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As a huge fan of the defensive side of the ball, I’ve grown accustomed to names like Ray Lewis, Ed Reed and Terrell Suggs terrorizing offenses for the Baltimore Ravens. Not to be outdone, Pittsburgh’s Troy Polamalu, James Harrison, Casey Hampton and Brett Keisel, have coerced many opponents into offensive obscurity. It’s uncanny to see two teams so similar in production, yet complete polar opposites in how they operate.

The Baltimore Ravens have achieved their defensive success despite a revolving door at the coordinator position. Names like Marvin Lewis, Mike Nolan, Rex Ryan and Chuck Pagano have all parlayed their success coordinating the Ravens defense into head coaching opportunities. Even position assistants like Jack Del Rio and Mike Smith have all gone on to obtain head coaching gigs. This defense was built off the backs of future Hall-of-Fame inductees Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, in addition to notable stars like the aforementioned Suggs, Jamie Sharper, Chris McCallister, Duane Starks, Haloti Ngata and Adalius Thomas. The defensive alignment of the Ravens was as multiple as their coordinators. Often bouncing back and forth between 4-3 and 3-4 fronts, with even a little old school Buddy Ryan 4-6 scheme sprinkled in, courtesy of Buddy’s son, Rex. Despite being a conduit to other opportunities, the Ravens somehow managed to stay relevant to the NFL’s defensive scene.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been a model of consistency since it’s inception in 1933. The Rooney family has owned the team from day one and continue that tradition to this very day. Arguably the best ran franchise in all of sports, the Steelers have only had three head coaches in the modern era (1969-til present). This steadfastness also lends itself to the defensive side of the ball, where the great Dick LeBeau has coordinated since 2004. The Steelers have made their impact on building and grooming through the draft while making 1-2 key free agent acquisitions with longevity based tenure-ship in mind . It always seems as though the answer to a personnel question is already sitting on their roster.

The 2012 season proved to be the changing of the guard for the Baltimore Ravens. Stalwarts Lewis and Reed would eventually give way to a more offensive based team in order of importance. The defense finished ranked 17th, in what was a very tumultuous season on that side of the ball. Consequently, going in the direction of being an offensive based team proved to be just what the doctor ordered, as the Ravens season culminated in a Super Bowl victory with a breakout performance behind it’s new leader – and Super Bowl MVP – quarterback Joe Flacco. Although the offense was much the culprit of the Super Bowl victory, the defense showed why it will go down in the annals of history as one of the most poignant, as well as celebrated units of all-time. With key play after key play, a goal-line stand would prove to be the penultimate series that would lift the team to the preeminent  prize in the sport.

Both Reed and Lewis would finish their Ravens tenure as champions – as both have moved on. Above all, the pundits were quite clairvoyant in their prediction of the fall of the Ravens once stout defense.

The 2012 season was a mixed bag for the Steelers. With an 8-8 finish, fans of the ‘Black & Yellow’ were subjected to one of the most disappointing seasons in recent memory. Injuries piled up on both sides of the ball, especially on offense. With a veteran laced defensive unit, one wouldn’t suspect that side of the ball to hold up it’s end of the bargain. Doubters and under-estimators alike can keep hoping. For the reason that the defense once again finished atop a myriad of defensive categories on it’s way to another #1 ranking. The rumors of the Steelers defensive demise, was greatly exaggerated!

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Upon film study, the Dick LeBeau “Zone blitz” scheme really gained my utmost respect. It’s a scheme built upon deception. Very rarely do they give you the same look, despite playing a lot of base personnel. Regardless of down and distance, an offense could possibly see the same personnel grouping throughout the game if LeBeau wanted that. Although the 3-4 is the alignment on early downs, it’s not uncommon to see the personnel interchanged at any given position, without having to substitute. It’s almost as if they’re playing defense, offensively!

You have linebackers covering slot receivers. Down lineman dropping into coverage. Cornerbacks blitzing. The free safety covering an inordinate amount of zone area. And of course a wild-card player you have to account for all over the field. He plays corner,  inside/outside linebacker, free/strong safety, and is sent on blitzes through each gap. He is truly the key that makes this high powered Ferrari of a defense go. That role is currently occupied by the mercurial Troy Polamalu.

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Troy Polamalu is one of the most exciting players in the history of the NFL. His versatility is unmatched, and his intensity is unparalleled.  He truly signifies what type of player it takes to be in a Dick LeBeau defense. He’s deployed in so many different ways that just trying to identify his whereabouts can be unnerving to most quarterbacks.

Let’s get into the film and see how Dick LeBeau formulates his versatile scheme –While integrating one of the most versatile defensive backs in the history of the NFL.

Pittsburgh in it’s Base 3-4 defense. Polamalu highlighted in Yellow.

Here we have the unit in it’s base 3-4 against New England’s empty-spread set. Most teams would not be able to compete with such an offensive formation as there isn’t enough speed to cover all the receivers in it’s base formation. Most 3-4 aligned teams only use their base personnel in clear running situations, on early down and distances. It doesn’t matter to the Steelers as their linebackers are usually undersized and some of the more athletic players at the position in the league. And all of their safeties tackle like linebackers and have great range and instincts. Most of these guys can play each other’s positions….To a certain degree

They are in man to man on the outside with the cornerbacks.  Both outside linebackers are dropping out in a zone to cover the flats and any underneath routes. The two inside linebackers are in cover two type look where they are patrolling the middle of the field. And the two safeties each have one side of the back end covered in case one of the two outside receivers get behind the cornerbacks. Lastly, they have the three down lineman pressuring the QB into a quicker decision. The versatility of the personnel makes it to where the offense isn’t really at an advantage despite throwing on a run down.

