Tag: NFL

Pac-12 Football Review: USC NSD Fail, Donte Williams, NFL Combine Invites

USC’s Poor National Signing Day Highlights it’s Pac-12 Football Recruiting

Last Wednesday, National Signing Day came and left. While there wasn’t much Pac-12 football activity, Colorado kept its guy. That is to say, Ashaad Clayton signed with Colorado.

Ashaad Clayton keeps his Colorado commitment. @easton_football pic.twitter.com/dENGLoAOXb
— دعم حسابات ورفع ترندات (@cmdabe) February 5, 2020

And all Buffaloes sighed.

Certainly, the four-star running back out of New Orleans is a great addition. With that signing, Colorado made a big move. It showed its school is doing the work.

However, the program that needed to make the biggest leap failed miserably.

So many Pac-12 football programs brought it this offseason. Utah and Arizona State made huge strides. Meanwhile, USC fell. Firstly, USC boasts (if that word can be used) just 13 three-five star recruits for 2020.

Two four-star recruits
11 three-star recruits

In short, their 2020 recruiting is dismal.

When compared to Pac-12 football programs, USC’s 2020 class ranks 10th. Just above Washington State and Arizona. Overall, USC’s distressing 2020 class is outside of the top-50 in college football. Their 55th-ranked class is completely pitiful. Especially considering their 2019 feats:

8 wins, 5 losses
32.5 points per game
Holiday Bowl berth
Breakout true-freshman Kedon Slovis

This was a huge alarm for the Trojans. But thankfully, USC stole Donte Williams away from Oregon.

Pac-12 Top-Recruiter Donte Williams Heads to USC

pic.twitter.com/OU28FMgDJT
— Donte Williams (@CoachDee_UGA) February 11, 2020

Unfortunately, cornerbacks coach Donte Williams’ move to USC was not because of football. As seen from his Tweet, it’s a move to his “father’s aging/failing health”. Family first. Respect.

Though is move to USC is family-driven, Williams is still a gift for their program. Prior to this news, USC recruiting was in free-fall. They were 10th in the Pac-12. Barely ahead of Washington State. That’s not acceptable for their program. So, they need to treat Williams as best as they can. During his short time with Oregon, he’s ranked:

5th-best recruiter in Pac-12 in 2019 class
- 62nd-best in nation
Best recruiter in Pac-12 in 2020 class
- 7th-best in nation

Understanding that, this move is incredible for USC. They needed him bad. With his recruiting, he’ll become instrumental in their success. Certainly, Williams will be missed in Oregon. But for USC, he’s their savior.

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2020 NFL Combine Pac-12 Football Participants

The names of the 337 players invited to the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine has been released.https://t.co/VTgs4HSBvB pic.twitter.com/avKeFwm99x
— NFL Draft (@NFLDraft) February 7, 2020

On Friday, the NFL released its full list of 2020 NFL Scouting Combine invites. Of the 337 prospects invited, here are the Pac-12 football players:

Arizona (1 invite)

J.J. Taylor, Running Back

Arizona State (4 invites)

Brandon Aiyuk, Wide Receiver
Eno Benjamin, Running Back
Cohl Cabral, Offensive Line
Michael Turk, Punter

Cal (3 invites)

Ashtyn Davis, Defensive Back
Jaylinn Hawkins, Defensive Back
Evan Weaver, Line Backer

Colorado (4 invites)

Tony Brown, Wide Receiver
Steven Montez, Quarterback
Laviska Shenault Jr., Wide Receiver
Davion Taylor, Line Backer

Oregon (7 invites)

Jacob Breeland, Tight End
Troy Dye, Line Backer
Jake Hanson, Offensive Line
Justin Herbert, Quarterback
Juwan Johnson, Wide Receiver
Shane Lemieux, Offensive Line
Calvin Throckmorton, Offensive Line

Oregon State (2 invites)

Isaiah Hodgins, Wide Receiver
Jake Luton, Quarterback

Stanford (2 invites)

Colby Parkinson, Tight End
Casey Toohill, Line Backer

UCLA (4 invites)

Devin Asiasi, Tight End
Darney Holmes, Defensive Back
Joshua Kelley, Running Back
JJ Molson, Kicker

USC (2 invites)

Austin Jackson, Offensive Line
Michael Pittman, Wide Receiver

Utah (9 invites)

Bradlee Anae, Defensive Line
Francis Bernard, Line Backer
Julian Blackmon, Defensive Back
Terrell Burgess, Defensive Back
Leki Fotu, Defensive Line
Javelin K. Guidry, Defensive Back
Jaylon Johnson, Defensive Back
Zack Moss, Running Back
John Penisini, Defensive Line

Washington (7 invites)

Trey Adams, Offensive Line
Salvon Ahmed, Running Back
Hunter Bryant, Tight End
Myles Bryant, Defensive Back
Jacob Eason, Quarterback
Aaron Fuller, Wide Receiver
Nick Harris, Offensive Line

Washington State (2 invites)

Anthony Gordon, Quarterback
Dezmon Patmon, Wide Receiver

Somehow, Utah leads the way in combine invites for Pac-12 football programs. As a result, their school gained instant respect. Their school-record nine combine invites is great for their program’s recruiting. But, it’s a tough task to replace.

