As the Patriots began OTAs last this week their 2019 schedule was released. When you break it down it looks a far easier task than last year. Similar teams, but those teams have become weaker with off season moves. This means once again the Patriots should be in the playoffs for a record breaking 16th season.
The Patriots will open their season at home to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday Night Football. The change comes as the NFL have chosen to start the season with a Thursday Night Football game between the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers. This is as part of the NFL 100 promotion celebrating the leagues 100th season.
— Bauston Diehards đ âžđđâ˝ (@BaustonDiehards) April 17, 2019
The steelers are a much different looking side as they have been in the past. A literal off-season from hell for Mike Tomlin and his coaching staff. After Le’Veon Bell chose to sit out the entire 2018 season, he moved on to the NY Jets, and star WR Antonio Brown forced a trade to the Oakland Raiders. In the past this has been a crucial fixture in deciding home field advantage for the playoffs. But this year it may be nothing more than a game the Patriots win on their way to another playoff appearance, while the Steelers could miss the playoffs for a second year running.
The AFC East
There’s the usual 6 games in the division against the Jets, Dolphins and Bills. The Jets on the surface have gotten stronger with the offseason signing of running back Le’Veon Bell. Sam Darnold, heading into a second season, should show signs of improvement at QB after a full season leading the offense.
The Bills are very much the same as last year. A few new signings in Cole Beasley from the Cowboys and Frank Gore from the Dolphins will add weapons for Josh Allen. He will be the starting QB for the Bills again this season.
Finally the Dolphins round out our division. However, with former Patriots defensive coach Brian Flores taking over, their focus isn’t so much on winning this season. They are focused on tanking for the number 1 draft pick in 2020 to hopefully draft Alabama QB Tua Tagovailoa. A campaign the fans and local media are calling #TankforTua. So although normally a tough game in the heat, this year the Pats could get the win down in Miami.
Looking at the division again this year, the Patriots should be confident in grabbing 6 wins from 6. Though I could see the Jets stealing the win in week 7 on Monday Night Football. Miami could be a tough game down there. But this year, with the way Miami will be setting up to tank, we should come away with the win.
The Tough games
Looking at the schedule there are a few potential tough games that I can see the Patriots losing. The Patriots will welcome the Cleveland Browns to Gillette in week 8. The new look Browns aren’t going to be the push overs they have been in the past. With a potentially good QB at the helm, and some very good weapons out wide like Odell Beckham Jr and Jarvis Landry to partner an already good established Tight end in David Njoku. They also have a good running attack with Nick Chubb and Duke Johnson Jr. One of the saving graces for the Patriots is that the Browns will be coming to Foxboro, a place were not a lot of teams come and win.
In week 11 the Patriots travel to Philadelphia for a big game against the Eagles. This is a team that I think poses the greatest threat to the Patriots for a loss. They are hard to play in Philly. They have a very good QB in Carson Wentz when healthy, some good wideouts having added Golden Tate to that depth chart, and a very good TE in Zac Ertz. But their defense is something the Patriots can and have exploited in the past, like Super Bowl LII.
The last of the potential tough games for the Pats is week 14 when the Chiefs come to town. A team that doesn’t seem to fear coming to Gillette stadium as we saw week 1 in 2017. The night the Patriots raised their 5th championship banner. The Chiefs will be a different team than that of 2018.
While Pat Maholmes is showing signs of greatness, they are already without Kareem Hunt, who was cut after an off-field incident. They may well be without Maholmes main strike weapon Tyreek Hill after his own off-field indiscretions. They’ve lost some main parts on the defense as well. Releasing safety Eric berry and LB Justin Houston, along with trading defensive end Dee Ford.
Potential Challenges
One game that may challenge the Patriots is the week 9 game away to Baltimore. While the Ravens aren’t what they used to be, they still have a good defense that may challenge the Patriots. They also have an enigma at QB with Lamar Jackson. While his passing game isn’t the best, he has the ability to extend the play with his legs and can break through for big chunk plays, or touchdowns in the redone.
This season will see somewhat of a marquee match up for the Patriots if for nothing more than TV ratings. The Dallas Cowboys come to town for the 1st time since 2015 in week 12. The Patriots also haven’t lost to the Cowboys since 1996 in a game that ended 12-6. While it will rate well throughout the country, this is a game the Patriots will expect to win. But it could be the type of game that exposes the Pats, especially since Ezekiel Elliot’s running game could cause problems for the defense.
My Prediction
When I look at the schedule for 2019, I honestly can see the Patriots going 15-1. That loss most likely being against the Eagles in week 11. Obviously, with the way the team is presently constructed, a lot of work through the draft and trades is needed to build a roster to compete like last year’s. Never the less, they have Tom Brady. And while last year wasn’t his best, the Patriots adapted to play a style to suit the roster they had.
Obviously they could lose more than the 1 game I have picked. An unexpected loss at Washington or the Texans wouldn’t surprise me. One thing is for sure, after last season, and the panic from media and fans alike during the pre-season, I put my trust in the coaching staff lead by Bill Belichick to deliver a roster or game plan capable of making it to another Superbowl in 2019, continuing this amazing dynasty that is heading towards its 3rd decade. Unbelievable.
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Saturday, April 20th @ 3pm: London Spitfire
Sunday, April 21st @ 3pm: Vancouver Titans
After a frustrating week which saw Boston narrowly lose against the Hangzhou Spark on the match’s fifth map, the Uprising are back at it. This week they face off against the London Spitfire and Vancouver Titans. Last year’s champions, the Spitfire, started off a surprising 3-4 in Stage 1. They’re off to a hot start 3-0 in Stage 2. Meanwhile, the Titans remain undefeated at 10-0. What can fans expect to see from the Uprising this week?
