LWOS INC About Contact Apply Openings Writing FAQ Ad Policy
Last Word On Sports Logo

Last Word On Sports

Sports News Since 2011. Honestly.

Last Word On Sports Logo

Sports. Honestly. Since 2011

Day: August 31, 2016

Winnipeg Jets Name Blake Wheeler Captain

Posted on by Noah Cirisoli

The Announcement:

Winnipeg Jets Name Blake Wheeler Captain

The Winnipeg Jets announced their captain as well as their two alternate captains today. Forward Blake Wheeler, who turned 30 today will be wearing the “C” and defenseman Dustin Byfuglien and forward Mark Scheifele will be the alternate captains.  The Jets have been without a captain since Andrew Ladd was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks earlier this season.

Statements:

“When we think about leaders and what we ask of them, at the very top of the list is we want them to lead by example,” head coach Paul Maurice told the Jets website. “For Blake, in my time here but also over the course of his career, rarely do you run by a player who is able to play that hard, that consistently, every night. In order to do that, he practices like that. In terms of what we want our young players to, what do we want our fans to see, and how we want the players around Blake, where we want their eyes, is on his effort level, his compete, every shift, every game, every practice. We really think that he’s unique in that. There’s very few players that can drive themselves as hard as Blake can and we think he’s a spectacular leader by example in our room.”

Wheeler called his captaincy “A distinct honor”.  The captain also added, “I really look forward to being the leader of this team.  But it’s not just going to be us three. We have a great group of men in our room, so this is going to be a joint obligation for everyone. Everyone is going to share in this responsibility.” 

Ever since arriving in Atlanta/Winnipeg, the 6’5″, 225 pound forward has scored 123 goals and has totaled 330 points.

 

ANAHEIM, CA – JANUARY 11:  Blake Wheeler #26 of the Winnipeg Jets defends the puck against Francois Beauchemin #23 of the Anaheim Ducks during an NHL game at the Honda Center on January 11, 2015 in Anaheim, California.  (Photo by Jonathan Moore/Getty Images)

Tommy La Stella Returning to the Chicago Cubs

Posted on by Taylor Weber

Tommy La Stella Returning to the Chicago Cubs

Tommy La Stella was recalled to the Chicago Cubs today (8/31). Relief pitcher Spencer Patton is being optioned to AAA Iowa to open up the roster spot that La Stella will now occupy. This move is coming one day before MLB rosters expand to the entire 40-man “expanded” roster. Come September 1, both should return to the roster. With Tommy La Stella returning to the Chicago Cubs he will be getting the start at second base against the Pittsburgh Pirates. This is probably the only reason for the roster move. The Pirates are starting right hander Ryan Vogelsong and the Cubs are looking to just add another lefty bat to the lineup.

Tommy La Stella Promoted

Tommy La Stella was demoted towards the end of July for lefty outfielder Chris Coghlan. La Stella then failed to report to Triple AAA in the amount of time allotted. His response to his actions were that he wanted to play for only Chicago. He also admitted to contemplating retiring if he wasn’t able to play for his desired team. He remained at his home and continued to work out and stay in playing shape for if and when the Cubs called.

After several weeks La Stella would finally report to AA Tennessee on Aug. 17. He would only stay for two days then get called up to AAA. He had a .273/.304/.386 slash line while with the Iowa Cubs for a short time.

Spencer Patton Demoted

Spencer Patton will probably stay in Chicago and remain in the dugout for the game. On paper, Patton technically has to be recalled. He will return to the active roster when it expands to 40. Patton has made 12 appearances, pitching 17.1 innings for Chicago this year. He gave up 10 runs resulting in a 4.67 ERA.

Both Spencer Patton and Tommy La Stella are on the fence for making the 25-man playoff roster. Much will depend on how they perform in the final weeks of the season. Off the bench, La Stella could be a very valuable left-handed bat. And Patton could be a solid bullpen arm. Both have had their issues, La Stella’s holdout and Patton’s struggles, but if they prove they belong they could easily make an impact during the postseason.

 

Matt Miazga Loaned Out to Vitesse Arnhem

Posted on by Noah Sobel-Pressman

Today, in the waning hours of Deadline Day, Chelsea FC announced they loaned out Matt Miazga to Vitesse Arnhem. According to Grant Wahl, Chelsea were unable to loan him to Espanyol, due to paperwork, so they loaned him to Vitesse instead. Vitesse currently play in the Eredivisie. The Eredivise will be a great place for Miazga to develop and Chelsea have a great relationship with Vitesse. This league has served as a springboard for the careers of many USMNT players, like Jozy Altidore and Aron Johannsson.

Miazga joined Chelsea this past winter for a fee of around five million USD. He goes out on loan after appearing twice last year for the first team. Against Aston Villa he looked very strong, but against Swansea City he was very poor and even was substituted out at the half. Before that, with the New York Red Bulls Miazga had 34 appearances and one goal.

Miazga becomes the second American on the Vitesse first team squad. Left winger Kai Koreniuk currently plays for the reserve squad, he has appeared for the USYNT in the past. Koreniuk joined Vitesse in 2014.

Miazga’s USMNT Future

If Miazga is able to recieve consistent playing time, this could definitely help his USMNT stock. He is already cap tied to the US, so he cannot play for Poland, the country of his parents. Right now, USMNT center back depth is thin. John Brooks is hurt, Geoff Cameron is getting older, Steve Birnbaum is an unproven at the national stage. So, Miazga could be able to sneak into the full national team if he is able to win a starting role with Vitesse.

