Has Been of the Month: Bruce Pearl

With the snap of a finger, Bruce Pearl goes from coaching college basketball to marketing grocery stores.

Today, ex-Tennessee men’s head basketball coach has decided to take a break from the game and has joined H.T. Hackney (a wholesale grocery company) as their VP of marketing.  It’s a bummer to see Bruce Pearl have to take this route but you can’t blame him.  Bruce was recently smacked with a 3-year penalty by the NCCA for not being truthful regarding a backyard cookout at his house in 2008 which included high school recruits on an unofficial visit.  This penalty by the NCAA kills his chances of landing any kind of job within that 3-year time frame.   It also doesn’t help his chances when regardless of where Pearl coaches, he isn’t allowed any contact with recruits within that 3-year time frame.  Yeah, good luck finding another NCAA job right now.  Although Bruce was offered a head coaching job for the Dallas Mavericks D-League franchise, Texas Legends, he decided to take a different route.

I’ll say, I have always thought highly of coach Pearl.  As a coach, he knows his stuff.  Pearl has been able to turn around every program he has touched.  He won South Indiana the Div. II Championship and took Wisconsin-Milwaukee to the dance for the first time in its school history in 03’ and 05’.  2005 capped the Panthers best season in school history as they reached the Sweet 16 and finished the season ranked 23th.  Since he took over the Volunteers, he has always had them in tournament contention and nationally ranked.   The thing I will remember Pearl for will be his antics on the court in support of Pat Summitt and the Lady Vols.  I remember one time he appeared at one of their games shirtless with orange body paint and led chants for the student body.  Then, Summitt returned the favor for showing up at one of the men’s games in a cheer leading outfit.   How cool is that?  You don’t see that too often.  I thought it was awesome how the men’s and women’s programs supported each other in that sort of fashion.  It’ll be interesting to see if Bruce does decide to come back to coaching in three years and what program will give him a shot.  Till then, continue to rock that orange suit at H.T. Hackney’s.

Advertisements

Has Beens’ ACC Outlook

Maryland looks to improve upon Danny O'Brien's stellar freshman season.

ATLANTIC

6) Wake Forest Demon Deacons

The Demon Deacons’ football program has been on a complete downward spiral ever since their 2006 Orange Bowl appearance.  Their number of wins have slowly decreased as the seasons went by, even stooping all the way down to a measly three last season.  QB Tanner Price and that 11^th ranked conf. offense must show improvement if they want any chance at winning ballgames.  The defense didn’t give them any support either, as they gave up 40 plus points on numerous occasions (…Yikes).  With a tough schedule, questionable aerial attack, and weak defense, Wake will be lucky just to get four w’s this season.

5) Boston College Golden Eagles

Injuries have already plagued the Eagles as they will be without their stud running-back Montel Harris the first 2-3 games of the season.  For those who are unaware of Harris, he’s only about to be the All-Time leading rusher in the ACC.  You can only imagine how valuable he is to BC.  Although Boston College brings along a stout defense which ranked number one against the rush last season, the fact that this team relies solely on its defense entirely hurts their chances.  Offensively, they were awful last season and quarterback Chase Retting will need to show vast improvement.  Harris has been carrying the load for the past couple of season and can’t be expected to carry the team every time.   Unless the offense turns it around, it’s going to be tough for BC to have success like last season with road trips to Clemson, VT, Maryland, Notre Dame and Miami.

4) NC State Wolf Pack

Everything seems to be looking good for the Wolf Pack as they have a cup-cake schedule and eight returning starters defensively, but the entire success of the season will hinge upon new junior quarterback Mike Glennon.  A lot of people are predicting big things for this NC State team, but I think they will disappoint.  Losing quarterback Russell Wilson is HUGE, and if they couldn’t get over the hump with him, I have no way of believing they will with a quarterback with no experience.  I think he will struggle as he gets accustomed to being a full-time starter.  Expect NC State to hit a few roadblocks this season.

