My Calvin Johnson Blog

Mr. Mill Lennial, "I never felt more confident as I approached my interviewer, Mr. Blindstudents (Mr. B), in an attempt to land my dream job within their company called Today's Current Economy, Inc. I had always wanted this job from before I could remember.

My credentials were superb, and I knew of the substantial power of my subconscious mind to visualize the desired result of what I wanted already to be in existence. I already had envisioned myself working with the company, from what I did and how I felt, down to the very shoes I wore to work everyday!

I had already envisioned Mr. B saying to me, "you're hired", before I even shook his hand to begin my interview. I knew my desired outcome to be definite and inevitable. This fact made me fearless. However, what I didn't know was that my interview would go so horrible for all the right reasons, and almost cost me my life-long dream! What I didn't know, was what it really took to land that job within Today's Current Economy, Inc. Who would've thought that my splendid credentials and accomplishments on its lonesome proved to be the attempted murderers who almost killed my dream. Here's how my interview went...

Mr. B, "Welcome Mr. Lennial, glad you could make it, and on time as well. Impressive."
Mill, "Thank you very much for providing me with the opportunity to be here. It has always been my dream to work with you guys."
Mr. B, "Really? Wow!"

At this point I'm figuring that I have this interview in the bag. We sat down at a large round brown table, and I briefly glanced around the room at the tons of pictures, filled with words, hanging on the walls. If I had paid better attention to these pictures at the time, the interview would have gone a lot smoother. Mr. B sat back in his chair, loosened his tie, and crossed his feet on the table as if he were about to go to sleep! As I anxiously waited in silence for two minutes of eternity, the interview then continued...

Mr. B, "Okay Mill. Your appearance got you pass the most important part of this interview, the first five seconds. Now being that you're a college graduate, and you're here right now, you're obviously not a part of the 60% of college interns who automatically land full time jobs. So I'm going to ask you one question. If I love your answer, you're hired, and if I don't like your answer, you're dismissed. My question for you is... what makes you qualified to work with us?"

What?! That's it!? Oh I got this.

Mill, "Well Mr. B, I am a college graduate with a Masters in this company's field of work."
Mr. B, "Yawn!"
Mill, "I received straight A's throughout my entire collegiate career, and graduated with honors with a 4.0!"
Mr. B, "Yawn!"
Mill, "I am also a proud member of a prestigious fraternity with a well documented history."
Mr. B, "Yawn!"
Mill, "I have letters of recommendation from top professors at my university. I also have one of the top IQ levels within my entire generation in the United States."
Mr. B, "How cute. Yawn!"
Mill, "I've wanted this since childhood, and I have a few months of experience in this field of work."
Mr. B, "Yawn! Yawn! Okay I've heard enough you're dismissed."

I was dumbfounded.

Mill, "Huh? Wait. What do you mean dismissed? I risked everything to be here and land this job!"

As I said that, he looked up at me and told me something that changed my life. He told me what the entire Educational System, throughout all my years of high school and college, somehow forgot to mention.

Mr. B stated, "Mill, look at these pictures of words on the wall. Persistence, hard work, dedication, strength, motivation, integrity, loyalty, faith, courage. These are what will guarantee you any job. The problem is many of you students pursue college like you pursue high school, with the assumption that real success on one level guarantees you success on the next. What guarantees you success on any level is success in life, in yourself.

You hear the whole 'just Get A Degree then Get A Job' talk so much that you forget what's now necessary in today's world to not only excel and be successful, but to land that job to begin with, which is to also Get A Life In The Process! Your credentials are quite impressive, but it doesn't show me you can succeed on this level, which is the real world.

Your straight A's show me that you're simply a bookworm who studied all the time and aced tests. Welcome to the real world. Your Masters degree is an extraordinary accomplishment, but if we can hire someone for a much cheaper salary, who brings more of these words on the wall to the table than just a degree, he/she will always get the job whether or not they've even attended college! Welcome to the real world. Your IQ level shows me that you're smart. That's it. Having great ideas are just fractions however, it's matching ideas with greatness which is everlasting. Welcome to the real world.

I've instantly hired high school dropouts who came in here, walked around the room, and explained to me why each of the words in these pictures applied to their characters. You must realize that in the successful suit of business, degrees and intelligence are good looks, but they are never a perfect fit without the shoes, socks, tie, belt, etc. Those accessories are persistence, hard work, dedication, strength, motivation, integrity, loyalty, faith, and courage for starters. A man is made up of the accessories he wears.

Our company's, Today's Current Economy, Inc., motto comes from our 30th President Calvin Coolidge which states 'Nothing in the world can take the place of Persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan 'Press On' has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.'"

My heart sank. I was about to cry until Mr. B got up and walked towards the pictures and said,

"Now allow me to inform you why You're Hired! You showed persistence and determination when you job shadowed one of our executives and came in our office nine times this week asking for an interview. Your credentials do show me that you are a hard worker. You showed courage and strength by staying in the office and challenging my decision after I said that you were dismissed.

You showed motivation by continuing to pursue your passion to work with us ever since childhood, and not listening to society which usually drifts people away from their passions. You showed respect for us with your appearance. You showed faith with your confident demeanor. It is because of these reasons why you are perfectly qualified to work with Today's Current Economy, Inc. Congratulations Mr. Mill Lennial!"

The interview that almost cost me my dream instead made it a reality!

Calvin Johnson is expected to be a top 5 pick and the first sink in the 2007 NBA Draft. Many analysts believe that Georgia Tech wide receiver Calvin Johnson is the best player available, but there is a good chance that he does not go that Calvin Johnson is definitely the best receiver in college football now. Calvin Johnson is just sick.

6-Foot-5, 235 pounds, wide receiver Calvin Johnson is a handful of small defensive backs. Calvin Johnson is the player with the most talented in the project. WR - Calvin Johnson is the best WR perspective out in years.Wide Receiver Calvin Johnson could say that is nation's top wide receiver and is, without doubt, one of college football players more spectacular must ofrecer.Georgia Tech junior Calvin Johnson is the winner of this year of the Biletnikoff award as top recipient of the nation.

