tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77840643331878807352024-02-18T21:39:46.348-06:00Trapp's RantMaking sports more important than they are since 2009AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.comBlogger1098125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-7494494806311733612021-03-01T14:26:00.001-06:002021-03-01T14:27:05.836-06:00 I LOVE THE NFL DRAFT BUT....<p style="text-align: left;">ESPN has fallen into the trap that has swallowed so much of our country's media. They are more concerned with views and energy than they are content. </p><p style="text-align: left;">Hot takes have replaced reporting. </p><p style="text-align: left;">Screaming has replaced debate</p><p style="text-align: left;">Now <a href="https://nypost.com/2021/02/25/mike-greenberg-to-host-2021-nfl-draft-for-espn/" target="_blank">Mike Greenberg</a> has been handed the reins for the NFL draft. Not someone who has reported on the NFL, or played sports past junior high. Just a snobby, nasal opinion of man.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Also, nobody outside of Gotham gives 2 $#!t$ about the J.E.T.S. JETS JETS JETS. </p><p style="text-align: left;">Awesome, thanks ESPN.</p><p style="text-align: left;">But on the right side, the <a href="https://www.nfl.com/network/events/nfl-draft" target="_blank">NFL network </a>will be covering it too....right?</p>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-51316693456142032152021-02-28T12:04:00.013-06:002021-03-02T14:27:33.731-06:002021 NFL Mock Draft V 1.0 Round 1<p> Hey ya'll</p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p></p></blockquote></blockquote></blockquote></blockquote></blockquote><p>It has been way too long since this site had any new content. I apologize, adult life and all that.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4UkexsVBIbk/YDVM15Bu9TI/AAAAAAAAPh4/zUwPS19a-R4aQ06YmZxi5tcvCH0fW3l9QCPcBGAsYHg/s550/NFLShield_07_RGB.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="550" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4UkexsVBIbk/YDVM15Bu9TI/AAAAAAAAPh4/zUwPS19a-R4aQ06YmZxi5tcvCH0fW3l9QCPcBGAsYHg/s320/NFLShield_07_RGB.jpg" width="320"></a></div>But, I missed it, so I am back, and just in time to be incredibly wrong about the NFL draft.<br><p></p><p>This year is particularly tricky with COVID limiting games and showcases, particularly the NFL combine, but we are going to do out best. I always feel like the biggest thing is identifying what are the areas of opportunity for each of the teams. That should be possible, regardless of how much we trust the evaluation of the players we mock up to meet those needs.</p><p>Without further ado, here is Version 1 of my NFL 2021 Mock Draft.</p><br><p><br></p><p><b>ROUND 1</b></p><p><b><br></b></p><p><b>PICK 1: JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS: Trevor Lawrence</b></p><p>Ok, so this one is pretty easy. The entire world is sold on the idea that Trevor Lawrence should be drafted as soon as is allowed by the NCAA and NFL, which puts the Jags in the driver's seat for sure. With them already having multiple first round picks, I think it is a fair bet that they will stay put.</p><p>That combined with a glaring need at QB leads me to agree with the rest of the world, as much as I do hate going with the crowd.</p><p>Lawrence has all the tools and the Jags have already been running a QB friendly system, as illustrated by Gardner Minshew being successful enough to become a bit of a media darling. One thing that Minshew could not do was take advantage of the speed that the young Jag Receivers being to the field. Lawrence throws about as <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVaD9CKWwAY&list=UUtBCRt-5IbP1uggiqCdUvdQ" target="_blank">nice a deep ball as you are going</a> to see in a rookie and if he can leverage <a href="http://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4243160/laviska-shenault-jr" target="_blank">Laviska Shenault Jr</a>. and <a href="http://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/3892889/dede-westbrook" target="_blank">Dede Westbrook's</a> wheels to back the safeties off the line so <a href="http://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4052042/james-robinson" target="_blank">James Robinson</a> can have more success on the ground, it could be a nice step towards turning things around for Jacksonville.</p><p><b>PICK 2: NEW YORK JETS: Justin Fields</b></p><p>The Jets need so much. I really hope, for both parties, that they are able to trade <a href="http://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/3912547/sam-darnold" target="_blank">Sam Darnold</a>. They need the draft capital to restock the shelves and he is a talented player who I think could have success somewhere. Regardless, he hasn't been the answer in New York, and he won't be unless they can really change things around.</p><p>So, I project the J.E.T.S. moving on from Darnold with a QB who some would argue is the most athletically gifted in this draft, Justin Fields. Fields didn't get the chance to put as much as on tape as the other players with the Big Ten's delayed start, but he showed when he can do against Clemson. He is mobile, smart, and he can make all the throws. He won't save all the problems for the boys in Green, but he is a great piece.</p><p><b>PICK 3: MIAMI DOLPHINS: Penei Sewell</b></p><p>The Dolphins were a big surprise last year, missing the playoffs by one game in what was expected to be a rebuilding year. They have their QB of the future surrounded by some nice pieces. </p><p>They could stand to upgrade as a few positions, in my opinion, including Running Back, Tight End, Nose Tackle, Defensive End, and Middle Linebacker. </p><p>That said, if Tua is the future, then you need to let him do what he does. So, I project the Dolphins going Value over Need here and picking up <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-football/player/_/id/4373825/penei-sewell" target="_blank">Penei Sewell</a> to upgrade the pass protection for Miami. Sewell is the consensus #1 Offensive Line prospect in this draft and will absolutely be an upgrade somewhere on the line for Miami.</p><p><b>PICK 4: ATLANTA FALCONS: Christian Barmore</b></p><p>The Falcons are a team that always seems to underperform. They have big names and demonstrable talent on their team, but that talent very rarely is on the lines. Personally, I think those 2 items are tightly linked. Having a great quarterback, solid backs, and outstanding wide receivers doesn't matter if you don't have time to execute.</p><p>The same is true on the other side of the ball. Having talented players on the back end can only do so much if you can't pressure the passer or stop the run. </p><p>With those in mind, it is clear (to me) that the Falcons should draft the best big man available. With Sewell off the board, I believe that is clearly <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-football/player/_/id/4372030" target="_blank">Christian Barmore</a> from Alabama. He has the strength to play inside and enough athleticism to play outside. He has long arms, and uses his hands well to keep Offensive linemen off of him. He can be moved up and down a 4 man front, and is as close to a guaranteed upgrade as the Falcons are going to get.</p><p><b>PICK 5: CINCINATTI BENGALS: RaShawn Slater</b></p><p>The Bengals have their QB of the future, but he has to stay on his feet. They need help up and down their line. A perfect player would have a shot at starting at tackle with the ability to fill in at other spots as well. <a href="https://www.profootballnetwork.com/rashawn-slater-nfl-draft-player-profile-northwestern-offensive-tackle/" target="_blank">Rashawn Slater</a> projects the potential to be just that kind of player.</p><p>He is an athletic lineman who can use that agility as a pass blocker, but also pulls well in the running game. He is not a sexy pick, but he may be the piece they need to let their sexy picks from last year be effective.</p><p><b>PICK 6: PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: Ja'Marr Chase</b></p><p>Philly has needs all over the place, and they are a bit cash strapped. The trade of Carson Wentz helped with the money problem a bit, and releasing <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/11283/desean-jackson" target="_blank">DeSean Jackson</a> helped as well. </p><p>As for the needs all over the place, I firmly believe that the age of their wide receivers and the games missed by their elder statemen had a direct impact on the performance of their offense. They have already cut ties with DeSean Jackson and I expect that it won't be many seasons before <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/14912/alshon-jeffery" target="_blank">Alshon Jeffrey</a> will no longer be able to be a leader on this team. </p><p>So, with this draft full of potential stars at Wide Receiver, the Eagles should try to find a new #1 to pair with a talented group of young receivers. <a href="https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/jamarr-chase/SDOMHXqIQp" target="_blank">Ja'Marr Chase</a> was good enough to make Justin Jefferson the #2 target for Joe Burrow, which says a lot for the potential of Mr. Chase. </p><p><b>PICK 7: DETROIT LIONS: Wyatt Davis OL</b></p><p>Surprisingly, the Lion don't have glaring needs. They are solid in a number of areas, but they don't have a lot of areas where they have an advantage. To my mind, this gives them an opportunity to truly draft the best available player. </p><p>On my board, at this point, that player is <a href="https://www.profootballnetwork.com/wyatt-davis-nfl-draft-player-profile-ohio-state-guard/" target="_blank">Wyatt Davis</a>. </p><p>Davis is an explosive Lineman who held up well against Christian Barmore in the title game, even if he was one of the few on his side who did. He didn't play tackle at Ohio State, but I project that he could give quality snaps at 3 positions on the line which would nearly guarantee him as an upgrade for the Lions, without reaching.