Stampede Blue: All Posts by Nick Ragsdale

Predictification: 2013 NFL Draft Round 1 Recap

2013-04-26T19:11:26Z

I've done some amazing things in my life.

For example, last season (during preseason) I correctly predicted that the Baltimore Ravens would be hoisting the Lombardi Trophy at the end of the year. Heck, soon after Bruce Arians took the Arizona Cardinals head coaching job I correctly predicted that Carson Palmer would be his quarterback - while he was still under contract with the Raiders. I'm good.

But nothing could have prepared me for what happened last night. There were 32 players selected last night during the first round of the NFL Draft and I missed them all.

Every. Single. One.

Wow. (In fairness I did call my predictions a 'mockery')

I can't say that has ever happened to me (or that it'll ever happen again) but I guess there is a first time for everything, huh? Here is your recap of the NFL Draft Madness from last night.

How long until there are Colts t-shirts that say 'I was Bjoern ready'? I'm sure there are a thousand other stupid things (yes, Indy 500 references are included in that) that folks will come up with... Hey, it's a long offseason.

Who had the best night? The Vikings.

They had to give up a lot to get it (2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 7th round picks) but the Vikings jumped back into the late part of the first round to grab WR Cordarrelle Patterson (who I wanted the Colts to take). Patterson, combined with the DT Shariff Floyd (who was falling like a rock) and CB Xavier Rhodes (who a lot of people thought the Colts would take) should give the Vikings three starters out of the first day of the draft. While they gave up a lot, they still have plenty of ammunition for the later rounds (4th, 5th, 6th and 2 7ths). Not too shabby.

Who had the worst night?

The Cowboys (well, at least of the teams that actually picked in the first round). Dallas dropped from 18th in round one to 31st and netted a third round selection for their trouble. While they should have probably received more value, the worst part came when it was time to draft. All of the players that the Cowboys had first round grades were gone and they admittedly reached at a second round player - C/G Travis Frederick. They would have been better off trading down again.

Here's a recap of the picks (and my incorrect predictions).

1. Kansas City Chiefs - Eric Fisher, T Central Michigan (I predicted Luke Joeckel, T Texas A&M)

This was probably splitting hairs. These players were pretty even and it came down to which guy the Chiefs liked better. They liked Fisher and it started my night off wrong.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars - Luke Joeckel, T Texas A&M (I predicted Dion Jordan, DE Oregon)

Who knows if the Jaguars would have taken Fisher if the Chiefs had taken Joeckel? The Jags should have a decent line next season, if nothing else (probably nothing else).

3. TRADE! Miami Dolphins - Dion Jordan, DE Oregon (I predicted Shariff Floyd here and CB Xavier Rhodes to Miami)

Everyone seemed to think that the Dolphins were jumping up in the draft to get T Lane Johnson. It would make sense after the top two tackles were taken 1-2 and trade talks for Branden Albert stalling. But, no - in what seemed like the first reach of the draft, the Dolphins went after boom or bust DE Dion Jordan.

4. Philadelphia Eagles - Lane Johnson, T Oklahoma (I predicted Eric Fisher, T Central Michigan)

At least I correctly predicted that the Eagles would go after one of the top tackles. No surprise here (except that the Dolphins didn't take him).

5. Detroit Lions - Ezekiel Ansah, DE BYU (I predicted Dee Milliner, CB Alabama)

The Lions did go after defense (as I predicted) but it was a replacement for Cliff Avril that they were seeking.

6. Cleveland Browns - Barkevious Mingo, DE LSU (I predicted Ezekiel Ansah, DE BYU)

Again, I accurately predicted that the Browns were going to chase a pass rusher - and, who knows, maybe they would have taken Ansah if he were available. But alas, another miss as the Browns take Mingo.

7. Arizona Cardinals - Jonathan Cooper, G North Carolina (I predicted Chance Warmack, G Alabama)

I can take a little solace knowing that once again I picked the right position - just the wrong player. This happened frequently throughout the night.

8. TRADE! St. Louis Rams - Tavon Austin, WR West Virginia (I predicted Ryan Nassib here and WR DeAndre Hopkins to the Rams later in the draft)

The Rams must have been looking at my mock draft and knew they would have to jump ahead of the Jets to get Tavon Austin. Good decision - in my opinion, Austin is the most explosive playmaker in the draft.

9. New York Jets - Dee Milliner, CB Alabama (I predicted Tavon Austin, WR West Virginia)

I think the Jets were thrown off guard by the Rams trade up. They used nearly all of the clock before selecting Milliner. Milliner will be asked to replace Darrelle Revis right away... Good luck.

10. Tennessee Titans - Chance Warmack, G Alabama (I predicted Star Lotulelei, DT Utah)

The run on offensive lineman and pass rushers continued. The Titans are clearly trying to give Chris Johnson no excuses if he decided to suck again this year.

11. San Diego Chargers - D.J. Fluker, T Alabama (I predicted Lane Johnson, T Oklahoma)

Another case of right position, wrong player. The Chargers needed someone for the offensive line and took the best of what was left.

12. TRADE! Oakland Raiders - D.J. Hayden, CB Houston (I predicted Xavier Rhodes here and Shariff Floyd for the Raiders)

The Raiders were one of the winners of the first round. They didn't miss much by trading down and still ended up with one of the drafts top prospects. Win-win.

13. New York Jets - Sheldon Richardson, DT Missouri (I predicted Barkevious Mingo, DE LSU)

Another head scratching pick for the Jets. At first glace, Richardson doesn't seem to fit with Rex Ryan's defensive scheme. Time will tell, but some speculate that when Ryan is fired after this season the Jets will change to a 4-3.

14. Carolina Panthers - Star Lotulelei, DT Utah (I predicted Sheldon Richardson, DT Missouri)

In yet another case of right position, wrong player (are you getting the theme here?) I saw the man that I predicted go the pick before to the Jets. The Panthers take the next best player available.

15. New Orleans Saints - Kenny Vaccaro, S Texas (I predicted Jarvis Jones, LB Georgia)

Going in I think everyone expected this to be a S or a LB - and S won out. Hard to argue with the pick as the Saints snag the best safety in the draft.

16. TRADE! Buffalo Bills - E.J. Manuel, QB Florida State (I predicted the Bills would select Ryan Nassib)

Ugh. Right position and wrong player again. I don't know that anyone saw Manuel as a first round pick - especially if Geno Smith, Ryan Nassib, Matt Barkley and Landry Jones hadn't already been taken. Another head scratcher.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers - Jarvis Jones, LB Georgia (I predicted Kenny Vaccaro, S Texas)

I switched the picks for the Saints and Steelers thinking New Orleans would go a different way. Looks like everyone else was right to give Jones to the Steelers - perhaps he was destined there all along.

18. TRADE! San Francisco 49ers - Eric Reid, S LSU (I predicted the 49ers would draft Reid later in the round)

I guess this may count as getting one right. I did predict that the 49ers were after Reid but I thought they'd wait to select him. What the heck, I'm giving it to myself! I got one right!

19. New York Giants - Justin Pugh, OT Syracuse (I predicted Alec Ogletree, LB Georgia)

With the run on offensive linemen early in the draft, you can hardly blame the Giants for snagging one before they were all gone. Maybe the Giants were planning on getting Pugh in round two but the draft was dictating that you weren't going to be able to wait.

20. Chicago Bears - Kyle Long, OG Oregon (I predicted Tyler Eifert, TE Notre Dame)

This is another pick that seemed a bit shocking. I remember watching Long at the combine and thinking that he would be an excellent value to someone as a late second, early third round pick. The Bears apparently decided that they didn't want to wait.

21. Cincinnati Bengals - Tyler Eifert, TE Notre Dame (I predicted John Cyprein, S Florida International)

Cincinnati grabbed another offensive weapon for QB Andy Dalton - and I really like the pick. The Bengals seem to be heading on the right track and may compete for the division title this season.

22. TRADE! Atlanta Falcons - Desmond Trufant, CB Washington (I predicted D.J. Hayden to the Falcons later in the round)

Yet another case of wrong player, right position. The Rams traded up to get Austin and then traded down with their second first round pick - definitely another of the day one winners.

23. Minnesota Vikings - Shariff Floyd, DT Florida (I predicted Robert Woods, WR USC)

In my defense the Vikings did snag Cordarralle Patterson later in the draft - so they DID go WR, just not here. I imagine the Vikings were pretty excited to see a potential top 5 pick fall into their laps at 23.

24. Indianapolis Colts - Bjoern Werner, DE Florida State (I predicted Cordarrelle Patterson, WR Tennessee)

The need for a pass rusher trumped anything else for the Colts in round one. I actually like the pick and it seems the Colts expect Werner to fill the 'Paul Kruger' role in the defense.

25. Minnesota Vikings - Xavier Rhodes, CB Florida State (I predicted Manti Te'o, LB Notre Dame)

I really thought that Te'o would be drafted here - but the Vikings apparently liked the size and skill of Rhodes. Can't say I disagree with them.

26. Green Bay Packers - Datone Jones, DE UCLA (I predicted Eddie Lacy, RB Alabama)

Had Werner gone earlier, I truly believe this would have been the Colts pick. The Packers grab someone to help fill the void left behind by Erik Walden (insert sarcasm here).

27. Houston Texans - DeAndre Hopkins, WR Clemson (I predicted Justin Hunter, WR Tennessee)

Everyone seemed to expect the Texans to take a WR with their first round pick - I don't think many expected Hopkins to still be available. Quality pickup for our division rivals.

28. Denver Broncos - Sylvester Williams, DT North Carolina (I predicted Bjoern Werner, DE Florida State)

The Broncos added some meat to their defensive line. Not a sexy pick by any means - but the Broncos don't need much.

