Waynesboro Generals 2008 Awards

For the last two months I have put over 2,500 miles on my car, devoured nearly 100 hot dogs and poured a metric ton of Berry Blue Gatorade into my gut while traveling up and down the state of Virginia covering the #5 ranked collegiate summer team in the nation the Waynesboro Generals.

It seems  this season has just flown by -- like a Daniel Wiltz fast ball or Gabriel Saade on the base path -- you probably have no idea what the means or who they are (you will someday.)

The season started off rocky, at 5-4 and in the middle of the pack it didn't seem that the 2007 defending Valley League Champs were going to repeat. 

Then like the ball off Brandon Sizemore's bat the season took off. 

Waynesboro won 25 of their next 35 games and finished the regular season with the best overall record at 30-14. Good enough to capture the #1 seed and home field advantage for the playoffs. 

2008 had it's up and downs -- luckily, many more ups than downs -- the Generals defeated the then number one ranked team in the nation, the Vienna Senators of the Clark Griffith League, 1-0 in ten innings back on July 15th. 

An 8-7 victory of the then ranked number three Luray Wranglers on Monday evening was icing on the cake, and a beautiful win which capped off a miraculous regular season. 

Note: Although their records were nearly identical, and Waynesboro was 4-0 in head-to-head games against the Wranglers, for some unexplainable and quite annoying reason the Generals were always ranked lower in PGCrosscheckers.com top 16 summer teams Until this week!

So as the regular season comes to an end, and the playoffs get rollin' (Waynesboro won game one of the opening round 4-1 over the Haymarket Senators) I've decided to take a look back, and hand out awards to the players that have made my summer so remarkable -- and give them something back -- a Sean "Hollywood*" Youngberg Distinguished Award for Excellence. 

*Hollywood was a nickname given to me during the season which I only use at times to make myself feel cool and at times arrogant. 

This is the first time these prestigious awards have ever been handed out, so it is without further adieu that I announce the Sean "Hollywood*" Youngberg Distinguished Awards for Excellence to the following Waynesboro Generals players. 

Mr. Clutch: Evan Webb, 3b, Tennessee Tech. Webb or Webby as he is more popularly known in these parts has been Mr. Reliable all season long for the Generals. He is the only player on the roster -- and only one of two in the entire league -- who started, and played in all 44 regular season games. 

Since opening day and throughout the season he has been a force to be reckoned with at the 

plate, and a consistent as they come at the hot corner.

He was one of two Generals to get automatic bids to the Valley League All-Star game, where he was the starting third basemen for the South. 

His .299 batting average was 5th best on the team; however, in every other major offensive category Webby was in the top three. In 177 plate appearances (tops) he belted six home runs (2nd best), 53 hits (tops), put up 39 RBIs (tops), drew 21 walks (third), collected 80 total bases (tops) and came across to score 31 times (t-1st). 

Webb is the glue that holds the team together. He's a solid fielder, a player who hits for average, and always finds a way to come through when he is needed. He has battled through injuries and put it all on the line night in and night out-he's played every inning of every game --that's why Evan Webb is Mr. Clutch, an award I view as just as important and crucial to a team's success as MVP. 

Other nominees: Brandon Sizemore 2b, Adam Liberatore P, and Mark Dvoroznak OF.

MVP: Brandon Sizemore, 2b, College of Charleston. Brandon Sizemore is to the Waynesboro Generals what Babe Ruth is to the New York Yankees and Cal Ripken Jr. is to the Baltimore Orioles. A fan favorite who may just be the best player to ever wear that teams uniform

B-Size is a third year General, and a fan favorite if you've ever seen one. He is loved by his fans and loathed by other teams for his stellar defense and potent offense. 

How clutch is Sizemore? Well he won this award before he hit two home runs in the regular season finale agains

t the #3 ranked Luray Wranglers to capture the regular season championship that propelled Waynesboro into the #1 seed and gave them home-field advantage throughout the playoffs? Wait did you say TWO home runs?

Yes! A solo shot in the top of the 9th that tied the game at 6 and sent the teams into extra innings. In the top of the 11th with a man on and one out -- you guessed it -- Sizemore unloaded a two run shot (that might still be rolling) which put the Generals ahead for good.

Sizemore went out for nearly two weeks with bruised heels (although the team went 6-1) his offensive numbers were clearly missed. 

In his second pitch hit performance since coming back from injury Sizemore was thrusted into the spotlight. 

It was a 5-5 game against arch-division rival the Staunton Braves, with the bases loaded, and one out it was up to B-Size to get it down. All it took was one pitch -- a chin high fastball -- that was sailing into left field and cleared the bases. Waynesboro went on to win the game 8-5, and the loss put the Braves on the back burner as Waynesboro was able to capture their second consecutive South Division title less than a week later.

What hasn't Sizemore done on offense? His .394 batting average, 9 home runs, .779 slugging percentage, .488 on base percentage are all tops on the team. He's 14/14 in stolen base attempts and has scored 31 times, which is tied for best on the team. He's second in doubles, triples, and RBIs. 

He puts fans into the stands, strikes fear into his opponents, and turns down offers from Major League teams because rumor has it he's going to be a top 10 rated second basemen in the country next season. Yeah, that has MVP written all over it. 