</p><p><b>PICK 8: CAROLINA PANTHERS: Kyle Pitts TE</b></p><p>Carolina needs difference makers. They have some interesting weapons, but they are overly dependent on Christian McCaffery. When he was in the lineup, they pushed the Chiefs to the limit. When he was out, they were punchless on offense.</p><p><a href="https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/kyle-pitts/SZFJcdG3nL" target="_blank">Kyle Pitts</a> is unique in this draft. He would immediately give the Panthers a Red Zone weapon and a matchup nightmare in the middle 60. He is one of the players who would have been very interesting to me at the Combine.</p><p><b>PICK 9: DENVER BRONCOS: Mac Jones QB</b></p><p>I know that there is some disagreement among Broncos fans, as well as the experts regarding the Donkeys' QB situation. Drew Lock has just enough talent to whet the appetite, but he just hasn't been consistent.</p><p>For my money, he has gotten plenty of chances and it's time to push the envelope. </p><p><a href="https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/mac-jones/xDz6q99pXy" target="_blank">Mac Jones</a> is has the size, the arm, and the accuracy to take advantage of the young skill position players in Denver. Denver's offense has a chance to be very solid, very quickly, IF they can get consistent performance out of the Quarterback position.</p><p><b>PICK 10: DALLAS COWBOYS: Caleb Farley CB</b></p><p>Dallas has got to get better on defense. </p><p>Today's NFL calls for position flexibility. You can get that in a handful of ways. You can find a safey with the size to play in the Box. </p><p>You can find the find the edge guy, who can stand up or put his hand down.</p><p>Or you can draft a big corner who with legit cover skills who can move all over the secondary. </p><p>That is what teams hope <a href="https://www.profootballnetwork.com/caleb-farley-nfl-draft-player-profile-virginia-tech-cornerback/" target="_blank">Caleb Farley</a> is. Farley is raw, but at 6'2" and athletic, he has real potential. Is he the guy who can pester the Zach Ertz's of the world? We'll see...</p><span></span><a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2021/02/2021-nfl-draft-projection-v-10.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-13801279219911429522016-11-22T16:44:00.003-06:002016-11-22T16:47:24.099-06:002016 Halfway Point Rookie Evaluations - First Round<b><br></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">G.D. ROCK STARS</span></b><br>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-px8R4V2gE-A/UEoDQx4WnaI/AAAAAAAAJ5U/MX2TmtgWXxAh02dFZi3oLJA6tciiQ2DygCPcB/s1600/NFLShield_07_RGB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-px8R4V2gE-A/UEoDQx4WnaI/AAAAAAAAJ5U/MX2TmtgWXxAh02dFZi3oLJA6tciiQ2DygCPcB/s320/NFLShield_07_RGB.jpg" width="320"></a></span></b></div>
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<b>4. COWBOYS: Ezekiel Elliot</b><br>
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This young man is flat out killing it. Anyone paying attention had to know that he had a shot for a big year, running behind that best O-Line in the league. A little luck to keep him healthy and that home run speed, and bank, you have the league's leading rusher....from <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/ohiostatefbofficial">THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY</a>, <a href="http://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/3051392/ezekiel-elliott">Zeke</a>.<br>
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<b>13. DOLPHINS: Laremy Tunsil</b><br>
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Well, Laremy has not been able to crack the starting lineup....at tackle.<br>
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However, putting this beast beside Branden Albert on the left side has been a ridiculous combination, and I believe it is the biggest difference between an mediocre offense and a their vicious rushing attack led by the emergence of Jay Ajayi. <br>
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I will be surprised if Tunsil doesn't migrate to the outside at some point, but he might be All-Pro level at guard.<br>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">YUP, THEY WERE WORTH IT</span></b><br>
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<b>2. EAGLES: Carson Wentz</b><br>
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Carson has cooled off after a start that had the football world tittering with excitement, but there is no question who the leader of the Eagles offense is. This young man has their trust, and the talent. He is learning some rookie lessons, but he is the man in Philly and justified their move up to get him.<br>
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He projects to flirt with 4000 years passing and should have comfortably more TD's than INT's. Oh, and the Eagles have a winning record. The Eagles need to get him some more weapons. They need to get some players who can make more explosive plays to make life easier on Wentz.<br>
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That said, outside of 2 mediocre game against the Giants and Vikings, he has completed over 70% of his passes with 8 TDs against 1 INT.<br>
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<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2016/11/2016-halfway-point-rookie-evaluations.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-83615637667174283322016-11-04T13:28:00.001-05:002016-11-04T13:28:51.771-05:00Halfway Point Rookie Evaluation<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-px8R4V2gE-A/UEoDQx4WnaI/AAAAAAAAJ5U/MX2TmtgWXxAh02dFZi3oLJA6tciiQ2DygCPcB/s1600/NFLShield_07_RGB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-px8R4V2gE-A/UEoDQx4WnaI/AAAAAAAAJ5U/MX2TmtgWXxAh02dFZi3oLJA6tciiQ2DygCPcB/s320/NFLShield_07_RGB.jpg" width="320" /></a>It's as true now as ever. <br />
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Blink and the time is gone.<br />
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Where do we find ourselves? Well damn if we aren't already had the halfway point of the NFL season. It might be early for evaluation, but with this season being heavily impacted by rookies, I think it is worth taking a look at where this season's rookies are.<br />
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Over the next few days, I am going to evaluate each round to see which rookies are providing value, and which are are already looking like lemons.<br />
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I know, I know, I know, it's too early to give up on a young man, but that's not my decision. I will, however, try to focus on the positives.<br />
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Please feel free to jump in and tell me how wrong I am. Don't be shy.AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-19500135181931516442016-11-02T23:42:00.001-05:002016-11-02T23:42:29.139-05:002016 TRS Football Rankings - Week 9For all the noise about unbeaten's falling last weekend, there weren't a lot of surprises.<br>
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Texas over Baylor was a minor surprise, but winning on the road in conference is a tough thing to do. <br>
To me, the biggest upset was South Carolina over Tennessee. Something is not right in Knoxville. They are an immature team, and the cracks might be showing with <a href="http://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/butch-jones-confirms-star-jalen-hurd-will-transfer-from-tennessee/">Jalen Hurd announcing his transfer</a>. When I have had the opportunity to watch the Volunteers over the last 2 years, it was clear that Hurd was the heart and soul of that team. For all the talk about their Rocket Scientist at Quarterback,they were at their best with Hurd was rolling and generating emotion. <br>
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What this week did give us was a bit more clarity. The teams who looked to be second tier, but who had managed to not lose a game yet, well...they lost a game. We no longer have to worry about if they were going to muddy the waters.<br>
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Oh, the BCS Rankings came out. <br>
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I know that we lost the SEC, but the Aggies? Really?<br>
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I have nothing against the Aggies, but I wouldn't put them in the top 5. The scary bit there is that they are in and their only game they won't be strongly favored in left is LSU. If you don't think they should be in, you might be pretty upset here in a few weeks. LSU to close will be tough, but otherwise their only risk is Ole Miss, who has been reeling.<br>
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On to the rankings.<br>
