Coming from a player who has been blessed to play at the collegiate level, this is one AMAZING analysis of Dalvin. It has me so hyped for this upcoming Viking season - breaking down the film for Cook, allows me to appreciate his game even more, as well as Latavius'. You sir, are doing EXTRAORDINARY work and I hope that you are able to either continue producing these film sessions or are awarded a job as a Offensive/Defensive Coordinator at a fair level (if that is what you want!)... OR BOTH! Great job, hats off to you.
Dalvin Cook was unappreciated!!!!! That's the sad thing of it all!!!!! My two favorite FLORIDA STATE!!!! Running back's!!!!!! Warrick Dunn & Dalvin Cook!!!!!
I was a big fan of Dalvin Cook when he was at Florida State. I felt he was worth a 1st round pick at the time. Glad he found a way to stay healthy this year bc he is special when healthy. Love your videos Brett 💯
I am really happy with the content that you put out man. For the longest time I have never understood football and all it's little intricacies but it was only when i found your channel did I actually learn a little about the sport and it really did spark my interest. I could wait months on end for a detailed breakdown of yours because they are always so thorough and teach me the xs and os of the game that i had never really thought of so thanks for that! Keep up the good work
Really, NFL front offices should be lining up to hire you. Cogent and in-depth gems everywhere - even when I disagree. A change of pace question: What is your take on Jimmy Garoppolo? A system guy like Cassel - or a legitimate potential franchise QB? I am tending toward the latter, but the small sample bias issue obviously mucks up things. Still, I am allergic to inappropriate analogies, and I think the Cassel analogy is nonsense. Cassel was never highly regarded before his Brady fill-in season (he wasn't even a college starter!), never demonstrated the same type of tools Garappolo did, and ran a very condensed system where he had very limited ability to improvise and ran simple reads. Above all, his numbers, while decent, were not remotely as good as Garappolo's - albeit keeping Garoppolo's small sampling issue in mind.
If I'm an NFL team Im not touching Garoppolo Im far from sold on him and the presumptive price tag is WAY too prohibitively high to take that kind of gamble on him. At his price you can't have any shadow of a doubt about him I'd much rather bet less on someone like Mike Glennon
I hope Gettleman watched this... Him, and Stewart together with Cam could be magic... yet another fantastic job, glad to have you back doing your thing man!
Jordan Bookhart absolutely. He is the speed/receiving back they need. Put in Stewart for pass protection and swing it to cook. Stewart is more of a fb anyway.
Jordan Bookhart Fournette would be more of a system fit imo. In fact, if Fournette is off the board at 8 and I'm Gettleman, I'm taking OJ Howard or John Ross. The Panthers desperately need another receiving threat because none of the wide receivers can get separation. Fournette would open up the play action game allowing receivers to get open and a speed threat/receiving mismatch would relieve pressure of Cam.
Stumbled onto your channel a few weeks ago. Love your breakdowns on players! It is one thing to read about it, its way better to actually see it. Keep it up! -your new subscriber
Hmm, Ive always given Fournette the nod, but Cooks catching ability and illusiveness is elite. You can't go wrong with either, depends on the type of offense you have.
Watching this again after week 1... love your breakdown. Seems like the Vikes got a steal and Latavius on paper is a perfect compliment that can get short yardage and pass block. Cook looks like he bulked up some and looks like he has totally been coached up on pass blocking to keep his pad level square and keep a strong base rather than lowering one shoulder and missing the guy. Makes me wonder a little on which skills are most coachable or can be developed. And when is a skill one player learns that another doesn't reflective of the coach vs the learning ability of the player. I'm excited to see what the Vikings have in store for Dalvin next... hope to see him in the open field catching passes.
Stuck Inside of Mobile it will be fun to see Bradford use him as a checkdown or swing pass often... sort of like how McNabb leaned on Westbrook to bail him out in Phili.
To me Cook is taller, faster, Devonta Freeman. The taller part is a negative, faster is an obvious positive. Completely agree with your analysis as far as how to use him, but completely disagree with the general consensus that a guy with that specific skill set is worth a mid-high 1st round pick. I mean unless he has legitimate game breaking speed that I don't know about, like sub-4.4 type speed, but I don't think Dalvin is there, probably more like high 4.4s at best. RBs are just so ridiculously interchangeable these days.
I think Cook (despite a limited skill set) is still an amazing pick for a team with an already promising offense that needs a better running game. Teams like the Eagles, Packers, and Colts would hugely benefit from a running back who can open up their offense.
TWitWoW I can't even begin to describe how wrong you are. A taller, faster, Freeman? That's honestly one of the worst, laziest comparisons I've seen yet. Their skill sets are completely different. If anything, as Kollman touched on, Cook is more similar to Freemans running mate in ATL (who they drafted because of how different he is than Freeman) but even that's a stretch. I could go on and on about why they're so different, but for absolute basic starters, Freeman is a one-cut zone RB ALL THE WAY. If Freeman were to not play in Shanahans Zone offense I really dont think he'd crack 600 yards. This isnt a knock on him because he excels so well in ATL but he is a system RB that can catch well. Dalvin can kill it in a zone or a more traditional single back/2 back power scheme (As Kollman also mentioned). And the part about "Dalvin is taller but in a worse way" was purely laughable. Dalvin is taller but not to where it's remotely considered a negative. He's not a "tall" running back at 5'11 and certainly not labeled as a tall runner who runs high. Dalvin has a very low center of gravity and often low tackles result in him pulling away after catching his balance. As someone who watched both AVIDLY throughout their college career, trust me when I say Cook is on a completely different level. In fact before Freeman declared 2 things: 1) I wasn't sure he would do well at the next level 2) I wasn't worried about missing him much at all. Fast forward 3 years and I think Cook is not only going to be a top 3 RB in the NFL but he's the best running back I've ever witnessed at FSU. Our offense is going to change DRASTICALLY without Cook. **One more terrible point in your analysis: Cook's "specific skill set" is that he's an all around, every down running back. He also can catch extremely well (either out of the backfield or out wide) something very rare for a 3-down back. Dummies who think non-powerbacks are gimmicky crack me up. Truly. Prime Lesean Mccoy and Jamaal Charles, 2 of the best backs of the last 10 years are thinner and less powerful than Cook. But yet they had zero trouble torching defenses on a weekly basis. I recommend you watch some film or more college tape before making asinine comparisons on the internet or you'll get blasted every time.
Jimbo said everthing but the only negative cook has is when he is playing in a goal line situations were 1 or 2 yards is need so if that's the case all those things jimbo said which were positive comparable to negative if you had leornoerd of the board who else will you go with
I think you are spot on in your analysis of Cook. Based on the limited times that I have watched him play, I can confirm your assertions concerning his play style. I think too that because of his limited style and the amount of use he got at FSU, that contributed to his history of being nicked up a bit. I wonder if injuries will play a part in his pro career. Yea I heard McDowell takes a lot of plays off. I want to see what you think about his motor in the upcoming video. Looking forward to it.
Wow a Yankee who understands football like a Southerner! You far surpass my technical knowledge outside the box, & I enjoy being schooled. Keep these coming. PS...The way Alabama kept using Hurt, I reckoned they would do better going back to a Bear Bryant wishbone, since nobody has any option stopping defensive sets anymore like the multi 52 or the pro 43.
I've watched tons of Cook lately and here are my thoughts: Speed (A-): Regularly demonstrates ability to outrun defenders in the open field. Regularly demonstrates ability to both get to corner and head downfield. Rarely caught from behind while running at a dead sprint. Can occasionally defeat second and third level defenders who take good angles. Top speed is very good-to-excellent, albeit not in the class as a Jamaal Charles or Chris Johnson, and should translate well to the NFL. Ran an official 4.49 at the combine but appears faster on film. Acceleration/Burst (A-): Acceleration to top speed is extremely quick. Requires almost no "build-up" to top speed. Burst through offensive line is very good. Agility/Balance (B/A-): Regularly demonstrates very good agility via jump cuts and dead-leg cuts. Capable of stringing together multiple moves at LoS to evade tacklers. Not a true "waterbug" in the Darren Sproles or LeSean McCoy mold, however. Regularly defeats defenders one-on-one in the open field. Utilizes jab steps and changes run tempo to draw in pursuing defenders and accelerate past them. Regularly demonstrates good-to-very good cuts. Balance is outstanding; maintains balance through glancing contact and arm wraps. Almost always has feet "under him". Occasionally tripped up while attempting multiple, sequential moves (1x/game). Vision (A): Displays excellent vision. Regularly demonstrates high-level ability to identify running lanes and cutback lanes. Excels at setting up second level defenders with subtle moves at LoS. Demonstrated ability to succeed in pistol, shotgun and I-formation. Most dangerous when presented with perimeter options and given the opportunity to dictate defensive flow. Power/Toughness/Mentality (C/B/A): More "tough" than powerful. Not a natural pile-pusher in short yardage. Will run through most arm wraps but forward momentum is typically stopped when he is engulfed by a larger defender. Leg drive is minimal. Ability to push piles improves dramatically if given two or three steps to create forward momentum. Will be highly dependent on whether playing weight is closer to 200-lb or 210-215-lb. Utilizes an effective stiff-arm. Does demonstrate regular ability to fall forward at end of runs. Regularly demonstrates a clear "downhill" running mentality, instead of relying on speed to bounce outside. Several examples of Cook correctly diagnosing how cutting downhill for a 3-yard gain would be preferable to bouncing outside for a likely 1-yard loss. Very good at re-setting pads to point downhill when knocked off course. Not afraid to run between the tackles; pad level is good but could improve. Does not typically shy away from contact, but does not invite contact, either. Open Field Running (A): Dangerous open field runner. Not a true "ankle-breaker" but excels at creating bad angles for pursuing defenders. Can cut multiple times in one sequence. Receiving/Pass Protection (A/C): Excellent receiver with the speed to run deeper routes. Reliable as dump-off receiver out of the backfield. Hands are typically very good, albeit prone to random bouts of concentration drops. Pass protection is average but could be improved. Demonstrates ability to correctly diagnose blitzing defenders, however technique needs improvement to succeed in the NFL. Too often dives at defenders' feet or "throws" body at them instead of anchoring and driving. Appears to have the upper body strength to successfully engage larger defenders. NFL Transition (B+/A-): Dalvin Cook exhibits several outstanding traits that transition well to the NFL. His speed, agility, vision and balance are all above-average, even by NFL standards. The biggest impediment to his transition is his size/power; At 210-lb with moderate power, he will likely not be called upon to "carry the load" in the way that a Jay Ajayi or David Johnson could. The ideal role/workload for him is as the primary rusher in a two-back committee, with moderate-to-heavy receiving duties; 240-250 rushes and 40-50 receptions. He would work well in tandem with a larger back who can thrive in short-yardage and clock-burning situations. 300 rushes is overuse for a back of his size. Improvements in pass protection technique will ensure more playing time. NFL comps: 1) A bigger Devonta Freeman, with more power, better speed, but worse agility. 2) A bigger Steve Slaton 3) A bigger Jamaal Charles, with better power, but worse long speed and worse agility. (Note: It is difficult to find a direct comp since most NFL backs at his height are 215-220-lb (instead of 210-lb), and most NFL backs at his weight are 5'8" (instead of 5'11")).
Someone needs to do a good breakdown on what really makes a good pass blocking RB. You highlighted weight and body size. Which is the most obvious answer but I know from personal experience of watching Marshal Faulk who mayyyybe at his heaviest was 210 be an absolutely elite pass blocker. So willingness and technique have got to play a big part in it. I just don't know what that technique is.
John P Moe Williams was one of the best pass blocking RBs I've seen in my life. He would just light up blitzing Linebackers and drop them. It was incredible.
I have been a Dalvin cook since Scott Lake optimist. yeah I said Scott Lake optimist period but I subscribe to your channel by listening to your miles Garrett vs Kam Chancellor video
hey buddy work really enjoy your site but the how come you're not throwing Joe Mixon in and it works I mean you got the other top running backs when we do a little comparison thanks again I love the way you break it down
I'm a little late to ask, but I'm a huge Buckeye fan (since I go there lol) so I would love to see something like this for Zeke elliiott spanning his college and some of his pros, or one or the other.
I wish you would have touched a bit on his fumbling issues. Fournette had better hands. I realize that Cook and Fournette are two completely different backs. If I had to start a team with one though I'd go Fournette. I know both have injuries, ankles (Fournette) and shoulder (Cook), there's also the off field issues that are surrounding cook at the moment. This could potentially make his draft stock fall. I'm with you on wanting to know who drafts him though. They will get a great player regardless.
Off the field issues may immediately eliminate him from image conscious teams like Carolina even when they're in need of an RB. Fumbling is going to lower his draft stock across the board. I'd have liked to hear that discussed as well. I also want to see a video on McCaffrey and get Brett's take on the comparisons. McCaffrey, like Cook, is extremely versatile. Most people are also saying he's pro-ready. The general consensus I've heard is that read wise McCaffrey and Cook are more pro-ready than Fournette, but of course he has the power and build they lack.
I was disappointed that the Packers didn't get him and he went to MN, but we had a bigger need at CB and I think King will be really good for us. Can you pls do a Ty Montgomery video?
Gd breakdown. I'm thinking Reggie Bush as a perfect comp. On point? By this vid, I'd project Latavius Murray as the lead (health permitting) if not a committee. I'd love to see Cook in gadget plays including him positioned out wide. #SweetFeet!
rewatching this video before my draft trying to decide between cook and hunt. as of now I'm leaning towards hunt only because he will have more opportunities whereas cook has murray to vulture his tds. lets see what happens cook is definitely more talented judging by film
The Panthers love versatility, that's for sure. If they can get more consistent OL play, I see a player like Dalvin bursting onto the scene in all sorts of ways. Of course, they wouldn't select him unless they see the potential to get some pass protection out of him. Honestly, regardless of who "my team" selects this draft is going to be pretty exciting.
I get the impression the Panthers are bigger on Fournette. That said, one of Stanford's offensive coaches in now a Panther, so if they do want versatility don't be surprised to see them trade down and nab McCaffrey. Assuming all the draft projections hold true and have McCaffrey going later than Fournette and Cook. Also assuming that they're impressed by him at combine. There is a lot still up in the air.
i know qb videos take a substantial amount of time but I'd love for you to breakdown a couple of potential texans before the draft if possible. specifically tell us if patrick mahomes or deshaun watson are worth a spit thanks for the vids!!
Hi Brett, really enjoying the content, please keep up the good work. I don't wish to sound like a prude but why did you have a hiatus? Hope all is well.
Honestly his performance in the Orange Bowl completely sold me on him hes the clear cut number one player I want for my team in the draft (Eagles fan here)
I know you don't do mock drafts do you think that McDowell could possibly fall to the Cowboys just because he is not in the SEC? I could also see the Bucs trading up for Cook or Fournette.. I don't believe they will have Martin next year..
Game breaking speed should not be solely defined by a 40yd dash time. How many times has Cook broke into the open and scored on a long TD run?.....Exactly, the man has game breaking speed.
To be honest 7 years later he’s the same player you described in this video. Even with Rodgers out i feel the jets dint call the right run plays for cook. And he’s better with a fb blocking
Amazing vision. He's a better receiver and can take a handoff from the shotgun and in the zone read far better than AP. Pass protection can be taught, but Cook's other attributes are instinctual. I'm far more worried about his fumbling and durability, which were AP's downfalls. I love the fact that Cook had some of his best games in big games. AP was a fumbler in big games. I think Cook is and will be better than Fournette. Fournette won't last long in the NFL if takes on tacklers like he did in college.
Skunkdog Gro They drafted a pretty good G/C Elflein, a Miami G later, and signed 2 new tackles, which should be a clear upgrade from last year's mess. There may be only 1 starter (Berger) from 2016 that will be a starter in 2017.
The differences between them are few. Leonard is bigger thus running people over. But that style won't last forever as his career can be shortened with a lot of contact over and over. So if he can become more elusive he'll be great. Cook already elusive isn't afraid to stick his nose in and go head up. But that's not wat he does. He's a better zone run RB due to his speed and his ability to change direction on a dime. He has deceptive speed as his 40 time was 4.5 but ok tape looks way faster. His start and stop are great and in open space both are rarely caught and hardly ever brought down. I think Cooks ability to catch, make people miss, start and stop, and ability to run in any offense separates him from Leonard by an inch. I think Leonard will have the better first start of his career but long term Cook will be better as he brings more to the table.