29. TRADE! Minnesota Vikings - Cordarrelle Patterson, WR Tennessee (I predicted the Vikings would take WR Robert Woods earlier in the draft)

The Vikings seemed surprised to learn that Patterson was still available and decided to jump back into the first round to get him. It wasn't cheap - but if Patterson can become the playmaker it seems he may be, it will be a winning deal.

30. TRADE! St. Louis Rams - Alec Ogletree, LB Georgia (I predicted the Rams would take DeAndre Hopkins and Jonathan Cooper with their first round picks)

The Rams aren't afraid of guys with character issues - and this may pay off in a big way. Time will tell, but most agree that Ogletree was one of the best defensive players in the draft.

31. TRADE! Dallas Cowboys - Travis Frederick, G/C Wisconsin (I predicted the Cowboys would select Sylvester Williams earlier in the draft)

I think the Cowboys gambled and lost. I think they expected a player to still be around at #31 that didn't last - and then they panicked and took the best player they had on their board. It was, by far, the largest reach of the night.

32. Baltimore Ravens - Matt Elam, S Florida (I predicted Keenan Allen, WR California)

The Ravens decided to try and fill the voids left by safeties Ed Reed and Bernard Pollard. Can't say anything negative about this pick. The Ravens haven't panicked all offseason.

So who are the best players remaining for day two?

Manti Te'o, LB Notre Dame

Justin Hunter, WR Tennesee

Geno Smith, QB West Virginia

Manelik Watson, OT Florida State

Tank Carradine, DE Florida State

Matt Barkley, QB USC

Robert Woods, WR USC

John Cyprein, S Florida International

Ryan Nassib, QB Syracuse

Keenan Allen, WR California

Eddie Lacy, RB Alabama

The Colts have these picks remaining:

3rd Round - #24

4th Round - #24

6th Round - #24

7th Round - #24

7th Round - #48

As always, you can leave your thoughts in the comments section below. If you want more of me - in smaller doses (140 characters at a time) - you can follow me on Twitter at @ColtsInsiders.

Predictification - Making A Mockery Of The 2013 NFL Draft

2013-04-24T20:05:29Z

Admit it. You missed me.

Many of you have asked (actually, none of you have asked... this just sounds better), what does the Predictificationist do in the offseason?

Do I use my powers to win at horse racing? No - that'd be wrong.

Go around winning NCAA Tournament Bracket Contests? No - I actually came in second place to my three year old daughter, Ellie. She predicted the Florida Gulf Coast, Harvard and LaSalle upsets and had Louisville as the eventual champion... no joke. (She has Predictificationist genes)

Predict the winner of 'Dancing with the Stars'? Ummm... No.

So far, I've spent the offseason moving into a new house, renewing my Colts season tickets (I'm five rows closer this year) and pretending that watching the Pacers is as great as Colts football (it's not). If you throw in a side of 'freezing my butt off' and 'salivating over free agency' you know about all there is to know about my offseason.

Man... I'm boring.

The good news is that new year is beginning and the ol' Predictificationist is off to a good start. That's right, so far I've correctly predicted that Carson Palmer would end up in Arizona, Steven Jackson to the Falcons and the signings of LaRon Landry and Gosder Cherilus (not to mention the Mike Wallace's, etc. that everyone knew before hand).

Enough with the nonsense. You want to know what is going to happen during the NFL Draft on Thursday, right? You've come to the right place. Read below as I make a mockery out of other mock drafts...

(Please note - Draft day trades are not included in this mock... the Predictomatic was running low on oil.)

1. Kansas City Chiefs - Luke Joeckel, T Texas A&M

This has seemed to be the pick all along. The only thing that could mess this up is the Branden Albert situation. On a side note, wouldn't it be something if the Chiefs signed a RT named John Hyde? Their line could be anchored by Joeckel and Hyde. (This is how my brain works)

2. Jacksonville Jaguars - Dion Jordan, DE Oregon

The Jaguars desperately want to trade down and accumulate some additional picks for the draft. Jacksonville's needs are many and one player isn't going to change that. Finding a willing trade partner will be tough (unless you're at the bottom of the first round) because almost every team wants to trade down.

3. Oakland Raiders - Shariff Floyd, DT Florida State

The Raiders will be without Al Davis on draft day for the first time in 50 years. Oakland has made it clear that they want to draft a player that can have an immediate impact - no reaching allowed.

4. Philadelphia Eagles - Eric Fisher, T Central Michigan

Some people have speculated that Chip Kelly may go after his quarterback of the future (like Geno Smith) or Dion Jordan (if he's available). I see the Eagles drafting one of the top tackles to help keep Michael Vick from ending up on his backside (and out of the ER)... but that's just me.

5. Detroit Lions - Dee Milliner, CB Alabama

There is a chance the Lions use this pick for the offensive line after losing Gosder Cherilus (to the Colts) and Jeff Backus (retirement). My gut says that they try to improve a defense that couldn't stop anybody last season. Milliner seems to be the best corner on the board and I think they swing for the fences.

6. Cleveland Browns - Ezekiel Ansah, DE BYU

The Browns played hard last season and made a splash in free agency with the signing of Paul Kruger (among others). Cleveland has a young offensive core and I think the Browns will add the best available player. Pairing Kruger and Ansah will make life hard on division rival QBs Ben Roethlisberger, Andy Dalton and Joe Flacco - if you can't join 'em, beat 'em.

7. Arizona Cardinals - Chance Warmack, G Alabama

Bruce Arians got his quarterback (Carson Palmer) and should now do everything he can to protect him. Remember the beating that Andrew Luck took last season? The Cardinals have said that they are happy with their tackles - which probably means they will upgrade at guard, right?

8. Buffalo Bills - Ryan Nassib, QB Syracuse

If you would have told me at this time last year that Nassib would be the first quarterback off the board I would have laughed... hard. This would be the dumbest pick of the first round if it goes the way many are predicting. Ideally the Bills would trade down (sound familiar?) and snag a quarterback later in the round.

9. New York Jets - Tavon Austin, WR West Virginia

Austin is probably the most explosive player in the draft - and the Jets need it. Some people think the Jets will try to immediately replace Darrelle Revis and LaRon Landry, but I'm not buying it. The Jets need something to get fans excited - and this pick would do it. I won't lie - I secretly covet Austin for the Colts and tried to find a way to make him slip for my mock draft... I couldn't do it.

10. Tennessee Titans - Star Lotulelei, DT Utah

The Titans would be thrilled to see Lotulelei fall to them at the tenth pick. Health concerns may have hurt his stock a bit but Tennessee shouldn't be scared off. Great value at #10 if he falls.

11. San Diego Chargers - Lane Johnson, T Oklahoma

The Chargers offensive line is sick - and Johnson just might be some of the medicine to make it better. After struggling last season it seems as though the team may be on the verge of a complete rebuild... time will tell.

12. Miami Dolphins - Xavier Rhodes, CB Florida State

With Dee Milliner off the board, the Dolphins take the CB with the biggest upside. Rhodes has great size and should help Miami fans forget about the two starting corners they've lost since the beginning of last season.

13. New York Jets - Barkevious Mingo

The Jets haven't been shy in pronouncing their love for Mingo - the only question is if it is a smoke screen. The Jets could potentially add two playmakers (one on each side of the ball) if the draft were to fall this way. On a side note, if this was the 'Who has the Coolest Name' draft Barkevious Mingo would be the #1 overall pick.

14. Carolina Panthers - Sheldon Richardson, DT Missouri

Some speculate that the Panthers may go after a WR with this pick but I think this team want to get better fast - and that starts from working on the trenches. Richardson would give the Panthers the help inside that it needs.

15. New Orleans Saints - Jarvis Jones, LB Georgia

Everyone is trying to put Jones on the Steelers because he would be 'such a perfect fit'. Well, unfortunately 16 other teams will have a say before the Steelers get a chance to pick - and I think the Saints will snag him. New Defensive Coordinator Rob Ryan will want to change the mindset of one of the worst defenses and Jones is a good place to start.

16. St. Louis Rams - Jonathan Cooper, G North Carolina

The Rams got Jake Long in free agency and should add to the talent on the offensive line if Cooper is still available. They've invested heavily in Sam Bradford and should do everything they can to protect him. This is the first of two picks in the first round and should be able to find a replacement for Danny Amendola later in the round.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers - Kenny Vaccaro, S Texas

The Steelers are one of the best teams at drafting the best available player. Vaccaro is the best safety in the draft and if he falls this far the Steelers will jump on him. Don't rule out a linebacker to replace James Harrison but this was the best available in my mock draft.

18. Dallas Cowboys - Sylvester Williams, DT North Carolina

I think the Cowboys are hoping that Kenny Vaccaro falls (or they may trade up) but shouldn't feel too bad if they have to settle for Williams. I could also see the Cowboys trying to upgrade the offensive line (after the money they just sunk into Tony Romo).

19. New York Giants - Alec Ogletree, LB Georgia

Ogletree is one of the hardest prospects to figure out in the draft. With the new CBA you could argue that there will be a team more willing to take a chance on him higher in the draft (like maybe the Bills at #8). My prediction is that he falls to the Giants who will be more than willing to take the chance - and probably make everyone wish they had in three years.

20. Chicago Bears - Tyler Eifert, TE Notre Dame

I think the new head man in Chicago will want to give Jay Cutler some more toys to play with - and Eifert would be just that. Easily the best TE in the draft, Eifert should find a home with someone in the first round (the Packers, Falcons and Patriots are also possibilities).