New York Giants Cut Roster to 75

Posted on by Joe Tufaro

The New York Giants made 12 transactions today to get down to the league limit of 75 players.  The team had to part ways with only two players with NFL regular season experience.  Cooper Taylor was the Giants 2013 fifth round draft choice who played in 16 games, including six last season.  Byron Stingily, who was placed on injured reserve with a concussion, played in 20 games for the Tennessee Titans and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

New York Giants Cut Roster to 75

Another notable cut was Bennett Jackson, a defensive back, was a 2014 sixth round draft choice who missed each of the last two years with a knee injury.

The team also released eight rookie and first year free agents: running back Marshaun Coprich; wide receivers K.J. Maye and Kadron Boone; cornerback Joe Powell; offensive lineman Shane McDermott; Defensive tackles Davon Coleman and Greg Milhouse; and defensive end Mike Rose.

Tight End Ryan Malleck, another rookie free agent, was waived/injured.  Tight End Matt LaCosse was waived yesterday with a knee injury.

All NFL Teams to 53 Players

All NFL teams were required to get to 75 players by Tuesday at 4:00 pm. The final cut to 53 players then comes Saturday.  As we prepare for that final step in setting the teams roster let’s take a look at who remains and the battles at hand.

The Main battles

Wide Recievers: Odell Beckham Jr., Sterling Shepard, Victor Cruz, Dwayne Harris, Geremy Davis, Tavarres King, Roger Lewis, Darius Powe, and Anthony Dable.  Last year the Giants kept six wide outs on the roster, and the top six on this list would appear to have the inside track as of today.  Thursday night will determine a lot for this group.

Linebacker: Devon Kennard, Jasper Brinkley, Jonathan Casillas, Kelvin Sheppard, Mark Herzlich, Brad Bars, B.J. Goodson, Keenan Robinson, Ishaq Williams, J.T. Thomas. Once again the Giants kept six linebackers on the team last year.  This will be an almost impossible task this year.  Injuries will play a role here as the team tries to identify the top players at this position.  Look for a player like Ishaq Williams to perhaps be signed to the practice squad, but it seems a sure bet a good NFL player will be available to other teams come Saturday afternoon.

Running Backs Rashad Jennings, Shane Vereen, Andre Williams, Orleans Darkwa, Paul Perkins, Bobby Rainey.  The Giants kept just four running backs last season, and again it looks like a fairly good player will have to be released.  Bobby Rainey could be the kick return specialist. This would could squeeze one of the other players out of a job.

The Numbers

With the new coaching regime in place in New York the player counts per position may change, but it’s a difficult task.  Two QB’s, Four RB’s, Six WR’s, 10 O-Line, four Tight Ends, one Fullback, eight D-Line, six LB’s, eight D-backs, One Kicker, One Punter, One Long Snapper.  That leaves one spot open if they follow this formula.  Building a good competitive roster while making sure their is depth available at key positions in not an easy task.  Take your best shot at making a 53 man roster.  We will get the official one Saturday night.

 

Main Photo:

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – DECEMBER 14:  (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT)   Offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo of the New York Giants goes over a play with  Eli Manning #10 during a game against the Washington Redskins on December 14, 2014 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants defeated the Redskins 24-13.  (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

2016 CIS Football Season Started With Big Games

Posted on by Drew Yates

The 2016 CIS football season is officially underway, and it was nothing short of entertaining. In the Ontario University Athletics conference, the Western Mustangs continued to be a force to be reckoned with as they defeated the Windsor Lancers 78-6, while Asher Hastings and the McMaster Marauders put on a clinic for the Carleton Ravens, beating them at home 40-10.

The Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks came from behind in the fourth quarter to defeat the Queen’s Gaels 37-18 with some stellar defensive plays, highlighted by a pick-six from Godfrey Onyeka, and the York Lions showed their offensive prowess against the Waterloo Warriors, beating them 57-13. The last matchup on Sunday featured the Guelph Gyphons and Toronto Varsity Blues, where the Gryphons secured the victory 41-22.

In pre-season action outside of Ontario, the Manitoba Bisons upset the defending champion UBC Thunderbirds 50-7 out in the Canada West University Athletics Association, while the Calgary Dinos defeated the Regina Rams 37-13.

2016 CIS Football Season Started With Big Games

Biggest Upset of the Week: Manitoba Bisons stun the UBC Thunderbirds.

The Manitoba Bisons travelled to Vancouver Island to play the defending Vanier Cup Champions in a preseason tilt last Friday. The Bisons creamed the Thunderbirds, beating them by 43 points.

The Bisons led 9-0 after the first quarter after their quarterback, Theo Deezar threw a 21-yard touchdown pass to receiver, Jesse Walker near the end of the first quarter. The second quarter was a disaster for the Thunderbirds as they had four turnovers, including three interceptions by quarterback, Michael O’Connor. O’Connor played only in the first half and completed 16-29 pass attempts for 132 yards.

On the other side, Deezar threw two more touchdowns — a 14-yard to receiver Shai Ross and 13-yard to running back Cam Fox. Bisons defensive back, Marcel Arruda-Welch rounded out the scoring with a pick six of his own, bringing the score to 34-0 by halftime. Deezar finished 12-19 pass attempts for 210 yards in the first half, with three touchdowns.

It took the last quarter for the Thunderbirds to finally get on the board as third string quarterback, Cole Meyer connected with receiver Marshall Cook for a 15-yard touchdown pass to make it 47-7. The Bisons defence was fantastic in the game as they had four interceptions, two fumble recoveries and four sacks. The Bisons kicker Ryan Jones had three field goals in the win. This stunning win could prove that the Manitoba Bisons have the potential to capture their second Hardy Cup in three years.

– Casey Dulson

Biggest Surprise – Carleton Ravens not putting up a fight against the McMaster Marauders.

Coming into the 2016 season, the Ravens were looking to build on their success from 2015 when they finished 5-3 and beat the Queen’s Gaels 35-6 in the first round of the OUA playoffs. They put up a good fight against the eventual Yates Cup Champions, Guelph Gryphons in the semi-finals, losing by a score of 33-21.