Ready Player One
Boston needs to go into this week forgetting the mistakes made against Hangzhou. Does the Uprising have to keep playing GOATs? Last week they certainly seemed to think so – and look how that worked out. This week they’ll be going up against the Titans – easily the best GOATs team in the league. They’ve been playing the 3-3 team comp since season 3 of Contenders last year. Why should Boston try to play a mirror? The boys need look no further than week 1 of the stage to see what works for them. Using DPS comps, playing surprise tactics, and playing to their strengths seem the clear path to victory.
For DPS comps, will Boston gamble and let Blase out of the Brig? We saw him on Hammond, Soldier 76, and Pharah back in week 1. Colourhex also put everyone on notice. The kiwi, he of 41% critical hit accuracy, showed he’s an elite Widowmaker. Will Huk and the coaching staff let the DPS players loose, or will they be fixed to their Brigitte and Zarya roles as they were last week?
Can Boston continue to deliver the set plays, unorthodox strats, and strong off-meta comps they have in weeks past? It will be fascinating to see which tank Fusions gets put onto. We’ve seen him stick to Rein when the team went GOATs, but have also seen him play considerable time on Winston and Hammond. Then there’s rCk – how much Sombra will we see? Boston could lean into Sombra GOATs or continue to play her intermittently? These small decisions will have major consequences.
London
A lot of people are buying low on Spitfire stock, and for good reason. A 3-0 start to a stage is nothing to smirk at, and their level of play has picked up considerably. While Stage 1 saw the defending champions of the inaugural season look sloppy, the Spitfire seem to be returning to form. But look how they got that record. They barely squeaked by the Florida Mayhem, winning 2-1, and then swept the Atlanta Reign, who seem to be in free fall this stage. London also won 2-1 against the Philadelphia Fusion last week. Needless to say, they haven’t played high tier competition this stage. Boston will be their first real measuring stick of where they stand.
Looking at the maps helps inform what we can expect to see. London are 3-0 this stage on Control, 2-1 on Assault, 1-1-1 on Hybrid, and 3-0 on Escort maps. In all those games, they haven’t played any of the maps they’ll play Saturday.
Boston, on the other hand, has played a few of these maps. They played Control maps 6 times in 3 matches, thanks to each going to a 5th map. They have a 2-6 record, winning only when it was the last map. This includes winning Busan against Atlanta to end a match, and losing it against Toronto to start a match. They have a 1-2 record on Assault and 3-0 on Hybrid maps, but have yet to play Paris or King’s Row. Lastly, the Uprising are 2-1 on Escort maps, including that horrible Junkertown they played against Hangzhou last week where they were full held before the first point. If Boston can’t fix the complete embarrassment they showed there last week, it’ll be a long night for the Uprising.
Prediction
You have to think London has an edge on Control and Boston has it on Hybrid. Boston thrives off of Hybrid/Escort maps because they operate in a highly coached, set-play driven style. They scrim with specific comps on different pieces of maps with well rehearsed strats. If Boston can hold their edge on Hybrid maps and split the Assault/Escort with London, I like their chances in a sudden death Control. They just barely lost last week on Leijing Tower against the Spark, and are well versed in playing under the pressure of a 5th map. London, meanwhile, has only played a 5th map two times this season. They beat the Washington Justice but lost to the Shanghai Dragons. There are clear paths to victory for Boston.
Vancouver
Stage 1 champion seems to be just the beginning for the accolades Vancouver may amass by the end of the season. They’ve looked even better in Stage 2, dropping no more than a single map in any of their first 3 matches. After rolling Boston 3-0 in the Stage 1 playoffs, does the Uprising have a prayer?
I think we’re going to see just how stubborn the Uprising coaches are in this match. No one is equipped to out GOATs the GOATs masters. If Boston runs something off-meta that Vancouver isn’t prepared to counter, they may have a prayer against them. Even if it’s swapping in a Moira or Ana if the map geometry accommodates it, that may throw off the Titans.
Prediction
Will that be enough? Probably not. Vancouver have shown they are a juggernaut that will need a complete meta shift if they’re to lose. Boston can either run GOATs to see how their 3-3 can hold up in a mirror, or throw some crazy DPS comp out there to catch them off guard. Either way, Boston is going to struggle to avoid the sweep. Hopefully they can keep the maps tight and steal one somewhere in the match.
Outlook
After week 1, Boston was the talk of the league. Three straight reverse sweeps will do that. But now we’ve seen that Atlanta and Toronto are dumpster fires. Then they narrowly lost on another 5th map against Hangzhou. Now the Uprising face a tougher path to Stage 2 playoffs. They likely won’t win against Vancouver, but have every reason to think they can meet the challenge of the surging Spitfire. Boston gets a bye next week then has a double header against the Gladiators and Justice. There aren’t any freebies. Time to clock some wins and pave a road to Stage 2 playoffs. It’s now or never.
For more weekly columns and gameday banter, follow Loadscr33n on Twitter #BostonUp
A lake for just being a body of water is the most versatile, liveliest place around. Certainly more than H2O is involved with hints of glee, peace, and excitement, or why else would we migrate there every summer?
The many elements that create a lake casts a variety show of personalities and behaviors. One patron may be a do-gooder in a custom homemade wooden kayak while 20 feet away on the shore may sit two scantily camouflaged individuals savoring inexpensive beer. Then a little ways above them you have your vigilant birder who voices taxonomy. All across from a family barbecue consisting of several borderline feral children. And the glorious lake provides the setting for it all.
