Edwards’ 10-Team 5 Round Fantasy PPR Mock Draft 1.0

Edwards’ 10-Team 5 Round Fantasy PPR Mock Draft 1.0

Hello all, and welcome to the first addition of my 10 Team, 5 Round Fantasy Football PPR Mock Draft. Here I make picks for ten separate teams, discussing what I think of each pick, and making each team fill needs through five rounds with players on the board. For the first round I discuss why I think these picks must happen where they do to make a good draft, and hopefully help you for your future drafts. Enjoy!

1st Round

1. RB Le’Veon Bell, Team 1

Lots of fear comes in the first round, as everyone feels the need to avoid the flop. Especially with pick number one. While you can look at Todd Gurley from last season and think you cannot pass that up again, you may want to go for the safest pick out of the RBs in the first round. Le’Veon Bell is the one that you know will get all the touches you can expect. Last season, he scored 341.6 points last season, carrying the ball a league lead 321 times for 1291 yards, while catching 85 balls for 655 yards. He added on 11 total TDs, resulting in yet another fantastic season, giving him the edge to be the first overall pick due to consistency. I expect Bell to be the center of the Steelers offense once again, with his numbers to only improve this season.

2. RB Todd Gurley, Team 2
The player on the most Fantasy winning teams last season is Todd Gurley. Gurley went above and beyond the ADP he held last season, being the best overall player in all of fantasy football. In most drafts this season, Gurley is expected to go number one overall after his breakout season, however, I feel the need to go against the grain due to worries of so many hands to feed in Los Angeles this season. While I fully expect Gurley to be the bell cow once again of the Rams, I do feel he should be going second to see if he can prove consistency after his career year. Gurley scored a whopping 383.3 PPR points last season, rushing for 1305 yards, 13 (!) TDs adding on to his great receiving stats of 64 REC for 788 yards and 6 REC TDs. Gurley will go top two in all drafts.

3. WR Antonio Brown, Team 3
A lot of people are going RB early, understandably so. However, Antonio Brown may be the only WR that can win you games every single week. With Big Ben at the helm once again for the Steelers, it is hard to go against the grain and avoid Brown much longer than we have already. He is far and away the most consistent player in fantasy for the past five seasons. Antonio Brown essentially missed three games last season and still finished ahead of the entire rest of the WR field with 310.3 PPR points. Being almost a sure-fire candidate for 100+ catches every season and over 1500+ yards, he is the sure fire, safest pick of the entire draft.

4. RB Ezekiel Elliott, Team 4
Last season, going into fantasy drafts, the talk was all about Ezekiel Elliott and his suspension. He went from being top three in drafts to falling to the second round and even later because of fear of his suspension. However, he got to start his season Week One and owners were thrilled to think they stole Elliott from everyone else and got two first round picks in their draft. However, he ended up screwing people in the end, being out for two weeks of the Fantasy Playoffs serving his suspension. Elliott now is a free man who can play the entire season with nothing to worry about, meaning his stock is back at the top. He feels to be the forgotten man going into Fantasy Draft’s this season. Elliott has all the tools to be the first pick in the draft, and he will look to prove drafters right when he is now the best option in the Dallas offense by a lot, with Witten and Dez leaving.

5. RB David Johnson, Team 5
The best overall player in the 2016 Fantasy Football season will make his return this season after breaking his wrist Week 1 last season and missing the rest of the season because of it. David Johnson wants to be a 1,000/1,000 guy, which he came incredibly close to doing in 2016. Johnson will look to bounce back this season and is projected an early first round pick for the 2018 drafts. Personally, I have him fall to five here because of the situation he is in. He has a brand-new offense around him, including a new Head Coach and Quarterback. If it is Sam Bradford or Josh Rosen, it is still a completely new system that should revolve around Johnson, but we do not know. Regardless, knowing what he can do means that he remains in the top five of all drafts.

6. RB Alvin Kamara, Team 6
In a ton of rankings, most people have rookie RB Saquon Barkley over Alvin Kamara and I will not stand for that. Why? Kamara was winning everyone their championships if he didn’t get hurt in the first week of the playoffs on the first drive. He did not have a main role on the offense until week 4 when he lit the world on fire. Kamara finished with 320.4 PPR points on the season, being a rushing threat, and even more, a receiving threat all season long. He became the safe net for Drew Brees last season, getting 81 receptions that he turned into 826 yards. And with Mark Ingram suspended for the first four games of the season, it only makes Kamara more valuable.

7. RB Saquon Barkley, Team 7
The best all-around RB coming out of the draft in what it feels to be years. Barkley is now placed in an offense that could be among the best in the entire league. Barkley will be the bell cow of an offense that has been needing a RB for years, and improving their offensive line was all apart of the plan. I see big things in the future of Barkley clearly, as like a lot of fantasy analysts I have him going first round. Positioning him at pick number seven seems like the earliest it should be.

8. WR DeAndre Hopkins, Team 8
Well would you look what happens when you give DeAndre Hopkins a QB? He delivers. Hopkins proved last season more than ever that he doesn’t need a great QB to be one of the best in football, but what he does need is DeShaun Watson to be totally out of this world. That combo became one of the most fun parts of football for a few weeks there. He finished with 309.8 PPR points, 2nd best among WRs and can only get better with Watson healthy. He is worthy of your first-round selection.

9. RB Kareem Hunt, Team 9
I am going to stress how important RBs are this season with this one. As one to lose hope in Hunt at times last season, he was still the NFL’s leading rusher when it was all said and done. Hunt stormed onto the scene with the Chiefs last season when Spencer Ware went down with injury in the preseason. After the first few weeks, Hunt started to struggle a little, in the idea that he was not scoring TDs. Now in a new offense under a new QB, I can see Hunt bouncing back and being the top option in the run game once again. With a year under his belt, Andy Reid will make sure to utilize Hunt to his potential once again.

10. WR Keenan Allen, Team 10
Like him or hate him, Keenan Allen is one of the best WR when healthy every time he takes the field. The 2015 and 2016 seasons were tough on Keenan Allen, as he had season ending injuries in both, and yet he delivered every time he was on the field. In 2017, when health was on his side, he impressed the masses with multiple big games down the stretch. From Week 11 to Week 17, no other receiver duplicated what he did. Now coming into a season where he is as fresh as can be, Allen looks to have an even bigger season as the overall WR3 this season.

Round 2

11. RB Dalvin Cook, Team 10
12. WR Odell Beckham Jr, Team 9
13. RB Melvin Gordon, Team 8
14. WR Michael Thomas, Team 7
15. RB Leonard Fournette, Team 6
16. WR Julio Jones, Team 5
17. WR AJ Green, Team 4
18. RB Christian McCaffrey, Team 3
19. WR Davante Adams, Team 2
20. WR Adam Thielen, Team 1

Recap: For round 2, a lot of picks standout that could very well go in the first round. The value of a healthy Odell Beckham Jr. at 12th could pan out very well. I could see him going before Keenan Allen in a lot of drafts. Odell has always had the ability, thinking back to his rookie year and how he came out of nowhere to be the best. This could be the latest he goes the rest of his career. Also like the idea of getting McCaffrey at 18, pairing him with Antonio Brown sounds like a team that will thrive in PPR situations. On to round three.

