I Apologize If This Is Biased, But I Love The Ben Tate Pick
by Mike Kerns on Apr 23, 2010 10:45 PM CDT
in Events
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PrintIt has been well chronicled that I was never in the camp of Fresno State, and now San Diego Chargers, running back Ryan Mathews. Something that was even more intensified by his comments about Houston to the San Diego media about how he was "getting scared" at the thought of coming to Houston. But it was reiterated time and time again the past couple of months that Houston would be taking running back in the first two rounds of this year's draft. So, after the selection of cornerback Kareem Jackson in the first round, the suspense was taken out of what the team was going to do at pick #51 as the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft began.
Well, Smithiak added as much drama to it as possible. With no running back picked before Houston hit the clock, everyone and their mother thought the pick was going to be Stanford running back Toby Gerhart. But this is where the people who whined all day about Houston not trading back in the first round got what they asked for...and then some.
When it was announced that Houston had traded the pick to Minnesota in exchange for their second and third round picks, the Gerhart-mania that had seemingly taken hold of the Houston radio airwaves the past 24 hours reached suicide watch as the Vikings immediately took the Heisman runner-up at 51 overall. Even everyone's favorite Texans beat writer voiced his discontent with the decision. However, most of BRB nation had the same reaction as when San Diego traded up for Ryan Mathews the night before: Jubilation.
But this is where it got hairy. Houston then traded back up from the 62nd pick that they got from Minnesota to the 58 spot to select Auburn RB Ben Tate. Who just happens to be the back that was at the top of my personal depth chart.
I was already a fan of making Tate a Texan over a month ago, but after getting the privilege of interviewing him earlier this week, it all but clinched it for me. He told me that he felt he was the most complete back in this entire draft and that he could be a power back that we need at the goalline and the speed back we need to carry the load as an every-down back.
Tate, originally thought to be a third rounder, raised his stock at the NFL combine by posting a 40 time of 4.43 (which was later revised to 4.34, faster than C.J. Spiller) and benching 26 reps of 225 lbs. He is listed at 5′11″ and 220 lbs. The funny thing is that he thought he could run a better 40 time and was going to run it again at Auburn’s pro day, but his agent advised otherwise.
Tate is a downhill runner who benefits from positioning himself a yard or two behind his quarterback, which allows him a split second more to survey the defense and make a move. He’s also a durable runner who is a receiving threat out of the backfield.
A true "workhorse," Tate carried the ball over 263 times his senior season while accumulating 1,362 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns. He loves contact and doesn’t shy away from it, which is important when in comes to blocking in pass protection. Something that Slaton has struggled with the past couple of years due to his size.
He runs with physicality and is good at exploding through holes. He’s at his best running between the tackles. A real one cut and go guy who doesn’t "dance" to gain yardage. Sounds like a perfect fit for the ZBS that Houston is running.
But I don’t think you could get better value at pick #58 than Ben Tate. Many say he is a power back. While others say he is a speed back. And like I said, If you ask him, he is "The most complete back in the draft." With a team that has struggled at getting the ball in the end zone in goalline situations, a complete back sound like just the remedy the Houston backfield needed.
I know most of the BRB nation was against taking a running back before the third round. But I am ecstatic with this pick. Much more than I would have been with Toby Gerhart.
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It really was apparent that it was CB/RB in the 1st 2 rounds
To get a guy like Tate and pick up extra picks was just a great move. A true football fan can understand and appreciate that (unlike the bozos at the Comicle).
Good blocker, good hands, power size with speed….he is exactly what the Texans have been looking for in a RB. If Slaton can’t go? This guy (and Foster) can get the job done. If Slaton can go? Thunder and Lightning hits Houston.
Great move by Smithiak. He’ll be a great addition to the roster.
"Lord, beer me strength."
Yeah
I’m drooling at the thought of a thunder and lightning combo of Tate/Slaton. Or possibly we could have an Earth (Tate), Wind (Slaton) & Fire (as in trial by fire for whoever gets that third spot. Be it Foster, Moats or Jeremiah Johnson).
Correction on the nickname by Tate himself
@Steve20Slaton thx man slate & tate all day!!!
"Lord, beer me strength."
It is....we'll work on the nicknames
I do like that Slaton welcomed him and Tate responded in kind.
That duo is gonna be huge for us.
"Lord, beer me strength."
fapfapfap
Just your average, run of the mill hardcore casual Texans fan.
