By Ralph Mancini, FFi Senior Writer
SEARCHING THE SCRAP HEAP
BROOKS BOLLINGER (MIN-QB)- The former Jet performed quite admirably versus the Eagles by completing 7 of 10 pass attempts for 94 yards in relief of Kelly Holcomb, who was forced to exit the game with a neck injury. Backed by a strong running game, Bollinger could do a serviceable job against a San Diego team that can be thrown on next week.
MICHAEL BENNETT (TB-RB)- Larry Johnson’s former caddy has a new lease on life as a major component in Tampa Bay’s running attack. Despite being being slowly worked into the rotation, Bennett has showcased his trademark speed with an 18-yard carry versus Detroit in week seven and a 19-yard score this week against a formidable Jacksonville defense. Bennett could serve as a useful flex back in most leagues, but don’t confuse him for a workhorse back.
MAURICE STOVALL (TB-WR)- The 6’5” Stovall was thrown to more than normal thanks to a high ankle sprain suffered by third receiver Michael Clayton, which should keep him out for at least the next couple of weeks. Stovall’s size could fill a need on fade routes near the goal line. Versus the Jaguars, the former Golden Domer had four receptions for 38 yards.
MIKE FURREY (DET-WR)- With bye weeks still in full swing, Mike Furrey can be the ideal fill-in starter. Always a Mike Martz favorite since his days with the Rams, Furrey was on the receiving end of 3 passes for 44 yards in week 8. Look for the former defensive back to possibly double this week’s output as top receivers Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson will be locked up with shutdown corners Champ Bailey and Dre’ Bly in their upcoming contest against the Broncos. Furrey is a good possession receiver who knows how to get open.
JEFF KING (CAR-TE)- One of the few bright spots on the Panther end in Carolina’s 31-7 shellacking at the hands of Indianapolis was tight end Jeff King, who led the team with 10 receptions for 81 yards. The second-year professional has made a name for himself as a dependable target that started off the season with 13 receptions in his first three games. His services might be called upon again next week, as Carolina faces off against a stingy Tennessee defense that specializes in shutting down the running game.
JUSTIN PEELLE (MIA-TE)- Stepping in for an injured David Martin, Peelle (6 receptions, 42 yards) stepped up as quarterback Cleo Lemon’s primary target in a low-scoring slugfest versus the Giants at Wembley Stadium. The former Oregon Duck is an exceptional receiver who can line up in a variety of positions.
ONES TO WATCH
SHAUN HILL (QB-SF)- Starting quarterback Alex Smith was no savior this week as San Francisco lost their fifth-straight to the New Orleans Saints. The former number one overall pick in the 2005 draft has been very disappointing and one or two more sub par performances may lead coach Mike Nolan to start the recently acquired Shaun Hill. The 6’3” 225-pound signal caller is best known for his successful 2003 campaign in NFL Europe with the Amsterdam Admirals. During that season, Hill completed a league-record 225 passes for 2,256 yards with 13 touchdowns and only five interceptions. His above-average mobility may serve as a spark to Nolan’s club later in the season.
ADICHINOBE ECHEMANDU (HOU-RB)- The former practice squad player has been signed to take over the role of the recently-released Samkon Gado in the Houston’s offense. The seldom-used Echemandu got off to a flying start in his first game versus San Diego by gaining 62 yards on 10 carries. With Ahman Green’s health status in question, the fortunes of the Texan running attack may be in the hands of Echemandu and Ron Dayne. The Nigerian native is a versatile back who also played wide out during his collegiate years at the University Of California.
ANDRE’ HALL (DEN-RB)- With a number of fantasy owners having already prepared themselves for the possible suspension of Travis Henry by enlisting the services of running back Selvin Young, it might be interesting to note that should Young be elevated to lead back, his immediate backup would be second-year player Andre’ Hall. Similar in stature to Henry at 5’ 10” 212 pounds, Hall has been described as having “better long-speed” than Young. In his two-year stay at the University of South Florida, Hall became the program’s all-time leading rusher 2,731 yards on 480 carries and 24 rushing touchdowns.
LORENZO BOOKER (MIA-RB)- The 5’ 10” 191-pound rookie has generally been a spectator during his first go-around in the NFL. Playing behind Ronnie Brown and Jesse Chatman, Booker hasn’t had an opportunity to showcase his considerable talent, but that day may soon be coming on a winless Miami team that will probably be focused on playing for next season after their week nine bye. The Florida State product is an extraordinarily fast player with sharp, stutter-step moves in the open field. During Miami’s May mini-camp, some compared Booker to Reggie Bush.
TED GINN JR. (MIA-WR)- Miami’s 2007 first-round pick is gradually rounding into the playmaker front-office management envisioned when selecting him. In addition to averaging a healthy 24.3 yards per kickoff return, the speedy Ginn has also been the author of some big plays in recent weeks, including catches of 32 and 36-yards, not to mention his 21-yard touchdown reception he recorded this week versus the Giants. The potential is there for Ginn to develop into a weekly dynamic presence.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Sunday, October 28, 2007
SUNDAY MORNING QUARTERBACK
-Rick Serritella
While Oakland quarterback Josh McCown has declared himself ready to play, he did report some soreness in his fractured big toe this past week. The Raiders have announced Daunte Culpepper will get the start at Tennessee.
There was some talk that David Carr could possibly start against the Colts, but his back injury has not yet healed 100%. The ageless wonder, Vinny Testaverde will once again get the call and another solid performance would definitely stir some quarterback controversy.
The Texans Matt Schaub is not expected to start at San Diego Sunday. Sage Rosenfals will be the man and is considered a solid fill-in fantasy starter.
Don’t be surprised if David Garrard is out longer than expected with a severe ankle sprain, forcing the Jaguars to go with Quinn Gray. Unless there are zero starting quarterbacks sitting your league’s free agent pool, Gray has very little fantasy value.
A poor performance by Cleo Lemon in London could mean rookie quarterback John Beck makes his debut after the week nine bye.
Jim Sorgi will remain Peyton Manning's backup at least through the 2010 season. The Colts number two quarterback signed a three-year contract extension Saturday that will keep him off of the free agent market at the end of the season. He has made a career out of backing up Manning the past four seasons, totaling all off 90 pass attempts. Nice gig.
It looks as if Travis Henry will attempt to give it a go on Monday Night Football. He is considered a game-time decision. Whether Henry starts or not, you can expect to see a lot of Selvin Young. If Henry doesn’t play at all, you can begin to gauge who will get the carries behind Young when Henry begins serving his suspension. The candidates are Cecil Sapp, Andre Hall and we can’t forget Mike Bell if he ever gets healthy.
The Jaguars Maurice Jones-Drew will play in a limited capacity, meaning Fred Taylor may see extended work and/or Gregg Jones could see the goal-line carries. Try to avoid the Jacksonville running back situation if possible.
Cleveland running back Jamal Lewis will need at least one more week to heal his sprain foot. Jason Wright and Jerome Harrison will continue to split carries in his absence.
Packers running back DeShawn Wynn returned to practice this week after sitting out the past few games with a neck injury. He is expected to assume the starting role with Vernand Morency backing him up. Brandon Jackson remains hobbled by shin splints.
Tennessee has been quiet thus far on whether or not running back Chris Brown will play on Sunday. Brown said he expects to play, while head coach Jeff Fisher said he would take a wait and see approach. Either way, don’t expect Brown to do too much as LenDale White has gotten the majority of rushing touchdowns for the Titans this season.
Keep an eye on Buccaneers backup Michael Bennett this week. With Earnest Graham proving to be quite serviceable, it will be interesting to see how many touches Bennett receives as he continues to learn the Jon Gruden playbook.
With Ahman Green nursing a knee injury, Samkon Gado released (now with Dolphins) and Ron Dayne once again underachieving, look for Adimchinobe Echemandu to get a looksy Sunday, as the Texans continue to search for answers with their woeful running attack.
The Colts will be without wide out Marvin Harrison once again as he has been ruled out.
Bubba Franks has been declared out Sunday for the Packers game against the Broncos with a knee injury. Look for Donald Lee to be a viable fantasy option in his place.
Former Seahawks and Bengals wide out Peter Warrick is among the players trying out for the new All American Football League. Also trying out are notables Eric Crouch, Jackie Battle, Chance Mock, and Woodrow Dantzler. The AAFL will begin playing its 10-game schedule next April and features initial franchises in Alabama, Texas, Arkansas, Florida, Michigan, and Tennessee. Its championship will be played on July 3, 2008.
Be sure to sign up for our Email List on the NFL Draft Bible homepage!
While Oakland quarterback Josh McCown has declared himself ready to play, he did report some soreness in his fractured big toe this past week. The Raiders have announced Daunte Culpepper will get the start at Tennessee.
There was some talk that David Carr could possibly start against the Colts, but his back injury has not yet healed 100%. The ageless wonder, Vinny Testaverde will once again get the call and another solid performance would definitely stir some quarterback controversy.
The Texans Matt Schaub is not expected to start at San Diego Sunday. Sage Rosenfals will be the man and is considered a solid fill-in fantasy starter.
Don’t be surprised if David Garrard is out longer than expected with a severe ankle sprain, forcing the Jaguars to go with Quinn Gray. Unless there are zero starting quarterbacks sitting your league’s free agent pool, Gray has very little fantasy value.
A poor performance by Cleo Lemon in London could mean rookie quarterback John Beck makes his debut after the week nine bye.
Jim Sorgi will remain Peyton Manning's backup at least through the 2010 season. The Colts number two quarterback signed a three-year contract extension Saturday that will keep him off of the free agent market at the end of the season. He has made a career out of backing up Manning the past four seasons, totaling all off 90 pass attempts. Nice gig.
It looks as if Travis Henry will attempt to give it a go on Monday Night Football. He is considered a game-time decision. Whether Henry starts or not, you can expect to see a lot of Selvin Young. If Henry doesn’t play at all, you can begin to gauge who will get the carries behind Young when Henry begins serving his suspension. The candidates are Cecil Sapp, Andre Hall and we can’t forget Mike Bell if he ever gets healthy.
The Jaguars Maurice Jones-Drew will play in a limited capacity, meaning Fred Taylor may see extended work and/or Gregg Jones could see the goal-line carries. Try to avoid the Jacksonville running back situation if possible.
Cleveland running back Jamal Lewis will need at least one more week to heal his sprain foot. Jason Wright and Jerome Harrison will continue to split carries in his absence.
Packers running back DeShawn Wynn returned to practice this week after sitting out the past few games with a neck injury. He is expected to assume the starting role with Vernand Morency backing him up. Brandon Jackson remains hobbled by shin splints.
Tennessee has been quiet thus far on whether or not running back Chris Brown will play on Sunday. Brown said he expects to play, while head coach Jeff Fisher said he would take a wait and see approach. Either way, don’t expect Brown to do too much as LenDale White has gotten the majority of rushing touchdowns for the Titans this season.
Keep an eye on Buccaneers backup Michael Bennett this week. With Earnest Graham proving to be quite serviceable, it will be interesting to see how many touches Bennett receives as he continues to learn the Jon Gruden playbook.
With Ahman Green nursing a knee injury, Samkon Gado released (now with Dolphins) and Ron Dayne once again underachieving, look for Adimchinobe Echemandu to get a looksy Sunday, as the Texans continue to search for answers with their woeful running attack.
The Colts will be without wide out Marvin Harrison once again as he has been ruled out.
Bubba Franks has been declared out Sunday for the Packers game against the Broncos with a knee injury. Look for Donald Lee to be a viable fantasy option in his place.
Former Seahawks and Bengals wide out Peter Warrick is among the players trying out for the new All American Football League. Also trying out are notables Eric Crouch, Jackie Battle, Chance Mock, and Woodrow Dantzler. The AAFL will begin playing its 10-game schedule next April and features initial franchises in Alabama, Texas, Arkansas, Florida, Michigan, and Tennessee. Its championship will be played on July 3, 2008.
Be sure to sign up for our Email List on the NFL Draft Bible homepage!
Friday, October 26, 2007
THE BLACK & BLUE REPORT #2
Coming Soon-Black & Blue Report Presented By Brad Kurtzberg
Chicago Bears—Brian Griese really solidified his hold on the starting QB position by leading a 97-yard game winning drive in the final 1:57 of the game last week. Griese threw for 322 yards and didn’t throw any interceptions, but the Bears still had problems getting into the end zone. Part of that is due to a stagnant rushing attack which still only barely averaged three yards per carry…The defense managed three sacks including two by Tommie Harris. Harris now has six sacks on the season. He ran down Donovan McNabb despite playing with a hamstring injury…The run defense is still a problem. Last week, Chicago allowed 123 yards but the Eagles averaged 4.9 yards per rush which won’t get the job done against better teams. Remember, the Eagles are a pass-first offense and usually have trouble moving the ball on the ground…The Bears are 1-2 in the NFC North which makes Sunday’s game against the Lions a must-win. If Chicago loses, the Lions would win all tiebreakers with the Bears and would be 2 ½ games ahead of them in the standings…A win would get the Bears back to .500 at the bye week and give some of their injured players like Nathan Vasher and Darwin Walker a chance to heal…Chicago’s defense allowed the Eagles a lot of yards last week but managed to keep the Eagles out of the end zone most of the time. The defense has not been dominant so bend but don’t break will have to do…
Detroit Lions—A look at the stats from last week’s win over the Bucs makes it seem as though Detroit was badly outplayed. The truth is, the Lions never trailed in this game. The Detroit defense allowed the Bucs to march up and down the field but the defense and special teams came up with big plays when they were needed like fumble recoveries in the red zone and a blocked field goal…Offensively, the return of RB Kevin Jones made a big impact on the offense last week. Detroit’s rushing attack does not have to be dominant but the threat of the run has to exist and Jones gave it to the Lions this past week in his first extended duty. Jones averaged 5.1 yards on 15 carries, scored a TD and made six receptions. He is elusive and powerful and adds an element to the offense that Tatum Bell does not…T.J. Duckett also played well in his season debut. Duckett only had four carries but he picked up 30 yards. The 254 pound Duckett is an inside the tackles type of runner who can pound the ball in short yardage situations and in the red zone. He is a perfect style compliment to Jones which leaves Bell as the number three RB…Jon Kitna is still holding on to the ball too long and taking too many sacks. The offensive line has struggled to pass protect at times, but Kitna isn’t helping. Detroit has allowed 31 sacks in six games, which would put them on pace for 83 over a 16 game season. No quarterback will survive that kind of pounding…Rookie Calvin Johnson had a bit of a coming out party against the Bucs, rushing for one TD and making a clutch, diving catch. The more involved in the offense Johnson gets, the more dangerous they become. Johnson’s eventual emergence (and a steady running game) will take pressure off of Roy Williams.
Green Bay Packers—Green Bay’s running back situation is still unsettled. Even after the bye week, DeShawn Wynn is still not 100 percent healthy. He is expected to start Monday night against Denver and Wynn has produced more than any other Green Bay RB when healthy. Veteran Vernand Morency has only five carries in two games since returning from the injured list and rookie Brandon Jackson has just returned to practice but averaged only 2.6 yards per rush and hasn’t shown coaches enough to secure the starting spot…The Pack lost veteran TE Bubba Franks for a couple of weeks with a knee injury. Donald Lee is still the starter but the Pack had to sign Ryan Krause from the practice squad for depth purposes…LB Brady Poppinga has been very tough against the run but he lacks the speed to cover TEs and gets burned often in space. The Packers’ safeties haven’t helped out much and opposing TEs are really hurting the Pack…The defense will have to make adjustments to correct the problem…Center Scott Wells will return to the Green Bay lineup after missing a game due to a fractured orbital bone. The bye week came at the right time for Wells…Former Packer WR Javon Walker will miss this week’s game against the Pack due to a knee injury. Walker was traded by Green Bay after a contract dispute.
Minnesota Vikings—In order for the Vikings to win with Tarvaris Jackson at QB, the defense and running game have to make several big plays during the course of a game and that’s tough to do week in and week out. Jackson is hurting the team right now. You can’t win in the NFL these days when your QB is completing only 45.9 percent of his passes…Defenses are gearing up to stop the Minnesota rushing attack and almost inviting Jackson to throw the ball against them. He just can’t get it done at this point in his career. Jackson broke a finger on his throwing hand last week and may not start against the Eagles this Sunday. Kelly Holcomb would get the call if Jackson in unable to go…Head coach Brad Childress continues to insist on splitting carries between Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor. Since Taylor’s return to the lineup, Peterson has had 12, 20 and 12 carries. Childress is wary of overusing his rookie standout and feels he needs to get Taylor some reps as well…Rookie CB Marcus McCauley has served as the Vikings’ nickel back. He has been picked on regularly by opposing QBs and has been inconsistent in coverage. The third-round pick is still learning the Vikings’ system and adjusting to the NFL game…S Dwight Smith will likely sit out Sunday’s game against the Eagles due to a hamstring injury…Brad Childress and Eagles coach Andy Reid are old friends who worked together in Philadelphia.
Chicago Bears—Brian Griese really solidified his hold on the starting QB position by leading a 97-yard game winning drive in the final 1:57 of the game last week. Griese threw for 322 yards and didn’t throw any interceptions, but the Bears still had problems getting into the end zone. Part of that is due to a stagnant rushing attack which still only barely averaged three yards per carry…The defense managed three sacks including two by Tommie Harris. Harris now has six sacks on the season. He ran down Donovan McNabb despite playing with a hamstring injury…The run defense is still a problem. Last week, Chicago allowed 123 yards but the Eagles averaged 4.9 yards per rush which won’t get the job done against better teams. Remember, the Eagles are a pass-first offense and usually have trouble moving the ball on the ground…The Bears are 1-2 in the NFC North which makes Sunday’s game against the Lions a must-win. If Chicago loses, the Lions would win all tiebreakers with the Bears and would be 2 ½ games ahead of them in the standings…A win would get the Bears back to .500 at the bye week and give some of their injured players like Nathan Vasher and Darwin Walker a chance to heal…Chicago’s defense allowed the Eagles a lot of yards last week but managed to keep the Eagles out of the end zone most of the time. The defense has not been dominant so bend but don’t break will have to do…
Detroit Lions—A look at the stats from last week’s win over the Bucs makes it seem as though Detroit was badly outplayed. The truth is, the Lions never trailed in this game. The Detroit defense allowed the Bucs to march up and down the field but the defense and special teams came up with big plays when they were needed like fumble recoveries in the red zone and a blocked field goal…Offensively, the return of RB Kevin Jones made a big impact on the offense last week. Detroit’s rushing attack does not have to be dominant but the threat of the run has to exist and Jones gave it to the Lions this past week in his first extended duty. Jones averaged 5.1 yards on 15 carries, scored a TD and made six receptions. He is elusive and powerful and adds an element to the offense that Tatum Bell does not…T.J. Duckett also played well in his season debut. Duckett only had four carries but he picked up 30 yards. The 254 pound Duckett is an inside the tackles type of runner who can pound the ball in short yardage situations and in the red zone. He is a perfect style compliment to Jones which leaves Bell as the number three RB…Jon Kitna is still holding on to the ball too long and taking too many sacks. The offensive line has struggled to pass protect at times, but Kitna isn’t helping. Detroit has allowed 31 sacks in six games, which would put them on pace for 83 over a 16 game season. No quarterback will survive that kind of pounding…Rookie Calvin Johnson had a bit of a coming out party against the Bucs, rushing for one TD and making a clutch, diving catch. The more involved in the offense Johnson gets, the more dangerous they become. Johnson’s eventual emergence (and a steady running game) will take pressure off of Roy Williams.
Green Bay Packers—Green Bay’s running back situation is still unsettled. Even after the bye week, DeShawn Wynn is still not 100 percent healthy. He is expected to start Monday night against Denver and Wynn has produced more than any other Green Bay RB when healthy. Veteran Vernand Morency has only five carries in two games since returning from the injured list and rookie Brandon Jackson has just returned to practice but averaged only 2.6 yards per rush and hasn’t shown coaches enough to secure the starting spot…The Pack lost veteran TE Bubba Franks for a couple of weeks with a knee injury. Donald Lee is still the starter but the Pack had to sign Ryan Krause from the practice squad for depth purposes…LB Brady Poppinga has been very tough against the run but he lacks the speed to cover TEs and gets burned often in space. The Packers’ safeties haven’t helped out much and opposing TEs are really hurting the Pack…The defense will have to make adjustments to correct the problem…Center Scott Wells will return to the Green Bay lineup after missing a game due to a fractured orbital bone. The bye week came at the right time for Wells…Former Packer WR Javon Walker will miss this week’s game against the Pack due to a knee injury. Walker was traded by Green Bay after a contract dispute.