Here we have a look that would normally be a blitz for most teams. The Steelers are in their version of a dime defense. Polamalu, (always highlighted in yellow) is essentially an inside linebacker in this look. More than likely the QB thinks he is blitzing, but he’s actually dropping back in a zone. The inside linebacker next to him is also in a zone. #29, SS Ryan Mundy is man to man with Rob Gronkowski in the slot on the right side of the formation, giving them a 3 safety look. The rest of the corners are in man to man as well. Ryan Clark the deep safety is in a “Cover 1″ look (Single high safety) and is responsible for anything that goes deep. They are also employing a four man rush to hurry the process up. Two rush linebackers, and two down lineman penetrating the “A” gaps.This is deception and versatility at it’s finest.

“Blitzburgh” performing a stunt on the Patriots and QB Tom Brady.

In this diagram, Polamalu is man up in the slot with the the behemoth Rob Gronkowski. (Defended him perfectly too) There is man to man across the board, with ILB Lawrence Timmons in man coverage with one of the most athletic H-back/tight ends in the league in Aaron Hernandez. They have two deep safeties in a cover 2 zone shell. All the action is in the front 7 where only nose tackle Casey Hampton is in a three-point stance – head up over the guard in what’s called a 2 technique. The rest of the front is standing up, not showing their hand. Hampton, RDE Brett Keisel, ILB Larry Foote and OLB Lamarr Woodley are performing a stunt. They all rush similar gaps and occupy three blockers with the multiple rushers. By the time the center realizes it, this leaves Woodley alone and able to come behind them, on a delay, in a direct and open path the QB. This resulted in a big time sack for Woodley and his mates.

Deception that is the Pittsburgh Defense

Here Troy is lined up in the slot over Deion Branch. This is not unlike the last look I showed you. Except this time Troy is not in man to man coverage. He is blitzing from the 9 technique similar to an outside linebacker in their base alignment. CB Ike Taylor is actually man up Branch, as extra Safety Ryan Mundy is covering everything from the flat to the sideline. ILB Larry Foote is in man to man coverage with Rob Gronkowski showing his versatility. His counterpart, ILB Lawrence Timmons is  rushing the passer from more of a 5 technique (on the outside of the tackles right tackles shoulder) right next to Polamalu. LOLB Lamarr Woodley is rushing tighter to the formation similar to Timmons but on the left side of the formation. The left corner is playing zone, as Ryan Clark is in his familiar single high safety look. This 3 safety look is effective, because you get three of your better tacklers on the field at the same time. When you’re playing zone, you’re conceding the short catch, so you need players who are sure tacklers. Safeties provide this more-so that nickel corners.

Steelers defending the play-action of the Bengals while in their familiar base defense.

Here I diagrammed the play on both sides to show you the versatility of the base personnel. Polamalu is manning the shallow zone, while ILB’s Timmons and Foote perform another stunt. Foote shoots the right “A” gap only to occupy the center. Timmons comes on delay through the left “A” gap while the right guard reacts rather slowly. The ROLB James Harrison is in a zone covering the flat, which works out perfectly because the tailback is the check down off this play action pass (going in Harrisons direction)   The primary target is #84 tight end Jermaine Gresham, who’s being manned up by LOLB Lamarr Woodley. Both the NT Casey Hampton, and the RDE Brett Keisel are only there to engage blocks, which assists in the stunt. LDE Ziggy Hood is rushing the passer untouched due to the play-action/bootleg being performed by Andy Dalton and crew. #32 the FB of the Bengals has backside responsibility to block Ziggy Hood. Both corners are manned up with the “Z” and “X” receivers who are running “9″ routes (go patterns).  Ryan Clark is at single-high safety again. Like usual, this scheme is executed to perfection as Woodley amazingly is able to blanket Gresham in man coverage. Dalton has to hold the ball a couple of more seconds longer than he’d like – which resulted in Timmons getting the sack out of that stunt! Great stuff! Excellent execution!

Steel Curtain against the run

Lastly, I diagram why the Steelers have been so historically great against the run. The Bengals have pulled out their “Heavy Formation” due to the fact they were stagnant in the run game. They had an extra lineman report eligible and put him on the left side of their formation. They brought TE Jermaine Gresham in the backfield as well to try and seal the play off backside (Run was designed to go right on the outside of the tackle), as well as give the threat of a pass. FB John Conner is in the backfield as well, but is running a swing route to draw defenders out of the box. The Steelers are in their base formation again. #23 CB Demarcus Van Dyke is in man coverage with the TE in the backfield. Both OLB’s #92 James Harrison and #56 Lamarr Woodley are setting the edges, meaning they are forcing outside runs back to the inside where more defenders are. #96 LDE Ziggy Hood is shooting the B gap to apply pressure. #98 Casey Hampton is two gapping, meaning he’s going to engage the center, while deciphering which way the play is going and then making his move. #99 RDE is in two gapping out of a rare “4 technique”. Meaning he’s aligned head up with the LT instead of playing his inside or outside shoulder (In a 4 point stance no less!). ILB’s #94 Lawrence Timmons and #50 Larry Foote are free flowing to wherever the play goes. Not pictured, #28 CB Cortez Allen is man up with the lone receiver, while FS #25 Ryan Clark plays his single high position. And the wild card himself, SS #43 Troy Polamalu with his innate ability to sniff out run plays decides to shoot the “A” gap to disrupt the handoff. This unique commit to stopping the run is the reason the Steelers finished second in the NFL against the run allowing a putrid 3.7 yards per rush, which added up to 1,450 yards total given up on the ground! Incredible!

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Both the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens planted a blueprint for a lot of other squads to emulate on defense.

Most good things must come to an end, as the Ravens not only lost their normal season long stranglehold as being annually one of the elite defenses, but they most notably lost their two long time captains.

The Steelers on the other hand met attrition head on and were still able to secure their spot as the premiere defense in the NFL. They too lost a couple of captains in OLB James Harrison (released and signed with the upstart Bengals) and NT Casey Hampton (unsigned). Youngsters like Alameda Ta’amu and rookie 7th round pick, Nick Williams, will have to pick up the slack left behind by the 5 time pro-bowler Hampton.

