Tumgik
#32.5 inches so it's nice and balanced
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Thinking of making myself a modded baseball bat but I'm too lazy to like, actually make the bat myself and I'm too picky to go grab one from a sporting store and mod that 😔
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bestsoftblog · 4 years
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10 Best fishing kayaks under 1000 USD in 2020 (Reviewed)
Are you looking to pick the best fishing gear? I’l help you select the best fishing kayaks under 1000 dollars for your next fishing adventure.
These fishing kayaks are designed for anglers of all ages to reach areas inaccessible by larger watercraft.
Without breaking your bank, here is the top kayak fishing gear under $1000 dollars budget.
If you are in a hurry to read reviews, you can jump directly to each of these kayaks.
Best fishing kayaks under 1000
Lifetime Tamarack Angler — Best fishing kayaks 2020
Perception Pescador Pro 12.0
Vibe Sea Ghost 110 — Best vibe kayaks
Vibe Yellowfin 120 — Best fishing kayak under 750
BKC TK122 — Best BKC UH Ultralight spinning fishing gear
Sun Dolphin Boss 12 SS — Best fishing kayak under $1000 2020
Bonafide RS117 — Best fishing kayak under $700
Pelican Saber Angler — Best fishing kayaks under $800
Old Town Topwater 106 — Best fishing kayaks under $500
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 — Best sit in kayaks under $1000
What is the best fishing kayaks under 1000 dollars?
In this guide, you will learn and get to know the best fishing kayaks under $1000 among the options available to select for your fishing boats or offshore fishing.
1. Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 fishing kayak — Best fishing kayaks 2020
The lifetime Tamarack Angler Kayak is designed for stability and extreme safety.
It comes with well-built stable flat bottom with stability chine rails and deep tracking channels.
This kayak is great for fishing trips and recreational padding as well as offshore fishing.
Constructed of UV-protected high density polyethylene, the Tamarack Angler Kayak is a sit-on-top fishing kayak.
It has a comfortable backrest and padded seat for your fishing adventures and long paddling.
This is for a budget conscious angler and an excellent entry level boat for those who want to spend time on the water.
Features
Two 6” storage compartments
Adjustable padded seat
Two paddle cradles with elastic cords to secure paddle
Two flush mount rod holders for fishing hands-free
10” length and 30“ width
52lbs weight
Capacity: one
275 lbs weight capacity
2. Perception Pescador Pro 12.0 — Best sit on top fishing Boats (Kayaks) with Adjustable Lawn Chair seat
The Perception Pescador Pro 12 is a sit-on-top fishing kayaks designed for fast speed, stability to track straight in variable conditions on the water.
They are outfitted with the performance and features that pro anglers are demanding.
This kayak leads the pack with generous storage and accessory mount options for comfort and excellent fishing performance.
The fishing boat comes with removable and adjustable seat that offers two positions and its recessed track make it easily adjustable.
Its gear track system accumulates optimal fishing and paddling accessories
Features
One capacity
12” length and 32.5” width
Weighs 64 lbs
375 lbs weight capacity
Paddle pork holds paddle while fishing
Removable stadium style seat comes with two positions for maximum adjustment and comfort
Storage console easily configured to mount fish finder electronics
Dual molded in Rod Holders for hands free fishing
3. Vibe Sea Ghost 110 — Best Vibe Kayaks for Bass fishing
The Vibe Sea Ghost 110 sit on Top Pro angler bass fishing kayak provides experienced and new anglers the best of stability and speed to maneuver tight, quarters, rivers and flat water easily.
This bass fighting kayak features ample storage and durable rotomolded high density polyethylene construction.
Because of its size, this kayak offers a unique mix of agility, speed and great stability.
It measures up to 11 feet long.
Built with adventurer and angler in mind, the Vibe Sea Ghost 110 Angler kayak features a wide, stable hull to withstand ocean’s surf and rapid rivers.
Features
Capacity is 1
11” length
62 lbs by weight
425 lbs weight capacity
Width: 33’
Dual position seat options for comfort.
20” front oval hatch.
Large center console provides huge storage space.
Two Flush mount Rod holders for hand-free fishing.
Integrated Rudder system for tracking.
Check out the 9 Best Fishing Kayak Under 700 USD dollars for 2020
4. Vibe Yellowfin 120 — Best Fishing Kayak under 750
The Vibe yellowfin 120 sit on top Angler fishing kayak package is a boat with complete accessories you need to navigate the waters upon delivery.
This kayak is vibe’s most ultra-stable and fastest fishing boat with a cockpit that provides an unrivaled comfort.
The Vibe Yellowfin 120 is an excellent match for speed, stability, stealth and feature-rich lightweight package for your fishing performance.
This lightweight fishing kayak boat offers you stability yet so sturdy without sacrificing speed.
It is an excellent companion for recreational and fishing purpose delivering unmatched rigging and storage options.
Features
Capacity: 1
33” by width
Length is 12”
Weigh 400 lbs capacity
65 lbs weight
Comes with a paddle
Two flush-mount rod holders
Ventilated, Adjustable seat for ultimate comfort during fishing
Molded-in console with cup holder for beverages and storing gear
Waterproof cargo space
Multiple storage options
This kayak is easily transportable to and from water with the four carry handles.
5. BKC TK122 — Best BKC UH Ultra-light Spinning Fishing Gear
The BKC TK122 Angler 12-foot, 8 inch Tandem 2 or 3 person sit on top coastal cruiser fishing kayak with upright Aluminium frame seats and paddles is the perfect size for one child and two adults for recreational adventure and boat fishing.