Minnesota Vikings—In order for the Vikings to win with Tarvaris Jackson at QB, the defense and running game have to make several big plays during the course of a game and that’s tough to do week in and week out. Jackson is hurting the team right now. You can’t win in the NFL these days when your QB is completing only 45.9 percent of his passes…Defenses are gearing up to stop the Minnesota rushing attack and almost inviting Jackson to throw the ball against them. He just can’t get it done at this point in his career. Jackson broke a finger on his throwing hand last week and may not start against the Eagles this Sunday. Kelly Holcomb would get the call if Jackson in unable to go…Head coach Brad Childress continues to insist on splitting carries between Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor. Since Taylor’s return to the lineup, Peterson has had 12, 20 and 12 carries. Childress is wary of overusing his rookie standout and feels he needs to get Taylor some reps as well…Rookie CB Marcus McCauley has served as the Vikings’ nickel back. He has been picked on regularly by opposing QBs and has been inconsistent in coverage. The third-round pick is still learning the Vikings’ system and adjusting to the NFL game…S Dwight Smith will likely sit out Sunday’s game against the Eagles due to a hamstring injury…Brad Childress and Eagles coach Andy Reid are old friends who worked together in Philadelphia.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
WEEK EIGHT FANTASY PREVIEW
Oakland @ Tennessee
I still can’t really believe that Kerry Collins is still in the NFL, but he actually put up nice numbers last week, despite not throwing a touchdown. It looks like Vince Young will be back this week, but that doesn’t really change much for Tennessee receivers, who haven’t been great or reliable all year. For Oakland, get Ronald Curry in there: you can’t run on them, so the Raiders are going to have to pass. It was interesting to see Dominic Rhodes get 9 carries and perform similarly to LaMont Jordan, but save that nugget for after the Titans.
Detroit @ Chicago
Kevin Jones has been a tease in that offense for years, and he’s doing it again. Since I am a sucker for talented running backs in explosive offenses, I’ll take the bait (sigh…). Jones scored again last week, and received the bulk of the carries. Mike Martz is never gonna be a pounder, but he will get the ball to the backs in the passing game (great for PPR leaguers), and Jones has seen decent success lately. Meanwhile, Chicago continues to allow opposing runners to beat them.
Before I talk about Chicago, I need to introduce you all to one of my favorite lame fantasy players: Muhsin Muhammad. Muhsin is 34, slow, on a weird lame offense, and has been generally disrespected in the fantasy world the last few years. Well, I have been in some pretty dire WR situations on my teams the last few years (especially this year…some readers are perhaps laughing at this understatement as they read this), and am always looking for guys like this to get me through. Muhammad also happens to be a large man for a receiver, and he’s crafty, especially in the end zone. Muhsin has caught a TD in 3 of the 4 games since Brian Griese has taken the job from Sexy Rexy, and has another excellent matchup this week. Get him in there, and join me in praising his fantasy contributions.
Philadelphia @ Minnesota
So it looks like the only thing that can stop the Viking running game is the Viking passing game (and Dallas I guess…but you get my meaning). I went into this season looking for a neato prediction for a team that could come out of nowhere, and mine was the Vikings. I thought, look, they had a ridiculous run defense last season, an effective runner (Taylor), and a stud rookie runner (Peterson), and all the talking heads we love so much can’t ever stop talking about how running and stopping the run are the keys to success in the National Football League (does anyone else think it’s a bit smug the way they always call it the National Football League, as though it were base to abbreviate such a hallowed organization?). I thought if there could be a way that Tarvaris Jackson was any better than terrible that they had a shot to make some noise. Especially in that division. I mean, he was a second round pick. Well, guess what happened…
Anyway, in regards to this game, Philly has had a good record vs. the run, but I think they’re overrated. They’ve faced GB (don’t even try to run), Washington (can’t score much against anyone but Detroit), Detroit (don’t like to run, and were down by a klabillion points early), the Giants (without the punishing and scary Brandon Jacobs), the Jets (who ran for over 100), and Chicago (Cedric Benson doesn’t like football). So, yeah, overrated. Start Peterson, and give Taylor a look if you need him: he’s been quietly effective with the touches he’s gotten since AP exploded, and caught some passes last week too.
Cleveland @ St. Louis
Steven Jackson’s back! Don’t hesitate starting him here. This is one of those games where almost anyone you have has a chance to be productive. Look for Bulger to bounce back and for Isaac Bruce to finally do something. Start Jamal Lewis, or his replacement, Jason Wright, depending on injury status. Joe Jurevicius also has a great matchup.
Pittsburgh @ Cincinnati
Kenny Watson. I watch my Jets play the Bengals, expect Chad and Houshmandzadeh to run all over the place, but why use awesome players to win when you can use obscure ones that mess up the fantasy world? Sit the Bengal runners this week against Pitt, though. I love Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward this week, for obvious Bengal-defense-related reasons.
Indianapolis @ Carolina
Kenton Keith stole Joseph Addai’s show on Monday Night, which should make sense to us based on Indy’s history of using two running backs. He looked good too. Keith is a decent play this week against Carolina given his success against that stout Jacksonville D last week. I hate to rain on Vinny Testaverde’s parade here, but did anyone else notice that on his touchdown pass to Steve Smith that the cornerback sorta, like, stopped playing football while the ball was in the air, and that Smith walked into the endzone? Vinny, god bless him, came back “off his couch”, “from mowing his lawn”, “from watching the games last Sunday”, etc., in 2005 for the Jets and, um, wasn’t good. I’m just not buying him yet. But, from the numbers this year, fantasy players want him in there because David Carr looks worse.
New York Giants @ Miami
I was watching the games last week with a couple of friends, one of whom is (was) a Ronnie Brown owner. I had just advised him on keeping Brown going forward despite the Dolphins’ tough schedule coming up. He had always planned on selling Brown before the Patriots game, assuming he would play well against the bad teams earlier on the schedule and would return to his normal Ronnie Brown form soon enough. Well, Ronnie Brown went on to lead running backs in points, and I told him I thought he had been far too dominant and involved in the offense for his production to dip too much. Ronnie Brown Owner decided to keep him, and as we were watching he was thanking me for my wisdom, as Brown was having another good day. About a minute later, Brown tore his ACL on a broken turnover play. Ouch. The good news for some of us is Jesse Chatman didn’t look too bad, and he has a decent matchup this week. My Ronnie Brown Owner friend wasn’t so lucky as to be able to claim Chatman. That privilege went to the guy in our league who irritates everyone with his outlandish trade demands. Ugh.
Meanwhile, in London (London?), the Giants are growing on me. I maintain they haven’t really beaten anyone good, but the Dolphins certainly aren’t good, so look for more of the same from your G-Men. Miami can’t stop anything. Jacobs has looked the best in the backfield, and should continue to get most carries.
Buffalo @ New York Jets
These two very stoppable forces and moveable objects meet again in their second divisional showdown. Chad Pennington, everyone’s favorite noodly-armed pigskin tosser, will be starting again. Mangini seems to think he is doing a lot of good things amidst the bad things, and he’s probably right. The Jets are just not good. But, Laveranues Coles, Jerricho Cotchery and Chris Baker all have good matchups here. So do Thomas Jones and little Leon Washington. So do Lee Evans and Roscoe Parrish. Yeah, these defenses are bad…
Houston @ San Diego
It’ll be interesting to see how the Chargers handle having an actual wide receiver in their offense. The only wide receiver who has caught over 60 passes for them since David Boston in 2003 was old man Keenan McCardell, and he was old (David Boston!) Chambers is definitely a start here, and we’ll see what happens. He should provide the deep threat to open up Tomlinson and Gates even more, but Chambers is a bit of a flake who has the drops and doesn’t run clean routes consistently. The Chargers have a very beatable secondary, so my boy Kevin Walter, who I have hated on in the past but seems to continue to get looks and catches, as well as his cohort Andre Davis, are good starts this week. I’d consider sitting Ahman Green against them, though. Also, keep in mind that this game has a chance of being postponed due to the wildfires near San Diego, so keep an eye on how your league deals with this.
Jacksonville @ Tampa Bay
In one of the more pathetic displays of quarterback play in recent memory, Quinn Gray came in for David Garrard on Monday Night, and will be starting for the Jags for the next few weeks. Yeesh. The Jaguars really have no choice but to run the ball now, which elevates Fred Taylor’s and Maurice Jones-Drew’s stock. Since you were not starting any Jaguar receivers, continue to not start them (I mean, none of you were starting them, were you?). The Bucs’ Earnest Graham had himself a game with 92 rushing yards and 13 catches on the day that Michael Bennett came to town. I still think Graham is the better play going forward because he’ll get the goal line carries, but Bennett looked good. I’d only start Graham this week, though, and he isn’t a great play. Jeff Garcia, by the way, hasn’t thrown an interception yet this year. Just thought that was cool; don’t start him here.
New Orleans @ San Francisco
Devery Henderson finally caught a touchdown, but it was his only catch, and only target of the day. Fluke! I hate Devery. The interesting question is: who is the Saints’ second receiver behind Colston. It looked like David Patten again last week (I think my Lance Moore experiment is over…), but I just don’t trust Patten somehow: he was irrelevant for so long after leaving the Pats, and for him to just emerge as significant again out of nowhere smells funny to me. If you’re desperate for a receiver this week, Patten and Moore are decent reach plays since Nate Clements will be on Colston. It looks like Alex Smith will end the short-lived Trent Dilfer era in San Francisco this week, so start keeping an eye on their receiver situation again. I’m still sort of attached to Darrell Jackson despite his lameness this year, but watch Ashley Lelie and Arnaz Battle also. If Jackson plays, he has a good matchup against the Saints. Battle saw most of the looks last week, and he’s also a solid play.
Washington @ New England
The Skins have a great defense, but who cares. Tom Brady is driven, and as long as Randy Moss can catch touchdowns in double coverage with his biceps (one of the sickest catches I have ever seen), he’s unstoppable. Laurence Maroney looked awful, and I’d stay away from him for a while: they seem content to just pass anyway, even when they’re up 50. I don’t like Washington’s offense this week. Portis had a great game last week, but this is not the Cardinals, and they’re going to be passing in their futile attempt to keep up with Tom WelMossworth. Santana Moss is having serious problems these days, and I’d stay away.
Green Bay @ Denver
This is an interesting matchup for Green Bay because Denver stops the pass but can’t stop the run. Do the Packers dare leave their fate in the hands of DeShawn Wynn and Vernand Morency? Start Wynn. Denver doesn’t have a great fantasy matchup here, so Brandon Marshall may have a tough time. Travis Henry has some uncertainty surrounding him this week, so keep an eye on whether or not he plays. Denver, as usual, has like 12 guys who could play (namely 3 guys named Selvin Young, Andre Hall, and Cecil Sapp), so if Henry is out it’s anybody’s guess who will emerge. The favorite is Young.
I still can’t really believe that Kerry Collins is still in the NFL, but he actually put up nice numbers last week, despite not throwing a touchdown. It looks like Vince Young will be back this week, but that doesn’t really change much for Tennessee receivers, who haven’t been great or reliable all year. For Oakland, get Ronald Curry in there: you can’t run on them, so the Raiders are going to have to pass. It was interesting to see Dominic Rhodes get 9 carries and perform similarly to LaMont Jordan, but save that nugget for after the Titans.
Detroit @ Chicago
Kevin Jones has been a tease in that offense for years, and he’s doing it again. Since I am a sucker for talented running backs in explosive offenses, I’ll take the bait (sigh…). Jones scored again last week, and received the bulk of the carries. Mike Martz is never gonna be a pounder, but he will get the ball to the backs in the passing game (great for PPR leaguers), and Jones has seen decent success lately. Meanwhile, Chicago continues to allow opposing runners to beat them.
Before I talk about Chicago, I need to introduce you all to one of my favorite lame fantasy players: Muhsin Muhammad. Muhsin is 34, slow, on a weird lame offense, and has been generally disrespected in the fantasy world the last few years. Well, I have been in some pretty dire WR situations on my teams the last few years (especially this year…some readers are perhaps laughing at this understatement as they read this), and am always looking for guys like this to get me through. Muhammad also happens to be a large man for a receiver, and he’s crafty, especially in the end zone. Muhsin has caught a TD in 3 of the 4 games since Brian Griese has taken the job from Sexy Rexy, and has another excellent matchup this week. Get him in there, and join me in praising his fantasy contributions.
Philadelphia @ Minnesota
So it looks like the only thing that can stop the Viking running game is the Viking passing game (and Dallas I guess…but you get my meaning). I went into this season looking for a neato prediction for a team that could come out of nowhere, and mine was the Vikings. I thought, look, they had a ridiculous run defense last season, an effective runner (Taylor), and a stud rookie runner (Peterson), and all the talking heads we love so much can’t ever stop talking about how running and stopping the run are the keys to success in the National Football League (does anyone else think it’s a bit smug the way they always call it the National Football League, as though it were base to abbreviate such a hallowed organization?). I thought if there could be a way that Tarvaris Jackson was any better than terrible that they had a shot to make some noise. Especially in that division. I mean, he was a second round pick. Well, guess what happened…
Anyway, in regards to this game, Philly has had a good record vs. the run, but I think they’re overrated. They’ve faced GB (don’t even try to run), Washington (can’t score much against anyone but Detroit), Detroit (don’t like to run, and were down by a klabillion points early), the Giants (without the punishing and scary Brandon Jacobs), the Jets (who ran for over 100), and Chicago (Cedric Benson doesn’t like football). So, yeah, overrated. Start Peterson, and give Taylor a look if you need him: he’s been quietly effective with the touches he’s gotten since AP exploded, and caught some passes last week too.
Cleveland @ St. Louis
Steven Jackson’s back! Don’t hesitate starting him here. This is one of those games where almost anyone you have has a chance to be productive. Look for Bulger to bounce back and for Isaac Bruce to finally do something. Start Jamal Lewis, or his replacement, Jason Wright, depending on injury status. Joe Jurevicius also has a great matchup.
Pittsburgh @ Cincinnati
Kenny Watson. I watch my Jets play the Bengals, expect Chad and Houshmandzadeh to run all over the place, but why use awesome players to win when you can use obscure ones that mess up the fantasy world? Sit the Bengal runners this week against Pitt, though. I love Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward this week, for obvious Bengal-defense-related reasons.
Indianapolis @ Carolina
Kenton Keith stole Joseph Addai’s show on Monday Night, which should make sense to us based on Indy’s history of using two running backs. He looked good too. Keith is a decent play this week against Carolina given his success against that stout Jacksonville D last week. I hate to rain on Vinny Testaverde’s parade here, but did anyone else notice that on his touchdown pass to Steve Smith that the cornerback sorta, like, stopped playing football while the ball was in the air, and that Smith walked into the endzone? Vinny, god bless him, came back “off his couch”, “from mowing his lawn”, “from watching the games last Sunday”, etc., in 2005 for the Jets and, um, wasn’t good. I’m just not buying him yet. But, from the numbers this year, fantasy players want him in there because David Carr looks worse.
New York Giants @ Miami
I was watching the games last week with a couple of friends, one of whom is (was) a Ronnie Brown owner. I had just advised him on keeping Brown going forward despite the Dolphins’ tough schedule coming up. He had always planned on selling Brown before the Patriots game, assuming he would play well against the bad teams earlier on the schedule and would return to his normal Ronnie Brown form soon enough. Well, Ronnie Brown went on to lead running backs in points, and I told him I thought he had been far too dominant and involved in the offense for his production to dip too much. Ronnie Brown Owner decided to keep him, and as we were watching he was thanking me for my wisdom, as Brown was having another good day. About a minute later, Brown tore his ACL on a broken turnover play. Ouch. The good news for some of us is Jesse Chatman didn’t look too bad, and he has a decent matchup this week. My Ronnie Brown Owner friend wasn’t so lucky as to be able to claim Chatman. That privilege went to the guy in our league who irritates everyone with his outlandish trade demands. Ugh.
Meanwhile, in London (London?), the Giants are growing on me. I maintain they haven’t really beaten anyone good, but the Dolphins certainly aren’t good, so look for more of the same from your G-Men. Miami can’t stop anything. Jacobs has looked the best in the backfield, and should continue to get most carries.
Buffalo @ New York Jets
These two very stoppable forces and moveable objects meet again in their second divisional showdown. Chad Pennington, everyone’s favorite noodly-armed pigskin tosser, will be starting again. Mangini seems to think he is doing a lot of good things amidst the bad things, and he’s probably right. The Jets are just not good. But, Laveranues Coles, Jerricho Cotchery and Chris Baker all have good matchups here. So do Thomas Jones and little Leon Washington. So do Lee Evans and Roscoe Parrish. Yeah, these defenses are bad…
Houston @ San Diego
It’ll be interesting to see how the Chargers handle having an actual wide receiver in their offense. The only wide receiver who has caught over 60 passes for them since David Boston in 2003 was old man Keenan McCardell, and he was old (David Boston!) Chambers is definitely a start here, and we’ll see what happens. He should provide the deep threat to open up Tomlinson and Gates even more, but Chambers is a bit of a flake who has the drops and doesn’t run clean routes consistently. The Chargers have a very beatable secondary, so my boy Kevin Walter, who I have hated on in the past but seems to continue to get looks and catches, as well as his cohort Andre Davis, are good starts this week. I’d consider sitting Ahman Green against them, though. Also, keep in mind that this game has a chance of being postponed due to the wildfires near San Diego, so keep an eye on how your league deals with this.
Jacksonville @ Tampa Bay
In one of the more pathetic displays of quarterback play in recent memory, Quinn Gray came in for David Garrard on Monday Night, and will be starting for the Jags for the next few weeks. Yeesh. The Jaguars really have no choice but to run the ball now, which elevates Fred Taylor’s and Maurice Jones-Drew’s stock. Since you were not starting any Jaguar receivers, continue to not start them (I mean, none of you were starting them, were you?). The Bucs’ Earnest Graham had himself a game with 92 rushing yards and 13 catches on the day that Michael Bennett came to town. I still think Graham is the better play going forward because he’ll get the goal line carries, but Bennett looked good. I’d only start Graham this week, though, and he isn’t a great play. Jeff Garcia, by the way, hasn’t thrown an interception yet this year. Just thought that was cool; don’t start him here.
New Orleans @ San Francisco
Devery Henderson finally caught a touchdown, but it was his only catch, and only target of the day. Fluke! I hate Devery. The interesting question is: who is the Saints’ second receiver behind Colston. It looked like David Patten again last week (I think my Lance Moore experiment is over…), but I just don’t trust Patten somehow: he was irrelevant for so long after leaving the Pats, and for him to just emerge as significant again out of nowhere smells funny to me. If you’re desperate for a receiver this week, Patten and Moore are decent reach plays since Nate Clements will be on Colston. It looks like Alex Smith will end the short-lived Trent Dilfer era in San Francisco this week, so start keeping an eye on their receiver situation again. I’m still sort of attached to Darrell Jackson despite his lameness this year, but watch Ashley Lelie and Arnaz Battle also. If Jackson plays, he has a good matchup against the Saints. Battle saw most of the looks last week, and he’s also a solid play.
Washington @ New England
The Skins have a great defense, but who cares. Tom Brady is driven, and as long as Randy Moss can catch touchdowns in double coverage with his biceps (one of the sickest catches I have ever seen), he’s unstoppable. Laurence Maroney looked awful, and I’d stay away from him for a while: they seem content to just pass anyway, even when they’re up 50. I don’t like Washington’s offense this week. Portis had a great game last week, but this is not the Cardinals, and they’re going to be passing in their futile attempt to keep up with Tom WelMossworth. Santana Moss is having serious problems these days, and I’d stay away.
Green Bay @ Denver
This is an interesting matchup for Green Bay because Denver stops the pass but can’t stop the run. Do the Packers dare leave their fate in the hands of DeShawn Wynn and Vernand Morency? Start Wynn. Denver doesn’t have a great fantasy matchup here, so Brandon Marshall may have a tough time. Travis Henry has some uncertainty surrounding him this week, so keep an eye on whether or not he plays. Denver, as usual, has like 12 guys who could play (namely 3 guys named Selvin Young, Andre Hall, and Cecil Sapp), so if Henry is out it’s anybody’s guess who will emerge. The favorite is Young.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
BUSTED BRUISED & BROKEN
David Kaye, Fantasy Football Insiders
AFC Injury Report
Miami Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown (knee) left Sunday’s blowout loss to the Patriots early with a torn ACL after attempting to tackle New England cornerback Randall Gay on a Cleo Lemon interception. He will be out for the remainder of the season and in his absence journeyman Jesse Chatman will be forced into the starting role. Chatman and Patrick Cobbs are now both adequate fantasy options on a week-to-week basis.
Quarterback Trent Green (concussion) has been placed on injured reserve and will miss the duration of the season. It’s still very questionable if Green will take another snap in his football career due to constant concussions.
