Mid-American Conference - 12 Players to Watch in 2013

Northern Illinois quarterback, Jordan
Lynch is looking to have another great
season as a senior.
Picture Courtesy: ESPN.com

1. Jordan Lynch, QB, Northern Illinois: Who can easily forget the memorable junior season from Jordan Lynch last season? Not only did he total for nearly 5,000 yards of total offense, but he led the Huskies to the Discover Orange Bowl, the first BCS bowl game in Mid-American Conference history. Lynch alone rushed for 1,815 yards, setting a new FBS single season record by a quarterback. However, that was only Lynch's junior season. This year, Lynch is a senior with raised expectations. After finishing seventh in Heisman voting last season (which I felt should have been higher), he'll be looking for more success this season in DeKalb with his teammates growing older around him. As if Lynch isn't a big enough weapon alone, the Huskies also return the two top wide receivers from their stellar season last year in Martel Moore and Tommylee Lewis. Look for even more success this season for last year's MAC MVP. 
2. David Fluellen, RB, Toledo: A 1,500 yard rushing season as a junior along with thirteen rushing touchdowns made Toledo running back, David Fluellen an All-MAC First-Team selection last season. This year, the Rockets may lean on Fluellen once again. Obviously, the Toledo up-tempo offense is difficult for defenses to defend, especially when you spread four wide receivers wide and hand the ball to Fluellen, who has the ability to hit the hole with speed. Fluellen was also a threat in the passing game, catching 32 passes for 246 yards. Despite the receiving success, Fluellen averaged 5.8 yards a carry last season which made short third downs an easy decision for the Rocket coaching staff. Recently, Fluellen was named to the Doak Walker preseason watch list, and he won't disappoint that selection, look for a tremendous season for the Toledo runnig back.
3. Dri Archer, RB, Kent State: A true all-around star is the first thing you think about when it comes to Golden Flashes running back, Dri Archer. He'll make impacts in the rushing game unlike many can as shown by his 1,429 yard rushing season as a junior last year. Other than the run game, Archer is a tremendous threat out of the backfield, he recorded 561 yards on 39 receptions and four touchdowns a season ago. This year, the sky is the limit for this Kent State running back, he's elusive and a speed threat and he's also had another year to grow and get stronger. Watch for big things from Archer in the Golden Flashes uniform for the final season.
4. Bernard Reedy, WR, Toledo: The reason I have Reedy on this list is due to the fact that he is on

   

   Toledo wide receiver, Bernard Reedy should find the
   endzone several times this season as a senior.
   Picture Courtesy: Baynews9.com

   pace for a breakout season. With fellow senior, Terrance Owens returning at quarterback, this duo will find the endzone several times this year. Last season, Reedy was named to the All-MAC offense first team after a season which he totaled 89 receptions, 1,105 yards, and six touchdowns. The reason why Reedy is so impactful is because the Rockets have yet to find wide receivers number three and four. Reedy and Alonzo Russell have been a great duo together in the receiving core, but other than those two, there is not much to report. Owens and Reedy will be hooking up several times this season, so watch for Reedy to find the endzone several times during his senior campaign. 
5. Khalil Mack, LB, Buffalo: What a season last season for Mack. Not only did he rack up 90 total tackles, but he also recorded eight sacks and was a bright spot for the dim Buffalo Bulls program. This season, Mack is on the Lombardi, Butkus, Nagurski, and Bednarik award watch lists. Mack is a dominating presence who has been anchoring the Bulls linebacking core for the past three seasons. Mack made an impact during his freshman, sophomore, and junior seasons. However, this season the spotlight is on for Mack to really build a name for himself at the next level.
6. Keith Wenning, QB, Ball State: A player on the 2013 Maxwell watch list is Ball State quarterback, Keith Wenning. Wenning has proved that he can carry the work load for the Cardinals, after all he has started 33 straight games. After attempting 71 passes last season against Northern Illinois, you could tell the coaches trusted him completely. With returning weapons at wide receiver, I expect even bigger things from Wenning during his senior campaign. After throwing for 3,095 yards along with 24 touchdowns last season, he was named to the All-MAC second team. Despite the excellent season last year, Wenning had the spotlight stole from him by Jordan Lynch, who was well deserving. However, this season Wenning will need to outperform Lynch if he wants more national attention.
7. Willie Snead, WR, Ball State: A stellar sophomore season for Willie Snead gained him national attention a season ago. Last season, Snead made a name for himself after totaling 89 passes for 1,148 yards. Not only that, but Snead was tied for first in the nation with 58 players of 10 yards or more. Now, Snead is looking to build off of that for his junior season. Not only is Snead returning, but his quarterback is as well. Ball State returns quarterback Keith Wenning, who was one of the top quarterbacks in the conference last season, which can only help the outlook for Snead this season.
8. Zurlon Tipton, RB, Central Michigan: As I've said before, I don't base this list off of what these players did last season, this is for the upcoming 2013 season. With that being said, there is no limit for Zurlon Tipton of Central Michigan this season. Last season, with Ryan Radcliff as the starting quarterback, Tipton rushed for 1,492 yards. This season, there is a quarterback controversy in Mount Pleasant. With that, expect Zurlon to carry the load, that means big time numbers from him once again. Tipton is a senior this year, and one of the only offensive skilled position seniors, which means even more carries and more leadership upon his shoulder. Expect at least a 1,500 yard season and several All-MAC awards coming his way at season's end.
9. BooBoo Gates, DB, Bowling Green: Last season was a solid season for Gates, who anchored the 

   

   Bowling Green defensive back, BooBoo Gates will be
    a top defender in the Mid-American Conference this year.
   Picture Courtesy: ToledoBlade.com

   Bowling Green defense. However, this season I fully expect him to be in the running for MAC Defensive Player of the Year. During Gates' junior season he totaled 41 tackles and two interceptions, just two stats that should be greatly on the rise this season, that is if MAC offenses even want to throw his way.
10. Justin Cherocci, LB, Central Michigan: This confuses me. Explain to be how a guy who records 132 total tackles as a sophomore doesn't make an All-MAC defensive team and only gets named to the 2013 All-MAC defensive third team watch list? No. That's a joke! Justin Cherocci is a beast, he reads plays like very few can in the Mid-American Conference. Cherocci was fifth in the MAC with his 132 tackles and ranked 19th nationally, but can't even get mentioned as a top player in the conference? Well here it is, I'll be the one to give Cherocci some love. Not only did he record triple digits in tackles, but he had eight games this season in which he recorded double digits in the tackle column. This season, as only a junior, look for him to emerge as one of the top linebackers in the conference as a truly underestimated player.
11. Tyler Tettleton, QB, Ohio: The reason why Tettleton is on this list and not other great MAC 
    quarterbacks? The pass proficiency. 18 touchdowns versus four interceptions, that stat really stands out. Tettleton takes care of the ball, while being extremely productive for the Bobcats. Tettleton was hiden behind three MAC quarterbacks last season in Jordan Lynch, Keith Wenning, and Zac Dysert of Miami. However, this season, that will change. Tettleton threw for 2,844 yards last season with the 18 touchdowns that I mentioned, and now is a redshirt senior who is looking for some of the MAC spotlight. Ohio will be a dangerous team in the Mid-American Conference, and guess who the leader of the Bobcats is? That's right, none other than Tyler Tettleton.
12. Gabe Martin, LB, Bowling Green: Originally, I wanted the list down to ten, however, it's hard to leave a player like Gabe Martin off of the list. The reason you see Martin's name on this list isn't because of last year's production. It's because of the production he can have this season. Martin had a good redshirt sophomore season recording a team-high 70 tackles, 8.5 tackles for a loss, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. Along with BooBoo Gates, the Bowling Green defense had a great season last year, but looks to become even better this season. Martin has a talent to get into the backfield and blow plays up, which is why I fully expect him to improve off of his All-MAC defensive first team season a year ago.