“It is not hard to figure out why we were formidable on defense this past year and why we had statistically one of the best defenses we have ever had at Utah,” said head coach Kyle Whittingham. “It is going to be a big challenge replacing those guys.”
Deseret News

Apart from a lackluster finish, Utah played well in 2019. As a result, they nearly made the College Football Playoffs. Or, at least they were in the discussion. These nine combine invites were a large part of their winning. In other words, it’s a big loss to the program.

Nevertheless, Utah is upping their recruiting game by leading the Pac-12 in combine invites.

Colorado’s Mel Tucker Calms Anxious Fans

Michigan State football coaching search: Luke Fickell, Mel Tucker set to interview https://t.co/K292wXUNUV
— Detroit Free Press (@freep) February 8, 2020

Last Tuesday, Mark Dantonio retired after 13 seasons as Michigan State’s head coach. It was reported that Cincinnati’s Luke Fickell and Colorado’s Mel Tucker were those interviewing.

Although it was Tucker’s first season ever as a head coach, no program wants to lose their H.C. Furthermore, no program wants to lose their coach after the coaching carousel already hired the most qualified candidates. Consequently, it’s not the best time to hire.

But, Tucker made sure to raise the spirits of the Colorado program, its players and its fans.

https://twitter.com/Coach_mtucker/status/1226230203451465728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1226230203451465728&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fdenver.cbslocal.com%2F2020%2F02%2F08%2Fmel-tucker-colorado-buffaloes-michigan-state-spartans-mike-dantonio-ncaa-football-head-coach%2F

Arizona State Close to Adding Robert Rodriguez as D-Line Coach

Vikings' Robert Rodriguez to be named #ASU defensive line coach https://t.co/1Omkc7hqhP via @azcentral
— jeffmetcalfe (@jeffmetcalfe) February 10, 2020

Reportedly, the Arizona State Sundevils are reportedly close to signing Robert Rodriguez as defensive line coach. Because of Jamar Cain’s departure, Rodriguez is a big hire.

Rodriguez just completed his fifth year with the Vikings. During that time, he worked closely with Vikings defensive line coach Andre Patterson. They utilized aggressive schemes for playmakers Daniel Hunter and Everson Griffen. As a result of his NFL experience, Rodriguez is a sound hire. Above all, Rodriguez will be paid to bring defensive pressure.

Unfortunately, Cain left behind more than defensive coaching. Jamar Cain is considered one of the best recruiting coaches. Losing him hurt. But, Rodriguez coached for UTEP from 2008 to 2014. So, at least he does understand how collegiate coaching and recruiting works. Both as a player and a coach.

Aaron Hernandez Documentary: Has Weaknesses, But Spotlights Concerns

Criticisms of Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez

Not Enough Focus

At times, the docu-series felt extremely sporadic. Yes, it was still compelling as they “uncovered” the secrets in Hernandez’ life. Nonetheless, each episode lacked focus. It bounced around too often and didn’t allocate time well. If “Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez” stuck to its focal points better in each installment, the documentary would improve.

Too Much Speculation and Not Enough Facts

Even though the documentary spanned 200 minutes, many aspects of “Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez” were shallow. It left viewers wanting more. Again, this was most likely due to the editing and story-line choices. With a better episode-by-episode focus, his story would unfold.

Additionally, Netflix’ access to speakers on the subject were likely very limited. This story involved high school, collegiate and professional football suspicions. Those are accusations against the giants of sports. Because of football’s power, it’s probable that many remained silent. With an underrepresented sources, the story can’t be completely told. For that reason, the docu-series hurt.

Dennis Sansoucie “Star Quarterback”

Speaking of sources, Dennis Sansoucie earned heavy criticism. He’s been called a liar, fake, greedy or just another looking for the spotlight. Coming from Dennis Sansoucie himself, Aaron Hernandez and him were both friends and young lovers. At one point, Sansoucie delcared that he and Hernandez were the two best players on the field. Quarterback and tight end. That point received the most condemnation.

When I heard about the Aaron Hernandez and Dennis SanSoucie little love story I went to max preps and searched up Bristol central hs and selected the 2006 roster and Dennis SanSoucie didn’t play QB (#11) like he said saying they had a special relationship from it. I smell cap. pic.twitter.com/cYGbY0GD9J
— juni 🦇💫🖤 (@Crvzzzzz) January 18, 2020

Dennis Sansoucie’s Actual Stats

In his four years of high school, Sansoucie only managed four starts at quarterback. But, each of those starts came at the start of the 2005 season. He was their starting quarterback for four games. In those, he threw 11 touchdowns, nine of which went to Aaron Hernandez. On his short resume, Sansoucie also posted one start with nearly 300 yards (297) and five touchdowns.