Round 3

21. RB LeSean McCoy, Team 1
22. RB Devonta Freeman, Team 2
23. TE Rob Gronkowski, Team 3
24. WR TY Hilton, Team 4
25. WR Mike Evans, Team 5
26. WR Doug Baldwin, Team 6
27. TE Travis Kelce, Team 7
28. RB Jerick McKinnon, Team 8
29. TE Zach Ertz, Team 9
30. WR Tyreek Hill, Team 10

Recap: The WR with most potential in this round is Hilton. As Andrew Luck begins his return back to the gridiron, TY Hilton will be the one who can celebrate, as he is a completely different player when he has Luck passing to him. Expecting him to bounce back huge this season. Other picks I like in this round is Baldwin, Kelce, and McKinnon.

Round 4

31. RB Jordan Howard, Team 10
32. WR Larry Fitzgerald, Team 9
33. WR Demaryius Thomas, Team 8
34. WR Stefon Diggs, Team 7
35. WR Josh Gordon, Team 6
36. RB Joe Mixon, Team 5
37. RB Kenyan Drake, Team 4
38. WR Allen Robinson, Team 3
39. WR Golden Tate, Team 2
40. WR Alshon Jeffrey, Team 1

Round 5

41. QB Aaron Rodgers, Team 1
42. WR JuJu Smith Schuster, Team 2
43. RB Rashaad Penny, Team 3
44. WR Amari Cooper, Team 4
45. QB Tom Brady, Team 5
46. WR Jarvis Landry, Team 6
47. RB Derrius Guice, Team 7
48. RB Alex Collins, Team 8
49. RB Jay Ajayi, Team 9
50. WR Robert Woods, Team 10

Results –
Team 1: RB Bell, WR Thielen, RB, McCoy, WR Jeffrey, QB Rodgers
Team 2: RB Gurley, WR Adams, RB D. Freeman, WR Tate, WR Smith-Schuster
Team 3: WR Brown, RB McCaffrey, TE Gronkowski, WR Robinson, RB Penny
Team 4: RB Elliott, WR Green, WR Hilton, RB Drake, WR Cooper
Team 5: RB D. Johnson, WR Jones, WR Evans, RB Mixon, QB Brady
Team 6: RB Kamara, RB Fournette, WR Baldwin, WR Gordon, WR Landry
Team 7: RB Barkley, WR M. Thomas, TE Kelce, WR Diggs, RB Guice
Team 8: WR Hopkins, RB Gordon, RB McKinnon, WR D. Thomas, RB Collins
Team 9: RB Hunt, WR Beckham Jr, TE Ertz, WR Fitzgerald, RB Ajayi
Team 10: WR Allen, RB Cook, WR T. Hill, RB Howard, WR Woods

Mock Draft Recap – So, which team is your favorite out of the mix? First time doing a one-person mock, took some time to remember but I feel this is how most drafts may go this season with this mix of players. The teams that stand out to me the most are Team 5 and 6, as for once having the middle picks turned out well in this case. The rookie RBs not named Barkley began to sneak into this draft around Round 5, and that’s where I expect them to be until reports from Training Camp come out and we can get a real sense of who will be important to each roster.

So, who was your favorite team? Who was your worst? Where would you like to pick? Let me know!

– Scott Edwards, Creator of WTF Sports

How to Set Up a Fantasy Football League The Right Way

Starting up a Fantasy Football league is not as easy as it used to be. There are a ton of rules and formats to decide on. Here is everything you need to know to set up the best fantasy league possible.

What Website Should I Use?

ESPN and NFL Network are the most common options for Fantasy Football and the easiest to get league members to join. NFL Network the easiest to set up on a mobile device.

How Many People Should Be in the League?

You need at least 8 for a quality league. 10 is ideal and 12 would be the best-case scenario.

Standard Scoring or PPR?

Neither, the best format of scoring is Half Point Per Reception. Make sure instead of one point per reception it says 0.5. This is the best way to balance Running Backs and Wide Receivers. In Standard scoring RBs are overpowered and in Full Point PPR WRs are overpowered.

What Waiver Type Should I Use?

I feel like this is where a lot of leagues could have more fun and choose not to. Almost every league still uses the standard waiver settings that are based on standings or waiver order. Using Waiver Acquisition Budget or FAAB depending on the site is the best way to go. This is a format where each team gets a budget, typically $100 to bid on waiver wire pick-ups. Teams have to manage their budget throughout the season which allows for people to sign free agents based on investment. If your QB just went down and you need to grab Marcus Mariota on the waiver wire you should not be snubbed because someone lost last week and is higher on the waiver order. With FAAB you would bid $5 on a player and if your opponent only bids $3 you get the player and have $95 for the rest of the season; the losing bidder is not penalized so he would still have $100.

Should I Have Max Adds or Trades?

Absolutely not, less transactions means less activity and entertainment.

Should I use Fractional Points?

Yes.

Best App to Get an Edge Over My Opponents?

Sleeperbot gives the best breaking news and has the ability to create leagues as well with more advanced players.

When Should Playoffs End?

Week 16. NFL Teams sit their stars on Week 17 and ruin leagues. Imagine having David Johnson lead your team all the way to the championship and then find out the Cardinals decided to sit him because they snuck into a Wild Card Game and need him healthy. Week 17 Championship Games ruin the entire point of the league.

If you have any comments or questions leave them in the comments, or on Twitter/Facebook, I’d love to hear your feedback.

Scott Neville – Self Proclaimed Football Guy – WTF Sports

NFL Draft: QB Prediction

The NFL Draft begins tonight, Thursday 4/26, live from AT&T Stadium in Dallas. This is the beginning of the journey for a load of college players who have played all their life to get here. And there has been about 100 Mock Drafts that you can look at on the internet that you probably get annoyed by, so instead why don’t we just talk about the big names and where they’re going. So, let us just do the most important position in the draft because it’s getting late. The QBs. Let’s get it:

(in order of where I think they will be chosen)

The Quarterbacks:

Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield – Picked 1st Overall by the Cleveland Browns

The most NFL ready QB and reigning Heisman Trophy Winner Baker Mayfield has seen his stock go from late in the draft to quite possibly first overall within just a few months. Mayfield has reached comparisons from Johnny Manziel to Drew Brees. As much as I love Johnny Football, this is two ends of the QB spectrum. Baker receives these comparisons due to his offseason antics that raise some concerns, while he receives the Brees comparisons because of the incredible accuracy he possesses. Reports all day have made me change this at the last minute, now flipping Mayfield and Darnold. Mayfield has become the QB everyone wants, and that is why he will be going first overall tonight on primetime. Mayfield never threw for more than 10 INT, including a 43-6 TD/INT ratio that helped win him the Heisman. The mobility, accuracy, and confidence have gotten Baker to this point, the point where he will now be dawning a Browns jersey and join a team with the weapons of the likes of former Pro Bowlers Josh Gordon and Jarvis Landry. The possibilities are endless with this new offense, welcome Baker to not only the NFL, but the opportunity to make the joke of the NFL a legitimate contender.

USC QB Sam Darnold – Picked 3rd Overall by the New York Jets

I had an entire write up for Darnold and why I do think he will be going number one overall to the Cleveland Browns. The guy has it all, with the potential to be great. More than likely the second most ready to start Day One in the NFL, Darnold will join the Empire State. With comparisons to Andrew Luck, Darnold really does have what it takes to be a Franchise QB. The arm, the mobility, and the smarts to deliver with. It is a real shame Darnold will now be a Jet as I did believe he had the chance to be so much better (lol). But hey, good for him. The former Trojan will now get to be known as the J-E-T-S future. Gang Green for Darnold tonight.