21. Cincinnati Bengals - John Cyprein, S Florida International

The Bengals are looking to pair a quality safety with Reggie Nelson and Cyprein just may fit the bill. I think Cincy would rather have Texas S Kenny Vaccaro but chances are slim that he will still be available. If the Bengals don't go with a safety I'd look for them to add another person to the mix on the offensive line.

22. St. Louis Rams - DeAndre Hopkins, WR Clemson

The Rams will add a weapon for Sam Bradford after losing Danny Amendola this offseason. Could be any one of a number of receivers but I was swayed by the private workout the Rams had with Hopkins.

23. Minnesota Vikings - Robert Woods, WR USC

The Vikings traded Percy Harvin this offseason and signed Greg Jennings. I think they want to give Christian Ponder every chance to succeed and will add another receiver to the mix. Could I be wrong? Yes (but probably not).

24. Indianapolis Colts - Cordarrelle Patterson, WR Tennessee

I can almost hear Brad Wells screaming, "WE NEED A PASS RUSHER!" and, truth is, I WANTED to draft one here, I just think Patterson offers too much value to pass on. If you've read the scouting reports you already know that he is raw and needs work on his route running - but he has TOP TEN talent. With the addition of Darrius Heyward-Bey the Colts aren't desperate for a receiver but would love to have one that can replace Reggie Wayne. If Wayne can mentor Patterson this could be a steal - just saying.

25. Minnesota Vikings - Manti Te'o, LB Notre Dame

The Vikings had success with Harrison Smith last year and if anyone can make the transition to the NFL easier for Te'o it's probably the Viks. Some people think that Te'o falls out of the first round but not me. If it's not the Vikings look for the Bears or Ravens to make the pick.

26. Green Bay Packers - Eddie Lacy, RB Alabama

There has been some debate as to whether a RB will be drafted in the first round this year. I didn't think so but as I did this mock draft I didn't know what other direction the Packers would take based on what was left. The Packers really wanted Steven Jackson and missed out - perhaps they draft a running back to ease the pressure on Aaron Rodgers.

27. Houston Texans - Justin Hunter, WR Tennessee

The Texans have needed another weapon opposite of Andre Johnson for awhile - and this should be the draft to do it. My feeling is that the Texans like Hunter more than Keenan Allen but either one would be a good fit here.

28. Denver Broncos - Bjoern Werner, DE Florida State

With the loss of Elvis Dumervil the Broncos will be desperate to add someone along the line. Von Miller should be able to provide most of the needed pressure making a player like Werner appealing. Werner isn't the most gifted pass rusher but is good enough to give Denver what they need.

29. New England Patriots - Desmond Trufant, CB Washington

The Patriots should draft the best available player here and it should be Trufant or D.J. Hayden. Going by my gut I feel like the Patriots see Trufant as a better fit. Don't rule out the possibility of snagging a WR for Tom Brady or a pass rusher - anything is possible here.

30. Atlanta Falcons - D.J. Hayden, CB Houston

I don't know that I really expect him to fall this far - but that's just how it happened. The Falcons are looking for someone to start opposite of Asante Samuel after losing Brent Grimes and Hayden would fit well here. Atlanta would be overjoyed if the draft fell like this - and it just might.

31. San Francisco 49ers - Eric Reid, S LSU

I don't expect the 49ers to stay at this position. My gut says that they trade up and try to land Dee Milliner. If (for some reason) they stay put they should add Reid or Florida S Matt Elam.

32. Baltimore Ravens - Keenan Allen, WR California

The Ravens traded away Anquan Boldin and may look to add a quality replacement at the end of the first round. Baltimore invested heavily in quarterback Joe Flacco and will want to surround him with as many weapons as possible.

So, that's how the first round will go.... I guess there is no need to turn on the TV on Thursday night, right?

Predictification - 2013 NFL Free Agency Edition

2013-03-12T17:11:26Z

2012 Regular Season: 164-91-1*

2012 NFL Playoffs - 7-3

Super Bowl: 1-0

Colts Predictions: 13-4

Ahh, the NFL offseason. In some ways it's more fun than the regular season (at least when you have a TON of cap room). Our Colts are expected to be big spenders this offseason - and with good reason. Despite an amazing run and an 11-5 record the team has holes at almost every position. In fact, it's easier to list the positions that I can guarantee the Colts won't spend big money on...

Quarterback. (That Luck kid showed some potential last year, I think)

Tight End. (Dwayne Allen was a beast last season and Coby Fleener had his ups and downs. Fleener should flourish with Pep Hamilton as offensive coordinator)

Punter. (Pat McAfee is one of the best in the league and was slapped with the franchise tag)

Kicker. (As long as Adam Vinatieri is still suiting up the Colts should be OK here)

Other than those, EVERY other position is a possibility. The Colts have been tied to about 12 different players (give or take). Here are my best guesses of where the big names fall when the madness begins.

Colts Free Agency Predictions

The Colts will most likely sign...

Cliff Avril - I predictificated this last night before all the rumors that have come out today. He's young and a proven playmaker. He's a little soft against the run, but most pass rushers are. I prefer him over Paul Kruger and I think the Colts may be able to sign him for less.

If Avril doesn't sign with the Colts he could get snatched up by the Oakland Raiders or the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Andy Levitre - This would be a huge addition to the offensive line (and no, I'm not just saying that because he's 6-2, 305) and should help protect Andrew Luck - but also help the running game. Maybe it's just me but the Colts running backs seem to get hit in the backfield a lot.

Keep an eye on the Tennessee Titans and San Diego Chargers. They are just two of the other teams interested in Levitre.

Ed Reed - We could argue until we are blue (Colts blue, of course) in the face over whether or not this would be a 'good' signing. Fact is, Reed has been a playmaker in the NFL for years, understands the defense, has great chemistry with Pagano and Wayne and will bring instant credibility to a unit that's been easy to criticize. The deal needs to be for two years and cap friendly - but I don't see anyway this could be bad for the Colts.

Be on the lookout for the 49ers or Patriots to get to Reed first.

Cary Williams - This is the signing I would be least happy about. I'm not all that high on Williams' game and I think the Colts could do better. This comes down to one thing - familiarity. Colts couldn't rush the passer effectively last year and several people within the organization blame that on shoddy pass coverage. Bringing in players like Reed and Williams will give confidence to the secondary to play more instinctual. Better pass coverage, better pass rush. It's science.

I haven't heard much about the market for Williams - which may be a good thing for the Colts. Other possible landing spots include the Oakland Raiders and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Colts Just May be Interested in.....

Greg Jennings - I have a ton of respect for Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star and he went on record as saying the Colts have shown ZERO interest in Jennings. Teams play some things close to the vest and it wouldn't surprise me to hear the Colts are involved in the pursuit of Jennings - he could be very dangerous in a West Coast system.

Predictification - Minnesota Vikings

Paul Kruger - This marriage would make a ton of sense and would obviously fill a need for the Colts. My gut? I think that Pagano knows what kind of player Kruger is and the team won't overpay for his ability. The Colts are only involved at the right price and some one else will overpay.

Predictification - Cleveland Browns

Louis Vasquez - I don't think there is any way that the Colts don't sign either Vasquez or Levitre. I went with Levitre because I like him better but I wouldn't be surprised if it's Vasquez. If he doesn't sign with the Colts I think there is a good chance he stays put.

Predictification - San Diego Chargers

LaRon Landry - If the team decides to commit to a safety beyond two years it just might be Landry. I think Landry is underrated as a player and would be happy to see him in Colts blue. I don't think it'll happen - but I wouldn't mind.

Predictification - San Francisco 49ers

Antoine Cason - Same as with Vasquez/Levitre, I'd be surprised if the Colts don't sign Williams or Cason. Everything goes back to Pagano and comfort in the scheme, but it still could be Cason.

Predictification - Detroit Lions

When the Picking's get Slim....

Don't rest on some of these guys.... They could help the Colts at the right price.

Felix Jones - I remember drooling over the thought of Reggie Bush as a kick returner/running back/receiver for the Colts. The Colts had almost zero production out of their running backs in the passing attack and with Deji Karim likely gone the Colts could use another kick returner. Jones would be less expensive and doesn't have a ton of tread worn off his tires. May be worth a look.

Connor Barwin - Sometimes there is nothing more satisfying than stealing someone from your division rivals. Barwin looks a lot like Watt on the field (I got them confused sometimes) and had a very solid season in 2011. Could be a decent fit at the right price.

Adrian Wilson - I think the Colts will sign a safety and this is yet another one to consider. Solid player and very smart. I'd be happy with any of the three.

Mike Jenkins - Imagine for a second if the Colts could pull this off - Vontae Davis, Cary Williams, Mike Jenkins, Darius Butler, Antoine Bethea and Ed Reed. On paper at least, that may be the best secondary in Colts history. Will it happen? Probably not. But, I can hope, can't I?

Adam (Don't call me Pac-Man) Jones - I'm not a huge fan of him personally and I don't think he the Colts' culture, but he can return kicks and would be a decent nickel/dime corner. It would be tough to find a better player at the price - but the price comes with some baggage.

Other Big Name Predictifications

Mike Wallace - Miami Dolphins

Jake Long - Chicago Bears

Reggie Bush - Detroit Lions

Steven Jackson - Atlanta Falcons

Rashard Mendenhall - Miami Dolphins

Wes Welker - New England Patriots

Danny Amendola - Baltimore Ravens

Sebastian Vollmer - New England Patriots

Dannell Ellerbe - Baltimore Ravens

Sean Smith - Kansas City Chiefs

Other Notable (Former) Colts...

Dwight Freeney - Atlanta Falcons or Denver Broncos

Austin Collie - Denver Broncos

Jerraud Powers - San Diego Chargers

Other Fearless Predictifications...