Sep. 16, 2005	New Britain Golden Hurricanes	L 23-53
Sansoucie Completions	Passing Yards	TD-INT	Hernandez Receptions	Receiving Yards	Touchdowns
8-22	170	2-0	3	105	2
Sep. 23, 2005	Bloomfield Warhawks	W 28-7
Sansoucie Completions	Passing Yards	TD-INT	Hernandez Receptions	Receiving Yards	Touchdowns
7-17	101	2-1	4	89	2
Sep. 30, 2005	South Windor Bobcats	W 9-12
Sansoucie Completions	Passing Yards	TD-INT	Hernandez Receptions	Receiving Yards	Touchdowns
13-18	297	5-1	7	164	3
Oct. 7th, 2005	Hartford Public Owls	L 13-39
Sansoucie Completions	Passing Yards	TD-INT	Hernandez Receptions	Receiving Yards	Touchdowns
10-25	205	2-0	6	166	2
Oct. 16th, 2005	Maloney Spartans	W 40-13
Sansoucie Completions	Passing Yards	TD-INT	Hernandez Receptions	Receiving Yards	Touchdowns
N/A	N/A	N/A	9	258	3
Matt Coyne Completions	Passing Yards	TD-INT
14-24	375	5-0

Moreover, additional speculation came out surrounding Sansoucie’s junior season.

You dont remember freshman year when aaron and dennis got caught "smoking weed" in the lockerroom and dennis got kicked off the team and aaron didnt? Sansoucie was the QB and coyne took over when he wss kicked off
— Kirby Bombard (@KBombard03) January 18, 2020

This would explain why Dennis Sansoucie felt that he was a star of the team, yet lacked a full season as quarterback. Whether or not this story is true, it gives light into Sansoucie’s reasoning. There are certainly many adults that look back into their high school days with glory. If Sansoucie lost his starting job because of an off-field issue, he would still think of himself as the star.

Strengths of Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez

After its January 15th release, “Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez” immediately gained popularity and intrigue. The three-part Netflix true crime documentary explores court cases and circumstances that could lead to those.

Overall, it was well received. “Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez” boasts:

You Can’t Turn it Off

On first watch, “Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez” is highly entertaining. It’s certainly binge-worthy and captures your attention immediately. We all want to know the whole story. Aaron Hernandez’ psyche is a an enthralling reason. There’s no watching just one episode. Instead, it compels every viewer to watch all three episodes in a row. For that, the Netflix documentary succeeds.

Access to Prison Phone Calls

Without a doubt, the highlight of “Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez” is hearing the phone calls from prison. Those phone calls give us a greater insight into Hernandez’ character. They’re personal, private, unfiltered. Viewers hear him talk to his fiance, daughter, mother, agent. It added a layer of realism to the story.

Most Importantly, Aaron Hernandez’ Story Raises Questions and Concerns

Homophobia in Football Culture

In the series, Dennis Sansoucie and Ryan O’Callaghan both discussed the plight of growing up as closeted gay men. Sansoucie talked about his and Hernandez’ fathers as men that would beat the gay out of a kid. And although the documentary speculated that Aaron Hernandez was “gay” instead of acknowledging other sexual orientations like bi-sexuality, it was still an important subject. Mental health is a massive issue in our society. Denying your own identity out of fear would derail anyone.

CTE

It’s the NFL’s biggest Boogie Man: CTE. Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy. The disease continues to appear in professional football. In a 2017 study published in the medical journal JAMA, the results were shocking. Of the 111 post-mortem brains of former NFL players, 110 had CTE. CTE plagues the well beings of current and former players. It’s symptoms include:

Memory Loss
Confusion
Impaired Judgment
Impulse Control Problems
Aggression
Depression
Parkisonism
Progressive Dementia
Suicidality

Do any of those symptoms sound like Aaron Hernandez? Completely. Does CTE excuse his actions? Of course not. However, would he be a murder if he didn’t have CTE? That is the million-dollar question. And that’s important not only for the lives of football players, but to the victims of criminal acts by those players.

Yes, the NFL says it’s doing its best to get ahead of this issue. But, as pointed out in this documentary, it starts long before the NFL. Additionally, how often has the league ignored player health and safety?

College and NFL Teams Make Injured Players Play

“My body is so fucked up… They banned that shit from the league saying you can only get that if you have a serious injury,” he said. “Guess who they gave that shit to every fucking game? Me.”
Aaron Hernandez, prison call with his fiance

Fill them up with pills or injections and put them out on the field. It’s a part of the game. Organizations want wins. Players want money. No player wants to be labeled as injury prone or soft. Adding to that, the next man up could always be the replacement. Injured players need to heal. Instead, due to a lack of integrity by teams, they are pushed onto the field to play sports most brutal game.