Many people in 2016 picked the Ravens to have another incredible year, one that might see them in the Yates Cup championship game. But if the Ravens were going to make the next step in 2016, they would need to have a statement win against one of the big teams.

In week one, they played the McMaster Marauders, and unfortunately, the Ravens came out flat in the game, losing 40-10. They had one touchdown in the game as receiver Kyle VanWynsberghe threw a 63-yard touchdown to receiver, Nathaniel Behar on a trick play. Ravens running back, Jahvari Bennett carried the ball 17 times for only 33 yards. Quarterback Jesse Mills completed 22-38 pass attempts for 346 yards and had two interceptions in the game. Mills was also sacked five times.

Meanwhile, McMaster quarterback, Hastings, did not miss a beat in the opening game of 2016 after setting the CIS season passing touchdown record last season, . He completed 19-28 pass attempts with four touchdown passes for 320 yards. His favourite target from last season, Dan Vandervoort was also incredible. He had four catches for 197 yards with two touchdowns in the win.

The road does not get any easier for the Ravens as they will play another OUA powerhouse, Western Mustangs on Sunday. The season is far from over, but the Ravens will need to beat Western on Sunday if they want to be taken seriously this year.

– Casey Dulson

Most Memorable Moment – York Lions offence explodes in convincing victory over Waterloo Warriors

If the York Lions wanted to make a statement in the first game of the season, they definitely made an impression. Led by starting quarterback Brett Hunchak, the Lions convincingly defeated the Waterloo Warriors 57-13 to open the 2016 campaign. Hunchak made 17-of-25 pass attempts for 346-yards and threw five touchdowns in the process, with two of them thrown to his brother, Colton Hunchak. His counterpart Lucas McConnell finished 17-of-40 for 283-yards, with one touchdown and one interception.

The Lions struck quickly and early, taking a 14-0 lead at the end of the first quarter with touchdowns from D’Saun Greenaway and Matt Krason. The Warriors got their first points on the board via a field goal from Caleb Girard, but the Lions took control again after Hunchak connected with his brother for a 77-yard pass to take a commanding 22-3 lead midway through the second quarter.

The Waterloo offence only cut the lead in half before the Lions took control again, adding 35 unanswered points to take the victory and claim their first win of the season.  The Lions used four different passing targets and ran the ball into the endzone themselves and accumulated a total of 546 offensive yards while Waterloo accumulated 414 offensive yards in the game.

– Drew Yates

Main Photo.

2016 NFC South Breakdown by Position: The Defense and Special Teams

Posted on by Will Cotchery, Editor

During the month of August, the Last Word On Sports NFL department will be breaking down every division in the league by position. This article contains a position-by-position breakdown of the NFC South’s defenses and special teams. The breakdown will contain “the best” at each unit followed by “the rest” in descending order.

2016 NFC South Breakdown by Position: The Defense and Special Teams

Defensive Line

The Best: Carolina Panthers

The Rest: Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons

The Carolina Panthers have become the NFC’s best team in large part because of the defense, and many teams’ defensive dominance starts up front. The front four is led by defensive tackle Kawann Short, the 2013 draftee who enjoyed a breakout 11-sack campaign for the league’s sixth-best defense. Fellow draft-mate Star Lotulelei is also a very capable interior defender. Although at an advanced age, defensive end Charles Johnson still provides talent and veteran leadership. Even though he doesn’t have the sack numbers (only five in 2015), Kony Ealy’s three forced fumbles proved that he can be a disturbance on any play.

Despite having better individual grades from Pro Football Focus, Tampa Bay’s front four still places second at this defensive level. Averaging out with a grade of 79.3, Tampa finished with 38 sacks, second most in the division and tied for 14th in the league. Perennial Pro Bowler Gerald McCoy led the team with 8.5 sacks while Robert Ayers received the highest PFF grade (87.9). Their efforts earned them spots on Last Word On Sports’ All-Division team.

In 2013, the New Orleans Saints had 49 sacks (12-plus takedowns from two players alone). The team only has 65 combined sacks since 2014. The only constant about these last three seasons is defensive end Cameron Jordan. Earning his first Pro Bowl selection after a 12.5-sack 2013 campaign, Jordan was granted his second trip to Hawaii in 2015 after another double-digit takedown year. Outside of him, the team’s pass rush is nonexistent. Another key element will be the early absence of rookie Sheldon Rankins due to injury. Hopefully for the Saints, Edge rusher Kasim Edebali, defensive tackle Nick Fairley can produce as quality starters, because any help for Jordan can be utilized.

The Falcons have some talented pieces along the defensive line, but nobody near upper-echelon status. Derrick Shelby is the line’s best member, boasting a 2015 PFF grade of 81.5, whereas the other three guys are graded below 79. Void of consistent pass-rushing, Atlanta only mustered up 19 sacks, dead last in football last season. With the level of quarterback play in the NFC South, the Falcons provide offenses an easier chance to succeed.

Linebackers

The Best: Carolina Panthers

The Rest: Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons

If you’re looking for world-class linebacker play, look no further than Charlotte, North Carolina. With Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis supporting the defensive line, the Carolina Panthers have arguably the best linebacker corps in the NFL. Since entering the league in 2012, Kuechly has become the best defender in the NFC. Named both Defensive Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year in his brief four-year career, the three-time Pro Bowler’s versatility in against the run and pass makes him the game’s top backer. Thomas Davis is the perfect complement to Kuechly, making sideline to sideline tackles and stopping plays short. Surpassing 100 tackles four consecutive years, Davis made his first Pro Bowl after achieving career highs in passes defensed (7), sacks (5.5), interceptions (4) and forced fumbles (4).Talented rookie outside linebacker Shaq Thompson also displayed his abilities by posting 50 stops, two passes defensed and a sack in 10 starts.

