NFL considers changing OT format for playoffs

The NFL is considering changing their “sudden death” OT format for the playoffs.

http://masn.stats.com/fb/story.asp?i=20100228001807570000101&ref=hea&tm=&src=

Under the new format, both teams would get the ball at least once unless the first team to get the ball scores a touchdown, Greg Aiello said. If the first team to get the ball makes a field goal and the other team ties the game, action would continue until a team scores again

“There have been various concepts that have been discussed in recent years, but this one has never been proposed,” Aiello said.

The competition committee will be discussing this topic in March.

I make no secret of the fact that I believe the OT format is not the best way to go about determining a winner. A team should not have to lose a game, particularly a playoff game, in overtime, without getting a chance to touch the football because of a lost coin flip.

In that regard, I am glad that someone involved in the NFL feels this is a rule that needs to be altered.

I can’t help but wonder, why only change it for the playoffs?

Well, I guess I can see why, as obviously, playoff games take on more meaning, and like I said back before the Super Bowl, it would be a shame to see a huge game, such as a Super Bowl, decided by a one possession overtime.

That being said, regular season games are played for a reason. Regular season games obviously are important, in that they decide who gets to the playoffs. They decide jobs, salaries, organizational decisions, etc.

If the NFL competition committee acknowledges that the OT format is a problem in the playoffs, it should also realize that it is also a problem in the regular season, and therefore, it should be changed for all games; not just the playoffs.

Also, while NFL spokesperson Greg Aiello said that many options are being considered, the one that was laid out in the article sounds good until “If the first team to get the ball makes a field goal and the other team ties the game, action would continue until a team scores again.”

To me, that sounds like it would turn into sudden death, it both teams achieved the same result on their first drive. That isn’t ideal, considering the team that won the toss would still have the advantage, with possibly having 2 possessions to a possible 1. And if that was the format, the team that won the toss would always have to receive, because of that possible scenario.

Certainly, there are a lot of kinks to work out, and a lot of opinions and thoughts to be taken into consideration.

What I take out of this, is that someone, somewhere, that is somehow involved with the NFL, realizes that this is a problem that needs fixing. That is a good thing.

It will be interesting to see where the March discussions go as far as potentially fixing the overtime issue.

Maryland defeats VT, Thoughts

Maryland defeated Virginia Tech today in Blacksburg in a double overtime thriller, 104-100.

This was a close game throughout its entirety. Senior leader, and ACC player of the year candidate Greivis Vasquez carried the Terps, scoring 41 points on 13-33 FG’s (5/15 from 3, 10/10 from the line).

Sean Mosley contributed 17 points, and Eric Hayes scored 12, while keeping a calm and steady hand at the PG position. Hayes hit 4 clutch FT’s down the stretch that pushed the Terps towards their eventual win.

This was a big win for Maryland, in a big understatement. They picked up perhaps their best resume of the season, on the road in a hostile environment, in a game in which their mental toughness and senior experience were key in determining the outcome.

They carry over their recent momentum, and they take a 5 game win streak into their matchup with Duke on Wednesday night at the Comcast Center.

First, some thoughts from MD’s win over VT…

-Vasquez took 33 shots from the floor. Normally, that would seem a bit excessive, even in a 2 OT game. However, having watched the game, I did not feel that he really forced too many shots, or took many shots that he shouldn’t have taken. Sure, here were 1 or 2 here or there, such as the 3 at the end of the first overtime, or the 3 from the corner after his steal when it was 1 on 3, but if those shots go in, we call it typical Greivis.

He was not perfect, but he is the #1 reason the Terrapins won this game; he carried the Terps. He is a Maryland basketball legend, and will go down as one of the Top 5 to ever wear a Terps uniform.

-It is great to see Mosley back to being a very efficient scorer. When he went through his slump, I felt that it would be hard for him to get back to his early season play heading into the stretch and postseason.

I had the impression that Mosley was growing as a player, constantly trying to find his identity and establish his game. I felt that he was lacking in confidence, and that it would be tough to get it totally back.

It appears that Mosley really is a much improved player from last season, and with his back to back very good performances vs Clemson and VT, I think Terps fans can say with confidence that his mid-season struggles were the result of a shooting slump, as opposed to regression, or a false sense of progression earlier in the season.

I feel that the  Mosley we saw early in the season, and the one that we are seeing now, is the real Mosley.

-Eric Hayes has greatly improved and has reached a peak here in his senior season. Hayes provides a steady force at PG, and has improved his passing and vision tremendously over his years at MD. Hayes no longer is hesitant to drive to the bucket, and has been utilizing his ability to nail FT’s at an 85% + pace.

In previous years, I felt that Hayes was a slight liability starting at PG against the top teams in the country. This year, that is clearly no longer the case.

-Jordan Williams had a solid game. Williams made some tough shots around the basket, and drew a few 3 points plays. He played 39 minutes, and clearly, he has surpassed all of his freshman expectations.

One thing about good play, is that it brings increased expectations. Maryland fans can be nothing but happy with Williams’ play, but he does have some things he needs to work on. Williams FT performance is unacceptable at the ACC level. Clearly, he needs to work on his form, and needs to spend considerable time in the gym shooting FT’s. I am not asking him to be Steve Nash or Ray Allen from the line, but 65% isn’t too much to ask for a guy as talented as Jordan Williams, playing for Maryland.

Williams also seems to get outphysicaled at times against similar or smaller players, resulting in more jump balls or steals and less fouls called. He at times has trouble finishing around the basket in the crowd. Obviously, Williams is a big strong guy, but more time spent in the gym working out, and filing out his frame muscle-wise, is going to greatly improve his game, and will make him one of the best big men in the conference going forward.

