#Andrew Luck HOF

[kenttsterling]

Luck, no! Shane to the YES as #Colts coach! #SuperBowl props! #Pacers tonight against a few Suns! #iubb tomorrow!

[baby-triumphant]

the way of the saints (i.e. andrew's religious beliefs), a primer:

the first thing you should know is that i invented this and it's entirely made up so like. make up your own rules at will, this is essentially just a fun little hc space i made, make it home make it yours etc

chicago, the lady of four thousand saints

not as distinct of an entity as she is in beta chicago; operates entirely through her saints

think of her as like. an administrative force

generally symbolized by the six-pointed chicago star

worship systems

a distinctly disorganized organized religion. there are no (city-ordained) houses of worship, because the city is the house of worship, and generally there aren't structured services of any kind, but there is room to imagine how structured services could arise

called the way of the saints colloquially/generally; if you worship a particular saint, then it would be the way of the saint [name]

the one rule of the way of the saints is that if it works for you it works for you and you're good to go, but if your worship is somehow harmful to another person then it will not work 100% guaranteed

every saint has a statue. some of these are like marble or bronze or w/e; some are more abstract

most saints are like. neighborhood, family, or community saints, and worship can be very localized to particular communities

(actually you know what would be cool. college saints. like. saint of doing good on your final)

line break for legibility

saint statues are kept/maintained/given offerings by the community that worships them, whether large or small. this process of maintenance can be anything from physically cleaning the statue to, yknow the bronze statues of dogs that have shiny noses from being rubbed for good luck? that

prayers don't have to occur at the statue specifically, though, it's a kind of. wherever whenever thing. again, if it works it works

the more thoroughly religious people tend to do their statue maintenance/prayers on saturday mornings so the weekend can be freely enjoyed, and some people will have multiple statues they tend to over the course of a day

not everyone in chicago follows the way of the saints, but you would be hard pressed to find someone who doesn't know about it

everyone who follows the way of the saints is from chicago though. this follows "you are from chicago/we are from chicago" rules

the four thousand saints

saints are democratically elected, via a baseball HoF-like voting system wherein several candidates can appear on a ballot and they must receive a certain percentage of the vote to obtain sainthood

yeah this is contentious yeah this has weird implications about the division between church and state but also chicago is sentient so like...

saints can also be impeached by a similar method

the most common reason for saints being impeached is b/c people no longer follow them

saints are or were real people, and are nominated a certain amount of time after their death. with a few exceptions (cough blaseball players cough) all the saints are dead

obviously sainthood is RIFE with hagiography and political maneuvering; sometimes saints are deliberately mischaracterized to make them more generally palatable etc. often the saint-version of someone has little resemblance to the original, or is a one-dimensional version of them

statues are designed and put up by the city, although no one knows who exactly installs them or how

magic powers :)

saints are empowered to grant boons on behalf of chicago

this can be any variety of things. sky is the limit

the one boon chicago will not and cannot provide is any form of premonition/augury/portent. no telling the future!

re: beta firefighters - ive mentioned josé and tyreek in at least one of my fics as saints. that was mostly a joke but you can interpret it however you want -- multiversal crossover, this short circuit is just the far future, whatever. up to you :)

[sreeningrum]

$19.0 Only! ~ Andrew Luck Signed 11x14 Indianapolis Colts Dive Photo Legend HOF RARE NFL 🔥, Authentic Football Signed, Best NFL Autographs, Vintage NFL Memorabilia BUY HERE!

[capeshifters]

all muses

All muses shortly

italics - pc   bold- canon   normal -oc

some muses might have verse specific ships or they are not shippable at all

DRAGON AGE 

Nedra Surana //  mage elf warden- hof | multiship | pansexual | FC: Lindsey Stirling

Narya Lavellan // dalish inquisitor |Single ship with @thebloodychampion​ in her main verse, other verse open  | heterosexual | FC: Emile De Ravin

Merlyn Lavellan // Narya’s cousin, archer and hunter | multiship- | homosexual | FC: Eddie Redmayne (inquisitor verse available)

Litriel Lavellan // mage, necromancer and dreamer, also Narya’s cousin and Merlyn’ sister | multiship | heterosexual| FC: Alina Kovelenko

Nova Lavellan //dalish Inquisitor, has a very bad eyesight, necromancer, dreamer and uses wisps to see. loves dragons |  multiship |heterosexual | FC: Lauren De Graaf

Lesi  Aras //the master of smith work. Has her won shop, very inspired by Dagna | multiship | heterosexual | FC: Isabela Moner

Rin Ril Seraya //born to be female, works as a body guard of an Orlesian Lord. Disguised |multiship |undecided | FC: Winona Ryder

Aila Synelis// young elf, has a two years old girl, waitress,sweet but too trusting |multiship | heterosexual | FC: Dasha Sidorchuck

Armando Fiorenci // ex first enchanter o the circle in Dairsmuid, Rivain. Escaped death. jolly and a good mage. mage rights supporter.| multiship | pansexual | FC: Sam Elliott

Francesca Fiorenci // Armando’s sister, made tranquil. Whereabouts unknown  | multiship | heterosexual | FC: Oona Chaplin

Kai Kresge // magekiller, from tevinter |multishp| pansexual | FC: Ian Bohen

Kaisa Kresge// Kai’s little sister, mage and healer and herbalist, blind.| multiship |heterosexual | FC: Elise Aarnik

Sherborne Guyader “Guy” // professor of history and arts at the university of Orlais. born in Antiva | multiship | bisexual fc: Eoin bailey

Anna Alerion // mage ,dalish, slave, servant. Now Marquis tool for his twisted desires. Secretly when able she plots to free elves.- | multiship |bisexual

Regina le Bail // ex slave, run away from tevinter, mage but uses spear to fight, companion with a wolf | multiship | heterosexual | FC: Maia Mitchell

Alan Bearhold //avvar warrior, hunter, tall man, grumpy , protects his little sister |multiship |pansexual | FC: Manu Bennett

Valerie Bearhold// mage, talks to spirits, healer, herbalist, skilled. - | multiship |heterosexual | FC: Rachel Weisz

Millicent Cadash // Inquisitor, badass rogue, thief, spy, dwarf and what else.| multiship |  heterosexual | FC: Amy Manson

Devon Trevelyan // mage. from Ostwick Circle, born as a bastard son to a servant of Trevelyan family. Skilled mage, flirty but good mannered. | multiship |pansexual | FC: Richard Madden

Bella Lupus // Dragon Age - Tevinter mage, black mage, small woman, good at magic- multiship-heterosexual

Marcus Lupus // Bella’s little brother, warrior, has prosthetic arm and leg | multiship | bisexual | FC: Matthew Daddario

Janus Lupus // Bella’s and Marcus father, magister, master and killed by his brother.|single ship with @thebloodychampion​ |homosexual | FC: Luke Evans

Alceon Lupus // middle brother , brother of Janus, evil and mean magister. |no ship | bisexual | FC: Ansom Mount

Adrian Lupus // youngest brother, magister at the seat, divorced, likes elves | multiship.| pansexual |FC: Tom Pricone

Luca Lupus//Adrian’s son, rogue, likes training and solitude | multiship |pansexual | Fc: Adian Gillen

Gigi Trevelyan (Auriel// mercenary and Inquisitor - burns scars on her hands and feet - assassin || multiship |heterosexual | FC: Sarah Bolger

Rufus Trevelyan //  ex- templar , Gigi’s uncle - mage friendly- never too old for fun | multishipo | pansexual | FC:Rufus Sewell

Adam Hawke // Hawke, shy dork, loves his dog more than people- | multiship | bisexual | FC: Garrett Hedlund

Anders//he feather mage merged with spirit, not so mage rights obessed- loves cats | single M!Hawke ship with   @thebloodychampion​ (other muses okay to ship) | pansexual | FC: David Garrett

