Player quotes assembled by yours truly, some inside scoop with Matt Williamson of Scouts' INC, and then my first round mock.
Player Quotes
-Purdue WR Dorien Bryant (5'9, 174) on how he'll make up for his lack of size in the pro's, and what current wideout he compares himself to:
"More or less with my speed and quickess, and my ability to think on my feet. I think I am pretty smart and that should help me. Plus I have played against a lot of zones, and I have had to read defenses since my freshman year, so I feel like I am good at finding space...There are alot of guys I have been compared to, from Steve Smith to Moss...but I think I am more like a Antoine Randle-El, minus the QB arm. I keep my eye on him. "
Bryant is a projected late 6th round pick.
-Cal WR and projected 5th round pick Lavelle Hawkins (5'11, 187) on how he separates himself from corners:
"Like I always do, I can get off the press coverage, and I will be fine."
-Top Delaware QB prospect Joe Flacco on the accuracy that goes with his cannon arm:
"You always want to be more accurate. But I do pride myself on my accuracy. I throw the ball a lot to get to the point of very being accurate, but you can always improve."
-UCLA OLB Bruce Davis (6'2 252) on his strengths and weaknesses:
"My greatest strength is speed and playnmaking ability. For weakeness, that is tough, I could always get stronger."
Davis is a projected 3rd rounder.
-Projected 3rd round Georgia Tech LB Phillip Wheeler (6'1, 248) defending his "tweener" label:
"I am very versatile, and with my speed, strength, and quickness that I am probably athletic enough to cover TE, RB, at any linebacking position."
-Projected 2nd round CB Patrick Lee of Auburn (6'0, 200, 4.41) talks about how the SEC prepared him well for the next level:
"They are the best of the best, so it really helped me. "
-Projected 4th round TE Martin Rucker (6'4, 250) of Missouri discusses his potential adjustment to the NFL:
"I will have to adapt like I have had to at all levels, such as the transition from high school to college. And once again focusing on in-line blocking."
-Arkansas' projected 6th round pick Robert Felton talked about taking the next step from the SEC to the NFL:
"I think it will help a lot. It is the SEC, and I have been told it is the nest step in the NFL, so it is great practice for the next level."
-LB Ali Highsmith of LSU (5'11, 230) is a projected 4th round pick who talked to SOS about his strengths and weaknesses:
"My greatets strength is my quickness and my speed, getting from one place to another. I need to work on getting off blocks better."
-Projected 3rd rounder LB Xavier Adibi (6'1, 232) of VaTech told me what maked him stand out from other college LB's:
"My constant motor. I am always going to get to the ball no matter where it is at. So my speed sets me apart."
-7th round CB prospect Justin Tryon (5'9, 190, 4.41) of Arizona State on what he can bring to the table:
"I guess what I can do is I can play nickel and I can play corner as well. And, if you really want me to, I can play safety like a Bob Sanders kind of guy. That's what I bring to the table. I do all of the special teams. It's fun for me to be out on the field."
-2nd round DE prospect Calais Campbell of Miami (6'7, 290) talked about how he can use his size to his advantage:
"Having the height, if you can stay low, it gives you great leverage against tackles. My long arms can keep offensive linemen off of me. And I can also bat down passes. I can cover a lot of ground with my long arms."
-Hampton DE Marcus Dixon is a 7th round prospect who told SOS what he'd be able to do if he got drafted:
"I would definitely be one of those players you can count on, a team guy. I'd put pressure on the back field. I would get free to make the tackle. I would be that guy that stays in the scheme. I wouldn't be that guy that is out there selfishly. In short, I guess you could say I'd be the dependable guy."
-3rd round QB prospect John David Booty talked with me about him being labeled as a west coast QB and perhaps some advice given by some of the former SC signal callers:
"Everybody has the right to their own opinion. But I do not think that is the case. I feel by knowing the West Coast offenswe that I can learn any other offense that may be different...Yes, me and Matt Leinart talk quite often. And the one piece of advice he has given me is just to enjoy it all and not get caught up in what round you may go, or to which team."
Draft Dish With Matt Williamson
-Miami is now interested in dealing DE Jason Taylor, and Williamson said that the Jaguars may be the only option:
"I do think there will be a market and I would give up my first rounder for JT if I were in charge of Jax. Outside of the Jags though, I doubt they can get a first rounder for him at his age. Still a force though."
-Williamson also said that the Jets are in a pretty good position at 6:
"While NYJ have drastically improved since the season ended, they still have their share of needs. I wouldn't trade down and would be quite happy with Gholston, McFadden or Ryan at #6. One will be there for sure."
-What are the chances that 2 QB's get selected in the first round?
"Very good. To whom and at what pick? I have no idea. But ATL has to be excited to come up to grab one. Several teams will make the move for one of the big 4. Just think, there are certainly more than 4 teams out there who would like a potential starting QB. More demand than supply."
SprungOnSports' First Round Mock
1- MIA- Jake Long- OT- Mich
2- STL- Glenn Dorsey- DT- LSU
3- ATL- Matt Ryan- QB- BC
4- OAK- Chris Long- DT- UVA
5- KC- Brandon Albert- OL- UVA
6- NYJ- Darren McFadden- RB- Arky
7- NE- Vernon Gholston- DE- OSU
8- BAL- Keith Rivers- LB- USC
9- CIN- Sedrick Ellis- DT- USC
10- NO- Leodis McKelvin- CB- Troy
11- BUF- Devin Thomas- WR- Mich St.
12- DEN- Chris Williams- OT- Vandy
13- CAR- Derrick Harvey- DE- Fla
14- CHI- Ryan Clady- OT- Boise St
15- DET- Rashard Mendenhall- RB- Illinois
16- ARZ- Mike Jenkins- CB- USF
17- KC- Jeff Otah- OT- Pitt
18- HOU- Johnathan Stewart- RB- Oregon
19- PHI- Aqib Talib- CB- KU
20- TB- Malcom Kelly- WR- OU
21- WSH- Phillip Merling- DE- Clemson
22- DAL- Felix Jones- RB- Arky
23- PIT- Gosder Cherilus- OT- BC
24- TEN- James Hardy- WR- IU
25- SEA- Limas Sweed- WR- Texas
26- JAX- Calais Campbell- DE- Miami
27- SDG- Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie- CB- Tenn St
28- DAL- DeSean Jackson- WR- Cal
29- SF- Jerod Mayo- LB- Tenn
30- GB- Antoine Cason- CB- Arizona
31- NYG- Tyrell Johnson- S- Ark St.
