Saturday, April 25, 2015

NFL Mock Draft 2015: Edition 6 (Final Edition)

Marcus Mariota, to Tennessee
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Jameis Winston, QB
Although Ron Jaworski and ESPN desperately tried to stir up some controversy this past week by saying that Tampa had interest in Marcus Mariota here, this pick is a near lock. Winston has been often criticized but he is at least ready for the rigors of the NFL on the field and seems to be a good fit in Tampa Bay and Lovie Smith's system.
Previous Selection: Jameis Winston, QB
Other Possibility: Marcus Mariota, QB
2. Tennessee Titans Marcus Mariota, QB
Reports are swirling the Titans may try to trade away this pick (San Diego has been in serious talk), but if Tennessee keeps it they should take Mariota. While the organization still somehow has serious allegiance to last year's sixth-rounder Zach Mettenberger, they have to realize prospects like Mariota aren't available very often and they need to strike here when they have the chance.
Previous Selection: Leonard Williams, DL
Other Possibility: Leonard Williams, DL
3. Jacksonville Jaguars Dante Fowler, DE/LB
Suddenly, the Jaguars are put in quite the predicament here. Leonard Williams is possibly the best prospect in the draft but the team has a more pressing need with an edge rusher. While the team will certainly give Williams a long look, they should go Fowler here. The Jags haven't had a franchise pass rusher for a long time, and Fowler has all the physical gifts to turn into a dominant one on the edge.
Previous Selection: Dante Fowler, DE/LB
Other Possibility: Leonard Williams, DL
4. Oakland Raiders Leonard Williams, DL
After completely whiffing on any chance at Ndamukong Suh, the Raiders have another chance to get a dominant defensive linemen, if Williams drops. Williams would give Oakland a versatile, athletic pass rusher who can be a major help in run support for years to come. Combining him and quickly rising Khalil Mack would give the Raiders a front seven others will come to fear.
Previous Selection: Kevin White, WR
Other Possibility: Amari Cooper, WR
5. Washington Redskins Vic Beasley, DE/LB
The Redskins lost Brian Orakpo in free agency, and they needed another pass rusher even before that. While they would love Fowler to drop to them (which is a real possibility if Jacksonville drafts Williams), Beasley is shooting up draft boards at the right time. The former Clemson product is a proven sack machine and would fit in well in Washington.
Previous Selection: Vic Beasley, DE/LB
Other Possibility: Danny Shelton, DT
6. New York Jets Shane Ray, DE/LB
The Jets are also in a weird position here. They would love either Mariota or Winston, but unless they trade up, there is a slim chance they get either. The addition of Brandon Marshall makes a receiver here doubtful, but Fowler and Beasley, the top two pass rushers are off the board. That may force the Jets to reach on Missouri product Shane Ray. Ray was disappointing at his pro day and his slipped out of the Top 10 in many people's eyes but the Jets need a pass rusher and Ray is the best left.
Previous Selection: Marcus Mariota, QB
Other Possibility: Amari Cooper, WR
7. Chicago Bears Amari Cooper, WR
If Jay Cutler is still considered the guy in Chicago, they are going to need to surround him with some more help after dealing away Brandon Marshall. Luckily for the Bears, they have a chance at either Cooper or Kevin White. While White may have the more upside, Cooper is more natural of a No. 1 and is likely more ready to contribute from the beginning.
Previous Selection: Amari Cooper, WR
Other Possibility: Kevin White, WR
8. Atlanta Falcons Bud Dupree, DE
Dupree has shot up and down and all over my mocks (had him at Indianapolis at 29 in my Edition 5), but Atlanta really, really needs a pass rusher and other than maybe reaching on the questionable Randy Gregory, there aren't a lot of better solutions. Don't get me wrong, Dupree is a legit talent; the former Kentucky talent is a very athletic pass rusher with extreme versatility.
Previous Selection: Randy Gregory, DE/LB
Other Possibility: Randy Gregory, DE/LB
9. New York Giants Brandon Scherff, OL
While the Giants may certainly be intrigued by taking Kevin White here, they should stick with the smarter, safer pick and go with Scherff. Whether it is at tackle or most likely guard (at least for the Giants), Scherff is a high motor linemen who will be a solid pro for the future.
Previous Selection: Brandon Scherff, OL
Other Possibility: Kevin White, WR
10. St. Louis Rams Kevin White, WR
They may need extra help on the O-Line, but the Rams also desperately need some more playmakers. Tavon Austin has been decent, but other than him, the offense is seriously lacking in excitement and explosiveness. If White slips, it will be tough for St. Louis to not take a chance on the stud receiver. He will give new Nick Foles a more natural deep threat receiver than Austin or anybody else the Rams have on their roster.
Previous Selection: La'El Collins, OT
Other Possibility: La'El Collins, OT
11. Minnesota Vikings Trae Waynes, CB