-Maryland had a great win today, and I feel that should not be overshadowed. That is why I didn’t put the next point at the beginning of this blog, even though I feel it is a very important point to make.

MD was up 3 with 20 seconds left, inbounding the ball. Getting the ball inbounds would have given the Terps an opportunity to hit 1 out of 2 FT’s to make it a 2 possession game. VT stole the pass; that is not acceptable, but it happens. It is to the Terps credit that they eventually overcame that mistake, and were mentally tough enough to get past it.

Now, what completely boggles my mind, is that with 17 seconds left, and the game tied 80-80, how does Maryland not hold for the last shot? Not doing so, is totally unacceptable and inexcusable.

At that point, Maryland needs to hold for the last shot, and leave themselves with 2 options: win the game with the clock running out, or go to overtime.

Hayes made a jumper with 6 seconds left to put the Terps up 82-80. Now, it is great that he made the shot, but there is no excuse for Maryland to have the ball, with the game tied, shot clock turned off with 17 seconds left, and then allow VT the opportunity to come back down the floor with 6 seconds left with a chance to win the game outright.

Luckily for Maryland, they overcame that very poor coaching decision, and went on to get the win.

Maryland was dealt many body blows in this game, and they also made some critical mistakes down the stretch.They hung tough, battled throughout, and matched wills with VT.

This is a very mentally tough Maryland team, and they are a team that does not panic. These qualities will be huge positives for Maryland come tournament time.

Looking ahead, the game vs Duke is obviously a marquee game. It is tough to come up with a more important scenario for a regular season game.

The Terps will be sending away a very solid senior class, headlined by a top player in MD history in Greivis Vasquez. A win vs Duke would give MD either a tie for the conference lead with one game to go, or a one game advantage, depending on the Duke vs Virginia game tomorrow night.

I have written that good, special teams go through certain type of games. The games against NC State, GT, and Clemson represented different types of games, each one special in its own. This win vs VT, was a double overtime game that had a tournament feel to it. Add the VT game to the list of special games that this team has played together, and to the list of growing experiences that this team has endured together.

Obviously, this team is special, and is playing perhaps the most special game ever at the Comcast Center.

I don’t have to say it….this is what it’s all about.

Comcast will be rocking, and it will be an emotional night for the Terps.

The Terps sit at 11-3, and 21-7. With 2 games left, they have a shot at winning the ACC regular season title, with their most hated rival coming to their house, in the most important game of the year.

What more is there to say?

Ravens interested in TO, Thoughts

The big news for Ravens fans coming out of the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, is that John Harbaugh has confirmed that the Ravens are interested in Terrell Owens.

Big credit goes to WNST for breaking this important information VIA Twitter.

Here are a few of my early thoughts on this

-I believe TO is still a #1 WR. He is a freakish athlete, and his 36 year old age does not bother me all that much, when you consider the fact that he would likely only be in Baltimore for 1-2 years tops. On the field, he is a big, #1 target, who can stretch the field, and who is a dynamic playmaker.

-Off the field, I do not believe TO is a bad guy. I feel that he wants to win very badly, and when he doesn’t win, he feels that he should get the ball more, since when TO gets the ball, he usually helps the team win. Does he go about sharing that opinion in the right way? No, he doesn’t. But I am not going to fault the guy for wanting to win.

After being in Buffalo for a year and not being a distraction, I do not think he would be any kind of distraction coming to a winning team and organization in Baltimore, with so many respected players and coaches in the locker room. I feel that TO would be very happy to come to Baltimore to this Super Bowl contending team, and playing with a smart, highly talented QB in Joe Flacco.

-If the Ravens want TO, I feel they will get him. TO signed with Buffalo last year. Yes, he was not a distraction at all in Buffalo, but is there a top team out there that is going to be interested in TO this year, that wasn’t last year?  What better situation could he go into, that compares favorably to Baltimore? My thinking is that if the Ravens as an organization decide that they want Terrell Owens in Baltimore, TO will be in a Ravens uniform in 2010.

-John Harbaugh coached TO in Philly. He has said that he feels TO has “a big heart.” Considering the drama that Owens brought to his 2nd year in Philly, and considering that Andy Reid is a very close friend of Harbaugh’s, the fact that the conservative John Harbaugh thinks highly of TO, is very telling.

-Harbaugh also said that Ozzie Newsome has a lot of respect for TO. The drama surrounding Ozzie and Owens goes back to 2004, when Newsome traded for TO after TO put the Ravens on a list of teams that he wanted to go to, only to refuse to come to Baltimore after the trade. Owens was apparently not happy that Newsome told his agent that “every black man needed to be slapped around once in a while.” If Ozzie has moved on from that incident, it makes a TO signing much more likely.

Also news coming from the combine, again via WNST’s Twitter , is that Harbaugh has said they want Mason back for as long as he an play; meaning, they are not opposed to giving him more than a one year deal.

There have been rumors that he may be pursued by other teams such as the Dolphins or Titans, but if the Ravens will give Mason a 2 year deal, I think he comes back to Baltimore rather quickly.

A WR group of Owens, Mason, Stallworth, and Clayton would be much improved from 2009, and would be above average.

I have been clamoring for a young stud #1 WR to be put with Flacco. Now, the Ravens could very well get that #1 to go along with Owens, Mason, and Stallworth, if they were to sign Owens. That would be the definition of putting an emphasis on helping Joe develop, and improving the offense, which I have said repeatedly should be the #1 goal of this offseason.

That scenario would still be my #1 hope and goal regarding the Ravens’ WR situation. However, if TO was their last move in trade or free agency, I can’t say that I would be disappointed.