As for replacing the former defensive player of the year in James Harrison, the Steelers may have drafted the next great pass rusher in the NFL. First round pick, Jarvis Jones, the rush linebacker out of the University of Georgia  - may just pick up where Harrison left off. He is one of the rare dominant college pass rushers (a nation leading 14.5 sacks in 2012, and a two year total of 28 at UGA) that played in a base 3-4 defense similar to what the Steelers play in. His learning curve shouldn’t be as steep as the other OLB’s on the roster – all of which were 4-3 defensive ends converted to OLB’s. His explosiveness and versatility should have Dick LeBeau foaming at the mouth. Jones is like a combination of Harrison and Polamalu. His tenaciousness will be on full display as coach Lebeau figures out different ways for him to rush the passer in his scheme.

And speaking of Polamalu, who is entering his 11th year in the NFL, age and attrition is rapidly creeping up on him as well. His playing in only 7 games last season, showed that the Steelers have plenty of ways of getting the job done. This past draft, the Steelers selected his eventual replacement in the 5’9, 213 pound dynamo of a safety, Shamarko Thomas. Thomas, who played collegiately at Syracuse University, at times looked like the college version of Polamalu. Despite the lack of height, he has a well put together frame that delivers bone jarring hits. Defenses had to account for him being all over the field similar to Polamalu. In my opinion, they couldn’t have picked a better safety to eventually succeed the former defensive player of the year. I’ve heard through the media that Polamalu wants to play at least another two seasons, so Thomas can be integrated into the scheme while being mentored by perhaps the greatest defensive back in Steelers history.

Earlier I stated, it seems the answer to the Steelers personnel questions are usually found within their roster. The 2012 season proved that to be true. Looking forward to 2013, I expect nothing less from this squad defensively but to dominate and help return the Steelers to prominence. I also expect their rival Baltimore Ravens to be right there with them, as they had one of the best off-season personnel wise in recent memory. One things for sure though, Dick LeBeau and his “Blitzburgh” Steelers, will undoubtedly continue to “Scheme this League to Death”…

Twitter:@UptownMurf

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The 2013 NFL Draft proved to be a deep class of receivers with 28 pass catchers hearing their name called throughout the three days in April. The 2014 class may not be as deep but it doesn’t lack for top end talent.

The 2014 NFL Draft could feature a pair of headliners if, as many expect, Marqise Lee and Sammy Watkins jump ship early to enter the professional ranks. The underclassmen could provide the wow factor of the class but the senior class features a handful of talented options.

After the break check out our 2014 NFL Draft wide receiver rankings.

SENIORS

1. Cody Hoffman, BYU

To say the QB play at BYU in 2012 was sporadic is the understatement of the century. Despite that fact, Hoffman showcased a skill set that contains everything outside of blazing speed. Hoffman is a big target with reliable hands and impressive route running ability. Hoffman’s ability to high point the ball and win on jump balls almost certainly will make an immediate threat in the red zone.

2. Jordan Matthews, Vanderbilt

I had the top two flip-flopped in my first top 100 overall release. After watching two Vandy games, I came away wondering about Matthews top end speed and ability to create after the catch. Matthews is a big, physical target that can win over the middle but lacks the sizzle to be taken early in the draft.

3. Mike Davis, Texas

Mike Davis has quietly had a great career at Texas. For those outside Austin, he sits in seventh on the all-time UT career receptions and receiving yards list. Davis has nice size and has been a nice deep threat at UT. With Texas transitioning to a more up-tempo offense, Davis could be a major benefactor as he should see plenty of balls his way this season.

4. Josh Huff, Oregon

Huff is on the short side (5’11”) but has the dynamic speed to be a dangerous slot option at the next level. Huff is a former running back and it shows when he has the ball in his hands. He has great vision, burst, and balance and could be one of the top receivers after the catch. He will need to improve on his route running ability but is prime for a breakout season.

5. Michael Campanaro, Wake Forest

Looking for a slot receiver with a ton of production? Look no further than Michael Campanaro. Campanaro has some impressive tape over the course of three seasons at Wake. He’s a reliable target that has a knack for exposing cracks in the defense. Campanaro isn’t a burner but he doesn’t get tracked down from behind too often.

6. Devin Street, Pittsburgh

7. Eric Ward, Texas Tech

8. Ryan Grant, Tulane

9. T.J. Jones, Notre Dame

10. Kevin Norwood, Alabama

11. Jared Abbrederis, Wisconsin

12. Noel Grigsby, San Jose State

13. Tracy Moore, Oklahoma State

14. Tevin Reese, Baylor

15. Andre Debose, Florida

Click here to check out the underclassmen receivers

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This post is two-fold. One, to explain that ranking a redshirt freshman that played one year of college football is pure speculation–nothing more, nothing less. The second is to show Aggie Nation that J.F. has a future in another sport if this football thing doesn’t work out.

After the break, check out Johnny’s ability on the diamond.

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The 2013 NFL Draft wasn’t exactly a strong one at the running back position. After Trent Richardson headlined the 2012 draft, we were without a signature back for April’s draft.

The first running back didn’t hear his name called until the 37^th pick and only five backs were taken in the top hundred picks. Is this a clear sign of the NFL offenses evolution or just a down year?

With most of college football adapting spread/zone schemes, we are beginning to see a more hybrid receiver/running back evolve with speed being the name of the game. The 2014 senior class lacks the top end talent but there’s several candidates to push the envelope of this notion of evolution of the position.

The underclassmen backs is headlined by a hybrid straight from the Chip Kelly up-tempo zone scheme but doesn’t lack for traditional workhorse backs.

After the break, check out our 2014 NFL Draft running back rankings.

SENIORS

1. Carlos Hyde, Ohio State

Maybe one of the most underrated players in the country. He gets overshadowed by the running ability of Braxton Miller but he has the goods to be an every down back at the next level. Hyde has shared carries for much of OSU career, so there’s a lot of tread left on these tires. Hyde nearly topped the 1,000 yard mark despite missing two games last season. He’s a big back (6’1”, 235) that will surprise many with his speed and agility. Not to mention he can catch the ball out of the backfield (although he’s not asked to do so very often) and is a more than adequate blocker.

