Smith-To-Jax Chatter Gets Louder
December 31st, 2016
Credible rumors build
Joe has typed for many months to watch out when the Jacksonville Jaguars run off (all together now) good guy Gus Bradley.
(Yeah, yeah, yeah. He’s a nice guy… and the worst NFL coach since Pearl Harbor!)
Joe was, and is, convinced that Mike Smith, the former Jags defensive coordinator and current Bucs defensive coordinator fits perfectly with Jacksonville. Too perfect for Tampa Bay.
And lo and behold, Bradley was fired and it seems the Jags are on the cusp of interviewing Smith, maybe next week, provided the Bucs are not the beneficiary of an Act of God.
This comes from no less an authority than Chris Mortensen of BSPN, who may be the most plugged-in of any NFL reporter. (Remember, it was Mortensen who first reported Team Glazer damned near fired Lovie Smith after his first Bucs season and only by the grace of Jeff Tedford did Team Glazer retain Lovie for what turned out to be a doomed second season.)
In writing about how Jags general manager Dave Caldwell is not involved in initial interviews by the Khan family (owners of the Jags) of head coach candidates, Mortensen writes that having a sitdown with Smith appears to be on Shad Khan’s to-do list.
The next coach of the Jaguars is expected to have prior head coaching experience, unlike Bradley, per league sources. Coughlin and Marrone both meet the preferred qualifications in that respect. That’s also why Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive coordinator Mike Smith is a strong candidate based on his success as the Atlanta Falcons head coach during a six-year run.
Mortensen also noted that, per “league sources” (read: someone employed with the Jags), there is “heavy interest” in the Jags job likely because the roster is laden with young talent.
Joe thought it was very, very telling two weeks ago when Smith was twice asked in his weekly presser about being a candidate for a head coaching job in 2017. Both times Smith dodged and refused to answer, saying he was focused on game preparation.
Smith had two opportunities to shoot down rumors of him leaving this offseason and to affirm a return as defensive coordinator in 2017. Both times he pirouetted.
December 31st, 2016 at 11:32 am
I wish him well. Jay Hayes is ready…
December 31st, 2016 at 11:39 am
Time to promote Smith before any interview takes place in the near future. The Glazers will make Bucs ans very happy.
Make him assistance head coach with a hefty pay race.
Go Bucs!!!
December 31st, 2016 at 11:41 am
Let him go. If you take away the 5 game win streak, and Quan’s continued growth, this defense was average to below average more often than it was stellar.
December 31st, 2016 at 11:44 am
Won’t happen.
Remember: Dirk Koetter and Mike Smith are close friends. Smith is a huge reason why Koetter became an NFL coach. Koetter will never stand in his way of his good friend reaching an objective he desires.
Joe’s willing to bet Smith would not have come here if he was only locked in to an ironclad contract whereby he couldn’t leave for a head coaching gig.
Only way Smith stays is if he is not offered a head coaching gig to his liking. For example, may get offered a job he wants no part of or comes with strings attached he is uncomfortable with.
December 31st, 2016 at 11:51 am
Later Flamer!!!!
So how about we discuss this Act of God possiblity???
9-7=2001
No not pulling a Madon…. Joe Madon (007!?!)
http://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/tam/playoffs.htm
And this is why I support Mike Smith to Jax… And if anyone wants to bet it here they could get rich…
Later Flamer to Jax=2002 (2.0 story line)
Except of course the Bucs would win big over Jax unlike Oakland
Party is on… Bucs make the playoffs tomorrow and I will go with the Joes calling it first… Although Act of God is a bit cliché for the Joes
December 31st, 2016 at 11:52 am
A major reason for that is Mike Smith.
December 31st, 2016 at 11:52 am
I would not worry about Kwon he will be fine unlike the mentally weak 93 & 54 Kwon will adjust quickly.
December 31st, 2016 at 11:53 am
Not so sure about this one. The more I think about this, the fit isn’t as good. The Jags need a young offensive coach to see if anything can be gotten from Bortles, otherwise, they need a coach to develop the next qb that comes in. I see Smith going somewhere that already has a good qb in place. San Diego seems a better fit. So many pieces already in place on both sides of football plus with Rivers’ career clock ticking, its win now or never for them.
December 31st, 2016 at 11:56 am
And the Flamer is directed at his coaching career… It Flames out… Leaving here would be another example of his fire flaming out… All i meant…. Wish i didnt feel a need to clarify but I do..
December 31st, 2016 at 11:57 am
Gus Bradley as defensive coordinator
December 31st, 2016 at 11:59 am
The Jags problem was offense not defense. Do you hire another defensive coach? I guess it all depends on the OC choice.
December 31st, 2016 at 12:00 pm
I’ll bet the farm Jags do NOT hire MS.
December 31st, 2016 at 12:00 pm
Isn’t this the reason Jay Hayes left Cincinnati for the same job here? He was probably told in advance he’d be the DC here next year.
December 31st, 2016 at 12:01 pm
Someone told me the other day that Tom Coughlin was named head coach of the Jaguars. I breathed a sigh of relief thinking Smith would not go that route and remain with the Bucs. I can see him leaving but I would like him to stay put here. More money wins every time. Beat the stinking panthers!