Questions? Comments? Contact me on Twitter: @ZHarig23

Toledo Rockets Season Preview 2013

Head Coach: Matt Campbell (10-4 in one season)
2012 Record: 9-4 (6-2 in Mid-American Conference, second in the MAC West division)
Offensive Starters Returning: 9
Offensive Starters Lost: 2
Defensive Starters Returning: 4
Defensive Starters Lost: 7
Lost Leadership: LB Dan Molls, LB Rober
t Bell, S Mark Singer, S Jermaine Robinson
Key Returnees: QB Terrance Owens, RB David Fluellen, WR Bernard Reedy, WR Alonzo Russell, DB Cheatham Norrils, DB Junior Sylvestre, LB Trent Voss, DL Jayrone Elliott

What They're Saying: USA Today has ranked the Toledo Rockets as the 44th best team in the FBS in their 2013 preseason rankings.

The Toledo Rockets will have a difficult non-conference
schedule, opening at Florida and Missouri.
Picture Courtesy: UTRockets.com

Last Season's Summary: A 9-4 overall record last season was highlighted by a monumental victory on October 20 against the 21st-ranked Cincinnati Bearcats. Despite the prestigious victory, the Rockets still lost two of the bigger conference games on their schedule to Ball State and Northern Illinois, each by a touchdown. The Rockets would ultimately finish behind Northern Illinois for the third consecutive season as the Huskies headed to a BCS bowl game. Despite the two loses, the Rockets would still find themselves in the Idaho Potato Bowl against Utah State. Rarely will you see a Matt Campbell coached offense only put up fifteen points, but that's exactly what the Rockets did in the bowl game, losing 41-15 to the Aggies to finish the season.

Last Season's Team Statistics: (Source: NCAA.com)
Total Offense: 446 yards per game, 31st Nationally, 3rd in Mid-American Conference
Passing Yards: 252 per game, 48th Nationally, 5th in Mid-American Conference
Rushing Yards: 193 per game, 35th Nationally, 4th in Mid-American Conference
Red Zone Defense: Opponent Red Zone percentage: 69%, 11th Nationally, 2nd in Mid-American Conference

2013 Offensive Outlook:

You can't spell TOLEDO without the T and the O. Terrance
Owens should have a tremendous season for Rockets once
again.

Strengths: You can't look at the Toledo offense without noticing they'll have nine returning offensive players,  and bring back many skilled position players. Among those returning, are three seniors who all had breakout junior seasons. Quarterback Terrance Owens will return after a junior season which included passing for 2,700 yards and 14 touchdowns. Along with Owens, running back David Fluellen also returns. After rushing for nearly 1,500 yards and 13 touchdowns last season, he was named to the Doak Walker preseason watch list. As if those two returnees aren't enough, Toledo also brings back their number one wide receiver, Bernard Reedy. Reedy recorded 88 receptions for 1,100 yards and 6 touchdowns during his junior campaign, and you can
only expect that number to rise this season. Toledo head coach, Matt Campbell has been known for his explosive offenses during his time both as the Rockets offensive coordinator and his one season at the helm, and expect this season to be no different. Not many teams can say that they have three senior starters at all three offensive skilled positions, but it's something the Rockets can say. Look for Fluellen to be a huge factor in Campbell's spread offense once again, but Terrance Owens is also poised for a breakout season if Reedy can remain healthy and if the Rockets can find more weapons behind him at wide out.

Weakness: The Toledo Rockets struggled to find wide receiver depth behind Bernard Reedy and Alonzo Russell last season. Reedy and Russell combined for a bit over 2,000 receiving yards during the 2012 campaign, which is over two-thirds of the Rockets passing total. Other than Reedy and Russell, the Rockets tried several other receivers such as Justin Olack, Cassisus McDowell, and Dwight Macon, who all struggled to get consistent receptions. With the Toledo offense featuring four wide receivers in several offensive sets, the Rockets will need to find at least a third productive receiver, and Justin Olack could be that guy. Olack made nineteen catches for 260 yards last season, but needs to be more consistent this season. If the Rockets get Olack going, it will just add another weapon to Terrance Owens' disposal, which could be lethal to MAC defenses.

2013 Defensive Outlook:

Toledo defensive end, Christian Smith is
looking for a productive senior season.

Strengths: With only four returning starters, the Rockets need to fill some holes on defense. However, a lot of productivity will return on the defensive line. Among the returning players is defensive tackle, Elijah Jones. Jones was a consistent run stopper on the Toledo defense last season, recording 31 tackles in the thirteen games. Along with Jones on the defensive line, is one of the defensive leaders on the 2013 squad, Christian Smith. Despite the large expectations for Smith, he is coming off of a knee injury which kept him out during the final eight games of the 2012 season. However, if he can stay healthy this season, Smith can provide the pass rushing defensive end that the Rockets need. Despite Smith getting most of the attention at defensive end, opposing offenses won't be able to relax on the other side of the defensive line either. Despite a lackadaisical 2012 campaign, Jayrone Elliot will return on the other side of the defensive line. Elliot has a chance to be extremely productive in his senior season, a chance to improve off of the 18 tackles and six sacks that he recorded last season.

Weakness: Look at all of those question marks in the secondary and at linebacker. The Rockets are going to have some problems filling the experience and production need gfrom last season, specially at linebacker. Last season's Rocket linebacking core were led by Dan Molls and Robert Bell, who are both trying to make NFL rosters right now. This season, sophomore Trent Voss will be leaned upon. Voss had a productive freshman season at Toledo after recording 13 tackles against Coastal Carolina and 12 tackles against Akron. However, what about around Voss? Dawalyn Harper will be seeing the field a lot more this season, if he doesn't find himself in a starters role, despite not playing often last season. Inexperience could be an issue with the Rockets defense this upcoming season, especially with the added expectation and leadership placed on sophomore linebacker, Trent Voss.

Bottom Line: It should be a great year for the Toledo Rockets. The returning offensive lightning will be crucial due to the inexperienced defense. The object of the game: score more than the other team, and Toledo's offense will be great at doing that with Owens, Fluellen, and Reedy returning. On defense, look for Trent Voss to breakout and hope for a productive year from the seniors on the defensive line. The secondary will be under a lot of stress, as they typically are in the Mid-American Conference. Jordan Haden will also be leaned upon in the defensive backfield and we'll see his leadership grow throughout the season. Toledo is a serious MAC contender this season, and November 20th against the Northern Illinois Huskies may just decide the MAC West again this season, as it typically does. Also, I'm a serious believer in the Rockets against the Florida Gators in week one, it'll be a closer game than most expect.

Schedule/My Predictions:

August 31 - @ Florida - L 31-45

September 7 - @ Missouri - W 34-27

September 14 - Eastern Washington - W 48-21

September 21 - @ Central Michigan - W 38-31

September 28 - @ Ball State - W 31-24

October 5 - Western Michigan - W 38-24

October 19 - Navy - W 31-17

October 26 - @ Bowling Green - W 38-35

November 2 - Eastern Michigan - W 45-14

November 12 - Buffalo - W 38-20

November 20 - Northern Illinois - L 24-38

November 29 - @ Akron - W 35-24

Overall: 10-2 MAC: 7-1

Central Michigan Football Season Preview 2013

Head Coach: Dan Enos (13-24 in three seasons)

2012 Record: 7-6 (4-4 in Mid-American Conference, fourth in the MAC West division)

Offensive Starters Returning: 7

Offensive Starters Lost: 4

Defensive Starters Returning: 7

Defensive Starters Lost: 4

Lost Leadership: QB Ryan Radcliff, WR Cody Wilson, S Jahleel Addae, DL Caesar Rodriguez, DL Joe Kinville, LT Eric Fisher, RG                                                             Darren Keyton, RT Mike Repovz, CB Lorenzo White

Key Returnees: RB Zurlon Tipton, WR Titus Davis, WR Courtney Williams, LB Justin Cherocci, LB Shamari Benton, DT Jabari Dean, S Avery Cunningham, S Kavon Frazier

Last season's summary: It was an inconsistent year last season for the Central Michigan Chippewas. However, a three game win streak at the end of the season would make the Chips bowl-eligible, and would ultimately give them a Little Caesars Pizza Bowl birth. A 24-21 victory in that game against Western Kentucky would add some cold water to the hot seat of head coach, Dan Enos. After going 3-9 in his first two seasons in Mount Pleasant, Enos now has a bowl victory under his belt, along with a 7-6 winning season. Despite the winning season, you have to think Central Michigan fans are still expecting more for Enos and the Chips, especially a victory over their rival, the Western Michigan Broncos.