Wyoming QB Josh Allen – Picked 5th Overall by the Buffalo Bills (trade for Broncos pick)

The gigantic, powerful arm of Wyoming QB Josh Allen is what makes people turn heads. He may have the most question around him but has tons of potential if he can figure it all out. And Josh Allen, for some reason, sounds like the type of player who will end up in Buffalo. Buffalo finally moved on from Tyrod Taylor at the beginning of the offseason, getting to the point where they need a QB bad. The Bills are coming off a season where they made the playoffs for the first time in forever but want that QB who can make that stretch not happen again. They trade up here to get their (hopeful) franchise QB. He will have time behind AJ McCarron to develop as well.

UCLA QB Josh Rosen – Picked 12th by the Denver Broncos

After moving back in the draft with a trade with Buffalo, the Broncos are at a point where they cannot pass up Josh Rosen a second time. Rosen went from a consensus top three pick to now taking a free fall down the draft board. It feels like he and Mayfield have switched places, and lots of questions come to surface on if Rosen really wants to play. The concerns behind the big mouth Rosen are strictly the reason he continues to fall, not his skill. And you cannot tell me Case Keenum is the answer in Denver, but Rosen may be. GM John Elway may see a lot of similarities between himself and Rosen, and this is a pick that seem perfect for both. Elway will not pass up on him twice, securing that Rosen dawns a orange and blue jersey next season.

Louisville QB Lamar Jackson – Picked 23rd by the New England Patriots

Just imagine that Bill Belichick follows Tom Brady with a QB with the athleticism that Lamar Jackson possesses. Sure, there is a chance Jackson goes to the Cardinals, but I can see them waiting on Rudolph or Lauletta later in the draft. And when I began to hear the noise that Jackson would be possibly on the Patriots radar, I chuckled. Yet, even more reports have come in that they have had multiple visits, including a private workout with him. Jackson brings 4.3 speed with an arm that can absolutely sling it. I have the Patriots picking him because, well, that would be fun and weird, and I love it. So hey, by nights end we may, just may, be welcoming former Louisville Cardinal and Heisman QB Lamar Jackson to New England baybeeeeeeeee.

Alright that’s all, let’s enjoy some Draft night.

– Scott Edwards, The Creator

#ComebackSZN: Road to Redemption for Johnny Manziel

#ComebackSZN: Road to Redemption for Johnny Football

This morning, Johnny Manziel went on Good Morning America to discuss his circus life and why he is ready to return to what he does best, play football. The former Heisman Trophy winner announced how he has bipolar-disorder, and that is in part of what led to his epic downfall. Manziel explained how he now is continuing to take what he must to help himself recover. And more meaningful than anything else in the interview to the fans, he plans to not only return to football, but the NFL.

Many people are going to doubt that he can ever get back the highest level of football competition, but if you know me, I have zero doubts that he gets back. Johnny Football is a talented football player who just got stuck in the game. He isn’t nearly done yet. Manziel never got his real chance in the NFL, but he still showed flashes in his small amount of play. First, he was able to win two games for the Cleveland Browns. Try and tell me who else can do that. He is a winner. You put him in a setting that develops the system around him, and dammit he’s going to produce.

I will admit, I’m one of the bigger believers in this guy, and I refuse to let go. I bought the guys jersey the day after he was drafted, so don’t challenge me pal. There is a reason he was a first-round pick, he has the abilities to transcend and change the game. All signs point to Johnny going to the CFL (Canadian Football League) to begin what I want to call, the Redemption Tour. Also known as #ComebackSZN. He will make the CFL must watch. Don’t believe me? He is a better football player than Tim Tebow, who I also love, and Tebow is in the news for every little thing he does. And he may be on the level of popularity as Tebow. So, the CFL will become watched on all platforms possible. But even if he is able to bypass the CFL and return straight to the NFL, so much better. He explained that many NFL franchises have interest, so maybe we don’t have to wait for the ultimate return. Until then, let’s just be excited with the idea of Money Manziel gracing our screens once again.

Every road needs a beginning, and with the fact that Johnny is finally clean, I hope to be there for the ride. He deserves a second chance, which he will get because all teams need some talent, and he has a lot of it at the premier position.

“I am watching all the other guys doing what I want to be doing and I am sitting on a couch being a loser”

See, he gets it. He knows it is time to be doing what he loves rather than doing things that he regrets. I want you to join the bandwagon now before you miss it. The Road of Redemption is a long one, but clearly he knows that it is time to kill it.

Happy to see that he is all cleaned up, seems to finally be happy, and has a goal on one thing which is what he is best at. Football.

Johnny Football, Welcome Back.

-Scott Edwards – The Creator of WTF Sports

NFL Honors: Awards Predictions

The announcement of the 2017-18 season NFL Awards is coming later on tonight as the NFL holds its annual NFL Honors award show the night before Super Bowl LII. And while some appear closer than others, I give a hard look at all the awards and give my final thoughts on who should be taking home the hardware. The awards that will be discussed (in order) go as followed:

  -Special Teams Player of the Year

    -Most Improved Player
-Offensive Player of the Year
-Offensive Rookie of the Year
-Defensive Rookie of the Year
-Defensive Player of the Year
-Comeback Player of the Year
-Coach of the Year
-Most Valuable Player

So why keep rambling on when you can see there is a lot of work to be done, so let’s get it.

Special Teams Player of the Year

Candidates –

Greg Zuerlein, K Los Angeles Rams

When it comes to the Rams, many will think this season about Todd Gurley, Jared Goff, and Head Coach Sean McVay, but people cannot overlook the clear-cut best kicker in all of the NFL. This season, Greg Zuerlein played in only 14 games due to a back injury that ended his season early, but he delivered on legitimately every kick he needed to make. Zuerlein went 38/40 on Field Goals, which is straight up impressive. That is 95.0% on field goal attempts, which makes him even more remarkable. To go in a little deeper, Zuerlein was 12-12 from 40-49, and 6-7 from 50+, making him even more remarkable this season. I would say he is probably the frontrunner out of the Kicker position to take this award home.

Budda Baker, FS Arizona Cardinals

Rookie safety Budda Baker took the game of Special Teams by storm, as he was able to be a noticeable part of a not so pretty Cardinals team this season. He was extremely impressive all year long, showing the pure hustle and grit that any team would want in a Special Team specialist. In his rookie year, not only did he make the Pro Bowl, but he also was First-Team All Pro, which is not something easy to do. Sure, none of his stats are pretty by any means, but he managed to force two fumbles on Special Teams, while also accomplishing many big-time tackles not allowing his team to give up any field. He had a great season, and he would love to cap it off with such a big award.

My Winner: Greg Zuerlein, K Los Angeles Rams

Why: Yeah, I know this is probably the least important award to you if you are reading this. But, I will continue because Kickers are people too. Greg “The Leg” Zuerlein was simply remarkable this season. If you had him in Fantasy Football, you KNOW how damn good this guy was. From a week to week basis it seemed he would be contributing at least two field goals, and multiple PATs, and even more other weeks. He was a lights out kicker, if that exists, and he will be taking home the hardware as the NFL’s Special Teams Player of the Year.

Most Improved Player of the Year

Candidates –

Case Keenum, QB Minnesota Vikings

After a few seasons of just trying to find himself a team, Case Keenum finally needed to be the center point of a team, and the man flourished. Case Keenum entered the scene for the Vikings once QB Sam Bradford went down with an injury after the first game of the season. Not only was Keenum given a chance to fill in, but a chance to win the starting job, and that he did. It was clear after Bradford gave it another shot, it was Keenum or bust for the rest of that season. Keenum appeared in 15 games, while starting 14, throwing for 3,547 yards, 22 TDs, and 7 INTs. This was simply his best season, after somewhat being forgotten after a couple rough years in Houston and Los Angeles, and many were happy in this feel good season. The NCAA All-Time leading passer was part of the Gruden QB Camp back when he was getting drafted, and Gruden stated how it doesn’t matter where you are drafted, it just takes the right coach to give you a chance. This was a great story all season long, and no one would mind seeing Case be recognized for such a brilliant, bounce back season.

