SB Nation - John Lynch

The 2000's: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers Team of the Decade

Niko Houllis — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 10:00:27 -0000

by Chris O'Meara - AP

The one position I don't have to do any thinking about.

As we come up on the last week of the year, it is also fitting to remember, this is the last week of the decade, one in which we won a SuperBowl. Only two NFC teams won a Superbowl in the 2000s, New York GIants and your Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

So in doing this Team of the 2000s, I decided not to just pick the best player to played at any time during the decade, I will pick one of those guys if they were that much better than the others, But if someone played a position for most of the middle of the decade, even though not as good as a guy from 2000-2002, Ill go with the longer term guy most of the time. Keeping in mind "Teams of" can be subjective, so feel free to throw in your choices or correct me where you see fit.

Here you go guys...the Tampa Bay Buccaneers team of the 2000's Decade:

Quarterback: Brad Joshnson- He played from 2001 through 2003, and for those three seasons, he completed a high percentage of his passes, was very accurate, and won a Superbowl for us. Jeff Garcia and Brian Griese had good years in the decade too. In a position that has been so volatile, the guy who plays three years dominates the decade.

FullBack: Mike Alstott- For his last 3 seasons, Mike Alstott was truely a blocker, and still toted the ball with good numbers. But no matter what, no. 40 made the Fullback position famous here in Tampa Bay, and the A train is probably the most popular Buc ever. BJ Askew is a good runner up, as is Jameel Cook.

Tailback: Warrick Dunn- Just goes to show you the lack of a dominant rusher here, when a guy who played in the first two years of the decade and came back for his final year ever takes this one, but I just cant give it to Cadillac even though his 2005 year was the best of the decade. Michael Pittman was solid but saved his best for the Superbowl.

Wide Receiver- Joey Galloway- What can you say? 3 consecutive 1000 yard seasons? Thats never happened before in Bucs history. Joey Galloway was Tampa Bays DEEP threat after his first injury plagued 2004 season, and MADE defensive coordinators plan for him in 2005, 2006 and 2007.

Wide Receiver- Keyshawn Johnson- He was the dominant WR on the team from 2000 until he was let go after the 2003 season. He made the tough catches over and across the middle, and was the receiver the Bucs needed to catch the attention of defensive coordinators and players. Antonio Bryant is the default franchise receiver, and Joe Keenan McCardell would have taken this one if not for his 2 year only status as WR.

Tight End- Ken Dilger 2002-2004- With all due respect to Jeremy Stevens who I think is the Best overall Tight End we had this decade, Dilger gave the Bucs a legit weapon when we went from Dave Moore after the 2001 season. Alex Smith was a little disappointing, but again, not exactly a spot on the team that was really dominated.

Left Tackle- Donald Penn 2007- Current - I mean who else am I going to pick? Kenyatta Walker? Penn has shut down some great right ends , he will be fine there for some time, as long as the Bucs are smart enough to lock him in.

Left Guard- Dan Buenning- 2005-2006- Dan was injured in the last preseason game of 2006 and believe it or not, is the biggest cause of the poor start of that year. Cadillac Williams made a great percentage of his yards running left in 2005 behind Buenning and Anthony Davis. Aaron Sears should dominate for another decade if his comeback is successful. Special Note for Kerry Jenkins who was brought in and did well during the Superbowl year.

Center- Jeff Faine- 2008-Pres: Will more respects to Jeff Christy who Centered for the first three years, Faine in two seasons has dominated the spot that calls the protections for the QB. In between (03-07) the position was a serious weak spot.

Right Guard- Davin Joeseph 2006 Pres- Joeseph is kind of having a down year, but who isn't this season right? Davin is probably on the verge of a probowl year, or several years, but lets not forget Cosey Colman who played adequately for many seasons.

Right Tackle- Jeremy Trueblood- 2006-Pres- Trueblood and Joeseph came as bookends in 2006, and got the start when Kenyata Walker got hurt. This side of the line does not have a very dominant tackle this decade.

Place Kicker: Matt Bryant- 2005-2008- Gramatica just had too many of his best years before the decade, while Bryant had one of the best kicking years ever last season, and lets never forget the 62 yarder vs the Eagles in 2006. Very Accurate.

Punter: Josh Bidwell- 2004-Present- No other player really dominates the decade like Josh Bidwell, and in a way that is a shame that a Punter holds that honor! While Tupa punted well during the Superbowl, Bidwell came here via Free Agency from the Green Bay Packers after surviving testicular cancer.

