Pitching Game Spectacular for Streaking Cubs

Chicago Cubs General Manager Theo Epstein began to polish a starting rotation club that failed to surpass top twenty in pitching since 2009. Prior to the 2015 season, the Cubs brought in pitching minded manager Joe Maddon and backed up his hiring with off-season acquisitions. Chicago acquired starters Jason Hammel and Jon Lester in order to bolster their rotation. Along with breakout candidate and 2015 National League Cy Young Winner Jake Arrieta, Hammel and Lester formed a formidable trio and helped the Cubs reach the postseason for the first time since 2008. After shocking anaylsts with the third best Earned Run Average (3.36), Epstein was poised to continue enhancing their modest staff in 2016. 

Even though right fielder Jason Heyward was the prized addition for Epstein, the former Red Sox general manager reeled in two key early season contributors in veteran John Lackey and long reliever Adam Warren. The benefit of depth quickly induced Chicago fortune in the early stages of the 2016 season. The Northsiders stormed to a 17-5 start in April and recorded an outstanding +79 run differential. Chicago' stingy pitching (2.44 ERA and 0.99 WHIP) was compensated with immense run support (6.1 runs per game). Despite having four out of five losses in the entire month against three of the top ten offenses,(St. Louis, Colorado, and Arizona), Chicago held opposing batters to a  mere .201 batting average. While Warren stunned batters with his slider and fourseam fastball, the veteran Lackey was fortunate to rely on a high scoring offense. 

Chicago' tear in the months of April and throughout May has been impressive, considering their strength in schedule. They're currently 35-14 and will host the Dodgers tomorrow at 8 PM ET. Each starting pitcher on the Cubs has endured at least fifty five innings pitched, recorded five quality starts, and own an ERA under 3.20. More importantly, they minimize opponents opportunities with runners in scoring position. Yielding a stifiling .201 batting average in 333 at-bats, Chicago has shown multitudes of confidence in challenging situations. Even though stellar pitching does not always correlate to stellar defense, the Cubs consistent pounding at the strike zone alludes the strategy of being dependant on fielders. Although Chicago has pitched signficiantly well for nearly two months, previous clubs have stymied batters for a similar duration of time. A familar foe that showcased as much dominance as this years Cubs was last years St. Louis Cardinals. 

During a two month strech, St. Louis rocked the opposition with a commanding 2.65 ERA and owned a 33-17 record. Although their offense was not top tier (2.98 runs per game), their young rotation and bullpen upended all stars at the plate. The loss of All Star righty Adam Wainwright was compensated with underrated flamethrowers such as Michael Wacha and Carlos Martinez. Each team benefited from stamina, depth, and servicability from their respectable staffs. St. Louis ended the season with a 100-62 record, only to be eliminated by the Cubs in the divisional round. Chicago early season success stems from three key components: patience, composure, and confidence. Exhibiting these three traits needs to be consistent in order to keep pace with their current strategy.  

It Was Wirth the Wait

September 22nd, 2015, a day that commemorated my first face-face conversation with NFL agent/scout Jack Wirth -- a professional football scout and agent who attended four Super Bowls, twenty seven scouting combines, and had 238 clients in his 35 years of experience. Having lived in the same town as Wirth (Harvard, Illinois), my grandpa gave me the unique opportunity to hear him speak at the Harvard Diggins Library. I couldn't resist the offer. Wirth’s story grabbed my attention when he explained how he never gave up on his ultimate dream, scouting for an NFL organization.

Despite starting out as a construction worker, Wirth began to devote his time into scouting in his early thirties. His experience as a high school football player gave him the insight to write several evaluations of college football players and he sent letters to National Football League teams who were looking to hire scouts, in hopes of landing a full time position. 

Although teams told Wirth he did not have the superlative experience that was required for the job, he never gave into discouragement. During his thirty five year journey, Wirth attended four Super Bowls, twenty seven scouting combines, and had 238 clients who played in the National Football League, Canadian Football League, or the United States Football League.

When I told Wirth about my aspiration for a management position with an NFL organization, he explained how difficult and competitive the field was. Wirth was, however, intrigued by my most recent project: rebuilding every NFL team from scratch. I explained the analytics and strategic methods I used during this hefty process. After noting my interest in scouting and explaining how I categorize some players strength and weaknesses, Wirth and I exchanged emails and asked if I was interested in comparing and exchanging mock drafts in April.