Jared Goff, QB Los Angeles Rams

Something tells me a lot of these awards will have Los Angeles Rams personnel involved. And it proves here. After about a half season or so of starting for the Rams in his rookie season, Jared Goff was casted off as a for sure bust after being the first pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. However, exit the worst coach in history of Jeff Fischer, and enter young up and coming coach, 31 now 32-year-old Sean McVay. Sean McVay helped make Kirk Cousins a franchise like QB for a few seasons, and now he was tasked with getting out Jared Goff’s full potential. Goff answered and then some. Jared Goff became a Pro Bowler this season, throwing for 3,804 yards, 28 TDs, and 7 INTs, which he threw in just seven games last season. Goff showed the potential that everyone saw coming out of college, and he helped make the Rams a team that everyone can see being in the Playoff hunt for years to come. As a fan, I was happy to see Goff prove everyone wrong this season, and there’s a good chance he is taking home such an award that he worked for.

My Winner: Jared Goff, QB Los Angeles Rams

Why: This has to be one of the toughest awards for this season, due to the fact that there are two players that absolutely deserve it, while there is usually only one player a year. While Case Keenum had such an amazing season for the Vikings, Goff had one just simply better. When you looked at a Vikings matchup this season, it all came down to if the opposing team could beat that hulking defense, not stop the Vikings offense. But when it came to the Rams, you looked to the offense. While yes, a lot of credit goes to Todd Gurley, you had to respect the arm of Jared Goff. They got him receivers this season in Sammy Watkins, Robert Woods, and rookie Cooper Kupp, and they exploded. Jared Goff had such an impressive season, that I feel this one may be more of a layup than I figured once it comes down to the nitty gritty. So Goff over Keenum here, such a bounce back season for him and the Rams.

Offensive Player of the Year

Candidates –

Rob Gronkowski, TE New England Patriots

There is not one player in the entire NFL that can bring to the gridiron that Rob Gronkowski does to the Patriots. A combination of power, size, and speed becomes unguardable, and makes “Gronk” a favorite for this award every season. In a season where he was a Pro Bowler and first team All-Pro, Gronk gave an effort of 69 catches (nice.), 1,084 yards, and 8 TDs in just 14 games, in which one of him he sat out for the most part due to protecting him from injury. This season was just another day in the world of Rob Gronkowski, but what he delivers on the field is completely game changing and just a complete joy to watch. Gronk delivered this season, and it may just be enough to get him more hardware for his bookshelf.

Le’Veon Bell, RB Pittsburgh Steelers

Let me start off by just saying this: No one can do what Le’Veon Bell can do. When Le’Veon Bell is healthy, he is one of the most dynamic people in the entire NFL. The ability to just wait and wait until he finds his hole in the defense is absolutely incredible. The strength he contains in his legs makes him a hard tackle every time he is on the field. He was undoubtedly First Team All-Pro, and he was listed as Flex. This is why I said no one can do what he can. Bell has the ability to be the best RB in the NFL, but also one of the best WR if he was listed as one. This season, Le’Veon Bell led the entire NFL in touches with 406 total, a whopping 60 more than the next highest. Bell had a league leading 321 rushing attempts, 1,291 yards rushing, 9 rushing TDs followed by 85 catches, 655 receiving yards, and 2 receiving TDs. This season, Bell brought everything to the table and had a beast of a season. He will be a challenging man to beat for the Offensive Player of the Year, since he may be the most complete.

Todd Gurley, RB Los Angeles Rams

Todd Gurley is a freak. This man had an amazing season until Week 13. And in Week 14, Todd Gurley hit another level of freak. In a three game span, he had 56 total carries, 366 total yards rushing, 5 rushing TDs, 16 catches, 225 total receiving yards, and 3 receiving TDs. IN THREE WEEKS. This is absolutely absurd. And his complete season is pretty good too if you were wondering, as in 15 games he accounted for 279 rushes, 1,305 rushing yards, 13 rushing TDs, 64 catches, 788 yards, and 6 receiving TDs. Yep, he makes everything I said about Le’Veon Bell seem crazy, but dammit, they’re different players and Todd Gurley was also out of his god damn mind. Anyways, after analyzing Gurley’s season, it may be another Ram taking an award.

Antonio Brown, WR Pittsburgh Steelers

There isn’t a better receiver in all of the NFL. Plain and simple. And in 14 games, he had 101 catches, 1,533 yards (which was a league lead), and 9 TDs. This guy is the best receiver in football, and it hasn’t been close in years. He is a week to week difference maker for the Steelers, and it is proven he simply cannot be covered. In the playoffs against the Jags, quite possibly the best defensive team in all the NFL, Antonio Brown, who played hurt, torched the Jalen Ramsey/AJ Bouye combination for 7 receptions, 132 yards, and 2 TDs. I believe if he played the last two games in the regular season, he would be a true top contender to be the first WR to win Most Valuable Player, but hey, I don’t think he’d complain taking the Offensive Player of the Year award.

My Winner: Todd Gurley, RB Los Angeles Rams

Why: Remember when I said that the Most Improved Player of the Year award was one of the hardest? Well, now I will have to go with this award. And to me, it really comes down to two players; Antonio Brown and Todd Gurley. Both were difference makers more than the others I guess is what I am saying. The thing that hurts Brown’s case is getting hurt. I really wish I knew his full season numbers had he played at least one more game and even finished the Patriots game. Also, not just that, but what Todd Gurley was able to accomplish this season. He had a masterful season, being the best offensive weapon for any team, and any defense who played the Rams had to game plan to stop just him, cause one touch could win the game for him. This season was undeniably the year of Todd Gurley. Don’t believe me? Just wait, there’s more. And yes, that is 3/3 for Rams players on these awards.

Offensive Rookie of the Year

Candidates –

Kareem Hunt, RB Kansas City Chiefs

If I am being completely honest with you, this is the award that made me want to write this long prediction blog, not because of MVP, or anything like that, but because of players like Kareem Hunt. Kareem Hunt was fantastic this year. Rookie Kareem Hunt entered the league with an absolute bang. First of all, he had to take over for Spencer Ware, who was the starting RB coming into the season, hurt himself in the third preseason game, ending his season prematurely. So anyways, in the opening game of the season versus my beloved New England Patriots, Hunt delivered 17 carries for 148 yards and 1 rushing TD and felt like adding 5 catches for 98 yards and two receiving TDs. Yeah, so I’d say he showed up on the big stage. And for many games, Hunt had great weeks, but he hit a point of regression, but many believe it is difficult to fully blame him when they didn’t use him enough for weeks upon weeks. But regardless, he delivered a league-leading 1,327 yards rushing, 8 rushing TDs, 53 catches, 455 yards receiving, and 3 receiving TDs. All of this, in his rookie season. Oh, he also made the Pro Bowl. So, I would say, for at least the first half of the season, he was your favorite. And final statistics prove, he still may be.

