Tag Archives: dolphins

McAuliffe 2.0: Full First Round Mock Draft (With Trades)

Leave a reply
32 (Patriots)
A.J. Brown
WR
Mississippi

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 year’s 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 year’s second round pick for Rams 31st

Rams want draft picks. They don’t 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. Abram’s coverage skills may have it’s 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 Rodger’s life a whole lot easier. If the Packers pick Fant, Rodger’s 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 year’s 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 Jackson’s 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 Brown’s cousin (too many Browns here), will thrive in a role much like John Brown’s was. Pencil in Marquise Brown, Antonio Brown’s 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 year’s second round pick to Seattle for 21st and next year’s 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 Cleveland’s 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 7/8” arms and 9 7/8” 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.


Find the gamblersbet.com free play mode
16 (Panthers)

Cody Ford
OT
Oklahoma

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 “Nightmare on Peachtree Street”. 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, don’t 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 6’6, 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 Beckwith’s 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 man’s 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 year’s sixth round pick to Washington for 15th overall, 46th overall, 227th overall and next year’s 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 Kyler’s 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 Wilson’s 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.

Patriots-Dolphins Preview

Leave a reply

The Dolphins’ Home Field Advantage

The way this Patriots team is built and the fact that the Dolphins’ best player, Xavien Howard, is out for the game will help Josh Gordon the most. The one issue is the game is in Miami, a place that always gives New England trouble.

Playing in Miami has always been tough

Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Just in the past 5 years, the team is 1-4 in Miami. Historically the Patriots have not played well at Miami Gardens. The temperature is also expected to be relatively high too which may affect the game as well. The loss in Jacksonville is an example of the heat playing a factor against New England.

Bill Belichick won’t use the weather as an excuse, but we all know since 200, the Patriots have struggled in the heat. Former Patriot Tedy Bruschi said as much on ESPN when asked about why this team struggles in Miami.

Built for Success

The Patriots right now are just built for success. They are extremely healthy, have top 10 players in many categories including one of the best cornerback duos right now. Stephon Gilmore is questionable although Is likely to play, as he flew with the team for this matchup. The Patriots should be able to come out of this with a win. Look for Sony Michel and the running backs to have a big day.

(Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

New England should look to set up the run game early, using all three backs. Rotating the running backs will keep them from cramping up and running out of steam from the heat. Tom Brady will be able to take advantage of the injury riddled Dolphins. The running game will set up  play action passes, and more defenders in the box.

Patriots-Dolphins Prediction

The Patriots come in as heavy favorites despite recent history, and I don’t think it will be a blowout. Miami has played well at home this year, at 6-6 they will be looking for revenge from week 4. The rash of injuries to this Dolphins team, along with New England coming in almost at 100% will be the difference today. Not the heat.

The Patriots are really starting to look better on offense, defense and are only missing one player. The Patriots will win the AFC East again today, for the 10th year in a row. The players will get up for this “hat and T-shirt game” as they continue to try and get that number one seed.

(Patriots 28 Miami 17)

33

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl XIX

Leave a reply

The Super Bowl is just 33 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 33 years ago to honor this not that significant occasion!

Palo Alto’s Stanford Stadium hosted Super Bowl XIX on January 20, 1985. The game pitted the NFC champion San Francisco 49ers against the Miami Dolphins of the American Football Conference. 1984 was an epic season for the NFL by any standard. Washington’s Art Monk broke the receptions record. Eric Dickerson of the Rams broke the single-season rushing record. Dan Marino seemed to break every passing record imaginable. And, the 49ers came three points away from a perfect season.

San Francisco 49ers 33 Years Ago

33

Where the Dolphins were a great passing team and nothing else, San Francisco was a great passing team and everything else. The 49ers were 2nd in points scored and 1st in points allowed. There is no better recipe for success in any sport than that statistic. They were led, of course, by their fabulous quarterback, Joe Montana. Montana was almost the perfect football player. He was accurate. He was a solid scrambler. Montana could hit the deep ball. He was cerebral. He was a joy to watch perform.

Coach Walsh surrounded his terrific QB with a solid running game. Wendell Tyler rushed for over 1200 yards averaging 5 yards per carry. Roger Craig was an innovation at halfback. He would substitute for Tyler on third downs. The Roger Craig-type is on every team in the NFL in 2017. But, he was the first of his kind and one of the best.