Dorian // the sassy one From house of Pavus- the lost son- the failure | multiship | homosexual | FC: David Gandy

Hampus Luck // archer and companion , noble but hides it, a flirt | multiship |pansexual | FC: Jamie Dornan

Appius Trius  “The Architect”// High Priest of Urthemiel, a bit dork, but lovable, magister from the ancient times | single ship verse with @thebloodychampion​ other verse open |  pansexual | Fc: Hugh Dancy

Hay // slave from the ancient times - traveled through a rift |selective ship | heterosexual | FC: Hera Hilmar

Nellie Cousland // hero of ferelden, badass redhead |multiship | heterosexual | FC: Rose Leslie

Jacob Rivera//  pirate, thief, treasure hunter | multiship |bisexual | FC: Jarod Joseph

Albany Perdue // non binary, young magister , better than you- | multiship | undecided | FC: ErikaLinder

Lisetta Walgan // chasind scout/hunter - wild and untamed| multishp |pansexual | FC: Karen Gillan

Lilah Bearhold //  Lady of The Skies- goddess/avvaar/ - immortal | selective ship| bisexual | Fc: Julie Kennedy/Rachel Ward(old)

Mario Albergotti lamberto De Villacorta // rogue, noble, mercenary |bisexual |Pentaghast Blood |likes dragons | FC: Matthew Mcnulty

Vixten Adaar // Inquisitor - ex-mercenary | has a twin sister |mage |pansexual | kind giant | FC: Mahesh Jadu

Veran Adaar // Vixten’s twin sister | rogue |bisexual

Seranna Trevelyan - Inquisitor and templar | fears magic | bisexual | andrastian | FC: Michelle Alves

OTHER FANDOMS 

Quiet // Metal Gear Solid V // sniper and bad ass, does not talk- |multiship |bisexual | FC: Game face/Stefanie Joosten

Diana // Marvel DCEU // Wonder Woman, badass but sweet        | multiship | heterosexual | FC: Gal Gadot

Mei // Overwatch// climatologist, blogger, Overwatch agent | multiship | bisexual | FC: Game Face

Catwoman //Marvel // Selina Kyle, the catwoman  |multiship |heterosexual | FC:Camren Bicondova

Belle/Lacey //OUAT/Disney// Belle from both Ouat and Disney and Lacey from Ouat | multiship | heterosexual | Emilie de Ravin, Cartoon face, Emma Watson

Red//OUAT-// Red from the series Once Upon A time - werewolf | multiship | bisexual | FC: Meghan Ory

Nagini Nabila // Harry Potter // Voldemorts’ Snake with a canon divergent story, reborn |  multiship | pansexual | FC: Nathalie Emmanuel (young)/ Angela Bassett (old)

Augustus Rookwood//Harry Potter// Death Eater, Prisoner in Azkaban, a bit of coward |  multiship | bisexual | FC: Tom Payne

Neville Longbottom//Harry Potter// student, later professor, not married yet | multiship | heterosexual | FC: Matthew Lewis

Ailla Longstar // Star Wars // twilek, bad ass pilot, spy | multiship | pansexual | FC: Milla Jovovich

Zara Andromedra // Star Wars //  mandalorian warrior, arms for hire, skilled fighter , bounty hunter | multiship | bisexual | FC: Cladia Black

Lilo Young // works in the ministry of magic | FC:Nyakim Gatwech |  - Harry Potter

Lassie Young // ministry worker , lilos brother |homosexual| FC: Jordan Bolger |  - Harry Potter

Simon Wolfe // Deathh Eater | bi, homoromantic |FC: Alec Secreanu |  - Harry Potter

Salvia Pepper // werewolf | heterosexual | FC: Natalia Ramos - Harry Potter

Gilda Gloomsdale // vampire , not dragonborn but can be // FC: Aiyana Lewis - Skyrim

MASS EFFECT

Nedra Shepard//Shepard , biotic, paragon, earthborn, war hero-| multiship | pansexual | FC: Emily Browning

Nigel Shepard// Nedra’s twin, more evil and drunkard and a gambler |multiship| bisexual | FC: Eddie Redmayne

Nolus and Tunar Abgius // smuggler brothers even if one is a turian and other a krogan | multiship.|  Nolus is bisexual | Tunar is homosexual | Nolus FC: Brandt Daugherty | Tunar Fc: Aleksander Skarsgard

Lisell Avequa// Asari assassin, Has a adopted son Han.|multiship- |heterosexual | FC: Tracy Ifeachor/Danai Gurira

Jirida Avequa//Lisell’s grandma, a bit crazy old asari |no ship- |bisexual | FC: Whoopi Goldberg

Nyx Avequa// an asari consort at Citadel-, not using biotics, kind |single ship |heterosexual | FC: Yaya De Costa

Han Xanis Vas Astra-//LIsell’s adopted son, quarian. Good in tech |- multiship |bisexual | FC: Logan Lerman

Vivia Bonisis // pink turian but good C-sec cyber crime detective - | single ship with @thebloodychampion | heterosexual | FC: Penelope Mitchell

Camilea -// pretty and deadly turian Blue Sun assassin |-multiship | pansexual | FC: Cara Delvigne

Salla Ryder //-  female Ryder , biotic | multiship. |bisexual | FC: Emma Watson

Garrus // the one we love. does a lot of calibrating |multiship| bisexual | FC: Andrew Garfield

Liara// the blue doctor and Shadowbroker | multiship |bisexual | FC: Yara Shadhidi

Drack // the old grumpy grandpa | multiship |heterosexual | Fc: Jeff Bridges

PeeBee // the joyful and happy asari explorer|multiship-|pansexual | FC:Senait Gidey

Avitus Rix// turian pathfinder, loves Mason  |single ship  with @thebloodychampion Mason | homosexual | FC: Charlie Hunnam

Tibesius Suldonis  // a hastatim unit leader, gay , married to a woman, manipulated by his friend and ex lover Cosna |  Single ship with @thebloodychampion | homosexual | FC: Nathan Fillion

Quitilia Suldonis // sweet, Serlio’s and Silia’s mother, dead  by Cosna | no ship | heterosexual | FC:Bridget Regan

Lucius Suldonis // the youngest sibling, model  turian, bit of playboy, skilled pilot | multiship | pansexual | FC: Tyler Hoechlin

Serlio Salvilus // Actually son of Cosna’s brother Caius . good in politics, future turian councilor  | multiship |  bisexual | FC: Josh Bowman

Silia Salvilus-//blind. Serlio’s little sister, had many hardships, works in Citadel , not daughter of Cosna, but born from a relationship her mother had with Haral Nyras. | multiship| heterosexual| FC: Lyndsy Fonseca

Cosna Salvilus // the evil mastermind, took his brother’s life and played him -|no ship-|bisexual | FC: Christian Bale

Caius Salvilus // got in an accident and was in coma and memory loss for decades. Real father of Serlio | multiship | bisexual | FC: Christian Bale

Tokol // pink, hanar and definitely not someone you should trust | no ship| asexual | Fc: game face

Anaya Kiuk // a young drell assassin, suffers from deadly illness , works for Tokol- | multiship | bisexual | FC: Naomi Scott

Sunip Molane // a salaria assassin, scientist , works for Tokol |multiship |demisexual | Fc: Allyson Hannigan

Bono Baffabar-//batarian mercenary and assassin, works for Tokol -| multiship | bisexual | FC: Jake Gyllenhaal

Luc Laxius// turian business woman, mother of twins | no ship-heterosexual | FC: Meryl Streep

Maxius Kryik // son of Nihlus Kryik, C-sec officer  |multiship |pansexual | FC: Sebastian Stan

Titus Faion // thief and turian, disguises as a male | multishp- heterosexual | FC: Charlize Theron

Tasha Tissel // ex asari assassin, now a doctor  | single ship with @thebloodychampion  | heterosexual | Fc: Chrishell Stubbs

Magnar Shepard // the viking, tall and blond, gets the job done-  | multiship | pansexual | FC: Chris Hemsworth

Camephilia  Octatus// Camilea’s little sister, young, raised on Omega | no ship, single ship in the future times  with @thebloodychampion |  heterosexual | fc: Anna von Klinski

[woundepoxy53-blog]

Trubisky, Hicks guide the NFC to Pro Bowl Skills Glory

Wow, what a game skills showdown. I’m shocked. I’m stunned. I don’t have words. Truly, this was a magical night.