If Darrelle Revis is traded I think it'll be to the Philadelphia Eagles. The Jets don't want to trade him within the AFC and the Eagles, after releasing DRC and Nnamdi, should have the space and the need for Revis.
In the end I don't think anyone makes the Giants regret using the restricted free agent tender on Victor Cruz. It should be noted that the Seahawks gave up a first rounder and a big contract (and then some) to acquire Percy Harvin. Who's to say that someone won't do the same for Cruz? If it happens I think it could be the same team that gave up Harvin - the Minnesota Vikings.
Former Colts offensive coordinator (and new Cardinals head coach) Bruce Arians has made it clear that he needs a quarterback to be successful. Assuming that quarterback isn't on the roster (I think that's safe) look for the Cardinals to draft, sign or trade for one in the coming weeks. My prediction? Carson Palmer will suit up for the Cardinals on Week 1.
The Buffalo Bills will make a big splash in free agency. I don't know who it'll be, but like the signing of Mario Williams last year, expect something big and unforeseen.

Thoughts? Comments? Complaints? Random attacks of turrets? Leave them below or email me at Predictification@gmail.com. And, you can follow me on Twitter at @ColtsInsiders.

Poll

The Colts most probable free agent addition will be....

Cary Williams

4 votes

Ed Reed

30 votes

Paul Kruger

6 votes

Cliff Avril

151 votes

Greg Jennings

4 votes

Adam Levitre

34 votes

Louis Vasaquez

96 votes

None of these guys

27 votes

352 votes | Poll has closed

A Colts Fan's View From Inside The 2013 NFL Scouting Combine

2013-02-28T15:39:23Z

Like anyone, I was intrigued to hear that 1iota.com, an online ticketing/casting company, offered the opportunity for fans to 'go behind the scenes' of the NFL Combine for just the second time in history. I remembered the first time well.... I was there, too. I figured that this may be my only chance at getting in and requested a ticket for both days. A few days later I got the confirmation that I was waiting for...

REQUEST GRANTED.

So, what's it like being at the NFL Scouting Combine? Not as sexy as you may think, but here's a look at my experience:

Saturday, 4:30 AM

That's right.... if you want to go to the combine you need to wake up early. My 'priority' tickets were great and guaranteed my entry but required that I be at Lucas Oil Stadium by 5:45. I had already been told that there would be appearances by former Jacksonville Jaguars RB Fred Taylor, former Tennessee Titans DE Jevon Kearse and 'current Colts players' and decided to make the most of my visits - being a blogger doesn't get you many exclusive question and answer sessions and I was determined to get an interview or two.

I rolled out of bed, showered and packed the essentials for covering the combine - pen and paper. You see, the NFL won't allow any type of camera or recording device - that means I had to do this the old fashioned way. I wasn't sure who to expect to attend from the Colts but I knew it woudn't be the 'stars' - Andrew Luck, Reggie Wayne, Robert Mathis, Adam Vinatieri and soon-to-be-gone Dwight Freeney. I drove to LOS thinking about who it might be and figured it would probably be one of the rookies (like LaVon Brazill or Dwayne Allen) forced to 'pay their dues' and mingle with the fans.

I arrived at the stadium and took my place in line among the other 'lucky' fans getting a chance to attend. It was early and I was in no mood to chit-chat about the miraculous 11-5 season or argue with the guys behind me who said that this day would be 'awesome'. Look - I had been here before and it's interesting... but definitely not 'awesome'.

There are guys who write for this site that are really into the draft - I mean, REALLY into the draft - and I'm not one of them. I probably couldn't list ten guys eligible for the draft this year if you put a gun to my head. I approach the draft like I do NCAA March Madness - I'm a casual observer for most of the season, taking note of the teams that attract national attention. Then, when the bracket of 64 (or 66 now, I guess) is announced, I'm in. I'll research some of the smaller schools and not miss a minute of the action. The NFL Combine is when the brackets are announced - my attention to the event and players involved begins now.

After checking my ticket, I was taken back to a lounge area that only high-priced season ticket holders usually get to see. A full breakfast was served (eggs, bacon, sausage, fruit, danishes, bagels, juice, coffee, etc.) and Ray Anderson (NFL Vice President of Football Operations) addressed us about their 'expectations' for the day. He said that there has been a lot of push-back from the teams to keep fans out of this event and they will look for anything negative that happens today as ammunition to end this event in the future. He told everyone to use their 'library voices' and that cheering or large movements were not allowed - anyone that broke these rules would be removed from LOS. See what I mean? FUN.

A Chance Meeting with Reggie Wayne

As we were eating our breakfast it was announced that the Colts player had arrived and would be making his way around the room to sign autographs and meet/talk with everyone. I took a deep breath and turned to see who it would be that walked in.

Reggie Wayne.

This may not be so bad after all, I thought. Immediately I started thinking what I wanted to ask Wayne. He started just a few seats away from me so this period was brief....

Ummm.... (Reggie approaches)

Got it. I introduced myself as a writer for Stampede Blue and he nodded as if he knew what 'Stampede Blue' was (who knows, maybe he does). I told him I didn't expect to see him but I had one question for him.

Reggie again nodded, "Shoot."

"Ed Reed," I said. "How much do you want to see him in a Colts uniform next year?"

Reggie paused. It's the kind of pause you get from someone who knows they are answering 'on the record'. I've asked these types of questions of Peyton Manning at training camps over the years as a fan ('Peyton, do you want the Colts to go after Randy Moss?') and you get playful answers that really say nothing. This was already different.

"I wouldn't mind, that's for sure. That's my old roommate, you know. I don't get involved in that stuff too much but he definitely couldn't hurt."

He answered with a smile - knowing that he gave the 'vanilla' answer I expected. And that was fine. I could see it in his eyes that this was a thought he had entertained on his own. I know, he has no say in this type of decision but it doesn't mean the couldn't play 'recruiter' if the Colts asked him. I wondered if they had but wasn't comfortable enough to ask.

We chatted briefly about the season, Andrew Luck and how excited fans are for the new season. Nothing else 'quote worthy' but pleasant in all aspects. A few minutes later he continued on his tour around the room and I scribbled down the information - still shocked, but impressed, that the Colts sent Wayne to this event.

The Combine

After stuffing my face with WAY too much food we were escorted to our seats. Even though we were 'privileged' and 'lucky' to have access to this event our seats didn't reflect it. We weren't sitting street level - we were sitting in the 200 level seats. Now, if you're attending a Colts game these would be PRIME seats - but this wasn't a game. This was the NFL Combine where you want to judge reaction time, hip movement and raw athletic ability - let's just say that there weren't any scouts taking seats next to us for our great view.

This session was going to be focused on the offensive linemen and tight ends - not exactly a high profile bunch. Some of the names that I heard I recognized like Luke Joeckel (impressive), D.J. Fluker (not so much) and Jonathan Cooper (solid). Others, like Kyle Long (I like him), seemed familiar because he is related to Howie Long and the Rams' Chris Long.

The guy I liked the most that no one was talking about prior to the combine?

Terron Armstead of Arkansas-Pinebluff.

Armstead set a record for the fasted 40 time at the combine for an offensive lineman at 4.71. Yes I know, save your comments, 'when is a lineman ever going to run 40 yards?". This is about burst and strength - both, I'm sure you agree, will factor heavily at the next level. The man got his 6-5, 307 pound frame moving VERY fast (faster than Manti T'eo and Alec Ogletree),was also tops of the broad jump and eighth in bench press. The guy could be a steal in later rounds.

Fred Taylor

Fred Taylor sat with the group as we watched the combine. He walked up and down the aisles signing autographs and shaking hands. As he walked out to the lobby I decided to follow.

"Hey Fred," I said as I approached, "tell me about the Colts/Jags game in 2006". Every Colts fan remembers this game. The Jaguars rushed for 375 yards and blew out the Colts 44-17. Some fans think this game was a wake-up call for the Colts entering the playoffs - they went on to win the Super Bowl.

Taylor laughed. "Colts fans always bring that game up, man. You guys should be thanking me."

He reminisced about how he had to leave the game early because of a sore hamstring and mused about how many yards he could of had. He said that their gameplan worked 'perfectly' that day.

"We exposed every weakness you guys had," he said, still laughing. "Hats off to Coach Dungy, though. He tightened things up, man, got them to a Super Bowl."

He continued to talk about how he knew going into the playoffs that teams would try and run on the Colts - and that it would be a mistake.

"I've always said I never wanted to run against a team that got ran over the week before. They know where their weaknesses are now. That's why Colts fans should be thanking me."

We talked for a few more minutes about his career, especially his time in New England with the Patriots. I thanked him for his time and returned to my seat. I always liked Fred Taylor as a player and he's even more likable after talking to him for a few minutes.

Lunch Time

We left our seats at noon and headed back down to have lunch. It was another nice buffet line of hamburgers, hot dogs, deli sandwiches, potato salad, salad, cookies, brownies, tea and lemonade. Once again I ate more than I should have. They passed out some door prizes (I wasn't a winner) and announced that Antoine Bethea would be making his rounds now. It was almost one o'clock and I was exhausted. I turned to one of the workers at the event to ask which players would be at the event tomorrow.

"Same ones."

"Reggie and Antoine?" I asked. He nodded and I convinced myself that I could talk to Bethea tomorrow when I did this all over again. The day was done and I was headed for the exit.

"Don't forget your swag bag," one of the young ladies working the event called after me. She was toting a bag with 'Bridgestone' (who sponsored the event) plastered on the side of it.

"Oh. Thanks." Swag bag? Now we're talking - isn't this what famous people look forward to at the Oscars and other big events, the swag? I eagerly looked inside to find.... a miniature Bridgestone nerf-like football. That was all.