Other nominees: Evan Webb 3b, Gabriel Saade SS, and Adam Liberatore P.

MVPitcher: Adam Liberatore, LHP, Tennessee Tech. All I have to do is reel off his stats and that's all it will take to convince you that this guy is the real deal.

In eight starts Liberatore went 6-0 with an ERA of 1.15 -- the second best ERA in the league for any starter --opposing hitters couldn't even see what he was throwing, opponents batted a measly .170 against him on the season. 

In 54.2 innings of work Lib struck out 48 or 1.1 batters per inning. He allowed only 11 runs on the season, 7 of which were earned. Of the 194 batters the southpaw faced this season only eighteen were able to draw walks --and only once did the pride and joy of Monaca, PA give up a home run.

Liberatore  was tagged as the opening starter in the playoffs against Haymarket --and should've had his 7th win of the year-- however his 1 run and 3 hit performance in 7.1 innings was only good enough to earn him a no decision -- as he was only given one run of support. 

To best sum up how valuable he has been all season I will quote an opposing manager, " Damn it, we've already faced him (Liberatore) we know he can beat us, hell he could beat us throwing blind folded."

He's that good.

Other nominees: Andy Altemus RHP 7-1 ,3.41 era; Jared Dobbs 4-1, 1.05 era; Kaleb Fleck 2-0, 22 Ks in 20.1 innings pitched; and Jake Cowan 4-2, 1 CG, 44 ks in 37 innings pitched.  

Defensive Stud: Ryan Adams, 1b, Elon University. Defensively there are few better at first base in all of collegiate summer ball than Ryan "Chili" Adams.

Adams was originally slated into the Generals lineup as the DH to improve on the stagnant offense early in the season his .432 OBP and 33 walks (three times Adams has drawn 3 or more walks in a game) quickly caught the attention of the Waynesboro coaching staff, soon it was obvious that this kid needed a spot in the everyday lineup. But where?

First base that's where. Adams became the corner stone for an infield that had committed 24 errors in the first ten games. 

Adams has only been responsible for 5 errors in 259 attempts, a .981 fielding percentage that is second best on the team behind catcher Austin Morgan.

At 5-11, 200 lbs. Adams is short and stalky but nimble. What truly makes him a 'Defensive Stud' is his ability to jump, dive, layout, and suck up the ball like a cat fish in mud. You'd have to see him play to truly understand how his defensive abilities have saved big innings, and help get the Generals to where they currently stand. 

Other nominees: Austin Morgan C, Brandon Sizemore 2b, and Grant Buckner OF.

The Impactuator (impact player of the year): Gabriel Saade, SS, Duke. The Generals can thank their lucky stars that Gabriel "whas up?" Saade (pronounced saw-d, kinda like shor-ty) fell into their laps. 

Saade was cut from the Cape Cod league after his team realized they had a surplus of incredibly talented shortstops. At the same time the Generals were trying to cope with the loss of their all-star shortstop Jacke Healy, who left the team after the all-star break.

WA-LA! He wants to play, we need a shortstop, see where I'm going with this?

Saade joined the Generals on June 30, and you couldn't have asked for a better coming out party. The new kid on the block lit up the scene in his first game, going 4 for 4 with 3 RBIs, 2 runs, a walk, 2 stolen bases and a bases clearing triple that made the game a no doubter. The Generals won 10-4 and Saade solidified himself as the everyday shortstop.

In 20 games Saade has been with the team, the Generals have gone 13-7. Not too shabby, but what's truly impressive is the way that he performed when Brandon Sizemore went down for nearly two weeks. The speedster from Duke played nearly flawless defense in the middle infield, hit for power (2 hr) and average (.333) and the Generals were able to survive the 'B-Size Scare of '08' by going 6-1.

Saade has been a leadoff hitter coaches dream about. He has 27 hits out of the top spot, and on base percentage of .449. When he gets on (which he usually does) he has scorched teams going 14-14 in stolen base attempts. 

With Saade in the lineup the Generals have one of the most lethal 1-2 punches in all of the Valley League, a combo that one Valley League coach said is, "Just plain scary."

Other nominees: Austin Morgan C, Brandon Sizemore 2b, and Andy Altemus RHP.

Well there it is, the 2008 Sean "Hollywood" Youngberg Distinguished Awards for Excellence, hope you enjoyed the show sports fans, until the next pitch, good night!

The Waynesboro Generals are made up of players from Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Indiana, Florida, Virginia, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, West Virginia, Georgia and Louisiana. The players come from all across the country to play summer ball, some knew one another before the season started, but many did not.

They have come together to form the 5th best collegiate summer team in the nation -- and they're not done yet -- this team won't be satisfied until they hoist the Jim Limeweaver trophy one more time. 

The Waynesboro Generals are currently in the midst of the 2008 playoffs, and are looking to become the first team since the 2003 & 2004 Winchester Royals to win back-to-back Valley League championships.

Waynesboro will be in Haymarket tomorrow night to take on the Senators in game 2 of the best of 3 series. The game will start at 7:30 and can be heard on ESPN 1240 "The Boss" or online. Game 3 if necessary will be on Thursday at Kate Collins Field in Waynesboro, VA. 