2. Dri Archer, Kent State

Archer is one of the most dynamic players in all of college football. Not a traditional back but a guy that can play in the slot, backfield, and return kicks at the next level. Archer has similar size to Tavon Austin and could fit in that same mold. It was tough to put him in the RB category but we’ll keep him here until the pre-draft process starts. If you haven’t seen him play – you’re missing out and turn on some MACtion this season.

3. Damien Williams, Oklahoma

In one year at Oklahoma, Williams opened some eyes with his eye popping ability in multiple facets of the game. He may be one of the more complete backs in the draft with his ability to tote the rock and catch it out of the backfield. This is a major projection as he’s only played one season of major college football, but we think he’s got a shot at being a special player.

4. LaDarius Perkins, Mississippi State

Perkins, wisely, opted to return to Miss. State for his senior season. He rushed for over 1,000 yards last season but left me wanting more in games that I watched. It would appear that he racked up a ton of yardage against lesser opponents and struggled against Alabama and A&M. Perkins will have a huge opportunity this season as teams are going to have to respect the passing game with Tyler Russell at the helm.

5. Charles Sims, Houston

6. James White, Wisconsin

7. Ben Malena, Texas A&M

8. Silas Redd, USC

9. David Fluellen, Toledo

10. Tim Flanders, Sam Houston State

11. Antonio Andrews, Western Kentucky

12. Shakir Bell, Indiana State

13. Rajon Neal, Tennessee

14. Branden Oliver, Buffalo

15. Tim Cornett, UNLV

Click here to check out the underclassmen

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The only guarantee when looking ahead a year to the next year’s draft is that things are sure to change. The 2013 NFL Draft was expected to be a strong quarterback draft in May of 2012. Names like Matt Barkley, Logan Thomas, and Tyler Wilson littered the top of draft boards early in the process. Things didn’t work out so well for the 2013 class and we saw Barkley and Wilson fall into the fourth round and Logan Thomas didn’t enter the draft after a subpar (at best) season.

The 2014 NFL Draft is expected to give fans everything 2013 didn’t – headlining top end talent consisting of a once in a generation defensive talent (Jadeveon Clowney) and the potential for an elite quarterback (Teddy Bridgewater).

This group is sure to change as the 2013 college football season progresses but with a fairly strong group of senior quarterbacks, I’m certain teams will have their pick of quality quarterbacks in the 2014 NFL Draft.

After the break check out our early 2014 quarterback rankings.

SENIORS:

1. David Fales, San Jose State

Fales emerged onto the national stage last season after spending a season at Nevada and two at Monterey Peninsula College. Fales has an NFL arm with better than advertised athleticism. His pinpoint accuracy has the NFL Draftnik community buzzing about him but he’s more than just hype. I think he nudges out the likes of Tajh Boyd to be the top senior QB in the 2014 class.

2. Tajh Boyd, Clemson

It seems that every year Boyd is in the Clemson program he adds to his ever growing NFL repertoire. Boyd could have entered the 2013 NFL Draft and challenged to be the top quarterback in the draft with relative ease but opted to stay at Clemson for his senior season. Boyd will miss DeAndre Hopkins but has the tools around him to have a special season and challenge to hear his name called in the top 10 picks next April.

3. A.J. McCarron, Alabama

The question everyone will be asking when it comes to A.J. McCarron as an NFL prospect – is he a product of all the surrounding talent or a legit NFL talent? My take, thus far, is a little of both. I can’t see McCarron coming off the board in the first round but a team could be willing to take a shot on him on day two. He has plenty of arm talent and has a bit of the “it” factor that teams crave.

4. Derek Carr, Fresno State

Carr and McCarron were neck and neck for me. I could see Carr rising near the top of this list after this season. He’s the least talked about quarterback with the goods to be a top level talent. He’s burdened by poor footwork but has the arm talent to surpass quite a few names on this list. If Carr can clean up some bad habits he will be a candidate to have a better NFL career than his brother, David.

5. Aaron Murray, Georgia

The knock on Murray will be size and some spotty decision making. I think he can overcome the size issues but has to show better poise when he wants to force the ball into tight windows. He has a nasty tendency to hold onto the football too long, taking unnecessary hits. That said, he has a better than advertised arm and the accuracy to push the top of the draft with a solid senior season. His combination of arm talent, athleticism, and experience will have NFL talent evaluators taking a long look at him during the pre-draft process.

6. Stephen Morris, Miami

Blessed with the strongest arm in the draft – hands down – Morris is going to rise up draft boards throughout the process.He could be the most frustrating QB prospect in this draft as there are times he looks like a first round pick and others when he’s hard to watch. With a year of experience under his belt, I expect Morris to take steps forward in his growth as a quarterback and expect him to move up this board.

7. Jeff Matthews, Cornell

Matthews has been a force since stepping on the field at Cornell. The California native has prototypical size for the position and the arm to make waves out of the Ivy League. The only question with Matthews will be the level of competition and he will be one to watch through the pre-draft process.

8. Logan Thomas, Virginia Tech

Logan Thomas was expected to be in the hunt for a top draft pick in 2013. After a poor junior season that left more questions than answers, Thomas wisely opted to return to VT for his senior season. He has the size and athleticism to intrigue teams looking for a guy with loads of upside. That said, his decision-making, accuracy, and overall grasp of schemes is a major work in progress.

9. Zach Mettenberger, LSU

10. Tyler Russell, Mississippi State

11. Bryn Renner, North Carolina

12. James Franklin, Missouri

13. Keith Price, Washington

14. Kurt Hess, Youngstown State

**Casey Pachall of TCU is one of my favorite QB prospects in the draft but we’ll take the wait and see approach given his off the field issues but we are hopeful that he returns to his old form on the football field and has aggressively tackled the issues that haunt him.