Laying out our map of the Portland area, we can pinpoint a lake to go to. While not drifting too far, we can discern a lake following Highway 8, past Forest Grove, called Henry Hagg Lake. A suitably sized, undeveloped, and accessible lake within 40 miles.
The first idea of a lake is how to enjoy the water. Be it on a boat, swimming, paddle boarding or fishing, Hagg delivers. With two boat ramps and 1,153 acres of surface water, the lake will float you along in any which way, and if you donât have a watercraft, a local business caters to such a loss and provides one for rent.
A splashing Hail Mary plunge may be done in numberless spots around the lake. Plus Washington County asserts that they test the water quality once a week in three locations, and tote a butterfly stroke safe waterâin case you ever wanted to try such a thing.
The fishinâ is favorable. As a matter of fact, the fishing is record setting with the Oregon smallmouth bass record being reeled in from Hagg at 8 pounds. Along with trout being stocked twice a year, the lake shacks up with a healthy number of fish including, as local vernacular suggests, âFrakenfish,â which are two foot steelhead (compliments of the fish hatcheries).
The masterwork which ties everything together is the 13 mile trail that encompasses Hagg Lake. Now the aquatic activities are a piece of a worthier whole because mountain biking, hiking, and running are accompanied by swimming. Heat up then cool downâmakes perfect sense. The trail attracts the attention of mountain bikers though the paved road, that as well loops the lake, is available for road biking. Additionally, disc golf has nudged in there with a 18-hole course on the western shore.
The Hagg Lake Trail even has the zeal to support sporting events such as the Hagg Lake Mud Run, which races a 25k and 50k run in the Oregon Trail Series. The event also earns attention in Runnerâs World.
In the end, a lake is a destination that represents many things. What you decide to add to that medley is entirely up to you, and Henry Hagg, the once renowned dairy farmer, has a lake named after him for you to do so.
The debate still continues to buzz within the sports industry of what is really the difference between horse race betting and sports betting. The horse racing is the only kind of sports where the superstars are thoroughbred horses whereas most of the sports betting evolving around the gambling industry are mostly attended by humans.
Despite the fact that these two sports are composed of different players and rules, the betting and wagering process brings the same fulfillment to all punters which are mostly a fan of sports. While sports like soccer, football, and basketball comes in a two or three betting categories, the horse racing show is composed of various betting categories which make the wagering a more entertaining and rewarding process to take for all sports gamblers.
In fact, all horse racing fans all over the world are now ready to witness the newest edition of the Triple Crown Series which is the grandest horse racing showdown in the United States. It is composed of three major legs starting with Kentucky Derby which will take place on May 4, 2019, followed by Preakness Stakes on May 18, 2019, and concluded by Belmont Stakes on June 8, 2019. While we are days away before the Triple Crown Series, letâs go ahead and take a look at the difference between basic sports betting and horse race betting. In this way, you will have a thorough understanding to make sure you take part in effective and profitable betting.
Identifying The Odds
Ideally, identifying the odds comes the biggest difference between sports betting and horse race betting. In betting for a horse race like TVG Kentucky Derby, the betting type that is usually utilized is the âPari-Mutuel Bettingâ. It means that oddsmaker obtains mutual bets in which every odds are determined depending on the amount thatâs placed by every bettor for a specific entry. In this case, it only shows that each bettor is all competing for the same amount of prize at stake.
Unlike with basic sports betting like soccer, each oddsmaker set every odds regardless of how many people or how much money is placed on the team they want to bet. That means that even though 75% of punters or more are betting on particular teams, the odds remains the same and wonât change.
Horse Race Betting
Each odds in a horse racing show is identified using a formula. This comes in calculating the total amount gathered for each bet, the money being placed for each racer, and a percentage of each on-track or off-track site bets.
Moreover, in a horse race betting, the payouts given to each successful bettors depends on the final odds of each racing segment.
Basic Sports Betting
For basic sports betting, each odds are identified by every oddsmaker not by a formula but by these different factors and components.
Odds are determined through team statistics with regards to their previous performances. It also identified through some complementary situations. In cases such as soccer and football, double chance soccer predictions is an example of a betting category that you can partake wherein the outcome of the game may either be a win or a draw and losing is not an option.
It is also determined with regards to the health of every player in the team, how do they play, and most importantly how they will be able to perform their role in the game.
Weather is also considered to be an element of determining the odds in sports betting
Animal VS Man
As stated, the horse racing showdown like the Triple Crown is being attended by thoroughbred horse racers and the superstars are horses. In a philosophical aspect, betting for a horse race is putting trust in a specific horse racer to win when you wage your money. While for sports betting, you are trusting humans to do their best so they will win and eventually to end up in a profitable betting.
In some cases like horse racing, there are also instances where you might doubt in wagering due to a racer being frightened in the beginning of the race or even refusal to jump in an obstacle.
For basic sports betting, your betting may also be affected especially if players are not in their best condition to play. Red cards being raised by referees is also a factor that may hinder you from getting a winning team.
Common And Basic Traits
Although horse race betting and basic sports betting differ in the type of racers and players, they have traits in common. Each bettor comes up with their bets through careful analysis and rigid study of their bets using previous forms and performances. This is why most successful bettors whether they bet for a horse racing or basic sports are efficient because they are wise enough to study the background first of their entries before they place a bet.