3) Maryland Terrapins

This offseason the Terps made a huge (…and questionable) offseason change replacing Ralph Friedgen with Randall Edsall.  With quarterback Danny O’Brien returning, I wouldn’t expect too many setbacks offensively.  Edsall brings a “run-the-ball” philosophy so I would expect Maryland to establish a balanced one-two punch with a ground-attack and O’brien’s arm.  I expect O’brien to make huge strides this season.  He had an impressive first year passing for 22 touchdowns and only 8 picks.  But…the defense will be the key to their success.  They must continue stuffing the rush and forcing turnovers.   Last season, they were 4^th in the NCAA in turnover margin (-15) and that was a huge part of their success.  They open the first two games of the season against the U and West Virginia, which could potentially create a rocky start to the season.  With this being said, I wouldn’t bet on the Terps repeating another a 9-4 season.

2) Clemson Tigers

Head coach Dado Swinney finds himself in the hot seat as the Clemson football program continues to underachieve on a consistent basis.  I think this year will differ.   The hiring of Tulsa’s offensive coordinator Chad Morris will make an immediate impact especially with running back Andre Ellington returning from injury.  Quarterback Tajh Boyd has also been given a lot of praise regarding his ability to run the offense so it will be interesting to see how he performs on Saturdays.  Defensively, it won’t be easy trying to replace Da’Quan Bowers and DeAndre McDaniel, but d-coordinator Kevin Steele always seems to find a way to make it work.   Clemson’s roster is full of talent and if they can FINALLY put it together, they can surprise some teams in the ACC.

1) Florida State Seminoles

The Seminoles made vast strides under head coach Jimbo Fisher and will definitely be competing for the ACC title.  The defense played great (minus the OU and VT games) and should be just as good, if not better with Marks Stoops getting his feet wet.  Offensively they have eight returning starters, but the biggest question will quarterback E.J. Manuel’s transition to being the starter.  If E.J. can be efficient and keep turnovers to a minimum, they can very well win the conference.  The early game against Oklahoma should show a lot and could very well affect the outcome for the rest of the season.

Bryn Renner and the Tar Heels are moving on from their previous infractions.

COSTAL

6) Duke Blue Devils

The Devils have slowly showed improvement but it’s still a long way until they make some noise in the ACC.  The one thing they have going for them is that they can let the ball fly.  Duke was second in the conference in passing last season with quarterback Sean Renfree.  Even though they can throw the ball, the fact that they have no ground attack and a cookie-cutter defense gives them no chance in the conference.

5) Virginia Cavaliers

Who will be the Cavaliers quarterback?  That’s the biggest question heading into the upcoming season, as head coach Mike London still hasn’t announced a starter.  Regardless who it is, both sophomores Ross Metheny and Michael Rocco will endure uphill battles.  The defense isn’t all that great either.  Even though the pass defense ranked 25^th nationally, the run defense was BAD.  Teams were able to average over five yards per carry against this soft defense.  The Cavs ended up ranking 106^th in the nation against the rush, which is why teams didn’t even need to throw the ball.  Defensively, they return stud corner back Chase Minnifield, but one player cannot make miracles.  Unless Virginia can improve defensively and have consistency at the quarterback position, then expect them to miss out on bowl season (….again).

4) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

The Yellow Jackets will have to replace quarterback Josh Nesbitt who excelled in the triple-option offense.  Georgia Tech only led the nation in rushing last season.  It’s going to be tough to replace a playmaker like that.  Not only that, they will have to replace running back Anthony Allen, who was a large contribution to that rushing attack.  Defensively, the Jackets should show some improvement with Al Groh’s 3-4 scheme going in year two but will have to replace the entire secondary.  I don’t think the Yellow Jackets will be as bad as last season, since most of their troubles were caused by their 27 turnovers (20 fumbles).