Left Defensive End- Greg Spires- 2002-2006: The Crane he was called, Spires dominated the left side with his pressure on the QB and his attacking of the run. Marcus Jones and Chidi Ahanato were bit players until Mr. Spires came to town. SInce he left, only Kevin Carter has any kind of year there. Its a big need heading into 2010 and beyond, as is every spot on the line now.

Nose Guard- Chris Hovan- Booger McFarland was my first choice, but his time is kind of split in During Sapp and after Sapp years, when he had to play undertackle. So I take Hovan's 2005- Present years as the best Nose Guard years of the decade. This is probably Roy Millers spot to lose next decade.

UnderTackle- Warren Sapp 2000-2003: He was so good, that no matter what, he is the guy for this list. Tampa Bay is STILL trying to replace him. Chadrick Darby, Booger McFarland, Ellis Wyms, and Jovan Haye have tried. What can I say. If you don't like my pick, Suh me!

Right Defensive End- Gaines Adams- OK , just seeing if your paying attention! Simeon Rice just dominated this spot since getting him in 2001 until his shoulder gave out in 2006. Even then, he had his last monster game in week 3 vs Carolina when he tried to will the Bucs to a win.

Strong Side Linebacker- Ryan Nece- He was the Sam Backer in 03, 05 and 06. The Bucs had the no.1 defense in 2005, so you could give an argument that Nece has as much playmaking ability than Cato June there. In not for time involved, Ian Gold and Alshermond Singlton would get the nod, with Singlton coming in as the best Sam Linebacker of the decade, but were going to go with Nece, who as you probably know is long time 49er safety Ronnie Lott's son.

Middle Linebacker- Shelton Quarles- 2002-2006: Little known fact, Jon Gruden was the one who recommended to Monte Kiffin that Sam linebacker Shelton Quarles in 2001 would make a great Mike linebacker, and so he did. Barrett Ruud at times appears to be the guy...Im guessing we will find out, as he has put in as much time as Quarles did now. But Quarles played it almost as well as that Nickerson guy in the 90s.

Weak Side Linebacker- Derrick Double Nickle Brooks- 2000-2008!: Well pretty much...but there is no way you could make any effort to pick Geno Hayes over Derrick Brooks, so this is the second easiest position to pick. Brooks defined the Will linebacker in the Tampa Two.

Strong Safety- John Lynch-2000-20003: Lynch has one year less than Jermain Philips, so its a no brainer here. John Lynch could have played more as it turns out, but Phlip did a great job taking over. Lynch was the cornerstone of the Tampa Two, the Safety that snuck in the box and laid the wood on ...well, anyone.

Weak Safety- Tanard Jackson- 2008-Pres: People forget how often Dexter Jackson got burned in 2001. He had a great game in the Superbowl with his two picks, but both picks resulted in a total of 3 points. Rice or Pittman should have been MVP in my book. Jackson played well when we returned in 2005 and the defense went to NO. 1 again.

Corner no. 1- Brian Kelly-2002-2007- BK never had the public's full support like corner no. 2 did. I think its because the public perception of him is his outstretched arms while Ricky Proel catches the TD against us in the Rams NFC Championship game. But Brian Kelly was a great corner, and Aqib Talib is filling the number in properly.

Corner no. 2- Ronde Barber- The Whole Freaking Decade!: Nothing needs to be said here. Even when people call him out for a few bad plays, he makes 2 for each bad one. He even did well in a new defense. Ronde Barber will forever be remembered for his run down the Vet in Philadelphia to put the Bucs in the Superbowl.

Head Coach: I wont even touch this one. Tony Dungy is a B+ Coach and an A+ Man. Jon Gruden invoked energy into a tiring franchise that needed the juice he brought...on top of replacing HALF of the offense. He did NOT win the Superbowl with Dungy's team, but he could not have won the Superbowl without Dungy either.

I hope you enjoyed this article. I had fun remembering all the players Ive enjoyed rooting for during this up, down, up and now down decade. lets hope the next ten years are fondly remembered too. Feel Free to drop in with your opinions on the players I've listed, or maybe, if I forgot one?

John Lynch Nails Jim Mora Dead to Rights

John Morgan — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 01:18:26 -0000

John Lynch is not the most eloquent person. Ron Pitts is the eloquent counterpunch to Lynch's disarming enthusiasm. That's the typical play by play-color commentator dynamic. Pitts is intelligible. Lynch is emotive.