The idea of predicting all 253 picks of the NFL Draft is a perplexing, yet interesting process. For thirty years, Wirth predicted every pick of the draft, via a draft board. Wirth analyzed player's attributes, strengths, and weaknesses prior to making his predictions. With an immense bundle of player cards (each including scouting combine statistics and physical information about the player), Wirth placed the player card on his draft board, based on his predictions.

Wirth’s hobby and draft techniques encouraged me to incorporate more description to future draft predictions. As the draft approached, Wirth and I analyzed each teams weakest position and identified the best available prospect. I am grateful to be given the opportunity to work with such a distinguished mentor.

2016 Mock NFL Draft (First Round Edition)

The NFL draft is a gateway to surprises and bold predictions. As team's prepare to draft their potential future stars, analysis continue to track and progress on which players will fall or rise on draft day. One of the most intriguing points about the draft is a teams commitment to a player. Whether it is the most talented, best fit, or must add prospect, the occurrence of an unpredicted pick is bound to happen. This year's draft provides a lot of question as their is not a guaranteed selection, until teams make their final decision.

The Los Angeles Rams and Philadelphia Eagles traded up for the top two picks and are looking to fill their quarterback needs. Both teams will most likely pursue prospects Jared Goff (University of California) and Carson Wentz (North Dakota). In year's past, trading up for a future franchise quarterback is not the most effective route. Some flukes include the Jacksonville Jaguars selecting Blaine Gabbert (2011), Washington selecting Robert Griffin III (2012), Buccaneers selecting Josh Freeman (2009), and the Browns selecting Brady Quinn (2007). Despite the recent vulnerable selections, L.A. and Philly need to bestow an alternative option.

The depth at defensive line is deep and productive in this year's NFL draft. This does not diminish other positions, however, teams have the opportunity to land a big body in the early and mid rounds. From Ohio State's Joey Bosa to Eastern Kentucky's Noah Spence, this group could factor into team's gameplans early. Despite minimal top tier talent at the saftey position and a slow wide receiver group, expierence, technique, and consistency is valued at these positions. The first round of the 2016 NFL Draft will be either a success, dissapointment, surprise, or predictable for all thrity one teams.

Here is my first round mock for this years NFL Draft:

Rams: QB-Jared Goff

Eagles: QB-Carson Wentz

Chargers: DT-DeForest Buckner

Cowboys: DE-Joey Bosa

Jaguars: OLB-Myles Jack

Ravens: DB-Jalen Ramsey

49ers: OT-Ronnie Stanley

Browns: OT-Laremy Tunsil

Bucs: CB-Vernon Hargreaves

Giants: OT- Jack Conklin

Bears: OLB-Leonard Floyd

Saints: DE-Kevin Dodd

Dolphins: RB-Ezekiel Elliot

Raiders: MLB-Reggie Ragland

Titans: OT-Taylor Decker

Lions: C-Ryan Kelly

Falcons: OLB-Darron Lee

Colts: CB-William Jackson III

Bills: DT-Jarran Reed

Jets: QB-Paxton Lynch

Redskins: WR-Laquan Treadwell

Texans: WR-Josh Doctson

Vikings: WR-Will Fuller

Bengals: WR-Corey Coleman

Steelers: CB-Artie Burns

Seahawks: OG-Cody Whitehair

Packers: NT-Andrew Billings

Chiefs: CB-Eli Apple

Cardinals:DE/OLB-Shaq Lawson

Panthers: DE-Emmanuel Ogbah

Broncos: DT-Sheldon Rankins

A Work In Progress

Last season marked tremendous improvement for the New York Jets, who completed their first winning season since 2010. Although New York schedule was not a very difficult obstacle, a six win turnaround was a surprise. Despite recording a 10-6 record, New York's season finale loss to the Buffalo Bills knocked them out of the playoffs. Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick's historic first season with the Jets seemed like an afterthought, after throwing three fourth-quarter interceptions. Todd Bowles first season at the helm was encouraging, but the inability to close out games was daunting. It is up to general manger Mike Maccagnan to build off of last season's performance and improve the roster.