3) North Carolina Tar Heels

Offseason scandals really hurt Carolina’s chances last season and are looking to put those darks days behind them.  There was a big change this offseason with the sudden firing of head coach Butch Davis which made a path for defensive coordinator Everett Winters to take over.  On the defensive side of the ball, the Tar Heels are full of NFL prospects (….once again).  They are lead by potential All-American defensive end Quinton Coples and Donte-Paige Moss.  Carolina’s d-line has enough talent to be the best d-line in the country.   The key to the Tar Heels’ success will rely on their new backfield.  Carolina must replace former quarterback T.J. Yates and its previous three leading rushers.  Newly appointed starter Bryn Renner will have a dangerous weapon Dwight Jones to throw to, and could possibly emerge into a solid quarterback right away.  If the offense can avoid hiccups, they have a solid chance with their defense behind them.

2) Miami Hurricanes

Pending suspensions from the ongoing scandal, the Canes still have a load of talent on their roster.  They bring back one of the top defenses in the conference from last season, led by linebacker Sean Spence.  The defensive line is one of their strongest suites as it led the nation in tackles of loss and should see similar numbers this season with the players returning.  Offensively, Miami led the conference in yards but turned the ball over WAY too much.  As a team, Miami threw 27 interceptions.  There is no way you are going to survive playing like that.  Senior Jacory Harris will need to regain form if the Canes want success.  There were times when he looked like a top five qb in the nation, and then there were times in which he made typical “high-school” like errors.  With a talented defense, if Miami can protect the ball then they could possibly be in contention.

1) Virginia Tech Hokies

Somehow someway, Frank Beamer always seems in scratch up 10 wins a season and I don’t expect that to change yet.  Even though the Hokies will have to replace their QB Tyrod Taylor and RBs Ryan Williams and Darren Evans, I believe the replacements can get the job done right away and could possibly have better careers.   QB Logan Thomas has plenty of upside (6’6 245) as was recruited as a TE.  This guy is obviously going to be tough to bring down. With all five for their leading receivers coming back, Logan should have plenty of targets to throw to.  He will also benefit from having “soon to be superstar” David Wilson in the back field.  I think Wilson has the abilities to win conference player of the year.  He has the speed to bounce outside and can effectively run in between the tackles.  Even though Wilson was shadowed behind Williams and Evans, he still managed 619 yards, 5.5 yards per carry, and 5 touchdowns.  I have a feeling this guy is going to turn out to be better than Ryan Williams.  Defensively, you can always count on a Frank Beamer coached defense to be stingy and make players.  It helps with shutdown corner Jayron Hosley.  Even though Florida State are the preseason favorites, I still think Virginia Tech comes out winning the ACC.  The Hokes have a cupcake schedule with their hardest road game at Georgia Tech.

ACC Champion: Virginia Tech Hokies

Offensive Player: David Wilson, VT

Defensive Player: Quinton Coples, NC

Newcomer: Tajh Boyd, Clemson

Has Beens’ Big Ten Outlook

Don't sleep on Dan Persa and the Wildcats this season.

LEGENDS

6) Minnesota Golden Gophers 4-8 (1-7)

Outside of wide receiver Da’ Jon McKnight, the Gophers don’t have many playmakers or a proven quarterback to give Da’ Jon the rock.  The defense doesn’t look promising either, as they gave up an average of 33 points a game.   It’s going to take a miracle worker to turn this team around right away.  Good thing for Gopher fans, newly appointed head coach Jerry Kill has been a winner everywhere he has been.  But for now, expect the Gophers to be battling for dead last in the entire conference.

5) Iowa Hawkeyes 7-5 (4-4)

It could potentially be a rebuilding year for the Hawkeyes as they lose a lot of players on both sides of the ball.  Offensively, they lost their main signal caller Ricky Stanzi along with majority of their other skill players.  The Hawkeyes usually pride themselves on defense, but the defense only returns five starters as well.  The fact that Stanzi is gone will hurt them the most, as I always believed he was one of the better quarterbacks in the Big Ten during his tenure.

