By Ralph Mancini, Fantsy Football Insiders Senior Writer
TODD COLLINS (QB-WASH)- A dislocated kneecap has brought Jason Campbell’s regular season to an end and pushed longtime backup Todd Collins to the forefront as Washington’s new starting triggerman. In Thursday’s home win over Chicago, Collins showed no rust while throwing for two touchdowns in the second half. The 36-year-old was very accurate and composed in executing offensive coordinator Al Saunders’s offense despite not showing the strongest arm in the world.
TRENT EDWARDS (QB-BUF)- The rookie signal caller has comfortably established himself as the unquestioned orchestrator of Buffalo’s offense with a virtuoso performance versus the winless Dolphins. Edwards attacked Miami’s safties early, completing two of his four touchdowns to tight end Robert Royal in the first quarter. More important, however, is the fact the fact that offensive coordinator Steve Fairchild is showing increased confidence in his quarterback by calling for more big plays. The Stanford graduate showed he can launch it by connecting with Lee Evans on a 70-yard bomb in the fourth quarter.
SHAUN HILL (QB-SF)- Hill did reasonably well filling in for starter Trent Dilfer who exited the Minnesota-San Francisco contest shortly before halftime with a head injury. The former NFL Europe standout completed 20 passes for 180 yards with a touchdown and one interception. His ability to spread the ball among his cast of receivers was especially impressive. The mobile Hill has a chance of continuing his steady play against a below-average Cincinnati secondary waiting in the wings next week.
DARIUS WALKER (RB-HOU)- The former Golden Domer received his first action of the season as he carried the mail for the Texans in place of lead back Ron Dayne who was forced to leave the Tampa Bay-Houston game with a tender ankle. Walker was solid without setting the world on fire with 46 yards on 16 carries along with six receptions for 35 yards. Walker is a shifty back who runs well in between the tackles. Monitor Dayne’s condition before using Walker next week.
AARON STECKER (RB-NO)- Reggie Bush is down and most probably out for the season with a torn knee ligament making Stecker a very desirable commodity as New Orleans prepares to close out the season against the very beatable Cardinals, Eagles and Bears. Not blessed with world-class speed, the veteran is a tough inside runner.
ROBERT FERGUSON (WR-MIN)- Ferguson may be targeted more frequently down the stretch in an effort to keep the dogs off Adrian Peterson who was buried by the 49ers who held the star runner to three yards on 14 carries. The former Packer was a difference maker in the Vikings 27-7 victory with four catches for 57 yards including a 19-yard touchdown grab. The 6’ 1” receiver has the necessary size and athletic ability to make downfield plays.
ROBERT ROYAL (TE-BUF)- Royal was on the receiving end of two touchdown passes from Trent Edwards in week 14. Known as more of a blocker, many overlook the fact that the one-time LSU product is a decent route runner with good hands. The 29-year-old is especially good at finding soft spots in zone coverages.
RIAN LINDELL (K-BUF)- Lindell kicked a franchise-best 18th consecutive field goal versus the Dolphins. The obscure placekicker has two field goals from beyond 50 yards this season along and has been successful on 90 percent of his kicks.
SEATTLE DEFENSE- Seattle’s top-notch fantasy defense put on quite a show versus the Cardinals with five sacks (three by Patrick Kerney) and five interceptions (three by Marcus Trufant). Defensive secondary coach Jim Mora Jr. has done an outstanding job of turning Seattle’s defensive backfield into a stingy unit that has limited opposing quarterbacks to a league-low ten touchdowns. This defense should continue producing big points with Carolina, Baltimore and Atlanta on its upcoming schedule.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Saturday Evening Update
Fantasy Football Insiders
Marvin Harrison will be out for the eighth time in nine games when Indianapolis plays the Ravens on Sunday.
Reggie Bush had been listed as questionable after an MRI this week indicated a partially torn left knee ligament. While confirming he is out for tomorrow’s game, the team Saturday did not comment about Bush's prospects for the rest of the season. With Bush out, Jamaal Branch, Aaron Stecker and rookie Pierre Thomas will be the running back. Thomas returned to practice Friday following a kidney bruise.