Swag bag? Hardly.

Saturday, 6:00 PM

I was lucky enough to snag three tickets to a 'Tweetup' (I had to Google it) at Emmis Studios on Monument Circle downtown. Peter King, Adam Schefter, Albert Breer, Bob Kravitz, Mike Chappell and others were all scheduled to be there and I thought it would be a fun night to pick the brains of some of the guys who've been in the business a long time. Because I'm new in town (that's what I tell myself) I don't have a lot of, what you may call, 'friends' - at least not any that would want to go listen to sportswriters talk about the NFL for 2 hours. So, who did I invite to this Who's Who of sportswriters?

My parents.

That's right.... Mama and Papa Predictificationist. As we started to enter the event I turned to the people that created me.

"I know that parents like to brag about their children. You are not permitted to say a word about me at this event." You see, this is necessary because my dad seems to think I'm just an interview away from being lead anchor on Sportscenter - and he will do anything in his power to get me that interview. He once told Sam Ryan (who used to cover NBC's Sunday Night Football as a sideline reporter) that she should 'read my stuff' and 'he could work for you guys' - you gotta love parents.

They agreed to the rule and we joined in with the other tweeting, sports-loving, blogging nerds. Once again, there was free food everywhere. You see, this is a problem because in college I trained myself that if there was free food around you eat it - regardless if you are hungry or not. I was still full from the food at the combine but it didn't stop me from loading up on pulled pork from Weber Grill and eating a chicken tender or two (or six).

The event was well organized. All the sportswriters sat at a table and took questions from the people in attendance and online via Google Hangout. My question? Well, it's no secret that I would love the Colts to pursue a playmaker like Reggie Bush and I wanted to know where he would end up. Albert Breer handled my question.

"Detroit Lions. He's going to be the player they always wanted Jahvid Best to be."

I didn't like the answer but I knew he was right. The Colts aren't getting Bush in free agency and deep down I know that. The Lions make a lot more sense - besides Bush probably doesn't want to be a role player like Darren Sproles. He still wants to be a lead back somewhere and Detroit would give him that.

After the event there was mingling between all the involved parties. I made my way over to Bob Kravitz (who I've always admired) to introduce myself. A few months ago I was shocked that Bob had started following me on Twitter and I wasn't sure if he knew who I was or not.

"Bob Kravitz - My name is Nick Ragsdale. I write for Stampede Blue. Just wanted to say that I've been a fan of your writing style for years and I appreciate what you do."

It was loud in the room. He smiled and said, "What was your last name again?"

"Ragsdale."

I could be making this up (probably) but I could swear I saw a hint of recognition in his face. "Oh yeah, Ragsdale. I like your stuff. You're a good writer."

Now - this may not seem like a big deal to those of you who have no aspirations as a writer, and for all I know he may not have truly had a clue who I was - but this made my night. We talked for a few more minutes before he excused himself to grab a Sun King beer.

I next made my way over to Peter King. We talked briefly about football, the Colts and other odds and ends. Before leaving I asked him if he remembered an interview that he gave to a blogger a few years back before the Colts/Saints Super Bowl.

"I do remember that."

Good for you, Brad Wells. You made an impression.

I had another early day tomorrow and decided to call it a night.

Sunday, 4:45 AM

Waking up seemed harder this time. I already knew what I was in for - only today it would be QB's and WR's running around on the field. I dragged myself out of bed, got into my car and headed to LOS.

Once again I stood in line with excited football fans who couldn't wait to sit in complete silence and watch men go through skill drills to impress NFL scouts. Once again I was too tired to chit-chat about the Colts season or anticipate what may be in store for us today. I wondered how many people were here for the second straight day. Not many, I thought. To pull off the feat I had to create two separate accounts - a little underhanded perhaps, but I pride myself in making the most of every opportunity.

We were escorted into the same room, had the same breakfast and heard the same speech from Ray Anderson. It was almost like deja vu until the representative from 1iota got up to introduce the Colts player that would be spending time with us during breakfast. I waited to hear the excited swell around the room when Reggie Wayne was announced - but I was thrown a curveball.

"Please welcome, Anthony Castonzo."

OK - this was a little different script. I was a little disappointed because I had prepared some questions for Wayne with the expectation that I'd get to see him again. The interesting thing was that Castonzo had come up in conversations the night before at the Tweetup. Mike Chappell had stated that he thought the Colts would ask Castonzo to move to RT and pursue one of the big-name free agent LT's with their cap space. Worth asking him about, I thought.

I nibbled on my eggs and bacon as Castonzo made his rounds. I was sitting by myself (I planned it this way) and went over some of the questions I wanted to ask him. Finally, Castonzo approached. I congratulated him on a great season, introduced myself as a writer for Stampede Blue and told him I had a few questions. He nodded.

'Start slow' I told myself. 'Warm him up a little.'

"Do you anticipate any scheme changes for the offensive line now that Pep Hamilton has been named offensive coordinator?"

Castonzo responded quickly and freely, "I haven't actually been able to talk to Pep yet, so I don't really know. I don't think that there would be any major changes - at least not for us on the o-line."

"Have you talked with Andrew Luck yet about it, picked his brain about what to expect?" I asked.

He smiled and said, "I actually tried to call him the other day and I couldn't reach him. Then, he tried to call me and left me a message. We've been playing phone tag for a few days but I will talk to him about it soon."

Now it was time to go for it.

"Obviously, with the amount of room the Colts have in free agency, there is speculation that the Colts may try to upgrade the offensive line." He nodded. "Some people think that they may go after one of the big-name free agent left tackles. Would you be willing to move to right tackle if the Colts asked?"

I hoped this question wasn't offensive to Castonzo. In all honesty he was the most consistent player on the OL this past season.

"Yeah. I'm willing to do what they want me to do if it'll help us win, as long as I'm playing and I get to start." He then added, "I'd be surprised if they did that, though."

I figured that was enough. I thanked him for his time and told him that, in my opinion, he was the best player the Colts had on the OL and I was looking forward to seeing him play again this season.

As he left two things stood out to me. First, it was nice to hear his willingness to move if it would help the team. I know that it was the answer you would expect, but it was still good to hear. The second thing was the 'I'd be surprised if they did that, though' part. It was subtle, and perhaps I'm reading too much into it, but it almost seemed like he never considered this a possibility. I thought this had been openly talked about (at least in the blog world) but he gave the impression though it had never crossed his mind.

We made our way up to our seats for the combine shortly after that and I considered the morning a success.

Jevon Kearse

The seats were the same as they were the day before and I settled in to watch the quarterbacks and receivers run. I had missed my opportunity to talk with Jevon Kearse yesterday and decided that I would remedy that today. I was impressed the most with WR Tavon Austin - very explosive. The Colts already have T.Y. Hilton to fill this role but it didn't make him any less impressive. At quarterback, Marqueis Grey looked completely lost - his throws were all over the place.

Kearse made his way to my section just as a couple sitting next to me decided they needed a snack break (there were a lot of these going on... trust me, this whole thing isn't as thrilling as it sounds). This left two open seats directly to my right that Jevon was more than happy to sit in - for nearly 20 minutes. He was upbeat, fun, engaging and entertaining. I took the opportunity to pick his brain about everything.

Best quarterback he's ever played against? Peyton Manning. Duh.

"Peyton's got this internal clock in his head, it was so tough to get to him," Kearse said in a very low booming voice. "You know, the five of us," he said pointing around to the small crowd that was listening to him speak "we could have blocked for him and he still would have been one of the least sacked quarterbacks in the league. Sometimes he'd call things out at the line that I didn't even know we were doing - but he was right."

"I played with Steve McNair and the guys on the offensive line would say they liked it better with Neil O'Donnell back there because he got rid of the ball when he was supposed to. Steve would try to keep plays alive and make them look bad. Peyton knew how to get rid of the ball."

How about when you got to Peyton - was it satisfying?

"Oh yeah. I got a few on him. He knew how to get in the ref's ear, though. He and Brady know how to work those refs, man."

What does he think about the new crackdown on defenseless players and helmet to helmet hits?

"It's become touch football."

Does he suffer any lingering injuries from his football career - any lasting effects from concussions?

"Nah. Not that I know of. I didn't really play that way, though. I got these long arms and I used them."

Best offensive lineman he ever faced?

"Probably Tony Boselli."

What did he think of Albert Haynesworth. Does he deserve his reputation?

On this one Kearse paused for a minute with a grin, considering what he should say. "I liked Albert, but he'd give you hell, though. He'd stare down the coaches during practice in the middle of a play if he didn't like something. Yeah, he probably deserves it."

Best coach he ever played for? I almost didn't ask this assuming that Jeff Fisher was the obvious answer. I forgot that he spent time in Philadelphia.

"Andy Reid. Jeff was so 'by the book' all the time. Andy was more of a player's coach. When we'd have a bye week in Tennessee we'd get like three days off. Andy gave us the whole week - but I was too afraid to do anything with it because it almost felt like he was testing you!"

We were laughing and having such a good time that someone from the NFL actually came over to tell us to be quiet - for a moment I forgot that we were in the hallowed halls of the NFL's most protected event - the combine. We finished up talking about the devastating knee injury he had in an overtime game against the Giants and what he hoped to do with the rest of his life. He seemed to be leaning towards coaching but wouldn't rule out a career in broadcasting.

Soon after our time at the combine was done. They herded us back downstairs for lunch.

Antoine Bethea

As I headed back down for lunch I thought about how I skipped out early yesterday and missed my chance to talk to Antoine Bethea. I was under the impression that the same guys were returning today, but that didn't ring true this morning as Anthony Castonzo replaced Reggie Wayne. I wondered who'd we get to see next and was preparing myself for anything.