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<b>1. WASHINGTON HUSKIES</b><br>
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<b>This is a situation where the point differential is really coming into play. Washington has not played the caliber of schedule that the other top teams have played, but they have drilled so many teams. </b><br>
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<b>They got a good test playing a salty Ute team this week and got a nice win. I don't expect them to stay this high as the other top contenders continue through their respective meat grinders, but Washington can play folks. Don't think they can't.</b><br>
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<b>2. CLEMSON TIGERS</b><br>
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<b>Clemson may have gotten a little help from the Zebras, at least if you listen to Jimbo. Whether or not you buy into <span style="background-color: yellow;">that </span>being a big play in the game depends on how much credit you give to <a href="http://grantland.com/features/bill-barnwell-theory-momentum-football/">big Mo</a>.</b><br>
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<b>This is college football, and we tend to give Momentum a lot of credit, and it was a brutal call at a time that FSU was looking to pile on. BUT, they did score on the drive. </b><br>
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<b>I am a fan of the Noles. I have been my whole life, and I have not hidden that fact. My 2 cents.....that O-Line is a HUGE.GLARING.WEAKNESS. They couldn't hold their water at the end of the game, and they could not pass block against Clemson's dynamic D-Linemen. </b><br>
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<b>All the debate means nothing though. What does matter? Clemson won again, and they won against a quality squad.</b><br>
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<b>3. ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE</b><br>
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Alabama fell a bit because they had a bye. <br>
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It's not slight to them. If they win out, they will be #1, which is where most of the believe they should be. Handle your business and and we will see you in the playoffs.<br>
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<b>4. OHIO STATE BUCKEYES</b><br>
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The Buckeyes look to have a bit of a hangover. They are as talented as anybody in the country.<br>
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They need to get healthy on their O-Line, but they are loaded, and they need to get their swagger back. If you are the Buckeyes, and you want to win the title, you have to beat on teams like Northwestern. You can't just win. You have to BEAT them.<br>
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They have some tough games left.<br>
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Nebraska just lost their first game and has their sites set on the Big 10 title game.<br>
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Michigan State is a team that they cannot overlook. They did that last year and it cost them.<br>
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And then is the big game. Michigan-Ohio State should be a elimination game for the playoffs.<br>
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<b>5. LOUISVILLE CARDINALS</b><br>
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Louisville was not dominant against Virginia. <br>
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They are holding on by the skin of their teeth, and they need to realize that they still have a lot to play for. If they don't step it up, they could easily drop 2 of their last 4.<br>
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<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2016/11/2016-trs-football-rankings-week-9.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-75170477270966301802016-10-28T20:30:00.000-05:002016-10-28T21:42:23.326-05:00Big 12 championship game update<div dir="ltr">
So, the Big 12 is finally <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/2016/10/28/13455578/big-12-conference-championship-game-no-divisions">making a change</a>.<br>
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It kind of makes sense that they decided to not expand, with the structure of their title game. </div>
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Everyone else is expanding to get more TV money, but you may have noticed, but outside of the SEC signing with ESPN, there hasn't been much news on that front in awhile. Quite simply, most fans do not have much appetite to pay extra money to watch college football, so there is a set amount of money.<br>
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Personally, I still think that signing BYU and either Cincinatti or Houston would have made sense due to the TV's it would have brought. People don't talk about it, but adding BYU is damn near like adding Notre Dame. Either of those schools bring a massive following due to their religious allegiance.<br>
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That ship has saled though, so the question is, how does the decision to add a title game align with a choice to stay at 10 schools?</div>
<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2016/10/big-12-championship-game-update.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-33250926973314239122016-10-28T09:27:00.003-05:002016-10-28T21:29:26.210-05:002016 TRS Football Rankings - Week 8Yes, I know, there was a week between the last 2 posts of the rankings.<br>
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Things got away from me a bit, damn the real life.<br>
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In the meantime, things have changed a lot in the last 2 weeks.<br>
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What has changed you ask? Well.<br>
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We have a new number 1 after Ohio State choke.......err......lost in Happy Vally. Isn't that the strangest name for an actual place? Seriously, it sounds like it should be the title to either a children's book, a very sad Romance Novel where one of the characters has terminal cancer but the find love despite it, or the worst horror film ever. Wait, those last 2 might be able to be joined. hmmmmm....Maybe I should write that.....<br>
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Oh hell, I don't have time to post regularly, I would never get that book done.<br>
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Back to football. <br>
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3 of the top 10 dropped out, with Tennessee dropping like a stone.<br>
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6 teams dropped out of the rankings entirely, including some programs which were expected to be strong: Miami of Florida, Arizona State, Ole Miss, and Arkansas.<br>
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Yes, 1/5 of the ranked teams 2 weeks ago, are no longer ranked teams. Boy do we have a big number of mediocre teams this year.<br>
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There is still 1 independent team ranked, but it's <b><a href="http://www.navysports.com/sports/m-footbl/navy-m-footbl-body.html">not Notre Dame</a></b>,<br>
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So, on to the rankings<br>
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<b>1. ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE</b><br>
Bama is rolling, pun intended. They have played the last 3 weeks against teams who were ranked at the time, 2 of them on the road. they won by a combined score of 131-54. They are, once again, the most consistently outstanding team.<br>
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<b>2. CLEMSON TIGERS</b><br>
Clemson almost got caught looking past a decent North Carolina State team. By all rights, they should have lost, buuuuuuuuuuuut they didn't so they still get credit for winning. It also helps that the Auburn win is looking better and better. That said, they are not 1b right now. <br>
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<b>3. OHIO STATE BUCKEYES</b><br>
Penn State? Really? <br>
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Come on guys.<br>
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<b>4. WASHINGTON HUSKIES</b><br>
Is this the week that Washington finally gets a test in the Pac 12?<br>
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I really need to know if they are as good as they look. They are thumping folks, and they have talent, but the Pac is not the ACC, let alone the Big 10 or SEC. That said, Utah and Washington State are ranked, Cal can score with anyone, USC is likely about to be ranked again behind Sam Darnold. This is the toughest stretch they are going to see. If they can't finish this run, I will gladly drop them like a stone. Well, not too gladly.<br>
<br>
<b>5. LOUISVILLE CARDINALS</b><br>
So, Louisville was not happy about people picking at them about the Duke game. They walked in against the Wolfpack team that should have beat Clemson and stepped on their neck.<br>
<br>
I think that's only figurative, but as bad as it was, it might have been literal....the neck stepping I mean.<br>
<br>