San Francisco’s defensive backfield has ridiculous skills at every spot. Ronnie Lott was arguably the best safety ever to play in the NFL. They had a super front line and solid linebackers. This was truly a team without weakness; one of the ten best teams in NFL history. They completed the 1984 regular season with a then-record 15 victories. In the playoffs, they were workmanlike in defeating the upstart Giants and Bears, 21-10 and 23-0 respectively.

Miami Dolphins 33 Years Ago

33

There was nothing workmanlike about Miami’s 1984 regular season. Their offense was way ahead of its time and, frankly, Marino was the best quarterback we had ever seen up to that point. His receivers were the uber-talented Mark Duper and Mark Clayton. They combined for 144 catches for 2700 yards! Clayton score a then-record 18 times. These numbers don’t sound extraordinary by today’s standards. But, by 1984 standards, they were off the charts. Marino, Clayton and Duper played together for about a decade, but 1984 was their climax.

In the playoffs, Miami got revenge on the Seahawks for their 1983 upset. In the championship game, Miami only had to face 9-7 Pittsburgh. The Steelers had shocked 13-3 Denver in the divisional round, a foreshadow of things to come for John Elway in the 80’s. Pittsburgh was no match for Miami’s powerful offense, losing 45-28.

Marino Shut Down

33

The Super Bowl started off in competitive fashion. Miami took a 10-7 lead late in the first quarter on a short TD pass from Marino on the roll to tight end Dan Johnson. However, the Niners responded with a three-touchdown explosion. Meanwhile, Miami went three-and-out an astonishing three times. The score was 28-10 late in the first half. The Dolphins got two late field goals to move within 12 points at the break and nobody felt the game was over at that point.

But, Miami came out of the break with more three-and-outs. Marino also threw two red zone picks. Hence, the Dolphins did not score in the second half. Craig, on the other hand, scored three times in the game himself for the Niners! And, San Francisco won the Super Bowl, 38-16.

The Niners have the reputation for being the team of the ’80s. However, they did not reach the Super Bowl again until 1988. But, they won it that season and in 1989. Miami’s Super Bowl XIX appearance was its fifth and last. They have suffered through three decades of mediocrity since then.

Tomorrow, we’ll talk about the phenomenal 1985 Chicago Bears!

 

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

 

35

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl XVII

Leave a reply

The Super Bowl is just 35 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 35 years ago to honor this not that significant occasion!

Pasadena’s Rose Bowl hosted Super Bowl XVII on January 30, 1983. The game pitted the NFC champion Washington Redskins against the Miami Dolphins of the American Football Conference. This was a rematch of Super Bowl VII; the only other time the Skins had been to the big game up till that point and when Miami completed their undefeated season. A strike had marred the 1982 season. The NFL cancelled seven games in all. Also, this Super Bowl was the first to be played one week after the championship games.

Washington Redskins 35 Years Ago

35

Joe Gibbs’ Redskins showed vast improvement from the 1981 season. They were one of the most fun teams in NFL history. They had the “Diesel, ” Johns Riggins. Their offensive line was nicknamed “the hogs” and their small-ish wide receivers were dubbed “the smurfs.” Their defense was solid as well. They ran a bend but don’t break scheme focused on punishing pass catchers and rushing the passer.

In 1982, Washington finished a league-best 8-1 record. Their only loss was at home to the hated Cowboys. In 1982, the NFL decided to have a 16-team playoff tournament. Washington was the top seed in the NFC and faced off against Detroit. They pummeled the Lions causing 8 turnovers. Alvin Garrett scored three times on receptions from Joe Theismann.

One week later, they had a much more difficult game against the Vikings. But, once they led 21-7, they just handed the ball to Riggins. Riggins carried the ball 37 times for 185 yards. Neither team scored in the second half, but Washington’s “hogs” were the MVP of this game.

In the NFC championship game, the Redskins knocked Dallas QB Danny White out of the game. Then, they knocked the Cowboys out of the playoffs. The key play of this game occurred late in the fourth quarter. With the Skins leading 24-17, Dallas had their opportunity. But, back up QB Gary Hogeboom attempted to set up a screen. Dexter Manley ran at him like a bull and deflected the pass into the air for Darryl Grant to pick off and rumble home. RFK Stadium literally shook. Washington was off to the Super Bowl.