Mike Zimmer loves his cornerbacks; he used to stockpile them in Cincinnati when he was their defensive coordinator. But, other than steady Xavier Rhodes, he doesn't really have any other talented option at the position. That should change after Draft Day, as the Vikings must strike on the talented Waynes, a veteran with little weaknesses.
Previous Selection: Trae Waynes, CB
Other Possibility: DeVante Parker, WR
12. Cleveland Browns Danny Shelton, DT
The signings of Dwayne Bowe and Brian Hartline have at least solidified the wide receiver position for the short term (although don't be surprised if the Browns select DeVante Parker), so Cleveland should focus on their clear need on defense, where they cannot stop the run. Shelton is the best true nose tackle in this draft, so this pick isn't very difficult.
Previous Selection: Danny Shelton, DT
Other Possibility: DeVante Parker, WR
13. New Orleans Saints Randy Gregory, DE/LB
A failed drug test and rather pedestrian Pro Day showing have Gregory dropping like a stone in nearly every board, possibly past 20 (consensus Top 5 pick prior). But, the Saints absolutely need another pass rusher, as they did little to address the issue in free agency. With nearly every other edge rusher gone at this point, the Saints may have to take a risk on Gregory.
Previous Selection: Shane Ray, DE/LB
Other Possibility: Arik Armstead, DL
14. Miami Dolphins DeVante Parker, WR
As a whole, Miami has severe holes at a number of key positions offensively and they will look for either a running back or receiver here. The good news is that Parker will be available with White slipping a bit. Although questions have arose about his durability, Parker has all the tools to be a very reliable weapon for Ryan Tannehill.
Previous Selection: DeVante Parker, WR
Other Possibility: Melvin Gordon, RB
15. San Francisco 49ers Arik Armstead, DL
The Niners defense, once dominant in the first few years under Jim Harbaugh, is an absolute mess. The retirements of Patrick Willis and Chris Borland have left a hole at inside 'backer, while the cornerback position also has holes. Though, even more pressing is on the line where Justin Smith's career has come to a close, meaning San Fran will need a long term replacement.
Previous Selection: Dorial Green-Beckham, WR
Other Possibility: Jalen Collins, CB
16. Houston Texans Malcolm Brown, DT
While Texans fans are obviously hoping Jadeveon Clowney will return and be a dominant pass rusher someday, Houston will still look for extra insurance on the defensive line, especially in the middle. Brown is an athletic tackle with a high upside who should stay in the state, after playing collegiate ball at Texas.
Previous Selection: Malcolm Brown, DT
Other Possibility: Breshad Perriman, WR
17. San Diego Chargers Todd Gurley, RB
Even just a few days before the Draft, almost nobody knows where San Diego is going here. There are rumors they are trying to swing Phillip Rivers for the No. 2 pick or multiple combinations. But, whether they do deal away Rivers or not, they need more help at running back where inconsistent Branden Oliver is slated to start the year. Gurley's injury concerns are still present, but the Chargers should be willing to take the chance with his talent.
Previous Selection: Melvin Gordon, RB
Other Possibility: Andrus Peat, OT
18. Kansas City Chiefs Kevin Johnson, CB
While the Chiefs will be intrigued by a number of the playmakers still on the board, they have severe holes defensively, especially at cornerback. While Marcus Peters would be the most talented player left on the board, Johnson seems like he would fit in nicely with Kansas City. The Wake Forest product moves well and is a solid tackler.
Previous Selection: Andrus Peat, OT
Other Possibility: Dorial Green-Beckham, WR
19. Cleveland Browns La'El Collins, OL
Already fixing their needs on the defensive line, the Browns should focus on the other side of the trenches here. If Collins drops to 19, he would be an absolute steal here. The former LSU Tiger could come in right away and contribute at right tackle, either guard spot or be pushed as Joe Thomas replacement in the distant future.
Previous Selection: Arik Armstead, DL
Other Possibility: Eric Kendricks, LB
20. Philadelphia Eagles Jalen Collins, CB
The Eagles are also reportedly in play for Marcus Mariota and possibly trying to move up, but if they stay at 20, they should benefit from a number of options to fix their most pressing need: cornerback. Collins has the pure talent to be an absolute shutdown corner, the only issue for him will be experience and questions about his fit in Philly's defense.
Previous Selection: Jalen Collins, CB
Other Possibility: Jaelen Strong, WR
21. Cincinnati Bengals Andrus Peat, OT
Andy Dalton and the Bengals as an organization need to figure out how to win in the playoffs sometime. Perhaps adding some more weapons and protection would help, and Peat would certainly be ready to fill in and start at either tackle spot right away. A solid, strong prospect, Peat could be an anchor on Cincy's O-Line for a long time.
Previous Selection: T.J. Clemmings, OT
Other Possibility: Jordan Phillips, DT
22. Pittsburgh Steelers Landon Collins, S