Damn<br>
<br>
<b>6. MICHIGAN WOLVERINES</b><br>
<br>
This. Is. A. Squad.<br>
<br>
For the season, their combined score is 341-70. That's an average of 48.7-10.<br>
<br>
Now, it hasn't been murderers row, but Colorado is decent, Penn State beat OSU, Wisconsin is tough, and....well the meat is coming. They should beat the Spartans, but I expect that Sparty will be up for this game, though so will the Wolverines after last year's game. Maryland is getting better-ish, and they finish with Ohio State.<br>
<br>
You know, after Michigan and Ohio State,Wisconsin, the Big Ten is kind of meh. <br>
<br>
Pausing to appreciate excellence before we worry about the other 'good teams'<br>
<br>
<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2016/10/2016-trs-football-rankings-week-8.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-55951402303406156962016-10-14T10:02:00.000-05:002016-10-14T10:33:37.053-05:00The Joey Bosa Effect<a href="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?&id=OIF.ud%2b%2bHryxgFavR4D1NfwH9g&w=300&h=237&c=0&pid=1.9&rs=0&p=0&r=0" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?&id=OIF.ud%2b%2bHryxgFavR4D1NfwH9g&w=300&h=237&c=0&pid=1.9&rs=0&p=0&r=0"></a>The Chargers looked different last night.<br>
<br>
The offense was creative, but limited. That's expected when you are playing against the Broncos. You saw some great young players trying to fill the void created by injuries to the projected stars.<br>
<br>
<a href="http://hunter%20henry/">Hunter Henry</a> looks like he could be a damn fine tight end. <br>
<br>
<a href="http://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/2576434">Melvin Gordon</a> almost broke the 100 yard barrier against the vaunted Denver defense. <br>
<br>
Neither of them had the effect that Joey Bosa had.<br>
<br>
<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2016/10/the-joey-bosa-effect.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-23396711871165683122016-10-12T12:56:00.000-05:002016-10-12T12:56:03.845-05:002016 TRS Football Rankings - Week 6And now we start to see the gold begin to be sifted from the rocks.<br>
<br>
The pretenders are being exposed, the luck is running out, and mental toughness is being exposed.<br>
<br>
<b>1. OHIO STATE BUCKEYES</b><br>
<b><br></b>
<b>'The' Buckeyes played a solid Indiana team who was coming in on a high after beating Michigan State. I think it says enough that it seemed close for an Ohio State game because they only won by 20. </b><br>
<b><br></b>
<b>Urban Meyer has these Buckeyes ready to play every week. They come out hungry and with an edge. If he can sustain that with these young kids, they have a great shot.</b><br>
<b><br></b>
<b>2. WASHINGTON HUSKIES</b><br>
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<b>Washington just made a big announcement. Oregon and Stanford are no longer the class of the PAC. </b><br>
<b><br></b>
<b>Admittedly, Oregon is down, but to beat them by 49 points? Damn.</b><br>
<b><br></b>
<b>Jake Browning has been tremendously accurate and they put lot of speed on the field. That's a good combination for an offense. To be honest, their point differential is what has them just a hair ahead of of Clemson, but they sure look like the real deal. </b><br>
<b><br></b>
<b>3. CLEMSON TIGERS</b><br>
<b><br></b>
<b>Clemson did to BC exactly what a top 5 team should do to this year's BC team. </b><br>
<b><br></b>
<b>This game was over before we got to the second quarter. No great kudos for beating a team that you should beat, but this could have been a let down game following up an emotional win over Louisville.</b><br>
<b><br></b>
<b>4. ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE</b><br>
<b><br></b>
<b>Bama was ready for a challenge. Unfortunately, the Hogs were not the team to give them one.</b><br>
<b><br></b>
<b>This game was not as close as it looks on the scoreboard and that's with the Tide Rolling (haha) by 19. They have the toughest stretch of their season coming up though, so we get to see if this is a good team, or the favorite for the title.</b><br>
<b><br></b>
<b>5. MICHIGAN WOLVERINES</b><br>
<b><br></b>
<b><a href="http://www.espn.com/college-football/video?gameId=400869636">Sorry Rutgers.</a></b><br>
<b></b><br>
<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2016/10/2016-trs-football-rankings-week-6.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-52254242518181451472016-10-06T16:16:00.001-05:002016-10-06T16:17:09.868-05:002016 TRS Football Rankings - Week 5I have the feeling that my rankings might raise the ire of some folks, so I would like to start with a disclaimer/statement.<br>
<br>
The TRS rankings are not a projection. They are an assessment of what has been done to this point.<br>
<br>
If you are rooting for a team (cough cough Bama) who hasn't hit the meat of their schedule yet, please try not to get too excited. If you run the table, it will be reflected. <br>
<br>
<b>1. OHIO STATE BUCKEYES</b><br>
<b><br></b>
The Buckeyes had the week off, with a pretty solid Indiana team up next. I don't give Indiana more than a puncher's chance in this one, and it is going to have to be a heck of a punch. <br>
<br>
Oh hell, who am I kidding. <br>
<b><br></b>
<b>2. CLEMSON TIGERS</b><br>
<b><br></b>
What a game!!!!<br>
<br>
Clemson is not a perfect team, but they do have some heart. They have a couple of should-wins before FSU, which may or may not be a test. You know, depending on if FSU has found a defense by then.<br>
<b><br></b>
<b>3. LOUISVILLE CARDINALS</b><br>
<b><br></b>
Louisville showed that they have guts to get back up after being punched in the mouth. Going into Death Valley and falling behind is pretty common. Coming back and bringing the game down to the end shows real guts. <br>
<br>
I am not big on moral victories, but this loss doesn't do knock them down much.<br>
<b><br></b>
<b>4. ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE</b><br>
<b><br></b>
Bama's next 4 include 3 in the rankings plus LSU who looked like a new team in their first game under coach <a href="http://www.espn.com/college-football/game?gameId=400869014">Oeax</a>. Oh yeah, and 3 of those are on the road. IF they run the table, they will likely jump to #1. If they do it convincingly, there will be no doubt.<br>
<br>
Can they do it? Let's make the popcorn and find out.<br>
<b><br></b>
<b>5. HOUSTON COUGARS</b><br>
<b><br></b>
Houston is too good for their conference. They are going to have to fight for respect till their showdown with Louisville on November 17th. If they want to keep themselves in contention for the playoff, they not only have to run the table, they have to blow everyone out.<br>
<br>
To this point, that doesn't look like it is going to be a challenge. The hard part will be not having a letdown.<br>
<b></b><br>
<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2016/10/2016-trs-football-rankings-week-5.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-766670375323617642016-09-27T16:23:00.000-05:002016-09-28T14:36:11.427-05:002016 TRS Football Rankings - Week 4<div dir="ltr">
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Let's be honest. Can we do that for a second?</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br>
Preseason rankings are GARBAGE. Like most piles of garbage, you may be able to find a useful bit or 2, but it's still a pile of garbage.</div>
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So, I waited to weigh in till I had some data.</div>
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What have we learned?</div>
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Well, Bama is who we thought they were.</div>
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</div><a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2016/09/college-football-rankings.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-56112487191696583282016-03-22T10:31:00.000-05:002016-03-22T10:31:57.836-05:002016 NCAA Selection Committee RantIt happens every year. Yes, Every. Damn. Year.<br />
<br />
The NCAA Selection committee sits behind their sealed doors politicking and debating the comparative quality of the various teams. Purportedly, they weigh all of the information that they have at their disposal.<br />
<br />
RPI<br />
BPI<br />
W-L<br />
Recent Games<br />
SoS<br />
Conference<br />
<br />
What they swear they don't take into account is money. That doesn't weigh into things at all right? Yeah right. <br />
<br />
Every year you see glaring inconsistencies, and horrendous snubs, which are then justified by tournament performance or conference affiliation. Every year you see teams that are horribly mis-seeded, which just happen to give rivalry games in the early rounds which draw even more attention to the tournament.<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong. They have a strong brand which has thrived under these tactics, but if you are one of the <u>millions</u> of fans who root for a team who is not one of the blue bloods, you have to be fed up by now. <br />
<br />
How can a team win 28 games, multiple con-conference against 'Power-5' teams, their conference, and play in the NIT? Monmouth, you were done dirty.<br />
<br />