Leonard Fournette, RB Jacksonville Jaguars

Coming into the season, Leonard Fournette was more than likely the favorite for this award. I know he was mine, and I went all in on him. He is a beast. He proved that he is a beast. He was a huge difference maker for the Jaguars this season, and sure, while they added to their defense that made it possibly the best in all the NFL, this offense still needed to score points. And all of the offense ran through Leonard Fournette. His numbers aren’t completely beautiful, but I believe his foot injury that he struggled through all season is the reason why more than anything else. Fournette played in a total of 13 games, getting 268 carries, that resulted in 1,040 rushing yards. While the average yard per rush of 3.9 is nothing special, he was able to churn out yardage late in games. His 9 rushing TDs in the regular season are why he cannot be overlooked. He was knocked coming out of college for not being able to catch the ball, but he was able to deliver 36 catches for 302 yards and one TD. And in the Jaguars biggest win of the season, he had 25 carries for 109 yards and 3 TDs in the playoff win over the Steelers. Fournette can not at all be overlooked for this award, as he may have been the most important player to the Jags all season, offense guaranteed.

Alvin Kamara, RB New Orleans Saints

Ever since Week Four in the regular season, I have been wanting to write something about Alvin Kamara. Why? Well, if you could tell from his full season success, you’d know exactly why. He has something special that not all players possess. I can’t necessarily but a name to it, but he has IT. That ability to be a game changer every single time he touches the ball. Now remember, week four, the Saints still had Adrian Peterson on the roster, and it seemed none of the RBs could ever get enough play to make a difference. It wasn’t until week six that we got to see Alvin Kamara truly get full playing time. And from that moment, game changer. It seemed on a weekly basis that Kamara was either getting 100+ scrimmage yards, or multiple TDs. To give you a look into his complete success, Kamara had only 120 rushes for 728 yards, making an impressive 6.1 yards per carry for the season. Adding on 8 rushing TDs never hurts either. And since he may be the best dual threat in the game, he added in 81 receptions going for 826 receiving yards and 5 TDs through the air. 1,554 yards from scrimmage for the rookie, in a season where he wasn’t fully in the system until about week 6. He was also fantastic at kick returns, in which he only had 11 total, but they went for an average of 31.5 yards. And he took one to the house because of course he did. 106 yards, the longest of the season. He was truly dynamic, and in this extremely impressive season of rookie RBs, the one that got his chance the latest may have taken the cake as Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Honorable Mention:

Deshaun Watson, QB Houston Texans

I’ll make this quick, but at one point, this award wasn’t even close. Deshaun Watson was changing the game, being must watch television on a week to week basis and seemed to be unstoppable, even in losses. To go in further, Watson played in just 7 games, starting 6 because for some reason Bill O’Brien thought starting off the season with Tom Savage and not your first round pick would be brilliant. Anyways, in 7 total games, Watson threw for 1,699 yards, 19 TDs and 8 INTs. He had 19 TDs in just 7 weeks, and that doesn’t even bring in his ability with his legs. He also had 269 yards rushing and 2 TDs. He was electric, and his connection with DeAndre Hopkins is something to love for the coming seasons. He will be my pick for next years Comeback Player of the Year.

Winner: Alvin Kamara, RB New Orleans Saints

Why: This award for me all comes down to one thing this season… Consistency. That is exactly what Alvin Kamara is. He was able to put the Saints on another level, a level that I truly thought would bring them to the Super Bowl. He scored the go ahead TD in the playoff game against the Vikings, which looked to be the game winner, well of course we know it was not, but the fact Drew Brees has the trust he did in Kamara all season long proves the ability that he brings to the field. He was a Pro Bowler with teammate Mark Ingram, which is unreal that two players from the same offensive position not called WR is insane. Kamara brought consistency that Kareem Hunt did not, which may be his only knock, but it means so much in the NFL. So Alvin Kamara is your 2017-2018 Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Defensive Rookie of the Year:

Candidate and Winner:

Marshon Lattimore, CB New Orleans Saints

Why: So, I could have given you some information on Tre’Davious White of the Buffalo Bills, but he was not better than Marshon Lattimore. And then there is no one close after him. Marshon Lattimore is an elite corner in the NFL already. Back to back seasons, the NFL Draft gave us Elite cornerbacks in Jalen Ramsey and now Marshon Lattimore. Lattimore helped change the Saints defense from laughing stalk to a serious threat. Lattimore had 5 INT on the season, but that doesn’t do his play justice. You need to remember, Lattimore has to match up with Julio Jones and Mike Evans twice a year. He made the Pro Bowl as a rookie at a position that the referees aren’t to generous with, so he, simply is, the Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Defensive Player of the Year:

Candidates:

Calais Campbell, DE Jacksonville Jaguars

This past offseason, the Jacksonville Jaguars started off the offseason by signing 31-year-old DE/DT Calais Campbell away from the Arizona Cardinals in a deal of 4 years / $60 million. Many analysts thought this deal would come back to hurt them in the end. Well season one I’d say went pretty well. Campbell was the leader of the Jacksonville defense, leading the team with 14.5 sacks and being a run stuffer up front all season long. He was a dominating force and was recognized as First Team All-Pro by the Associated Press. The deal clearly paid off, as he helped be the complete leader for the young Jaguars team and be part of leading them to the playoffs for the first time in years, and even the AFC Conference Championship game. He is more than likely the favorite to take this award home.

Aaron Donald, DT Los Angeles Rams

Stud. Superstar. To me, Aaron Donald could be the most dominant player in the entire NFL. This season, Donald totaled 11.0 sacks, 32 tackles, and 5 forced fumbles out of the Defensive Tackle position. For those of you who may not know, that is an absolutely insane season. Especially out of that position. The former AP Defensive Rookie of the Year could now be on his way to adding a big trophy to the resume. He added a First Team All Pro to his many accomplishments this season, and was the overall leader that the young Rams needed to move ahead in the pack. This award comes down to two versatile, big, gritty dudes who just love to play football. To me, it shouldn’t go to anyone else besides them. And it may finally be the year that Aaron Donald adds the biggest achievement for a defensive player to his already stacked resume.

Winner: Aaron Donald, DT Los Angeles Rams

Why: This was a tough one, because of Calais’ absolute dominance that can’t go unnoticed, the dominance that led to the Jags defensive success, but to me it comes down to one thing. Who was more valuable to their team? That would be Aaron Donald. Without Aaron Donald, that defense would have been a mess. The man is a machine, a machine that plays almost every snap at such a grueling position. When it comes down to all of these awards, it feels as though the Rams are taking the cake on most. Why? Because it was such a huge bounce back and they had so many players that came through huge for their team’s time and time again. So, this one is for Donald, he had a hell of a year, and could simply be recognized as the best defensive player in all of football, even with JJ Watt at full strength, that’s how good Donald is.

Comeback Player of the Year

Candidates –

Earl Thomas III, FS Seattle Seahawks

Last season, Earl Thomas suffered a horrific injury that brought him all the way to the possibility of retirement. However, he decided to give it a go for Seattle this season, as he felt he had a lot of football left to play. Earl Thomas, 6x Pro Bowler and 3x All-Pro, was ready to face his toughest challenge yet, and it all came down to his body. Let’s just say, he answered. Loudly. Thomas was once again among the best safeties in the league, totaling 2 INTs, including one taken to the house for 6, 1 Forced Fumble and 56 tackles. To me, Earl Thomas has been the most important player and best player on this Seattle defense, a defense that has Bobby Wagner, Kam Chancellor, and Richard Sherman employed to it. He has become the heart and soul of the Seattle Seahawks, and he was able to bounce back and show once again what he is all about, giving him a great chance at the Comeback Player of the Year award.

