SB Nation - Kraig Urbik

The Vaunted Wisconsin Rushing Attack in 2009

grahamfiller10 — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 17:31:12 -0000

Bama Hawkeye had this to say in his 2009 Wisconsin Preview:

In so many ways, the Badgers have become the Big Ten's flagship institution...when the rest of the country talks about Big Ten football, they think of power. Slow, plodding power. Slow, plodding, corn-fed, dairy-fed power. And while every other team in the league has at least flirted with opening up their offensive systems, Wisconsin has not.

He's essentially right. Wisconsin's signature off-tackle runs and "Student Body Right" sweeps have been executed fiercely by future NFLers Ron Dayne, Brian Calhoun, Terrell Fletcher, P.J. Hill, Anthony Davis, and now the 250 lb John Clay. And don't forget stud offensive linemen Joe Thomas, Aaron Gibson, and Kraig Urbik. Barry Alvarez and Bret Bielema have had sustained success with the run focused offense - in the last 10 years, Wisconsin has been the Big 10's third best program.

Two questions exist for 2009.

Can this Wisconsin team gain success running the ball and improve on last years 7-6 record?
Will Bielema diversify the offense by adding new formations or showing less dependence on the run?

Can Wisky improve?

2008 was a disconcerting year for Badger fans, full of questionable coaching decisions and uncertainty at the quarterback position. For all the focus on the run game and the big Wisky OL, Badger fans have been spoiled by excellent quarterback play from Tyler Donovan, Jim Sorgi, Brooks Bollinger. These QB's were adept at managing the two tight end sets and keeping defenses off balance with effective play action and rollout keepers. Signalcalling was suspect for the Badgers last year - even though the run game was statistically one of the best in the Big 10, the Badgers lost games because they lacked an effective all around attack (not to mention a solid defense).

The Champs Sports Bowl against Florida State was 2008 in a nutshell. The Badgers pounded the ball down the middle for 201 yards rushing, a huge number against a FSU defense that had easily slowed three power running offenses in 2008 (Clemson, Virginia Tech, Maryland) and routinely kept 8 men in the box. But Wisconsin still suffered a 42-13 blowout loss that included 0 rushing touchdowns, only 132 passing yards from quarterback Dustin Sherer, and a 10 minute deficit in possession ball control.

The simple strategy that slowed the Badgers? Contain the run and eventually get their offense to a 3rd and long situation...

Quarterback play will be the focal point of the Badgers improvement. We at The Rivalry have been less than impressed with Sherer's mechanics and the way he ran the offense in 2008. Bielema runs some shotgun formations and has spread the Badgers in three wide receiver sets, showing different looks to at least give opposing defensive coordinators something to ponder. But until Sherer proves he can run the play action and move around the pocket confidently, Clay and the other explosive Badger back Zach Brown (above) will be seeing a lot of stacked boxes.

With the run game be a focal point? Can it be slowed?

The running game is still the bread and butter, and why shouldn't it be? To quote Adam from Bucky's 5th Quarter:

I really can't see the Badgers getting away from their running game this season. It's not like the passing game has been fixed (Dustin Sherer is still the quarterback) and sophomore RB John Clay is poised to have a huge season in the backfield.

As the rest of the conference continues a shift to the spread offense, Wisconsin's power running game is almost becoming an advantage because it is no longer the norm. Expect the Badgers to run the ball right up the throats of their opponents early and often. It's just what we do in Wisconsin.

Damn right. And they do it with authority. The offensive line averages 314 lbs and will be led by veterans Gabe Carimi, John Moffitt, Josh Oglesby, and Bill Nagy - each have significant experience and the size to maul. Phil Steele says Wisky doesn't have great experience at the line position, but injuries in 2008 allowed Oglesby and Nagy to get valuable playing time. Much has been said of Clay and Brown - Clay the highly hyped, supersized "next Great Badger Back" and Brown the smaller but tough runner. And Adam is correct, this antiquated kind of attack has become the exception, even in the rough and tumble Big 10. Ron Zook said last year:

"Their linemen are the biggest we’ll face. Their backs are the biggest we’ll face. The spread attacks the perimeter more. These guys come off tackle.’’

The sweeps, the off tackle dive, the counter sweeps, the draw plays...It's all going to continue. No one team has really stopped it consistently (the Badgers lowest single game rushing total in 2008 was 116 yards against Minnesota). The 2008 Badgers actually had more rushing yards than any Wisconsin team in the last five years, which leads to the obvious conclusion that while this vaunted run game will continue to flourish, other elements will determine whether Bielema can actually win some games and remove his butt from the warm coaching seat.

Other Team Specific articles from the last couple months...

Helping Michigan schedule OOC

Is Northwestern going to be a contender?

The Case against Penn State

How to beat Ohio State

Can Indiana Football be saved?

A way too early look at the 2009 Schedule - Week 5 - Wisconsin

GopherNation — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 18:30:10 -0000

The battle for The Axe is the highlight game of the year, imo. A year ago the Gophers went down to Madison and played arguably their best game of the year, nearly pulling off the huge upset on the road. Instead the game was the last competitive game we would see out of the Gophers and 2008 finished in a tailspin not easily forgotten. 2009 cannot come soon enough for the Gophers and you can bet this game is one they are looking forward to winning.

This game is the Big Ten opener for TCF Bank Stadium, it is the longest rivalry in all of college football, ~~we have Brett Favre on our team now~~ and it is our anual chance to house Paul Bunyan's Axe where it rightfully belongs. I love this game and I love rivalries of this nature. I have queried a couple quality Badger blogs to get their thoughts on the Badgers. Bucky's 5th Quarter is an SBN sister and On Wisconsin is a lesser known blog full of great content. Let's get to the game...

The Badgers on Offense

Much like the Gophers the Badger offensive strengths lie with their skill position players. Dustin Sherer returns to likely start at QB, John Clay and Zach Brown should be one of the best RB tandums in the conference, Garrett Graham may be the best TE in the conference and the WRs with David Gilreath, Nick Toon and Isaac Anderson are all pretty good. Outside of Graham, those names are not going to be appearing on any All-American radar screens but they are all experienced and talented.

Where the Badger offense may struggle is along the offensive line. This group reminds me of the Gopher OL heading into last year. They are coming off a strong season from the prior year (2008) but have to replace three starters. All likely starters have experience and had started in the past just not full time. Neither B5Q or OnWisconsin seemed concerned but replacing three starters is a big deal. Here is college football expert, Phil Steele on offensive line returning starts...

When most folks judge a team for the upcoming season they look at the QB, RB and WR's that are returning. A few may take the time to look at star defensive players that are back (those with a lot of sacks or interceptions). Very few look at the offensive line and yet the team that controls the line of scrimmage wins the game more often than not. Now experience on the Oline is not the only criteria for an offensive lines potential for the next year. You have to add in Blue Chips, how last years line performed (YPC rushing and sacks allowed), size, etc.

Minnesota ranks 8th nationally with 102 returnings starts and Wisconsin ranks 95th out of 120 schools with 49 returning starts. I think this is a bigger issued than either of my respected blog-egues care to admit.

B5Q - Last year's offensive line wasn't all that special so I don't think it is that big of a deal that they lost some guys. The three new guys all have seen playing time in the past and sophomore RT Josh Oglesby should live up to all the hype he has received since high school. The point is that these guys are definitely good enough to allow John Clay to have a big season.

OnW - Of the three new starters, all have started in their careers, and all have logged many minutes. Oglesby was a 5-star recruit, Bscherer started over him their freshman year when injuries dictated the need, and Nagy started several games at guard last season. The first string will be fine. The concern is the depth. The second string has no experience, and I don't think there is a true two-deep at guard. Not counting incoming true-freshman, we don't have four guards. So the starters are fine, but injuries could pose a huge problem for the line.