How can a team who was in the top 25 8 days before the tournament selection show be an 11? For simplicity's sake 25 divided by 4 is less than 6. Even if you drop a team 10 spots for an upset, they would still only drop to am 8. If you then take that team and stick them in a play-in game with no rest before the round of 64......do you really expect them to be on a level playing field? Yeah Wichita State, you got hosed. But then again. They are <a href="http://finance.yahoo.com/news/wichita-state-got-screwed-ncaa-143748170.html">getting used to it</a>.<br />
<br />
So, how do we fix this? As I am sure you figured, I have some thoughts.<br />
<br />
1. <b>No team with a non-winning conference record should be in the tournament for the NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>I would go so far as to say that perhaps you should be in the top half of your conference to make the tournament.</b><br />
<br />
2. Regular Season Conference Champions should be given preference on inclusion. I know everyone loves the excitement of the buzzer beaters, and the auto-bid gives the conference tournament value. Realistically, there is no way that is going away, but I St. Mary's owned Gonzaga, who just whooped Utah. There are a number of teams that they should have been in over.<br />
<br />
<b>If you include the teams who know how to win games, you will have better games.</b><br />
<br />
3. If we are going to have Play-in games, there needs to be a rest day to allow them to recover, akin to what we have been the rounds of 32 and 16. Doing it how they are doing it now, puts those teams at a distinct disadvantage. It can be overcome, but <b>the whole myth about this tournament is that it puts everyone on an even playing field</b> and lets them decide it fairly. Well, let's put everyone on an even level and let them decide if fairly.<br />
<br />
Phew, thanks, I needed that.AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-36050429729332338402016-02-19T09:33:00.003-06:002016-02-19T09:33:48.596-06:00Adult Life is no funHello folks,<br />
<br />
I owe an apology. Between a couple of jobs and some kids, and various other adult-y things, I have been on an extended hiatus.<br />
<br />
I will be rejoining you all shortly, and you can expect a site refresh as well.<br />
<br />
Thanks for your patience<br />
<br />
TrappAT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-46664505562406960672014-12-03T08:35:00.001-06:002014-12-03T08:35:13.907-06:00Week 14 TRS College Football RankingsWe are nearing the end of the road as the regular season is set to wrap up in some leagues, while others prep for conference title games.<br>
<br>
The picture is getting clearer, but there is still a lot in flux.<br>
<br>
<b>1. Oregon Ducks</b><br>
The Ducks blew out their in-state rivals, which is just what the doctor ordered in their quest to keep the top spot. This team has now won 7 in a row with 3 ranked teams among those opponents since being upset by an Arizona team that has managed to win the PAC-12 south. <br>
<br>
Now we get the rematch, and if Oregon wants to play in the tourney, they need to win that game.<br>
<b><br></b>
<b>2. Florida State Seminoles</b><br>
<b><br></b>
The Noles had another tight one, narrowly escaping an upset bid from a spirited Gator team which was playing its last game under 'Boom'. The margin wasn't great, though Florida State stayed in the lead after scoring their second touchdown halfway through the second quarter. One interesting note. Watching the game, the only player who seemed to not be ready to go, was Jameis. It was his 3 early picks that gave the Gators hope, thought the Noles defense played very well holding them to 9 points after those picks, and then answered with Terrence Smith's 94 yd pick-6.<br>
<br>
Now, Georgia Tech is on deck for the Noles in the ACC title game. This is a scary game for the Noles. Not only is Georgia Tech a very good team, coming off a win over a good Georgia team, but they run a scheme on offense which has given FSU trouble in the past. I expect a lot of points in this game.<br>
<b><br></b>
<b>3. Alabama Crimson Tide</b><br>
The Tide played in one of the most exciting games of the weekend, but that's not really a great thing when you are trying to stay in the top 4. That said, a win in the Iron Bowl is a win in one of the biggest rivalries in college football, and they got it. The concern here is that they gave up 456 yards passing (to Nick Marshall!!!) and 44 points to Auburn. Bama is supposed to be about defense. The numbers look good with Blake Sims throwing for over 300, Amari Cooper closing with over 200 yards receiving, and T.J. Yeldon rushing for 127, but Sim threw 3 picks and only one player other than Cooper caught more than 1 ball. <br>
<br>
Now comes the SEC title game and Mizzou, in which Bama will be a heavy favorite. They need to handle business in this game.<br>
<br>
<b>4. Wisconsin Badgers</b><br>
This probably looks odd as the Badgers have 2 losses to Ohio State's 1. These two teams are separated by a hair, and right now the Badgers get the nod for a slightly tougher SoS.<br>
<br>
They are coming off a win over a up-and-coming Minnesota team, and get to settle it on the field with Ohio State in the Big 11/10 title game. It will be interesting to see what the Buckeyes can put on the field with their #3 QB taking snaps.<br>
<b></b><br>
<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2014/12/week-14-trs-college-football-rankings.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-57764650207450550712014-11-25T12:34:00.001-06:002014-11-25T12:34:12.264-06:00Week 13 TRS College Football RankingsWhat did week 13 leave us with?<br>
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The Big 12 has a logjam that is going to come down to the very end of the regular season. On top of the glorious tension that fans are rewarded with from having Baylor, TCU, and Kansas State still in the running, it may offset some of the affect of there being no Big 12 conference title. It is likely that the Big 12 championship will come down to the Wildcats and the Bears in Waco on the 6th.<br>
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There wasn't a lot of excitement in the SEC as most of they are in the midst of their late-season round of cupcakes. Arkansas's demolishing of Ole Miss did not have a positive effect for their conference. Arkansas is getting better, but Ole Miss is really not the same team since losing LaQuon Treadwell, and the game, to Auburn. Simply put, they are good, but not great, which damages the reputation of the SEC West this season. That said, it is still the best division in football.<br>
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Out west, in the PAC, there is still a battle to see who will face off with Oregon for the conference championship. The thumping that UCLA put on the Trojans in L.A. announced their intentions to contend for the conference title. It is going to be a very interesting weekend as the Bruins face off with the always-dangerous Stanford Cardinal and Sun Devils go to war with the Wildcats out in the desert. If the Bruins win, it is theirs, as they hold the head-to-head against both of the Arizona teams.<br>
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As for the top 4, Bama rolled over Western Carolina, Florida State escaped again, and Oregon rolled over Colorado, the Vanderbilt of the PAC-12.<br>
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So, here is the latest standings:<br>
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<b>1. Oregon Ducks: </b><br>
The Ducks have not been challenged since getting their starting offensive line healthy again. If they can avoid an upset in the Civil War against Oregon State and beat whoever comes out of the logjam in the PAC-12 south, they will be a shoo-in for the playoff. That however, requires 2 more wins over quality programs. <br>
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<b>2. Alabama Crimson Tide: </b><br>
The Tide will be in the playoff for sure if they win out. However, they have the Iron Bowl and the SEC championship between them and the playoff. It will be interesting to see what would happen if the Tide happens to drop one of these games, giving them 2 losses on the season. Would they jump ahead of all the 1 loss teams, or would they simply give their spot to the Mississippi State team that they beat so soundly a few weeks ago.<br>
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<b>3. Florida State Seminoles: </b><br>
This team is infuriating to watch. They are talented, they are clutch, and they insist on proving the latter each and every week. Mind you, winning a close game against a solid, physical, BC team on a water-logged field is no great shame, but they need to learn how to start a game. Closing is good, but every now and again, they should whoop someone. As for the future, they have a rivalry game for with the Gators coming to town before the ACC championship game. That title game is set against Georgia Tech, which is a scary game for the Noles. Tech run the triple option which has given FSU trouble in the past, and the YellowJackets have the talent to make the most of it. If they lose one of these, they will be missing the playoffs.<br>
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<b>4. Ohio State Buckeyes: </b><br>
People can say what they want about the Buckeyes lettings Indiana hang around, but they have making an impressive run through the Big 10(1). Now, they have the Big Game against their rivals to the north before lining up for the Big 10 championship. The west has an interesting situation with Minnesota facing off with the Badgers, with the winner taking the Division.<br>