Patriots have really made it no secret that they are searching for a top of the line receiver. AJ Brown has made it no secret he wants to be a Patriot. AJ could be this yearâs most complete receiver, and he would provide an interesting and exciting twist to the slot position. A bigger slot receiver makes a lot of sense after Belichick recently eluded to bigger receivers becoming more valuable in this league. Cornerbacks are starting to get smaller. Playing AJ Brown in the slot position would create some mismatches in man coverage. A receiving group of AJ Brown, Julian Edelman, Josh Gordon, Philip Dorsett and Demaryius Thomas would be a very solid one.
31 (Cowboys) *Originally LAR
Johnathan Abram S Mississippi State
Trade details: Cowboys trade 58th, 165th and next yearâs second round pick for Rams 31st
Rams want draft picks. They donât have many. Cowboys do not have a first round pick and although rumors are not swirling that they want to trade up, it makes sense. Jerry Jones loves first round draft picks. In fact, tell me what sounds more Jerry Jones than making a huge splash by trading into the first round, to grab a player that could be the best at his position, in which the Cowboys have a need for. Abram would immediately start for the Cowboys, serving as a linebacker at the safety position. Abramâs coverage skills may have itâs questions but he can hit hard, make tackles real well, and use his ball skills to get Dak Prescott and the offense on the field as much as possible. Abram to Dallas makes perfect sense.
30 (Packers)
Noah Fant TE Iowa
Packers miss out on T.J Hockenson but they still land Noah Fant. This news will make Aaron Rodgers happy. Fant is probably the best receiver out of the trio of Hockenson, Smith, and himself. Fant could learn a few things from Jimmy Graham and pair up with him to make Rodgerâs life a whole lot easier. If the Packers pick Fant, Rodgerâs fantasy value gets a huge boost.
29 (Chiefs)
Amani Oruwariye CB Penn State
Amani Oruwariye. This guy will be hated by three groups of people. He will be hated by quarterbacks for his ability, offensive coordinators for the same reason, and commentators for being forced to pronounce that name of his. Chiefs will love him though. Chiefs need corners. Patriot fans know how bad the Chiefs secondary was last year. Amani Oruwariye will help change that. Amani has no problem helping in run support and can cover some of the bigger receivers in the NFL. Look for him to cover Josh Gordon or Demayrius Thomas in the AFC Championship.
28 (Patriots) *Originally LAC
T.J. Hockenson TE Iowa
Trade details: Patriots trade 56th, 73rd and next yearâs 3rd round pick to Chargers for 28th
SPLASH! Hockenson will fall farther than most people think. Primarily due to the Packers decision to wait, he slides all the way to #28 where the Patriots leapfrog the Packers second pick to get him. Hockenson is a unique talent that does not come around to often at the tight end position. Forget Irv Smith, forget Noah Fant, forget everyone else. Do this thing right, go get the tight end of the future Bill! Go ahead and call me crazy, Hockenson will be a surprise faller in the draft, much like Derwin James and Tremaine Edmunds last year.
27 (Raiders)
Joshua Jacobs RB Alabama
This remodeled Raiders team still misses a three-down runningback. This extremely weak runningback class might have just one great back in it. Joshua Jacobs might not be available come the Raiders second round pick. It might be safer to grab the guy now and sure up that backfield.
26 (Colts)
Christian Wilkins IDL Clemson
By disregarding the tight end position, Christian Wilkins is the best remaining player on the board. Wilkins can be the leader of this defensive line and defense all together. One year removed from landing both Quentin Nelson and Darius Leonard, these drafts would be considered back to back bangs for the Colts by now picking Christian Wilkins. Wilkins, a Massachusetts native would provide not just leadership but also versatility and a very high motor.
25 (Eagles)
Nasir Adderley S Delaware
Nasir or Abram could both easily go here. Adderley might be a better fit in the City of Love. Nasir gets knocked for playing in a small-school program. Small-school programs are not a problem in Philly. Just ask their part-time quarterback Carson Wentz. Jim Schwartz likes his defensive backs with cornerback experience, which Adderley has a lot. In fact, Philly makes the most sense for this talented, small-school prospect.
24 (Raiders)
DeAndre Baker CB Georgia
Raiders fill another position of need here, taking DeAndre Baker. A very solid player with a starting grade on him. Baker will fit in well and be an anchor at one of the corner spots in Oakland.
23 (Texans)
Andre Dillard OT Washington State
Texans have no compliments about this pick here. Some scouts like Dillard better than they like Ford or Williams, primarily because he will be a pure tackle in the NFL. Texans need to protect DeShaun Watson badly. Dillard can be plugged right in to the starting lineup and alleviate some of the issues with this offensive line.
22 (Ravens)
Marquise Brown WR Oklahoma
When making this pick, the Ravens have to be conscious of Lamar Jacksonâs less than mediocre throwing ability. None the less, Marquise Brown has the potential to be a Pro Bowl receiver. He frequently draws comparisons to DeSean Jackson. A better comp might be someone who just left Baltimore, John Brown. Marquise Brown, Antonio Brownâs cousin (too many Browns here), will thrive in a role much like John Brownâs was. Pencil in Marquise Brown, Antonio Brownâs cousin, to fill the absence of John Brown and make teams like the Browns have headaches.
21 (Browns) *Originally SEA
Chauncey Gardner-Johnson S Florida
Trade details: Browns trade 49th, 119th and next yearâs second round pick to Seattle for 21st and next yearâs sixth round pick
Browns are rumored to be actively looking to trade back into the first round. The Seahawks are looking to trade down. Browns have both needs at cornerback and safety. Gardner-Johnson can play both. While he will probably play safety at the next level, the flexibility really helps his case to go to Cleveland. Gardner-Johnson will bode well in Clevelandâs secondary that has been famished for good safeties.