Cleveland Browns running back Jamal Lewis (foot) is listed as questionable for this week’s matchup with the woeful St.Louis Rams. He’s hopeful that he can play Sunday after having nearly two weeks off to rest.
Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub (hip) is currently day-to-day after injuring his right hip in Sunday’s nail biting 38-36 loss to the Titans. While Schaub has an outstanding completion percentage, he has not thrown a touchdown since week four and his passer rating has dropped significantly.
Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young (right quad) missed Sunday’s game at Houston, but is expected to suit up this week against the 2-4 Raiders at home. Even though the electrifying playmaker is listed as day-to-day, head coach Jeff Fisher believes ‘’he’ll have a much better chance to play this coming week.’’
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback David Garrard (sprained ankle) left Monday night’s game limping off the field after being sacked early in the second quarter. Monitor Garrard’s status throughout the week to see if he’s able to play Sunday at Tampa Bay.
Denver Broncos tight end Stephen Alexander (leg) was placed on injured reserve after sustaining a left leg injury. Alexander had not appeared in a game this season for the Broncos.
NFC Injury Report
Chicago Bears running back Cedric Benson (knee) is probable for this week’s game against Detroit.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tarvaris Jackson (broken finger) is currently wearing a splint on his right index finger and will have to wait until later in the week for the swelling to subside. Despite his poor performances every week, Jackson is still listed as the starter for Sunday’s game against the last place Eagles.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Byron Leftwich (high ankle sprain) is expected to take the team’s bye week to fully recover and be prepared to start week nine against San
Francisco. The quarterback position for the Falcons is still very much in limbo even if Leftwich is healthy and there’s a serious possibility that Joey Harrington reclaims his starting spot.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith (separated shoulder) has been out of action for the past two weeks and is not expected to play in this week’s home game against the Saints.
All-Pro running back Frank Gore (ankle sprain) is uncertain if he’ll suit up for Sunday’s game after sustaining the injury during the first half of last week’s loss to the Giants.
AFC Injury Report
Miami Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown (knee) left Sunday’s blowout loss to the Patriots early with a torn ACL after attempting to tackle New England cornerback Randall Gay on a Cleo Lemon interception. He will be out for the remainder of the season and in his absence journeyman Jesse Chatman will be forced into the starting role. Chatman and Patrick Cobbs are now both adequate fantasy options on a week-to-week basis.
Quarterback Trent Green (concussion) has been placed on injured reserve and will miss the duration of the season. It’s still very questionable if Green will take another snap in his football career due to constant concussions.
Cleveland Browns running back Jamal Lewis (foot) is listed as questionable for this week’s matchup with the woeful St.Louis Rams. He’s hopeful that he can play Sunday after having nearly two weeks off to rest.
Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub (hip) is currently day-to-day after injuring his right hip in Sunday’s nail biting 38-36 loss to the Titans. While Schaub has an outstanding completion percentage, he has not thrown a touchdown since week four and his passer rating has dropped significantly.
Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young (right quad) missed Sunday’s game at Houston, but is expected to suit up this week against the 2-4 Raiders at home. Even though the electrifying playmaker is listed as day-to-day, head coach Jeff Fisher believes ‘’he’ll have a much better chance to play this coming week.’’
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback David Garrard (sprained ankle) left Monday night’s game limping off the field after being sacked early in the second quarter. Monitor Garrard’s status throughout the week to see if he’s able to play Sunday at Tampa Bay.
Denver Broncos tight end Stephen Alexander (leg) was placed on injured reserve after sustaining a left leg injury. Alexander had not appeared in a game this season for the Broncos.
NFC Injury Report
Chicago Bears running back Cedric Benson (knee) is probable for this week’s game against Detroit.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tarvaris Jackson (broken finger) is currently wearing a splint on his right index finger and will have to wait until later in the week for the swelling to subside. Despite his poor performances every week, Jackson is still listed as the starter for Sunday’s game against the last place Eagles.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Byron Leftwich (high ankle sprain) is expected to take the team’s bye week to fully recover and be prepared to start week nine against San
Francisco. The quarterback position for the Falcons is still very much in limbo even if Leftwich is healthy and there’s a serious possibility that Joey Harrington reclaims his starting spot.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith (separated shoulder) has been out of action for the past two weeks and is not expected to play in this week’s home game against the Saints.
All-Pro running back Frank Gore (ankle sprain) is uncertain if he’ll suit up for Sunday’s game after sustaining the injury during the first half of last week’s loss to the Giants.
Monday, October 22, 2007
MONDAY MORNING WAIVER WIRE HELP
Ralph Mancini, FFI Sr. Writer
SEARCHING THE SCRAP HEAP
SAGE ROSENFELS (QB-HOU)- The former Miami Dolphin stepped in for a battered Matt Schaub and turned an apparent blowout at the hands of the Tennessee Titans into a edge-of-your-seat thriller by throwing four touchdown passes in the fourth quarter. Rosenfels did a fantastic job of spreading the ball among his receivers throughout the game. The 29-year-old signal caller punctuated his performance by sensing pressure by defensive end Travis LaBoy and unleashing a 53-yard bomb to Andre’ Davis temporarily putting Houston ahead 38-36 before opposing kicker Rob Bironas hit a game winning field goal for the Titans. Rosenfels is a fine pick up if Schaub is forced to miss time.
JESSE CHATMAN (RB-MIA)- Subbing for Ronnie Brown who exited the game with a dinged-up knee, Chatman put up serious numbers in garbage time by gaining 73 yards on only seven carries, including a 7-yard score . The hard-charging 5’8” dynamo could fill in quite nicely next week against a Giants defense that gives up significant yardage on the ground.
KENNY WATSON (RB-CIN)- Watson led Cincinnati’s offensive charge by gaining 130 yards on the ground and scoring three touchdowns with his team’s season hanging in the balance. The former Nittany Lion also chipped in with three receptions for 27 yards in the Bengals 38-31 victory over the hapless New York Jets. Regardless of whether Rudi Johnson returns next week, Watson deserves to be on everyone’s fantasy roster as Cincinnati will certainly continue to provide him with touches in the coming weeks. The speedy fifth-year veteran has proven to be a very disciplined runner.
MUSHIN MUHAMMAD (WR-CHI)- The 34-year-old Muhammad is making a resurgence in Chicago by quietly turning into Brian Griese’s favorite receiver in recent weeks. In Sunday’s 19-16 win over Philadelphia, the big wide out not only caught the game-winning touchdown pass, but also recorded a 44-yard reception. Add Muhammad to your fantasy teams and start him next versus the Lions next week.
ARNAZ BATTLE (SF-WR)- On a team in total disarray, Battle is one of the few players showing any sort of promise. In San Francisco’s 33-15 drubbing at the hands of the New York Giants, the former Notre Dame quarterback had six catches for 57 yards, including a 17-yard touchdown grab. Though limited by his underwhelming quarterbacks, Battle has the athletic skills to gain yards after the catch and also do damage on the occasional running play. Battle should put up good numbers in next week’s game versus the New Orleans Saints.
BRANDON STOKLEY (WR-DEN)- The veteran slot receiver is now in Denver’s starting lineup and gives his team a sure-handed option in the passing game who knows how to get open. Expect the Broncos to look to him both deep and an underneath routes.
TONY SCHEFFLER (DEN-TE)- The Bronco is back from a broken foot and has good chemistry with his quarterback Jay Cutler, who’s suddenly short on receiving options with the absence of number one receiver Javon Walker. In 2006, Scheffler caught 11 of his 18 passes in his last four games with Cutler at the helm.
LEONARD POPE (TE-ARIZ)- Previously featured in ONES TO WATCH, Pope did an excellent job acting as Kurt Warner’s safety valve. At 6’ 8”, Pope presents a big target, who can run after the catch. In Arizona’s 22-19 loss to Washington, Pope had three receptions for 35 yards, including a one-yard touchdown catch from backup Tim Rattay in the fourth quarter. The return of wide out Anquan Boldin should open more room for the second-year professional.
ROB BIRONAS (K-TENN)- Bironas made history by setting the all-time record for kicking the most field goals in one game by hitting on eight of them in leading the Titans to victory. Blessed with a booming leg, Bironas kicked a 60-yard field goal last year versus the Colts, as well as a 52-yarder versus the Titans this Sunday.
ONES TO WATCH
CHRIS REDMAN (QB-ATL)- Well, it didn’t take long for newly-anointed starter Byron Leftwich to go down with an injury this week. Although Joey Harrington stepped in to replace the former Jaguar, who suffered a high ankle sprain, it may not be long before coach Bobby Petrino decides to give Redman a try. The former Louisville standout has generally been viewed as a bust from his Baltimore Raven days. Despite all that, Redman seemed to have a good grasp of the offense in the preseason. Stay tuned.
CHRIS HENRY (RB-TENN)- Buried behind lead backs Lendale White and Chris Brown to start the season, Henry has had little opportunity to showcase the skills that made him a second round pick out of the University of Arizona until this Sunday. Against the Texans, Henry was impressive in gaining 57 yards on 11 carries, including a 4-yard touchdown run. The 6’ 0” 228 pounder brings good size and 4.4 speed to the table, which complements the inside, short-yardage strengths of White.
MAURICE MORRIS (RB-SEA)- As Shaun Alexander’s disastrous season continues, coach Mike Holmgren may begin carving a larger role for longtime backup Maurice Morris, who produced 42 yards on 10 carries against the Rams. Although he has never performed against tougher defenses, Morris has significantly less mileage on his wheels than the aforementioned Alexander.
GLENN MARTINEZ (WR-MIA)- The 25-year-old journeyman is Denver’s third receiver and despite only recording one catch for 11 yards against the Steelers, Jay Cutler did look deep for the former Detroit Lion. Look for him to get more looks in the coming weeks with the cannon-armed Cutler behind center. Martinez also runs back kickoffs and punts.
DEREK HAGAN (WR-MIA)- The recent trade of star wide out Chris Chambers has given the 23-year-old Hagan a chance to establish himself as Miami’s top receiver. In this Sunday’s loss to New England, the 6’ 2” receiver led his team with 4 catches for 56 yards. In his short tenure in the NFL, Hagan has showed the potential of becoming a strong receiver capable of making receptions over the middle. He may also develop into a solid end zone option.
WILL HELLER (TE-SEA)- The fifth-year veteran could be looking at a bigger role as the 35-year old Marcus Pollard trudges along with a bum knee this year. In this week’s win versus the Rams, Heller recorded three receptions for 18 yards and one touchdown. Unlike fellow Seattle receivers, the 6’ 6” tight end presents a huge target on short yardage and goal line plays.
SEARCHING THE SCRAP HEAP
SAGE ROSENFELS (QB-HOU)- The former Miami Dolphin stepped in for a battered Matt Schaub and turned an apparent blowout at the hands of the Tennessee Titans into a edge-of-your-seat thriller by throwing four touchdown passes in the fourth quarter. Rosenfels did a fantastic job of spreading the ball among his receivers throughout the game. The 29-year-old signal caller punctuated his performance by sensing pressure by defensive end Travis LaBoy and unleashing a 53-yard bomb to Andre’ Davis temporarily putting Houston ahead 38-36 before opposing kicker Rob Bironas hit a game winning field goal for the Titans. Rosenfels is a fine pick up if Schaub is forced to miss time.
JESSE CHATMAN (RB-MIA)- Subbing for Ronnie Brown who exited the game with a dinged-up knee, Chatman put up serious numbers in garbage time by gaining 73 yards on only seven carries, including a 7-yard score . The hard-charging 5’8” dynamo could fill in quite nicely next week against a Giants defense that gives up significant yardage on the ground.
KENNY WATSON (RB-CIN)- Watson led Cincinnati’s offensive charge by gaining 130 yards on the ground and scoring three touchdowns with his team’s season hanging in the balance. The former Nittany Lion also chipped in with three receptions for 27 yards in the Bengals 38-31 victory over the hapless New York Jets. Regardless of whether Rudi Johnson returns next week, Watson deserves to be on everyone’s fantasy roster as Cincinnati will certainly continue to provide him with touches in the coming weeks. The speedy fifth-year veteran has proven to be a very disciplined runner.
MUSHIN MUHAMMAD (WR-CHI)- The 34-year-old Muhammad is making a resurgence in Chicago by quietly turning into Brian Griese’s favorite receiver in recent weeks. In Sunday’s 19-16 win over Philadelphia, the big wide out not only caught the game-winning touchdown pass, but also recorded a 44-yard reception. Add Muhammad to your fantasy teams and start him next versus the Lions next week.
ARNAZ BATTLE (SF-WR)- On a team in total disarray, Battle is one of the few players showing any sort of promise. In San Francisco’s 33-15 drubbing at the hands of the New York Giants, the former Notre Dame quarterback had six catches for 57 yards, including a 17-yard touchdown grab. Though limited by his underwhelming quarterbacks, Battle has the athletic skills to gain yards after the catch and also do damage on the occasional running play. Battle should put up good numbers in next week’s game versus the New Orleans Saints.
BRANDON STOKLEY (WR-DEN)- The veteran slot receiver is now in Denver’s starting lineup and gives his team a sure-handed option in the passing game who knows how to get open. Expect the Broncos to look to him both deep and an underneath routes.
TONY SCHEFFLER (DEN-TE)- The Bronco is back from a broken foot and has good chemistry with his quarterback Jay Cutler, who’s suddenly short on receiving options with the absence of number one receiver Javon Walker. In 2006, Scheffler caught 11 of his 18 passes in his last four games with Cutler at the helm.
LEONARD POPE (TE-ARIZ)- Previously featured in ONES TO WATCH, Pope did an excellent job acting as Kurt Warner’s safety valve. At 6’ 8”, Pope presents a big target, who can run after the catch. In Arizona’s 22-19 loss to Washington, Pope had three receptions for 35 yards, including a one-yard touchdown catch from backup Tim Rattay in the fourth quarter. The return of wide out Anquan Boldin should open more room for the second-year professional.
ROB BIRONAS (K-TENN)- Bironas made history by setting the all-time record for kicking the most field goals in one game by hitting on eight of them in leading the Titans to victory. Blessed with a booming leg, Bironas kicked a 60-yard field goal last year versus the Colts, as well as a 52-yarder versus the Titans this Sunday.
ONES TO WATCH
CHRIS REDMAN (QB-ATL)- Well, it didn’t take long for newly-anointed starter Byron Leftwich to go down with an injury this week. Although Joey Harrington stepped in to replace the former Jaguar, who suffered a high ankle sprain, it may not be long before coach Bobby Petrino decides to give Redman a try. The former Louisville standout has generally been viewed as a bust from his Baltimore Raven days. Despite all that, Redman seemed to have a good grasp of the offense in the preseason. Stay tuned.
CHRIS HENRY (RB-TENN)- Buried behind lead backs Lendale White and Chris Brown to start the season, Henry has had little opportunity to showcase the skills that made him a second round pick out of the University of Arizona until this Sunday. Against the Texans, Henry was impressive in gaining 57 yards on 11 carries, including a 4-yard touchdown run. The 6’ 0” 228 pounder brings good size and 4.4 speed to the table, which complements the inside, short-yardage strengths of White.
MAURICE MORRIS (RB-SEA)- As Shaun Alexander’s disastrous season continues, coach Mike Holmgren may begin carving a larger role for longtime backup Maurice Morris, who produced 42 yards on 10 carries against the Rams. Although he has never performed against tougher defenses, Morris has significantly less mileage on his wheels than the aforementioned Alexander.
GLENN MARTINEZ (WR-MIA)- The 25-year-old journeyman is Denver’s third receiver and despite only recording one catch for 11 yards against the Steelers, Jay Cutler did look deep for the former Detroit Lion. Look for him to get more looks in the coming weeks with the cannon-armed Cutler behind center. Martinez also runs back kickoffs and punts.
DEREK HAGAN (WR-MIA)- The recent trade of star wide out Chris Chambers has given the 23-year-old Hagan a chance to establish himself as Miami’s top receiver. In this Sunday’s loss to New England, the 6’ 2” receiver led his team with 4 catches for 56 yards. In his short tenure in the NFL, Hagan has showed the potential of becoming a strong receiver capable of making receptions over the middle. He may also develop into a solid end zone option.
WILL HELLER (TE-SEA)- The fifth-year veteran could be looking at a bigger role as the 35-year old Marcus Pollard trudges along with a bum knee this year. In this week’s win versus the Rams, Heller recorded three receptions for 18 yards and one touchdown. Unlike fellow Seattle receivers, the 6’ 6” tight end presents a huge target on short yardage and goal line plays.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
SUNDAY MORNING QUARTERBACK
Dolphins quarterback Trent Green has been placed on the injured reserve, ending his season and most likely his career. Despite selecting John Beck in the second round of last year’s draft, don’t be surprised if Miami finds the opportunity to select a franchise quarterback too good of an opportunity to pass up.
In Baltimore, Kyle Boller will start. Steve McNair is listed as the backup this week.
The Chiefs have activated former All Pro running back Priest Holmes. He will backup Larry Johnson as the team traded Michael Bennett to Tampa Bay earlier in the week.
Giants running back Brandon Jacobs will be in the starting lineup. Some “mainstream media” outlets have been reporting Jacobs is out, which is not the case.
The duo of Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew will both be in the lineup Sunday after being limited in practice during the week.
After being inactive last week, Ron Dayne will serve as Ahman Green’s back up on Sunday for Houston.
Keep an eye on Quinton Gather this week as he is expected to backup LenDale White when Tennessee visits Houston. With Chris Brown injured, the team does not entrust rookie running back Chris Henry to handle backup duties.
World, meet Kyle Eckel. Look for the New England running back to hit paydirt Sunday.
Colts wide out Marvin Harison (knee) will play.
The Broncos received devastating news this week when it was learned wide reciver Javon Walker will be out at least six weeks after undergoing knee surgery. If Denver is out of the playoff hunt during his time of return, they could hold him out of action until next season.
Tight end Chris Baker will miss Sunday’s game with a back injury. One has to wonder if that is really the case as Baker was disciplined earlier in the week by head coach Eric Mangjni for his comments following last week’s game.
In Baltimore, Kyle Boller will start. Steve McNair is listed as the backup this week.
The Chiefs have activated former All Pro running back Priest Holmes. He will backup Larry Johnson as the team traded Michael Bennett to Tampa Bay earlier in the week.
Giants running back Brandon Jacobs will be in the starting lineup. Some “mainstream media” outlets have been reporting Jacobs is out, which is not the case.
The duo of Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew will both be in the lineup Sunday after being limited in practice during the week.
After being inactive last week, Ron Dayne will serve as Ahman Green’s back up on Sunday for Houston.
Keep an eye on Quinton Gather this week as he is expected to backup LenDale White when Tennessee visits Houston. With Chris Brown injured, the team does not entrust rookie running back Chris Henry to handle backup duties.
World, meet Kyle Eckel. Look for the New England running back to hit paydirt Sunday.
Colts wide out Marvin Harison (knee) will play.
The Broncos received devastating news this week when it was learned wide reciver Javon Walker will be out at least six weeks after undergoing knee surgery. If Denver is out of the playoff hunt during his time of return, they could hold him out of action until next season.
Tight end Chris Baker will miss Sunday’s game with a back injury. One has to wonder if that is really the case as Baker was disciplined earlier in the week by head coach Eric Mangjni for his comments following last week’s game.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
WEEK SEVEN FANTASY PREVIEW
San Francisco @ New York Giants
Eli Manning is looking a lot better, and the Giants are running really well using all three of their backs. I like Reuben Droughns and Brandon Jacobs, who both got carries last week. I’m tempted to play Amani Toomer, who had a great game last week, but San Fran stops opposing WR pretty well. I don’t like many 49ers this week, regardless of whether Alex Smith plays or not.
Atlanta @ New Orleans
New Orleans finally woke up, and I like them again this week. David Patten was the beneficiary last week, but where has he been? He hasn’t done anything in years. Play Lance Moore, who is younger and also returns kicks. Short of Jerious Norwood breaking a long run like last week, which he hadn’t done before this season, I don’t like any Falcons even against the weak Saints’ D. Byron Leftwich takes about 20 minutes to drop back and throw, and behind that line he’ll have problems. Falcons wide-outs are also targeted fairly evenly, and it remains to be seen who Leftwich will look for.
New England @ Miami
With Sammy Morris out, it looks like Kevin Faulk will probably be the guy this week, but the Patriots are crafty and could surprise everyone by using Heath Evans. I wouldn’t be surprised, though, if they go up very early and both runners make noise. I’d lean toward Faulk over Evans, but it’s hard to call. Without Chris Chambers, who was traded to San Diego, the Dolphins are even more pathetic on offense. Ronnie Browns will probably catch a lot of passes, but it’s hard to run on the Pats.