Georgia Tech Calvin Johnson is clearly the best in the game wideout. Calvin Johnson is being touted as a top 3 choose right now.Calvin Johnson is a rare athlete who is the better receiver in the country. Calvin Johnson is a Stud.Calvin Johnson is expected in the top 5. WR Calvin Johnson is 10th on the list of all time of reception of Tech (110) and fifth in receiving yardage (1836); Johnson is averaging 73.

Calvin Johnson is catching passes - prizes "often-" as Georgia Tech junior wide receiver on Tuesday became a consensus all-American. Calvin Johnson is a vertical wide receiver 45 six foot six inch machine.Calvin Johnson is a blazer.Calvin Johnson will be the number 1 pick NFL draft this year (assuming that he has quit College early).Calvin Johnson is the bolt of this project, followed by Jamarcus Russell.Georgia Tech WR Calvin Johnson is talented enough to be responsible for any game.Calvin JohnsonIf you are an amateur real college football, who were fully aware of the feats of Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech is ridiculous.

Six and five, 215-pound wide receiver Calvin Johnson is expected to be one of the main projects of NFL choose this spring if he decides to quit a year earlier.

There are six CFB weekends remaining in the 2006 regular season, with almost all schools wrapping up their games over the next five weekends. While this year's season still has many significant things yet to be decided, the 2006 Heisman chase has clearly become a "two-horse" race between two QBs, Ohio State's Troy Smith and Notre Dame's Brady Quinn. And, Smith has a significant lead as he passes the three-quarters pole! My latest Heisman update follows.

1) TROY SMITH (Ohio State) Last Week: 1. Smith and Ohio State made short work of Indiana on Saturday, as the Buckeyes' QB tied a single-game career-high with four TDPs (all in the 1st half!) in a 44-3 win. In winning their 15th straight game (14-1 ATS), the Buckeyes ran for 270 yards and passed for 270 yards with Smith going 15-of-23 for 220 yards with four TDPs and no interceptions. Smith led OSU to TD drives of 87, 53, 78 and 49-yards in each of its final four possessions of the first half, ending each drive with a TD throw. While he hasn't run with the same authority he showed last year (611 YR / 4.5 YPC / 11 TDs), he did add 38 yards rushing on four carries (had a 29-yarder) and has now run for 140 yards (5.8 YPC) over his last five games, although he still has yet to run for a TD in 2006. It's Homecoming for OSU this coming Saturday and the Buckeyes will host Minnesota, a school they've gone 31-2 against since 1969. Smith's season stats are: 131-of-193 67.9 percent 1,715 yards 21 TDPs 2 INTs / 36 carries 126 yards 3.5 YPC 0 TDs.

2) BRADY QUINN (Notre Dame) Last Week: 2. Quinn was clearly the Heisman front-runner at the beginning of the year and is just as clearly the only legitimate threat at this point of the season to a Troy Smith coronation as this year's winner. After Quinn was stopped on a 4th-and-one QB sneak at the UCLA 35 late in Saturday's game with the Bruins clinging to a 17-13 lead, Quinn's Heisman hopes and more importantly, Notre Dame's aspirations for a BCS bowl bid, seemed all but over. However, the Notre Dame D held UCLA to a three-and-out and Quinn promptly moved the Fighting Irish to the game-winning score. Quinn completed consecutive passes of 21 yards and 14 yards, before hitting Jeff Samardzija with a game-winning 45-yard TD pass with 29 seconds remaining. It marked just the third time in ND history the Irish had won by scoring a TD in the final 30 seconds of a game. For Quinn, he finished 27-of-45 for 304 yards with two TDPs and no INTs. It was his third 300-yard game this year and the 10th of his career (half of those have been 400-yard games!). He also became just the 32nd Division I-A player with more than 10,000 career passing yards, as well. Next up for ND is Navy, a team the Irish have beaten an NCAA-record 42 straight times! Quinn's season stats are: 175-of-278 63.0 percent 1.938 yards 18 TDPs 4 INTs / 1 rush TD.

3) MIKE HART (Michigan) Last Week: 3. Hart is arguably CFB's toughest and best "inside runner" and the real test would be his ability to run against his own defense, as Michigan's rush D continues to lead the nation allowing just 33.6 YPG and 1.4 YPC. Since that will never happen, let's just give Hart his due as one of this year's Heisman finalists. Michigan avoided the recent "jinx" of being the AP's 2nd-ranked team, as the Wolverines got past Iowa this past Saturday, 20-6. Michigan led just 3-0 at the half, with Hart being held to 27 yards on eight attempts. However, his nine-yard TD run gave Michigan a 10-3 in the third quarter and his 10-yard TD run in the 4th gave the Wolverines a 20-6 lead, capping a nine-play TD drive. The win also allowed Michigan to move up to No. 2 in the latest BCS standings. Hart finished with 126 yards on 31 carries, giving him 100 yards or more in seven of eight games in 2006 and 17 100-yard games in his career (Michigan is 16-1). It's Homecoming for Michigan this Saturday and it will host Northwestern, a team that just lost to Michigan State last Saturday, after leading 38-3! Hart's season stats are: 214 carries 1,032 yards 4.8 YPC 8 TDs / 9 catches 91 yards 10.1 YPC 0 TDs.

4) STEVE SLATON (West Virginia) Last Week: 4. West Virginia's 37-11 win on Friday at U Conn was hardly pretty but interestingly enough it did allow the Mountaineers to move past Auburn to the No. 4 spot in the latest BCS standings. The win was West Va's 14th in a row (11-2 ATS), which set a new school record. As for Slaton, his 56-yard TD run in the fourth quarter against the Huskies gave him 128 yards on the game (19 carries) but for the second straight game, he played "second-fiddle" to QB Pat White as the team's offensive star. White followed his 247-yard four TD effort against Syracuse by running for 102 yards and one TD in 15 carries plus competed 9-of-14 passes for 156 yards with one TDP and one INT against U Conn. Still, Slaton is as good a choice as any at this spot, as he's now topped 100 yards rushing in 11 of his 16 career games at West Va (team is 11-0 in those games!), while scoring 28 TDs (26 rushing) over his last 14 games! West Va is off until its November 2 Thursday night showdown with Louisville. Slaton's season stats are: 151 carries 1,059 yards 7.0 YPC 9 TDs / 9 catches 87 yards 9.7 YPC 0 TDs.