Ram QB Marc Bulger (concussion) suffered a setback in his recovery from a concussion, meaning it's possible that third-string QB Brock Berlin could start on Sunday against Cincinnati, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. Coach Scott Linehan said that the decision on a starter is likely to be made late Saturday. Bulger passed a neurological exam Tuesday and was cleared to practice, which he did with no apparent problems on Wednesday and Thursday, but he began feeling poorly during meetings Thursday afternoon, Linehan said. Bulger took had limited practice time on Friday. Backup Gus Ferotte (shoulder) is out at least this week, so Berlin, who has never attempted a pass in a regular-season game, might end up starting. The team also signed 35-year-old veteran Todd Bouman as a backup. It does not look good for Bulger, which is horrible news for the Ram WRs.
Cardinal WR Anquan Boldin (dislocated toe) and WR Larry Fitzgerald (groin) are both looking like game-time decisions on Sunday, the Arizona Republic reports. Fitzgerald ran some routes in practice Friday but Boldin sat out for the third straight day. Boldin said he has never played without practicing, but he said he would play on Sunday if a special shoe insert can minimize the pain in his toe. If he can’t play, WR Bryant Johnson would start. If Fitzgerald can't play, either Johnson or backups Sean Morey and Jerheme Urban (heel) would be forced to start.
Jet WR Laveranues Coles (ankle) was limited in practice again Friday and is questionable for Sunday and could come down to a game-time decision, the Bergen Record reports. WR Jerricho Cotchery (finger) missed practice again Friday and is doubtful to play. WR Brad Smith (back) and WR Justin McCarins would both see increased action with Cotchery out. As for Coles, his past history and the fact that he practiced earlier in the week should indicate that he will play.
Steeler WR Santonio Holmes (ankle) practiced fully again Friday and is not on the official injury report, so he is expected to return to the starting lineup on Sunday unless he has a setback, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. If not, Nate Washington would start again.
Dolphin RB Jesse Chatman (ankle) took limited practice Friday, giving him a chance to play, and is questionable for Sunday’s game. He’s expected to be a game time decision. RB Sam Gado worked with the first team Thursday and would start if Chatman can't play, the Miami Herald reports, and rookie Lorenzo Booker would likely see action in passing situations. RB Patrick Cobbs could also get some carries if Chatman is out.
Packer QB Brett Favre (elbow/shoulder) "threw the ball well (Friday)" in practice, according to coach Mike McCarthy, and will start as planned against Oakland. He’s listed as probable. Backup Aaron Rodgers (hamstring) could miss 1-2 weeks, and the team re-signed QB Craig Nall last week to handle the #2 role.
Buc QB Jeff Garcia (back) did not participate in Friday's practice as a precaution but is getting better and still has a chance to play on Sunday, coach Jon Gruden said. It is likely to come down to a game-time decision and Garcia is listed as questionable. Luke McCown would get another start if Garcia can't play. Garcia, for what it’s worth, says he’s ready to go.
Marvin Harrison will be out for the eighth time in nine games when Indianapolis plays the Ravens on Sunday.
Reggie Bush had been listed as questionable after an MRI this week indicated a partially torn left knee ligament. While confirming he is out for tomorrow’s game, the team Saturday did not comment about Bush's prospects for the rest of the season. With Bush out, Jamaal Branch, Aaron Stecker and rookie Pierre Thomas will be the running back. Thomas returned to practice Friday following a kidney bruise.
Ram QB Marc Bulger (concussion) suffered a setback in his recovery from a concussion, meaning it's possible that third-string QB Brock Berlin could start on Sunday against Cincinnati, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. Coach Scott Linehan said that the decision on a starter is likely to be made late Saturday. Bulger passed a neurological exam Tuesday and was cleared to practice, which he did with no apparent problems on Wednesday and Thursday, but he began feeling poorly during meetings Thursday afternoon, Linehan said. Bulger took had limited practice time on Friday. Backup Gus Ferotte (shoulder) is out at least this week, so Berlin, who has never attempted a pass in a regular-season game, might end up starting. The team also signed 35-year-old veteran Todd Bouman as a backup. It does not look good for Bulger, which is horrible news for the Ram WRs.
Cardinal WR Anquan Boldin (dislocated toe) and WR Larry Fitzgerald (groin) are both looking like game-time decisions on Sunday, the Arizona Republic reports. Fitzgerald ran some routes in practice Friday but Boldin sat out for the third straight day. Boldin said he has never played without practicing, but he said he would play on Sunday if a special shoe insert can minimize the pain in his toe. If he can’t play, WR Bryant Johnson would start. If Fitzgerald can't play, either Johnson or backups Sean Morey and Jerheme Urban (heel) would be forced to start.