Keenan Allen, WR Los Angeles Chargers

There is something about Keenan Allen, something that makes him special. None of his measurables are off the charts by any means, and he isn’t the fastest player on the field, but simply put, he gets it done. The 2015 and 2016 seasons were not kind to Allen, as he suffered season ending injuries in both. So this year, it seemed as if he had the most to prove. And he did not upset. Becoming, or at least continuing being Phillip Rivers favorite receiver, he was able to mark career highs in everything besides TDs. He brought in 102 receptions for 1,393 yards and 6 TDs. This season, Allen seemed to become one of the elite, and as long as Rivers his flinging it to him, he will continue to put up these outstanding numbers. He also managed to play all 16 games for the first time in his career, which helps his cause along with the amazing statistics he was able to put together.

Winner: Keenan Allen, WR Los Angeles Chargers

Why: It all comes down to the fact he put together a career best season. Sure, Earl Thomas had a spectacular season as always, but Allen but forward career best while staying healthy. He was able to help give Chargers fans hope as they were in the midst of a bounce back season after multiple seasons of mediocrity. Allen putting stats together that rival many of the top players in the game is a good look and helps you understand how good he has become and will continue to be, only being 25 years of age. I feel after around week 4, Allen was finally able to find his feet and run away with this one. Playing his first ever complete season, Allen showed what he could deliver and why he will be feared by many defenses for the coming years, taking home the Comeback Player of the Year award.

Coach of the Year:

Candidate / Winner:

Sean McVay, Los Angeles Rams

Why: Let me just say. This award has to be the worst. Why? Because I feel it has to go to the Coach that improved his team the most this season, rather than the best coach overall. Because if that was how it truly worked, Bill Belichick may as well be undefeated in this category. Stupid. But anyways, knowing how the voters work, it can’t not be Sean McVay. McVay just turned 32 years of age two weeks ago, and his resume already has NFL Head Coach on it. And not just a head coach, but among the best in the league. Along with Kyle Shanahan this past offseason, I was most excited to see what McVay could do with his team now that he is in charge. And what he did was simply astounding. He got the potential out of Jared Goff that many had already given up on, he made Todd Gurley an MVP-caliber player, and he made a Rams team who were a complete mess in their first season back in LA a must see team on a week to week basis. Simply put, he made this team rise to levels no one believed they could, get this young team into the playoffs and is a big reason that the Rams will be taking home so many awards tonight. So congrats to Sean McVay, there is zero chance you are losing this one, my Coach of the Year.

Most Valuable Player:

Candidates:

Carson Wentz, QB Philadelphia Eagles

I could not think of one thing bad about Carson Wentz season besides an torn ACL that knocked him out for the season during his 13th game. Had he been able to play all 16, this may not be a question of who was winning this award. Carson Wentz was the second overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft after the Eagles traded up to take him and see if he could be their franchise QB. Well this season, he proved he can be even more than that. In 13 games, Wentz went 11-2 with 3,296 yards, 33 TDs, and just 7 INTs. He was outstanding, making it look easy on a week to week basis. But to me, what hinders his chances besides the injury, is what the Eagles were able to do without him. They’ve made it to the Super Bowl, without the franchise under center, and it seems as if Doug Pederson’s system may be the biggest part of the Eagles success. I don’t want to take anything away from this star studded QB, but these are the only things hindering his chances, but he may be able to take home that Most Valuable Player regardless.

Todd Gurley, RB Los Angeles Rams

It would be extremely hard to keep the Offensive Player of the Year out of the MVP voting, especially with the type of year Gurley had. I could read you off all his stats again but that won’t be needed (look at Offensive Player of the Year for full write up). Instead, understand how he was able to help transcend the Rams into an offensive juggernaut. How he was able to make defenses look silly on a week to week basis. He was a certified game changer who could not be stopped, and if he was ever stopped, he opened up other abilities for this team. He was able to succeed as a rusher and a receiver, resulting in a monstrous year and a possible MVP award.

Tom Brady, QB New England Patriots

When you think of the meaning of Most Valuable Player, what comes to your mind? I would say, it is the player who if a team didn’t have, would not have nearly as much success of they were without them. For example, Lebron James is the most valuable player to any team in basketball. If you have him on your team, you are more than likely going to the NBA Finals. Well, in football, that’s Tom Brady. Tom Brady has been to 7, I repeat, 7 Super Bowls in his career. And coming off a win and into his age 40 season, people were wondering if he could continue his excellence or finally fall off the wagon. Instead, he performed at the highest level imaginable. Having simply the best season for a 40-year-old QB, Brady threw for 4,577 yards, 32 TDs, and just 8 INTs, having a QB rating of 102.8 and a QBR of 70.2. After a season in which he would have been awarded had he played all 16 games and wasn’t screwed by the NFL, he may be taking home the MVP award once again. And to go a little deeper, while playoffs for some reason have no affect on the award, Brady was able to lead his team back to a record 8th Super Bowl for one player and will look to claim his 6th ring after a heroic comeback against the Jacksonville Jaguars in the AFC Conference Championship game. It simply may all be enough for Brady to take home his 3rd Most Valuable Player award.

Winner: Tom Brady, QB New England Patriots

Why: You didn’t really think I would pick someone else not named Brady for this one, right? Brady is the most important player to any team in this league, and he truly is the Greatest of All Time. It seems as if each season he needs to keep proving the haters wrong, which is completely fine, it is a joy to watch. But in a season where there were so many losses to the Patriots roster throughout the season, having to gain chemistry with new weapons, and not having his number one guy all year, Tom Brady, at age 40, defined the odds and looks to be the best player all year. Whatever you want to call him, Comeback Kid, Tom Terrific, the GOAT, TB12, I think he will be okay with being called MVP once again.

Finally, its over. This has been the biggest blog/article I have ever wrote in my life. I have enjoyed every single part of it and I hope you do too. I will be back tomorrow morning with my Super Bowl prediction, but until then, please enjoy, share and all that good stuff.

Don’t forget to Join the Nation. If you have any interest in writing, have questions, or anything at all. Please email wtfsportspod@gmail.com.

-Scott Edwards, The Creator of WTF Sports Nation

Evaluating the Top Five Backs in the NFL Draft

Top Five Running Backs

Saquon Barkley: By far the best running back in the class, similar to Fournette last NFL Draft.
The pride of Penn State is listed at 5-11, 223 lbs. Barkley showed potential freshman
year before breaking out in his sophomore season. The following summer Barkley broke a Penn
State record when he Power Cleaned 405 pounds. He has been one of the more consistent
players in college football, staying between 5.5 and 5.9 yards per carry in three seasons. Barkley
ran for 3,843 yards and 43 touchdowns in three seasons. He is also an elite pass catcher as he
grabbed 102 receptions for 1,195 yards and 8 touchdowns. Saquon is a projected top 10 pick
and could very well be in the top 3. He has elite acceleration and explosiveness through the hole.
What really sets Barkley apart is his balance, Saquon bounces off tackles without slowing down
and has to be gang tackled in most situations.

Barkley is extremely difficult to bring down because he plays like a triple threat in basketball.
However, instead of pass, shoot or dribble, he has the option of dropping his shoulders and
laying a player out, breaking his ankles with an explosive juke, or throwing out that powerful stiff
arm and taking the defender wherever he wants to go. Barkley also hurdles like nobody I have
ever seen.

Barkley may be the best athlete in the entire draft class and is as much of a sure thing in this
draft as there is. No doubt in my mind he starts as a rookie and dominates. Grab this guy in your
fantasy league and start him, he’s projects to be one of the most entertaining players in the
upcoming draft right behind Baker Mayfield.