With running back Chris Ivory, nose tackle Damon Harrison, inside linebacker DeMario Davis, safety Antonio Allen, and a couple others set to hit the open market, Maccagnan was prepared to re-load the roster. He addressed Chris Ivory's departure by signing running backs Matt Forte, Bilal Powell (re-signed), and Khiry Robinson. According to former NFL offensive lineman Damien Woody, New York will mostly utilize a running back committee and conserve the aging Forte' talents. Despite being a consistent workforce in Chicago, running backs usually hit the decline stage around the early 30s. Forte's recent knee injuries bring questions, but adding two bonus backs adds more depth. Revamping the running back position was addressed, however, the Jets took a major hit on the offensive line. After left tackle D'brickishaw Ferguson retired at age thirty two, New York acquired Denver Broncos left tackle Ryan Clady and a seventh round draft pick, in exchange for a fifth round draft pick. Ferguson helped lead a Jets line that allowed the second fewest sacks in the NFL (22). Clady's health is both a concern and risk that Maccagnan gambled on, who is hoping to play his first healthy season since 2012. 

Despite setting the single-season team record in passing touchdowns (31), the Jets have yet to be in contact with the veteran signal caller. Although there are serviceable options in this years draft, Fitzpatrick's familiarity and success with Chan Gailey's offense make him a more attractive option. Wide Receivers Eric Decker and Brandon Marshall would benefit from the doubt as they combined for 189 receptions, 2,529 yards, and 26 touchdowns (All Jets single-season record for wide receiving combo). New York hasn't had a franchise signal caller since Joe Namath and is capable of retaining Fitzpatrick. Drafting quarterback Paxton Lynch in the first round would be a smart move by the Jets, due to the fact that Lynch's diversified arm and ability to extend passing plays, make him a profitable pick. 

Even though New York was noticeably improved on the offensive side, they ranked top ten in yards allowed per game (318.6 - 4th in NFL), points allowed per game (19.6 - T-8th), and rushing yards allowed (83.4 - 2nd). After being obliterated for 401 points in 2014, New York upgraded the secondary by reuniting with cornerback Darelle Revis, and signing safety Marquis Gilchrist. Although the secondary is still a work in progress, corners such as William Jackson III, Artie Burns, and Eli Apple may be available when New York is on the clock. A defense that gave up 235 pass yards per game, New York needs to add physical corners such as Jackson III and Apple if they want to be a complete defense. Rookie Marcus Williams flashed into the league with 6 interceptions, but cornerback Antonio Cromartie was susceptible to sloppy play, resulting a release for the negative graded Pro Football Focus veteran. New York is unlikely going to pursue cornerback Josh Norman (due to low cap room), but may surprise individuals by grabbing a corner instead of linebacker or quarterback in the draft.

The Jets 2nd ranked run defense is the reason why New York was competitive in most games. The departure of mammoth nose tackle Damon Harrison to the Giants is a stinger, but replacing him with Steve McLendon was a great move. McLendon helped Pittsburgh become a stingy run defense throughout the 2015 campaign, and will unload heavy duty stuffs with his new team. Even though Muhammad Wilkerson has yet to show up to the teams off-season workouts, the Jets bring lots of depth to their most feared position. Defensive Rookie of the Year Leonard Williams showed starter potential and will continue to put fear in opposing offenses. Wilkerson ranked top five in pass rushing productivity (10.7), according to Pro Football Focus, recorded a career high 12 sacks, and registered 64 combined tackles. Statistically, the only player that surpasses Wilkerson, in terms of productivity as a 3-4 defensive end, is JJ Watt. Although Wilkerson believes that New York is not committing enough time about contract talks, he does not deserve nearly 100 million dollars. New York has depth at defensive line and should turn to linebacker, if they want to improve their overall defense.

Losing inside linebacker DeMario Davis was a heart breaker, but not a back breaker. New York quickly filled the void with the acquisition of former Tampa Bay Buccaneer and Dallas Cowboy Bruce Carter. Carter will play his first year as a 3-4 linebacker, but is a good cover linebacker. New York has lacked an edge rusher that is ideal for a 3-4 defense. Players such as Justin Houston and Tamba Hali of the Chiefs, Terrell Suggs of the Ravens, and Julius Peppers of the Green Bay Packers create lots of havoc in the backfield. The pass defense would benefit from a consistent pass rush, outside of their triple threat (McLendon, (Previously Harrison), Richardson, and Wilkerson). Georgia' Leonard Floyd is another pick that analysts have the Jets drafting. Despite not being the most durable, Floyd has excellent speed and tenacity to put the quarterback under duress.