Their purpose is one part atmosphere and one part information. I typically take the atmosphere and tolerate the information. A football fan shouldn't look to the commentators to provide piercing insight or real-time strategy breakdowns. Coaches want to be opaque and unpredictable, but also logical and efficient. It's not enough to be either. A good coach must be both.

A good coach should not be caught dead to rights by color commentator John Lynch.

Lynch met with Matt Schaub in a production meeting prior to the game. Before this play, Lynch relayed that Schaub expected his old coach to drop coverage early

(3-10-SEA 40 (13:36) (Shotgun) 8-M.Schaub pass deep middle to 80-A.Johnson to SEA 17 for 23 yards (36-L.Milloy, 27-J.Babineaux)

And if that didn't work, blitz.

(1-10-SEA 17 (12:58) 8-M.Schaub pass short middle to 80-A.Johnson for 17 yards, TOUCHDOWN)

Seattle rushed Darryl Tapp, Craig Terrill and Patrick Kerney on third and ten. The Texans responded with a four-wide receiver set that, absent a pass rush, eventually shredded Seattle's zone.

Seattle rushed six, including Aaron Curry and David Hawthorne, on the subsequent play, and Andre Johnson streaked into the vacated middle for an easy reception and score. The Texans play calls could not have been better fit to beat the Seahawks defense.

Schaub last played under Jim Mora in 2006. Mora was then fired and hired by the Seattle Seahawks. Schaub, Lynch, millions of home viewers and Gary Kubiak perfectly anticipated Mora's tendencies. Tendencies, we can only assume, that have not changed since his time in Atlanta. Tendencies, described by Lynch by way of Schaub, that are fixed, motivated by frustration and easily exploitable.

I once worked in a warehouse finishing furniture. I would play chess with a coworker during breaks. Every time I won, he wanted a rematch, and would play worse, and become more frustrated and sloppy, and play worse, and become more frustrated and sloppy, and play worse...

Why does the turnaround have to happen on defense?

Niko Houllis — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 18:30:37 -0000

by Chris O'Meara - AP

Could multiple offensive celebrations be a part of the near future for the Bucs?

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In 1996, the Bucs started to turn their fortunes around as the defense developed into the historically dominant entity it became. It didnt happen overnight..the first game was a slaughter. But it got better, and before you knew it, there were several games in a row where the defense didn't give up more than 13 points. The offense? well Trent Dilfer made it look like both sides of the ball were improving, but we know better. The optimistic Dilfer of 1996-97 gave way to the disapointing 1998 and the downright nightmare of 2009! It was so bad, even a rookie with less than adequate arm strength actually improved the position for a year or two. It wasnt until Brad Johnson playing in his slightly past prime part of his life was there to add some quality to Quarterbacking the Buccaneers.

So when we look for the team to start turning around again, why do we expect a direct repeat? Doesnt the law of averages say this franchise is due to have a powerful offense one day? Didn't we finally get a good successful coach when we looked away from the obvious choices like Jimmy Johnson, Steve Spurrier, or Bill Parcells. Instead a lesser known assistant named Tony Dungy came in and helped things turn around under his watch.

So maybe the Tampa Bay Buccaneers finally find an offense under a defensive Head Coach in Raheem Morris? Is it any stranger than the fact that this team has NEVER had an offense to even talk about? Twice the Bucs had a 10th ranked offense, in 1984 with James Wilder running the ball for over 1500 yards (still a Bucs record), and 2003. Thats right, 2003, under Jon Gruden, the year after the Superbowl, and the only year under Gruden in which he had a Quarterback who started every single game. That's moving the ball though, getting yards. As far as scoring, 2000 was the best season in Bucs history, with 388 points. While that is our best ever, in 2000 it wasnt more than top 5. Colts, Raiders, Broncos and Vikings all scored more points. Of course, the defense probably had a lot to do with that. The reward for scoring the most points ever in Bucs history; Offensive coordinator Les Steckle was fired, and Shawn King was rewarded......by being replaced with free agent Brad Johnson! Tampa Bay; where no good deed goes unpunished?

But that's it folks. Oh sure, the Bucs were a big play waiting to happen in the Doug Williams era, and were a good consistant running team during the Alstott & Dunn years. But this team has had defense as a main ingredient since the creation. In 1977 it was top ten, and number 1 in 1979, 2002, and 2005. We have had so many linebackers that were solid stars its not even funny. Richard Batman Wood, Cecil Johnson, Hugh Green, Scott Brantley, Eugene Marve, Winston Moss, Broderick Thomas, Jimmy Williams, Lonnie Marts, Shelton Quarles, Hardy Nickerson, Derrick Brooks, Just to name a few. What about secondary? Mark Cotney, Mike Washington, Cedric Brown, Ricky Reynolds, Mark Robinson, Harry Hamilton, Marty Carter, John Lynch, Donnie Abraham, and Brian Kelly just off the top of my head.