The lunch was the same as it was the day before. They drew names for door prizes - and once again I didn't win. After that they announced that another Colts player would spend some time with us during our lunch.

It was Antoine Bethea. Whew.

Antoine started just a few seats from me, so it didn't seem like I would have to wait long. Once again I had strategically sat by myself (this is a thing that people with no friends do) so I could ask several questions to Bethea without monopolizing his time from other fans.

As he approached I again introduced myself as a writer for Stampede Blue and, as was becoming common, he seemed to know about the site. I started asking about the defensive transition and how things were going.

"I think it's going well. It's just going to take time. You know, the 49ers and Ravens, they've run it for awhile. We'll get there. It takes time to learn to react quickly - until it's second nature."

I told him how Colts fans are excited about all the cap space this season and how it appears that they will be spenders in free agency. "Play GM for a second and tell me who you would sign on defense."

He hesitated.

"You don't have to give me name. What position would you go for?"

He smiled. "Well, first, let me give you the political answer and say 'whoever can help us win'. If I was going to give you a name... I don't know. I love Ed Reed."

I smiled because I want the Colts to sign Ed Reed. "I talked to Reggie Wayne about him yesterday," I said. "Don't you guys play the same position? Would you slide over if they signed him?"

Bethea smiled again and said, "Man, I play SAFETY. I'll slide over, play in the box, whatever. Whatever it takes. I'll let Ed Reed do his thing."

This was good stuff. I know that Reggie Wayne and Antoine Bethea aren't the ones that will be signing free agents, but if Wayne starts recruiting and Bethea willing to 'do whatever' it seems like a real possibility.

I said goodbye to Antoine and finished my lunch.

Leaving the Combine

I decided to leave the combine after that. There wasn't much left to gain. I was eager to get to my cell phone and tweet some of what I had learned to the world. None of the things I found out are 'groundbreaking' news by any means but it didn't make it any less fun. I was exhausted from the early mornings but decided the weekend was worth it.

I walked into the lobby past the 1iota representatives and towards the stadium doors. I was already planning the long nap I was going to take the afternoon. I wondered if there was anything else that could have made the weekend better - what could possibly go wrong? I got all the way to my car before I realized it.

I had forgotten my Bridgestone Souvenir Swag Bag.

Finding Buckner: The Championship Round

2013-02-22T13:00:26Z

This is what it all comes down to... Mike Vanderjagt and Jeff George. A battle from two different eras. A battle between the Canadian and local golden boy. A battle featuring the most respected position on the football field (quarterback) and the butt of most football jokes (kicker).

A battle of boneheads.

The Indianapolis Colts Scapegoat Champion will be decided over the next several days by the readers of Stampede Blue. Use your vote wisely and weigh the elements of each candidate's douche baggery - only one can be chosen. Picture yourself in a room with each candidate... they walk in and start to talk about their Colts career and how they've been unfairly criticized and given too much blame. Let's imagine.....

Jeff George: Man, what a day. I still get booed walking out of the mall. Don't they remember I was the FIRST Gatorade National Player of the Year in high school? I graduated just up the street. Hell, Purdue, Illinois and Miami were all begging me to play for them... and I chose Purdue! What else do they want from me? Sure, I left after one season 'cause the coach that recruited me was forced to resign - but that's only because I TOLD Purdue to talk to ME before they hired someone else. But did they? NO! So I went to Illinois... It's what was best for Jeff George.

I made it pretty obvious that I would love to come back home after college and play with the Colts - maybe make that team respectable, you know? I was glad that word got to Jim Irsay. I know he gave up a king's ransom to get me to Indianapolis (Andre Rison, Chris Hinton, 1st round pick, etc.) but I was going to be this team's future... before you fans screwed it all up.

I know, I know... I signed the richest rookie contract in league history (at the time) - but one guy doesn't make a team! I spent more time on my butt in Indianapolis than Brad Well's does sitting in his mother's basement. But, who do you blame? ME. I mean, when I came to town you guys surrounded me with guys like Eric Dickerson, Albert Bentley, Bill Brooks, Clarence Verdin, Pat Beach and Jessie Hester... Seriously - who can win with these guys? On defense we had no-names like Duane Bickett, Eugene Daniel, Jeff Herrod, Mike Prior, Jon Hand and Tony Sirag...something. Times were tough.

Even with all that - I did my best. I went 5-7 my rookie year - what was your record without me? (2-2) The next year you finally got me for a full season and I go 1-15... but it wasn't my fault. Ron Meyer was the head coach and he wasn't doing his job... we had to get him out there. In 1992 we got a new coach - Ted Marchibroda. I only played in the ten games that season but we finished 9-7 - I went 6-4. It wasn't my best statistical season (7 touchdowns, 15 interceptions) and don't think I didn't hear you guys saying you were winning 'in spite of me, not because of me'. I heard it. And when you guys booed me after getting shutout two consecutive weeks? I heard that to. When Teddy pulled me for Jack Trudeau late in the year I was pissed. Do you know that I've never been pulled from a game in my entire life? I knew what I was going to do then and there. I told the media guys.... Ted's going to have to live with the consequences of his decision. You all would.

That's why in 1993 I decided not to show up. You want to boo me? You think you can pull me from a game? You can't if I'm not there! Who's laughing now?!? I told Irsay I wanted out... traded, anything to not have to play in front of these ungrateful hicks in Indiana. He told me I was being 'disrespectful' and committing 'career suicide' or something... I don't know, I wasn't really paying attention. The team struggled BIG TIME without me, only going 2-3. That's when I decided to bless the team with my presence. It wasn't quite the welcome party I expected... jerks. After I came back I got two wins, too... 2-9. But - not my fault.

Finally I convinced the Colts to trade me. It was clear that they weren't appreciative of my talents. And, come to think of it... neither was Atlanta, or Oakland... or Minnesota... or Washington. I gave the city of Indianapolis one last chance to make things right... I offered to help them when they went 2-14 in 2011, but did they call? NO.

For my career I had 8 fourth quarter comebacks, 17 game winning drives and led the Colts to a 14-35 record when I was starting quarterback. The funny thing is that you guys are excited about Andrew Luck and his 4 fourth quarter comebacks, 7 game winning drives and 11-5 record. Sheesh... Colts fans.

Mike Vanderjagt: I know, right?! All I did was become the MOST ACCURATE FIELD GOAL KICKER IN NFL HISTORY! You think that's easy? Some people think this team really started to turn the corner in 1998 and give all the credit to Peyton Manning. You know who else came to this team in 1998? Me. Oh, and when the Colts had the best turnaround in league history in 1999 (from 3-13 to 13-3), guess who led the ENTIRE NFL in scoring? Me! Not Peyton freakin' Manning!. In the 1999 playoffs we lost to the Titans 16-19 - you can't blame me though. I made all three of my field goal attempts. It was Peyton who couldn't get you in the endzone.

During the 2000 playoffs we lost to Miami in overtime. I made all three of my kicks in regulation (including a 50 yarder in the fourth quarter) but all you want to talk about is the game winner I missed in OT from 49 yards out. The sun was in my eyes.

In January of 2003 we lost to the Jets in the playoffs 41-0 and I missed my only field goal attempt. Peyton just did his 'mopey face' and Dungy kept positive and saying that everything would be OK. Me? I was pissed (not in the British way either, Peyton). So, yeah, I went on TV and questioned whether Peyton and Tony were really 'leaders'.... so what? Don't REAL leaders say what's on their mind on Canadian TV? Then Peyton went and said what was on his mind on national TV at the Pro Bowl.... I didn't like what was on his mind. What was he trying to do, turn Indy against me? Talk about leadership.

The whole offseason, the only thing people were saying was 'he better not miss a kick if he wants to stay with the Colts' and 'just give Indy a reason'. So what did I do? I went 37 of 37 on field goals that season... perhaps you remember that? Sure there were some close calls along the way (that guy in Tampa distracted me by 'leaping') but no other kicker has ever done that, have they? When we got in the playoffs again and won a couple of games I was feeling pretty good. I knew no one else would say it, so I did. I thought the Patriots were 'ripe for the picking' and told that to the press. You think Manning or Dungy would have said that? The Patriots said some mean things (Vanderjerk).... what did I ever do to them. We should have won that game but New England seemed unusually fired up to make us look bad. I wonder what set them off?

It was fun to represent the AFC in the Pro Bowl that year - those guys... so many pranks and kicker jokes. Every one started being really mean to me after the game. I know I missed a 51 yard field goal that could've tied the game and made us all a little more money... but, c'mon guys, it's the PRO BOWL, right?

To start off 2004 we got to play the Patriots again. Down 27-24 with only a few seconds left, Peyton had me all lined up for a 35 yard field goal - and then HE GETS SACKED BY WILLIE MCGINEST AND LOST 13 YARDS. Sure, I pushed the 48 yard field goal wide right - BUT IT WAS PEYTON'S FAULT.

That brings us to 2005. The Colts go 14-2 and we're favored to win the whole thing. Then, Peyton comes out FLAT. The offense can't do anything all day. When the game was on the line and it was fourth down Manning got sacked at our own 2 yard line. It looked like the game was going to be over until Gary Brackett forced that fumble. And, IF NICK HARPER could avoid Ben Roethlisberger, we wouldn't even be having this conversation - or, if Peyton tries to get me A LITTLE closer instead of going for the endzone! But he didn't and I'm stuck trying a 46 yard field goal with the weight of Indianapolis on my shoulders. But, yeah... it's MY FAULT.