The key to Bowles' success in year two is chemistry and improvement. A six win turnaround was encouraging, but might be deemed as a one hit wonder. New York offset their off-season losses with free agent acquisitions and can upgrade their roster in the upcoming draft. However, it takes poise and progress to maintain a talented roster. The Jets also have gaping holes at offensive tackle and still need to either retain Ryan Fitzpatrick or draft a quarterback. Maccagnan and Bowles' confidence in their roster will be the difference between a successful or failed season.

Choas in Clubhouse?

MLB players escorting their sons to the dugout has been an annual tradition. Watching their role models take the field is enticing. However, on March 17th, White Sox first baseman Adam LaRoche reaction to the team’s clubhouse policies did not proceed to a happy ending. After general manager Kenny Williams requested Adam to limit his son's access to the clubhouse,

LaRoche, #FamilyFirst, indicated a farewell on his triumphant career. Despite being guaranteed thirteen million dollars this season, LaRoche showed his endearing care toward his fourteen year old son Drake. “Sometimes you have to make decisions in the world that are unpopular,” LaRoche stated. Having his best friend by his side was a key benefit that came with LaRoche career. Former players such as Tony Perez of the Cincinnati Reds and Bob Boone of the Philadelphia Phillies each had the opportunity to have their sons travel and experience the road to the show. However, there are different consequences and rules in regards to children staying in the dugout. “Different clubs had different rules, different levels of leniency,” Boone stated. Respecting team policies and obeying at a mature level is deceptively important during each and every game.

According to Kenny Williams, the White Sox permitted children to be in the same work proximity as their father. However, the White Sox had always encouraged players to bring their children to the clubhouse and Drake had been a part of that tradition. Williams had told LaRoche on multiple occasions that Drake was too involved with the team. He said that Drake should be in the clubhouse between zero to fifty percent of the time and felt too responsible with Drake constantly visiting the team. Nonetheless, Williams reported that he had kept his rules about children in the clubhouse consistent. This factor had a culminating effect on LaRoche decision of cutting ties with the team.

Playing by the rules is a sacrificial path that MLB players endure throughout the season. LaRoche stood up for his beliefs, but could not overcome altercations with the White Sox. Bonding time is essential because of constant traveling and the lack of family time during baseball season. The aftermath of LaRoche retirement foreshadows the lack of compromises that LaRoche could have requested. The outcome of Drake’s limitations to the White Sox clubhouse promotes raising questions regarding other MLB clubhouse policies..

2016 NFL Free Agency Predictions

 With teams starting to negotiate with players agents, here are my predictions for this years free agent period. Here are the players who have already agreed/going to sign with their new or current team:

• Defensive End Malik Jackson agrees to sign with Jacksonville Jaguars (6 years, $90M)
• Offensive Guard Kelechi Osmele expected to sign with Oakland Raiders (5 years, $60M)
• Offensive Guard Richie Incognito re-signs with Buffalo Bills (3 years, $15M)
• Outside Linebacker Tamba Hali agrees to re-sign with Kansas City Chiefs (3 year deal)
• Defensive End Jason Pierre-Paul to return to New York Giants (1 year deal)
• Cornerback Leodis McKelvin agrees to sign with Philadelphia Eagles (2 year deal)
• Cornerback William Gay re-signs with Pittsburgh Steelers
• Tight End Ben Watson expected to sign with Baltimore Ravens (2 years, $8M)
• Defensive End Mario Williams expects to sign with Miami Dolphins (2 year deal)
• Defensive End Charles Johnson expects to re-sign with Carolina Panthers (1 year, $3M)