Try to name 10 offensive stars. You will struggle after 7, because the bottom line is we have not had a history of success on that side of the ball.

34 years is a long time..the Pittsburgh Steelers were a lousy team for 40 years before the Rooney family put the pieces together and now have more Superbowl rings than any other NFL team. The law of averages, and time, say there was no way the Bucs could have continued to have double digit losing seasons for too much longer than the 14 years it did. The Cardinals took that to the extreme, but even they went to the Superbowl last year, and are one of the better teams in the league for a change for this perenial bottom dweller.

So maybe the laws of averages have caught up to us. Maybe, Tampa Bay fans will finally be able to go to the stadium and watch a team that is able to light up the scoreboard. Yes, we are trained to cheer our teams D linemen, LInebackers and it's secondary. But I'm willing to bet Raymond James patrons wont have a problem watching an offense putting points on the board instead.

Horse Tracks 10/30/09 - Fields (limited) returns to practice; Ravens LT Gaither held from practice Thursday

Douglas A. Lee — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:58:26 -0000

NYT - N.F.L.’s Influence on Safety at Youth Levels Is Cited - Alan Schwarz

NFL Films - Week 8: Broncos vs. Ravens Preview - Video

NFLN - WK 8: Playbook: Broncos vs. Ravens - Video
Baldinger, Theismann and Sterling look at Ray Rice, BMarsh, Stokes and the Broncos' D versus play-action passes.

DB - Starting the Clock Before Sunday - Zach Eisendrath
"After sitting out practice on Wednesday, Ronald Fields (hamstring) was a limited participant in Thursday’s session. Brian Dawkins (hamstring) was also listed as a limited participant. Spencer Larsen (shoulder) participated in full."

DB - Some Well-Earned Time Off - Gray Caldwell

KDVR - Sources: Broncos RB Darius Walker Cut - Josina Anderson

DPP - Marshall, Orton among the surprises of the Denver Broncos season - Mike Klis

NFL - Don't sell 'em short: Diminutive pass rushers all the rage - Bucky Brooks

NYT - As Offenses Change, So Does Role of Middle Linebacker - Judy Battista

DB - Week 8 - Thu: Bailey - Broncos TV

DPP - Defense priority: keep ball out of Mason's hands - Jeff Legwold

DPP - Safe way winning way for Broncos - Jeff Legwold

DPP - A look at the Broncos remaining schedule - Jeff Legwold

DP - Lots of hitting in Broncos' indoor practice - Lindsay Jones

DP - Kiszla: Dawkins brings "it" factor to defense

DP - McDaniels memorabilia – a collector’s item? - Lindsay Jones
Hmm...where did I read about this before??

CSG - Royal providing happy returns for Broncos - Frank Schwab

CSG - Former Bronco Pryce sack machine for Ravens - Frank Schwab

AP - Brian Dawkins And Ray Lewis Have Emotion In Common - Pat Graham

ESPN - Broncos: Will they go undefeated? - Bill Williamson

ESPN Insider - Broncos-Ravens: 10 observations - Jeremy Green

FOX - What Brett can expect in Green Bay return - John Lynch

FH - Tatum Bell Thinks His UFL Team Would Handily Beat Tampa Bay - Matt Snyder

Ravens News

NFL - Texans, Ravens aren't the only teams chasing contenders - Vic Carucci

ESPN - Ravens at an early crossroads - James Walker

NFP - Wilson: Ravens preparing for Broncos' Brandon Marshall

BS - F. Washington still starting - Edward Lee

BS - Living tall: Grounded in family, Rice shows poise on and off the field - Ken Murray

BS - Ravens Insider: Pagano accepts the blame - Edward Lee

BS - 3 things that need to go right for the Ravens

BS - On the defensive - Jamison Hensley

BS - Ravens Insider

BS - Baltimore Sun staff picks

BS - Remember when: Ravens vs. Broncos, 2003

AFC West News

Y! - Johnson, others have worn out welcome - Charles Robinson

SDUT - Chargers in rush to get running game fixed - Kevin Acee

SDUT - Blitzing, pressure worked for defense against Chiefs - Kevin Acee

KCS - Chiefs, LJ working on a settlement - Kent Babb

KCS - Gay athletes don’t fit in what is perceived as a homophobic NFL - Randy Covitz