I have said repeatedly the last 2 seasons that if you add a playmaking, #1 WR to this team, that the Ravens would go to the Super Bowl. Owens is that playmaking, #1 WR. Terrell Owens is a player that is going to make a play in the 2009 Steelers playoff game, or the 2010 Colts playoff game, when other WR’s were struggling to get open. Owens is a guy that you can throw a jump ball to on 3rd and 15, and allow him to use his talent to make a play.

Also, if the Ravens did go down this route, it makes it more likely that they would take a WR in the one of the first 3 rounds, as no high pick would have been traded for a WR, and since they would have more money to fill other areas of need through trade or free agency, as opposed to having to fill those other needs in the draft.

One thought that has crossed my mind, is that on the surface, if the Ravens were to sign Owens, there is a perception that the Ravens got desperate, and signed 2 very risky guys; risky for different reasons, but risky nonetheless.

I can see where that notion would come from, and make no mistake about it, that opinion would be brought up repeatedly in blogs, papers, on television, and on the radio. The reason I do not agree with that notion is because of my opinion of TO.

I do not look at signing Owens as taking a chance, as far as on field production. I look at him as a #1 guy; as a guy that should be coveted, and who because of perception, demands less money now than his talent warrants.

We are not talking about the Orioles needing a pitcher, and taking a chance on Mark Mulder and Tim Hudson in 2010 because they do not want to spend money, hoping those players get back to where they were.

Owens still has Pro-Bowl talent, and would fit in very well with the Ravens offense.

Yes, I would rather get Flacco a young WR that he can grow with, either instead of TO, or to go along with TO (and Mason).

However, simply having multiple legitimate passing options, including a true #1 target, would do wonders for Flacco, regardless of their age.

It would allow him to develop as a QB, and would give him the chance to reach his full potential.

For the first 2 years, Flacco did not have that opportunity because of the weapons, or lack-thereof, that he was given on offense.

A WR core of Owens, Mason, Stallworth, and Clayton would give him that type of offense.

It would allow Mason to be a #2 WR, and to work more as a slot WR, with a speedster in Stallworth at times lining up on the outside. It gives the passing game, and the offense as a whole, multiple dimensions for Cam Cameron and Joe Flacco to utilize.

Would I rather see the Ravens do more? Absolutely. I would love to see them sign TO, bring back Mason, and go trade for Malcolm Floyd or Brandon Marshall.

Even if the Ravens were to sign TO, I still believe Marshall should be the Ravens #1 target if he can be had for a second round pick.

That being said, the thought of Terrell Owens possibly coming to Baltimore, regardless of what else could come after, excites me, and should excite all Ravens fans.

For years, the Ravens have needed a top weapon on offense. They have needed that legitimate #1 WR. Fans have clamored for an above average passing offense, with numerous downfield weapons.

If the Ravens bring TO to Baltimore, they would have all of that.

Looking at rest of season, possible tiebreakers for Terps

The Terps currently sit at 20-7, 10-3 in the ACC.

They have 3 games remaining: @ VT, vs Duke, @ VA.

Duke currently sits at 22-4, 11-2 in the ACC. Duke has 3 remaining games: @ VA, @ MD, vs NC.

Maryland cannot fall below sole possession of 2nd place, even with a loss at Blacksburg on Saturday.

However, if Maryland defeats Virginia Tech on Saturday, and Duke loses at Virginia on Sunday, the game on Wednesday night at the Comcast Center against Duke, would be for sole possession of first place in the ACC.

If Maryland were to win out, with Duke only losing the game at Maryland, both teams would finish at 13-3 in the ACC.

I had thought that Duke’s overall record would come into play regarding tiebreakers, and would give Duke the edge. However, from the ACC’s site, that does not appear to be the case.

1. When two teams are tied in the standings, regular season head-to-head results are used as the tiebreaker.
2. If the tied teams played each other twice in the regular season and split their games, then each team’s record vs. the team occupying the highest position in the final regular season standings (or in case of a tie for first place, the next highest position in the regular season standings) and then continuing down through the standings until one team gains an advantage.
   • a. When arriving at another pair of tied teams while comparing records, use each team’s record against the collective tied teams as a group (prior to their own tie-breaking procedures), rather than the performance against the individual tied teams.
   • b. When comparing records against a single team or a group of teams, the higher winning percentage shall prevail, even if the number of games played against a team or group is unequal. (i.e., 2-0 is better than 3-1; 1-0 is the same as 2-0; 2-0 is the same as 4-0; 2-1 is the same as 4-2; 1-0 is better than 1-1; 0-1 is the same as 0-2; 0-2 is the same as 0-4). If the winning percentage of the tied teams is equal against a team, or a group of tied teams, continue down through the standings until one team gains an advantage.
3. If three or more teams are tied in the standings, the following procedures will be used:
   • a. The combined record of conference games between the tied teams involved will be compiled. Ties will be broken, and seedings assigned, based on the winning percentage of the combined conference records. The higher winning percentage shall prevail, even if the number of games played against the team or group is unequal (i.e., 2-0 is better than 3-1; 1-0 is the same as 2-0; 2-0 is the same as 4-0; 2-1 is the same as 4-2; 1-0 is better than 1-1; 0-1 is the same as 0-2; 0-2 is the same as 0-4).
   • b. If procedure (a) fails to break the tie, then each tied team’s record shall be compared to the team occupying the highest position in the final regular-season standings, continuing down through the standings until one team gains an advantage by a higher winning percentage.
   • c. If the tie is broken by (a) or (b) regarding one of more teams, but three or more teams remain tied, then procedures (a) and (b) will be reapplied among those tied teams only.
   • d. If two teams remain tied, procedures (1) and (2) will be followed.
4. If there is more than one tie in the standings, and when utilizing the tie-breaking procedures there are a pair of teams tied, a team’s record against the combined tied teams (prior to their own tie-breaking procedures) is used, rather than performance against the individual tied teams.
5. If procedures (2) and/or (3) fail to establish an advantage, a coin flip to break the tie will be conducted by the commissioner after the final regular season game before the Conference Championship.
6. If a coin flip or draw (for a three or more team tie) is required, the procedure takes place immediately following the conclusion of the last regular season game prior to the Conference Championship. The procedure is administered by the commissioner or a designated assistant. This session is open to the media and to athletics department representatives from the tied teams.