For those of you who don’t know, the NFC (and the Bears by extension) spent Wednesday afternoon grittily rallying from down 3-1 in the Pro Bowl Skills Showdown all the way to victory. The NFC’s performance was truly a magnificent display of poise and determination that saw them battle through a 9-foot glass wall, mental mistakes, and questionable officiating before finally pulling out the ‘dub. With Bears’ players competing in all 5 of the after-evening's events, we’ve got plenty to cover in this very, very serious recap — let’s get to it.

Best Hands

Lets face facts: our favorite sophomore QB slumped hard in this event. After a fairly hot start saw him complete the first 6 stations with 2 throws or less each, it took Trubisky and Mike Evans NINE throws to successfully connect over the 9-foot wall. That’s... well, that’s less than good. To give some perspective, Trubisky had thrown 8 passes during the 6 stations they’d faced before he more than doubled his total passes trying to beat the wall. And with 9-Foot Glass Wall hitting free agency this offseason, we’ll need to hope that nobody in the North picks him up. Mike Evans probably could’ve caught the fifth ball, but you still want to see more out of your franchise quarterback.

Even worse, Trubisky and Evans’ time of ~59 seconds was by far the slowest of the 4 competing pairs (other pairs recorded ~30s, ~45s, ~45s). Given that the NFC lost by about three seconds, this loss was pretty clearly on Mitch. The AFC takes a 1-0 lead, providing the NFC some early adversity.

Precision Passing

This event was an adventure.

First off, the NFL changed the rules such that the points are cumulative by conference; each competing player’s points are added with the rest of their conference to determine the winner. Now notice I said “player” and not “quarterback” — that’s because, new to this year, each conference fielded a non-quarterback as well as the customary two QBs. As Von Miller led off the competition with a sterling 2 points, I realized in that the NFL had pretty clearly done this to visually prop up their quarterbacks. Kinda like having an average person run in the Olympics. They might’ve gotten away with it too if it wasn’t for Adam Thielen. Thielen had himself a solid performance, pounding out 10 points for the NFC and giving the boys in blue a sizable lead headed into round 2.

After that was a battle of 2017 prospects, Deshaun Watson versus Mitchell Trubisky. Watson looked to struggle early but still piled on 10 points in his last 20 seconds to finish with 15 total. As he finished, a slight controversy arose; Watson’s final throw seemed to have hit the rim of the deep target while barely breaking the paper before bouncing out. “Does that count?” members of the NFC asked. The referees quickly gathered and awarded Watson the points, but you be the judge.

Following his peer, young Mitchell quickly hit both deep throws (left AND right, haters) before missing about a foot high on every throw after that. The unashamed velocity and beautiful spirals that accompanied his passes were awesome to see, but unfortunately they failed to find their marks. Mitch finished out by clanking 2 footballs off the rim of the 5-point target before aliens moved the target and robbed him of his final 5. Those darn aliens, always causing trouble.

While Mitch didn’t dominate the event (he finished with 11), he did do better than the 5 points Andrew Luck put up. By my math, that means Mitch is 2.2x the quarterback Luck is. Now we know.

The NFC won this one so the score moves to 1-1.

40 Yard Splash

This event was basically John Fox’s paradise as 20 of the NFL’s premiere players spent 2:00 handing buckets of water off to each other. Akiem Hicks and Mitch Trubisky both showed that Fox had taught them well — I don’t think they fumbled a single handoff. Unfortunately, HOF and greatest second greatest pretty great Bear Brian Urlacher couldn’t stop the AFC from dunking him.

This brings us to our second major rules controversy. After Hicks and Trubisky had showed their mastery of the art of the handoff, each team took turns having someone throw a football at the dunk tank target. While this was intended to be a one-at-a-time process, the AFC broke protocol and launched approximately 4 simultaneous footballs before dunking the precariously placed Urlacher. When Lach asked about this, ESPN’s Lisa Salters clearly dodged this question so make sure you keep your tin foil hat on hand. If you think the NFL isn’t out to get the NFC, just ask a Saints fan.

AFC goes up 2-1.

Gridiron Gauntlet

This event is always pretty awesome, and it remained as such until Bears’ Akiem Hicks ran the wrong way following his completion of the heavy bag gauntlet. Hicks had finished but illegally approached George Kittle and was forced to go back, losing valuable time. Kittle wasn’t able to recover the lead and the AFC went up 3-1. You can’t have mental mistakes like that in these big moments, but I know nobody’s more upset than Akiem at his mistake. I’m sure we’ll see him on the Today show soon.

Epic Pro Bowl Dodgeball

As a reminder, the Pro Bowl Skills Showdown doesn’t make any sense. For some reason, the contest ends with a two-out-of-three game of dodgeball that awards 3 points to the winner, meaning that the NFC (losers of 3 of 4 events thus far) still have a chance to win. Of course they could simply have three games of dodgeball that are each worth a point, but that might actually make sense and nobody wants that.

Game 1:

This game has been struck from my memory because both Bears players were part of the NFC getting destroyed. Trubisky gets eliminated as fast as humanly possible, Hicks is knocked out while taunting, and not one AFC player takes a dodgeball to the face. A real bummer of a game, AFC up 1-0.

Game 2:

NFC won without any Bears on the team. This was a complete coincidence. Tie dodgeball, 1-1.

Game 3:

And here it was. When all hope seemed lost, Mitch Trubisky and the rest of the NFC All-Stars arched their backs and told destiny it could go pick on someone it’s own size. While Trubisky didn’t technically contribute to this win, he didn’t get thrown out and I’m gonna call that positive. NFC wins dodgeball, goes up 4-3 and is crowned the champions of the Pro Bowl Skills Showdown.

As you can see, this was a historic night. It had everything — the agony of defeat, the thrill of victory, and the hilarity of human error. An instant classic. One day, 10 years from now, someone is going to ask you where you were the night that Akiem Hicks got hit with a dodgeball while obviously taunting. And to that you’ll simply say: “I was sitting on my couch at home, watching a pre-recorded game of grown men playing dodgeball. And I loved it.”

Source: https://www.windycitygridiron.com/2019/1/25/18196857/chicago-bears-mitch-trubisky-akiem-hicks-guide-the-nfc-to-pro-bowl-glory-skills-showdown-dodge-ball

[podcastpalace]

Episode 102: Dez vs. Dallas Drama, Social Media Scaries, LeBron Finally Talks Lakers by CBS Sports Podcasts .... Raja Bell is joined by CBS Sports fantasy football expert Jamey Eisenberg for Episode 102 of Off the Bench. Raja and Jamey discuss Dez vs. Dallas, if other teams should target Bryant and expectations for Dak Prescott in Year 3. The guys also discuss the use of social media among athletes and how older, insensitive Tweets could affect a locker room. Next, they talk about the MLB HOF induction, T.O. avoiding Canton, LeBron's championship chances in Los Angeles, followed by the Monday return of Summer Reading with Raja. Then, CBS Sports Senior NFL Writer Will Brinson joins the podcast to discuss Training Camp storylines, Carson Wentz' and Andrew Luck's progress, Khalil Mack's holdout, and Bojangles' orders. Hana tells us what is Socially Relevant, and finally, Topics! Hosted by: Raja Bell, @JameyEisenberg Guest: @WillBrinson Co-hosted by: @HanaOstapchuk Produced by: @E_DeBerardinis

[yahoo-roto-arcade-blog]

Yahoo Fantasy Football Mock, RDs 5-6: Lynch, Peterson get the call

With most free agents signed and the NFL Draft in the books, it’s time for fantasy owners to get back in the saddle, Yahoo mouthpieces included. Below is our first mock of the season – 12-teams, .5 PPR, all positions must be filled. Peruse, follow and ridicule, self-proclaimed fantasy savant.