<br>
<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2014/11/week-13-trs-college-football-rankings.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-76311906555075908652014-11-18T12:04:00.001-06:002014-11-18T12:04:08.541-06:00Week 12 TRS College Football RankingsWell, what did week 12 teach us?<br>
<br>
Well, Alabama is still good, and Mississippi State was over-rated, but good. In my opinion, it looks like the SEC is proving itself to be a bastion of Parity this year. It is full of many very good teams, without an excellent team to run away.<br>
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That is pretty much the description for any team rankings that you can find. <br>
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Florida slept through the first quarter again, but game back to beat an up-and-coming Miami team. I am sure, by now, that sounds familiar. That leaves them as the only unbeaten outside of West Virginia. <br>
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Oregon is rolling, TCU survived a trap game against a Kansas team that seems to have found new life....but Kansas?<br>
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Oh, and Ohio State suddenly has life again in the national picture. They are looking awfully damned good right now. But, not quite good enough to get them back in my top 4 yet.<br>
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One interesting thought though. What is LSU holds on to beat Alabama, then turns around and loses to Arkansas while Bama knocks off the Bulldogs. Where does that leave the SEC?The only team they would have left with 1 loss would be the just beaten Bulldogs. There is no way that you could put the Bulldogs in the playoffs in front of Bama, but can a team with 2 losses make with so many good 1 loss teams? Damn, that would have been fun.<br>
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<b>1. Oregon Ducks</b><br>
The Ducks had a fine showing against Bye Week, whose porous defense was not match for Mariota and the rest of the Ducks. They have the weak-sister Colorado Buffaloes this week with the Civil War in 2 weeks before a spot in the Pac-12 championship.<br>
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<b>2. Florida State Seminoles</b><br>
The Noles started slow again, spotting the young Miami Hurricanes a 16 point lead to start the game, before getting a break on Karlos Williams' tip touchdown reception. That seemed to wake them up and then their scholarships took over. <br>
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This team is so damned talented, that they should be the missing dominant team that everyone is looking for. They need to mature and come out aggressive to start game from here on. Boston College is a tough, physical, team that will shorten the game. They are up next, and they would love to spoil the party.<br>
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<b>3. Alabama Crimson Tide</b><br>
That was a big win for the Tide, which was nowhere near as close as the 5 point spread would indicate. Bama is loaded, as usual, and look like the class of the SEC. <br>
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That the upside.<br>
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The downside? They are playing Western Carolina this week. Seriously......Western Carolina of the Southern Conference. These patsy games this late in the season is shameful.<br>
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<b>4. TCU Horned Frogs</b><br>
The Frogs did their best FSU imitation, though they started the comeback a little late.<br>
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That said, a conference road win, is a conference road win. However, they had better play a little better against a hot Texas team when they go to Austin this week or their Cinderella dreams will be over.<br>
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<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2014/11/week-12-trs-college-football-rankings.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-91716625819229851552014-11-13T09:15:00.000-06:002014-11-13T09:15:02.947-06:00Week 11 TRS College Football RankingsI love this time of year. The list is being whittled down as the late-season conference game separate the wheat from the chaff. The Cream Puff games are over, unless you are Mississippi State apparently......really guys UT Martin? In November? You should be ashamed of yourselves.<br>
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Per that, you have dropped a spot in the rankings and if I hadn't committed to the formula, you would have dropped further because scheduling that game as an extra bye week is !$##$%@#$%. <br>
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Sorry, as you can see, that bothered me a little bit. Oh wait, maybe it's a state of Mississippi <a href="http://scores.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=400548344">thing</a>. These teams were a great story early in the season, but the excuse of an SEC schedule to put in an extra Cream Puff game late in season just doesn't work for me. You can't brag on the strength of your conference making you more worthy and then toss in a game like this. If Oregon, Ohio State, or Florida state scheduled that game in November, they would be crucified.<br>
<br>
/rant<br>
<br>
On to the rankings.<br>
<br>
<span style="font-size: large;">1. </span> <span style="font-size: large;">Oregon Ducks</span><br>
The Ducks have been rolling and showed what makes them so dangerous this week against a good Utah team. <br>
<br>
If you missed it, early in the game the Utes had the momentum and hit a long pass that looked to be a TD to put them ahead by 2 scores. But....the receiver pull a DeSean as he went into the end zone and the alert Oregon defense picked it up and took it back 100 years for an equalizing TD. <br>
<br>
Which, led mr. MO to switch teams and it was pretty much over from there. Mariota as this team clicking, and they never take an inch. They take the whole damned mile.<br>
<br>
<span style="font-size: large;">2. TCU Horned Frogs</span><br>
Let me say this up front. Kansas State is a very good team. They have a very good QB in an excellent scheme with great weapons on the outside and a good offense line. They can even boast of a serviceable rushing attack with a collection of back filling the various roles.<br>
<br>
That said, they got rolled in Dallas last weekend. <br>
<br>
TCU was demonstratively better than the Wildcats and Trevone Boykin exploded onto the Heisman ballot. TCU always has a good defense, and this year is no exception to that rule. Their offense, however, is the best I have seen it since a particular ginger was leading them who now resides in Cincinnati. If they and Baylor win out, it's going to be an interesting argument to see which one resides in the top 4, because there should be no way that the Big 12 is out in the cold in that situation.<br>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. Mississippi State Bulldogs </span><br>
The bulldogs beat a patsy. <br>
<br>
They get no love this week.<br>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. Florida State Seminoles</span><br>
The Noles won another ACC game. <br>
<br>
The Noles won another game where they were down early, once again due to uncharacteristic mistakes by Jameis Winston.<br>
<br>
However, this not a game in which they were ever scared. Even though they turned the ball over on back to back posessions, allowing Virginia to grab 2 TD's off of short fields, they were never scared. Once Winston started taking better care of the ball, the scholarships took over for their offense and they walked right over a very good Virginia defense.<br>
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On the defensive side of the ball, this is about as good as they have looked his season. They gave up 3 TD's but all 3 of them were off of turnovers and 2 were when Virginia started on the wrong side of the 50. When it was time to shut it down, they did.<br>
<br>
<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2014/11/week-11-trs-college-football-rankings.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-73767390213534622742014-11-07T11:31:00.002-06:002014-11-07T11:31:48.990-06:00What did Eligwe do?Over the last few years, Jimbo Fisher's version of the Florida State Seminoles has repeatedly come under the scrutinizing eye of the national press's moral compass (Yes, that was a joke).<br>
<br>
Full disclosure, I have been rooting for the Seminoles since I was a child. That said, there has been some cause for scrutiny. A sexual assault accusation. An assault accusation. Public mischief. All of these things were handled in the public eye and many have stated publicly and loudly that they believe that the FSU program has sold its soul.<br>
<br>
We will ignore the face that suddenly ESPN is convinced that FSU is committing more transgressions than any other program. I say suddenly because how much have your heard out of the SEC, which was in the spotlight several times over the past few years. Suddenly, they are all running squeaky clean programs. Admittedly, this does not remove any guilt from FSU, but it does explain the magnifying glass that has been put upon them. Simply put, the network has a financial interest in the success of the conference that they have gotten into bed with and hold forth as the flagship for the college football. However, I have no proof of transgressions as my other job prevents me from traveling to the south and investigating, so I will get back on task.<br>