Player	Position	Previous Team	New Team
Arian Foster	Running Back	Texans	Broncos
Lamar Miller	Running Back	Dolphins	Texans
Jahri Evans	Offensive Guard	Saints	Chiefs
Brock Osweiler	Quarterback	Broncos	Broncos
Stefen Wisniewski	Center	Jaguars	Browns
Alex Mack	Center	Browns	Falcons
Jeff Allen	Guard	Chiefs	Eagles
Evan Mathis	Guard	Broncos	49ers
Alex Boone	Guard	49ers	Giants
Chris Long	Defensive End	Rams	Redskins
Sean Smith	Cornerback	Chiefs	Eagles
Travis Benjamin	Wide Receiver	Browns	Falcons
Russell Okung	Offensive Tackle	Seahawks	Seahawks
Haloti Ngata	Defensive Line	Lions	Lions
Tashaun Gipson	Saftey	Browns	Browns
Donald Penn	Offensive Tackle	Raiders	Raiders
Eric Weddle	Saftey	Chargers	Redskins
Chris Ivory	Running Back	Jets	Jaguars
Doug Martin	Running Back	Buccaneers	Buccaneers
Matt Forte	Running Back	Bears	Dolphins
Jermaine Kearse	Wide Receiver	Seahawks	Titans
Anquan Boldin	Wide Receiver	49ers	Lions
Marvin Jones	Wide Receiver	Bengals	Browns
LeGarrette Blount	Running Back	Patriots	Patriots
Rishard Matthews	Wide Receiver	Dolphins	Chargers
Ryan Fitzpatrick	Quarterback	Jets	Jets
Jaye Howard	Defensive Tackle	Chiefs	Cowboys
Jason Jones	Defensive End	Lions	Lions
Danny Trevathan	Inside Linebacker	Broncos	Bears
Derrick Johnson	Inside Linebacker	Chiefs	Chiefs
Prince Amukamara	Cornerback	Giants	Jets
Adam Jones	Cornerback	Bengals	Bengals
William Hayes	Defensive End	Rams	Rams
Janoris Jenkins	Cornerback	Rams	Jaguars
Reggie Nelson	Saftey	Bengals	Bengals
George Illoka	Saftey	Bengals	Vikings
Leon Hall	Cornerback	Bengals	Vikings
Tyvon Branch	Saftey	Chiefs	Chiefs
Walter Thurmond	Saftey	Eagles	Eagles
Rueben Randle	Wide Receiver	Giants	Rams
Vincent Rey	Outside Linebacker	Bengals	Bengals
Nigel Bradham	Outside Linebacker	Bills	Eagles
Nick Fairley	Defensive Tackle	Rams	Jets
Damon Harrison	Nose Tackle	Jets	Titans
Ramon Foster	Offensive Guard	Steelers	Steelers
Brandon Brooks	Offensive Guard	Texans	Texans
Manny Ramirez	Offensive Guard	Lions	Dolphins
J.R. Sweezy	Offensive Guard	Seahawks	Lions
Bobby Massie	Offensive Tackle	Cardinals	Panthers
Kelvin Beachum	Offensive Tackle	Steelers	Colts
Mohamed Sanu	Wide Receiver	Bengals	Bengals
John Kuhn	Fullback	Packers	Packers
Tim Hightower	Running Back	Saints	Saints
Ronnie Hillman	Running Back	Broncos	Bears
Alfred Morris	Running Back	Redskins	Cowboys
James Starks	Running Back	Packers	Packers
Terrance Knighton	Defensive Tackle	Redskins	Broncos
Mitchell Schwartz	Offensive Tackle	Browns	Browns
Antonio Gates	Tight End	Chargers	Chargers
Coby Fleener	Tight End	Colts	Patriots
Ladarius Green	Tight End	Chargers	Saints
Zach Miller	Tight End	Bears	Bears
James Laurinaitis	Middle Linebacker	Rams	Falcons
Andre Smith	Right Tackle	Bengals	Redskins
Will Montgomery	Center	Bears	Bears
Jerrell Freeman	Inside Linebacker	Chiefs	Colts
Rolando McClain	Middle Linebacker	Cowboys	Cowboys
Demario Davis	Inside Linebacker	Jets	Bills
Antonio Cromartie	Cornerback	Jets	Panthers
Michael Griffin	Saftey	Titans	Rams
Ian Williams	Nose Tackle	49ers	Bears
Steve McLendon	Defensive Tackle	Steelers	Steelers
Oliver Vernon	Defensive End	Dolphins	Giants
Cedric Thornton	Defensive End	Eagles	Eagles
Mark Barron	Linebacker/Saftey	Rams	Rams
Courtney Upshaw	Outside Linebacker	Ravens	Colts
Nick Perry	Outside Linebacker	Packers	Packers
Tahir Whitehead	Inside Linebacker	Lions	Eagles
Casey Hayward	Cornerback	Packers	Titans