I'm not convinced. The three starters they are losing all received some level of post-season recognition in the Big Ten. Kraig Urbik was 2nd team All-Conference and drafted in the third round, Andy Kemp and Eric Vanden Heuvel were both honorable mention. They weren't the most dominant players in school history or anything but they will be missed.

John Clay and Zach Brown return to form one of the deepest and more talented backfields in the conference. Assuming the OL can create some holes they should easily combine for 1,600 + yards on the season. Last fall in Madison the Gopher defense did a much better than expected job of containing this rushing attack. Clay was held to a season low 35 yards (with at least 10 carries) and PJ Hill had 117 yards but 38 of those was on one play with a missed tackle in the backfield. When the game was finished the Badgers had been held to their lowest rushing total of the season. This is a good ground game but for whatever reason the Gophers did a very good job gameplanning and executing in Madison.

Wide Receiver and Tight End are also areas of strength for the Badgers. David Gilreath was 2nd team All-Big Ten a year ago and keep an eye on sophomore, Nick Toon who may be their best receiver this year. Garrett Graham is an outstanding TE.

B5Q - As far as the receivers go, I think you are going to see a much improved group. Gilreath will continue to cause some problems and Kyle Jefferson should be healthy again. But the guy defenses should be worried about is sophomore Nick Toon who started to come on late last season and has the size and speed to be the best receiver on the team. True freshman Kraig Appleton could surprise too.

OnW - This is the best four-deep (Jefferson is the fourth) WR corps the Badgers have had in some time (at least since Williams/Orr). But the biggest concern opponents should have in the passing game is the Badger tight ends. Consider that the last three starting Badger TEs are playing in the NFL (Daniels was in the last pro bowl). Garrett Graham is the real deal and should be on all-American watch lists. Lance Kendricks is very athletic, and while slower than Beckum was, is bigger, approximating true TE size, but still fast enough to split wide. Finally, Turner is a decent true-TE, too. Expect a lot of two-TE sets that drive linebackers and safeties nuts in coverage. That's where the Badger passing game is toughest to defend. A competent quarterback could make this a very dangerous offense.

Hmmm, a compent quarterback huh? Dustin Sherer should be competent but unless he surpasses expectations he'll be in the bottom half of Big Ten QBs this season. I'm not going to spend a ton of time on Sherer as he isn't a game-changer. The 5th year senior is solid and reliable. Expect about 58% completions, slightly more TDs than INTs and somewhere between 180-199 yards per game. He'll be required to hand off more than most Big Ten QBs and hit open receivers. As long as he doesn't try to do more than that (be like Brett Favre) he'll be find and this offense will be potent.

The Badgers on Defense

The key figure on the Badger defense is 5 returning starters. They lose three on the line, two linebackers and one in the secondary. That is five of their front seven that need replacing. In 2008 the Badgers finished 5th against the run giving up 133 yards per game and the second most rushing TDs in the conference. Expect more yards to be allowed this year as the front seven is a major question mark. I asked Bucky's 5th Quarter to give me a breakdown of the position groups and here are his thoughts on the defensive line and linebackers.

LBs - Honestly we don't really know what to expect here. Jaevery McFadden is the lone returning starter, while Culmer St. Jean (who has seen playing time, but never played extremely well) takes over in the middle. Kevin Rouse, who has been one of UW's better special teamers the last two seasons, should start on the outside as well, but he wasn't exactly spectacular in the spring.
DL - Again, Wisconsin has to replace three starters, but the coaches love DE J.J. Watt and a number of talented freshmen could provide depth. Still, it will probably be a tough year on the defensive line, a problem that could end up being the Achilles heel of this team.

He doesn't sound too overly optimistic about the 2009 Badger defense. But On Wisconsin is downright negative.

As for the front 7? Oy. Your guess is as good as mine. Transfer J.J. Watt, at DE (and maybe moving inside on passing downs) is expected to be a spark on the line, but he's among three new starters, so who knows? Linebackers McFadden and St. Jean will be fine (McFadden is returning, but moving outside), but I'm worried about Blake Sorensen on the weak side, and it isn't as though the former two will be on any pre-season all-conference teams. As dangerous as the Badger offense could be (with a decent quarterback), the defense is a total question mark, and were I guessing, I would say soft against the run, especially inside.

All of this sounds good for Gopher fans. The secondary should be OK. They lose Allen Langford at CB who was 2nd team All-Big Ten a year ago, but the other three starters return.

B5Q - It looks like Niles Brinkley will be the other starting cornerback, which is kind of a scary thought when you consider how lost he was on the field last season. Still, the coaches insist he has improved immensely. At safety, the Badgers return a lot of experience but not a whole lot of talent. But Jay Valai, Chris Maragos, Aubrey Pleasant and Shane Carter all have logged a ton of playing time and should be more than adequate.

OnW - There aren't any serious questions about the secondary. It should be solid. Henry is a very good cover corner and Brinkley isn't bad. Valai is a big hitter, but in obvious passing downs you might instead see Pleasant at strong safety as he has better size and doesn't give up much in talent. Either Maragos or Carter is a good option at free safety.

While they return the most in the secondary it isn't exactly a scary group. On paper this looks like a defense that most teams will be able to run on and I'll take my chances with Weber/Decker/Green against this secondary as well.

What is going to Happen

Well prior to researching this post I figured we had a coin flips chance of winning this game, maybe slightly better since it is a home game. But upon further review I am more confident now than I was a week ago. If Brewster wants to show that this team is improved and that he is capable of winning with the upgraded talent then he absolutely needs to win this game.

I'm putting this game into the "must win" category for a number of reasons. First and foremost this is year three of the Brewster era and he has yet to win a rivalry game. I'm not overly confident about our trip to Iowa this year and we don't have Michigan on the schedule, which means if he wants to win any rivalry game in his first three years on the job then this is the game he has to do it. Secondly the schedule gets really tough following Purdue and Indiana isn't on the schedule so the Gophers want to get back to a bowl game this is a must win. Lastly the Badgers are a bit down (at least replacing a number of starters) and the Gophers have a good nucleaus returning for 2009, this is in the must win category because it is winable against a good program.

I think the upper-classmen will remember last year's gut-wrenching loss in Madison and you will see a Gopher team that will play a great game. The Gophers avoid any semblance of a 4th quarter melt-down and for the first Big Ten game in TCF Stadium the Axe will be hoisted high as the rouser is sung by 50,300.

Wisconsin - 20
Minnesota - 34

The rest of the questions and answers from Bucky's 5th Quarter and On Wisconsin after the jump...

TDG - Does this game make you nervous? The Gophers nearly stole one from you in Madison a year ago and the Badgers have been playing Russian-Roulette with near losses to the Gophers for a while now. Will the bullet finally fall into the chamber or do Badger fans just pencil in the W on their schedule as soon as they are printed?

B5Q - Yeah, this game definitely makes me nervous. The Gophers would have won last year if the game was in Minnesota and now they have a "real" home stadium where it won't be 60% Badger fans. I expect for Minnesota to be favored in this game and have a good shot at finally getting the Axe back.

OnW - I don't know about nervous, but I've marked it as one of two losses in my overly optimistic 10-2 pre-prediction for the season. The Badgers certainly didn't blow Minnesota away the last two games, but have gone 8-2 over the last 10 (including the remarkable finish in Minneapolis in 2005, but that wasn't they only way we might have won that game). I think Minnesota has a good chance in this game, but I think many Badger fans find that idea reprehensible and assume we'll indoctrinate TCF the right way. These are probably the same fans who wanted Alvarez fired in 2002. Don't get me wrong, I think the Badgers can and should win this game, but for now I have it down as a loss (you always have to pick one . . .)