Miami Dolphins 35 Years Ago

35

The Dolphins were not as consistent as the Skins during the regular season, but played three solid playoff games. 35 years go, Coach Shula’s Dolphins were the #1 defense in the NFL. And they were thankful for that because they had the 19th-ranked offense, one of the worst offenses to ever participate in a Super Bowl. Their quarterbacking situation revolved around two guys, the late David Woodley and Don Strock. They were sometimes referred to as “Woodstrock” due to Strock finishing so many games that Woodley started. Their defense, though, was awesome.

There were so many players on Miami’s defense with last names starting with the letter “B,” they were referred to as the “Killer Bees.” Add to all that talent #77 stud linebacker A.J. Duhe and longtime defensive mastermind, Bill Arnsparger, and Miami was a formidable foe. In the first round, Miami outclassed New England, 28-13. The Dolphins got revenge on San Diego by dominating them 34-13 in the second round.

In the AFC Championship game, the Dolphins and Jets played in the mud of the Orange Bowl. Duhe intercepted Richard Todd including a pick sick to put the game on ice. Miami won 14-0.

Big Play Dolphins

35

The Dolphins did not wait long to score in the Super Bowl. In a game where they totaled 176 yards, they got 76 of those on their 5th play from scrimmage. Woodley found Jimmy Cefalo for their lone big offensive play of the game and a 7-0 lead. The teams exchanged time-consuming field goals drives. Therefore, Miami led 10-3 when the game got very interesting just before the half.

First, Theismann threw a fade to tiny Alvin Garrett to tie the score. Next, Fulton Walker returned the ensuing kickoff. It was first KO return in Super Bowl history as the late-great Walker needed one block and was free. Finally, the Skins drove down the botched an attempt to get a field goal off before the end of the half as they failed to get out-of-bounds with the clock running.

Diesel Dash

35

In the second half, Washington got that kick to make the score, 17-13. By now, Miami’s offense was putrid. They went 4 for 17 in their passing game ON THE DAY! Their defense battled to stay ahead and very nearly, pick sixed their way to victory. A diving Theismann saved the day on a batted ball.

In the fourth quarter, one of the iconic Super Bowl moments occurred. On a fourth and one from the 43, Riggins to his left, plowed over DB Don McNeal, and raced down the far sidelines for a go-ahead TD. Washington added one more score late by Charlie Brown and the Redskins had their first World Championship!

Washington got back to the Super Bowl three more times, winning two of those under Coach Gibbs. Miami got back two years later. They no longer had a good defense. But, they had a terrific young quarterback out of Pitt named Dan Marino. They lost Super Bowl XIX to the Niners. Unfortunately, they have yet to return.

 

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

Week 17: Games to Watch

Leave a reply

Week 17 has finally arrived. Certainly every football fan’s favorite week of the regular season. Although by the end of the day, many of those fans are less-than happy with their team’s result. This year, there will certainly be some broken hearts as there are six teams fighting for the final three playoff spots. In the AFC we have Baltimore, Tennessee, Buffalo and the Chargers fighting for the two wild card spots. In the NFC, just one spot remains, which will be battled for by the Falcons and Seahawks. Below are the week 17 games which hold the strongest playoff implications.

CAROLINA PANTHERS AT ATLANTA FALCONS

This clash of NFC South powerhouses is probably the biggest game of the week. For Carolina, it is an opportunity to win the division. However, this will be a tall task. Carolina has lost both games to New Orleans this year, so they will have to win in Atlanta and the Saints would have to lose in Tampa. Pretty unlikely but hey, we have seen crazier things. Carolina has already clinched a playoff spot and will likely be playing either the Rams or the Saints in the first round.

There is even more on the line for the Falcons in this game. At 9-6, a win or a Seahawks loss will give the last remaining seed in the NFC to Atlanta. It is impossible to know what to expect from this game as the Panthers tend to play like either a Super Bowl team or a division 3 high school team. It is difficult to know what to expect from them heading into this week. However, I do like Atlanta’s chances because they are at home. I also think Matty Ice and Julio Jones may be able to pick apart the Panthers secondary, which ranks 19th in the league in pass yards allowed per game.