5) MARSHAWN LYNCH (California) Last Week: 7. Since falling behind Tennessee 35-0 back on September 2 in a 35-18 loss, Cal had rebounded to win six consecutive games, while getting off to very quick starts (had averaged 32 PPG in the first halves of those six wins). However, this past Saturday, Cal found itself down to Washington 10-3 at the half (FG came with just 21 seconds remaining in the 2nd quarter). Cal came back though, led by junior RB Lynch, who continues to play on two sprained ankles. Lynch's 17-yard TD run (plus a two-point conversion by his back-up Forsett), gave the Bears a 24-17 lead with just 1:52 left in the game. However, Washington tied the score on the game's final play of regulation, on a 40-yard "Hail Mary." In the OT, Lynch's 22-yard run gave Cal its seventh straight win, 31-24. He finished with 150 yards on 21 carries and caught four passes for 53 yards. It marked the sixth time he's topped 100 yards in eight games this year, failing to do so only in the Tennessee game (when the team fell way behind) and against Oregon when his sprained ankles forced him out of the game in the 2nd quarter. He now owns 15 career 100-yard games, tying a school record and in his three-year career at Berkeley, sports a 7.0 YPC average. Cal is off this weekend before hosting UCLA on November 4. Lynch's season stats are: 132 carries 907 yards 6.9 YPC 8 TDs / 19 catches 216 yards 11.4 YPC 3 TDs.

6) ERIK AINGE (Tennessee) Last Week: 6. I would have dropped Ainge this week but I had no one to move ahead of him! The Vols entered their game with Alabama on Saturday averaging 421.5 YPG and 35.2 PPG. Ainge has been arguably CFB's most improved player this year but in the first half against the Tide, he looked the Ainge of the 2004 and '05 seasons. He was intercepted three times in the first half (had been picked off just five times in the Vols' first six games) and his major contribution of the 1st half was his TD-saving tackle on his second INT of the game, which forced Alabama to settle for a FG (led just 6-3 at the half). While Ainge was far from perfect in this game, he did lead the Vols on a nine-play 70-yard TD drive, giving them a 16-13 lead with just 3:28 remaining, in what would turn out to be the game's final score. Ainge finished the game 28-of-46 for 302 yards with no TDPs and those three INTs. It marked his third 300-yard passing game this year, compared to none in 17 previous games in 2004 and '05. Tennessee plays at South Carolina this Saturday, where it will face old nemesis Steve Spurrier. Ainge's season stats are: 146-of-217 67.3 percent 1,959 yards 14 TDPs 8 INTs / 1 rush TD.

7) CHRIS LEAK (Florida) Last Week: 9. Florida was off last weekend after losing the Saturday before at Auburn, 27-17. Leak played very poorly, in the loss, finishing the game just 9-of-17 for a season-low 108 yards with one TD and one INT. Trailing 18-17 (with around nine minutes left), Leak had the Gators back in a position to take the lead with a third-and-three play at the Auburn six-yard line. However, he was hit and fumbled (it may have been an incomplete pass), giving Auburn the ball. When the Gators got "bailed-out" by an Auburn missed FG, Leak threw an interception on Florida's very next play, sealing the team's fate. Leak gets a chance to make amends this Saturday in Jacksonville as the Gators take on Georgia in the "World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party." Leak is 2-1 vs Georgia in his career, completing 66.2 percent of his passes (for an average of 196.7 YPG with four TDPs and no INTs). He'll need a win to keep Florida's slim national title hopes alive and a HUGE game to revive any dark-horse chances he might have at an invite to New York. His season stats are: 110-of-173 63.6 percent 1,508 yards 15 TDPs 6 INTs.

8) RAY RICE (Rutgers) Last Week: NR. I had Rice in my top-10 a few weeks ago and with a huge shake-up at the bottom of this week's poll, he's back at No. 8. Rutgers remained one of seven Division I-A unbeatens this past Saturday with a 20-10 win at Pitt. In a defensive battle that saw Rutgers shut down Pitt QB Tyler Palko, who entered as the nation's No.1-rated QB, Rice was basically Rutgers' entire offense. When Pitt closed to within 13-10 in the early 4th quarter, it was Rice who responded with a 63-yard run that got Rutgers out of a hole. That burst led to his one-yard TD run that gave the Scarlet Knights a 20-10 lead, which became the game's final score. Rice, now the nation's second-ranked rusher at 160.6 YPG, finished with a career-high 225 yards on 39 carries (also a career-high). It was his third 200-yard game this year and the fourth of his career. Rice, just a sophomore, now owns 11 career 100-yard games (19 total games), with Rutgers going 9-2 when he tops the century mark. With the win, Rutgers placed 16th in the latest AP poll (is No. 14 in the BCS), the highest ranking since the school was 15th in the final poll of 1961. Rutgers will host U Conn on Saturday. Rice's season stats are: 201 carries 1,124 yards 5.6 YPC 12 TDs / 3 catches 26 yards 8.7 YPC 0 TDs.

9) JAMES DAVIS (Clemson) Last Week: NR. Followers of the ACC had all but given Ga Tech's Calvin Johnson the league's player-of-the-year- award but they may just want to re-think that after Clemson took care of Ga Tech last Saturday night, 31-7. While Johnson was being held without a catch for the first time in his collegiate career (doubt we'll hear anymore Johnson-4-Heisman slogans now!), Davis ran for a career-high 216 yards in 21 carries with two TDs. He's now topped 100 yards in three of his last four games and owns seven 100-yard games in his career (Clemson is a perfect 7-0 in those games). Clemson looks like the ACC's best team but the Tigers must travel to Blacksburg this Thursday to take on Va Tech. Davis' season stats are: 139 carries 961 yards 6.9 YPC 16 TDs / 4 catches 102 yards 25.5 YPC 0 TDs.

10) IAN JOHNSON (Boise State) Last Week: NR. Why not give the nation's top-scorer a spot in my top-10? Boise State is trying to match Utah in 2004, which became the first school from a non-BCS conference to earn a BCS bowl bid. The Broncos will need to finish among the top-12 in the final BCS standings to get an automatic bid and after Boise's 42-26 win at Idaho on Saturday, the 8-0 Broncos did no better than remain at No. 15. Don't blame Johnson, as he ran for 183 yards (27 carries) and scored four TDs (two in the game's final five-plus minutes). His 18 TDs scored are the most of any player this year and he's now topped 100 yards in five of his eight games this year (low-game was 88 yards). Boise State is off this weekend but will host Fresno State on Wednesday, November 1. Johnson's season stats are: 169 carries 1,181 yards 7.0 YPC 18 TDs / 3 catches 31 yards 10.3 YPC 0 TDs.

Dropped out:

No. 5 Adrian Peterson (Oklahoma) and Mario Manningham (Michigan)

No. 8 Calvin Johnson (Ga Tech)

No. 10 Garrett Wolfe (Northern Illinois)

Now that the poor Detroit Lions have sunk to 0-12 after getting trounced by the Tennessee Titans on Thanksgiving ... and now that they seem poised to become the first 0-16 team in NFL history ... there are suggestions that they be included in the big federal bailout, especially since the owning Ford family is asking to be rescued with its auto company.

Alas, it seems unlikely that Congress will pull out its checkbook for the ailing Motown franchise, so it'll have to settle for help from me. Here's my big plan for fixing the Lions.

Step No. 1: Give the offense a chance. Don't tamper with it too much. The new arrival at quarterback, Daunte Culpepper, to me is just as good as any possible free agent acquisition, including Matt Cassel, who's fine in the Patriots' system but unlikely to duplicate his success elsewhere. Cassel also would cost far too much money ... better to invest it in other parts of the squad. Culpepper also is better than the top two college prospects ... Matthew Stafford of Georgia and Sam Bradford of Oklahoma. Stafford looks mechanical sometimes and Bradford hasn't been groomed in a pro-style offense. Both might be good NFL QBs but would they be great? Too much of a gamble.

I would hire a new offensive coordinator who would call plays for sensational wideout Calvin Johnson more than three times a game ... try 15 or 20. Johnson is the major threat, so use him. I would let Johnson and Culpepper and young running back Kevin Smith just work together and percolate ... form a winning bond.

Resolve the situation with Gosder Cherilus, the current No. 1 draft pick who's been a disaster ... par for the course for the Lions. He's basically a statue at right tackle, unable to move his feet to block pass rushers who've turned Culpepper into a human sacrifice in the pocket. If Cherilus can't improve at tackle in the minicamps, try him at guard. If he can't start there, cut him and move on.

And speaking of Cherilus ... how come Damien Woody was deemed inadequate last year at right tackle, but this year he's starting for the Jets, a much better team, at that same position? How could he be not good enough for the Lions but good enough for the Jets? If the Lions had kept him, they wouldn't have taken Cherilus, and they could have picked a premier running back like Felix Jones or Chris Johnson instead of an OK one like Smith.

Do NOT draft an offensive left tackle with the No. 1 selection, as is frequently suggested in the football Internet. If incumbent Jeff Backus would rate about a 90, let's say, and the newcomer would rate 100, sure, you've improved the team but you haven't improved it that much. Stick with Backus. Give the offense some continuity.

Step No. 2: Rebuild the team through this next draft exclusively on defense ... more important than offense in the frozen tundra NFC North. The Lions have four of the top 65 picks. If you use two on offense and two on defense, their impact is diffused. Use all four on defense so that you bring in a core of guys who would be committed to turning the team around.

Of the current players, I would start with another core of four ... DT Corey Redding, OLB Ernie Sims, CB Leigh Bodden and S Daniel Bullocks. All are good young players, or should be. Redding has a huge contract, Bodden was last year's big free agent signing, Sims and Bullocks were high draft picks. Challenge them ... give them high expectations of being the new leaders and motivate them to succeed.

Step No. 3: With the No. 1 overall pick, negotiate with the agents for DE Michael Johnson of Georgia Tech, DT Peria Jerry of Mississippi and MLB James Laurinaitis of Ohio State. The fast, powerful 6-foot-7, 260-pound Johnson swarmed through and around a good Miami team. The rampaging Jerry looked unblockable against LSU. Laurinaitis is a fiery, mobile hard hitter in the middle.

The Lions would be much better with any of these guys in a key position but I'd try hardest for Johnson. A premier pass-rushing end is the biggest difference maker a defense can have ... and the hardest to find. Imagine the Lions with one Johnson from Georgia Tech (Calvin) leading the offense and another Johnson from Georgia Tech (Michael) leading the defense. If nothing else, you could market these two. They'd be a big hit in Atlanta.

By the way, when I say all this, I do not pretend to be an expert. I never played the game. I do not know the X's and O's or the technical nuances to the nth degree. I just have two eyes and can watch these players on TV. And really, how can I as an amateur do much worse than the "experts" in the front office who've run the Lions into the ground?

Step No. 4: If the agents prove intractable with silly demands, don't cave in. Try something new ... try it the eBay way. Announce you will auction off the No. 1 pick with a contract for a certain salary and a certain signing bonus. Let the players (and their agents) apply.

So who would apply? Any player who didn't think he would be drafted high enough otherwise to get the same amount of money the Lions would be offering. Set the money level not outrageously high but high enough to attract a lot of good players to choose from. Beat the agents and run your own team; don't let the agents beat you and run your team for you.

Step No. 5: Let's think positive and assume the Lions successfully nab Johnson. They next have Dallas' pick (from the Roy Williams trade) probably late in the first round. It's possible OLB's Clint Sintim of Virginia and Brian Cushing of USC will still be around. They're both 6-3, 255. Either would be an excellent match opposite the smaller Sims in the linebacking corps.

Next comes the first pick in the second round, No. 33 overall. MLB Jasper Brinkley of South Carolina should be waiting. Here's a guy who's 6-2, 275 with a listed time of 4.75 seconds in the 40-yard dash. These statistics sound almost too good to be true ... but wouldn't you like a guy like that on your team patrolling the middle? I would.

Next comes the first pick in the third round, No. 65 overall. What would be wrong with DT Terrance Taylor of Michigan if he's available? He's a good run-stopper and he'd be motivated playing in his home state. I have never understood why the Lions have snubbed U. of M. products the way they have ... players like Lamar Woodley (young star with Pittsburgh), David Harris (young star with the Jets), Steve Breaston (young star with the Cardinals) or Shawn Crable (potential young star with the Patriots). None went in the first round and could have been picked up.

Step No. 6: So now, all of a sudden, we have eight young players to resuscitate a defense that after Game 12 ranked worst in the league in points allowed per game (32.8), worst in the league in rushing yards yielded per game (176.9) and second worst in the league in overall yards given up per game (394.3). These are "Animal House" numbers.

That leaves us a vacant DE spot, a CB and an S. I would gamble on players at these positions lower in the draft ... hope that one of them would turn out to be a gem as has happened for seemingly every other team in the NFL but the Lions ... and let them compete with the veterans in training camp.

OK, that does it. Mr. Ford, I'm available.

WR Rankings

Tier 1

1. Chad Johnson(Bengals)

-Ocho Cinco once again had a brilliant season in 2006 as he caught 87 passes for 7 TD's. His rapport with QB Carson Palmer is a thing of beauty and they should continue to produce more of the same in 2007. The emergence of WR TJ Houshmanzadeh last year should also help Johnson in that he will mainly see one-on-one coverage. Draft the biggest sure-thing fantasy WR.

2. Steve Smith(Panthers)

-Carolina's emotional star WR recorded numbers that were a drop-off from his ridiculous 2005 season due to a hamstring injury that caused him to miss two games and affected his running ability for the entire first half of the year. Now fully healthy, Smith is in line to have a very big year once again. Favorite QB Jake Delhomme also is healthy heading into training camp and thus a season of at least 90 catches with 8 scores is a lock. Wouldn't quibble if you picked him over Johnson.

3. Torry Holt(Rams)

-your truly has owned Holt for the last four seasons and he is as big a reason as any that I have enjoyed great success in this game. The best route-runner in the game, Holt combines sprinters speed and soft hands to habitually turn out 90 catch, 8 TD seasons. Off-season surgery on his knee confirms that he isn't as young as he used to be but count on another two years of top player out of Marc Bulger's favorite target. Second round or very beginning of third round is where he will be chosen, hopefully by you.

4. Marvin Harrison(Colts)

-the ageless wonder turned in an incredible 2006 season, hauling in 93 passes with 10 scores at an age(35) where many receivers have started to decline. Of course you can't ignore Harrison's age when deciding whether to draft him or not but until he proves otherwise, then you would be foolish to pass on him. The chemistry he has with QB Peyton Manning is possibly the greatest passing show in NFL history and I believe Harrison will put up around the same numbers he did last season. In other words, he is a player you want to own.

5. Larry Fitzgerald(Cardinals)

-Fitzgerald took a little bobble in his development last season as his 69 catches and 6 TD's were not what fantasy owners expected after his breakout 2005 season. However injuries were the main cause of the diminished production and I look for Fitzgerald to have a big year as he builds his rapport with QB Matt Leinart. The presence of fellow Pro Bowler Anquan Boldin will allow Larry to get single coverage and at his size, he should have no trouble getting open and piling up the catches. While Boldin may have slightly more catches, Fitzgerald is the one who will grab the more TD's which in fantasy is the name of the game when it comes to scoring points. Draft him by the end of round 3 or if your lucky the top of round 4.

6. Terrell Owens(Cowboys)

-no one at the WR position will give fantasy owners more stress when it comes to deciding whether to draft him or not than Dallas' mercurial, moody pass catcher. There is no doubt that when healthy and he has his head on right, Owens can flat out dominate a game. He proved that once again in a comeback season(85 catches, 13 TD's) of sorts after the controversy/injury filled ending to his tenure in Philadelphia. Despite more than occasional drops, Owens is the best source out there for catching TD's and for boorish behavior. So if you plan on drafting him, just be prepared for both.

7. Reggie Wayne(Colts)

-once again taking a giant step forward in his development, Reggie Wayne is almost running neck-and-neck now with counterpart Marvin Harrison in the value department. Despite still being considered the number two wideout in Indy, Wayne's 86 catches and 9 TD's were numbers indicative of a true number 1 receiver. Smack dab in his prime at the age of 28, this could be the year Wayne takes the mantle of top dog in the WR hierarchy. Make sure you get this guy. I certainly will.

8. Anquan Boldin(Cardinals)

-the other half of Arizona's stud WR duo, Boldin once again was the go to guy in the passing game as far as total receptions are concerned(83 to Larry Fitzgerald's 69). Boldin will continue to pile up the catches and is thus extremely valuable in point/reception leagues. His lack of top-notch speed has proven to be a non-hindrance and he is ability to run crisp routes will ensure a solid season. Only negative is the fact he is not as big a TD producer as Arizona will look to the much larger Fitzgerald in the red zone. Solid weekly performer will be a great number 2 receiver.

9. Roy Williams(Lions)

-after injuries impacted his production his first two seasons, Roy Williams put it all together in 2006 as he recorded a career-high 82 receptions with 7 TD's. Williams has incredible size for his position and will win most one-on-one battles so an increase in TD's is more than likely. The drafting of WR Calvin Johnson will take away most of the double teams he faced last season and thus also has a chance to reach the 90-catch plateau. Draft him for a potentially larger breakout season than the year before. Also don't be afraid to reach for him as he could put up number one WR numbers.

10. Donald Driver(Packers)

-Brett Favre's favorite target is in line for another great season as Green Bay tries to venture into the playoffs for possibly the last time with their Hall of Fame QB. Driver has made a nice career for himself despite not having top-notch speed and due to the fact Green Bay lacks another WR of Donald's ability, another 90 catch season is very possible. Although you would like to see him score more than the 7 TD's he recorded last season, those in point/reception leagues will especially value the fact that Favre will look to him first on every pass he goes back to throw. Draft him around the 5th round and you have yourself a top number two wideout. One of my favorite receiving options to draft.

11. Javon Walker(Broncos)

-it was a comeback season of sorts in 2006 for Javon Walker after missing almost the entire 2005 season with an injured knee. The great speed and ability to make the deep catch were all still a part of his repertoire and thus all the fears were alleviated about whether he could be the same player he was before he got hurt. There will be some growing pains for sure as second-year QB Jay Cutler will struggle some in his first year as a starter but already Walker is his favorite target when going back to pass. If you're looking for a 90-catch guy, that Walker is not your man. Denver is a run-oriented offense and so reasonable expectations center on around 75 catches, although he will pile up the yardage and is a better than-average TD source. So overall Walker is a solid number 2 WR you should feel comfortable drafting.

12. Lee Evans(Bills)

-Evans rose to stardom in 2006 with an 82 catch, 8 TD breakout. Probably the biggest home run threat in all of football, Evans had an absolutely incredible 265-yard performance in a win over the Houston Texans. The improvement of QB JP Losman further legitimizes Evans' long-term potential to succeed and I believe he could make an even bigger leap into maybe even top five status this coming season. If you're going to reach for one WR in your draft, be sure to make it this guy.

13. Andre Johnson(Texans)

-Johnson is an interesting option in fantasy circles for a number of reasons. No one doubts his ability as he led the NFL in pass receptions last season(alarm sounding point/reception players). Awesome as that total is, the only problem is that they resulted in only 5 TD's for 1,147 yards. To put it in perspective, Lee Evans of Buffalo piled up 150 more yards with 21 fewer receptions, while scoring 3 more TD's. So my point in all this is the fact that Johnson will indeed pile up receptions as he is the only legitimate top-notch receiving option on the Texan roster and if you're in the point/reception leagues, then feel free to draft him as high as round 3. Otherwise, expect a repeat in his 2006 numbers which may not yield enough points to make him worth the effort in TD heavy leagues.

14. Marques Colston(Saints)

-call me naïve, but I still need to see more before I jump on the Marques Colston bandwagon. Sure his performance last season(70 catches, 8 TD's) was truly one of the biggest out-of-nowhere breakouts in NFL history. Is it possible Colston is the biggest "Rudy" in NFL history or is he another Michael Clayton waiting to happen? I think the answer falls somewhere in between and I believe there are much safer options to choose from than Colston. Let's see him have another 2006 season before he gains our fantasy respect.

15. TJ Houshmandzadeh(Bengals)

-the other half of the Cincinnati aerial assault, Housmandzadeh showed the NFL world he was much more than a possession receiver as he out-caught his more-hyped teammate Chad Johnson(90 catches to 87). He also recorded 9 TD's to Johnson's 7. Although I believe those numbers will reverse themselves this season due to more defensive attention devoted to TJ, I still believe he can have a great season. I expect a slight decrease in his receptions(80 sounds about right) with around 7-9 TD's. Sounds like a nice pickup to me. If you drafted Chad Johnson, reach for this guy so you can feel cool that you have them both! ?

16. Darrell Jackson(49ers)

-it was an up-and-down 2006 season for Darrell Jackson as his 10 TD's were a nice bonus for fantasy owners but his 63 receptions were a disappointment. Much of the latter had to do with an injured toe that made him miss the last three games of the regular season. It seemed the Seahawks were fed up with Jackson's injuries as they allowed him to skip over to division rival San Francisco where he instantly becomes QB Alex Smith's top weapon. If he can manage to stay healthy, the still young Jackson(age 28) could have a bounce back season that includes his customary 80-plus receptions and 8-10 scores. Don't be afraid to draft him but just know he tends to always miss a game or two during the year.

17. Randy Moss(Patriots)

-the biggest NFL off-season transaction without a doubt was the gutsy call by NE to trade for mercurial receiver Randy Moss. Once the top dog at his position while with Minnesota, the star dimmed considerable on Moss during two mostly turbulent, ineffective seasons with the Oakland Raiders. Moss' petulance wore thin in the locker room and pretty soon it was apparent he was only giving half effort towards the end of last season. Now with a golden opportunity to get his big-play name back with perennial contender NE, look for Moss to be on his best behavior as he tries to coexist with the drill sergeant ways of coach Bill Belichick. Although I believe Moss' days of catching 100 passes and 12-15 TD's are long gone, I believe he still can be a big-time player with around 80 catches for 10 scores sounding about right. Of course this situation bears watching since NE traditionally spreads the balls around which may not please the greedy Moss. However I don't believe Randy will blow this opportunity to win the ring he so desperately craves. Draft him as long as you expect him to perform like a number 2 receiver instead of the 1 he used to be. Be prepared with a good backup in case he finds trouble however. Will sink or swim for you so get ready for the roller coaster ride.

18. Plaxico Burress(Giants)

-New York's big-play wideout had another good but not great season in 2006 as he scored his customary better-than-average TD's(10), while securing less than big-time reception totals(63). This makes Burress a frustrating player to own as one week he will have an 8-catch, 2 TD day and than follow it up with a 2 catch whitewash. Still in TD stressed leagues, Burress is a decent number 2 option and thus shouldn't be ignored. However try to do better before you decide to take him for your club.

19. Hines Ward(Steelers)

-a less-than stellar 2006 season began whispers that maybe the 31-year-old Ward might have lost a step. The real reason however for the seemingly lackluster totals(74 catches, 6 TD's) was the absence of QB Ben Roesthlisberger for a good portion of the year. Now fully healthy, Big Ben and Ward should be able to rediscover the chemistry they exhibited during 2004 and 2005. Although I don't foresee a blockbuster season ahead, expect Ward to improve both his reception total and TD's in 2007. Draft him as your number 2 receiver and you won't be disappointed.

20. Reggie Brown

-many fantasy owners were predicting a breakout season from Reggie Brown in 2006 but even though it might have happened, the late addition of Donte Stallworth relegated Brown to second-tier status in Philly's WR hierarchy. Now with Stallworth gone, the number 1 job is Brown's to lose. HE still put up respectable numbers last season(46 catches) and displayed a nose for the end zone(8 TD's). With coach Andy Reid historically favoring a pass-heavy offense, it is possible Brown will truly have the breakout year everyone predicted for him with it coming one year later than originally anticipated. Draft him hoping he has that breakout year and serve as your number two wideout.

21. Laveraneous Coles(Jets)

-Coles more than delighted his owners in 2006 as he hauled in a more-than-expected 91 catches and over 1,000 yards. The chemistry he had with QB Chad Pennington before he signed with the free Redskins as a free agent a few years ago was still evident and there is no reason to believe he can't put up similar numbers. When it comes to the TD department however, Coles takes a backseat to his partner Jerricho Cotchery. Coles was never a TD machine to begin with so this shouldn't negatively impact him much for those who are aware of this. You still get a nice package here and you target him as a number 2 receiver.

22. Vincent Jackson(Chargers)

-I may be guilty of over ranking this second-year player but he is 2007 potential is that good. 27 catches in 2006 don't stand out much but the 6 TD's do. With WR Keenan McCardell no longer with the club and Eric Parker being nothing more than a possession receiver, Jackson has a terrific chance of becoming the number one guy for a potentially explosive offense. QB Phillip Rivers will be that much more comfortable behind center in his second year as a starter and the deep bombs the two seemed to routinely connect on late in '06 stand a good chance of becoming a weekly trend. HE may not become a star overnight, but the TD's will cover what he lacks in the reception department. Draft as your number 3 with the potential to be a solid number 2 if things develop correctly.

23. Santana Moss(Redskins)

-after his Pro-Bowl, highlight reel 2005 season, Moss came back down to earth in '06 as he recorded only 55 catches for 6 TD's. Not what fantasy owners were expecting. Moss historically has been very inconsistent with his performances and he will alternate good games with bad ones. His ridiculous speed however will provide many big-play opportunities and thus chances for long scoring receptions. Will serve as a good number 3 wideout so make room for him and hope his Pro Bowl year's alternate.

24. Jerricho Cotchery(Jets)

-what a find this guy was in 2006 as Cotchery exhibited the talent he displayed at Louisville by grabbing 82 passes for 6 TD's. Blessed with better-than-average speed, Cotchery was the big-play threat in New York's passing attack. Heading into 2007, Cotchery has the chance to be even better and wrest the mantle from Laveranues Coles as the top man, if that hasn't happened already. Draft him if he is still available in the middle rounds for possibly a number 2 player.

25. Chris Chambers(Dolphins)

-without a doubt the biggest WR bust in 2006 as Chambers as he went from 82 catches with 10 TD's in 2005 to 59 catches for 4 Td's in 2006. The 677 yards were also unacceptable for a receiver of his ability. Some of that could be blamed on the fact the Dolphins were inept in almost every sense last season and having Joey Harrington as your QB definitely won't help you either. With veteran Trent Green on board, look for Chambers to become his new Tony Gonzalez. I think Chambers will be re-energized to play with someone of Green caliber and thus will lose the concentration lapses that caused him to drop too many easy throws in '06. Look for a rebound here with potential to get back to number 1 status if all goes smoothly. Draft him as a big bounce-back candidate.

26. Deion Branch(Seahawks)

-without a 1,000 receiving season on his resume, Branch is not someone you target until the middle rounds of your draft. In fact I am going to avoid him altogether because his inconsistency will drive a fantasy owner crazy. The former Super Bowl MVP is talented however and he will have the occasional 8-catch, 125 yard day. The problem with Branch is that his lack of height will prevent him from being a dominant wideout week in and week out. A number three wideout.

27. Terry Glenn(Cowboys)

-Glenn proved in 2006 that he is not done yet as his 70 catch, 6 TD season kept him relevant in fantasy terms. His explosive speed is still his main weapon and if he can avoid the nagging injuries that have always seemed to be a problem for him, Glenn could match last season's numbers. Risky pick but he always seems to have decent numbers at the end of the year.

28. Mark Clayton(Ravens)

-Baltimore's best receiving option for 2007 will most likely be TE Todd Heap, by third-year WR Mark Clayton stands a good chance of having a breakout year to give the Ravens a pair of vertical threats. One of the better sleeper candidates overall this preseason, Clayton has the ability and the determination to succeed. Although Baltimore is a run-first offense, look for QB Steve McNair to utilize this deep-ball pass catcher. Draft him for his potentially explosive potential.

29. Braylon Edwards(Browns)

-still waiting for Edwards to fulfill the grandiose expectations he had after being the third overall draft choice in the 2005 draft. Less than ideal workout habits and off-the-field troubles have conspired to prevent Edwards from being the 80-catch, 8 TD receiver everyone envisioned coming out of Michigan. Has tremendous speed with the ability to make the home run catch. The problem here is that weak-armed QB Charlie Frye is expected to be the starter entering the season while rookie Brady Quinn develops. Thus the long-ball will be difficult for Edwards to procure. Draft him for the possible breakout in the magical third season but don't be surprised if he lets you down again.

30. Bernard Berrian(Bears)

-Chicago's deep threat caught 6 TD's and it almost seemed like he had a deep catch just about ever week. With fellow wideout Mushin Muhammud on the downside of his career, Berrian has the chance to grab the majority of the throws from QB Rex Grossman. Will most likely prove on the 51 catches he managed last season and contribute at the very least 5 TD's. Makes a great number 3 receiver as he could ascend to number 2 status by the end of the upcoming season.

The Rest(Third WR's Only)

31. Joe Horn(Falcons)
-once a fantasy star, injuries and age have relegated Joe Horn to third WR status. His 37 catches and 4 TD's in 2006 were about what he would put up in 6 or 7 games while in his prime years so his best days are clearly behind him. He is a solid veteran however who still can make a fantasy contribution to your team so look to him as a third WR.

32. Donte' Stallworth(Patriots)

-Stallworth was looking like he was going to have a breakout 2006 season with the Eagles until more injuries set him back once again. Blessed with top-notch speed and good hands, Stallworth has everything as star WR needs to succeed. However he never can stay healthy which most likely has to do with his slight frame. Now with the NE Patriots, Stallworth is in a crowded receiving conga line with Randy Moss, Wes Welker and Kelly Washington so his overall numbers don't stand to improve much from the 38 catches and 5 TD's he recorded in 2006. Draft him since he is playing for pass-happy NE but have good backups ready for when he gets injured once again.

33. Joey Galloway(Buc's)

-one one the NFL's fastest players since entering the league out of Ohio State, Joey Galloway never fully realized the potential many foresaw for him. At the age of 35, Galloway is clearly on the downside of his career but the speed is still there which makes him somewhat appealing. The Buccaneer's QB situation is a mess however and Galloway has never been one to pile up the reception totals in his career. Pass on him unless you really are hurting for a receiver.

34. Kevin Curtis(Eagles)

-after spending some productive years with the Rams, Kevin Curtis heads east to the City Of Brotherly Love. A blue-collar receiver all the way through, Curtis uses what he has to make himself useful. Those tools include good speed with incredible hands. Picture a poor man's Ed McCaffrey who wasn't so bad. A nice player who can contribute for you in a number 3 WR capacity.

35. Greg Jennings(Packers)

-with Donald Driver seemingly being option 1 and 1A for QB Brett Favre when he goes back to throw, many failed to see the decent rookie season put up by Greg Jennings. After making a good impression in training camp, Jennings went on to record 45 catches for 3 TD's which places him in the number 3 WR vicinity. Still has room to improve so make sure you make an effort to draft him towards the end of your draft.

36. Devery Henderson(Saints)

-Henderson is another LSU receiver(read; Michael Clayton) who just hasn't made a good transition to the NFL. Has great speed but always seems to vanish for long periods of time each week. Injuries also a problem for him lately. Pass on him and see if he starts to work out his issues.

37. DJ Hackett(Seahawks)

-with WR Darrell Jackson signing with San Francisco in the off-season, DJ Hackett has a chance to further build off his solid 2006 season. 45 catches and 4 TD's in a crowded receiving corps was more than solid in fact for this youngster and more improvement is expected in 2007. Could be a good number 3 WR but more suited for number 4.

38. Ronald Curry(Raiders)

-despite only recording 1 TD, Ronald Curry had a very good 2006 season for the Oakland Raiders. Grabbing 62 passes for such a pathetic team last year makes his accomplishments much more impressive. With Randy Moss now in NE, the spotlight is all to himself and I expect solid number 3 WR numbers out of him with the chance to move up to number 2 status. If the team wasn't so bad, would have ranked him much higher. Draft him late however and bask in selecting a nice sleeper.

39. Issac Bruce(Rams)

-clearly on the downside of his career, Issac Bruce is still a solid veteran who can help your team in a pinch. One of the better route runners in the league, Bruce habitually finds the open seam in opposing defenses. The days of 90 catches and 8 TD's are long over but 70 and 4 sound reasonable. Draft him as your fourth wideout. Always a good performer in this game.

40. Mushin Muhammud(Bears)

-one the wrong side of his prime, Mushin Muhammud's days as a 10 TD force are over and never will return. HE still is a solid route runner with good hands so he has a place on your bench. Draft him as insurance and that's it.

Don't Draft

41. Derrick Mason(Ravens)

42. Santonio Holmes(Steelers)

43. Eddie Kennison(Chiefs)

44. Brandon Jones(Titans)

45. Amani Toomer(Giants)

46. Reggie Williams(Jaguars)

47. Mike Furrey(Lions)

48. Brandon Marshall(Broncos)

49. Drew Bennett(Rams)

50. Jerry Porter(Raiders)

51. Arnaz Battle(49ers)

52. Hank Baskett(Eagles)

53. Michael Jenkins(Falcons)

54. Marty Booker(Dolphins)

55. Rod Smith(Broncos)

56. Wes Welker(Patriots)

Possibly the best player in college football is Georgia Tech junior WR Calvin Johnson. Johnson combines (6 ' 4, 230 lbs) large-capacity, high-speed (4.35) jumping (vertical 43 inch ') to go with an even stronger work ethic. Runs good routes and search the soft spots in areas with ease. Its speed is misleading. He doesn't look like he is running fast, but before they can turn their head, is right for you and will not catch it.

Johnson, who only on 21 September 25 and is specializing in the construction of the building, also has pending hand/eye coordination to go with its rare combination of size, speed, strength, jumping and the cuerpo.Johnson control is a full WR is also a blocker, then prepared more willing to enter into their opposition.

Calvin led Tech with 54 catches for 888 yards and six touchdowns in 2005 and 2004 Johnson was receiving leader of jackets with 48 catches for 837 yards and seven touchdowns, registrations rookie tech and was the first team All-first income CAC.Pero more impressive this young is its actitud.Él is a team that is willing to do little to improve not only himself but also his team, from a great education of parents and Calvin Johnson of Arica.

When they come to consideration of the Heisman Trophy, Johnson name must be mentioned with the rest of the contenders and could be a New York-based in its future.It must also be Biletnikoff winner for 2006.

Calvin Johnson has the tools to be more then a WR all-pro NFL.He has the tools to be a difference that construction equipment manufacturer their franchises alrededor.Me reminds his style of play from a cross between Moss, Owens, Holt, Sterling Sharpe, but without the drama usually brings a "super star" WR.