December 31st, 2016 at 12:02 pm
I’d say yes, Mike smith was a major factor in Kwons growth (don’t know why i brain farted and wrote Quan lol)– But you have to give credit Mark Duffner his position coach, Darryl Smith who Kwon himself referenced as a significant influence. And Lastly you have to factor in Kwons dedication and desire to learn the defense in its entirety, and his flat out want to. He wants to be the best, he wants to be the leader, for those reasons I get the sense that Kwon is so driven that he would be able to adjust to another defense in the same way.
December 31st, 2016 at 12:06 pm
My guess is Duffner takes DC position not hayes.
Joe
Would it be wrong to assume that a gentlemans agreement was in place pertaining to defensive assistants that Smith would not raid entire staff after he was hired as head coach
December 31st, 2016 at 12:08 pm
Thought that too, but then again, say, if Smith said he would bring Todd Monken with him (who has developed offenses wherever he has been) and both Smith and Monken have the right/proven quarterback coach to develop Bortles, that’s a compelling case to hire Smith in Jax.
December 31st, 2016 at 12:12 pm
Anger just signed a 5 year extension
December 31st, 2016 at 12:13 pm
Mike Smith staying people no worries. A yo Blake see I’m watching the game now I had to record it. See the major difference in my boy and your boy. Its in the passing game bro. You don’t think Koetter wouldn’t put Cook at the end of the line of scrimmage like Jimbo did for that 40+ yard pass. You can’t do that 29th your boy bro.
December 31st, 2016 at 12:14 pm
Perhaps.
Smith and Koetter certainly had a handshake agreement prior to this year. Can’t find the website but most of Koetter’s coaching staff (including Koetter, Smith, Duffner and Jay Hayes and perhaps Monken, too) have the same agent.
December 31st, 2016 at 12:15 pm
Thanks for that update GOAT. He kicks the air out of a ball.
December 31st, 2016 at 12:26 pm
One day we gonna have jalen Ramsey on our team
December 31st, 2016 at 12:32 pm
@Blake
It’s KWON not Quan…
December 31st, 2016 at 12:35 pm
@Nole Lol dude how many times do I have to tell you that Leonard Fournette has great hands too?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5xHbPNThP78
December 31st, 2016 at 12:36 pm
@ LifeOfABucFan yeah dude i know i brain farted for some reason, already pointed it out in a later comment.
December 31st, 2016 at 12:49 pm
Blake “I get the sense that Kwon is so driven that he would be able to adjust to another defense in the same ”
I do not want this to happen to Mr. Kwon, or any player in our Defense. We have been changing HC every 2 years, HC’s bring in new Offenses and new Defenses every shift change. If we want a Dominant defensive team we need our good young players to grow into/with a defense not change and relearn another Defense every other season, same with the Offense. Hard enough to play consistent football in the NFL play after play season after season. But by changing Coaches philosophies every other season consistency is consistently down.
Yes I know the NFL is a business, tough choices have to be made. My hope is that Coach Smith does what is best for him. Hopefully team specifically this team is what is best for him. I would like to see him sign aboard for our HC’s entire contract tenure. Build a sound defensive game here. Win games, a lot of games even. Just maybe a few NFC South champion banners for the stadium.
Then let him move up to HC again. Is Mr. Hayes or Mr. Duffner qualified to be our Defensive coordinator? Yes! They are. And if they are the top guy they will make changes.
Go Bucs! Sweeep the panthers! Get angry together one more time this season, Hit somebody!
December 31st, 2016 at 12:54 pm
@RustyRhinos
There’s a simple remedy to that, Promote from with. Jay Hayes is a long time defensive line coach who has a years experience within the scheme, I’ve also heard the Joes lobby for Mark Duffner the Linerbackers coach, who was also with Koetter & Smith in Jacksonville.
December 31st, 2016 at 1:00 pm
A practice drill Blake. C’mon bro you better than that.
December 31st, 2016 at 1:03 pm
Ive always thought that Mike was one of the best coaches.
Jax ought to hire him.
But he’s not exactly a snazzy put fans in the seat hire. Depends if football folks are making decision.
December 31st, 2016 at 1:18 pm
I hope that this “nice guy” will not become the Bucs new defensive coordinator, following the tradition of recycling coaches from Jacksonville and Atlanta. Bradley might go to Atlanta instead.
December 31st, 2016 at 1:24 pm
@Nole serious question bro, Have you watched Leonard Fournette’s career highlights video that I’ve posted twice now? I doubt that you have because there are atleast 7 or 8 Plays showcasing his ability to catch, out of the backfield on screens and flat routes, and down the field on wheel routes, go routes, in routes and seems. He is a do it all WEAPON. With a superior Build and Frame to Cook. That is why I prefer him. He can do everything that Cook can do in addition to being Larger and Stronger. Simple as that.
December 31st, 2016 at 1:33 pm
We will miss Mike Smith and his Top-Rank defense as much as the Falcons missed him. The last time I checked ( 20 seconds ago) we were ranked 26th in Total Defense. Good Riddance.
December 31st, 2016 at 1:33 pm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MKKnCz8OSc
Here you go Nole check it out if you want to actually see the truth.
December 31st, 2016 at 1:48 pm
Blake bro I know he can catch a football, I’m saying Dalvin is superior to him that dept. You can’t 31 receptions for ober 500 yards this season bro. Fourntte more physical at the point attack. Its like who do you take Peterson or Faulk??? My question then would be “what type offense are we running”??? I stated earlier Koetter not handing any RB the ball 20+ times a game thusly Fournette in my opinion would not be the ideal back for our offense.