SEE ROUNDS 1-2 HERE SEE ROUNDS 3-4 HERE

ROUND 5

49. Drew Brees, NO, QB3 – Not that Brees needs an explanation, but in case he did, that he’s been a top 6 fantasy QB for 11 straight seasons is pretty strong validation –Brandon Funston

50. Marshawn Lynch, Oak, RB19 – Beast-Mode should find Oakland’s O-line much more accommodating than what he had in front of him in his last days in Seattle – Raiders RBs averaged 4.7 YPC in ’16, and even a ho-hummer like Latavius Murray finished as a RB1 in Oakland’s catbird seat  –Funston

51. Carlos Hyde, SF, RB20 – More durability would be nice, but found a way to be RB14 on a lousy team. I doubt he’s this cheap in August. –Scott Pianowski

52. Greg Olsen, Car, TE4  – Building a HOF resume. Last missed a game in 2007, absurd for a tight end. Rank last five years: 2, 4, 4, 7, 6. –Pianow

53. Isaiah Crowell, Cle, RB21 – Crowell averaged 4.8 YPC last season, he found the end-zone seven times, and nothing significant has changed in Cleveland’s backfield. Easy pick in the fifth. –Andy Behrens

54. Andrew Luck, Ind, QB4  – OK, the shoulder is a small concern. But he should be good to go by opening week, and he’s basically a lock for 4200 yards and 30-plus TDs. –Behrens

[Fantasy Football is open! Sign up now and start winning season early]

55. Ameer Abdullah, Det, RB22 – Curiously, the Lions did nothing to address their backfield in the draft. They clearly still believe in Abdullah. For the price, I guess I do too. –Liz Loza

56. Samaje Perine, Was, RB23  – I probably pulled the trigger a bit soon here, but thought Evans might snipe the rookie. Perine is a hammer who will soon own the goal line in Washington. –Loza

57. Tyler Eifert, Cin, TE5 – Investing in a player off back surgery is a risky proposition, but Eifert, when healthy, is a dominant force. Limited by myriad setbacks last year, he played only eight games. Still his 54-788-10 pace defines his top-five upside. –Brad Evans

58. Emmanuel Sanders, Den, WR26  – He isn’t the sexiest WR, but Sanders is a consistency king who’s a strong bet to once again land inside the position’s top-20. Unless Carlos Henderson and/or Jake Butt steal more targets than expected, Sanders should duplicate last year’s production (79-1032-5). –Evans

59. Dalvin Cook, Min, RB24 – Not the most impressive combine, but the rookie should enter the season as Minny’s clear lead back. –Dalton Del Don

60. Mike Gillislee, NE, RB25 – Takes over as New England’s “big back,” a role that led to the most rushing touchdowns in the NFL last year. –3D

Andy Behrens believes those who invest in Ty Montgomery will grin from ear to ear. (AP)

ROUND 6

61. Eric Decker, NYJ, WR27 – Has scored at least 11 touchdowns in three of past five seasons and should see increased targets with Brandon Marshall gone. –3D

62. Brandon Marshall, NYG, WR28 – No longer his team’s WR1, but there’s gas left in the tank, and the Giants are relatively pass happy. –3D

63. Bilal Powell, NYJ, RB26 – The Jet posted supersonic totals during the fantasy playoffs churning out the second-best RB output Weeks 14-17 (138.0 typg, 5.1 ypc). Matt Forte is crusty and Todd Bowles knows it. I would be shocked if Powell didn’t command the heavy side of a 60-40 timeshare. –Evans

64. Cameron Meredith, Chi, WR29 – In fantasy points per target, the former college QB finished as a WR2 in 12-team formats. Alshon Jeffery commanded 7.8 targets per game in 2016, which means a workload uptick is very likely. If Mike Glennon is even semi-competent, Meredith crosses 1,000 yards with 6-8 TDs. –Evans

65. Willie Snead, NO, WR30 – A little Saints stack for me. In an offense that passes nearly 700 times per season there should be plenty of opportunities to go around. –Loza

66. Jimmy Graham, Sea, TE6 – The second best TE in fantasy last year, Graham was second in targets to Doug Baldwin, further establishing himself as a receiving weapon in Seattle’s offense. –Loza

67. Adrian Peterson, NO, RB27 – I’m willing to bet that Peterson and Ingram split touches more or less evenly, and that AP remains the more dangerous ball-carrier. At this price, it’s a reasonable risk. –Behrens

68. Ty Montgomery, GB, RB28 – Rookie Jamaal Williams could emerge as a threat, sure, but it’s clear enough that Montgomery will continue to occupy a key role. The man averaged 5.9 YPC on 77 attempts last season. –Behrens

69. Golden Tate, Det, WR31 – Make peace with the touchdowns; he has 99, 90, and 91 catches in his three Detroit seasons. –Pianow

70. Larry Fitzgerald, Ari, WR32 – I know we’re getting near a dangerous age, but geesh, he has 216 catches for 2238 yards and 15 scores the last two years. No one will outwork him. –Pianow

71. Delanie Walker, Ten, TE7  – Only Gronk and Greg Olsen have more combined fantasy points over the past three seasons, and Jason Witten, Olsen and Walker are the only TEs to have 60+ catches in each of the past four seasons –Funston

72. Tevin Coleman, Atl, RB29 – Counting postseason, Coleman had 14 TDs in 16 games in ’16, and also finished 2nd at RB in fantasy points per snap –Funston

Follow the Yahoo Fantasy crew on Twitter @YahooNoise, @LizLoza_FF, @BrandonFunston, @Scott_Pianowski, @AndyBehrens and @DaltonDelDon

[greetingcrads-blog]

Colts’ Frank Reich quotes Buffalo Bills HOF coach when addressing fans, media

Reich spent a portion of his time with the media addressing Colts fans and it was quite the powerful message. Simply put, Reich told the fans not to write off the team.

“This morning we talked about the word paradox,” Reich stated. “For example, everyone makes a unique contribution on this team, yet everyone is replaceable. We can deeply love and respect and care for each individual, yet the team must come first, therefore, when it came to Andrew’s retirement, that word paradox kind of helps me, can help us make sense of what’s going on. On one hand, we can respect and honor the player and the teammate that Andrew is and was. But at the same time, we can share an excitement and an enthusiasm about the team that we have going forward and the journey ahead of us. Ultimately, it’s not about how good any one player is. It’s not. It’s about how good we are, as a team.”

Reich’s message may have been pointed at some fans who were reportedly calling team headquarters today asking for season ticket refunds. Reich went on to compare the season to climbing Mount Everest.

“But also let me assure Colts fans of this: This team is not done climbing. In fact, we’re just getting ready. We’re just getting started, and we can’t wait. I just feel like Chris (Ballard) and his staff have done an unbelievable job of assembling a team of players. This locker room is special. There’s a character quality and a passion for this game and this city and what the horseshoe represents that is special. And we believe that our players will rise to that challenge and that occasion. We’re ready for the journey ahead. We believe we have the formula of what it takes to have a successful journey. We have the right makeup, we have the right locker room. We have the talent. This is a very talented football team in all three phases.”