This is the tie-breaking procedure used for the 2007 ACC Tournament. I am assuming that it has not changed heading into the 2010 Tournament.

Now, obviously this is looking ahead, but if things played out to where MD and Duke were tied at the end of the regular season, it would be better for Maryland to have Florida State in 3rd place. Since Maryland defeated FSU 2 times, and FSU beat Duke, the way I read those rules, it seems that Maryland would get the #1 seed if that played out.

Maryland would not have as much luck with Clemson or Wake Forest occupying the 3rd spot, since the Terps were 0-1 against Wake, 1-1 against Clemson, while Duke did not lose a game to either.

So, Terps fans, while hoping for MD to win out, and for Duke to lose to either VA or NC, they should also, in the back of their mind, root for FSU, over Wake and Clemson, for the #3 spot in the ACC.

It’s fun to be discussing this, after some down years for the Maryland program.

The last 10 days of ACC regular season play will be interesting, to say the least.

Terps defeat Clemson, Looking ahead

On Wednesday night, the Terps defeated Clemson 88-79.

The Terps were down as much as 15 in the first half, and 9 at half time.

Maryland fought their way back, they took Clemson’s best shot, took the lead with about 9 minutes left in the 2nd half, and never looked back.

Sean Mosley was a very nice bright spot, scoring 20 points on only 8 field goal attempts. If Mosley can get back to his early season level heading into the final stretch run, that would be absolutely huge for Maryland. It will be interesting to see how he carries this performance over to Saturday against VaTech.

The possible special season that I have been talking about has played out thus far.

The past 3 games, @ NC State, vs GT and vs Clemson, are games that good, special teams experience throughout the course of a year.

@ NC State, the Terps played a game on their road, when most of their best players struggled, and when they were down for the duration of the game. But they battled back.

vs GT, the Terps struggled to find a rhythm throughout the entire game, lost the lead towards the end, but fought their way back. They experienced a legendary buzzer beater shot together. They got closer as a team; they battled back.

vs Clemson, Maryland again was down for most of the first 30 minutes, but they came back, and they weathered the storm; they battled back.

Going through these types of games brings a team closer together. As the team goes through these types of games, players grow up right before our eyes. Eric Hayes has developed into a legitimate second scoring option at an ACC school. Cliff Tucker has proven that he can make a clutch shot, in a big time game, at a big time school. Greivis Vasquez has established himself as a possible ACC Player of the Year candidate, and likely has reserved a spot for his jersey in the Comcast Center rafters.

These players names are made in big time games. The reason these games are big time games, is because the Terps have put themselves in position for these games to mean something; in fact, they mean quite a bit.

Maryland sits at 20-7 overall, 10-3 in the ACC.

On Saturday, Maryland travels to Blacksburg to take the 21-6, 8-5 Virginia Tech Hokies. 6 days ago, these two teams were tied at 8-3 in the ACC. Now, Tech sits 2 games behind MD In the ACC, after losing at Duke, in a game in which they hung tough for most of the game, and at BC.

If Maryland defeats Virginia Tech on Saturday, and Duke goes on to lose to Virginia on Sunday, the game on Wednesday night at the Comcast Center would be for sole possession of 1st place in the ACC, with one game to go.

It is a credit to Gary Williams and his players that Terps fans are in position to be talking about these types of scenarios.

Maryland will be dancing in the 2010 NCAA Tournament. That is a fact.

The focus shifts to winning the ACC regular season, to getting a BYE in the ACC Tournament and advancing, and getting a high seed in the NCAA’s, and advancing in that.

Maryland doesn’t have to think about having a special season; with their last 3 wins, and with the way they won them, I think it’s fair to say that the special season has arrived.

This is a special time for Maryland. These next 2 games are huge opportunities for this team.

A win vs VA Tech on Saturday will put the Terps confidently into the Top 25, setting up perhaps the biggest game ever at the Comcast Center on Wednesday night.

The Terps very well could win on Saturday, but they are likely to be underdogs.

This is the perfect example of a game that great teams win, and that good teams lose. Now, a loss to VA Tech does not mean the Terps are not a great team, and a win doesn’t necessarily mean that they are.

But in general, these are the swing games. These games show what a team is made up.

A win on Saturday would be huge for the program, and for the season. The Terps, I think it can be argued, are a better team than Virginia Tech.

They need to act on that superiority, and take it to VA Tech.

Maryland has won their last 2 games, against oppositions in GT and Clemson that have very good talent, and that very likely will be dancing come March. Those two teams played terrific games against Maryland, and MD’s best players struggled at points in each of those games.

Obviously, it is not good news that their best players struggled. If that happens in March, it could mean a quick exit for the Terps.

However, it can only be a positive, and a large one at that, that the Terrapins were able to get a win against good teams that brought their best effort and A games, when they themselves did not bring their best game.

The Terps need continue to play as well as they have been Saturday against VaTech. They likely will need their best players to bring their best games if they are going to win on Saturday and keep all of their goals in reach.

The level of excitement surrounding the program right now is remarkable considering the talk that surrounded the team and Gary Williams just last year.