SFC - Russell buckles down in wake of Jets debacle - David White

SFC - For all of their efforts, Raiders not tackling - David White

OT - Easy to run against the Raiders - Steve Corkran

OT - Peterson: If Raiders' Russell has the fire, he needs to show it

NFL News

NFL - Young in, Collins out as Titans coach Fisher switches QBs

NFL - Fed up with losing, Browns fans organize protest at Nov. 16 game

NFL - Seahawks LB Tatupu out for season with torn pectoral muscle

NFL - Cracked bone in right foot won't keep Giants RB Bradshaw off field

NFL - Saints sign FB Eckel after losing Evans for season to knee injury

NFL - Ailing WR Johnson returns to practice with Lions

NFL - League says it doesn't have a problem with Redskins' sign ban

NFL Opinion

NFP - Diner morning news: Six NFL bottom dwellers - Mike Lombardi

NFP - Tavern talk: Titans go back to the future - Mike Lombardi

NYT - What Should Packers Fans Do With Their Memories of Favre? - Toni Monkovic

USAT - Favre's return plays like an ugly family divorce for Green Bay - Jim Corbett

NYT - Brett Favre and the Interception Myth - Larry Canale

ESPN - Green Bay Packers GM Ted Thompson forever linked with Brett Favre - Elizabeth Merrill

SN - NFC North showdown will hinge on more than 'feisty' Favre - Dennis Dillon

Y! - Peterson's compassion constantly on display - Jason Cole

FH - Between the Lines: Steelers Offensive Line Has Taken Big Steps - J.J. Cooper

FH - Studious Hakeem Nicks the Early Star of Rookie WR Class - Dan Graziano

CBS - League-leading numbers speak volumes, Schaub doesn't - Pete Prisco

PFW - Offense and defense and the Gremlins - Tom Danyluk

SI - Cedric Benson learned from mistakes in Chicago to thrive in Cincy - Paul Daugherty

SI - Alex Smith gets second chance with San Francisco 49ers - Don Banks

SN - Four slumping contenders need to find their groove — now - Clifton Brown

FH - Sign of the Times: Repressive Redskins - Kevin Blackistone

FOX - NFL Truths: Zorn should embrace bizarre role - Jason Whitlock

NFP - Fixing the mess in Washington - Robert Boland

FH - Peter King on the 12-Year Journey of Monday Morning Quarterback - Michael David Smith

NFP - The Player's Picks: Week 8 - Matt Bowen
"I am sticking with McDaniels and the Broncos until someone shows me they can take them down."

NYT - N.F.L. Week 8 Game Probabilities (Regression to the Mean) - Brian Burke

SI - The Peter King Challenge

On This Day Recap- 10/26/2003- Proof Jon Gruden lost his mind

Niko Houllis — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 23:41:00 -0000

Ellis Wyms gets in on the Sack Action.

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Things were on the downturn.

The Bucs were losing games they normally win. Not anymore.

In what would be the last year for John Lynch and Warren Sapp, the Bucs shutout the Dallas Cowboys 16-0.

The funny part was...most stars were not on the field. Bucs front office got a chance to look at Jermaine Philips at Safety as Lynch was hurt, Ronde Barber missed practice all week, and Tim Wansley got to start at corner.

Someone may want to pass the offensive coordinators phone number to Jon Gruden when he sees him. The Cowboys starting receivers ON THIS DAY? Joey Galloway and Antonio Bryant.

I kid you not.

BUCSHOTS! Midweek edition- Power(less) Rankings, Clayton rantings, and T-Jack sightings!

Niko Houllis — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 12:26:34 -0000

More photos » by Don Heupel - AP

Clayton has asked to be a bigger part of the offense. Comments?

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PowerRankings meter still has the Bucs at the near bottom, and despite playing a more competitive game, continue to sink in the minds of the NFLs writers.

CBS Pete Prisco - #27 - Bucs can forget about the playoffs. Really Pete? Thanks, I was starting to print tickets.

Fox's Adrian Hasenmayer- #31- The only feel good story is Cadillac Williams. Yo Adrian, we feel good kickin Nugent to the curb!

ESPN- #31- Only the Chief's are converting third downs less frequently.

SI- Don Banks- #31- Leftwich sits and Josh Johnson gets his turn. Raheem says we're married to Josh Freeman. Sounds like Jon Gruden era never really ended!