Jet WR Laveranues Coles (ankle) was limited in practice again Friday and is questionable for Sunday and could come down to a game-time decision, the Bergen Record reports. WR Jerricho Cotchery (finger) missed practice again Friday and is doubtful to play. WR Brad Smith (back) and WR Justin McCarins would both see increased action with Cotchery out. As for Coles, his past history and the fact that he practiced earlier in the week should indicate that he will play.
Steeler WR Santonio Holmes (ankle) practiced fully again Friday and is not on the official injury report, so he is expected to return to the starting lineup on Sunday unless he has a setback, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. If not, Nate Washington would start again.
Dolphin RB Jesse Chatman (ankle) took limited practice Friday, giving him a chance to play, and is questionable for Sunday’s game. He’s expected to be a game time decision. RB Sam Gado worked with the first team Thursday and would start if Chatman can't play, the Miami Herald reports, and rookie Lorenzo Booker would likely see action in passing situations. RB Patrick Cobbs could also get some carries if Chatman is out.
Packer QB Brett Favre (elbow/shoulder) "threw the ball well (Friday)" in practice, according to coach Mike McCarthy, and will start as planned against Oakland. He’s listed as probable. Backup Aaron Rodgers (hamstring) could miss 1-2 weeks, and the team re-signed QB Craig Nall last week to handle the #2 role.
Buc QB Jeff Garcia (back) did not participate in Friday's practice as a precaution but is getting better and still has a chance to play on Sunday, coach Jon Gruden said. It is likely to come down to a game-time decision and Garcia is listed as questionable. Luke McCown would get another start if Garcia can't play. Garcia, for what it’s worth, says he’s ready to go.
Friday, December 7, 2007
The Black & Blue Report, Week 14
By Brad Kurtzberg, Fantasy Football Insiders
Chicago Bears—It will take nothing short of a miracle to get the Bears into this year’s playoffs. After Thursday night’s loss to Washington, the defending NFC champs are 5-8 with remaining games at Minnesota, vs. Green Bay and vs. New Orleans. The Bears would need to run the table and get plenty of help to sneak in as the second Wild Card team. Trust me, it won’t happen.
Brian Griese threw two costly picks against the Redskins on back-to-back plays. It seems that no matter who is behind center, Chicago’s offense is inconsistent and turnover prone. Griese hasn’t turned out to be that much better than Rex Grossman, having thrown 12 picks in seven starts. Regardless of how serious Grossman’s injury is, the Bears need to address the quaterback position in the offseason as neither Grossman nor Griese appear to be the answer. Griese is more valuable as a backup if the team wants him to stay.
Two reasons for Brian Urlacher’s mediocre season (by his standards) this year: his arthritic back and the lack of a strong defensive line. Urlacher is not very big and he has trouble shedding blocks if offensive linemen can get to him. Last year, Tank Johnson and the other Bears linemen kept Urlacher free to make plays. This year, the defensive line is not doing nearly as good a job of occupying blockers and they are finding ways to block Urlacher…The Bears continue to struggle to run the ball. Adrian Peterson’s stats are very Cedric Benson-like. The bottom line is that the offensive line is not opening many holes and the running backs the Bears have are not good enough to make something out of nothing.
Meanwhile, Devin Hester had a season-high five receptions on Thursday against Washington. The Bears would be wise to get him more involved in the offense. He and Bernard Berrian would make a good pair of deep threats…Chicago has benched safety Adam Archuleta. The free agent signee has had trouble in pass coverage all season and has also taken poor tackling angles when defending the run. Unfortunately for the Bears, his replacement, Brandon McGowan, hasn’t done much better and continues to make mental mistakes.