Football wrecks bodies. It’s a gladiator’s sport. Understanding it’s brutality, coaches and team medical staff need to support players. Player health and safety should be a top concern. But, wins secure jobs for coaches and staff. As a result, players need to play. Irregardless of injury. Why else would teams constantly refer to injuries as a “pain-tolerance” issue?

It becomes an especially-jarring concern when Aaron Hernandez stated that the Patriots gave him Toradol every single game. Again, the case of Aaron Hernandez showed why NFL players deserve better advocates. Whether it is mentoring mental, emotional or physical health, these athletes need help. They shouldn’t have to ask. And they certainly should have to commit suicide before football anwers.

aaron hernandez college football collegefootball football National Football League Netflix NFL

Andy Reid needs a Super Bowl Victory to Cement His HOF Legacy

Is this the season Andy Reid changes his legacy?

At 61 years old, with 21 years of head coaching experience, his teams experienced incredible regular season success. Of 21 season with the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs, he only missed the playoffs six times. Most recently, with Kansas City, their regular-season records include:

11-5
9-7
11-6
12-4
10-6
12-4
12-4

His teams won 10 division titles and they had an overall 61.8-percent winning percentage. But, even with all of the wins, his teams have still fallen short of the big game. Andy Reid is largely looked at one of the greatest coaches to never win a Super Bowl. He’s been called out for poor clock-management, letting his foot off the gas and losing in critical games. His 12-14 playoff record hangs over any of his feats. And he’s ridiculed for it every, single season.

But, with a Super Bowl victory, he can change all of that and vault himself into a new category of NFL coaches.

Andy Reid’s coaching tree is already better than Bill Belichick’s

Everyone knows Bill Belichick’s success with the New England Patriots is otherworldly. However, his coaching tree produced very few winners. In a recent article by Matt Lombardo of NJ Advance Media, he compared in detail the differences between Andy Reid and Belichick’s legacy of head coaches. In comparison, Reid’s successors are far better in comparison:

Coaches who have worked for Andy Reid and then been given the keys to their own castles have produced 19 playoff appearances and a pair of Super Bowls, while Bill Belichick’s tree is still searching for its first Super Bowl ring. Why? Comparing the trees: https://t.co/z7ODjelEK5
— Matt Lombardo 🏈 (@MattLombardoNFL) January 13, 2020

Belichick’s Coaching Tree

Combined Record: 281-330-1
Playoff Appearances: 8
Super Bowl Titles: 0

Reid’s Coaching Tree

Combined Record: 350-307-1
Playoff Appearances: 19
Super Bowl Titles: 2

Even without a Super Bowl title himself, Andy Reid’s success lives through his coaching tree. Although, if Reid, Patrick Mahomes, and the Kansas City Chiefs win this year’s Super Bowl, his legacy will boom.

Andy Reid, Offensive Genius

With respect to Philadelphia and Kansas City’s scouting, drafting and signing, Andy Reid’s coached so many offensive powerhouses. It takes only a second to think of incredible playmakers from the Eagles and Chiefs. Donovan McNabb, Brian Westbrook, LeSean McCoy, Terrell Owens, and DeSean Jackson highlight his years in Philadelphia. While Patrick Mahomes, Jamaal Charles, Tyreek Hill, and Travis Kelce are huge in Kansas City.

But, even without the superstars, he’s gotten the most out of every running back and receiver on his teams. He even made Alex Smith look like an NFL MVP. Regardless of the players available, Reid’s teams put up points. 13 of his 21 teams ranked in the top-10 of offensive points per game in their respective seasons. Additionally, nine of them ranked in the top-six in scoring offense.

Now, with Patrick Mahomes at the helm with Travis Kelce, Tryreek Hill, Damien Williams, Mecole Hardman, and Sammy Watkins to utilize, Reid’s offense is at full force. This offensive power was on display in their 51-31 win against the Houston Texans. With a Super Bowl victory, Andy Reid’s genius will be immortalized.

Reid is too good to not have a ring

Andy Reid is going to his 7th conference championship game in 21 seasons as head coach

Only Bill Belichick and Tom Landry have coached in more

Do you want to see Big Red win his first Super Bowl? pic.twitter.com/YyRPKDUfhK
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) January 12, 2020

In his two decades of experience, Andy Reid amassed 207 wins, 10 division titles, and one Super Bowl appearance. In terms of head coaching success, Reid ranks seventh all-time in regular-season wins. Don Shula, George Hala, Bill Belichick, Tom Landry, Curly Lambeau, Paul Brown and Marty Schottenheimer each join him in the 200-plus win club.

Despite his exceptional company, he is the only one of them without an NFL title. This Super Bowl victory would vault him into the discussion of a future Hall of Fame coach.

Andy Reid has the wins. He’s known as an offensive genius. Any layman can name countless elite players from his teams. All he needs is two more wins to get the respect he deserves.

Kansas City Chiefs National Football League NFL NFL Hall of Fame NFL Playoffs professional sports Super Bowl

Giants Hire Joe Judge As Next Head Coach. Now What?