Voting for these awards was done anonymously and fairly, by a committee of me, Sean "Hollywood" Youngberg. Questions, comments, or concerns you can reach me at SAYoungberg@gmail.com 

Fantasy advice from the Fantasy-aholic: Part 2

Mediator: Ok everyone, grab your coffee and bear claw and sit back down. Sean was just about to continue.

Sean: Thanks sweety. 

Mediator: Don't call me sweety.

Jack: Hey where's the bear claw? Didn't you say there were bear claws? Aw, what the hell.

Sean: Folks I mentioned before that my addiction to fantasy has been deemed 'repulsive' and 'utterly pathetic' but I want to help you out. Help me help you, ask me your most difficult questions and I will give you what I got. 

"When is a good time to draft a kicker?" -- RevengeoftheBrowns02

In the final round. That's it, there's no reasonable explanation if you take a kicker earlier than the last round. Seriously don't get me going on this. 

Last year the consensus number one kicker was Adam Vinatieri, and what did he do? Well low and behold Mr.Reliable finished tied for tenth overall; while Mason Crosby of Green Bay, a sixth-round rookie, was the Fantasy's world leading kicker.

The difference between kickers is so miniscule that it's not worth racking your brain over. Just look for a kicker from a potent offense, Crosby, Vinatieri, Nick Folk of Dallas, Stephen Gostkowski of New England, and Nate Kaeding of San Diego are all top-tier kickers to choose from. 

Ding! Ding! That's the bell, enough with the easy ones let's get it on.

"Whose number 2, Tony Romo or Peyton Manning?" --ManningisGod18

I have a weird inclination about this one, but I have a feeling you want me to say Manning?

Manning and Romo had near identical numbers last season. The pretty boy from Dallas put up 36 TDs and 4,211 passing yards but also threw 19 INTs. As for America's favorite quarter back, Manning threw 31 TDs and 4,040 yards but gave the ball to the defense 14 times (his most since the 2002 season)

Remember Manning was without his favorite target Marvin Harrison for eleven games last season. This year the most dangerous duo in NFL history is back.  

Both teams are pass first run later, and each quarterbacks is surrounded by a plethora of talent. Clark and Witten at TE, Wayne/Harrison TO/Crayton, and Addai/ Barber in the backfield.

I'd give the edge to the less mobile Manning, but not by much.

 This isn't like years past when it was Manning and Brady then everyone else. Now it's Brady and Manning/Romo/Brees/5 others. 

Other arms: Drew Brees NO, Matt Hasselback Sea, Ben Roethlisberger Pit, Phillip Rivers SD, Carson Palmer CIN, and David Garrard JAC...what I'm trying to get at is there are a slew of talented quarterbacks out there for you to pick from.

"I'm in a keeper league, should I keep Brian Westbrook or Drew Brees?" -- DuhBears86

Oh poor you, a perennial pro-bowl running back or a superstar qb?  

On one side of the ball you have an elite running back, who, by nearly everyone's standards is the third best RB in the draft and a top five player overall. Than on the other side you have a top 5 quarterback, and player in the top 20-25.

Running backs are usually the bread makers for your fantasy team, so from that standpoint I'd keep Brian Westbrook. A negative however is Westbrook plays in the NFC East, he has eight combined games versus the Giants, Cowboys, and Redskins -- all top ten defenses -- all who can cause sever pain and possibly injury.

Drew Brees has an arsenal of offensive power around him; Reggie Bush, Deuce McAllister, Marques Colston and Jeremy Schockey are just a few to name. Brees also plays in a a weak NFC South, and will benefit from an easier schedule thanks to last years poor performance. 

The final line is I'd lean toward Westbrook because running backs are the backbone to all solid fantasy teams. Brees is a rare talent but in the over all scheme of things a good running back is harder to find than a good quarterback. 

If you're smart you'll see how your league is scored and factor that in to.

"Now that the Patriots signed LaMont Jordan, what's the deal with Laurence Maroney?" -- BringBackMarino13

Laurence Maroney was the leading candidate for a breakout season, he was given more touches and producing better than ever, and that's why I took him with the 16th overall (4th in the 2nd round) pick in my draft. Oh the agony!

LaMont Jordan isn't at all what he used to be -- a solid producer in the fantasy game -- injuries slowed him down in Oakland and he was never able to live up to the Hype that surrounded him once he left the New York Jets.

The presence of Jordan will cut into the number of touches Maroney gets, and Bill Belichick has never truly had a supreme number one back -- it's always a slew of #2 backs that win Super Bowls.

Maroney will make for a very good #2 back on your team, and a mediocre #1. Keep an eye on him when the later weeks roll around, because Maroney doesn't get as many touches as other true number one backs he is fresh (and very devastating) toward the final weeks of the regular season.

Sean Youngberg is a journalism and sports communication major at James Madison University who finds himself aching to talk sports with anyone willing to listen -- but can't because he lives in a college town Population: Me -- he must put his thoughts into words for the internet world to see.

Is there a fantasy question that's busting you brain? Do you wonder why Santana Moss constantly let's you down year in and year out? Does it bother you that DeShaun Foster never lived up to the hype and handicapped your team? Well if so e-mail him your questions and concerns to sayoungberg@gmail.com -- remember that along with you the question/comment/or concern to include your "name" (i.e. IsThisTheYearVinceYoung?) 

