NFL Rookie Watch

It's Week 4 of the NFL season and a good time to check in on the performance of this year's rookies. The transition to NFL play takes time and is always met with varying degrees of success.  I would recommend you keep an eye on these three rookies who are handling the transition very well and are already hitting their stride at this level:

Doug Martin

1)  Doug Martin (RB Tampa Bay) 

A former Boise State Bronco, it was expected that Martin would rotate and work his way into the lineup with the Bucs. That has not been the case.  Martin has been a workhorse for the Bucs with 63 carries going into tomorrow's game. (By comparison, the next highest is Josh Freeman with 8 carries.) The Bucs believe that Martin can handle the heavy workload, and that he can block and also catch out of the backfield. The bigger question will be whether Martin can handle the physical punishment that NFL running backs endure. Watch how Martin handles the pressure of running, blocking and receiving against a hungry Washington Redskins team.

                                                        

2)  Morris Claiborne (DB Dallas)

Morris Claiborne

Claiborne came from the vaunted LSU program and has performed exceptionally well while keeping a low profile on a team where that is not an easy task. Claiborne is being asked to play corner and safety, and he is handling the duties like a seasoned veteran. Claiborne brings speed, agility, and the ability to break quickly in one complete package, and he also has an advanced football IQ to handle Rob Ryan's complicated defensive schemes. Look for Claiborne to become more of a playmaker and start to showcase his many talents against some of the NFL's best receivers.  He will be providing coverage against Chicago's Brandon Marshall this weekend, and that will be a matchup worth watching.

3)  Robert Griffin III (QB Washington) 

Robert Griffin III

Griffin's success at Baylor and his Heisman Trophy were just the beginning, as he is performing extremely well under center with the Redskins. He has enjoyed success running the ball in his early games, and now he has started working more downfield passes. Keep an eye on how the Redskins continue opening up the playbook and allowing him to utilize his running and passing abilities. Griffin has adapted very quickly to the speed of the NFL game and seems to have adjusted to the different schemes that teams are showing him. Any team that allows its QB to run in the NFL has to hold its breath any time the QB tucks and crosses the line of scrimmage.  The Redskins are willing to take the risk, and hopefully Griffin
can stay healthy as he continues to present a dual threat running and passing.

To Win or to Play? The Purpose of Youth Football

One of the most difficult issues I'm asked about comes from parents of very young athletes who are frustrated that their kids are getting minimal playing time compared to other athletes on their football team. It is usually a situation where parents feel their kids have been labeled as "third string" and the coach plays the "first string" athletes considerably more to go for the win.

Parents enroll their kids in youth football because they want a fun, positive, educational experience, and the damage that is done when a 3rd or 4th grade child perceives he is "third string" can make the situation miserable and drive people away from the sport altogether. That situation is all too common, and it completely defeats the purpose of youth football programs.

The goal of youth football should be to:

1.  Provide opportunity:  A youth football program should introduce kids to the basics of the game of football, give kids the opportunity to learn fundamentals and then provide an opportunity to experience game action.

2.  Teach discipline:  Youth football instills basic discipline in kids. They are expected to learn the rules of the game and to understand and develop their role on the team. They will begin to see the importance of a work ethic and meeting expectations when they learn how to function in the practice format and the importance of being on time.

3.  Understand teamwork:  When kids buy into their team, they develop a great sense of responsibility to their teammates. Kids become very excited when they feel they have a role in a situation, and learning how to work together teaches them how to contribute to a larger goal.

I always encourage parents to reach out and communicate with their coaches in these situations. And I encourage coaches to remember to focus on a creating a positive atmosphere for all their young athletes.   Keep in mind that kids practice hard all week, and they only get one game to utilize what they have learned. If they only get one quarter of play in those games, it is very hard for them to demonstrate their developing football skills and feel like they are a meaningful part of the game experience. Getting your young players to love and understand the game so they can enjoy it for years to come is the real way to "win" in youth football.

College Game to Watch: Clemson vs. Florida State

While it is not a game that receives much exposure in our neck of the woods, the Clemson-Florida State game is definitely one that is worth watching this weekend. Both teams have converted to more conventional style offenses over the past two years that allow them to keep the defense guessing by using the entire field via the run or the pass. Both teams have QB's that can hurt a defense equally with their arm or their feet. Both teams also currently have their eyes on winning the Atlantic Division, and whichever team loses tomorrow will have a much tougher shot at that goal.

Things to watch in this game:

1. Tempo:  Clemson will try to wear down Florida State's talented defense with an up-tempo offense.  Look for Clemson QB, Tajh Boyd, to utilize his legs and a quick screen game to keep the FSU defense off balance.  If Clemson can keep from getting behind, that strategy may pay off in the 4th quarter.

2. Athletes:  Both teams are extremely athletic at all positions, but Clemson might have one of the most talented offenses from top to bottom in the country.  QB Tajh Boyd is a playmaker, and his team is counting on his ability to make things happen for their no-huddle, hurry up offense.  Meanwhile, FSU's defense has only given up 3 points in 3 games. How will the two powerhouses match up? Should be fun to find out!

3. Home Crowd:  With the high hopes of winning a National Championship in Tallahassee this year, FSU will provide an extremely hostile atmosphere for opposing teams all season. Expect a big game like this one to produce an especially big crowd.  The FSU tomahawk chop will be in full effect on Saturday. How will Clemson handle the pressure?

4. Special Teams: With a predicted showdown in the trenches, Special Teams could easily be a determining factor in the outcome of this game. Both teams have speed and talent that can return a punt or kick for a game changing touchdown.  Watch for them both to attempt to break "big plays" with Special Teams.  Florida State fans are always worried about a possible "wide right" situation, but the return game will likely be a deciding factor.

5. Defense:  FSU is touted as the best defense in the country. Clemson's high-powered offense will be their first true test of that statement.  Look for FSU's defensive line to relentlessly hit and attempt to take down Clemson's QB throughout the game. FSU's defense is always the catalyst for their team, so they will be looking to create turnovers to spark their team's performance. If FSU can keep constant pressure on Clemson's QB and deliver consistent hits, they will lead the QB to get rid of the ball quickly...and that could deliver the turnovers FSU desires.

My Top 5 NFL Players to Watch

I am often asked my thoughts on current NFL players, and it's generally about the Tebows and the RG3's who are getting a lot of media attention.  I have my opinions on those players too, but it's usually those who aren't in the spotlight that I think are the most fun to watch.  I put together a list of five players I would recommend people pay attention to in the 2012 season, and I will add to the list as the season rolls along. Feel free to comment on my choices, or give me a few of your own. 

NaVorro Bowman

#5. NaVorro Bowman (LB San Francisco)

Bowman plays alongside Patrick Willis, so he sometimes gets overshadowed. But Bowman never steps off the field and plays every play as if it was his last. He is very athletic and has started to really step out of Willis' shadow.  Bowman does an excellent job reading the QB's eyes and breaking on the ball as we saw in the first game against Green Bay when he picked off Aaron Rodgers.  He is equally talented with tackling in the open field.

Darren McFadden

#4. Darren McFadden (RB Oakland)

McFadden is a complete running back. He brings a dynamic 1-2 punch with his ability to run and to catch the ball out of the backfield.  Really watch his patience and his ability to make one cut and explode through the hole.  Few players have the ability to score a TD on any given play, but McFadden brings that opportunity every time he touches the ball.

#3. Matt Schaub (QB Houston)

Matt Schaub

Schaub really flourishes in a system that has a strong running game. Schaub is very good with play action and in Houston's system, their play action allows the QB to have a little extra time to stretch the field vertically.  Watch Schaub set up the play action with exciting fakes that keep the defensive backs second guessing. Having an All-league running back always helps too.

Ben Roethlisberger

#2. Big Ben (QB Pittsburgh) 

He is not always the most fundamentally sound QB, but he has the best pocket presence and ability to extend a play. Big Ben's instincts for avoiding defensive linemen gives defensive coordinators nightmares.  While in the pocket, he is very good at utilizing the pump fake to move the defensive backs out of position.  Aggressive d-backs really struggle with this.  Watch how he handles a tough defense like the Jets this weekend.                       