CINCINNATI BENGALS AT BALTIMORE RAVENS

Image result for ravens vs bengals

lockedonbengals.com

Cincinnati is playing for nothing but pride this weekend as their dreadful season has them eliminated from the playoffs. However, I do expect Cincinnati to give it a valiant effort this week as they would love to help eliminate their division rival from the playoffs. For Baltimore, all they have to do is win to make the playoffs, as they have a one game advantage on the rest of the teams fighting to get in. The Ravens could lose and still make the playoffs as they have own the tie breaker with the Chargers. If the Ravens, Bills, and Titans all finish 9-7 then they would be eliminated because Tennessee and Buffalo both own the tie breaker over Baltimore.

BUFFALO BILLS AT MIAMI DOLPHINS

The Bills have probably the slimmest chances to snag an AFC wild card spot. They do hold a tie breaker over the Ravens if both teams finish 9-7. This will be pretty unlikely as the Baltimore has a very winnable home game vs Cincy. If the Ravens win then Buffalo will need both Tennessee and the Chargers to lose. On paper, this looks like a pretty winnable game. However, much like the Panthers, both of these teams are rather inconsistent. It is hard to know what to expect in this match-up. I do believe that Buffalo is the superior team and that they will be able to win this game.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS AT TENNESSEE TITANS

Image result for jaguars vs titans

atozsportsnashville.com

Jacksonville does not have much to worry about in this game as they will likely be AFC’s three seed. However, this is a huge game for the Titans. Luckily they own a tie breaker over all three of the other teams fighting to get in. A win would guarantee a playoff spot. If they lose, the Ravens win AND Buffalo or the Chargers win then the Titans would be eliminated. So they really need to win in order to avoid any risks. A win will be a tall task despite being the home team. Jacksonville’s defense is probably the best in the league. I expect starting corners AJ Bouye and Jalen Ramsey to completely shut down the passing game. It will be up to Demarco Murray and Derrick Henry to lead the Titans to this week 17 win

OAKLAND RAIDERS AT LOS ANGELES CHARGERS

Image result for raiders vs chargers

raiderswire.usatoday.com

The Raiders will be playing to spoil this weekend. As arguably the league’s biggest disappointment, Oakland has to be itching for next season. If it makes them feel better, they can drastically decrease their division rival’s chances of making the playoffs with a win. A win will not guarantee a spot in the playoffs for the Chargers. They will need a loss from the Titans as well because Tennessee own the tie breaker. However, if they end up with the same record as the Bills then they will have the tie breaker and earn the 6th seed. LA should win this game rather easily as Oakland has struggled on both sides of the ball this year. I do not think Oakland has the ability to stop Rivers, Melvin Gordon and Keenan Allen on the road. Advantage LA.

ARIZONA CARDINALS AT SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

Weird to imagine the Seahawks not in the playoffs. For Seattle to make it in, they will need to win and need Atlanta to lose against Carolina. Both things could happen of course, but the chances are not that high. Seattle cannot control what happens down in Atlanta this week, but they can help themselves by earning a win. At home I do expect Russell Wilson and company to get the win. But Arizona has quietly been playing some pretty solid football as of late. Even though I expect them to win, I also expect Atlanta to win which would eliminate Seattle due to a head to head tie breaker in Atlanta’s favor.

 

*Questions or comments? Find me on twitter @MLBfromNH (Kevin Civiello)*

*Feature pic credit goes to panthers.com*

44

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl VIII

Leave a reply

The Super Bowl is just 44 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 44 years ago to honor this not that significant occasion!

Super Bowl VIII was played in Houston’s Rice Stadium on January 13, 1974. The game pitted the NFC champion Minnesota Vikings against the Miami Dolphins of the American Football Conference. Miami was the first team of the Super Bowl era to win three consecutive conference championships. A feat so significant, it has only happened once since. Minnesota was playing in their second Super Bowl. They were handled by the Chiefs in Super Bowl IV as the favorite. This time, they were the underdogs.

Minnesota Vikings 44 Years Ago

44

The Vikings were only underdogs because Miami was so good, not due to any significant deficiencies on their part. They exploded to a 9-0 start before finishing at 12-2. The team had a different look than the one that participated in the Super Bowl four years prior. They had the veteran scrambler, Fran Tarkenton at QB and the NFL Rookie of the Year, Chuck Foreman at running back. These Vikings were not as dominant as the 1969 team, but they were consistently good in all three phases of the game.

In the divisional round of the playoffs, Minnesota and the defending-NFC Champion Redskins went at it in a dogfight. With wind chill factors in the single digits, it was veteran Oscar Reed who stole the show with two 40+ yard plays from scrimmage. Tarkenton hit John Gilliam twice for second half scores and the Vikes outlasted Washington, 27-20.