December 31st, 2016 at 2:00 pm
Blake no one said hes not going to be a great player but he’s simply not Dalvin Cook! Enjoy
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=C_1js8OJsEE
December 31st, 2016 at 2:01 pm
Here’s the thing Koetter says this is a run first playaction offense. That’s the case why are we screaming for another big time WR??? I tell you why because that’s game,Koetter idealy wants to pitch that ball down field.
December 31st, 2016 at 2:26 pm
My Prediction: The Carolina Panthers will tank the game against the Bucs tomorrow. They will get a Top-10 draft pick, and they will draft Dalvin Cook. They have their mind set on Cook, the same as the Bucs when they were set on Winston.
December 31st, 2016 at 2:32 pm
You betting anything Lakeland??? And for the life all things gravy,have you folks not heard of moving up to take a player. Ion care where we land 12,18 don’t matter. Licht going to get his RB. Similar to how atlanta move up 11 spots to get Julio. And ndog ion know about him but I enjoyed it.
December 31st, 2016 at 2:41 pm
Joe correct me if im wrong but i dont believe Smith can take Monken without the Bucs releasing him from his contract. I thought a team can block any coach from leaving unless its for a head coachimg gig.
December 31st, 2016 at 2:59 pm
If I were Mike Smith I’d stay. The D he’s building is on the verge of championship level special. The QB we have can take us to the mountain top. He can win multiple championships here if things continue to fall into place. Not sure taking a crapshoot on another bad team and starting from scratch is where he wants to be. His decision ultimately
December 31st, 2016 at 3:00 pm
Koetter Runs the ball on first down probably 90 percent of the time dude. Look back at when our offense has been the most successful under koetter. Last year we had the 5th best offense in total yards because Doug Martin had 1500 yards, and Charles Sims (Another good receiving back) had 1000 yards from scrimmage, And I’ve said it time and time again, Jameis Does best with a Strong, reliable, Smash Mouth Running game, in large part because He is an excellent Play Action and Rollout Qb.
December 31st, 2016 at 3:24 pm
Why in the world would Jax hire mike smith when tom Coughlin is available? Lol, smh.
Mike Smith def still garbage.
December 31st, 2016 at 3:56 pm
Smith might get interest and go for the interviews. But it’s no sure thing he gets offered a job. With names like Coughlin and marrone out there, there are some good fully qualified Hc candidates also looking for work. Smith should be a name floated around. I think he is a good coach. Any responsible interviewer would do their due diligence and at least talk to mike Smith. but like i said, it doesnt mean he gets the job.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:02 pm
Thanks for helping my point dude. That’s 90% has been part of the problem. WE ARE TO PREDICTABLE ON FIRST DOWNS. You become a little less PREDICTABLE when you have a dual threat runner(Dalvin Cook) on first down.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:04 pm
So what happen to all that smash mouth this year you so desire??? You lost me when you said “I want a RB that runs people over”. You seem more concern with entertainment than winning football.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:05 pm
Not how I see it. If you get a beast of a running back and improve your first down running as result, your entire team improves. And I say to you again, Leonard Fournette is a Dual threat back. Why must we keep going over this.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:06 pm
Fournette will be physical but if he enters this league head hunting defenders the way he dose in school. He won’t last long bro.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:08 pm
You probably follow LSU football I don’t. But I just haven’t seen him much in the passing over the last few years. He was Big name coming out of high school. I’ve paid attention to him bro.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:11 pm
If Fournette ends up somewhere where their isn’t a quality level of talent on offense. He’ll look the same way Todd Gurly looks. Teams will load the box. And he’ll become a none factor.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:12 pm
Nope, I’m saying that I want a running back who has the physical capability of doing so. If your guy has a reputation of putting Corners and Safeties on their buts, Guys are going to think twice when approaching him with a head of steam.
Power Backs can break down an entire defenses will single handed. People get tired of seeing a guy break through tackles for first downs, or goal line touchdowns. Hell I know I do. Like what Ezekiel Elliot did to us.
Leo Fournette 6’1 230(Basically the same build/frame as Adrian Peterson/David Johnson)
Zek Elliot 6’0 227(Closer In Physical build to Faulk than Cook is…)
Dalvin Cook 6’0 203(Modern Day Warrick Dunn…)
December 31st, 2016 at 4:14 pm
F@#$K Smith if he leaves. No Coordinator that can’t at least stay in place for two years is worth spit.
You realize if he goes, our defense will suck again? Talk about promoting from within all you want…if anyone there could do the job, they would not have needed Smith in the first place.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:15 pm
Blake_bucsfan Says
“Koetter Runs the ball on first down probably 90 percent of the time dude.”
That was only because of Jameis Winston and turning the ball over. The plan has always been to become a pass heavy offense eventually.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:16 pm
How big was the NFL all time leading rusher???