Old whimpy
Just dickpooped his pants
It's hard bein whimpy
by WhimpyJimmy on Apr 24, 2010 12:22 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
I was wondering what Slaton thought about the pick
But I see he sent him a welcome message. Has to be hard for Steve. You know he has to feel threatened…
Threatened....
but honestly, I think both these guys are gonna get 15-20 touches…..if one is hot then you ride him.
I think there’s enough ball for both of them.
"Lord, beer me strength."
I think RBs
are starting to understand that another RB with them means that their career lasts longer as well. So share the limelight so that limelight is not gone in six years. The thing I like about Tate and Slaton combo, they have similar skills that the offense does not change depending on which back is in. Both can run inside/outside, catch, block. It’ll be fun to see how these guys are used and sometimes on the field together.
by theaxeeffect4311 on Apr 23, 2010 11:28 PM CDT up reply actions
Them on the field together...
is something I cannot wait to see. With Jacoby, OD, KW, and Andre?
Good luck stopping that, NFL Defenses.
"Lord, beer me strength."
2 RBs, 3 WRs, a TE, and a QB
That leaves us with only four offensive linemen!
nah no slash
hit jacoby or OD on a quick slant..
for 6.
by leacheatsbabies on Apr 24, 2010 2:27 AM CDT up reply actions
Quick two cents
Now that I’m on a computer, not surrounded by kids throwing raisins at me (seriously), and finally with beer in hand.
I was very much against taking a RB in Round 2. Very much. But the fact is, a lot of the guys I felt we’d target – Price, Houston, etc. – were off the board. That we traded down (and traded up a little), got an extra pick, and nabbed Tate?
Look, I’m down with this. Any o-line here would be a true reach, and we should be able to grab Petrus in the 4th. If not, we still get Brisiel back, and we signed Wade Smith. Heck, just getting Studdard off the field is a win. We have insurance for Slaton (who I completely believe will be back) and a fantastic tandem back.
Like.
PS: Crushed raisins in arm hair freaking hurts. Just sayin’.
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
Sounds like you had a hell of a night
I look forward to your editorial on Earl Mitchell…that was his name, right?
I let Rivers choose
That jerk.
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
by bigfatdrunk on Apr 23, 2010 11:07 PM CDT up reply actions
Nope
His text was: “You can take that one. I am angry enough these days.”
If I didn’t love him like the little sister I never had, I’d kick his ass.
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
by bigfatdrunk on Apr 23, 2010 11:15 PM CDT up reply actions
4th round
Petrus and Utah FS Robert Johnson would make me VERY happy.
Then add Kevin Matthews and I’m set.
"Lord, beer me strength."
Yes
I need a free safety to make this draft a big fat bowl of win for me. Johnson or Rolle would be nice.
++rolle
"Your mother is a hamster and your father smells of elderberries! Now Go away or I shall taunt you a second time!"
Go Texans!
++++++ rolle !!!
Austin Powers: Nice to rolle you… meet you. Nice to meet you, Rolle.
[to Foxxy as Basil & The Rolle leave]
Austin Powers: Don’t say rolle.
Foxxy Cleopatra: Now stop.
Austin Powers: I said rolle.
Foxxy Cleopatra: Stop.
[Basil gestures him to hush]
Number Three: Bye.
Austin Powers: Rolle.
[Basil & the Rolle try again to leave]
Austin Powers: Rolle.
[Basil warns him again to hush]
Austin Powers: Rolle.
Basil Exposition: Oh, shut up!
Austin Powers: [Basil and The Rolle walk out and Austin lets loose] Rolley, rolley, rolley, rolley, rolley!
Why are you so high on Matthews again?
A statement to the players of the Jazz and Mavericks: Please stop flopping all over the court.
by Rockets 4 Life on Apr 24, 2010 1:34 AM CDT up reply actions
Mainly it’s cause of his family bloodline (son of Bruce Matthews, related to the Clays)….that family has talent, works hard, and I’m intrigued enough to use a late round pick on him.
The fact that Kubes is an Aggie, his dad’s on staff, and he’s an interior lineman….just add to that idea of “perfect fit.”
"Lord, beer me strength."