In the NFC championship game at Dallas, the Vikings played an extraordinary defensive game holding the Cowboys to 150 yards and causing 6 turnovers. Gilliam scored again on a long one and Bobby Bryant had a pick six for Minnesota. Therefore, the Vikings clinched their date with Miami.

Miami Dolphins 44 Years Ago

44

The Dolphins came into Super Bowl VIII as a very mature, battle-tested ball club. Unlike the 1972 team, the ’73 Dolphins lost. In fact, they lost twice. Between those losses, they had a 10-game winning streak which included two wins over OJ Simpson during his 2000-yard season.

Miami was a gigantic favorite over the young Cincinnati Bengals in the divisional round. And, they played like jumping out to a 21-3 lead. On the day, the Dolphins more than doubled the Bengals in points and in yards.

The following week, the Fins ruled the action again, this time over the silver and black. Oakland had been one of the teams to beat Miami earlier in the season and would be the team to take out the Dolphins in the 1974 playoffs. But, on this day, they were no match for the powerful Dolphins. Miami was so convincing in their control of the game, QB Bob Griese only threw six passes the entire game! Thus, the Dolphins were on to the Super Bowl yet again. Theirs was the first dynasty of the 1970’s.

Dolphin Domination

44

Vegas loved the Dolphins’ chance at repeating making them a solid touchdown favorite. They also loved the defenses in this game as they posted an astounding 33.5 over/under. However, that total may have seemed like it was in jeopardy early. On their first drive, the Dolphins utilized a brand of smash-mouth football that left their smallish defensive linemen reeling. Two drives resulted in two touchdowns. Csonka got the first one. Kiick notched the second. Yepremien added a field goal and the Dolphins were in complete control.

There was nothing for a Vikings’ fan to enjoy from this first half. Even when they moved the ball into the red zone late in the half, they fumbled from the six-yard line on fourth down. Next, they got a huge run back on the second half kickoff from Gilliam. Of course, it was called back due to a hold.

The Dolphins won the game, 24-7. Larry Csonka on 33 carries rushed for 145 yards and won MVP. Griese was 6 for 7 throwing the ball. He tossed three total passes over the final three quarters. That is ball control football and that is what Shula wanted his squad to do.

Miami continued to be competitive throughout the ’70’s. But, they never won another Super Bowl. They lost twice in the ’80s. The Vikings made it back the following the season and ran into a steel curtain.

We’ll take more about that Super Bowl tomorrow when we’re 43 days from the big game!

 

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

45

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl VII

Leave a reply

The Super Bowl is just 45 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 45 years ago to honor this not that significant occasion! 

The Los Angeles Coliseum hosted Super Bowl VII on January 14, 1973. The game pitted the NFC champion Washington Redskins against the Miami Dolphins of the American Football Conference.  

Washington Redskins 45 Years Ago

45

Washington’s 1972 season was their best in 27 years. Fiery George Allen coached this roster that was littered with veterans and cast offs. They had a terrific running back, a great wide receiver, and 38 others of the blue-collar variety. In fact, Allen’s bunch was dubbed, “The Over-the-Hill” gang. Nobody embodied that reputation better than QB Billy Kilmer. Kilmer did not possess the body of an athlete. Rather, he played with the grit and heart that allowed him to play over 18 NFL seasons. He was only in the lineup due to an injury to all-time Redskins’ great Sonny Jurgensen. He took full advantage of his opportunity playing at an elite level in 1972. 

The Redskins greatly relied on NFL MVP, Larry Brown. Brown made the All-Pro team in each of his first four seasons. But, ’72 was the best campaign of his career. He had 1700 yards from scrimmage and 8 rushing touchdowns. Future Hall of Famer Charley Taylor was possibly the best wide receiver in the NFC scoring 7 touchdowns of his own. 

The Skins finished the season with the number three defense in the NFL. The “D” came up huge in a midseason win against their hated rival and defending champion Cowboys. That victory proved vital down the stretch as Washington won the division and Dallas got the wild card. 

In their two NFC playoff games at RFK Stadium, the Skins allowed a total of 6 points to Green Bay and Dallas. The game against the Packers was particularly brutal as both Kilmer and Packers’ starting quarterback Scott Hunter got pulverized all day. The Redskins prevailed 16-3. One week later in front of their raucous home crowd, they defeated the Cowboys 26-3, clinching their first NFC championship.