December 31st, 2016 at 4:16 pm
@Nole we have more Weapons than the rams. We already have Mike Evans who is better than anything the rams have. Cam Brate and Adam Humphries will most likely continue there trend of gettting better and better. I have all the faith in the World that Jameis will come back better than ever for next season. Who knows maybe go out and sign Alshon Jeffery And Tyrell Pryor, and Draft Fournette in the first round. That would be a hard unit to stop.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:17 pm
Ima think bout that for a minute. Us having more weapons than rams.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:19 pm
@ Nole Emmitt Smith was 5’10 216 so still way stockier than Cook, and in addition to that fact he ran behind the single greatest Offensive line ever constructed. Also it was a different Era, across the board Nfl athletes have gotten bigger, stronger, and faster. And I know for a fact that in the current Nfl that teams with power backs win the day. Mostly due to the fact that all the tinier running backs are constantly injured.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:22 pm
Who is the Rams leading receiver? Tavon Austin? Todd Gurley has shown himself to be the bust I thought him to be when they drafted him, Our Qb is VASTLY Superior to theirs. Mike Evans is a top 5 Receiver, Cam Brate Leads the Nfl In Td Receptions for Tight ends. Yes With out a shred of doubt in my mind we have better weapons than the Rams all day long and twice on Sundays.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:25 pm
The rams would actually need to have A weapon for them to have more than us LOL!
December 31st, 2016 at 4:34 pm
Okay although as it stands we feel we desperately need more weaponry. But I can agree we currently have more than them. How big was Barry Sanders???
December 31st, 2016 at 4:36 pm
How many playoff games did sanders win? yards arent everything you know.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:38 pm
I get it, you want Cook because he is what you know. I don’t want Cook because in mind, Small running backs get injured. Simple as that.
December 31st, 2016 at 4:53 pm
Kyle Shanahan is the best fit for the Jacksonville Jaguars. They need an experience play caller to put Blake Bortles in position to succeed. Mike Smith is another Gus Bradley ( don’t know nothing about offense). The Jaguars are loaded on offense, they just need a play caller. They should hire Kyle Shanahan and let him pick his DC and coaching staff.And give him full control of the draft, Shanahan know what to do with a Top-4 pick.
December 31st, 2016 at 5:37 pm
Anybody can injured Bo Jackson,Priest Holmes. They part of the game. But the all time leading NFL rusher is around the size of Dalvin Cook. Who didn’t suffer from nagging injuries while at school. And don’t give me a rolled ankle and a few sore hammy’s because you run so fast.
December 31st, 2016 at 5:39 pm
How many games had Darrin Sproles missed due to injury??? What LaDanian Tomlison??? Or how about Marcus Allen slim self. Done recall injuries affecting they’re careers. I have a few more I could mention.
December 31st, 2016 at 5:45 pm
You say”how many playoff games did Barry Sanders play in” I could respond wit how many sec championship did fournette play inn. But that’s a moot point.
December 31st, 2016 at 5:55 pm
Marcus allen was 6’2 210 dude sorry. And Ladanian Tomlinson was injured in nearly every post season he got to dude.
December 31st, 2016 at 5:58 pm
And ankle injuries are hard to shake if you don’t want to miss games with your team, Don’t you remember the ankle sprain that Jameis Had to deal with in his second year after that Oklahoma St. Touchdown run? And how he was perfectly fine and healthy the year after? I have watched extensive film on Dalvin Cook, and many Fsu games dude, He’s not Marshall Faulk, He’s not Barry sanders, He’s Not Emmitt Smith or Marcus Allen, He’s freakin Warrick Dunn dude.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:01 pm
Go back and Watch Warrick Dunn’s college film, they even look the same man.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:02 pm
I’ll pass on a Warrick Dunn Clone with a history of Fumbling the rock in big games.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:04 pm
Blake your talking about injuries but who missed more games in college injuried Fouenette or Cook?
December 31st, 2016 at 6:06 pm
I like Clemson RB Wayne Gallman, I believe he is the most underrated back in college. We should be able to get him in the 3rd, I wouldn’t trade up for Fournette or Cook.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:07 pm
Blake it really isn’t that close Dalvin is faster, has better vision, better hands, blocks better and can run routes like a wide out. Fournette has more power that’s it AND is less durable. So how is Fournette better again?
December 31st, 2016 at 6:08 pm
This discussion doesn’t matter as we are not getting either one of them anyways.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:13 pm
Oh contrare ndog tune in draft night. ndog don’t discourage him tho. I like these debates. And how exactly can you prove fouentte is the next Adrian Peterson. He being of the I ain’t playing in the bowl game so is not to hurt my draft stock ilk. Blake.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:13 pm
Dalvin Cook played against the cream Puff Acc. And Cook is not faster. Fournette ran a 4.35 40 in highschool track&field. Plus he has the bigger wider frame. I have researched absolutely nothing to suggest that he is injury prone. He had ONE nagging ankle injury his Junior year. The Injury occured early in the year. His ceiling is flat out higher than Cooks.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:16 pm
He’s not Playing in the bowl game so that he can recover and be 100 percent by the combine, and to be healthy for the team that drafts him. Its the smart move honestly, Christian Mcaffery is making the same decision and isn’t even injured.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:17 pm
I think you got a thing against smaller backs. But did you not appreciate Dunn’s time while in Tampa???
December 31st, 2016 at 6:18 pm
So you saying the sec is loaded with stiff competition right now??? Really???
December 31st, 2016 at 6:23 pm
No, I didn’t Dunn was a mediocre back dude. He average 3.8 ypc and only generated 17 touchdowns in 5 years with the Bucs. Honestly think that Dungy would’ve been smart to Start Alstott over Dunn in those years. And I’ve stated on multiple occasions that I’m sick of the bucs have a small running back that is always Injured. We’ve already got 3 small Backs on the team. I don’t even care whether its Fournette, or Foreman from texas, As long as its not Dalvin Cook.