Buccaneers.com has a great interview and awesome clips of Gene Deckerhoff, voice of the Bucs Radio! MUST CHECK THIS OUT Buc fans!

Excellent Gene Deckerhoff piece

More BucShots after the jump!

Paul Stewart of Bucpower.com remembers other 0-4 starts by the Buccaneers. 8 in all including two others this decade.

Paul Stewart's editorial on other 0-4 Bucs teams.

Bucs Center Jeff Faine is not quite ready to return just yet reports St. Pete Times' Stephen Holder.

Jeff Faine not ready to return

Michael Clayton wants to be more involved in the offense. Seems to me if you catch the ball, that involves you. I'll let you guys touch on this one in the comments.....

Clayton asks for more involvement

Associated Press reports Donovan McNabb is ready to start vs Bucs. Vegas is trying to set the odds on if it matters.

PennLive's AP report on McNabb

Pewter Reports Charlie Campbell and Jim Flynn discuss Tanard Jackson's return to the Bucs after a 4 game suspension.

PR's article on Tanard Jackson returning

And Finally, where do the Bucs rank vs the rest of the NFL in general stats?

Bucs Offense #27

Bucs Defense #31

Last time both units were down at the bottom together?

1995, the year before Dungy took over, with rookies Warren Sapp, Derrick Brooks starting along with Brad Culperpper, John Lynch, and Hardy Nickerson. #27 on Offense and #27 on Defense, out of 30 teams. Rusty Tillman was the defensive coordinator.

More Bucshots Saturday!!

49ers 35 - Rams 0: Mike Singletary's Formula for Success

Fooch — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:00:22 -0000

More photos » by Marcio Jose Sanchez - AP

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After a week off, we return with Mike Singletary's Formula for Success. Although there are certainly issues to be dissatisfied with, I think we can all look at the bright side of things this morning. It may have been the "same old sorry Rams," but a dominant defensive performance like that is good no matter who the opponent is. One plus to doing it to the Rams is that they were a team the 49ers were supposed to beat badly, and they did just that.

For those that don't know, last season Mike Singletary introduced something he called his Formula for Success. It consisted of five concepts, where if the 49ers have success, they put themselves in an excellent position to win a ballgame. Each Monday (for the most part), we take a quick look back at the previous day's game and see how the team did in each of these concepts. These concepts are:

1. Total Ball Security
2. Execute
3. Dominate the trenches
4. Create great field position
5. Finish

After the jump we apply the Formula for Success to yesterday's 35-0 pasting of the Rams.

Total Ball Security
The 49ers did very well in this area on both sides of the ball. On defense, the aggressive 49ers made plays happen in one instance (Willis TD), and took advantage of atrocious Rams mistakes in other instances (McDonald and McKillop TDs). The defense took a big step in converting turnovers into immediate scores. John Lynch said it several times, and it bears repeating. Good defenses force turnovers. Great defenses seem to accumulate an impressive number of defensive touchdowns. I have no proof to back that statement up, but it does seem like the all-time great defenses have made points on their own.

On offense, the 49ers offense continued their pattern of protecting the ball. Maybe it's a product of a conservative offense, but after the first half of last season, a low number of turnovers is welcome. The team did seem to open the playbook a little bit yesterday and there were no turnover repercussions. There were of course the pass plays, but they also mixed in some sweeps. Sweeps generally don't lead to turnovers, but with a rookie running back, you never know what might happen.

Execute
Defensive execution was stellar yesterday. The Rams did convert 5 third downs, but their offense was never really much of a threat. The defense did a good job stopping the run yet again and I'll continue pointing to the open field tackling abilities of the secondary. Michael Lewis is primarily a run stopper. Nate Clements is a solid cover corner, but he's a spectacular open field tackler, particularly when stopping running backs. I realize covering the receiver is the flashy part of his big contract, but his contributions in the run game cannot be minimized. While a ball-hawking pass defense is great, seeing every 49er defender swarming on running backs in the backfield is so much fun to watch.

Offensive execution had it's ups and downs. When I post this week's Jimmy Raye Approval Rating, I'll go into more detail, but his play-calling was not the problem today. The play-calling was in fact creative and played to the passing strengths of the team. Heck they even mixed in some outside sweeps for Coffee. The problem was in execution. They get credit for excellent execution on the two touchdown drives, but they also get negative marks for most of the rest of the game. As has been pointed out this is primarily due to the offensive line. Singletary has said he thinks this could be a great line and that they're sort of getting in their own way. As long as the o-line struggles, it will remain a concern.