4) Michigan Wolverines 8-4 (4-4)

I find this Wolverine team very unpredictable.  Michigan returns 10 starters back on offense and 8 back on defense, making them all experienced players.  The downside will be that they are going to be under a new system with Brady Hoke taking over the program.  I am interested to see how the offense will react to this change.  Rich Rodriguez’s spread was more run-oriented as to Hoke’s spread is more pass-first oriented.  All eyes will be on quarterback Denard Robinson who is the only player in NCAA history to pass and rush for over 1,500 yards in a season.  Defensively, the 8 returning stars can be deceiving.  This is a defense that gave up nearly 35 points a game last season.  Ouch.  It’s going to be another few years of being average for the Wolverines.

3) Northwestern Wildcats 9-3 (5-3)

The Wildcats will be my surprise team in the conference this season.  I have always been a fan of their head coach Pat Fitzgerald and he has Northwestern headed in the right direction.  This Wildcat team is led by their stud senior quarterback Dan Persa and they will go as far as he takes them.  If you don’t recall, Northwestern started last season 7-3 until Persa suffered a season-ending Achilles injury.  The offense is in good hands with 9 starters returning, but the defense will need to improve.  Even though they return 7 starters, the defense will be the big question mark of the season.  Then again, avoiding Ohio State and Wisconsin this season definitely helps their chances.

2) Michigan State Spartans 9-3 (5-3)

The Spartans shocked us all last season going 11-1 before losing to the Crimson Tide in the Capital One Bowl.    With quarterback Kirk Cousins and running back Edwin Baker returning, Michigan State is poised for another Big 10 title run.  In order for them to achieve this, the defense must be able to replace the production of LB Greg Jones and improve its d-line.

1) Nebraska Cornhuskers 10-2 (6-2)

First season jitters?  Not today.  Despite it being Nebraska’s first year in the Big 10, I fully expect them to win their division.  Ever since Bo Pelini’s arrival, the Huskers have had a top ranked defense each season and it doesn’t look to change here with potential All-Americans Jared Crick, Alfonzo Dennard, and Lavonte David returning.  The biggest question will be their offense.  Their offense has held this team back from being championship contenders the last couple of seasons and it could be the same story here.  Taylor Martinez showed flashes of brilliance, but still needs to establish himself as an efficient passer.  Until the Huskers can put the ball in the air consistently, they will always fall short.

Adding quarterback Russell Wilson following a Rose Bowl run has the Badgers thinking national championship.

LEADERS

6) Indiana Hoosiers 4-8 (1-7)

Indiana has a football team?  The high point of the season will be the commitment of the number one rated pro-style quarterback in the country via rivals, Gunner Kiel, last month.

5) Purdue Boilermakers 5-7 (2-6)

Injuries decimated the Boiler offense last season, resulting in Purdue having the worst offense in the Big 10.  All eyes will be on Marve, as this former 4-star Miami commit will have to show improvement from last season.  The Boilermakers had 27 giveaways last season, which is atrocious.  They will definitely need to work on that as a unit.  The defense isn’t a whole lot better either.  They will have to find a way to replace Big 10 defensive player of the year Ryan Kerrigan.   Even though Purdue returns its secondary, if the front line doesn’t improve and create a pass rush, it will endure another long season.

4) Illinois Fighting Illini 6-6 (3-5)

Since Ron Zook took the Illini to the Rose Bowl in 2007, it’s been a constant seasons of mediocrity and I don’t expect that to change this season.  Some bright spots will be the return of quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase, as he showed promise last season setting a school-record for single-season rushing yards by a quarterback.  The Illini also bring back a strong O-line which is always a quarterback best friend.  Their biggest loss will be running back Mikel Leshoure, who absolutely torched Baylor in the final game last season.  Offensively, Illinois should be fine, but the biggest question will be their defense.  The defense faltered down the stretch last season, costing the team some games.  Ultimately, this team does have talent across the board, but I don’t think Zook is the guy.