A win against VT, going into the Duke game, would increase that level, and would bring Terrapin fever to a height that it we haven’t seen since the ACC tournament win in 2004, and since the NCAA  Championship in 2002.

A win against VT, Duke, and then Virginia, would show that the Terps mean serious, serious business. Top 15 business. Elite 8+ business.

For now though, it’s special. This is it for Terps fans. Speaking as a fan, this is why we put our hearts into it every half, every game, every season, every year.

With each win, each upcoming game means more; each upcoming game becomes the biggest of the season.

Also, with each game, expectations rise.

Now, fans are thinking ACC regular season championship.

Coming into the season, not many Terps fans were thinking that. But now, those expectations are clearly a reality.

The Terps are thinking big; they are reaching high. In order to keep reaching that high, and to keep all of their goals in reach, they are going to need to play big on Saturday against Va Tech, and come home with the win.

Tune in on Saturday, and follow the Terps on the next step of their journey.

Enjoy it.

Talking Will Ohman, David Hernandez, and the ‘pen

With the recent priase of Kam Mickolio by Dave Trembley, it appears that there are 5 spots guaranteed in the O’s bullpen.

Mike Gonzalez, Jim Johnson, Koji Uehara, Kam Mickolio, and Mark Hendrickson.

Indications are that Will Ohman has the inside track on a bullpen spot, and if true, would only leave one spot for the following players:

Jason Berken, David Hernandez, Matt Albers, Dennis Sarfate, Cla Meredith

Ohman’s career stats can be found here.

Both Jason Berken and David Hernandez have the potential to be future contributors in the bullpen; Berken in the long-relief/spot starter role, and Hernandez as potentially a very good, power set up man.

If Berken gets sent down, I would not agree with it, but I would not lose sleep over it. While Berken does have more of a future than Ohman, that future is minimal, and he will not lose anything from going back down to the minors for a bit.

If David Hernandez gets sent down, then I will have a problem. Hernandez has nothing left to prove in the minors. In 2 separate stints in the minors, David Hernandez showed that he is ready to make his mark in the majors.

The Orioles, nor Hernandez, gain anything from him being sent down to AAA.

Now, if Ohman was going to greatly contribute to the team, it would at least a bit more understandable.

But this situation, is one of my pet peeves with the Orioles year after year. It seems they always have that one guy, that always makes the roster, that 90% of fans could tell you that it will not work out. Adam Eaton was last year’s example of this type of a player.

Now, as the O’s are improving, so is that one player every year that shoudln’t make the team but does. Ohman is not a horrible pitcher. He has had some solid years, and some poor years.

My problem is with the organization feeling that they need to have a lefty specialist, and settling for the best of the bargain basement types of those guys, instead of going with what they have.

How much better are the O’s with Ohman facing Johnny Damon or David Ortiz, than Jim Johnson? Are they better at all?

Are they better having a less talented pitcher than Gonzalez, Johnson, Koji, Mickolio, and even Sarfate or Albers, facing a left handed hitter, just because that less talented pitcher is left-handed?

Is Ohman really going to be counted on to get big outs against lefties, when other more talented guys are on the team?

Perhaps this goes along with my thoughts on managers, including Dave Trembley, not thining outside the box, and always going with the safe route with limited second guessing, as opposed to a different, less natural option, that may be better for the team. (http://charmcitysportstalk.com/2010/02/02/mlb-managers-need-to-think-outside-the-box-analyzing-saves-bullpens-and-more/)

I will even bring Mark Hendrickson into this…I understand that Hendrickson was a valuable bullpen option for the O’s last year; his numbers coming out of the ‘pen compared favorably to all of the O’s bullpen pitchers last year.

But should a young, developing team, really have 2 guys on the team, that could have a 6 ERA in mid-May without surprising anyone, simply because they are left-handed?

The O’s brought Adam Eaton in last year because they thought they needed a veteran presence. He was on the roster, over younger, more talented AND long-term options, because he was favored, and had the inside track from the start. Looking back, that did not turn out very well.

I have no problem with bringing Ohman to camp to compete for a job. That is a great move to make.

My problem is with the whispers that seem to imply that Ohman has an inside track to head north with the team; whispers that were circling before he even stepped foot in Sarasota.

The O’s seem to be backing themselves in a corner for no reason with Ohman. Why make him a favorite? Why not let everyone pitch, and then evaluate? Why not realistically keep open the possibility of only going with 1 non-closer lefty in Hendrickson, without favoring one side or the other? Yes, Kranitz said they are not locked in, but said they favored having a 3rd lefty other than Gonzalez and Hendrickson.

I would rather Kranitz favor having the 7 best pitchers in that bullpen, regardless of what arm they throw with.

My point and my hope? Don’t bring Ohman north, just because he is the best lefty option. Bring him north if he is a top 7 option.

Thoughts on Terps not being ranked

The Terps are coming off a 4 game stretch in 8 days, during which they went 3-1.

Currently, Maryland sits at 19-7 overall, and 9-3 in the ACC.

A recent theme of my blogging about the Terps has been the potential for this season to be a special one.

Expectations have increased. Terps fans feel that this team could win the ACC Tournament, and legitimately make a run at the Elite 8, and Final Four.

Obviously, these expectations are not very far-fetched, considering a week from Wednesday, the Terps could very well be playing for a regular season ACC Championship vs Duke, at home on senior night.

So if this could be such a special season, with the sky being the limit for this year’s Terps, who sit in sole possession of 2nd place in a conference slated to take 7 teams to the NCAA Tournament, why are they not nationally ranked in either poll?

Let me start off by saying that I believe the Terrapins should be nationally ranked; higher than their spot at #28, 3 teams into the “receiving votes” category.