Dominate the Trenches
As was discussed above, the offensive line did not dominate the trenches. Glen Coffee couldn't get much going and Shaun Hill took quite the beating. Hill was asked after the game how he felt physically and he said, "I feel like I played an NFL football game." He was sacked four times and took 5 hits (not sure if those 5 hits include the 4 sacks). Either way, he spent a lot of time getting knocked around.

Defensively, as with every aspect of the game, they dominated. Steven Jackson found some holes on occasion, but for the most part was contained. The linebackers and secondary made plays outside the tackles, but inside the defensive line opened up some serious holes for the linebackers to pounce on Jackson. It carried over into the passing game as the pass rush was nothing short of beastly. Five sacks and nine QB hits likely left Kyle Boller rather discouraged. It was a bad Rams team, but this kind of game can only help a defense's confidence. Particularly with a tough Atlanta offense coming to town next week.

Create great field position
It was intriguing to see Allen Rossum deactivated this week. Aside from a called back TD return, Rossum has been pretty much non-existent. I'm extremely curious to see how this continues to develop. However, the defense did help create good field position. The first touchdown came after a Rams punt DEEP in their own territory left the 49ers starting at midfield. And of course, you can't get much better field position than scoring on defense. I remain concerned about the kick return game and am curious how this all develops. Spurlock AND Rossum were inactive, but we saw very little from Jason Hill and Brandon Jones. It's hard to decipher the situation at this point. Any thoughts?

Finish
This was the best "Finishing" of a game I've seen in a long time by the 49ers, on both sides of the ball. The 49ers were up 21-0 and easily could have gone into 3 rushes and punt for the last 20 minutes or so of the game. Instead, they went for the jugular, which is exactly what we like to see. On offense they continued to open up the passing game, leading to the Josh Morgan touchdown. Why go three and out when you can go deep!

As for the defense? Well, they never let up the entire game. I'm guessing they really wanted that shutout, and that kept them a little extra motivated. I'm trying to remember the last time a 49ers defense put together this kind of complete effort for 60 minutes. A quick look back and it might have been Dennis Erickson's debut game against the Bears in 2003. The 49ers won the game 49-7, forcing 5 turnovers, sacking the QB 5 times and holding the Bears to 127 total yards. Let's just move on and avoid any future comparisons to a Dennis Erickson coached team.

ON THIS DAY VIDEO- 10/3/2004 Denver Broncos; Clayton Blows his top, Lynch doesn't!

Niko Houllis — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 12:26:28 -0000

It was a sad day, John Lynch returning home to Tampa in a Bronco's uniform. Politics of that move aside, it's ironic the CBS crew were talking about him and showing his profile when he made his little error, and was too nice to Bucs rookie receiver Michael Clayton, who leapt Cat-like in the air to snag an overthrown pass by Brad Johnson, but had the presence enough to get up and continue into the end zone, Sans Helmet! Definitly worth checking out if you've never seen it, and even if you have.

Continue to check out the Video....

The entire play is included, as the fact they talk about Lynch before the play is kind of ironic.

Revised Draft Prospect List:

Jonathan Loesche — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 03:40:27 -0000

More photos » by Wade Payne - AP

4 months ago: Tennessee safety Eric Berry waits between plays during football practice Saturday, Aug. 8 2009 in Knoxville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Wade Payne)

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With week three of the college football season in the books, time to revise who I'm looking at for the Jaguars to get next April, including a new #1.

1. Eric Berry, S, Tennessee

No player has impressed me more over the course of the first few weeks of the season as Eric Berry has. He's a smart, tough safety that can defend the pass and the run. Berry has been running Monte Kiffin's defense as if he was John Lynch and that's not hyperbole talking.

2. Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska

A big and powerful defensive tackle that is one of the few Cornhuskers worthy of being called a Blackshirt in some time. Suh has been having another stand out year for the Huskers this year, being almost Albert Haynesworth like in his ability to cause havoc from the DT spot.

3.Brandon Spikes, LB, Florida

If the Jaguars are in the bottom half of the first round, Spikes becomes an interesting target. He's an excellent 4-3 linebacker who would provide depth and competition no matter his position. This may be something of a pick of riches, but he'll most likely be the BAP.

4. Dan LaFevour, QB, Central Michigan

Even if the Jaguars have a successful season, Garrard is on the wrong end of 30 and the preseason has shown the back up QB spot is shaky. LaFevour is next in the line of MAC QB's that have included Ben Roethlisberger, Chad Pennington, and Byron Leftiwch. Depending on how LaFevour's season goes, he could be anywhere from a 1st to 3rd round candidate.