Adrian Wilson

#1. Adrian Wilson (Safety Arizona)

Leading a young defense, Wilson brings an imposing force to the safety position. Not only can Wilson cover a receiver, but he can tackle like a linebacker.  Few safeties are able to bring such an aggressive style to this position.  Watch how the Cardinals move him around so the QB can't key on him.  He might blitz, drop into a zone or lock up man to man. With that versatility, he is always a fun player to watch.

5 Tips to Being a Great Sports Parent

Now that all area teams and leagues have started their games, it is a good time to offer some reminders to parents on how to best support their young athletes. We want to encourage our kids, and we want them to develop confidence and character that last long after the season ends! These are the five things that I would encourage every parent of a young athlete to remember:

5. Stay Positive

There will be struggles. You will disagree with coaches and other parents at times, and the kids will sometimes make poor decisions and not play well. Your number one job is to encourage your child and other members of the team. Negativity only magnifies a frustrating situation for everyone involved, so keep your comments and your attitude positive.

4. Show Respect

It is hard to expect kids to be respectful of opponents and officials if parents are not being respectful. Parents who emphasize the importance of respect to all—teammates, coaches, opponents and officials—will help instill character in their children. Remember that kids are always paying attention, and we should demonstrate respect and character off the field if we expect it to be displayed on the field.

3. Live Healthy

Youth sports place a high physical demand on young athletes. Parents need to make sure their kids are getting proper nutrition and rest. Use this opportunity to teach your kids about healthy food choices and about “de-stressing” away from the sport. Kids need to find a balance between school and activities, and parents can support healthy choices that energize a child physically and emotionally.

2. Support Your Coach

Parents need to show support for their child’s coach and repeat the things the coach is preaching to their child. Listen to the things the coach suggests players work on outside of practice, and then help your child to do those things! You need to be proactive and supportive of the coach’s beliefs. If you question the coach's philosophy or coaching technique, communicate that privately with the coach…it should never take place in front of the kids. You will have the best experience if you work together to make the experience fun and rewarding. Remember, you are all on the same team when it comes to finding success for these kids! 

1. Relax and Enjoy 

Kids are going to make mistakes and display emotion. It is part of the learning experience in youth sports, and parents who focus too much on winning and perfection are not doing their kids any favors. Young athletes need help understanding how to win and lose with grace. Don’t forget that at the end of the day, they are kids, and they need their confidence intact. Relax and be proud of their efforts! 

Kids and Concussions: Playing it Safe

This has been a busy week for news about concussions after Commissioner Goodell announced the NFL’s $30 million donation to NIH to conduct research on brain injuries.  The NFL has set up a website to provide more details about its efforts on player safety, and that includes the concussion legislation which has been passed in 37 states, including South Dakota.

http://www.nflevolution.com/

We don’t have all the answers right now on the effects of concussions on young athletes, so I applaud the NFL for getting serious about this research.  Parents need to know that efforts are being made at every level to improve equipment quality, and training for youth coaches.

Sports medicine programs around the country, including Sanford in Sioux Falls, are currently researching better ways to identify and treat concussions in young athletes and to educate parents and coaches about concussion symptoms.  Knowledge really is power when it comes to concussions, so teaching proper technique to youth coaches makes a real difference in preventing injury. Making sure parents and coaches can spot concussion symptoms and get medical help following an injury makes a difference as well.   

It will take a combination of all of these things to see improvements that affect player safety.  Those efforts are well underway, and the NFL’s donation is a timely reminder that whether they are beginners or pros, we all play a part in protecting our athletes.    

Heads Up Football: Preventing Injuries

USA Football started a Heads Up Football Initiative in August, and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell was quick to get behind their efforts.  The goal of the program is to better train youth coaches to ensure that correct fundamentals are being taught in a more intentional way.  Mistakes in tackling technique are a recipe for concussions and other serious injuries, and the Heads Up Football Initiative seeks to reduce those injuries.  This video is an excellent tool to demonstrate correct form tackling.  All coaches and parents could benefit from watching and using Heads Up Football!  There is never a substitute for proper technique!