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THE EXTRA YARD: 2020 NFL DRAFT Top 5 OT/OG/C

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Welcome to the Five Reasons Sports 2020 NFL Draft Guide.

We will be bringing you a top 5 list compiled by Alfredo Arteaga (@Alf_Arteaga), and a counter list by Simon Clancy (@SiClancy) for each position, for the 2020 NFL Draft. By offering you rankings of prospects 1 thru 5 for each position, we hope you will better understand this most important draft. Enjoy!

 

Miami Dolphins Picks:
Round1· Pick 5(5)
Round1· Pick 18(18)PIT > MIA
Round1· Pick 26(26)HOU > MIA
Round2· Pick 7(39)
Round2· Pick 24(56)NO > MIA
Round3· Pick 6(70)
Round4· Pick 35(141)Compensatory
Round5· Pick 7(153)
Round5· Pick 9(154)JAX > PIT > MIS
Round5· Pick 28(173)BAL > LA > MIN
Round6· Pick 6(185)
Round7· Pick 13(227)IND > MIA
Round7· Pick 32(246)KC > MIA
Round7· Pick 37(251)Compensatory


OFFENSIVE TACKLES

 

1. ANDREW THOMAS- Georgia- 6’-5” 315 lbs.

When you talk about “clean” prospects, I think a 5 star recruit, 2-time 1st Team SEC, 3-time All American, qualifies. Thomas, as early as 18 months ago was a near consensus top 5 pick, and I don’t think much has changed. Thomas is a monster in the run game, as he moves easily out to landmarks and assignments in the run game. When he gets there, he finds guys to hit. (an important quality in an NFL tackle) Very strong hands, and a consistent base in Pass pro, make Andrew Thomas a complete prospect.

 

2. TRISTAN WIRFS- Iowa- 6’-5” 320 lbs.

Wirfs has the ideal build, and frame for right tackle in the NFL. He not only tested off the charts at the combine, but is a legendary weight room fixture at Iowa. Nimble feet, with a smooth slide, and noticeable lateral quickness. Has the “power” look but plays like an athlete. Well versed in hand placement, and has no issues whatsoever in re-setting his feet and adjusting to rushers in space. In the run game, he sometimes builds up too much steam and overruns blocks at the 2nd level. It’s an adrenaline issue, not a skill-set one.

 

3. MEKHI BECTON- Louisville- 6’-7” 364 lbs.

A mammoth human being adept at playing both tackle spots. Played both adequately, but settled as a LT at Louisville. Some of his film in the run game has an abusive look to it. To say that Becton manhandles foes is an understatement. With very quick choppy steps that get him upon his prey, his hands latch on to control defenders, and he really finishes them. In the passing game, he does not lumber. He is as nimble as you can get for big man, and he rarely lets his hands leave his frame. On the downside, there is always fear that a large man will succumb to poor discipline. Becton has also had some bad moments versus elaborate stunts/blitzes.

 

4. JEDRICK WILLS- Alabama- 6’-4” 312 lbs.

The best pass protector of any tackle prospect in this draft. (He is a Right Tackle). His kick slide is natural and not exaggerated. His hand placement is perfect, and I never saw him (2019 film) over extend his arm outside his frame. His great technique will mean few penalties in the NFL. Wills is so good in pass pro, that it is conceivable that somebody will draft him with the intention of trying him on the left side. If he has some “cons”, it’s that he is all schooling/skill, and that can sometimes overwhelm his poorly coached/weaker opponents. Wills has good foot speed, but he does tend to drop his head a bit when reaching toward the second level. A clean prospect.

 

5. JOSH JONES- Houston- 6’-5” 319 lbs.

Played in 9 games in 2019 due to a knee injury. Jones has consistently gotten better, each and every year at Houston. Plays with a certain smoothness, and athleticism, which classifies him as a dancer/athlete at tackle, but make no mistake, Josh Jones is not some finesse tackle taken advantage of on the edge. He will finish a block on you, and he does seek contact int eh run game, and usually finds it due to his proportioned, long, rangy build. On the downside, Jones does need a bit coaching, as there are many examples of rushers getting to his chest. Footwork, could be better as he sometimes keeps his feet moving to move guys, instead of anchoring and stoning them. This is a coaching project, but one that can pay HUGE dividends in the future.

 

SIMON CLANCY’S (@SiClancy) VIEW:

1. Jedrick Wills – Alabama
2. Tristan Wirfs – Iowa
3. Mekhi Becton – Louisville
4. Andrew Thomas – Georgia
5. Josh Jones – Houston

 

OFFENSIVE GUARDS

1. DAMIEN LEWIS- LSU- 6’-2” 327 lbs

This is a people mover. The consummate mauler at Right Guard, but without the excessive useless size. He is perfectly squat and proportionate, and is at his perfect weight right now. Keeps his feet moving and improves his blocks by digging lower on his drive. If Lewis has a flaw, it’s that Defensive coordinators sometimes throw elaborate stunts, and load blitzes and you can see him processing and at times can be confused by the fancy twist in pass pro. But Lewis in a combo block, for a lead? Money. His down blocks are clean well. He is so good in the run game, that you can overlook some of his deficiencies in pass pro.