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Friday, April 25, 2008
Monday, April 14, 2008
Around The Majors- Monday
The scores and stats along with the news, notes, and rumors will make up today's ATM.
-The Mets hit into double plays in 5 consecutive innings as the Brewers came back to beat New York 9-7. Both Jeff Suppan and Oliver Perez had bad starts, as Salomon Torres picked up the win for Milwaukee. Gabe Kapler homered and drove in 3 in the victory as Rickie Weeks also went deep in the win.
-Tim Redding allowed 3 runs over 5 as Washington held on to beat Atlanta 5-4. Tom Glavine left the game in the first inning with a hamstring strain, and Jon Rauch relieved recently activated Chad Cordero to notch the save. Ryan Zimmerman drove in 2 for the Nats in the win.-The Cubs scored the winning run in the 10th on a Carlos Zambrano fielders choice off of Rudy Seanez as Bob Howry closed the door on a 6-5 win in Philadelphia. Kerry Wood picked up the win as Derek Lee drove in 2 for the Cubbies.
-Jason Bay homered and drove in 3 as the Pirates got 6 1/3 innings of one run ball from Tom Gorzelanny to beat Johnny Cueto and the Reds 9-1. Ryan Doumit and Xavier Nady also homered for Pittsburgh.-Tampa Bay scored all 6 of their runs in the 5th as they beat Baltimore 6-2. Jeff Niemann allowed one run over six for the win as BJ Upton hit a 3 run homer in that 5th frame. Nick Markakis hit a 2 run shot for the O's in the loss.
-The White Sox got grand slams from Konerko and Crede as they whitewashed the 2-10 Tigers 11-0 at The Cell. Javy Vazquez struck out 9 over 7 scoreless as Kenny Rogers was knocked around in the loss.-Wandy Rodriguez allowed one run while striking out 7 in as many innings as Houston flushed Florida 5-1. JR Towles and Michael Bourn homered for the Astros as Burke Badenhop took the Marlins loss.
-Brian Bannister threw a complete game 3 hitter as the Royals defeated Francisco Liriano and Minnesota 5-1. Alex Gordon went deep in the KC win.-BJ Ryan pitched a perfect 10th inning in his first game back for the save as Toronto edged Texas 5-4. Both starters pitched well, but an Alex Rios sac fly tied it in the 7th, and a Joe Inglett sac fly went on to win it in the 10th. Josh Hamilton homered and drove in a pair for the Rangers.
-John Bowker continues to amaze people for the Giants, he homered and drove in 4 yesterday giving him 2 homers and 7 RBI this season in 6 at bats. Tim Lincecum fanned 11 over 6 innings as the Giants chased the Cardinals 7-4. Ryan Ludwick homered and drove in 2 as Joel Piniero got roughed up for St Louis.-Mathis, Matthews, and Guerrero each drove in 2 as the Angels doubled up the Mariners 10-5. Joe Saunders allowed 2 runs in 5 1/3 for the win. Raul Ibanez drove in 3 in defeat.
-Greg Maddux outdueled Chad Billingsley as San Diego got a Paul McAnulty sac fly in the 4th to defeat the Dodgers 1-0. Thatcher, Meredith, Bell, and Hoffman pitched shutout ball to preserve the win.-Clint Barmes homered and drove in 4, as Holliday and Atkins each went deep with 3 RBI as Colorado smashed the Snakes 13-5. Jeff Salazar drove in 3 in the Arizona loss as Aaron Cook allowed 3 runs in 6 for the win.
-Phil Hughes got bombed for 7 runs in 2 innings as the Red Sox took two of three from the Yankees 8-5. Ellsbury and Drew drove in 2 each as Daisuke Mastsuzaka pitched 5 shaky frames for the win.News, Notes, & Rumors
-Everyone loves Yankee drama, and with the digging up of the Ortiz jersey at the new Stadium there is plenty to go around. But it doesn't end there as AL doubles leader and backup catcher Jose Molina will be out for a little while with a hamstring injury and Chad Moeller has been brought up. Joba Chamberlain's father Harlen, is in critical condition in Nebraska, and the game's best 8th inning reliever will miss the 2 game set with Tampa Bay that begins today. Johnathan Albaladejo has been brought up, and Wilson Betemit is on the DL with pink eye., with Shelley Duncan coming up.-Tom Glavine's hamstring injury has him at day-to-day for now but after tests today, he could go on the DL for the first time in his storied career.
-Erik Bedard was scratched from yesterday's start because of hip inflammation, it's probably not serious and he'll most likely come back next week. Arthur Rhodes and RA Dickey have been brought up, Eric O'Flaherty was sent down and Michael Morse was placed on the DL.-Humberto Quintero was brought up by Houston, David Newhan was designated for assignment,
Monday Night Preview
-Lester and Westbrook hook up at The Jake as the Red Sox and Indians battle at 7pm on ESPN. McGowan goes for Toronto in Baltimore, Blackburn and Bonderman in Detroit, Kennedy in Tampa, Buehrle against Oakland, and Kuroda and Duke in LA.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Around The Majors- Wednesday
Yesterday's scores will be followed by inside analysis on the latest news and rumors of which there is a lot of today, and I'll preview today's matchups.
Tuesday In Review
-The Tigers are 0-7? Boston fans embrace Bill Buckner? It was certainly a weird day down Yawkey Way as Daisuke Matsuzaka threw 6 2/3 scoreless as the Red Sox blanked the Tigers 5-0. Kevin Youkilis drove in a pair for Boston.
-The Mets home opener didn't go as planned as the bullpen blew a 2-0 lead and lost to the rival Phillies 5-2. Chase Utley was hit by a pitch 3 times, as the Phils scored 3 in the 7th on a throwing error and a Jason Werth signle. Jaime Moyer threw 6 innings of 2 run ball for the win, and Tom Gordon got the save in for the tired Brad Lidge.