2013 Offensive Outlook:

Central Michigan senior running back, Zurlon Tipton
will be heavily leaned upon this season.
Picture Courtesy: cmuchippewas.com

Strength: The Chippewas running game should be extremely strong this season, with returning running back, Zurlon Tipton. Tipton was nearly a 1,500 yard rusher last season, but really didn't get the ball as much as he should have. However, this upcoming season, without a quarterback like Ryan Radcliff to carry the team, expect Tipton to get several more carries. As long as the Chippewas offensive line can be productive in front of Zurlon, expect him to have another very explosive season in Mount Pleasant. 

Weaknesses: With Ryan Radcliff graduated, Central Michigan is looking to replace a 3,100 yard passer. Replacing Radcliff may not be the biggest issue that the Chippewas need to face, however, especially with a very productive wide receiver unit with Titus Davis, Courtney Williams, and young stud, Andrew Flory. If Cody Kater replaces Radcliff as the starting quarterback, don't expect an easy transition. Kater is a junior this season, but have extremely minimal experience at the college level. Last season, Kater threw a total of four passes, completing two of them. Despite Kater's inexperience, keep in mind he won't need to carry the entire offense. Kater has the luxury of handing the ball off to one of the top running backs in the Mid-American Conference in Zurlon Tipton. Along with Tipton, Kater will have several productive wide receivers to throw the ball to. I expect a few issues at the quarterback position for Central, especially with the tough opening game at the Big House to face the Michigan Wolverines, but if Kater gets comfortable, he has the weapons around him to make the Chippewas one of the MAC's most explosive offenses.

2013 Defensive Outlook: 

Central Michigan linebacker, Justin Cherocci will look
to build off of a very productive season as a sophomore.
Picture Courtesy: zimbio.com

Strength: The strength of the Chippewa defense has to be the linebacking core. Led by Justin Cherocci and Shamari Benton, the CMU linebackers are some of the best in the MAC. Cherocci and Benton were one of the top linebacker duos in the MAC last season, combining for 256 tackles. Along with the tackles, comes the veteran leadership of Cherocci and Benton. Cherocci was an All-MAC third team performer last season as a sophomore, and ranked 19th nationally in tackles with 132. Along side of him, Shamari Benton who ranked 24th nationally with 126 tackles, and was named Little Caesars Pizza Bowl lineman of the game. Also, during five games last season, Benton recorded double digits in tackles. This season, both players are coming back with a bowl win under their belt, and there is no ceiling on what this duo can do together this season.

Weakness: The defensive weaknesses for the Chips this season are at the cornerback position along with the leadership questions. Losing Lorenzo White and Jahleel Addae to graduation is a big blow to the secondary as a whole, especially in Addae's case. Jahleel Addae led the team last year in interceptions with four. Addae's four interceptions wouldn't be as big of a deal if the team had more than just thirteen during their thirteen game season. Now, it's up to Avery Cunningham and sophomore, Kavon Frazier to step up at the safety positions. Cunningham had 88 tackles and two interceptions playing along side of Addae last season at safety. Frazier on the other hand, was in sparingly at the safety position. Despite the lack of time Frazier received at safety, he still made quite an impact. As a true freshman, Frazier recorded 36 tackles and an interception against Eastern Michigan which he returned 49 yards for a touchdown to help lead the Chippewas to a bowl bid. The safety positions shouldn't be an issue for the Chips this season, but the cornerback spot will be. Jarret Chapman and Jason Wilson should be the main corners once again this season, but both of them were shut out of the interception category last season. Cornerbacks who can't force turnovers and interceptions become crucial in close games when you need that playmaker in your secondary. Truthfully, this may not be as big of an issue as it's made out to be, but it is nearly the only slight weakness that I see in this Central defense this upcoming season.

Bottom Line: It should be a pretty decent year for the Central Michigan Chippewas if they can find their signal caller at quarterback. With playmakers returning such as Zurlon Tipton, Titus Davis, and Courtney Williams on offense, and tremendous linebacker play once again this season, the Chips should be able to duplicate or even improve on last season's seven wins. If the Chippewas are only able to win five or six games this season, they'll at least hope for one of their victories to come on November 16 at Western Michigan.

Schedule/My Predictions:

August 31 - @ Michigan - L 17-45

September 7 - New Hampshire - W 34-14

September 14 - @ UNLV - W 35-24

September 21 - Toledo - L 21-38

September 28 - @ NC State - L 17-31

October 5 - @ Miami (Ohio) - W 31-24

October 12 - Ohio - L 20-35

October 19 - Northern Illinois - L 35-38

November 6 - @ Ball State - W 28-24

November 16 - @ Western Michigan - W 35-34

November 23 - UMass - W 38-14

November 29 - Eastern Michigan - W 45-17

My Predictions: 7-5 (5-3 Mid-American Conference)

Signings of Billups and Bynum Create A Crowded Pistons Backcourt

DETROIT, Mich. -- It was just a few days ago that we all wondered what the Pistons were going to do at the point guard position. Today we found that answer when the team signed free agent, Chauncey Billups. That's right, Mr. Big Shot Billups is back in Detroit. Joe Dumars signed Billups to a two-year contract worth $5 million. Along with Billups, the Pistons also brought backup point guard, Will Bynum back with a two-year contract worth $6 million.

Thursday's news of Chauncey Billups signing with the
Pistons came as a shock to most Pistons fans.
Picture Courtesy: 2ksports.com

Sure, these signings answered some of our questions about the point guard position, but now there are even more questions about the Detroit guards. Prior to these signings, Brandon Knight was projected to start at point guard, but now? There is a lot of debate whether Knight will remain at point guard or change back to his better position at shooting guard. Along with that question comes the question of what the team does with Rodney Stuckey. Stuckey's large contract presents a lot of problems for Joe Dumars and the Pistons because teams won't be willing to take on his large salary. 

A few weeks ago with the 56th overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, the Pistons selected Louisville point guard, Peyton Siva. Now what? Siva has looked great thus far in the Pistons summer league, including nine assists and seven steals during a 78-77 win over the Miami Heat on Thursday. However, will there be room on the roster for Siva? Some say no. With Knight, Bynum, and Billups all getting time at point guard, Siva won't get many minutes if he makes the big club. Since Kim English is having a rough summer on the court and with the added depth at the guard spots, I don't expect English to make the squad.

With English off the squad as I expect, one more player will need to be cut. The candidates to be cut for me would be Khris Middleton or Peyton Siva, which will be interesting to see how it turns out. Middleton played well as a role player late in the season last year, but is more of a small forward than a guard. 

My solution for this? Trade Rodney Stuckey! We all know he doesn't enjoy playing in Detroit, and he seems to have a problem with head coaches in Detroit as well. However, the issue with that is Stuckey is due $8.5 million over this upcoming season, the final year of his contract. Not many teams would be willing to take on nearly $9 million for a player who averaged 11.5 points and 3.6 assists last season. Without suitable trade partners, it looks as if Siva won't make the Pistons roster, which is a shame due to how great he is looking over the summer.

Questions or comments on this article? Contact me on Twitter: @ZHarig23

Josh Smith Signing A Bad Decision for the Detroit Pistons?

Josh Smith may have been a star in Atlanta, but in
Detroit? Only time will tell.
Picture Courtesy: Bleacher Report

DETROIT, Mich. -- One of the most targeted free agents this off-season has found a home in Detroit. Free agent forward, Josh Smith has agreed to a four-year, $56 million deal to become the new face of the Pistons rebuilt franchise. Despite most Pistons fans being happy about the acquisition on Saturday, it may not have been the signing that Detroit is looking for.

Before digging into the possible cons of the signing, let's get the facts straight. Smith will add tremendous size to Detroit lineup which already features Greg Monroe and Andre Drummond. Along with Smith's size, he is also one of the best defenders in the league. Smith was the NBA's youngest player to get to 100 career blocks, and also won the NBA's defensive player of the year award following the 2007-08 season. Smith will add a tremendous presence on defense for this team, but the offensive end is where most of the issues will be presented.