TDG - I'll trade you any Wisconsin native on the Gophers roster for David Gilreath, what will it take?

B5Q - Hmm... backup kicker David Schwerman looks pretty good. Wasn't he on "Friends"? No offense, but the Wisconsin natives on the Minnesota roster are probably there because they weren't good enough to play for the Badgers (unless we're talking hockey and Phil Kessel).

OnW - Gilreath is overrated. He's the third best receiver on the team. Anderson and Toon are the true 1 and 2. Gilreath is speedy, but small, with mediocre hands. For all his speed, he hasn't been a hero in the kicking game (if I remember correctly he ranked 11th in the conference in return yardage last season). Anderson has better size, better hands, and isn't exactly slow; same for Toon.

TDG - The schedule is rather weak in Madison this year. Heading into the Big Ten schedule the Badgers host Northern Illinois, Fresno State and Wofford. Is this weak schedule going to keep the Badgers fresh or will the schedule do them a disservice by not adequately preparing them for Big Ten play?

B5Q - Actually this schedule is a step up from previous years. Northern Illinois and Fresno State will compete for a bowl game and the Bulldogs actually have some of the better running backs in the country. I hate the Wofford game, but it seems like everyone is scheduling FCS schools these days so you might as well play the better ones and Wofford at least is a competitive FCS team. I actually think the first three weeks will help this Badger team. Northern Illinois is a decent Week 1 opponent and Fresno State will beat you up physically (we saw that last year), so the new starters will get tested early while the team should still start 3-0. Wisconsin also ends the season at Hawaii.

OnW - The schedule is very weak. We get Michigan State and Iowa at home, we don't play Penn State or Illinois, and after Ohio State, our toughest road games are Northwestern and Minnesota. No offense to your program or theirs, but in the big picture of tough roadies, those aren't the two that normally get flagged. As for the weak schedule leading up the game at TCF? We open Big Ten play with Michigan State, in Madison, the week before so, I'm not terribly worried about the team being soft when it comes time for the trip west. The out-of-conference games should help keep the team healthy and hopefully will provide a little extra time for both lines to gel and for Sherer to get three more non-critical starts under his belt (though Fresno State has a history of pushing us). What concerns me more is the team's struggles on the road. Look at last season: nearly blew the Fresno State game, did blow the Michigan and Michigan State games, got annihilated in Iowa City, and folded in the Champs Sports Bowl. 2007? Losses at Illinois, at Penn State, at Ohio State, played you guys way closer than was appropriate in the Metrodome, and lost at the Outback Bowl vs. Tennessee. The road has not been kind to Bielema's Badgers.

Thanks be to B5Q and OnW, excellent responses from a couple of excellent blogs.

Poll

Who wins this critical match-up?

Wisconsin by a slim margin

11 votes

Wisconsin by a lot

7 votes

Minnesota finally eeks one out

46 votes

Minnesota dominates

36 votes

100 votes | Poll has closed

Badgers in the NFL Draft: Where will they go?

Adam Hoge — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 18:24:38 -0000

It will probably be a quiet day for former UW football players looking to get drafted this weekend as most of them will be selected in the third round or later, which won't happen until Sunday.

But there as many as 12 outgoing Badgers hoping to find NFL teams this weekend and B5Q predicts where those players will get drafted:

3rd Round

Travis Beckum (TE/WR, 6-3, 243) - The further he falls, the more he'll regret not coming out after his junior season.

Kraig Urbik (OG, 6-5, 328) - Arguably the Badgers' best pro prospect.

4th Round

Matt Shaughnessy (DE/OLB, 6-5, 266) - If he gets drafted into a 3-4 defense, he'll have to move to linebacker.

5th Round

Jonathan Casillas (OLB, 6-1, 228) - Injuries and DUIs have held Casillas back, but scouts still seem to love his talent.

DeAndre Levy (OLB, 6-2, 236) - Scouts love Levy's potential.

Andy Kemp (OG, 6-5, 313) - Will be drafted solely on size.

7th Round

P.J. Hill (RB, 5-10, 222) - Advice to any mediocre draft prospects who want to enter the draft early: DON'T GET TWO DUIs WHILE TRYING TO IMPRESS DRAFT SCOUTS! Hill will be lucky to get drafted.

Free Agents (In order of chances of being signed)

Chris Pressley (FB, 5-11, 255) - Hard worker and solid blocker. Has the will to make an NFL roster.

Jason Chapman (DT, 6-2, 281) - Injuries have really hurt his NFL chances.

Mike Newkirk (DT, 6-1, 285) - Probably too small to make it in the league.

Dave Peck (LS, 6-4, 245) - Good long snappers can be very valuable.

Bill Rentmeester (FB, 5-11, 247) - Brings a little speed to the table.

Be sure to join us on Twitter to get updates during the NFL Draft.

Poll

Which former Badger will get drafted first?

Travis Beckum - TE/WR

11 votes

Jonathan Casillas - OLB

3 votes

DeAndre Levy - OLB

2 votes

Matt Shaughnessy - DE/OLB

10 votes

Kraig Urbik - G

6 votes

32 votes | Poll has closed

Last Two Rumblings Authors Mock: MARVelous, poz

Brian Galliford — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 04:15:09 -0000

More photos » by Sue Ogrocki - AP

8 months ago: FILE - In this Oct. 20, 2007 file photo, Oklahoma State tight end Brandon Pettigrew, right, dives for a touchdown as Kansas State defender Justin McKinney, left, defends during the fourth quarter of a college football game in Stillwater, Okla. Pettigrew is a top prospect in the 2009 NFL Draft. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki, File)

Browse more photos »

Ed. Note, by Brian Galliford: We know. You're as tired of mock drafts as we are. Eight editors here at Rumblings have provided you their pre-draft thoughts over the past five days; the last two on the schedule, MARVelous and poz, present you 2 this evening. What you see on the front page is a brief overview of their picks. Click on past the jump if you're looking for explanations for the picks - our two guys did a stellar job rationalizing their selections. And when you're done reading/commenting, breathe a sigh of relief - the mock draft season has come to a close. Tomorrow, the real thing begins. End Note

MARVelous	poz
1-11: Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee	1-20: B. Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State
1-22: B. Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State	1-28: Alex Mack, G/C, California
2-42: Max Unger, G/C, Oregon	2-33: Michael Johnson, DE, GA Tech
3-75: Chip Vaughn, S, Wake Forest	2-42: Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma
4-117: Cody Brown, DE, Connecticut	3-75: Kraig Urbik, OG, Wisconsin
5-147: David Bruton, S, Notre Dame	5-147: Trimane Goddard, S, UNC
6-183: R. Allen, OG, Missouri Western	6-183: Dorell Scott, DT, Clemson
7-220: Samuel Allen, T, Grand Valley St.	7-220: Mortty Ivy, LB, West Virginia

MARVelous explanation
This is my first and only mock draft, as Brian was courteous enough to give me a chance to proclaim my predictions on his super-awesome blog. I know everyone is "mocked-out" but I had to at least give this a whirl as to what I think the Bills will do and a scenario in which I think they get players to make "immediate" impact. In my mock draft I try to predict what the Bills will do, along with a sprinkling of my personal evaluations. The two trades below are predicators to my mock draft. Never has their been a year where the wait for the draft has run my life as much as this one as the eventful off-season for the Bills finalizes with this mega-event. The theme of my mock is physical, toughness, and productive collegiate players. Below I detail the one trade I make for Roscoe, albeit it seems unlikely he gets dealt at this point. Feel free to ridicule and "mock" my predictions below.

Jason Peters was traded. The Eagles gave us their lower first round pick (28) and their fourth round pick. Thank God this dilemma is now over.