-Baltimore has the best record in the sport in this bizarro-baseball world. Aubrey Huff drove in 4 and Brian Burress allowed just 1 run over six as the Orioles roasted the Rangers 8-1. Jason Jennings picked up the loss for Texas.
-Both Brian Banniester and Phil Hughes labored through their starts, but the former persevered with a 2 run effort over 5 as the Royals won their home opener 5-2 over the Yankees. Ross Gload drove in 2 for KC as Joakim Soria threw a scorless 9th for his 4th save of the season.
-In Toronto, a Frank Thomas 2 run homer off of Alan Embree tied it at 8, but that didn't last very long. A 9th inning Ryan Sweeney triple scored a run as Huston Street was able to hold the Jays at bay for the 9-8 win. Vernon Wells homered and drove in 3 in the Toronto loss.
-In a wild game that featured a Joe Maddon ejection, a Matt Garza injury, and a steal of home by BJ Upton, a Richie Sexson RBI single in the 6th was the difference as Seattle edged Tampa Bay 6-5 in the opener at the Trop. Erik Bedard allowed 5 runs over 6 but still picked up the win, and in their closer-by-committee approach in JJ Putz's stead, Ryan Rowland-Smith pitched 1 2/3 for the save.
-Eric Gagne blew another Milwaukee save as he served up a Corey Patterson home run to tie the game at 2. But a Rickie Weeks single in the 10th off of David Weathers made it 3-2, and Salomon Torres set the Reds down in the bottom half to preserve the 3-2 win. Rookie Johnny Cueto all0wed just 2 runs over 6 2/3 while striking out 8, but was equally challanged by Jeff Suppan who allowed 1 run over 7.
-Troy Glaus' 2 run double in the 8th off of Geoff Geary gave the Cardinals a 5-3 win over Houston. Miguel Tejada drove in a pair for the Astros, but Jason Isringhausen sealed the deal in the 9th for his 4th save. Anthony Reyes picked up the win.
-Ubaldo Jimenez allowed 3 runs over 6 and outdueled Jair Jurrjens as the Rockies nipped the Braves 4-3. Matt Holliday drove in 2 for Colorado, as Fuentes and Corpas closed the door on the win. Mark Kotsay homered in the Braves loss.
-In his last start before cancer surgery, Doug Davis allowed 2 runs over 6 innings while striking out 7 as Arizona doubled up the Dodgers 10-5. Conor Jackson and Mark Reynolds both drove in 3 runs for the Snakes, and Reynolds hit his 5th homer of the year. Kent and DeWitt drove home 2 each in defeat.
-Travis Hafner's 2 run shot off of Justin Speier in the 9th gave the Indians a 4-3 win over the Angels. Jake Westbrook threw a complete game, allowing 3 runs and 7 hits on just 94 pitches. Vladimir Guerrero homered in the loss, and Asdrubal Cabrera drove in the other 2 Tribe runs.
-A Bengie Molina walkoff homer in the 11th off of Cla Meredith gave the Giants a 3-2 win over San Diego. Brian Wilson blew the save in the 9th on a Brian Giles sac fly, but SF prevailed for their 2nd win.
News, Notes, & Rumors
-The Mets placed Matt Wise on the DL, and they brought up Carlos Muniz who threw a scoreless inning yesterday.
-Michael Barrett, Justin Duchscherer, Dave Roberts, and Dmitri Young all landed on the DL yesterday and Johnny Estrada was activated by Washington.
-In a callous, irresponsible act, Braves top prospect CF Jordan Schaefer was suspended 50 games for HGH use. Schaefer has a lot of speed and good range, and was projected to start in CF for Atlanta by Opening Day 2009. He started out this year in AA Mississippi, and will likely need more time there to hone his game. This definitely pushes back the Braves' plan as they had traded for Mark Kotsay to just be the stopgap this year, but he may need to be there for longer unless Schaefer shows a lot of progress when he returns.
-I will now begin the Amy Winehouse portion of NN&R. Randy Johnson struck out 7 over 6 scorless inning in his rehab start for AAA Tuscon and should start on Saturday for Arizona. He did allow a homer to Angels top 'spect Brandon Wood. One team that may not have their rehabbing starter as soon as expected is the Twins. Francisco Liriano allowed 3 runs in 4 frames for AAA Rochester. "He got deep in counts," Red Wings manager Stu Cliburn said. "His fastball was good. The only thing good I saw is he's confident in his breaking ball." Scott Kazmir threw 42 pitches in BP as he looks to return.
-The San Francisco Chronicle reports that A's DH/1B Dan Johnson could be designated for assignment before tonight's game. It would mean a disappointing end to the former top prospect's tenure with the team.
Wednesday Preview
Paul Byrd pitches in day action in LA, and Kuroda and Owings will both make their 2nd starts of the season as Arizona gets some day baseball in at Chavez Ravine. Bonderman and Lester go in Boston, Zach Duke faces the Cubs, and McGowan battles the A's. Kyle Kendrick and Mike Pelfrey are the starters as the Mets and Phillies renew their rivalry at 7pm on ESPN2. I'll be in section 1 in the upper deck, by the way. I hope you enjoyed your trip around the majors, have a good day and don't climb up the Golden Gate Bridge, especially if you're afraid of heights. (or like China)
Tuesday In Review
-The Tigers are 0-7? Boston fans embrace Bill Buckner? It was certainly a weird day down Yawkey Way as Daisuke Matsuzaka threw 6 2/3 scoreless as the Red Sox blanked the Tigers 5-0. Kevin Youkilis drove in a pair for Boston.
-The Mets home opener didn't go as planned as the bullpen blew a 2-0 lead and lost to the rival Phillies 5-2. Chase Utley was hit by a pitch 3 times, as the Phils scored 3 in the 7th on a throwing error and a Jason Werth signle. Jaime Moyer threw 6 innings of 2 run ball for the win, and Tom Gordon got the save in for the tired Brad Lidge.
-Baltimore has the best record in the sport in this bizarro-baseball world. Aubrey Huff drove in 4 and Brian Burress allowed just 1 run over six as the Orioles roasted the Rangers 8-1. Jason Jennings picked up the loss for Texas.