That being said if Licht drafted him, I would pray for him to prove me wrong. I do not see it though. Honestly just think you guys are seeing him through a Nole colored lens.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:24 pm
So those games Cook destroyed the great SEC defense of Florida three times, Michigan and the 2 time playoff Clemson Tigers don’t count?
December 31st, 2016 at 6:26 pm
We gone soon see what ya boy truly made of next level. sec pie right now bro. Bama got the market cornered off.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:27 pm
The sec Has Alabama, Auburn, Ole Miss, Tennessee, UF, And Texas A+M.
The Acc Has Clemson, FL State, Louisville, and a bunch of Cream Puffs. Wake Forest? Cmon now.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:28 pm
Now that’s funny trust me you wouldn’t have pray bro. You’ll be too busy fist pumping another one of those break away runs.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:29 pm
Here take a scouts view. ” I think Cook has potential to be better than Fournette on third downs and can be more complete in terms of a three-down back. He’s got a lot more shiftiness to him than Fournette. From a creativity standpoint, he can create more for himself than Fournette,” Zierlein said. “It’s a mattter of styles. Fournette would be a great fit in certain offenses. But I think when it comes to being able to create for yourself, Cook is more able because of his flexibility and wiggle. For some teams, that’s very important. Fournette’s a little tighter, a little more of a straight-line back like (Tennessee Titans rookie) Derrick Henry was.”
December 31st, 2016 at 6:31 pm
Blake the sec has one team of significance. All the teams you listed are bums and have been for the last few years. The ACC was 4 and 0 against the sec in bowl games just last season.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:32 pm
Those games count sure, But so do the games against nobodies. So to does the Rosebowl against oregon? Am I wrong or did he and the Noles not get selected for the playoff for the second year that Jameis Winston wasn’t their Qb?
I don’t recall Dalvin Cook carrying any team to a championship. I’ve seen him rack up huge yardage totals against nobodies and in games that don’t count. And I vividly remember him costing his team big time in a game that did matter vs Oregon.
You can’t rag on Fournette for never winning anything and not hold Cook to the same standard, in a worse division at that.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:32 pm
Not to mention 15 carries for 103 (6.9 yards a carry) in semifinals as a freshman vs Oregon.
So lets see:
Can rush vs. SEC defenses? Check.
Can rush vs. one of the top defenses in the nation (Michigan)? Check.
Can rush vs. two different teams that both advanced to the national championship game (Oregon and Clemson)? Check.
Can catch the ball? Check.
Not sure what else you are looking for in a running back?
December 31st, 2016 at 6:33 pm
Thank you ndog I’ve been telling him it depends on what offense we are referencing when it comes to these two talented young men.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:34 pm
Oh no Joe he’ll mention those fumbles..
December 31st, 2016 at 6:37 pm
I digress I’m done wit the debate. Draft night I’m looking for a certain name to be called, you’ll be looking for a certain name to be called. We’ll see what happens at that time.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:39 pm
Neither did Mike Alsott.
Neither did LeGarrette Blount.
Neither did Doug Martin.
Neither did Todd Gurley.
Neither did Le’Veon Bell.
Neither did LeSean McCoy.
Neither did Lamar Miller.
Neither did Melvin Gordon.
You know who did carry their team to a college championship? Trent Richardson.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:40 pm
You guys are really over hyping him, and scouts are wrong all the time. Sammy Watkins was supposedly the best Wide receiver in the 2014 draft, Funny that Mike Evans and OBJ are much better. And that year I correctly identified that Obj and Evans were better than Watkins and wanted nothing to do with him.
Just last year I lobbied for Jameis Winston Because He had a higher ceiling and was less likely to get injured because…. Slim Frame Qb’s that are runners get injured. Just in the same way that Slim Frame Running backs, Those coming off of 2 college seasons worth of extremely high usage at that, are likely to get injured.
I’m giving you the gods honest truth when I say that what i see on film is this, 80 percent of the Big break away runs that Dalvin cook has are either the result of: A. Wide open holes. Or B. Really bad tackling.
When I watch Leonard Fournette I notice him making plays for himself on a regular basis with his Vision, his elusiveness, and his power. Call me crazy, but I trust my eyes, and what I see tells my that Fournette will over shadow Cook in the Nfl.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:40 pm
But lastly Blake I haven’t seen anyone rag on Fournette. You seem to have this idea that Cook won’t be effective in the NFL and some of us just flat out disagree. You talking he’ll be injured and not big enough. Don’t make since considering his resume.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:41 pm
@ blake.
This is just another case of Trent Richardson. Because HE was the best rb prospect since AP. I just have a gut feeling that Fornette don’t LOVE football. U want to compare SEC to ACC? I got a few names for ya. Trent Richardson, Eddy Lacy, Zac stacy, tre mason, Darren mcfadden, Steven Ridely? Idk but nothing about these SEC (NFL light) Rbs get me excited.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:42 pm
And yeah Joe 100 yards and 6.9 per carry don’t mean a thing when you fumble the ball away twice in the second half dude.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:42 pm
So its his fault the hole opens an he hits it??? I’m sorry.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:44 pm
And Lol at the Trent Richardson talk, Please. That dude couldn’t see a hole in front of his face if he were a gynecologist.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:44 pm
Leonard Fournette is a friggin’ monster. Thing that scares Joe about him is he is always hurt. If he’s getting hurt against children, how is his body going to hold up against grown arse men?