Detroit Lions—WR Roy Williams is likely out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury. That hurts the Lions because Williams remains their best deep threat and most reliable receiver. Still, this gives rookie Calvin Johnson a chance to shine. The second overall pick in last year’s draft has shown flashes but seems to be having trouble learning the complex Mike Martz offense. It’s not unusual for recievers to struggle in the NFL as rookies. These last four games should give Detroit’s coaching staff a better idea of how far Johnson has progressed this season
CB LaMarcus Hicks is also out for the season after breaking his ankle against the Vikings. The Lions lack depth in their secondary to begin with and Hicks’ absence will hurt them further…From the it’s probably not a coincidence department: Detroit’s six wins have come against teams with a combined .458 winning percentage. During their recent four-game losing streak, they have played teams with a winning percentage of .625…
Detroit’s biggest problem offensively is on the offensive line. OT George Foster has been playing poorly, G Blaine Saipaia has been forced to play tackle at times and Jonathan Scott has missed substantial time due to injury. Guard Damien Woody has been playing tackle as well. He’s done a workmanlike job but he’s no long term solution. The offensive line has had trouble pass protecting and opening holes for the run
Jon Kitna has been affected by the constant pressure he has been under. In the last three games, he has thrown only 3 TDs and 5 INTs. Kitna’s as tough as they come but the constant punishment he has taken this season is taking its toll.
Potential mismatch this week against Dallas: CB Fernando Bryant against Terrell Owens. Bryant is questionable for the game with a foot injury. The Lions would have trouble matching up against Owens and TE Jason Witten even if their secondary was healthy. Unfortunately, they are banged up. Unless the Lions get pressure on Tony Romo, the secondary could be in for a long day.
Green Bay Packers—Brett Favre is expected to start his 250th consecutive regular season game Sunday against the Raiders. That’s a good thing because backup Aaron Rogers, who played well against the Cowboys when Favre got hurt, is unavailable for at least the next two games due to an hamstring injury. The Pack signed former backup Craig Nall, recently released by Buffalo, to be Favre’s backup
Charles Woodson and Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila are still game-time decisions on Sunday. The Pack would not be wise to rush either back. KGB is more likely to start than Woodson is…The key for the Pack defensively this week will be to slow down RBs Justin Fargas and LaMont Jordan. The Raiders have trouble passing the football consistently but they are one of the top running teams in the league. The Pack must stay in their lanes and prevent big running plays
Ryan Grant has been a perfect fit for the Pack at RB. He gives the team a threat of the run but doesn’t seem to need a lot of carries to pick up big yards. Grant is a one-cut runner who finds holes and quickly exploits them
The Packers need some contribution from first round pick Justin Harrell down the stretch. With two members of their DT rotation (Johnny Jolly and Colin Cole) out with injuries, Harrell will get playing time. So far, he has not even been dressed for games unless injuries made it necessary. He also appears to be slow to pick up the team’s defensive scheme
A win over the Raiders would clinch the NFC North for the Packers regardless of what Detroit or Minnesota do…WR Donald Driver needs 102 yards to top the 1,000 yard mark for the fourth straight season. Driver just passed Hall of Famer Don Hutson for third on the Packers all-time receptions list with 490. He needs 105 to tie Sterling Sharpe for first all-time
Safeties Atari Bigby and Nick Collins are both weak in coverage. The Pack has had trouble covering TEs partially due to this problem. Bigby also takes too many interference calls which have been hurtful to the Pack..
Minnesota Vikings—One reason for the Vikings recent winning streak is the improved play of QB Tarvaris Jackson. While Jackson is still not the kind of QB who will win games for you with his arm, he is becoming an efficient and effective passer. During his last three games, Jackson has completed nearly 79 percent of his passes and his decision making has improved. He is now more able to go through his progressions and find secondary receivers. Jackson has four games left to show the Vikings’ coaching staff that he is worthy of being their QB of the future
DE Erasmus James is out for the season with a knee injury. DE Ray Edwards has been suspended for four games for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. The loss of those two players leaves Minnesota thin at DE. The Vikings just might get CB Antoine Winfield back for Sunday’s game in San Francisco. Winfield’s presence would really be a boost to the secondary
With Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor, the Vikings may have the most explosive RB duo in the league. If healthy and given enough carries, Peterson is capable of gaining 2,000 yards on the ground in a season while Taylor can surpass 1,500. The two complement each other well and make life hard for opposing defenses
The Vikings’ schedule down the stretch is not too bad. After playing San Francisco this week, they finish by hosting Chicago on Monday night, hosting Washington and traveling to Denver.