-Both Brian Banniester and Phil Hughes labored through their starts, but the former persevered with a 2 run effort over 5 as the Royals won their home opener 5-2 over the Yankees. Ross Gload drove in 2 for KC as Joakim Soria threw a scorless 9th for his 4th save of the season.
-In Toronto, a Frank Thomas 2 run homer off of Alan Embree tied it at 8, but that didn't last very long. A 9th inning Ryan Sweeney triple scored a run as Huston Street was able to hold the Jays at bay for the 9-8 win. Vernon Wells homered and drove in 3 in the Toronto loss.
-In a wild game that featured a Joe Maddon ejection, a Matt Garza injury, and a steal of home by BJ Upton, a Richie Sexson RBI single in the 6th was the difference as Seattle edged Tampa Bay 6-5 in the opener at the Trop. Erik Bedard allowed 5 runs over 6 but still picked up the win, and in their closer-by-committee approach in JJ Putz's stead, Ryan Rowland-Smith pitched 1 2/3 for the save.
-Eric Gagne blew another Milwaukee save as he served up a Corey Patterson home run to tie the game at 2. But a Rickie Weeks single in the 10th off of David Weathers made it 3-2, and Salomon Torres set the Reds down in the bottom half to preserve the 3-2 win. Rookie Johnny Cueto all0wed just 2 runs over 6 2/3 while striking out 8, but was equally challanged by Jeff Suppan who allowed 1 run over 7.
-Troy Glaus' 2 run double in the 8th off of Geoff Geary gave the Cardinals a 5-3 win over Houston. Miguel Tejada drove in a pair for the Astros, but Jason Isringhausen sealed the deal in the 9th for his 4th save. Anthony Reyes picked up the win.
-Ubaldo Jimenez allowed 3 runs over 6 and outdueled Jair Jurrjens as the Rockies nipped the Braves 4-3. Matt Holliday drove in 2 for Colorado, as Fuentes and Corpas closed the door on the win. Mark Kotsay homered in the Braves loss.
-In his last start before cancer surgery, Doug Davis allowed 2 runs over 6 innings while striking out 7 as Arizona doubled up the Dodgers 10-5. Conor Jackson and Mark Reynolds both drove in 3 runs for the Snakes, and Reynolds hit his 5th homer of the year. Kent and DeWitt drove home 2 each in defeat.
-Travis Hafner's 2 run shot off of Justin Speier in the 9th gave the Indians a 4-3 win over the Angels. Jake Westbrook threw a complete game, allowing 3 runs and 7 hits on just 94 pitches. Vladimir Guerrero homered in the loss, and Asdrubal Cabrera drove in the other 2 Tribe runs.
-A Bengie Molina walkoff homer in the 11th off of Cla Meredith gave the Giants a 3-2 win over San Diego. Brian Wilson blew the save in the 9th on a Brian Giles sac fly, but SF prevailed for their 2nd win.
News, Notes, & Rumors
-The Mets placed Matt Wise on the DL, and they brought up Carlos Muniz who threw a scoreless inning yesterday.
-Michael Barrett, Justin Duchscherer, Dave Roberts, and Dmitri Young all landed on the DL yesterday and Johnny Estrada was activated by Washington.
-In a callous, irresponsible act, Braves top prospect CF Jordan Schaefer was suspended 50 games for HGH use. Schaefer has a lot of speed and good range, and was projected to start in CF for Atlanta by Opening Day 2009. He started out this year in AA Mississippi, and will likely need more time there to hone his game. This definitely pushes back the Braves' plan as they had traded for Mark Kotsay to just be the stopgap this year, but he may need to be there for longer unless Schaefer shows a lot of progress when he returns.
-I will now begin the Amy Winehouse portion of NN&R. Randy Johnson struck out 7 over 6 scorless inning in his rehab start for AAA Tuscon and should start on Saturday for Arizona. He did allow a homer to Angels top 'spect Brandon Wood. One team that may not have their rehabbing starter as soon as expected is the Twins. Francisco Liriano allowed 3 runs in 4 frames for AAA Rochester. "He got deep in counts," Red Wings manager Stu Cliburn said. "His fastball was good. The only thing good I saw is he's confident in his breaking ball." Scott Kazmir threw 42 pitches in BP as he looks to return.
-The San Francisco Chronicle reports that A's DH/1B Dan Johnson could be designated for assignment before tonight's game. It would mean a disappointing end to the former top prospect's tenure with the team.
Wednesday Preview
Paul Byrd pitches in day action in LA, and Kuroda and Owings will both make their 2nd starts of the season as Arizona gets some day baseball in at Chavez Ravine. Bonderman and Lester go in Boston, Zach Duke faces the Cubs, and McGowan battles the A's. Kyle Kendrick and Mike Pelfrey are the starters as the Mets and Phillies renew their rivalry at 7pm on ESPN2. I'll be in section 1 in the upper deck, by the way. I hope you enjoyed your trip around the majors, have a good day and don't climb up the Golden Gate Bridge, especially if you're afraid of heights. (or like China)
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Comeback Kansas Captures Crown
There were two minutes and twelve seconds left in the national championship game in San Antonio, and Memphis had a nine point lead on Kansas and were well on their way to their first ever title. But then a funny thing happened, and it all fell apart for John Calipari’s Tigers. The nightmare ending didn’t finish until the buzzer sounded and the Jayhawks emerged in a 75-68 overtime classic at the Alamo Dome. In my last column, I wrote that Memphis’ free throw shooting “will cause their premature exit from the dance no matter how hard Calipari tries to spin their dangerous deficiency.” In the regular season, Memphis was 339th out of the 341 Division I teams in free throw shooting percentage. But then a funny thing happened along the way, and the Tigers started shooting for an excellent percentage from the charity stripe over the course of the tournament. With their biggest weakness seemingly non-existent, Memphis vanquished fantastic guard oriented teams in Michigan State, Texas, and UCLA on their way to Monday night’s title match with Kansas.