Actions speak louder than words, but saying the right things matter. That’s exactly how I feel after watching Joe Judge’s press conference. To the surprise of many including myself, the New York Giants hired Joe Judge as their next head coach.

To quote Snoop Dogg on The Breakfast Club, “Who?”

Judge is a 38-year-old coach who happened to work for two of the greatest coaches in football history: Nick Saban and Bill Belichick. If you ask me, that’s two of the best minds to learn something about football and how to be a head coach. Judge worked with the special teams in New England since 2012 ~~and even worked with wide receivers this past season~~. (We’re not going to talk about that part.)

Did Judge become the Giants head coach via the process of elimination? Maybe. It’s clear the team was heavily interested in Matt Rhule, but the former Baylor coach went to Carolina after being offered a contract worth 7 years, $60 million, which the Giants declined to match.

However, when watching the Judge press conference, you can tell why the Giants were blown away with one of Belichick’s disciples. Discipline, work ethic, and accountability are three things the Giants lacked during the Ben McAdoo and Pat Shurmur eras. McAdoo and Shurmur didn’t exactly inspire confidence in fans and they would be two of the last coaches I would want to be stuck in a foxhole with at battle.

However, Judge makes you want to run through the nearest brick wall.

"We will punch you in the nose for 60 minutes, we will play every play like it has a history and a life of its own.” – Joe Judge is ready to lead the Giants to the promised land pic.twitter.com/SmVnCBUREp
— CBS Sports HQ (@CBSSportsHQ) January 9, 2020

From an introductory standpoint, (Joe) Judge hit a home run. It’s clear he wants to turn things around by focusing on the fundamentals, finding well-disciplined players, and playing hard on both sides of the ball.

This all sounds great. It’s every fans’ wet dream. However, at the end of the day, it’s just words and what the Giants need are actions.

Daniel Jones, Saquon Barkley, Sterling Shephard, Evan Engram, and Darius Slayton is a nice, emerging offensive core. That’s a good start. Now, protecting Daniel Jones with competent offensive tackles is a priority.

However, the bad is bad and most of it is on defense. The Giants have zero pash rushers. (If anyone says Leonard Williams, then you can count, on me, waiting for you in the parking lot.) Big Blue needs linebackers desperately and the secondary has more questions than a game of “Clue.”

Plus, there’s another problem and that problem is named Dave Gettleman.

Someone grab some computer folks and explain what efficiency means to Dave Gettleman please. pic.twitter.com/QDo4oywf5w
— Will Brinson (@WillBrinson) January 9, 2020

I’m not going to waste time on Gettleman and his deficiencies because I don’t want to beat a dead horse.

All I want from the Judge and the Giants is to put together a plan. That’s it. It sounds so simple, but the last couple of seasons have been so off-the-rails that a unified plan is exactly what this team needs. Protect Jones, build a defense, and honestly, just play hard. If the Giants struggle this year, but play like the Dolphins did for Brian Flores this past season, I’ll be ecstatic for the future.

The ball is your court, Joe Judge.

Follow me on Twitter, @danny_giro.

football Joe Judge New York Giants NFL sports

State of Every Pac-12 Team, College Players to XFL, Rooney Rule

George and Ralph grade each Pac-12 team in relevance, stability, recruiting, and future outlook on the podcast. They use a 100 point system with each category being worth 25 points. The new version of the XFL starts soon. It may be another path for college football players to get paid while preparing for the NFL draft. Arizona State offensive analyst, Marvin Lewis was a token minority candidate interview (Rooney Rule) by the Dallas Cowboys.

Send your team grades to the immad@unafraidshow.com

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The Pac-12 Apostles is a podcast for fans who love the Pac-12 conference. George Wrighster and Ralph Amsden are committed to the honest and fair conversation about the conference. Join us by becoming a Pac-12 Apostle. Subscribe and share the podcast.

Please leave a review of our podcast on iTunes if you can! We record a podcast once a week during the off-season for football and then from the months of August to January we record two podcasts per week. Our podcasts are always heavy on Pac-12 football but we make it a point to also try and cover the other notable Men’s and Women’s Pac-12 sports. We cover recruiting and any other major storyline in the Pac-12 universe.

George Wrighster is a former Pac-12 and long-time NFL tight end. As a television/radio host, opinionist, and analyst, who is UNAFRAID to speak the truth. Contrary to industry norms he uses, facts, stats, and common sense to win an argument. He has covered college football, basketball, NFL, NBA, MLB since 2014. Through years of playing college football, covering bowl games, coaching changes, and scandals, he has a great pulse for the conference and national perspective.

Ralph Amsden is a Wyoming-born sportswriter and podcaster who spends his days tweeting through the misadventures that come with shuttling four kids around the Arizona desert. Ralph is the publisher of Rivals’ ArizonaVarsity.com, the founder of ArizonaSportsCast.com, and was previously the managing editor of the Arizona State Rivals affiliate, DevilsDigest.com. He is also a professional hater of all things pineapple. Whether you’re talking food, movies, music, parenting, politics, sports, television, religion, or zoological factoids, Ralph has questions for you. He might be sub-.500 in spousal disputes and schoolyard fights, but he’s always UNAFRAID to square up.