Chicago Bears—It will take nothing short of a miracle to get the Bears into this year’s playoffs. After Thursday night’s loss to Washington, the defending NFC champs are 5-8 with remaining games at Minnesota, vs. Green Bay and vs. New Orleans. The Bears would need to run the table and get plenty of help to sneak in as the second Wild Card team. Trust me, it won’t happen.
Brian Griese threw two costly picks against the Redskins on back-to-back plays. It seems that no matter who is behind center, Chicago’s offense is inconsistent and turnover prone. Griese hasn’t turned out to be that much better than Rex Grossman, having thrown 12 picks in seven starts. Regardless of how serious Grossman’s injury is, the Bears need to address the quaterback position in the offseason as neither Grossman nor Griese appear to be the answer. Griese is more valuable as a backup if the team wants him to stay.
Two reasons for Brian Urlacher’s mediocre season (by his standards) this year: his arthritic back and the lack of a strong defensive line. Urlacher is not very big and he has trouble shedding blocks if offensive linemen can get to him. Last year, Tank Johnson and the other Bears linemen kept Urlacher free to make plays. This year, the defensive line is not doing nearly as good a job of occupying blockers and they are finding ways to block Urlacher…The Bears continue to struggle to run the ball. Adrian Peterson’s stats are very Cedric Benson-like. The bottom line is that the offensive line is not opening many holes and the running backs the Bears have are not good enough to make something out of nothing.
Meanwhile, Devin Hester had a season-high five receptions on Thursday against Washington. The Bears would be wise to get him more involved in the offense. He and Bernard Berrian would make a good pair of deep threats…Chicago has benched safety Adam Archuleta. The free agent signee has had trouble in pass coverage all season and has also taken poor tackling angles when defending the run. Unfortunately for the Bears, his replacement, Brandon McGowan, hasn’t done much better and continues to make mental mistakes.
Detroit Lions—WR Roy Williams is likely out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury. That hurts the Lions because Williams remains their best deep threat and most reliable receiver. Still, this gives rookie Calvin Johnson a chance to shine. The second overall pick in last year’s draft has shown flashes but seems to be having trouble learning the complex Mike Martz offense. It’s not unusual for recievers to struggle in the NFL as rookies. These last four games should give Detroit’s coaching staff a better idea of how far Johnson has progressed this season
CB LaMarcus Hicks is also out for the season after breaking his ankle against the Vikings. The Lions lack depth in their secondary to begin with and Hicks’ absence will hurt them further…From the it’s probably not a coincidence department: Detroit’s six wins have come against teams with a combined .458 winning percentage. During their recent four-game losing streak, they have played teams with a winning percentage of .625…
Detroit’s biggest problem offensively is on the offensive line. OT George Foster has been playing poorly, G Blaine Saipaia has been forced to play tackle at times and Jonathan Scott has missed substantial time due to injury. Guard Damien Woody has been playing tackle as well. He’s done a workmanlike job but he’s no long term solution. The offensive line has had trouble pass protecting and opening holes for the run
Jon Kitna has been affected by the constant pressure he has been under. In the last three games, he has thrown only 3 TDs and 5 INTs. Kitna’s as tough as they come but the constant punishment he has taken this season is taking its toll.
Potential mismatch this week against Dallas: CB Fernando Bryant against Terrell Owens. Bryant is questionable for the game with a foot injury. The Lions would have trouble matching up against Owens and TE Jason Witten even if their secondary was healthy. Unfortunately, they are banged up. Unless the Lions get pressure on Tony Romo, the secondary could be in for a long day.
Green Bay Packers—Brett Favre is expected to start his 250th consecutive regular season game Sunday against the Raiders. That’s a good thing because backup Aaron Rogers, who played well against the Cowboys when Favre got hurt, is unavailable for at least the next two games due to an hamstring injury. The Pack signed former backup Craig Nall, recently released by Buffalo, to be Favre’s backup
Charles Woodson and Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila are still game-time decisions on Sunday. The Pack would not be wise to rush either back. KGB is more likely to start than Woodson is…The key for the Pack defensively this week will be to slow down RBs Justin Fargas and LaMont Jordan. The Raiders have trouble passing the football consistently but they are one of the top running teams in the league. The Pack must stay in their lanes and prevent big running plays
Ryan Grant has been a perfect fit for the Pack at RB. He gives the team a threat of the run but doesn’t seem to need a lot of carries to pick up big yards. Grant is a one-cut runner who finds holes and quickly exploits them
The Packers need some contribution from first round pick Justin Harrell down the stretch. With two members of their DT rotation (Johnny Jolly and Colin Cole) out with injuries, Harrell will get playing time. So far, he has not even been dressed for games unless injuries made it necessary. He also appears to be slow to pick up the team’s defensive scheme
A win over the Raiders would clinch the NFC North for the Packers regardless of what Detroit or Minnesota do…WR Donald Driver needs 102 yards to top the 1,000 yard mark for the fourth straight season. Driver just passed Hall of Famer Don Hutson for third on the Packers all-time receptions list with 490. He needs 105 to tie Sterling Sharpe for first all-time
Safeties Atari Bigby and Nick Collins are both weak in coverage. The Pack has had trouble covering TEs partially due to this problem. Bigby also takes too many interference calls which have been hurtful to the Pack..
