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cover32 Debates: Julio Jones vs Rob Gronkowski

In the midst of the NFL offseason, cover32 will debut a series of new debate segments to hype up NFL fans for the start of the 2017 season. The Debate series comes on the heels of the Doppelganger and Roundtable series.

The Debate

1. If you were starting a team from scratch, would you take Julio Jones or Rob Gronkowski?

Jake: Building from the center of the ball out is key, but in this case, I want Julio Jones. Age makes no difference in this case since they’re both 28 However, Jones has stayed healthier than Gronk over the past few seasons, and he has the same big play ability. Plus, he moves all around the formation and can excel in any spot. Jones brings speed, route running, and physicality to the table. He would be the quarterback’s best friend from day one.

Mike: Julio Jones is a great player that every team in the league would love to employ. However, Rob Gronkowski is a game-changer.  And for that reason, you start your ‘from-scratch’ team with him. In 2010, Patriots head coach Bill Belichick drafted the uniquely talented tight end from the University of Arizona in the second round of the NFL Draft. Although he came with a questionable prognosis on durability, Gronkowski has become the NFL’s unstoppable force. In only his second season, he became the first tight end in NFL history to lead the league in receiving touchdowns. In his first six seasons, he has amassed 68 receiving touchdowns. Only two tight ends in NFL history (Tony Gonzalez and Antonio Gates) have had more in their entire careers, while Gronkowski is arguably still in his prime. (And…you know what happens when he gets his next one??  69 Touchdowns, baby!  You know what I’m sayin??) All kidding aside, Gronkowski changes the landscape and has defensive coordinators all over the league openly admitting that they game plan to ‘contain’ rather than ‘stop’ him.  On the contrary, Belichick and Pats defensive coordinator Matt Patricia were able to devise a pretty solid game plan for stopping Jones, holding him to four catches (0 for touchdowns) in Super Bowl LI.  Two of those catches showcased Jones’ amazing athleticism, which cannot be ignored. However, Gronkowski has the ‘holy trinity’ of offensive weapons in the NFL–size, speed, and strength. Despite injury concerns, it’s certain that Belichick doesn’t regret choosing Gronkowski as the most integral piece of his offense not named Brady. I highly doubt that you would find one NFL General Manager that would.  Bottom line, Julio Jones is a great player, but Rob Gronkowski is a once-in-a-lifetime talent, and those are the players around which you build.  

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2. Three seconds left on the clock at the five-yard line. Which guy do you want to throw a fade to?

Jake: Gronkowski is tempting because of his size, but Julio Jones works the sideline as good as anyone. I see Gronkowski work the middle of the field beautifully, but there’s a reason Jones is the best in the league. Look at his catch along the sideline with just minutes to play in the Super Bowl. Jones has the height and physicality to go high point the ball, and the precision to stay in bounds and work the sideline.

Mike: While Julio Jones is a great receiver with tremendous ability, I don’t see how you cannot take Gronkowski in this situation.  Few, if any, players in NFL history are as dominant as Gronk in the red zone. Jones’ numbers in the red zone are impressive. In 2016, he was targeted six times for three receptions inside the 10-yard line. In his 14 games played, Jones tallied 11 yards and two red zone touchdowns.  Gronkowski’s detractors, including my esteemed opponent, will point to his lack of being on the field in 2016. And granted, it did hold him to one red zone touchdown last season. However, that one touchdown was only one fewer than Jones, who played 6 more games than Gronkowski. For a more representative sample, one should examine his 2015 season. Gronkowski played in 15 games and was targeted 11 times for six receptions. He hauled in 5 touchdowns and 15 receiving yards, inside the 10-yard line. Keep in mind, he did that with most everyone in the stadium knowing he would be targeted by Tom Brady. But as NBA Hall-of-Famer Robert Parish once stated, “It’s one thing to know who’s getting the ball, and it’s another thing to stop it.’  In the red zone, Gronk is far too often unstoppable for it to be coincidental. All things being equal in this battle, Gronkowski is simply too big, too strong and too dynamic for anyone defender to stop him in the end zone.

3. Which player has the greatest overall impact on his team?

Jake: If we’re talking last season, that’s easy. But overall, it’s a bit more difficult. Both players have been injured at points in their careers. However, without Julio Jones, the Falcons would lose a key cog in their offense. The Falcons do have plenty of other weapons, but I wouldn’t trust Mohamed Sanu or Taylor Gabriel as my number one receiver. Between two prolific offense, Jones has had more impact.

Mike: One of Rob Gronkowski’s biggest strengths is that he is a phenomenal pass catcher, whose combination of size, speed and strength make him nearly impossible to defend.  In addition to that, he is an amazing route runner and a great run blocker.  When Gronkowski is in a three-point stance next to a tackle, the defense has a lot of trouble determining if the Patriots are about to run a run play or a pass play.  This can wreak havoc on defenses trying to decide on the personnel and scheme to defend.  Because he demands so much attention, Gronkowski allows the offense to call run or pass, depending on how the defense lines up.  For example, if a defense employs 5 defensive backs to prevent the pass to Gronkowski, the Pats offense feels more comfortable running the ball against the smaller defense.  When the defensive base package deploys a linebacker or safety to try to cover him, it’s pretty certain that the Patriots potent pass attack is about to be unleashed.  Gronkowski is so explosive that he has to demand double the attention on every play. While amazingly talented, Jones is not covered in the same way. Gronkowski’s versatility makes his entire team more versatile. It’s no wonder why he is a favorite and trusted target of quarterback Tom Brady.  Jones may put up amazing numbers, but anyone that can say he makes the job of the greatest quarterback of all time easier is the more valuable to his team.

4. Who is more likely to have an MVP-worthy season in 2017?

Jake: Rob Gronkowski needs to prove he can stay healthy this season. Anything Gronkowski does this season will ultimately be overshadowed in the media by Tom Brady. Brady is one of the favorites to win this season, and it’s hard to see Gronkowski get considered. Julio Jones, however, is the best player on his offense and could have another very strong season. The Falcons may struggle this year, and Jones could be the one to help them forget about last season’s collapse. In a very creative offense, Jones could still end up with a 90/1300/9 line this season, which may put him near the conversation.

Mike: This is a tough one…but Gronkowski still comes out on top…and here’s why. Jones will put up great offensive numbers and will continue to be one of Matt Ryan’s favorite targets. Jones was ranked #3 in the NFL’s Top 100 for good reason. His skill set among wide receivers is among the best in the game. However, the Super Bowl LI loss will continue to haunt the Falcons. I am not saying this to troll Atlanta. However, a 28-3 blown lead in the fourth quarter of the biggest stage in sports has to have an effect on its quarterback, if no one else. This could lead to a drop in production for Matty Ice, and thus Jones may see his opportunities more limited. As for Gronkowski, he will be battling back from adversity too. He is returning to action after back surgery to repair a herniated disc. The fact that injury has cut short several of his seasons cannot be ignored. But, here’s the rub for Julio fans. Gronkowski will benefit from the additions of some of the Pats new offensive weapons. Receiver Brandin Cooks and running back Mike Gillislie will provide Brady with additional weapons, which will have to draw the interest of the defense. With more weapons to cover, defenses may be more reticent to double, or even triple cover, Gronkowski.  He is also playing for pride. While his image of a hard partying, laid-back dude is great for marketing purposes, Gronkowski is a very dedicated and serious football player, first and foremost. He has not made it a secret that he did not like having to watch his team during Super Bowl LI from the owner’s box. Rob Gronkowski is out to prove a point, and the rest of the league is on notice. 

The post cover32 Debates: Julio Jones vs Rob Gronkowski appeared first on Cover32.

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cover32 Colts Midseason Mock Draft

The Indianapolis Colts, having officially put Andrew Luck on IR, are almost a lock for a top pick in the 2018 NFL draft. If the season were to end today, the Colts would finish with the fourth overall pick. The Browns, 49ers, and Giants have already made their selections. This is where the cover32 Colts staff find themselves. In the position of Chris Ballard, they will make their first and second round selections for the Colts. The Colts have a myriad of needs; it is pivotal for the Colts to land two major impact players.

Meet The Participants:

Ben Pfeifer – cover32 Colts Managing Editor, national writer

Jesse Pierson – cover32 Colts writer

Mateo Caliz – cover32 Colts writer

Jack Yonover – cover32 Colts writer

Maxx Hotton – cover32 Colts writer

Zach Sears – cover32 Colts writer

Round One, Pick Four

Ben Pfeifer – Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State

I have been stuck on this pick for a while; there are so many options, from Connor Williams to Minkah Fitzpatrick. But which ever way I spin it, I always end up back on Saquon Barkley. But Ben, aren’t offensive tackle, inside linebacker, and offensive tackles bigger needs than running back? Yes. Don’t the Colts have a young, electric back in Marlon Mack? Yes. But Saquon Barkley is just too talented to pass on. Barkley is a bonafide game changer. Whenever he touches the ball, wether it be on a kick return, handoff, catch, or hell, even throwing it, touchdown is in the back of everyone’s mind. Barkley is the best running back prospect since, well, I’m not really sure. Maybe Reggie Bush? Not taking Barkley would haunt me every time I see him go off (which will be every week). Barkley also indirectly helps Andrew Luck, as the Colts will focus more on the run game. Saquon Barkley is the game changing offensive player that could change this franchise for years to come.

Jesse Pierson – Harold Landry, EDGE, Boston College

This team has so many needs that almost any pick would make sense here. Cornerback, offensive line, wide receiver, inside linebacker, and even running back could be in play at this spot. Instead, the focus turns to improving a middling pass rush. John Simon and Jabaal Sheard have been excellent offseason acquisitions, but they are much more geared to stop the run than rush the passer. Ditto Jonathan Hankins and Al Woods. There are simply not elite pass rushers on this team. Tarell Basham is up and down in his rookie campaign, and Barkevious Mingo is an athletic freak who is a liability as an every-down player.

Landry brings tremendous agility and relentless effort. He was a second-team All American as a junior last season and may have been a first round pick had he chosen to come out. Instead, he returned for his senior year at BC to improve his overall game. He has only recorded five sacks through nine games in 2017, but his career production speaks for itself. This is the type of game-changing edge rusher that the team sorely needs. Take Landry now, and address other needs as the draft progresses.

Mateo Caliz – Minkah Fitzpatrick, DB, Alabama

Minkah Fitzpatrick gives the Colts a shutdown corner and a leader on the defense. Him and Hooker would form an insane defensive backfield. Great talents at defensive back do not come often, and Fitzpatrick is one of them. He could help redefine the Colts defense from Day one.

Jack Yonover – Arden Key, EDGE, LSU

The Colts take Arden Key, the explosive edge rusher from LSU. Ever since Robert Mahtis tore his Achilles, the Colts have been in desperate need of a pass rusher. Arden Key is that guy.

Maxx Hotton – Arden Key, EDGE, LSU

Although many will want Heisman favorite Saquon Barkley here, I don’t see him falling this far, and the Colts have bigger fish to fry. The pass rush has been abysmal since Robert Mathis’ stellar 2013 season, and although Simon and Sheard have been serviceable, they aren’t game changers like a Justin Houston or Khalil Mack are. Arden Key may not be that good as those players, but he has the potential to be a double digest sack player in the NFL for years to come. Key left the team this offseason for personal reasons and then had a shoulder procedure when he came back in the spring, but the 6’6″ 260 pound stud has started to work up from his slow start to the season with three sacks in the past two games. Key is an extremely athletic and proficient pass rusher who could completely revamp the Colts front seven for right away.

Zach Sears – Minkah Fitzpatrick, DB, Alabama

Round one I see the Colts getting the cornerback out of Alabama, Minkah Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick would be the perfect replacement for Vontae Davis and would solidify the Colts secondary like no other with Hooker, Geathers, Melvin, and possibly Fitzpatrick, with Quincy Wilson, and Nate Hairston still able to get in when needed.

Round Two, Pick 37

Ben Pfeifer – Braden Smith, G, Auburn

The Colts absolutely have to address offensive line in one of the first two rounds. The 6’6″, 300 pound Smith is an excellent run blocker who is quick on his feet and is incredibly aggressive. He should do a good job in run and pass protection right away. He can play both guard spots, and a bit of tackle. With the future of Jack Mewhort and Joe Haeg uncertain, a leader in the trenches is necessary for the Colts to win games, and most importantly, to keep Andrew Luck healthy.

Jesse Pierson – Cody O’Connell, G, Washington State

O’Connell comes on board to immediately improve a maligned offensive line. While his size is bit of a concern (men of his stature don’t generally move well enough to transition to the speed of NFL defenders), “The Continent” is a unanimous All-American guard who has played in Mike Leach’s pass-happy Air Raid offense, so his pass blocking has been honed for years. If Jack Mewhort never returns to full health, O’Connell helps to soften that blow. If he does come back, then the Colts would have an interior trio of O’Connell, Ryan Kelly, and Mewhort, which should be able to stop an 18-wheeler cold. Andrew Luck needs protection, and this pick provides it.

Mateo Caliz – Malik Jefferson, LB, Texas

Jefferson is a great player in a position of need. The Colts linebackers have been awful this season, so Jefferson would get the chance to start from the beginning as he could develop into a great middle linebacker.

Jack Yonover – Orlando Brown, OT, Oklahoma

The Colts take Orlando Brown from Oklahoma. He’s an offensive tackle with a lot of potential. The Colts cannot afford to neglect the offensive line any longer.

Maxx Hotton – Jamarco Jones, OT ,Ohio St.

Can someone please give the Colts’ Quarterbacks some protection?! Many say the Colts haven’t done anything to help the offensive line in recent years, that is not true; they have made plenty of moves since 2012…..they just haven’t worked at all. Looking at this line, it needs upgrades at right tackle and at least one of the guards, which is where Jones comes in. The Ohio State product is versatile enough to play guard or tackle at the NFL level, so even if the Colts go get a right tackle or someone on the roster steps up to take the position this season, Jones could become a great guard at the NFL level.

