Chiefs Bucky Brooks' Chiefs report

JohnnyHammersticks · 08-03-2012, 09:59 PM

Up until today when I read this report, I had never actually jizzed myself after reading anything Chiefs related. Unless you count that "Meet the 2012 KC Chiefs Cheerleaders" video on kcchiefs.com, but I wasn't doing any reading during that, wink wink. Hell, after I read this, I was ready to be the wedge-buster on the season opening kickoff. This is the best Chiefs report I think I've ever read. Sorry if already posted, can't imagine it hasn't been, but I looked, I swear.

Kansas City Chiefs training camp: Jon Baldwin helps build buzz

By Bucky Brooks
Analyst, NFL.com and NFL Network
Published: Aug. 2, 2012 at 01:35 p.m.
Updated: Aug. 2, 2012 at 05:45 p.m.

The Chiefs hosted a night practice at Spratt Stadium on the campus of Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, Mo. The night skies were gorgeous, but the stifling heat and humidity created a challenging environment for players and fans.

OBSERVATION DECK

1. Matt Cassel looks good directing Brian Daboll's offense. After enduring an offseason of harsh criticism following a disappointing performance a season ago, Cassel has been impressive through the first few days of camp. He looks confident and decisive in the pocket, and his accurate throws are the result of his self-assuredness as a playmaker. More importantly, Cassel appears to have complete command of Daboll's offense. He repeatedly worked through progressions to identify the second and third options in the route, and his efficiency has allowed the Chiefs' passing game to thrive, even with top target Dwayne Bowe missing in action (holdout). In addition, Cassel's keen understanding of the scheme has enabled him to get the Chiefs out of bad plays against certain fronts through checks and audibles.

2. The emergence of Jon Baldwin has lessened the impact of Bowe's absence. The buzz surrounding Chiefs camp has centered on the rapid development of Baldwin, who has been sensational. I walked away impressed with his playmaking potential. Baldwin possesses the size, speed and athleticism to overwhelm defenders in isolated matchups, and he has started to figure out how to utilize his superior physical traits to dominate on the perimeter. Chiefs officials raved about his ability to make highlight catches appear routine. During the night practice, he demonstrated those traits by making an acrobatic catch in the end zone during which he used his extraordinary length to reach up high to grab a ball before nimbly dragging his feet along the end line. If he can continue to display this kind of playmaking ability, the absence of Bowe will not impact the Chiefs' chances of fielding a top 10-caliber offense in 2012.

3. Eric Berry's return makes the Chiefs' defense scary good. After playing the majority of the last season without their most versatile and explosive defensive playmaker, the Chiefs' defense is set to become a dominant unit upon his return. Berry has the capacity to cover wide receivers or tight ends in the slot, and is a gritty defender in the running game. Coach Romeo Crennel capitalized on his unique skills in 2010 by deploying him in various alignments to neutralize the opponent's top threat in the middle of the field. In addition, he would occasionally send him off the edge on blitzes to add speed and athleticism to the pass rush. After watching Berry closely at practice, I'm convinced that he hasn't lost a step following his ACL surgery and is certainly capable of reprising his role as the Chiefs' designated playmaker. With more AFC teams set to feature the tight end as a primary option in the passing game, the return of Berry provides an effective counter to the tactic.
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4. Justin Houston will become a household name in 2012. After studying Houston on game tape and watching him work in practice, I'm convinced the Chiefs have an emerging superstar on their hands. Houston displays outstanding first-step quickness and shows a natural knack for getting to the quarterback off the edge. Last season, he provided a glimpse of his immense potential when he tallied 5.5 sacks in the team's final five games. While Houston must continue to refine his hand skills and countermoves, he possesses all of the requisite traits (speed, athleticism and burst) that you look for in an elite pass rusher. Playing opposite Tamba Hali, he will thrive against the isolated matchups he receives. If the Chiefs can routinely force opponents into long-yardage situations by successfully defending the run, I would expect to see Houston collect 10-plus sacks as a second-year player.

THE NEW GUYS

Peyton Hillis: After suffering through a miserable 2011 campaign, Hillis looks ready to be a key contributor for the Chiefs. He reported to camp in outstanding shape and is running the rock with the urgency and physicality that made him a feared runner in Cleveland. With Hillis also displaying soft hands and superb receiving skills in practice, it wouldn't surprise me to see the Chiefs use him as a feature back in a variety of sub packages to take advantage of his versatility.

Eric Winston: The Chiefs desperately needed to upgrade their offensive line on the perimeter after struggling last season, and Winston certainly fits the bill. He has shored up the right side of the line with his athleticism and quickness, allowing the Chiefs to incorporate more zone-based running schemes into their package. With Daboll intent on fielding an offense that can attack with the run or pass, the addition of Winston was a major coup for the Chiefs in the offseason.

Dontari Poe: A lot has been made about the Chiefs' decision to select Poe with the 11th overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, based on his "boom-or-bust" potential following a non-descript career at Memphis. But he looks like a solid inside defender in drills. I love his combination of athleticism, strength and power, and believe he will emerge as an effective inside rusher in the Chiefs' nickel package. Although Poe will eventually need to become a starter and dominant all-around player to justify his lofty draft status, I don't mind Kansas City bringing him along slowly to foster his development.

OVERHEARD

"There is no doubt that this is the best personnel group we've had since we've been here in Kansas City."
-- Cassel, telling reporters about the multitude of offensive weapons at his disposal.
Charles: I have my 'mojo back'
Jamaal Charles missed nearly all of the 2011 season, but feels ready to return and is talking Super Bowl, Brian McIntyre writes. More ...

EXTRA POINTS

1. Daboll's system will challenge the football aptitude of the Chiefs' opponents with constant pre-snap movement. During the practice, the Chiefs routinely put one or two players on the move before the snap, and the dizzying array of formations will certainly lead to mental mistakes from the opposition. While several offensive coordinators throughout the league utilize intricate pre-snap movement to create favorable matchups along the line, Daboll's usage of motions and shifts is complemented by a constant shuttling of offensive personnel that makes it difficult to anticipate his intentions. With Hillis, Dexter McCluster and Kevin Boss possessing the athleticism and versatility to align in multiple spots, the frenetic pre-snap approach of the Chiefs should lead to better production from the offense in 2012.

2. Attention to the fundamentals is a priority. The defense went through an assortment of bag drills that reminded me of the "county fair" agility circuit often performed at high school practices. From the defensive linemen to the defensive backs, each member of the defense performed a series of high knee drills, lateral shuffles and "W" movements that emphasize the proper balance and body position needed to perform at a high level. Meanwhile, the offense ran through a series of "perfect plays" during the opening period of practice to simulate the proper execution of the unit's key plays without facing a defense. Although these drills are commonplace throughout the league, the priority placed on the attention to detail was apparent by the speed and urgency displayed by the players.

3. Remember the name Anthony Toribio. The unheralded nose tackle has been one of the most impressive performers in training camp. Although he wasn't expected to fill a role as a starter due to the arrival of Poe, he has been so good during workouts that he continues to run with the first unit and could be the linchpin that allows the Chiefs' talented linebacker corps to roam freely in the middle. When I asked about what makes Toribio so effective in the middle, Chiefs officials cited his strength, leverage and flawless technique. Given the importance of the nose tackle to the Chiefs' version of the 3-4, Toribio could become the most important player on an underrated defensive front.

OUTLOOK

The Chiefs should be the overwhelming favorites to win the AFC West based on their personnel. They are the most talented team in the division on both sides of the ball, and the return of several key playmakers should make them a popular sleeper to make a run at the AFC crown. Although they must develop an identity on offense to suit their talent, there is a lot to like about the Chiefs heading into the 2012 campaign.

Follow Bucky Brooks on Twitter @BuckyBrooks

http://www.nfl.com/trainingcamp/stor...writers_brooks

Ebolapox · 08-03-2012, 10:03 PM

feels like a homer take, really.

**The Franchise** · 08-03-2012, 10:04 PM

JohnnyHammersticks · 08-03-2012, 10:04 PM

I don't know what it is, I just know I likes it...a LOT.

kcxiv · 08-03-2012, 10:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by h5n1

feels like a homer take, really.

Except hes not.

Otter · 08-03-2012, 10:13 PM

Cool, now ****ing show us already 'show me state'.