Click here to check out the underclassmen quarterbacks

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Rookie minicamps are an equivalent form of evaluation as roughly the NFL Combine or pro day workouts. Let’s face it – it’s a bunch of guys running around aimlessly against other guys doing much of the same. Yet every year we fall prey to the victimless NFL crime of overstating the value of the rookie minicamps.

From DeAndre Hopkins in Houston to a slew of undrafted free agents from every NFL city there is rampant praise being thrown around and hopes have never been higher for some.

Hopes in Oakland rest with Arkansas quarterback Tyler Wilson, who’s had praise heaped on him at an alarming rate after a couple of minicamp days.

Wilson was taken in the fourth-round of April’s draft, which was two rounds later than most draft evaluators had him pegged. Wilson was widely regarded as a top ten pick entering the 2012 season but a series of unfortunate circumstances led him to be picked apart and subsequently see his draft stock plummet. All that in mind, it shouldn’t come to the surprise of anyone that Wilson is ahead of the ‘curve’.

Matt Flynn is in the enviable position of being surrounded by another productive collegiate quarterback that arguably fell in the draft

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due to circumstances largely outside his control.

Flynn played second fiddle in Green Bay to Aaron Rodgers before jumping out of the shadow in a January 1 contest against Detroit. His six touchdown passes would vault Flynn squarely into the sights of a quarterback starved league.

While the market didn’t bear the expected fruit for Flynn, he was essentially handed the keys to Seattle and Pete Carroll’s ship. In Seattle, he was expected to hold down the offensive fort while a young but emerging defense could keep them in the bulk of games. As it turns out the offense would do more than just hold down the fort. Unfortunately for Flynn, it wasn’t in conjunction with his first full-time starting gig.

Flynn was demoted from starter to clipboard carrier with the emergence of Russell Wilson. The rest is history as Seattle turned the keys to the franchise over to a third round draft selection and ultimately Flynn was dealt to Oakland this offseason for a couple of future draft picks.

No one expected Flynn to be the long-term answer in Oakland — some even anticipated the much maligned Terrelle Pryor could give him some stiff competition in camp. Now, it appears that competition will be stiffened with Tyler Wilson drawing the attention of media goers and Raiders head man Dennis Allen.

Could Matt Flynn face the possibility of losing his inherited starting job to a mid-round rookie passer? The cart is officially before the horse as we prefer to make those judgments when the bullets are flying or maybe at least when pads are on.

Sure, it’s a real possibility that ‘the other’ Wilson could be the ‘next’ Wilson to replace Flynn. But let’s pump the brakes on this one and see if he can supplant Terrelle Pryor for the rights to be Flynn’s backup.

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I’m guilty of it. You’re guilty of it. We’re all guilty of it in one way or another. Society has an infatuation with whatever’s new.  Last seasons prematurely tagged, “Greatest QB draft of all time” is a premium example of this. Fans were in a frenzy with this new “Pistol” offense, and the “read-option” play. Robert Griffin III, Russell Wilson and first-year starter, Colin Kaepernick – redefined what the QB position would look like henceforth. The shortsightedness of NFL fans have seemingly left out the guy who I think will be the best of them all. That man is Cam Newton.

The one thing that irks me about our culture as a whole, is that we often times let personal feelings get in the way of giving a true judgment of an individual. Out of all the noted new-age, duel-threat QB’s, Cam Newton is by far perceived to be the least likable. I believe this to be due to a multitude of instances and preconceived notions, some I will detail later. The most poignant of which being his rocky college career.

Once thought to be the successor to Tim Tebow and the high-powered Florida Gators, Newton found himself in trouble for a myriad of situations including: The theft of a laptop, alleged payments in the form of cash, and moreover an alleged academic fraud centered around a term paper. The culmination of these incidents prompted Newton to transfer to a junior college, where subsequently he dominated the lower level of competition.

Despite the troubles at Florida, his play at Blinn Junior College led to the kind of recruitment he saw as a prep player at West Lake High School in Atlanta, Ga. Newton chose to stay in the SEC and attend Auburn University. Simply put, brilliance ensued! Without the benefit of preseason hype, or even being on a highly ranked team to start the season – Newton led the Auburn Tigers to an undefeated season – en route to a national title victory. All the while collecting a bevy of postseason accolades, including the prestigious Heisman Trophy award.

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Gus Malzahn, the offensive-coordinator (now Head Coach) of Auburn, developed an offensive system that highlighted the physicality and overall athleticism of Cam Newton’s game. At 6’5, 250 lbs – running a 4.5 forty-yard dash, Newton is an athletic marvel. Newton’s speed is a bit of a conundrum, just when you couple it with his size. But when meshed with the vision of an ‘elite’ running back – you get an athletic force of nature. At the QB position non-the-less. His arm talent and overall QB acumen is also very good. He shows uncanny pocket awareness and the ability to throw on the move. He has a very strong arm and can make the most difficult of throws look routine.

In just one season, the marriage of Cam Newton with the no huddle, uptempo, multiple- formation set he guided at Auburn, led him to being the #1 overall pick in the 2010 NFL draft by the Carolina Panthers. Throwing for 30 Td’s/7Int’s, and rushing for an astounding 20 additional TD’s cemented him as such.

Much like at Auburn, offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski and quarterbacks coach Mike Shula – designed plays with Cam Newton’s athleticism in mind. Versions of the plays that had people drooling over this years crop of young duel-threat QB’s, were already being ran in Carolina during the 2011 season. Coach Chud’s creativity was on full display throughout his two years at the helm of the Carolina offense. The diverse group of running threats at Carolina’s disposal led to some unique plays once only seen at the collegiate level.

Since this is a part of the “Schemed to Death” series of articles I’m highlighting for the summer, which focuses on coaches/coordinators who are destined to change the NFL as we presently know, we’ve got to get to this game film and show you how Cam Newton and the Panthers offensive coaching staff  were at the forefront of the exciting style of play we will see going forward.