Zach Sears – Josey Jewel, ILB, Iowa

Round two I think the Colts will get a steal of a pick, drafting Josey Jewel out of Iowa. This linebacker brings an “eagle eye” type of view to the struggling Colts middle linebackers. Jewel is quick and very aware when it comes to pass coverage and run stopping and would be a steal in the second round the same way Dalvin Cook was a second round steal in last years draft.

AROUND COVER32 Patriots trade Jimmy G to the 49ers Texans ship Duane Brown off to the Seahawks

Vikings acquire running back, Mack Brown Seahawks finally upgrade their offensive line with acquisition of Brown

Former NFL defensive end, Daniel Te’o-Neshiem dies at age 30

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cover32 AFC South Roundtable

With the NFL season in full swing, and the AFC South division completely up in the air after two weeks, there are many questions to be asked. We brought together the AFC South team here at cover32 for a roundtable discussion. 

Participants

Ben Pfeifer: cover32 Colts Managing Editor

Brian Moore: cover32 Titans Managing Editor

Brandon Ray cover32 Jaguars Managing Editor

James Mastrucci: cover32 Texans Managing Editor

Maxx Hotton: cover32 Colts Writer

Jesse Pierson: cover32 Colts Writer

Question One: Who will be crowned the AFC South champion, and what will each team’s record be?

Pfeifer: 1) It seems that in the blink of an eye the Tennessee Titans have gone from a team that would be bottom of the barrel for many years to come, to one who could be a super bowl contender in due time. Their explosive offense has potential to be one of the best in the NFL. Along with their lethal running game, they added Corey Davis and the criminally underrated Taywan Taylor to help out Marcus Mariota. The Titans’ defense is the only thing holding them back at the moment. 12-4

2) The Texans are a quarterback away from being a legitimate super bowl contender, and it has been this way for a while. The Texans’ offense has struggled mightily over the past two games, and that will continue to be their achilles heel until they can find a decent quarterback. Houston is a fringe playoff team. 8-8

3) Jacksonville shares a similar problem with Houston; their defense is one of the best in the league, but their offense is nowhere near good enough. The root of the Jaguars’ issues is Blake Bortles, who is arguably the worst quarterback in the NFL. Leonard Fournette has the making of a future NFL star, but without a passing attack he has little avenue to succeed. Allen Robinson’s season ending injury was the final blow to the Jaguars’ season. 6-10

4) My Colts are unfortunately not in the best of positions with their superstar quarterback sidelined indefinitely. Andrew Luck has already been ruled out for week 3. Luck turns this team from a bottom five team to one who is a playoff contender. This team is moving in the right direction though, with young players such as Malik Hooker and Ryan Kelley marking a bright future in Indianapolis. 4-12

Moore: 1) Titans built a very deep team quickly and can withstand injuries. Jon Robinson has been quite fortunate and deserves a lot of credit for the remarkable turnaround.

2) The Texans don’t look as good thus far with J.J. Watt back. It’s very odd given his immense talent, but they were the top defense last season. They’ll only go as far as Watson can take them.

3) The Jaguars have done a nice job at getting the skill positions filled. I’m not sure what happened to Bortles but he is a shadow of his former self. Their offensive line is weak to the left so they barely run in that direction. They are still building, but impressive with what they have so far.

4) Andrew Luck continues to be Peyton Manning’s replacement even years later. Just like when Peyton was injured, the Colts are exposed for being a poor team. This next offseason could see some dramatic turnover in Indy.

  Ray: The Titans look like they will be the team to beat in the AFC South. They’re team looks amazing with a young quarterback in Marcus Mariota and a nice offensive line. While the defense still needs help, as long as they can do the minimum to keep opposing offenses’ out of the end zone, expect the Titans to clinch the division.

Team records: Titans: 11-5, Jaguars: 9-7, Texans: 7-9, Colts: 3-13

Mastrucci: The AFC South will be won by the Titans. Every other team in the division does not appear good enough to compete for the divisional title. Records for AFC South Teams are as follows Titans 11-5 Texans 4-12 Jaguars 4-12 Colts 3-13

Hotton:  Tennessee, they are the most balanced team in the division, and with no luck for most of the season, Tennessee has the best available quarterback. Derrick Henry will probably take over for Murray, giving them a top running game again, defense is improved enough to get to at least 10 wins which is all they’ll need. Titans: 11-5 Texans: 8-8 Colts: 6-10 Jaguars: 5-11

Pierson: AFC South winner and why: Tennessee because of Mariota’s continued development, a physical defense, and improved team speed.

Records: Tennessee 9-7, Houston 9-7, Jacksonville 6-10, Indianapolis 5-11

Question Two: Who is the best player in the AFC South?

Pfeifer: When healthy, Andrew Luck is undoubtedly the best player in the AFC South. The last season he was fully healthy, he was an MVP candidate. Luck’s absence this season proves just how great he is

If we are speaking of this season, I think I have to give the award to Marcus Mariota. The guy is a flat out game changer. He single handedly turned the Titans around, and is trending steeply upward. Mariota could be a top three quarterback in the NFL in a few seasons. His game really reminds me a lot of Russell Wilson at his height.

Moore: Normally its J.J. Watt but I haven’t seen him be his ol’ self just yet. Probably DeAndre Hopkins. After the Texans went from Andre to DeAndre, the entire division had to spend many picks on their secondaries. Marcus Mariota could finish as the MVP if there was such an award.

Ray: The best player in the AFC South is Calais Campbell because he brings the mentality to a defensive line that a coach wants and produces consistently. It’s a close battle between him and J.J. Watt, but with Watt’s recent injuries, Campbell has the edge on him.

Mastrucci: The actual best player and who the best player is right now are two different people. The actual best player is J.J. Watt, however he has not performed up to the level we are accustomed to seeing. The best player right now is Marcus Mariota. He will carry the Titans to the division title.

Hotton: The best player is Andrew Luck; no one can do more for a team at the most important position. He can make any play in any system, and can make literally awesome, in the biblical sense, plays, and can will his team to victory. If we are going in healthy it’s J.J. watt, for the same reasons as Luck without the quarterback part, he can do everything you want, change a game on single play, absolutely dominate, and can do anything you ask of him.

Pierson: JJ Watt. When he is on and healthy, he is unstoppable.

Question Three: Grade your team’s offseason. If you could have one do over from your offseason, what would it be?

Pfeifer: A-.

The only thing holding me back from grading this offseason higher was a lack of offensive lineman signed. And I wish we would have put a bigger focus on keeping Andrew Luck upright. New GM Chris Ballard did the best anyone could have asked for in erasing the giant blemish that Ryan Grigson spawned on the face of this franchise. He made some under the radar free agent signings that have been very impactful thus far this season, such as John Simon and Al Woods. The Colts’ draft was undoubtedly the best class since Andrew Luck and T.Y. Hilton. Ballard drafted two impact players in the secondary in Malik Hooker and Quincy Wilson, an explosive runner in Marlon Mack, and more. The mark of any great GM is finding diamonds in the rough, and Ballard seems to have found a few in the making in players such as Jeremiah George. Chris Ballard has built a solid foundation in Indianapolis in a short amount of time.

Moore: B-. The Titans added Logan Ryan but were otherwise quite questionable with free agency. The trio of special teams free agents have yet to make an impact. The draft was exceptional. The cuts had a couple illogical moves as they usually do. Antwaun Woods went from starter to the practice squad. Years ago, Quinton Spain had the same thing happen. It’s very odd. The team needs to move on from Kevin Dodd. They kept Sylvester Williams although he has been ineffective and clearly looks down often at his surgically repaired ankle that impacts his ability to get leverage. There’s a vibe growing that JRob can not own up to mistakes. As wonderful as he is, as he grows in the GM role, he must own up to these. This may be the best rookie class I’ve seen. Besides production, they are all good people with great mindsets and work ethics.

Ray: Jaguars offseason- B+

If I could have one do over from the Jaguars offseason, it would be drafting a quarterback in the draft at some point. Who exactly? DeShone Kizer because once Mitch Trubisky, Patrick Mahomes and Deshaun Watson were off the board, he was the next available option. With the way Blake Bortles has been performing, this could motivate Bortles to perform well since he is on a short leash. If he couldn’t get the job done, then Kizer would be the next guy up.

Mastrucci: Texans’ offseason grade is a D. Still have not resolved the Duane Brown situation which will result in Deshaun Watson getting pummeled week in and week out. The second issue is that the secondary is not as good as advertised. If the Texans got a do over it would be paying Duane Brown, but they aren’t and Watson appears destined to be another rookie quarterback who will get sacked 50+ times.

Hotton: B. Good: hiring Chris Ballard, signing Johnathan Hankins, John Simon, Jabaal Sheard, and Al Woods for essentially one year deals. Drafting top give talent Malik Hooker; Quincy Wilson and Nate Hairston at cornerback. Awarding good contracts to Darius Butler and Jack Doyle. Trading/ridding bad contracts Dwayne Allen, Arthur Jones and Kendall Langford. Bad: not firing Chuck Pagano, this group of head coaches hired seem incredibly bright and successful, but we are stuck with Chuck. Back up quarterback situation was mismanaged; Brissett move looks fine now, but way too late. Beside getting lucks surgery week 16 after Oakland, the redo would be to fire Pagano and Ryan Grigson on black Monday, then hire Ballard ASAP, let him hire next coach, who could have been Sean McVay or Kyle Shanahan.

Pierson: Off-season grade: B-, although firing Grigson was an A+++

Off-season do-over: retaining Chuck Pagano. Should have made a clean break and hired Dave Toub.

​​

AROUND COVER32 ​ ​Should the Pats/Raiders game in Mexico be moved?

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Jets vs Dolphins Week 3 Preview

​Former NFL wide receiver turned actor Bernie Casey dies at 78​

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cover32 Debates: Tom Brady vs Peyton Manning

In the midst of the NFL offseason, cover32 will debut a series of new debate segments to hype up NFL fans for the start of the 2017 season. The Debate series comes on the heels of the Doppelganger and Roundtable series.

The cover32 Debate series is where two cover32 writers debate important topics of the day. Today’s debate will feature Ben Pfeifer (@doctortruthboi) and Ian Glendon (@iglen31) debating Peyton Manning versus Tom Brady.

AROUND COVER32

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What’s Trending: HOF coach, John Madden, discusses physicality of football in 2017

cover32 Rotisserie: On this week’s Periscope, Patrick Hatten breaks down the NFC North

cover32 Debates: Debating who is a better QB, Tom Brady or Aaron Rodgers

NFL Reaction: Who is the most underrated player in the NFL

Opening Statements

Glendon: My name is Ian Glendon and I am the Managing Editor of the Patriots as well as one of the National Editors of cover32. Tom Brady is the greatest quarterback of all time, a feat that Peyton Manning has never sniffed. While Manning’s career is over, Brady continues to add to his legacy as the winningest quarterback of all time.

Pfeifer: My name is Ben Pfeifer, the Colts editor and one of the national writers. Although Brady is still putting on an impressive career. Peyton Manning, the all-time career leader in passing yards and touchdowns, is the greatest quarterback of all time overall.

Which quarterback would be more successful if they switched teams?

Pfeifer: I’m gonna go with the Sherrif. His many head coaches, including Jim Caldwell, John Fox, Tony Dungy, and Gary Kubiak, means many different systems, all of which Manning excelled in. Imagine Peyton’s football genius and beautiful touch passes in a Bill Belichick system, who I credit as the greatest coach ever. Just imagine.

Glendon: Although Manning has taken multiple head coaches to the Super Bowl, on multiple teams, Brady has never had the luxury of playing with some of the offensive talents Manning has. Brady, under Belichick, has played in just about every system imaginable. Brady has also proven over a much longer period of time that he can play in any environment. Manning played about half his games in a dome.

Who’s season was more impressive; Brady’s 2007 season? Manning’s 2013 season?

Glendon: Despite falling short of Manning’s total numbers and the Broncos points as a team, Brady and the 2007 Patriots offense was the most dominant and efficient offense of all time. They scored on over half of their offensive drives. In addition, they did this against a very strong list of opponents. Including Peyton Manning and the Colts.

Pfeifer: The Patriot’s offense was the best of all time in 2007, I will give you that, but this is about the quarterbacks. Belichick’s system shone through. Manning, however, was a game changer. 5,477 passing yards in 2013 is an all-time record, along with Manning’s record-setting 55 touchdowns. In 2013, Manning was the most dominant quarterback ever.

Which quarterback was better in their prime?

Glendon: Seeing as it appears that Brady is still in his prime as he approaches 40, I’ll take Brady. Not only has his prime lasted longer, he was and has been just as dominant as Manning before you even start taking Super Bowl championships into account

Pfeifer: Nobody ever has, or ever will play the game of football like Peyton Manning. His constant audibles and precise pre-snap changes allow him to adjust the offense based on what the defense was going to do, making the offense nearly unstoppable as we have seen time and time again. “Omaha” is to football as saying “Kobe” before a shot is to basketball. Manning has the best touch pass of all time. His football IQ is undoubtedly the best of all time.

What is the biggest flaw in Manning and Brady’s game?

Pfeifer: The only flaw Manning had was a lack of a running game, which would have surely enhanced his game, but was not necessary as we saw. Despite his lack of foot speed, Manning was the best ever at moving inside the pocket. The threat of a scramble would make Manning the most deadly player of all time.

Glendon: I seem to recall a player by the name of Edgerrin James who ran the ball well behind Manning. I would say that his biggest flaw would be his pension to throw interceptions. As for Brady, the actual best at moving inside the pocket, his biggest weakness would be when he is on the run. Although, that has shockingly improved in recent seasons.

Pfeifer: Brady’s lack of interceptions, although very impressive, shows a glaring difference in play styles. Brady was confined in his system that was very efficient, whereas Manning was free to make audibles and air it out.

How can Manning be considered the greatest when Brady’s playoff resume is far superior?