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Justin Herbert’s Rose Bowl Win and 3 Rushing TD’s Saved His NFL Draft Stock

Justin Herbert’s First Drive was Phenomenal

Justin Herbert caps off a 75-yard opening drive with Oregon’s first TD 😤 #RoseBowl

(via @Pac12Network)pic.twitter.com/uzV5CF66qG
— Bleacher Report CFB (@BR_CFB) January 1, 2020

12 plays, 75 yards and a rushing touchdown highlighted by a Justin Herbert stiff-arm.

It was a near-perfect opening drive for Herbert and the Oregon Ducks. Herbert’s first possession stats included:

4-of-5 completions for 49 yards
2 rushes for 7 yards and a touchdown

With ease, Justin Herbert and company carved through the Wisconsin Badgers. Although Oregon fans have become accustomed to high-scoring outings by their Ducks, this was against Wisconsin’s ninth-ranked defense in the nation, per Football Outsiders DFEI. To start like that was incredible. If Herbert kept his play at that high of a level, his 2020 NFL Draft stock would have risen substantially.

However, that didn’t happen.

Stalled Offense and Poor Decision Making

The bad of Justin Herbert on his second drive of the Rose Bowl. Predetermined throw and forces it into traffic. Great play on the ball by Jack Sanborn. pic.twitter.com/rQRm5szeNp
— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) January 1, 2020

On his very next drive, Justin Herbert erased his flawless first possession. Tied at 7-7, following a Wisconsin kick-return touchdown, Herbert threw a horrible throw into traffic. Granted, most of the time passes near lineman are batted down. Few are intercepted like this. But, this throw was different. It was oddly low, into a cluster of players and Wisconsin’s Jack Sanborn was sitting there, waiting with eyes on Herbert. Herbert didn’t even try a different read.

Either he didn’t see the Sanborn or the Wisconsin cluster, threw the ball far lower than he wanted to or thought he could force a football through too tight a window. Regardless of why the interception happened, it grades very poorly for Herbert.

After opening the game with a 12 play, 75 yard touchdown drive, Oregon’s offense faltered for five consecutive drives. Justin Herbert couldn’t get anything going. Interception, punt, punt, punt, turnover on downs.

It wasn’t until the final four minutes of the first half when Herbert was able to lead any significant drive. But, that wasn’t solely because of him. Instead, it was mostly due to the Oregon Ducks’ defensive plays.

Relying on Defensive Turnovers

“A special teams disaster!”

Brady Breeze comes up BIG for the Ducks again 😳

(via @Pac12Network)pic.twitter.com/FdfvlT4nbh
— Bleacher Report CFB (@BR_CFB) January 2, 2020

At the end of the game, Oregon forced four turnovers. Three fumbles and one interception. Considering Brady Breeze took one fumble to the house, Herbert doesn’t get credit for those seven points. However, two of Herbert’s three touchdown drives came off of turnovers. His team got him the ball at the Wisconsin 36, the Wisconsin 33 and the Wisconsin 30.

With field position like that, Herbert’s scoring drives were less impressive. Ignoring drives after turnovers and his first-half kneel, Justin Herbert’s nine remaining drives included:

One Touchdown
One Interception
6 Punts
One Game-Sealing Drive to Run out the Clock

Not great. Yes, we can’t take away his touchdowns. He had two, critical touchdowns in the game that came off of turnovers. He didn’t lead them to field goals on those. They came away with 14 points because of him. However, a top-NFL scout needs to be able to create his own success and not rely so heavily on his defense.

Justin Herbert Shows Off Stiff Arm and Dual-Threat Ability

We have no words for Justin Herbert's last performance as a Duck. 🙌

QB1 brought out his bag of tricks for his finale and scored three rushing (‼️) touchdowns to lead @oregonfootball to a @rosebowlgame victory. pic.twitter.com/D0E8BSK37c
— Pac-12 Network (@Pac12Network) January 2, 2020

Thankfully, for Justin Herbert’s case, he chose to run. His three rushing touchdowns displayed the NFL’s newest delight: dual-threat ability. In the NFL, the game is evolving. Quarterbacks are running more read-options and designed quarterback runs. It’s a new era. NFL play-callers desperately want quarterbacks with versatility.

With successful stiff-arms and a game-winning 30-yard rushing touchdown, Herbert showed off that versatility. It changed the way scouts will look at him.

Although he’s no Lamar Jackson, Herbert’s athleticism in the Rose Bowl saved his lack of throwing success.