The backcourt duo of Derek Rose and Chris Douglas-Roberts seemed unguardable in the games preceding the championship game, but for much of the game Kansas put the clamps on the freshman phenom Rose. Sherron Collins did a fantastic job on Rose for much of the game, as he seemed passive before he took the team on his back in the second half. The Jayhawks did most of their damage in the paint for much of the game, as Darrell Arthur had 20 points and 10 rebounds, and Sasha Kaun had 11 points off the bench. Their dominance in the paint, coupled with the solid defense on Rose were the major reasons why Kansas led by five at halftime.
As the second half began, Memphis went on a run to tie it and then began to take control of the game. The Tigers defense began to clamp down on defense inside, and then the future top five pick Derek Rose caught fire. He scrapped the passive style he employed in the first half and began using his immensely talented skillset to hit shots from the outside (even without the help of a ballscreen) and knife his way through the lane to score lay-ups and get to the line. They also got good performances from Douglas-Roberts, whose scored a game high 22 points and Robert Dozier got his production inside with 11 points and 10 rebounds. At one point, Rose scored 14 of Memphis 16 points they had during a stretch, and has banking jumper (correctly called a two rather then the three point shot they had originally deemed it) that went in with 4:15 left and the shot clock towards zero. That gave Memphis a 56-49 lead, and when the Tigers led 60-51 with 2:12 remaining, the prevailing thought that John Calipari and Memphis would hit their free throws and capture their first national championship. But then the sequence began that made this game one of the all time tournament classics. Kansas coach Bill Self realized that they only way his team would get back into the game was to foul Memphis and hope for the best. It was the last strategy that the Jayhawks had, and it didn’t look good considering that the Tigers had shot so well from the line during the tournament. But the worst fears of the Memphis fans began to be realized as shot after shot clanked off the rim, and the Jayhawks found themselves down only three with no time outs left and 10.8 seconds to play, and Kansas could have been winning if not for some poor block outs along the way that allowed Memphis to get offensive rebounds and waste more time off the clock. Rose and Douglas-Roberts missed four of five free throws over the last 1:12, and then Kansas brought the ball out with 10 seconds to play. As Sherron Collins brought the ball past halfcourt, the Tigers failed to foul him like Calipari had wanted, and then Mario Chalmers drained one of the biggest shots in tournament history to tie the game and send it into overtime, the first extra session title game since Miles Simon and Arizona upset Kentucky in 1997. The colossal 2nd half collapse ultimately was the end for the Tigers, because they looked deflated, as Kansas was upbeat and elated. The momentum at that point was irreversible, and Calipari put it best after the game:
"Ten seconds to go, we're thinking we're national champs, all of a sudden a kid makes a shot, and we're not," That “kid” Chalmers scored 18 points in the game, and hit the shot that will "probably be the biggest shot ever made in Kansas history," according to his head coach Self, who denied a rumor that he will leave the school to go to conference rival Oklahoma State.
The overtime period then seemed like a formality as Kansas scored the first six points of OT en route to their seven-point victory, as the buzzer sounded and “Rock Chalk Championship” was proclaimed by CBS broadcaster Jim Nantz, coronating the Jayhawks as national champs.
"We fought it out, and it's surreal.” Said KU Center Cole Aldrich. “It’s nuts.” In a tournament lacking a signature, great game this one provided that in as big of a way imaginable. It was one of those games that will be talked about for years to come, and Calipari and co certainly won’t forget it. It was the perfect storm of colossal collapse, clutch shots, and fantastic coaching by Self. It certainly was a great sendoff to a memorable college season, and games like this are part of what makes College Basketball my favorite sport, and in the final game of March Madness, it could not have been any better.
The backcourt duo of Derek Rose and Chris Douglas-Roberts seemed unguardable in the games preceding the championship game, but for much of the game Kansas put the clamps on the freshman phenom Rose. Sherron Collins did a fantastic job on Rose for much of the game, as he seemed passive before he took the team on his back in the second half. The Jayhawks did most of their damage in the paint for much of the game, as Darrell Arthur had 20 points and 10 rebounds, and Sasha Kaun had 11 points off the bench. Their dominance in the paint, coupled with the solid defense on Rose were the major reasons why Kansas led by five at halftime.
As the second half began, Memphis went on a run to tie it and then began to take control of the game. The Tigers defense began to clamp down on defense inside, and then the future top five pick Derek Rose caught fire. He scrapped the passive style he employed in the first half and began using his immensely talented skillset to hit shots from the outside (even without the help of a ballscreen) and knife his way through the lane to score lay-ups and get to the line. They also got good performances from Douglas-Roberts, whose scored a game high 22 points and Robert Dozier got his production inside with 11 points and 10 rebounds. At one point, Rose scored 14 of Memphis 16 points they had during a stretch, and has banking jumper (correctly called a two rather then the three point shot they had originally deemed it) that went in with 4:15 left and the shot clock towards zero. That gave Memphis a 56-49 lead, and when the Tigers led 60-51 with 2:12 remaining, the prevailing thought that John Calipari and Memphis would hit their free throws and capture their first national championship. But then the sequence began that made this game one of the all time tournament classics. Kansas coach Bill Self realized that they only way his team would get back into the game was to foul Memphis and hope for the best. It was the last strategy that the Jayhawks had, and it didn’t look good considering that the Tigers had shot so well from the line during the tournament. But the worst fears of the Memphis fans began to be realized as shot after shot clanked off the rim, and the Jayhawks found themselves down only three with no time outs left and 10.8 seconds to play, and Kansas could have been winning if not for some poor block outs along the way that allowed Memphis to get offensive rebounds and waste more time off the clock. Rose and Douglas-Roberts missed four of five free throws over the last 1:12, and then Kansas brought the ball out with 10 seconds to play. As Sherron Collins brought the ball past halfcourt, the Tigers failed to foul him like Calipari had wanted, and then Mario Chalmers drained one of the biggest shots in tournament history to tie the game and send it into overtime, the first extra session title game since Miles Simon and Arizona upset Kentucky in 1997. The colossal 2nd half collapse ultimately was the end for the Tigers, because they looked deflated, as Kansas was upbeat and elated. The momentum at that point was irreversible, and Calipari put it best after the game:
"Ten seconds to go, we're thinking we're national champs, all of a sudden a kid makes a shot, and we're not," That “kid” Chalmers scored 18 points in the game, and hit the shot that will "probably be the biggest shot ever made in Kansas history," according to his head coach Self, who denied a rumor that he will leave the school to go to conference rival Oklahoma State.