3) Penn State Nittany Lions 7-5 (4-4)

Last season, the Nittany Lions struggled against top 25 teams going winless against all of them.  With quarterback Rob Bolden only entering his sophomore season, I still think the Penn State offense will struggle just a tad.  But on the other side of the ball, the defense returns all of their starting defensive front and secondary.  I expect the defense to be a force to reckon with this season and defense wins game.   You can never count out a team coached by legendary Joe Pa.

2) Ohio State Buckeyes 7-5 (4-4)

If it wasn’t for offseason tattoo parlor scandal I would have the Buckeyes number one, but with the departure of head coach Jim Tressel and quarterback Terrelle Pryor, and with running back Dan Herron, wide receiver DeVier Posey, and tackle Mike Adams suspended the first five games, the Ohio State season begins in chaotic fashion.  The biggest question will be who replaces Pryor at quarterback.  They have senior Joe Bauserman, who back up Pryor the past three seasons, a top of the depth chart for now, but that isn’t saying much.   I fully expect freshman Braxton Miller to take over the quarterback spot sooner than expected, but with big games against Miami, Nebraska, Michigan State, Wisconsin, and Michigan, I have a hard time seeing an inexperienced freshman quarterback lead the Buckeyes to a conference title with that kind of schedule.

1) Wisconsin Badgers 11-1 (7-1)

The biggest weakness for this Badger team was at the quarterback position, but with the transfer of former NC State quarterback Russell Wilson, the Badgers have the most complete team in the Big 10.  Although they lost running back John Clay, they still have James White returning.  Wisconsin usually always carries a good defense with a great running game, and now with a good quarterback, the sky is the limit for the Badgers.  With a favorable schedule, the 2011 Wisconsin Badgers are my dark horse to make a run at a national title.

Big Ten Champions: Wisconsin Badgers

Offensive MVP: Dan Persa, QB, Northwestern

Defensive MVP: Jared Crick, DT, Nebraska

Newcomer: Braxton Miller, QB, Ohio State

Has Beens’ Big 12 Conference Outlook

College Station is thinking Big XII title. Can the Aggies deliver?

10) Kansas Jayhawks 3-9 (1-8)

Expect another long season for Kansas.  Outside of running back James Sims, the Jayhawks don’t really have a whole lot.  Quarterback Jordan Webb didn’t show much promise last season and that could be a huge problem, especially in this conference.  Don’t expect this team to do much.

9) Iowa State Cyclones 4-8 (2-7)

With the Cyclones losing quarterback Austen Arnuad and running back Alexander Robinson to graduation, they instantly lost 80% of their total offense from last season.  It’s going to be tough trying to replace both of those impact players right away.

8) Kansas State Wildcats 4-8 (2-7)

The Brown brothers look to make an immediate impact on both sides of the ball, but the Wildcats are lacking other playmakers to be successful in the Big 12 this season.

7) Baylor Bears 6-6 (3-6)

The offense looks to be electrifying with Robert Griffin at the helm, but the biggest concern with the Bears will be their defense.  Regardless, the Baylor still hasn’t proven that they are ready to take a big step forward.

6) Texas Longhorns 7-5 (4-5)

There are a lot of question marks in Austin, especially with the offense.  Garrett Gilbert still hasn’t shown why he was the Gatorade player of the year in high school.  Also with a new offense and defensive coordinator, look for the growing pains to continue.

5) Texas Tech Red Raiders 8-4 (5-4)

Even though the Red Raiders lost key pieces of their offense, expect the Air Raid to start right where it left off.  New signal caller Seth Doege is expecting big things during his tenure in Lubbock and I believe him.  The defense will be the biggest issue for Tech since they are still very young and are learning a new scheme under first year defensive coordinator Chad Glasgow.