Cam Newton in the “Pistol” formation w/ 2 RB’s

Here we see Cam flanked by #35 FB/RB Mike Tolbert and #34 RB Deangelo Williams. They bring the tight end #88 Greg Olsen in tight for some extra blocking. They are optioning off the right defensive end. If the end crashes for the original hand-off to Tolbert, Newton will keep the ball and start the traditional option to Williams going left. If the end stands his ground he can give the ball to Tolbert or use Tolbert as a lead blocker and run between the center and left guard.

The end goes for the hand-off to Tolbert, now the fun starts.

Now they will option off of the free safety coming to help in run support. These types of plays are designed to get the offense in a more favorable situation by having more options that the defense can block. Here the safety has to choose which battle he will contend. He has to decide between tackling Newton who has the ball, or taking out the running back and hoping someone will tackle Newton.

The safety chose to tackle Newton. Bad idea as Newton pitches to Williams who has nothing but clear space ahead! Now that’s ‘Schemed to death!’

The beauty of a play like this is that with Newton’s size, you’re not afraid of him taking hits down-field like this. He’s about 50 lbs bigger than the safety and can absorb these hits with ease. Guys like Robert Griffin and Russell Wilson will be a lot more susceptible to injury because of their lack of bulk. Newton weighs about 20 more pounds than even a decent sized QB like Colin Kaepernick, while being just as fast!

Another variation of this play out of this set involves the same fake to Tolbert, but this time followed by a pass to one of the outside receivers not pictured. So as you can imagine, all these options continuously keeps the defense on it’s heels.

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The 2011 season continued Newton’s ascent towards stardom, as he had by all accounts the finest rookie year ever by a quarterback. He threw for a rookie record 4,051 yards with 21 TD’s/17 int’s while completing 60% of his passes for an 84.5 rating. In addition, he set the record for rushing TD’s by a QB with 14 to give him 35 total TD’s! Add in 706 yards on the ground, and you have one of the finest all-around seasons for a QB regardless of league tenure.

Let’s take another look at how a prodigious, athletic marvel like Newton – works in one of the best schemes in football. Coach Chud/Shula’s, power run, option laced, down-field pass attack.

Here is a well designed play by former Panthers offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski, now head man of the Cleveland Browns. Newton is flanked by tight end Greg Olsen and running back Deangelo Williams. This is a designated QB run with a read option like fake to Williams while Olsen crosses his face to block the safety who is blitzing to disrupt the play. Since this play is going to the left, they will allow the stand up outside linebacker and the blitzing nickel corner to get up field – while angle blocking the play to the right.

The defense is in a cover 3 which is a zone defense where both corners and the deep safety are responsible for a third of the field. So that means each of those players have to play off their respective men. The space given does not bode well for such a well-blocked play. Like expected, the defense reacts to the potential dive play by Williams.

With the angle blocks engaged, including the one on the blitzing safety by Greg Olsen, Newton sees nothing but green grass in front of him. The outside receivers will now act as lead blockers if Newton makes it to the second level of the defense.

72 yards later Newton has himself a TD!

In 2012, Newton had what fans and media deemed a “Sophomore slump”. This wasn’t in the least bit true. He threw for 3,869 yards with 19 TD’s/12 Int’s while completing 57.7% of his passes for an 86.2 rating. His avg of 7.98  yards per completion, (3rd in the NFL) were up from his rookie season of 7.84. He also added another 8 TD’s on the ground, with 741 yards rushing. If that’s a sophomore slump, I shutter to think of what he will accomplish when people think he’s played well.

I believe this misinformation is due to Newton’s perceived arrogance. Every move of his is scrutinized, similar to what the NBA’s LeBron James has had to deal with in his career. People criticize Newton’s body language in bad times as well as good. His first down and TD celebrations are met with vitriol by NFL purist. Never before have we seen a QB enjoy himself on the field the way Newton has. He has a Deion Sanders’ like flair for the spotlight. People would rather see him behave more like a Peyton Manning, and just hand the ball to the ref and shake his teammates hands.

As much as I love how Manning operates, there is plenty of room in sports for people to be themselves. I personally don’t think Cam should change anything about the way he operates. The only thing he needs to do is win, and the vitriol will fall upon deaf ears. Society in general doesn’t like for people to be different. It will take a guy like Newton to break barriers and change the way a QB is perceived. This will only open up more doors for other young men to follow in his footsteps.

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2013 will see possibly the greatest group of QB’s at one time the league has ever seen. From Andrew Luck, to Sam Bradford, all the way to aforementioned duel-threat prowess’s of Kaepernick, Wilson and Griffin III – this league will see some high-caliber play from guys who aren’t even over the age of 25. I believe the 24 year old Cam Newton will be at the forefront due to his uncanny size, speed and power. His ability to throw, coupled with the many different schemes that now offensive coordinator Mike Shula will continue to design – will ensure that Cam Newton and his Carolina Panthers continue the trend of……Scheming this league to death.

Twitter: @Uptown Murf

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In my mind its never too  early to start predicting the future. As long as we keep in mind that guys like Matt Barkley, Tyler Wilson, Sam Montgomery (to name a few) littered the top 10 of our rankings at this time last year.

It’s worth noting that we are in the infancy stages of the evaluation process with only a handful of these prospects receiving much more than a glance. We opted to flesh out the redshirt sophomores, although there are some intriguing and talented prospects in that group that could be looking to make an Aldon Smith like impact on the 2014 NFL Draft.

After the break check out our first top 100 release for the 2014 NFL Draft.

Click here for prospects 51-100

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Jim O’Connor – USA TODAY Sports

New York Jets

TEAM NEEDS: QB, OLB, CB, OL, TE, RB

John Idzik had his work cut out for him when he took over the Jets from Mike Tannenbaum. The Jets had dug themselves in a hole with overpriced contracts and some so-so drafts. Since the Jets struck gold in 2006 (D’Brickashaw Ferguson and Nick Mangold) and in 2007 (Darrelle Revis), they have whiffed in round one (jury still out on Wilkerson and Coples).