Both Troy Polamalu and Ike Taylor have retired, leaving it clear that Pittsburgh needs an infusion of youth in their secondary. That could come in the form of Collins, who certainly has the talent to go way before 22. The Alabama prospect has great size and is a hard-hitter, and with how weak this year's safety class is, Pittsburgh can't wait later in this Draft to strike at this position.
Previous Selection: Landon Collins, S
Other Possibility: Eric Rowe, CB
23. Detroit Lions Melvin Gordon, RB
The Lions released Reggie Bush earlier this month, and while he has been solid over the past two years, Joique Bell is not an every down back. If Gordon does drop here, it is hard to imagine the Lions passing on the talented back. With a healthy Matt Stafford, Gordon and Calvin Johnson, Detroit will have an offense that will be among the NFL's most explosive.
Previous Selection: Eddie Goldman, DT
Other Possibility: Ereck Flowers, OT
24. Arizona Cardinals Eli Harold, DE/LB
If either Gurley or Gordon drops to 24, Arizona would certainly strike on one of them. But, most likely they won't and unless the Cardinals trade up they'll probably have to wait until later to strike for a back. Harold offers a ton of upside and will give Arizona another impact pass rusher off the edge, that will only improve the Cardinals' defense.
Previous Selection: Eric Kendricks, LB
Other Possibility: Eric Kendricks, LB
25. Carolina Panthers D.J. Humphries, OT
The availability of Jaelen Strong and Breshad Perriman could certainly intrigue the Panthers, but they should go with the smarter move and grab a tackle, and Humphries would be a strong pickup. The former Florida Gator has great size, solid athleticism and offers considerable upgrade for late in the first round.
Previous Selection: D.J. Humphries, OT
Other Possibility: Jaelen Strong, WR
26. Baltimore Ravens Breshad Perriman, WR
Perriman has been shooting up boards for a couple weeks now, and Mel Kiper has him as a Top 10 prospect. While I'm not that high on the Central Florida product, I do think the Ravens would love him here at 26. Like I've mentioned, Steve Smith isn't getting any younger and Torrey Smith is now playing in the Bay Area. Baltimore would be silly not to strike on either Perriman or Strong here.
Previous Selection: Jaelen Strong, WR
Other Possibility: Jaelen Strong, WR
27. Dallas Cowboys Marcus Peters, CB
Quite honestly, Peters has the talent to go in the Top 10 and even be the first cornerback taken. But, off-the-field problems and scheme fit could drop him all the way to the Cowboys. If that happens, Jerry Jones can feel confident that he is getting an uber-talented corner that can greatly improve Dallas' porous pass defense.
Previous Selection: Marcus Peters, CB
Other Possibility: Jordan Phillips, DT
28. Denver Broncos Ereck Flowers, OT
Peyton Manning could be in store for his final NFL season, and if the Broncos finally want to capture the Super Bowl that has eluded them under his command, they must give him some more protection. Flowers is still slightly raw but he certainly will add some depth to an aging unit and has the talent to burst into a starting role by the end of the season or by 2016.
Previous Selection: Maxx Williams, TE
Other Possibility: Cam Erving, OL
29. Indianapolis Colts Jordan Phillips, DT
The Colts really didn't have any gaping holes here, but they would do well to upgrade nose tackle, where 2014 incumbent Josh Chapman was average. Phillips is the best defensive tackle on the board here, and his impressive athleticism would give Indy a rotational linemen who could come in on more aggressive defensive packages, at least for the time being.
Previous Selection: Bud Dupree, DE
Other Possibility: Cam Erving, OL
30. Green Bay Packers Eric Kendricks, LB
Gone is longtime staple A.J. Hawk and Green Bay also moved on from their other inside linebacker, Brad Jones, this offseason. That makes things very clear that the Packers are moving on at the position and that they need it in the 2015 Draft. They would be very lucky if Kendricks drops all the way here, he has incredible instincts and is a sure tackler, and could very well go much higher.
Previous Selection: Jordan Phillips, DT
Other Possibility: Eddie Goldman, DT
31. New Orleans Saints Byron Jones, CB
Jones first really became a big name on Draft boards after a huge Combine showing and has only impressed as the Draft process has raged on. But, Jones isn't just a workout freak. Jones played a big time in UConn's defense for years and has great intelligence and a great head for the game. He would give New Orleans a corner to build around who will only grow.
Previous Selection: Ereck Flowers, OT
Other Possibility: Maxx Williams, TE
32. New England Patriots Eddie Goldman, DT
A long time beast in the heart of the Patriots' defense, Vince Wilfork is no longer a New England Patriot. While it is tough to move on, the Pats must, and selecting Goldman, who was solid at Florida State is certainly a strong start. Goldman has all the potential in the world and has great quickness for a player of his size.
Previous Selection: Alex Carter, CB
Other Possibility: Devin Smith, WR