To wrap up his message to fans, Reich channeled former Buffalo Bills head coach Marv Levy and used one of his famous sayings.

“We have a vision, the Colts fans know what our vision is,” Reich said. “We’re all about the process. Get one percent better every day and go 1-0 every week. And then we have the support of Colts nation.

There’s going to be challenges along the way, we know that for sure. That’s what climbing Mount Everest is all about. There nothing easy about it, not one thing about easy about it. But I can’t help but think back to an old saying that an old coach of mine used to say all the time, and that’s this: there’s no place I’d rather be than right here, right now.”

You can listen to Reich’s entire message below.

It’s understandable why Reich is so passionate about this year’s squad following Luck’s retirement. He has experience taking a team deep into the playoffs as a coach and player without their No. 1 option at QB.

In Buffalo, Reich led the Bills to the largest comeback in playoff history over the Houston Oilers during the 1992 season when he erased a 35-3 deficit to help Buffalo win 41-38 in overtime. He led Buffalo to another playoff victory the following week over the Pittsburgh Steelers before Jim Kelly returned to the starting lineup. Buffalo would advance all the way to the Super Bowl, but fall to the Dallas Cowboys in the Super Bowl.

As a coach, Reich played a key role in helping Nick Foles take over as starter for the Philadelphia Eagles when Carson Wentz suffered a torn ACL in Week 14 of the 2017 season. Reich’s coaching helped Foles get up to speed quickly on the field. The Eagles would go on to win Super Bowl LII over the Patriots 41-33.

[seahawkerspodcast]

172: HOF tackle Walter Jones interview, another slow start for the offense, Seahawks to retire Easley’s number on Sunday

Hall of Fame offensive lineman Walter Jones joins the show this week to offer his thoughts on the Seahawks game with the Tennessee Titans and the team as the whole through the first few weeks in the season. He talks about FanCom, a new service coming online this weekend to allow fans to interact with NFL greats.

Before the interview Adam and Brandan discuss what happened in the game against the Titans, what the team needs to do to get back on track and the reason why our offensive coordinator has difficultly calling a game before the last couple minutes of the first half. For the first time this year, fans had reason to be concerned about the defense, but there is a comparison to last year that should tell us that everything will be fine.

Seattle returns home to take on the Indianapolis Colts who defeated the Browns last week. Andrew Luck is out, but their other quarterback seems to have a finger firmly in control of the circle button.

Kenny Easley will have his jersey number retired at the game this weekend, and he's asked for fans to bring back the wave for at least one game. Adam makes Brandan promise to have words with any fan not following through on the Hall of Famers wishes.

In the second half of the show, Adam's Do Better and Better at Life both have to do with his latest travels on the road. Brandan talks about how political issues mixing with sports can sometimes make political reporters sound out of touch with sports fans, while all the Matt's are ‘Better at Life' this week.

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[first-and-ten]

2017 Week 1 Review

Honestly that was so fulfilling. Is it possible something can break through the apathy of fascism fatigue? Is it possible that that thing is one of the most grossly capitalistic and exploitative pastimes of America? Or am I just happy the Patriots lost?

This week was a bit of a youth movement, it seems that all around the league, young players outclassed older players at QB, RB and WR. Obviously there’s always turnover in the NFL but I honestly think there’s a bit of a generational turnover that’s happening. Or maybe we’re all just finally used to an NFL without Peyton Manning.

TEAMS THAT NEED COLIN KAEPERNICK: Ravens, Browns, Colts, Texans, Jaguars, Bills, Jets, 49ers, Cardinals

Teams on Bye: MIA, TB

KC 42 - 27 NE [L] Game Ball: Alex Smith A fucking fun game to watch. The worst game in terms of points allowed and yards allowed by Bill Belichick’s Pats. Tom Brady was 108-0 in his career when entering the 4th quarter with a lead. Boy was that fun to watch. Now, I’m not gonna say the Patriots aren’t gonna run away with the AFC, but this loss was pretty real. New England was stopped on two 4th-and-shorts where they called bizarrely predictable runs up the middle. They couldn’t get Brady and his pass catchers on the same page. The line didn’t protect him, either. The defense was beyond unimpressive, they crumbled in the last quarter and got completely deflated. Gronk looked slow. I’m sure a lot of this will get fixed, but some of it might take more than a week. Kareem Hunt set the rookie record for yards from scrimmage in a debut game. Alex Smith took shots downfield with ease and success. He almost reached 1/3 of his TD total from last season before this season even really started. I know as a Broncos fan I should be grumpy that the Chiefs won this game, but a) it was a pyrrhic victory as they lost Eric Berry, and b) as a Broncos fan I can’t help but be SO HAPPY the Patriots lost. It just feels good.

JAX 29 - 7 HOU [L] Game Ball: Calais Campbell Lol wouldn’t it be wild if the year that finally nobody thinks the Jaguars will make progress, they actually made progress? More likely, though, the Texans are REALLY bad. They can’t block, they can’t cover, they can’t pass. They can’t seem to get a week 1 starter through the kickoff game ever. I guess Leonard Fournette looks good. Anyway, Houston was maybe a bit distracted.

PHI 30 - 17 WSH [W] Game Ball: Carson Wentz I TOLD YOU Wentz was the new Favre!

NYJ 12 - 21 BUF [L] Game Ball: LeSean McCoy Oop, okay, the Jets are the worst.

OAK 26 - 16 TEN [L] Game Ball: Marshawn Lynch Yeah, he’s back. Yikes. I saw this game as more impressive from the Raiders than disappointing for the Titans, I just got a bit ahead of myself jumping on the Titans bandwagon.

BAL 20 - 0 CIN [L] Game Ball: CJ Mosley Is there anything more humiliating than getting shut out at home by a division rival in the kickoff? Goddamn. I’m not one to overreact but goddamnit can they keep Andy Dalton out there looking like that? Or would AJ McCarron look just as bad behind that line? Baltimore’s defense also is very impressive, but their offense is a concern just like I thought it would be. The loss of Danny Woodhead signals hard times for an already-shaky run game.

ARI 23 - 35 DET [L] Game Ball: Matthew Stafford After Stafford’s first pass was a pick-6 in the red zone it looked like this one would be a strong Arizona win, but in the 4th quarter he extended his record % of fourth quarter comebacks. I still like Arizona’s defense, but the age on their offense was apparent. I think Palmer might be done, which would make this team done too, seeing as David Johnson is gone for at least 10 weeks.  The Lions defense is better than I thought, and their rookie wideout who caught people’s attention in the preseason proved useful on two TD catches.

ATL 23 - 17 CHI [W] Game Ball: Brooks Reed Right down to the wire! Reed sacked Mike Glennon on fourth and goal with no time on the clock. Apparently this was Atlanta’s first win in Chicago since like the the 80s, so... Cool? All in all this was pretty much what I expected: The Bears didn’t roll over, the Falcons defense carried them as their offense sputtered from a lack of creativity. Tarik Cohen got over 100 yards, so that’s a thing I guess?

PIT 21 - 18 CLE [W] Game Ball: Antonio Brown Brown was all over the field keeping Pittsburgh from falling into the trap game. They got a TD before running an offensive snap after blocking and returning Cleveland’s first punt attempt. From there, though, it was a bit of a slog. Told you this offense could take a little time to get going. And that Cleveland might not be their usual pushover selves.

IND 9 - 46 LAR [W] Game Ball: Wade Phillips and Cooper Kupp The Rams scored me so many fantasy points. The Colts had to put Jacoby Brissett in the game, after saying he wouldn’t play this week because he didn’t know the playbook. Why would Tolzien even try when you basically just said you’ve replaced him? And how can you turn around then and put Brissett in? What a disaster. The Rams offense also looked incredible, by the way. Not good, incredible. I’ll be fascinated to see how well they can do going forward, this is a game that can’t be taken too seriously but it’s not crazy to think that Goff, Cooper Kupp, Sammy Watkins, and Sean McVey have this thing going. The thing that should be worrisome is that this high score (yeah, the Rams lead the NFL in points right now) is partly a product of not being able to salt away the game with runs.