Idzik’s splash in the offseason came when he traded Darrelle Revis to the Buccaneers, acquiring an extra first round pick in the draft. Losing Revis hurts but Idzik and the Jets didn’t have much of an option as they attempt to dig out of cap hell.

For what they had to work with the Jets didn’t do a bad job in free agency. The cap strapped Jets had to let a significant haul of players walk in free agency but replaced them with low cost options. They were able to find a new pair of starting guards in Willie Colon and Stephen Peterman, made a trade for Chris Ivory, and made three underrated signings on the defensive side of the ball in Antonio Garay, Antwan Barnes, and Dawan Landry.

All things considered it was a successful offseason heading into the draft as they were able to fill a couple of holes with solid veterans, on the cheap.

After the break, check out a pick by pick analysis of the Jets 2013 NFL Draft selections.

Round One, (9) – Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama

Dee Milliner was the top rated corner in the draft as he gives them a versatile corner that does everything well. He can play press or off man, shows a solid grasp of zone concepts, and is a more than adequate tackler. The loss of Revis is costly from a talent perspective but having Milliner fall to them at No. 9 should help offset it. Milliner will be counted on early to contribute if Kyle Wilson can’t take a firm grasp on a starting spot opposite Antonio Cromartie.

Round One, (13) – Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri

The Jets fan were mildly upset with this selection as the Jets appear to be solid up front. That said, I expect Rex Ryan to use more four man fronts. Richardson is a dynamic three-technique that can penetrate and brings the versatility to play end in a three-man front. I’m a Richardson fan, so I was a fan of this selection.

Round Two, (39) – Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia

The Jets quarterback circus continues to roll on. Mark Sanchez will be on the opening day roster as the Jets can’t afford to cut him loose. I expect the Jets to begin training camp with a three headed quarterback controversy with Smith, Sanchez, and an aging David Garrard. I like the value of where they land Geno Smith and I agree with the pick but this isn’t going to help out in this locker room.

Round Three, (72) – Brian Winters, OG/OT, Kent State

I would be shocked if Winters wasn’t a starter in week one. As to where he’ll be playing, you’re guess is as good as mine. The Jets will likely give him a shot to compete with Austin Howard at RT initially and move him inside if that doesn’t work out. He could take over at either guard spot. This was hands down the best selection for the Jets in this draft.

Round Five, (141) – Oday Aboushi, OT, Virginia

A nice selection for a team in desperate need of youth and depth all over the line. Aboushi is a right tackle that could be a solid swing tackle in the league for many years. I don’t think he has the goods to start but should provide them with solid depth for years to come.

Round Six, (178) – William Campbell, OG, Michigan

Back to back to back selections on the offensive line. I think it’s clear where this team feels it was at it’s weakest. Campbell is going to make the conversion to the offensive side of the ball after playing DT at Michigan. Campbell worked out at guard in pre-draft workouts and was said to have shown promise at the position.

Round Seven, (215) – Tommy Bohanon, FB, Wake Forest

Lex Hilliard isn’t going to pan out in Marty Mornhinweg’s West Coast offense. His hands are abysmal at best, so the Jets take a FB that played HB with soft hands. Despite great weight room strength he isn’t the greatest blocker. Bohanon played with John Idzik’s son at Wake and brings the mentality that Rex Ryan covets out of his players.

UNDRAFTED FREE AGENT SIGNINGS: Ryan Spadola, WR, Lehigh – K.J. Stroud, WR, Bethune-Cookman – Antavious Wilson, WR, Marshall – Zach Rogers, WR, Tennessee – Mike Shanahan, TE, Pittsburgh – Chris Pantale, TE, Boston College – Dalton Freeman, C, Clemson – Mark Popek, OL, South Florida – Trey Gilleo, OT, Northern Arizona – Roosevelt Holliday, OL, Northern Arizona – Jake McDonough, DL, Iowa State – Spencer Nealy, DE, Texas A&M – Troy Davis, OLB, Central Florida – Mike Edwards, CB, Hawaii – Rontez Miles, S, Cal (PA)

The Jets draft has taken some heat for drafting three guards and another defensive lineman when they needed upgrades at other spots, most notably with the offensive skill positions.

I think when you get the best quarterback in the draft at No. 39, it constitutes a reason to celebrate. Yes, this draft lacked a top end quarterback prospect but getting Smith gives them a guy to groom for the future, ala Colin Kaepernick in San Francisco. If they aren’t forced to push Smith in from day one, I think this could be a successful marriage.

The quality and talent on the offensive line was abysmal outside of Ferguson and Mangold. Vlad Ducasse has been a bust and the Jets signed stopgap free agents. I’m a fan of the moves to add to the overall depth and quality at the position and I wouldn’t rule out Winters at RT.

John Idzik and the Jets weren’t going to fix all the problems with this roster in one year (probably not even two), so taking talented players at value spots (Sheldon Richardson) deserves a hats off in my opinion.

It was clear with the Darrelle Revis trade that this organization realizes they aren’t going to compete for a Super Bowl anytime soon and need to build this team through the draft and spend wisely to avoid future cap problems. It’s the recipe for success in today’s NFL and I think Idzik hit a homerun in his first offseason.

Link to current depth chart

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Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports

Teddy Bridgewater – Louisville

Height: 6030

Weight: 218

Age when drafted: 21

Hometown: Miami, FL

Position: QB

Collegiate Number: 5

Combine notables: N/A

Games Viewed: 2012 – North Carolina, South Florida, Cincinnati, Rutgers, Florida 2011 – West Virginia

BACKGROUND:

Teddy Bridgewater played his high school football at famed Miami Northwestern High School, which has churned out NFL players for over a decade. Bridgewater took the QB reigns as a sophomore from Jacory Harris. He was the 6^th rated dual-threat QB in the 2011 recruiting class and had offers from most major schools.

After initially committing to the Miami Hurricanes, Bridgewater switched to Charlie Strong and Louisville shortly after Randy Shannon was let go from Miami.