Fantasy advice from the Fantasy-aholic

Me: Hi everybody My Name is Sean, and I am a fantasy-football-aholic

Group: Hi Sean!

Me: I don't think I actually need to be here, I'm just here because my girlfriend made me.

Group: (in unison) Denial.

Mediator: Sean, why don't you explain to us why you actually came to us.

Me: Ok, well here it goes...

You see I am what has been officially and medically diagnosed as a stage-5 Fantsy-Football-aholic, it's the highest stage you can be before they take away your personalized badass Team-names, and burn all your pre-draft ranking systems. It's awful, yet exhilarating.

You see -- some say my disease is a negative -- that it's affecting my personal hygiene,  made me a social outcast, and I'm no longer cool.

But, I want to turn my addiction to fantasy football into positive yardage. So for the next couple of weeks -- no matter what, whether I'm in the midst of my twenty-third live draft, or reading the latest fantasy alert -- I will do my best to bring you my inside knowledge, hopes, and outright ludacris opinions on the 2008 fantasy season.

"When is a good time to draft Brett Favre?" -- SexyJets99 

My friend, it's hard for me to say this, but I'll come out front. There isn't. If it's a backup you want, go ahead and take #4 in the fifteenth or sixteenth round. If you think Favre can still be a top rated QB, well then the choice is yours -- but remember that of all the teams who have permission or are rumored to be interested to have permission to talk to Favre -- only the Buccaneers made the playoffs last year.

If it's nostalgia you crave, Vinny Testaverde should still on the draft board (at # 1526)

"Should I draft a backup D/St?" -- VikingWarrior28

This one is a toughy. I am firm believer in that you should have at least one backup per position on your team with the exception of kicker. For reference see my chart at end of post.

The way I see it is you have two options -- either draft two defenses  or draft one defense, and then drop the weakest player off your bench when it's that teams bye week -- that's all I 

got.

If you draft two defenses make sure that the teams don't have the same bye week.

The second path is a little trickier. If you draft one D/St than you are forced to drop either the team or the weakest player off your bench if you plan on playing with a full squad. If you have a strong core of bench players this could be a tough decision, the final call is really up to you. 

I have played using both methods and have found them both to be beneficial.

Backups (minimums) :

1 Qb.

2-3 Rb.

2 Wr. 

1 Te.

Size of benches differ on a league-by-league basis. Play it smart, remember the RBs are the bread makers.

"How do you feel about Clinton Portis " -- DGreen4eva28

Same as I do every year, blinded by my unforgiving attitude,  after how he played in 2006 when I drafted him 5th overall. A personal vendetta if you will.

Other than that little PV of mine, I don't know what to say about Clinton Portis. ESPN ranked Portis as their 7th overall RB and 8th overall best player. To me that's hogwash, but who knows? That's the joy and pain of fantasy. 

Portis has been consistently inconsistent -- either he's putting up pro-bowl quality seasons -- or nursing himself on the sideline. 

In 2007 Portis rushed for 11 tds and 1,262 yards but fumbled six times, double the amount of times in the previous two seasons combined. However Southeast Jerome aka Choo! Choo! aka Dolemite Jenkins did play in all 16 games last season, something he's only accomplished three times in his six year career.

If the pattern continues Portis will play between 8-15 games -- taking a chance on him is high reward high risk -- and if you're going to live life on the edge try to draft Ladell Betts, a very capable backup who is likely to see playing time regardless if Portis stays healthy or not.

"Is it wrong of me to draft two stellar quarterbacks early and hold one as trade bait?" -- Pac-ManisWackMan

Fantasy football is like war. Hostage situations happen in warso by the transitive property of algebra they happen in fantasy.

It's a risky situation that could possibly alienate you from your friends who will most likely think of you as a little bitch afterward. But if pulled off correctly you could make a trade that will better your team and drain your opponents roster. 

If you're able to grab two 'stellar' quarterbacks than you could have a few teams at your mercy when the time comes. Play your cards right and you may be able to pluck one to two A-Level players off your enemies foxhole. 

Good luck to ya captain.

I need some coffee, let's take a five minute break. When we come back we'll discus rookie running backs, the Saints, QB competitions, Marvin Harrison and a whole lot more fantasy.

Do you have something you want to discuss? Is there something just boiling your brain? Can't decide between Selvin Young and Kevin Smith? Don't know who Selvin Young and Kevin Smith are? Then e-mail your inquiries sayoungberg@gmail.com -- bonus to getting your questions posted -- you get to come up with your own sweet nickname (i.e. Brady2Moss=hott)

Send your questions my way and let your fantasy worries and fears be taken care of.

Sean Youngberg is a journalism and sports communication major at James Madison University who is by no means an authorized Fantasy Football guru, and who at times fails again and again while trying to make witty comments.

He first began studying the art of Fantasy Football when he was in middle school, although he never really put any effort into it. He was an arrogant rookie who thought he could beat the dads he played against in his neighborhood.

But after three consecutive drafts when Youngberg couldn't have busted worse in the first round ('03 Ricky Williams, '04 Donovan McNabb,  and '05 Daunte Culpepper) he decided enough was enough and put his head in the game.