You can find an article like this in all three of Gunther's, Carl's and Herm's final years too too. "They're almost there!", "Maybe next year!" and "The check is in the mail!", "I just find your sister fun to talk to man".

**kysirsoze** · 08-03-2012, 10:18 PM

Well for starters, Bowe isn't a holdout.

Then there's the fact that I couldn't care less what Cassel is capable of WITHOUT the threat of a real pass rush. His poise (or lack thereof) is like 90% of why he sucks.

JohnnyHammersticks · 08-03-2012, 10:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kysirsoze

His poise (or lack thereof) is like 90% of why he sucks.

Thanks for throwing a bucket of water on me during my wet dream....

Ace Gunner · 08-03-2012, 11:21 PM

I agree with what he is saying about Justin Houston. Romeo is excited about this player. I picked him to be the most improved player this year, this guy is going to rape for sure. Between him and some new blood on the DL for pressure during pass downs, the Chiefs should be able to get 40+ sacks this year. Hello Peyton Manning, crispy creme puff.

**BigMeatballDave** · 08-04-2012, 12:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chiefsfootballfan

I agree with what he is saying about Justin Houston. Romeo is excited about this player. I picked him to be the most improved player this year, this guy is going to rape for sure. Between him and some new blood on the DL for pressure during pass downs, the Chiefs should be able to get 40+ sacks this year. Hello Peyton Manning, crispy creme puff.

LOL

Chiefshrink · 08-04-2012, 01:06 AM

Bottom line: Every piece is in place for this team to win with the only questionable piece being at QB and for most like myself it is not even questionable anymore. I held out hope for a long time but the writing was on the wall. Daboll can't be happy about having a QB like Cassel to start off his career with the Chiefs. Thankfully Daboll has a lot of offensive weapons with a revamped O-line that will keep Cassel from having to win the game.

Chiefshrink · 08-04-2012, 01:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chiefsfootballfan

I agree with what he is saying about Justin Houston. Romeo is excited about this player. I picked him to be the most improved player this year, this guy is going to rape for sure. Between him and some new blood on the DL for pressure during pass downs, the Chiefs should be able to get 40+ sacks this year. Hello Peyton Manning, crispy creme puff.

One hit away from retirement and Peyton very well could have a Priest Holmes epiphany at anytime and say to himself, "What the hell am I doing ? I may be paralyzed on the next hit! I have plenty of $$, to hell with this !

**bevischief** · 08-04-2012, 02:18 AM

Marcellus · 08-04-2012, 04:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kysirsoze

Well for starters, Bowe isn't a holdout.

Then there's the fact that I couldn't care less what Cassel is capable of WITHOUT the threat of a real pass rush. His poise (or lack thereof) is like 90% of why he sucks.

You really get caught up in the minutia of meaningless shit don't you?

Bowe isn't in camp, call it whatever you want........ what do you call it, fashionably late?

**notorious** · 08-04-2012, 06:23 AM

Maybe, just maybe Haley really did hold down Cassel.

Who am I kidding?

08-03-2012, 09:59 PM
JohnnyHammersticks MVP Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: Chandler AZ Casino cash: $2821254	Bucky Brooks' Chiefs report Up until today when I read this report, I had never actually jizzed myself after reading anything Chiefs related. Unless you count that "Meet the 2012 KC Chiefs Cheerleaders" video on kcchiefs.com, but I wasn't doing any reading during that, wink wink. Hell, after I read this, I was ready to be the wedge-buster on the season opening kickoff. This is the best Chiefs report I think I've ever read. Sorry if already posted, can't imagine it hasn't been, but I looked, I swear. Kansas City Chiefs training camp: Jon Baldwin helps build buzz By Bucky Brooks Analyst, NFL.com and NFL Network Published: Aug. 2, 2012 at 01:35 p.m. Updated: Aug. 2, 2012 at 05:45 p.m. The Chiefs hosted a night practice at Spratt Stadium on the campus of Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, Mo. The night skies were gorgeous, but the stifling heat and humidity created a challenging environment for players and fans. OBSERVATION DECK 1. Matt Cassel looks good directing Brian Daboll's offense. After enduring an offseason of harsh criticism following a disappointing performance a season ago, Cassel has been impressive through the first few days of camp. He looks confident and decisive in the pocket, and his accurate throws are the result of his self-assuredness as a playmaker. More importantly, Cassel appears to have complete command of Daboll's offense. He repeatedly worked through progressions to identify the second and third options in the route, and his efficiency has allowed the Chiefs' passing game to thrive, even with top target Dwayne Bowe missing in action (holdout). In addition, Cassel's keen understanding of the scheme has enabled him to get the Chiefs out of bad plays against certain fronts through checks and audibles. 2. The emergence of Jon Baldwin has lessened the impact of Bowe's absence. The buzz surrounding Chiefs camp has centered on the rapid development of Baldwin, who has been sensational. I walked away impressed with his playmaking potential. Baldwin possesses the size, speed and athleticism to overwhelm defenders in isolated matchups, and he has started to figure out how to utilize his superior physical traits to dominate on the perimeter. Chiefs officials raved about his ability to make highlight catches appear routine. During the night practice, he demonstrated those traits by making an acrobatic catch in the end zone during which he used his extraordinary length to reach up high to grab a ball before nimbly dragging his feet along the end line. If he can continue to display this kind of playmaking ability, the absence of Bowe will not impact the Chiefs' chances of fielding a top 10-caliber offense in 2012. 3. Eric Berry's return makes the Chiefs' defense scary good. After playing the majority of the last season without their most versatile and explosive defensive playmaker, the Chiefs' defense is set to become a dominant unit upon his return. Berry has the capacity to cover wide receivers or tight ends in the slot, and is a gritty defender in the running game. Coach Romeo Crennel capitalized on his unique skills in 2010 by deploying him in various alignments to neutralize the opponent's top threat in the middle of the field. In addition, he would occasionally send him off the edge on blitzes to add speed and athleticism to the pass rush. After watching Berry closely at practice, I'm convinced that he hasn't lost a step following his ACL surgery and is certainly capable of reprising his role as the Chiefs' designated playmaker. With more AFC teams set to feature the tight end as a primary option in the passing game, the return of Berry provides an effective counter to the tactic. Play fantasy football on NFL.com Why play fantasy football anywhere else? This season, GO LEGIT with the official free fantasy football game of the NFL. 4. Justin Houston will become a household name in 2012. After studying Houston on game tape and watching him work in practice, I'm convinced the Chiefs have an emerging superstar on their hands. Houston displays outstanding first-step quickness and shows a natural knack for getting to the quarterback off the edge. Last season, he provided a glimpse of his immense potential when he tallied 5.5 sacks in the team's final five games. While Houston must continue to refine his hand skills and countermoves, he possesses all of the requisite traits (speed, athleticism and burst) that you look for in an elite pass rusher. Playing opposite Tamba Hali, he will thrive against the isolated matchups he receives. If the Chiefs can routinely force opponents into long-yardage situations by successfully defending the run, I would expect to see Houston collect 10-plus sacks as a second-year player. THE NEW GUYS Peyton Hillis: After suffering through a miserable 2011 campaign, Hillis looks ready to be a key contributor for the Chiefs. He reported to camp in outstanding shape and is running the rock with the urgency and physicality that made him a feared runner in Cleveland. With Hillis also displaying soft hands and superb receiving skills in practice, it wouldn't surprise me to see the Chiefs use him as a feature back in a variety of sub packages to take advantage of his versatility. Eric Winston: The Chiefs desperately needed to upgrade their offensive line on the perimeter after struggling last season, and Winston certainly fits the bill. He has shored up the right side of the line with his athleticism and quickness, allowing the Chiefs to incorporate more zone-based running schemes into their package. With Daboll intent on fielding an offense that can attack with the run or pass, the addition of Winston was a major coup for the Chiefs in the offseason. Dontari Poe: A lot has been made about the Chiefs' decision to select Poe with the 11th overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, based on his "boom-or-bust" potential following a non-descript career at Memphis. But he looks like a solid inside defender in drills. I love his combination of athleticism, strength and power, and believe he will emerge as an effective inside rusher in the Chiefs' nickel package. Although Poe will eventually need to become a starter and dominant all-around player to justify his lofty draft status, I don't mind Kansas City bringing him along slowly to foster his development. OVERHEARD "There is no doubt that this is the best personnel group we've had since we've been here in Kansas City." -- Cassel, telling reporters about the multitude of offensive weapons at his disposal. Charles: I have my 'mojo back' Jamaal Charles missed nearly all of the 2011 season, but feels ready to return and is talking Super Bowl, Brian McIntyre writes. More ... EXTRA POINTS 1. Daboll's system will challenge the football aptitude of the Chiefs' opponents with constant pre-snap movement. During the practice, the Chiefs routinely put one or two players on the move before the snap, and the dizzying array of formations will certainly lead to mental mistakes from the opposition. While several offensive coordinators throughout the league utilize intricate pre-snap movement to create favorable matchups along the line, Daboll's usage of motions and shifts is complemented by a constant shuttling of offensive personnel that makes it difficult to anticipate his intentions. With Hillis, Dexter McCluster and Kevin Boss possessing the athleticism and versatility to align in multiple spots, the frenetic pre-snap approach of the Chiefs should lead to better production from the offense in 2012. 2. Attention to the fundamentals is a priority. The defense went through an assortment of bag drills that reminded me of the "county fair" agility circuit often performed at high school practices. From the defensive linemen to the defensive backs, each member of the defense performed a series of high knee drills, lateral shuffles and "W" movements that emphasize the proper balance and body position needed to perform at a high level. Meanwhile, the offense ran through a series of "perfect plays" during the opening period of practice to simulate the proper execution of the unit's key plays without facing a defense. Although these drills are commonplace throughout the league, the priority placed on the attention to detail was apparent by the speed and urgency displayed by the players. 3. Remember the name Anthony Toribio. The unheralded nose tackle has been one of the most impressive performers in training camp. Although he wasn't expected to fill a role as a starter due to the arrival of Poe, he has been so good during workouts that he continues to run with the first unit and could be the linchpin that allows the Chiefs' talented linebacker corps to roam freely in the middle. When I asked about what makes Toribio so effective in the middle, Chiefs officials cited his strength, leverage and flawless technique. Given the importance of the nose tackle to the Chiefs' version of the 3-4, Toribio could become the most important player on an underrated defensive front. OUTLOOK The Chiefs should be the overwhelming favorites to win the AFC West based on their personnel. They are the most talented team in the division on both sides of the ball, and the return of several key playmakers should make them a popular sleeper to make a run at the AFC crown. Although they must develop an identity on offense to suit their talent, there is a lot to like about the Chiefs heading into the 2012 campaign. Follow Bucky Brooks on Twitter @BuckyBrooks http://www.nfl.com/trainingcamp/stor...writers_brooks
Posts: 12,758

08-03-2012, 10:03 PM	#2
Ebolapox remember, remember Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: como Casino cash: $2189903	feels like a homer take, really.
Posts: 26,426

08-03-2012, 10:04 PM	#3
The Franchise Most Valuable Villain Join Date: Dec 2006 Casino cash: $3205047	Q
Posts: 91,931

08-03-2012, 10:04 PM	#4
JohnnyHammersticks MVP Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: Chandler AZ Casino cash: $2821254	I don't know what it is, I just know I likes it...a LOT.
Posts: 12,758

08-03-2012, 10:18 PM	#7
kysirsoze SNAP THE ****ING BALL!!! Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: KCMO Casino cash: $3846946	Well for starters, Bowe isn't a holdout. Then there's the fact that I couldn't care less what Cassel is capable of WITHOUT the threat of a real pass rush. His poise (or lack thereof) is like 90% of why he sucks.
Posts: 11,278

08-03-2012, 11:21 PM	#9
Ace Gunner First Overall Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: kcmo Casino cash: $10007271	I agree with what he is saying about Justin Houston. Romeo is excited about this player. I picked him to be the most improved player this year, this guy is going to rape for sure. Between him and some new blood on the DL for pressure during pass downs, the Chiefs should be able to get 40+ sacks this year. Hello Peyton Manning, crispy creme puff. __________________ The Greatest
Posts: 10,580

08-04-2012, 02:18 AM	#13
bevischief .... Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Somewhere Kansas Casino cash: $8659352 VARSITY	R
Posts: 27,731

08-04-2012, 06:23 AM	#15
notorious Supporter Join Date: May 2005 Location: Who knows? Casino cash: $3025884	Maybe, just maybe Haley really did hold down Cassel. Who am I kidding?
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