It has an impressive 770 pound weight capacity for extra gear without overloading the boat.
This tandem kayak is fully loaded with accessories such as 1 bungee cargo tie down, 2 adjustable aluminum paddles, 2 paddle parks, 4 built in rod holders, 2 ergonomic aluminum frame seats, and 2 water proof hatches.
With its 34 inch beam, the kayak is crafted to offer superb stability and balance in choppy waters or surf currents or in all sorts of conditions during fishing.
The BKC TK122 makes fishing enjoyable with great options even at a low budget under $1000.
Features
Capacity: 2
34” width
Length 12 foot 10” inch
77 lbs by weight
Weight capacity at 770 lbs
As a tandem boat it allows you to go fishing with extra one person
Four flush mounted rod holders for hand free fishing.
Bow and stern recessed storage areas.
Each seat has secure water tight storage hatch.
6. Sun Dolphin 12 SS — Best Fishing Kayak under $1000 2020
The Sun Dolphin Boss 12 SS fishing kayak is a comfortable, decent sit-on-top kayak built and designed for fishing.
This kayak has 2 large bungee wells and also two water tight storage hatches.
It is an affordable angling craft designed to hold huge weight and for anglers who prefer standing while kayaking.
The fishing kayak comes with high features such as adjustable footrests, comfortable seat, sturdier and wider.
Features
Easily adjustable foot braces.
Comes with dual position fold down seat for easy storage and comfort while kayaking
Front and rear storage areas
Capacity is 1
33” width
12 foot 3.5” length
A catamaran hull design attached to the bottom of the boat for maximum stability
78 lbs weight
Weight capacity is 500 lbs
7. Bonafide RS117- Best Fishing Kayak under $700
The Bonafide RS117 is a premium and affordable kayak designed for anglers looking for stability, performance, comfort and improved tracking.
It is a perfect and incredible fishing kayak for offshore, onshore, river or lake fishing.
Designed as an ultimate paddle craft, the Bonafide RS117 offers casual and everyday angler the comfort to sit low in the water and keeps it out of the wind.
The RS117 comes with many attributes like dry hatches for additional storage, storage wells for gear, and rod holders.
The ruddy mount helps you increase your speed on the water and oversized handles for easy transporting as well as side handles with rod and paddle storage
Features
Weight capacity: 425 lbs
Capacity: 1
Width 33.5”
Weight: 75 lbs
Length: 11 foot 7 inch
Molded-in cup holder
Dry hatch to store valuable items and keep them dry
2 hands- free fishing rod holders
Side handles with rod and paddle storage helps you give your arms a resting point.
8. Pelican Saber Angler Sit-on-top Fishing kayak 10 Feet Lightweight kayak — Best Fishing Kayaks under $800
The Pelican Saber 100 x Angler is a sit-on-top, lightweight fishing kayak designed for one person and perfect for fishing.
It is tailored specifically for those looking for upgrade features that answer the needs of fishermen for enjoyable experience.
With its multichine flat bottom bull built, it provides great stability, and it paddles and tracks well.
It has two storage areas and two rod holders also.
This kayak is compact and easy to carry, and provides handles for solo kayakers to maneuver to and from waters.
Its wide stable design makes for a safe and secure standing and casting for comfort and stability while fishing.
Features
Integrated tracks for additional accessories
Carrying handles at the sides, bow and stern
Easy to carry and lightweight
Four flush mount rod holders for hand free fishing.
Pocket at the back of the seat
A capacity of just one person
30.5” width
Weighs 50 lbs and weight capacity of up to 325 lbs
9. Old Town Topwater 106 — Best fishing Kayaker under $500
The Old Town Topwater 106 fishing kayak is a comfortable 10 feet 5 inch fishing kayak that is is easy to transport and maneuver on water for hand-free fishing performance.
It is stable for its size, not heavy and has a nice paddling as well as tracks well.
This fishing kayak offers you an ultra-stable DoubleU Hull with a combination of high-level performance and stability in a nimble, compact package.
It also provides efficient padded pedals for barefoot comfort and grip and with a handle carrying handle that makes toting the PDL drive a breeze.
With its 73 pounds, the Old town topwater 106 has a 440 pounds maximum weight capacity.
It foam desk pads provide you with comfort and traction and extra-large rear tank well and gear secured with elastic cords for additional storage.
Features
Capacity: 1
34.5” width
10 foot 6 inch length
440 lbs weight capacity
73 lbs weight
Experience maximum comfort with adjustable seat
Large tank well in the stern for gear storage
Three rod holders for hands-free fishing
10. Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 — Best sit in kayaks under $1000
The wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 is a sleek design sit on kayak providing you with speed and maneuverability and comes with variety of sizes.
The sizes range from 10 feet to 14 feet give wilderness systems tarpon 120 the agility on the water.
This kayak is excellent for fishing, photography or any hobby which requires a surplus gear.
It offers plenty of room for gear, solid performance and easy transport to and from the water.
The Tarpon is highly regarded for its long journeys consistent performance as a great fishing and touring sit on top kayak.
Wilderness systems kayaks are durable, well-built and easy to steer.
It comes with a rudder that helps you with stability and steering.
The Tarpon has multi-features such as adjustable seat and foot braces, two hatches, and a track system for optional accessories customization.