Makes a lot of sense
and a sixth rounder is not much to give up. I would hope for Matthews to be pulling for his son.
by theaxeeffect4311 on Apr 24, 2010 2:45 AM CDT up reply actions
bfd, yes, putting Studdard in wait mode has to be on the menu
but, let’s add dessert to that order, and I know you like dessert. Isn’t Zgonina like the dried, crusty raisin still stuck to your arm hair when you wake up in the morning? ….there you go!
I suppose if all of the stars, moons and planets align it could be possible, but what are the chances of that?
I do not criticize the pick really. I was thinking Gerhart, but I will give them the benefit of the doubt that they know what they are doing. But you trade down in second round then back up? I guess it’s a net fifth round for a third round, but still… it seems like a lot of wheeling and dealing going on.
I loved the trade down
wasn’t sure about the trade up, but we’ll never know if Tate woulda been available, and he definitely fills a need.
Dunta's weightspeed was too low
Net wise...
They traded down and added a 3rd.
They moved back up for a 5th.
They then moved the late 3rd for an early 4th and an early 5th.
So in the end: They picked up Tate, added an early 4th, and swapped a 5th.
"Lord, beer me strength."
That's why I'm not even counting pick #'s anymore.
We have left: 4, 4, 5, 6, 6 & 7.
That’s as dumbed down as I need to know.
My head asploded...
from awesomeness.
Tate + 1 extra pick and a swap to a higher 5.
"Lord, beer me strength."
Maybe we had to trade up the 5 spots
Cleveland with the very next pick took Montario Hardesty. It is conceivable that the Browns may have had Tate above Hardesty on their draft board. Seems Tate is a super fit for our offense. The next RB on the Texans’ board may have been, in Smithiak’s eyes, a significant step down.
Gerhart does not fit our system
And as others have opined, he’s Chris Brown Part Duh with his upright style.
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
by bigfatdrunk on Apr 23, 2010 11:17 PM CDT up reply actions
I still think the best
was Pancakes throwing a fissy fit on Twitter about trading with the Vikings so they can grab Gerhart.
by theaxeeffect4311 on Apr 23, 2010 11:31 PM CDT up reply actions
This
Is why I ignore all Chron writers except for Lance.
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
by bigfatdrunk on Apr 23, 2010 11:34 PM CDT up reply actions
McClain's Twitter
The vikings traded up with the Texans to get Gerhart. I can’t believe it. I’m giving up. I’m packing up and going home.
I just like how he was wanting some Toby (hardcore) and to read his reaction when his love fest died. It made me happy to see that the Texans did not want Gerhart making McClain wrong about Mathews and Gerhart.
by theaxeeffect4311 on Apr 23, 2010 11:44 PM CDT up reply actions
He's being a lil' bitch
because he has been exposed at having absolutely zero inside info this draft.
Gives more credence to the theory
that Pancakes is just the Texans’ stooge for delivering mis-information. I LIKE IT!!
I suppose if all of the stars, moons and planets align it could be possible, but what are the chances of that?
is this the same hardcore action
LDJA12 has dreamed of from VY
"Your mother is a hamster and your father smells of elderberries! Now Go away or I shall taunt you a second time!"
Go Texans!
Good gawd
He still doesn’t realize they treat him like toilet paper?
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
by bigfatdrunk on Apr 23, 2010 11:56 PM CDT up reply actions
Guess they were scared of Cleveland and Seattle
Needing running backs. Evidenced by Cleveland taking Hardesty with the next pick.
What are everyone's thoughts on
Akwasi Owusu-Ansah? I mean, I personally hope we don’t pick him because I’d have to look the spelling up every time I wrote about him…
Good CB
Good speed….also could play FS I hear….
Wouldn’t be a bad move per se….
"Lord, beer me strength."
Good call DC
Now that he is a Texan gerhart and hardesty can go fuck themselves lol!!
I’m not sold on Tate at all still, but man I’m dying for some crow on a big steaming pile of shit on a plate. With raisins and arm hair???
I’m pretty sure I’m wrong and he will be a beast. I’m like the Jacksonville broncos
by AllenOU on Apr 23, 2010 11:21 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Yes, please.
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
by bigfatdrunk on Apr 23, 2010 11:18 PM CDT up reply actions
To TDC and AOU
Yes, please!
I admit to being a little sad when I saw Mays go. I was PISSED seeing Joseph go so early.
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
by bigfatdrunk on Apr 23, 2010 11:30 PM CDT up reply actions
Not those guys
but, I was totally bought into the criticism of Mays. Yes, he has straight line speed. But, I have seen enough youtube videos of him to realize it was not just hype what they were saying about his lack of instincts. He is phenomenal athlete, but if he isn’t going in the right direction, not even his speed can overcome it. He makes some outstanding plays because even a blind squirrel finds an acorn every once in awhile. But, I want a guy that is following the ball to make a play every time. In this business at this level, lack of instinctual play will get you burned big time. IMO, he will never be that “center-fielder” FS. In the box? Maybe. But, even there, he will get burnt by biting on play-action as the TE gets two steps on him and is receiving the ball in open space forcing a skinny CB to have to try to make the tackle. Okay, that was more than was needed. On a morning like today, being cerebral is not a good look.
I suppose if all of the stars, moons and planets align it could be possible, but what are the chances of that?
Ben Tate's Twitter:
@owendaniels thx man lookin fwd to bein part of the most explosive offense in the nfl with ya!!!
“fapfapfap”, was it?
Not only is he fast and strong...
He’s smart too!
@briancushing56 ppreciate it man!! just happy i dont have to go against u lol
Damn I am excited for this year.
by Calvin Paquette on Apr 24, 2010 7:30 AM CDT up reply actions
All the Campbell fans may have something to look forward to....
Over the last four rounds, the Texans are looking for a free safety, offensive tackle and an interior offensive lineman.
Granted, it comes from Pancakes, but I think that list is fairly solid.
Could Bruce Campbell be the pick early tomorrow morning?
"Lord, beer me strength."
He's never led us astray!
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
by bigfatdrunk on Apr 23, 2010 11:43 PM CDT up reply actions
I thought he was going to
Shoot himself
"Your mother is a hamster and your father smells of elderberries! Now Go away or I shall taunt you a second time!"
Go Texans!
Well, we all know FS and OG/C are needs...
It’s not a stretch to say we need line depth….It could be Campbell or Wang.
"Lord, beer me strength."
if we get campbell
can we name him chicken noodle? or just soup?
"Your mother is a hamster and your father smells of elderberries! Now Go away or I shall taunt you a second time!"
Go Texans!
However
I think they have to take Robert Johnson with the first fourth, so will Campbell make it all the way to our other fourth? Will be interesting, but at least we’ll get either Campbell or Petrus.
by theaxeeffect4311 on Apr 23, 2010 11:47 PM CDT up reply actions
I'll put my name on it:
Robert Johnson with the 1st 4th rounder
Ed Wang with the 2nd 4th rounder
"Lord, beer me strength."
Tell me more about Wang
/hehehe…Wang
by theaxeeffect4311 on Apr 24, 2010 12:26 AM CDT up reply actions
You want more Wang? (haha)
- Ed Wang went to Virginia Tech and is 6’5’’ and 314 lbs. That’s one big Wang.
- He’s a Second-Team All-ACC Left Tackle who is described as athletic. Talented Wang.
- He’s a former TE. Has played RT. Improved enough to LT. Wang has grown and is versatile.
-
"Lord, beer me strength."
Ah
that was a good one. So would Wang be better than Petrus? I think I would lean Petrus because he could become a starter whereas Wang would be a backup right?
by theaxeeffect4311 on Apr 24, 2010 12:36 AM CDT up reply actions
It depends if Petrus could beat out
Caldwell, Brisiel, W. Smith (who may start at C or G).
Either way, both will add to the depth of the OL…which really did hurt the team in 2009.
Will the Texans love the strong, bull-like Petrus? Or does Smithiak love them some Wang? (haha)
"Lord, beer me strength."
Well (putting the Wang jokes aside)
I would see both as developmental. I think Petrus would beat out Brisiel next year whereas Wang would sit behind Brown, then we’d have LT Wang and LG Brown next year? I guess my problem is that I see Brisiel and Smith as stop gaps but Brown as someone who has start on the O-line no matter which position. I guess the question comes down to how does Wang compare to Brown? Is Wang a good run/pass blocker?
by theaxeeffect4311 on Apr 24, 2010 1:07 AM CDT up reply actions
I would approve of Johnson, can't have too many Johnsons...oh, that's right...
We DID have one too many last season and had to trim a little foreskin…
I suppose if all of the stars, moons and planets align it could be possible, but what are the chances of that?
Here's mine:
Eric Norwood for WLB with 1st 4th rounder
Wang with 2nd 4th rounder
by Calvin Paquette on Apr 24, 2010 7:31 AM CDT up reply actions
Here's another OT to look out for in round 4
An athletic left tackle, Ed Wang was an All-ACC second-teamer and projected to go in rounds 3 or 4.
"Lord, beer me strength."
Imagine the article you could write if the 4th rounders are...
Wang and Johnson.
Too bad we’re not San Francisco, eh? That would’ve been too easy.
"Lord, beer me strength."
Eh,
We have Montrose. It’ll be ok.
Our football teams in Texas are like our people. The Texans are like the honest, hard-working, blue-collar men that earned what they had and built this state into the place it is. The Cowboys are like the politicians and tycoons that just act like buffoons and make everyone hate us. Essentially, Bob McNair=Stephen F. Austin, Jerry Jones=Sam Houston.
If we pick up
Myron Rolle, and Aggie Matthews and BFD tomorrow imma have a perma hardon!!!
"Your mother is a hamster and your father smells of elderberries! Now Go away or I shall taunt you a second time!"
Go Texans!
but for cereal guys
i am out to go drink some booze adios fackers
"Your mother is a hamster and your father smells of elderberries! Now Go away or I shall taunt you a second time!"
Go Texans!
oh didnt i call
a couple weeks/month ago colt mccoy would be a brown?
"Your mother is a hamster and your father smells of elderberries! Now Go away or I shall taunt you a second time!"
Go Texans!
Props for that
Nicely played.
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
by bigfatdrunk on Apr 23, 2010 11:57 PM CDT up reply actions
I think I will surreptitiously be rooting for the Browns from afar...
Ha! I even spelled it right!
I suppose if all of the stars, moons and planets align it could be possible, but what are the chances of that?
Why do people think Slaton wouldnt like the pick??
This is a 2 RB/team league now. If you think Slaton was mad, I bet Jerome Harrison was mad when the Browns drafted Hardesty, Sproles would have been extremely mad when the Chargers drafted Mathews, AD would have been mad when the Vikings drafted Gerhart. Its the way the league is now and if Slaton cant understand that as a team we need two RBs than I dont want him around anymore, but I know he does understand.
To all Houston sports fans, Houston is the 4th biggest city in America, there will be traffic on the way to your respective sports game. Come Early, Be Loud, Stay Late.
There's a difference between mad and threatened
Mad is when you piss and moan like McNabb did when Philly drafted Kevin Kolb. Threatened is when you can’t stay healthy or can’t stop turning the ball over and you think the new guy is going to take your spot.
Thankfully, Steve is a class act and we don’t have to worry about that kind of bullshit.
True
but “taking your spot” is relative in the new age NFL for RBs. Is splitting carries taking Slaton’s job or making his job easier? From what Steve has said I think he sees it as a help not only to him but to the team. Also, being threatened would make Steve work harder, which is always good.
To all Houston sports fans, Houston is the 4th biggest city in America, there will be traffic on the way to your respective sports game. Come Early, Be Loud, Stay Late.
by TexasHoosier on Apr 24, 2010 12:03 AM CDT up reply actions
If Slaton returns to form, he has nothing to be threatened about
It’s all on him. I don’t think he would want it any other way. If he is the Slaton of old, then he has a huge place on this team.
I suppose if all of the stars, moons and planets align it could be possible, but what are the chances of that?
Another good tweet by Tate:
@briancushing56 appreciate it man!! just happy i dont have to go against u lol
Fear the Cush.
I've never been a big fan of Twitter or Facebook
but it’s kind of cool that these guys can begin start knowing each other right away.
by theaxeeffect4311 on Apr 24, 2010 12:33 AM CDT up reply actions
Is the best thing to happen to sports since instant replay. The news is out on Twitter way before the internet or the Sports channels.
Haha! I got a good laugh at this one!
I suppose if all of the stars, moons and planets align it could be possible, but what are the chances of that?
we have to sweep Jacksonville
with that stupid draft they’ve put together..
Die hard Texan fan from the heart of Denmark!
Tennessee's hasn't been impressive either.
We’re doing good compared to the division.
"Lord, beer me strength."
at least
Derrick Morgan and Damian Williams are way better than the 2 DT’s Jax are reaching at.
but yea.. actually think the Texans has an A draft grade right now.
Die hard Texan fan from the heart of Denmark!
Morgan's okay
but I don’t think he’s gonna be a beast of a DE.
Williams…he’s a good route-runner and got good hands, but giving VY a WR is like giving a 12 year-old boy Christina Hendricks….he won’t know what to do with it.
Plus, they still have crap CBs. And that’s what burned them in 09.
"Lord, beer me strength."
by TexansDC on Apr 24, 2010 12:43 AM CDT up reply actions 3 recs
Shhh!
They might notice if you bring it up.
by theaxeeffect4311 on Apr 24, 2010 1:08 AM CDT up reply actions
I'm kind of glad
Philly moved up to take Graham. If the guy has a motor like Trent Cole, that would have been horrible to face twice a year. Morgan could be a handful, but I’ve read that if the OT stops his first move, the OT will win the battle.
However, I am still questioning what the Colts are doing.
by theaxeeffect4311 on Apr 24, 2010 1:15 AM CDT up reply actions
Rec'd because Christina Hendricks being with the schnozberries guy makes me drink
Best analogy I’ve heard in a while, also. That is a woman. She makes Scarlett Johannson look like Kate Moss.
Vince Young
VY is like a poor man’s Randall Cunningham. End of story….
I suppose if all of the stars, moons and planets align it could be possible, but what are the chances of that?
I would have preffered waiting till the 3rd
I’m I’m falling in like with this Ben Tate guy pretty hard. Lovely day at the draft for the texans :).
Rudimentary creatures of flesh and blood, you touch my mind, fumbling in ignorance, incapable of understanding.
I have two things to say
1 – thanks for the highlight reel. Ben Tate looks like a VIOLENT mofo.
2 – the hyperlink you have over the thing about Mathews saying he was scared about Houston links to a pic of Tate – but if that’s what Mathews said – FUCK Ryan Mathews. See you on November 7, you overhyped piece of NoCal pussy shit.
Chris - www.HoustonDiehards.com
by HoustonDiehards on Apr 24, 2010 1:18 AM CDT reply actions
Ditto
I suppose if all of the stars, moons and planets align it could be possible, but what are the chances of that?
Link
Shit. I’ll fix it now. He says:
A Chargers fan, Mathews had heard that the Texans would draft him 20th. Then came the happy jolt from the Bolts.
“All the talk about Houston and stuff, it really started to scare me and everything,” Mathews said. “I’m lucky and blessed that (the Chargers) traded up and picked me. I’m super-excited. It’s mind-blowing that they did that.”
I'm not even mad about it
Good luck Mathews running behind that O-line
by theaxeeffect4311 on Apr 24, 2010 8:26 AM CDT up reply actions
I'm scared that
Tate could get Chris Brown disease due to him wearing Chris Brown’s number.
A statement to the players of the Jazz and Mavericks: Please stop flopping all over the court.
That's not his chosen number.
I just gave it to him to make the picture. I chose it based off a guess that he’d “half” his 44 (which Vonte Leach currently wears). Could go 24 or 42 or something completely different like 48. We’ll probably know tomorrow when he’s at Reliant.
"Lord, beer me strength."
That's gotta burn Carr's ass every time he sees Schaub having success wearing #8....
I suppose if all of the stars, moons and planets align it could be possible, but what are the chances of that?
FootballOutsiders on Ben Tate
“Sleeper back of the class”, according to their Speedscore metric. They’re not quite outsiders anymore, since this article is exclusive to ESPN Insiders, but the formula is readily available and people posted the results in the comments section.
Tate was 1. Mathews was 2.
Does their equation have a constant of 81.82?
I suppose if all of the stars, moons and planets align it could be possible, but what are the chances of that?
I don't think anyone is really against the Tate pick
As BFD says, people higher on the board were dropping left and right, especially after they traded down.
In the end, Tate was the second guy on my board when they picked. Hard to get mad about that even if I did wind up taking Morgan Burnett in the shadow. I think we’re all looking forward to seeing him out there.
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter
I am loving this pick more and more.
I didn’t do much research for this year’s draft, especially compared to last year. My former roommate is from Auburn, so I am somewhat familiar with the program. But I haven’t lived with the guy for two years. Unfortunately he’s deployed right now, so I can’t talk to him about Tate.
It blows my mind he didn’t have a 1st round grade. What are the knocks against him? Is it because the last two years he ran in a spread offense? I can see that turning people off, but it’s leaving guys like this for the Texans to pick up – Slaton was knocked for coming from a spread as well.
I scoffed at someone earlier saying he could be Offensive ROY; I don’t think that’s as silly as it first seemed now.
The spread is one....
Someone had said fumbles, but Tate’s not that bad in that.
47 career games: 9 fumbles, 6 lost
Compared to Toby? 38 games, 10 fumbles, 7 lost. Methinks Pancakes has egg on his face.
Here’s CBS’s take on him.
Inside: At his best as a downhill runner. Thick build with good musculature throughout. Attacks the line of scrimmage and takes what the defense gives him. Lowers his shoulder and will take on the defender in the hole. Good toughness to run through arm tackles and get to and through the second level and into the open field. Keeps his eyes up and has enough lateral agility and acceleration to take advantage of cut-back lanes. Good balance, but is not special in this area. Protects the ball with both hands in traffic, but has had some issues with fumbles over his career. Good short-yardage who runs with competitive fire and seems to have a legitimate nose for the end zone.
Outside: Only adequate speed to beat NFL linebackers to the edge or to pull away in the open field. Flashes a quick lateral burst and shifty shoulders to fake out the defender, but has only moderate overall agility and acceleration to elude.
Breaking tackles: Arguably his best skill. Though a bit upright in the open field, he squares his shoulders and runs with good pad level when in traffic, presenting little other than shoulders and thigh pads for defenders to target. Keeps his legs churning after contact and will spin through tackles to generate extra yardage. Runs with good forward lean, almost always falling forward for extra yardage.
Blocking: Thick built with the strength and effort to remain on the field in pass protection. Became a more reliable pass blocker as a senior, showing improved awareness and consistency in squaring to the defender and providing a consistent pop. Remains too inconsistent as a cut-blocker, lunging and missing too often.
Receiving: Experienced receiver out of the backfield. Often lines up wide in this offense, but is typically used on screens and simple dump-off routes as a senior. Looks natural extending to pluck the ball out of the air.
Intangibles: Tough runner who seems to enjoy the physical aspects of the game. Has enjoyed success in a variety of offenses, leading the team in rushing yards each of the past three seasons. Voted MVP by his teammates after his senior season. Doesn’t lack for confidence. Has characterized himself as the best back in the country and as better than Heisman winner Mark Ingram.
"Lord, beer me strength."
Problem with your statement
Pancakes always has egg on his face.
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter
by riversmccown on Apr 24, 2010 2:07 AM CDT up reply actions
wow I see Michael Turner potential
but of course thats the optimist in me..
by leacheatsbabies on Apr 24, 2010 2:16 AM CDT up reply actions
Fuck no way I'm getting up at 7 tomorrow.
Today has been too crazy. Hopefully I wake up to a very successful 4th round.
Rudimentary creatures of flesh and blood, you touch my mind, fumbling in ignorance, incapable of understanding.
There should be a BRB presence at the draft party next year.
I will either be living in Fairbanks, Colorado Springs, or Las Cruces, so I probably wouldn’t be able to make it. But it seems like a good idea.
The draft party is INSANE
I brought a friend, we got there about 50 minutes after it started, and there was not a single empty seat in the entire place. I think they should probably bring it into the actual seats next year, it was just way overly packed. I was trying to meet Steph and I couldn’t even find her. Ridiculous amount of people jammed into one place.
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter
by riversmccown on Apr 24, 2010 3:00 AM CDT up reply actions
Not only do I like the Tate pick...
Thanks to TDC and understanding the man is a frakkin genius, but I also like the Mitchell pick in the 4th.
Mitchell is quick, nimble, and he gets off his stance quick. He may not have the same strength as a Mt. Cody, but he has him beat in agility. This frees up Okoye to do his thing more, and let’s Mitchell take more of the burden to stop the RB. Mitchell is better than Shaun Cody, and that means value in the 4th round.
Another guy who fits the scheme…and come on…he’s going to line up kind of in front of Demeco Ryans. Tell me THAT isn’t helpful to a rookie?
If we get a quality, hard hitting WLB in this draft and a quick, feisty FS, we’ll be complete on defense. Grab O-Linemen with the remaining picks, fuck the TE thought, and seriously, the entire team is complete. Fucking complete.
When was the last time you heard someone say, “The Houston Texans…a complete team.” Probably never cuz it’s a gay statement to make, but it’ll be true after the final rounds tomorrow.
Oh, and at least we know Tate is one smart S.O.B…he recognized how much he did NOT want to face Cush during the season. That’s some mad respect right there.