Smith's size is a great asset on defense, but on offense? This couldn't be a worse signing from an offensive standpoint. Smith's 6-foot, 9-inch frame is something that will clog up the court on offense. With the Detroit big men, Greg Monroe and Andre Drummond down low, they'll need room to operate, which is something Smith won't allow. Smith is an awful jump shooter, but plays well in the post, just like Monroe and Drummond. The interior of the Pistons offense will end up extremely clogged and not allow much room for the big men to operate. With Josh Smith starting at small forward, he'll be stuck playing on the perimeter, which is a location that Smith is not used to. Smith dominates in the post, but playing small forward, he won't be placed there often.

Another issue with the three post players in the starting lineup is the lack of sharp shooters in the back court. Brandon Knight and Rodney Stuckey are projected to be the starting guards, and both are not known as knockdown shooters. Stuckey has been rumored to be traded a few times this off-season, but there is a chance of him remaining in Detroit. With Smith, Monroe, and Drummond down low and a lack of shooters on the perimeter, defenses will be allowed to collapse on the interior and shut down the post play. Unless Detroit makes one more acquisition for a shooter, the offense may become a logjam on the inside.

Nonetheless, Josh Smith should be a decent acquisition. However, $56 million may be overpaying for a player of Smith's ability. Smith does not fit well in Detroit's system, but Joe Dumars needed to overpay for Smith due to missing out on a target like Andre Iguodala, who would have fit better in Detroit. With all the cap room the Pistons had left to spend, the pressure was on Dumars to sign that star, which is what he found in Smith, but sacrificed a player that fits in the system. On the bright side, Smith will just add to one of the most young and dangerous front courts in the Eastern Conference. This dangerous front court should place fear in teams playing Detroit once again for the first time since the Ben and Rasheed Wallace tandem during the 2004 Championship run.




Questions or comments on this article? Contact me on Twitter: @ZHarig23

Detroit Pistons Off-Season Storylines

Josh Smith has been one of the most targeted
free agents this off-season, and the Pistons
have been one of the most active teams
pursuing him.
Picture Courtesy: USA Today

COACHING CHANGE - It's no secret that the Detroit Pistons needed a change. Coming off of a 29-53 season, the city of Detroit were looking for change. SOME of that change came with the firing of head coach, Lawrence Frank. After hiring Maurice Cheeks as Frank's replacement just a few weeks later, it became time to focus on the NBA Draft.

NBA DRAFT - Detroit waited patiently at eighth overall, unaware of what would happen ahead of them during the first seven picks. However, when the eighth overall pick arrived, there were several tremendous players remaining on the board. Aware of the need for a small forward or a true point guard, several people expected the pick to be Michigan point guard, Trey Burke. However, that's not where Joe Dumars chose to go. Instead, it was Georgia shooting guard, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. After selecting Caldwell-Pope, speculation started to arise with questions of Brandon Knight's future.

BRANDON KNIGHT'S FUTURE - Former 8th overall pick, Brandon Knight was said to be the shooting guard of the future in Detroit, according to team president, Joe Dumars. However, the team decided to draft a shooting guard in this year's draft, leaving questions about the 22 year-old guard. According to team sources, Brandon Knight is currently the team's starting point guard, unless they make more acquisitions. Jose Calderon started at point guard last season in Detroit, but all indications are that he'll be moved before the start of the season.

JOSE CALDERON'S FUTURE - Today's news of Dwight Howard signing with the Houston Rockets has more effect on Detroit than you may think. It has been reported several times that Howard would love to play with Calderon, and that it may be an under-the-table agreement between Howard and the Rockets front office. If Calderon is traded to the Rockets, the Pistons could end up with point guard, Jeremy Lin in return. I expect Calderon to be moved to Houston, but the returning player(s) are up in the air.

OFF-SEASON TARGETS - Former Nuggets forward, Andre Iguodala was a heavily targeted free agent for the Detroit Pistons this off-season, which made the news of his signing with Golden State hurt that much more. Iguodala agreed to terms on a four-year, $48 million deal with the Warriors, which should lead to a more aggressive hunt for Josh Smith in Detroit. Smith is a quiet star in the NBA and averaged 17.5 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 4.2 assists last season with the Atlanta Hawks. Smith met with the Detroit Pistons for five hours when free agency began, and has shown interest in the Pistons. However, if Detroit were to bring in Josh Smith, the team would be limited from making anymore off-season trades and signings. Another big option for the Pistons organization is Raptors forward, Rudy Gay. Gay has quietly become a star as well in the NBA. While targeting Josh Smith and Andre Iguodala, the Pistons also made a trade offer to Toronto for Rudy Gay. The Pistons reportedly offered the expiring contracts of Rodney Stuckey and Charlie Villanueva, which was promptly declined. The Raptors have said that Gay and his $35 million salary over the next two seasons will be available, but for the right price. Another big time possible acquisition for the Pistons would be Celtics point guard, Rajon Rondo. After the Boston Celtics traded Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce to the Brooklyn Nets, the Pistons immediately got on the phone and made their interest in Rondo known. Boston would be unlikely to give up the 27 year-old Rondo due to his manageable $11 million salary and young age. However, if the Pistons were to sign Josh Smith, either Greg Monroe or Andre Drummond could become available in a trade due to the need for a point guard.

BOTTOM LINE - Detroit is being proactive this off-season, which is definitely something to get excited about if you're a Detroit Pistons fan. Even though I disagree with the draft pick of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, if they can place a star like Rudy Gay, Josh Smith, or Rajon Rondo next to the dangerous duo of Andre Drummond and Greg Monroe, the Pistons should be able to contend for a seven or eight seed in the Eastern Conference, something that they haven't been able to do for several seasons. However, let's not put the wagon in front of the horse, the deals still need to be made. The holes at point guard and small forward are still as large as any in the NBA right now.




Have questions or comments on this article? Contact me on Twitter: @ZHarig23

Red Wings select Canadian Forward, Anthony Mantha with 20th Overall Pick

When the Red Wings made their first round selection, they
chose Anthony Mantha, an 18-year old Canadian phenom.

The Red Wings were set to make their selection at 18th overall in the 2013 NHL Draft until the San Jose Sharks came calling. San Jose offered the Red Wings the 20th and 58th overall picks to move up two picks, it was an easy decision for Greg Holland and the Red Wings front office.

However, when Detroit was actually on the clock two picks later, they opted to go with 18-year old, Anthony Mantha. Mantha is a Canadian phenom who scored 50 goals in 89 games played last season with Val d'Or Foreurs in Quebec. Along with the 50 goals, Mantha also recorded 39 assists, making him an obvious first round selection in this years draft.

Mantha seems extremely excited to begin his career with the Red Wings, "My grandfather played for Detroit, it's a great city and a great organization. Mantha's grandfather is Andre Pronovost, who played 556 games in the NHL during his eleven year career, including winning the Stanley Cup in each of his first four seasons with the Montreal Canadians. Mantha also credits his grandfather for getting him interested in hockey, "He gives me a lot of advice, but it's mainly to remind me to work hard every game, every shift," said Mantha.

The Grand Rapids Griffins Win The 2013 Calder Cup

After a loss in Game 5 of the Calder Cup Finals, the Griffins had to head to
Syracuse to retrieve the trophy in Game 6.
Picture Courtesy: WZZM 13 Dan Harland

SYRACUSE, NY -- It has been a long ride for the Grand Rapids Griffins this postseason. However, this season will have a fairy tale ending after the Griffins defeated the Syracuse Crunch 4-2 in Game 6 of the Calder Cup Finals on Tuesday night. After a deflating Game 5 loss at Van Andel Arena on Saturday night, the Griffins needed to travel to Syracuse to wrap up their first ever Calder Cup trophy, and they did just that.

The Syracuse Crunch drew first blood after Richard Panik scored past an out-of-position Petr Mrazek. However, the Griffins came right back and scored two straight in the second period when Mitch Callahan and Calder Cup MVP Tomas Tatar each scored. Just five minutes into the third period, Andrej Sustr tied the game at 2-2. However, the Griffins wouldn't look back after that. Just minutes later, the unlikely postseason story of Griffins' defenseman, Brennan Evans continued with his second goal of the playoffs after not scoring in the regular season. His goal came on assists from Mitch Callahan and Riley Sheahan, and would give the Griffins the 3-2 lead with ten minutes remaining. Finally, with under a minute remaining, Tomas Tatar and Joakim Andersson would each add empty net goals to seal the deal and bring the Calder Cup trophy to Grand Rapids for the first time in franchise history.