 

2. NETANE MUTI- Fresno St.- 6’-3” 315 lbs.

Achilles and Lisfranc injuries marred his college career (played 19 games in 4 years), but the promise is still there. Heavy handed, and strong. (44 reps of 225 at the combine) His build is cookie cutter NFL, and his freakish upper body strength serves him well in pass pro, as his punch is a bit disarming for 3 techs that try to get their hand son him. If it were not for his injury history, Muti is one of those interior linemen that come around every 5 years or so, that are consensus top 10 picks.

 

3. JOHN SIMPSON- Clemson- 6’-4” 321 lbs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9k5_ZUCYw2g

Broad, big build, with real muscle mass, and little wasted weight. Can run out to the second level, and uses his hands effectively to steer blocks. Not a waist bender, as he plays in control. Good lateral quickness to pick up rushers, and has a solid anchor to engage. Has occasionally been slow out of his stance, and very deliberate in setting up, has made him susceptible to creative interior rushers.

 

4. JONAH JACKSON- Ohio State- 6’-4” 306 lbs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Exq2Vv899Vk

After 4 years at Rutgers, Jackson transferred to Ohio State, and quickly earned the left guard spot. Jackson is versatile in that he has played all three interior line spots. Highly intelligent, and quick to recognize blitzes, and moves to engage them. Is a much better pass protector than run blocker. Nimble feet, and a good lateral slide with perfect hand placement. Not a good body type. In the run game, he does not displace as much as he walls, and obstructs. Not noticeable on down blocks, and has had issues getting to the second level and squaring up blocks.

 

5. SHANE LEMIEUX- Oregon- 6’-4” 310 lbs.

Going into 2019, Lemieux was widely considered by many as the top guard prospect in the nation. With an ideal broad chested build, Lemieux has noticeable upper body strength, when manipulating Defensive Tackles. At the second level, there are many instances on film of Lemieux delivering jarring hits to LB’s and DB’s. There is a mean streak here. In pass pro, he is good with his hands, and resets his feet to deliver power from instinct. On the “con” side, Lemieux does show a propensity for being slow to stunts, and is sometimes not quick to disengage to get to reach blocks. He also has been hit with the “short arm” knock that haunts guard prospects.

 

SIMON CLANCY’S (@SiClancy) VIEW:

1. Netane Muti – Utah
2. Jonah Jackson – Ohio State
3. Damien Lewis – LSU
4. Robert Hunt – Louisiana
5. John Simpson – Clemson

 

CENTERS

1. MATT HENNESSEY- Temple- 6’-4” 307 lbs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DT0Zyq7YCJs
Athletic, muscular build, with ideal size/weight to anchor. Hennessey gets out and runs well when pulling, and is quick to get to blocks in the screen game. Mobile, but stout and well schooled in his technique, Hennessey is rarely overwhelmed by an athletic rusher. He can move to contact, and his feet take him were he needs to be. Has a “strength” knock that he erases with technique. That can be a detriment at the next level. Tends to grab a bit on reach blocks.

2. TYLER BIADASZ- Wisconsin- 6’-4” 314 lbs.

The highest decorated center in this class, as he won the Remington award for the nations top center, and was also a multi-time all American, as well as Outland Trophy finalist. The catalyst for Jonathan Taylor’s highly productive career, Biadasz can be seen on film, erasing tackles on double teams, and cinching second level blocks to allow for broad cut back lanes. Where he doesn’t shine is in space, where he tends to lumber a bit, which seems to be a feature for Wisconsin interior linemen. His intelligence, and team captain status, gives you all the intangibles you usually seek with a center, but be forewarned, Biadasz is a guy that does look out of place with athletic types on the offensive line. He won’t beat you up, but he will outthink you.

3. CESAR RUIZ- Michigan- 6’-3” 307 lbs.

For a center prospect, Ruiz sure does have fun tape to watch. There is a rep versus Michigan State, where they send a LB into the A gap, and he punches the backer to his left, engages the 3 tech to his right, gets back to wiping out the A gap blitzer, and then gets one final jolt in on the 3 tech as the pass gets away. Exhausting. Ruiz is a squat, athletic type who is very quick from snap to set. He lacks power, and is not the type to finish blocks. He has had the knock of “finesse lineman” and does not have the ideal build for a NFL center.

 

4. LLOYD CUSHENBERRY III- LSU- 6’-3” 312 lbs.

Team captain on a line that has my top rated guard. Cushenberry has long arms, and has a rangy build that helps him reach blocks that most centers can’t get too. Now, being able to reach blocks due to his length is not the same as being mobile. He is not. You will not see him out leading a run as a pulling center. Where he has shown problems in the past, is when rushers come across his face. Not particularly quick, and not particularly adept at setting his feet to receive oncoming rushers, Cushenberry is susceptible to guys getting on his shoulder and toward the quarterback.

 

5. JAKE HANSON- Oregon- 6’-4” 304 lbs.

A top recruit out of Eureka, California, the highly touted Hanson landed in Oregon, and immediately took over at center in 2016. While not making all-american, Hanson was honorable mention Pac 12 for every year of his career. All of the guys that finished ahead of him are in the NFL (Scott Quessenberry-5th rd.(LAC), Coleman Shelton-UDFA (LAR). Very good feet to sustain blocks, but does tend to stick on combo blocks. Coach’ favorite, and made captain on an offensive line that features a future 1st rounder ( Penei Sewell-LT) and possible early Day 2 pick (Shane Lemieux-LG). The upside is there, while the measurables and ideal physicality is not.

 

SIMON CLANCY’S (@SiClancy) VIEW:

1. Cesar Ruiz – Michigan
2. Matt Hennessey – Temple
3. Lloyd Cushenberry – LSU
4. Tyler Biadasz – Wisconsin
5. Darryl Williams – Mississippi State

Alfredo Arteaga (@Alf_Arteaga) and Simon Clancy (SiClancy) are two-thirds of the trio that does the Three Yards Per Carry (@3YardsPerCarry) podcast.

THE EXTRA YARD: 2020 NFL DRAFT Top 5 WR/TE

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Welcome to the Five Reasons Sports 2020 NFL Draft Guide.

We will be bringing you a top 5 list compiled by Alfredo Arteaga (@Alf_Arteaga), and a counter list by Simon Clancy (@SiClancy) for each position, for the 2020 NFL Draft. By offering you rankings of prospects 1 thru 5 for each position, we hope you will better understand this most important draft. Enjoy!

 

Miami Dolphins Picks:
Round1· Pick 5(5)
Round1· Pick 18(18)PIT > MIA
Round1· Pick 26(26)HOU > MIA
Round2· Pick 7(39)
Round2· Pick 24(56)NO > MIA
Round3· Pick 6(70)
Round4· Pick 35(141)Compensatory
Round5· Pick 7(153)
Round5· Pick 9(154)JAX > PIT > MIS
Round5· Pick 28(173)BAL > LA > MIN
Round6· Pick 6(185)
Round7· Pick 13(227)IND > MIA
Round7· Pick 32(246)KC > MIA
Round7· Pick 37(251)Compensatory

 

WIDE RECEIVERS

1. CEEDEE LAMB- Oklahoma- 6’-2” 198 lbs.

Plays bigger than his size, which is actually ideal. Speed checked out at the combine with a 4.5 flat. Good at the contested catch, and is probably the best YAC guy in this great WR class. Very quick out of breaks, and is physical with his hands, creating natural space on his routes. CeeDee is the most complete WR in this class.

 

2. JERRY JEUDY- Alabama- 6’-1” 193 lbs.

Very light feet, make Jeudy the best route runner in this class. Jeudy is also quick to transition from catch to run, and is an excellent runner in the open field. Been slippery at times breaking tackles, and his quickness in the intermediate passing game, allow space for him to get his stride going toward the goal line. His slow, developed stride gets on you quick, which makes him a sneaky good deep route runner.

 

3. JUSTIN JEFFERSON- LSU- 6’-1” 202 lbs.

The star of the 2020 NFL Combine, Jefferson plays much bigger than his size, and plays much longer than he is. Great catch radius, and also elevates above man coverage to own his space. Will be a good slot and red zone threat due to his large catch radius. An easy mover, that always absorbed hits better than most. Smart vs. zone, clean with his hands, although he is not the best YAC guy. Fastest mover up the board in this draft class.

 

4. TEE HIGGINS- Clemson- 6’-4” 216 lbs.

A former “Mr. Football”, top 20 recruit, who came into Clemson with much hype, has faded over the past 2 seasons, as others in the class have surpassed him. Long, angular, with a massive catch radius, make Higgins a TD threat in the red zone, which will be something in his favor when teams weigh him versus better prospects. The fear on Higgins is that he was never asked to do much more than abuse lessor players in the ACC with a very simple route tree. Has shown a lack of physicality when faced with press, which is a concern for the NFL.

 

5. LAVISKA SHENAULT JR.- Colorado- 6’-1” 227 lbs.

The highest ceiling for any prospect in this WR draft class. Big and strong, and plays like it. Strong with YAC, as he has favorable comparisons to Dez Bryant. Also plays faster than he timed at the combine (4.58), where he complained of a muscle core injury, that later required surgery. He has struggled to stay healthy. Shenault’s wide running base creates space for him on in cuts, and make him an easy and friendly target for QB’s. The risk / reward ratio is obviously there. It’s his availability versus his obvious gifts.

 

SIMON CLANCY’S (@SiClancy) VIEW:

1. Jerry Jeudy – Alabama
2. Laviska Shenault – Colorado
3. CeeDee Lamb Oklahoma
4. Justin Jefferson – LSU
5. Henry Ruggs – Alabama

TIGHT ENDS

1. COLE KMET- Notre Dame- 6’-6” 262 lbs.

Big rangy target, that squares well to his QB. Pretty clean hands as well, and he transitions to securing the ball just as well. Is a load to bring down, as he runs through half hearted tackles. Kmet is not much of a blocker, although he is very quick out of his 3 point stance, and even faster on his stand up release. This is not a very good Tight end class, so it makes sense for a guy that could be at the top of it, to be such an incomplete player. Best suited for Y-Tight end work. Needs drilling on his blocking.

2. BRYCEN HOPKINS- Purdue- 6’-4” 245 lbs.

A quick twitch player at Tight End, will garner some attention, as Hopkins is rather fluid in his movement. He is not stiff as most of this class is. Good high pointing the ball, and could be the best red zone target of the class, due to his versatility, and route running. It was really hard to find positive blocking video on Hopkins. Lacks technique and tends to do a lot of grabbing. Best route runner of the group, and the most polished pass catcher as well.

3. ADAM TRAUTMAN- Dayton- 6’-5” 255 lbs.

Probably the most complete prospect of the class. Trautman did not test well, and ran painfully slow for such a good looking athlete (4.8). Trautman is tough to project due to clear downgrade in competition. Highly productive with 70 catches for 916 yards (13.1 YPC) and 14 TD’s, Trautman has showed he can handle the activity and attention throughout his college career, and his professionalism has impressed scouts. His potential, and projection alone makes him likely to be the first Tight end off the board.

4. HUNTER BRYANT- Washington- 6’-2” 248 lbs.

The latest in the long list of combine disappointments, Bryant was expected to run fast, because he plays fast. Bryant is the most unlikely of these Tight end prospects in that he is actually a good/decent blocker. Good driving from a 3 point stance, and even better blocking in space. It’s that ability that will get him to stick for many years in the NFL as a special teams performer. Not the most elusive in this class, and not very powerful in YAC. Bryant is rather smooth in transitioning in and out of breaks, and has a polished look as a pass receiver. In this weak Tight end class, Bryant is as good as any. His size concerns, and inability to get open versus physical coverage is also a big concern. His underrated blocking saves him overall, but Bryant needs a weight room.

5. COLBY PARKINSON- Stanford- 6’-7” 252 lbs.

A big target with rather clean hands. Looks and plays athletically, although he tested poorly at the combine. For his obvious imposing size, Colby is a mediocre in-line blocker, and has a hard time keeping contact with his blocks on the edge. An accomplished route runner, which si to say that a large man with skill is going to get open versus smaller, equally athletic college players. Will he be overwhelmed by NFL type athleticism from his opponents? That is the concern. His size, and pedigree will get him drafted higher than he probably deserves to be in any other draft year. The upside is still there, though.

SIMON CLANCY’S (@SiClancy) VIEW:

1. Adam Trautman – Dayton
2. Cole Kmet – Notre Dame
3. Thaddeus Moss – LSU
4. Brycen Hopkins – Purdue
5. Albert Okwuegbunam – Missouri

Alfredo Arteaga (@Alf_Arteaga) and Simon Clancy (SiClancy) are two-thirds of the trio that does the Three Yards Per Carry (@3YardsPerCarry) podcast.

THE EXTRA YARD: 2020 NFL DRAFT Top 5 RB’s

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Welcome to the Five Reasons Sports 2020 NFL Draft Guide.

We will be bringing you a top 5 list compiled by Alfredo Arteaga (@Alf_Arteaga), and a counter list by Simon Clancy (@SiClancy) for each position, for the 2020 NFL Draft. By offering you rankings of prospects 1 thru 5 for each position, we hope you will better understand this most important draft. Enjoy!

 

Miami Dolphins Picks:
Round1· Pick 5(5)
Round1· Pick 18(18)PIT > MIA
Round1· Pick 26(26)HOU > MIA
Round2· Pick 7(39)
Round2· Pick 24(56)NO > MIA
Round3· Pick 6(70)
Round4· Pick 35(141)Compensatory
Round5· Pick 7(153)
Round5· Pick 9(154)JAX > PIT > MIS
Round5· Pick 28(173)BAL > LA > MIN
Round6· Pick 6(185)
Round7· Pick 13(227)IND > MIA
Round7· Pick 32(246)KC > MIA
Round7· Pick 37(251)Compensatory

 

RUNNINGBACKS

1. J.K. DOBBINS- Ohio State-5’-10” 209 lbs.

Dobbins didn’t run at the combine, but did meet with Dolphins RB’s coach Eric Studesville for close to two hours. J.K. Dobbins is the best one cut RB in this draft for a team that has Chan Gailey, so it’s hard to find a better fit than Dobbins for the system they are running. Dobbins has a strong, squat build that powers through grab tackles. His one cut ability allows for further acceleration in the hole, and makes every carry that gets past the first level an opportunity for a house call. His transition from catch to carry is not as clean as you would like, and he is more of a positional pass blocker than a punishing one.

 

2. JONATHAN TAYLOR- Wisconsin-5’-10” 226 lbs.

Jonathan Taylor has the size, speed, production combination that usually lands a RB in the first round. His 4.39 forty yard dash time at the combine was an eye popping one in the sense of how smooth he was moving at 226 lbs. Taylor is a patient runner, but also has considerable one cut ability. In the passing game, he has displayed a care for and attention to route running which is nice to see. A bit more of a punisher than his colleagues as a pass protector. The fear with Taylor is that he was over-used at Wisconsin, and that the tread on the tire is a bit thin. Had 18 fumbles in 3 seasons at Wisconsin with 15 of them lost. That is a problem.

 

3. D’ANDRE SWIFT- Georgia-5’-8” 212 lbs.

The latest in very successful Georgia backs. Swift is quick to get to top speed and is rather intelligent as a runner, pass protector. Not too many wasted motions, when setting up blocks. One of the better perimeter runners in this draft. Best adept at zone running, but is not hopeless in one cut lead schemes. The smoothest of the top 5 as a pass catcher, as he transitions easily from the catch to ball security. Has been accused of being a bit too cavalier with how he totes the ball, and transitioning from left to right carry. Tends to drop his head in pass pro, but has been effective in the past.

4. CAM AKERS- FSU- 5’-10” 217 lbs.

Cam has consistently shown top end speed when loose, and very good balance when receiving contact. Akers playing on bad FSU teams and remaining productive has to be taken into consideration. Very good body build consistent with those successful in the NFL. Good definition and full lower body build which NFL scouts like in high draft pick RB’s. Hard to project as a pass catcher and protector due to his team’s failings, but the film suggests that he recognizes nano blitzes, and has a good sense for plugging the A gap. Can be a bit of a dancer and not very decisive when presented with options. Very much a zone runner, and has shown little as far as pressing the hole, cinching blocks for his guys and then taking open run lanes. Poor supporting cast makes him hard to project.

 

5. CLYDE EDWARDS-HELAIRE- LSU-5’-7” 207 lbs.

A bowling ball. Main criticism is that he seeks contact instead of avoiding it. Plays with a mean streak rarely seen in guys his size. Yes, he sometimes seeks contact, but his jump cut is as good as any in this draft. He does make people miss. Smart in option route running and a killer in pass pro. You are not gonna get many home runs with him, but you will get steady work. Film shows a propensity to seek daylight to the perimeter after breaking tackles. It’s an instinct that has been rather consistent. Would rather he be more vision conscience, than instinct based.

 

SIMON CLANCY’S (@SiClancy) VIEW:

1. D’Andre Swift – Georgia
2. Clyde Edwards-Helaire – LSU
3. Jonathan Taylor – Wisconsin
4. J.K. Dobbins – Ohio State
5. Cam Akers – Florida State

 

Alfredo Arteaga (@Alf_Arteaga) and Simon Clancy (SiClancy) are two-thirds of the trio that does the Three Yards Per Carry (@3YardsPerCarry) podcast.

Miami Hurricanes

The South Florida Ravens Continue To Put In Work In Our Backyard

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As the south Florida native, Antonio Brown, continues to try and make his way on a roster, he is working out here in South Florida. Today on Wednesday, April 1st, he worked out with the Ravens stars Lamar Jackson and Hollywood Brown.

Lamar grew up in Pompano Beach and Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, Antonio’s cousin, grew up in Hollywood Florida. Alabama’s star receiver, Jerry Jeudy, was also working out with them who grew up in Deerfield beach Florida.

The Ravens also have guys like Calais Campbell and Gus Edwards who each played for the Miami Hurricanes. Baltimore’s star running back Mark Ingram also spends a lot of time in the offseason in South Florida.

With all of these South Florida ties, are the Ravens trying to add Antonio Brown or move up to draft Jerry Jeudy? Time can only tell if the South Florida Ravens will make it happen. The Miami Dolphins may not be on top, but South Florida players are.

Sports Betting Rules You Need to Know in 2020

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Since the removal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA) by the Supreme Court in 2018, sports betting has been legal in the United States. There’s no doubt that the decision represents a watershed moment and will be historic when we look back on the sports betting market in the country.

On May 14, 2018, the Supreme Court decided the PASPA law was defunct. It’s worth remembering the law had stood for 25 years and prevented states from implementing sports wagering industries. Only four states who already had sports betting markets were left: Nevada, Delaware, Oregon and Montana. However, out of that group, only Nevada had traditional single-game sports betting markets.

Since the abolishment of PASPA, 18 states have developed their own sports betting frameworks and others are working on legislation for their systems. Sports betting is already big business, and as Legalbetting points out, online sports betting websites are becoming increasingly popular around the country.

A new industry is being formed around sports betting and heading online is the next frontier from many states. As we look to a future of super-connectivity from 5G, the growth of online sports betting is predicted to skyrocket and reach tens of millions of people

Below are the things you need to know about sports betting in the United States.

Is Sports Betting Legal in the United States?

Yes. In 2018, the Supreme Court overturned the PASPA law that prevented states from allowing sports betting. Individual states are now free to develop their own sports betting industries and by the start of 2020, 18 states had launched their markets.

Is Sports Betting Legal Online?

Sports betting websites have been available in the United States since the late 1990s. However, they were not legal in the strictest sense because states did not allow sports betting operations. In 2006, most of the online venues for sports wagering had been closed in the country. However, users were still allowed to play on sportsbooks in other countries or from states that maintained legal betting (Nevada).

Why Was Nevada Able to Keep Sports Betting Legal During PASPA?

Nevada was exempt from falling under the legal umbrella of PASPA because it already had legalized sports betting available before the law was introduced in 1992. Three other states, Delaware, Oregon, and Montana were also grandfathered into the law because they too had betting allowances. However, only Nevada had traditional single-game sports betting as the other three states had games like bingo and sports-based pull tabs.

So, If Sports Betting is Legal Now Why Isn’t It in My State?

While PASPA has now been removed, there is no obligation for states to introduce sports betting. Because of the economic expansion associated with legal sports betting, it is believed most states will eventually introduce legislation supporting it. By early 2020, 18 states had already officially announced their sports betting market, and many predict 80% of states will allow sports wagers by 2025.

Unfortunately, Florida is not one of the states moving quickly on sports betting, so don’t expect to be voting on the Miami Heat’s NBA Draft picks next season. In fact, Senate President Bill Galvano has confirmed 2020 is too soon for the state to think about legalizing sports betting.

Can I Use Out-of-State Online Sports Betting?

The simple answer is yes, but it’s a situation worth explaining.

While sports betting will come to most states in the future, some will remain holdouts. For, example, Utah has said it is unlikely to ever legalize betting, at least not in the foreseeable future. However, in those states, the law says it is illegal to run a sports betting operation within state lines. In other words, there is no law preventing individuals from betting on sports. If you live in a state where making wagers on sporting events is illegal, you can still visit online sportsbooks out-of-state and offshore.

 

THE EXTRA YARD: Under Construction, The Dolphins Offensive Line

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With the first wave of free agency essentially over, we are left to examine the one unit that everybody that watched the Miami Dolphins last year thought needed the most attention.

Most Dolphins fans expected a move that could land an Andrus Peat, Graham Glasgow, and/or a big ticket item such as Joe Thuney or Jack Conklin. Of them all, there is only some circumstantial evidence that they approached Glasgow (he was locked into Denver early) and that interest in Thuney was strong till the Patriots tagged him.

So we were left with the signings of Ereck Flowers to play left guard, and Ted Karras to play center. A modest improvement, but these are moves that are based on hope /projection rather than accolades and reputation. Ereck Flowers, as has been said in print on these pages, and on the Three Yards Per Carry Podcast, is a guy that has essentially played a very good 8 games in his 5 year career. Karras is a guy who found himself at center for 15 games for the 2019 New England Patriots, and has remarkable “counting stats” (2 penalties, and 1 sack allowed in 15 starts for the Patriots). Both can be good, if all goes well, but we know it hardly ever works out that way.

So what do they have in house as of now, and what do they need? Let’s start with the two signees. If these two are not hopeless busts they are at the very least, upgrades over what they had there before, so lets pencil in Flowers at LG and Karras at Center. That leaves Jesse Davis as the possible RG, or even the returning starter at Right Tackle. Michael Dieter is now displaced from his LG spot, and is now interior line depth and the likely backup at center, where he can receive further development. Shaq Calhoun, Julian Davenport, and Danny Isidora can only be considered camp bodies and bottom of the roster guys, so let’s go shopping shall we?

TRADE FOR ONE

Trade for Trent Williams. He’s available. You have the assets. So what’s the holdup? Well, it is as easy as snapping your fingers, since his agent is requesting that Washington release him, so if you pony up an asset, the Redskins will likely part with him. The Dolphins had inquired this past season, and no deal could be had due to what was reported to be a pretty fat ask of what was at the very least a 2nd round pick. The other hold up I can foresee is that he wants to get paid. $20 million a year on a 3 year deal is not out of the question. You can make the case that (if healthy), Trent Williams is easily a top 3 Tackle in the NFL, and you can make a pretty good case that he might be the very best at left tackle. Trent is also versatile, and capable of making a switch to Right Tackle, just in case Miami drafts a left handed Quarterback in the first round. At #5 or higher. From Alabama. Via ‘Ewa Beach, Hawaii. Trent makes too much sense.


DRAFT ONE, OR TWO, OR THREE.

This is the harder part of the equation. There are 4 strong tackle prospects in this draft that all figure to go before the Dolphins use their 2nd pick of the first round at #18. They are, in no particular order: Andrew Thomas (Georgia, LT), Mekhi Becton (Louisville, LT), Tristan Wirfs (Iowa, RT), Jedrick Wills (Alabama, RT). You gotta think that the decision is made rather easy at #18 if any of these four drop to you. But let’s operate on the assumption that all four get taken before #18 (likely), and the Dolphins don’t have the appetite to package picks to move up (also likely). I have two “VONTAE MACK, NO MATTER WHAT” guys. One for the first round, and one for the second round, and possibly for that #26 pick.

 

JOSH JONES, HOUSTON LT, 6′-5″ 319 lbs.

Josh Jones is a dancer, and an athlete playing tackle in the mold of former Miami standout Laremy Tunsil. The advanced metrics love him as evidenced by the video above, and his senior bowl week was top notch. Jones has consistently improved almost game for game leading up to his last at Houston, despite having 4 Offensive Line coaches in 4 years. He is quick out of his stance, and moves effortlessly to the second level in the run game. A tell tale sign for these guys on tape in the run game is if they can find guys to hit, or do they tend to wander aimlessly when they are asked to make those reach blocks. Jones always seems to find his man. Jones is asking for coaching, as his technique is not as polished as you would like for a day 1 starter, but if his current “arrow up” trajectory means anything, he will take to NFL coaching and be a starter in year 1 in the NFL. I take him at #18 without hesitation (if the “big 4” are gone).

 

LUCAS NIANG, TCU RT, 6′-6″ 315 lbs.

Ok, this is probably a reach at #26, but in the 2nd round, you can find yourself regretting it down the road if you pass on him at #39 or #56. Now, he is coming off a Hip Injury/Surgery as he only played in 7 games in 2019. I can hear you grumbling. He is expected to make a complete recovery and be ready for workouts as soon as this summer. Niang is a very aware people mover, that plays with a great deal of intelligence and technique. He drops to anchor and stonewall the bull rush consistently on tape. He is also the type to find people to hit and he finishes blocks in space which is impressive for such a big man. He has had success against the bigger names he has faced throughout his career. What pops immediately as you watch Niang is how aware he is, and his professional demeanor. The best way I can put it is this: “Lucas Niang, plays like an adult.” Easy take for me with either pick in the 2nd round, strong debate at #26 if there is a run on tackles.

 

Alfredo Arteaga (@Alf_Arteaga) is one-third of the trio that hosts the Three Yards Per Carry (@3YardsPerCarry) podcast.

2020 Miami Dolphins Free Agency Tracker

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Despite everything going on in the world, the new NFL league year will begin as planned and NFL Free agency has begun! Which means, the start of the most important offseason in Miami Dolphins history is upon us. Lucky for you, we will take all of the news, rumors, and free-agent signing from around the internet and bring them to you in one place-HERE.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy.

This is the official 2020 Miami Dolphins Free Agency Tracker.

Signings

Miami adds linebacker depth with Kamu Grugier-Hill

Dolphins re-sign Safety Adrian Colbert

Miami Patriots sign another former New England Captain

 

Dolphins poach Ted Karras from New England

The Dolphins add another special teams captain 

Miami gets someone better than Kallen Ballage for their backfield

 

Dolphins start to build out the trenches with a short deal

 

Dolphins make Byron Jones highest-paid cornerback in NFL

 

Miami signs Safety Clayton Fejedelem

 

Dolphins agree to terms with OG Ereck Flowers

 

Dolphins agree to terms with DE Shaq Lawson

Wide Receiver Isaiah Ford, Linebacker Trent Harris, and Defensive Tackle Zach Sieler have been tendered.

 

Rumors

Is Byron Jones a possibility? 

 

Dolphins have interest in EDGE Shaq Lawson

Cuts

Safety Reshad Jones

Center Daniel Kilgore

CORONAVIRUS Sports Tracker: Frequent Updates

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The widespread coronavirus outbreak has impacted professional and collegiate sports across the nation.

Most recent at the top….

Hey, finally some good news!

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THE MASTERS is now postponed. Could mark first time in history that the tournament is not played in April.


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THE PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP is now cancelled, along with every PGA event till the first week of April.

…..

Charles Barkley is among the latest to self-quarantine.

 

The Heat are working on something to help arena workers. More details to come.

 

Some NBA teams are doing the right thing.

 

Dwyane Wade doesn’t understand what the local school officials here are doing.

 

The XFL has caved. So much for the rebirth… for now.

 

It’s now infecting international soccer.

 

NBA will be suspended for 30 days.

Essentially that means the regular season is over.

 

Goodbye March Madness.

 

More details on the NBA coming soon.

 

Dan Gilbert is ahead of Micky Arison on something.

One league seems intent on outlasting all the others.

The entire ACC has postponed spring practice for all teams, which may also put the Hurricanes spring game in jeopardy.

 

Fans of the Marlins will have to wait a few extra weeks…

The American Airlines Arena has canceled all major events for the rest of March.

 

There will also be no NFL Spring meeting in Palm Beach for the time being.

 

 

The National Hockey League has suspended their season as well.

 

 

 

The Florida Atlantic University basketball season is over….

NFL now headed for a shutdown. Hard to see how free agency proceeds as scheduled…

So much for that InterMiami home debut.

Yes, it is already affecting prep for the NFL draft.

We are now waiting on the NHL.

A second NBA star has been diagnosed.

 

After it was learned Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert tested positive for the virus, the NBA has suspended the season indefinitely.

 

The NCAA had already announced that all men’s and women’s basketball tournaments would be held without fans.

 

Locally, besides the Miami Heat other sporting events are being cancelled or postponed including the upcoming Miami Open.

 

Reshad Jones

Miami Dolphins: Reshad Jones set to hit free agency

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The Miami Dolphins and a Pro Bowl player are parting ways. The team is releasing Reshad Jones. In a move that will become official March 18, this will free up $5.3 million in salary cap.

It is very clear that the Miami Dolphins are going in a new direction. For his part last season, Jones played in four games, recording 27 tackles and a pass deflection.

He dealt with injuries last year, having been placed on the injured reserve  November 20 with an undisclosed injury.

Jones also dealt with rib and chest injuries. This is something that he struggled with throughout most of October and into November. To be clear, his  stint on the injured reserve was separate from the rib and chest injuries.

Jones made the Pro Bowl in the 2015 and 2017 seasons. He put up tremendous numbers in both of those years. In 2015, he tallied five interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns. The two touchdowns via interception the league.

In 2017, he recorded two interceptions, and recovered two fumbles four touchdowns. He has been an explosive playmaker for the Miami Dolphins ever since he came into the league in 2010.

He finishes his Miami career playing in 128 games. In addition, he recorded 21 interceptions and 55 pass deflections. He also proved to be a decent pass-rusher for Miami, recording 10.5 sacks in his Miami career.

Now at age 31, he is set to hit the market. The Miami Dolphins certainly got some of his most productive years. Jones would be an asset to any secondary.

This is certainly another move that indicates the Miami Dolphins are trying to rebuild their organization a bit. We have seen coaches come and go quite a bit this offseason, and it’s all part of the retooling the Dolphins are doing to try and compete.

Miami Dolphins: Assistant head coach Karl Dorrell off to Colorado

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A Miami Dolphins assistant coach is getting a chance to fill a head coaching job. Miami Dolphins assistant head coach Karl Dorrell is taking the University of Colorado head coaching position. Pete Thamel of Sports Illustrated first reported that he was a favorite, and Ian Rappaport confirmed the news. Dorrell was also the wide receivers coach.

Dorrell has an extensive coaching history. He began coaching at UCF in 1989 and received his first head coaching job in 2003 as the head coach of UCLA. From there, he bounced around the NFL. His first stint with the Miami Dolphins came from 2008-2010. In that timeframe, he served as the wide receivers coach. He then shifted to the quarterback position, taking the role of quarterbacks coach in 2011.

After serving the role of offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Vanderbilt in 2014, he coached with the New York Jets from 2015-18. On February 9, head coach Brian Flores announced that Dorrell would serve the role of wide receivers coach.

Miami Dolphins wide receivers showed improvement in 2019

Dorrell certainly did his job with the Dolphins this past season. Devante Parker had a season of over 1,000 receiving yards, and three other receivers had over 400 yards. One of those receivers was Preston Williams. Although an injury cut his 2019 season short, he comes into the 2020 campaign with a lot of promise. There was some noticeable improvement on the part of the entire unit, more so than other years.

It will be interesting to see how he does at Colorado. For now, the coaching overhaul continues for the Miami Dolphins. In what is slated to be a season full of optimism, Miami will have a bunch of new pieces both on the field and on the sideline.

The coaching moves the Miami Dolphins have made this offseason have clearly shown that they want to go in a new direction come next year. We will see if all of these moves pay off in the end.