The overtime period then seemed like a formality as Kansas scored the first six points of OT en route to their seven-point victory, as the buzzer sounded and “Rock Chalk Championship” was proclaimed by CBS broadcaster Jim Nantz, coronating the Jayhawks as national champs.
"We fought it out, and it's surreal.” Said KU Center Cole Aldrich. “It’s nuts.” In a tournament lacking a signature, great game this one provided that in as big of a way imaginable. It was one of those games that will be talked about for years to come, and Calipari and co certainly won’t forget it. It was the perfect storm of colossal collapse, clutch shots, and fantastic coaching by Self. It certainly was a great sendoff to a memorable college season, and games like this are part of what makes College Basketball my favorite sport, and in the final game of March Madness, it could not have been any better.
Monday, April 7, 2008
SprungOnSports Mailbag
Answering your comments from Sportingnews.com...
Around The Majors- Saturday's Bigger Picture
WVU Maniac Apr 05, 2008 11:04 PM
Great stuff! I'll have to bookmark your blog and check it more often, 'cause this is some good info. Ur right about the Braves: if they're bullpen doesn't pick it up, they will go nowhere. They have everything else under control so far, but their bullpen and defense (errors) have cost them some games so far.
-Thanks, and I realize that I'm right about the Braves and the day after you made this comment, the Braves bullpen was a major reason why they were able to sweep the Mets in the rain shortened 2 game series. If Ohman and others step up and make a good bridge to Rafael Soriano, then they may just end up fulfilling the lofty expectations that some pundits had for them.
miatay Apr 06, 2008 08:34 AM
All one of those struggling teams have to do is win 10 out of 12 games and everyone will forget their horrid starts. Conversely those teams like Tampa have to remain focused or they could lost several games in a row. But the Rays do have talent some experience now too.
-All one? Or every one? Anyway, I obviously realize that teams can get hot or cold and their starts will be completely forgotten about. But The Bigger Picture will be a weekly topic of just taking a step back and looking at what the hell happened that week. The Rays do have some talent and every game they play in that division is going to be a competetive struggle.
Around The Majors- Saturday's Bigger Picture
WVU Maniac Apr 05, 2008 11:04 PM
Great stuff! I'll have to bookmark your blog and check it more often, 'cause this is some good info. Ur right about the Braves: if they're bullpen doesn't pick it up, they will go nowhere. They have everything else under control so far, but their bullpen and defense (errors) have cost them some games so far.
-Thanks, and I realize that I'm right about the Braves and the day after you made this comment, the Braves bullpen was a major reason why they were able to sweep the Mets in the rain shortened 2 game series. If Ohman and others step up and make a good bridge to Rafael Soriano, then they may just end up fulfilling the lofty expectations that some pundits had for them.
miatay Apr 06, 2008 08:34 AM
All one of those struggling teams have to do is win 10 out of 12 games and everyone will forget their horrid starts. Conversely those teams like Tampa have to remain focused or they could lost several games in a row. But the Rays do have talent some experience now too.
-All one? Or every one? Anyway, I obviously realize that teams can get hot or cold and their starts will be completely forgotten about. But The Bigger Picture will be a weekly topic of just taking a step back and looking at what the hell happened that week. The Rays do have some talent and every game they play in that division is going to be a competetive struggle.
Around The Majors- Monday
Yesterday's scores, today's schedule, some news and notes and perhaps other things along the way. Unlike the Tigers, SOS gets off to a fast start on a Monday.
Sunday Scoreboard
-Hideki Matsui's 2 run homer was the only offense in the game as the Yankees blanked the Rays 2-0. Chien-Ming Wang, Joba Chamberlain, and Mariano Rivera combined on a 4 hit shutout as James Shields took the tough luck loss.
-Josh Beckett was torched for 5 runs in 4 2/3 frames and a Frank Thomas grand slam was the big blow as Toronto swept Boston 7-4. Vernon Wells also homered for the Jays as Roy Halladay threw 8 innings for the win.
-Ian Snell struck out 10 over 6 innings, and Xavier Nady homered in Pittsburgh's 9-2 win in Florida. Nate McLouth also drove in 2 for the Pirates.
-Another rookie Red stepped up as Edinson Volquez fanned 8 over 5 1/3 as Cincy fried the Phillies 8-2 at GABP. Ken Griffey hit homer number 594, and Jeff Keppinger homered and drove home 3 in the win. Brett Myers was saddled with the loss.
-Felix Hernandez threw 8 shutout innings, but the closer committee couldn't seal the deal for Seattle. An Aubrey Huff groundout against Eric O'Flaherty made it 2-1 and then a Mark Lowe wild pitch allowed the tying run to score before a Luis Hernandez single gave the first place Orioles a 3-2 win over the Mariners. Jeremy Guthrie pitched seven strong for the Birds.
-John Smoltz and the Braves bullpen outdueled Johan Santana as the Braves beat the Mets 3-1. A Mark Teixeira two run blast off of Aaron Heilman broke the game open, and a late Met rally wasn't enough against Rafael Soriano, who picked up the save.
-Barry Zito allowed 5 runs in as many innings, as a complete game 5 hit shutout from Ben Sheets gave the Brewers a 7-0 win over the Giants. Gabe Kapler and Ryan Braun (go Jews!) homered for Milwaukee.
-The first place Royals got 5 shutout innings out of Brett Tomko and Alex Gordon drove in 2 in KC's 3-1 triumph in Minnesota. Joakim Soria struck out the side in the 9th, and Boof Bonser took the tough lucker for the Twins.
-The Cardinals have won 4 in a row as Kyle Lohse's 7 shutout frames guided St Louis past Washington 4-0. Rick Ankiel homered and drove in a pair for the Redbirds.
-The Cubs got seven strong from Carlos Zambrano, and Marmol and Wood shut the door on a 3-2 Cubs victory over Houston. A Derek Lee solo shot off of Oscar Villarreal proved to be the winner. Alfonso Soriano also went deep for Chicago.