SEA 9 - 17 GB [L] Game Ball: Aaron Rodgers Welp, I was wrong. After an entire half of stalemate, Aaron Rodgers once again willed his team to victory, with some help from the zebras. Not a ton, but some.  The o-line is a mess again. I can’t believe we are back here, in week one, talking about how the bad line play could be the Seahawks’ undoing. I mean obviously it won’t, but jesus, can we fix this shit in the offseason some time instead of in week 6 every year?  Awesome work by both defenses, somehow. If Green Bay is finally in a position to keep teams to less than 28 points per game, look out NFL.

CAR 23 - 3 SF [W] Game Ball: Cam Newton Don't be fooled by the late FG, this was a shutout. At home, in a Shanahan coaching debut. Ugly shit. Nobody could take advantage of Carolina’s secondary. Cam played from the pocket a lot, which doesn't really surprise me but was... Odd to see. I think this offense is still taking shape.

NYG 3 - 19 DAL [W] Game Ball: Dak Prescott Ugh, yawn.  Guys, you really have to pay Odell now. He is your entire offense. Your D bailed your ass out so hard, this game should have been 35-0. You almost made Brandon Marshall go a full game without a catch for the first time since his rookie year. This is the dude who caught 21 balls in one game once, and ostensibly your #1 receiver! You can’t run the ball for shit, and it’s equal parts bad blocking, bad play design, and lack of air threat. Giants, I hate you for letting the Cowboys be the Cowboys again. I just have to hope the Broncos can do better, especially with Orlando Scandrick out. We can’t have the Dallas D looking good because they get to open against two of the most dysfunctional o-lines in the league.

NO 19 - 29 MIN [L] Game Ball: Dalvin Cook Still not sure whether I can bring myself to root fully for New Orleans this season. Their defense still looked awful, allowing Sam Bradford to pull and Alex Smith and suddenly look awesome (though statistically he did have an incredible year in 2016 as well.) I will say, it was kinda great seeing Dalvin Cook break AP’s franchise record for yards gained in a rookie debut, while Peterson looked on from the bench. I don’t even know what’s going on there, because given the Saints’ history there’s an equal chance that Sean Payton played it right and knew how to maximize his run game and just didn’t have enough touches because they fell behind, or that he just vindictively denied AP his revenge game, or that he just kinda forgot that he had a future first-ballot HOF RB sitting on the bench ready to run angry. Either way, beautiful stuff. Boring ass game though.

LAC 21 - 24 DEN [W] Game Ball: Trevor Siemian Broncos week 1 2012: Peyton Manning’s return proves thrilling as the Steelers’ late would-be-game-winning drive is ended by a Tracy Porter pick Broncos week 1 2013: Manning is the first player in decades to throw 7 TDs in a game as the Broncos get revenge on the Ravens  Broncos week 1 2014: After giving Denver fits with his legs, Andrew Luck’s last-minute would-be-game-winning drive is ended by a 4th down pass deflection by rookie CB Bradley Robey Broncos week 1 2015: In a hardcore defensive battle with 0 offensive touchdowns, former Ravens safety Darian Stewart intercepts Joe Flacco in the end zone to prevent the go-ahead touchdown in the final seconds Broncos week 1 2016: Hosting the Panthers for a Super Bowl rematch, the Broncos win despite giving Carolina FG position on penalties in the final seconds because Kubiak ices Graham Gano’s kick Broncos week 1 2017: After leading by 17 in the 4th quarter, the Broncos give up 14 points in less than 2 minutes thanks to questionable turnovers and only hang on to beat the LA Chargers in a double-coaching-debut by once again icing a kicker, this time a rookie You can’t say the Broncos don’t entertain. I can’t quite believe how many plays we pulled on Joey Bosa. Siemian continues to impress, as does CJ Anderson. That interception came on pass interference, but then again the Chargers had a brutal dropped INT early so I guess it’s just karma. Offensive line held up remarkably well until Ronald Leary went down, watching his health this week with bated breath. 

Record this week: 7-8 Record this season: 7-8 Locks record: 2-1 (Survivors used: ATL) Upsets record: 1-3 2014 pace: 9-7 Pickwatch leader: 13-2 (Jack Jorgensen, Fansided)

NFL Title Belt: LAR (won from IND) DSA (Dos Shula Award for not losing) candidates: KC, BUF, ATL, BAL, PIT, DET, JAX, OAK, PHI, LAR, GB, CAR, DAL, MIA, TB, DEN MMA (Matt Millen Award for not winning) candidates: NE, NYG, CHI, CIN, CLE, ARI, HOU, TEN, WSH, IND, SEA, SF, NYG, MIA, TB, LAC

The Room Where It Happens: N/A Fallen Tributes: N/A

FANTASY CORNER

Danger Squirrels 124 - 142.5 Toilet City Browns [L, 0-1]

Some clear missteps here: I should have started Melvin Gordon over CJ Anderson, but Martellus Bennett as my TE and swapped Greg Olsen for Jonathan Stewart. But how was I to know that Stewart’s production would be unaffected by Christian McCaffrey, or that Olsen would inexplicably disappear from a passing attack that usually centers around him, or that Melvin Gordon would get a passing TD and Trev would steal CJ’s? And damn the Giants defense for doing okay real-world-wise but crap for fantasy. My opponent left Randall Cobb’s points on the bench but was solid enough across the roster to overcome Jimmy Graham’s dud week. This is the dude I tied with for the championship last year, so this one makes me grumpy.

Siemian the Finals 161.96 - 127.78 The Papists [W, 1-0]

I would fret about having left CJ Procise in for Randall Cobb and not getting Stafford’s big day on the board, but as you can see my opponent left Jay Ajayi in his lineup and my defense outscored his top two performers combined. I’ll take it.

[cover32-yahoopartner-blog]

Temarrick Hemingway Injured, Likely Headed to IR

Rams tight end Temarrick Hemingway fractured his fibula Saturday night against the Chargers. There it is, yet another preseason injury in the NFL. Hemingway is arguably the Rams most solid in-line tight end in terms of run blocking, this is a big loss. The Rams tight end group went from deep to thin very quickly.

AROUND COVER32

The Latest: Patriots’ WR, Julian Edelman, tears ACL on non-contact injury

Around the NFL: Patriots reportedly will release DE, Kony Ealy

What’s Trending: Jaguars name Blake Bortles week 1 starting QB vs Texans

Fantasy Focus: Ranking the top 20 QB’s, TE’s, and DST’s for the 2017 fantasy season

2018 Hall of Fame: Jerry Kramer and Robert Brazile named senior finalists for 2018 HOF class

cover32 Podcasts: Check out our latest podcasts and view our entire library available on Apple iTunes

Tight End Group Dynamics

Hemingway was drafted last year along with Tyler Higbee. Higbee was hyped up as the dominant receiving threat, while Hemingway was more of the blocker. This year the Rams spent their first pick (second round) on Gerald Everett, who is more adapt in the passing game. Everett and Higbee are very similar in a lot of ways. Veteran Corey Harkey was the man on the bubble who now will likely stake claim to Hemingway’s spot. Harkey is a tight end/ fullback hybrid who is much more comfortable in the run game. The veteran is a good leader who will now be able to stay in the locker room.