Bridgewater would take over as starter for Louisville in the fourth game of his true freshman season. He would not look back in a season in which he was named Big East Freshman of the Year after throwing for over 2,000 yards and 14 TD’s. As expected, Bridgewater struggled some with decision-making in his freshman season which led to 12 picks.

Bridgewater was officially on the national map following a freshman season that had many buzzing about his future potential. As an encore, Bridgewater would improve on his numbers and overall game as a sophomore.

Bridgewater was a spread quarterback at Miami Northwestern that primarily played out of the shotgun. He would transition to a more pro-style offense at Louisville where he played under center most of the time. It was clear in Bridgewater’s sophomore campaign that he was much more comfortable in the offense and under center running play action and throwing on the move and from traditional drops.

Bridgewater would lead the Cardinals to a Sugar Bowl win over Florida in this sophomore campaign. A season that would see him throw for 3,718 yards, 27 touchdowns, and throw just 8 interceptions.

SIZE/ ATHLETICISM:

Bridgewater will more than meet NFL size requirements for the quarterback position. At 6-foot-3 and nearly 220 pounds, Bridgewater presents ideal size with enough thickness in the upper and lower body. He is only 20-years old and is still growing into his frame which would make me believe that he hasn’t completely filled out.

Bridgewater suffered through nagging wrist and ankle injuries in 2012 but showed his toughness as he fought through pain to play.

Bridgewater is an above-average athlete with great change of direction skills and enough straight line speed to threaten defenses as a runner. Much like Geno Smith, Bridgewater prefers to beat teams with his arm than to take off.  At times, he waits too long to tuck it and run. His ability to beat teams with his arm and legs will have teams salivating at the possibilities with Bridgewater under center.

WHAT HE DOES WELL:

Bridgewater will be 21-years old in November and will have nearly 35 collegiate starts under his belt when he’s drafted (if he declares) as a 21-year old rookie. It really is tough to find fault in Bridgewater’s game. He can win with his arm or athleticism. His ability to create and extend plays is uncanny. He’s almost a daredevil as he stands in the pocket until the last possible second before climbing the pocket or taking off. He shows his savviness for the position as he’s able to draw defenders up with the threat to run and then dump passes off to vacated areas. Bridgewater’s eyes are always downfield, looking to break the pocket and make the big play in the passing game.

From an arm talent perspective, he’s a study case for the ability to increase arm strength. Coming out of Miami Northwestern and his freshman season, I would have said he possessed average to slightly above-average arm strength. As a sophomore, Bridgewater was fitting the ball into tight spots and threw the vertical ball extremely well with accuracy and touch. I thought the ball popped out of his hand in 2012 and threw the deep out as well as any collegiate quarterback that I have graded.

His accuracy was dramatically improved as a sophomore, as well. He can be deadly accurate when he’s grooving. On the move, he’s the rare right-handed thrower that throws better going to his left. Throws receivers open and is one of the best in college football in terms of throwing the ball where it maximizes YAC. Rarely see Louisville receivers slowing up or adjusting to balls.

The most impressive aspect of Bridgewater’s game is his understanding of the defense and command of the offense. Robert Griffin III comparisons will be thrown out a bunch between now and next April and this is the area they are most closely related…not athletically. Bridgewater uses his eyes so well to bait safeties and linebackers and has shown the ability to make long progressions. Another year in this system will have Bridgewater mastering a complex offensive system that will go a long way to impress scouts.

His feel for the pocket is incredible (hate to throw out superlatives this often, but it is). His sense for defenders closing in on him is scary – literally at times. He climbs the pocket without having to see defenders which allows him to keep his eyes on the downfield action.

WHAT HE NEEDS TO WORK ON:

A couple issues popped up with Bridgewater on a consistent basis. He misses high, when he misses. In looking at screenshots of passes off target, his back leg gets overly flexed and causes his shoulder plane to get off kilter – leading to sailed passes.

What I love about him is also what scares me as he transitions to the next level. Bridgewater hangs in the pocket until the last second. He can get away with it in college but I worry about that in the NFL as things close faster. I would like to see him show less patience in pocket – that’s tough to say – but he’s so good when he breaks the pocket because teams have to respect his athletic ability. Many of the Cardinals big plays came on ‘broken’ plays with Bridgewater sucking the defense up and throwing behind defenders.

I can say this is as few of ‘weakness’ areas as I had for Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III. I see Bridgewater as that type of quarterback.

FROM THE NECK UP:

The mental aspect of the game came quickly in Bridgewater’s game. He grew leaps and bounds from 2011 to 2012, showing a grasp of defensive concepts and Louisville’s offensive system. The normal period for things to slow down for a young quarterback didn’t take long for Teddy – half a season. It’s scary to think what he can do with another season of seasoning as a quarterback.

RED FLAGS:

None. He’s been described as a student of the game by Louisville coaches and took on a leadership role as a true sophomore for a BCS Bowl contending team. In all the interviews, Bridgewater appears to the ‘it’ factor about him, deflecting praise to teammates and seems genuine in front of the camera.

OVERALL:

The sky is truly the limit for Teddy Bridgewater. Bridgewater’s success has been fun to watch for a humble, charismatic leader of his team.

The leap from freshman to sophomore seasons was remarkable. Bridgewater was very good as a true freshman but he bordered on great as a sophomore. There’s no doubt in my mind that his junior season will serve as an encore and will vault him into No. 1 pick contention in a season which could see a once in a generation pass rusher in Jadeveon Clowney.

Bridgewater is an NFL ready passer with the athleticism to be considered an ‘elite, franchise’ quarterback prospect.

The scariest part of Bridgewater’s game is that it will only get better. If he can continue on the path he embarked on as a sophomore and continue to improve his game, he’s going to be talked about as an Andrew Luck/Robert Griffin type prospect.

VIDEO LINKS:  North Carolina, South Florida, Cincinnati, Rutgers, Florida

GAME NOTES: South Florida

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