Yeah... I know the Colts won a Super Bowl the next season (when I was long gone). Thanks to Peyton I've been blacklisted in the NFL and now run my own pizza joint (with my brothers) in Florida. The most accurate kicker in NFL history and zero respect.

So.... Who would you rather punch in the face? The golden boy with a sense of entitlement taken #1 overall who crippled the franchise for years or the 'idiot kicker' who missed clutch kick after clutch kick and couldn't keep his mouth shut?

The vote is yours...

Poll

Who is the biggest scapegoat in Indianapolis Colts history?

#1 Mike Vanderjagt

191 votes

#2 Jeff George

117 votes

308 votes | Poll has closed

Finding Buckner: Crowning the Colts Scapegoat - Day 6

2013-02-19T15:00:12Z

If you missed it yesterday (you really should stop by more often... we miss you) you missed a revolt by the readers of Stampede Blue - and it was good.

That's right... I screwed up. I tried to lump all four contenders into one post and have one big vote.... oops. In all honesty, I didn't have much to add to the articles and thought folks would get bored re-reading about the same jerk they voted for two days ago. Boy, was I wrong.

And I'm happy about that. So... if you THOUGHT you voted yesterday for the Colts Scapegoat... Check again. I've re-posted the article as 'Day 5' and only had the match-up of Mike Vanderjagt vs. Hank Baskett and reset the pollster. Go make somebody (Vanderjagt or Baskett) miserable.

If you'd like a recap of how we got here check out Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4 and Day 5 by clicking the links.

Today we are focusing on Jeff George and Jim Caldwell.

Let's stir up your anger again.

#2 Jeff George

Profile: Jeff George was an Indianapolis native and attended Warren Central High School. He was the first 'Gatorade National Player of the Year' and originally committed to Purdue University. George transferred to Illinois after his freshman year. The Colts traded up to select George #1 overall and signed him to the richest rookie contract in league history (at that time). George didn't respond well to fans criticism and asked for a trade out of Indianapolis. For his career, George passed for over 27,000 yards with 154 TDs and 113 interceptions while suiting up for the Colts, Falcons, Raiders, Vikings and Redskins.

Years with the Colts: 1990-1993

Best Moments as a Colt:

Drafted #1 overall in 1990, Jeff George was the local boy who would put the Colts on the football map.
George went 5-7 his rookie season, throwing 16 TDs and 13 interceptions despite being sacked 37 times.

Why he is on the list: Jeff George was supposed to be the Colts' savior. When George didn't live up to expectations the fans began to turn on him. The way he responded to the Colts and the city of Indianapolis has made him one of the most hated Indianapolis Colts players of all time.

Jeff George, upset at the way he has been treated in Indianapolis by the fans, walks into GM Jim Irsay's office and demands a trade. Irsay warns George that he is committing 'career suicide' and George decides to holdout for 36 days, missing the beginning of the season.
When George's head coach at Purdue was fired he warned Purdue that they had better consult him about to hire next. They didn't and George transferred to Illinois.
After getting shutout in two straight games in 1992 fans began to boo. George said "Why do I get booed? Here's the honest answer: Because I'm good and I'm good-looking. That's number one. But number two is that I think people still remember the Purdue situation, and I don't think I'll ever live that down, whether I lead the team to a Super Bowl or I'm the top quarterback in the league."
George was known for making rude gestures and blowing up at fans that were critical of him.
When George was pulled from a game late in 1992 for Jack Trudeau he had a heated exchange with headcoach Ted Marchibroda on the sidelines. The Colts went on to win and while the rest of the team was celebrating, George said, "Ted made the decision. He'll have to live with the consequences."

Summary : After researching and re-reading a lot of the things that happened with Jeff George, I'm kind of surprised that he isn't the #1 seed. George further complicated matters by stating that he could fix the Colts offense in 2011 when Manning was out and petitioned to play quarterback for the team. Obviously, the Colts weren't interested. For more reading on the legend of Jeff George, check out this article from the SI Vault.

#3 Jim Caldwell

Profile: Jim Caldwell played defensive back for the University of Iowa before getting into coaching. His collegiate coaching career included stops at Iowa, Southern Illinois, Northwestern, Colorado, Louisville, Penn State and his first head coaching job at Wake Forest. At Wake Forest Caldwell's record was 26-63. In the NFL, Caldwell coached for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Indianapolis Colts and Baltimore Ravens. He has been to the Super Bowl three times as a coach (once as a head coach) and has two Super Bowl rings. His NFL coaching record is 26-22 including an impressive 14-2 in 2009 and an NFL worst 2-14 in 2011.

Years with the Colts: 2002-2011

Best Moments as a Colt:

Tony Dungy, one of the most respected men in Colts history, handpicked Jim Caldwell to be his successor in 2008 and officially handed him the reigns in 2009.

Jim Caldwell tied a franchise record with 14 wins in the 2009 regular season and has the best start of any head coach in NFL history by winning his first 14 games.

Caldwell becomes just the fifth coach in NFL history to lead his team to the Super Bowl in his first year on the job.

Why he is on the list:

Following a 2-14 season (without starting quaterback Peyton Manning) Jim Caldwell is fired. Caldwell is criticized for not adjusting his gameplans to compensate for the loss of Manning.
Against the Jaguars in 2010, with the game tied and Jacksonville seemingly willing to let the game go into overtime, Caldwell calls timeouts and allows the Jaguars to drive for the game winning field goal.
In the playoffs against the Jets in January of 2011 Caldwell again calls a timeout, with the Colts leading 16-14, after New York seemed content to let the clock wind down and attempt a 51 yard field goal. After the timeout Mark Sanchez hits Braylon Edwards for 18 yards and the Jets win on a 32 yard chip shot. Peyton Manning shows clear signs of confusion and frustration on the sidelines after the timeout was called. This was the last game that Manning would play in for the Colts.
At 14-0, and faced with the opportunity to become the first team in NFL history to go 19-0, Caldwell pulls his starters in the second half against the Jets. The Jets go on to win the game and some fans believe at that moment Caldwell lost the respect of the locker room. (Note: Blame is assessed to both Caldwell and Polian for this decision)
Part of coaching is developing young talent and fans blame some of the failures of Tony Ugoh,Jerry Hughes and Anthony Gonzalez on Caldwell and his staff.

Summary : The biggest knock on Caldwell was that he wasn't able to adjust his gameplan to fit his personnel. When Peyton Manning was down in 2011 there were no adjustments made on offense or defense to reduce the increased pressure on Kerry Collins, Curtis Painter, Dan Orlovsky or the defense - while in Denver, John Fox was gaining the respect of the league for completely changing his game plan to fit Tim Tebow. Another thing that always bugged me about Caldwell was his lack of 'presence'. Perhaps it's intangible but some people have 'it' and some people don't. I never thought Caldwell had 'it'. Could more Super Bowls have been won with a different man at the helm?

I've made the case for each of them..... TODAY YOU WILL VOTE FOR GEORGE AGAINST CALDWELL - Who is the bigger scapegoat in Indianapolis Colts history?

Poll

Who is the bigger scapegoat in Indianapolis Colts history?

#2 Jeff George

250 votes

#3 Jim Caldwell

220 votes

470 votes | Poll has closed

Finding Buckner: Crowning the Colts Scapegoat - Day 5

2013-02-18T17:43:40Z

**UPDATE**

Because most people seemed to be in favor of keeping with the Championship Tournament format I have re-posted this and only allowing voting for the #1 Seed and #4 Seed today. Voting for the #2 vs. #3 seeds will take place tomorrow. YOUR VOICES WERE HEARD!

Let's do this right.

No surprises after Round 1. All four of the top seeds advanced (even though Bill Polian ALMOST pulled off the upset) and are set for Round 2.

Colts fans, here are your Final Four:

#1 Mike Vanderjagt

#2 Jeff George

#3 Jim Caldwell

#4 Hank Baskett

If you'd like a recap of how we got here check out Day 1, Day 2, Day 3 and Day 4 by clicking the links.

Mike Vanderjagt and Hank Baskett will be posted today and profiles for our other match-up will be posted tomorrow.

Let's stir up your anger again.

THE CHAMPIONSHIP CONTENDERS:

#1 Mike Vanderjagt, #2 Jeff George,#3 Jim Caldwell and #4 Hank Baskett

Reading your comments from earlier postings the hate for these is pretty incredible. Mike Vanderjagt secured over 600 votes in Round 1, easily giving him the most votes in the tournament. Hank Baskett had the most hateful comments (couple of f-bombs sent his way) posted on his article - so... yeah, this should be interesting. I'm amazed at how many people mentioned that they don't remember the cancer that Jeff George was. He easily won his first round match-up but most people that left comments seemed to have moved on and could care less about George and the pain he caused Indianapolis. Jim Caldwell BARELY advanced with most people seeming torn about to attribute the blame for past failures - some said Polian, others gave it to Caldwell. It will be interesting to see if those that were split over Caldwell/Polian in the first round unite to push Caldwell into contention.

Here's a reminder of why everyone is here:

#1 Mike Vanderjagt

Profile: Vanderjagt was originally a quarterback at Michigan State before ending up at West Virginia as a kicker and punter for the Mountaineers. Mike bounced around Arena Football and the CFL before joining the Colts in 1998. He retired as the most accurate kicker in NFL and CFL history, hitting nearly 87% of his attempts.

Years with the Colts: 1998-2005

Best Moments:

In 2003 Vanderjagt went a perfect 37 for 37 on field goals during the regular season and 3 for 3 during the playoffs becoming the first kicker in NFL history to have a 'perfect' season.
Led the NFL in scoring in 1999.
Vanderjagt holds the record for most consecutive field goals made at 42.
Most accurate field goal kicker in NFL history (minimum 100 attempts).