Yeah, Adrian Peterson was the same way in college. You going to bank that Fournette is a once-in-two-decades kind of running back? That’s a helluva gamble with your job on the line.
Fournette scares Joe that he will be the next Rashard Mendenhall. Talented as hell but can’t stay on the field.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:45 pm
OOOOOOHHHHHHH!!!!!!! 🙂
December 31st, 2016 at 6:49 pm
Yeah, he had a nagging High Ankle sprain this year, that doesn’t concern me.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:53 pm
@ blake
Want some ACC rbs? Frank Gore, Gio bernard, shady Mccoy, Lamar miller, devonte freeman, cj spiller? $hit most of the top 15 nfl rbs of all time didn’t come out of the “ALMIGHTY SEC”. The GREAT HOFer LaDainian Tomlinson was only 5-10 215lbs. Get off Ur SEC hype train and just admit that Cook is a top 10 rb in the NFL
December 31st, 2016 at 6:53 pm
Glad you liked that zinger Joe XD
And to answer your question, personally yeah, I’d be willing to wager on an athlete of Fournettes caliber. This is a young man that Ran over Tyrann Mathieu as an 8th grader, when Mathieu himself was a Senior in Highschool.
I really do believe when I watch him run, I’m looking at the next AP. Call me crazy, but from what I’ve seen him do, I’m smitten.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:54 pm
The difference in last night’s game was FSU had a special player wolverines didn’t. If dose’nt play we don’t win that game last night PERIOD
December 31st, 2016 at 6:57 pm
@Mike Evans the Goat, you’re late to the party dude, I’ve already set the record straight and reminded the people That Ladanian Tomlinson was Perpetually injured in the playoffs. Which is the honest to god truth.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:57 pm
Grown men in the NFL bro.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:59 pm
Richardson saw all kinds of holes in college. How do u think he got picked #3 overall. And I guarantee u wanted us to draft him.
December 31st, 2016 at 6:59 pm
So you consider LT an ineffective pro RB???
December 31st, 2016 at 7:07 pm
@Mike Evans the Goat, I guarantee you i didn’t. Go back and look at the size of the holes that he ran through were. It would be damn hard to miss holes that size dude. That is something I take into account when watching a running backs tape. How Big are the holes that they have, Can they make penetrating lineman miss? Are they capable of running over smaller defenders? Do they make people miss in the open field? Do they have good balance? Are they decisive? Do they cut back, or bounce to outside if they have the opportunity? I don’t claim to be a talent scout or any of that but I feel like I have a good sense for judging the amount of production a Back is really responsible for creating.
@Nole Of course he was a great player dude, the point I’m making is that his body didn’t Hold up all year long.
December 31st, 2016 at 7:07 pm
Lt is a HOFer
December 31st, 2016 at 7:08 pm
Well Blake how do you feel about Msrshall Faulk??? I’m bout compare he and Dalvin school numbers. Faulk really did his thing over there at San Diego st.
December 31st, 2016 at 7:17 pm
Marshall Faulk 5’10,211lbs total yards in college just over 5,500.
Dalvin Cook 5’11,215lbs total yards in college just over 5,400. So again what is your opinion on Faulk???
December 31st, 2016 at 7:21 pm
Just curious. Dalvin said that’s who he patterned his game after.
December 31st, 2016 at 7:22 pm
Faulk was pretty stocky for his size, And when I think of him, I see a set of Massive thighs and swiveling hips. He looks more laterally quick than Cook, shiftier than Cook, had more moves than Cook(never seen Cook spin like a top around someone). He was also able to put his shoulder down, impose his will, and run someone over, another thing I’ve yet to see Dalvin Cook do. I’ve only ever seen Cook run through arm tackles. Also you wanna talk about vision? Marshall Faulks vision was straight up other-worldly, he would make a dude in front of him miss, and then immediately adjust for a defender in his peripheral vision, and make them miss as well. Probably one of the best open field runners in history. And is clearly better than what Cook is at this point in time.
December 31st, 2016 at 7:30 pm
Nobody is saying cook is as good as Faulk. Just comparing size
December 31st, 2016 at 7:31 pm
@Mike Evans Goat, Thats where you’re wrong. Nole is trying to say that Cook is the Next Faulk. He has said it a few times now.
December 31st, 2016 at 7:38 pm
I don’t think that It really matters @ this point. Cuz I don’t think that he will be there when we draft. I love what cook would bring to this team, and I think with some shuffling this O line could be a NASTY run blocking unit. And that’s all we need, let the Play action pass do the rest. I’m cool with Corey Davis in the 1st and D Onte Forman in the 2nd. And I’ve said it a few times that we should consider trading LVD (no less then a 2nd) and move Kwon to ROLB. Draft a True MLB and that will help ALOT with our run defence.
December 31st, 2016 at 7:41 pm
Or Find A Way To Get Mike Williams and make sure he wears #19.( I still have my jersey) lol
December 31st, 2016 at 7:49 pm
@Mike Evans GOAT I would be more than Pleased with that draft. Because Foreman is a solid Rb, with Great power, Good Size, Good vision, Good Quickness and cutting ability, and decent speed. And Corey Davis looks legit. Great hands, Good speed, good quickness, good route running, And man, can he go up and get that football.