Despite many long and gruesome series' this postseason, the Griffins were able to finish the job in the Calder Cup Finals. Many people doubted whether or not the Griffins could remain fresh for the Calder Cup Finals after their long postseason. The Grand Rapids playoff run included a five game series with Houston in the first round, a six game series with Toronto in the Western Conference semifinals, and a seven game series with the Oklahoma City Barons in the Western Conference Finals, a playoff journey much longer lived than that of the Syracuse Crunch.

Grand Rapids Defeats Syracuse 3-1 in Game One of the Calder Cup Finals

The Griffins were able to take Game 1 of the Calder  Cup Finals
from the Syracuse Crunch on Saturday night.
Photo Courtesy: Grand Rapids Griffins Facebook Page

SYRACUSE, NY -- The hunt has officially began for the Calder Cup trophy. The Grand Rapids Griffins and Syracuse Crunch began game one on Saturday night from complete opposite postseason backgrounds. The Crunch have cruised to victories in their journey to the cup, going 11-1 this postseason. The Griffins, however, have gone deep in each series thus far in the postseason, including winning a seven game series in the Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Barons on Wednesday night. Immediately after the Game Seven victory, the Griffins began their travel to Syracuse for tonight's beginning of the Calder Cup Finals.

Mitch Callahan drew first blood for Grand Rapids just seven minutes into the first period after nice passes from Griffins defense men Chad Billins and Brennan Evans. The defense would then take over for the next two periods until Riley Sheahan rifled a shot past Crunch goaltender, Cedrick Desjardins to make it 2-0 Griffins with eight minutes remaining in the third period.

However, Syracuse would rally late when Jean-Philippe Cote beat Griffins goalie Petr Mrazek to put the Crunch on the board, 2-1 with under seven minutes remaining. Cote's goal would shift momentum in Syracuse's favor late in the third period. However, the Crunch could not get the puck past Petr Mrazek, who was back in his zone. With fourteen seconds remaining, Gustav Nyquist would add an empty net goal to make the final score 3-1 Griffins.

Despite being outshot 28-20 by Syracuse, the Griffins were able to pull out the Game one victory which will give Grand Rapids the momentum heading into game two on Sunday at 6 pm. Following tomorrow night's game two, the series will head back to Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids for games three, four, and five.




Questions or Comments? Contact me on Twitter: @ZHarig23

Griffins Advance to First Calder Cup Final

The Grand Rapids Griffins celebrate their 5-4 victory over
the Oklahoma City Barons with the home crowd at Van
Andel Arena on Wednesday night.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- For the first time in its twelve year history in the AHL, the Grand Rapids Griffins will move on to play for the Calder Cup trophy. After a dramatic late loss to Oklahoma City in Game 6, many people questioned how the Griffins would play tonight in Game 7. However, a redirect by Jan Mursak put the Griffins on the board just a minute into the game to kick start the offense. The game would go back-and-forth in the first period, sending the teams into the first intermission deadlocked at 2-2.

After each team added a goal, the Griffins went into second intermission with a 3-3 tie. Twenty minutes was all that stood between the Griffins and a chance to take home the Calder Cup trophy. However, early in the third period, Taylor Fedun put the Barons back in front, 4-3. Five minutes later, however, Grand Rapids found the game-tying goal they needed when Jan Mursak rifled the puck over the shoulder of Yann Danis to tie the game at 4-4. However, following Mursak's goal, the goaltenders seemed to find their zone. That is until Tomas Jurco put a few moves on the Barons defense and whistled one by Danis to give the Griffins a 5-4 lead with 6:12 remaining in the game. The Barons would pull Danis with 53 seconds remaining, but couldn't get anything by Mrazek in the final minutes.

Following the Griffins 5-4 victory, the Griffins will advance to play the Syracuse Crunch in their first ever Calder Cup Finals. Games one and two will be held in Syracuse this Saturday and Sunday. Following those two games in Syracuse, the series will head back to Van Andel Arena for games three, four and five (if necessary). Tickets for the Calder Cup Finals will go on sale at 10 a.m. on Thursday morning and can be bought through any Star Tickets location or through griffinshockey.com .

Griffins Shutout Barons in Game 5, Look to Advance to First Ever Calder Cup Finals

Van Andel Arena will play host to Game 6 on Tuesday night
as the Griffins look to advance to their first ever Calder Cup
Finals.

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Red Wings loss in Game 7 of the Western Conference Semifinals may have been a blessing in disguise for the Grand Rapids Griffins. Following the loss, Detroit sent forwards Gustav Nyquist and Joakim Andersson back down to Grand Rapids along with goalie Jordan Pearce. Nyquist and Andersson each had a tremendous impact during the Red Wings playoff run, and are now helping the Griffins in the playoffs as well, each recording a point in the Game Four victory of the Western Conference Finals.

Despite the great performance by those two in Game Four, Petr Mrazek stole the show, stopping all 40 shots faced on Saturday night. After evening the series, the Griffins wanted to take a 3-2 series lead back to Grand Rapids, and they did just that in Game Five. Mrazek picked up right where he left off, shutting out the Barons once again on Sunday night, giving the Griffins the 3-2 series lead that they were searching for. The Griffins got three goals from Tomas Jurco, Mitch Callahan, and Tomas Tatar in a mater of five minutes late in the second period to give them the 3-0 victory. Now, the series will move back to Grand Rapids for Game Six on Tuesday night and Game Seven on Wednesday, if it's necessary.

Following the back-to-back shutouts in Oklahoma City, Griffins goalie Petr Mrazek now has four postseason shutouts during this year's playoffs. If you find that impressive, you'll love the fact that Mrazek has also stopped 100 consecutive shots and has a 161 minute scoreless streak, which isn't even his longest of the playoffs. The Griffins will now look to advance to their first ever Calder Cup Final with a victory on Tuesday or Wednesday night in Grand Rapids.




Thoughts, Questions, or Comments? Let me know on Twitter! @ZHarig23

Oklahoma City Barons Providing Hope After Devastating Tornado

OKLAHOMA CITY -- How do you recover from something that destroys an entire community? It's a question that residents of Moore, Oklahoma are asking themselves after a F5 tornado ripped through their suburb on May 20. One of the things providing strength for the city is the Oklahoma City Barons, the AHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers. With the Oklahoma City Thunder eliminated from the NBA playoffs, the small hockey team is what the city will look to for hope. The Barons took a 2-1 series lead over the Grand Rapids Griffins in the AHL Western Conference Finals after a 4-1 victory in Game 3 on Wednesday. Oklahoma City will also have back-to-back home games on Friday and Saturday night for Games 4 and 5, in which residents of the areas effected by the twister can get into for free with proof of residency.

After a F5 tornado ripped through nearby Moore, Oklahoma, the Oklahoma
City Barons are assisting the community both financially and spiritually.
Photo Courtesy: Yahoo!

Despite the series lead in the Western Conference Finals, the big news may be what the Barons are doing off of the ice for the community. Following the tornado, the AHL announced that they would donate all ticket revenue back to the community through the United Way's Oklahoma relief fund. Before Game 3 of the AHL Western Conference Finals in Oklahoma City on Wednesday night, the Barons placed 26 candles on the ice, one for each life claimed from the devastating twister. T-Shirts will also be available for purchase to go towards relief efforts in the community for a minimum $10 donation.

Despite the Oklahoma City community coming together, other areas have also greatly contributed. One of these companies is Meijer stores, located in Grand Rapids, MI who presented the Oklahoma City Barons with $50,000 before Game 2 in Grand Rapids.

Apart from the financial help, this team has the entire Oklahoma City community behind it. Sports are a way to distract people from tragic events, especially during playoff time. It may not be any big team with stars such as Kevin Durant, but it's a ray of hope, something for residents to look forward to, and something for the residents to follow as the rebuilding efforts get under way.