Saturday, April 18, 2015

NBA Draft Scouting 2015: Jahlil Okafor

Jahlil Okafor
Few college basketball freshman in the history of a sport had as dominant of a season as Jahlil Okafor. The nation's No. 1 recruit, hailing from Whitney Young High School in Chicago, Okafor used his huge frame, massive hands and smooth finishing ability to help lead the Duke Blue Devils to a National Title. But, to nobody's surprise, Okafor made a move that many expected. The big man jumped ship to the NBA after one collegiate season and will quickly be hailed by many as the No. 1 prospect in this year's draft class. But, there are still a number of gaping holes in his game that suggest he should not be the first player taken in late June.

Offense: It really is simple: few players in collegiate basketball could guard a 6'10", 270 pounds and super strong. Okafor could easily get away with getting the ball on the block, making a quick drive to the hoop and finishing over defenders. He will not be able to do that in the NBA at all, and it will be interesting to see if he can adapt. Sure, he has other parts to his offensive game, definitely. Okafor has a quick spin to either hand that is very effective and can also make an impact on the offensive glass, as his massive frame easily allows him to get in great position for put back opportunities. His mid range isn't completely nonexistent, but it is a problem. He didn't need to take a 15-foot jumper in college at all; he could simply take it down low against a weaker defender and push them over. Okafor has massive hands and big arms, which makes it easy for him to outstretch for poor passes and become very strong with hook shots. He is not terrible going to his left offensively but it is clearly not a strength. Push him to the left, he'll try to spin right but he won't be strong enough or quick enough to do that at the next level. Free throw shooting is perhaps the biggest weakness in his entire game. It really is a problem; he is going to get fouled a lot underneath and he has to be able to finish when given the opportunities. Nobody wants a guy who can't put anything in at the end of games, and Okafor consistently missed at the line in some major moments all season long. He certainly can get better, but right now his free throw shooting is far below average, even for a big man. While a smooth operator around the rim, Okafor still has some huge weaknesses in his all around offensive game. Duke was able to simply set him up for easy buckets last year, that will not happen in the NBA. While he does have holes, it is also impossible to teach the size he has and the strength he has to finish around the rim, and he will only get bigger.