Just Enough to Cover-Up Mistakes and Maintain Draft Stock

Justin Herbert’s last 2 games will help him immensely in scouting rooms. It wasn’t always pretty but you saw toughness, athleticism and a winning effort. The evaluation goes beyond the stats sheet. Did you feel his presence in back to back big vs. good comp? Yes. That matters
— Bucky Brooks (@BuckyBrooks) January 2, 2020

While some saw an erratic passer, others saw a leader with grit and the clutch-gene. Herbert’s three rushing touchdowns displayed his athleticism. His 30-yard rushing touchdown showed his athleticism and game-winning ability. Then, at the end of the game, his poise on a game-sealing drive demonstrated his “winning effort”. Like Bucky Brooks said, his play “wasn’t always pretty”. But, Herbert did just enough to erase his mistakes.

At the end of the day, the Rose Bowl is still just one game. Justin Herbert’s four-year career for Oregon has been iconic. Some would even put him above the likes of Marcus Mariota in Ducks’ fame. With his highlight-reel three-touchdown scamper and the Rose Bowl “W”, Herbert kept himself in the top-three quarterback discussion.

justin herbert NFL NFL Draft 2019 NFL Scouting Combine Oregon Ducks

The Best Pac-12 NFL Players: Week 14’s Performers from Each School

Zach Ertz and Marcus Peters show how clutch Pac-12 NFL athletes are

Unfortunately, Week 14 was not like last week’s edition of the Best Pac-12 NFL Players. We didn’t see the special teams and defensive touchdowns like we were afforded. Nonetheless, there was still great representation from our conference in Week 14.

The Big List of Pac-12 NFL Performers, College by College

Arizona

Will Parks – Denver Broncos

Down 38-24, with 23 seconds left, Will Parks picked off Deshaun Watson to seal the game. Granted, this was garbage time, but it was still a nice moment for Broncos fans.

Against the Texans, Parks and the Broncos defense played an exceptional game. They racked up three turnovers and helped get the Broncos a 38-3 lead. During this win, Parks totaled five tackles, one pass break-up and one interception.

Arizona State

Damarious Randall – Cleveland Browns

https://twitter.com/RandallTime/status/1204432918531248133

Thankfully, Damarious Randall and Freddie Kitchens are back on good terms. After staying home while the rest of the team went to Pittsburgh, Randall once again got the start.

In this game, his 100-percent snap-share displays that Kitchens and the team worked things out with Randall. On the season, Randall has 40 tackles, 4 pass break-ups, 2 sacks and owns a 70.0 PFF Grade. He’s a great defensive asset.

With his five tackles and coverage play, Randall helped the Browns stay in the playoff hunt.

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Cal

Jared Goff – Los Angeles Rams

Jared Goff has been masterful outside the pocket tonight. #nextgenstats

Next Gen Stats, powered by @awscloud pic.twitter.com/4HGtiYwDon
— Sunday Night Football on NBC (@SNFonNBC) December 9, 2019

In the lights of Sunday Night, Jared Goff played well. Though he wasn’t perfect, throwing two interceptions (and one pick-six) to Quandre Diggs, Goff got that W.

Russell Wilson and the Seahawks were the favorite and led the division. However, Goff threw for 293 yards, while leading the Rams to four touchdowns. They protected Goff and he paid off with a modest, nonetheless critical, 95.2 Passer Rating.

Colorado

David Bakhtiari – Green Bay Packers

#Packers @DavidBakhtiari & @PrestonSmith94 continue to lead NFC Pro Bowl fan voting!

📰: https://t.co/nPzeG2hjMn #ProBowlVote | #GoPackGo pic.twitter.com/hlJ8zDZ3fd
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) December 10, 2019

Yes, the Packers gave up four sacks against Washington and Rodgers only mustered 195 passing yards. However, David Bakhtiari and the Packers offensive line also blocked for 174 rushing yards.

Aaron Jones took 16 carries for a season-high 134 yards, while Jamaal Williams added 24 and Rodgers 16. Bakhtiari is a fan-favorite and he’s a staple of the Packers offense.

Oregon

Troy Hill – Los Angeles Rams

Keep dominating.

Break it down, @AaronDonald97! 😂 pic.twitter.com/ky4XsqBTQw
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) December 9, 2019

Currently, Troy Hill is in great form. His 77.9 PFF Grade displays his upside and why he was a smart extension by the Rams. He’s made big plays and helped the Rams win three of their last four games.

In their Sunday night win against the Seahawks, Troy Hill stepped up bigtime as a Pac-12 NFL athlete. He broke up two passes, totaled three tackles and came down with an interception. It was a great day to be a Rams fan.

Oregon State

Jordan Poyer

Since starting with the Bills in 2017- through – Week 14 2019 season, Jordan Poyer is the only safety to be NFL top ten tackler going on 3 seasons in a row!
PRO BOWL – 2020 Vote pic.twitter.com/f50Sqaa8kL
— PapaSmurf (@Lou46157325) December 10, 2019

If there’s one thing Jordan Poyer is, it’s a sure-tackler. Poyer takes players down. Even though the Bills lost to the Ravens, it was still a close game.