Features
Capacity: 1
Width: 30 inch
63 lbs by weight
12 foot 3 inches
Weight capacity: 350 lbs
Self-bailing
Adjustable seat for your comfort
Adjustable foot braces for your optimal comfort
Molded-in stern storage with elastic cords to secure its gear
Frequently Asked Questioned About the Best Fishing Kayaks under 1000What are BKC kayaks made?
The BKC Kayaks are manufactured in China. These BKC Kayak products are made of quality Hull material, high density polyethylene (HDPE) and contain UV protection.
What items do you need to go fishing?
Beginners often asked what items you need to go fishing. Here are the most important items for fishing.
Hooks
Fishing line
Fishing Rod
Bait
Bucket
Artificial lures
Fishing Boat
Fishing reel
Sinkers
Clippers
Bobber
Landing net
Tackle box
What is the best cheap fishing reel?
The 5 Best cheap fishing reels under $100 are:
Daiwa Exceler LT 6.2:1 Left/Right Hard spinning Reel
Abu Garcia REVO2X10 Revo X spinning fishing Reel
Okuma inspire carbon Lightweight spinning fishing Reel
Pflueger Supreme Spinning Reel
Pflueger PRESXTSP30X President XT Spinning Reel
What are the different types of fishing reels?
There are 3 types of fishing reels, these are
Baitcast
Spin cast, and
Spinning
They share the same fishing principle of casting a line into your desired location in the water.
Each of these types of fishing reels has its own features and specific function.
Which is better Intex Explorer or Intex challenger?
The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is 2.2 lbs lighter and smaller when folded than the intex challenger K2.
The intext Explorer K2 has carrying handles at the stern and bow and is easier to handle than challenge K2.
When compared, the Explorer K2 is more transportable inflatable kayak when inflated and folded than the intex challenger K2.
What is the hull weight of BKC UH FK285 fishing Kayak
BKC says the hull weight of the UH-FK285 is 44 lbs. It gives the BKC UH FK285 kayak the ideal weight to length ratio to provide stability and balance.
What are the best months for bass fishing?
Every season has opportunities for bass fishing and there are some challenges for catching bass.
Bass fishing is lively in the dead of winter on a mild afternoon, but spinning and fall are great for bass fishing.
Are Perception Pescador kayaks any good?
Perception pescador kayaks are extremely affordable and range from $500 to $800 in price.
Because of their unmatched stability, straight tracking performance and speech, perception pescador kayaks are a good option for beginners.
They provide attractive features that experienced paddlers love.
Are Lifetime Tamarack Angler Kayaks any good?
The Lifetime tamarack angler kayaks have a better comfortable paddled seat and adjustable foot rests with a good price points from $750 — $1000.
They are designed for extreme stability and safety for your fishing adventures and long paddling.
What are different fishing rods used for?
There are various types of fishing rods that are designed for specific types of fishing. These different fishing rods include.
Fly rods
Spinning rods
Bait casting rods
Ice fishing rods.
Each of these types of fishing rods has specific functions and features.
For example, Ice fishing rods are designed to fish within tiny holes in ice covered lakes.
Fly rods are used to cast artificial flies.
Bait casting rods are designed and used for lures or cast baits just like spinning rods.
Can you stand in a Lifetime Tamarack?
Yes, you can stand in a lifetime Tamarack kayak and fish comfortably because of its stability chine Rails.
The Lifetime Tamarack is designed as a sit-on-top kayak with a comfortable padded seat backrest for high performance fishing adventures as well as long paddling.
What months are the best for trout fishing?
The best months and the best time of year for trout fishing depend on many factors, but spring is a great time for trout to feed actively.
These trout are prime targets for flies, baits, and lures when they are actively feeding.
A sudden abundance of food and combination of rising temperatures make spring the best months to fish for trout.
Kayak Sit on Top vs Inside
Choosing a fishing kayak should depend on either two model types; sit on top kayak or sit-inside kayak
But what’s the difference?
Sit-inside kayak puts the angler (you) closer to the water and you’ll need a shorter paddle since the boat is narrower.
On the other hand, a sit-on-top kayak allows you to sit higher up and you need to use a longer paddle.
You may not use the same paddle if you own both types of fishing kayaks.
What is the advantage of a sit on top kayak?
The advantage of a sit on top kayak provides you with easy entry onto (into) the boat as well as self-rescue.
The sit on top kayaks also are sealed top and bottom completely.
It means you can flip your kayak and get it back into action by flipping it back upright and climb back on it.
How do you deflate an Explorer K2 Kayak?
Here is a video that shows you how to deflate an Explore K2 kayak.
The Explorer K2 is easy to deflate and store and is the best 2-man inflatable kayak.
Are expensive spinning reels worth it?
Yes, expensive spinning reels are worth it if you go for fishing a lot.
These expensive reels are generally reliable, smooth and stable.
The retrieve and drag will be smoother and it can last longer than less expensive spinning reels.
It also helps you catch more fish, so they are worth it if you have the budgets.
What is offshore fishing?
Offshore fishing also known as deep sea fishing is primarily any type of fishing on the waters beyond 9 miles from the shore line.
Deep sea fishing is roughly 20–30 miles far from land and in waters that are thousands of feet deep from the water surface.
What’s the difference between inshore and offshore fishing?
The difference between inshore and offshore fishing is considered based on water depth and location.
Offshore fishing is done in any deeper waters while any fishing in shallower waters is considered inshore.
This line is measured specifically when it is under or over 30 meter from the line in the sand.
How deep the water is where fishing turns from inshore to offshore as measured by the location and depth of water.
What is fishing boat called?
A ship or boat used to catch fish in sea, lake or river and is referred to as fishing vessel.
What are the types of fishing boats?
There are many different types of fishing boats designed for rivers, lakes, offshore, inshore fishing, ice waters, ocean, and inland waterways. And these different types of boats are classified into three categories or area as listed below:
Engine powered motorboats
Man-powered or unpowered boats such as kayaks, gondolas, rafts
Sail-propelled sailboats
Different types of Boats
Fishing boats
Deck boats
Dinghy boats
Catamaran boats
Bowrider boats
Carbin cruiser boats
Cuddy Eabins boats
Trawler boats
Center console boats
Houseboats
Can a Tandem Kayak be used by one person?Tandem kayaks
A tandem kayaks can be used by one person, such that the other person can continue paddling if one person gets tire.
Tandem Kayaks can be pricier than single models.
However, if you purchase two single kayaks, your budget would be more than a single tandem kayak.
Conclusion
These Best fishing kayaks under 1000 I’ve reviewed will definitely help you to narrow down the top 3 recommended picks and have the best selection for your fishing needs and adventure.
That’s the top 10 of our favorite and they are made of high quality and durable materials with adjustable draw weights and lengths shooting with great performance.
Culled from Bestsoft Nigeria: https://www.bestsoftnigeria.biz/blog/best-fishing-kayaks-under-1000/#ixzz6YsOM76gg
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footballleague0 · 7 years
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What makes Lions’ defensive end Ziggy Ansah a triple-threat pass-rusher
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Falcons’ defense has continued to make the big strides they showed in the second half of 2016, but their next opponent has shown a similar improvement on defense as well.
A relentless pass rush, and a ball-hawking mentality have become key traits of Dan Quinn’s defense in Atlanta, but they are also the same qualities that have helped the Detroit Lions jump out to a 2-0 start this season.
On Sunday, the Falcons’ offense will face the best defense they’ve seen this season.
The Lions are currently seventh in the NFL in yards allowed per game, giving up 289 yards through the first two weeks. They allow just 53.5 rushing yards per game, which is the fourth-fewest in the league, and they have six sacks thus far, including a five-sack performance against the New York Giants in Week 2.
Detroit’s secondary is a testament to how increased experience playing together can translate to on-field success. The Lions are tied for first with 17 passes defended this season and rank second with four interceptions.
While there may not be many household names on Detroit’s defense, this is a group that has played very solid football so far in 2017.
“Over the two games this year that I’ve seen, I’ve really seen their secondary tackling well,” Quinn said of the Lions’ defense. “That part really, it seems to me, has gotten stronger. More time in the system together as players, but the nickel has done a good job; the safeties can tackle well; they added Davis at linebacker, who I think is a good tackler. That part feels like they’re really playing fundamentally sound, defensively.”
There is one play, however, whose name should be known around the league: Ziggy Ansah. The Lions’ star pass-rusher has 35 sacks throughout his five years in the league, and he is coming off a three-sack performance against the Giants.
He will be a player to watch on Sunday, and he is the subject of this week’s After Further Review.
How the Lions use him
Detroit runs a base 4-3 defense, and through the first two weeks of the season, Ansah has played a majority of his snaps on the right side of the Lions’ formations. Of the 62 snaps he’s played this year, 56 have come on the right side of the defense, including the three that resulted in a sack against the Giants.
Assuming this usage ratio holds true against the Falcons, Ansah will primarily line up against left tackle Jake Matthews rather than Ty Sambrailo or Ryan Schraeder, if he’s passed through the league’s concussion protocol before Sunday’s game.
Matthews has faced Ansah once before in his career, when the Falcons and Lions played in London in 2014, and he’s familiar with what Detroit’s pass-rusher brings to the table.
“He’s very long and athletic,” Matthews said. “He’s not one-dimensional with his rushes. He’s got power moves; he’s got hand moves; he can beat you around the edge. He mixes it up really well, but we’re going to prepare and I feel confident going into it.”
Ansah has elite length
Ansah is 6-foot-5 and 275 pounds, but it’s his arm length that really stands out on film. According to his NFL Combine measurements, Ansah’s arm length is just over 35 inches. For the sake of comparison, Vic Beasley’s arm length is 32.5 inches.
When asked what he first noticed about Ansah, Quinn immediately mentioned that length.
“I’d say the first thing is the length,” Quinn said. “He’s a taller guy, but he has speed. So, he’s got really long arms where he can keep a tackle at bay. We’ve also seen him, you know he plays on both sides, he’s got an excellent motor and he can play – although he’s a bigger guy – he plays speed-wise like a smaller guy. Like a 240- or 50-pounder, but he’s quite a bit bigger than that. The speed and length, the arm length, are what jump out to me. He’s really a quick rusher.”
Ansah’s length was a factor in his first matchup against Matthews. In the play shown below, Ansah initially engages Matthews, but he’s still able to able to keep him at a slight distance with his arms.
The next two pictures are captured within just a split second of each other, demonstrating how quickly Ansah is able to use his length to keep an offensive lineman off-balance. Because of his long arms, Ansah makes offensive linemen shift their weight forward slightly to engage him. Once he’s ready to shed a block, he uses that shift against his opponent and can disengage in the blink of an eye.
Notice how it appears Matthews is lunging in that final picture. By coming straight at Matthews, Ansah forces him to apply equal pressure to stave off the bull rush. Once Matthew’s applies that pressure, Ansah sheds the block and sacks Matt Ryan.
“With a pass rush, you’ve just got to know who the tackle is and how he sets,” Ansah said following the Lions’ win on Monday night. “You’ve just got to set him up, and I was able to do one or two things that made me get to the quarterback.”
Ansah has great speed as well
It can be very difficult to block a pass-rusher who possesses great length and the speed to match. Beating a tackle to the edge and keeping him at a distance with long arms is a nice strategy when trying to get to the quarterback, and it’s one that Ansah employed effectively against the Giants on Monday.
On the play below, Ansah is able to use his speed and a savvy rip move to get past the opposing tackle.
By the time Eli Manning finishes dropping back, Ansah has covered 5 yards and has the offensive tackle in a compromised position. From here, he shows good flexibility to bend around and take Manning to the ground.
Ansah’s speed-length combination is what makes him so dangerous, but it’s also a combination that increases the effectiveness of his powerful bull rush.
How Ansah can translate length and speed to power
When facing a player who can get around the edge as effectively as Ansah, it can cause a tackle to focus on beating his defender to the angle of attack. In doing so, a lineman’s weight may shift backwards as he kicks and slides out to that angle.
Because of this, when Ansah charges directly at an offensive lineman instead of around him, he can catch his opponent off-balance and gain the leverage needed to drive him back into the quarterback.
Ansah demonstrated this move against the Giants in the play below. As the tackle is kick-sliding to prevent Ansah from gaining the edge, his legs are no longer in a very stable position and his center of gravity is off.
Ansah sees this and engages with the left tackle, transitioning his speed into power.
He then drives the offensive tackle backwards and towards Manning. As he approaches the quarterback, Ansah pushes the lineman off of him and takes Manning to the ground. As if to punctuate how strong Ansah can be, the Giants’ tackle continues to stumble backwards for several yards after he’s pushed away.
This speed, length and power triple-threat that Ansah possesses makes him a complete pass-rusher who is capable of the three-sack performance we saw on Monday night.
Both Falcons tackles must be ready
Although he’s primarily played on the right side of the formation, everyone on the Falcons’ offensive line has to be prepared for Ansah, especially the tackles.
If Schraeder doesn’t progress through the league’s concussion protocol in time for Sunday’s game, Sambrailo will make his first start for Atlanta. It’s not crazy to think the Lions would want to put their best pass-rusher up against a second-string tackle.
Sambrailo is confident that the Falcons’ style of practice will have him ready if he’s called upon on Sunday, however.
“The way we practice here is full-speed game reps every rep,” Sambrailo said. “So, going into last week, I knew if I had to go in, I was ready. Unfortunately, Ryan (Schraeder) got knocked out, and I had to step up and going in and play and I felt confident and ready just because of the way we prepare and the way we practice.”
While Matthews gave up one sack in his lone matchup against Ansah, he’s no longer the rookie he was in 2014. Come game time, he says the entire offensive line will be ready for whatever Detroit brings.
“They’re a good team. They’ve got a lot of depth, too,” Matthews said. “We’re going to be prepared. They’re obviously going to bring it, they’re playing at their place and we know it’s going to be loud. But, we’ll be ready to go.”
The post What makes Lions’ defensive end Ziggy Ansah a triple-threat pass-rusher appeared first on Daily Star Sports.
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giantsfootball0 · 7 years
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What makes Lions’ defensive end Ziggy Ansah a triple-threat pass-rusher
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Falcons’ defense has continued to make the big strides they showed in the second half of 2016, but their next opponent has shown a similar improvement on defense as well.
A relentless pass rush, and a ball-hawking mentality have become key traits of Dan Quinn’s defense in Atlanta, but they are also the same qualities that have helped the Detroit Lions jump out to a 2-0 start this season.
On Sunday, the Falcons’ offense will face the best defense they’ve seen this season.
The Lions are currently seventh in the NFL in yards allowed per game, giving up 289 yards through the first two weeks. They allow just 53.5 rushing yards per game, which is the fourth-fewest in the league, and they have six sacks thus far, including a five-sack performance against the New York Giants in Week 2.
Detroit’s secondary is a testament to how increased experience playing together can translate to on-field success. The Lions are tied for first with 17 passes defended this season and rank second with four interceptions.
While there may not be many household names on Detroit’s defense, this is a group that has played very solid football so far in 2017.
“Over the two games this year that I’ve seen, I’ve really seen their secondary tackling well,” Quinn said of the Lions’ defense. “That part really, it seems to me, has gotten stronger. More time in the system together as players, but the nickel has done a good job; the safeties can tackle well; they added Davis at linebacker, who I think is a good tackler. That part feels like they’re really playing fundamentally sound, defensively.”
There is one play, however, whose name should be known around the league: Ziggy Ansah. The Lions’ star pass-rusher has 35 sacks throughout his five years in the league, and he is coming off a three-sack performance against the Giants.
He will be a player to watch on Sunday, and he is the subject of this week’s After Further Review.
How the Lions use him
Detroit runs a base 4-3 defense, and through the first two weeks of the season, Ansah has played a majority of his snaps on the right side of the Lions’ formations. Of the 62 snaps he’s played this year, 56 have come on the right side of the defense, including the three that resulted in a sack against the Giants.
Assuming this usage ratio holds true against the Falcons, Ansah will primarily line up against left tackle Jake Matthews rather than Ty Sambrailo or Ryan Schraeder, if he’s passed through the league’s concussion protocol before Sunday’s game.
Matthews has faced Ansah once before in his career, when the Falcons and Lions played in London in 2014, and he’s familiar with what Detroit’s pass-rusher brings to the table.
“He’s very long and athletic,” Matthews said. “He’s not one-dimensional with his rushes. He’s got power moves; he’s got hand moves; he can beat you around the edge. He mixes it up really well, but we’re going to prepare and I feel confident going into it.”
Ansah has elite length
Ansah is 6-foot-5 and 275 pounds, but it’s his arm length that really stands out on film. According to his NFL Combine measurements, Ansah’s arm length is just over 35 inches. For the sake of comparison, Vic Beasley’s arm length is 32.5 inches.
When asked what he first noticed about Ansah, Quinn immediately mentioned that length.
“I’d say the first thing is the length,” Quinn said. “He’s a taller guy, but he has speed. So, he’s got really long arms where he can keep a tackle at bay. We’ve also seen him, you know he plays on both sides, he’s got an excellent motor and he can play – although he’s a bigger guy – he plays speed-wise like a smaller guy. Like a 240- or 50-pounder, but he’s quite a bit bigger than that. The speed and length, the arm length, are what jump out to me. He’s really a quick rusher.”
Ansah’s length was a factor in his first matchup against Matthews. In the play shown below, Ansah initially engages Matthews, but he’s still able to able to keep him at a slight distance with his arms.
The next two pictures are captured within just a split second of each other, demonstrating how quickly Ansah is able to use his length to keep an offensive lineman off-balance. Because of his long arms, Ansah makes offensive linemen shift their weight forward slightly to engage him. Once he’s ready to shed a block, he uses that shift against his opponent and can disengage in the blink of an eye.
Notice how it appears Matthews is lunging in that final picture. By coming straight at Matthews, Ansah forces him to apply equal pressure to stave off the bull rush. Once Matthew’s applies that pressure, Ansah sheds the block and sacks Matt Ryan.
“With a pass rush, you’ve just got to know who the tackle is and how he sets,” Ansah said following the Lions’ win on Monday night. “You’ve just got to set him up, and I was able to do one or two things that made me get to the quarterback.”
Ansah has great speed as well
It can be very difficult to block a pass-rusher who possesses great length and the speed to match. Beating a tackle to the edge and keeping him at a distance with long arms is a nice strategy when trying to get to the quarterback, and it’s one that Ansah employed effectively against the Giants on Monday.
On the play below, Ansah is able to use his speed and a savvy rip move to get past the opposing tackle.
By the time Eli Manning finishes dropping back, Ansah has covered 5 yards and has the offensive tackle in a compromised position. From here, he shows good flexibility to bend around and take Manning to the ground.
Ansah’s speed-length combination is what makes him so dangerous, but it’s also a combination that increases the effectiveness of his powerful bull rush.
How Ansah can translate length and speed to power
When facing a player who can get around the edge as effectively as Ansah, it can cause a tackle to focus on beating his defender to the angle of attack. In doing so, a lineman’s weight may shift backwards as he kicks and slides out to that angle.
Because of this, when Ansah charges directly at an offensive lineman instead of around him, he can catch his opponent off-balance and gain the leverage needed to drive him back into the quarterback.
Ansah demonstrated this move against the Giants in the play below. As the tackle is kick-sliding to prevent Ansah from gaining the edge, his legs are no longer in a very stable position and his center of gravity is off.
Ansah sees this and engages with the left tackle, transitioning his speed into power.
He then drives the offensive tackle backwards and towards Manning. As he approaches the quarterback, Ansah pushes the lineman off of him and takes Manning to the ground. As if to punctuate how strong Ansah can be, the Giants’ tackle continues to stumble backwards for several yards after he’s pushed away.
This speed, length and power triple-threat that Ansah possesses makes him a complete pass-rusher who is capable of the three-sack performance we saw on Monday night.
Both Falcons tackles must be ready
Although he’s primarily played on the right side of the formation, everyone on the Falcons’ offensive line has to be prepared for Ansah, especially the tackles.
If Schraeder doesn’t progress through the league’s concussion protocol in time for Sunday’s game, Sambrailo will make his first start for Atlanta. It’s not crazy to think the Lions would want to put their best pass-rusher up against a second-string tackle.
Sambrailo is confident that the Falcons’ style of practice will have him ready if he’s called upon on Sunday, however.
“The way we practice here is full-speed game reps every rep,” Sambrailo said. “So, going into last week, I knew if I had to go in, I was ready. Unfortunately, Ryan (Schraeder) got knocked out, and I had to step up and going in and play and I felt confident and ready just because of the way we prepare and the way we practice.”
While Matthews gave up one sack in his lone matchup against Ansah, he’s no longer the rookie he was in 2014. Come game time, he says the entire offensive line will be ready for whatever Detroit brings.
“They’re a good team. They’ve got a lot of depth, too,” Matthews said. “We’re going to be prepared. They’re obviously going to bring it, they’re playing at their place and we know it’s going to be loud. But, we’ll be ready to go.”
The post What makes Lions’ defensive end Ziggy Ansah a triple-threat pass-rusher appeared first on Daily Star Sports.
from https://dailystarsports.com/2017/09/21/what-makes-lions-defensive-end-ziggy-ansah-a-triple-threat-pass-rusher/ from https://dailystarsports.tumblr.com/post/165583343836
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buddyrabrahams · 7 years
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Top 10 NBA Rookie of the Year candidates
One year ago, who would have guessed the 2016-17 NBA Rookie of the Year would be awarded to Malcolm Brogdon?
The Bucks swingman had a nice career at Virginia, of course, but the odds were stacked against him. He was the 36th pick in the draft, and the award traditionally goes to a top pick. Additionally, Brogdon isn’t a flashy offensive player, and he doesn’t put up jaw-dropping numbers. He’s not a spotlight grabber. He’s more of a “glue guy.”
Brogdon’s charge to Rookie of the Year may have been the most surprising in NBA history — it was certainly the most unexpected in my lifetime.
As we look ahead to the upcoming NBA season, will we have another shocker this year? Or will Rookie of the Year go to a top pick, as it does most years?
Below are my top 10 candidates, as it stands today, to claim 2017-18 NBA Rookie of the Year. Just missing the cut: Josh Jackson, Caleb Swanigan, Bam Adebayo, and Luke Kennard.
10. Kyle Kuzma, Los Angeles Lakers
Kuzma surprised a lot of people in Vegas this summer. The No. 27 overall pick averaged 21.8 points and 6.4 rebounds per game, and he played with incredible efficiency. He shot 51.4 percent from the field and 48 percent (!) from deep. The 22-year-old forward from Utah was named the Summer League’s Finals MVP and second-team All-Summer League.
Though Kuzma was overshadowed by Lonzo Ball in Summer League and will continue to play in Ball’s shadow throughout this season, he’s looking like an early candidate for “Steal of the Draft.” Additionally, the two look like they may form a dynamic young duo for the Lake Show. Ball and Kuzma ran the floor well together, and Kuzma’s ability to stretch the floor made him a weapon even when he didn’t touch the ball.
The 6-foot-9 Kuzma is also versatile on defense; early indications are that he can switch most positions on the floor. Though the Lakers are a bit log-jammed on the wing (with Brandon Ingram, Luol Deng and Corey Brewer), Kuzma in Summer League looked like a guy who will get minutes for Los Angeles.
9. John Collins, Atlanta Hawks
The 19th overall pick improved tremendously from his freshman to sophomore years at Wake Forest, and he stood out in Vegas.
During Summer League he averaged 15.4 points and 9.2 rebounds — but get this: he did it in 23 minutes per game. Those are some impressive numbers. Lonzo Ball averaged 32.5 minutes per game and Jayson Tatum got 32.0. Think about the gaudy stats Collins could have put up if he had played 10 more minutes a game.
In addition to his impressive all-around showing, Collins absolutely posterized New Orleans’ Cheick Diallo and Keith Benson. He put the internet on alert: pay attention to Collins this year, because he might blow up Twitter.
Also helping Collins’ candidacy for ROY: he’ll have an opportunity to play in Atlanta. The Hawks traded Dwight Howard and let Paul Millsap leave for Utah as a free agent. There might even be an opportunity for Collins to start, depending on how the Hawks plan to utilize their weak 3 spot.
8. Markelle Fultz, Philadelphia 76ers
Though you can’t blame Fultz for missing much of Summer League due to a sprained ankle, it was a little scary to see yet another 76ers top pick miss time with a lower leg injury. With that being said, shutting him down seemed like a precaution, and we have no reason to believe he’ll miss time this year.
The pendulum on Fultz has swung quite a bit this offseason: first he was the consensus No. 1 (he’s the next great!), then the Celtics traded the pick and everyone wondered why they didn’t want Fultz (something must be wrong with him, it’s his jump shot!), and now popular opinion seems to be somewhere in the middle.
Fultz is a shifty athlete reminiscent of James Harden, and he has a similarly zoned-out mentality, which has caused some analysts to nitpick at his game.
The reality is that Fultz was picked first in a loaded draft for a reason. He’s going to be great, and he fits beautifully with Philadelphia’s roster. Though he might not post head-turning numbers now that he’s surrounded by other competent players, Fultz should be an immediate contributor.
7. De’Aaron Fox, Sacramento Kings
Fox is another guy who’s seen his stock go up and down this summer. The No. 5 overall pick had an OK Summer League — not great but not terrible. A few times he showed the impressive burst that we watched with amazement during his year at Kentucky. He had five steals in his first game.
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In Vegas, Fox averaged 11.8 points, three assists, and 2.3 rebounds in 21.3 minutes per game. He shot only 1-for-8 from three-point range, but that’s a limited sample size, and we already knew outside shooting wasn’t the biggest strength of Fox’s game.
What people love most about Fox, besides his freakish speed and fearless game at the rim, is his fire. He cried in the locker room after UNC eliminated Kentucky from the NCAA Tournament. In a day and age when many guys want to look cool on the court, Fox brings the passion.
That’s why so many have compared him to Russell Westbrook. Like Westbrook, it might take Fox a year or two to figure out his game as he adjusts to the NBA.
6. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
Is Jayson Tatum Paul Pierce 2.0? It might be too early to make such a bold declaration, but the guy has an incredible offensive repertoire that is certainly reminiscent of “The Truth.” Though Tatum’s defensive abilities will probably always leave something to be desired, he was excellent offensively in Summer League.
Tatum, a 6-foot-8 forward, averaged 18.7 points and 9.7 rebounds per game. He had eight turnovers in three games, and his plus-minus was -20, but all in all Tatum played wonderfully, and he gave Celtics fans plenty of reason to be excited.
With the clock winding down and his team trailing by one, Tatum went off the dribble and hit the game-winner in his debut.
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Though he’s an explosive athlete, Tatum has an old-man game around the basket; he really knows how to maneuver his body and create open lanes. And though his shot wasn’t really falling in Summer League, Tatum is a reliable scorer. Given the Celtics’ depth chart, it seems likelier that Tatum will break out down the stretch this year (like Jaylen Brown last season) or in his second year.
See Nos. 5-1 on Page 2
5. Malik Monk, Charlotte Hornets
I think Monk is still mad he didn’t get picked until No. 11. In the fall, back when he was dropping 47 on the eventual national champions, he was looked at as a can’t-miss top-five pick, and it’s hard to comprehend how scouts’ opinion on him shifted so heavily during the pre-draft process.
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Though this year’s ROY (Brogdon) got there with defense, leadership, and a balanced game, the award typically goes to a guy who can hang big offensive numbers. Have a look at the last nine rookies of the year before Brogdon:
2015-16 Karl-Anthony Towns 2014-15 Andrew Wiggins 2013-14 Michael Carter-Williams 2012-13 Damian Lillard 2011-12 Kyrie Irving 2010-11 Blake Griffin 2009-10 Tyreke Evans 2008-09 Derrick Rose 2007-08 Kevin Durant
Those are all offense-minded guys who love to get buckets. Monk fits that mold. The five-star recruit from Arkansas averaged 19.8 points per game in his lone year at Kentucky. He shot 40 percent from downtown and attempted 6.9 threes a game.
Though I’m not fully convinced of his fit in Charlotte, Monk will likely hang some big numbers this year. Don’t be surprised if he goes on a vendetta to stick it to the NBA and average 17 a game.
4. Donovan Mitchell, Utah Jazz
In the week leading up to the draft, several NBA insiders told me Mitchell was the player who was being most slept-on. The 20-year-old from New Hampshire, who played two years for Rick Pitino at Louisville, went 13th overall.
He’s another guy who improved tremendously during his two years in college and benefitted from the decision to come back to school. He improved his per-game averages for points (from 7.4 to 15.6), assists (1.7 to 2.7), and rebounds (3.4 to 4.9). Additionally, he shot an impressive 35.4 percent from beyond the arc.
There are a few things in particular about Mitchell that have enticed NBA personnel. One is his unusual maturity. Another is his off-the-dribble shooting and skill in the pick-and-roll. And then there’s his 6-foot-10 wingspan.
That’s right. The 6-foot-1 guard has a 6-foot-10 wingspan.
Mitchell played in only two games but led the Summer League in average scoring with 28.0 points per game. He should be a valuable addition to Utah’s fascinating backcourt of Ricky Rubio, Dante Exum, and Rodney Hood.
3. Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers
Simmons is the curveball of this group. He didn’t play in Summer League this year, and we still don’t really know what kind of player he’ll turn into. Remember, at one time he was touted as the next LeBron James.
Simmons recently turned 21, and though we haven’t seen him in a regular season game yet (he missed the season due to a foot injury), hopes for him remain high. There’s even a rumor that Simmons has grown 2 inches since he was drafted and now stands just under 7 feet tall.
Simmons presents an intriguing all-around skillset. During his tumultuous year at LSU — which I think we can all now say was not the right place for him — Simmons filled up the stat sheet, averaging 19.2 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists.
Simmons is a world-class caliber basketball player and potential All-NBA guy. Basketball fans are hoping he stays healthy this year, because it should be plain fun to watch him play.
2. Lonzo Ball, Los Angeles Lakers
Ball, the No. 2 pick in the draft, is the favorite to take the rookie crown, and he showed why in Vegas. The former UCLA Bruin was named Summer League MVP and he posted impressive numbers, averaging 16.3 points, 9.3 assists, 7.7 rebounds, 2.5 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game.
His showing in Vegas was a message to the sports world: now we can stop talking about his dad and just focus on how great this kid is going to be. (OK, maybe we’ll keep talking about his dad, too.)
Lonzo has sky-high potential. He makes everyone on his team better. His outlet passes are so beautiful they might make a tear run down your cheek. And though there are concerns about his effort (“he just wants to look cool too badly”), Ball has enough talent to eclipse any emotional shortcomings, be they real or perceived.
And here’s something to consider: Magic Johnson, who’s known to value competitiveness above all else, loves Ball. He looks at him as the future of the organization. He’s given the reins of his team to the 19-year-old. And based on what we’ve seen to date, the young Big Baller seems up to the task.
1. Dennis Smith Jr., Dallas Mavericks
John Collins had the best dunk of Summer League, but Smith had the best almost dunk. Feast your eyes on the near devastation:
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Smith had some moments at NC State, such as the Wolfpack’s win over Duke at Cameron Indoor Stadium, in which he posted 32 points, when he looked like the best player in the draft. Smith was named Atlantic Coast Conference Rookie of the Year and second-team All-ACC.
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Averaging 18.1 points per game as a freshman in the ACC is quite an accomplishment. He even set the conference’s career triple double record.
So, why’d he fall? For one, he has a torn ACL in his past. Secondly, some had concerns about his defensive effort and ball-dominant playing style.
The assumption heading into the draft was: if Smith ends up with a team that’s the right fit, he could far outplay his draft position. And it seems like he will, as Dallas, which needed an explosive scorer, appears perfectly suited for Smith.
If the Mavs unleash the young guard and just let him be himself, Smith — the ninth pick in the draft — could very well lead all rookies in scoring.
Bettors are counting on it. Smith has the second-highest odds of taking ROY, per Oddshark, and he’s my early favorite.
Aaron Mansfield is a freelance sports writer. His work has appeared in Complex, USA Today, and the New York Times. You can reach him via email at [email protected].
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