It is true as several have posted that this is a risky proposition at best. This is why if all else is equal or even close, you take the surest thing. Let's take a quick look at the contenders.
1. Manning has been bred and nurtured to be a QB. He excels at reading defenses, especially picking up the blitz. He does a good job of moving out of the pocket but not too fast and dumping the ball to avoid sacks. He has a better than average, but not great arm. Forget how he does against LSU. It's amazing he got this team this far in the first place. Wait and see how many other guys on his team even go day one. He is the safest pick by lightyears.
2. Roethlisberger probably has the best skill set. He hasn't played against first line corners, so he will tend to overestimate where he can put the ball. He still could develop into a big time player, but some guys never make the adjustment. I think he makes it, but Manning is a surer bet.
3. Rivers is a guy everyone but the scouts love. His release point is low and that could be a problem against the consistently large NFL linemen. He is athletic, creative and plays well when the game is on the line. He plays better than his phyical talents. He has great leadership skills. I think he makes it, but historically the odds are heavily against him.
4. If you want a longshot, take Harris out of Bowling Green. He lacks discipline, but reminds me of Carter. His can win with his arms or his legs, but can he play under control?
This is really a no brainer. If Manning is on the board, he has to be taken. If not, go defensive line or cornerback.
1. Manning has been bred and nurtured to be a QB. He excels at reading defenses, especially picking up the blitz. He does a good job of moving out of the pocket but not too fast and dumping the ball to avoid sacks. He has a better than average, but not great arm. Forget how he does against LSU. It's amazing he got this team this far in the first place. Wait and see how many other guys on his team even go day one. He is the safest pick by lightyears.
2. Roethlisberger probably has the best skill set. He hasn't played against first line corners, so he will tend to overestimate where he can put the ball. He still could develop into a big time player, but some guys never make the adjustment. I think he makes it, but Manning is a surer bet.
3. Rivers is a guy everyone but the scouts love. His release point is low and that could be a problem against the consistently large NFL linemen. He is athletic, creative and plays well when the game is on the line. He plays better than his phyical talents. He has great leadership skills. I think he makes it, but historically the odds are heavily against him.
4. If you want a longshot, take Harris out of Bowling Green. He lacks discipline, but reminds me of Carter. His can win with his arms or his legs, but can he play under control?
This is really a no brainer. If Manning is on the board, he has to be taken. If not, go defensive line or cornerback.