I am also trading Roscoe Parrish. I wouldn't trade him if I were the Bills, but my instincts tell me he will be dealt as the Bills have so many holes right now, they need the arsenal of picks and also will need to make a deal with the devil that Leodis McKelvin does not get hurt. The Bills coaches are high on Steve Johnson and he should get the snaps on offense Roscoe would normally get. I have the Bills sending Parrish to the Cowboys, for the Cowboys 4th round pick, #117 overall. The
Cowboys need depth at WR and Roscoe will be a huge addition in the punt return game.

These trades give the Bills 10 picks with two first rounders and three fourths. It gives the Bills flexibility.

1-11: Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee. The growing sense is that OT will fly off the boards in the top 10 this Saturday. Brian says the most likely OT that the Bills would take is Andre Smith and I don't see him slipping past GB or SF. While Michael Oher,
Brian Orakpo and BJ Raji may be available at #11, I'm comfortable if the Bills select Mike Mayock's #1 rated defensive prospect. The need at DE is absurd, and the injection of youth at the position will greatly help out Buffalo's defense and may help get Chris Kelsay on a plane out of town for good.

1-22: Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State. The Falcons at #24 may be all over Pettigrew if he falls this far as well as the Ravens at #26, so I go to make sure I get my 2nd targeted prospect in Pettigrew. I have to give up 2 4th round picks to do it (#110, #121) but I think it's worth it to ensure we add the best TE in the draft. Pettigrew's run/pass blocking will aid big time in whoever fills in at LT, and his ability to develop as a pass-catcher as the season progresses is a huge upside. Bottom line is to win in the NFL you have to be able to score points consistently. Now, maybe Trent Edwards will prove to not be the guy to lead the Bills, but adding T.O. and Pettigrew will give him every opportunity to succeed and that's the least Dick Jauron can do with 2009 being a make or break season for him.

2-42: Max Unger, OL, Oregon. This 6'5", 309 lb OL is exactly what the Bills need to bolster their OL. Versatility & toughness are the two words we are hearing out of OBD about their next wave of OL. Unger played 2 years at LT and 2 years at Center. Mike Lombardi always states when you draft a guy, a question you have to ask is "if he doesn't work out the way we want, where else could he play." That's called value, and that's exactly what Unger gives Buffalo. He gives Buffalo more flexibility and that is a great thing for the coaching staff to have.

3-75: Chip Vaughn, S, Wake Forest. My infatuation with Chip Vaughn continues as I think the need on the back end is a necessity. With Scott/Whitner seemingly entrenched as starters in 2009, depth at this position is needed. Vaughn has a
"toughness" that is themed throughout my mock draft, and would be an ideal candidate at SS to replace Scott in 2010. Plus, Dick Jauron can't go past the 3rd round without taking a DB. Vaughn lacks ball skills, but his tenacity and willingness to run over opponents is a breath of fresh air.

4-117: Cody Brown, OLB, Conneticut. I can't see Elison start another season. Brown at the very least, could be a subpackage player in 2009 as he recorded 11 sacks and 16.5 tackles for losses in 2008. He has the top end speed to get after the QB, something Buffalo's defense needs a boost for. At 6'2", 248 lbs, Brown has ideal size. Some will say he is better fitted for a 3-4 OLB, but I can see him lining up as the SAM. Most importantly, Brown is a leader, a player that has through his own hard work developed into a very productive player, and can contribute immediately for the Bills.

5-147: David Bruton, S, Notre Dame. If Bruton falls to round 5, I like this run stuffing S. A guy who could immediately get after it on ST's, and could be a subpackage player as a run support. Extremely physical and has the toughness that I think would be a huge benefit to add to the mix on the back end. At 6'2", 209 he is a big physical specimen who produced 97 tackles last year as well as 2 FF's and 4 INT's.

6-183: Roger Allen, OG, Missouri Western. Toughness, character, a leader. That sums up this small school prospect. Allen made 36 consecutive starts, and is a project for the Bills to start developing. First offensive lineman to receive MIAA freshman of the year honor. Earned first team All-MIAA honors during the 2006, 2007 and 2008 seasons.

7-220: Samuel Allen, OT, Grand Valley State. This small school prospect started 30 games at OT, has great quickness and athleticism and great room to grow into his 6'6" frame. This is an ideal project for the Bills and with this pick the Bills have re-stocked their OL projects.

Alright, let's hear it Bills Nation. I know many of you are not high on Ayers, but the DL cannot be ignored for another off-season. My philosophy was that our defense is in desperate need of a youthful injection of talent. I have no idea what the Bills plan to do at LT, but addin the versatility of Unger, gives me confidence that Sean Kugler has the flexibility to put together a unit that can work in 2009. The addition of Brown provides an extra piece for Perry Fewell to use in blitz packages. Most importantly we got 3 immediate impact players in Ayers, Pettigrew and Unger, and potential impact in Brown and Bruton if at least ST's. Plus I re-stocked the OL cabinet. So let's have at it... what do you think of MARVelous version 1.0?

poz explanation
This mock draft is predicated on a draft day trade which I fully expect to occur. After selecting their QB of the future the Detroit Lions will anxiously hope that Michael Oher will last until pick #20. Jim Schwartz after all, is a firm believer in winning by building in the trenches. Of course, when Andre Smith becomes the 3rd LT off the board to Cincinnati at number 6, images of the 2008 draft will swiftly come to Schwartz' mind. In 2008, Ryan Clady, Chris Williams, Brandon Albert, Gosder Cherilus, and Jeff Otah all flew off the board at picks 12, 14, 15, 17, and 19, respectively. Five LT's in 7 picks before #20. Knowing that Buffalo covets many players who would be a reach at #11, Detroit picks up the phone and makes an offer that the Bills can't refuse and which really benefits both teams. Picks #20 and #33 for picks #11, #110, and #121. The Lions complete their offensive re-birth with Stafford, Oher and Calvin Johnson on board while picking up depth picks they desperately need and Buffalo gets the chance to plug as many starting position holes as possible. In the event of a Roscoe Parrish trade for a 4th or 5th (which I do not include in my mock), the exchange is relatively painless for Buffalo and Detroit.

1-20: Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State. With a rebuilding process along the offensive line, providing Trent Edwards with a complete set of weapons is more vital than ever and he needs a tight end. In addition, Pettigrew's fantastic blocking abilities, which are so good he has held his own against some of the defenders going off the board before him, are a much bigger plus then they were last week when we had Peters.

1-28: Alex Mack, C, California. By receiving pick 28 from the Eagles, monster running lanes creator Alex Mack has to have re-entered the discussion as a potential big time pick up. Mack is the late first round choice and will team up with Brad Butler and Geoff Hangartner to open serious running room for what is now by far the most talented backfield committee in the NFL in Marshawn Lynch, Fred Jackson and Dominic Rhodes.

2-33: Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech. This year, defensive end is one of those positions that will go fast as only two true, play with their hands on the ground, non-OLB hybrid DEs who are considered 1st round prospects; Robert Ayers and Tyson Jackson. That makes guys like Paul Kruger and Johnson shoot up draft boards into the early second round. At 6'7, 230, Johnson excelled at the combine but still scares teams who think on film there is proof that he has never played up to his potential. With Buffalo in win now mode, they will take a risk an athletic specimen who recorded 17.5 tackles for a loss and 9 sacks. Not only that, but a place like Buffalo, which has its top three defensive ends over the age of 30, is the perfect place for a guy like Johnson to finally reach his potential; surrounded by hard working, knowledgeable, and high motor veterans who will push him.