The Bright Future of Petr Mrazek

21 year-old goaltender, Petr Mrazek has several people buzzing about his
bright future in a Red Wing uniform.
Photo Courtesy: Griffinshockey.com

After Jimmy Howard busted onto the Detroit hockey scene in the 2009-10 season, everybody knew the Red Wings had found their goaltender for the future. However, with the 141st pick in the 2010 NHL entry draft, the Red Wings chose 18 year-old goalie, Petr Mrazek out of the Czech Republic. At the time, who would think much of a fifth round pick making a large impact on the NHL's top franchise in just a few seasons? However, that's what is beginning to happen, slowly but surely.

The young phenom would start off his career in the ECHL with the Toledo Walleye. Despite only starting three games, Mrazek posted a record of 2-1, and was quickly called up to the AHL to play for the Grand Rapids Griffins. Mrazek would immediately make an impact, putting up a tremendous 16-7-3 record with the Griffins. After a couple of seasons in Grand Rapids, on February 7, 2013, the Red Wings made the call to give Mrazek his NHL debut against the St. Louis Blues on the road, in which he would stop 26 of 27 shots in a 5-1 victory. Mrazek would make one more start for the Red Wings, giving up three goals in a losing effort to the Minnesota Wild, and he would be sent back down to Grand Rapids.

Since then, Mrazek has been standing out, especially during the Calder Cup playoffs. The 21 year-old standout has already broken one of Jimmy Howard's Griffins playoff records with two shutouts. Also, Mrazek was one of the main pieces that helped the Griffins slip past the Houston Aeros in a best-of-five series, shutting out of the Aeros in the pivotal game five, and allowing a goal against average of just 2.20.

Following that shutout, the Griffins would advance to take on the Toronto Marlies in the Western Conference semifinals without home ice advantage. However, in game one, Mrazek would pick up where he left off against the Aeros, completing another shutout. During several home games throughout the series, former Red Wings goalie, Chris Osgood would be seen high above the ice in Van Andel Arena, cheering on Mrazek and muttering to himself on what the goaltender could improve on. As the games got more intense, Mrazek continued to come through, making Osgood proud, and leading the Griffins to the series victory over the Toronto Marlies in six games.

Next, the stage increased once again as they advanced to play the Oklahoma City Barons in the Calder Cup Western Conference Finals. During game one of the series, Mrazek would stop 27 of 28 shots faced, completing the 2-1 victory. Just one night later, Mrazek was back out in between the pipes, this time in a losing effort, allowing four goals on 37 shots in the 4-2 loss to even the series at one game a piece.


Moving forward, this young phenom will look to compete to become Jimmy Howard's full-time backup in Detroit. After watching Jimmy Howard in a Griffins uniform just a few seasons ago, fans in Grand Rapids are being spoiled by the elite goaltenders coming through Van Andel Arena. Watch for #34 to make his impact sooner rather than later in Joe Louis Arena.

Griffins Look to Advance to the Calder Cup Western Conference Finals

Van Andel Arena will be the host of Game 5 of the Western
Conference Semifinals, as the Griffins look to advance
tonight.

GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- Following a 4-1 victory in Game Four of the AHL Western Conference Semifinal game against the Toronto Marlies, the Grand Rapids Griffins on the cusp of the advancing. Now up in the series three games to one, the Griffins can wrap up their spot in the Western Conference Finals tonight at Van Andel Arena. The winner of this series will go on to face the Oklahoma City Barons, affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers. If the Griffins advance in this series against Toronto, they will receive home advantage during the next round.

Tonight, the Griffins will once again look to their goalie, Petr Mrazek to provide the stellar saves he has throughout the Calder Cup playoffs. Offensively, 22-year old Tomas Tatar will be leaned upon. Tatar is tied with the team lead in the playoffs with nine points, six of which are goals. Another young player to be leaned upon will be 21-year old Landon Ferraro, who is tied for the team lead with seven assists during the playoffs. Ferraro has been stellar on the offensive end for Grand Rapids, and also added the go-ahead goal last night in the third period to beat the Marlies.

Griffins head coach, Jeff Blashill has had the team ready to play in nearly every game during the Calder Cup playoffs, and will look to do the same tonight. One thing that really stood out to Blashill in Friday night's Game Four, was the puck pressure that his team placed on Toronto. "We had very good puck pressure, both up the ice and coming back, and when we do that, we're a good team," said Blashill, in just his second season as Griffins head coach. The Griffins tilted the ice in game four, outshooting the Marlies, 36 to 18, which would ultimately result in a 4-1 victory.

Matt Campbell Looking to Continue Success at Toledo

Toledo Head Coach, Matt Campbell will aim for a MAC
Championship this season, after a tremendous 9-4 season
last year.
Picture Courtesy: espn.com

After taking over in 2011 as an interim head coach, Toledo's Matt Campbell has been running the spread offense to perfection. Campbell took over for Tim Beckham, who left to become the head coach at the University of Illinois after going 21-16 in his three seasons at Toledo.

Following Beckham's decision to leave the Rockets, Campbell would become the interim head coach for the Military Bowl, against Air Force. After a 42-41 victory over the Falcons, Campbell would be named the 25th head coach in Toledo Rocket football history. At the age of 31, Campbell also became the youngest coach in the FBS division.

Despite the young age, Campbell quickly took the Mid-American Conference by storm with his dynamic spread offense which consisted of constant speed. After a tremendous 9-3 regular season, the Rockets were invited to take on Utah State in the Idaho Potato Bowl, in which they lost 41-15. Despite the bowl loss, the Toledo offense ranked well with Campbell at the helm, ranking 48th in passing, 35th in rushing, and 44th in points per game with 31.5.

After a successful first season, Campbell is looking to expand his offense and schemes through recruiting. The Rockets were able to sign 23 players in the 2013 recruiting class, including four-star wide receiver, Rodney Adams. Adams chose the Rockets over top programs such as Oklahoma, Florida, and Florida State. Other than Adams, Campbell and his staff were also able to sign eight three-star recruits.

Looking forward, the Rockets currently only have one 2014 commitment in inside linebacker, William White of Detroit Cass Technical High School. However, Campbell is knocking on the same doors as several large universities for big time recruits. Several top players are considering the Rockets as their college destination, inclduing 14 four-star recruits. This list includes Marshon Lattimore, a four-star athlete from Cleveland. Lattimore has offers from Alabama, Michigan, Ohio State, and several others, but Toledo seems to be right in the race for the dynamic play maker.

This upcoming season, Toledo may possibly be the favorites to take home the MAC championship, with quarterback Terrance Owens returning. Owens was able to throw for 2714 yards last season, fitting in well with the upbeat tempo of the Rocket offense. Also returning will be leading rusher, David Fluellen, who rushed for 1498 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. Fluellen was able to average 5.8 yards per carry during last year's campaign, and will only look to improve with more weapons around him.

Matt Campbell is one of the top upcoming coaches in the country, and his dynamic offense and immense recruiting skills have the Toledo Rockets ranked 24th in the nation in the first pre-season poll. With so many weapons coming back, the Rockets should be a force to be reckon with down the road, not only in the Mid-American Conference, but in all of the FBS.

Quarterbacks will Dominate The 2nd Round: My 2013 NFL 2nd Round Mock Draft

West Virginia quarterback, Geno Smith was a first round
projection, but his name remains as one of the many undrafted.
Picture Courtesy: nfl.com

As the first round concluded, we saw only one quarterback get draft, which was a shocker in Florida State quarterback, EJ Manuel going 16th overall to the Buffalo Bills. Tonight, we'll see Geno Smith and Matt Barkley also go. Find out where by check out my second round mock draft below:

*NOTE*: This does not include any trades.