Why he is on the list: Of all the responses I received on Twitter, Mike Vanderjagt topped them all. It's amazing to me that he seems to be the most disliked Colt of the Indianapolis era. Here are the lowlights:

After the 2003 season, in the Pro Bowl, Vanderjagt (Mr. 37 for 37) missed a game tying 51 yard field goal with three seconds left.
Vanderjagt's streak of 42 straight field goals was broken on the Monday Night opener in 2004 against the New England Patriots. The Colts lose 27-24.
In a 2000 playoff game against Miami Vanderjagt misses 49 yard field goal in overtime.
Following the 2002 season, Vanderjagt goes on a Canadian television program and questions the leadership of Peyton Manning and Tony Dungy. Manning follows with his historic 'idiot kicker' comments at the Pro Bowl.
During the 2004 playoffs Vanderjagt describes the Patriots as 'ripe for the picking' in their playoff match-up with the Colts. This bulletin board material inspires the Patriots and leads to Rodney Harrison proclaiming Vanderjagt as 'Vanderjerk'. The Patriots go on to win the game 20-3 and are the eventual Super Bowl Champs.
In the 2005 NFL playoffs the highly favored Colts (coming off a bye) played host to the Pittsburgh Steelers. With 18 seconds left to play and the Colts trailing 21-18 Vanderjagt misses a 46 yard field goal very wide (like not even close) right. Compounding the problem, Vanderjagt goes on David Letterman and successfully makes a 46 yard field goal with Letterman as the holder.

Summary : Mike Vanderjagt is the #1 seed in this tournament for a reason - he wasn't all that likable. He missed clutch kicks when they mattered most and said some dumb things about two of the most loved Colts of all time (Manning and Dungy). He displayed arrogance and was outspoken while playing a position that most in the NFL don't respect. His stats say that he was one of the best kickers in NFL history but Colts fans remember him a very different way.

#4 Hank Baskett

Profile: Hank Baskett was an undrafted free agent out of the University of New Mexico. He has played for three NFL teams including two stints each with the Philadelphia Eagles and the Minnesota Vikings. Baskett was a late addition to the 2009 Indianapolis Colts team that started 14-0 and lost to the Saints in Super Bowl XLIV.

Years with the Colts: 2009

Best Moments as a Colt:

Hank Baskett didn't see much playing time for the Colts throughout the 2009 season, catching just four passes and recording one tackle on special teams. His best game statistically was against the Jets (when the Colts rested their starters to forgo a perfect season) when he caught two passes for 16 yards.

Why he is on the list:

During Super Bowl XLIV, with the Colts leading the Saints 10-6, Baskett fails to recover a surprise onside kick. The ball hit Baskett square on the facemask and bounced towards the Saints. Amazingly he still had a chance to recover the ball and, at one point, seemed to have it. The officials (who seemed to say 'blue ball' during the scrum) eventually awarded the ball to the Saints and New Orleans went on to win the game 34-17.

Summary : Hank Baskett's time with the Colts was short but his impact wasn't. What would have happened in Super Bowl XLIV had he recovered the kick cleanly? Baskett hasn't talked much about the kick, but I was able to find some quotes released by the Eagles PR department (posted by ESPN South blogger, Paul Kuharsky) concerning the kick. Take a look:

"I thought everybody was going to come down on me for it. As everybody knows, anybody who follows football, one play does not change the game. It sucks that the first onside kick in history before the fourth quarter had to happen to me. It was battle underneath the pile, but I actually haven't been beaten down about it. I knew I was probably going to catch some grief. Of course, it's the biggest game of the year, but not what I was expecting or anybody else was expecting."

- Hank Baskett, on if he had been given flack for not recovering the onside kick

"I took the step, I took the steps back and then I saw it coming. I went and it took a bad bounce and I don't know how I had a second chance. I crawled under everybody and got back on it. It was a long time underneath there. Guys on our team attested that they heard it was 'blue ball' so when I started getting up, another guy poked it out and that's how the guy got it. It was a long battle. I'll tell you, it seemed like we were down there for a good half hour."

- Hank Baskett, on whether or not he saw the onside kick coming

I've made the case for each of them..... TODAY YOU WILL VOTE FOR VANDERJAGT AGAINST BASKETT - Who is the bigger scapegoat in Indianapolis Colts history?

Poll

Who is the bigger scapegoat in Indianapolis Colts history?

#1 Mike Vanderjagt

126 votes

#4 Hank Baskett

96 votes

222 votes | Poll has closed

Finding Buckner: Search for the Colts' Scapegoat - Day 4

2013-02-16T17:00:11Z

Welcome to Day 4 of the search for Indy's scapegoat.

If you missed Day 1 (shame on you) you missed a blowout with #1 seed Mike Vanderjagt easily handing the #8 seed Aaron Bailey - as any good #1 seed should. At last check, Vanderjagt had nearly 97% of the votes.

You can look at Day 1 by clicking here.

If you missed Day 2 (you really should stop by more) you missed a convincing win by our #2 seed, Jeff George. I won't lie, Nick Harper got a lot more votes that I thought he would - but at last check George had 75% of the vote.

You can look at Day 2 by clicking here.

And... if you missed Day 3 (alright... seriously?!?) you missed a race that was by far the closest vote of the tournament to this point. Jim Caldwell advances over Bill Polian by just 6 votes (don't let anyone tell you your vote doesn't count!).

You can see who won Day 3 by clicking here.

For anyone that is reading this for the first time, here's a recap of how we got to where we are - A couple of months ago I reached out to Colts fans via Twitter (follow me @ColtsInsiders) and asked who they would nominate for such a dubious crown. In other words - in Indianapolis Colts history, who do you love to hate? I got about 12 different names. I selected the best of the best and took the liberty of seeding the top eight.

Mike Vanderjagt
Jeff George
Jim Caldwell
Hank Baskett
Ron Meeks
Bill Polian
Nick Harper
Aaron Bailey

Our first round match-ups look like this:

#1 Vanderjagt vs. #8 Bailey - VANDERJAGT ADVANCES

#2 George vs. #7 Harper - GEORGE ADVANCES

#3 Caldwell vs. #6 Polian - CALDWELL ADVANCES

#4 Baskett vs. #5 Meeks

Our Day 4 match-up of the tournament features Super Bowl goat Hank Baskett, the #4 seed, against the #5 seed, former defensive coordinator Ron Meeks. I'll make the case for each one and you can vote for the winner below.

#4 Hank Baskett

Years with the Colts: 2009

Best Moments as a Colt:

Hank Baskett didn't see much playing time for the Colts throughout the 2009 season, catching just four passes and recording one tackle on special teams. His best game statistically was against the Jets (when the Colts rested their starters to forgo a perfect season) when he caught two passes for 16 yards.

Why he is on the list:

During Super Bowl XLIV, with the Colts leading the Saints 10-6, Baskett fails to recover a surprise onside kick. The ball hit Baskett square on the facemask and bounced towards the Saints. Amazingly he still had a chance to recover the ball and, at one point, seemed to have it. The officials (who seemed to say 'blue ball' during the scrum) eventually awarded the ball to the Saints and New Orleans went on to win the game 34-17.

You can see the video of the kick (including the official saying 'blue ball') by clicking here.

"I thought everybody was going to come down on me for it. As everybody knows, anybody who follows football, one play does not change the game. It sucks that the first onside kick in history before the fourth quarter had to happen to me. It was battle underneath the pile, but I actually haven't been beaten down about it. I knew I was probably going to catch some grief. Of course, it's the biggest game of the year, but not what I was expecting or anybody else was expecting."

- Hank Baskett, on if he had been given flack for not recovering the onside kick

"I took the step, I took the steps back and then I saw it coming. I went and it took a bad bounce and I don't know how I had a second chance. I crawled under everybody and got back on it. It was a long time underneath there. Guys on our team attested that they heard it was 'blue ball' so when I started getting up, another guy poked it out and that's how the guy got it. It was a long battle. I'll tell you, it seemed like we were down there for a good half hour."

- Hank Baskett, on whether or not he saw the onside kick coming

#5 Ron Meeks

Profile: Ron Meeks played college football at Arkansas State University and played professionally in the CFL. He's coached in the NFL since 1991 and worked for the Dallas Cowboys, Cincinnati Bengals, Atlanta Falcons, Washington Redskins, St. Louis Rams, Indianapolis Colts, Carolina Panthers and San Diego Chargers.

Years with the Colts: 2002-2008

Best Moments as a Colt:

Part of the 2006 Indianapolis Colts team that won the Super Bowl.
Led defenses that twice finished in the top ten (2002, 2007) in total yards allowed.
Coached five Pro Bowl defensive players (Freeney, Mathis, Sanders, June and Bethea) during his tenure, the first Colts defensive players to be honored since 1987 (Bickett).

Why he is on the list:

Twice in Meeks tenure his defense was ranked 21st or worse in total yards allowed.
Five times over seven seasons the Colts finished 20th or worse in rushing yards per game, their best finish was 15th.
The Colts consistently ranked in the bottom of the league in time of possession, attributed by fans to Meeks' 'bend but don't break' style of defense.

Summary: Ron Meeks and his defense were lightning rods of criticism during the Peyton Manning era. Some fans feel the years of Manning's brilliance were wasted by a defense that couldn't get off the field or take over a game. The 'bend but don't break' style of play and the defense that was 'built to play with a lead' infuriated Colts fans everywhere. Could this team have been a routine Super Bowl participant with an above average defense?

I've presented both sides. Now it's your turn.

Poll

Who is the bigger scapegoat in Indianapolis Colts history?

#4 Hank Baskett

381 votes

#5 Ron Meeks

140 votes

521 votes | Poll has closed