-It was a wild one in Denver. With Colorado up 1-0 after a brilliant performance by Franklin Morales, Manny Corpas gave up a 2 run shot to Mark Reynolds to give Arizona the lead. Brandon Lyon then blew the save in the bottom half when he gave up a solo shot to Brad Hawpe. But then a Stephen Drew solo blast off of Micah Bowie started a 3 run 10th, and Chad Qualls picked up the save in the 5-2 10 inning win for the Snakes.
-Jon Garland allowed 7 runs in 5 innings as the Rangers roughed up the Angels 10-4. Gerald Laird homered twice with 6 RBI for Texas, and Ben Broussard also went deep for the Rangers.
-Cleveland scored 2 in the 7th on a groundout and a bases loaded walk against Joe Blanton to beat the A's 2-1. Cliff Lee allowed just a run in 6 2/3 as Joe Borowski picked up the save.
-Rookie Chin-lung Hu's single off of Trevor Hoffman in the 9th gave the Dodgers a 3-2 win over San Diego. Derek Lowe and Chris Young both had good outings, but it was Takashi Saito who got the save and the best of today's closer clash.
-Justin Verlander allowed 9 runs, the Tigers committed 3 errors, and they still have no wins as they fell at home 13-2 to the White Sox. Nick Swisher led off the game with a homer, Crede and Cabrera each drove in 3, and Carlos Quentin had 4 RBI for Chicago.
Baseball Today
Cole Hamels will face Bronson Arroyo today as the Phillies play the Reds at 12:35. The Cubs and Pirates play at 1:30 as Lilly faces Gorzalanny, Seattle plays Baltimore at 3, Minnesota opens at Chicago at 4, and Cain faces Maddux at 4:30 as the Giants play the Padres. 7pm on ESPN2 has Hammel facing Mussina as the Rays close a 4 game set with the Yankees. Tom Glavine will face Colorado, Dan Haren will face the Dodgers, and Carmona pitches in LA as the Indians play the Angels.
News & Notes
-Curtis Granderson was cleared for baseball activities and could return to the Tigers lineup in 10 days. This is welcome news because they have been "embarrassing" according to manager Jim Leyland. And everyone else...
-Jack Wilson has been plaved on the Pittsburgh DL.
-After Rick VandenHurk's bad start for the Marlins yesterday, he was banished to AA Carolina.
-The Arizona Republic reports that the Snakes and OF Chris Young are close to a long term deal.
Sunday Scoreboard
-Hideki Matsui's 2 run homer was the only offense in the game as the Yankees blanked the Rays 2-0. Chien-Ming Wang, Joba Chamberlain, and Mariano Rivera combined on a 4 hit shutout as James Shields took the tough luck loss.
-Josh Beckett was torched for 5 runs in 4 2/3 frames and a Frank Thomas grand slam was the big blow as Toronto swept Boston 7-4. Vernon Wells also homered for the Jays as Roy Halladay threw 8 innings for the win.
-Ian Snell struck out 10 over 6 innings, and Xavier Nady homered in Pittsburgh's 9-2 win in Florida. Nate McLouth also drove in 2 for the Pirates.
-Another rookie Red stepped up as Edinson Volquez fanned 8 over 5 1/3 as Cincy fried the Phillies 8-2 at GABP. Ken Griffey hit homer number 594, and Jeff Keppinger homered and drove home 3 in the win. Brett Myers was saddled with the loss.
-Felix Hernandez threw 8 shutout innings, but the closer committee couldn't seal the deal for Seattle. An Aubrey Huff groundout against Eric O'Flaherty made it 2-1 and then a Mark Lowe wild pitch allowed the tying run to score before a Luis Hernandez single gave the first place Orioles a 3-2 win over the Mariners. Jeremy Guthrie pitched seven strong for the Birds.
-John Smoltz and the Braves bullpen outdueled Johan Santana as the Braves beat the Mets 3-1. A Mark Teixeira two run blast off of Aaron Heilman broke the game open, and a late Met rally wasn't enough against Rafael Soriano, who picked up the save.
-Barry Zito allowed 5 runs in as many innings, as a complete game 5 hit shutout from Ben Sheets gave the Brewers a 7-0 win over the Giants. Gabe Kapler and Ryan Braun (go Jews!) homered for Milwaukee.
-The first place Royals got 5 shutout innings out of Brett Tomko and Alex Gordon drove in 2 in KC's 3-1 triumph in Minnesota. Joakim Soria struck out the side in the 9th, and Boof Bonser took the tough lucker for the Twins.
-The Cardinals have won 4 in a row as Kyle Lohse's 7 shutout frames guided St Louis past Washington 4-0. Rick Ankiel homered and drove in a pair for the Redbirds.
-The Cubs got seven strong from Carlos Zambrano, and Marmol and Wood shut the door on a 3-2 Cubs victory over Houston. A Derek Lee solo shot off of Oscar Villarreal proved to be the winner. Alfonso Soriano also went deep for Chicago.
-It was a wild one in Denver. With Colorado up 1-0 after a brilliant performance by Franklin Morales, Manny Corpas gave up a 2 run shot to Mark Reynolds to give Arizona the lead. Brandon Lyon then blew the save in the bottom half when he gave up a solo shot to Brad Hawpe. But then a Stephen Drew solo blast off of Micah Bowie started a 3 run 10th, and Chad Qualls picked up the save in the 5-2 10 inning win for the Snakes.
-Jon Garland allowed 7 runs in 5 innings as the Rangers roughed up the Angels 10-4. Gerald Laird homered twice with 6 RBI for Texas, and Ben Broussard also went deep for the Rangers.
-Cleveland scored 2 in the 7th on a groundout and a bases loaded walk against Joe Blanton to beat the A's 2-1. Cliff Lee allowed just a run in 6 2/3 as Joe Borowski picked up the save.
-Rookie Chin-lung Hu's single off of Trevor Hoffman in the 9th gave the Dodgers a 3-2 win over San Diego. Derek Lowe and Chris Young both had good outings, but it was Takashi Saito who got the save and the best of today's closer clash.