2-42: Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma. With Chris Brown hinting the Bills are comfortable moving forward with Langston Walker at LT and Demetrius Bell at RT, Loadholt can come into Buffalo and provide healthy competition for Bell and Chambers at RT. Loadholt teamed up with Duke Robinson in Oklahoma to create a terrifyingly effective run blocking duo and a line of Walker, Mack, Hangartner, Butler, Loadholt and Pettigrew blocking for Lynch, Jackson and Rhodes immediately makes us one of the most intimidating rushing attacks in the league.

3-75: Kraig Urbik, OG, Wisconsin. Even with the additions of Mack and Loadholt, Buffalo remains woefully thin at depth on the offensive line. Urbik will provide excellent depth as he learns to overcome some his deficiencies, mainly how to play lower to the ground. Urbik could back up at guard and right tackle if needed.

5-147: Trimane Goddard, S, North Carolina. My pick for the most underrated player in the draft, Goddard could probably be had later but more than a few scouts will recognize his talent and grab the undersized safety if Buffalo doesn't here. Despite his size he hits like a ton of bricks, grabbed 7 INTs last season, plays with a high motor, and has plenty of game time experience under his belt.

6-183: Dorell Scott, DT, Clemson. Good against the run, perfect size for the position and solid strength are countered by a penchant for not giving his all throughout games. He will need to be motivated, but if he can, there could be value here. Force Scott and McCargo to compete and see who is truly lazy.

7-220: Mortty Ivy, LB, West Virginia. Strong, athletic, a leader, tough. Unfortunately questions abound regarding missing tackles, speed, and technique. Will provide depth as he gets coached up to hopefully play at the next level.

There you have it. I'm sure it's obvious that my draft is offense heavy at the top but I do think that offensive line will be Buffalo's focal point this weekend. Keith Ellison and Bryan Scott have proven themselves to be the least of our concerns and capable of handling their duties if needed. Meanwhile our offensive line is in shambles. Hopefully, this draft takes care of that.

Rumblings Authors Mock, V2.0 - Ron's Take

Ron From NM — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 19:30:09 -0000

More photos » by Sue Ogrocki - AP

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As I sit down to write this latest installment of the Rumblings Authors Mock series (gotta love having a Monday off), I have the distinct feeling that my seven round tradeless draft is going to be ugly. Way back on Valentine’s Day I put up a mock draft in which I predicted the Top 10 shaking out like this: OT Eugene Monroe, OT Andre Smith, DE Everette Brown, WR Michael Crabtree, LB Aaron Curry, CB Malcolm Jenkins, DE Brian Orakpo, DT B.J. Raji, LB Aaron Maybin, QB Matt Stafford.

That was back before the Jason Peters contract debacle, his subsequent trade to Philly, and even before the Combine. Naturally, things have changed a bit and I see the Top 10 going a little differently now.

1 - DET - QB Matthew Stafford
2 - STL - OT Jason Smith
3 - KC - LB Aaron Curry
4 - SEA - OT Eugene Monroe
5 - CLE - WR Michael Crabtree
6 - CIN - OT Andre Smith
7 - OAK - DE Everette Brown
8 - JAX - DT B.J. Raji
9 - GB - DE Brian Orakpo
10 - SF - QB Mark Sanchez

The Bills think Andre Smith is the best OT in the draft irrespective of his weird behavior and flabby gut. Aaron Maybin apparently won’t be the pick. OBD thinks highly of both LB Clay Matthews and TE Brandon Pettigrew. Given that Dick Jauron needs to save his job this season, here's my "no trades" mock draft...

1-11: Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State. Matthews has ‘upside’. That won’t help Jauron, since it will take Matthews time to develop. Pettigrew, by all accounts, is a fairly well-polished all around TE and will be able to step in and play effectively immediately. Besides, the Bills lost games due to offensive ineptitude, not shoddy linebacker play. Yes, Pettigrew is off the board much earlier than his ‘value’ dictates, but Buffalo has been happy to buck conventional wisdom in the past.

1-28: Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee. There is a better chance than some think that Ayers will be available late in the first round. Oher, Freeman, Maualuga, Jenkins, Maclin, Heyward-Bey, Jackson, Maybin, and Jerry figure to round out the Top 20 in some order. Houston is the wild card, as they play a 4-3 and could take Ayers even though they have other needs. After that Philly, Detroit, Atlanta and Indy are the only 4-3 teams standing between Ayers and #28. All of them have bigger needs than DE that they could choose to address instead. If he's gone then Max Unger could be the pick instead.

2-42: William Beatty, OT, Connecticut. The Bills will be drafting 2-3 offensive linemen. If Ayers is gone at #28 and Unger is the pick there then Barwin could be the choice here. It's simply inconceiveable that Buffalo would completely ignore a huge area of need early in the draft. Whatever the order, Buffalo should come away from the first two rounds with a DE and OL.

3-75: Kraig Urbik, OG, Wisconsin. Naturally, if Unger was the pick at No. 28, then Urbik won’t be the pick here. He’s enormous, something Buffalo seems to like in offensive linemen, and should be on the board here. If no DE was taken earlier, then DE Lawrence Sidbury from Richmond would be the guy at No. 75.

4-110: Michael Hamlin, SS, Clemson. Considering both the quality of the guys manning Buffalo’s FS and SS positions and the fact that they will all be free agents within the next two years makes it important to begin to develop a SS now. Plus, Hamlin should be a demon on special teams.

4-121: Trevor Canfield, OG, Cincinnati. Buffalo needs interior line depth. Butler has missed games each year he has been in the league and Chambers could be recalled to his swing tackle duties if Walker, Bell and/or Beatty go down. Barring injury, Canfield - like Urbik - would have time to develop.

5-147: Nic Harris, LB, Oklahoma. Yes, this pretty much means that Keith Ellison will be starting for yet another season.

6-183: Kevin Ellison, SS, USC. Yes, the Ellison brothers are hitting the town together. Lock up your women and preferably any ball carriers. For a late round flyer the younger Ellison should, if he makes the team, at least help on special teams. Let’s just hope that tackling isn’t a genetic thing…

7-220: Brannan Southerland, FB, Georgia. The Bills, according to Turk Schonert, aren’t going to be using much in the way of a true fullback. Of course, with the Lynch suspension, someone is going to have to carry the ball. Also, having a mammoth offensive line just screams fullback in third and short situations.

Well, it’s not quite as ugly as I thought: TE Pettigrew, DE Ayers, OT Beatty, OG Urbik, SS Hamlin, OG Canfield, LB Harris, SS Ellison and FB Southerland. Of those guys, I see Pettigrew making an immediate impact. Ayers should at least push for significant playing time, though he's not going to solve the pass rush woes. Urbik and Beatty would likely be training camp battles just to see if they could see the field, and everyone else but Southerland would be dedicated special teamers. Better than I thought but not enough.

Relax, though - there's hope. Head on in past the jump to read "Ron’s Wheelin’ & Dealin 7 round draft", where things get... a bit more interesting. And lengthy.

Okay, we’ve seen how a draft without trades, so now let’s see what kind of draft the Bills could have with a couple of do-able trades. The Bills have already swung a trade with Philly, sending perpetually petulant Peters packing (alliteration!) for 28 and 121 (plus a 2010 sixth rounder).

The Bills are, as of this writing, set to begin draft day with 11, 28, 42, 75, 110, 121, 147, 183 and 220. However, there are rumors of a Parrish to Pittsburgh deal in the works. Since Buffalo seems willing to move Parrish (and Kelsay, as if anyone would give up anything of value for him) and Pittsburgh is in need of both a WR and return man I'll factor in a pre-draft deal. Most folks seem to think that Parrish should bring a 4th or 5th. I'm going to err on the conservative side of things and send Parrish and 121 to Pittsburgh for 96. On the trade charts that works out to about a mid 4th round selection in terms of cost to Pittsburgh, not an unreasonable asking price. It also doesn't deplete the Steelers' stock of picks. So, after two pre-draft trades (one completed, one just a possibility at this point) the Bills enter the draft with 11, 28, 42, 75, 96, 110, 147, 183 and 220.

The teams at the top of the board have been trying to trade down but have apparently not found many takers--mainly due to the cost of those top 5 picks. I don't see Cincy trading out of #6 given their dire need at OT nor do I see Al Davis passing on DE Brown.

1 - DET - QB Matthew Stafford
2 - STL - OT Jason Smith
3 - KC - LB Aaron Curry
4 - SEA - OT Eugene Monroe
5 - CLE - WR Michael Crabtree
6 - CIN - OT Andre Smith
7 - OAK - DE Everette Brown

The Jags, on the other hand, are in terrific position to drop back (particularly if Henderson is still on the roster) and are reportedly eager to do a deal. With Sanchez and Freeman on the board QB starved teams will make efforts to move up and Jacksonville is going to benefit. With picks to burn and a dire need at QB, Denver outbids everyone and makes Jacksonville an offer Del Rio would be brain dead to refuse: #12 and #48 for #8.

8 - DEN - QB Mark Sanchez
9 - GB - DT BJ Raji
10 - DE - Brian Orakpo

Buffalo’s phone starts ringing mainly because QB Josh Freeman and OT Michael Oher are on the board. Teams like San Diego and Washington want to move up but can only offer their 1st plus a 2010 pick. Jauron tells them he won't be around in 2010 to use the pick if he doesn't get guys to help him win in 2009. The Jets, interested in Freeman but not completely in a panic over the thought of waiting, offer the Bills #17 and #76 for #11 and #110. Tampa Bay, not entirely confident in Griese or Leftwich, offer #19 and #81 for #11. Detroit, wanting Oher to protect Stafford, has the juice to beat those other offers. Needing to also retain a goodly number of early round picks (to offset their lack of 4th and 5th rounders) the Lions offer #20 and #33 for #11 and #75. With Oher not ranked much higher than the OTs left on Buffalo's board and with Pettigrew, Matthews or Ayers certain to be on the board at #20 it's just a question of which deal to take. The Jets offer is quickly dismissed. The Bucs offer gives the Bills an extra third while simultaneously screwing the Jets. The Lions deal, however, is too tempting to pass up.

11 - DET - OT Michael Oher

The Bills now have the No. 20 (Lions deal), No. 28 (Philly - Peters deal), No. 33 (Lions deal), No. 42, No. 96 (Steelers) No. 110, No. 147, No. 183, and No. 220. Freeman is still on the board and Jacksonville, needing WR help and knowing they'll have options later in the round, fields calls from the Jets and Bucs. The Jags take the Jets' offer (17 and 76 for 12 and 107), mainly because the Jets are likely to take a WR if they don't get a QB.

12 - NYJ - QB Josh Freeman
13 - WAS - LB Rey Maualuga
14 - NO - CB Malcolm Jenkins

Philly is right behind Buffalo and knows that the Bills may well take Pettigrew. With their LT position solidified, the Eagles use their 3rd rounder (which Buffalo oddly turned down) and #21 to try to trade up with Houston. The Texans, without gaping holes to fill, are more than happy to add a 3rd rounder for dropping back.

15 - PHI - TE Brandon Pettigrew
16 - SD - DE Tyson Jackson
17 - JAX - WR Jeremy Maclin
18 - DEN - DE Aaron Maybin
19 - TB - DT Peria Jerry

OBD has to be thrilled to see both Ayers and Matthews on the board at #20. Taking a look at the 4-3 teams standing between picks #20 and #28 (Houston, Minny, Atlanta, Indy), the Bills realize that Atlanta (LB), Indy (DT, LB), Houston (G, C) and Minny (OT, C) have more needs to address than DE...and that most of the 3-4 teams need LBs. The Bills pass on Ayers, gambling he'll be on the board at #28 and begin the run on LBs:

20 - BUF - LB Clay Matthews

21 - HOU - LB Brian Cushing

22 - MIN - WR Darrius Heyward-Bey

23 - NE - DE/LB Michael Johnson

Baltimore hops in front of the Dolphins and gets one of the better 3-4 OLB prospects left. With the pick values closing rapidly it only costs the Ravens their 4th rounder.

24 - BAL - DE/LB Larry English

25 - MIA - LB James Laurinaitis

26 - ATL - CB Darius Butler

27 - IND - DT Evander Hood

The Bills are ecstatic to see that Ayers has slid through the 4-3 teams to make it to 28. Houston was the real wild card. Ayers is their kind of DE but Cushing's slide saved the day. If Ayers is taken then Mack or Unger would be a good pick.

28 - BUF - DE Robert Ayers

29 - NYG - WR Percy Harvin
30 - TEN - CB Vontae Davis
31 - ARI - OT Eben Britton

32 - PIT - C/G Max Unger

The second round begins... Buffalo needs offensive line help but has yet to address the TE position. Loadholt has the size the Bills like in linemen but not necessarily the speed and agility. With that in mind:

33 - BUF - OT William Beatty

34 - NE - DT Ron Brace
35 - STL - WR Hakeem Nicks
36 - CLE - LB Clint Sintim
37 - SEA - RB Kwonshon Moreno

38 - CIN - C Eric Wood
39 - JAX - RB Chris Wells
40 - OAK - S Sean Smith

41 - GB - Phil Loadholt

For the fourth time in the day, the Bills are on the clock. Alex Mack is on the board and Buffalo still needs an interior lineman. With Hang penciled in at center and the semi-fragile Butler locked in at one guard spot, the thought of having Mack on the roster is certainly appealing. Giving up 75 in the Detroit trade makes this a painful decision as Buffalo won't be able to get a TE before the end of the third. Nevertheless:

42 - BUF - Alex Mack

At the end of an eventful first day, the Bills have LB Clay Matthews, DE Robert Ayers, OT William Beatty, C/G Alex Mack, 96, 110, 147, 183 and 220.

The next day begins with a couple of minor trades between teams but not anywhere near enough action to keep a guy like Dan Snyder engaged. A joke is made about taking Derrick Dockery's younger brother Cedric, but an icy stare from Jauron kills that conversation. Christmas cards will not be exchanged. The Bills cool their heels until the last non-compensatory pick in the 3rd.

3-96: Cornelius Ingram, TE, Florida. OBD reaches back to the Willis McGahee days and plucks a player off the board with a significant injury history. At least we won’t have to see how his knee can swing in both directions during slow motion college highlights every Sunday. The Bills possibly have quite the steal with this pick.

4-110: Jason Watkins, OT, Florida. Buffalo goes Butler-hunting and takes Ingram's less gimpy teammate. He's no threat to Beatty, Chambers or Bell so if none of them prove to be capable of manning the LT position Trent Edwards is in for a Hobbes type year: brutal, nasty and short.

5-147: Courtney Greene, SS, Rutgers. Watching Kiper and McShay rip each other new orifices helps the time pass quickly. The Bills would have preferred not to have put this position off for quite so long. However, the combination of holes on the roster and players available when Buffalo was making selections conspired against taking a safety earlier.

6-183: Brannan Southerland, FB, Georgia. I think we’d all be happier with Quinn Johnson and if he’s on the board he should be the pick. However, I think there’s a pretty good chance that he’ll be taken with one of those compensatory picks at the end of the 5th round. There’s a good chance Southerland would be available in the seventh, but if he’s a guy Buffalo wants, why chance it? The re-signing of the ineffective McIntyre suggests Buffalo isn't done with FB after all.

7-220: Lendy Holmes, S, Oklahoma. Brian’s story about the entire safety corps becoming free agents inside of two years convinced me. Well, that and the fact that Buffalo hasn’t gotten terrific play from the guys on the roster.