Miami Dolphins 45 Years Ago

45 

Their opponent in Super Bowl VII was the 16-0 AFC Champion Miami Dolphins. There are not enough superlatives to describe how good the Dolphins were in the early 1970s. In many ways there are overlooked when one discusses the greatest teams of all-time. People bring up the 1978 Steelers, 1989 49ers, 1992 Cowboys, etc. But, the Dolphins of 1972-73 were as good as all those teams and maybe better.

Don Shula was a great leader and game-time coach. Consider this: His 1967-68 Colts and 1972-73 Dolphins combined for a 58-5-2 record. How many starting QBs did he use over those four seasons? Four. That is coaching.

Shula’s masterpiece was his 1972 season especially since starting QB Bob Griese missed nine games due to injury. No problem. Ancient Earl Morrall was undefeated coming off the bench.

Miami topped Cleveland in the divisional round of the playoffs. The Dolphins did not play a great game overall, but Shula went to his bag of tricks and punter Larry Seiple rushed for 37 yards on a fake. Miami prevailed, 20-14. (By the way, this game was played one day after the Steelers defeated the Raiders on the “Immaculate Reception.”)

In the AFC Championship game, Griese came off the bench to rally Miami to a 21-17 victory. The unheralded Jim Kiick scored twice. The Dolphins were off to Super Bowl VII. Their date with history was to take place in Los Angeles against the Redskins and miraculously, they were a 1-point underdog.

Perfection vs. Emotion

45

From the outset, it was Miami’s defense that dictated the action. League MVP Larry Brown got abused. And, Washington could get nothing established through the air.

Contrariwise, Miami was able to move the ball behind their powerful offensive line. They used well-conceived sweeps where giant tackles matched up against the Skins’ small defensive backs and linebackers like Pat Fischer and Jack Pardee. And it was no match. The misdirection and power sweeps led to the neutralization of All-Pro Chris Hanburger. Thus, Miami rushed for 184 yards on the day.

The Dolphins’ first score came as a result of two perfect throws by the gallant Griese. One throw went to Warfield for 18 and the touchdown was scored by Howard Twilley from the twenty-eight.

The Dolphins intercepted Kilmer twice in the first half. Buoniconti robbed him late in the second half setting Kiick’s touchdown. The score was 14-0 at the half.

In the second half, Washington moved the ball on virtually every possession. However, each drive stalled in the red zone. They missed a field goal and late in the game, Miami cornerback Jake Scott recorded his second interception of the game. This one he ran out from his own end zone.

Scott’s interception put Miami in line to put this thing on ice. With just over two minutes to play, the ‘Fins lined up for a field goal. The Skins blocked it. Garo Yepremien, the tiny Cyprian kicker retrieved the ball and attempted to throw a pass. That turned into an utter comedy/horror show. The pigskin bounced into the air to be grabbed by a Redskin. Mike Bass took the trophy home and the lead was 14-7.

NFL History

Miami held on to win by that score and special team gaffe aside, completed the perfect season. Every season serves as a reminder that the ’72 Dolphins were the only team to complete a season with an undefeated record. The vaunted 2007 Patriots came the closest; just 40 seconds from football immortality, but it was not to be in Super Bowl XLII. The 1984 49ers came three points away from perfection. The 1985 Bears came one visit to Miami away from perfection. But, only one team did it. And, they deserve the special accolades they receive for such an incredible accomplishment. It has now stood for 45 seasons!

In 1973, Miami came back to defend their title. They whipped Minnesota 24-7.

The Redskins also had an excellent 1973 season. But, they did not win the Super Bowl until the ‘80s. Who did they beat? Don Shula and the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII.

Tomorrow, we will talk more about the forgotten 1973 Dolphins in our series – 51 Super Bowls in 51 days!

 

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_bills

46

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl VI

Leave a reply

The Super Bowl is just 46 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 46 years ago to honor this not that significant occasion!

New Orleans’ Tulane Stadium hosted Super Bowl VI on January 16, 1972. The game pitted the NFC champion Dallas Cowboys against the Miami Dolphins of the American Football Conference. The Cowboys were a perennial powerhouse by 1971. But, they could not seal the deal with a title. In ’66 and ’67, they lost heart breakers to Green Bay. In ’68 and ’69, they got whipped by the Browns. And in Super Bowl V, they choked away a tight one losing to the Colts, 16-13 on a last-second field goal. Thus, they earned their reputation, “Next Year’s Champion.”