Outlook for Hemingway

Hemingway in headed to the Injured Reserve without a doubt. However, there is hope that he could make it to “IR designated to return” and have a chance to make it back late this season. This is yet to be determined and more will become clear after Hemingway’s rehab from his surgery on Tuesday. Nonetheless, it is also possible that Hemingway misses the entire season, a big loss for the Rams. Hemingway will definitely stay with the team, he will continue to play a big role into the future.

We wish Temarrick Hemingway the best of luck in his recovery and hope he can make it back to the field soon.

– Andrew Kelly is the Managing Editor for cover32/Rams and covers the Los Angeles Rams. Like and follow on Follow @Andrew_K47 Follow @cover32_LAR

The post Temarrick Hemingway Injured, Likely Headed to IR appeared first on Cover32.

[cover32-yahoopartner-blog]

Colts Finally Pick Up A Win Against The Steelers, But Questions Still Arise

The Indianapolis Colts picked up their first win of the preseason with a 19-15 win at Heinz Field over the Steelers. Going into this matchup, the main focus for the Colts was to figure out which quarterback would play in Andrew Luck’s absence. While most fans lobbied for Stephen Morris, Chuck Pagano stuck with Scott Tolzien to start this game. As usual, however, Stephen Morris looked much more composed in the pocket and threw the ball more effectively. In his brief preseason debut, Donte Moncrief bounced off two Pittsburgh defenders for an impressive 55 yard gain. Fellow wideout Phillip Dorsett also made a few nice plays downfield, potentially earning himself a roster spot.

Defensively, the game was a mixed bag for Indy. While Pittsburgh couldn’t finish many drives, they moved down the field with ease. Outside of a strip-sack by John Simon, the pass rush was highly ineffective and gave Pittsburgh’s QBs ample time to find the open man. Malik Hooker sat this game out, and Mathias Farley impressed in his absence. Farley was flying all over the field delivering big hits including a key sack. Fellow defensive back TJ Green also had an impressive performance, only allowing 1 catch for 6 yards.

AROUND COVER32

The Latest: Patriots’ WR, Julian Edelman, tears ACL on non-contact injury

Around the NFL: Patriots reportedly will release DE, Kony Ealy

What’s Trending: Jaguars name Blake Bortles week 1 starting QB vs Texans

Fantasy Focus: Ranking the top 20 QB’s, TE’s, and DST’s for the 2017 fantasy season

2018 Hall of Fame: Jerry Kramer and Robert Brazile named senior finalists for 2018 HOF class

cover32 Podcasts: Check out our latest podcasts and view our entire library available on Apple iTunes

 On the opening drive Pittsburgh marched down the field quickly, only to be stopped by preseason MVP John Simon. Simon has logged a turnover in all three of the Colts preseason games. Indy capitalized on the fumble with a quick TD by Frank Gore. On the ensuing drive, Roethlisberger again picked apart our secondary en route to a field goal. Scott Tolzien responded with a few nice throws before tossing an interception to Ryan Shazier. If Tolzien had put more air under the ball it most likely would have ended in a Jack Doyle TD. In the first two drives engineered by Landry Jones, the Colts forced three and outs. Morris looked great going 12-16 with 143 yards. In Andrew Luck fashion, Morris stood tall in the pocket and tossed a beautiful pass to Bug Howard in the face of pressure.

The Colts continued to give opportunities to their young backs: Marlon Mack and Josh Ferguson. While neither player had numbers too exciting, they both showed flashes of brilliance.

While it was a fairly uneventful game, here are the things Colts fans should be excited about:

1. Scott Tolzien took risks down the field — In Tolzien’s first two preseason games, most of his passes were short and ineffective. In this game, however, Tolzien targeted receivers downfield successfully.

2. Stephen Morris can make plays downfield — Morris was an outstanding 6-7 on passes 10 or more yards downfield.

3. The TJ Green experiment at corner is working — TJ Green had a disastrous rookie season at safety but his play at corner this preseason has been encouraging.

4. Phillip Dorsett made plays like TY Hilton — The former first round pick was drafted to make plays like TY Hilton, using speed to create space on the outside and over the middle. Dorsett has failed to consistently make these type of plays thus far but showed improvement against Pittsburgh.

5. Margus Hunt — The Colts signed Margus Hunt in free agency this season and so far this preseason he has been an effective special teamer and defensive end. Last week he blocked a field goal (his specialty), and this week he batted a pass and had a nice run stop.

6. John Simon — Simon’s strip sack on Big Ben adds to his already impressive preseason resumé.

Areas of concern:

1. Secondary — This secondary just won’t cut it in the regular season. Malik Hooker has only gotten to play in one preseason game and Vontae Davis left this game with an injury. Hopefully they can return to the field for the regular season.

2. Pass Rush and Defensive Line — Jonothan Hankins didn’t play, but regardless the defensive line play was concerning. Knile Davis found holes easily and Big Ben had too much time to throw the ball.

3. Inside Linebacker — This whole position group is just an absolute mess. They are unorganized and ineffective.

In summary, the Colts had an average performance that showed improvement on both ends of the ball from the previous preseason games. However, the Colts still have a lot of work to do if they want to make the playoffs, especially if Andrew Luck can’t open the season.

The post Colts Finally Pick Up A Win Against The Steelers, But Questions Still Arise appeared first on Cover32.

[cover32-yahoopartner-blog]

Colts Fans’ Guide to Fantasy Football

Sometimes when playing fantasy football, we let the love for our team blind us. Our bias engulfs our brains, and sometimes can cost you your whole fantasy season. Maybe you are one of those Jaguars fans who thinks that Blake Bortles is a good quarterback, or a Texans fan who swears by DeAndre Hopkins even though he has no quarterback. I know that I have selected Andrew Luck the past two seasons expecting the world, only do be sorely disappointed. The most important thing I can tell you is to draft with your brain, not with your heart.

AROUND COVER32

The Latest: Packers release troubled, DT, Letroy Guion

Around the NFL: HOF RB, Ladainian Tomlinson, proves he is still in a class all of his own

What’s Trending: Jets’ DE, Sheldon Richardson, takes shots at Brandon Marshall

Looking Ahead: Patriots’ offense set up well for QB transition after 2018

Game Preview: Preseason Week 1: Bears vs Broncos game preview

Here are a few general tips I can give:

Know the ins and outs of your league

Know the format(PPR, Standard), know all of the scoring rules, and all of the roster limits in order to optimize your draft strategy.

Reaching is OK

Do you have the 7th pick in your league but really want to draft a player such as Jordan Howard, who you are convinced will be amazing. If you have done your research, reach. Remember, rankings are only a rough guideline to follow.

Complete your draft

Too many fantasy players exit the draft room preceding the final few rounds, and that is a grave mistake. The last few rounds are a perfect time to take a flyer on some player with a high ceiling that might just break out. Players such as David Johnson, Jay Ajayi, and Dak Prescott were all late round picks that turned into stars.

There are some Colts that hold significant fantasy value, and some Colts with a decent amount of potential. We can start with Andrew Luck, who is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL when healthy. We look at his 2014 MVP type season where he put up 4,761 yards and 40 touchdowns, leading the Colts to an AFC championship appearance. If Luck can stay upright in 2017, he will be a top fantasy quarterback, and great value around the fifth or sixth round of the draft.

Frank Gore is a solid player to pick up towards the middle or tail end of your draft. The 34 year old has shown no signs of slowing down, and with an improved offensive line should be able to replicate last season where he reached the 1,000 yard mark. I’m not sure that I would be confident with Frank Gore starting at running back for my team, though

T.Y. Hilton Led the NFL in receiving yards last season, and should only continue on his upward trend. If Hilton can eclipse his six touchdowns last season, that would go a long way for the Colts. Hilton is a surefire WR1, and a great late 1st or second round pick.

If Donte Moncrief can break out of his shell and become less touchdown dependent, he could be a steal. Jack Doyle is another late round steal, as he is one of the most reliable pass catchers in the NFL.