After a remarkable 2006 draft that featured Peyton Manning, Marvin Harrison, Brian Westbrook and the Vikings Defense/ Special teams, Youngberg was able to capture his first Fantasy crown, in a victory he deemed as "life fufilling and morally uplifting."

He is not the author of any famous magazines and does not contain a press pass to any of the 32 NFL training camps, BUT he thinks he knows a thing or two about this sport and is willing to teach, if you are willing to at least pretend you are paying attention. 

 

 

Generals capture third straight division title

With an 8-4 victory over division rival Staunton on Wednesday night, the Waynesboro Generals captured their third straight South Division title.

Waynesboro has played in four straight division clinching games, but was unable to seal the deal, until last night.

In 2006 Waynesboro finished with the best overall record in the Valley League; and in 2007 and 2008 with the best division in the South.

In his second year at the helm for the Generals, coach Lawerence Nesselrodt has put together a squad that is still in contention for the best overall record in 2008 -- Waynesboro currently trails the Luray Wranglers (28-10) by one game.  The Generals and Wranglers will meet up in the season finale on July 28 at Bulldog Field in Luray @ 7:30. 

The victory gives the Generals home field advantage throughout the first round of the playoffs. In the Valley League the playoff picture is set up by the top eight teams in the entire league, not by division. Thus making it possible for two teams from the North or from the South to compete for the Jim Limeweaver Cup trophy.

Waynesboro is the defending 2007 Valley League champions and will look to be the first team since the 2003&2004 Winchester Royals to win back-to-back titles.

Pictures are courtesy of aroundthevalleyin60days.blogspot.com

Fantasy practice makes perfect

So you've done it all you say? You've read every fantasy piece of information under the sun, ordered that new cell phone package which sends you up to the minute alerts and flagged the NFL Network under favorites on TiVo incase, God forbid, Adrian Peterson gets a paper cut while opening his mail. 

Maybe you've even begun to put together a list you like to call, 'Sleeper picks 2008: the ones that'll make me a legend.' But have you actually practiced drafting yet?

That's right have you spent countless hours facing simulated mock draft scenarios to prepare yourself for any situation that could slap you in the face?

Thanks to the lovely people at ESPN you now have that ability to do so. 

What are you waiting for? Go to the fantasy football home page and precede to the Mock Draft Lobby (or click that link). Enter a room, and then put your so-called fantasy genius to the test. Check out how you would react if you were to land that highly coveted #2 spot or God forbid you fall into the #9 seed.

You will need an ESPN account to participate -- if you don't have one don't sweat -- it's as easy as 1,2,3. Click the 'Register' link on top of the page and then follow the directions. 

Don't be the one left behind on draft day.

You think this is a joke, "Mr. I knew Marques Colston before he was big"? You don't think that even you could use a little practice to tune up to your game?

Go ahead and challenge yourself -- seriously, do you want someone like that (look up)-- beating you on draft day?

That's what I thought. 

Patriots sit atop NFL pre-season Power Rankings

Only forty three more days till the NFL kicks off. 

That gives us just six weeks to get the grill ready, clean off the flat screen, make sure the clothing apparel is ironed (or at least smells like it hasn't been rotting in shame since your team was knocked out), read every fantasy magazine in the country, and most importantly only six more weeks till we can watch bone crunching, heart stopping, American Football instead of re-runs on the NFL Network of the 1998 playoffs.

All that being said, I've decided to list off my 2008 NFL Power Rankings. ESPN has their own version, and NFL.com has the inside scoop to all 32 training camps -- as for me well I have seemed to misplaced my all-access pass and will give you my view of the 2008 season as I see it.

1) Patriots - They still have Tom Brady and Randy Moss, they'll be just fine. Not to mention Jason Taylor will no longer be breathing down Brady's neck.

2) Chargers - The Colts days as the Patriots rivals are numbered, if Phillip Rivers, LT, and Antonio Gates are all healthy the offense could reak havoc in the AFC.

3) Colts - Dwight Freeney and Bob Sanders highlight the teams list of concerns, but with Peyton Manning should be back sooner from knee surgery than expected which makes the Colts the premiere favorites in the AFC South.

4) Cowboys - About time the NFC makes its debut right? T.O. and Romo can get it done in the regular season, but will they have what it takes when the playoffs roll around?

5) Jaguars - David Garrard has a full year as a bonafide starter under his belt, with Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew behind him we'll see if this is the year Jacksonville dethrones the Colts. 

6) Saints - With the addition of Jeremy Shockey to Drew Brees's arsenal and an improved defense, look for New Orleans to be playing late into the playoffs.

7) Steelers - With rookies Limas Sweed and Rashard Mendenhall now in the mix Pittsburgh may have one of the leagues best offenses to compliment their smash mouth D.

8) Seahawks - It's Mike Holmgren's last season at the helm, if he can find someone to anchor the defensive line Seattle is sure to capture their fifth straight division title.

9) Packers - How good is this team without Brett Favre? Green Bay has a talent ladened roster, now it's up to Aaron Rodgers to make the most of the young Pack squad.