With the acquisition of Daryl Smith, Tampa Bay has upgraded to the second-best linebacking group in the NFC South. Although the veteran is 34, he’s only eight months removed from concluding a 118-tackle, three-sack and one-pick campaign. The bunch already benefits from Lavonte David, another Pro Bowl linebacker who was drafted in the same year as the aforementioned Kuechly. A tackling machine who has at least 139 stops in each of his four NFL seasons, David is an every-down playmaking on an otherwise average defense. Another Tampa backer with a bright future is Kwon Alexander, who earned immense respect from his team a gutsy 11-tackle, one interception performance in Week 8, just two days after the death of his brother. His aggressiveness as a tackler will continue to bring a much-needed edge to this franchise.

New Orleans is another NFC South team with a veteran-laden linebacker group. Dannell Ellerbe is a dynamic player that has proven to be a huge asset for the team when healthy. Never missing a game in his first seven seasons, James Laurinaitis consistency and leadership will be valued. Leading all NFL rookies with 112 tackles, the second-year up-and-comer Stephone Anthony is the Saints’ future at the linebacker position. Newly-acquired Paul Kruger was a tremendous boost the unit as well. While most critics suggest he didn’t live up to his 2013 free agency payday, the 30-year-old isn’t too far away from his 11-takedown output from 2014.

Even with experiences players, the Atlanta linebackers are inferior to their divisional rivals. Sean Weatherspoon has been the NFC South’s version of Dallas Cowboys linebacker Sean Lee; a highly productive playmaker who is an injury-riddled athlete (Oh, the irony with the first name). Although his steady tackle output earned him a spot on Last Word On Sports’ Pro Bowl Snubs list a couple seasons ago, Paul Worrilow isn’t the most skilled or complete backer in the league. Vic Beasley, though undersized, is the Falcons most-talented at this spot. Already with the athleticism and explosiveness, the second-year pass rusher could become a dominant force with added bulk and muscle.

Cornerbacks

The Best: Atlanta Falcons

The Rest: Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers

Based on PFF evaluations, Atlanta. The position is led by Desmond Trufant, the 2013 first rounder who made his first Pro Bowl with his 82.2 grade from the analytics site. Robert Alford, who finished with a 77 grade, reached career highs in tackles (42) and passes defensed (15) in 2015. Because of the tandem’s ability and the lack of corner depth throughout the division, they are in position to silently be among the best in the NFL.

The Brent Grimes signing has boosted the Buccaneers secondary status in this Southern division. The four-time Pro Bowler–who made three in a row in Miami–will improve the play of new teammate Alterraun Verner, who had a down season after posting plus-76 PFF grades the previous five campaigns. The presence of veterans will greatly aid rookie Vernon Hargreaves, the former Florida Gator who has star-level potential as a professional.

Delvin Breaux showed he deserves to be an NFL starter last season, but the players behind him are well unproven. Even with his health issues, the surprise of the off-season was the release of Keenan Lewis, who was vital in the Saints’ dramatic defensive turnaround in the 2013 season. Second-year man P.J. Williams, who spent his rookie year on injured reserve– is set to fill in the number two corner spot. New Orleans did sign Courtland Finnegan from Carolina for experience insurance, but he’s far past his peak days.

The Panthers took a massive hit at the position after losing All-Pro Josh Norman, Charles Tillman and the aforementioned Finnegan. Expecting to start two rookies on the outside, they will be vulnerable to big passing plays. The silver lining from the exodus, however, is that Carolina has an elite front seven that will alleviate playmaking pressure from the defensive backfield.

Safety

The Best: Carolina Panthers

The Rest: New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons

Despite the massive cornerback loss, Carolina maintained continuity at safety. Free safety Kurt Coleman, one of Last Word On Sports’ Pro Bowl snubs from 2015, is still in the fold. Tallying 90 tackles, nine passes defensed, seven interceptions and a sack, both his presence and production will be much enjoyed after an off-season full of departures. Although strong safety Roman Harper is returning to New Orleans for the 2016 season, Tre Boston has shown to contribute in multiple areas on the field.

The Saints defense is abysmal collectively, but Jairus Byrdand Kenny Vaccaro form a more talented tandem than Tampa Bay and Atlanta. Graded a 75.6 and an 80 by Pro Football Focus, respectively, there’s several aspects of the game their do admirably well. What hurts their cause is the numbers fans all see, and those are passing yards and touchdowns. New Orleans forfeited the most passing touchdowns in history in 2015. For the team have any remote chance at the playoffs, their backend must improve.

The Buccaneers have a similar scenario as the Saints at the safety spot. According to PFF, Chris Conte had the best professional campaign of his five-year career with a 75.6 grade. Although his play decreased to a 67.8 in 2015 (had a 75.6 in 2014), Bradley McDougald can still be a capable defensive back. Tampa could really benefit from strong defensive play as well this season.

In his first year as the starting safety, Atlanta’s Ricardo Allen boasted a 76 PFF grade after garnering four passes defensed, three interceptions and a sack. First-round draft pick Keanu Neal will miss the first couple of games, but is expected to produce immediately after. The Falcons should hope that this combo will be alike the 2012 tandem of William Moore and Thomas Decoud, who both made Pro Bowl appearances that year.

Special Teams

The Best: Carolina Panthers

The Rest: Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Panthers clearly posses the best special teams unit in the NFC South with proven players at kicker, punter and return specialist. Graham Gano’s 30 made field goals was tops in the division. Via trade, the team recently acquired punter Andy Lee, who was one of the league’s elite punters during his San Francisco days during the late 2000s. And, of course, Ted Ginn is still returning kicks and punts.