Defense: Jahlil really is a wacky defensive player. He is 6'10" and a relative okay shot blocker but you really can't label him as a rim protector, but he isn't quick enough to guard anywhere but the paint. That makes him an uncomfortable tweener, and history has shown tweeners just don't traditionally make it in the NBA. Although he isn't a natural rim protector, he is a pretty decent defender on ball in the post. He is clearly very strong and has a large wingspan and his mere presence can effect shots. He actually moves very well on the low block, and can halt a drive right in it's tracks. But, when you attack Okafor with a head of steam, he will too often foul, and if you can get him in foul trouble, you obviously take an important piece to the team out of the game. It might be a little bit of laziness or maybe fatigue considering he runs the floor pretty well but he will too often hack when someone is attacking him on a long drive. Okafor may never be athletic enough to guard a Frank Kaminsky-like big man, and those types of guys are becoming all too popular these days. Most big man are quicker than Okafor on the dribble and even if you can't get past him once, a quick pass and cut could be a quick bucket. While he does have strong arms and still has that size, Okafor's defense is a concern. Can he grow into a more effective rim protector? Certainly, but he just isn't naturally one yet, but then again, not everyone is Anthony Davis. He has to become a little bit more athletic, although that isn't a major problem. You can't easily get past him on the block but if you can get some space when he is tired and use a pump fake or draw contact, he will usually bite and foul. He has to learn to be patient and smart when near the hoop, or else he will be picking up foul left and right.

Where he Should/Will go: Okafor does have some holes on some important aspects of his game, but he will grow into a much better player. He should improve at the line and possibly improve overall defensively, and perhaps even develop a mid range game without a little more finesse other than just brute power. But, like I said, you can't teach Okafor's size or polish around the hoop and that alone makes him a surefire Top 5 pick. He is just 19 years old, but Okafor already has the general tools to be a dominant big man in the NBA. He certainly could go No. 1 overall, especially if the Knicks land the top pick, considering they are in love with him, but more than likely if it is any other team he will slide to the second or third selection.

Tuesday, April 7, 2015

College Basketball 2015-2016 Sneak Peek

Justin Jackson
What a season. Although it appeared Kentucky was going to run through the tournament with reckless abandonment like they had done for much of the year, they ran into a brick wall offensively against Wisconsin, who ran into the same offensive struggles in the late moments of their National Championship loss to Duke. So in the end, the Blue Devils came out with their fifth championship behind the play of four fabulous freshman, Jahlil Okafor, Tyus Jones, Justise Winslow and Grayson Allen. While the dog days of summer are fast approaching, college basketball is never in need for storylines. Between transfers, players leaving for the NBA, coaching vacancies and much more, the offseason is sure to be exciting and will set up a very intriguing 2015-2016 season.