Derrius Guice: The LSU balanced back is listed at 5-11, 212 lbs. Guice showed potential
freshman year when he averaged 8.5 yards per carry with a limited workload (51 carries). Guice
dominated his sophomore year behind Leonard Fournette, running for 1,387 yards and 15
touchdowns. He averaged 7.9 yards per carry, a dominant mark for a backup. Guice took over
the backfield junior year once Fournette went number four overall to the Jaguars. He did not
disappoint, running for 1,251 yards and 11 touchdowns. He increased his carries by 54 which
dropped his average to 5.3 a carry. This is standard because he becomes the focal point of the
offense, yet still averaged a first down every two plays as the guy with the target on his back. His
touchdowns regressed for the same reason, when he was on the field in the red zone the defense
called run stopping plays so LSU had to counter with passes. I would consider Guice a second
or third round pick. He is not widely regarded as the next superstar back but has a lot of potential
and is an all around athlete. He has above average speed, strength, and instincts. He knows
when to cut and when to drop his shoulders for a few extra yards. He could take over an NFL
backfield but do not expect him to get that kind of work in his rookie year.

Watch as Guice hits the hole patiently before making a mini-hurdle, bouncing it outside, and
shows off the wheels:

Here is an example of a busted play that Guice turns into a positive play after breaking four
tackles:

This is just a video of Guice committing a homicide purely for entertainment:

Ronald Jones II: Jones (6’0, 200 lbs) has accumulated 3,319 yards and 39 touchdowns in three
seasons for the USC Trojans as well as 32 receptions for 302 yards and 3 receiving touchdowns.
He ran for 1,550 yards (8th in FBS) and 19 touchdowns (T-5 in FBS). He has the stats to stand
out in a league of 129 schools and has the tape to back it up. Jones stands out to me because of
his instincts and patience. Not saying he is the next Le’Veon Bell but he does have a similar
running style with a foundation of hesitation in the backfield and explosive cuts at the second
level.

Watch Jones as Colorado floods the strong side gap, forcing Jones to hit the brakes, cut to the
weak side where he makes a defender look silly with a quick juke before wheeling into the end
zone:

Here’s Jones bobby and weaving some more:

Ronald appears to have average speed but high end explosiveness and ball carrier vision. I
expect him to get drafted between rounds two and four and making an impact early. If he gets
drafted to a RB needy team, he could play immediately and produce. Jones is getting overlooked
in a RB loaded class.

Sony Michel: Michel (5-11, 215 lbs) as my fourth ranked back is bold, over fellow Georgia RB Nick

Chubb is even more so. Chubb and Michel were called Thunder (Chubb) and Lightning (Michel) at

Georgia. The senior duo lead their team to the National Championship game and should have the

chance to compete for a Super Bowl at the NFL level next season. Michel was the speed back for

Georgia and ran for 3,638 yards in his four seasons and 33 touchdowns on the ground. He also caught

64 receptions for 621 yards and 6 touchdowns. Sony ran for 1,227 yards and 16 touchdowns his senior year,
proving that he is not just a third down back. Michel plays fast and should have just enough
power to play at the NFL level.

Here’s a clip of Sony breaking an arm tackle and dropping his shoulders to gain a few yards:

This is a video of Sony Michel running really fast:

Sony Michel will be drafted in the third round at the earliest, and could slip to the fifth round
potentially. He would be a steal that late, as he could be a third down back as a rookie. He
translates to a James White role where he could be used as a backup and third down back. He
would give an established NFL back some rest while having a role carved out on later downs.
Rashaad Penny: Who? Penny is the pride of San Diego State University, listed at 5’11, 220. He
ran for 2,248 yards which was the most in the entire FBS. He also ran for 23 touchdowns, good
for second in the FBS. Not a bad season, it’s a shame I barely knew he existed until I started
looking at rushing stats for other elite RBs. The senior racked up 3,656 yards and 38 touchdowns
at SDSU. He only got two carries in his freshman season, then logged 69 as a sophomore. It
wasn’t until junior year that he got significant carries (136) where he took off for 1,018 yards (7.5/
carry). He also caught 42 passes over his fours seasons and racked up 479 more yards and 6
more touchdowns. He is a pure power back with the ability to catch the football. Penny is hard to
judge but one thing does stand out, pure power.
Watch Penny bulldoze his way through the Army defense on his way to a TD:

Here’s another example of his strength as he drags a Hawaii defender like a small child for about
eight yards:

Penny has a ton of upside and could be effective in a rotation. He seems like a great fit to replace
Jonathon Stewart as the power back in Carolina. His draft stock is a mystery but I do not see him
going before the third round. Regardless of where he ends up, I can’t wait to see how he does in
the preseason to get a better idea of his talents.
Let me know what you think and if I should do a part two with guys like Nick Chubb, Royce
Freeman, and Kerryon Johnson.

– Scott Neville – WTF Sports Nation

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Is this the beginning end for Haslam, Jackson, and Kizer in Cleveland?

After an amazing season complete for the Cleveland Browns, going a historic 0-16, people are questioning if the legendary trio of Browns owner Jimmy Haslam, head coach Hue Jackson, and star QB Deshone Kizer is coming to an end. The problem has begun to escalate behind the scenes, leading people to really wonder, is this legacy over?

KIZER, the 52nd overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, had a compelling rookie season. In his 15 starts, the rookie and now bona fide star threw for 2,894 yards, 11 TD, and 22 INT. He also carried a rating of 60.5, and on passes outside of the pocket, a 0.0. Big stuff here, and it would be crazy to think. But a video spread around the football world when a slightly angered Hue Jackson said to his rookie QB, “Deshone, you missed him by 10 feet.” People were alarmed, thinking, how could someone say that to their beloved QB in Cleveland. Kizer responded, “I know coach, I’m pretty good, huh?”. This got people stirring, wondering what if this was the beginning of the end for the Browns Dynasty.

THE BROWNS ARE in uncharted territory, as no one has sucked this bad for so long. They haven’t just lost every game this year, but have a combined record of 1-31 under head coach Hue Jackson. Some would say, that is legendary in itself. But, it seems they have been able to hide the bad, and have continued they’re legendary stretch of no good QBs, until Kizer. Where can they go now, with Haslam on the fence on keeping Hue Jackson on the sidelines for another year, and if Jackson stays, possibly being done with the inflated ego that Kizer has after the dazzling rookie season. With this threat, it is possible it all comes crashing down from one spot; from within.

THE CRACKS FIRST showed when on October 11, 2017 Jackson announced that he would be benching star rookie Deshone Kizer for QB Kevin Hogan. This made waves around the NFL, with people asking, why did it take so long? Do people actually think Kizer can improve with two sticks as WRs? Haslam was for sure Kizer, like McCoy and Manziel and Weeden and Quinn and so forth would be heir to the throne, the superstar they needed. Which clearly, he is. So Haslam considered a coaching change all year, just to try and save Kizer from being benched again, but this dynamic trio was able to fight off the distain for each other, channel their egos, and now there comes more questions.

AFTER BEING THE second ever team to go 0-16 on a season, the Cleveland Browns will have the first overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, and with names like Darnold and Rosen on the board at QB, it may finally be the end of this duo in Cleveland. Cleveland contains two picks in the top 5, after trading one of theirs last year to the Houston Texans in a pick that turned out to be QB Deshaun Watson. Now, they have a chance at picking a brand new QB. This situation almost reminds me of the Colts situation the year Peyton Manning missed the whole season, a seasoned Hall of Fame type QB in Kizer just sitting their on your team, but the potential to get the next big thing with the first overall pick may be a better idea. My sources tell me Hue Jackson’s plan is to do so, so now we may have say goodbye, just so soon, to the trio that will forever be remembered in Cleveland of Haslam, Jackson, and Kizer. Forever will go down as a legacy, and we will see if the Cleveland Brown Dynasty can survive such a big fall.