10) Giants - While most teams in the NFC East have acquired talent the G-Men seem to be getting rid of it --  the Giants still have what it takes to make a run at another title.

11) Browns - A severe lack of depth at the CB position could come back to haunt Cleveland. Five prime time games should give last years Cinderella story enough adrenaline to keep the ball rollin in '08.

12) Vikings - Jared Allen is the perfect compliment alongside the Williams' twins on the defensive line, if Tarvaris Jackson can manage a game and minimize errors Minnesota will return to the playoffs for the first time since 2004.

13) Buccaneers - Cadallic Williams isn't expected back anytime soon, can the trio of Warrick Dunn, Earnest Grahm and Michael Bennett carry the load? If so Tampa Bay will be in the NFC South race all season long.

14) Redskins - Jason Taylor bolsters the D, but the real questions surround quarterback Jason Campbell and first year head coach Jim "The Z-Man" Zorn.

15) Eagles - All four NFC East teams in the top 15, shows you why many consider this division to be the toughest in the league. Philly has to worry about Donovan McNabb's health and the unpleasant hold out of running back Brian Westbrook.

16) Texans - Roosevelt Colvin may be the most under appreciated free agent signing of the off season. With Colvin and Mario Williams the Texans have a good shot (I said it!) at making the franchises first trip to the post season.

17) Arizona - Edgerrin James had the second most carries in the NFL (323) last season, if Matt Leinart can improve his footwork, the Cardinals have a very legitimate shot of taking down perennial NFC West champs Seattle.

18) Rams - Injuries to Marc Bulger and Steven Jackson took down St.Louis before they even got out of the gates. With those two back and a defensive line that features first rounders Adam Carriker and Chris Long, who knows, we might see St.Louis back in the NFC title hunt.

19) Panthers - Word from training camp is Jake Delhomme is throwing like he did before Tommy John surgery -- if not better. An improved receiving corps could help Carolina out drastically this season.

20) Ravens - Who will show up the 13-3 or 5-11 team? Baltimore's season relies heavily (if not entirely) on which quarterback is slated as the opening day starter.

21) Broncos - If Jay Cutler can stay healthy and Brandon Marshall can stay out of trouble, then the Broncos have what it takes to end their two year drought from the playoffs.

22) Bengals - A thousand thank you's to Marvin Lewis from the Cinci' fans for keeping Chad Johnson. Now it's up to the defense to stop someone, then we'll talk a winning season.

23) Bills - From the looks of things second year quarterback Trent Edwards will be the starter for Dick Jauron's team. Lee Evans is in a contract year look for him to put up career numbers.

24) Titans - Defense is the key for Tennessee's success, Vince Young will have to find someone else other than Algae Crumpler to throw the ball too if they want to make it back to the playoffs.

25) Jets - Over $120 million spent on free agents in the off season. Now it's up to Man-genius to mesh these overpaid superstars into a winning club. The burning question, whose the quarterback?

26) Chicago - Matt Forte is the number one back for the Bears, Kevin Jones will be a nice compliment behind him -- now the question is who will be the one to hand off the ball?

27) Oakland - JaMarcus Russell and Darren McFadden may one day be the most talented offense duo in the game, for now they're young and prone to making mistakes. The Raiders will be better than years past, but only time will tell how much so.

28) Lions - The once pass-happy boys from Motor City are making a transition to a balanced attack, the trouble is leading the ground game is unproven rookie Kevin Smith. Question marks surround the defense.

29) Dolphins -  With front office guru Bill Parcells calling the shots, one can only believe the Dolphins won't finish with the worst overall record in '08.

30) Chiefs - When Jared Allen was traded to Minnesota K.C. forfeited their rights to a winning season in '08, however, a spectacular draft highlighted by pass rushing phenom Glenn Dorsey gives Chiefs fans some hope to cling onto for the future.

31) Falcons - Does he not realize there are 32 teams in the NFL? I do, but something tells me Atlanta will be able to squeak it out and not finish with the worst overall record this season -- if that's any conciliation to Falcon fans.

32) 49ers - There was a time when San Francisco was home to the greatest football team in the world. Those days are past, and now it's up to Mike Martz to utilize Vernon Davis and Frank Gore to the best of their abilities because it doesn't look like quarterback Alex Smith will be much help.

There they are the 2008 pre-season rankings, from top to bottom this list is sure fluctuate like the stock market. For now Patriot fans can feel the championship aroma beginning to once again fill the streets in Foxborough, while the San Fran fans by the bay -- well my condolences.

Around the NFL

NFL training camps are open and ready for business, and that means only one thing for die-hard grid iron fans forty-four more days till the Giants and Redskins season opener on September 4th. 

Actually, with training camps opening around the league it could mean just about anything for your team. When defensive end Phillip Daniels went down it only took Washington nine hours to send two draft picks for six-time Pro-Bowler Jason Taylor.

The New York Giants phoned the Saints on the evening before their training camp to let them know, "Shockey was all yours," reports John Clayton. 

We've been spoild the last two days now that we've seen two mega trades involving top tier players -- it's unlikely we'll see anymore trades of the Taylor and Shockey caliber -- barring unforeseen injury.

However, the list of "B" candidates who could be in new cities before the season starts is just heating up.

Jordan and Spikes to Motor City?

