IRVING, Texas — As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for their 50th season, surprisingly there is nothing brash or cocky about this team.
Instead, there is an air of quiet assuredness in 2010. You can see it resonating with the coaches and players, many who have been with the team for a while now. You also can see it in the proudest Cowboy of them all, owner/GM Jerry Jones.
Jones has been waiting for that next Super Bowl winner nearly 15 years. With the stars potentially aligning for the Cowboys to play for it all in their home stadium, there are reasons to believe in this team.
The Cowboys are quietly confident they can win their first Super Bowl in 15 years.
"That’s what you’re seeing: A trust in the system and a trust in what we’re doing," Jones said. "We’re getting to take some of things that we were real good at last year and expanding on that. I think it has a lot do with the confidence of the players in the coaching staff."
In addition to being confident, this talented team is showing more of the intangibles necessary to become a championship team:
Resolve. In two of Wade Phillips’ three years as the Cowboys’ coach, first-place finishes were immediately followed by second-round playoff defeats. Year 2 saw the team finish in third place. Although the team has gone through some adversity, from injuries to criticism, it has avoided calamity through camaraderie.
"We’re a confident group, and we’ve just experienced a lot together," six-time Pro Bowl tight end Jason Witten said. "The mindset of us as a football team is strong—strong as it’s probably ever been since I’ve been here."
Experience. With four years of experience in Phillips’ defense and Jason Garrett’s offense, the players maintain their responsibilities and assignments. There is a trust factor between teammates.
"This team is more mature than we’ve probably ever been before," All-Pro nose tackle Jay Ratliff said. "The chemistry here is just really good. If you’re comfortable, you’re going to play fast."
Tradition. Before Jon Kitna joined the team as QB Tony Romo’s backup last season, he played for the Seahawks, Bengals and Lions and thus hadn’t experienced much success. With the Cowboys, he sees a driven organization, something that easily spills over to the players.
"They’ve done winning; they have been winning," Kitna said. "They have rings on the wall, pictures on the wall that talk about the winning. There’s a lot more success they can draw off of."
Hunger. The team finally tasted that elusive playoff win over Philadelphia in January only to be humbled at Minnesota. So it’s a bittersweet feeling that keeps these Cowboys motivated and not overconfident.
"They recognize that we’ve had a chance, knocked at the door over the last three years," Jones said. "We’ve only had a slight brush with the front door."
Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.
IRVING, Texas — As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for their 50th season, surprisingly there is nothing brash or cocky about this team.
Instead, there is an air of quiet assuredness in 2010. You can see it resonating with the coaches and players, many who have been with the team for a while now. You also can see it in the proudest Cowboy of them all, owner/GM Jerry Jones.
Jones has been waiting for that next Super Bowl winner nearly 15 years. With the stars potentially aligning for the Cowboys to play for it all in their home stadium, there are reasons to believe in this team.
The Cowboys are quietly confident they can win their first Super Bowl in 15 years.
"That’s what you’re seeing: A trust in the system and a trust in what we’re doing," Jones said. "We’re getting to take some of things that we were real good at last year and expanding on that. I think it has a lot do with the confidence of the players in the coaching staff."
In addition to being confident, this talented team is showing more of the intangibles necessary to become a championship team:
Resolve. In two of Wade Phillips’ three years as the Cowboys’ coach, first-place finishes were immediately followed by second-round playoff defeats. Year 2 saw the team finish in third place. Although the team has gone through some adversity, from injuries to criticism, it has avoided calamity through camaraderie.
"We’re a confident group, and we’ve just experienced a lot together," six-time Pro Bowl tight end Jason Witten said. "The mindset of us as a football team is strong—strong as it’s probably ever been since I’ve been here."
Experience. With four years of experience in Phillips’ defense and Jason Garrett’s offense, the players maintain their responsibilities and assignments. There is a trust factor between teammates.
"This team is more mature than we’ve probably ever been before," All-Pro nose tackle Jay Ratliff said. "The chemistry here is just really good. If you’re comfortable, you’re going to play fast."
Tradition. Before Jon Kitna joined the team as QB Tony Romo’s backup last season, he played for the Seahawks, Bengals and Lions and thus hadn’t experienced much success. With the Cowboys, he sees a driven organization, something that easily spills over to the players.
"They’ve done winning; they have been winning," Kitna said. "They have rings on the wall, pictures on the wall that talk about the winning. There’s a lot more success they can draw off of."
Hunger. The team finally tasted that elusive playoff win over Philadelphia in January only to be humbled at Minnesota. So it’s a bittersweet feeling that keeps these Cowboys motivated and not overconfident.
"They recognize that we’ve had a chance, knocked at the door over the last three years," Jones said. "We’ve only had a slight brush with the front door."
Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.
Observations and opinions from Cowboys training camp in Irving, Texas:
What’s new
America’s Team didn’t really change all that much this offseason. The coaching staff remained intact. Twenty of 22 starters return in ’10, and publicized new full-timer left tackle Doug Free has been a regular since midseason ’09. Stability is a welcome asset for these Cowboys.
Camp battle
Marion Barber and Felix Jones will be battling along with Tashard Choice for carries out of the backfield.
Among running backs Marion Barber, Felix Jones and Tashard Choice, it will be interesting to see who gets the most touches and the ball in critical situations. For Jones to be that back, he must show more durability and better ball security. Jones is now slightly bigger, a lot wiser and not a bit slower.
"You can still see the great acceleration," coach Wade Phillips said. "He’s just more mature and stronger."
Rehab report
Thanks to a relatively clean bill of health, Dallas finished last season strong. Now, the team needs big-play rookie wide receiver Dez Bryant’s sprained ankle to heal. Although Phillips is unsure as to when Bryant can remove his walking boot and begin a full rehab, Bryant was able to do some light pass-catching this week.
Rookie on the spot
With No. 3 tight end John Phillips (torn ACL) out for the season and both No. 2 Martellus Bennett (ankle sprain) and Scott Sicko (concussion) sidelined this week, the Cowboys are scrambling a bit.
Undrafted rookie DajLeon Farr, who was signed just Tuesday, will get plenty of action spelling starter Jason Witten tonight vs. the Raiders. Farr is built similarly to Phillips and Witten but is raw.
2010 outlook
It’s no secret the Cowboys are talented enough to reach Super Bowl 45, and it just happens the big game will be played at Cowboys Stadium. Although that combination comes with great expectations, owner Jerry Jones likes the confidence his team has in reaching that goal.
"We know we can do something about getting there," Jones said.
Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.
Observations and opinions from Cowboys training camp in Irving, Texas:
What’s new
America’s Team didn’t really change all that much this offseason. The coaching staff remained intact. Twenty of 22 starters return in ’10, and publicized new full-timer left tackle Doug Free has been a regular since midseason ’09. Stability is a welcome asset for these Cowboys.
Camp battle
Marion Barber and Felix Jones will be battling along with Tashard Choice for carries out of the backfield.
Among running backs Marion Barber, Felix Jones and Tashard Choice, it will be interesting to see who gets the most touches and the ball in critical situations. For Jones to be that back, he must show more durability and better ball security. Jones is now slightly bigger, a lot wiser and not a bit slower.
"You can still see the great acceleration," coach Wade Phillips said. "He’s just more mature and stronger."
Rehab report
Thanks to a relatively clean bill of health, Dallas finished last season strong. Now, the team needs big-play rookie wide receiver Dez Bryant’s sprained ankle to heal. Although Phillips is unsure as to when Bryant can remove his walking boot and begin a full rehab, Bryant was able to do some light pass-catching this week.
Rookie on the spot
With No. 3 tight end John Phillips (torn ACL) out for the season and both No. 2 Martellus Bennett (ankle sprain) and Scott Sicko (concussion) sidelined this week, the Cowboys are scrambling a bit.
Undrafted rookie DajLeon Farr, who was signed just Tuesday, will get plenty of action spelling starter Jason Witten tonight vs. the Raiders. Farr is built similarly to Phillips and Witten but is raw.
2010 outlook
It’s no secret the Cowboys are talented enough to reach Super Bowl 45, and it just happens the big game will be played at Cowboys Stadium. Although that combination comes with great expectations, owner Jerry Jones likes the confidence his team has in reaching that goal.
"We know we can do something about getting there," Jones said.
Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.
Sporting News staff reports
The Braves are cautiously optimistic that third baseman Chipper Jones avoided a serious knee injury Tuesday, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Jones will have an MRI exam on his injured left knee Thursday, but the team announced he hasn’t experienced much swelling since the incident.
He suffered the injury while making an impressive defensive play in Tuesday’s game and had to be helped off the field.
Following the game, Chipper downplayed the severity of the injury, but manager Bobby Cox told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, "Chipper’s going to be out a while probably."
Jones, who has hinted that this season could be his last, is hitting .265 with 10 homers and 46 RBIs. In his 17-season major league career, the six-time All-Star and 1999 NL MVP is a .306 hitter with 436 homers and 1,491 RBIs.
Sporting News staff reports
The Braves are cautiously optimistic that third baseman Chipper Jones avoided a serious knee injury Tuesday, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Jones will have an MRI exam on his injured left knee Thursday, but the team announced he hasn’t experienced much swelling since the incident.
He suffered the injury while making an impressive defensive play in Tuesday’s game and had to be helped off the field.
Following the game, Chipper downplayed the severity of the injury, but manager Bobby Cox told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, "Chipper’s going to be out a while probably."
Jones, who has hinted that this season could be his last, is hitting .265 with 10 homers and 46 RBIs. In his 17-season major league career, the six-time All-Star and 1999 NL MVP is a .306 hitter with 436 homers and 1,491 RBIs.
The Giants have Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain and Barry Zito. The A’s have a bunch of young starters who rarely are mentioned on SportsCenter unless they pitch a perfect game.
The Giants’ starters have won three Cy Young Awards and made seven All-Star teams. The A’s have zero and one. The Giants’ rotation will pull in $33.25 million as a group this season. A’s starters will be paid $2.385 million. Total, including bonuses.
Trevor Cahill is a Cy Young candidate this season.
But the A’s rotation has been just as successful as the Giants’ in 2010. The numbers for the starters that each team will use down the stretch are practically a wash. The A’s are a combined 37-26 with a 3.32 ERA; the Giants 40-32 with a 3.33 ERA.
Maybe it is time to learn why Trevor Cahill has been the most difficult pitcher to hit in the American League this season. And how Gio Gonzalez has earned more wins than any Giant except Lincecum. And just who are Brett Anderson and Vin Mazzaro. And what has happened to Dallas Braden since his perfect game.
First, a group study: Oakland’s starters are younger than you might think: 22, 22, 23, 24 and 26. Three were drafted by the A’s and all pretty much came through the minors together. They hail from all across America: New Jersey, Oklahoma, Miami, San Diego and Stockton, Calif. Stuff-wise, they probably aren’t on the Giants’ level. San Francisco’s rotation has a trio with 95-plus mph fastballs. The A’s have one, maybe.
To help demonstrate that the A’s starters are making the most out of what they do throw, we consulted two sources who have seen plenty of them: Oakland closer Andrew Bailey and a veteran major league scout. Their reports, ranked in order of where each starter best fits into the rotation:
Brett Anderson, 22. The lefthander from Stillwater, Okla., was a second-round draft pick by the Diamondbacks in 2006 and came to the A’s in the 2007 Dan Haren trade. He made 30 starts as a rookie in 2009 and has had two stints on the disabled list this season.
This season: 2.88 ERA, 34 strikeouts to seven walks, zero homers allowed in 50 innings.
Scout says: "He has a power fastball, power slider. Clearly has the best stuff and is the one guy on this staff who could be a No. 1, but that depends on his health."
Bailey says: "The quiet killer. Big power arm, and he’s not afraid to pitch inside."
Trevor Cahill, 22. A second-round pick out in 2006, Cahill started the season on the disabled list but has emerged as a Cy Young candidate.
This season: 12-4, 2.56 ERA, an AL-best .192 batting average against.
Scout says: "He doesn’t have eye-popping stuff but has been one of the best starters in baseball because of his ability to keep the ball down. I’d compare him to Carl Pavano or a Derek Lowe, but with a little better stuff."
Bailey says: "Has a Brandon Webb-type sinker. The big difference for him this season has been throwing his curve for a strike. When we were first in the minors, he never talked to anybody, almost like he was scared because he’d never been out of his corner of the world in San Diego. But now he’s really come into his own, as a pitcher and a person."
Gio Gonzalez, 24. One of the rotation’s three lefthanders, he is the A’s only starter to not miss a turn this season. Gonzalez, out of Miami, was a first-round pick by the White Sox in 2004, was traded to the Phillies in 2005 and back to Chicago a year later before coming to Oakland in the 2008 Nick Swisher deal.
This season: 3.51 ERA, 10-7 record, a .183 batting average allowed against lefthanders. He also ranks among AL leaders in walks (62 in 141 innings).
Vin Mazzaro has allowed 12 homers in 88 2/3 innings.
Scout says: "Very good fastball and curve, good changeup. He has trouble pitching down in the zone. He struggles with command, which leads to high pitch counts."
Bailey says: "Power arm with a big, loopy curve. From Miami, he’s the always outgoing type."
Vin Mazzaro, 23. He was a third-round pick in 2005 out of New Jersey. Mazzaro wasn’t called up for good this season until late May but is coming on. Seven of his past eight starts have been strong.
This season: 6-4 record, 3.86 ERA, but 12 homers allowed in 88 2/3 innings.
Scout says: "A good sinking fastball but he also can have trouble with his command."
Bailey says: "A 94-mph fastball and strong slider. He’s like me. We’re both from New Jersey and can talk all day."
Dallas Braden, 26. He is the only member of the rotation not drafted in the first three rounds. Braden was a 24th-round pick in 2004 out of Stockton, the town he proudly calls home. Section 209 — the area code in his hometown — was packed for a promotion when Braden pitched his perfect game on Mother’s Day.
This season: 6-8 record, 3.75 ERA.
Scout says: "He has the least amount of stuff but probably the best idea of how to pitch. He commands well and really knows how to change speeds."
Bailey says: "He throws probably the most changeups per start in the league. He can throw one 74 (mph), he can throw one 64. He’s not eligible for arbitration yet, but he’s still our veteran leader."
| Comparing the current rotations of the Giants and the A’s: |
| Team |
Giants |
A’s |
| Record |
40-32 |
37-26 |
| ERA |
3.33 |
3.32 |
| Average age |
26.2 |
23.4 |
| Combined salary |
$33.25M |
$2.385M |
| Cy Young awards |
3 |
0 |
| All-Star appearances |
7 |
1 |
| No-hitters |
1 |
1 |
Stan McNeal is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at smcneal@sportingnews.com.
The Giants have Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain and Barry Zito. The A’s have a bunch of young starters who rarely are mentioned on SportsCenter unless they pitch a perfect game.
The Giants’ starters have won three Cy Young Awards and made seven All-Star teams. The A’s have zero and one. The Giants’ rotation will pull in $33.25 million as a group this season. A’s starters will be paid $2.385 million. Total, including bonuses.
Trevor Cahill is a Cy Young candidate this season.
But the A’s rotation has been just as successful as the Giants’ in 2010. The numbers for the starters that each team will use down the stretch are practically a wash. The A’s are a combined 37-26 with a 3.32 ERA; the Giants 40-32 with a 3.33 ERA.
Maybe it is time to learn why Trevor Cahill has been the most difficult pitcher to hit in the American League this season. And how Gio Gonzalez has earned more wins than any Giant except Lincecum. And just who are Brett Anderson and Vin Mazzaro. And what has happened to Dallas Braden since his perfect game.
First, a group study: Oakland’s starters are younger than you might think: 22, 22, 23, 24 and 26. Three were drafted by the A’s and all pretty much came through the minors together. They hail from all across America: New Jersey, Oklahoma, Miami, San Diego and Stockton, Calif. Stuff-wise, they probably aren’t on the Giants’ level. San Francisco’s rotation has a trio with 95-plus mph fastballs. The A’s have one, maybe.
To help demonstrate that the A’s starters are making the most out of what they do throw, we consulted two sources who have seen plenty of them: Oakland closer Andrew Bailey and a veteran major league scout. Their reports, ranked in order of where each starter best fits into the rotation:
Brett Anderson, 22. The lefthander from Stillwater, Okla., was a second-round draft pick by the Diamondbacks in 2006 and came to the A’s in the 2007 Dan Haren trade. He made 30 starts as a rookie in 2009 and has had two stints on the disabled list this season.
This season: 2.88 ERA, 34 strikeouts to seven walks, zero homers allowed in 50 innings.
Scout says: "He has a power fastball, power slider. Clearly has the best stuff and is the one guy on this staff who could be a No. 1, but that depends on his health."
Bailey says: "The quiet killer. Big power arm, and he’s not afraid to pitch inside."
Trevor Cahill, 22. A second-round pick out in 2006, Cahill started the season on the disabled list but has emerged as a Cy Young candidate.
This season: 12-4, 2.56 ERA, an AL-best .192 batting average against.
Scout says: "He doesn’t have eye-popping stuff but has been one of the best starters in baseball because of his ability to keep the ball down. I’d compare him to Carl Pavano or a Derek Lowe, but with a little better stuff."
Bailey says: "Has a Brandon Webb-type sinker. The big difference for him this season has been throwing his curve for a strike. When we were first in the minors, he never talked to anybody, almost like he was scared because he’d never been out of his corner of the world in San Diego. But now he’s really come into his own, as a pitcher and a person."
Gio Gonzalez, 24. One of the rotation’s three lefthanders, he is the A’s only starter to not miss a turn this season. Gonzalez, out of Miami, was a first-round pick by the White Sox in 2004, was traded to the Phillies in 2005 and back to Chicago a year later before coming to Oakland in the 2008 Nick Swisher deal.
This season: 3.51 ERA, 10-7 record, a .183 batting average allowed against lefthanders. He also ranks among AL leaders in walks (62 in 141 innings).
Vin Mazzaro has allowed 12 homers in 88 2/3 innings.
Scout says: "Very good fastball and curve, good changeup. He has trouble pitching down in the zone. He struggles with command, which leads to high pitch counts."
Bailey says: "Power arm with a big, loopy curve. From Miami, he’s the always outgoing type."
Vin Mazzaro, 23. He was a third-round pick in 2005 out of New Jersey. Mazzaro wasn’t called up for good this season until late May but is coming on. Seven of his past eight starts have been strong.
This season: 6-4 record, 3.86 ERA, but 12 homers allowed in 88 2/3 innings.
Scout says: "A good sinking fastball but he also can have trouble with his command."
Bailey says: "A 94-mph fastball and strong slider. He’s like me. We’re both from New Jersey and can talk all day."
Dallas Braden, 26. He is the only member of the rotation not drafted in the first three rounds. Braden was a 24th-round pick in 2004 out of Stockton, the town he proudly calls home. Section 209 — the area code in his hometown — was packed for a promotion when Braden pitched his perfect game on Mother’s Day.
This season: 6-8 record, 3.75 ERA.
Scout says: "He has the least amount of stuff but probably the best idea of how to pitch. He commands well and really knows how to change speeds."
Bailey says: "He throws probably the most changeups per start in the league. He can throw one 74 (mph), he can throw one 64. He’s not eligible for arbitration yet, but he’s still our veteran leader."
| Comparing the current rotations of the Giants and the A’s: |
| Team |
Giants |
A’s |
| Record |
40-32 |
37-26 |
| ERA |
3.33 |
3.32 |
| Average age |
26.2 |
23.4 |
| Combined salary |
$33.25M |
$2.385M |
| Cy Young awards |
3 |
0 |
| All-Star appearances |
7 |
1 |
| No-hitters |
1 |
1 |
Stan McNeal is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at smcneal@sportingnews.com.
Sporting News staff reports
Former North Carolina and current San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Kentwan Balmer paid for college teammates Marvin Austin and Cam Thomas to travel to California in the summer of 2009, the Raleigh News & Observer reports.
"Twan paid for [the trip]," said Thomas, a rookie defensive tackle for the Chargers, according to the report. Thomas did not provide additional details.
Thomas told the paper he and Austin worked out at Proactive Sports Performance in Westlake Village, Calif., the summer before last season.
Balmer, Thomas and Austin all played defensive tackle for the Tar Heels in 2007. Their position coach that year, John Blake, is being investigated by the NCAA for his relationship with agent Gary Wichard.
CollegeFootballTalk.com notes that Proactive Sports Performance is located two miles from Wichard’s company, Pro Tect Management. Several Wichard clients have trained at Proactive Sports Management before the draft, the site notes, and Wichard is Balmer’s agent.
The NCAA has made trips to Chapel Hill in July and August to interview Austin and other players about possibly receiving improper benefits from agents. Austin reportedly has been asked about being seen driving Balmer’s vehicle. He is also reported to have stayed at Balmer’s apartment during the offseason.
According to the NCAA’s "preferential treatment" bylaw, student-athletes can’t accept "preferential treatment, benefits or services because of the individual’s athletics reputation or skill or pay-back potential as a professional athlete, unless such treatment, benefits or services are specifically permitted under NCAA legislation."
If Austin and Thomas are found to have violated NCAA rules, then any games they played in after the violation may have to be forfeited. That would require North Carolina to forfeit its entire 2009 season.
Sporting News staff reports
Former North Carolina and current San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Kentwan Balmer paid for college teammates Marvin Austin and Cam Thomas to travel to California in the summer of 2009, the Raleigh News & Observer reports.
"Twan paid for [the trip]," said Thomas, a rookie defensive tackle for the Chargers, according to the report. Thomas did not provide additional details.
Thomas told the paper he and Austin worked out at Proactive Sports Performance in Westlake Village, Calif., the summer before last season.
Balmer, Thomas and Austin all played defensive tackle for the Tar Heels in 2007. Their position coach that year, John Blake, is being investigated by the NCAA for his relationship with agent Gary Wichard.
CollegeFootballTalk.com notes that Proactive Sports Performance is located two miles from Wichard’s company, Pro Tect Management. Several Wichard clients have trained at Proactive Sports Management before the draft, the site notes, and Wichard is Balmer’s agent.
The NCAA has made trips to Chapel Hill in July and August to interview Austin and other players about possibly receiving improper benefits from agents. Austin reportedly has been asked about being seen driving Balmer’s vehicle. He is also reported to have stayed at Balmer’s apartment during the offseason.
According to the NCAA’s "preferential treatment" bylaw, student-athletes can’t accept "preferential treatment, benefits or services because of the individual’s athletics reputation or skill or pay-back potential as a professional athlete, unless such treatment, benefits or services are specifically permitted under NCAA legislation."
If Austin and Thomas are found to have violated NCAA rules, then any games they played in after the violation may have to be forfeited. That would require North Carolina to forfeit its entire 2009 season.
Every year, every NFL player faces a certain degree of pressure. Every year, some face more than others. Ten players will begin the 2010 season with more pressure than the average guy who earns a living playing football. Here’s the list:
Titans running back Chris Johnson rushed for 2,006 yards during last year’s regular season.
Chris Johnson, Titans RB
Ordinarily, a guy who has rushed for more than 2,000 yards doesn’t face much pressure the next year, primarily because no one expects him to meet or exceed his accomplishments. Johnson, however, has pulled no punches; he repeatedly has said he plans to rush for 2,500 yards in the coming season, which would shatter the single-season record by nearly 400 yards.
And so Johnson has welcomed the pressure of averaging more than 156 yards per game. One bad showing would upend his quest, thereby making him look like just another athlete who can run his mouth and not back it up.
Tom Brady, Patriots QB
A year removed from a major knee injury, Brady presided over an up-and-down campaign that resulted in a division title, followed by a prompt exit from the playoffs via a thumping from the Ravens.
In 2010, Brady enters the final year of his contract. To cash in come 2011, he needs to continue to play at a high level despite a somewhat diminished depth chart on offense.
More importantly, he needs to stay healthy.
If he fails on either front, that huge-dollar deal everyone assumes he’ll be getting may not happen.
Mark Sanchez, Jets QB
With the Jets already laying claim to the Super Bowl 45 trophy, everyone faces crippling pressure to deliver.
And arguably the weakest link in the chain plays the most important position.
Sanchez struggled through long stretches of his rookie year, and he missed much of the offseason practices as he continued to rehab a knee injury. Still, many assume he’ll simply step up his game and become good enough to lead the Jets to a championship.
Maybe he will, but that assumption places a ton of pressure on Sanchez.
Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers QB
For the first time in recent memory, extended memory, and perhaps ever, a starting NFL quarterback will be prevented from playing despite being completely healthy. And so when Roethlisberger returns from his suspension, the pressure will land squarely on his shoulders to immediately play at a high level again.
The fact that the Steelers are giving him extended reps during training camp means Byron Leftwich and/or Dennis Dixon won’t be as prepared as they could be to replace Roethlisberger, which means the Steelers will be more likely to lose one or more of the four (or six) games Roethlisberger misses. And there will be even more pressure on Roethlisberger to win games once he returns.
Kevin Kolb, Eagles QB
With Donovan McNabb out of Philly, the job falls to Kolb. Though he became the first quarterback in league history to start his career with consecutive 300-yard games, Kolb now will have to face the challenge of defensive coordinators game-planning for him, a process that tends to catch up with first-time starting quarterbacks after five or six games, when enough film has been generated to allow weaknesses to be identified and exploited.
And he’ll have to do it with one of the most vocal and demanding fan bases in all of sport watching his every move.
If Kolb performs well, he will have managed to shrug off some incredibly significant pressure.
Adrian Peterson, Vikings RB
But for multiple untimely fumbles last season from Peterson, the Vikings arguably would have been the team visiting the White House instead of the Saints. Regardless of the reason — and it currently appears to be a combination of recklessness in holding the ball while fighting for an extra yard or two and knowledge on the part of opposing defenses that there’s merit in trying to punch it out — Peterson’s inability to secure the ball has compromised the team’s interest, dramatically.
In 2010, he must find a way to balance his desire to score on every play with the importance of keeping the ball in his team’s possession.
Meanwhile, he needs to have the kind of season that will reconfirm his status as one of the top running backs in the game.
Antonio Cromartie, Jets CB
Perhaps Cromartie was destined to join the Jets. What else would explain his chronic refusal to attempt to tackle any member of the team’s offense while playing against the Jets in the 2009 playoffs?
In 2010, Cromartie needs to prove that 2008 and 2009 were aberrations, and that his Pro Bowl performance in 2007 reflects his true abilities.
And he may have to do so as the No. 1 corner in New York, assuming Darrelle Revis continues to hold out.
Alex Smith, 49ers QB
Five years after becoming the first overall pick in the draft and earning the starting job in San Francisco and losing it and getting it back, Smith finally is down to his last chance.
In his sixth year, Smith needs to lead the 49ers through a mediocre NFC West and push a team with a stout defense and a potent running game to the postseason.
If he fails, it’ll be time for Smith to start scouting depth charts in the UFL.
Matt Leinart, Cardinals QB
Quietly, the Cardinals’ starter-turned-backup-turned-starter is entering his fifth NFL season. He threw 377 passes as a rookie and has attempted only 218 since then.
With Kurt Warner, who bounced Leinart to the bench for the past two seasons, now gone, Leinart gets his last chance to show he can lead an NFL team.
So for the same reasons that Alex Smith is facing his final chance, Leinart is chewing on the last straw of his career.
Drew Brees, Saints QB
The Saints’ starting quarterback has become a great passer and an even better leader. This year, he’ll have to recapture the attention of a band of brothers who have been partying through an extended victory lap, which finally culminated earlier this week in a trip to the White House, more than a week into training camp.
It won’t be easy. With 31 other franchises wanting to do what the Saints have just accomplished and more than a few of the Saints surely feeling a little complacent and/or disinterested when it comes to achieving the ultimate team goal, Brees needs to get them to forget about 2009 and focus on 2010.
Riding on his ability to do it is the question of whether he can parlay a Super Bowl win in his ninth NFL season into a Hall of Fame resume.
Mike Florio writes and edits ProFootballTalk.com and is a regular contributor to Sporting News. Check out PFT for up-to-the minute NFL news.
Every year, every NFL player faces a certain degree of pressure. Every year, some face more than others. Ten players will begin the 2010 season with more pressure than the average guy who earns a living playing football. Here’s the list:
Titans running back Chris Johnson rushed for 2,006 yards during last year’s regular season.
Chris Johnson, Titans RB
Ordinarily, a guy who has rushed for more than 2,000 yards doesn’t face much pressure the next year, primarily because no one expects him to meet or exceed his accomplishments. Johnson, however, has pulled no punches; he repeatedly has said he plans to rush for 2,500 yards in the coming season, which would shatter the single-season record by nearly 400 yards.
And so Johnson has welcomed the pressure of averaging more than 156 yards per game. One bad showing would upend his quest, thereby making him look like just another athlete who can run his mouth and not back it up.
Tom Brady, Patriots QB
A year removed from a major knee injury, Brady presided over an up-and-down campaign that resulted in a division title, followed by a prompt exit from the playoffs via a thumping from the Ravens.
In 2010, Brady enters the final year of his contract. To cash in come 2011, he needs to continue to play at a high level despite a somewhat diminished depth chart on offense.
More importantly, he needs to stay healthy.
If he fails on either front, that huge-dollar deal everyone assumes he’ll be getting may not happen.
Mark Sanchez, Jets QB
With the Jets already laying claim to the Super Bowl 45 trophy, everyone faces crippling pressure to deliver.
And arguably the weakest link in the chain plays the most important position.
Sanchez struggled through long stretches of his rookie year, and he missed much of the offseason practices as he continued to rehab a knee injury. Still, many assume he’ll simply step up his game and become good enough to lead the Jets to a championship.
Maybe he will, but that assumption places a ton of pressure on Sanchez.
Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers QB
For the first time in recent memory, extended memory, and perhaps ever, a starting NFL quarterback will be prevented from playing despite being completely healthy. And so when Roethlisberger returns from his suspension, the pressure will land squarely on his shoulders to immediately play at a high level again.
The fact that the Steelers are giving him extended reps during training camp means Byron Leftwich and/or Dennis Dixon won’t be as prepared as they could be to replace Roethlisberger, which means the Steelers will be more likely to lose one or more of the four (or six) games Roethlisberger misses. And there will be even more pressure on Roethlisberger to win games once he returns.
Kevin Kolb, Eagles QB
With Donovan McNabb out of Philly, the job falls to Kolb. Though he became the first quarterback in league history to start his career with consecutive 300-yard games, Kolb now will have to face the challenge of defensive coordinators game-planning for him, a process that tends to catch up with first-time starting quarterbacks after five or six games, when enough film has been generated to allow weaknesses to be identified and exploited.
And he’ll have to do it with one of the most vocal and demanding fan bases in all of sport watching his every move.
If Kolb performs well, he will have managed to shrug off some incredibly significant pressure.
Adrian Peterson, Vikings RB
But for multiple untimely fumbles last season from Peterson, the Vikings arguably would have been the team visiting the White House instead of the Saints. Regardless of the reason — and it currently appears to be a combination of recklessness in holding the ball while fighting for an extra yard or two and knowledge on the part of opposing defenses that there’s merit in trying to punch it out — Peterson’s inability to secure the ball has compromised the team’s interest, dramatically.
In 2010, he must find a way to balance his desire to score on every play with the importance of keeping the ball in his team’s possession.
Meanwhile, he needs to have the kind of season that will reconfirm his status as one of the top running backs in the game.
Antonio Cromartie, Jets CB
Perhaps Cromartie was destined to join the Jets. What else would explain his chronic refusal to attempt to tackle any member of the team’s offense while playing against the Jets in the 2009 playoffs?
In 2010, Cromartie needs to prove that 2008 and 2009 were aberrations, and that his Pro Bowl performance in 2007 reflects his true abilities.
And he may have to do so as the No. 1 corner in New York, assuming Darrelle Revis continues to hold out.
Alex Smith, 49ers QB
Five years after becoming the first overall pick in the draft and earning the starting job in San Francisco and losing it and getting it back, Smith finally is down to his last chance.
In his sixth year, Smith needs to lead the 49ers through a mediocre NFC West and push a team with a stout defense and a potent running game to the postseason.
If he fails, it’ll be time for Smith to start scouting depth charts in the UFL.
Matt Leinart, Cardinals QB
Quietly, the Cardinals’ starter-turned-backup-turned-starter is entering his fifth NFL season. He threw 377 passes as a rookie and has attempted only 218 since then.
With Kurt Warner, who bounced Leinart to the bench for the past two seasons, now gone, Leinart gets his last chance to show he can lead an NFL team.
So for the same reasons that Alex Smith is facing his final chance, Leinart is chewing on the last straw of his career.
Drew Brees, Saints QB
The Saints’ starting quarterback has become a great passer and an even better leader. This year, he’ll have to recapture the attention of a band of brothers who have been partying through an extended victory lap, which finally culminated earlier this week in a trip to the White House, more than a week into training camp.
It won’t be easy. With 31 other franchises wanting to do what the Saints have just accomplished and more than a few of the Saints surely feeling a little complacent and/or disinterested when it comes to achieving the ultimate team goal, Brees needs to get them to forget about 2009 and focus on 2010.
Riding on his ability to do it is the question of whether he can parlay a Super Bowl win in his ninth NFL season into a Hall of Fame resume.
Mike Florio writes and edits ProFootballTalk.com and is a regular contributor to Sporting News. Check out PFT for up-to-the minute NFL news.
After a tumultuous 2009 that included an admission of steroids use, a divorce and hip surgery, Alex Rodriguez decided to do what he could to change his life and become a better person and teammate. Initial interviews still came off as awkward and insincere, but he has come a long way.
Now, with a World Series ring in hand and more support from his team and the fans, the Yankees third baseman finally seems to be genuine about himself and the game. The weights on him seem to have been lifted. He may never fit in or ever truly "get it," but at least he’s trying.
The look says it all: Alex Rodriguez is in a happier place this year.
Rodriguez joined Michael Kay on ESPN Radio New York to discuss the wait for his 600th career home run, what the milestone means in relation to his admission to using PEDs, his life changes and the career home run record.
On taking so long to hit his 600th home run:
"I’m glad we did it in a winning fashion so we finally have it behind us and can focus on winning baseball. … It was getting difficult because I wanted to really move on with it and focus on the team. We are right in the middle of a pennant race and I knew we had Boston coming in for four. What I have focused on over the last few years is focusing on good, hard baseball and being one of the guys. One of the things that I have prided myself in the past two years was to let my playing do the talking and do a little talking in the clubhouse. It seems like the last four or five days, it’s been the exact opposite – talk a lot and not do much out there."
On how fans should view his home run total relative to his admitted use of PEDs:
"I don’t think anyone should ignore what happened last year. That was a big day in my life. It was probably one of the toughest days, if not the toughest day, of my life. At that press conference, I had an opportunity. I knew that I had an opportunity to do things right both on and off the field. I made some promises and said some very strong things. … For the most part, I think that I’ve stayed to that script. I’ve done the best that I can to be one of the guys, to do some of the things that I’ve done off the field as quietly as possible and just go out and play baseball. And the irony is that I’m enjoying the game more than I did pre-500 and all that stuff. I have nothing to say. I’m not the judge or the jury. When it is all said and done, when my contract is up in New York and I get to retire, I think people are going to look at my body of work and say yes, no, or indifferent. That’s up to them. I’m not here trying to change their mind or not. I’m trying to walk the walk."
On whether he is the same player he was when he hit No. 500:
"I think the further that I get away from this (hip) injury, the better I am getting. It’s trial and error still. For the most part, I can’t answer that question. My job is to go out and play. I’m a much better team player. The support from my teammates and the fans has really been overwhelming. I don’t know if I am any better. I am a better player for a winning team. … You talk about perspective. My world has turned upside down from 500 to 600. The support from the fans, my teammates. I have guys from the NBA, the NFL and other teams texting me and cheering me on. That’s totally different from 500. I think the support around baseball, around sports, even the writers. I did my best to be at my locker every day. I was there before and after the game. … I’m in a totally different place than I was at 500. I was stressed out with a lot of things. But right now, I’m at peace with myself. I’m happy."
On the difference between the pressure of 600 and the pressure of the postseason:
"The pressure is completely taken off when you are talking about the team. Most of my at-bats (in pursuit of 600) were (in) blowout games. It was 47 at-bats. I bet 30 of them were with nobody on base, the game was out of reach and the only thing on my mind was probably just hitting the home run to get past it and get back to the team. The ones that I had men on base, the ones where I had men on base with two outs, were the easiest to focus. Those were the ones that I did actually the very best in those 47 at-bats."
On whether he thinks about breaking the career home run record:
"I think you do every once in a while on the big picture. But again, it took me exactly three years to get from 500 to 600. It’s not even on my radar. You really just try to focus on the present and today and this season and try to accomplish number 28. That’s what we’re here for. If we’re talking in a few years, it would be much easier to answer the question."
Listen to Alex Rodriguez on ESPN Radio New York with Michael Kay.
After a tumultuous 2009 that included an admission of steroids use, a divorce and hip surgery, Alex Rodriguez decided to do what he could to change his life and become a better person and teammate. Initial interviews still came off as awkward and insincere, but he has come a long way.
Now, with a World Series ring in hand and more support from his team and the fans, the Yankees third baseman finally seems to be genuine about himself and the game. The weights on him seem to have been lifted. He may never fit in or ever truly "get it," but at least he’s trying.
The look says it all: Alex Rodriguez is in a happier place this year.
Rodriguez joined Michael Kay on ESPN Radio New York to discuss the wait for his 600th career home run, what the milestone means in relation to his admission to using PEDs, his life changes and the career home run record.
On taking so long to hit his 600th home run:
"I’m glad we did it in a winning fashion so we finally have it behind us and can focus on winning baseball. … It was getting difficult because I wanted to really move on with it and focus on the team. We are right in the middle of a pennant race and I knew we had Boston coming in for four. What I have focused on over the last few years is focusing on good, hard baseball and being one of the guys. One of the things that I have prided myself in the past two years was to let my playing do the talking and do a little talking in the clubhouse. It seems like the last four or five days, it’s been the exact opposite – talk a lot and not do much out there."
On how fans should view his home run total relative to his admitted use of PEDs:
"I don’t think anyone should ignore what happened last year. That was a big day in my life. It was probably one of the toughest days, if not the toughest day, of my life. At that press conference, I had an opportunity. I knew that I had an opportunity to do things right both on and off the field. I made some promises and said some very strong things. … For the most part, I think that I’ve stayed to that script. I’ve done the best that I can to be one of the guys, to do some of the things that I’ve done off the field as quietly as possible and just go out and play baseball. And the irony is that I’m enjoying the game more than I did pre-500 and all that stuff. I have nothing to say. I’m not the judge or the jury. When it is all said and done, when my contract is up in New York and I get to retire, I think people are going to look at my body of work and say yes, no, or indifferent. That’s up to them. I’m not here trying to change their mind or not. I’m trying to walk the walk."
On whether he is the same player he was when he hit No. 500:
"I think the further that I get away from this (hip) injury, the better I am getting. It’s trial and error still. For the most part, I can’t answer that question. My job is to go out and play. I’m a much better team player. The support from my teammates and the fans has really been overwhelming. I don’t know if I am any better. I am a better player for a winning team. … You talk about perspective. My world has turned upside down from 500 to 600. The support from the fans, my teammates. I have guys from the NBA, the NFL and other teams texting me and cheering me on. That’s totally different from 500. I think the support around baseball, around sports, even the writers. I did my best to be at my locker every day. I was there before and after the game. … I’m in a totally different place than I was at 500. I was stressed out with a lot of things. But right now, I’m at peace with myself. I’m happy."
On the difference between the pressure of 600 and the pressure of the postseason:
"The pressure is completely taken off when you are talking about the team. Most of my at-bats (in pursuit of 600) were (in) blowout games. It was 47 at-bats. I bet 30 of them were with nobody on base, the game was out of reach and the only thing on my mind was probably just hitting the home run to get past it and get back to the team. The ones that I had men on base, the ones where I had men on base with two outs, were the easiest to focus. Those were the ones that I did actually the very best in those 47 at-bats."
On whether he thinks about breaking the career home run record:
"I think you do every once in a while on the big picture. But again, it took me exactly three years to get from 500 to 600. It’s not even on my radar. You really just try to focus on the present and today and this season and try to accomplish number 28. That’s what we’re here for. If we’re talking in a few years, it would be much easier to answer the question."
Listen to Alex Rodriguez on ESPN Radio New York with Michael Kay.
Sporting News staff reports
Giants pitcher Jonathan Sanchez is predicting a San Francisco sweep of the NL West-leading Padres this weekend. Sanchez apparently didn’t impress his teammates with that statement.
Giants manager Bruce Bochy told the San Francisco Chronicle that some Giants were giving Sanchez a "hard time," and not in a good way.
Apparently, Sanchez’s teammates were upset about the timing of his comments. The left-hander lasted only four innings in a loss to Atlanta on Sunday.
Sporting News staff reports
Giants pitcher Jonathan Sanchez is predicting a San Francisco sweep of the NL West-leading Padres this weekend. Sanchez apparently didn’t impress his teammates with that statement.
Giants manager Bruce Bochy told the San Francisco Chronicle that some Giants were giving Sanchez a "hard time," and not in a good way.
Apparently, Sanchez’s teammates were upset about the timing of his comments. The left-hander lasted only four innings in a loss to Atlanta on Sunday.
What to expect in the major leagues today:
Hitless again?
On July 26, Rays right-hander Matt Garza fired the first no-hitter in franchise history by shutting down the Tigers at Tropicana Field. Tonight, he will face Detroit again, this time at Comerica Park.
Matt Garza will have a tougher time shutting down the Tigers’ offense tonight.
In that no-no, Garza walked only one while striking out six. On that night, the Tigers were without second baseman Carlos Guillen and third baseman Brandon Inge, both of whom have returned from the disabled list (outfielder Magglio Ordonez remains sidelined).
Sponsored link: Tigers tickets available
Now it is Tampa Bay that is battling injuries, with starters Jeff Niemann and Wade Davis on the disabled list. With so much rotation uncertainty, the Rays need another strong effort from Garza.
NLCS rematch
The Phillies and Dodgers have met in the NLCS the past two years, but a third consecutive meeting is unlikely. Thanks to its improved play recently, despite several of their key players being on the disabled list, Philadelphia has positioned itself for a possible playoff run. However, Los Angeles faces a sizeable deficit in both the NL West and wild-card races.
The teams will continue their three-game series at Citizens Bank Park tonight, and trading deadline acquisition Roy Oswalt will try again for his first win with the Phillies. The right-hander is 0-1 with a 4.38 ERA in his first two starts since being acquired from Houston.
Lack of support
Royals right-hander Zack Greinke recently made headlines when he questioned the franchise’s ability to win before his contract expires in 2012. His frustration is understandable, as the reigning AL Cy Young award winner has suffered from a lack of run support the past two seasons.
Greinke will aim for win No. 8 tonight against the Angels. Starting for Los Angeles is a pitcher with a legitimate gripe of his own. Jered Weaver has an MLB-best 171 strikeouts and a sub-.300 ERA but is just 11-7.
Chris Bahr is Sporting News’ baseball editor. E-mail him at cbahr@sportingnews.com.
What to expect in the major leagues today:
Hitless again?
On July 26, Rays right-hander Matt Garza fired the first no-hitter in franchise history by shutting down the Tigers at Tropicana Field. Tonight, he will face Detroit again, this time at Comerica Park.
Matt Garza will have a tougher time shutting down the Tigers’ offense tonight.
In that no-no, Garza walked only one while striking out six. On that night, the Tigers were without second baseman Carlos Guillen and third baseman Brandon Inge, both of whom have returned from the disabled list (outfielder Magglio Ordonez remains sidelined).
Sponsored link: Tigers tickets available
Now it is Tampa Bay that is battling injuries, with starters Jeff Niemann and Wade Davis on the disabled list. With so much rotation uncertainty, the Rays need another strong effort from Garza.
NLCS rematch
The Phillies and Dodgers have met in the NLCS the past two years, but a third consecutive meeting is unlikely. Thanks to its improved play recently, despite several of their key players being on the disabled list, Philadelphia has positioned itself for a possible playoff run. However, Los Angeles faces a sizeable deficit in both the NL West and wild-card races.
The teams will continue their three-game series at Citizens Bank Park tonight, and trading deadline acquisition Roy Oswalt will try again for his first win with the Phillies. The right-hander is 0-1 with a 4.38 ERA in his first two starts since being acquired from Houston.
Lack of support
Royals right-hander Zack Greinke recently made headlines when he questioned the franchise’s ability to win before his contract expires in 2012. His frustration is understandable, as the reigning AL Cy Young award winner has suffered from a lack of run support the past two seasons.
Greinke will aim for win No. 8 tonight against the Angels. Starting for Los Angeles is a pitcher with a legitimate gripe of his own. Jered Weaver has an MLB-best 171 strikeouts and a sub-.300 ERA but is just 11-7.
Chris Bahr is Sporting News’ baseball editor. E-mail him at cbahr@sportingnews.com.
Sporting News staff reports
Carlos Beltran has cleared waivers, but the Mets center fielder remains difficult to trade, FOXSports.com’s Jon Paul Morosi reports.
Beltran, 33, has a no-trade clause in his contact and is due to make $18.5 million next year in the final season of his deal. He also is coming off knee surgery which forced him to miss the first half of this season.
Earlier Tuesday, the New York Times reported the Mets appear willing to deal Beltran in the winter. The newspaper speculated Beltran might be amenable to waiving his no-trade protection if he has an opportunity to go to a city and team he likes.
Beltran’s stats reflect his struggles: He’s batting .195/.300/.312 in 90 plate appearances over 22 games, with one home run and seven RBIs. His outfield defense also has been subpar. Angel Pagan has played well this year and is a threat to to take over for Beltran in center.
Sporting News staff reports
Carlos Beltran has cleared waivers, but the Mets center fielder remains difficult to trade, FOXSports.com’s Jon Paul Morosi reports.
Beltran, 33, has a no-trade clause in his contact and is due to make $18.5 million next year in the final season of his deal. He also is coming off knee surgery which forced him to miss the first half of this season.
Earlier Tuesday, the New York Times reported the Mets appear willing to deal Beltran in the winter. The newspaper speculated Beltran might be amenable to waiving his no-trade protection if he has an opportunity to go to a city and team he likes.
Beltran’s stats reflect his struggles: He’s batting .195/.300/.312 in 90 plate appearances over 22 games, with one home run and seven RBIs. His outfield defense also has been subpar. Angel Pagan has played well this year and is a threat to to take over for Beltran in center.