The Top Five

1. North Carolina Tar Heels
While Duke is still celebrating their national title, it could be their interstate rival's time to shine next season. The Tar Heels return essentially everything, including All-American caliber guard Marcus Paige, to a team that was nearly an Elite Eight squad this past season. Brice Johnson has already announced he will return for his senior season and he could form a scary combo up front with Kennedy Meeks. Though, perhaps the two players in line for a huge breakout will be sophomores Justin Jackson and Theo Pinson, both who are sure to stay. Jackson was North Carolina's best offensive weapon at the end of the year, and Pinson has an exciting mix of size and athleticism. While the ACC will certainly not be a breeze, it's about time Roy Williams leads a UNC team back into the Final Four and possibly beyond.
2. Kentucky Wildcats
Only at Kentucky, could a team possibly lose up to seven players to the draft and still be considered a legit title threat but those are the expectations in Lexington these days. Willie Cauley-Stein, Trey Lyles and Karl Anthony-Towns are locks to go pro with the Harrison twins most likely joining. And, Dakari Johnson, Marcus Lee and Devin Booker all could join as well, although they would most likely be second-round picks. Even with that uncertainty, Calipari does at least return two steady veterans in guard Tyler Ulis and forward Alex Poythress, who missed essentially the whole year with an injury. Add to that a recruiting class that includes the usual fair share of studs (Skal Labissiere is considered the top player coming in this year), the Wildcats will certainly be in the mix even with a ton of potential losses to the pros.
3. Virginia Cavaliers
It must have been frustrating for Tony Bennett and Cavs fans alike. Despite being the most consistently strong team in the ACC, Virginia wasn't playing well at the right time and stud wing Justin Anderson was never again fully healthy, amounting to a deflating third round loss to Michigan State. But, Virginia will have a ton back for 2015-2016, including their floor general London Perrantes, effective wing Malcolm Brogdon and big man Mike Tobey. Add to that Anderson, who does have suitors on the next level, but could be motivated to return to Charlottesville after the end to last year. Much like North Carolina, a brutal ACC won't make anything easy but the Cavs have the defense, leadership and experience to be much better this year.
4. Gonzaga Bulldogs
Mark Few and the 'Zags were painfully close to making their first Final Four together but ran into a better team in Duke. Though, the good news is that Spokane will once more will be loaded with talent, and that elusive Final Four could become reality in 2015-2016. Kentucky transfer Kyle Wiltjer was superb as a junior but isn't much of an NBA prospect, meaning he should stay. Joining massive Przemek Karnowski and sophomore Damontas Sabonis up front, Gonzaga could have the nation's best frontcourt. The loss of four-year contributor Kevin Pangos will hurt, but Josh Perkins, who missed most of 2014-2015, can step up big time for the Bulldogs.
5. Maryland Terrapins
After three unexciting years at Maryland, Mark Turgeron had his breakthrough in 2014-2015 in the Terps' first Big Ten season. The Terrapins were constantly neck-and-neck with Wisconsin all year inside the conference and even beat the Badgers once and earned a four seed before losing in the third round. The thing is, what Maryland has back is downright scary and they could become the Big Ten's top dog in just their second year in it. Sophomore guard Melo Trimble is returning and could have a huge year, while stretch four Jake Layman is also slotted to come back to College Park. Add to that the improvement of guard Dion Wiley and five-star center Diamond Stone and this is a really good team. The adjustment period from a surprise contender to force could be a challenge, but Maryland is a legitimate Final Four threat in 2015-2016.

Four Others to Watch
Kansas Jayhawks: Picking against Kansas in the Big 12 would be dumb, no matter how much Iowa State and others have risen. The Jayhawks have not so quietly won 11 straight conference titles and return a solid core, including guards Frank Mason and most likely Wayne Selden. While the loss of Cliff Alexander after just one year (was really too raw to make an impact this year) hurt Kansas' frontcourt they are still obviously a lofty threat.
Villanova Wildcats: Jay Wright once more has top-notch talent in Philly, where the Wildcats will have four-year starter Ryan Arcidiacono back at point guard, along with quickly improving big man Daniel Ochefu and solid Josh Hart. Add to that the addition of Jalen Brunson, a five-star prospect in some scouting services, and the Wildcats will roll to a Big East title. The question for Wright and the program, can they actually do something in March this time?
Duke Blue Devils: Don't expect the defending champs to lie back and not attempt a repeat. While Okafor and Winslow are locks to go pro, with Quinn Cook graduating, Coach K still has superb talent. Tyus Jones could stay and even if he doesn't, Grayson Allen proved he deserved a much larger role. Rice transfer Sean Obi is sure to make an impact, while Duke once more brings in an impressive recruiting class.
Iowa State Cyclones: Although the Cyclones killed many people's brackets last year, they should be improved this next season. Big man Georges Niang has already announced he plans to come back and he could be the Wooden Award front runner. Jameel McKay is a great rim protector and athlete and could break out this next year, while the backcourt of Naz Long and Monte Morris is full of talent. Plus, Fred Hoiberg is nearly certain to add his usual fair share of transfers this summer.