Dallas Cowboys 46 Years Ago

46

The Cowboys started this season with a 4-3 record which included bad losses to the Saints and Bears. Coach Landry tried to use both Craig Morton and Roger Staubach as co-starting quarterbacks. That did not seem to work well for anybody. Unlike 1970, Landry eventually chose Staubach. There was too much upside with his gun-slinging and scrambling abilities. Once Landry made his choice, Dallas put together a nine-game winning streak. Staubach was absolutely fantastic en route to solidifying his place as possibly the best quarterback of the decade.

In addition to Staubach, the Cowboys had a three-headed monster at running back and some dynamic wide receivers. One of those wide outs was Chargers’ legend, Lance Alworth. Alworth, along with veterans Mike Ditka and Forrest Gregg added some great depth and leadership to an already loaded squad. On defense, “Doomsday” was as good as ever.

In the NFC divisional round, the Cowboys scored an extremely impressive win at Minnesota. The Vikings had finished 1971 with the #1-ranked defense in football and league-MVP Alan Page (yes, a defensive player won MVP). However, it was Dallas’ defense that knocked out the home team. They won 20-12. In the NFC championship game, Dallas played host to San Francisco in the first ever playoff game in the history of Texas Stadium. “Doomsday” was awesome. Duane Thomas scored in the 4th to give the Cowboys their second straight NFC championship by a score of 14-3.

Miami Dolphins 46 Years Ago

46

Their opponent was in their sixth year of existence – the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins were an expansion team in name only. They had extraordinary talent on both sides of the ball. Likewise, Don Shula was a mastermind Head Coach. Shula came into the 1971 season with a chip on his shoulder. The Jets embarrassed his Colts in Super Bowl III. Therefore, his stint in Baltimore came to an inglorious conclusion. His 1970 team in Miami improved as the season went on. But, Oakland knocked them out in the divisional round.

In 1971, Miami was clearly the best team in the AFC. On offense, they possessed a unique ground attack. Fullback Larry Csonka was a punishing runner, a precursor to backs like Christian Okoye or Jerome Bettis. Mercury Morris was all-speed and elusiveness in the vein of a Barry Sanders. Bob Griese was a terrific football player out of Purdue at quarterback. And, maybe the best of them all was wide receiver Paul Warfield. What a great offense!

They were very good on defense as well but without the name recognition of the Cowboys and Vikings. Consequently, they were nicknamed “the No Name Defense.” They finished third in yards allowed. And, they were very tough against the pass.

Dolphins Epic Playoff Win

46

Their Christmas Day game at Kansas City in the playoffs is simply one of the greatest games in NFL history. The momentum swung back and forth several times throughout the long afternoon. Miami could not stop Chiefs’ running back Ed Podolak who contributed over 300 yards of total offense. For the first time in NFL history, a ball game went into double overtime. Finally, Garo Yepremien kicked the winner for Miami and they advanced to the AFC championship game.

In the title game, Shula was very gratified by a 21-0 destruction of his former team. They intercepted Unitas three times and Warfield scored on an electrifying touchdown. The win catapulted the Dolphins to their first Super Bowl – this in the infant stages of their franchise.

Dallas Dominance

46

Admittedly, the Dolphins played like they were just happy to be there. Dallas was much more focused, much more aggressive all day. To this day, the Dolphins are the only team to not a score a touchdown in a Super Bowl. The Super Bowl from 46 years ago was drab. So, here are the only highlights:

Duane Thomas rushed 19 times for 95 yards and a touchdown. However, Staubach won the MVP of the Super Bowl. He hit veterans Alworth and Ditka for touchdowns. Bob Lilly registered a ridiculous 29-yard sack of Bob Griese. And, Larry Csonka fumbled during the first quarter. He had not fumbled the entire season, over 300 touches.

And that is about it. This was not a great game by any standards. In fact, it was boring. But, for Coach Landry and his Cowboys, it ranks as one of the sweet days in franchise history. Dallas garnered great success in the ’70’s. Hence, they became known as “America’s Team.” Their cheerleaders, stadium and fans were almost as popular as their players.

For Miami, it served as a catalyst for the greatest team in NFL history – the 1972 17-0 Miami Dolphins. We’ll focus more on that team and their incredible achievement tomorrow!

 

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills