Michael Vick is the Shaquille O'Neal of the NFL. I know you want to ask me how in the world can I say that? The differences between the two are mighty, and I acknowledge that. Instead of wasting our time on that, let me tell you why I feel they are the same.
When Shaq came into the NBA he was a force of nature not seen since Wilt Chamberlain. He was an athletic monster, unguardable due to his size and stature. He bulled through opposing centers and made it difficult for referees to officiate him. It seemed like because he was so big, defenders would grab, punch, and slap Shaq hard as they possibly could. They would be flagrant fouls, but the refs wouldn't call it for Shaq.
Fouls that if they would have happened to David Robinson, Patrick Ewing, or Hakeem Olajuwon may have been called a flagrant. He would respond by putting his shoulder into the defenders chest and refs would call offensive fouls. He tried to respond, but due to his size and the way he played he was unfairly punished by the officials.
Michael Vick came into the NFL as a force of nature not seen maybe ever. He had all-world speed with a cannon for an arm. He came into the league as a run first, pass second quarterback. He spent the early part of his career with the Atlanta Falcons running, a lot more than he did passing. So, defenses felt they needed to take harder shots at him than they would any other QB. He opened himself up to that threat every time he ran.
Now, that he is a Philadelphia Eagle, he has begun to spend more time in the pocket. He is playing more like a "traditional" QB, than he did in Atlanta. However, due to his penchant for running early in his career, refs are having a difficult time officiating him. When asked after the game against the Giants if he was taking shots that would draw flags against any other QB, Vick said "absolutely". I agree with that completely. He is taking shots in the pocket, after throwing. that would get a player fined and possibly suspended if they hit Tom Brady. Due to his speed and the way he plays he is being punished by the refs.
So, there you have it! Due to their freakish gifts, Shaq's being size and Vick's being speed, they are same guy. I don't think we will see two guys come into the respective leagues and referees have such a difficult time officiating their games. Here's hoping that the refs start making calls, and giving defenses the same pause that they have when they are attacking Tom Brady.
I'm Jimmy L. Wilson, Jr. and I approve this message.
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