Written on Wednesday, 19 October 2011 10:18
"Suck for Luck." Doesn't sound like a phrase you'd associate with football, does it? But you better get used to hearing it, because as the NFL season goes on, it will become much more relevant.
"Luck" refers to Andrew Luck, the Stanford University quarterback who will almost certainly be the No.1 pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. Experts had considered Luck this year's top selection, but he elected to return to college.
"Suck" refers to NFL teams playing poorly - possibly even tanking - to acquire the first pick and a shot at revitalising their franchise with a potential star quarterback.
We're only in Week Six, but already there are a number of teams that could be in a position to "Suck for Luck." This list is in alphabetical order:
Arizona Cardinals (1-4)
State of franchise: In flux. Probably staring down the barrel of a rebuilding job.
QB situation: Paid $63 million for Kevin Kolb who had been a backup at Philadelphia, and has struggled big-time so far.
Would they draft Luck? Probably not, unless Kolb is a total bust.
Carolina Panthers (1-5)
State of franchise: In year one of a rebuild. The future looks bright.
QB situation: Took Cam Newton with the #1 pick in the draft. He's exceeded everyone's expectations and looks to be a superstar in the making.
Would they draft Luck? No, Newton is the man.
Denver Broncos (1-4)
State of franchise: Trying to rebuild with new coach John Fox, who took over from the disastrous reign of Josh McDaniels.
QB situation: Fan favourite Tim Tebow gets his shot next week.
Would they draft Luck? Yes, if Tebow doesn't work out.
Indianapolis Colts (0-6)
State of franchise: Ageing roster and uncertainty around health of superstar Peyton Manning.
QB situation: Manning may miss the entire season and there's no guarantee he'll return to 100%. Curtis Painter is the starter now.
Would they draft Luck? Yes. Even if Manning returns, the Colts would be tempted to bring Luck on board as his understudy.
Jacksonville Jaguars (1-5)
State of franchise: Probably in the last season of the Jack Del Rio era, so expect a change next year.
QB situation: Took Blaine Gabbert as the #10 pick overall and he's their starter.
Would they draft Luck? Doubtful. Would probably trade the pick.
Miami Dolphins (0-5)
State of franchise: Still solid defensively, but the offense is anemic. This could be head coach Tony Sparano's last season.
QB situation: Dire. Starter Chad Henne is out for the season, and journeyman Matt Moore is under center now.
Would they draft Luck? Absolutely. He fits their needs perfectly.
Minnesota Vikings (1-5)
State of franchise: Team is struggling, but lobbying for a new stadium, so trying to avoid a total rebuild.
QB situation: Drafted Christian Ponder with pick #12 but started veteran Donovan McNabb for first six weeks. Ponder should start from here on out.
Would they draft Luck? Probably not, especially if Ponder plays well.
St. Louis Rams (0-5)
State of franchise: Expectations were reasonably high this year, but injuries and a tough schedule have crippled them.
QB situation: Have Sam Bradford, one of the best young quarterbacks in the NFL.
Would they draft Luck? No. They're set with Bradford.
Short yardage situations
- The NFL has decided not to fine 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh or Lions head coach Jim Schwartz over their push-and-shove battle - detailed by BackPageLead's Liam Quinn yesterday - after this weekend's game. According to NFL spokesman Greg Aiello, the incident was not considered a "fight" and therefore not a fineable offense.
- As if the St Louis Rams weren't already having a nightmare season, now the 0-5 team will most likely face Dallas without quarterback Sam Bradford. He's got a high ankle sprain and is wearing a walking boot. The Rams - picked by many (including yours truly) to win the NFC West - are more than likely headed for a last-place finish.
- More bad QB news in Oakland, where Jason Campbell broke his collarbone and will be out for most of the season. The Raiders' backups are well-traveled Kyle Boller and untested rookie Terrelle Pryor. It's so bad that head coach Hue Jackson said (jokingly, I think) "If you're a quarterback out there and want to come play for the Raiders, give us a call."
- No such injury issues in Washington, but there could be a quarterback controversy. Starter Rex Grossman threw four interceptions against Philadelphia, and was replaced by John Beck who led the Redskins to their only touchdown of the game. Head coach Mike Shanahan hasn't named a starter yet, but insists he's comfortable with either quarterback.
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