So there it is, sports fans and people with nothing better to do than read this. I tried to err on the conservative side of things in terms of types of trades and trade value that Buffalo might receive. I also selected players who should be on the board when Buffalo picks.

LB Clay Matthews, DE Robert Ayers, OT William Beatty, C/G Alex Mack, TE Cornelius Ingram, OT Jason Watkins, SS Courtney Green, FB Brannan Southerland and FS Lendy Holmes… that sounds quite a bit better than the no trades version. At the very least, Ellison is riding the pine and six of the nine picks figure to see playing time beyond special teams. Rip away!

Ranking the NFL Draft's interior O-Line prospects

Brian Galliford — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:00:16 -0000

California C Alex Mack (Pac10Rivalry.com)

As the 2009 NFL Draft approaches, we here at Buffalo Rumblings will continue interviewing bloggers and consulting outside sources in putting together detailed scouting reports on some of the Draft's most noteworthy prospects - concentrating, of course, on prospects that could pique the interest of the Buffalo Bills. This post continues a series in which I'll rank prospects at each position; ultimately, this project will roll itself into the "Buffalo Rumblings Big Board", which is exactly what it sounds like - the same type of big board NFL teams keep handy on draft day.

We've already ranked the tight ends and linebackers. Full rankings of those positions, as well as all positions, will be made available prior to the draft, which is a little over three short weeks away. What follows is a ranking of the draft's best interior offensive line prospects - an area that is still a huge concern for the Bills.

SECOND ROUND PROSPECTS
1. Max Unger, Oregon: Unger is exactly the type of interior lineman that you can plug into the lineup as a rookie and roll with - he's smart, athletic enough and versatile. Far more importantly, he's a good blocker, particularly at the second level. He's a great fit in Buffalo's blocking scheme, and could start at either left or right guard from day one in Buffalo.

2. Alex Mack, California: One of the better finishers and overall run blockers available inside this year, Mack is a little too stiff and lacks the athleticism to be considered the best, particularly when evaluating him as a guard. But the kid still ranks highly because of his leadership and intangibles. He'll start for a long time at the NFL level.

3. Andy Levitre, Oregon State: Though he played tackle in college, the 6'2", 305-pound Levitre will shift inside in the NFL based on size concerns. That positional versatility is valuable, however. Levitre isn't an overwhelming athlete, nor is he particularly dominant in any one area, but he's smart, plays with great technique (particularly footwork) and, again, fits the blocking scheme well. He's another plug-and-play starter right out of the gate.

THIRD ROUND PROSPECTS
4. Jonathan Luigs, Arkansas: One of the better athletes in this area, Luigs excels at getting to the second level. He's not the most physical player, but he's aggressive, tough and technically sound. I love the kid's experience, and he's helped pave the way for some elite rushers in his day. Again, this a center prospect who I think will be a far better guard, particularly in a scheme like Buffalo's.

5. Eric Wood, Louisville: Wood is considered a center by most, but I think he'll be a better guard at the NFL level because he doesn't have the anchor abilities of a solid center prospect. This is another boring interior lineman that won't overwhelm you when you look at him or watch him, but he's a tough, smart player that just gets the job done.

6. Duke Robinson, Oklahoma: In terms of pure talent, Robinson is at the top of the list. He's huge (6'5", 329), powerful, and has shown an ability to dominate in the run game. Most folks I have talked to mention his "immaturity", however, and liken him to a guy like Derrick Dockery - talented, but his motor runs hot and cold and he never really realizes his full potential. He can start in this league, but he's got some proving to do behind the scenes before it happens.

Four more names for y'all to peruse appear after the jump.

FOURTH ROUND PROSPECTS
7. Kraig Urbik, Wisconsin: This guy is a tough, physical run blocker that offers some positional versatility as a potential right tackle prospect. But he's limited athletically, particularly in getting downfield, and that's not going to do him any favors, particularly in Buffalo. He has starter ability, but he needs a little polish to get there.

8. Antoine Caldwell, Alabama: Yet another center that can play guard, and probably should play guard. Caldwell ranks below some of his peers, though, because he needs to improve his overall strength before he can be a starter. He'll be a pretty valuable reserve as a rookie, but he needs to spend some serious time in a strength program before he can be anything more.

9. Herman Johnson, LSU: Easily the most impressive physical specimen of the lot. The guy is just big - not fat, not tall, just big (6'8", 375). But he's pretty limited athletically; he's right tackle size, but reserve guard material athletically. He's a nightmare in the run game, but he needs a lot of technique work if he's going to be a starter in the pros.

10. Tyronne Green, Auburn: Another pretty talented player that's lacking in intangibles and a killer instinct. Green is an impressive athlete, but his shoddy technique limits his effectiveness. He's got the potential to not just start, but be a high-quality starter in the NFL. But he's green, and there are some questions about his drive.

***

This is just my opinion, folks. These are the top ten guards in the draft by my book, but probably half of them are starter-worthy as rookies. If the Bills are planning on starting a rookie at guard, they'll need to move relatively quickly. If you think I've made a grievous error in these rankings, let me know. If you think I've got some sort of hidden agenda, I'd love to hear about it. If you're itching to re-shuffle my rankings, let it rip. Consider this an open forum on 2009 NFL Draft guard/center prospects. Go.

G, Kraig Urbik, Wisconsin

Jeremy Bolander — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 05:47:41 -0000

G, Kraig Urbik, Wisconsin

At A Glance
Position 1: Guard	Height: 6-5
Position 2: Center	Weight: 328
Class: Senior	Age:
Projected Round: 2nd-3rd	40time: 5.37

Combine/Proday Results
Bench Reps: 29	Vertical: 24
20yd Split: 3.00	Broad Jump: 7'10"
10yd Split: 1.82	20yd Shuttle: 4.89
3 Cone Drill: 7.87

Pros: Versatile player who could handle strong-side guard or tackle duties. Tall and strong with a solid punch. Very difficult to bull rush, as he uses his hands and anchors very well.

Cons: Plays a bit tall at times, and can get off balance. Loses the leverage battle at times as his pads aren't low enough in short-yardage situations.

Styg's Broncos Fit: Powerful upper and lower body, with quickness and explosion at the snap. Can play inside or outside, but has not played center. Good at pass protection and on the move, but can struggle in short yardage and goal-line situations due to letting himself come up in his stance. Needs to bend more at the knees and work on keeping his pads low, but has an excellent grasp of the game and tenacious work ethic. Again, another case of versatility that isn't quite what Denver is looking for, but which provides extra value.

Around MHR:

From "Mock Draft 2.0"

5th - Kraig Urbik - OG - Kuper seems solid, hamilton is going into his 9th year and Lichtenteiger could be good but I still think we need more depth along that front / for the future. Tackle is an option, but we have pro bowlers there and Polumbus is a versatile back-up.

Around SBNation:

From Scouting Report at Mocking the Draft:

Urbik defines Big Ten football. He's big, strong and excels in the run game. His lay is based on excellent strength, which is proportioned on his frame. Urbik is hard to move at the point of attack and and handle defensive tackles on his own. Keeps a good base. Continues to play hard until the whistle. A four-year starter for Wisconsin who was durable throughout his career.

From "2009 Draft: Offensive Line" at Windy City Gridiron":

Kraig Urbik has a ton of experience under his belt. He played all 4 years with the Badgers, and registered 49 starts. He is known to be a very intelligent football player, and have great technique. Urbik has good size to play on the inside at the pro-level.

Wisconsin had a ton of penalty flags thrown against them last season, but very few were against Urbik. He did well with pass blocking, giving up very few sacks. Urbik is a player that a lot of teams are interested in seeing at the combine. Most view him as a 2nd day pick, but many teams will be keeping an eye on him, as he will undoubtedly learn very quickly, and be able to provide instant depth for whomever drafts him.