Lamont Jordon seems to be the odd man out of Oakland; whose backfield now features first round pick Darren McFadden, Justin Fargas, and Michael Bush. 

The market has not been too responsive to Jordan who has a hefty contract to take on. Detroit looks like the only suitor reports ESPNs Bill Williamson, it would likely take a sixth or seventh round pick to acquire Jordan.

Two time pro-bowl linebacker Takeo Spikes could also find himself in the Motor City in the next couple days reports the Detroit Free Press. 

At 31, Spikes is at the tail-end of his career, he has battled numerous injuries in 2005 and 2006. After starting 14 games where he recorded one sack, and sixty-four tackles Spikes was released by the Eagles in March.

Chargers Parker seeking trade.

The North County Times is reporting Chargers wide receiver Eric Parker could be traded before the team's first full practice on friday.

Parker missed all of last season with an injured toe and became expandable with the addition of Chris Chambers.

In 2006 the former Tennessee Volunteer caught 48 passes for 659 yards but did not have any touchdowns. The Chargers have given Parker and his agent permission to seek a trade, although it is not known at this time which teams would be interested. 

Former MVP Alexander may retire.

Shaun Alexander who was released by the Seattle Seahwaks may be done according to Pat Kirwan of NFL.com

His 716 yards on 3.5 yards per carry were both career lows since 2001.

Alexander who turns 31 in August has received little interest in the off-season, both the Bengals and Saints interviewed the 2005 MVP, but have since dismissed the notion of signing him.

In other news on the Favre front.

No matter what Ted Thompson and the Green Bay Packers decide to do with Brett Favre there are at least two teams out there who will not be interested in the three time MVP.

The Jets and Panthers have both dismissed the notion of trading what they believe would have to be a 2nd round pick.

Favre who turns 39 on October 10 has two years remaining on his contract which will cost whatever team picks him up $12.5 million per year.  

History on Redskins side

It has been said that history has a funny way of repeating itself -- and if that's the case -- than the Lombardi trophy will be making it's way down I-95 to our nation's capital come mid-February. 

When the Washington Redskins added six time pro-bowl defensive end Jason Taylor to their already dangerous defensive line, many a media outlet across the country proclaimed the 'Skins the new favorite to win the NFC East, and the NFC all together.

The truth is the Redskins should have been Super Bowl favorites before the Taylor trade even happened -- not because of their talent ladened roster -- but because history tells us so.

In 1987, 1991, and 2008 the New York Giants were crowned Super Bowl Champions. Three times the Giants have been on top of the football world, and twice they have been followed up by their division counterpart.

When the Giants defeated the Denver Broncos 39-20 in

 Super Bowl XXI to win the first title in franchise history, it was Doug Williams and the Washington offense who stole New Yorks spotlight as they torched Denver 42-10 the next season.

In 1991 the Giants survived Scott Norwood's 'wide right' last minute field goal attempt to beat the Buffalo Bills 20-19 in Super Bowl XXV. Again the Redskins came back the next year, as they plummeted the Bills 37-24 to win the the third championship in franchise history.

Most recently the Giants defeated the New England Patriots 17-14 in Super Bowl XLII. The game which had more story lines than a 'choose your own ending mystery novel' may have been the most exhilarating game in NFL history -- and quite a high standard for the Redskins to outdo. 

Nonetheless, it's up to Washington to once again follow up the Giants, and pulverize the team New York merely defeated. 

The French politician Guizot once said, "nothing falsifies history more than logic," and while a smarter man then myself may say, the Redskins have as much of a chance as winning the Super Bowl as David Spade has of winning an Oscar, I'll still put my money on the side of history. 

If the past has taught us anything it's this -- next February in Miami the two teams who will take the field to battle it out in Super Bowl XLIII will be the Washington Redskins and New England Patriots -- and Washington will win 58-10. 

Nomo goes out quietly

As the rest of the baseball world gears up for the second half of an already exhilarating season -- Hideo Nomo decided to hang up his cleats and bring a halt to the "Tornado" that tore up the baseball world with "Nomo-Mania," thirteen years ago.

Nomo announced his retirement on Thursday, nearly three months after being cut by the Kansas City Royals. There was no publicized press conference, or media hoard to cover the story -- Nomo went out quietly.

In 1995 Nomo was anything but -- the first Japanese player in nearly 2o years to come over the Pacific to play for an American team.

Along with agent Don Nomura, Nomo was able to exploite a loophole in his contract with the Kintetsu Buffaloes, and headed to California  where he would sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Considered by many a "Japanese Trailblazer," Nomo suffered harsh criticism for his decision to explore the Major League market.

It was in L.A. where Nomo would spend his glory years 1995-1998. His one of a kind 'Tornado' delivery and sharp-dropping forkball that mowed down batters in Japan had the same effect in the states. 

He finished his rookie year with a 13-6 record and led the Majors with 236 strikeouts.

Nomo got the starting nod in the 1995 all-star game where he struck out three of the six batters he faced. To cap off his sensational season,  Nomo squeaked out future MVP and Atlanta Braves third basemen Chipper Jones for N.L. Rookie of the Year.