Lastly, I will give an example of a fantasy team that can easily contend for your league championship, and has plenty of Colts scattered throughout it. We will have the sixth pick in a 12 team league, with standard scoring.

Round 1: Mike Evans, WR

Round 2: T.Y. Hilton, WR

Round 3: Marshawn Lynch, RB

Round 4: Jarvis Landry, WR (FLEX)

Round 5: Drew Brees, QB

Round 6: Dalvin Cook, RB,

Round 7: Andrew Luck, QB

Round 8: Donte Moncrief, WR

Round 9: Kareem Hunt, RB

Round 10: Sterling Shepard, WR

Round 11: Jack Doyle, TE

Round 12: Vikings D/ST

Round 13: Adam Vinatieri, K

Round 14: Evan Engram, TE

Round 15: Chris Conley, WR

Round 16: Marlon Mack, RB

<!--td {border:1px solid #ccc;}br {}-->

QB Drew Brees RB Marshawn Lynch RB Dalvin Cook WR Mike Evans WR T.Y. Hilton TE Jack Doyle FLEX Jarvis Landry D/ST Vikings K Adam Vinatieri BE Donte Moncrief BE Andrew Luck BE Kareem Hunt BE Sterling Shepard BE Evan Engram BE Chris Conley BE Marlon Mack

  Ben Pfeifer is the Managing Editor of the Colts, and a national writer. Want to continue the discussion? Contact Ben Pfeifer on Twitter @doctortruthboi and @cover32_IND.

The post Colts Fans’ Guide to Fantasy Football appeared first on Cover32.

[cover32-yahoopartner-blog]

Jets claim wide receiver Lucky Whitehead off waivers

After being placed on waivers by the Dallas Cowboys last week, Lucky Whitehead has found a new home with the New York Jets. The Jets, the presumed worst team in the league, claimed the receiver after a false police report led to his release.

AROUND COVER32

Around the NFL: Free agent QB, Robert Griffen III, works out for the Los Angeles Chargers

What’s Trending: HOF QB, Joe Montana, fan of WR, Odell Beckham Jr., but disapproves of Miami boat trip

Moving On: Patriots’ WR, Andrew Hawkins, announces retirement from NFL

2018 NFL Draft: Gearing up for another loaded RB draft class in 2018

cover32 Podcasts: Ian Glendon sits down with author, Barstool Sports and Boston radio icon, Jerry Thornton

Former Cowboys’ WR Lucky Whitehead got claimed on waivers by NY Jets, per source.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 26, 2017

A report surfaced last week that Whitehead was wanted for a burglary charge in West Virginia. Despite pleading his innocence to the Cowboys, they decided to release the wide receiver. However, shortly after his release, it was confirmed by the police department that it was a case of mistaken identity.

Whitehead is entering his third NFL season, however, he only has 44 receptions for 305 yards in that time. He has yet to record his first career touchdown. In his time with the Cowboys, he was used mostly as a return specialist. He was likely falling out of favor in Dallas anyway, however, the circumstances surrounding his release were not right.

COVER32 PODCASTS

In the end, Whitehead has some bad luck. Not only did a false accusation threaten his career, he has gone from a team that could contend for a Super Bowl to one that will be the favorite for the first overall pick.

Whitehead will join Quincy Enunwa, Chris Harper, and rookie ArDarius Stewart on the wide receiver depth chart. Unfortunately, Whitehead did not deserve to lose his job the way he did. However, fortunately, a team, albeit the Jets, decided to give him a second chance.

– Ian Glendon is a National Co-Editor for cover32 and the Managing Editor for cover32/Patriots. He covers the NFL and New England Patriots. Like and follow on Follow @iglen31 Follow @cover32_NE and Facebook.

The post Jets claim wide receiver Lucky Whitehead off waivers appeared first on Cover32.

[cover32-yahoopartner-blog]

An Update on The Colts’ Safety Situation

Injuries have been one of the main factors that caused the lack of success for the Colts over the last two seasons. Key players such as Andrew Luck, Jack Mewhort, and Henry Anderson have missed a significant amount of playing time over the last two years, which has been absolutely detrimental and devastating. Most recently, both of the projected starting safeties, Clayton Geathers and Malik Hooker, have been dealing with injuries.

Rookie ball hawk Hooker’s injury is less serious, as he was put on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list for the Colts after tweaking his hamstring. Ian Rappoport tweeted this today:

Circling back on #Colts S @MalikHooker24, placed on PUP today. I’m told he hasn’t had any setbacks, this is just the team being cautious.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 25, 2017

AROUND COVER32

Around the NFL: Free agent QB, Robert Griffen III, works out for the Los Angeles Chargers

What’s Trending: HOF QB, Joe Montanta, fan of WR, Odell Beckham Jr., but disapproves of Miami boat trip

Moving On: Patriots’ WR, Andrew Hawkins, announces retirement from NFL

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Although he will presumably be ready to go for the Colts’ week one opener in Los Angeles, this is a setback in his development. Hooker is already a raw player, and he needs all of the time he can get to improve his tackling and run defense.

Hard hitting safety Clayton Geathers will unfortunately miss the first six weeks of the season. He injured his neck on a heroic game winning fourth down stop in week 11 against Tennessee, had surgery in March, and will still miss time. He is the physical leader of the Colts, as he recorded 59 tackles in nine seasons. This is a huge blow to a Colts defense which has been reshaped, and is desperately trying to find its identity.

Behind Hooker and Geathers at safety the Colts are very thin. Darius Butler, who made the transition from corner, will most likely start along Hooker. Having two coverage specialists in the back could be beneficial, but the run defense will be lacking. T.J. Green is coming off of a season where he was the worst safety in the NFL according to pro football focus, and Tyvis Powell is unproven. The Colts situation at safety is looking quite bleak.

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Indianapolis Colts Redraft: 2014

Every single NFL draft provides a myriad of what ifs. What if the Colts had not drafted Andrew Luck, what if one of 29 other teams drafted Tom Brady, or what if the Raiders did not draft JaMarcus Russell? The Colts over the years have had some home-run picks such as Luck and T.Y. Hilton, and some misses such as Björn Werner and Phillip Dorsett. How could the Colts have done better?

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2014 NFL Draft

Round two pick 59: Jack Mewhort, OT, Ohio State

Redraft selection: Jarvis Landry, WR, LSU

Although Mewhort has been very good for the Colts over his career, injuries have held him back. Landry and Hilton would be a combo of Pro Bowl receivers which defenses would struggle to defend. Along with Hilton, the Colts’ receiving corps consisted of veterans Reggie Wayne and Hakeem Nicks.

Round three pick 90: Donte Moncrief, WR, Ole Miss

Redraft selection: Trai Turner, G, LSU

The Colts get their fix at right guard in the second round with the Turner, a pro bowl guard. Turner struggles when he played at tackle, but would not have to on the Colts.

Round five pick 166: Jonathan Newsome, DE, Ball State

Redraft selection: Devon Kennard, OLB, USC

Kennard provides solid depth at the linebacker position, and much needed youth. The Colts outside backers included the aging Erik Walden and Robert Mathis. Kennard has started 24 games for the Giants in his career.

Round five pick 203: Andrew Jackson, LB, Western Kentucky

Redraft Selection: Tajh Boyd, QB, Clemson

The Colts needed to address the backup quarterback spot, as their backup was the shell of Matt Hasselbeck. Boyd had a very good career at Clemson; maybe the Colts could develop into a decent player.

Round seven pick 232: Ulrick John, OT, Georgia State

Redraft selection: Terrence Fede, DE, Marist

Fede provides good value in the seventh round, as he has played in 35 games for the Dolphins in three years, and made 23 tackles. His 6’5″. 269 pound frame could allow him to be a solid rusher.

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