20 (Steelers)
Devin Bush Jr. LB Michigan
NO BRAINER. The Steelers and Devin Bush have been linked to each other ever since this whole evaluation process started. Devin Bush at 20 would be a steal for anyone but for a team so desperate for linebackers like the Steelers, it would be an act of god. The tackle machine would bring a big boost to a team that has been crippled by the unfortunate long term injury of Ryan Shazier.
19 (Titans)
D.K. Metcalf WR Mississippi
Oh boy! How can someone pass up a talent like DK Metcalf at 19? Even more, think of how happy Marcus Mariota would be to have Metcalf and Corey Davis paired together. For those who don’t know DK Metcalf, he is 6’3, 230 pounds. He has 34 7/8â arms and 9 7/8â hands. He ran a 4.33 40 yard dash, had 27 reps of 225 pounds, and had a 40.5″ vertical leap. He is an absolute freakish human who could probably even play tight end. He may not be the most complete, true receiver, but he will make good as the Titans’ number two receiver and make Marcus Mariota very happy.
18 (Vikings)
Garrett Bradbury IOL NC State
This pick makes a lot of sense. Bradbury stands as the clear top inside lineman prospect. He can play both center and guard in the NFL. With Pat Elflein struggling at center last year, all signs would point to shifting him to guard and moving Bradbury inside. This would bode well for Dalvin Cook and the Vikings zone run scheme. The Bradbury pick would give the Vikings a lot of options and flexibility on that terrible offensive line.
17 (Giants)
Dwayne Haskins QB Ohio State
Dwayne Haskins makes a lot of sense here at 17. He may not be the most talented in the group but he will hold down the fort in New York. The best comparison around for Haskins has to be Drew Bledsoe. In the right offense, Haskins will thrive and serve as a fabulous game-manager. The Giants’ offense would run through Saqoun Barkley. Haskins would manage the passing game with success and compliment Saqoun nicely.
So, it is true that the Jets could have picked Cody Ford, but the need at corner and the talent of Byron Murphy is a lot to pass up. Instead, the Panthers have an absolute no brainer pick here and take Cody Ford. Panthers desperately need some help on that line. Cam Newton and Christian McCaffery need some help here. Newton needs time to wait for Chris Hogan to get open. Cody Ford will be the guy in Carolina. Ford like Williams might slip inside to guard in the NFL but as of late, that theory has kind of been squashed. Pencil in Ford as a starting tackle for the Carolina Panthers.
15 (Jets) *Originally WAS
Byron Murphy CB Washington
So after trading down, the Jets hoped to draft an edge rusher or offensive tackle. The prospects that they would have hoped to land at this spot are gone however there is no reason to cry about it. Byron Murphy has a lot of scouts really excited. Put Byron Murphy in the same secondary as Jamal Adams and Tramaine Johnson, a hard defense to throw against there.
14 (Falcons)
Jerry Tillery IDL Notre Dame
Another more surprising pick, Jerry Tillery to Atlanta. The frequently underrated defensive line prospect out of Notre Dame continues to be overlooked in this draft process. A combo of Jerry Tillery and Grady Garrett will make opposing offensive coordinators wish their mother never had them. It will be the âNightmare on Peachtree Streetâ. Clogging inside holes, stopping the run, and getting to the quarterback. Missing out on Ed Oliver will quickly become not so big of a deal for Atlanta.
13 (Dolphins)
Jonah Williams OT Alabama
The Dolphins have needs all over the offensive line. For a team headed for a rebuilding year, the smart move would be to build up the line and draft a quarterback next year. That class will be a whole lot stronger and the Dolphins draft choice will probably be a whole lot closer to number one. Pick Jonah Williams. This guy will be an absolute stud at the next level. His future will probably be at guard with his footwork and arms indicating so. However, donât rule out Williams playing tackle. He played tackle in college and played really well. The Dolphins and Williams are perfect for each other because of the flexibility he possesses.
12 (Packers)
Clelin Ferrell EDGE Clemson
Well, this would raise a lot of eyebrows. There are always eyebrow-raisers in the draft. First round last year, Rashaad Penny, Baker Mayfield first overall, the Saints trading for Marcus Davenport, Derwin James and Tremaine Edmunds falling. Point being, the draft is an unpredictable animal. A lot of people think the Packers will go tight end here. Well, they have two first round picks and literally no defensive ends. Defensive ends are now limited and the last remaining one with no big question marks is Clelin Ferrell. They will be able to pick from at least two of the top three tight ends in this draft at #30. They will have much less selection if they wait on pass rusher. The Packers are clamping down on defense this year, focusing on improving that side of the ball. Clelin Ferrell will be the pick here at #12.
11 (Bengals)
Jawaan Taylor OT Florida
Jawaan Taylor just met with the Bengals yesterday. This pick would make a lot of sense. Some of the players who the Bengals could have picked are off the board. This guy here might just be the best tackle in the draft. Bengals have a huge hole at the tackle spot, waiting to be filled. Taylor would at least help the running game. Not quite sure Andy Dalton can possibly be helped at this point. Andy Dalton needs a lot more than help to succeed. Expect Bengals to at least look at quarterback in round two.