Kicker Matt Bryantand punter Matt Bosher have been two of the most reliable players at their position. The Falcons did lose all-time great Devin Hester in the return game, but Eric Weemshas made the Pro Bowl before thanks to his special team capabilities.

Although the kicker spot has been such a revolving door for New Orleans since 2007, the franchise has found solace their Pro Bowl punter Thomas Morstead. Another area they’ve found success at is their return game. From Reggie Bush to Darren Sproles to now Travaris Cadet and Marcus Murphy, the team will continue to enjoy solid field position week-to-week.’

The loss of Bobby Rainey caused Tampa to take major hit in these rankings. The Bucs have inexperience at every special teams level with the exception of punter Bryan Anger, whose 39.5 net punt yard average was 22nd in the league last year.

Coaching

The Best: Carolina Panthers

The Rest: New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

After the Panthers claimed the division for the third consecutive season, two-time Coach of the Year Ron Rivera has become the South’s best coach. After going 13-19 in his first two campaigns with Carolina, Rivera has gone 34-13-1 since 2013. Even though he has a .500 mark in the postseason (3-3), nothing can be taken from his dominance from September to December.

Sean Payton easily is the most tenured and successful of the division’s four coaches, but the last few seasons have caused the him to lose the top spot. Excluding the Bountygate-hampered 2012 campaign, the Saints have made the playoffs only once in the last three seasons (2013). New Orleans would need another deep run in January in order for Payton to regain the NFC South’s coach crown.

Dan Quinn showed flashes of coaching brilliance at the start of 2015, winning six of their first seven contests, but faltered down the stretch. Despite the team’s collapse, Quinn is only entering his second season as an NFL head coach. With a highly-skillful offense and a continually-growing defense, Quinn’s has the opportunity to advance on this list.

By default, rookie head coach Dirk Koetter places last in the division. Previously having success as an offensive coordinator with Matt Ryan and Falcons, Koetter will look to get the most production out of Jameis Winston in his second year in the pros.

 

Check out the Offense Here.

2016 NFC South Breakdown by Position: The Offense

Posted on by Will Cotchery, Editor

During the month of August, the Last Word On Sports NFL department will be breaking down every division in the league by position. This article contains a position-by-position breakdown of the NFC South’s offenses. The breakdown will contain “the best” at each unit followed by “the rest” in descending order.

2016 NFC South Breakdown by Position: The Offense

Quarterback

The Best: Carolina Panthers

The Rest: New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

At the division’s deepest position, Cam Newton gives the Panthers the edge. Although his career isn’t as decorated as New Orleans Saints signal-caller Drew Brees, Newton has been the driving force behind Carolina’s divisional three-peat. After setting career highs in touchdowns (35), passer rating (99.4) and quarterback rating (66.09) in 2015, the reigning MVP has established himself as one of the league’s best players. His passing ability combined with his supreme athleticism makes it difficult for defenders to counter him. Going for the unheralded fourth-consecutive NFC South crown, the former number one overall pick is only improving.

Despite his continued brilliance statistically, Drew Brees hasn’t led the Saints to the postseason in two straight seasons. Granted, much of that has to do with an underperforming defense, team success falls on the quarterback more often than not. Because of this reality, he is forced to play mistake-free football from week to week. If Brees can get adequate defensive assistance, he can potentially reclaim his spot as the division’s top player.

Atlanta’s Matt Ryan has enjoyed a steady NFL career, but his resume hasn’t translated into top-tier status. Despite two number-one playoff seeds and an NFC Championship appearance, the Falcons haven’t made the postseason since 2012. Alike Brees’ situation, Ryan hasn’t had a formidable defense as of late, but that doesn’t completely excuse him from his declined numbers from a year ago, especially with Pro Bowlers Julio Jonesand Devonta Freeman on the roster. If Ryan can return to his three-time Pro Bowl form, the Falcons will be in much better shape division wise.

Tampa Bay’s Jameis Winston had a respectable rookie campaign, passing for 4,042 yards and 22 touchdowns to only 15 interceptions. He definitely benefited from the presence of wideout Mike Evans, and with Vincent Jackson returning healthy for 2016, he’ll have two big targets at his disposal. Winston is the NFC South’s lowest-ranked signal-caller due to his lack of experience and expertise, but he definitely has an auspicious future ahead of him.

Running Back

The Best: New Orleans Saints

The Rest: Carolina Panthers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons

Since each starting running back in the South earned Pro Bowl selections in the last two seasons, organizing this position was interesting. Because of their overall backfield, the Saints eked out on top. Although Mark Ingram’s 2015 numbers dipped from his 2014 Pro Bowl run, he still managed to rush for 769 yards and six scores. A healthy C.J. Spiller gives New Orleans another dynamic asset in both the run and pass game. Tim Hightower and Travaris Cadet are capable runners while Marcus Murphy is productive on Special Teams.

Jonathan Stewart’s 989 yards and six touchdowns on 242 attempts in 2015 were the most he accumulated in those categories since 2009. Admirably fulfilling the backup role behind DeAngelo Williams early in his career, he’s remained a steady producer in the Carolina offense. Fullback Mike Tolbert has become one of the best at his position in recent years. When these two guys are on the sideline, Fozzy Whittaker and Cameron Artis-Payne are talented rushers who can enter the game and contribute.

Plagued by injuries in 2013 and 2014, Doug Martin returned to his 2012 rookie form by reaching career highs in rushing yards (1,454) and rushing touchdowns (11). His regained health was–and will continue to be–critical in the development of Jameis Winston. Second-string rusher Charles Sims was pretty serviceable as well, tallying 529 yards on 107 carriers. Both averaging 4.9 yards per attempt a year ago, Tampa will always have its run game to fall back on.