For starters, a 22-6 Richmond team, is sitting at #22 and #24 in the 2 polls. What makes them worth of being ranked, while the Terps are not?

Northern Iowa is also ranked. Take a look at their schedule, and one would be hard pressed to come up with a win better than the Terps’ wins vs FSU and GT. Northern Iowa’s strength of schedule is 105, although their RPI is 16. Just a quick note…count me in as someone who is totally befuddled by RPI. Why? One example, is that Northern Iowa has a 16 RPI, yet the team they have played with the highest RPI, is Siena, at 37. Seems a bit strange, but I digress.

Instead of making a team vs team comparison, here are my thoughts on the Terps not being ranked.

I do not agree with it, but at this moment, I understand it.

To this point, the Terps’ best wins are against FSU and GT, 2 out of 3 at home. They played Wisconsin, Cincinnati, Villanova, Clemson, and Duke, and lost all 5 of them. The Terps also lost to William & Mary on their home court.

The reason that I feel this season could be special, and the reason many other fans are starting to come around to that feeling, is because of the way the Terps have played since conference play started, as the team has started to gel. The Terps have brought their focus every night, and constantly blown out inferior teams. They also played 2 close games against Wake at Wake, and Clemson at Clemson, in which they had a chance to win in the last few minutes of each game.

Having made those points, they still do not have any wins that really stick out at you. In a down year in the ACC, there have not been as many opportunities for a signature win since conference play began, which is also when the Terps started to reach their peak.

The way the team has been playing the past 2 months, I get the sense, based on watching them play, that if they played those early OOC games vs Wisconsin, Cincinatti, W&M, and Villanova now, that things may turn out differently.

The Terps have 3 games in a row here, vs Clemson, at VT, and vs Duke. A win in either of the 2 games vs Duke and @ VT, would represent the Terps best win of the year, and they get them both within the next 10 days. A win against Clemson, would be right behind the win @ FSU on the Terps’ resume.

All signs point to the Terps competing in these games and going at least 2-1. If they go 2-1 or 3-0 in these games, certainly, the Terrapins will be ranked following the Duke game. If they go 2-0 vs Clemson and @ VT, they will be ranked going into the Duke game.

As a Terps’ fan who has watched the team grow and improve as this season has gone on, I am confident in my belief that they will go at least 2-1 in this stretch, with a good chance at 3-0.

Doing that, would put them in position to potentially be the regular season ACC Champs, and to be the #1 or #2 seed in the ACC Tourney.

A 4-0, 0r 3-1 finish to the year (including the finale at Virginia), plus 2-3 wins in the ACC Tournament, would put the Terps square in the middle of the national spotlight heading into postseason play.

Terps fans’ have every reason to be confident in that scenario being very plausible.

That being said, the bottom line is that confidence, or a feeling that something is going to happen, is not the same as it happening.

The Terps, as well as they have played, haven’t had that many chances to show that they are a top team, and that they can compete with the top teams in the country.

While myself, and many Terrapins fans, have confidence in a strong finish to this season, in the eyes of the national media and national fans, based on the lack of big wins to date, the Terps could just as easily finish as the 4th or 5th best team in a down ACC this year, which would be in line in not being ranked in the top 25, and not being projected as a high seed in the NCAA Tournament.

My message to Terrapins fans, is to not get too upset about the ranking. Fair or not, Maryland has not had the “name” recognition and respect in recent years, that matters so much with regards to the rankings.

A strong finish, like most Terps’ fans now expect, would put the Terps right in the middle of the Top 25, most likely in the teens, and would greatly increase their projected seed in the NCAA Tournament (right now, ESPN Bracketologist Joe Lunardi has the Terps as a 7 seed, facing California once again)

If Gary Williams and his Terps continue to do what they have been doing, and what they have shown they can do, come the postseason, both the team’s national ranking, and projected NCAA seed, will see a significant jump.

The results of these next 4 games, especially the next 3 games, are really going to show what kind of season this will be for the Terrapins.

Their inclusion in the national rankings, as well as their projected NCAA seed, will directly represent their play in the last 25% of the ACC regular season.

Discussing Brandon Marshall

The word from Sports Illustrated’s Peter King today, is that Brandon Marshall could very well be had for a 2nd round pick.

There has been a lot of talk around here about some combination of Marshall, Terrell Owens, Malcolm Floyd, Anquan Boldin, a 1st or 2nd round draft pick, and so on.

Previously, the argument for trading for Boldin, or for signing TO, was that it would not cost the team a 1st round pick. With Ozzie’s history in the first round, it can be argued that a first rounder means more to the Ravens than most other teams.

While I would trade a first rounder for Marshall if need be, I can certainly understand the other side of the argument.

That being said, if the Ravens can get Brandon Marshall for a 2nd round pick, there is no reason for Marshall not to then be their #1 target of the offseason.

Brandon Marshall is a multi-dimensional receiver. He is a top deep threat, and is a perfect WR to run a go route down the sideline, and  either get past the defense for a TD, or fight for a jump ball. He is a guy who in Denver’s offense routinely would get a screen pass and run for a solid gain. Marshall is also a very solid blocker for a WR.

This guy can do it all. He is a young, big, fast target.

He will be 26 years old for the duration of the 2010-2011 season. For the past 3 years, Marshall has put up over 1100 yards.

Marshall is a guy who will be covered by the #1 cornerback a great majority of the time, but he also will require a double team in many situations throughout the course of a game.

Imagine what Ray Rice could do running against a 7 man front, following his performance last year against a stacked box throughout the majority of games.

If the Ravens can acquire Marshall, all they would need to do is bring back Mason, and they are set for the season at the WR position.