10 (Broncos)
Ed Oliver IDL Houston
Half of this pick would be because of Ed Oliver and the other half would be that the Broncos do not appear sold on this quarterback class. This QB class truly is a bad one. The Broncos have Joe Flacco, who can still preform to an okay level. They wait a year, take a player at a position they have a need for, and put Ed Oliver on a line with Von Miller and Bradley Chubb. Very, very dangerous alignment there.
9 (Bills)
Montez Sweat EDGE Mississippi State
Bills draft an edge defender for the same reason the 49ers do. How do you attack quarterbacks like Sam Darnold, Tom Brady, and … Ryan Fitzpatrick (eew gross)? You rush the passer. Montez Sweat can do that real quickly. Sweat set a record in Indianapolis for the fastest defense lineman in combine history. Running a 4.41 at 6â6, 260 pounds is insane. Sweat reminds many of Dee Ford. He would wreak havoc on the AFC East.
8 (Lions)
Greedy Williams CB LSU
A lot of people think the Lions will go tight end here. Cornerback makes the most sense. A combo of Darius Slay and Greedy Williams will be a hard one to throw against. Going tight end would not be smart for a team that for some reason appears to be shaping up for a championship instead of rebuilding. After spending big money on Jesse James, drafting a tight end would put their tight end spending near the top of the league. If they want any shot at a championship, draft a corner to help defend against a pass-happy league.
7 (Jaguars)
Brian Burns EDGE Florida State
Just like the Giants, former Giants coach and current GM of the Jaguars, Tom Coughlin values pass-rushers as well. Brian Burns will be a special talent at the next level. The speed, smarts, and effort are top notch. Burns is a dominant pass-rusher and tremendous athlete. The only drawback, his weight. A few fast food trips will help.
6 (Giants)
Rashan Gary EDGE Michigan
Gary undoubtedly presents some risk at six for the Giants, however, the talent might be too much to pass up. Gary is a talented, elite athlete and plays a position that the Giants have always valued. This move makes sense for New York.
5 (Buccaneers)
Devin White LB LSU
Undoubtedly the best linebacker in this draft provides the most value here at five for the Buccaneers. With Kwon Alexander leaving for San Fran and Kendell Beckwithâs health concerns, it makes sense to draft a linebacker. Not to mention, LaVonte David will be 30 years old soon and could use a very capable, young blood that can be his tackle machine buddy while his career does nothing but wind down. Plus, once White and Bush are gone in round one, the position sees a steep drop off. Better to address that issue now.
4 (Raiders)
Josh Allen EDGE Kentucky
This guy aspires to be Khalil Mack. The Raiders did not pay Khalil Mack top dollar. This guy would not need top dollar money until roughly his fourth year in the league. Raiders take a poor manâs Khalil Mack, or a Mack lite, and find a long-term solution to such a big problem last year. Maybe this guy can become a monster and they can trade him away too.
3 (Redskins) *Originally NYJ
Kyler Murray QB Oklahoma
Trade details: Jets trade 3rd overall, 68th overall, 196th overall, 217th overall and next yearâs sixth round pick to Washington for 15th overall, 46th overall, 227th overall and next yearâs first round pick.
Rumor on the block is that the Jets want desperately to trade back. Redskins desperately need a quarterback and to make a splash. Redskins give up a lot of capital to make this move, but get the guy who could be the best quarterback in the draft. A move like this would be eerily similar to the trade up to get Robert Griffin III a few years back, but would most likely be more successful. The Redskins could do some of the same things they did with RG3 with Kyler. A quarterback of Kylerâs ability would work out a lot better in this system than RG3 did.
2 (49ers)
Nick Bosa EDGE Ohio State
How do you shutdown quarterbacks like Jared Goff? Josh Rosen? And how do you disrupt Russell Wilsonâs rhythm? You rush the passer. How better to attack your division rivals than add Dee Ford and Nick Bosa to your team? Those three teams also have spectacular run games. 49ers bulk up their defensive line to assemble one of the more deadly pass-rushing cores in the league.
1 (Cardinals)
Quinnen Williams IDL Alabama
So, a lot of thought went into this pick. Here is what it boils down to, Cardinals have a quarterback, his name is Josh Rosen. Cardinals pass on their absurd idea to put him up on the auction block for chump change and decide to build a stronger defense. Quinnen is a prospect teams cannot afford to pass up. Cardinals take a position they need to improve on and insert the best player in this draft class into that spot.
The English Premier League is a soccer tournament for British professional male clubs. This is the highest-level football tournament in England’s football league system, and it is the main tournament in the UK competition system. Nowadays, the Premier League is the most watched football league in the world. It is broadcast in 212 countries and territories. It received the attention of 643 million households and around 4.7 billion television viewers.
Some information about The English Premier League
The English Premier League is a football tournament for 20 men’s football clubs. These 20 clubs will compete for two rounds to select the champion team and 2 relegation teams. Each team will play 38 games and there are 380 matches in a season. The football season starts in August and ends in May every year. Most matches take place on Saturday and Sunday afternoon; Some matches take place on the evening of mid-week days.
The English Premier League is a soccer tournament for British professional male clubs.
This tournament was founded on February 20, 1992 with the original name of FA Premier League. Clubs attend Football League First Division established the English Premier League after they split from the Football League (a tournament that began in 1888). They established this football tournament to take advantage of television licensing agreements.
A domestic deal worth ÂŁ 1 billion per year has been signed for the 201314 season (BSkyB and BT Group won the rights to broadcast 116 and 38 matches). Thanks to the sale of television rights, the tournament earns 2.2 billion euros per year. In the 2014/15 season, each club received ÂŁ 1.6 billion in profit. In the 1515 season 2014, a Premier League match attracted about 36,000 spectators. In every English Premier League season, most soccer fields are filled with spectators.