Halfway through last season, Atlanta’s Devonta Freeman was Last Word On Sports’ prime candidate for Offensive Player of the Year. His versatility between rushing (1,056 yards and 11 touchdowns) and receiving (73 catches for 578 yards and three scores) was integral in the Falcons offensive success for much of the season. Tevin Coleman provided another 392 yards on the ground. Although fullback Patrick DiMarco didn’t get the rushing touches, posting 13 receptions for 110 yards and two touchdowns is a lot for a guy at his position.

Wide Receiver

The Best: New Orleans Saints

The Rest: Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Carolina Panthers, Atlanta Falcons

Although the Saints don’t have a superstar at this position, they boast the most depth. The best of the bunch is third-year man Brandin Cooks, who posted 1,138 yards and nine touchdowns on 84 receptions in 2015. With his quickness, shiftiness and route-running ability, Cooks has the potential to become a 100-catch receiver. After spending his short NFL career on practice squads, Willie Snead surprised the Saints with 69 grabs for 984 yards and three scores last year. Brandon Coleman shows flashes of productivity, and rookie Michael Thomas already looks the part as an NFL wideout. With Drew Brees still under center, offense will continue to carry this franchise.

Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson give Tampa Bay this best perimeter duo in the division. Despite health setbacks, Jackson can still perform at a high level. Even though his touchdown amount dropped in his second season, Evans achieved career highs in both receptions (74) and receiving yards (1,206). With both players being 6’5’’, they are difficult covers for any defensive back. When both are injury-free, Doug Martin won’t have a loaded box, and Jameis Winston will have an easier time moving the football.

A perennial weakness since the departure of Steve Smith, the Panthers receiving corps will gain a tremendous boost with Kelvin Benjamin’s return. Cam Newton did pass for nearly 4,000 yards, but 1,104 came from Pro Bowl tight end Greg Olsen. The second-highest pass-catcher was Ted Ginn, with only 44 grabs for 739 yards. Alike Ginn, Jerricho Cotchery can make occasional contributions, but he isn’t that big-time perimeter threat either. If Devin Funchess can make a huge leap forward in year two, Benjamin and Olsen won’t be asked to carry a heavy receiving load.

The Atlanta Falcons once featured one of the league’s vaunted wideout duos in Julio Jones and Roddy White. After advancing in age and fading out of the offense, White, the franchise’s greatest wide receiver, is no longer on the roster. Now debatably the game’s best on the outside, Jones will go out and perform week after week. The depth behind him, however, is rather questionable. The team did sign Mohamed Sanu in free agency, but this offense will need more from Justin Hardy and Nick WIlliams, who caught 21 and 17 catches, respectively, a year ago.

Tight End

The Best: Carolina Panthers

The Rest: New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons

Greg Olsen is still the undisputed best tight end in the division. Surpassing 1,000 yards the last two seasons and tallying at least 70 receptions and six touchdowns three consecutive seasons, no starter at his position has done more for his team than Olsen. His production could potentially diminish with the rebound of Kelvin Benjamin and the emergence of Devin Funchess, but he will always come through when the Panthers need him.

He’s no Jimmy Graham, but Coby Fleener /b> is a capable replacement. After splitting reps with Dwayne Allen for the Indianapolis Colts since 2012, Fleener will be the main target for Drew Brees over the middle. Averaging 52 catches a year since 2013, it’s safe to say he can assist any offense. The question will be if he can bare a Graham-type burden for New Orleans in 2016 and beyond.

The number three tight end spot is a toss-up between Tampa Bay’s Austin Sefarian-Jenkins and Jacob Tamme, but the Bucs pass-catcher gets the nod. Notwithstanding his injury issues so early in his career, the 23-year-old has tremendous upside as a professional player. With a depth chart promotion and the help of even more talented perimeter players, Sefarian-Jenkins can be a much-improved Buccaneer.

Although Jacob Tamme easily had better numbers than his Tampa Bay contemporary, his output may decline in 2016 with the addition of Mohamed Sanu to the passing game. Of course, he also has to compete with running back Devonta Freeman, who, as previously mentioned, reeled in 73 receptions last season.

Offensive Line

The Best: Atlanta Falcons

The Rest: Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

With an average grade of 80.9 by analytics site Pro Football Focus, the Falcons have the NFC South’s top offensive line. Four of the five lineman (Jake Matthews<, Andy Levitre, Alex Mack and Chris Chester) each had personal grades of at least 78. Right tackle Ryan Schraeder’s grade of 87.1 contributed to his spot of Last Word On Sports’ NFC South All-Division team.

Another glaring question mark for the team in recent seasons, the Panthers interior offensive bunch silently performed at an almost-elite level. Left guard Andrew Norwell (84.9), center Ryan Kalil (82.8) and Trai Turner (88.1) swept the division’s All-Division squad at those positions. Had Carolina gotten at least average play from its tackles–Michael Oher and Mike Remmers–their Super Bowl-winning chances against the Denver Broncos would’ve been much higher.

Once having arguably the NFL’s best offensive line, the New Orleans Saints front five is far from its peak form of 2009-2012. From departures of key cogs to the regression of health to the increasing of age, this unit has now become a huge concern for the franchise. The only bright spot is left tackle Terron Armstead, who graded out as a 90.8 in 2015. A quietly-budding star, he and veteran right tackle Zach Strief (81.5) will have to continue to produce highly in order to compensate for a lackluster interior.

Having an average grade of only 58.9, Tampa Bay clearly has the NFC South’s worst line. The two best guys in this core are right guard Ali Marpet and right tackle Demar Dotson, who finished with a 75.5 and an 80, respectively.

Check out the defense and special teams.

Montreal Canadiens Projected lineup

Posted on by Nick Lariviere

After a summer with multiple changes, the Montreal Canadiens opening night roster will look much different than years prior. For one,  Marc Bergevin made it his priority to add grit by acquiring Shea Weber and Andrew Shaw. However, he also went out and got possibly the best player in the KHL over the past few seasons in Alex Radulov.  While Radulov is a risky signing him for a year gives the Habs a chance to evaluate whether or not he will take his opportunity seriously. The move also helped address a need for top six forwards which they have been lacking for the last few seasons.