33) Jaguars - Ryan Nassib QB Syracuse
34) 49ers - Kewann Short DT Purdue
35) Eagles - Geno Smith QB West Virginia
36) Lions - Justin Hunter WR Tennessee
37) Bengals - Jamar Taylor CB Boise State
38) Cardinals - Robert Woods WR USC
39) Jets - Matt Barkley QB USC
40) Titans - Bjoern Werner DE Florida State
41) Bills - Menelik Watson OT Florida State
42) Dolphins - Keenan Allen WR California
43) Buccaneers - Eddie Lacy RB Alabama
44) Panthers - Jonathan Banks CB Mississippi State
45) Chargers - John Cyprien S Florida International
46) Rams - Jonathan Jenkins DT Georgia
47) Cowboys - Arthur Brown OLB Kansas State
48) Steelers - Montee Ball RB Wisconsin
49) Giants - Kevin Minter ILB LSU
50) Bears - Manti Te'o ILB Notre Dame
51) Redskins - Terron Armstead OT Arkansas Pine-Bluff
52) Vikings - D.J. Swearinger S South Carolina
53) Bengals - Sio Moore OLB UConn
54) Dolphins - Aaron Dobson WR Marshall
55) Packers - Khaseem Greene OLB Rutgers
56) Seahawks - Cornellius Carradine DE Florida State
57) Texans - Jesse Williams DT Alabama
58) Broncos - Blidi Wreh-Wilscon CB UConn
59) Patriots - Margus Hunt DE Southern Methodist
60) Falcons - Zach Ertz TE Stanford
61) 49ers - Jonathan Hankins DT Ohio State
62) Ravens - Brian Winters G Kent State

Kansas City Chiefs Make Central Michigan's Eric Fisher First Overall Selection in 2013 NFL Draft

Eric Fisher following the 24-21 victory over Western
Kentucky at Ford Field in Detroit.
Picture Courtesy: My own photo following the game

When you ask how many offers Eric Fisher had coming out of Rochester Stoney Creek High School, you'll get a simple response. Two. Fisher held offers from Eastern Michigan and Central Michigan coming out of high school, which is an unlikely story if you see where he is now. To start off the 2013 NFL Draft, the Kansas City Chiefs made Fisher the first overall draft pick. Fisher's story is somewhat of a fairy tale when you consider the former 48th overall Michigan high school selection is now the first overall draft pick in the NFL.

Fisher's motivation has been not only to put Central Michigan University on the map, but also the Mid-American Conference. By being drafted first overall, Fisher obviously is the highest Mid-American Conference player ever drafted, and becomes Central Michigan University's second ever first round selection after Rockford's Joe Staley was selected 28th overall in 2007 by the San Francisco 49ers.

The 3rd team All-American selection helped lead Central Michigan to a 7-6 season after beating Western Kentucky in the Little Caesar's Pizza Bowl at Ford Field in Detroit.

My 2013 NFL Mock Draft

Tonight will kick off the 2013 NFL
Draft, with the stress of all 32 teams
building up as they look to build
strong futures for their teams.

1) Kansas City Chiefs - Eric Fisher OT Central Michigan
I'll be honest, I had Joeckel going to the Chiefs all along, until reports have surfaced that Fisher will be number one, nothing official as of yet.
2) Jacksonville Jaguars - Luke Joeckel OT Texas A&M
Joeckel will now fall to the Jaguars as a blind side protector for Blaine Gabbert, who so far hasn't worked out, but with some protection on the offensive line, and Justin Blackmon returning, Gabbert could improve this season.
3) Oakland Raiders - Shariff Floyd DT Florida
Floyd is a dominant presence on the defensive line, which is something the Raiders have lacked in previous seasons.
4) Philadelphia Eagles - Dion Jordan OLB Oregon
Jordan makes all the sense in the world for the Eagles at four. Chip Kelly, Jordan's head coach last season at Oregon, is now the Eagles head coach. Jordan is an elite pass rusher, but couldn't show that due to the defensive schemes at Oregon dropping him back into coverage.
5) Detroit Lions - Ezekiel Ansah DE BYU
Let me make this clear: I am not a fan of Ansah. I believe down the road, duribility will become a major issue for him. Ansah came from Ghana and had never even watched an American football game. After one productive season, how can he stay healthy and dominate during a 16 game schedule? The upside is certainly there, however.
6) Cleveland Browns - Dee Milliner CB Alabama
I'm a very big fan of Milliner's. Milliner could be the next elite corner in the NFL if he stays healthy, and that may be a big if. The Browns already have a great young corner in Joe Haden of Florida, but this could set their secondary for seasons to come. The Browns are also a possibility to trade this pick and drop in the draft, but if Milliner is available at six, look for them to grab him.
7) Arizona Cardinals - Lane Johnson OT Oklahoma
With such a deep tackle draft, several teams are competing for high picks to snatch up the blind side protectors. Johnson is a very swiftly moving offensive lineman that will provide tremendous protection for newly-acquired and unmobile quarterback, Carson Palmer.
8) San Diego Chargers (Predicted Trade with Buffalo) - D.J. Fluker OT Alabama
With tackles flying off of the board, the Chargers are going to want to trade up to protect Philip Rivers in the future. Fluker is a massive 339 pound offensive lineman that will protect blindsides as well as anyone in the draft.
9) New York Jets - Tavon Austin WR West Virginia
Austin is somebody that I'm extremely high on. He has tremendous hands which will help him become elite as a slot receiever in the NFL. Austin is only an 170 pound wide receiver, but Wes Welker has become great as a slot receiever, which is who I compare Austin to.