<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2014/11/what-did-eligwe-do.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-47202477226434631132014-11-03T21:52:00.002-06:002014-11-03T21:52:51.005-06:00Week 10 TRS College Football RankingsOk, so I owe you an apology, if you haven't given up on me by now. <br />
<br />
Non-Web got the better of my time, and it's been far too long since I posted, but here I am. Week 10 of College Football is in the books, and it's time to see where we stand.<br />
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I know we are all mostly concerned with the top 4, so let's start with that.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Auburn Tigers</span><br />
I know this is surprising to see, but the win over K-State and the early beating that they gave Arkansas are looking better and better. They were lucky to escape against Ole Miss, but escape they did. <br />
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This team can score with anyone, even though everyone knows what they are going to do. Nick Marshall is a much better passer this year, fast approaching serviceable and he has a pair of matchup problems racing down the field in Duke Williams and Sammy Coates. Most teams have to cheat down into the box eventually, and these two are too big and fast to cover one on one, which makes this offense a real problem.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2. Mississippi State Bulldogs</span><br />
The Bulldogs are unbeaten with 3 wins over top 10 teams. That should be enough, but they have done it in a fairly convincing manner as well.<br />
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The only concern is their bend but don't break defense. If they ever hit a team that can break it, what will they do? One could ask, if Auburn couldn't do it, who is going to? Then again, did you see what that freshman QB from LSU did when they let him throw it down the field? Mississippi State is a damned good team but college football, as always, is a game of matchups. If the Bulldogs have to face off with a team who can push them out of their comfort zone, an force them off their schedule, they may be in trouble.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. Oregon Ducks</span><br />
People gave up on the Ducks when they dropped a game to Arizona earlier this season. It's fair to say that it was not a good loss, but it was not a bad one either. The Wildcats have been in and out of the rankings all year and have a puncher's chance against anyone. More to the point, the Ducks have gotten healthy since that game, and they have reminded us of what they were expected to be.<br />
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Stanford is a good team, that has been Oregon's kryptonite the past few years, and Oregon just walked out and put a beating on them. If they run the table, as expected, they will have a chance to use the PAC-12 championship to make a statement to the rest of the country.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. TCU Horned Frogs</span><br />
So, has anyone been paying attention to what is going on in the Big-12? Oklahoma and Baylor were expected to be the noisemakers, but they have slipped a bit. TCU is taking advantage by showing an offense that is far more explosive than was expected. <br />
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Of course, the flip side is that K-State has done the same and is a couple of uncharacteristic mistakes away from being unbeaten. This next week, the question gets answers as to which of those 2 is going to make a real run at the playoffs.<br />
<br />
<b>THE REST OF THE TOP 10</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
5. Ole Miss Rebels<br />
6. Kansas State Wildcats<br />
7. Nebraska Cornhuskers<br />
8. LSU Tigers<br />
9. Ohio State Buckeyes<br />
10. Florida State Seminoles<br />
<br />
You'll note that there are a lot of teams that would normally be expected to be at the top of the rankings, which are lower than anticipated. <br />
<br />
As always, these rankings are according to what has happened. Teams are rewarded for winning, playing tough teams, and then get a slight bump for margin of victory. <br />
<br />
Florida State and Alabama haven't played tough enough schedules to put them at the top. If Bama runs the table, they will re-shuffle the order of things with 2 of the top 4 left on their schedule. If FSU runs the table, they will be pushing that top 4 as well, but they will need to be more convincing than they have been to this point.AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-78100614735996695762014-05-07T14:52:00.000-05:002014-05-08T06:48:36.186-05:002014 NFL Draft - Round 3As we race towards the draft, I thought I would try to slide in one more round.<br />
<br />
So, without further, or well much of any, ado.....<br />
<br />
Here is the third round of my mock NFL draft for 2014<br />
<br />
<b>65. HOUSTON TEXANS: Calvin Pryor FS</b><br />
<b>66. WASHINGTON REDSKINS: Cyril Richardson G</b><br />
<b>67. OAKLAND RAIDERS: Gabe Jackson G</b><br />
<b>68. ATLANTA FALCONS: Travis Swanson C</b><br />
<b>69. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS: Bryan Stork C</b><br />
<b>70. JACKSONSVILLE JAGUARS: Ka'Deem Carey RB</b><br />
<b>71. CLEVELAND BROWNS: Deone Buchannon SS</b><br />
<b>72. MINNESOTA VIKINGS: Aaron Murray QB</b><br />
<b>73. BUFFALO BILLS: Marcus Smith DE/OLB</b><br />
<b>74. NEW YORK GIANTS: Chris Smith OLB</b><br />
<b>75. ST LOUIS RAMS: AJ McCarron QB</b><br />
<b>76. DETROIT LIONS: Weston Richburg C</b><br />
<b>77. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: Craig Loston SS</b><br />
<b>78. DALLAS COWBOYS: Marcus Martin C</b><br />
<b>79. BALTIMORE RAVENS: Jarvis Landry WR</b><br />
<b>80. NEW YORK JETS: Troy Niklas TE</b><br />
<b>81. MIAMI DOLPHINS: Martavius Bryant WR</b><br />
<b>82. CHICAGO BEARS: Devonta Freeman RB</b><br />
<b>83. CLEVELAND BROWNS: CJ Fiedorowicz TE</b><br />
<b>84. ARIZONA CARDINALS: Ahmad Dixon SS</b><br />
<b>85. GREEN BAY PACKERS: Allen Robinson WR</b><br />
<b>86. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: Hakeem Smith SS</b><br />
<b>87. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS: Donte Moncrief WR</b><br />
<b>88. CINCINNATI BENGALS: Kyle Fuller CB</b><br />
<b>89. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS: Jerick McKinnon RB</b><br />
<b>90. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS: Kareem Martin DE</b><br />
<b>91. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: Dakota Dozier G</b><br />
<b>92. CAROLINA PANTHERS: Victor Hampton CB</b><br />
<b>93. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS: Trevor Reilly OLB</b><br />
<b>94. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: Daniel McCullers DT</b><br />
<b>95. DENVER BRONCOS: Jack Mewhort T</b><br />
<b>96. MINNESOTA VIKINGS: Marion Grice RB</b><br />
<b>97. PITTSBURGH STEELERS: Billy Turner T</b><br />
<b>98. GREEN BAY PACKERS: Dion Bailey FS</b><br />
<b>99. BALTIMORE RAVENS: JaWuan James T</b><br />
<b>100. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: Lache Seastrunk RB</b>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-299318716866041902014-05-06T12:25:00.000-05:002014-05-06T12:25:49.192-05:002014 NFL Mock Draft - Round 2<div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3miRd3gzoE/UOb_XhE8iXI/AAAAAAAAEYA/FTmFWzJIYQQ/s1600/NFLShield_07_RGB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3miRd3gzoE/UOb_XhE8iXI/AAAAAAAAEYA/FTmFWzJIYQQ/s1600/NFLShield_07_RGB.jpg" height="317" width="320"></a></div>
<div>
Half the fun of the NFL draft is seeing how differently various people can view the same player/data.<br>
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There are a lot of 'experts' who had Johnny Manziel going in the top 10, and another bunch who have him later in the first. Myself, I just don't think there are that many QB starved teams out there, and I see the third QB in the draft lasting past the first.<br>
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<br>
<b>1. HOUSTON TEXANS: Johnny Manziel QB</b><br>
<b><br></b>
Houston needs a QB, so we are pretty well guaranteed that one of their first 2 draft picks will be a QB. If Manziel is available here, they will snatch him up and look like geniuses for it.<br>
<br>
Think of this pick more as the third QB in the draft, rather than as the spot that Johnny will absolutely be. </div>
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<b>2. WASHINGTON REDSKINS: Antonio Richardson OT</b><br>
<b><br></b>
Richardson is a mountain of a man with a mountain of talent. He will give the Redskins a right tackle to pair with Trent Williams. They need to find a way to keep RGIII on his feet, and a pair of stud tackles is a good start. </div>
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<b>3. CLEVELAND BROWNS: Bradley Roby CB</b><br>
<b><br></b>
Roby is a physical corner with legit speed. He will give the Browns a running mate for Joe Haden and one more piece for their improving young team. Most years, he may have been a first round pick, but being under 6 foot leaves him out of the 'big corner' party, though his size is not going to be an issue. </div>