4) Oklahoma State Cowboys 9-3 (6-3)

Brandon Weeden and Justin Blackmon both exploded onto the scene last season and are both returning for an encore.  The only thing holding back the Cowboys are their defense.  Their defense wasn’t too good last season, and is only returning 5 starters back defensively.  With trips to Texas A&M, Texas, Tech, and Mizzou, it is going to be awfully tough to repeat that season from a year ago.

3) Missouri Tigers 9-3 (6-3)

Even with the departure of Aldon Smith, the Tigers bring back one of the better group of pass rushers in the conference.  Mizzou led the Big 12 in sacks and scoring defense last season, and are looking to continue on that path.  The question mark will be James Franklin replacing Blaine Gabberts’ shoes.  With the Tigers bringing back all three running backs and leading receivers, Franklin should be in good hands.

2) Texas A&M Aggies 9-3 (7-2)

The Aggies return a high-powered offense behind Ryan Tannehill, Jeff Fuller, and Cyrus Gray, but they are going to have to improve vastly on the defensive side of the ball.  First year defensive coordinator Tim Dereyter made some huge strides last season but will have to replace the production of Von Miller.  The fact that the Aggies have a respectable defense and not a great one, makes it hard for me to see them running away with the conference title.

1) Oklahoma Sooners 12-0 (9-0)

A no brainer here.  The Sooners return a bunch of players including Heisman hopeful Landry Jones, who quietly had a great season last year, and the explosive wideout Ryan Broyles. Oklahoma is the best team from top to bottom within the conference and should be able to turn the tables with their favorable schedule

Big 12 Superlatives:

Offensive MVP: Robert Griffin, QB, Baylor

Defensive MVP: Brad Madison, DE, Mizzou

Special Teams MVP: Eric Stephens, RB, Texas Tech

Newcomer of the season: Malcolm Brown, Texas

UFC Live 5 Predictions

DAN HARDY VS CHRIS LYTLE

PREDICTION: Hardy (TKO, round 3)

BEN HENDERSON VS JIM MILLER

PREDICTION: Miller (unanimous decision)

CHARLES OLIVEIRA VS DONALD CERRONE

PREDICTION: Cerrone (rear naked choke, round 2)

AMIR SADOLLAH VS DUANE LUDWIG

PREDICTION: Sadollah(unanimous decision)

For a free UFC event, this fight card has some exciting fights. The headliner is Dan Hardy against Chris Lytle. I’ve never been a huge fan of Dan Hardy, but I think he’s hungry for a win (as he better be). Lytle on the other hand is planning on retiring after this fight. Not the best way to go out, but there can only be 1 winner. Henderson and Miller is probably the fight I’m most looking forward to. Miller is on a 7 fight win streak and pushing for a title shot. Henderson was the WEC Lightweight Champion and has a lot of quality experience. However, Miller is a superior fighter in my opinion. Next is Charles Oliveira against the Cowboy, Donald Cerrone. Oliveira is a dangerous fighter who has never allowed a fight to go to a decision, but Cerrone is stronger and should be able to control him. Last up is Sadollah against Ludwig and this should be an easy win for Sadollah. Every time I see him fight he gets even better, and he’s already lightening quick and extremely technical.

Fantasy Rankings: Top 25 TEs

Expect to see much more of this from Finley.

1. Jermichael Finley
2. Antonio Gates
3. Dallas Clark
4. Owen Daniels
5. Vernon Davis
6. Jason Witten
7. Kellen Winslow
8. Marcedes Lewis
9. Jimmy Graham
10. Tony Gonzalez
11. Rob Gronkowski
12. Zach Miller
13. Brandon Pettigrew
14. Jared Cook
15. Brent Celek
16. Aaron Hernandez
17. Dustin Keller
18. Ben Watson
19. Todd Heap
20. Chris Cooley
21. Tony Moeaki
22. Heath Miller
23. Jermane Gresham
24. Travis Beckum
25. Greg Olsen

– You may think I’m crazy having Finley at #1 but in 4 games last year he put up 301 yards receiving. Green Bay has one of the most dangerous passing attacks and word is he had a great offseason. If he can stay healthy, he’ll be all-pro.