They would have a multi-dimensional, legitimate #1 in Marshall on the outside. They would have the option of having Mason, perhaps the top possession WR, and one of the best #2 WR’s  in the league, either lined on the other side, or in the slot. Then, you have the added dimension of Stallworth, who can stretch the field, and who routinely puts up some of the best YAC numbers in the league.

Marshall, Mason, Stallworth, and Clayton represents a complex, highly talented group of WR’s.

That is the kind of receiving core that Joe Flacco needs to have at his disposal, if he is going to develop and reach his full potential.

That is the kind or receiving core that can win a shootout. With those WR’s on the field, you will not see the Ravens go through games, such as Pittsburgh in the 2009 playoffs, and Indy in the 2010 playoffs, with literally no WR option downfield due to a lack of separation.

Marshall is a guy who is always going to be an option on every single play. With the ability of Marshall to stretch the field and take multiple defenders with him, all of a sudden Derrick Mason has some daylight to work with. Similar to the space Ray Rice will see, imagine how Mason will do up against the 2nd or 3rd CB, after going up against the top corner each and every game the past 2 years.

Many fans may point to the potential roadblock being Marshall’s off the field behavior or distractions.

A week ago, I would have disagreed with the theory that those potential distractions should stop the Ravens from going after Marshall, but I would have acknowledged that they very well could be an issue.

That being said, the Ravens signed a guy in Donte Stallworth, whose actions resulted in a death. Now, I do not think Stallworth is a bad guy, for doing what he did. It was an accident. Stallworth did the same thing in getting behind the wheel after having too much to drink, that millions of people do each and every night, and unfortunately was very unlucky.

As unlucky as Stallworth was, and as good of a guy he may be, the bottom line is that many people look at him as a murderer, and will continue to view him as such. The questions will be there all season. There will be chants of murderer, drunk, and so on, around the team for the duration of the season.

All of that is the result of signing a guy in Stallworth, who certainly offers the opportunity for reward, but whose highest potential reward pales in comparison to what Marshall can provide, both presently and long-term. If the Ravens were fine with taking a chance on Stallworth, I see no reason why they would not and should not take the same “chance” on Brandon Marshall, who represents a huge reward, and who has never been convicted of a crime.

Another point to make, is with his age, Marshall is only 4 years older than some draft picks. I am not someone who likes to play fantasy football in real life, similar to the Redskins recent style, of trading draft picks for expensive stars year after year. But Marshall is not a 30 year old player. He is a guy who can be around, and be in his peak years, for as long as a potential draft pick. Yes, he will be more expensive, but he also will be contributing right away for a Super Bowl caliber team.

The chances of the Ravens making the Super Bowl would increase dramatically with the addition of Brandon Marshall, and I do not see how that point can really be disputed.

Certainly, there will be much talk in the coming weeks regarding all of the WR options out there. There are many pros and many cons for each possible move, and each possible combination.

Marshall represents the best talent of all the potential options.

If any team ever is going to be one player improved from the previous year away from the Super Bowl, I feel that the 2010 Ravens (and the 2009 Ravens for that matter) have to be in the discussion to be that team.

That one player  is a legitimate, #1 WR. Brandon Marshall is that type of a player.

Getting that player, and becoming a legitimate Super Bowl contender with no obvious holes on the roster, for a 2nd round pick, should be a no brainer.

O’s broadcasting moves are a good sign

The Sun recently published a story that offers a glimpse into the Orioles plans as far as changes in the broadcast team are concerned.

According to Jeff Zrebiec and Peter Schmuck, Mike Flanagan is expected to replace Buck Martinez as the 2nd color man in command behind Jim Palmer.

Also, more surprisingly, the team has discussed part-time roles with Eddie Murray, Brady Anderson, and Mike Boddicker.

If these change come to fruition, and I see no reason to doubt this information, it is another small step in the right direction under the leadership of Andy MacPhail.

It is obvious to most knowledgable Orioles’ fans that Andy MacPhail has done a very positive job constructing the team on the field, and has them set up for success both in the present, and the long-term future.

Other small off the field steps have been also taken under MacPhail, and these broadcasting changes represent another one of those steps.

Better ballpark promotions, such as T-Shirt Tuesday. Moving Fanfest back to the Convention Center. Improved PR. Getting the Sarasota deal finalized. All of these are steps taken under MacPhail, and the broadcasting changes can soon be added to this list.

MacPhail had to build this organization back up, not from the ground up, but from below the ground up.

So much was wrong with the Orioles organization, and it is remarkable that MacPhail has done as well as he has, as quickly as he has.

These broadcasting moves show that he values the history and tradition of this proud franchise.

The Orioles organization has so much history. A mark of a good organization is having past players wanting to come back and contribute to the current team, in various positions and situations.

It is only encouraging, and positive, to see guys like BJ Surhoff and Mike Bordick coming back as Spring Training instructors, and to see past players such as Bill Ripken, Eddie Murray, Brady Anderson, and Mike Boddicker wanting to come back in some type of analyst role.

MacPhail and the rest of the organization do not need to look any further than across the parking lot to M&T Bank Stadium to see what a model professional sports franchise looks like.

Many of the moves and improvements that MacPhail has made since June 2007, greatly resemble moves that the Ravens have made and would make.

The excitement that Orioles fans should feel regarding these analyst changes are not necessarily because of the analysis or insight that these former players will provide, although certainly, it will be interesting to see how well they do in these positions.

It is about honoring the Orioles tradition. It is about creating an atmosphere that encourages former players to come back and support the team.

MacPhail is laying a great foundation in all aspects of the team, both on the field, as well as off. These changes are part of that foundation.

Obviously, Andy MacPhail is intent on turning this franchise back into something that all Baltimore sports fans can be proud of.

