State of The NFL

Sometimes people label teams as being in a “transition phase.” Ironically it seems now a league, the NFL in fact, could be in the transition phase itself.

I don’t like labels like transitioning or rebuilding. Teams and coaches have proven that with correct strategy, competitiveness and even success can be achieved in a relatively short period of time.

In the NFL’s case, changing really is happening though. The league’s main icons, like Peyton Manning and Ladainian Tomlinson and Larry Johnson among others are playing sub-par and we are not used to seeing this. Others like Tom Brady lost the “immortal” label and are out for the season.

Thus the NFL is searching for new players and stories to emerge to keep things interesting and fan interest high. Fortunately some teams and players have stepped up to the task.

As a team the Tennessee Titans and Buffalo Bills have emerged as playoff contenders after being relative underdogs. It will be interesting to see if both teams continue on their strong starts to be Super Bowl threats and even more, stay competitive in future years.

Players like the TItans Cortland Finnegan and Buffalo’s Trent Edwards could be the next group of icons the league is looking for.

Overall I believe it might be as fun to watch the new young players develop into stars as it is to watch the already developed icons like Manning do their thing.

Baker Football Extra Points

Baker University quarterback Mack Brown sat down with me recently to discuss anything and everything on the football field and off it.

Taylor Freburg: Two weeks ago you executed a play-action rollout pass against Benedictine where you hid the ball perfectly on the rollout, pump-faked a player and juked between two more guys to score a touchdown. I said to myself while watching, this guy understands the game. Do you feel like at this point you’ve got a complete sense of the playbook and are performing at the highest level?

Mack Brown: I definitely think that not only me but everyone on the offense has a good grip on the playbook.

TF: Who is your favorite receiver to throw to?

MB: It depends on the situation. I think we play 7 or 8. I have confidence in everyone who plays and more.

TF: Is the offensive line the best it has been since you’ve been here?

MB:Oh by far. I think a lot has to do with all of them being a year older and it has a lot to do with coach (Miguel) Regalado and what he has brought to them.

TF: Does Baker have the best offense in the HAAC?

MB: Definitely. I would put our offense up against anybody. I would put our defense up against anybody too, after going against them in practice.

TF:Ok now on to the serious stuff, who is the smelliest guy on the team?

MB: (Robert) Bibb, and the reason I say that is his locker is right next to mine.

TF: Is there a player with a history of being a prankster?

MB:All the receivers have their own personalities to say the least. Guys are being made fun of and jokes are always being told in the huddle. I try to stay out of the huddle for that reason I guess.

TF: Alright, what’s on your iPod right now?

MB: Jack Johnson-Inaudible Melodies

TF:So I know your a Royals fan, yet I see you wearing Yankees stuff on campus, what’s the deal?

MB: I went to Yankees Stadium this summer. That was an awesome experience. None of that has anything to do with supporting the Yankees.

TF:Ok back to football, who is the most talented player on Baker’s roster?

MB: I would have to say (wide receiver) Tyrell Spain. Athleticism-wise, I would have to say (running back)Richie Bryant’s not too far away.  (Kicker) Derek Doerfler would have to be mentioned for what he does.

TF: Last but not least, is this the year BU gets a playoff berth?

MB: For sure, I do think this is the year. Whoever had questions within the team has seen what we can do this year. Seeing is believing.

TF: Thanks for your time.