English Premier League is one of the most attractive tournaments on the planet.
In Premier League history, a total of 47 clubs have participated since the first Premier League season in 1992. However, only six teams of them won the championship: Manchester United (13 times), Chelsea (5 times), Arsenal (3 times), Manchester City (3 times), Blackburn Rovers and Leicester City (1 time). The defending champion is Man City
The history of The English Premier League
English football has had great success in Europe in the 1970s and early 1980s. By the end of the 80s, English football had signs of falling. Years after the Heysel disaster (1985), the stadiums deteriorated, the fans had to use poor facilities, a number of hooligans are many, and English football clubs were banned from playing at the European football tournament.
Football League First Division is the highest league of England that was born in 1888. The number of audiences as well as sales of this tournament is lower than that of Italy’s Serie A and Spain’s La Liga. Some prominent English players move abroad to compete.
By the early 1990s, the situation began to get better. England reached the semi-finals at the 1990 FIFA world cup. UEFA, European football management agency, lifted the ban on British clubs playing in European tournaments. Manchester United won the UEFA Cup Winnersâ Cup championship a year later. Another, through a report in January of that year, Lord Justice Taylor made an offer to upgrade the stadiums.
TV revenue also became more positive. Football League received ÂŁ 6.3 million in a two-year agreement (1986). Especially, when renewing the new contract in 1988, the revenue received by Football League increased to ÂŁ 44 million for four years. The 1988 negotiations were the first signs of a breakaway tournament. As stadiums improve, both the audience and sales have increased. Top clubs once again intend to leave the Football League.
At the end of the 1991 season, an offer was made to create a new tournament. The main purpose of establishing this new tournament is to make more money. The agreement was signed on July 17, 1991 by clubs of the highest level tournament of the time. Through this agreement, they established the basic principles of establishing FA Premier League. This newly established high-level tournament will be financially independent of the Football Association and the Football League. This tournament helps FA Premier League autonomy in the agreement of sponsorship contracts and television rights.
London Weekend Television CEO (LWT), Greg Dyke, met with the representative of the Big Five of English football in 1990. This meeting was the cause of quitting the Football League. Five clubs of Big Five also thought it was a good idea and they decided to implement this idea.
However, the reputation of the tournament will not be high if it does not have the support of the Football Association. Thus, Arsenal’s David Dein negotiated with the FA so they could accept the idea. The FA was not in a good relationship with the Football League at the time, so they regarded this idea as a way to weaken the Football League’s position.
In 1992, First Division clubs abandoned the Football League simultaneously. May 27, 1992 FA Premier League established a limited liability company that is headquartered in Lancaster Gate. That means the Football League ended 104 years of operation with four tournaments.
The first season took place in 1992â93 and there were 22 clubs participating. The first Premier League goal was scored by Sheffield United’s Brian Deane, and Sheffield United beat Manchester United 2-1.
The first 22 members of new Premier League are Arsenal, Aston Villa, Blackburn Rovers, Chelsea, Coventry City, Crystal Palace, Everton, Ipswich Town, Leeds United, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Middlesbrough, Norwich City and Nottingham Forest, Oldham Athletic, Queens Park Rangers, Sheffield United, Sheffield Wednesday, Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur, and Wimbledon. Luton Town, Notts County and West Ham United were the three relegated teams in the the old first-class tournament (1991â92 season), so they were not allowed to attend the first season of the Premier League.
In the mid-2000s, a group known as “Big Four” became famous. This group includes Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United. From 2002 to 2009, they dominated the first four positions and then they are allowed to attend the UEFA Champions League. Especially, Arsenal won the championship and they didn’t have to lose a match in 2003â04; this is the only time in the Premier League.
Since 2009, the structure of the Big Four has begun to change; Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City are in the top four. Only Arsenal have continued to be in the top four for all four seasons and they have never been out of the top four since Arsène Wenger took over the team in 1996.
On June 8, 2006, FIFA requested all major European leagues (such as Serie A of Italy and La Liga of Spain) to reduce the number of participating teams. In fact, only 18 teams are allowed to participate in each tournament.
All in all, the English Premier League is an extremely attractive tournament for football fans around the world. It is true to say that it is one of the most attractive tournaments on the planet.
Oh boy. I’m not even sure where to start. The first few weeks of the 2019 Red Sox season have been about as miserable as anyone could’ve imagined, maybe even worse. The offense and pitching can never seem to line up to perform in sync on the same nights. The Rays seem to be pulling further and further away in the division. But, I digress. Things have to get better, don’t they?
There is just no plausible way that things are this bad. Clearly the rotation has been a glaring issue, but lately the starts have been better (Rodriguez vs. Baltimore, Price vs. Baltimore, Eovaldi vs. NYY.) The bullpen has had some issues, most notably last night in the Bronx, but for the most part it has been better than expected. So that brings us to the shoddy offense, and to the one element that I can see truly jump starting this team.
Obviously this isn’t a hot take. The Red Sox need their best player to play better? Shocking, I know. However, it is deeper than just that. Mookie Betts is not only the best hitter in this lineup, but hitting where he does in the lineup, he is the table-setter.
A role long held by Dustin Pedroia, his job isn’t always to hit the ball 500 feet, but rather to get the ball rolling for the rest of the lineup. Mookie might be better than Pedey ever was, which is why he is so important to the success of this team.
