does return for a 20th season this will be the only reason to fear the Vikings. Favre is the difference of the Vikings going back to the playoffs or being home for the holidays. If Brett doesn't come back this season then it should make the Vikings easy pickin's considering without a quality quarterback/leader they do not stand a chance of repeating especially the way the Packers finished the season.If Brett stays in Miss, look for the Packers to take the North.
Finally, a BIG THANK YOU to New Orleans' BEST Ambassador since Archie, Drew Brees, for going to all of those book signings(which had to be trying) and politely sign THOUSANDS of autographs. What an incredible person! We are so blessed and lucky to have Drew as OUR quarterback and Team Leader. When you see someone like Drew do what he does off the field, how can you doubt that we do not have a REAL chance to repeat with another Championship. He is very focused and determined to "BE SPECIAL" not just for one season but for an entire career.
Moving on....this Patrick Ramsey watch is got me kind of confused. If the Saints were so interested in him why not sign him ASAP on Thursday(Allowed by League to sign FA)before anyone else(if he's that good). Maybe Sean Payton knows Football a little more than some reporters do. Keep in mind Chase Daniel has been in the fold since last year and we also drafted a quarterback(Sean Canfield). Just maybe Sean Payton knows a little more than we do. We at least owe him the benefit of the doubt. Remember, there was a little known backup quarterback(Curt Warner) from the Arena League that carried the Rams to a Super Bowl victory as well as another unknown backup(Tom Brady) who has several Super Bowls under his belt with New England. Just maybe the Saints head coach with his background with quarterbacks might know something we don't. We still haven't gone to camp yet so anything is possible. I am just saying, let Coach Payton do what he does best....COACH!
A quick comment on the Brett Favre watch...JUST LEAVE HIM ALONE!!! If he comes back GREAT! We will remind him on Sept. 9th why he should have stayed retired. But if he does return for a 20th season this will be the only reason to fear the Vikings. Favre is the difference of the Vikings going back to the playoffs or being home for the holidays. If Brett doesn't come back this season then it should make the Vikings easy pickin's considering without a quality quarterback/leader they do not stand a chance of repeating especially the way the Packers finished the season.If Brett stays in Miss, look for the Packers to take the North.
Finally, a BIG THANK YOU to New Orleans' BEST Ambassador since Archie, Drew Brees, for going to all of those book signings(which had to be trying) and politely sign THOUSANDS of autographs. What an incredible person! We are so blessed and lucky to have Drew as OUR quarterback and Team Leader. When you see someone like Drew do what he does off the field, how can you doubt that we do not have a REAL chance to repeat with another Championship. He is very focused and determined to "BE SPECIAL" not just for one season but for an entire career.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Bobby McCray Quietly Returns
The Saints quietly returned Bobby McCray back in to the fold---personal issues and all. The thought here is that even if he is suspended by the League for poor conduct or whatever else he will still be available to wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks when the Saints need him most---at the end of the season and into the postseason. Plus it doesn't hurt to have a good pass rusher at a Bargain price. By waiving McCray when they did the Saints saved themselves about 1 to 1.5 million in additional money. More than likely the surprise response and look on Bobby's face was all an act. I am sure he was well aware of what they were going to do. It also makes sense for McCray signing a one-year deal because another solid year could lead to much bigger bucks somewhere else if he should choose to move on.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Times Pic Sports---Duncan Story
Jeff Duncan is all wet when it comes to the Status of Gregg Williams....If Williams wanted to leave he had many more opportunities than Mr Duncan claims. First of all there was Seattle. The Seahawks I would guess only went to Pete Carroll after at least a couple of turn downs. I am not sure Buffalo or Washington would exactly be a step up even if both sides were interested. However, you failed to mention the job in Cleveland. With Mike Holmgrem coming aboard Eric Mangini's job was not exactly that secure and easily if Gregg Williams had put his name out there several other teams may have elected to pull the trigger a year early...ie the Bengals, Bears, or Jaguars. I submit to you that Gregg Williams is happy being a BIG fish in a little POND. As long as Sean Payton can put an offense led by Drew Brees on the field, it is this FAN's belief that Gregg Williams will stay right where he's at for a run at several Super Bowls as opposed to a possibly short run as a head coach in the
"Win today not Next year" NFL world we live in. Gregg is here to ride that train until they kick him off!
"Win today not Next year" NFL world we live in. Gregg is here to ride that train until they kick him off!
Monday, July 5, 2010
Upcoming Season
Get PUMPED UP for Football Season!
My friends and and I can't wait to get this party started!!!
How about you???
Are YOU ready for some football???
HELL YEA!!!
My friends and and I can't wait to get this party started!!!
How about you???
Are YOU ready for some football???
HELL YEA!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)