Terps defeat Georgia Tech 76-74; Hows that for special?

On Saturday, the Maryland Terps defeated the Yellow Jackets of Georgia Tech 76-74 at the Comcast Center.

As all Terps fans have seen by this point, Cliff Tucker hit a three-point shot with 1.5 seconds left that gave the Terps the victory.

This win vs. GT puts the Terrapins at 19-7 overall, and 19-7 in the conference.

Many Maryland fans, since this game ended, have said that this game likely punches the Terps’ ticket to the NCAA Tournament.

While I believe the Terps could get in if they finish with 9 wins, it is not a definite. Another win would make it a sure thing, but at this point, there is no use in saying that the Terps ticket is punched, only to possibly be debating that very question in 2 weeks if the team goes into a slide to end the regular season, with a tough schedule on the horizon. Stranger things have clearly happened in sports.

Having said that, I will certainly acknowledge that the more likely discussion surrounding the Terps as we approach March, will involve seeding in the NCAA Tournament, and a possible regular season ACC Championship, as opposed to simply making the dance or being on the bubble.

Clearly, the expectations for this season are on the rise, and have been for quite some time.

Following the win against NC State on Wednesday, I wrote that the next 4 games are what it is all about. I wrote that the next 4 stretch is what these players dream of, and is what makes college basketball so great. These next games, I stated, would determine whether this season was going to be a season to remember; whether this season would be a “special” season.

That 4 game stretch started today vs. Georgia Tech, and obviously, it started off very well for Gary Williams’ group.

With this win, the next three games (and four including the finale at Virginia) not only remain critical, but they take on even greater importance.

At this moment, the Terps control their own destiny as the #2 team in the ACC. With one Duke loss, Maryland would control their own destiny as far as winning the ACC.

With each win down the stretch, the prospects of a special season increase. With each win, the excitement builds. With each win, the realization that something could be brewing here in College Park builds.

Each win, at this point of the season, is special, and each win builds to something special.

Again, this is a great time to be a Maryland Terrapins fan. Soak it in, and enjoy the feeling, as this is what college basketball is all about.

Looking at the game vs GT, it was not a pretty game. At times, the Terps struggled to find a rhythm. Perhaps the 4 games in a week finally caught up to Maryland. On the other side of the court, Coach Paul Hewitt said after the game, that this was the best game that GT played all year.

Combine that, with the fact that Greivis Vasquez was 5 for 16 from the floor, Landon Milbourne was 2 for 11, and Sean Mosley was only 3 for 8 with 6 points, it is no surprise that this game came down to the wire.

Eric Hayes played a great game; perhaps his best in a Terrapins uniform. At this point, he has established himself as the #2 scorer, and has shown that he is much more than just a jump shooting PG. Hayes is a legitimate scoring threat, and that is huge for the team as they move forward into March.

It was great to see Cliff Tucker make his 2 crucial 3’s, as well as Adrian Bowie. Both of these players unquestionably have the talent, but have been inconsistent. Tucker and Bowie contributing in clutch situations can only be a positive, both for the rest of this season, and going into next season.

When these guys are playing consistently good basketball, utilizing their talent, they add another dimension to this team. Hopefully, two solid games in a row by Bowie, as well as the heroic shots by Tucker, raise their confidence to another level.

I included Georgia Tech along with the games vs Clemson, VT, and Duke as far as importance. I did so because every conference game against a good, solid team is always a grind. Georgia Tech is a very talented team, and routinely has the best player on the court on their side in Derrick Favors. Tech has been in the Top 25 for much of the season.

The bottom line is that this Georgia Tech team is talented, and greatly needed this game. They were ready, and they were hungry. They played their hearts out, and played great.

Maryland stepped up, took their best shot, and prevailed. For that, they should be commended, and for that, Terps fans should be excited and encouraged.

If a team is going to have that “special” type of season, a couple things are likely to happen throughout that season. One, a team will win a game in which they are on the road, in a hostile environment, against adverse conditions, playing from behind for a majority of the game. The Terps did this Wednesday night against NC State.

Two, a team will win a game that, when all things are considered, they probably shouldn’t have won. The Terps did that today vs Georgia Tech.

The shot that Cliff Tucker made is important on many levels. Obviously, it got them the win. That win is a conference win against a good, solid team. The win guarantees them a winning season, and keeps their winning streak, and momentum, in full swing.

Emotionally, the shot means even more. While the Terps had momentum going into this game, they have even more now, and they have more than they would have if they would have defeated Georgia Tech by 6 points.

They have the rush of overcoming their late deficit, and overcoming the timeout that nullified Vasquez’ half court shot. They have the rush of overcoming that adversity. They have the rush of winning a game in which they were down, and very close to being out.

The Terps experienced this as one; they shared this special moment together. They lost the lead together, they fought together, and ultimately, they won together. These players reached a level of euphoria that they have not seen very often during their at Maryland.

There is just a general feeling that surrounds a team after a game and experience like this. It is hard to put into words, but undoubtedly, each and every player and coach in that locker room knows what happened, and they are closer because of it.

It’s almost as though they get a second life. Not at a successful season, but at a special season.

I expect the way the Terps won this game, along with the momentum of their 3 game win streak, to catapult them into Wednesday night’s game against Clemson.

By now, the team knows it. Gary Williams knows it. The fans know it.

It’s game on in College Park. The time is now for this senior laden Terrapins team.

This isn’t a NCAA Tournament potential season anymore for the Terps and their fans. This isn’t a Sweet 16 ceiling team anymore.

For this Maryland team, the sky is the limit. With every win, every goal stays in reach.

The Terps are reaching for the stars.

They are reaching for something special.