The 2018 Red Sox were so successful because of their approach. Mookie would come up, leading off the first inning, and almost every single time, he would come out swinging. It was this offensive approach the led to him hitting .346 and being the American League’s Most Valuable Player. It was this offensive approach that led to him becoming one of the most feared pure hitters in baseball.
So where has it gone?
Mookie is in maybe the worst funk of his career. He looks absolutely lost at the plate, and just cannot seem to get himself going. Even when he’s been getting pitches to hit, vintage Mookie meatballs, he hasn’t connected.
Through his first 78 plate appearances he’s hitting just .212, a number that has never been associated with Betts at any point of his professional career.
It’s only a matter of time before he turns it around. He is way too good a hitter to not figure it out. He is getting the same pitches to hit as he did last year, he just has to be more careful on which he chooses to swing at.
Getting their top hitter back to premier form will be huge for Boston. As soon as we see Mookie’s average crawl back up towards .300 like it inevitably will, the team’s success shouldn’t be far behind.
Rodney Harrison would get my vote for Patriots Hall Of Fame
Rodney Harrison was a huge asset to the Patriots defense. The two time Super Bowl Champion played 63 games for the Patriots, starting 62 of them. In the nine seasons with the Patriots, he recorded 12 interceptions, had 412 combination tackles, and 312 solo tackles. Harrison is one of those Patriots who came up big in big spots on the defensive side of the ball. When people think of those early 2000 Patriot teams on defense they think of Ty Law, Teddy Bruschi, Mike Vrabel, Ted Johnson, and Rodney Harrison. Harrison was on the Super Bowl XXXVIII, and Super Bowl XXIX winning teams.
Rodney Harrison has two Super Bowl rings
One of the greatest moments of Harrison’s career came at the end of Super Bowl XXXVIII. He would break his arm during the Panthers last drive, instead of coming out of the game he went back in on the very next play. On the next play, he made a tackle making his broken arm even worse. That was the Rodney Harrison that people loved the toughness he showed. After the game, Harrison thanked Belichick for believing in him. The only down moment was the David Tyree helmet catch in the Super Bowl against the Giants. Other than that he had a great career with the Patriots
Another great moment for Harrison was when he intercepted Donovan McNabb in Super Bowl XXXIX on the final drive to seal the win and the Patriots third Super Bowl. He deserves that red jacket with the other Patriot greats. However so does Richard Seymour and Mike Vrabel who are also Patriots Hall Of Fame candidates this year. Out of those three, I would pick Harrison as he wasn’t traded away like Seymour was to Oakland or Vrabel was to Kansas City. It seemed like Vrabel and Seymour left on bad terms but are now fine with Belichick. Harrison, however, has always been a Belichick favorite and should get the fans vote.
Why? Why? Sandy Leon is hitting .120 in Pawtucket, after hitting .177 last year. Christian Vazquez is hitting .195, and has let too many balls get past him this year. Blake Swihart was only hitting .231, but the Sox went 3-3 in his starts at catcher. Blake Swihart was not the problem with this team.
Blake Swihart will be a starting catcher in the majors, and the Red Sox will rue the day they ever let him go for the sad sack current stable of catchers.
When the Red Sox and Yankees usually meet it is a contest of an immovable object vs an unstoppable force. In this case the immovable object is a losing record for both teams, the unstoppable force injury on one side and mediocrity on the other.
The Yankee injuries include Stanton, Severino, Gregroious, Betances, Sanchez, Hicks and Andujar. That’s an All Star team. Not for nothing, but Aaron Judge seems like the only important piece not injured. They’re record is 6-9 and there’s a very good reason for it.
And then there is the 6-11 Red Sox. If I have to hear ‘It’s early’ one more time I might just burn one of my many Red Sox towels. The ravens have flown, it is officially spring. This team is sleep walking right now and it has to stop. On to the preview:
Image per Larry Brown Sports
Pitching Matchups/Schedule (TV)
4/16 Chris Sale vs James Paxton 6:35 NESN
417 Nathan Eovaldi vs J.A. Happ 6:35 ESPN
Notable Numbers
1.93: That is the ERA for both Chris Sale and Nathan Eovaldi against the Yankees in the last three years. They’re certified Yankee killers. Could this be just what the doctor ordered to get these guys on track? Who can say?
Against Paxton, J.D. Martinez should continue his hot start to the season. He’s hit .500 against Paxton in his career. Both Brock Holt and JBJ have gone 3-7 against him as well. That short porch in right at Yankee Stadium might be beneficial to the Sox slumbering bats.
The Sox may hit Happ to a measly .212 as a team, but Steve Pearce has shined: .344 lifetime with 6 home runs.
What To Watch For
How about a little life from the boys? How about a glimmer of hope that the team is here to play this year? If you listened to Cora after Patriots Day he seemed to sense that maybe it’s not so early. On paper the Sox should sweep the two game series.
Expectations
It’s anyone’s guess right now. Even if the Sox sweep these two games it will be against half the Yankees. Look for signs of life. If we see grind it out at bats and pitchers hitting locations early we’ll know the Sox are waking up. But Nathan Eovaldi has a 8.40 ERA, Chris Sale a 9.0 ERA. The team is hitting around .230 overall right now.
Again, on paper, this is a Red Sox sweep. But the flesh and blood Sox are teetering on the precipice of irrelevancy. The fact the Yankees are reeling is the only light in our collective Sox universe.
I’m hoping for Cora to put on his cape and cowl and give us another super hero managerial performance. To save this team from themselves. But it sure looks like the Night King has set up residence in the clubhouse.