Arizona @ Washington
Kurt, I know you tend to hurt yourself, but couldn’t you have maybe lasted more than 2 drop backs? You made your coach put in Tim Rattay. Yuck. Warner may be back this week, but regardless, Washington is nasty to passing games, and I’d play my Cardinals with care. Santana Moss supposedly benched himself last week, but if he plays this week he has a great matchup. Randle-El is also a play if he suits up.
Baltimore @ Buffalo
Baltimore has been iffy against the pass, allowing a few teams to go off. But I just don’t see Trent Edwards, who has been mostly dinking (sometimes dunking), down the field. Buffalo’s O gets dominated here. Kyle Boller is starting, and could see some success against the Bills.
Tampa Bay @ Detroit
OK, so my hunch about Earnest Graham didn’t quite pan out last week. But, I’m sticking with my guy here. He’s a strong runner, they pound it at the goal line, and Detroit is Swiss cheese. Michael Bennett probably won’t factor in much this soon after being acquired, so Graham is still the man here for now. Ike Hilliard is also a strong play. Tatum Bell wanted to get traded, but wasn’t. Welcome back to potential fantasy relevance, Kevin Jones. He’s decent this week.
Tennessee @ Houston
If Vince Young’s injury forces Kerry Collins into the lineup, get ready for some ineptitude. He looked awful last year for the Titans. LenDale White will play well, especially if Chris Brown is out. Houston’s Kevin Walter continues to play well, but the Titans are tough. I’m also sitting the Texans run game against Tennessee.
Kansas City @ Oakland
Jeff Webb surprised and was targeted as many times as Dwayne Bowe last week, but I’d wait to see this again before I buy. Bowe has tough corner Nnamdi Asomugha, but I’d play him anyway. Ronald Curry still got the most targets last week, but I’d keep watching Jerry Porter. Neither is great this week, though.
New York Jets @ Cincinnati
Alright, loyal NFL Draft Bible readers, I need to get something off my chest. I am a New York Jets fan. This is a rough year for Gang Green, and for their quarterback, Chad Pennington, whom I have loved for years.. He has always had a noodle-arm, but his arm is the least of his problems right now. He used to make up for it with sound decision-making, accurate passing, and good leadership. Right now, those positive qualities are absent, and the Jets are left with just the weak arm: ask Thomas Jones, Laveranues Coles and Jerricho Cotchery. Sure, Jones had 120 yards last week, but much of that came on the Jets’ first drive of the game before the Eagles remembered Pennington can’t throw more than 12 yards down field. Now, having said all of this, Coach Mangini is sticking with Chad this week, and the Bengals certainly won’t provide too much resistance: they allow almost 250 yards in the air and almost 150 on the ground. Start all of your Jets this week, but get ready for some potential changes in the coming weeks.
Oh, I almost forgot. Start all your Bengals: the Jets’ D may have more holes than the O.
Minnesota @ Dallas
Adrian! I had been thinking that Peterson would be a sell because of Chester Taylor coming back, the fact that he was relying on some big plays to get his yards, and that the Vikings were going to see some tougher opponents coming up. Never mind all of that. Peterson is the most talented player on his team, and as much as I want to caution his owners from counting too heavily on a guy who needs to bust big runs for points, I can’t. He’s too good. He keeps breaking out for monster gains. Forget Chester. Forget the Bears’ defense. Forget the Cowboys’ defense. He’s a great player, and will score for you against most teams. For Dallas, it’s the usual story against Minny. Sit the running backs, start everyone involved in the passing game (2nd best run D, worst pass D).
Chicago @ Philadelphia
After being torched by Adrian Peterson last week, the Bears get to face Brian Westbrook, another excellent open field runner. I could see this game being all about Westbrook running and catching screens all day, and I still can’t rely on any Eagle WRs. I’m still banking on Reggie Brown eventually emerging here, but this isn’t a great matchup. Cedric Benson runs like an old man, and looks generally lame. Sit him and get the other Adrian Peterson, who I bet will be fantasy relevant before the end of the year.
St. Louis @ Seattle
Shaun. Please. You were the MVP 2 years ago. You look hesitant, slow, and bored. But if you can’t have yourself a game this week, then I don’t know what to tell you. The Rams can’t do anything on either side of the ball, so Shaun should have the chance to run in the second half this week. By the way, keep an eye on Leonard Weaver, who broke a big one, and could get a bigger role as the season progresses. D.J. Hackett looks like he’ll play this week, and he couldn’t have a better matchup. Bobby Engram, and even Nate Burleson are solid starts also. Marc Bulger is back this week, so Torry Holt should see a better game. Seattle’s defense is fairly middle-of-the-road, so use your Rams as you would any other week.
Pittsburgh @ Denver
Denver’s rush defense has fallen quite a bit this season, allowing 187 yards per game. This makes Najeh Davenport startable this week. Pittsburgh is also getting Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward back this week, but Denver is great vs. the pass. Denver’s RB situation is a bit up in the air, but it’s not a good week against Pittsburgh.
Indianapolis @ Jacksonville
You can’t ever sit your Colts, but the Jags have given them problems in the past. Maurice Jones-Drew is back, and is a start for sure. As for Jaguar receivers, it’s anyone’s guess from week to week who will emerge as they are pretty egalitarian. I don’t particularly like any of them.
Eli Manning is looking a lot better, and the Giants are running really well using all three of their backs. I like Reuben Droughns and Brandon Jacobs, who both got carries last week. I’m tempted to play Amani Toomer, who had a great game last week, but San Fran stops opposing WR pretty well. I don’t like many 49ers this week, regardless of whether Alex Smith plays or not.
Atlanta @ New Orleans
New Orleans finally woke up, and I like them again this week. David Patten was the beneficiary last week, but where has he been? He hasn’t done anything in years. Play Lance Moore, who is younger and also returns kicks. Short of Jerious Norwood breaking a long run like last week, which he hadn’t done before this season, I don’t like any Falcons even against the weak Saints’ D. Byron Leftwich takes about 20 minutes to drop back and throw, and behind that line he’ll have problems. Falcons wide-outs are also targeted fairly evenly, and it remains to be seen who Leftwich will look for.
New England @ Miami
With Sammy Morris out, it looks like Kevin Faulk will probably be the guy this week, but the Patriots are crafty and could surprise everyone by using Heath Evans. I wouldn’t be surprised, though, if they go up very early and both runners make noise. I’d lean toward Faulk over Evans, but it’s hard to call. Without Chris Chambers, who was traded to San Diego, the Dolphins are even more pathetic on offense. Ronnie Browns will probably catch a lot of passes, but it’s hard to run on the Pats.
Arizona @ Washington
Kurt, I know you tend to hurt yourself, but couldn’t you have maybe lasted more than 2 drop backs? You made your coach put in Tim Rattay. Yuck. Warner may be back this week, but regardless, Washington is nasty to passing games, and I’d play my Cardinals with care. Santana Moss supposedly benched himself last week, but if he plays this week he has a great matchup. Randle-El is also a play if he suits up.
Baltimore @ Buffalo
Baltimore has been iffy against the pass, allowing a few teams to go off. But I just don’t see Trent Edwards, who has been mostly dinking (sometimes dunking), down the field. Buffalo’s O gets dominated here. Kyle Boller is starting, and could see some success against the Bills.
Tampa Bay @ Detroit
OK, so my hunch about Earnest Graham didn’t quite pan out last week. But, I’m sticking with my guy here. He’s a strong runner, they pound it at the goal line, and Detroit is Swiss cheese. Michael Bennett probably won’t factor in much this soon after being acquired, so Graham is still the man here for now. Ike Hilliard is also a strong play. Tatum Bell wanted to get traded, but wasn’t. Welcome back to potential fantasy relevance, Kevin Jones. He’s decent this week.
Tennessee @ Houston
If Vince Young’s injury forces Kerry Collins into the lineup, get ready for some ineptitude. He looked awful last year for the Titans. LenDale White will play well, especially if Chris Brown is out. Houston’s Kevin Walter continues to play well, but the Titans are tough. I’m also sitting the Texans run game against Tennessee.
Kansas City @ Oakland
Jeff Webb surprised and was targeted as many times as Dwayne Bowe last week, but I’d wait to see this again before I buy. Bowe has tough corner Nnamdi Asomugha, but I’d play him anyway. Ronald Curry still got the most targets last week, but I’d keep watching Jerry Porter. Neither is great this week, though.
New York Jets @ Cincinnati
Alright, loyal NFL Draft Bible readers, I need to get something off my chest. I am a New York Jets fan. This is a rough year for Gang Green, and for their quarterback, Chad Pennington, whom I have loved for years.. He has always had a noodle-arm, but his arm is the least of his problems right now. He used to make up for it with sound decision-making, accurate passing, and good leadership. Right now, those positive qualities are absent, and the Jets are left with just the weak arm: ask Thomas Jones, Laveranues Coles and Jerricho Cotchery. Sure, Jones had 120 yards last week, but much of that came on the Jets’ first drive of the game before the Eagles remembered Pennington can’t throw more than 12 yards down field. Now, having said all of this, Coach Mangini is sticking with Chad this week, and the Bengals certainly won’t provide too much resistance: they allow almost 250 yards in the air and almost 150 on the ground. Start all of your Jets this week, but get ready for some potential changes in the coming weeks.
Oh, I almost forgot. Start all your Bengals: the Jets’ D may have more holes than the O.
Minnesota @ Dallas
Adrian! I had been thinking that Peterson would be a sell because of Chester Taylor coming back, the fact that he was relying on some big plays to get his yards, and that the Vikings were going to see some tougher opponents coming up. Never mind all of that. Peterson is the most talented player on his team, and as much as I want to caution his owners from counting too heavily on a guy who needs to bust big runs for points, I can’t. He’s too good. He keeps breaking out for monster gains. Forget Chester. Forget the Bears’ defense. Forget the Cowboys’ defense. He’s a great player, and will score for you against most teams. For Dallas, it’s the usual story against Minny. Sit the running backs, start everyone involved in the passing game (2nd best run D, worst pass D).
Chicago @ Philadelphia
After being torched by Adrian Peterson last week, the Bears get to face Brian Westbrook, another excellent open field runner. I could see this game being all about Westbrook running and catching screens all day, and I still can’t rely on any Eagle WRs. I’m still banking on Reggie Brown eventually emerging here, but this isn’t a great matchup. Cedric Benson runs like an old man, and looks generally lame. Sit him and get the other Adrian Peterson, who I bet will be fantasy relevant before the end of the year.
St. Louis @ Seattle
Shaun. Please. You were the MVP 2 years ago. You look hesitant, slow, and bored. But if you can’t have yourself a game this week, then I don’t know what to tell you. The Rams can’t do anything on either side of the ball, so Shaun should have the chance to run in the second half this week. By the way, keep an eye on Leonard Weaver, who broke a big one, and could get a bigger role as the season progresses. D.J. Hackett looks like he’ll play this week, and he couldn’t have a better matchup. Bobby Engram, and even Nate Burleson are solid starts also. Marc Bulger is back this week, so Torry Holt should see a better game. Seattle’s defense is fairly middle-of-the-road, so use your Rams as you would any other week.
Pittsburgh @ Denver
Denver’s rush defense has fallen quite a bit this season, allowing 187 yards per game. This makes Najeh Davenport startable this week. Pittsburgh is also getting Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward back this week, but Denver is great vs. the pass. Denver’s RB situation is a bit up in the air, but it’s not a good week against Pittsburgh.
Indianapolis @ Jacksonville
You can’t ever sit your Colts, but the Jags have given them problems in the past. Maurice Jones-Drew is back, and is a start for sure. As for Jaguar receivers, it’s anyone’s guess from week to week who will emerge as they are pretty egalitarian. I don’t particularly like any of them.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
SELLER'S MARKET
Ralph Mancini, FFI Sr. Writer
Fantasy articles lending advice on who’s heating up and who to pick up are a dime-a-dozen. This week, FFi takes a look the players whose values may have peaked. These are the ones you should be looking to unload.
DEREK ANDERSON (QB-CLE)- One of the league’s biggest surprises this season has masterfully played the role of gunslinger by connecting with stars Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow Jr. on several big plays. Coming off his most efficient performance versus an inept Miami Dolphins team, with three touchdowns and no interceptions, the 6’6” Anderson has reached unexpected heights in fantasy circles. For all his attributes, however, Anderson has been playing with house money for much of the year by getting away with dangerous throws in double and triple coverage that have often landed in his receivers’ hands. Look for his interception totals to rise as he faces tougher defenses later in the year. With road games against Pittsburgh and Baltimore coming up in weeks 11 and 12, this might be a most propitious time to gauge his value in the trade market.
MATT SCHAUB (QB- HOU)- For all the accolades Schaub has received during the early part of the season, the first-year Texan is slowly beginning to show his warts. In Sunday’s loss versus Jacksonville, the former Falcon badly missed both the wide open Kevin Walter and Owen Daniels in the end zone while the Texans were still the ballgame. Also factor in that Schaub has only two touchdowns and four interceptions since week three. The 26-year-old does have a promising future ahead of him, but for the time being, take advantage of the early season hype and trade him for a more proven player.
JAY CUTLER (WR-DEN)- With quite possibly the best arm in the league, Cutler has the physical tools to become a future star. Unfortunately for Cutler, his top receiver, Javon Walker, has been banged up for much of the season, making life difficult for the still developing passer. Although it sounds as though Walker will be suiting up this Sunday, it’s also very dubious that he’ll be playing at full strength for the remainder of the year. Use Cutler’s week nine matchup versus the Lions as a selling point and look to upgrade your running backs or receivers.
CLINTON PORTIS (RB-WASH)- Make no mistake, Portis is a quality back, but also know that the Redskins offensive line has become a veritable mash unit with injuries to Jon Jansen, Randy Thomas, Casey Rabach and Todd Wade. The man of many disguises has yet to surpass 100 yards rushing in any one game this year. Don’t expect that to happen against the likes of New England, Chicago and Minnesota. His tendonitis may also flare up at any time. Trade him.
LAMONT JORDAN (RB-OAK)- A bad back combined with a crowded backfield featuring the likes of Dominic Rhodes and Justin “Huggy Bear” Fargas should spell less carries for the former Maryland Terrapin going forward.
MARQUES COLSTON (WR-NO)- While many are expecting better things from Colston in the coming weeks, a number of secondary receivers (David Patten, Lance Moore) have been quietly emerging in the Saints offense. In last Sunday’s win over Seattle, Colston was rarely targeted and when he was thrown to, he dropped the ball. Is the former rookie standout better than this? Yes. But in an offense dominated by Reggie Bush, Colston cannot be counted on as an every week starter. This week he matches up with Atlanta’s cover corner D’Angelo Hall. Trade him before others begin to notice his shortcomings.
VINCENT JACKSON (WR-SD)- A lot was expected from the 6’5” Jackson this year, and for the most part, he hasn’t delivered. The third-year professional has dropped a number of passes this season and cost San Diego valuable points. The acquisition of Chris Chambers clearly moves Jackson down in the hierarchy of Charger receivers.
BERNARD BERRIAN (WR-CHI)- This deep threat should worry his fantasy owners, as he has been plagued by a sore foot and an injured toe all season. His downfield speed, furthermore, may be deemphasized in future weeks with tight ends Desmond Clark and Greg Olsen becoming prime targets for quarterback Brian Griese, who isn’t exactly known for having a howitzer arm. Sell Berrian’s 39-yard touchdown catch this past weekend when trading him and don’t mention the fact that Viking corner Antoine Winfield slipped and left the wide out all by his lonesome on his path to the end zone.
Fantasy articles lending advice on who’s heating up and who to pick up are a dime-a-dozen. This week, FFi takes a look the players whose values may have peaked. These are the ones you should be looking to unload.
DEREK ANDERSON (QB-CLE)- One of the league’s biggest surprises this season has masterfully played the role of gunslinger by connecting with stars Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow Jr. on several big plays. Coming off his most efficient performance versus an inept Miami Dolphins team, with three touchdowns and no interceptions, the 6’6” Anderson has reached unexpected heights in fantasy circles. For all his attributes, however, Anderson has been playing with house money for much of the year by getting away with dangerous throws in double and triple coverage that have often landed in his receivers’ hands. Look for his interception totals to rise as he faces tougher defenses later in the year. With road games against Pittsburgh and Baltimore coming up in weeks 11 and 12, this might be a most propitious time to gauge his value in the trade market.
MATT SCHAUB (QB- HOU)- For all the accolades Schaub has received during the early part of the season, the first-year Texan is slowly beginning to show his warts. In Sunday’s loss versus Jacksonville, the former Falcon badly missed both the wide open Kevin Walter and Owen Daniels in the end zone while the Texans were still the ballgame. Also factor in that Schaub has only two touchdowns and four interceptions since week three. The 26-year-old does have a promising future ahead of him, but for the time being, take advantage of the early season hype and trade him for a more proven player.
JAY CUTLER (WR-DEN)- With quite possibly the best arm in the league, Cutler has the physical tools to become a future star. Unfortunately for Cutler, his top receiver, Javon Walker, has been banged up for much of the season, making life difficult for the still developing passer. Although it sounds as though Walker will be suiting up this Sunday, it’s also very dubious that he’ll be playing at full strength for the remainder of the year. Use Cutler’s week nine matchup versus the Lions as a selling point and look to upgrade your running backs or receivers.
CLINTON PORTIS (RB-WASH)- Make no mistake, Portis is a quality back, but also know that the Redskins offensive line has become a veritable mash unit with injuries to Jon Jansen, Randy Thomas, Casey Rabach and Todd Wade. The man of many disguises has yet to surpass 100 yards rushing in any one game this year. Don’t expect that to happen against the likes of New England, Chicago and Minnesota. His tendonitis may also flare up at any time. Trade him.
LAMONT JORDAN (RB-OAK)- A bad back combined with a crowded backfield featuring the likes of Dominic Rhodes and Justin “Huggy Bear” Fargas should spell less carries for the former Maryland Terrapin going forward.
MARQUES COLSTON (WR-NO)- While many are expecting better things from Colston in the coming weeks, a number of secondary receivers (David Patten, Lance Moore) have been quietly emerging in the Saints offense. In last Sunday’s win over Seattle, Colston was rarely targeted and when he was thrown to, he dropped the ball. Is the former rookie standout better than this? Yes. But in an offense dominated by Reggie Bush, Colston cannot be counted on as an every week starter. This week he matches up with Atlanta’s cover corner D’Angelo Hall. Trade him before others begin to notice his shortcomings.
VINCENT JACKSON (WR-SD)- A lot was expected from the 6’5” Jackson this year, and for the most part, he hasn’t delivered. The third-year professional has dropped a number of passes this season and cost San Diego valuable points. The acquisition of Chris Chambers clearly moves Jackson down in the hierarchy of Charger receivers.
BERNARD BERRIAN (WR-CHI)- This deep threat should worry his fantasy owners, as he has been plagued by a sore foot and an injured toe all season. His downfield speed, furthermore, may be deemphasized in future weeks with tight ends Desmond Clark and Greg Olsen becoming prime targets for quarterback Brian Griese, who isn’t exactly known for having a howitzer arm. Sell Berrian’s 39-yard touchdown catch this past weekend when trading him and don’t mention the fact that Viking corner Antoine Winfield slipped and left the wide out all by his lonesome on his path to the end zone.
Monday, October 15, 2007
WEEK 7 WAIVER WIRE HELP
SEARCHING THE SCRAP HEAP
VINNY TESTAVERDE (CAR-QB)- If you have any extra space on your roster, make room for Vinny. Yes, that Vinny---43-years young. Signed just days ago to fill in for a banged-up David Carr, the 21st year journeyman authored a very credible performance versus the Cardinals this Sunday by completing 20 of 30 passes for 206 yards and one touchdown. Testaverde kept his team out of trouble and also uncorked some long throws, including a 65-yard touchdown to Steve Smith. While Carr will probably regain his starting role, coach John Fox will not be hesitant to turn to Vinny from Elmont once again if necessary.
D’ANGELO WILLIAMS (CAR-RB)- The second-year runner clearly distanced himself from the less explosive DeShaun Foster by breaking off some long runs to the outside during the second half of Carolina’s 25-10 victory over Arizona. Williams capped off his day with a 75-yard burst down the left sideline and later added a 13-yard touchdown run. The writing’s on the wall, and it won’t be long before Carolna starts phasing out the fumble-prone Foster in favor of the younger, faster Williams.
TROY WILLIAMSON (MIN-WR)- The much maligned and often criticized Williamson put his best attribute (his speed) on grand display Sunday by scoring on a 60-yard touchdown pass against Chicago. Although, he only ended up with two receptions, it should be noted that Tarvaris Jackson is back starting at quarterback and while that may alarm most Viking fans, the 24-year-old signal caller has a good arm and will be looking to Williamson quite often when he needs to throw it deep.
