Posts tagged Brian Westbrook

Looking for Mr. Dunn: LaMichael James

0 Comments read Players, Reads Listens Views, Running Back

[youtube=http://youtu.be/5dgrjrp6jXE]

If there’s an alternate universe, I’m a running back in it. There isn’t a week that goes by that I walk along the field that held the first football game at the University of Georgia and daydream of ripping off a run like Garrison Hearst’s 96-yard touchdown versus the Jets. I just don’t act it out (although the urge is there). It’s probably why most of my analysis this month has been quarterbacks, receivers, and tight ends. I want to save the best stuff for last – the way your son or daughter might save a favorite dessert.

One of the running backs of the past 20 years whose game I had grown to admire was Warrick Dunn. He was listed at 5’8″, 187 pounds, but I bet 5’6″, 178 is closer to the truth. Even if his listed weight is correct, I like the tall tale version more – it befits a back of his size who carried the load for Alex Gibbs’ zone blocking scheme for the Falcons.

I love what LaMichael James brings to the table, but it isn't in Hungry Man portions - if you know what I mean. Photo by Neon Tommy.

Since Dunn, Continue reading →

Greg Cosell Part IV: The Craft of Evaluation

0 Comments read Matt Waldman
Greg Cosell and I became acquainted because of our shared take of Raiders RB Darren McFadden in 2008. Photo by TipsterHog.

Entering my third year of studying film for The Rookie Scouting Portfolio, I had just finished a year of film study that included a player who continues to be one of  the bigger lessons I have encountered, Arkansas running back Darren McFadden. The highly coveted prospect had some raving fans, but I wasn’t one of them.

I didn’t see what others thought even after studying a half-dozen games. And despite a strong 2010 campaign, I’m still not convinced he’ll be a consistent 1000-yard rusher as an every down back.  I’m looking forward to seeing something from his game that will change my mind.

My initial take on Darren McFadden in 2008 was how I became acquainted with NFL Films senior producer Greg Cosell. I read his Sporting News piece  on McFadden and I was surprised to learn that we had similar takes on the runner. I sent Cosell my RSP analysis on McFadden and this fueled a longer conversation over the telephone.  While Parts I, II, and III were from a recent conversation. Part IV is a conversation from 2008. Continue reading →