-Justin Verlander allowed 9 runs, the Tigers committed 3 errors, and they still have no wins as they fell at home 13-2 to the White Sox. Nick Swisher led off the game with a homer, Crede and Cabrera each drove in 3, and Carlos Quentin had 4 RBI for Chicago.
Baseball Today
Cole Hamels will face Bronson Arroyo today as the Phillies play the Reds at 12:35. The Cubs and Pirates play at 1:30 as Lilly faces Gorzalanny, Seattle plays Baltimore at 3, Minnesota opens at Chicago at 4, and Cain faces Maddux at 4:30 as the Giants play the Padres. 7pm on ESPN2 has Hammel facing Mussina as the Rays close a 4 game set with the Yankees. Tom Glavine will face Colorado, Dan Haren will face the Dodgers, and Carmona pitches in LA as the Indians play the Angels.
News & Notes
-Curtis Granderson was cleared for baseball activities and could return to the Tigers lineup in 10 days. This is welcome news because they have been "embarrassing" according to manager Jim Leyland. And everyone else...
-Jack Wilson has been plaved on the Pittsburgh DL.
-After Rick VandenHurk's bad start for the Marlins yesterday, he was banished to AA Carolina.
-The Arizona Republic reports that the Snakes and OF Chris Young are close to a long term deal.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Around The Majors- Saturday's Bigger Picture
Instead of going through games and what not, let's look at the stats and standings before the news and notes today.
Standings
-How about the Jays and Rays stickin it to the Red Sox and Yankees thus far this weekend. Baltimore looked good against Seattle yesterday, and they're off to a decent early start.
-Raise your hand if you predicted the Tigers would start the year 0-5. Now put your hand down, because you're lying. The lineup hasn't quite gotten up to speed, and the pitching of Robertson and Dontrelle Willis isn't gonna cut it in the AL. Sure he went hitless for a while but what's the point if you walk 7? If there's an overrated pitcher in baseball right now (not counting Barry Zito) it's the D-Train (wreck). The Royals have fallen back to earth a bit after sweeping said Tigers. Minnesota and Cleveland are middling a bit at the start.
-Nobody really standing out in the AL West with perhaps the exception of Texas, who had a solid week.
-The Mets have looked fantastic at times, but not today against Atlanta who will go nowhere with their bullpen play. The Phillies have also showed their weaknesses and deficencies, and the Nats and Fish are what they are.
-The Cardinals had a fantastic week pitching and are 4-1 to start. Milwaukee is off to a nice start while the Cubs and Astros not so hot thus far. The Reds have shown flashes of a surprise team under Dusty Baker.
-Jake Peavy had a fantastic week that has led the Padres to a 4-2 start. Hiroki Kuroda was phenomenal on Friday and if he can continue this, the Dodgers can be a threat in the west. The Giants and Rockies have started out slow.
This Week's Hot Starts
-Catchers lead both leagues in hitting. No April Fools, Ryan Doumit and AJ Pierzynski set the standards at .533 and .529 respectively. Fukudome and Kendall aren't too far behind. Chase Utley and Justin Upton both have 3 homers. Who knew that Livan Hernandez would have 2 wins so far? Jake Peavy has been wonderful thus far as well.
News & Rumors
-Miguel Olivo and Hideo Nomo (that's right) were brought up by the Royals. Scott Shields is off the DL, while Dioner Navarro, Chad Cordero, and Russ Springer were shelved. Brad Lidge and Jim Edmonds were also activated. Michael Cuddyer was placed on the DL and speedy prospect Denard Span will get his shot in the OF, he should get a chance way more than Craig Monroe.
-After Wes Helms was designated for assignment, the Dodgers and Giants are reportedly not interested. The Astros are guaging interest for C Humberto Quintero. (LA Times, San Jose Mercury News, Houston Chronicle)
Standings
-How about the Jays and Rays stickin it to the Red Sox and Yankees thus far this weekend. Baltimore looked good against Seattle yesterday, and they're off to a decent early start.
-Raise your hand if you predicted the Tigers would start the year 0-5. Now put your hand down, because you're lying. The lineup hasn't quite gotten up to speed, and the pitching of Robertson and Dontrelle Willis isn't gonna cut it in the AL. Sure he went hitless for a while but what's the point if you walk 7? If there's an overrated pitcher in baseball right now (not counting Barry Zito) it's the D-Train (wreck). The Royals have fallen back to earth a bit after sweeping said Tigers. Minnesota and Cleveland are middling a bit at the start.
-Nobody really standing out in the AL West with perhaps the exception of Texas, who had a solid week.
-The Mets have looked fantastic at times, but not today against Atlanta who will go nowhere with their bullpen play. The Phillies have also showed their weaknesses and deficencies, and the Nats and Fish are what they are.
-The Cardinals had a fantastic week pitching and are 4-1 to start. Milwaukee is off to a nice start while the Cubs and Astros not so hot thus far. The Reds have shown flashes of a surprise team under Dusty Baker.
-Jake Peavy had a fantastic week that has led the Padres to a 4-2 start. Hiroki Kuroda was phenomenal on Friday and if he can continue this, the Dodgers can be a threat in the west. The Giants and Rockies have started out slow.
This Week's Hot Starts
-Catchers lead both leagues in hitting. No April Fools, Ryan Doumit and AJ Pierzynski set the standards at .533 and .529 respectively. Fukudome and Kendall aren't too far behind. Chase Utley and Justin Upton both have 3 homers. Who knew that Livan Hernandez would have 2 wins so far? Jake Peavy has been wonderful thus far as well.
News & Rumors
-Miguel Olivo and Hideo Nomo (that's right) were brought up by the Royals. Scott Shields is off the DL, while Dioner Navarro, Chad Cordero, and Russ Springer were shelved. Brad Lidge and Jim Edmonds were also activated. Michael Cuddyer was placed on the DL and speedy prospect Denard Span will get his shot in the OF, he should get a chance way more than Craig Monroe.
-After Wes Helms was designated for assignment, the Dodgers and Giants are reportedly not interested. The Astros are guaging interest for C Humberto Quintero. (LA Times, San Jose Mercury News, Houston Chronicle)
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