After his outstanding rookie season Nomo was never able to capture the flare that made him so successful. A dismal 2-7 start in 1998 earned him a trade to the Mets, where he was later cut after he was unable to show improvement.

The last ten years have been categorized by inconsistency and injuries. In thirteen big league seasons Nomo was a member of the Dodgers (twice), Mets, Brewers, Tigers, Red Sox, Devil Rays and Royals.

In his one year stint with Milwaukee, Nomo recorded his 1,000 strikeout -- he was the third fastest major leaguer to ever reach that mark. 

An opening day no hitter against the Baltimore Orioles in 2001 as a member of the Boston Red Sox would be the final highlight of his playing days. It was the second no-hit shutout of his career.

In Kansas City the 'Tornado' would make his final stop. Nom0 was given a non-roster invitation to spring training,  but a groin injury sidelined the once brilliant pitcher, who did not make the Opening Day Roster. Added to the team on April 5th, Nomo pitched in three games but had an ERA of 18.69 in only 4 2/3 innings.

On Aril 17, after giving up a homer to Oakland's Bobby Crosby, Nomo struck out Travis Buck, the final batter he would ever face. He was deisgnated for assignment shortly afterward and retired on Thursday.

Nomo's career was marked by highs and lows -- his highs being a dominating strikeout king -- while his lows were injuries and contractual issues that never allowed him to regain his superstar, lights out status.

Nomo finished his career with a 123-109 record, and a 4.24 era while striking out 1,918 batters. His numbers by many are viewed as disappointing -- considering the hype that once surrounded him -- but it's not the stats that will determine his legacy.

The doors to the Japanese market that brought us Ichiro, Hideki Matsui, Akinori Iwamura, and Daisuke Matsuzaka -- were opened because Nomo followed his dream of playing at the highest level in the United States.

Royals Manager Trey Hillman said, "Nomo had a dream, and he followed his dream and his vision to come over here. And he had the confidence to do what he did. He was a great pitcher."

While Nomo retired from baseball quietly, the legacy he left will rage on like and F-5, re-shaping and making baseball better than it was before he came.

Bonds to the Bombers?

Imagine the media circus that would come to town if Barry Bonds found himself suiting up in pinstripes sometime in the next few weeks? The possibility of the all-time home run king returning to play this year is miniscule; but, not obsolete.

New York's lackluster offense which is currently ranked 18th in the league doesn't have a player in the top 10 for home runs, batting average, hits, or on base percentage. Categories Bonds could immediately improve on if he was given a chance to play again

The Yanks surpass all other clubs with a payroll of $200 plus million -- but will have trouble making their fourteenth consecutive post-season appearance if they don't find a left handed power hitter -- and soon.

Johnny Damon is expected to return to play a week from today, although he is eligible to come off the DL on Sunday after spending the last two weeks recovering from a sore left shoulder. 

Hideki Matsui who missed most of the 2006 with a broken wrist now finds himself on the verge of season ending surgery to repair his injured left knee. Matsui who experienced inflammation in his left knee on tuesday has been at the teams minor league complex in Tampa rehabilitating since going on the DL June 22.

When Matsui went down the Yankees lost one of their most productive batters; "Godzilla" was hitting .323 with seven home runs and 34 RBis. General Manger Brian Cashman said If Matsui is out for the season that does not place the Yankees in the immediate market for a designated hitter...yeah right!

Get your popcorn out because this is where things may get interesting. With Matsui possibly out for the rest of the season the Yankees have turned to former Seattle Mariner first basemen Richie Sexson as an insurance policy to replace him in the lineup. 

Sexson who was signed by the Yankees today to an undisclosed one year contract is a lifetime .261 hitter (37 points behind Bonds) who has just 11 home runs and 30 RBIs on the season. Great insurance policy. 

Bonds who is a lifetime .298 hitter had an outrageous on base percentage of .480 in 2007, nearly 80 points higher than any current player on the Yankees roster. Matsui led the Yanks with an OBP% of .404 before going down. Doesn't it seem logical here that Bonds would fill a much needed void here?

When the numbers are crunched, Bonds leads Sexson in nearly every statistical category except for strikeouts. Sexson who was released by the Mariners last week has struck out 76 times in 74 games (that's one strikeout every 3.3 plate appearances) -- while Bonds only whiffed 54 times in ALL of 2007. 

All it would take is a one year minimum salary contract -- that would put Bonds in and out of a Yankees uniform before he goes to court in April for perjury Charges. 

What are the Yankees really afraid of in this situation? That they would bring media attention to the New York Yankees? Wouldn't media-diva Alex Rodirguez like the spotlights off of him and Madonna's so-called romance for just a little bit while he grabs a kiss? 

The Yankees could even play up the all time home run king and the man who is chasing him on the same team! The possibilities are endless.

The odds in Vegas are 762:1 but Cashman has not thrown the idea of signing Bonds out the door, "I would say any rampant speculation on us involving a player of that magnitude would be extremely premature," Cashman said. "I would caution everybody to not misunderstand that since I'm not saying no to it, that that means, 'oh my gosh, that might be happening down the line."

For now the Yankees primary focus is to see when or if Matsui will return to the field. If not don't be surprised to see Barry Bonds on the on deck circle once again, this time in the house that the man who did it on Beer and Hot Dogs built.