10) Tennessee Titans - Chance Warmack G Alabama
Overshadowed by the three elite tackles in the draft, Chance Warmack is an extremely productive guard. Looking to protect Jake Locker, Warmack has the strength and agility to become an elite NFL offensive lineman.
11) Buffalo Bills (Predicted Trade with San Diego) - Ryan Nassib QB Syracuse
The Bills can afford to trade down from their original number eight pick because nobody is willing to take the risk on a quarterback (let alone Ryan Nassib) this early. Nassib is a hometown kid, which hopefully isn't the reason they're leaning toward Nassib over Geno Smith, because I feel Smith will be the better pro.
12) Miami Dolphins - Jonathan Cooper G North Carolina
Jake Long and Jonathan Cooper, that's an elite combination on the offensive line for the Miami Dolphins. Miami could possibly take a cornerback with this pick, but if they want to turn Ryan Tannehill into their long-term quarterback, their first need should be to protect him for the future.
13) New York Jets - Barkevious Mingo OLB LSU
The Jets have certainly lacked a tremendous pass rusher over the past few seasons, but that's only one of their worries. This team needs to start filling needs somewhere, that's why I like Mingo at nine.
14) Carolina Panthers - Star Lotulelei DT Utah
Lotulelei has dropped on many draft boards due to the rising of Shariff Floyd of Florida. Carolina will look to bolster their front seven on defense with Defensive Rookie of the Year, Luke Kuechly and now adding Star Lotulelei, in my opinion.
15) New Orleans Saints - Alex Okafor OLB Texas
Okafor is a great edge rusher in a 3/4 defensive scheme, or can be used as a defensive end in a 4/3 scheme. The Saints will look to use Okafor in their great number of blitzes.
16) St. Louis Rams - Tyler Eifert TE Notre Dame
Eifert may possibly have the best hands in the draft. After a very productive season at Notre Dame, Eifert should instantly become one of the elite pros in the NFL. With Sam Bradford, the Rams will look to add weapons around him. Eifert would be a better selection over any of the remaining wide receivers on the board.
17) Pittsburgh Steelers - Eddie Lacy RB Alabama
Eddie Lacy just adds to the names of productive Alabama running backs over the previous few seasons. Lacy was nearly as productive as Trent Richardson, but has lost stock due to the deep runningback draft. Eddie Lacy fits the Steelers scheme perfectly; a down hill runner who leads with his shoulders and has the strength to break tackles.
18) Dallas Cowboys - Kenny Vaccaro S Texas
Vaccaro will remain right at home after playing his college ball at Texas. The Cowboys will look to add to their secondary by adding Vacarro, who is a speed threat in the secondary who can attack the ball in the air, and swarm runners breaking free.
19) New York Giants - Menelik Watson T Florida State
Watson may be a reach here at 19 for the Giants. IF they keep this pick and don't trade it, they may take Watson, who is rated as the fifth best tackle in the draft. It's possibly the Giants look toward the second or third rounds to fill the offensive tackle need, but if they want to protect Eli Manning as they have done, Watson would be a fine fit.
20) Chicago Bears - Manti Te'o ILB Notre Dame
I struggled with this one. Te'o or Jarvis Jones? Several reports say Te'o will not be drafted by the Bears, and that they'll take another linebacker. No matter who they take, expect them to go linebacker in the first round. Jones is a great speed rusher, but Te'o is an elite player who needs to learn how to stay away from play action.
21) Cincinnati Bengals - Matt Elam S Florida
Elam is an interesting choice. Safeties are not deep in this NFL Draft, but it's a need that the Bengals need to fill. Elam is a tremendous safety in coverage, and plays almost as a corner in the passing game.
22) St. Louis Rams - Jonathan Cyprien S Florida International
Cyprien is a quiet player, after all he played at Florida International, however, don't be fooled. This guy can play. Cyprien is a sure tackling safety, but didn't get much media coverage at FIU. He has minor medical concerns, and isn't projected to get until the early second round, but I compare him to a Louis Delmas of the Detroit Lions, who came out of Western Michigan. I see the Bengals snatching him up with this selection.
23) Minnesota Vikings - Sylvester Williams DT North Carolina 
Williams is a hard nosed defensive lineman. He demands double teams on nearly every down, but we'll see how his game translates to the next level. Williams has the size and strength to power through even NFL offensive lines, which is something the Minnesota Vikings like to have.
24) Indianapolis Colts - D.J. Hayden CB Houston
Hayden is really a wildcard pick. Hayden was projected in the top fifteen by some experts, but not even a first round pick by some. He also is questioned due to not facing elite competition in the C-USA. However, the Colts need to fill the cornerback need, and it's not a deep draft for that position.
25) Minnesota Vikings - Cordarrelle Patterson WR Tennessee
Cordarrelle Patterson has dropped lately due to the rising of Tavon Austin. However, the Vikings would like another deep threat to go along with newly-acquired, Greg Jennings. Patterson can stretch the field but needs to desperately improve his route running after just one season at Tennessee.
26) Green Bay Packers - Datone Jones DE UCLA
Datone Jones of UCLA has an elite burst off of the snap, and clears blockers extremely quickly. In a 4-3 scheme, Jones can certainly be a left end, and a good one. He fits in well with the Packers scheme.
27) Houston Texans - DeAndre Hopkins WR Clemson
Hopkins has incredible hands. Quite honestly, the best in the draft. Hopkins needs to get quicker, and needs to be more explosive off of the line, but every team can use wide receivers with great hands, and with Andre Johnson aging, they can certainly use Hopkins.
28) Denver Broncos - Jarvis Jones OLB Georgia
Jarvis Jones is a pure pass rusher. He flies around the edges and gets to the quarterback, creating havoc in the backfield. Jones may drop due to a lack of need a linebacker for some teams, but he can certainly fill some needs for the Broncos, who are quite set on the offensive side of the ball, but can address some issues defensively.
29) New England Patriots - Keenan Allen WR California
The Patriots have picked a wrong time to need wide receivers. This draft isn't known for elite receivers, but they need them. That being said, the best available option would be Keenan Allen. Allen would fit in well, he's not someone who demands the ball, because most passes will be going to the tight ends. However, he'll fit in well after Danny Amendola signed with Pats in free agency.
30) Atlanta Falcons - Xavier Rhodes CB Florida State 
Rhodes is a tremendous pick here for the Falcons. It could be him or Jamar Taylor Boise State with this pick, but the Falcons would like to address the cornerback need here at 30th overall.
31) San Francisco 49ers - Zach Ertz TE Stanford
Zach Ertz has been greatly overshadowed by Tyler Eifert, but is a tremendous find for any team who wants him in the late first, or early second round. Ertz can fit in well with Vernon Davis, as a tremendous blocking tight end. That's if the 49ers don't use this pick and another of their 13 throughout the draft to trade up and find another playmaker.
32) Baltimore Ravens - Kevin Minter ILB LSU
Kevin Minter is interesting here with the Ravens. Following a terrible off-season losing player after player from their Super Bowl Championship team, I think Minter will be a decent fit after the retirement of Ray Lewis.


TOP PLAYERS UNDRAFTED: Justin Hunter, WR, Tennesse; Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri; Cornellius Carradine, DE, Florida State; Gavin Escobar, TE, San Diego State; Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia; Matt Barkley, QB, USC; Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State; Jesse Williams, DT, Alabama

Draft Update: Risks of BYU DE Ezekiel Ansah

Brigham Young DE Ezekiel Ansah has gone from a young
college student who couldn't put shoulder pads on, to a
future millionaire in the NFL.
Picture Courtesy: fannation.com

We all know that Americans love great underdog stories that sports have to offer, but when it comes to risking a top five pick for a story, what is worth it? Brigham Young defensive end, Ezekiel Ansah has quite the story to go with his outstanding draft stock in tonight's NFL draft. Ansah grew up in Accra, Ghana playing soccer and pickup basketball games. He had never seen an American football game.

After Ansah was baptized at age 18, he was introduced to a Mormon missionary from the United States. At the time, Ansah was serious about playing basketball in the United States. When the missionary returned to the United States, he called Ansah and told him to try out at Brigham Young University to play basketball. Ansah applied to BYU, and was accepted.

Ezekiel Ansah tried out for both the 2008 and 2009 Cougar basketball teams, but was cut each time. Despite being cut twice, he didn't give up on sports. He was persuaded to try out for the football team at BYU, and began playing during the 2010 season. After the football season, Ansah also successfully walked on to the track team at BYU and ran a successful 10.91 100 meter dash. Perhaps the explosiveness is a reason for his draft stock being so high.

Ansah has went from a kid who couldn't even put his shoulder pads on the correct way, to a future mutli-millionaire as an NFL player. Maybe it's just me, but do we really expect Ansah to stay durable for sixteen straight games with playoffs as a possibility? I doubt it. You don't come from playing football for the first time to an absolutely superstar, but so far, so good for Ziggy Ansah.

The six-foot, five-inch, 270 lb. African Superstar is staring a top five pick straight in the face as the draft begins tonight. There are several possible landing spots for Ansah, including the Jacksonville Jaguars with the second overall pick, Oakland Raiders at third overall, and the hometown Detroit Lions at fifth overall.

2013 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings

1.       Luke Joeckel OT Texas A&M

2.       Eric Fisher OT Central Michigan

3.       Dion Jordan OLB Oregon

4.       Dee Milliner CB Alabama

5.       Sharriff Floyd DT Florida

6.       Ezekiel Ansah DE BYU

7.       Lane Johnson OT Oklahoma

8.       Barkevious Mingo DE LSU

9.       Chance Warmack OG Alabama

10.   Star Lotulelei DT Utah

11.   Jarvis Jones OLB Georgia

12.   Geno Smith QB West Virginia

13.   Xavier Rhodes CB Florida State

14.   Jonathan Cooper OG North Carolina

15.   Tavon Austin WR West Virginia

16.   Cordarrelle Patterson WR Tennessee

17.   Tyler Eifert TE Notre Dame

18.   Bjoern Warner DE Florida State

19.   Kenny Vaccaro FS Texas

20.   Sheldon Richardson DT Missouri

21.   Sylvester Williams DT North Carolina

22.   Robert Woods WR USC

23.   DJ Fluker OT Alabama

24.   Menelik Watson OT Florida State

25.   Desmond Trufant CB Washington

26.   Matt Elam SS Florida

27.   Eddie Lacy RB Alabama

28.   Keenan Allen WR California

29.   Zach Ertz TE Stanford

30.   Manti Te’o LB Notre Dame

31.   Alec Ogletree OLB Georgia

32.   EJ Manuel QB Florida State

33.   Jonathan Banks CB Mississippi State

34.   Jesse Williams DT Alabama

35.   Arthur Brown OLB Kansas State

36.   Matt Barkley QB USC

37.   DeAndre Hopkins WR Clemson

38.   Ryan Nassib QB Syracuse

39.   Jamar Taylor CB Boise State

40.   DJ Hayden CB Houston

41.   Giovani Bernard RB North Carolina

42.   Alex Okafor DE Texas

43.   Terrance Williams WR Baylor

44.   Montee Ball RB Wisconsin

45.   Kewann Short DE Purdue

46.   Jonathan Franklin RB UCLA

47.   Travis Frederick C Wisconsin

48.   Johnathan Hankins DT Ohio State

49.   Justin Hunter WR Tennessee

50.   Sam Montgomery DE LSU