Poyer and the Bills defense held Lamar Jackson’s offense to just 24 points. Somehow, against the number one team in the league, the Bills lost by just one touchdown. It’s a statement to Buffalo’s defense right now.

Stanford

Zach Ertz – Philadelphia Eagles

Yes, it was against the 11 and 2 Giants. But still, Zach Ertz came up big. It’s why he earned a top-spot on Unafraidshow’s Pac-12 NFL list.

Carson caps the comeback.

Down 17-3 at half, Wentz hits Zach Ertz for the game-winning TD in overtime.

(via @NFL)pic.twitter.com/iQvOqgK9ac
— CBS Sports HQ (@CBSSportsHQ) December 10, 2019

On a night where the Eagles were completely depleted at wide receiver, Ertz stepped up. He caught 9 of 13 targets for 91 yards and two critical touchdowns.

However, we still can’t ignore this laughable moment from Zach Ertz.

Love Zach Ertz opting not to run forward for another wide open 15 yards and deciding to fall down without being touched instead. pic.twitter.com/mu2CbfQ9Xd
— CogginToboggan (@CogginToboggan) December 10, 2019

UCLA

Kenny Clark – Green Bay Packers

Kenny Clark with a really nice rep. Slight shade against the center. Attack and rip through.
I love Kenny Clark. pic.twitter.com/ri1OfMIGAV
— Dusty (@DustyEvely) December 10, 2019

Geez. Kenny Clark is an animal. So strong, powerful. An absolute force to be reckoned with.

At 6-foot-3, 314lbs, it’s impressive how much he can move. He threw Washington lineman aside like dolls and earned 1.5 sacks.

USC

Robert Woods – Los Angeles Rams

Our guy @robertwoods lighting up the Coli on a Sunday night. Give him a #ProBowlVote! #USCtotheNFL pic.twitter.com/yz4xoQUKgw
— USC Trojans (@USC_Athletics) December 9, 2019

Back-to-back-to-back-to-back big weeks for Robert Woods. In his last four games, Woods has at least 6 receptions and 95 receiving yards. His four-week streak includes:

33 Receptions
462 Receiving Yards
29 Rushing Yards
23 First Downs
One well-deserved touchdown

Thank goodness Woods finally found the paydirt. And at the Coliseum, too! What better way to please the Pac-12 NFL fanatics than a USC-alumni touchdown at the Coliseum?

Robert Woods continues to stay hot as the Rams fight their way back to relevance.

Utah

Sam Tevi – Los Angeles Chargers

Meeting Sam Tevi in Jacksonville. #DHBC #BoltFam ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/QweqZ1GPP7
— #DHBC (@diehardboltclub) December 9, 2019

45 to 10. Dominant.

At Jacksonville, the Chargers completely controlled the game. During their big win, Sam Tevi played 90-percent of snaps. He was a big contributor to their 195 yards rushing and two rushing touchdowns. Additionally, they only let Jacksonville sack Rivers once. Tevi had himself a great game.

Washington

Marcus Peters – Baltimore Ravens

THE DEFENSE GETS THE FOURTH-DOWN STOP!!!!@marcuspeters MAKES THE PLAY!!! pic.twitter.com/S0MET4q1qG
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) December 8, 2019

Big-time players make plays in clutch moments. That’s exactly who and what Marcus Peters is… Clutch.

Even though the Rams gave him away to the Ravens, he is playing elite football. Every Pac-12 NFL fan see his level of play. His 85.1 PFF Grade on the season and three pass break-ups against the Bills display this. Peters is right at home on the Ravens. Their secondary is the best in the league and the Rams management have to regret that trade.

Washington State

Gardner Minshew – Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars and @GardnerMinshew5 surprised 50 kids with tonight’s Shop with a Jaguar event pic.twitter.com/vWJIdYe9w4
— Ashlyn Sullivan (@ashlynrsullivan) December 10, 2019

In a blowout loss, Minshew threw for a humble (very humble) 162 yards and one touchdown. But, it certainly wasn’t enough to combat the Chargers’ offense and the Jaguars’ defensive woes.

Honestly, to those that watched the game, it felt like the Jaguars defense phoned this one in. The Chargers ran and passed all over the Jaguars. Jacksonville didn’t have their heart in the game.

Granted, that’s much easier to say coming from the comfort of my own home, while not actually playing football. And we know players like Gardner Minshew gave it their all. It’s just too much on Minshew’s shoulders. He’s shown excellent upside this season, but with injured pass-catchers and a porous defense, it’s too much.

Miss Week 13’s Top Pac-12 NFL Performances?

https://unafraidshow.com/best-pac-12-nfl-players-week-13-performers-2019/

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The Best Pac-12 NFL Players: Week 13’s Performers from Each School

Defensive and Special Teams Touchdowns Highlight Pac-12 NFL Upside

In this week’s edition, we were graced with incredible play. Vita Vea impressed last week, but week 13 was a treat for football fans! Trick plays, blocked kicks, and unbelievable defensive plays highlight the Pac-12 NFL Players Week 13.