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Sports Last Updated: Aug 2, 2007 - 1:52:20 PM


100 Top Sports Writers Pick the Most Underrated Players in the NFL
By Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey
Aug 2, 2007 - 10:04:14 AM

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Are you ready for some football? You bet'cha! As the days get a little shorter and the season gets going, every football fan is anticipating the kick-off of another season. This year, to get in the spirit of things, Tullamore Dew Irish whiskey presents its second annual football poll.

"We want to make sure that every man on the field 'gets his Dew,'" says Brand Manager Jim Brennan, "so we've polled 100 sportswriters and broadcasters across the country to get their take on who are the most underrated players in the NFL. These are the guys who play hard every game but don't get the glory of the gridiron stars. It's time for them to get a nod from the fans."

Here are the results from the second annual Tullamore Dew Survey:

1. Marvin Harrison: Currently with the Colts, this ten season veteran is statistically the most consistent receiver around. His resume includes 8 Pro Bowls and a ton of NFL records. He has a reputation as a work horse and does not celebrate or spike the ball after a touchdown; he's known more for his on-field performance than off-field "performances". His celebratory seriousness may be a reason for the lack of endorsements. C'mon Wheaties -- show him the money!

2. Trent Green: Over the years he has been with five teams, moving notably from the Canadian league to the Chiefs, then to the Dolphins. Usually playing backup to "bigger" media prized quarterbacks, this 13 year veteran has been to two Pro Bowls and has proved his worth on the field if not in the press. He has thrown for over 3,000 yards six different seasons and has incredibly three times thrown for over 4,000 yards.

3. Mack Strong: With two Pro Bowls to his resume, this loyal fullback has been with the Seahawks his entire thirteen year career. At 6'0 ft, 245 lbs. he has blocked for three different 1,000 yard plus rushers, an impressive stat. While his position typically doesn't get the handoff love of a QB, he is well known among the best blocking backs in the NFL. With a name like Mack Strong, could you expect anything less?

4. Brian Westbrook: Although small for a running back, this Philadelphia Eagle is no miniature talent. He's fast, productive statistically and has give-it-all style. In early 2007 he raised the bar setting a career-postseason rushing record, rushing for 141 yards on 20 carries against the Giants, including a 49 yard touchdown. He also led his team with 77 receptions with 699 receiving yards and 11 total touchdowns. If he continues this streak in the coming season, and can avoid any injuries, we are confident in betting we won't find him on this list again next year.

5. Frank Gore: A relative NFL newbie, this San Francisco 49ers running back emerged as one of the best in the league. In 2006 he carried the ball 312 times for a franchise record 1,695 yards, and became the first member of his team to lead the NFC in rushing yards. He also set a franchise record with 2,180 combined, placing him second in the NFC and fourth overall in the NFL. And those are just a few of his more impressive stats -- the guy seems to be making a hobby out of record breaking and was even named NFC Offensive Player of the Week twice the same year, as well as being named the starting running back to the NFC Pro Bowl team.

Looking at the total results, Tullamore Dew found that certain teams had more underrated players than others. Those with the most included the Colts, the Patriots and the Dolphins, all considered great teams. Ostensibly, the reason for this is that better teams work as a whole unit, not carried by one or two star players. Upon closer inspection:

  -- The Colts = Current Super Bowl Champions
-- The Patriots = Three Super Bowls in four years (2001-2004)
-- The Dolphins = A winning team, but an administrative revolving door and
injuries to starters have caused momentary setbacks.



© Copyright 2007 by ItsaSurvey.com

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