Other Interesting Storylines:
Smart at Texas: Although he said no to Illinois, Minnesota and UCLA, Shaka Smart had to move on sometime. Texas is one of the better jobs in college basketball, as Austin is a great city and the recruiting potential is great there. Smart will most likely have stud junior Isaiah Taylor at his disposal, and it will be very interesting to see how his "Havoc" defense transitions to the Big 12 and Texas.
Ben Simmons and LSU: LSU isn't usually the destination of top talents, but Australian forward Ben Simmons decided to join the Tigers, immediately electrifying a program that was on the rise under Johnny Jones. While Jordan Mickey and Jarrell Martin could have formed a scary duo with Simmons, they are off to the NBA. Even so, seeing the amazing athleticism and vicious dunks of Simmons could make Baton Rouge basketball alive again.
Who is the favorite in the Pac-12?: Arizona could legitimately lose five starters this off season (T.J. McConnell is graduating, Stanley Johnson, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Brandon Ashley going pro, Kaleb Tarczewski still considering). While Sean Miller is great, he won't even be able to completely recover from that. Oregon will also take major steps back without Joseph Young, perhaps leaving Utah as the team with the least flaws, although they will be without Delon Wright.
New Faces in the SEC: SEC basketball has been oft-criticized the past few years for it's lackluster performances and little competition to it's impressive football situation. But, the fresh waves of new coaches should rejuvenate the conference. While Alabama was unable to land Gregg Marshall, they still managed to reel in Avery Johnson, while Tennessee hired Rick Barnes. Add to that the continuation of the Bruce Pearl era at Auburn and Frank Martin and South Carolina finally in position to compete and it will be an interesting year in hoops in the Southeast.

Thursday, April 2, 2015

2015 NCAA Tournament Final Four Picks

Josh Gasser
1 Kentucky Wildcats vs. 1 Wisconsin Badgers

A year later, we are back to a very similar Final Four, though with quite a few different storylines. A year ago, the Kentucky Wildcats continued their reckless run through the NCAA Tournament, taking down the second-seeded Wisconsin Badgers in a thriller, that included another huge three by Aaron Harrison and plenty of epic moments. This year, the two once more meet in the Final Four but instead of an eight seed who was just playing well at the right time, Kentucky is undefeated; a flawless 38-0, despite getting all they could handle in their Elite Eight duel with Notre Dame. The Badgers, meanwhile, are also a 1 seed and are motivated from last year's loss. Junior forward Sam Dekker, whose great play during the tourney has helped guide the Badgers to the Final Four, has an image of Kentucky celebrating their victory in last year's Final Four as his "header" on Twitter. The two will now prepare for a huge Final Four clash, one that is as evenly matched as they come, and one that should be a game for the ages.

Kentucky is big and they are talented, it's not really a secret. The Wildcats' frontcourt consists of seven-footers such as block machine Willie Cauley-Stein and budding Karl Anthony-Towns (25 points against Notre Dame), along with big, bulky Dakari Johnson along with Marcus Lee and Trey Lyles. Even their backcourt has good size; the Harrison twins, who have been great during this tournament are 6'5" and get to the rim and finish through contact. True freshman Devin Booker has been the real deal all season; the sharpshooter can knock down a contested three one second and than put someone on a poster the next. And, while he isn't the biggest player on the court, steady point guard Tyler Ulis is a quick, deceptive ball handler who has played great in Kentucky's big games all seasons. In all, Kentucky has nine McDonald's All-Americans on their roster, probably a reason why the Wildcats are sitting at 38-0. Scoring against Kentucky is so tricky; if Cauley-Stein or one of the other big men aren't swatting shot after shot, the Harrisons are making plays and creating transition opportunities. The Wildcats feast on teams without good ball-handlers, they make a living off creating turnovers and finishing with easy buckets. By all statistical standards, they are the best college basketball team in the history of the sport, they are the only team ever to go 38-0 on a year and have beaten down any obstacle that stands in their path.

So, how can a team like Wisconsin, a not very athletic team that has zero McDonald's All-Americans have any shot at taking down the 'Cats? By playing a much different brand of basketball, one this particular Kentucky team has not seen all year. Bo Ryan's teams are always great passers, never turn the ball over and are always very versatile. That great passing is huge against Kentucky. If you don't turn the ball over you don't feed their top offense; getting easy buckets off turnovers. And, Wisconsin's great, quick passing won't allow Kentucky to rotate easily and they won't get as many opportunities to block shots or get easy steals. Wisconsin isn't quite as big as Kentucky but they aren't small either. Frank Kaminsky isn't the strongest center but he moves very well and is quick enough that he can get good looks at the rim. Sam Dekker is 6'9" and can be either a small forward or power forward. He spaces the floor extremely well but also can make plays on the glass and will be sure to be a factor after huge performances against Arizona, North Carolina and Oregon. Nigel Hayes also has great size and has really improved from midrange and downtown, while steady veteran Duje Dukan is a good rebounder and solid defender. Sophomore point guard Bronson Koenig has taken over for vet Traevon Jackson and has led the Badgers' offense in impressive fashion. Along with hard-working, gritty Josh Gasser, Wisconsin also has a superb defending backcourt and they could shut down the Harrisons and Ulis.