The Canadiens currently have 26 players under one-way contracts, with 23 roster spots some players will be on the outside looking in. Not to mention that prospects such as Arturri Lehkonen, Charles Hudon, and Martin Reway could be pushing for a spot in the middle six forwards.  This year’s training camp could be very interesting in Montreal with all the roster spot battles.

Here is the projected lineup:

First-line:

Max Pacioretty– Alex Galchenyuk– Brendan Gallagher

The line that finished the last four games last season together will likely start the next one together.  The trio dominated in the short time together, but they have had success together during December 2014. the three players seem to compliment each other well. Galchenyuk and Pacioretty seem to split the duty of triggerman and playmaker well among themselves, providing a double threat for opposing teams defense. Both players should be good to hit 30-40 goals each and 65-70 points.  Then there is the workhorse Brendan Gallagher that gives his linemates a boost no matter how bad the game is going. Gallagher could find himself switched with Radulov later in the season but in the beginning, he should slot in alongside the snipers.

Second line:

Arturri Lehkonen/ Sven Andrighetto– Tomas Plekanec– Alex Radulov

The second line starts with reliable two-way centre Tomas Plekanec. Plekanec has often been seen as the first line centre to start a season, but with the emergence of Galchenyuk, he can now be in a secondary scoring role more suited for him. Unlike the end of last season, Plekanec will have a good offensive player to help him produce points in Radulov. Radulov will also be best suited to start his time back in the NHL by playing alongside the team’s most reliable forward. As for the left wing slot, there is no lock in for the spot. As Bergevin often states he likes to give a chance for a rookie to make the team, this would likely be the spot that is up for grabs. Right now, Andrighetto has the advantage because of experience but Arturri Lehkonen’s two-way game could transform well causing him to steal the spot.

If there isn’t a prospect who is ready for second line duties on a full-time basis,  expect Andrew Shaw to play on the second line as his grittiness makes him valuable to any line.

Third line:

Daniel Carr/ Sven Andrighetto- David Desharnais– Andrew Shaw

Much like the second line left wing role, it will be a battle for the third line. Carr would likely fit better than Andrighetto in this spot because he adds more size to what is a very small third line. However, because of experience and the fact that Carr can return to the AHL without having to clear waivers, Andrighetto would have an advantage if he doesn’t get a spot on the second line. Either way, both players will make this line more of a scoring line than shutdown line. David Desharnais has had success last season playing as the third line centre where he even won the Molson Cup for November. However, he struggled when playing higher up in the lineup.

As for having Shaw on the third line instead of the second, it gives the Canadiens some grit to an otherwise soft line. Shaw will play bigger and gives his linemates energy much like Gallagher will do in the top six.

Fourth line:

Paul Byron– Torrey Mitchell– Phillip Danault

This fourth line has all the qualities for a successful fourth line. Byron brings his speed which can help him play up the lineup if injuries occur.  He also plays a good defensive game which helps him create breakaways on the penalty kill for himself. Mitchell is the ideal right-handed 4th line centreman being the only one on the team. He will often be out on the ice to take important faceoffs. Danault will slot in on the line as yet another defensive stalworth that could bring occasional offense when needed. The three players likely won’t be flashy but they will get the job done.

First  Pairing:

Nathan Beaulieu– Shea Weber

It’s no secret that newly acquired Weber will be on the top defensive pairing, as he has averaged over 25 minutes per game for years.  He has all the intangibles to stay an elite defenseman except for his skating ability. Which is why  Beaulieu, a proven puck moving defenseman would be the best bet to play alongside Weber when the season starts. Although Beaulieu has yet to prove that he can play top pairing minutes on a regular basis, he has shown flashes that he could be a very good defenseman.  He will need to show that he can remain consistent in his play this upcoming season, as Markov can no longer play 25 minutes a night at 37 years old.

Second Pairing:

Andrei Markov– Jeff Petry

Markov is still the best left-handed defenseman on the team, but with the acquisition of Weber and departure of PK Subban, the Habs need a smooth skater on the first pairing. Earlier in his career, Markov was that smooth skater but after knee injuries and age his days as one of the league’s best defenseman are behind him. He can still serve as a good second pairing defenseman while having possibly the best skater on the team in Jeff Petry alongside him. Petry has become a proven top four defenseman that can carry up the puck and create offense. He is also solid his own end.

Third Pairing:

Mark Barberio– Alexei Emelin/ Greg Pateryn

Many fans criticize Emelin for being a bad defenseman, but really  his $4.1 million dollar cap hit that makes him look worse than he really is.  Although Emelin is the defenseman to create the least offensively,  he still has a lot to offer defensively with his hits and blocking shots. He is a serviceable defenseman, but there is also Pateryn who can do a lot of the same for much cheaper.  The Canadiens could  consider trading Emelin which will let Pateryn slide into the top six if that’s the case. If Emelin stays expect him to stay in the lineup instead.  As for Barberio, he led the Habs in puck possession stats last season. He also has had success with both defensemen showing that he deserves his spot full-time in the top six after spending the start of last season in the AHL.

Goalies:

Carey Price

Al Montoya

After a year of injuries which Price only played 12 games, he is back to 100% and ready to start next season between the pipes. However, goalie coach Stephane Waite has reported that to avoid injury Price will only play 55-60 games if healthy. This is to avoid getting over-worked and injured yet again before the Playoffs. That’s where newly acquired Al Montoya comes into the mix. Montoya has been one of the most reliable backups in recent years. He will be able to step up and play 20-25 games for the Canadiens next season providing his veteran presence.