Glendon: It’s simple, he can’t. Brady’s playoff records are borderline untouchable as of this moment. If he plays three more seasons no one may ever come close to eclipsing them. Manning, despite having two rings, is just a tick over .500 in the playoffs and to be considered the greatest of all time you have to have a better record than that, especially given the teams success in the regular season.

Pfeifer: Many forget that rings are a team accomplishment. I understand that the quarterback is the most important position on the field, and Brady had a large part in the victories, but not as large as the role played by the greatest coach of all time Bill Belichick.

Brady’s rings have come with a myriad of controversy. What if the Raiders won the tuck rule game? How about if Brady’s defense couldn’t lock down the greatest show on turf and a high powered Eagles offense? What if he did not have the greatest kicker of all time to win him games? What if the Seahawks ran the ball one of four times or Malcolm (I learned how to spell his name) Butler did not make a miraculous interception at the goal line? What if Julian Edelman did not make arguably the greatest catch of all time against the Falcons, who’s defense absolutely crumbled, and offensive play calling faltered?

Also, let’s not forget the cheating scandals, which mark a significant blemish on Brady’s resume. We don’t remember Mike Vanderjagt’s miss against the Chargers in the divisional round, the receivers, the drop in the super bowl loss to the Saints, or the Hail Mary the Broncos defense gave up to Baltimore? The blowout loss to the Seahawks is offset by the 18-1 squad’s loss to the Giants.

Glendon: There are a lot of what if’s there. What if Tyree never caught that pass? What if Welker held on to the ball? If you play that game then we can conceivably see a Patriots team that won seven Super Bowls in 16 seasons. The bottom line is that despite Manning’s success’, Brady’s accomplishments outshine them in comparison

Closing Statements

Glendon: In closing, the debate is over. Brady surpassed Manning long ago. His five Super Bowls and counting is only icing on the cake because by the time Tom Brady’s career is over, he will own just about every record Peyton Manning owns. Further cementing him as the greatest of all time.

Pfeifer: Manning’s incredible statistics put him over the top of Tom Brady as an individual player. I don’t see many people talking about Terry Bradshaw or Troy Aikman as better than Peyton, despite the fact that he has fewer rings. Until Brady does break all of Manning’s records, the Sherrif will be the greatest of all time.

    The post cover32 Debates: Tom Brady vs Peyton Manning appeared first on Cover32.

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cover32 Patriots Roundtable: Training camp edition

Last week a group of the National Writers participated in a roundtable discussion to preview the upcoming season. This time around, it is the cover32 Patriots writing staff that will give their thoughts and musings on the upcoming season. Keep yourself up to date with everything cover32 Patriots by following us on Twitter (@cover32_NE), Instagram (@cover32_ne), and Facebook.

The participants:

Editor:

Ian Glendon – Managing Editor for cover32 Patriots and National Writer

Writers:

David Albiani – Staff Writer for cover32 Patriots

Hal Bent – Staff Writer for cover32 Patriots

Mike D’Abate – Staff Writer for cover32 Patriots and National Content Writer

Caitlyn Allen – Staff Writer for cover32 Patriots

Brayden Ilie – Staff Writer for cover32 Patriots

Kevin Tame – Staff Writer for cover32 Patriots

Chris Morgan – Staff Writer for cover32 Patriots

AROUND COVER32

Around the NFL: 2017 roster of NFL officials have been confirmed

What’s Trending: Raiders’ G, Gabe Jackson, signs five-year $56 million extension

Fantasy Football: Projecting WR, Kenny Stills’ value for the 2017 season

cover32 Rotisserie: On this week’s Periscope, Patrick Hatten breaks down the NFC North

2018 NFL Draft: Could Arizona State’s RB, Kalen Ballage, be this year’s breakout star

First off, we have a lot of new faces covering the Patriots this year, and a couple of old ones. Let us start by introducing yourself and letting us now how to contact you.

Glendon: My name is Ian Glendon and I am the Managing Editor of the Patriots section of cover32 as well as a National writer for the site. I got my start in journalism by covering High School baseball in Florida, an incredible job. After joining cover32 awhile back, I took over as the Managing Editor in April. I grew up in Massachusetts and am an avid Boston sports fan. The best way to reach me is on Twitter @iglen31 and through email at c32.ian@gmail.com.

Albiani: First off, welcome to our new writers! It should be an exciting year for us with the talent we have on our staff paired with the depth and roster strength of the Patriots. My name is David Albiani and my Twitter handle (@realnesportsfan) is the best way to contact me. There is nothing better than talking sports and I am always up for a discussion.

Bent: I’m Hal Bent, I’ve been with Musketfire since 2012 and have been writing about the Patriots since 2005. I’m on Twitter at @HalBent01 and you can find me on multiple Patriots groups on Facebook talking about the Patriots.

D’Abate: I’m Mike D’Abate, new staff writer for cover32/Patriots in 2017, based in New England….about a 20-minute drive from Foxboro. I’m happy to be a part of the great team we have this year at cover32/Patriots. You can follow me on Twitter @mg973024.

Allen: My dad has always been my inspiration when it comes to sports. I’ve played basketball since I could walk and watched pro sports for as long as I can remember. Even though I know more about the NBA, I enjoy watching the NFL as well. I’m not a bandwagon but I like the Patriots even though I’m not from the area. If you ever have any comments or concerns with my writing my email is 9caitlyn.allen@benet.org and twitter is @caitlyyyn_allen.

Ilie: First off my name is Brayden Ilie. I am the middle child from a set of triplets. I am also a die hard fan of the Pats and have been ever since I joined my pop warner team named the Patriots. Football is my favorite sport and I can spend hours talking about it and watching it. If you wish to contact me or get to know more about me follow me on Twitter @illpill96.

Tame: I’m Kevin Tame Jr. I’ve been writing for a few years now just jumping around different hole in the wall blogs until I finally started getting noticed. I had media credentials last summer and got to attend training camp all Summer. I’m extremely active on social media so don’t be afraid to reach out! I can be contacted on Twitter @Kevin_Tame or if you want to add me on Facebook, Kevin Tame Jr. My cell is 508-232-1634.

Who is your under-the-radar pick to make the Patriots out of Training Camp?

Glendon: It seems like a tall task, however, I think that wide receiver Austin Carr makes the team. Carr is a special talent in the mold of Julian Edelman and Danny Amendola. The tricky part is if he gets added to the practice squad he is exposed to the rest of the league.  I don’t think the Patriots take the chance and Carr will be on the 53-man roster.

Albiani: I think there are a few good candidates with Harvey Langi, Jacob Hollister, Austin Carr, and D.J. Killings the most mentioned names. If I had to pick one name I would lean toward Langi as the guy to make it. Belichick clearly likes him considering the sizable bonus given to him, and linebacker is one of the few spots that might isn’t loaded with top tier talent across the board. Langi also was a very good coverage linebacker in college, something that is hard to find and that the Patriots don’t necessarily have right now. Langi is a good bet to make the roster over Freeney or even McClellin. Don’t rule out Killings (the Pats always keep undrafted or low draft pick defensive backs) or Hollister (they don’t have a move tight end to develop).

Bent: David Jones, the undrafted free agent safety from FCS school Richmond, flashed the same athleticism and confidence during OTAs that caught the eye of coaches and media much like another small school defensive back named Malcolm Butler in 2014. My prediction is that Jones can build on this performance in training camp and the preseason and edge out Jordan Richards for a roster spot in the secondary.

D’Abate: I think defensive end Geneo Grissom finds a way to make this team. Defensive End is not a position that always garners a lot of press coverage, but the Patriots have a good amount unheralded depth here.  Keep an eye on rookies Derek Rivers and Deatrich Wise, but I think Grissom gives a veteran presence that gives him the nod. 

Allen: D.J. Killings. I think the Patriots were smart in signing a rookie cornerback to the team because Killings is going to learn a lot from Malcolm Butler and Stephon Gilmore. This year he is going to have to prove he’s worth anything in order to stay with the team along with earning their respect. Killings is a new soldier that the Patriots can train in order to continue their legacy.

Ilie: My under the radar pick to make the Patriots out of training camp is linebacker Jonathan Freeny. Freeny will make the team because linebacker is a position where the Patriots have a lot of bodies but not a lot of talent behind Dont’a Hightower and David Harris. Freeny will also make the team because of his ability to play as a run stopper on early downs and because of his ability to play special teams, which Coach Bill Belichick loves. People tend to forget about Freeny because he was injured for a majority of last season, but in 2015 he had a solid season; playing 13 games, starting in 7, recording 27 tackles a sack and a fumble. (via Pro Football Reference.)

Tame: My under the radar pick is Austin Carr. Edelman can still play and we obviously have a stacked group of receivers but if Carr looks good in practice Belichick could see the value. Even if he’s a practice squad guy but sees some playing time in the middle of the season if anyone gets hurt.

What camp battle is going to be the most interesting from your point of view?

Glendon: I think the most intriguing battle going into camp will be how the running back carries shake out. For the last couple years, LeGarrette Blount has been the lead back with heavy doses of James White and Dion Lewis. However, with the departure of Blount and the arrival of Rex Burkhead and Mike Gillislee shakes things up in a big way. It will be fun to see who takes the lead and to that end, how many reps does James White receive after a game for the ages in the Super Bowl.

Albiani: I am fascinated to see two battles (I know total copout). The first would be the running back battle. This position contains an unbelievable amount of depth and although I have said that Lewis may be the odd man out by the end through a possible trade, if he shows the form of two years ago, it would be impossible to cut, trade, or diminish his role. If that happens that would throw another name into an already crowded and talented backfield. The other is the slot corner spot. Will Butler play the slot with Rowe outside? Or will Rowe be in the slot? Maybe Jonathan Jones plays a big role, or perhaps even Cyrus Jones? It is an open competition and I am fascinated to see it play out.

Bent: The Patriots are so deep in so many positions that there is a number to consider. The addition of David Harris to the linebacker group makes for a great battle in training camp for playing time next to Dont’a Hightower. Kyle Van Noy, Elandon Roberts, and Shea McClellin were already competing for playing time. Rookie free agent Harvey Langi is an intriguing prospect and is in the conversation for a roster spot. With the Patriots usually playing with just two linebackers on the field while in the sub-package, there is only so much playing time at the linebacker position.

D’Abate: It seems to be the consensus of the masses that the wide-receiver contest will be the most compelling. (And they say sports writers can’t be sophisticated..ha ha!). All kidding aside, I have to agree. Watching Cooks and Edelman share the field will be amazing. However, I’m really looking forward to watching Mitchell, Hawkins, Carr, and Amendola compete for snaps and receptions.

Allen: I think all the running backs are going to battle for the lead spot vacated by LeGarrette Blount. The real battle for the position is going to be between James White and Dion Lewis. Lewis has been with the Patriots for two years and White is coming off a record-breaking performance in Super Bowl LI. The competition should be interesting to watch seeing as they’re both great players with the same strengths.

Ilie: For me, the most interesting position battle this year in training camp is the receiver position battle. This is the position where the Patriots by far have the best talent so it’ll be really interesting to see how the final depth chart pans out. Julian Edelman and Brandin Cooks will no doubt be on the top of the depth chart but behind that Chris Hogan, Danny Amendola, Malcolm Mitchell, and Andrew Hawkins all have proven talent so it’ll be interesting to see where they end up on the depth chart.

Tame: Backup quarterback. Brady will be 40 in August. Unfortunately, he can’t play forever. Will Jimmy G be the next guy in line? Will Jacoby Brissett improve? How will the two QB’s look in the preseason?

Who do you think will lead the Patriots in receiving yards in 2017? Lead in touchdowns?

Glendon: I’m thinking outside the box and going to say, Chris Hogan. Brandin Cooks, Julian Edelman, and Rob Gronkowski will garner much of the attention, and rightfully so. Hogan proved he can be a big-play receiver in the playoff game against the Steelers and I think he makes more of an impact next season. He won’t get the receptions, however, he will make the most of it as he will be at the top of the league once again in yards per reception. Touchdowns, if healthy, belong to Rob Gronkowski. The ultimate mismatch.

Albiani: This may be the boring answer, but I am going with Brandin Cooks. Cooks has big play ability and he will likely catch a lot of long passes even if he only catches a few per game. With his talent and Brady throwing the ball I do not see any way he doesn’t lead in yards. As far as touchdowns go, I am going to I am going to go with Rob Gronkowski. Even if he only plays 10 games. He is likely to pick up at least 10 touchdowns. A couple dark horse candidates that could lead them in touchdowns: Dwayne Allen or Mike Gillislee. Both will have big roles near the goal line and have a history of producing in the red zone.

Bent: Newly added wide receiver Brandin Cooks is the true number one receiver the Patriots have missed since Randy Moss shot his way out of town. He is so explosive and difficult to maintain he will quickly become Tom Brady’s favorite and lead the team in receiving yards. A healthy Rob Gronkowski should get double-digit touchdown receptions and lead the team in that category in 2017.

D’Abate: While I think Brandin Cooks will be the most explosive threat on the team this year, I think that Julian Edelman takes the honor of most receiving yards.  He’s always a reliable target for Brady.  As for touchdowns, Rob Gronkowski has a bounce back year and once again shows his dominance in the red zone.

Allen: I think Julian Edelman will lead the season in receiving yards. His stats are great and I believe he’s still at the peak of his career. He was also rated the 4th most valuable receiver in the NFL (which is no surprise). The player I believe will lead the Patriots in overall touchdowns is Dion Lewis because he’s another player who is still in his prime and already has momentum going into the season.

Ilie: This upcoming season receiver Brandin Cooks will lead the Patriots in receiving yards his first season with the team and tight end Rob Gronkowski will lead the team in touchdowns. Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels will come up with creative ways to use Cook’s speed and quickness in the short and long passing game while Gronkowski will use his big body and great hands to continue to be a dangerous red zone target.

Tame: Receiving yards: Edelman. Touchdowns: Gronk.

How do you think the AFC East standings will shake out?

Glendon: The Patriots will once again win the division to the surprise of no one. The Jets may be the worst team since the 2008 Lions, edging out last year’s Browns team, so they will most certainly occupy the cellar of the AFC East. The Dolphins made progress last year and made the playoffs and should beat out the Bills for second in the division.

Albiani: 1. Patriots (14-2)

2. Dolphins (8-8)

3. Bills (6-10)

4. Jets (1-15)

Bent: New England in first place for the 15th time in 17 seasons. Buffalo second (but missing the playoffs). Miami third and the Jets last and in the 0-to-3 win range. Last year Miami won only a single game against a playoff team feasting on an easy schedule. With a second place schedule this year they will struggle to finish .500.

D’Abate: The Patriots own the AFC East, and they won’t relinquish that throne this year. Miami should not be discounted as a playoff contender.  They have a strong team and finish second in the division. Buffalo takes the third spot, by default. And…then there’s the Jets. Let’s just say…it’s not going to be a season to remember for Gang Green this year.  At least, not in a good way. 

Allen: I think the Patriots will dominate the penthouse of the standings, then the Dolphins, and finally a fight for the basement between the Jets and Bills. However since the Jets are tearing their entire team apart, the Bills will probably beat them for third overall.

Ilie: This upcoming season the AFC East will shape out like this:

New England Patriots 15-1

Miami Dolphins 9-7

Buffalo Bills 8-8

New York Jets 1-15

Tame: Patriots will finish 14-2

Dolphins will finish 9-7

Bills will finish 8-8

Jets will finish 2-14

When it is all set and done, what will be the story for the 2017 New England Patriots?

Glendon: I’m sure many of my colleagues will agree that the story of this season will be back-to-back Super Bowl championships and a sixth for the franchise and Tom Brady. The sub-plot however, will be the historical nature of the season and how this time, 10-years after the 18-1 Patriots team, they finished the job and claimed their title as the greatest team ever.

Albiani: I think the storyline will be how this offense compares to that of the 2007 team when all is said and done. Although the Patriots do not have a receiver like Randy Moss they have a number of talented pass catchers who know their roles. They also have a much more dynamic running attack that should ease the load off Tom Brady and the offensive line. This team should average close to 40 points per game.

Bent: AFC Championship Game is likely. Home field advantage and health are key ingredients for success in the playoffs. Oakland and Denver will be the two teams to watch from the AFC West, the Steelers as always will be there with an improving Baltimore Ravens squad, and the Tennessee Titans should take a huge step forward into the playoffs in 2017. That said, the upgrade of Brandon Cooks on offense and cornerback Stephon Gilmore cannot be discounted. Anything less than a return trip to the Super Bowl is an underachievement.

D’Abate: When I look at this roster, I can’t help but be reminded of 2007.  While I know I’m not the only New England fan that wants to see as much of Mercury Morris as possible this year, I think the Pats fall short of perfection.  But this time, they get it out of their system before the Super Bowl. The Lombardi Trophy stays put this year and the GOAT (Brady) wins his sixth! 

Allen: I think the story for the 2017 Patriots will be that of another undefeated season. Their dynasty is all but set in stone. Now all they have to do is prove no team can touch them. In 2007 Brady led his team to their first undefeated regular season…can he do it again? All eyes are definitely going to be on the Patriots this season.

Ilie: When the 2017 season is all set and done, the main story will be how Tom Brady and the Patriots won a sixth Super Bowl title and how Tom Brady will have again won 3 Super Bowls in 4 years like he did earlier in his career. There will also be a lot of focus on how the Patriots came one win away from yet another perfect regular season.

Tame: A prolific offense that puts up 30+ points and a top five defense. Hightower will be a pro bowler and stay healthier because he’ll be blitzing more opposed to run stuffing. I think the Patriots will repeat.

The post cover32 Patriots Roundtable: Training camp edition appeared first on Cover32.

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cover32 Debates: Aaron Rodgers vs Tom Brady

In the midst of the NFL offseason, cover32 will debut a series of new debate segments to hype up NFL fans for the start of the 2017 season. The Debate series comes on the heels of the Doppelganger and Roundtable series.

The cover32 Debate series is where two cover32 writers debate important topics of the day. Our first debate will feature Bobby Burack (@bburack16) and Ian Glendon (@iglen31).

Rules:  Burack and Glendon will first respond to a series of questions with their answer being which player they feel best exemplifies or represents the qualities in questions. After that, they will debate one another about who is the better player. With that, they will have 10-minutes on the clock to battle back-and-forth. The debate ends when the buzzer sounds.

AROUND COVER32

Around the NFL: 2017 roster of NFL officials has been confirmed

What’s Trending: Raiders’ G, Gabe Jackson, signs five-year $56 million extension

Fantasy Football: Projecting WR, Kenny Stills’ value for the 2017 season

cover32 Rotisserie: On this week’s Periscope, Patrick Hatten breaks down the NFC North

2018 NFL Draft: Could Arizona State’s RB, Kalen Ballage, be this year’s breakout star

Opening Questions

1. Who would be better on a bad team?

Burack: Well, Rodgers. He is on one. Brady is on a great team. And Rodgers looks better.

Glendon: Neither has had particularly bad teams in their career, however, Brady has thrown more touchdowns to more players than anyone short of Vinny Testaverde. Brady has maintained the same performance level throughout his career with a multitude of different players at skill positions. I’ll take Brady.

2. Who would you take this season?

Burack: Ha! Aaron Rodgers. Brady will be 40-years-of-age. Yes, he was good last year, however, the cliff is coming. Brett Favre and Peyton Manning went from great to old in a year as well. Rodgers is in the prime of his career.

Glendon: Brady. Aside from the volume stats, Brady outperformed Rodgers in most every important quarterback stat last season (Rating, TD:INT ratio, completion percentage, interception percentage, passing yards per game) on top of more team success.

3. Which QB is style is more transcendent? 

Burack: Tough to say, Brady probably gets the edge here. Rodgers’ game is more based on his talents and ability. You cannot teach that. Brady is more cerebral and passionate.

Glendon: Brady is one of the last of the traditional “stand in the pocket passers,” whereas Rodgers has a unique skill set outside the pocket unmatched by most. As far as transcendent style? I suppose you go with Rodgers but as far as a career, it has to be Brady.

4. Who is a better teammate?

Burack: Tom Brady. Easily, but who cares? Was Michael Jordan a good teammate? I would rather have the guy with the edge: Aaron Rodgers.

Glendon: A tough question, but I have never once heard Brady throw a teammate or a coach under the bus, and every player that has ever spoken of him (as his teammate) has emphasized how great of a teammate he is. I’ll take Brady.

5. The biggest flaw in each?

Burack: Honestly, Rodgers does not have one. He is the most well-rounded quarterback in the history of the game. Brady, his lack of mobility. When the pass-rush is coming, he sees ghosts.

Glendon: Rodgers playing from behind late. Brady has a tendency to force deep throws. Tough question, both quarterbacks are so good that it’s hard to find a flaw in either of their games.

The Debate: Who is the better quarterback, Aaron Rodgers or Tom Brady?

Burack: I’ll start! This answer is simple to me, it is Aaron Rodgers! He is a baaaaddd maannnn. Let me just say this, there is nothing Tom Brady does better. Rodgers throws better, more mobile, bigger arm, more accurate, more touchdowns, fewer interceptions…and does it with a worse team.

Glendon: Short answer: Brady. Last season Brady outperformed Rodgers in everything but volume statistics by virtue of the suspension. Over the course of Rodgers career (2008-2016) Brady (2007-2016), Brady has thrown more touchdowns, more yards and won more than Rodgers.

Burack: I don’t think he had a better season. Rodgers had the greatest stretch in the history of the NFL the last eight weeks. Who was his running back? He led the league in touchdowns. Give me no Brady who played a bunch of bad teams.

Glendon: Taking into account that Brady played the first portion of his career in an era with more physicality on the defensive side. It’s fair to compare Brady’s ’07-to-present run with Rodgers where they are incredibly similar. Rodgers does edge Brady on accuracy, however he has done this with 500 fewer pass attempts

Glendon: Still have to play the games. And the only team that actually ran the table last year was the Patriots.

Burack: Did you see that throw against Dallas to win the game? Could Brady roll to his left, deliver a bomb? No, he can’t do either.

Glendon: No he can not, I’ll concede that. However, Brady is a better the pre-snap quarterback and has some of the best mobility in the pocket of any quarterback ever.

Burack: The Patriots were as good with a third-string guy who isn’t worth mentioning. The system is what has made him.

Burack: Have them switch teams. The Packers would have missed the playoffs. Remember, Detroit led most of the season.

Glendon: Except that Rodgers has had a number of high round talent at the skill positions over the years where Brady routinely turns undrafted free agents into stars.

Burack: Who?? Eddie Lacy who ate himself out of town. His running back wears number 88… He isn’t a RB.

Glendon: Some of that is on Rodgers as well. Rodgers teams are 0-35 when trailing against teams in the fourth quarter by more than one point that have a winning record.

Burack: Who had the number one scoring defense last year? Who had a banged up defense with no healthy corners or safeties?

Glendon: When Brady’s teams give up more than 21 points, he has a career record of 66-50… by far better than any quarterback in history. Brady took the 2011 31st ranked defense to the Super Bowl.

Burack: He lost to the same team that year as Rodgers.

Glendon: Rodgers hasn’t had the best defenses consistently, however its not as bad as it seems. Packers have had a top-15 defense in points allowed six of his nine seasons.

Burack: They are hurt every year. Without Rodgers they are the Browns. Brady benefits from playing in the weaker conference.

Glendon: That’s not particularly true, for years he contended with the top Steelers teams, and Colts teams, and Ravens and Broncos.

Burack: He is a baaaddddmaannnn, Ian.

Glendon: All of which have won Super Bowls in the last several years. 10 minutes already?

Burack: Let Brady come to the side the real men are at. We are going 15, get the rules out of here!

Glendon: Haha, I like it. OT!

Burack: Although, this isn’t a tie. You are getting destroyed.

Glendon: Haha, I got stats and facts; you?

Burack: Good point. Who has the highest passer rating of all time…. Aaron Rodgers. Only man over 100.

Glendon: True however over the time span brady trails 102.5 to rodgers 104.5. Hardly a big difference.

Burack: Who has the highest touchdown-to-interception ratio? Rodgers. Only man over a 4.00.

Glendon: In that same span Brady has a lower interception percentage but Rodgers has a slightly higher touchdown percentage.

Burack: Because he is the best.

Glendon: Over the same period, eight seasons, Brady 309 touchdowns to 74 interceptions, and Rodgers 297 to 71.

Burack: I could throw 100 with Gronk, and I can’t throw.

Glendon: However Gronk isn’t out there all the time, including 8 in the regular season and the entire playoffs Jordy Nelson is pretty good, Davante Adams, Donald Driver, Greg Jennings. Edelman – 7th round former quarterback; Amendola – undrafted.

Burack: Let’s play the spelling bee. How do you spell the football team in Green Bay? R.O.D.G.E.R.S.

Glendon: He is also the team when they lose. Malcolm Mitchell – 4th round.

Burack: How do you spell Aaron Rodgers? G.O.A.T.

Glendon: In all of Rodgers glory he has led the league in yardage and or tds only once. Last year.

Burack: He did his part to get to more than one. Too bad some bum bobbled the kick return.

Burack: Spell the quarterback in New England: S.Y.S.T.E.M.

Glendon: System? Brady has played in every system known to man, west coast, let em fly, fast pace, two-tight end…

Bzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. The buzzer sounds and time is up, thus ending the first debate. Who is the better quarterback? Who said it best? Who won? You decide.

The post cover32 Debates: Aaron Rodgers vs Tom Brady appeared first on Cover32.

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cover32 Debates: Aaron Rodgers vs Tom Brady

In the midst of the NFL offseason, cover32 will debut a series of new debate segments to hype up NFL fans for the start of the 2017 season. The debate series follows the doppelgangers and roundtable series. 

The ‘cover32 Debate’ series is where two cover32 writers debate important topics of the day. Our first debate will feature Bobby Burack and Ian Glendon.

Follow them on Twitter: @iglen31; @bburack16.

Rules:

Bobby and Ian will first answer a series of questions with the answer either “Tom Brady” or “Aaron Rodgers”. After that, they will debate back-and-forth who is the better quarterback. With that, they will have 10-minutes on the clock. Debate ends after the buzzer.

Opening questions:

1. Who would be better on a bad team?

Bobby Burack: Well, Rodgers. He is on one. Brady is on a great team. And Rodgers looks better.

AROUND COVER32

Around the NFL: 2017 roster of NFL officials has been confirmed

What’s Trending: Raiders’ G, Gabe Jackson, signs five-year $56 million extension

Fantasy Football: Projecting WR, Kenny Stills’ value for the 2017 season

cover32 Rotisserie: On this week’s Periscope, Patrick Hatten breaks down the NFC North

2018 NFL Draft: Could Arizona State’s RB, Kalen Ballage, be this year’s breakout star

Ian Glendon: Neither has had particularly bad teams in their career, however, Brady has thrown more touchdowns to more players than anyone short of Vinny Testeverde. Brady has maintained the same performance level throughout his career with a multitude of different players at skill positions. I’ll take Brady.

2. Who would you take this season?

Burack: Ha! Aaron Rodgers. Brady will be 40-years-of-age. Yes, he was good last year, however, the cliff is coming. Brett Farve and Peyton Manning went from great to old in a year as well. Rodgers is in the prime of his career.

Glendon: Brady. Aside from the volume stats, Brady outperformed Rodgers in most every important quarterback stat last season (Rating, TD:INT ratio, completion percentage, INT percentage, passing yard per game) on top of more team success.

3. Which QB is style is more transcendent? 

Burack: Tough to say, Brady probably gets the edge here. Rodgers’ game is more based on his talents and ability. You cannot teach that. Brady is more cerebral and passionate.

Glendon: Brady is one of the last of the traditional “stand in the pocket” passers, whereas Rodgers has a unique skill set outside the pocket unmatched by most. As far as transcendent style? I suppose you go with Rodgers but as far as a career, it has to be Brady.

4. Who is a better teammate?

Burack: Tom Brady. Easily, but who cares? Was Michael Jordan a good teammate? I would rather have the guy with the edge: Aaron Rodgers.

Glendon: A tough question, but I have never once heard Brady throw a teammate or a coach under the bus, and every player that has ever spoken of him (as his teammate) has emphasized how great of a teammate he is. I’ll take Brady.

5. The biggest flaw in each?

Burack: Honestly, Rodgers does not have one. He is the most well-rounded quarterback in the history of the game. Brady, his lack of mobility. When the pass-rush is coming, he sees ghosts.

Glendon: Rodgers playing from behind late. Brady has a tendency to force deep throws. Tough question, both quarterbacks are so good that it’s hard to find a flaw in either of their games.

The debate, who is better, Aaron Rodgers or Tom Brady?

Burack: I’ll start! This answer is simple to me, it is Aaron Rodgers! He is a baaaaddd maannnn. Let me just say this, there is nothing Tom Brady does better. Rodgers throws better, more mobile, bigger arm, more accurate, more TDs, fewer Ints… and does it with a worse team

Glendon: Short answer: Brady. Last season Brady outperformed Rodgers in everything but volume statistics by virtue of the suspension. Over the course of Rodgers career (08-16) Brady (07-16), Brady has thrown more touchdowns, more yards and won more than Rodgers.

Burack: I don’t think he had a better season. Rodgers had the greatest stretch in the history of the NFL the last 8 weeks. Who was his RB? He led the league in TDs. Give me no Brady who played a bunch of bad teams.

Glendon: Taking into account that Brady played the first portion of his career in an era with more physicality on the defensive side it’s fair to compare the Bradys 07 to present run with Rodgers where they are incredibly similar. Rodgers does edge Brady on accuracy, however he has done this with 500 fewer pass attempts

Glendon: Still have to play the games. And the only team that actually ran the table last year was the Patriots.

Burack: Did you see that throw against Dallas to win the game? Could Brady roll to his left, deliver a bomb? No, he can’t do either.

Glendon: No he can not, I’ll concede that. However, Brady is a better the pre-snap quarterback and has some of the best mobility in the pocket of any quarterback ever.

Burack: The Patriots were as good with a third-string guy who isn’t worth mentioning. The system is what has made him.

Burack: Have them switch teams. The Packers would have missed the playoffs. Remember, Detroit led most of the season

Glendon: Except that Rodgers has had a number of high round talent at the skill positions over the years where Brady routinely turns undrafted free agents into stars.

Burack: Who?? Eddie Lacy who ate himself out of town. His RB wears number 88… He isn’t a RB.

Glendon: Some of that is on Rodgers as well. Rodgers teams are 0-35 when trailing against teams in the fourth quarter by more than onepoint that have a winning record

Burack: Who had the number 1 scoring defense last year? Who had a banged up defense with no healthy corners or safeties?

Glendon: When Brady’s teams give up more than 21 points, he has a career recod of 66-50.. by far better than any QB in history Brady took the 2011 31st ranked defense to the Super Bowl

Burack: He lost to the same team that year as Rodgers.

Glendon: Rodgers hasnt had the best defenses consistently, however its not as bad as it seems. Packers have had a top 15 defense in points allowed 6 of his 9 seasons.

Burack: They are hurt every year. Without Rodgers they are the Browns. Brady benefits from playing in the weaker conference.

Glendon: Thats not particularly true, for years he contended with the top Steelers teams, and Colts teams, and Ravens and Broncos.

Burack: He is a baaaddddmaannnn, Ian

Glendon: All of which have won Super Bowls in the last several years. 10 minutes already?

Burack: Let Brady come to the side the real men are at. We are going 15, get the rules out of here!

Glendon: Haha, I like it. OT!

Burack: Although, this isn’t a tie. You are getting destroyed.

Glendon: Haha, I got stats and facts you.

Burack: Good point. Who has the highest passer rating of all time…. Aaron Rodgers. Only man over 100

Glendon: True however over the time span brady trails 102.5 to rodgers 104.5. Hardly a big difference.

Burack: Who has the highest TD/INT ratio? Rodgers. Only man over 4.00

Glendon: In that same span Brady has a lower INT percentage but Rodgers has a slightly higher TD percentage.

Burack: Becuase he is the best.

Glendon: Over the same period, 8 seasons, Brady 309 TDs to 74 INT, and Rodgers 297 to 71

Burack: I could throw 100 with Gronk, and I can’t throw

Glendon: However Gronk isnt out there all the time, including 8 in the regular season and the entire playoffs Jordy Nelson is pretty good, Devonte Adams, Donald Driver, Greg Jennings. Edelman – 7th round former QB; Amendola – undrafted.

Burack: Let’s play the spelling bee. How do you spell the football team in Green Bay? R.O.D.G.E.R.S.

Glendon: He is also the team when they lose. Malcolm Mitchell – 4th round.

Burack: How do you spell Aaron Rodgers? G.O.A.T.

Glendon: In all of Rodgers glory he has led the league in yardage and or tds only once. Last year.

Burack: He did his part to get to more than one. Too bad some bum bobbled the kick return.

Burack: Spell the QB in New England: S.Y.S.T.E.M.

Glendon: System? Brady has played in every system known to man, west coast, let em fly, fast pace, two tight end

DIINNGGG… time is up!

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cover32 Debates: How Much Value Do Running Backs Have?

In the midst of the NFL offseason, cover32 will debut a series of new debate segments to hype up NFL fans for the start of the 2017 season. The debate series follows the doppelgangers and roundtable series. 

The ‘cover32 Debate’ series is where two cover32 writers debate important topics of the day. Our first debate will feature Jacob Infante and Patrick Hatten.

Round 1: Should teams draft a running back in the first round

Hatten: Following the success of Ezekiel Elliott after being picked fourth by Dallas in 2016, it’s becoming more acceptable to take a running back in the first round again. But it shouldn’t be.

Yes, Zeke had a monster year, but the Cowboys could’ve had similar production from a back in a later round and taken a contributor at a more premium position. They lost four defensive backs to free agency this season, so how nice would it have been to have Jalen Ramsey ready to play on the other side of Anthony Brown? Or they could’ve snagged DeForest Buckner for defensive line depth that they just so happen to need this season.

AROUND COVER32

Around the NFL: Will Lions’ QB, Matthew Stafford’s contract surpass Derek Carr’s mega deal

What’s Trending: Packers’ MVP QB, Aaron Rodgers, finds his way to top of ABC’s “Pyramid”

Player Spotlight: Could 49ers’ QB, Brian Hoyer, exceed expectations in 2017

cover32 Exclusive: Check out this one-on-one interview with ESPN’s, Freddie Coleman

NFL Reaction: The Beast Mode Effect; how Marshawn Lynch’s presence will impact the Raiders in 2017

Sure, they got an extra 542 yards from their starting running back (the previous starter, Darren McFadden was also a former first round pick), which averages out to another 33 yards or so per game. But he needed almost another one hundred attempts to get it.

If Dallas had taken one of the defenders at four, they could’ve taken Jordan Howard in the fifth round. He finished third in rushing as a rookie with a slightly higher yards per attempt (5.2 to 5.1) behind an offensive line which ranked fifteenth to the Cowboys’ second (according to Pro Football Focus). When it comes to running backs, it’s easy to want to take the sexy pick, but you can find value later in the draft. It’s much more important to build along the trenches.

Infante: I’m not as strict on this situation as Patrick is. I believe that, if the value is right and the need is big enough, then, by all means, go for a running back. However, you can also get a solid contributor late in the draft. As stated earlier, the Cowboys used a first-round pick on Ezekiel Elliott, whereas the Bears used a fifth-rounder on Jordan Howard. Other players like David Johnson, Jay Ajayi and Devonta Freeman have gone on to have success in the NFL despite being drafted in the middle rounds.

However, those backs are often the exception, not the rule. Just last year, players like Tyler Ervin and Kenyan Drake were selected over Howard. So while teams could go with a mid-round back, it would be safer to use a first-round pick on one. Elliott had one of, if not the best, rookie seasons for a back in recent history. Other recent first-rounders like Todd Gurley and Melvin Gordon have gone on to become Pro Bowlers.

Sure, the value of the running back position has decreased over the years. But if a can’t-miss prospect is available early, then a team wouldn’t be making a bad choice by taking one.

Round 2: Should you overpay for a running back?

Hatten: I would stay away. One of the major reasons is that by the time a running back hits the unrestricted free agency, they’re twenty-five or twenty-six. A large deal will usually run into their post-twenty eight season which is when the average back’s production drops off.

Also, the premium tends not to fit the production. That’s because most backfields are run “by committee.” Paying $6-8 million to one back is less likely to be as efficient as splitting the same amount between two to three backs who compliment each others skill sets.

Infante: I think it depends on how productive and how young the running back is. If the back isn’t considered a top-10 back, then they aren’t worth overpaying.

Plus, as Patrick mentioned, running backs take a lot of hits every year, so their shelf life is notably shorter than other positions. A running back usually only gets one huge deal in their career (many two, if they’re lucky). If a back has already signed a big deal, then odds are they won’t be able to play well enough for another one.

Round 3: Should you sign (or re-sign) a running back over 28

Hatten: If you haven’t heard by now, running backs begin to regress after they turn 27. That’s because running backs are like tires. They only have so much thread, and once it wears down, they’re as good as done.

Running backs have usually been the best players on their teams going back to the Pee Wee levels. Thanks to little threat offered by mediocre passing games, they get hit. And hit. And hit. When they get to college, their coaches run them 200+ times a season.

A smart team would draft a running back every one to two seasons (maybe alternate every draft with another quarterback?) and see who sticks.

Infante: I agree with Patrick. A running back’s shelf life is typically much shorter than that of other positions. They take so many hits year in and year out that they’re considered near the end of the road by the time they’re 30.

Unless the running back is still relatively young, then I would stay away from re-signing one.

  Upcoming Great Debates:

Aaron Rodgers vs Tom Brady

Eli Manning vs Ben Roethlisberger

Julio Jones vs Rob Gronkowski

Tom Brady vs Peyton Manning

And more!

  The post cover32 Debates: How Much Value Do Running Backs Have? appeared first on Cover32.

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cover32 NFL Season Preview Roundtable

Last week, cover32 debuted a series focusing on the doppelgangers of some of the top NFL players of today. We found those of Tyreek Hill, Tom Brady, Bill Belichick, Aaron Rodgers, Ben Roethlisberger, David Johnson, and J.J. Wyatt.

This week, we gather together all of the cover32 national staff, for a roundtable discussion on the upcoming 2017 NFL Season.

Some of our writers will be familiar faces, some may not be.

The participants:

Editors:

Bobby Burack — Editor of cover32 daily national content; Managing Editor for cover32 Packers

Jacob Infante — Editor of cover32 weekly national content

Writers:

Robert Molnar –National writer for cover32; Managing Editor for cover32 Bills and cover32 Dolphins

Patrick Hatten — National writer for cover32; Managing Editor for cover32 Falcons

Jake Schyvinck — Managing Editor for cover32 Chiefs

Curtis Rawls — Managing Editor for cover32 Giants; National writer for cover32

Carter English — National writer for cover32

Ian Glendon — Managing Editor for cover32 Patriots; National writer for cover32

Stephen Ur: National writer for cover32

Patrick Backlas —  Managing Editor for cover32 Ravens; National writer for cover32

Andrew Erickson — cover32 Packers fantasy writer; host of “cover32 Fantasy Periscope with Andrew Erickson”

AROUND COVER32

Around the NFL: Chiefs’ TE, Travis Kelce, skyrockets up 65 places on NFL Network’s Top 100 list

What’s Trending: Raiders’ QB, Derek Carr, inches closer to massive payday

2017 Free Agency: Patriots agree to two-year deal with former Jets’ LB, David Harris

Fantasy Forecast: Projecting Dolphins’ RB, Jay Ajayi’s fantasy value in 2017

Counterparts: Is All-Pro QB, Aaron Rodgers, the Floyd Mayweather of the NFL

  1. cover32 has assembled a brand new cast for their national content for the upcoming 2017 season. Most of you were re-introduced last week in the debut of our doppelgänger series. For those that are new readers, tell the audience everything they need to know about you. Also, what is the best way to contact you?

Burack: For the ones that will find my name familiar will be 50% fans of my work; 50% haters. My work can be distinguished for firmly believing Aaron Rodgers is the best ever and, of course, Tom Brady is a product of the greatest system ever. Also, could be known for sports satire… as so many take this stuff all too serious. For a little background on myself, I use to be NFL writer for FanSided. I was blessed during my junior year of high school to be land a spot working for a magazine entitled, “The Gold Collectors Magazine”. My work there was centered around covering the history of the Chicago Cubs and there long, devasting World Series drought. I currently work at a radio station, DJing, performing sports interviews, color commentary for football and hockey, as well as other assignments. I have appeared on numerous sites for freelance work including The Big Lead. For those who are a fan of my work… stay tuned… all sorts of things are coming. For those who are not… I am not going anywhere. @bburack16.

Infante: I have been a member of the cover32 community since May of last year. Since then, I have been the managing editor of both the Jaguars and Bears pages here. While I have since stepped down from those roles, I have been transitioning to a national-based role here at cover32. I’ve loved football and writing since I was about six. After a tenure of playing football that could be best described as God awful, I decided to turn my attention to writing. Despite the wishes of many lovely folks, I have neither retired nor quit writing altogether quite yet. I have a penchant for all things Chicago sports, but football has always been my first love. You can follow me on Twitter at @jacobinfante24. If you wish to contact me for business measures or death threats, I can be contacted through email at jacobinfante1208@gmail.com.

Molnar: I am a lifelong Miami Dolphins fan that was born and raised in the southwest area of Florida. Despite also writing for the rival Buffalo Bills blog here with cover32, I try to remain unbiased when talking about those dastardly… I mean, lovely Bills. Besides writing for cover32, I also create the away game reports for the ECHL’s Florida Everblades, my true childhood love. Readers can reach me on Twitter @RMolnar1010.

Hatten: Most people don’t realize that I’m the best never-employed comedy script punch-up guy not physically living in Hollywood. Outside of my cover32 pieces, all of my TV pilot scripts and pitches are locked in a vault that’s more impregnable than Disney’s. So while I’m keeping my ‘A’ material stored away for time immemorial, I still felt that I should share my unique (unique’s a synonym for crappy, right?) humor and views the world through football articles. That’s why everyone should follow the cover32 Falcons feed. I haven’t let my success go to my head yet, so please feel free to reach me via email (scathing manifestos only please) at rphatten@gmail.com or on Twitter at @TheDeuce (I usually follow back unless you’re completely normal).

Schyvinck: I am currently a student at the University of Illinois studying economics and computer science, but I am a sports fan and sports nerd at heart. I am a huge football fan and a huge Packer fan. I am the managing editor of the Chiefs at cover32. The best way to contact me is to message me on Twitter @cover32_KC and @JSchyvinck13.

Rawls:  Although I live in New England, I am not now, nor will I ever be a fan of the Patriots. In fact, the notion that they are kind of the gold standard in the NFL makes me nauseous. I can take solace in knowing that Eli Manning got his two rings at the expense of the Evil Empire, I mean the Patriots. Although my heart bleeds Big Blue, I am objective and make no excuses for them no matter what their record is. I am on Twitter @CuRawls203.

English: I live in the southwest suburbs of Chicago. Despite being born in Illinois, I am a diehard Steelers fan and a fair weather Bears fan. My Dad’s side of the family is from western Pennsylvania, so I was born with black and gold in my blood. Even though my family and I are Steelers fans, we are also Cubs, Blackhawks, and Bulls fans. I have a huge love for Big Ben, and I hate Tom Brady with all of my life (I promise not to be biased). You can find me on twitter @Carter_English9.

Glendon: I spent the majority of my life in Massachusetts and I am an avid Boston sports fan. Currently, I reside in sunny Florida but I represent New England sports to the fullest. On top of being the Managing Editor for the Patriots section and a National Writer for cover32, I cover high school baseball in the Tampa, FL area. I love sports and they have been a passion of mine since I could speak. I hope to bring the same passion to my stories each and every day. I can be contacted on Twitter @iglen31 and you can email me: ian@gmail.com

Ur: I am very serious about sports journalism. While my main goal is sports radio, I find myself doing a lot of sports writing. I also host several podcasts (The SCU Show, This Week in the AFL, NAL Now, The Football Five). The best way to reach me is on Twitter @writingfanatic2.

Backlas: My name is Patrick Backlas and I am the managing editor for the Baltimore Ravens page. I am currently a journalism student at Wayne State University in Detroit. Being from the Detroit area I have always been a Lions fan, somewhat, unfortunately. Hit me up on Twitter @patrickbacklas or @Cover32_bal

Erickson: What is going, everyone? The name is Andrew Erickson and I am a writer for the cover32_GB account on Twitter. I will be doing some big things in terms of fantasy football for the national cover32 profile in 2017. Despite the fact that I cover on the Packers my actual favorite team is the reigning Super Bowl champs. I have lived in New England my entire life and have been to a few AFC Championship Games (winning and losing). If you ever have fantasy football questions or just want to say hi just reach out to me @Andrewerickson_ on Twitter. And as always if you ask for a follow, I am more than happy to oblige.

2. With still over two months until the start of the 2017 NFL Season, the NFL is still constantly in the news.  What do you think is the biggest storyline heading into the season?

Burack: Easy answer, the Dallas Cowboys. Isn’t that always the answer? They are the biggest story in sports. Whether it be for the right or wrong reasons. Last year they were led by two rookies to the first seed in the NFC. Will they suffer a sophomore slump? Will one of them? Will neither? Will they get the first seed again? Wil they miss the playoffs? These are just some of the many questions surrounding America’s Team. Not to mention. the always controversial, Jerry Jones still the owner. Oh, and former quarterback, Tony Romo, is now in the booth for Fox. What games does Fox get? The NFC games. Who is the most televised NFC team? The Cowboys.

Infante: I think that the biggest storyline this season is whether or not Tom Brady can continue his greatness. Going on 40 this season, he has yet to show any signs of declining. After last year’s stunning Super Bowl victory, Brady emerged in the minds of many (including myself) as the greatest of all time. But how long can he stay great? And can he lead the Patriots to yet another championship?

Molnar: The biggest storyline at this stage of the offseason has to be the Colin Kaepernick saga. Going the controversial route last season, Kaepernick looks to have been blacklisted by the NFL and its teams. Whether this is deserved or not is up for you to decide, but there is no doubting that this piece of news will almost certainly remain relevant the closer we get to the start of the NFL Season.

Hatten: The biggest storyline in my mind is “Who Can Stop The Patriots From Winning ‘One For The Other Hand?'” There are a lot of teams that are just ‘good,’ and it’s definitely not going be one without a competent quarterback (sorry Jaguars). How can a team keep shipping out their star players year by year and improve?! Bill Belichick’s biggest strength is his lack of emotion. We all get clouded by it like New York City smog in the ’70s, but Belichick just looks at his players like John Nash sees algorithms.

Schyvinck: The biggest storyline has been written during the offseason. Who is going to contend with the Patriots and their organization? They continually prove that they have better discipline, better coaching, and a better scheme than anyone in the league. Everyone is chasing them this season. They lost some key players, but then reloaded through free agency and the draft. I’m not sure who can stop them in 2017.

Rawls: The biggest headline heading into the season, much to my chagrin, will be the defending Super Bowl champions.  They are chasing their sixth Lombardi Trophy with a quarterback that will turn 40 on Aug. 3.  Belichick already has more Super Bowls than any other coach, now he’s chasing George Halas and Curly Lambeau for most league championships in history. Everybody has them has the favorites, so it will be interesting to see them defend their title.

English: The biggest storyline heading into the 2017 season is, can Dak keep rolling with Dallas? We know Dallas has good offensive players. We know Ezekiel Elliott is here to stay. We know the offensive line is great, but these rookie quarterbacks that go out and post big numbers in their rookie years do not look anything near their numbers in their second years. A few examples would be Matt Ryan’s second year, RGIII’s second year, and Sam Bradford’s second year. I think Dallas is overwhelmingly the most interesting story.

Glendon: The Patriots. They are the biggest story 365 days a week and heading into this season, it’s well deserved. Not only are they the defending champions, they have loaded up to the point that people see a run at 16-0, and eventually 19-0, as a realistic possibility. Until the Patriots lose, and that’s not a guarantee, they will be the biggest storyline in the NFL next year.

Ur: The biggest storyline has to be can Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliot repeat their performances from last year. The two then rookies took the lead by storm, leading the Dallas Cowboys to a 13-3 record. Will they suffer sophomore slumps or they have another successful season in Dallas?

Backlas: Covering the Ravens this offseason has really sparked my interest in the Jeremy Maclin story. The brutal cut from the Chiefs shortly removed from his wedding was one of the coldest business moves by a team in recent memory. Luckily he landed in Baltimore and the Ravens receiving group looks much stronger because of it.

Erickson: I think that one of the biggest storylines is the Raiders moving to Las Vegas. Even though it will not happen for a few more years, I think that many people are thinking that now finally the Raiders have the roster to make a run in their last few seasons in Oakland. They are going to sign Derek Carr long-term, they brought #BeastMode back, and they appear to be a team fighting for contention. Could they be the team in the AFC to finally challenge the Patriots?

3. For the past two seasons, both Carolina and Atlanta advanced to the Super Bowl when heading into the season, were not expected to do so. What team, that most are not thinking of, has the best chance to do that this year?

Burack: Also, it is important to add, both of them had quarterbacks who won MVP the same year. Another surprise both years. If one is trying to find the team nobody is picking that has a legit shot, it is the New York Giants. The Giants will have one of the best defenses out of all the top NFC teams. The only one that will be better is Seattle; however, with all their offseason distractions, I believe they will fall off a cliff. The Giants have the best wide receiver in the game, sorry Falcon fans. OBJ is a bad man. Now they add Brandon Marshall to help him try to handle his emotions, he may be even better. Drafting Evan Engram just makes the offense more prolific. The Giants also beat the Cowboys twice last year.

Infante: I think that this honor could very well stay in the NFC South with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They did a fantastic job of surrounding Jameis Winston with offensive weapons. With DeSean Jackson and O.J. Howard joining the likes of Mike Evans, Cameron Brate, and Doug Martin, they could possibly have one of the best offenses in the league. Although their defense wasn’t spectacular last year, they have a few solid pieces. If sophomores Vernon Hargreaves III and Noah Spence continue to grow, then the Bucs could have an above-average defense next year. They will likely pick up a Wild Card spot, but it wouldn’t be too surprising to see them win the NFC South. Another sleeper could be the New York Giants. They, like the Buccaneers, added two very good weapons for their offense. Brandon Marshall and Evan Engram will join Odell Beckham Jr. and Sterling Shepard in what may be once of the best passing attacks in the league on paper. The Giants had a top 10 defense last year, led by one of the best defensive lines in the NFL. As their young secondary continues to grow, they could climb into the playoffs with a well-rounded team. We’ve seen Eli Manning dominate in the playoffs before. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see him do it again

Molnar: The biggest sleeper in the entire NFL this year has to be the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite playing in the extremely tough AFC North, Pittsburgh always seems to have solid seasons year in and year out. With Big Ben returning this season despite constant rumors hinting at an impending retirement, the Killer B’s of Pittsburgh should he in full effect. If Bell can continue to rack up the rushing yards while Antonio Brown gets some help in the receiving game, the Steelers could be a shock contender to win the AFC this season and potentially, even the Super Bowl.

Hatten: The Los Angeles Chargers have the twenty-fifth best odds to win the Super Bowl (80/1), but it wouldn’t be crazy to pencil them in as the AFC champion. They have a solid defense, enough offensive weapons, and, most importantly, the best quarterback in the division (Derek Carr is coming off an injury, so I’m slotting him just under Rivers). The Raiders are considered the favorite, but they were weak defensively last season, Kansas City is still rolling out Alex Smith every week, and who knows who’ll be under center in Denver. With good injury luck, don’t be surprised to see the Chargers on top.

Schyvinck: In the AFC, it’s the Chargers. The Titans are too popular coming into the season to come out of nowhere. So, let’s go with the team that picked seventh overall in the draft. The Chargers boast a top level quarterback and plenty of weapons on offense. Melvin Gordon will continue to improve in his third season. Also, rookies Forrest Lamp and Dan Feeney will help an offensive line that has struggled in past seasons. The defense will also be improved. Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram will dominate off the edge, and they drafted a steal in Desmond King in round five to help out the secondary. When healthy, this is a team to reckon with.  In the NFC, the Saints are the team to watch. The NFC South will be tough, but they still have the division’s best quarterback along with a solid offensive line. They can survive without Terron Armstead as long as rookie Ryan Ramczyk is ready to go by week one. Mike Thomas takes on the number one role at receiver, and they have multiple options at running back. The defense will only get better with new additions Marshon Lattimore and Marcus Williams.

Rawls: At the risk of sounding like I’m biased, how ‘bout them Giants?  They return nine starters on defense and added weapons on the offensive side of the ball.  No one, I mean, no one is going to pick Big Blue to win the Super Bowl but since this is the 10thanniversary of Eighteen And One, it wouldn’t surprise me at all if the Giants make it to Super Bowl LII.

English: I feel that the Carolina Panthers could be the surprise team that no one is thinking of. Last year, the offensive line suffered big injuries, this year they get Matt Kalil at left tackle to support the offensive line. Ron Rivera mentioned that the Panthers were going to try an “evolved offense”. This essentially means that the Panthers are going to rely more on a traditional running game and will probably eliminate the read option. This year, the Panthers are going to also have a ton of veteran leadership. This offseason, they acquired Julius Peppers, Mike Adams, and Captain Munnerlyn. These guys have a ton of experience and know what it takes to win big games. Last year, the Panthers had a Super Bowl Hangover resulting in them to go 6-10. This year, they will have a clean slate to work on. Finally, this Carolina Panthers roster has a lot of talent. When you look at the 2017 roster for the Carolina Panthers, one thing sticks out, it is still very talented. The team is capable of becoming a contender if all the pieces come together and work in unison. The talent is there provided it receives some good coaching.

Glendon: Why not stay in the NFC South for the answer? The Tampa Bay Buccaneers loaded up on offense, adding DeSean Jackson via free agency and tight end O.J. Howard in the draft. The offense looks to be one of the best in the league next year with talented players at all the skill positions. With a growing defense, the Bucs could find some magic and steal the division from the Falcons and make a run in the playoffs.

Ur: The New York Giants aren’t considered a Super Bowl team. However, they definitely should be considered one. They have a stellar defense, great wide receivers, a hall of fame quarterback and just drafted the second best tight end in the draft. They’re a decent running game from being serious contenders.

Backlas: My sneaky pick for the Super Bowl is the Lions. Not to be too much of a homer, but Detroit’s offense can be a force when it is on. And the defense is going to be markedly improved if Darius Slay can stick around all season, alongside a revamped linebacking group. I can’t quite say it will happen, but I definitely can’t say it won’t.

Erickson: The New York Giants aren’t considered a Super Bowl team. However, they definitely should be considered one. They have a stellar defense, great wide receivers, a hall of fame quarterback and just drafted the second best tight end in the draft. They’re a decent running game from being serious contenders.

4. cover32 reported last week Tom Brady is the odds on favorite to win NFL MVP at 4-1 odds, who is your pick?

Burack: Aaron Rodgers is my pick. He is the best in the league. As Stephen A. Smith so eloquently puts it, “He is a baaadddd man”. Oh, is he ever, Just look at what this guy did the second half of last season up until the Dallas game. When he faced Atlanta in the NFC Championship Game, both of his top targets Jordy Nelson and Davante Adams were far from even 80%. Rodgers should not only be the favorite for this award, in my opinion, he should be the heavy favorite. He also gets a little weapon known as Martellus Bennett.

Infante: I actually have a feeling that Derek Carr could defy the odds and have an MVP-caliber season. The only reason the Oakland Raiders lost in the Wild Card round was that he was sidelined with a broken fibula. He has great weapons around him, an elite offensive line and an improved defense. With the Chiefs looking slightly worse than they did last season and the Broncos in a state of quarterback bedlam, Oakland looks prime to take the AFC West crown. Carr has the talent, as well as the talent around him, to help make the Raiders elite, and winning himself the MVP in the process.

Molnar: The NFL MVP this season will be either Ben Roethlisberger or Aaron Rodgers. In the case of both quarterbacks, their play will be extremely important to the overall success of the team. Unlike Brady who has been named the favorite, both Pittsburgh and Green Bay would be far worse off without their respective quarterbacks. That said, for either to have a really good chance at earning the MVP Trophy in 2017, both will need to lead their teams to division titles and potentially deep playoff runs. Much like last year when Matt Ryan won the award, Roethlisberger and Rodgers may even need to lead their respective teams to a Super Bowl appearance in order to win the award.

Hatten: It’s got to be Brady. Outside of Rodgers and Ryan, most of the top favorites are locks to come up short. I will throw a dark horse in there though: Jameis Winston. Most people don’t realize, but the Bucs went 9-7 last season, only the second season after taking him first overall (they were very bad in 2015). He has some things to work on (long distance accuracy, not forcing the ball), but he’s a very confident guy who his teammates will follow anywhere (luckily the Tampa area is relatively flat).

Schyvinck:  The MVP favorite never seems to win. Nobody had Matt Ryan as the top candidate in 2016. This time, a two-time winner gets his third. Aaron Rodgers, with new additions and an evolving offense, will pick up where he left off after running the table last year in the regular season. His 40 touchdowns led the league last season, and he’s primed to do it again.

Rawls: Brady might have the easiest path to the MVP.  We can spot the Patriots six wins off the rip because of playing the Bills, Dolphins, and Jets.  In their other ten games, there are only two (against the Raiders in Mexico City, at the Steelers) where they could potentially lose. If they go 14-2, Brady will get the MVP unless someone else does something historic…and that might be pushing it.

English: Let’s be real, Tom Brady has the best odds to win MVP by far. The NFL is a passing league and there may be no more skilled passer than Tom Brady. The New England Patriots quarterback continues to spit in the face of Father Time and cement himself in the conversation of greatest ever.

Glendon:  If it wasn’t for missing a quarter of the season in 2016, Tom Brady would have won his third MVP. He will not miss out this time. He is the best QB on the best team, which is a huge factor in MVP voting. He has an absurd amount of talent on the offensive side of the ball and should push his career highs in passing yards and touchdowns. Another unanimous MVP win would not be out of the question.

Ur: Tom Brady is my pick for NFL MVP. He has the talent to make it work. Not only that, but he has several wide receivers to make it happen, including former New Orleans Saints wide receiver Brandin Cooks.

Backlas: Lest we forget Matt Stafford’s run at an MVP last season. For the majority of the season, Stafford was one of the top contenders for the award. This season, with an improved defense giving him the ball more, his second season without Megatron will be his best. Also, it is a contract year for what it’s worth.

Erickson: Raiders quarterback Derek Carr. Dude is going to go off! So many weapons and if he stays healthy? Look out!

5. Make one bold prediction for the 2017 season.

Burack: Hmm, how about this, TOM BRADY DECLINES. Yes, you read that right. That is right, I said it. Now listen, This is not a shot at Brady. Not a single player has yet beat father time. “Well, Bobby, did you not see him in the Super Bowl?” Yes, I did, I also saw Peyton Manning have one of the greatest seasons ever in 2013 breaking all sorts of records, and by mid-season the following year, he was no longer the same guy. I also saw Brett Farve have his best season ever in 2009, a year later, he broke down physically. The point is, these things do not happen gradually, one day you are great the next you are not. Brady is next!

Infante: The New England Patriots will not win the AFC East. Just kidding. Even I’m not that stupid. I will say, though, that this will be the year that the Tennessee Titans take a step into elite territory. With the additions of weapons like Corey Davis, Eric Decker and the criminally underrated Taywan Taylor, their offense is just about complete. Their defense was decent last year, but they managed to make it better by adding Logan Ryan, Johnathan Cyprien and Adoree’ Jackson to their secondary. I predict that they win will the AFC South (by a bigger margin than many expect), and will finally be taken seriously as a threat to the AFC crown.

Molnar: The Atlanta Falcons will not make the playoffs this season. Playing in the famous NFC South division, not only will the Falcons feel the after effects of last season’s Super Bowl collapse but the team will fail to make the postseason. Finishing third in the division — tied with the Saints — Atlanta will be forced to watch as both the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers make the postseason. While it would be a major shock for many NFL experts, how many times in the modern era have we seen the NFC South be turned a topsy-turvy year in and year out? Mark it down now, Atlanta will miss the playoffs in 2017.

Hatten: The Falcons will miss the playoffs. I don’t think they will tailspin into Panther territory (they could still go 9-7, 10-6 and lose a tiebreaker situation like the Bucs last season), but it’s extremely difficult to bounce back after gift wrapping a Lombardi Trophy to someone else. This team is built to take the lead and rush, but they just lost the best offensive coordinator in the NFL in Kyle Shanahan. They will take a step back offensively. Against the wrong team (e.g. the Patriots), that defense can get ground down and not be able to play to its’ strength.

Schyvinck: The Atlanta Falcons return to the NFC Championship game. The Super Bowl hangover is common, but the NFC is wide open this season. They could easily win the division if the Super Bowl loss doesn’t linger with them. Their roster only gets better, and the offensive pieces are still in place. They reinforced their group in the trenches as well. This group has the swagger and the roster to make another deep run.

Rawls: I think the Dallas Cowboys will get exposed. Last season, no one saw them coming. Romo is gone and now it’s the Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott Show.  I think they will get hit with the sophomore jinx and they won’t be as good as they were last year now that we have a season’s worth of game tape.

English: My bold prediction for the NFL season is that Philip Rivers will have the best season of his career. After a 5-11 record and both a league and career high 21 interceptions, 2016 was one of River’s’ worst campaigns. With that said, expect him to come out firing in 2017 and ready to prove that he’s still “got it”. In order for this to happen, however, Keenan Allen will need to not tear his ACL in week one, and Mike Williams will have to play like a No. 7 overall draft pick. Also, Antonio Gates will need to be his old reliable self.

Glendon:  The Tennessee Titans will win the AFC South over the Colts and Texans. The Texans may have the best defense in the division, perhaps the league, but the Titan’s are going to make some noise this year and steal the division from both. The Texans will be a wildcard team. Of course, you can always read my ’10 Bold Predictions’ for the Patriots season.

Ur: Every team in the NFC East will finish with 10 wins. All four teams have so much talent on offense. The winner of the division could depend on head-to-head matchups.

Backlas: Detroit for the Super Bowl is already a pretty crazily bold pick, but on top of that Green Bay will finish in third in the NFC North. Detroit and Minnesota will battle for the division crown while an aging Rogers without a running game will get pummeled by weakening offensive line across from a defense filled with holes. Green Bay’s reign of terror is over, praise the sun!

Erickson:  Jay Ajayi will lead the NFL in rushing yards. In games where Ajayi got the ball the Dolphins won and in games he did not get the ball? Well…they lost. Ajayi is going to get a lot of volume with carries this season.

6. Okay, now it is only June but never too early. Right now, who will be in the Super Bowl this year, and who wins?

Burack: On February 4, 2018, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on NBC, it will be The Pittsburgh Steelers and the Dallas Cowboys meet in an epic showdown. As long as Le’Veon Bell does not get hurt in the first quarter against a broken-down Tom Brady (look at the question above for an explanation), the Steelers will be back. Yes, the Patriots will still be in the AFC Championship Game. They still have a loaded football team. In the NFC it comes down to this, the Cowboys are simply better than the rest. They have an offensive line for the ages. Dak and Zeke will be even better. The Packers still do not address their defense. Atlanta, sorry, the hangover is real. The Cowboys will have a tough time against the Giants but will ultimately get it done behind clutch plays by Dak.

Infante: Unfortunately, I think it will come down to the New England Patriots and the Dallas Cowboys. Although I personally dislike both teams, I feel that those two teams are arguably the most complete in the league right now. Luckily for the NFL, these two teams are arguably the most popular in the league today. In a Super Bowl that will become the most-watched television event in U.S. history, the Patriots will pick up yet another ring, cementing Tom Brady’s status as the greatest of all time.

Molnar: Playing in the Super Bowl this year will be the NFC Champion Green Bay Packers and the AFC Champion Oakland Raiders. Green Bay barn rushes their way through the playoff this year thanks to their explosive offense and some more Hail-Rodgers moments. Oakland, on the other hand, finds redemption as Derek Carr bounces back and leads the Raiders to an emotional Super Bowl appearance. In the end, though, Aaron Rodgers proves to be a man on a mission and leads the Packers to a Super Bowl win in the stadium that houses their NFC rival Vikings.

Hatten: I guess I should have put this under biggest surprise, but the Minnesota Vikings will play the Patriots at home (for the first time by any team). Bradford is an average quarterback who is capable of going “Flacco,” they have an elite defense to carry him during his valleys, and Dalvin Cook will be the offensive rookie of the year (even if he loses the award to someone *cough* Fournette *cough* with more hype). Cook was able to make Florida State’s horrendous offensive line look average, and he’ll do the same in Minnesota. The defense and running game lead the Vikings to their first Super Bowl win and Minneapolis will be razed to the ground.

Schyvinck: It is hard to pick against the Patriots but I’ll be a little different. The Steelers will face off against the Giants. Pittsburgh has the offense to play with the Patriots, but they need home field advantage. Let’s say they do it, and their young defenders improve enough to win a tight one. The Giants improved on offense, adding Brandon Marshall and Evan Engram. Their front will still be dominant, and they have an excellent secondary. The Giants end up victorious in this battle, as defense wins championships.

Rawls: The New York Giants and New England Patriots will meet in Super Bowl LII, a Giants victory. It will be No. 10’s third Super Bowl, placing an exclamation point on a Hall of Fame career, and put another blemish on the Evil Empire’s record.

English: Super Bowl LII: New England Patriots vs. Green Bay Packers. The epic matchup between Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers. The record between these two future hall of fame quarterbacks is 1-1. After this game, Tom Brady will have the edge at 2-1. The Patriots are the juggernauts of the NFL, no team in the AFC can stop them (except maybe the Steelers). If the Packers can stay healthy, they will have a huge chance at making the Super Bowl. Aaron Rodgers is still going strong, and now with new tight end Martellus Bennett, there will be no way to stop Aaron Rodgers in the NFC. In the Super Bowl though, Tom Brady and the Patriots will edge out the Packers. Super Bowl XXXI between the Packers and Patriots featured Drew Bledsoe vs Brett Favre. This Super Bowl will be even more epic with Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady.

Glendon: Every year since 1997, I’ve wanted to see the Packers-Patriots in the Super Bowl once more. Who wouldn’t? We would get to see Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers square off on the biggest stage. However, for the 20th year in-a-row, it will not be. In Minnesota, we will see the Patriots successfully defend their title against… the New York Giants.

Ur: The New England Patriots will meet the Green Bay Packers in Super Bowl LII. New England’s defense will lead them to their second consecutive Super Bowl. Tom Brady will also win his sixth title.

Backlas: I am sticking with my original pick from the NFC, Detroit. They will face off against the best Raiders team we have seen in a long time. Don’t worry New Englanders you will at least make it to the AFC championship game, but Derek Carr and the return of Marshawn Lynch will face off with Detroit next February. Ultimately Oakland will get one last ring before moving on to Las Vegas.

Erickson: Patriots versus the Packers. A rematch of the 1998 Super Bowl. The face-off between the two greatest players to wear the number twelve. Who wins? Patriots of course.

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cover32 One-Round Consensus Mock Draft

There was no shortage of criticism and negative reaction upon the recent release of our All cover32 Four-Round Mock Draft. There were no shortage of comments letting us know just how we did. Readers did not sugarcoat their opinions or hold anything back to spare our feelings; not that should have. In an attempt to repair the unintended consequences of that mock draft, we decided to try again, this time using a different method and a more defined direction.

When constructing this mock, the goal was to generate an accurate representation that was reflective of the 2017 NFL Draft. To eliminate selections deemed a joke, illegitimate and ridiculous, we used a consensus method this time. Each pick was thoroughly debated and then decided on by a team of delegates, consisting of our most dedicated staff.

Though not perfect, as no mock draft ever is, we feel that this mock creates a more realistic portrayal of what is to come from the upcoming draft. Regardless of preparation, even the most successful mocks are not without their discrepancies and miscalculations. Much like the actual NFL draft, unforeseen maneuvers and strategies come into play. It is impossible to perfectly predict the future motives and intentions of every team with complete accuracy.

In order to achieve an approximate facsimile of the NFL Draft, considerable attention was given to the draft order, team needs and best fits, by using a catalog of the best available players based off of their current projections and evaluations. It was our endeavor to deliver a mock draft that attempted to genuinely replicate the NFL Draft in a way that would deliver the closest potential results and make up for our recent conflagration.

AROUND COVER32

What’s Trending: Why it’s looking more likely Marshawn Lynch be playing with the Raiders’ in 2017

2017 NFL Draft: Which teams does Texas Tech quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, best fit

Around the NFL: The Green Bay Packers will now be partnering with the Green Bay airport

This Week in NFL History: Relive some of the greatest moments in NFL history from April 16th – April 22nd

NFL Weekly: Examining Tony Romo’s legacy; a look from start to finish

Round One

1. Cleveland Browns:  DE, Myles Garrett – Texas A&M

The general consensus from draft experts and mock drafts everywhere, is that the Browns will take Garrett with the first overall selection in the 2017 NFL Draft. Our consensus was no different, as the Browns would be foolish to pass up on Garrett, who has the talent and potential to be one of the league’s most impactful defensive players.

2. San Francisco 49ers:  DE, Solomon Thomas – Stanford

Much like the Browns taking Garrett with the first pick, it again appears to be a foregone conclusion with the 49ers and the second pick, as the consensus everywhere has them taking Thomas. If the projections are accurate, Thomas won’t have far to travel come day-one of the draft and would be a major upgrade to the 49ers’ pass rush.

3. Chicago Bears:  S, Jamal Adams – LSU

With the third overall selection in the upcoming draft, the Bears will have their pick of a loaded defensive back class. Adams is worthy of top-five consideration and has the ability to be a playmaker, both in coverage and at the line of scrimmage. Adams is a desired commodity in any defensive backfield, especially one that struggled as mightily as the Bears’ has in recent years.

4. Jacksonville Jaguars:  RB, Leonard Fournette – LSU

In one move, the Jaguars could quickly establish one of the premier rushing attacks in the NFL by selecting Fournette with the fourth overall pick. Seen as the next Adrian Peterson and often called the LeBron James of football, Fournette posses a freakish blend of speed, power and athleticism rarely seen in a player of his stature. The gifted young playmaker could very well be what the Jaguars need to take some of the pressure of Blake Bortles and their overwhelmed passing attack.

5. Tennessee Titans:  FS, Malik Hooker – Ohio State

Despite the free agency additions of Logan Ryan and Johnathan Cyprien, the Titans could still use help in the secondary. Malik Hooker is still raw, but he has the ball skills, instincts and production to be a Pro Bowler. He can track down the ball incredibly well and knows how to disrupt the pass. Hooker could be what the Titans need to take that next step into the playoffs.

6. New York Jets:  CB, Marshon Lattimore – Ohio State

The Jets’ secondary, which was once among the best in the league, is now one of their biggest weaknesses. Outside of Morris Claiborne, they have very few starting-caliber players on their roster. Marshon Lattimore, whom many believe to be the best cornerback in this draft, could fix that. He is an athletic freak whose ball skills and instincts make him a nightmare for any wide receiver. He would be welcome on a Jets roster that lacks talent across the board.

7. Los Angeles Chargers:  DE, Jonathan Allen – Alabama

Joey Bosa was a slam-dunk selection last year, but the Chargers need someone to compliment him on the line. Enter Jonathan Allen, who was one of the best players in the nation last year. He finishes his Alabama career with 28 sacks and 44.5 tackles for a loss. He is dominant as a run defender, and shows great pass-rushing abilities, which is rare for a 3-4 defensive end. A tandem of him and Bosa would solidify the Chargers’ defensive line for many years to come.

8. Carolina Panthers:  OT, Cam Robinson – Alabama

Cam Newton was sacked 36 times in 2016, so it’s clear that the Panthers need help on their offensive line to help keep the former MVP upright. Cam Robinson has some off-the-field issues, but has the size, strength and athleticism to be a force on the offensive line. He’s what some would describe as a mauler, but has the footwork to keep up with speedy edge rushers, as well. With Robinson and newly-added Matt Kalil manning the outside, Newton wouldn’t have to worry as much about getting pressured.

9. Cincinnati Bengals:  DE, Derek Barnett – Tennessee

The Bengals’ pass-rushing situation isn’t all that pretty. They’re shallow at the position, and both of their starters are approaching 30. Derek Barnett was one of the most productive pass rushers in the nation throughout his collegiate career. He tallied up 32 sacks in three seasons, as well as 52 tackles for a loss. He has dangerous hands and loads of power off the edge. A defensive line with Barnett, Geno Atkins and Carlos Dunlap would be a nightmare for the rest of the NFL.

10. Buffalo Bills:  CB, Marlon Humphrey – Alabama

Losing Stephon Gilmore in free agency was a huge blow for the Bills. Luckily for them, they’ll have a lot of talented replacement options in the draft. Marlon Humphrey is a smart and athletic cornerback who could fit that bill. He can also tackle well and has the hip fluidity to mirror opposing receivers. Alongside Ronald Darby, Humphrey could make sure that the Bills maintain top-notch cornerback play.

11. New Orleans Saints:  ILB, Reuben Foster – Alabama

12. Cleveland Browns:  QB, Mitch Trubisky – UNC

13. Arizona Cardinals:  QB, Patrick Mahomes – Texas Tech

14. Philadelphia Eagles:  CB, Gareon Conley – Ohio State

15. Indianapolis Colts:  OT, Ryan Ramczyk – Wisconsin

16. Baltimore Ravens:  WR, John Ross – Washington

17. Washington Redskins:  DT, Malik McDowell – Michigan State

18. Tennessee Titans:  WR, Mike Williams – Clemson

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers:  RB, Dalvin Cook – Florida State

20. Denver Broncos:  OT, Garett Bolles – Utah

21. Detroit Lions:  OLB, Haason Reddick – Temple

22. Miami Dolphins:  DE, Taco Charlton – Michigan

23. New York Giants:  TE, O.J. Howard – Alabama

24. Oakland Raiders:  OLB, Zach Cunningham – Vanderbilt

25. Houston Texans:  QB, Deshaun Watson – Clemson

26. Seattle Seahawks:  CB, Kevin King – Washington

27. Kansas City Chiefs:  WR, Corey Davis – Western Michigan

28. Dallas Cowboys:  OLB, Takkarist McKinley – UCLA

29. Green Bay Packers:  OG, Forrest Lamp – Western Kentucky

30. Pittsburgh Steelers:  OLB, Tim Williams – Alabama

31. Atlanta Falcons:  SS, Jabrill Peppers – Michigan

32. New Orleans Saints:  SS, Obi Melifonwu – Connecticut

The cover32 Mock Draft Delegation:

Miles Dittberner Justin Ekstrom Jacob Infante Terrance Biggs Adam Knoll Robert Molnar Brandon Scott Matt Urben Nik Cline Bobby Burack Anthony Iosso Brandon Fowler Christopher Brown John Gleespen Curtis Rawls Eric Caldwell

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Super Bowl LI Reaction: Shaming Gaga and the Falcons; shame on you!

Imagine Patriots’ quarterback, Tom Brady and Falcons’ quarterback, Matt Ryan, doing their Super Bowl pre-game workout routine in Versace uniforms; yeah right. Lady Gaga, on the other hand, rocked her TRX workout routine in her sparkling Versace bodysuit just moments before stepping on the big stage.

Brady walked away a five-time Super Bowl Champion and four-time Super Bowl MVP, while Ryan mastered the art of an epic choke job and Lady Gaga’s performance landed her criticism for her gut. So what do the Super Bowl LI, no paycheck and belly fat have in common? Gaga.

AROUND COVER32

Super Bowl LI Reaction: Tom Brady and the Patriots giving high fives

Best and Worst: Which Super Bowl LI commercials lived up to their billing and which fell short

Super Bowl LI Winners and Losers:  Five rings for Brady

What’s Trending:   Sarkisian hire; skipping the White House; overtime failure

Super Bowl LI:  Lady Gaga delivers at Pepsi Halftime Show

Highlights and Lowlights:  The best and worst moments of Super Bowl LI

Perfection is what many have said about Matt Ryan’s performance on Sunday. Up until the last nine minutes of Super Bowl LI, he completed 13 of 16 pass attempts, for a grand total of 202 yards and two touchdowns without throwing an interception — giving him a passer rating of 158.3 — perfection! All the Falcons had to do was hold their ground, but instead they choked, and gave up their 25 point lead.  

“That was exactly the way we didn’t plan it,” Brady said. “That was everything we didn’t want to do in the first half, and it was better in the second half.”

With five straight scoring drives to finish the game, Brady had two touchdowns and was 26 of 34 passing for a grand total of 284 yards. Talk about the most blockbuster end to one of the most memorable Super Bowl games ever!  

Now on to Lady Gaga’s game. Her little 13-minute gig achieved the second-most viewed Super Bowl Halftime performance, with a little over 117.5 million viewers. Sales for Gaga’s music spiked almost 1,000 percent after Sunday’s show. How is that for a mic drop!      I’m pretty sure that Brady, Ryan and Gaga weren’t eating anything close to what you were serving at your Super Bowl party. Old man Brady, at 39-years-old, recently released his TB12 Nutrition Manual that features nutrition guidance and healthy recipes to keep you in shape. Brady follows an 80-20 approach, which means 80 percent of the foods he eats are alkalizing and 20 percent are acid-forming, yada yada yada, basically he eats lots of fruits and vegetables year round.  

31-year-old Ryan, is not nearly as extreme with his diet. He follows a clean eating regimen but allows himself the occasional cheat. Both players followed an off-season workout program as well as a strength and conditioning routine leading up to the Big Game.  

Gaga, at 30-years-old, told Good Morning America, “I work out a lot. I do the VersaClimber and sing while I do it. My Super Bowl show is full-on cardio. It’s cardio while singing.”

Gaga took her Super Bowl performance very seriously with plenty of rehearsals, workouts and touring the field in Houston. She literally dropped into the Super Bowl, made an impressive leap, nailed her dancing, sang her heart out, and caught a football all while not missing a beat or breath! Who wasn’t winded just watching her?

What is even more astonishing is the amount of money Gaga was paid for her dynamite performance. Nothing. No, you did not misread that. It reads, “Nothing. Zero. Zilch. Nada.” Now I know you just read Gaga’s sales spiked 1,000 percent but you wouldn’t see Brady or Ryan playing the Big Game for free.

Trust me, not only do they make a pretty penny, but they also make mucho bucks on their endorsements. Brady actually took a $2.6 million pay cut from his almost $15 million base salary for his Super Bowl performance and Ryan walked away with the loser total of $49,000.

What really made my blood boil is the critics that have commented on Gaga’s appearance. As if the Falcons’ performance didn’t give us enough to comment on! Being a personal trainer and a female, I can appreciate the courage it takes to dance around in a two-piece.

Gaga says, “I’m proud of my body and you should be proud of yours too.”  

For men and women around the world struggling with their body image, Gaga gives me a Million Reasons to be one proud-ass fan of hers!

Just remember, before deciding to go on the internet and bash a living-legend, one should probably try to complete the feat in question themselves first. News flash, most people have a gut just walking around or bending over. Gaga had the smallest of guts while performing non-stop cardio in front of a large part of the free world.

Want to know what is actually shameful? Making fun of someone you will never meet due to jealousy. Jealousy is a much uglier mask than any gut the eloquent Lady Gaga may have shown, during one of the best halftime performances in Super Bowl history.

— Katie Beckmann covers and loves sports and all things relevant for cover32, but loves good human behavior the most. Be kind to one another and you will see how great we all can be. Be sure to follow and comment on Facebook and Twitter. 

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Falcons: Key Matchups Against the San Diego Chargers

As the Atlanta Falcons (4-2) finally head home, they’ll get the San Diego Chargers (2-4) in a pivotal Sunday matchup. Atlanta will be debuting their new black uniforms, the first alternates since 2012 and will surely come out swinging after a disappointing loss to Seattle. The two teams match up very well to one another, but a few key matchups will make the difference and decide who walks away victorious.

RT – RYAN SCHRAEDER vs. DE – JOEY BOSA

Chargers rookie Joey Bosa burst onto the scene after finally making his debut two weeks ago. In two games against Oakland and Denver, Bosa has recorded six tackles and two sacks while repeatedly pressuring opposing quarterbacks. Atlanta Falcons right tackle, Ryan Schraeder will be tasked with slowing down this outside pressure. If Schraeder can keep Bosa at bay, it may force him to go against tackle, Jake Matthews, on the opposite side. Either way, making sure Bosa remains away from quarterback Matt Ryan will play a vital role in the success of the offense.

LB – DE’VONDRE CAMPBELL vs. TE – HUNTER HENRY/ANTONIO GATES

De’vondre Campbell returned to the starting lineup for the first time since Week One last week against Seattle posting three tackles. Lauded for his coverage abilities, they will be on full display Sunday inside the dome. Chargers rookie Hunter Henry has found the end zone each of the past three weeks and future Hall-of-Famer Antonio Gates is five touchdowns away from tying Tony Gonzalez (111) for most all-time by a tight end. Needless to say, Campbell should get a work out in coverage on Sunday.

AROUND COVER32

QB Rankings: Brees, Stafford on the rise

Five Questions: Are the Vikings really the best team in the NFL?

NFL Mailbag: What’s going on with the NFL?

Falcons News: Pivotal Homestand Upcoming

Falcons News: Back in Black – Falcons to Wear 1966 Throwback Uniforms

Falcons News: Fantasy Football Outlook – Week 7

WR – JULIO JONES vs. CHARGERS SECONDARY

However the Chargers elect to cover Julio Jones, they are well aware of his capabilities. According to Ricky Henne of Chargers.com, defensive coordinator John Pagano joked he would resort to prayer in order to contain the All-Pro receiver. “I’m heading to church right after this to be able to stop Julio. We’re going to have to do some serious praying! … It’s his work ethic.  How he runs his routes. How fast downfield and the speed he goes,” joked Pagano.

Whatever they decide, bracketed coverage, press, or one-on-one with Casey Hayward or Brandon Flowers, if Jones is able to break free it will make for a good day on the Falcons sideline.

RB – TEVIN COLEMAN vs. CHARGERS DEFENSE

If the Chargers force pressure on Ryan, the short check downs and wheel routes should be open all game. Halfbacks have done damage in the receiving game against San Diego all season and Coleman should be no different. If Jones and company can’t split the secondary and get a ton of open looks, Coleman could wind up being the most targeted Falcon.

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