Also stated multiple times that We need receivers opposite Mike Evans to truly open up our Offense. After all, Dirk Koetters Offense is highly Derivative of the 4 verticals offense. Which dates back to the Air Coryell offense and beyond. So the more legitimate weapons you have, the more the defense is stretched, and the more potent Dirks offense becomes.
But when It comes to Cook vs Fournette, It’s so clear to me which one has the higher upside.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:13 pm
Just a name to watch that I want to throw out there is DJ Calhoun lb Arizona state. Hits like Kwon
December 31st, 2016 at 8:17 pm
That’s the second time all you’ve been able to come back with mainly is someone’s more stockier than Dalvin. Said the same bs about Emmitt Smith. C’mon man. Shiftier??? Really and no go thru the archives and find where I said Cook will be the next Faulk. You talking out ya @$$ . I dare you.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:22 pm
Since you clearly hatin on my guy so hard,f@$! fournette pie @$$. Selfish mutha let his team down on some I’m too hurt to play better get ready for draft @$$ mutha. I’m sure Jason Licht is quite impress by that. And at the same time displeased by the performance be witnessed from Cook last night. Again I dare find in the archive where I said “next Marsahll Faulk”.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:26 pm
Nole on Sat.-Bucc on Sun. Says:
December 31st, 2016 at 7:08 pm
Well Blake how do you feel about Msrshall Faulk??? I’m bout compare he and Dalvin school numbers. Faulk really did his thing over there at San Diego st.
Nole on Sat.-Bucc on Sun. Says:
December 31st, 2016 at 7:17 pm
Marshall Faulk 5’10,211lbs total yards in college just over 5,500.
Dalvin Cook 5’11,215lbs total yards in college just over 5,400. So again what is your opinion on Faulk???
December 31st, 2016 at 8:27 pm
Didnt have to go far. And yup, Marshall was stockier and shiftier. Shiftier=More elusive.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:27 pm
You ain’t no tiger, you a low key gaytor fan. Mad he walk the dog to y’all @$$ everytime he faced y’all.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:29 pm
20 carry’s 145 yards 3 catches 62 and a touch. All when the lights came on. Against one of the nations best. Holla back when that other dude show something.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:30 pm
Again show me saying I’m saying he’ll be the next Faulk. Inn waiting.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:32 pm
Freakin lizards yo.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:33 pm
You see that stat line that’s a fact not speculation.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:33 pm
I am neither a tiger or a Gators fan dude. Honestly my favorite colligiate team is Fsu, that being said I’m not a die hard Nole fan either. I watch college ball to try and look for potential Nfl stars.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:37 pm
Ok you never directly said he is the next fault but you have said stuff like this.
Nole on Sat.-Bucc on Sun. Says:
December 27th, 2016 at 3:47 pm
And please stop with where we draft at. Atlanta moved up 11 spots fpr Julio. It was worth it,because Julio once every ten years or so. So is Dalvin.
Nole on Sat.-Bucc on Sun. Says:
December 27th, 2016 at 3:05 pm
Look we live in a age where YouTube makes it easy to check a player. Pull up Dalvin highlights and then direct me to a more explosive player. I’ll be waiting.
Nole on Sat.-Bucc on Sun. Says:
December 27th, 2016 at 3:07 pm
Marshall Faulk didn’t need to look like Christian Okoye to do his thang in the nfl. He was to busy blowing by everyone.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:38 pm
Nole on Sat.-Bucc on Sun. Says:
December 27th, 2016 at 11:04 am
He is second coming Skipper. And fanman go compare Elliot and Cook college numbers nd come back and tell who’s better bro.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:39 pm
Omg wait indirectly you did say it
Here’s that guy skippers comment that you responded too
Skipper Says:
December 27th, 2016 at 11:02 am
Could you imagine Dalvin Cook as a weapon for Winston? Cook looks like the second coming of Marshall Faulk in my opinion. Cook is an immediate home run threat every time he touches the ball. Most likely gone by the time the Bucs pick.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:39 pm
nanny nanny boo boo stick your head in doo doo
December 31st, 2016 at 8:42 pm
Stocky is term synonymous with build of the upper body. Faulk nor Smith ever appeared to big in hitting the weights. Both strength came from the power of they’re base not they’re upper body. You telling me you didn’t notice those gunz on Cook last night. Sure you did cause you tuned inn hoping he wouldn’t look like much. You were wrong.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:43 pm
In still waiting bro. Making a comparisons and saying someone will be the NEXT are two different things.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:46 pm
Continue your searching. Ima get back to this game.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:56 pm
stock·y
ˈstäkē/Submit
adjective
(of a person) broad and sturdily built.
synonyms: thickset, sturdy, heavily built, chunky, burly, strapping, brawny, solid, heavy, heavyset, hefty, beefy, blocky
“he was short but stocky, and his physical strength was amazing”
Actual Dictionary definition of stocky btw. And when I think of someone being stocky I always envision someone with a thick lower body.
December 31st, 2016 at 8:58 pm
and that Guy literally said he is the second coming of marshall faulk, to which you responded, “he is the second coming.” Are you really going to deny that when i posted the proof?
December 31st, 2016 at 9:26 pm
@ blake
His own teammates(Faulks) said that if u saw Marshall on the streets out of pads he looked like a nobody. To me, too small for the nfl is som1 like tavon Austin, or Daren sproles. I don’t see cook as too small, just he and Fornette are 2 different kinds of backs.
December 31st, 2016 at 9:29 pm
idgaf what they said. I’ve seen marshall faulk, and he is thicker and stockier than cook. Cook looks Skinny to me.