My thoughts: Of course this is all crap and completely making fun of ESPN’s stupid claim that Kraft/Belichick/Brady is fed up and ending. The guy who wrote it is an idiot, the company that he works for continues to try and tarnish the team that continues to be the ELITE of the entire NFL and possibly all of sports. They are falling behind in everything, letting go so many employees and essentially on there way to the bottom, so the only time they ever have success is to do something likes this. Go ahead, do it. I will see you at the god damn Super Bowl parade when Kraft, Bill and Brady are celebrating like it is the first. Shut up and talk about sports for once, you disgrace of a company.

Please feel free to share this wonderful article that is all comedy based for your enjoyment!

-Scott Edwards, The Creator of WTF Sports Nation

Heartbreaker – Stud QB Deshaun Watson goes down with Torn ACL.

In a shocker, the Houston Texans announced today that QB Deshaun Watson tore his ACL in practice today, showing that the injury bug sucks more than ever this year. Watson became a complete game changer, bringing the former running abilities of Colin Kaepernick and the gun slinging expertise of Matthew Stafford into one persona known as QB Deshaun Watson. Making the entire Texans team have hope, Houston see and believe that they finally have the QB, and at least for this season, that ends in brutal fashion. What this injury leaves is questions, curiousness, and sadness throughout the NFL and sports world. As a fan of football and of what Watson has done for the league in just 6 ½ games is nothing to sleep on, let’s look.

In his first 6 ½ games of his young NFL career, Watson has been a offensive, fantasy football juggernaut. Watson posted 1,699 passing yards, 19 pass TDs (which is a record for first 7 games and also leading the league), 269 rushing yards, and 2 rushing TDs. He managed to post a 103.0 passer rating which is also among the most in the NFL. Not only did he dominate throughout the season, but he put on shows on the national stage multiple times. He just had a shootout with Russell Wilson, which was one for the record books with both throwing over 400 yards, respectively.

This NFL season has taken a lot of stars from the game of football for the season, and Watson is just another one to go. What may hurt most about this one is after putting up such an incredible game, the injury occurred in practice. This will be the second ACL injury for Watson in his football career, but thankfully it is the opposite leg this time. Yes, not great, special news, but it is something. This will be another huge blow to Houston, losing maybe their two best players now in Watson and JJ Watt earlier in the season. As a football fan, you hope and pray both comeback at their best.

A day after the Houston Astros win the World Series, the Houston faithful cannot fully celebrate after this result. They will look to next year, as the Houston Texans will only be better once everyone is fully healthy. A week of news worthy football news, this was the worst of them all, and as a football community we can only hope for a complete, healthy Watson to return sometime next season.

*Editors Note: If we can avoid losing a star-studded two-way QB like Robert Griffin III once was, I would truly appreciate it. Captivating and so exciting to witness both players when once healthy.

So we wish Deshaun Watson a healthy recovery, and hope that he can once again return to this form that we have been able to witness and enjoy during this 2017 season.

Please feel free to comment and share, thank you.

 

– Scott Edwards, The Creator of WTF Sports

Now Starting at QB for the 49ers… Jimmy Garoppolo

In shocking news on a late Monday night, the New England Patriots did the unthinkable trading proclaimed future of the organization QB Jimmy Garoppollo to the San Francisco 49ers for a 2018 2nd Round Draft pick that projects to be at the very front of that second round, being very valuable.

This news, reported by Adam Schefter, seemed to have broke and shocked the sports world as it was a move absolutely no one expected, in Belichick fashion. What I cannot wrap my head is why is the football world really that shocked? If you think about it, it makes too much sense. Garoppollo, age 25, is currently in his last year of his rookie contract. Thus, meaning that he was not going to take a discount to be a backup for another 3-5 seasons. Garoppollo was ready to start, and he was sitting behind the best Quarterback in football. Tom Brady was not giving up that job anytime soon, and even being at the age of 40, he has a lot left in the tank. He is a competitor, and he has said multiple times he wants to play another five seasons.

So, I ask again, where is the shock factor? Because Jacoby Brissett was traded, opening the door for Bill Belichick to put all his eggs in one basket with Jimmy Garoppollo leading this team in the After TB12 Era? It was impossible unless you wanted to pay two players NFL starting QB money and let the rest of the team suffer. Oh, why not use the franchise tag on Garoppollo and keep the future in New England? A waste. That’s why. The franchise tag salary for the QB position this season was $21.268m. IN ABSOLUTELY NO WAY WAS BILL BELICHICK GIVING THAT TO A BACKUP QB, THAT IS MORE THAN WHAT TOM BRADY GETS BY $7 MILLION PLUS. Jimmy G was ready to start in the NFL last year when he filled in for Tom as Tom faced his bullshit suspension. You’re lucky Bill kept him this long. Garoppollo knows his worth, Bill knew his current worth, it was a match not meant to be at seasons end.

Jamie Collins, Chandler Jones, Logan Mankins, Richard Seymour, Randy Moss, Mike Vrabel, Deion Branch, and Drew Bledsoe. What do these players all have in common besides being former New England Patriots? All traded by Bill Belichick, and all have been superstars for his teams in the past. You do not win a money battle with Belichick, and has no problem to send you packing somewhere else. And now Jimmy Garoppollo will join the squad, and will look to get paid and try to excel out of the Patriot system.

Now in no way is this supposed to come off as hate towards Jimmy Garoppollo. I enjoyed watching him play, felt he had a good future to come. Watching him excel in the preseason and what not was awesome, the way he was able to show great arm strength and deliver. But there it is, I was only ever going to be able to say “in the preseason”. That is why I feel the Patriots and 49ers come away winners in this entire trade fiasco. Bill Belichick can stop listening to people write Brady off, because the only person that says Tom Brady is done is Tom F’N Brady. And the 49ers get their QB of the future… maybe. 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan has to be the happiest person on the planet right now, as he gets his QB for the future. Garoppollo will have a few weeks to learn the playbook and the be put right into the red and gold jersey as the 49ers starting QB. But no one really knows if he is all that just yet. He was in the best, most proven system in the history of football. And now he will go to a system that will be built for his skill set. Last time this happened for a former Patriots QB, Matt Cassel lead the Chiefs to ONE winning season in four seasons. So lets pump the breaks and see how he does at first, but I do believe Jimmy Garoppollo can be a solid starting QB in the NFL.

So there it all is, Jimmy Garroppollo has went from a 2-time Super Bowl winning backup QB to the presumed face of the 49ers. Just like that. I am excited to see how he does in San Francisco, as I am a fan of the 49ers thanks to my father. But even more excited to see where the Patriots go with future backup plans (ready to welcome back Brian Hoyer) and who the next “future” will be. So with that, it leaves me one last thing to say.

Thank you and Good Luck on the West Coast, Jimmy G. We as a community will miss saying we have the best looking QB duo ever, and will miss saying G is the future. Thanks for your time and we hope you can lead the renaissance in San Francisco.

 

And to the Patriots fan freaking out, remember who your QB is right now.

Thank you for reading, please feel free to hit that like and leave your thoughts on Jimmy Garoppollo heading over to the West Coast.

– Scott Edwards, The Creator of WTF Sports