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<br></div>
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<b>4. OAKLAND RAIDERS: Hasean "Ha-Ha" Clinton-Dix FS</b><br>
<b><br></b>
Ha-Ha is a classic center-field free safety, and he is pro-ready coming out of Bama's scheme. He has the athletic ability to be a star and Oakland needs some stars. He is the best available and should start from day one for Oakland.</div>
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<b>5. ATLANTA FALCONS: Terrence Brooks FS</b><br>
<b><br></b>
Brooks is a burner in the secondary who can play all over the backfield. He spent a couple of years at corner before moving over to star at free safety for the Seminoles in their championship season. The Falcons have been working to improve their defensive secondary for years, with only moderate success. Brooks is a player who will fit, regardless of what the other pieces are.</div>
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<br>
</div><a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2014/05/2014-nfl-mock-draft-round-2.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-56226194316512919012014-04-24T12:56:00.000-05:002014-04-24T12:56:52.057-05:002014 NFL MOCK DRAFT - Round 1Winter has passed, spring is sprung, and the football off-season is over. <br>
<div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3miRd3gzoE/UOb_XhE8iXI/AAAAAAAAEYA/FTmFWzJIYQQ/s1600/NFLShield_07_RGB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3miRd3gzoE/UOb_XhE8iXI/AAAAAAAAEYA/FTmFWzJIYQQ/s1600/NFLShield_07_RGB.jpg" height="317" width="320"></a></div>
<div>
Well, sort of. </div>
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<br></div>
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Colleges are running spring games, Free Agency is past, and it's time for the Draft. </div>
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<br></div>
<div>
I threw together a couple of rounds of what I think teams should do. As always, I don't spend much time with what I think they will do, because you just can't predict the moves on draft day or some of the odd choices we have seen. </div>
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<br></div>
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So, here is my Mock for round 1 of the 2014 NFL draft.</div>
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<b>1. HOUSTON TEXANS: Jadeveon Clowney DE</b></div>
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<br></div>
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The Texans have shown that, as an organization, they value the trenches before the skill positions in the past. If you accept this last season as an abberation, their recent history has shown significant dividends from that approach. </div>
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Now the fun part, they already have one of the top D-Line performers in the league with J.J. Watt. I know there are concerns about Clowney's attitude and work ethic, but if Watt can rub off on him at all, these 2 give the potential for a dominant unit on the defensive side of the ball. There are quarterbacks that will be available in later rounds that have just as good a chance to be long term starters as the top few.</div>
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<b>2. ST. LOUIS RAMS: Jake Matthews OT</b></div>
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They picked up Jake Long to step in at Left Tackle, but there are questions about his performance at that position while he was in Miami. Combine that with his recent injury history, and there is just no way that the Rams should pass up Matthews as a bookend. With these 2, if all goes to plan, the Rams would be set at O-Tackle for the next half a decade.</div>
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We know Jeff Fisher wants to run the ball, and you need a quality O-Line to do that. Matthews and Long are a good place to start.</div>
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<b>3. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS: Greg Robinson OT</b></div>
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If we assume that the new regime in Jacksonville is going to build their squad in the same mold that Seattle used, then we know they are going to want to start from a physical rushing attack on Offense. If you are going to run, you need to have maulers up front, and Robinson is the best of those in this year's draft. </div>
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<b>4. CLEVELAND BROWNS: Teddy Bridgewater QB</b></div>
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The Browns have missed a few time on Quarterbacks, but those used picks don't removed the need for an answer. Bridgewater looks like he is the best of the bunch this year, and certainly as Pro-Ready as any coming out. The Browns have some pieces with a couple of decent young receivers, a solid O-Line, and a very good receiving Tight End. If Teddy ballgame can come in and distribute the ball, the Brown may be staged for a significant improvement.</div>
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<b>5. OAKLAND RAIDERS: Anthony Barr OLB</b></div>
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The Raiders have made a lot of interesting moves this offseason. Bringing in players like Justin Tuck gives them a shot to be much better this year, but those moves were all short-term moves. They need to plug in some long -term stars, and Barr has the potential to be just that. </div>
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He is a rangy linebacker with good strength and great speed and agility. Plug him in as a day 1 starter.</div>
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</div><a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2014/04/2014-nfl-mock-draft-round-1.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-16524869752038700782014-01-09T09:37:00.000-06:002014-01-09T09:37:21.035-06:00Final TRS College Football RankingsWell, the 2013-14 College football season is in the books, and what a year it was.<br>
<br>
I won't dwell on the outstanding bowl season we got to enjoy this year, since I will be posing regarding those games, and my thoughts on the results soon.<br>
<br>
Here is the final standings for this season.<br>
<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2014/01/final-trs-college-football-rankings.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-31932441715318301112013-12-07T10:28:00.002-06:002013-12-07T10:28:19.756-06:00TRS College Football rankings after week 14Sorry about the disappearing act, life got in the way for a few weeks.<br>
<br>
Anyway, during my absence, we saw College Football turn itself upside down, and boy was it fun. Auburn performed round 2 of their Cinderella act with their second miracle win of the season. I guess having Alabama fall out of the national title picture isn't that huge a change, but everyone was working under the assumption that they were a shoo-in and everyone else was playing for second place that Auburn's was a return felt round the country.<br>
<br>
So, a very real question for you College footballs out there; Can we have a national title game without a representative from the SEC? As odd as it sounds, it is tough to argue with the Buckeyes and the Noles squaring off, assuming they can hold court this week. <br>
<br>
Bama's D just isn't want we are used to.<br>
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Auburn is incredibly lucky to be in the position that they are.<br>
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Missouri is very good, but I don't know that anyone believe that they are better than either of the top 2 team in the BCS. <br>
<br>
Then again, what do we care about those 'other' rankings?<br>
<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2013/12/trs-college-football-rankings-after.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7784064333187880735.post-29702257702637265432013-11-15T11:06:00.000-06:002013-11-15T11:06:03.453-06:00TRS College Football Rankings after week 11We get excited every year when get a couple months in and we have a handful of unbeaten teams. <br>
<br>
What is going to happen when all these teams are unbeaten at the end of the year? Who is going to get the short end of the stick? What we forget is that there are still conference games and conference championship games to play.<br>
<br>
Outside of Florida State, who really has one game on paper that would appear to present and chance of a challenge, the other top teams still have some meat left on their schedule.<br>
<br>
Speaking of meat on the schedule, Stanford beefy front lines once again proved to be the kryptonite for Oregon's lightning attack, leaving the Ducks BCS dreams again in shambles.<br>
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Alabama passed their rivalry game test against LSU with flying colors, pulling away after a tight first half, giving them a solid resume win which the nation was starting to clamor for.<br>
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Right now, the Noles and Tide look to be squared off, if they can hold on through their conference schedules. Everyone else is hoping for a slip up by the top 2.<br>
<a href="https://trappsrant.blogspot.com/2013/11/trs-college-football-rankings-after_15.html#more">Read more »</a>AT1Point0http://www.blogger.com/profile/16784051747457327150noreply@blogger.com0