Make that later today...
When the hell did it become 3AM? Shit…gotta be up in 5 hours for the draft! Damnit!
I think I saw somewhere that they picked up a TE free agent yesterday...that should take care of it!
I suppose if all of the stars, moons and planets align it could be possible, but what are the chances of that?
Anyone that thinks
they would LIKE to face Cush during the season needs to be checked into an asylum.
Just my $.02
Even duct tape can't fix stupid
the pick is good
but he isn’t that much bigger than Slaton. Like, he’s five pounds heavier and two inches taller.
Slaton was barely over 200
when he came out, and he likely played too heavy last year judging by the results. This guy is much bigger naturally, and will be the perfect hammer to go along with Slaton’s quickness.
by Superdave532 on Apr 24, 2010 4:33 AM CDT up reply actions
Ditto
I suppose if all of the stars, moons and planets align it could be possible, but what are the chances of that?
just wondering.
which side of the ball teams are gonna fear more, tate, vonte, and AJ on offense, or Cush, Meco, and Pollard on D. by far, our most violent team will be out there next season. preseason this year is gonna be OFF THE CHAIN intense mark my words!
Beware the bearers of FALSE gifts & their BROKEN PROMISES.
Much PAIN but still time.
BELIEVE.
There is GOOD out there.
We OPpose DECEPTION.
http://www.twitter.com/doobieman21
I loved the pick
And opined in a different place that I hoped he was the pick at #51 originally. The fact they got him and an extra 4th and 5th rounder makes it that much better.
Anyone read the comments
on Pancakes post that I linked to? Did I miss the part where Toby Gerhart walked on water?
http://blogs.chron.com/nfl/2010/04/texans_give_gerhart_to_the_vik_1.html
When did getting Gerhart make us a team that would get “national attention?”
Read them?
You’re lucky you didn’t get banned for linking to them.
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter
by riversmccown on Apr 24, 2010 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions
My Take on Tate
The thing I’ve noticed on Tate’s Tape are 3 things
1 he runs pads low,- not upright like Chris Brown This is also my big gripe against Ryan Matthews and why I didn’t want him.
2. He runs hard North South and hits the hole with authority and not afraid of contact. very important in zone blocking system.
3. He seems to have good vision, sees the crease open up and makes a quick move to hit it (this was my only gripe against Toby Gerhart, he seemed to always run the assignment but didn’t seem to feel the seams)
You can't fix Dumb or being a VYFB
Ben Tate is a keeper
I’m an Auburn fan that has followed the program very closely over the years. Back in ‘04 we had Carnell Williams and Ronny Brown go in the top 5 of the first round. I said back then that Ronny would have a better career because he was more durable and multi-talented. We all see how that has turned out. Tate is the best we’ve had since then. He’s had 3 OC’s in 4 years, so his numbers are much lower than they could have been. You will love his durability, high motor, and never quit attitude. Watch as his carries get better and better the further into the game you are. The review i saw about being a one cut and go back are true as well. Just get some good edge blocking and watch him pound into the secondary. Coach him up a little on ball security and you’ll be on your way! Go get’em Big Tate!
War Eagle!
by tigerincharlotte on Apr 24, 2010 10:50 AM CDT reply actions 1 recs
There's a lot to like about this guy.
I'll eliminate you like I eliminate gluten from my diet.
by tehGrindCrusher on Apr 25, 2010 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions
Tate vs. Eric Berry
watch the youtube video of Tate running over Eric Berry. ’Nuff said.
by tigerincharlotte on Apr 24, 2010 10:52 AM CDT reply actions
I am basing this
strictly off the linked video, but I saw a back that knows when to pick his way, when to lower his shoulder and bull, and when to turn on the afterburners.
I don’t know the talent level of the secondary he was facing in Arkansas and Mississippi State where he picks his way along the line, slips through the clutter just short of the side line and then just outraces everyone, but it reminded me (don’t shoot me for this) of BESF’s CJ during the pre-season last year when he slipped through the line and then outran everyone….including the cameraman that was supposed to be tracking him.
If he can do that consistently, the Texans just added a whole ’nother dimension to their offense. As someone else alluded to, pick your poison, stack the box and try and stop Tate (and/or hopefully Slaton) and leave AJ and company in man to man, or drop back and try and stop the pass and leave Tate free to rip off the big run.
Just my $.02
Even duct tape can't fix stupid
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