December 31st, 2016 at 9:30 pm
You dopes dont even tealize that success in college does not equal success in the NFL. Cook is a great college running back. But he probably wont be as good in the NFL. The NFL is bigger stronger faster. ALL running backs get injured. The bucs had 4 RBs get hurt just this season. Look around the NFL and almost every team has dealt with injured RBs. That is part of the reason RBs dont get drafted high that often. They have a short life span and the injuries always happen.
Besides. Cook won’t be around when the bucs pick. Not sure why this is even a discussion. If he is as good as all the FSU homers say he is, then he should be a top 10 pick while the bucs will be picking somewhere closer to 20th.
December 31st, 2016 at 9:55 pm
Trubuc
If u could read, this conversation isn’t about us drafting him. It was @ first but it has been long established that he won’t be around when we pick. It has turned to a Cook vs Fornette conversation.
U DOPE
December 31st, 2016 at 9:57 pm
And success in college is fairly important to NFL success. If u cant do it against smaller, slower KIDS, then u probably can’t do it in the NFL
December 31st, 2016 at 10:06 pm
@ blake
NFL.com has him compared to Clinton Portis
December 31st, 2016 at 10:13 pm
@Mike, now that is a fair comparison. Solid Nfl back, but nothing out of this world special that Fsu Homers, like Nole, are trying to make him out to be.
December 31st, 2016 at 10:25 pm
I’m thinking a good comp for D Onte Forman is a CLEAN Legarette Blount.
December 31st, 2016 at 10:29 pm
Also I learned an interesting Stat today that Forman has NEVER allowed a sack while in pass protection. Now I bet Jameis could REALLY appreciate that. Lol
December 31st, 2016 at 10:33 pm
I still like Wayne Gallman in the 3rd round.
December 31st, 2016 at 10:35 pm
Lol, Sweeny just said that Watson was the best player in the country. I literally LOLed
December 31st, 2016 at 10:38 pm
Yeah, I’ve heard scouts call him the best at pass protection. And yeah thats funny dude.
December 31st, 2016 at 11:24 pm
Did somebody compare Cook to Barry Sanders and meant it as an insult?
December 31st, 2016 at 11:32 pm
No.
December 31st, 2016 at 11:34 pm
Yo, there is a video out there from the Clemson Ohio state game tonight with a d-lineman from Clemson grabbing curtis Samuels Junk!!!!!!!!. And he did it on purpose. LOL. Don’t draft that guy!!!!
January 1st, 2017 at 6:15 am
So Blake “looks like the second coming” in your mind is the same as “he is the next”??? “Looks” places emphasis on one believing he could become,”is” well that’s like making a guarantee dude. You seem smart of enough to be able to detect the distinguishable difference. Thanks for the dictionary snippet but when I was growing up we never looked at someone’s legs and said stocky. Now who’s word should we take, yours or the words of a former teammate??? Seems like a no brainer if you ask me.
January 1st, 2017 at 6:20 am
And Happy New Year by the way. You he won’t be around when we pick folks gotta have more brains than that. Like where a team sits art the start of the draft really means anything when it comes to wanting a particular player. Like the rams didn’t just move to get Goff last draft. I’ve stated Atlanta and Julio numerous times. And could give many more examples.
January 1st, 2017 at 6:21 am
Lastly f@$! fountte. Bowl game skippin mutha@$!#.
January 1st, 2017 at 6:30 am
Wanna ask a question. Who do you feel was the better RB Emmitt Smith or Walter Payton???
January 1st, 2017 at 6:44 am
I also wanna know since so many feel someone will be gone??? Why exactly did 23 GMs pass on Chris Johnson allowing him just so happen to picked by the titans. That team that just so happen to be located geographically near the school He played his college ball at. I mean he had just set a combine record for the 40. Sorta like Carr from Fresno st. becoming a Raider,Bortles from UCF becoming a Jaguar. I’ll leave out my third QB example. But again Eli Apple wasn’t born Eli Apple people. Get where I’m going with this?
January 1st, 2017 at 1:14 pm
Gee idk what does second coming to you? Are you Joking dude? Get outta here with your Fanboy lookin self. Its so unbelievably clear to me how biased you are man.
January 1st, 2017 at 1:20 pm
And I don’t need to “listen” to Faulks former teammates when I have a set of working eyes. And It’s abundantly obvious to me that Marshall Faulks Legs were WAY bigger, WAY thicker, as some would say, WAY stockier.
And let me think, Walter Peyton is the better historical back, for the main reason that he didnt have the best O-line ever. And Idk why you keep referencing HALL OF FAMERS! That played 20 plus years ago, to try and make a case for someone who has yet to take a Snap in the NFL. Really makes those homer colors you’re wearing shine through.
January 1st, 2017 at 1:28 pm
Also Eli Apple sucks, And so does Blake Bortles. If 23 teams passed on cook they would be correct in doing so. Seeing that he’s the 4th best running back in the draft behing Fournette, Mccafery, and Foreman.
Hey Christian Mccafery just set the record for all pupose yards in a season by a back, That makes him better than Barry Sanders right?
January 1st, 2017 at 1:46 pm
Also dude, you really need to work on your reading comprehension, as well as remembering the things you say.
The skipper guy said “he looks like the second coming of Marshall Faulk.”
You repsonded “he IS the second coming”
Try again fanboy.