Highlights:

Scouting Reports and Offsite Links:

Over the past 15 years, 13 Wisconsin Badgers offensive linemen have been selected in the NFL draft. From guard Joe Panos in 1994 (third round, 77th overall) to left tackle Joe Thomas in 2007 (first round, third overall) and the 11 guys in between — including first-rounders Chris McIntosh (2000) and Aaron Gibson (1999), second-rounders Al Johnson (2003), Jerry Wunsch (1997) and Cory Raymer (1995) and ultimate self-made man Mark Tauscher (a seventh-round pick in 2000) — come draft day, NFL teams have viewed Badgers linemen as a wise investment. [see more...]
Was a four-year starter in the Big Ten...Attended the same high school as Badger teammate and fellow pro prospect Eric Vanden Heuvel...In 2005 he became the first Wisconsin freshman to start at tackle since former All-American Chris McIntosh did in 1996...Moved inside to guard in 2006...Has helped pave the way for P.J. Hill and a dominant Badger ground game...Best fit at the next level will be inside at guard but could also see action at right tackle in a pinch...Typical Badger offensive lineman in that he's a blue collar mauler who definitely looks the part ... Will likely be coveted by teams that employ a power attack. [see more...]
Kraig Urbik will be a nice addition to any NFL team. Urbik is the type of hard working, blue collar lineman that makes NFL running games look good. He is a relentless run blocker who plays with a real mean streak. [see more...]
Urbik should be a very productive NFL player. He is very strong and has the ability to reach linebackers at the second level. He’ll need to work on keeping his technique solid during the game. He will probably slip a little during the draft as guards get devalued but will make a team very happy they drafted him. [see more...]
Possesses a massive frame with long arms and good upper body strength. Relies on his length and power in pass protection to lock on to defenders and keep them off his body. Displays good hand placement and delivers a jarring punch. Exhibits good balance and coordination in pass protection when he gets his hands on you. Has some right tackle versatility. [see more...]
As a junior, Urbik received consensus All-Big Ten Conference second-team honors. He started the first 10 games at right guard, closing the season with three more starting assignments at left tackle. He registered a team-high 104 knockdowns and led the Big Ten guards with 15 touchdown-resulting blocks. Behind his stellar performance, the team averaged 408.77 yards per game, finishing second in the league and 21st nationally with a rushing average of 200.77 yards. He also recorded the only tackle of his career, coming vs. Penn State.

Despite suffering a knee injury vs. Penn State that would sideline Urbik for two midseason games, he was named to Phil Steele's All-American first-team and chosen first-team All-Big Ten Conference by several publications. He made 72 knockdowns and 11 touchdown-resulting blocks, paving the way for the conference-leading ground attack that averaged 211.15 yards per game, the 14th-best figure in the nation. [see more...]

Scouting report: Kraig Urbik

Mocking Dan — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 00:53:49 -0000

Kraig Urbik

6'7, 332 pounds | Wisconsin | Guard

Strengths: Urbik defines Big Ten football. He's big, strong and excels in the run game. His lay is based on excellent strength, which is proportioned on his frame. Urbik is hard to move at the point of attack and and handle defensive tackles on his own. Keeps a good base. Continues to play hard until the whistle. A four-year starter for Wisconsin who was durable throughout his career.

Weaknesses: If a team is looking for a mobile guard who is good pulling and trapping, Urbik is not that player. He struggles working at the second level as should be considered an in-line blocker only. Needs to do a better job of keeping his pads low so he doesn't get easily beat by speed rushers who can swim on him. Too much of a lean blocker instead of a mauler.

Final word: At Wisconsin, Urbik lined up at both tackle and guard, but is much better inside. Particularly, he's best on the strong side where he can rely on his power. Named a first-team All Big Ten player as a senior. Started 45 straight games before missing six during his senior year due to a knee injury. May not be a Pro Bowl guard, but he's solid.

Round projection: 4

Traveling the Nation

Mocking Dan — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 05:00:09 -0000

This is a look around the SB Nation football blogs for the best draft-related content.

It's clear that the Bills need to improve their pass rush this offseason. Everyone knows that, including the head honcho at Buffalo Rumblings. He takes a look at the top linebackers and offers some analysis. His favorite? Clay Matthews, who I interviewed last month.

The Rumblers also break down Wisconsin tight end Travis Beckum. By the way, look for a report on Beckum here at Mocking the Draft Friday. There will also be one on Kraig Urbik and maybe some other Wisconsin players.

Sometimes this time of year, teams interview prospects just for due diligence. Case in point, the Lions are bringing in BJ Raji.

Big Cat Country breaks down Brian Robiskie. Niners Nation does the same with Robert Ayers.

NFL Draft 2009: All-Name Team

briandean — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 15:00:09 -0000

I knew right away that Alex Smith would never be a standout quarterback in the NFL. The name just didn't work. Look over the list Hall of Famers. The names just pop out. Joe Montana, Warren Moon, Johnny Unitas, Fran Tarkenton, Bart Starr--I mean, the 49ers #1 pick in 2005 wasn't even the only Alex Smith in that draft. Our Alex would have had much better chances if he'd gone by his vampire name, "Attila of Whores" (I swear that's what came up).

So, let's take a look at the top prospects in 2009. Set aside the game film and scouting reports. Who just sounds like they can play?

QB: John Parker Wilson- How do you make a boring name sound cool? Add the middle name. You know Richard Anderson couldn't have pulled off MacGyver, but Richard Dean Anderson (bet you didn't know dude can sing too)? Now we're in business. Honorable mention: Rhett Bomar.

RB: Knowshon Moreno- Moreno's name is taken from his mother's name Varashon and father's nickname Knowledge. Honorable mention: Marlon Lucky.

WR: Darius Passmore- Mike Singletary probably isn't interested.

WR: Juaquin Iglesias- Nice to see Juaquin break the mold from the Iglesias family.

WR: Ramses Barden- Ramses II has been described as Egypt's greatest Pharaoh. Barden has some work to do if he wants to be called Ramses "The Great".

WR: Brooks Foster- I guess I'm running the spread offense. Gotta love a guy with two last names. Honorable mention: Quan Cosby.

OT: Phil Loadholt- Sounds like the type of guy you want to run behind.

OG: Augustus Parrish- Continuing the royalty theme.

C: A.Q. Shipley- As Quoted?

OG: Kraig Urbik- The more K's the better, IMO.

OT: Fenuki Tupou- Just fun to say (fen-UU-kee TUU-puu).

After the jump I'll reveal the All-Name Defense.

DE: Stryker Sulak- Sounds like a chracter in a bad movie. Honorable mention: Peanut Whitehead.

DT: B.J. Raji- Plays like his name sounds--awesome.

DT: Peria Jerry- I swear they got his first and last name backwards in kindergarten and it just stuck.

DE: Paul Kruger- Freddy...'nuff said.

OLB: Brian Orakpo- His nickname is "O-Sack-po", which isn't bad, but I perfer "Rack 'em".

ILB: Jasper Brinkley- Almost as good as his twin brother Casper. Honorable mention: Rey Maualuga.

OLB: Ataefiok Etukeren- That name makes me cross-eyed. Just want to hear a play-by-play guy attempt this in the 4th quarter of a preseason game.

CB: Captain Munnerlyn- Throws hand up..."Dibs on team captain."

FS: Dre'Mail Hardin- Sounds like some new form of spam that your junk filter can't detect.

SS: Al Afalava- All I can think of when seeing this name--is this guy. Honorable mention: Sha'reff Rashad.

CB: Wopamo Osaisai- Had a few too many of these at a sushi bar once. Don't remember much after that.

So, there you go. Throw out your mock drafts. These guys are can't-miss.