ERIC MOULDS (TEN-WR)- Far removed from his halcyon days in Buffalo, Moulds has gradually been carving out a bigger role for himself as a reliable possession receiver in Tennessee’s aerial attack. Following his four-catch 31-yard performance versus Atlanta last week, Moulds recorded 6 receptions for 49 yards. In bigger leagues, the grizzled veteran may be one to look at as a bye-week fill-in.
CHRIS HENRY (CIN-WR)- The troubled, but extremely gifted receiver is only two weeks away from returning from his eight-week suspension. Picking him up now could pay immediate dividends for those looking to reinforce their receiver corps. Quite simply, Henry is the most talented third receiver in the league and his 6’4” frame can pose matchup nightmares for nickelbacks trying to defend him.
RYAN LONGWELL (MIN-K)- The oft-overlooked Longwell has been a model of consistency this season by connecting on eight of nine field goal attempts. The former Packer kicked field goals of 48 and 55 yards in Minnesota’s 34-31 win over Chicago. The fact that Longwell plays his home games indoors is another added bonus.
ONES TO WATCH
KERRY COLLINS (TENN-QB)- Collins stepped in for starting quarterback Vince Young, who left Sunday’s game versus Tampa Bay with a groin injury, and didn’t exactly distinguish himself with 10 completions for 125 yards. Monitor Young’s status. At last report, he is considered day-to-day. Although he still has a strong enough arm to make deep throws, Collins can be disastrous when forced out of the pocket. The former Giant is a total crapshoot at this point.
LEONARD WEAVER (SEA-RB)- In the wake of Mack Strong’s retirement, Weaver has assumed the role of lead fullback in Seattle’s backfield. Blessed with good size (242 pounds), quick feet and soft hands, Weaver put his talents to good use versus New Orleans with three carries for 40 yards and four receptions for 53 yards. Weaver might be looking at more carries if Shaun Alexander continues to disappoint.
KEENAN McCARDELL (WASH-WR)- The recently signed 37-year-old chipped in with two catches for 30 yards in Washington’s 17-14 loss to Green Bay. Although it’s hard to speculate how many snaps McCardell will get going forward, it’s safe to say that the Redskins should make more room for the dependable possession receiver on a team with so many health risks and question marks at the position.
JUSTIN GAGE (TENN-WR)- The fifth-year professional is commonly looked upon as a disappointment. Gage did show some vital signs this Sunday with four receptions for 82 yards, including a 42-yard grab. At 6’4” 212 pounds, Gage has the tools to make tough catches over the middle, although as a receiver he isn’t the fleetest of foot.
DAVID ANDERSON (HOU-WR)- The obscure wide out was frequently targeted in Houston’s loss to Jacksonville and finished with three receptions for 30 yards. With Andre’ Johnson rumored to be at least another month, the Colorado State product may continue to see more time as a third receiver. Keep an eye on him once rookie Jacoby Jones returns.
VINNY TESTAVERDE (CAR-QB)- If you have any extra space on your roster, make room for Vinny. Yes, that Vinny---43-years young. Signed just days ago to fill in for a banged-up David Carr, the 21st year journeyman authored a very credible performance versus the Cardinals this Sunday by completing 20 of 30 passes for 206 yards and one touchdown. Testaverde kept his team out of trouble and also uncorked some long throws, including a 65-yard touchdown to Steve Smith. While Carr will probably regain his starting role, coach John Fox will not be hesitant to turn to Vinny from Elmont once again if necessary.
D’ANGELO WILLIAMS (CAR-RB)- The second-year runner clearly distanced himself from the less explosive DeShaun Foster by breaking off some long runs to the outside during the second half of Carolina’s 25-10 victory over Arizona. Williams capped off his day with a 75-yard burst down the left sideline and later added a 13-yard touchdown run. The writing’s on the wall, and it won’t be long before Carolna starts phasing out the fumble-prone Foster in favor of the younger, faster Williams.
TROY WILLIAMSON (MIN-WR)- The much maligned and often criticized Williamson put his best attribute (his speed) on grand display Sunday by scoring on a 60-yard touchdown pass against Chicago. Although, he only ended up with two receptions, it should be noted that Tarvaris Jackson is back starting at quarterback and while that may alarm most Viking fans, the 24-year-old signal caller has a good arm and will be looking to Williamson quite often when he needs to throw it deep.
ERIC MOULDS (TEN-WR)- Far removed from his halcyon days in Buffalo, Moulds has gradually been carving out a bigger role for himself as a reliable possession receiver in Tennessee’s aerial attack. Following his four-catch 31-yard performance versus Atlanta last week, Moulds recorded 6 receptions for 49 yards. In bigger leagues, the grizzled veteran may be one to look at as a bye-week fill-in.
CHRIS HENRY (CIN-WR)- The troubled, but extremely gifted receiver is only two weeks away from returning from his eight-week suspension. Picking him up now could pay immediate dividends for those looking to reinforce their receiver corps. Quite simply, Henry is the most talented third receiver in the league and his 6’4” frame can pose matchup nightmares for nickelbacks trying to defend him.
RYAN LONGWELL (MIN-K)- The oft-overlooked Longwell has been a model of consistency this season by connecting on eight of nine field goal attempts. The former Packer kicked field goals of 48 and 55 yards in Minnesota’s 34-31 win over Chicago. The fact that Longwell plays his home games indoors is another added bonus.
ONES TO WATCH
KERRY COLLINS (TENN-QB)- Collins stepped in for starting quarterback Vince Young, who left Sunday’s game versus Tampa Bay with a groin injury, and didn’t exactly distinguish himself with 10 completions for 125 yards. Monitor Young’s status. At last report, he is considered day-to-day. Although he still has a strong enough arm to make deep throws, Collins can be disastrous when forced out of the pocket. The former Giant is a total crapshoot at this point.
LEONARD WEAVER (SEA-RB)- In the wake of Mack Strong’s retirement, Weaver has assumed the role of lead fullback in Seattle’s backfield. Blessed with good size (242 pounds), quick feet and soft hands, Weaver put his talents to good use versus New Orleans with three carries for 40 yards and four receptions for 53 yards. Weaver might be looking at more carries if Shaun Alexander continues to disappoint.
KEENAN McCARDELL (WASH-WR)- The recently signed 37-year-old chipped in with two catches for 30 yards in Washington’s 17-14 loss to Green Bay. Although it’s hard to speculate how many snaps McCardell will get going forward, it’s safe to say that the Redskins should make more room for the dependable possession receiver on a team with so many health risks and question marks at the position.
JUSTIN GAGE (TENN-WR)- The fifth-year professional is commonly looked upon as a disappointment. Gage did show some vital signs this Sunday with four receptions for 82 yards, including a 42-yard grab. At 6’4” 212 pounds, Gage has the tools to make tough catches over the middle, although as a receiver he isn’t the fleetest of foot.
DAVID ANDERSON (HOU-WR)- The obscure wide out was frequently targeted in Houston’s loss to Jacksonville and finished with three receptions for 30 yards. With Andre’ Johnson rumored to be at least another month, the Colorado State product may continue to see more time as a third receiver. Keep an eye on him once rookie Jacoby Jones returns.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
SUNDAY MORNING QUARTERBACK
The quarterback carousel is in full effect as we enter week number six.
It was announced earlier in the week that Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme (elbow) will be out for the season. After flying across the country for the Cardinals game, David Carr was downgraded to questionable with a bad back. This means recently signed forty-three year old Vinny Testaverde could get the start. This is one quarterback mess you should be sure to steer clear from.
The Cardinals also dipped their toes into the free agent pool this week. With Matt Leinart (shoulder) out for the season, the Cardinals brought Tim Rattay back into the league with the fragile Kurt Warner now at the helm. Next to be signed is veteran Tim Hasselbeck, who will be playing in the same division as his brother Matt. With Warner prone to concussions, this is another quarterback situation to avoid.
After getting benched last week, Joey Harrington maintains his starting job as Byron Leftwich (ankle) has been ruled out this week.
It appears that Ravens quarterback Steve McNair (back) will not play on Sunday and Kyle Boller will get his second start of the season. Boller took snaps with the first team, while McNair sat out practice this week.
Tarvaris Jackson (groin) returns to the starting line-up for Minnesota. Kelly Holcomb goes back to holding the clipboard.
Good ‘ol Gus Frerotte (ankle) will start despite injury as he continues to fill in for Marc Bulger (ribs) and Daunte Culpepper starts once again in place of Josh McCown (toe).
Keep an eye on Jets quarterback Chad Pennington this week. Another lousy outing and/or Jets loss could finally cost him his job. The coaching staff has had high praise for Kellen Clemens and the fans have been calling for the backup for weeks. The pressure is mounting.
Cleo Lemon verses Derek Anderson is actually a key fantasy matchup this week, as both quarterbacks could put up solid fantasy numbers on Sunday.
The Patriots will be without Laurence Maroney (groin) once again this week for their showdown with New England. Sammy Morris; play’em if you got’em.
It has been announced that Jamal Lewis (foot) will not play Sunday. Jason Wright will get the start for Baltimore.
It appears as if LaMont Jordan (back) will be out Sunday. Look for Justin Fargas and Dominic Rhodes to split the carries in his absence. Rhodes is seeing action for the first time this season as he comes off a four-game suspension.
Those of you in deep leagues planning to play Kenneth Darby this week, the Buccaneers pulled a switch-a-roo. Darby was released on Saturday and the team activated Lionel Gates from the practice squad to serve as the backup to Earnest Graham. Michael Pittman (ankle) will be out at least two months. Zack Crockett was also signed.
Fred Taylor (groin) will most likely play, but if he re-aggravates the injury, look for Greg Jones to be in the mix for carries in addition to a heavy dose of Maurice Jones-Drew.
Maximize your use of Brian Leonard, as he gets one more solid start against a porous Dolphins team before Steven Jackson returns.
Rams wide out Torry Holt admitted this week that his current knee condition is an injury that he’ll just have to deal with for the remainder of his career. Holt is no longer in the top fantasy wide out conversation and has also been hurt by bad quarterback play.
Speaking of stud wide outs, it looks like Texans wide out Andre Johnson (knee) is plotting his return for week eleven after the team’s bye week.
The Seahawks will be without Deion Branch (foot) for two weeks. Bobby Engram steps in as the starter. D.J. Hackett (ankle) is expected to play, with former Auburn standouts Ben Obomanu and Courtney Taylor serving as the number three and four guys.
Despite Anquan Boldin’s public proclamation that he is healthy enough to play, head coach Ken Wisenhunt stated that Boldin needs to practice before he suits up for game action.
Need a second half sleeper at the tight end position? You may want to scoop up Tony Scheffler off the waiver wire. With Denver on a bye this week, chances are that Scheffler is sitting in your league’s free agent pool. With Nate Jackson out for the season, Scheffler becomes the top receiving target at the tight end position in Denver and could produce a handful of touchdowns over the second half of the season.
Where Are They Now: Former first-round pick Akili Smith was released by the Calgary Stampeders of the CFL this week.
It was announced earlier in the week that Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme (elbow) will be out for the season. After flying across the country for the Cardinals game, David Carr was downgraded to questionable with a bad back. This means recently signed forty-three year old Vinny Testaverde could get the start. This is one quarterback mess you should be sure to steer clear from.
The Cardinals also dipped their toes into the free agent pool this week. With Matt Leinart (shoulder) out for the season, the Cardinals brought Tim Rattay back into the league with the fragile Kurt Warner now at the helm. Next to be signed is veteran Tim Hasselbeck, who will be playing in the same division as his brother Matt. With Warner prone to concussions, this is another quarterback situation to avoid.
After getting benched last week, Joey Harrington maintains his starting job as Byron Leftwich (ankle) has been ruled out this week.
It appears that Ravens quarterback Steve McNair (back) will not play on Sunday and Kyle Boller will get his second start of the season. Boller took snaps with the first team, while McNair sat out practice this week.
Tarvaris Jackson (groin) returns to the starting line-up for Minnesota. Kelly Holcomb goes back to holding the clipboard.
Good ‘ol Gus Frerotte (ankle) will start despite injury as he continues to fill in for Marc Bulger (ribs) and Daunte Culpepper starts once again in place of Josh McCown (toe).
Keep an eye on Jets quarterback Chad Pennington this week. Another lousy outing and/or Jets loss could finally cost him his job. The coaching staff has had high praise for Kellen Clemens and the fans have been calling for the backup for weeks. The pressure is mounting.
Cleo Lemon verses Derek Anderson is actually a key fantasy matchup this week, as both quarterbacks could put up solid fantasy numbers on Sunday.
The Patriots will be without Laurence Maroney (groin) once again this week for their showdown with New England. Sammy Morris; play’em if you got’em.
It has been announced that Jamal Lewis (foot) will not play Sunday. Jason Wright will get the start for Baltimore.
It appears as if LaMont Jordan (back) will be out Sunday. Look for Justin Fargas and Dominic Rhodes to split the carries in his absence. Rhodes is seeing action for the first time this season as he comes off a four-game suspension.
Those of you in deep leagues planning to play Kenneth Darby this week, the Buccaneers pulled a switch-a-roo. Darby was released on Saturday and the team activated Lionel Gates from the practice squad to serve as the backup to Earnest Graham. Michael Pittman (ankle) will be out at least two months. Zack Crockett was also signed.
Fred Taylor (groin) will most likely play, but if he re-aggravates the injury, look for Greg Jones to be in the mix for carries in addition to a heavy dose of Maurice Jones-Drew.
Maximize your use of Brian Leonard, as he gets one more solid start against a porous Dolphins team before Steven Jackson returns.
Rams wide out Torry Holt admitted this week that his current knee condition is an injury that he’ll just have to deal with for the remainder of his career. Holt is no longer in the top fantasy wide out conversation and has also been hurt by bad quarterback play.
Speaking of stud wide outs, it looks like Texans wide out Andre Johnson (knee) is plotting his return for week eleven after the team’s bye week.
The Seahawks will be without Deion Branch (foot) for two weeks. Bobby Engram steps in as the starter. D.J. Hackett (ankle) is expected to play, with former Auburn standouts Ben Obomanu and Courtney Taylor serving as the number three and four guys.
Despite Anquan Boldin’s public proclamation that he is healthy enough to play, head coach Ken Wisenhunt stated that Boldin needs to practice before he suits up for game action.
Need a second half sleeper at the tight end position? You may want to scoop up Tony Scheffler off the waiver wire. With Denver on a bye this week, chances are that Scheffler is sitting in your league’s free agent pool. With Nate Jackson out for the season, Scheffler becomes the top receiving target at the tight end position in Denver and could produce a handful of touchdowns over the second half of the season.
Where Are They Now: Former first-round pick Akili Smith was released by the Calgary Stampeders of the CFL this week.
Friday, October 12, 2007
THE STOCK EXCHANGE
By The Fantasy Trader, NFL Draft Bible
This week I will give you a little insight into my fantasy teams. I own 3 teams and they are a combined 14-1. This has been my greatest fantasy football season so far. While I was adjusting my lineups for this week, I was trying to figure out what makes these teams so good. There are two common traits in all three of them. Each team has a dominating QB. This was the first year that I planned on taking a QB early. In previous years, I was always a “wait until the dime-a-dozen quarterbacks start going” kind of drafter. If I pulled that this year, I would have Manning (not the good one!), Cutler or Leinart. Instead I took Palmer in two leagues and Brady in the other.
Another common component that all three share is the X factor guy. You know… the guy that you were on the fence about but just had to take because he was still there. Those guys for me were Randy Moss, Ronnie Brown and Adrian Peterson. All three of my teams are obviously very healthy. Now that I have jinxed the rest of my season, here is who I like and hate in week 6!
BIG WEEK 6
RB Larry Johnson- This is it, I swear! If Johnson does not rack up big numbers against the Bengals, then it is time to abort this mission. Despite his struggles, LJ is still getting a heavy dose of carries. With opportunity comes reward. The Bengals are giving up over 5 yards a carry. KC has a banged up QB in Huard, so look for an even heavier dose of Johnson. Prediction: 30 Rushes 137 Yards 1 TD
WR The Original 81- I was shocked that TO was so quiet on Monday Night Football. He must have been saving it up for this week. The human quote machine left nothing but a note for reporters this week. Owens is getting ready to put on a show against a very tough New England secondary. TO hates nothing more than being shown up by a counterpart. I’m feeling Randy Moss touchdowns so TO will have to get his as well.
Prediction: 8 Rec 115 Yards 1 TD
WR The Other 81- Is it just a coincidence that Mr. Moss had his first poor showing of the season? I think not! The man has admitted to dogging every now and then. The Cowboys secondary has a tough time defending the home run ball. I’m not sure there is a deeper threat than Moss. This one is straight cash homey!
Prediction: 8 Rec 115 Yards 1 TD
QB Kurt Warner- This might be the waiver wire claim of the year. He won’t be throwing it to Holt and Bruce anymore, but Fitzgerald and Boldin are pretty good. Boldin is banged up, but I expect Warner to post big numbers. The Panthers defense is 24th against the pass and is giving up over 230 yards per game.
Prediction: 300 Yards 3 TD
QB Philip Rivers - I hope you bought that Rivers stock on the cheap last week because he had his coming out party. The Broncos are the number 1 ranked defense against the pass and Rivers destroyed them. I understand that Champ Bailey got injured, but Rivers was 13 for 18 for 270 yards. I know what he will do to the Raiders this week.
Prediction: 300 Yards 2 TD
SMALL WEEK 6
RB Cedric Benson- This guy can’t seem to catch a break. He waits forever to get the starting gig and when he finally does, he looks like he might lose it. Benson is averaging 3 yards per carry. His longest run in over 300 carries is 16 yards. The numbers are awful and now he gets the number 1 ranked rushing defense. Good luck against the Vikings Cedric! Prediction: 20 Rushes 60 Yards 1 Fumble
RB Thomas Jones- At least the Bears can take solace in the fact that Jones stinks. The problem for Jones owners is that he actually has had several favorable match-ups. The Bills run defense make Moses’ parting of the sea look like a joke. The bigger joke was TJ couldn’t find the part. It is officially time to panic against the Eagles.
Prediction: 18 Rushes 58 Yards
QB Vince Young- The Titans offense has been struggling, but it seems to be flying under the radar because their defense has been electric. The VY will have a tough time against an underrated Bucs defense. I never thought I would write that the Tampa D was underrated. The Bucs rank 9th against the pass and have held opposing QBs to a rating of 73.9. Prediction: 180 Yards 1 TD 1 INT
WR Braylon Edwards- I’ve heard other experts predict big things for Edwards this week, but I’m not so sure. I’m not taking anything away from what he has done this season. He is averaging over 20 yards a reception, but the Dolphins pass defense is elite. The Dolphins are allowing just 171 yards per game through the air.
Prediction: 3 Rec 60 Yards
QB Tony Romo- This prediction has a chance to backfire so badly that I’m thinking about changing it right now. I won’t because he deserves to be on the stink list after throwing 5 first half INT to the worst defense in the league. This poor man’s Brady will show he is exactly that this week. That was pretty harsh. You would think he stole my girlfriend or something.
Prediction: 280 Yards 2 TD 4 INT
This week I will give you a little insight into my fantasy teams. I own 3 teams and they are a combined 14-1. This has been my greatest fantasy football season so far. While I was adjusting my lineups for this week, I was trying to figure out what makes these teams so good. There are two common traits in all three of them. Each team has a dominating QB. This was the first year that I planned on taking a QB early. In previous years, I was always a “wait until the dime-a-dozen quarterbacks start going” kind of drafter. If I pulled that this year, I would have Manning (not the good one!), Cutler or Leinart. Instead I took Palmer in two leagues and Brady in the other.
Another common component that all three share is the X factor guy. You know… the guy that you were on the fence about but just had to take because he was still there. Those guys for me were Randy Moss, Ronnie Brown and Adrian Peterson. All three of my teams are obviously very healthy. Now that I have jinxed the rest of my season, here is who I like and hate in week 6!
BIG WEEK 6
RB Larry Johnson- This is it, I swear! If Johnson does not rack up big numbers against the Bengals, then it is time to abort this mission. Despite his struggles, LJ is still getting a heavy dose of carries. With opportunity comes reward. The Bengals are giving up over 5 yards a carry. KC has a banged up QB in Huard, so look for an even heavier dose of Johnson. Prediction: 30 Rushes 137 Yards 1 TD
WR The Original 81- I was shocked that TO was so quiet on Monday Night Football. He must have been saving it up for this week. The human quote machine left nothing but a note for reporters this week. Owens is getting ready to put on a show against a very tough New England secondary. TO hates nothing more than being shown up by a counterpart. I’m feeling Randy Moss touchdowns so TO will have to get his as well.
Prediction: 8 Rec 115 Yards 1 TD
WR The Other 81- Is it just a coincidence that Mr. Moss had his first poor showing of the season? I think not! The man has admitted to dogging every now and then. The Cowboys secondary has a tough time defending the home run ball. I’m not sure there is a deeper threat than Moss. This one is straight cash homey!
Prediction: 8 Rec 115 Yards 1 TD
QB Kurt Warner- This might be the waiver wire claim of the year. He won’t be throwing it to Holt and Bruce anymore, but Fitzgerald and Boldin are pretty good. Boldin is banged up, but I expect Warner to post big numbers. The Panthers defense is 24th against the pass and is giving up over 230 yards per game.
Prediction: 300 Yards 3 TD
QB Philip Rivers - I hope you bought that Rivers stock on the cheap last week because he had his coming out party. The Broncos are the number 1 ranked defense against the pass and Rivers destroyed them. I understand that Champ Bailey got injured, but Rivers was 13 for 18 for 270 yards. I know what he will do to the Raiders this week.
Prediction: 300 Yards 2 TD
SMALL WEEK 6
RB Cedric Benson- This guy can’t seem to catch a break. He waits forever to get the starting gig and when he finally does, he looks like he might lose it. Benson is averaging 3 yards per carry. His longest run in over 300 carries is 16 yards. The numbers are awful and now he gets the number 1 ranked rushing defense. Good luck against the Vikings Cedric! Prediction: 20 Rushes 60 Yards 1 Fumble
RB Thomas Jones- At least the Bears can take solace in the fact that Jones stinks. The problem for Jones owners is that he actually has had several favorable match-ups. The Bills run defense make Moses’ parting of the sea look like a joke. The bigger joke was TJ couldn’t find the part. It is officially time to panic against the Eagles.
Prediction: 18 Rushes 58 Yards
QB Vince Young- The Titans offense has been struggling, but it seems to be flying under the radar because their defense has been electric. The VY will have a tough time against an underrated Bucs defense. I never thought I would write that the Tampa D was underrated. The Bucs rank 9th against the pass and have held opposing QBs to a rating of 73.9. Prediction: 180 Yards 1 TD 1 INT
WR Braylon Edwards- I’ve heard other experts predict big things for Edwards this week, but I’m not so sure. I’m not taking anything away from what he has done this season. He is averaging over 20 yards a reception, but the Dolphins pass defense is elite. The Dolphins are allowing just 171 yards per game through the air.
Prediction: 3 Rec 60 Yards
QB Tony Romo- This prediction has a chance to backfire so badly that I’m thinking about changing it right now. I won’t because he deserves to be on the stink list after throwing 5 first half INT to the worst defense in the league. This poor man’s Brady will show he is exactly that this week. That was pretty harsh. You would think he stole my girlfriend or something.
Prediction: 280 Yards 2 TD 4 INT
Thursday, October 11, 2007
WEEK 6 FANTASY PREVIEW
Houston @ Jacksonville
After allowing about a million yards (well, more like 175) to Chris Brown in Week 1, Jacksonville has completely shut down opposing runners, including Travis Henry and LJ. Whether or not Ahman Green comes back this week, the Texans’ running game is a big-time sit this week. The Jags also shut down the pass pretty well, and no Texans receivers are particularly inspiring, but if you need one, I’d go with Andre Davis over Kevin Walter. As for the Jaguars, Maurice Jones-Drew finally broke out with a big run and a TD, but he still had just 9 carries. He isn’t getting the ball as much as Fred Taylor, and relies on breaking big runs. He’ll have a few games like last week this year, but they’ll be hard to predict. Houston is solid against the run, so don’t count on him this week.
St. Louis @ Baltimore
Baltimore’s defense isn’t as silly-dominant as it was last year, and receivers are having surprising success against this unit. This makes Drew Bennett a decent play again this week after scoring last week. Brian Leonard, though, is a sit. Gus Frerotte can be played if you’re desperate for a QB in this brutal week for byes (6 teams are off this week). Demetrius Williams is a nice play again for Baltimore against the Rams’ secondary. Mark Clayton is invisible.
Washington @ Green Bay
The Redskins’ defense has been a nice surprise thus far, and is allowing less than a TD and less than 200 yards passing to opposing QBs. Sit Brett Favre. I’d also sit Packer receivers other than Driver. I’d also continue to sit all Packer runners. Not a good outlook for the Pack. Start Santana Moss for sure if he’s back, since Washington may be without Antwaan Randle El and Moss will get all the looks in the passing game.
Cincinnati @ Kansas City
Larry Johnson should enjoy this week a bit more than last week, when he had only 12 yards on 9 carries. For those of you not on the Dwayne Bowe train yet, get on it this week for sure. It looks like Damon Huard will play this week, and he has an excellent matchup. He’s another good bye week fill-in.
Miami @ Cleveland
The Dolphins’ change at quarterback could be really bad for Chris Chambers owners. He was only targeted 4 times last week, while Marty Booker got 10 looks. Chambers is a start this week, but monitor this situation. The idea of Marty Booker emerging as a consistent fantasy presence is as silly as the name “Cleo Lemon”, but Chambers owners need to keep tabs on this offense. Miami is allowing almost 150 yards per game on the ground, so consider playing Jamal Lewis this week.
Minnesota @ Chicago
Chicago has had mixed success stopping the run, and they’re banged up again this week. Minnesota’s entire offense is the run game, so Adrian Peterson is a sure play. Chester Taylor was also a factor in his first game back in Week 4. He is a weaker play than Peterson, but is usable this week. Minnesota allows good production to opposing TEs, so Desmond Clark is a solid play.
Tennessee @ Tampa Bay
Earnest Graham wasn’t able to do much of anything in last week’s blowout defeat by the Colts, and his matchup doesn’t look much better this week. But, Graham could have a nice game against a solid Titan run D. Tennessee hasn’t faced a great running game yet (Jacksonville, Indy, New Orleans, and Atlanta), and the Bucs have shown an eagerness to pound the run in close games. Graham is likely to get more than the 6 carries he got last week (the Colts scored too much for the Bucs to establish the run), and could accumulate some yards and score.
Philadelphia @ New York Jets
Whoever starts at RB for the Eagles will have a huge game, so even if it’s Buckhalter replacing an injured Westbrook again this week, get him in. I’m sure many of you have vowed never to play Reggie Brown again, but consider him this week. The Jets tend to allow lots of underneath passing, and coming off the bye, it’s possible that he and McNabb have worked out their chemistry issues.
Carolina @ Arizona
With Jake Delhomme out for the season, I hesitate to recommend anyone on the Panthers for a while. Even Steve Smith’s production has fallen off with David Carr at quarterback, and they couldn’t do much with the run even against the Saints’ porous defense. Arizona’s defense has been good lately, and has another solid matchup against the Panthers. Kurt Warner is also a good play, and will continue to be until he inevitably gets injured hitting his hand on an O-lineman’s helmet.
Oakland @ San Diego
San Diego’s secondary has been bad, so start Ronald Curry. Daunte Culpepper is bound to throw more than 12 times, like he did in his last game, and Curry has been the most relevant receiver for them. Having said that, keep an eye on Jerry Porter. We haven’t seen which receiver Culpepper will favor, and it might be Porter, who caught 2 TDs in his last game with Daunte. The Chargers don’t look for their receivers much, but Vincent Jackson has a good matchup this week.
New England @ Dallas
This is a dream game for fantasy. Most of the players in this game are every week starters anyway, but I’d start most fringe players on these teams as well. Laurence Maroney looks like he may be back, but Sammy Morris is still the better play here because of his goal line carries. Start both Stallworth and Welker for the Pats.
New Orleans @ Seattle
The Saints continue to flounder this season. Aaron Stecker was irrelevant last week, Reggie Bush still thinks you can return punts from scrimmage, and Drew Brees is throwing interceptions all over the field. Devery Henderson caught some passes, but had a killer drop at the end, and rumor has it that coach Payton is running out of patience. Mike Karney is an interesting touchdown-vulture type, but his potential is limited because he relies solely on TDs to score. If you’re desperate for a runner in a bye week, though, he’s not bad. Eric Johnson is also decent as a bye week fill-in. Deion Branch is out for the Seahawks, which elevates Bobby Engram to the starting lineup, and he’s a great play against this Saints defense.
New York Giants @ Atlanta
Not too much to say here. I love Brandon Jacobs, and believe that he can run over people and fall forward against almost any defense. The Atlanta receivers continue to be inconsistent and unreliable, and with the Giants’ pass rush, they don’t have a great matchup. Lame Monday Night game…
After allowing about a million yards (well, more like 175) to Chris Brown in Week 1, Jacksonville has completely shut down opposing runners, including Travis Henry and LJ. Whether or not Ahman Green comes back this week, the Texans’ running game is a big-time sit this week. The Jags also shut down the pass pretty well, and no Texans receivers are particularly inspiring, but if you need one, I’d go with Andre Davis over Kevin Walter. As for the Jaguars, Maurice Jones-Drew finally broke out with a big run and a TD, but he still had just 9 carries. He isn’t getting the ball as much as Fred Taylor, and relies on breaking big runs. He’ll have a few games like last week this year, but they’ll be hard to predict. Houston is solid against the run, so don’t count on him this week.
St. Louis @ Baltimore
Baltimore’s defense isn’t as silly-dominant as it was last year, and receivers are having surprising success against this unit. This makes Drew Bennett a decent play again this week after scoring last week. Brian Leonard, though, is a sit. Gus Frerotte can be played if you’re desperate for a QB in this brutal week for byes (6 teams are off this week). Demetrius Williams is a nice play again for Baltimore against the Rams’ secondary. Mark Clayton is invisible.
Washington @ Green Bay
The Redskins’ defense has been a nice surprise thus far, and is allowing less than a TD and less than 200 yards passing to opposing QBs. Sit Brett Favre. I’d also sit Packer receivers other than Driver. I’d also continue to sit all Packer runners. Not a good outlook for the Pack. Start Santana Moss for sure if he’s back, since Washington may be without Antwaan Randle El and Moss will get all the looks in the passing game.
Cincinnati @ Kansas City
Larry Johnson should enjoy this week a bit more than last week, when he had only 12 yards on 9 carries. For those of you not on the Dwayne Bowe train yet, get on it this week for sure. It looks like Damon Huard will play this week, and he has an excellent matchup. He’s another good bye week fill-in.
Miami @ Cleveland
The Dolphins’ change at quarterback could be really bad for Chris Chambers owners. He was only targeted 4 times last week, while Marty Booker got 10 looks. Chambers is a start this week, but monitor this situation. The idea of Marty Booker emerging as a consistent fantasy presence is as silly as the name “Cleo Lemon”, but Chambers owners need to keep tabs on this offense. Miami is allowing almost 150 yards per game on the ground, so consider playing Jamal Lewis this week.
Minnesota @ Chicago
Chicago has had mixed success stopping the run, and they’re banged up again this week. Minnesota’s entire offense is the run game, so Adrian Peterson is a sure play. Chester Taylor was also a factor in his first game back in Week 4. He is a weaker play than Peterson, but is usable this week. Minnesota allows good production to opposing TEs, so Desmond Clark is a solid play.
Tennessee @ Tampa Bay
Earnest Graham wasn’t able to do much of anything in last week’s blowout defeat by the Colts, and his matchup doesn’t look much better this week. But, Graham could have a nice game against a solid Titan run D. Tennessee hasn’t faced a great running game yet (Jacksonville, Indy, New Orleans, and Atlanta), and the Bucs have shown an eagerness to pound the run in close games. Graham is likely to get more than the 6 carries he got last week (the Colts scored too much for the Bucs to establish the run), and could accumulate some yards and score.
Philadelphia @ New York Jets
Whoever starts at RB for the Eagles will have a huge game, so even if it’s Buckhalter replacing an injured Westbrook again this week, get him in. I’m sure many of you have vowed never to play Reggie Brown again, but consider him this week. The Jets tend to allow lots of underneath passing, and coming off the bye, it’s possible that he and McNabb have worked out their chemistry issues.
Carolina @ Arizona
With Jake Delhomme out for the season, I hesitate to recommend anyone on the Panthers for a while. Even Steve Smith’s production has fallen off with David Carr at quarterback, and they couldn’t do much with the run even against the Saints’ porous defense. Arizona’s defense has been good lately, and has another solid matchup against the Panthers. Kurt Warner is also a good play, and will continue to be until he inevitably gets injured hitting his hand on an O-lineman’s helmet.
Oakland @ San Diego
San Diego’s secondary has been bad, so start Ronald Curry. Daunte Culpepper is bound to throw more than 12 times, like he did in his last game, and Curry has been the most relevant receiver for them. Having said that, keep an eye on Jerry Porter. We haven’t seen which receiver Culpepper will favor, and it might be Porter, who caught 2 TDs in his last game with Daunte. The Chargers don’t look for their receivers much, but Vincent Jackson has a good matchup this week.
New England @ Dallas
This is a dream game for fantasy. Most of the players in this game are every week starters anyway, but I’d start most fringe players on these teams as well. Laurence Maroney looks like he may be back, but Sammy Morris is still the better play here because of his goal line carries. Start both Stallworth and Welker for the Pats.
New Orleans @ Seattle
The Saints continue to flounder this season. Aaron Stecker was irrelevant last week, Reggie Bush still thinks you can return punts from scrimmage, and Drew Brees is throwing interceptions all over the field. Devery Henderson caught some passes, but had a killer drop at the end, and rumor has it that coach Payton is running out of patience. Mike Karney is an interesting touchdown-vulture type, but his potential is limited because he relies solely on TDs to score. If you’re desperate for a runner in a bye week, though, he’s not bad. Eric Johnson is also decent as a bye week fill-in. Deion Branch is out for the Seahawks, which elevates Bobby Engram to the starting lineup, and he’s a great play against this Saints defense.
New York Giants @ Atlanta
Not too much to say here. I love Brandon Jacobs, and believe that he can run over people and fall forward against almost any defense. The Atlanta receivers continue to be inconsistent and unreliable, and with the Giants’ pass rush, they don’t have a great matchup. Lame Monday Night game…
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
FANTASY FILL-INS FOR WEEK 6
-Ralph Mancini, FFI Sr. Writer
Fantasy owners of Peyton Manning, Willie Parker, Roy Williams and Marshawn Lynch, take heed and listen---the treacherous bye weeks are upon us.
There a couple of different ways to battle this predicament in order to assemble a competent lineup for the upcoming week. One can either make a desperate trade and get fleeced---especially if you’re 1-4---or you can scour the waiver wire for solutions.
Granted, at this point of the season, you’re probably not going to stumble upon any week- in and week-out starters, but remember you’re playing for Week Six and once your regulars come back, you might not have to use these fill-ins ever again.
Here are a few names that might still be available. Some of these players happen to be quite talented, while the others just have good matchups.
GUS FREROTTE (STL-QB)- At first glance, the well traveled journeyman has a less-than-favorable matchup versus the traditionally stingy Baltimore Ravens defense. A closer look ,however, reveals that this defensive unit has absorbed it’s fair share of injuries which have caused starting cornerback Samari Rolle (medical illness) and defensive end Trevor Pryce (wrist) to miss games and it doesn’t look as though they’ll be returning this week. In addition, the Ravens defense has allowed 20 or more points in three of their five games and, with the exception of a special teams touchdown, have failed to score. While still formidable versus the run, this unit has allowed receivers Jerricho Cotchery (7 receptions, 165 yards) and Anquan Boldin (14 receptions, 181 yards, two touchdowns) to achieve memorable performances.
DeSHAWN WYNN (GB-RB)- If you know anything about Packer running back Vernand Morency, it’s that he doesn’t stay healthy for a long time and while many aren’t certain who’s top dog in Green Bay’s backfield---make no mistake that man is DeShawn Wynn. Along with showing good power in short yardage and goal-line situations, Wynn also has the ability to bounce runs outside for long gainers. The rookie looked good against Chicago and can certainly do the same versus Washington this week.
LEON WASHINGTON (NYJ-RB)- This may very well be the week that the Jets decide to hand the ball off to Thomas Jones 20 times to finally establish a running attack, but that doesn’t mean that Gang Green will stop going to elusive runner Leon Washington. New York’s opposing defense, the Philadelphia Eagles, are tied for second in the league in sacks with 16, so you better believe they’ll be coming hard after quarterback Chad Pennington, who may be throwing quite a few dump-off passes to Washington this week. The second-year runner already recorded eight catches in week three’s loss at Buffalo. Definitely start him in point-per-reception leagues.
JERRY PORTER (OAK-WR)- Porter has made the most out of his seven receptions this season by scoring on three of them. The enigmatic receiver showed very positive signs with Daunte Culpepper at quarterback two weeks ago versus the Dolphins and should be called upon quite often against a rather pourous San Diego secondary that gave up 369 yards and 284 yards to quarterbacks Brett Favre and Damon Huard in weeks three and four before shutting down the Broncos. With rookie JaMarcus Russell waiting in the wings, you can be certain that Culpepper will be taking some downfield shots to his newfound favorite wide out.
DENNIS NORTHCUTT (JAX-WR)- Very quietly, Dennis Northcutt has been cementing his status as Jacksonville’s most dependable receiver. As such, the former Brown was targeted seven times in the Jaguars’ win over Kansas City last Sunday. On one of those occasions, he was sought for in the end zone which led to a touchdown. Northcutt should have several opportunities to score against a Houston defense that has surrendered an average of twenty five points a game in their last three contests.
NY GIANTS DEFENSE- Need big-time fantasy points? Take a gander at the Big Blue Wrecking Crew’s league leading 17 sacks. Want another reason to start the Giants this week versus the Falcons? Atlanta’s starting left tackle Wayne Gandy is out for the year with a knee injury. Even Big Blue’s much-maligned secondary has been slowly crawling out of an early season funk with rookie Aaron Ross leading the way last week with two interceptions versus the Jets.
Fantasy owners of Peyton Manning, Willie Parker, Roy Williams and Marshawn Lynch, take heed and listen---the treacherous bye weeks are upon us.
There a couple of different ways to battle this predicament in order to assemble a competent lineup for the upcoming week. One can either make a desperate trade and get fleeced---especially if you’re 1-4---or you can scour the waiver wire for solutions.
Granted, at this point of the season, you’re probably not going to stumble upon any week- in and week-out starters, but remember you’re playing for Week Six and once your regulars come back, you might not have to use these fill-ins ever again.
Here are a few names that might still be available. Some of these players happen to be quite talented, while the others just have good matchups.
GUS FREROTTE (STL-QB)- At first glance, the well traveled journeyman has a less-than-favorable matchup versus the traditionally stingy Baltimore Ravens defense. A closer look ,however, reveals that this defensive unit has absorbed it’s fair share of injuries which have caused starting cornerback Samari Rolle (medical illness) and defensive end Trevor Pryce (wrist) to miss games and it doesn’t look as though they’ll be returning this week. In addition, the Ravens defense has allowed 20 or more points in three of their five games and, with the exception of a special teams touchdown, have failed to score. While still formidable versus the run, this unit has allowed receivers Jerricho Cotchery (7 receptions, 165 yards) and Anquan Boldin (14 receptions, 181 yards, two touchdowns) to achieve memorable performances.
DeSHAWN WYNN (GB-RB)- If you know anything about Packer running back Vernand Morency, it’s that he doesn’t stay healthy for a long time and while many aren’t certain who’s top dog in Green Bay’s backfield---make no mistake that man is DeShawn Wynn. Along with showing good power in short yardage and goal-line situations, Wynn also has the ability to bounce runs outside for long gainers. The rookie looked good against Chicago and can certainly do the same versus Washington this week.
LEON WASHINGTON (NYJ-RB)- This may very well be the week that the Jets decide to hand the ball off to Thomas Jones 20 times to finally establish a running attack, but that doesn’t mean that Gang Green will stop going to elusive runner Leon Washington. New York’s opposing defense, the Philadelphia Eagles, are tied for second in the league in sacks with 16, so you better believe they’ll be coming hard after quarterback Chad Pennington, who may be throwing quite a few dump-off passes to Washington this week. The second-year runner already recorded eight catches in week three’s loss at Buffalo. Definitely start him in point-per-reception leagues.
JERRY PORTER (OAK-WR)- Porter has made the most out of his seven receptions this season by scoring on three of them. The enigmatic receiver showed very positive signs with Daunte Culpepper at quarterback two weeks ago versus the Dolphins and should be called upon quite often against a rather pourous San Diego secondary that gave up 369 yards and 284 yards to quarterbacks Brett Favre and Damon Huard in weeks three and four before shutting down the Broncos. With rookie JaMarcus Russell waiting in the wings, you can be certain that Culpepper will be taking some downfield shots to his newfound favorite wide out.
DENNIS NORTHCUTT (JAX-WR)- Very quietly, Dennis Northcutt has been cementing his status as Jacksonville’s most dependable receiver. As such, the former Brown was targeted seven times in the Jaguars’ win over Kansas City last Sunday. On one of those occasions, he was sought for in the end zone which led to a touchdown. Northcutt should have several opportunities to score against a Houston defense that has surrendered an average of twenty five points a game in their last three contests.
NY GIANTS DEFENSE- Need big-time fantasy points? Take a gander at the Big Blue Wrecking Crew’s league leading 17 sacks. Want another reason to start the Giants this week versus the Falcons? Atlanta’s starting left tackle Wayne Gandy is out for the year with a knee injury. Even Big Blue’s much-maligned secondary has been slowly crawling out of an early season funk with rookie Aaron Ross leading the way last week with two interceptions versus the Jets.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
BUSTED, BRUISED & BROKEN
By David Kaye,Fantasy Football Insiders
AFC Injury Report
Buffalo Bills wide receiver Peerless Price (neck) will be out for the remainder of the season after it was discovered that the disc problem he has in his neck will require surgery. As Price is placed on the injured reserve, he becomes the ninth Bills player who
will miss the rest of the season. In his absence, look for Roscoe Parrish and Josh Reed to see increased playing time as the number two receivers.
Laurence Maroney (ankle) did not play for the second consecutive week and his status for Sunday’s showdown at Dallas is still unknown. Sammy Morris has served as the quintessential backup for Maroney as he has had back-to-back 100-yard performances against the Bengals and Browns. He is a must have in all fantasy leagues.
While trying to tackle Houston Texans defensive lineman Travis Johnson, quarterback Trent Green was inadvertently kneed in the head and appeared motionless on the field for several seconds. Green (grade-three concussion) will most likely be out of action for
Sunday’s game at Cleveland and backup Cleo Lemon will make the start.
Jamal Lewis (foot) is experiencing considerable pain in his right foot and it has not been determined whether or not he’ll suit up for Sunday’s game against the woeful Dolphins.
Tight end Todd Heap (thigh) did not play in Sunday’s loss at San Francisco and is currently questionable for Sunday’s game against the 0-5 Rams.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh (knee) is listed as probable for this week’s game at Kansas City.
Hines Ward (knee) missed his second straight game, but will likely be able to start week seven following the Steelers bye week. Ward has been ineffective when healthy and should not be relied upon at all by fantasy owners this season.
Pro Bowl kick returner Jerome Mathis (leg) has been placed on injured reserve after it was discovered that he had a stress fracture in his left leg. Mathis has played an integral part in the Texans special teams over the past two seasons and it will be very difficult for them to provide any sort of stability to that position in the final eleven weeks of the season.
Running Back Ahman Green (knee) has missed the past two weeks and remains questionable for Sunday’s game at Jacksonville.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Damon Huard (shoulder) is probable for Sunday’s game with the Bengals after sustaining a right shoulder contusion in last week’s loss to the Jaguars.
Wide receiver Vincent Jackson (shoulder) is probable for Sunday’s game against the Raiders.
Denver Broncos center Tom Nalen (torn right biceps) will undergo surgery this week and be out for the remainder of the season.
NFC Injury Report
Washington Redskins wide receiver Antwaan Randle El (hamstring) left Sunday’s 34-3 victory over the Lions early with an apparent injury to his hamstring and is listed as questionable for this week’s matchup at Green Bay.
Brandon Jacobs (knee) returned to action for the first time after missing the last three weeks and rushed for 100 yards and a score. Look for his production to continue to rise and for Derrick Ward to receive less carries.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme (elbow) will have season-ending surgery next week to repair his badly sprained right elbow. Once thought to be a week-to week injury, Delhomme was unable to show any considerable improvement while throwing on the side. The Panthers offensive leader is expected to face seven to nine months of recovery time.
Quarterback David Carr (back) left Sunday’s win over the Saints early and his status for this week at Arizona is unknown. Undrafted rookie Matt Moore out of Oregon State is the only remaining signalcaller on the roster.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Michael Pittman (broken fibula) will miss the next six-to-eight weeks after sustaining the injury in Sunday’s loss to the Colts. With Pittman and Carnell Williams out indefinitely, Earnest Graham will be thrusted into the starting role.
Matt Leinart (broken left collarbone) will be out for an indefinite period of time after being sacked in the first quarter of Sunday’s win by Will Witherspoon. Kurt Warner, who combined for two touchdowns in Leinart’s absence, becomes an attractive fantasy option.
Running back Steven Jackson (partially torn groin) has been ruled out for Sunday’s game at Baltimore by head coach Scott Linehan.
2005 Super Bowl MVP Deion Branch (foot) will be out of action for the next two weeks after sustaining a mid-foot sprain. With an already depleted wide receiver core, Bobby Engram is expected to receive the bulk of throwing opportunities.
Fifteen-year veteran Mack Strong (neck) played the last game of his football career Sunday after it was revealed that he has a pinched nerve in his neck.
AFC Injury Report
Buffalo Bills wide receiver Peerless Price (neck) will be out for the remainder of the season after it was discovered that the disc problem he has in his neck will require surgery. As Price is placed on the injured reserve, he becomes the ninth Bills player who
will miss the rest of the season. In his absence, look for Roscoe Parrish and Josh Reed to see increased playing time as the number two receivers.
Laurence Maroney (ankle) did not play for the second consecutive week and his status for Sunday’s showdown at Dallas is still unknown. Sammy Morris has served as the quintessential backup for Maroney as he has had back-to-back 100-yard performances against the Bengals and Browns. He is a must have in all fantasy leagues.
While trying to tackle Houston Texans defensive lineman Travis Johnson, quarterback Trent Green was inadvertently kneed in the head and appeared motionless on the field for several seconds. Green (grade-three concussion) will most likely be out of action for
Sunday’s game at Cleveland and backup Cleo Lemon will make the start.
Jamal Lewis (foot) is experiencing considerable pain in his right foot and it has not been determined whether or not he’ll suit up for Sunday’s game against the woeful Dolphins.
Tight end Todd Heap (thigh) did not play in Sunday’s loss at San Francisco and is currently questionable for Sunday’s game against the 0-5 Rams.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh (knee) is listed as probable for this week’s game at Kansas City.
Hines Ward (knee) missed his second straight game, but will likely be able to start week seven following the Steelers bye week. Ward has been ineffective when healthy and should not be relied upon at all by fantasy owners this season.
Pro Bowl kick returner Jerome Mathis (leg) has been placed on injured reserve after it was discovered that he had a stress fracture in his left leg. Mathis has played an integral part in the Texans special teams over the past two seasons and it will be very difficult for them to provide any sort of stability to that position in the final eleven weeks of the season.
Running Back Ahman Green (knee) has missed the past two weeks and remains questionable for Sunday’s game at Jacksonville.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Damon Huard (shoulder) is probable for Sunday’s game with the Bengals after sustaining a right shoulder contusion in last week’s loss to the Jaguars.
Wide receiver Vincent Jackson (shoulder) is probable for Sunday’s game against the Raiders.
Denver Broncos center Tom Nalen (torn right biceps) will undergo surgery this week and be out for the remainder of the season.
NFC Injury Report
Washington Redskins wide receiver Antwaan Randle El (hamstring) left Sunday’s 34-3 victory over the Lions early with an apparent injury to his hamstring and is listed as questionable for this week’s matchup at Green Bay.
Brandon Jacobs (knee) returned to action for the first time after missing the last three weeks and rushed for 100 yards and a score. Look for his production to continue to rise and for Derrick Ward to receive less carries.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme (elbow) will have season-ending surgery next week to repair his badly sprained right elbow. Once thought to be a week-to week injury, Delhomme was unable to show any considerable improvement while throwing on the side. The Panthers offensive leader is expected to face seven to nine months of recovery time.
Quarterback David Carr (back) left Sunday’s win over the Saints early and his status for this week at Arizona is unknown. Undrafted rookie Matt Moore out of Oregon State is the only remaining signalcaller on the roster.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Michael Pittman (broken fibula) will miss the next six-to-eight weeks after sustaining the injury in Sunday’s loss to the Colts. With Pittman and Carnell Williams out indefinitely, Earnest Graham will be thrusted into the starting role.
Matt Leinart (broken left collarbone) will be out for an indefinite period of time after being sacked in the first quarter of Sunday’s win by Will Witherspoon. Kurt Warner, who combined for two touchdowns in Leinart’s absence, becomes an attractive fantasy option.
Running back Steven Jackson (partially torn groin) has been ruled out for Sunday’s game at Baltimore by head coach Scott Linehan.
2005 Super Bowl MVP Deion Branch (foot) will be out of action for the next two weeks after sustaining a mid-foot sprain. With an already depleted wide receiver core, Bobby Engram is expected to receive the bulk of throwing opportunities.
Fifteen-year veteran Mack Strong (neck) played the last game of his football career Sunday after it was revealed that he has a pinched nerve in his neck.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
SUNDAY MORNING QUARTERBACK
Word out of Buffalo is- should Trent Edwards continue to impress, J.P. Losman will be in serious jeopardy of losing his starting job. After a solid showing during the preseason, Edwards played like ten-year pro last week against the Jets. An impressive showing against Dallas on Monday Night Football would certainly enhance his chance.
With Eddie Kennison returning from injury, this will be the first week that first-round pick Dwayne Bowe and Kennison start alongside each other. Look for a direct impact on Chiefs quarterback Damon Huard. The hasty veteran faces a stingy Jaguars defense this week, but could be a viable fantasy option against some of the weaker matchups throughout the year.
The Panthers will turn to David Carr for another start Sunday while they wait for Jake Delhomme (elbow) to return. Carr faces a Saints defense that is allowing 239 passing yards per game (25th).
Missing the last three days of practice due to a chest injury, Colts stud running back Joseph Addai remains a game-time decision. We’re hearing that Addai will give it a go, but that the short yardage/goal line carries would go to Kenton Keith, to avoid Addai from being involved in any physical pileups.
Running back Travis Henry expects to play on Sunday vs. San Diego despite a knee injury that's held him back in practice and despite a looming suspension that could cost him a year in the NFL. Look for backups Selvin Young and Andre Hall to be in the mix should Henry miss any action. Head coach Mike Shanahan has always been fond of fullback Cecil Sapp as well.
Patriots running back Laurence Maroney is considered a game-time decision but is not expected to play. Sammy Morris will get the starting nod once again in his place.
Brandon Jacobs returns to the Giants this week and assumes his starting role. Backup Derrick Ward did well in his absence and should continue to see a fair a mount of carries. One thing to keep an eye on is whether the team continues to use fullback Reuben Droughns or do they turn to Jacobs down near the goal line.
Buccaneers running back Cadillac Williams (knee) may have suffered a career-ending injury. Michael Pittman and Earnest Graham will split the workload for the remainder of the season, but you can be sure that the team will look to address the situation during the off-season either via the draft or in free agency. Pittman and Graham are considered to be worthy Flex players, but aren’t worth starting as one of your top two backs for your fantasy team.
The Packers will be without Brandon Jackson (shin) for the second straight game. Vernand Morency gets the start but DeShawn Wynn is actually the better fantasy play.
Atlanta has worked on getting Jerious Norwood more involved in the offense each week. Look for an increase of carries to continue on Sunday verses the Titans.
Aaron Stecker makes his season debut as the starter for the Saints on Sunday. With Deuce McAllister (ACL) out for the year, expect Reggie Bush to receive more touches with Stecker getting double-digit carries and fullback Mike Karney stealing some touchdowns.
We may have been a week premature with our bust-out prediction of Brian Leonard. Don’t be surprised to see Leonard have a big day against the Cardinals.
The Texans Ron Dayne will start in place of Ahman Green (knee). Look for Dayne to exploit a Miami defense that is ranked dead last against the run, allowing 199 rushing yards per game. You may also see Samkon Gado in this one as well.
Be on the lookout for Garrett Wolfe to be involved in the Bears offense this week.
Fantasy owners can exhale now, as it was announced that Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith is fine after leaving practice early on Friday due to leg cramps. He did not appear on the injury report.
The Colts have listed wide receiver Marvin Harrison (knee) as questionable for week five verses the Buccaneers. He did not practice all week and is not expected to play Sunday. Rookie Anthony Gonzalez will be called upon to make the start.
Other wide receivers out this weekend due to injury include the Steelers Hines Ward (knee), Redskins Santana Moss (groin), Isaac Bruce (hamstring) of the Rams and the Seahawks D.J. Hackett (ankle).
The Cardinals have listed Anquan Boldin as questionable with a groin injury, but he is not expected to play. Bryant Johnson steps into his spot against the winless Rams.
Saints first round pick Robert Meachem is officially in the doghouse. Despite being healthy enough to play, head coach Sean Payton stated that Meachem will be inactive on Sunday due to the other five receivers outperforming him.
Cowboys wide out Terry Glenn (knee) is a couple weeks away from returning, while Rod Smith (hip) appears nowhere close to returning for the Broncos.
The shoulder injury sustained by Browns tight end Kellen Winslow will reportedly be an injury that hinders him all season, but this is nothing new for Winslow who played the majority of last season thru injuries and remained one of the top fantasy producing tight ends in the league.
With Eddie Kennison returning from injury, this will be the first week that first-round pick Dwayne Bowe and Kennison start alongside each other. Look for a direct impact on Chiefs quarterback Damon Huard. The hasty veteran faces a stingy Jaguars defense this week, but could be a viable fantasy option against some of the weaker matchups throughout the year.
The Panthers will turn to David Carr for another start Sunday while they wait for Jake Delhomme (elbow) to return. Carr faces a Saints defense that is allowing 239 passing yards per game (25th).
Missing the last three days of practice due to a chest injury, Colts stud running back Joseph Addai remains a game-time decision. We’re hearing that Addai will give it a go, but that the short yardage/goal line carries would go to Kenton Keith, to avoid Addai from being involved in any physical pileups.
Running back Travis Henry expects to play on Sunday vs. San Diego despite a knee injury that's held him back in practice and despite a looming suspension that could cost him a year in the NFL. Look for backups Selvin Young and Andre Hall to be in the mix should Henry miss any action. Head coach Mike Shanahan has always been fond of fullback Cecil Sapp as well.
Patriots running back Laurence Maroney is considered a game-time decision but is not expected to play. Sammy Morris will get the starting nod once again in his place.
Brandon Jacobs returns to the Giants this week and assumes his starting role. Backup Derrick Ward did well in his absence and should continue to see a fair a mount of carries. One thing to keep an eye on is whether the team continues to use fullback Reuben Droughns or do they turn to Jacobs down near the goal line.
Buccaneers running back Cadillac Williams (knee) may have suffered a career-ending injury. Michael Pittman and Earnest Graham will split the workload for the remainder of the season, but you can be sure that the team will look to address the situation during the off-season either via the draft or in free agency. Pittman and Graham are considered to be worthy Flex players, but aren’t worth starting as one of your top two backs for your fantasy team.
The Packers will be without Brandon Jackson (shin) for the second straight game. Vernand Morency gets the start but DeShawn Wynn is actually the better fantasy play.
Atlanta has worked on getting Jerious Norwood more involved in the offense each week. Look for an increase of carries to continue on Sunday verses the Titans.
Aaron Stecker makes his season debut as the starter for the Saints on Sunday. With Deuce McAllister (ACL) out for the year, expect Reggie Bush to receive more touches with Stecker getting double-digit carries and fullback Mike Karney stealing some touchdowns.
We may have been a week premature with our bust-out prediction of Brian Leonard. Don’t be surprised to see Leonard have a big day against the Cardinals.
The Texans Ron Dayne will start in place of Ahman Green (knee). Look for Dayne to exploit a Miami defense that is ranked dead last against the run, allowing 199 rushing yards per game. You may also see Samkon Gado in this one as well.
Be on the lookout for Garrett Wolfe to be involved in the Bears offense this week.
Fantasy owners can exhale now, as it was announced that Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith is fine after leaving practice early on Friday due to leg cramps. He did not appear on the injury report.
The Colts have listed wide receiver Marvin Harrison (knee) as questionable for week five verses the Buccaneers. He did not practice all week and is not expected to play Sunday. Rookie Anthony Gonzalez will be called upon to make the start.
Other wide receivers out this weekend due to injury include the Steelers Hines Ward (knee), Redskins Santana Moss (groin), Isaac Bruce (hamstring) of the Rams and the Seahawks D.J. Hackett (ankle).
The Cardinals have listed Anquan Boldin as questionable with a groin injury, but he is not expected to play. Bryant Johnson steps into his spot against the winless Rams.
Saints first round pick Robert Meachem is officially in the doghouse. Despite being healthy enough to play, head coach Sean Payton stated that Meachem will be inactive on Sunday due to the other five receivers outperforming him.
Cowboys wide out Terry Glenn (knee) is a couple weeks away from returning, while Rod Smith (hip) appears nowhere close to returning for the Broncos.
The shoulder injury sustained by Browns tight end Kellen Winslow will reportedly be an injury that hinders him all season, but this is nothing new for Winslow who played the majority of last season thru injuries and remained one of the top fantasy producing tight ends in the league.
Friday, October 5, 2007
THE STOCK EXCHANGE
By The Fantasy Trader, NFL Draft Bible
We have reached the quarter mark here on the trading floor. The first four weeks have produced some surprises in Sammy Morris and Derek Anderson. The market has also seen some fatal crashes in Cadillac Williams and Deuce McAllister. What is important about this time of year is that owners need to realize that it is only the quarter mark. No championships have been won and no season has been lost. Now is the time where you either buy low or sell high. The market has dictated the value on these players and set a price accordingly. I’m sure the price is drastically different then it was on draft day.
BUY LOWQB Philip Rivers - Owners look to be jumping off the Norv Turner ship and are selling Rivers for IOU’s. Once LT becomes LT again, Rivers will be able to flourish. Turner needs time to work with Rivers. The Chargers faced top notch defenses in the Bears, Patriots and Packers. The schedule will get easier and the offense will get rolling.
RB Larry Johnson- LJ was the consensus third pick overall on draft day, but is currently ranked 21st among running backs in fantasy points. Owners have to still like his 75 carries and 90 touches. His schedule will get better as he faces Jacksonville, Cincinnati and Oakland the next three weeks. Johnson is currently getting traded for guys like Ronnie Brown and Marion Barber. I would suggest dealing an over-producing back like Marion Barber and a middle of the road WR like Laveranues Coles or Ronald Curry.
RB Maurice Jones-Drew- Is anyone enjoying a bye week more than this guy? He is playing more like Maurice Clarett at this point. In some leagues he is actually on the waiver wire. Are you kidding me? I realize he has two fumbles and no touchdowns, but he will turn it around. Look for MJD to start turning it around this week against KC. Offer Ron Dayne or Ladell Betts for him and see what happens.
WR Torry Holt- If you drafted Holt expecting the Holt of years past then I told you so. He admitted that he would not be 100% early on. Owners are frustrated and will be looking to sell. The switch from an injured Marc Bulger to a healthy Guy Frerotte will only help Holt. Steven Jackson should return in a week or two and also provide relief.
WR Brandon Marshall- Does this rookie look good or what? Marshall has been solid and could easily be considered a sell high guy, but I think his numbers will only get better as Jay Cutler gains more experience. Javon Walker has gotten off to a slow start and has been bothered by injury. I’m not sure Marshall is ready to be a number 1 WR so it is very important that Walker stay healthy. Marshall will continue to feast on teams’ second corners.
SELL HIGHQB Brett Favre - I think I’m like the anti John Madden when it comes to this guy. Predicting the downfall of Favre has become a mainstay in this column and has failed to this point. Most owners of Favre have another elite quarterback. The golden Bret was drafted as a fantasy back up and now being shopped with Romo and Brady like value. Don’t take the bait and if you have him sell, sell, sell like orange juice in Trading Places.
RB LaMont Jordan- He has done everything his owners hoped for when they took him between rounds 8 and 10. Now it is time to part ways if you still can. Jordan let the cat out of the bag when he hurt his back last week. The return of Dominic Rhodes and the emergence of Justin Fargas spell doom for the good LJ. (Sorry Larry) The Raiders signed Rhodes as a free agent and are not about to let their money go to waste. Dangle Jordan from your line and see if anyone bites.
RB Ronnie Brown- Brown is currently the number 1 ranked RB in fantasy. I got stuck with him in one league in the back of the first round. He has out played the other guys available at that point like Thomas Jones, Travis Henry and Cedric Benson. Now I’m selling and looking to land an elite WR like Steve Smith and a decent back. The Dolphins passing game will likely be the demise of Brown. Teams will eventually take him away and make Miami go to someone else. He might’ve single handily won weeks for his owners. You really can’t ask for more, but this is a business. Sell him like the elite stock he isn’t.
WR Randy Moss- Here is the best case of fantasy mimicking real life. The Patriots stole him from the Raiders and owners stole him on draft day. He is by far, and I mean real far, the number 1 ranked receiver. You can get crazy Viking day value for him. He will continue to produce, but he can’t do this every week. You can trade him for any receiver and a decent running back.
WR Braylon Edwards- I actually hung out with Edwards the night before he was picked by the Browns. This guy is a smooth cat, but not a top 5 fantasy receiver. He is also a Cleveland Brown. Bernie Kosar is not walking through that door so Derek Anderson will have to keep it up all season. Edwards has 375 yards and 4 TD already. Owners should use him as a great second player to get a trade over the top. He is a nice throw in to get an elite back or WR.
We have reached the quarter mark here on the trading floor. The first four weeks have produced some surprises in Sammy Morris and Derek Anderson. The market has also seen some fatal crashes in Cadillac Williams and Deuce McAllister. What is important about this time of year is that owners need to realize that it is only the quarter mark. No championships have been won and no season has been lost. Now is the time where you either buy low or sell high. The market has dictated the value on these players and set a price accordingly. I’m sure the price is drastically different then it was on draft day.
BUY LOWQB Philip Rivers - Owners look to be jumping off the Norv Turner ship and are selling Rivers for IOU’s. Once LT becomes LT again, Rivers will be able to flourish. Turner needs time to work with Rivers. The Chargers faced top notch defenses in the Bears, Patriots and Packers. The schedule will get easier and the offense will get rolling.
RB Larry Johnson- LJ was the consensus third pick overall on draft day, but is currently ranked 21st among running backs in fantasy points. Owners have to still like his 75 carries and 90 touches. His schedule will get better as he faces Jacksonville, Cincinnati and Oakland the next three weeks. Johnson is currently getting traded for guys like Ronnie Brown and Marion Barber. I would suggest dealing an over-producing back like Marion Barber and a middle of the road WR like Laveranues Coles or Ronald Curry.
RB Maurice Jones-Drew- Is anyone enjoying a bye week more than this guy? He is playing more like Maurice Clarett at this point. In some leagues he is actually on the waiver wire. Are you kidding me? I realize he has two fumbles and no touchdowns, but he will turn it around. Look for MJD to start turning it around this week against KC. Offer Ron Dayne or Ladell Betts for him and see what happens.
WR Torry Holt- If you drafted Holt expecting the Holt of years past then I told you so. He admitted that he would not be 100% early on. Owners are frustrated and will be looking to sell. The switch from an injured Marc Bulger to a healthy Guy Frerotte will only help Holt. Steven Jackson should return in a week or two and also provide relief.
WR Brandon Marshall- Does this rookie look good or what? Marshall has been solid and could easily be considered a sell high guy, but I think his numbers will only get better as Jay Cutler gains more experience. Javon Walker has gotten off to a slow start and has been bothered by injury. I’m not sure Marshall is ready to be a number 1 WR so it is very important that Walker stay healthy. Marshall will continue to feast on teams’ second corners.
SELL HIGHQB Brett Favre - I think I’m like the anti John Madden when it comes to this guy. Predicting the downfall of Favre has become a mainstay in this column and has failed to this point. Most owners of Favre have another elite quarterback. The golden Bret was drafted as a fantasy back up and now being shopped with Romo and Brady like value. Don’t take the bait and if you have him sell, sell, sell like orange juice in Trading Places.
RB LaMont Jordan- He has done everything his owners hoped for when they took him between rounds 8 and 10. Now it is time to part ways if you still can. Jordan let the cat out of the bag when he hurt his back last week. The return of Dominic Rhodes and the emergence of Justin Fargas spell doom for the good LJ. (Sorry Larry) The Raiders signed Rhodes as a free agent and are not about to let their money go to waste. Dangle Jordan from your line and see if anyone bites.
RB Ronnie Brown- Brown is currently the number 1 ranked RB in fantasy. I got stuck with him in one league in the back of the first round. He has out played the other guys available at that point like Thomas Jones, Travis Henry and Cedric Benson. Now I’m selling and looking to land an elite WR like Steve Smith and a decent back. The Dolphins passing game will likely be the demise of Brown. Teams will eventually take him away and make Miami go to someone else. He might’ve single handily won weeks for his owners. You really can’t ask for more, but this is a business. Sell him like the elite stock he isn’t.
WR Randy Moss- Here is the best case of fantasy mimicking real life. The Patriots stole him from the Raiders and owners stole him on draft day. He is by far, and I mean real far, the number 1 ranked receiver. You can get crazy Viking day value for him. He will continue to produce, but he can’t do this every week. You can trade him for any receiver and a decent running back.
WR Braylon Edwards- I actually hung out with Edwards the night before he was picked by the Browns. This guy is a smooth cat, but not a top 5 fantasy receiver. He is also a Cleveland Brown. Bernie Kosar is not walking through that door so Derek Anderson will have to keep it up all season. Edwards has 375 yards and 4 TD already. Owners should use him as a great second player to get a trade over the top. He is a nice throw in to get an elite back or WR.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
WEEK FIVE FANTASY PREVIEW
Jacksonville @ Kansas City
My bold call to sit LJ last week may have been a bit too bold, as he had his best game of the season with 123 yards. Dwayne Bowe continues to impress, catching a touchdown in his third straight game, but has a tough matchup this week. Jacksonville is great against opposing WR and has not allowed a TD to a wideout yet this year. Bowe may struggle this week, but is still the Chiefs’ only viable receiver. He’s becoming an every week start. KC’s defense has played well, and is a solid play against a Jaguar team that has difficulty scoring. Stay away from all Jacksonville receivers, as none seems to be reliable yet.
Atlanta @ Tennessee
I don’t quite believe in Joey Harrington just yet, but keep watching him and receivers Roddy White and Michael Jenkins. They are getting almost all of the targets from Harrington, and Jenkins scored twice last week. Tennessee is a decent matchup this week, and you should consider these two WR for your lineup. RB LenDale White has looked better than Chris Brown since Brown’s 175 yard game in Week 1, and is definitely getting goal line carries. He is the better play right now, and has a solid matchup if you need him.
Arizona @ St. Louis
St. Louis’ offense is a disaster right now. The O-line is in shambles, Steven Jackson is out, Isaac Bruce hurt his hammy, and now Marc Bulger is out. RB Brian Leonard wasn’t too impressive in place of Jackson last week, and faces a solid Arizona run D. He’ll probably catch a few passes, and could see more action than in last week’s blowout, but temper expectations. This could be the week for Drew Bennett to finally wake up. With Bruce out, he will probably start, and Arizona has trouble against opposing WR.
Cleveland @ New England
In yet another bonanza matchup for the Patriots, look for a solid game from Sammy Morris again. Definitely monitor Laurence Maroney’s status this week, but if Maroney is still too hurt to play, Morris will be able to run wild again this week. Also notable from last week was a hint of a Donte Stallworth sighting. Stallworth will continue to suffer from Brady’s past tendency to spread the ball, and from Brady’s uncanny connection with Randy Moss (34 targets, 31 catches!), but Cleveland is as good a matchup as any for Stallworth to get open. He’s worth a gamble if you need him. Wes Welker also remains a good start. Braylon Edwards caught another deep touchdown last week, and should still be started even against this defense. Joe Jurevicius had only 2 catches last week, but did catch a touchdown. If New England focuses on Edwards, as it did in shutting down Chad Johnson last week, then Jurevicius could benefit. He’s a long shot, but startable if you’re desperate.
Detroit @ Washington
Detroit’s receivers continue to benefit from Mike Martz’s socialist tendencies. Kitna targets everyone there, so Furrey and McDonald don’t suffer from their position on the depth chart. Keep using them if you have been. The Detroit running back situation isn’t pretty, but I’d lean toward Kevin Jones over Tatum Bell. He’s run for a TD in the past 2 games, and his goal line carries are the tie-breaker for me. Washington has also been making news this week, signing WR Keenan McCardell. Don’t get excited over McCardell yet, but this could mean they are worried about Santana Moss’ health. If Moss is out, Antwaan Randle-El’s value gets a boost, especially against Detroit’s defense. Clinton Portis’ knee is acting up, so keep an eye on his status this week. This could finally be Ladell Betts’ week to step up, especially if Portis is limited or out.
Carolina @ New Orleans
We’ll see if New Orleans figured anything out during its bye. The big story with them will be whether Aaron Stecker or Pierre Thomas can be of any value in fantasy trying to replace Deuce McAllister’s production. Carolina has been pretty tough against the run, so don’t count on big days from those two. Carolina TE Jeff King’s production slowed last week with only one catch, probably due to QB David Carr’s general lameness, so he could continue to struggle this week. DeAngelo Williams seems to have taken a backseat to DeShaun Foster after only 2 carries in the loss to Tampa. Foster did fumble twice, so keep watching this situation, but for now, Foster has an excellent matchup this week.
New York Jets @ New York Giants
The Jets can’t seem to stop anyone these days, with Buffalo’s Trent Edwards being the most recent beneficiary last week. Amani Toomer has a nice matchup this week. Both RBs Brandon Jacobs (returning from his Week 1 knee injury) and Derrick Ward are starts against the Jets. The Jets have trouble protecting the quarterback, and the Giants defense is coming off of a 12 sack game against the Eagles, so give the Giants’ D a look this week. Jets’ RB Leon Washington was very involved against the Bills, and should be again this week, both on offense and special teams. I’d also give RB Thomas Jones another chance this week. TE Chris Baker also has an excellent matchup, and should be played.
Seattle @ Pittsburgh
Seattle’s Bobby Engram caught another TD last week, and he seems to be emerging as the number two. Pittsburgh is tough, though, so he isn’t great this week. Pittsburgh’s Nate Washington was a hot play last week, but managed only 2 catches. This doesn’t look like a great week for Washington, either, especially if Hines Ward comes back.
Miami @ Houston
Ronnie Brown is having a great year so far, but has been known for peaks and valleys in production. Houston could bring him back to Earth a little. Houston’s Andre Davis had a great game last week, and is a start this week. Kevin Walter was also targeted last week, but he had done little before, and could have been a one-week flash. Miami is terrible vs. the run, so either Ahman Green or Ron Dayne will be a great play this week as well.
Tampa Bay @ Indianapolis
Tampa took some hits in last week’s win, losing Carnell Williams and LT Luke Petitgout for the season. There have been rumors of Tampa bringing in a runner in a trade, but for now Earnest Graham and Michael Pittman will share the load. Graham is a bruiser, while Pittman is good in space and will be better at catching passes. Since Graham will get goal line carries, he is the better option here. Interestingly, Indy’s Bob Sanders may not play this week. He was the catalyst for that defense last season, and without him they were embarrassing against the run. This makes Graham’s and Pittman’s matchup all the better. Tampa WR Ike Hilliard is also worth a look here, coming off a huge game last week. For the Colts, Marvin Harrison’s injury would bring Anthony Gonzalez into the starting lineup, making him a play this week. The injury will also help Dallas Clark, likely giving him an even larger role in the offense.
Baltimore @ San Francisco
Baltimore looked awful last week in its loss to Cleveland. Demetrius Williams is likely to start this week at receiver. He has shown some talent, and has the reach to catch Steve McNair’s errant throws. He’s worth a play if you’re desperate. I’d stay away from all 49ers other than Frank Gore this week. Alex Smith is banged up, and wasn’t playing well to begin with. Plus, look for Baltimore’s defense to come out even angrier and scarier than usual after last week’s embarrassment.
San Diego @ Denver
This is a tough matchup for San Diego receivers against Champ Bailey and Dre’ Bly this week, so sit them all. The Chargers will look to pound LT anyway, as they should always be doing. Keep tabs on the Broncos’ RB spot this week. If Travis Henry can’t go, the logical choice is Selvin Young, but Shanahan is crazy and could surprise us with Cecil Sapp or Mike Brown.
Chicago @ Green Bay
Consider sitting Cedric Benson, who looks uninspired on the field, against this Green Bay defense. WR Muhsin Muhammad apparently still exists, and caught a touchdown from Brian Griese. Griese could target Muhammad more in the future, and his large frame is always a threat in the red zone. Desmond Clark is worth a look also. Green Bay still looks disinterested in running, so don’t even bother with that RB mess. Greg Jennings caught another touchdown last week, and he, Donald Driver and James Jones are all getting looks from Favre. Chicago is tough vs. the pass, but the Packers will pass no matter what, so these guys are solid plays. TE Donald Lee is also a great play against a Bear defense that is surprisingly bad at stopping opposing tight ends.
Dallas @ Buffalo
Dallas’ offense is looking pretty unstoppable, and Patrick Crayton was the beneficiary last week with 2 TDs. Start him again. Also start both RBs Marion Barber III and Julius Jones against this defense. Jason Witten also. Start all Cowboys. Buffalo’s Trent Edwards looked good against the Jets last week, completing 22 of 28 passes and making Lee Evans relevant again. Dallas will be a far greater challenge for this week, though, but keep an eye on him as he may beat out J.P. Losman in the long run.
My bold call to sit LJ last week may have been a bit too bold, as he had his best game of the season with 123 yards. Dwayne Bowe continues to impress, catching a touchdown in his third straight game, but has a tough matchup this week. Jacksonville is great against opposing WR and has not allowed a TD to a wideout yet this year. Bowe may struggle this week, but is still the Chiefs’ only viable receiver. He’s becoming an every week start. KC’s defense has played well, and is a solid play against a Jaguar team that has difficulty scoring. Stay away from all Jacksonville receivers, as none seems to be reliable yet.
Atlanta @ Tennessee
I don’t quite believe in Joey Harrington just yet, but keep watching him and receivers Roddy White and Michael Jenkins. They are getting almost all of the targets from Harrington, and Jenkins scored twice last week. Tennessee is a decent matchup this week, and you should consider these two WR for your lineup. RB LenDale White has looked better than Chris Brown since Brown’s 175 yard game in Week 1, and is definitely getting goal line carries. He is the better play right now, and has a solid matchup if you need him.
Arizona @ St. Louis
St. Louis’ offense is a disaster right now. The O-line is in shambles, Steven Jackson is out, Isaac Bruce hurt his hammy, and now Marc Bulger is out. RB Brian Leonard wasn’t too impressive in place of Jackson last week, and faces a solid Arizona run D. He’ll probably catch a few passes, and could see more action than in last week’s blowout, but temper expectations. This could be the week for Drew Bennett to finally wake up. With Bruce out, he will probably start, and Arizona has trouble against opposing WR.
Cleveland @ New England
In yet another bonanza matchup for the Patriots, look for a solid game from Sammy Morris again. Definitely monitor Laurence Maroney’s status this week, but if Maroney is still too hurt to play, Morris will be able to run wild again this week. Also notable from last week was a hint of a Donte Stallworth sighting. Stallworth will continue to suffer from Brady’s past tendency to spread the ball, and from Brady’s uncanny connection with Randy Moss (34 targets, 31 catches!), but Cleveland is as good a matchup as any for Stallworth to get open. He’s worth a gamble if you need him. Wes Welker also remains a good start. Braylon Edwards caught another deep touchdown last week, and should still be started even against this defense. Joe Jurevicius had only 2 catches last week, but did catch a touchdown. If New England focuses on Edwards, as it did in shutting down Chad Johnson last week, then Jurevicius could benefit. He’s a long shot, but startable if you’re desperate.
Detroit @ Washington
Detroit’s receivers continue to benefit from Mike Martz’s socialist tendencies. Kitna targets everyone there, so Furrey and McDonald don’t suffer from their position on the depth chart. Keep using them if you have been. The Detroit running back situation isn’t pretty, but I’d lean toward Kevin Jones over Tatum Bell. He’s run for a TD in the past 2 games, and his goal line carries are the tie-breaker for me. Washington has also been making news this week, signing WR Keenan McCardell. Don’t get excited over McCardell yet, but this could mean they are worried about Santana Moss’ health. If Moss is out, Antwaan Randle-El’s value gets a boost, especially against Detroit’s defense. Clinton Portis’ knee is acting up, so keep an eye on his status this week. This could finally be Ladell Betts’ week to step up, especially if Portis is limited or out.
Carolina @ New Orleans
We’ll see if New Orleans figured anything out during its bye. The big story with them will be whether Aaron Stecker or Pierre Thomas can be of any value in fantasy trying to replace Deuce McAllister’s production. Carolina has been pretty tough against the run, so don’t count on big days from those two. Carolina TE Jeff King’s production slowed last week with only one catch, probably due to QB David Carr’s general lameness, so he could continue to struggle this week. DeAngelo Williams seems to have taken a backseat to DeShaun Foster after only 2 carries in the loss to Tampa. Foster did fumble twice, so keep watching this situation, but for now, Foster has an excellent matchup this week.
New York Jets @ New York Giants
The Jets can’t seem to stop anyone these days, with Buffalo’s Trent Edwards being the most recent beneficiary last week. Amani Toomer has a nice matchup this week. Both RBs Brandon Jacobs (returning from his Week 1 knee injury) and Derrick Ward are starts against the Jets. The Jets have trouble protecting the quarterback, and the Giants defense is coming off of a 12 sack game against the Eagles, so give the Giants’ D a look this week. Jets’ RB Leon Washington was very involved against the Bills, and should be again this week, both on offense and special teams. I’d also give RB Thomas Jones another chance this week. TE Chris Baker also has an excellent matchup, and should be played.
Seattle @ Pittsburgh
Seattle’s Bobby Engram caught another TD last week, and he seems to be emerging as the number two. Pittsburgh is tough, though, so he isn’t great this week. Pittsburgh’s Nate Washington was a hot play last week, but managed only 2 catches. This doesn’t look like a great week for Washington, either, especially if Hines Ward comes back.
Miami @ Houston
Ronnie Brown is having a great year so far, but has been known for peaks and valleys in production. Houston could bring him back to Earth a little. Houston’s Andre Davis had a great game last week, and is a start this week. Kevin Walter was also targeted last week, but he had done little before, and could have been a one-week flash. Miami is terrible vs. the run, so either Ahman Green or Ron Dayne will be a great play this week as well.
Tampa Bay @ Indianapolis
Tampa took some hits in last week’s win, losing Carnell Williams and LT Luke Petitgout for the season. There have been rumors of Tampa bringing in a runner in a trade, but for now Earnest Graham and Michael Pittman will share the load. Graham is a bruiser, while Pittman is good in space and will be better at catching passes. Since Graham will get goal line carries, he is the better option here. Interestingly, Indy’s Bob Sanders may not play this week. He was the catalyst for that defense last season, and without him they were embarrassing against the run. This makes Graham’s and Pittman’s matchup all the better. Tampa WR Ike Hilliard is also worth a look here, coming off a huge game last week. For the Colts, Marvin Harrison’s injury would bring Anthony Gonzalez into the starting lineup, making him a play this week. The injury will also help Dallas Clark, likely giving him an even larger role in the offense.
Baltimore @ San Francisco
Baltimore looked awful last week in its loss to Cleveland. Demetrius Williams is likely to start this week at receiver. He has shown some talent, and has the reach to catch Steve McNair’s errant throws. He’s worth a play if you’re desperate. I’d stay away from all 49ers other than Frank Gore this week. Alex Smith is banged up, and wasn’t playing well to begin with. Plus, look for Baltimore’s defense to come out even angrier and scarier than usual after last week’s embarrassment.
San Diego @ Denver
This is a tough matchup for San Diego receivers against Champ Bailey and Dre’ Bly this week, so sit them all. The Chargers will look to pound LT anyway, as they should always be doing. Keep tabs on the Broncos’ RB spot this week. If Travis Henry can’t go, the logical choice is Selvin Young, but Shanahan is crazy and could surprise us with Cecil Sapp or Mike Brown.
Chicago @ Green Bay
Consider sitting Cedric Benson, who looks uninspired on the field, against this Green Bay defense. WR Muhsin Muhammad apparently still exists, and caught a touchdown from Brian Griese. Griese could target Muhammad more in the future, and his large frame is always a threat in the red zone. Desmond Clark is worth a look also. Green Bay still looks disinterested in running, so don’t even bother with that RB mess. Greg Jennings caught another touchdown last week, and he, Donald Driver and James Jones are all getting looks from Favre. Chicago is tough vs. the pass, but the Packers will pass no matter what, so these guys are solid plays. TE Donald Lee is also a great play against a Bear defense that is surprisingly bad at stopping opposing tight ends.
Dallas @ Buffalo
Dallas’ offense is looking pretty unstoppable, and Patrick Crayton was the beneficiary last week with 2 TDs. Start him again. Also start both RBs Marion Barber III and Julius Jones against this defense. Jason Witten also. Start all Cowboys. Buffalo’s Trent Edwards looked good against the Jets last week, completing 22 of 28 passes and making Lee Evans relevant again. Dallas will be a far greater challenge for this week, though, but keep an eye on him as he may beat out J.P. Losman in the long run.
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