5. Jordan Shipley, WR, Texas

Shipley isn't a guy who jumps out at you from a physical stand point. He doesn't have the fastest 40 and he won't leap over tall buildings. However, he is a work horse and could be a solid possesion receiver in the NFL. Shipley is having another great season with the Longhorns as they look to make it to the BCS National Title game.

6. Myron Rolle, S, Florida State

Rolle will have been out of football for over a year, however, it would be for an excellent reason as he was studying at Oxford on a Rhodes Scholarship. Rolle was talented enough to be a unanimous first round selection in 2009 mock drafts, and he would be worth a flyer pick if he slipped into the 3rd round or beyond due to his absence from football.

7. Tony Pike, QB, CInncinati

Pike has a NFL arm and stands firm in the pocket. The big question mark right now is how can he do against better comeptition. Pike ranks third in I-A with an absurd 77% completion percentage.

8. Matt Tennant, C, Boston College

Brad Meester isn't getting any younger and the interior of the offensive line could use some of the youth movement that tackle position experienced this year. Tennant is a mid round prospect who plays with a mean streak and has a good motor. He is a perfect jar on the shelf type who could be ready to start after a year or two.

9. Ed Dickson, TE, Oregon

Dickson is an excellent pass catching tight end. His run blocking, not so much. Dickson is only about 240 lbs, so he'll have to get bigger if he wants to be a starting TE at the NFL level. However, he can use his pass catching skills to offset that for a season or two as he gets bigger and improves on his run blocking.

10. John Jerry, Guard, Ole Miss

Jerry is a late round prospect at Guard who is a heavy risk reward player. He has a great football IQ and has a mean streak you want in a linemen. However, he needs to lose weight, period. At 355, he is simply too heavy to play guard in the NFL. In addition, he'll need to overhaul his technique in order to successfully be a starter. Jerry is an excellent jar on the shelf player.

St. Louis Rams Lead a Long Drive to Nowhere

John Morgan — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 01:05:28 -0000

More photos » by Ted S. Warren - AP

Marc Bulger must learn: A receiver covered by Kelly Jennings is wide open.

Browse more photos »

It was a long drive, spanning two quarters, but it was a boring drive that turned on a ball spot. The yellow line isn't gospel, but it should be accurate. Daniel Fells was on or over the first down marker. The refs marked him a yard short and the Twelfth Man took care of the rest. A false start and delay of game later, the Rams were third and 11. Josh Brown hooked it left and the shutout was intact.

From a statistical standpoint, this drive was important. The chance the Rams would win peaked at 69% on that third and one. But it was slow, detail-poor football. Seattle was getting moderate pass rush and controlling their assignments, but Marc Bulger and offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur found holes in the Seahawks zone and methodically converted first downs to crawl down the field. Here is what little detail I can offer.

Ken Lucas missed two tackles. His first allowed Steven Jackson to turn the corner and rush for ten. His second was a play that could have been worse. The Seahawks defense was sure someone on the Rams had committed a false start, so sure three were busy pointing when the play began. Bulger passed very short left to Laurent Robinson, an out of position Lucas dove right and missed, and Robinson ran clean into the third level. There Deon Grant tackled him. Replace Robinson with a good open-field runner and it's anyone's guess where that play ends.
Former defensive back John Lynch and Ron Pitts praised Lucas for covering Keenan Burton on a deep route, and Lucas did cut off the route a smidge, but it was an overthrown ball or an under-fast receiver, because Lucas was beat, incomplete or not.
Seattle got sucked up on an end around. That's the price of an attacking defense.
Cory Redding adjusted to a naked bootleg by Bulger and pressured him into throwing it away.
Patrick Kerney, as quiet as I can ever remember him, almost tackled Steve Jackson from behind. He almost behind the line and tackled Jackson, but didn't.
Lawrence Jackson tackled Steven Jackson for a loss that was somehow spotted as no gain. He stuck an arm into Jason Smith and tracked the action towards the middle. When Steven Jackson's lane opened right of center, Jackson plunged into Jackson and our Jackson won.
Seattle blitzed six on third and 11. It overloaded the right, sending Aaron Curry and Jordan Babineaux. Bulger overthrew Robinson. Kelly Jennings was glued to his hip. Guess Bulger missed that memo. Robinson was wide open, yo.