The
All-American
Football League sounds pretty interesting. I'm intrigued by the idea that it
would require players to hold a four-year college degree, and that teams could
be "hosted" by universities. For one, this would be a nice incentive for all
those borderline-NFL players to stay in school.
It would also enable college football programs, of which many are in essence
for-profit enterprises, to field a team of their school's graduates. Think about
that -- imagine Columbus Ohio fielding a squad of former Buckeye's. You might
even be able to get former NFL players like Eddie George to play a season or two
in the league at the end of the their playing careers. It sounds like great fun
to me.
Some people will complain that this set-up will negatively influence college
football. To the extent it may have influence, it would only validate the system
that is already in place where the best college programs are near-professional
teams (except the players don't get paid). This is a pretty meaningless
protestation, unless one thinks the college game is going to revert back a few
decades.
Don't start Brady Quinn yet. I'm loving what I'm seeing. I think Quinn is easily
the most talented QB we've had since Kosar, and is clearly superior in physical
talent. Really, I am thrilled and excited. It's just that I think he'll play
even better once he's experienced some of the regular season from the sidelines.
And I wouldn't start him in 2007 until the rest of the offensive roster has
settled in, Chud's offense is well understood, and Quinn's taken in a month of
games holding a clipboard.
I also think Frye has shown some growth this preseason. He hasn't looked that
great, but he looks increasingly comfortable in the new offense. We already know
he's not a guy who can beat an opponent on sheer talent; the scheme has to give
him favorable opportunities. And the scheme seems like it may do that. Frye
could hold the fort down well enough to get this offense in sync. Let's get
though the beginning of the season and see where things stand.
That said, I'm curious whether Anderson or Frye get dealt. I don't think Frye is
off the trading block.