18 Years of Greatness from #18

The historical run of NFL icon Peyton Manning is coming to an emotional close. Today, Manning will leave the NFL with a legacy and several achievements. At his press conference in Denver, Manning said "grateful is the word that comes to my mind when it comes to the Denver Broncos". As a signal caller for 18 seasons, Manning was the recipient of five MVP awards, two time Super Bowl champion, and owns many passing records. Whether it was calling audibles or cracking jokes, the sports world will salute and recognize the achievements Manning has accomplished.

Although he set the bar low with a rookie record 28 interceptions, Manning overcame the struggles his young team endured and capitalized with impressive performances the following years. He led the Indianapolis Colts to a playoff appearance in his second season and showcased his cannon arm. Manning developed deep chemistry with newly hall of fame inductee Marvin Harrison and received insurance from rookie running back Edgerrin James. Manning and Harrison set the record for most touchdowns for a quarterback-receiver combination (118). Although James and Harrison are the most notable names of the Manning era in Indy, various supporting casts helped the sheriff capture four MVP awards (2003, 2004, 2008, 2009). Manning also became the first to break Dan Marino's single season passing touchdown record with 49 touchdown passes in 2004. In 2006, Manning finally got playoff redemption over the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game, en route to a Super Bowl victory over the Chicago Bears. Despite suffering a neck injury and ending his fourteen year career in Indy, Manning would continue his career elsewhere.

Denver Broncos owner John Elway was ecstatic and ready to roll with Manning in Mile High. In his debut season (2012), posted his second best completion percentage (68.6) and helped pace Denver to the best record in the AFC (13-3). Although Manning lost in a thriller to the eventual Super Bowl champs (Baltimore Ravens) in the Divisional Round, he was poised to light up the scoreboard in 2013. In 2013, Manning lead the most explosive offense in NFL history. Manning set the record for most passing yards (5,477) and touchdown passes (55) in the regular season and helped Denver set the new regular season scoring record (606). After being trounced by Seattle in the Super Bowl and losing to New England in the 2014 championship game, Manning had one goal in mind: capturing another Super Bowl title. Despite having the most frustrating season of his career, Manning got one more chance at the big stage. Even though he played a porous final game, Manning became the first quarterback to win a Super Bowl for two different teams.

Manning leaves as the NFL's all time leader in career passing yards (71,940) and touchdown passes (539).  For three decades, the eighteen year veteran showcased greatness, encouragement, and pleasure to a valuable position. Manning's on field intelligence and popularity make him a profitable selection for a future with NFL organizations. The sun may set on his football career, but it will rise for upcoming journeys.

Undersized is an Understatement

With undisciplined linebacker Daryl Washington serving a one year suspension, Arizona searched for the next best option. Ideally, a prototypical NFL linebacker is 6-foot-2 and 240 pounds. Some pivotal linebackers that come to mind: Jeremiah Trotter, Philadelphia Eagles; Brian Urlacher, Chicago Bears; London Fletcher, Buffalo Bills. However, Arizona's confidence in second year safety Deone Bucannon launched a new trend.

Coming out of Washington State, Bucannon impressed draft analysis Mike Mayock with his "punishing tackling technique and overall size". Despite being a projected 4th or 5th round draft pick, general manager Steve Keim selected Bucannon with the 27th overall pick, in the 2014 draft. It had also marked the first time a Washington State player was drafted by an NFL team since cornerback Marcus Trufant was seletcted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2003, according to seahawks.com. During the 2014 campaign, Bucannon played an underrated role in a crowded secondary. He recorded 75 tackles during nine starts and displayed a hard hitting tenacity. Despite an encouraging rookie performance, Bucannon headed into the off-season facing two obstacles: The change in defensive coordinators and the possibility of permanetly switching positions.