Kentucky is 38-0 but they are certainly not invincible. They got all they could handle from Notre Dame last week, and relatively average SEC teams LSU, Texas A&M, Ole Miss and Georgia all gave them serious troubles. Even though, Kentucky has got all they could handle from those teams they still managed to finish the game. They have players who can hit big shots (Aaron Harrison), astounding size and amazing athleticism. But, Wisconsin has all the tools they need to pull of an "upset" even though this is a battle of No. 1 seeds. Kentucky has never faced a team with such great ball-handlers, great passing and amazing versatility. The Wildcats also don't have the defenders that can guard big men who can shoot on the perimeter and can consistently defend Kaminsky, Hayes and Dekker. Kentucky is amazingly talented but they may face a Wisconsin team that is just better prepared. Either way, this game will go down to the wire and just like last year, could come right down to the wire.
Wisconsin, 72 Kentucky, 70

1 Duke vs. 7 Michigan State

Branden Dawson
The other Final Four battle in this year's NCAA Tournament is also a rematch. Earlier this year, the two squared off in a Champions Classic clash, in which Duke really dominated the Spartans for much of the game. That Michigan State squad was still reeling from the losses of superstars like Gary Harris, Adreian Payne and Keith Appling, and they were little match for the ultra-talented Blue Devils. But, they have clearly improved since then, as evidenced by their superb run during this year's tourney, which included victories over Virginia, Oklahoma and Louisville. Senior guard Travis Trice has always been a great shooter but he has turned into so much more during this Tournament. He is much more aggressive than ever before but he also plays smart. He is quick with the ball in his hands, but also moves well enough that he can get open for three. The Spartans also have other strong offensive weapons, such as another experienced guard in Denzel Valentin along with veteran forward Branden Dawson. The Spartans' big men have also stepped up big time this postseason, solid Matt Costello is a good defender and is polished around the rim, while quietly improving Gavin Schilling is a hard-worker and finishes around the rim very well also.

Other than Kentucky, there isn't a more talented team in the nation than the Duke Blue Devils. Freshman center Jahlil Okafor has been the real deal this year. While he isn't as versatile of a scorer as other big men, he is strong on the low block and can score in a variety of different ways. Wing Justise Winslow has had a wonderful tournament and seems to get better every single game. Winslow, also a true freshman, is a wonderful athlete who dominates in transition and has really improved as a shooter. Then there is the Blue Devils' talented backcourt, which includes Minnesota product Tyus Jones along with steady senior Quinn Cook. Both are talented shooters, who should space the Michigan State defense and open up great opportunities underneath for Okafor. While the Spartans do have great size underneath they don't have anyone that can counter Okafor on the low block. If he gets position, he can score every time with one quick post move. If he takes over this game, no matter what Trice or any other Spartan does, Michigan State is going to have a very, very tough time.

Following their Elite Eight victory over Louisville, Tom Izzo affectionately called this year's Michigan State team, the "Team of Destiny". It does make sense, much like Connecticut last year they were a seven seed in the East Region and have used a senior point guard to make pretty miraculous tournament run. But, do they have the defensive answers to stop Okafor, Winslow and the sharpshooting abilities of both Jones and Cook, who are also great in close games? Trice will need to put up insane numbers and hit some big shots. Valentin and Dawson will also have to step up big time and also help contribute in defending Winslow, who is so tough to stop  because of his crazy versatility. While the Spartans have had some superb victories, they might have just met their match with Duke. Though, if Michigan State can limit fast break opportunities and contain Okafor underneath, they do have a shot at pushing themselves to their first National Championship appearance since back in 2009-2010.
Duke, 67 Michigan State, 58