Main Photo:

The Toronto Raptors Biggest Mistake in the Past Ten Years

Posted on by Spencer Tittley

Mistakes happen. We sleep in a little too late or we forget to do a project. But for us, mistakes are simply, just that – mistakes. For the thirty NBA teams, mistakes cost them, potentially, tens of millions of dollars, a playoff appearance, or even a championship. They have been riddled throughout history. It can be draft picks (Blazers fans know what this is like), it can be free agency (can I get an amen from Knicks fans?), or it can be virtually anything else (in the case of the Kings, EVERYTHING ELSE). Thus, we present the worst mistakes from each NBA team over the past ten years.

The Toronto Raptors Biggest Mistake in the Past Ten Years

The Toronto Raptors were a franchise stuck in mediocrity. Over their twenty year existence, they have been the butt of jokes around the league. From Vince Carter to Chris Bosh, the franchise has been unable to retain its stars, who have (essentially) all left for greener pastures. Can you blame them? The only non-American team in the Association has failed to surround its best players with talent. Toronto has enjoyed unprecedented success in the last three seasons, and is seemingly righting the ship, but it has been a long time coming for fans of Canadian basketball.

In the past ten years, the Raptors have had minor hiccups and unmitigated disasters in terms of trades, contracts given, money withheld, and drafting. So much so that it would be easy to say that the worst mistake Toronto has made in the past ten years was to hire Bryan Colangelo. The list of errors that the ex-GM made is long and diverse, but at Last Word on Sports, we think we can narrow it down to one fateful draft choice in 2006.

Background to the Mistake

The 2006 NBA Draft was notoriously weak. While it was only ten years ago, the players who are recognizable on that list are few and far between. After receiving the first overall pick, Toronto was poised to start its rebuild. Vince Carter had been traded to the New Jersey Nets, but thankfully for Raptors fans, they still had a young stud to build around in Chris Bosh. The young Georgia Tech product was coming off of a career year as the team’s best player.

At only 21 years old, Bosh almost averaged a double-double in the 2005-06 season, racking up 22.5 points and 9.2 rebounds per game on route to his first All-Star selection. It seemed that Toronto had a perennial All-Star who could do everything and was young, but he needed help. Sharing the majority of his frontcourt minutes was Charlie Villanueva, but the rookie out of UConn was traded that summer to the Milwaukee Bucks, in exchange for T.J. Ford. An upgrade was needed, and the perfect prospect was sitting there, ready to be snatched up.

LaMarcus Aldridge‘s Dominance

Out of Texas awaited a 6’11″, 240 pound big man with a smooth jump shot and every post move in the book. His footwork was phenomenal and his hustle unquestionable. LaMarcus Aldridge was a First-Team All-Big 12 player in his sophomore year of college. Averaging 15 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 2.0 BPG, and 1.4 SPG, Aldridge was a statistical monster. He was the consensus first overall pick, pegged to lead whichever team chose him to success. Not only was he offensively dominant, but he also won Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year in 2006. He was the total package, the obvious choice, and a perfect potential side-kick to Bosh.

The Mistake

What happened next wasn’t only shocking, it was downright inconceivable. The Raptors and Colangelo passed on Aldridge. The Texas product slipped to second and was graciously selected by the Portland Trail Blazers (via trade). The man who was drafted ahead of a now-perennial All-Star and one of the best players in the past decade? Andrea Bargnani. His name is still mentioned by Toronto fans with a mixture of disgust and amusement.

Standing at 7’0″, the Italian center was 20 years old and drew comparison after comparison to Dirk Nowitzki. Equipped with a smooth jumper, mobility, and ball handling skills, Bargnani had potential to be an offensive superstar. Named the Euro-League rising star in the 2005-06 season, he was a name to watch. He was impressive, and during his time up north, he averaged 15 PPG and 4.8 RPG. Indeed, Bargnani showed flashes of potential every year, except he never cashed in on that potential.

The Initial Results

In the 2005-06 season, Toronto finished second last in in defense. Drafting a scoring forward, who neither played nor cared about defense, sounds like it was counter-intuitive. That’s especially true since the team’s best player was already a scoring forward.

Admittedly, Toronto was not horrible during the 2006-07 season, and its defense did improve, but not thanks to Bargnani. The Raptors would make the playoffs twice in the next four years, exiting in the first round both times. They were stuck in purgatory, with no way of advancing to the next round. Bargnani’s development seemed to stall, and the big Italian became known as notoriously “soft”.

The Ultimate Consequence

In 2007-08, the Raptors went to the playoffs for the second straight year and were looking to take the next step and reach the second round. They didn’t. That season, Bargnani averaged 10.2 PPG and 3.7 RPG. Not horrible, but he had better numbers in his rookie season, and improvement is required for a number one overall pick. Conversely, Aldridge was a monster that season, averaging 18.3 PPG and 7.9 PPG. The disparity is almost painful.

What Could’ve Been

For Raptors fans, the thought of what could have been is depressing — two potential Hall of Fame players (yes, I said it!) playing on the same team. They could both shoot, play inside, protect the paint, and rebound. The image of Toronto running down the court and dumping the ball down low for Bosh, who hits a turnaround jumper, is delightful. The idea that they could have ran the very same play the next time down the court, but with Aldridge instead, is mind-boggling. Double team one, and the other would rain jumpers from the outside. Allow them to isolate one-on-one, and it would be a long night. Opponents would be forced to match-up their best interior defender with one, leaving the other to wreak havoc both inside and out. Play two centers to try and counter against Toronto’s size? Aldridge and Bosh could take them outside and drive right past them. Defensively, they’d be able to switch onto guards with ease and fly in from the weak-side to erase shots.

Instead, Raptors fans are left with wonderful memories of Primo Pasta commercials. Thanks, Colangelo.

 

 

Main photo: