Bay Area Buzz 10/20: This Could Be Sharks’ Year, Brock’s Improbable Rise, More is Needed from Moore
By FanSided
Oct 17, 2013; Dallas, TX, USA; San Jose Sharks left wing Matt Nieto (83) and defenseman Matt Irwin (52) celebrate the goal by Nieto against Dallas Stars goalie Dan Ellis (not pictured) during the first period at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
"The San Jose Sharks have the roster make up of a Stanley Cup Champion. They have for several years now. What’s stood in the way of hoisting The Cup over the last 10 years is the great mystery, but through the first eight games of the 2013 season you have to wonder if it isn’t too early to start thinking this is the year.Sure, San Jose had approximately 732 power play opportunities in their 6-3 victory over the Calgary Flames. And yeah, they allowed three goals, including two late giving their fans reason to pucker. But they got even more production from their roster mainstays: a goal and an assist from Patrick Marleau, two helpers from Joe Thornton, an assist and an empty netter from Logan Couture and (ho-hum) two goals and two assists from Joe Pavelski.Four points from their third line center. The Sharks have some serious depth.– Kyle McLorg, Bay Area Sports Guy"
"The 49ers were the only team that offered Brock a contract – he was given a near-laughable $500 signing bonus – and he spent his first three NFL seasons in relative anonymity, carving out a role as a key contributor on special teams.In 2013, however, Brock, 25, has elevated from bit player to big contributor for a defense that ranks sixth in the NFL in passing yards allowed and is tied for seventh in interceptions. Two weeks ago, Brock officially wrested the No. 3 cornerback job from former All-Pro Nnamdi Asomugha, 32, with a two-interception, one-touchdown performance in a win against the Texans that earned him NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors.– Eric Branch, San Francisco Chronicle"
Raiders Expect More from Moore
"Sio Moore believes he’s an every-down linebacker. The Raiders project him as one. Just not now.Moore subs out during the nickel package, leaving him out during most passing downs. His snap count varies wildly from week to week, from the majority to a precious few.The third-round pick can consequently count pass-rush opportunities on two hands, which has been strange for a player with 14.5 sacks his last two seasons at Connecticut. It was the case on Sunday against Kansas City, but Moore made the most of his opportunities.– Scott Bair, CSN Bay Area"