Although he had limited expierence as an inside linebacker, head coach Bruce Arians acknowledged that "He (Bucannon) can cover backs and can cover tight ends. He's got linebacker skills, safety skills. It's good to get him in there the most we can get him in there." Newly hired defensive coordinator James Bettcher had high hopes for the second year pro, but knew there was always room for improvement. Retired linebacker Larry Foote was another hire that helped Bucannon become more comfortable with his new position. After Sean Weatherspoon went down with an achilles injury, Bucannon would play a pivitol role for the remainder of the 2015 season. His eleven tackle performance against the Detriot Lions was the turning point of his season.

Known as the moneybacker, Bucannon's switch in late October proved to be an efficient decision by Arizona's coaching staff. Bucannon ended up leading the Cardinals with 119 tackles and was key memeber for the sixth ranked run defense (91.3 Yards Allowed Per Game). His versatility made him a difference maker on the field as he was able to lineup against speedy slot receivers and punished running backs with authority. Saftey Rashad Johnson was amazed by Bucannon's transition to inside linebacker and said that "The only thing close was in my rookie year when Adrian Wilson would slide into the box in nickel and dime packages, Bucannon got the moneybacker nickname from his frequent apperances in the nickel and dime formations, which gave him more space to display his playmaking abilities. Bucannon's storied season influenced teams, such as the Los Angeles Rams, (Previosuly St. Louis) to start safties at linebacker. Bucannon's surroundings helped ignite big performances, but his unselfish and ruthless play made him a valuable member on the defense.

The Road To The Show: 2016 Chicago Cubs Preview

No team felt more rejuvenated than the Chicago Cubs in 2015. After years of despair in the Windy City, then newly acquired Joe Maddon put the team into high gear. Corner infielders Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant were a formidable combination and the rise of the pitching staff were cornerstones for Chicago. Despite the fact that they came short of making a World Series appearance, a 97 win season was an extraordinary accomplishment for the Cubs. During the off-season, General Manager Theo Epstein carefully evaluated available talent, to bolster the Cubs roster.

As a persistent fan of the game, Sam Bornstein stated that immense young talent needed to be complemented with experienced veteran players. Like any complete team, veteran leadership brings promise to the locker room and is a great tool for young, talented players. Epstein hauled in veterans Ben Zobrist (Utility Man) and John Lackey (Starting Pitcher) for key postseason experience and locker room mentors. Epstein's and Maddon's familiarity with Zobrist and Lackey was a key factor to signing both respected veterans. The departure of shortstop Starlin Castro to the Yankees and the late season fatigue Jake Arrieta endured, was another key factor to the veteran signings. Epstein also cashed in big with the signing of former St. Louis Cardinal and Atlanta Brave Jason Heyward. Despite the mega contract (8 Years, $184M), Heyward's recipient of another gold glove award and more consistent approach than switch-hitting Dexter Fowler, made him a can't miss. As a unit, Chicago prevailed in the error department (111 errors: 4th in MLB), ranking a mere 25 out of 30 MLB Teams. 

Pitching was a major key to the Cubs success during the 2015 campaign and should play a key role in 2016. As a staff, the Cubs ranked third in ERA (3.36), first in strikeouts (1,431), and fifth fewest in walks (407), according to Athlon Sports. Led by Cy Young winner Jake Arrieta (22 Wins, 1.77 ERA), Chicago pummeled opponents strike zones and dealed with consistency. Lefty Jon Lester recorded more than 200 innings and looks to gain more run support from a revamped offense. The acquisition of righty Adam Warren in the Castro trade was a great move for Chicago. When being denoted as a reliever, Warren compiled a 2.29 ERA, compared to a competent 3.66 ERA. Playing in the windy city should bode well for for the former Yankee. Chicago also hopes closer Hector Rondon to follow up a stellar second half (0.96 ERA), with a strong start to the 2016 campaign. The ceiling has rose, but the competitiveness continues to linger.

As the road to the show begins, Chicago prepares to hold off their arch-nemesis, the St. Louis Cardinals. A rivalry that continues to grow stronger, St. Louis poses as Chicago's biggest threat with similar, young talent, states Bornstein. However, what sets the Cubs apart from all MLB teams, is their loaded talent. Across the diamond, Chicago poses youth that endeavors underrated talent. Off-season acquisitions have demoralized team chemistry in recent years, (2011 Miami Marlins, 2012 Toronto Blue Jays) however, the likes of veterans David Ross, John Lackey, and Ben Zobrist should help regroup this club. Undermining the critiques and holding good team moral will key on the road to the show.