– Heed my advice: Owen Daniels will have a monster year. He’s 2 years removed from his ACL tear which prevented him last year from having a good season. in the final 4 games he returned to form with 271 yards and 2 TDs. He will go later than expected and will be a steal.

– Jared Cook and Travis Beckum are due for breakout years. Cook will start in Tennessee and has the ability to split out wide. Beckum is in the same mold and will take over as the starter in New York.

– Outside of the 8, it could shake up a number of different ways. My advice would be to wait until the mid rounds if you don’t land a top tight end because there might not be much of a statistical difference between a guy like Zach Miller and Todd Heap.

Fantasy Rankings: Top 50 WRs

Try and stop him

1. Andre Johnson
2. Larry Fitzgerald
3. Roddy White
4. Greg Jennings
5. Calvin Johnson
6. Reggie Wayne
7. Mike Wallace
8. DeSean Jackson
9.  Miles Austin
10. Chad Ocho Cinco
11. Hakeem Nicks
12. Mike Williams (TB)
13. Brandon Marshall
14. Dwayne Bowe
15. Brandon Lloyd
16. Wes Welker
17. Anquan Boldin
18. Marques Colston
19. Steve Johnson
20. Mario Manningham
21. Percy Harvin
22. Santonio Holmes
23. Santana Moss
24. Vincent Jackson
25. Dez Bryant
26. Jeremy Maclin
27. Mike Thomas
28. Steve Smith (CAR)
29. Sidney Rice
30. Roy Williams
31. Austin Collie
32. Pierre Garcon
33. AJ Green
34. Lance Moore
35. Malcolm Floyd
36. Julio Jones
37. Braylon Edwards
38. Hines Ward
39. Davone Bess
40. Torrey Smith
41. Mike Williams (SEA)
42. Mike Sims-Walker
43. Jerome Simpson
44. Johnny Knox
45. Danario Alexander
46. Danny Amendola
47. Kenny Britt
48. Steve Breaston
49. James Jones
50. Greg Little

– the one lesson I’ve seen over the years when it comes to fantasy receivers: they are only as good as the QB throwing them the ball! It’s why I have Fitzgerald up at #2 despite a down 2010 and Santana Moss is at #23 after an awesome season. If you have a choice between #2 or #3 WRs with great QBs like Kevin Walter or Jordy Nelson and some #1’s with terrible QBs, I’d go with the solid QB play.

– Andre Johsnon is the clear cut #1 out there. He was injured a majority of the season and still found a way to put up great numbers. Houston’s high-powered offense is still fully in tact and him healthy is dangerous!

– Ocho Cinco in the top 10? I’m absolutely buying the hype with Tom Brady throwing him the ball. We all saw what happened when Randy Moss landed with New England.

– Beware of Jeremy Maclin. He’s has been out with a “flu” and there haven’t been any real details on it. Until we know when he’s going to actually practice or play, I’d be concerned. On the flip side, Jason Avant might be worth a waiver flier.

– Dez Bryant is getting hype for a breakout year, but I don’t think he has the focus to make it happen yet. He’s too inconsistent and unreliable. If anything, I think Miles Austin returns to form with Romo back at QB.

– Last thing to note would be some sleepers at WR. If Jerricho Cotchery does not sign in Baltimore, Torrey Smith will put up some numbers as a deep threat. Danario Alexander also will be a steal if he can stay healthy. Last guy to mention is Jerome Simpson for Cincinnati. He put up big numbers when he was in the starting lineup, but I question how good Andy Dalton will be.