Minnesota Vikings—One reason for the Vikings recent winning streak is the improved play of QB Tarvaris Jackson. While Jackson is still not the kind of QB who will win games for you with his arm, he is becoming an efficient and effective passer. During his last three games, Jackson has completed nearly 79 percent of his passes and his decision making has improved. He is now more able to go through his progressions and find secondary receivers. Jackson has four games left to show the Vikings’ coaching staff that he is worthy of being their QB of the future
DE Erasmus James is out for the season with a knee injury. DE Ray Edwards has been suspended for four games for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. The loss of those two players leaves Minnesota thin at DE. The Vikings just might get CB Antoine Winfield back for Sunday’s game in San Francisco. Winfield’s presence would really be a boost to the secondary
With Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor, the Vikings may have the most explosive RB duo in the league. If healthy and given enough carries, Peterson is capable of gaining 2,000 yards on the ground in a season while Taylor can surpass 1,500. The two complement each other well and make life hard for opposing defenses
The Vikings’ schedule down the stretch is not too bad. After playing San Francisco this week, they finish by hosting Chicago on Monday night, hosting Washington and traveling to Denver.
The Stock Report
By The Fantasy Trader, NFL Draft Bible
The pressure of playoff football is upon us. My audience is among the elite this week and should be proud of their accomplishment. For many, the year is over…but for our privileged readers this week, the second season has arrived. The wrong start or the right sit will determine your season. It is a time of stress, but other owners would line up to take your place. Congratulations to all the playoff teams. Let the game of survival begin.
RB Jesse Chatman – is expected to play despite an ankle injury and if so, he matches up nicely against the Bills. The Bills have the 22nd –ranked run defense and are allowing 116.4 yards per game. In week 10, Chatman ran for 124 yards against Buffalo.
RB Kolby Smith – is everything a Larry Johnson and Priest Holmes owner could ask for. I hope you all got him. He has been solid in his first two career starts and has a great opponent in the Denver Broncos this week. The Broncos rank 31st against the run and are giving up 149 yards per game.
RB Frank Gore – will not make up for what he did to you in the regular season. He managed only 58 yards against a poor Carolina defense. The 49ers are still struggling with Dilfer at QB and this week they have to face a hungry Vikings defense. Minnesota has the best run defense in the league.
RB Ron Dayne- was the playoff MVP of 2006. He was scooped off the wire and preceded to run for 334 yards and 5 TD from weeks 14-16. I would not expect the same this year. He has been solid for Ahman Green owners, but he gets a stingy Bucs defense this week. The Bucs have allowed just one rushing TD in the last four weeks.
QB Donovan McNabb- should start this week for the Eagles. If you throw out the game that he got hurt, McNabb has failed to reach double-digit fantasy points just three times. The last time he faced the Giants he was sacked 12 times, but that was also with a rookie on the offensive line and no Brian Westbrook. I expect a big game from McNabb.
QB Jay Cutler- is starting to get his weapons back for the holiday season. Travis Henry will not be suspended and Jevon Walker has returned. I expect a big game from Brandon Marshall. The Chiefs look like they may have mailed it in this season, especially when your secondary makes Duante Culpepper look like he is still wearing a Vikings uniform.
WR Roddy White- has been the steal of the season. He has put up solid numbers with one of the worst quarterback situations in the league. White clicked instantly with Chris Redman and finished with 10 catches for 146 yards and a TD. Now he gets a full week of practice with Redman.
WR Bryant Johnson- is a great sleeper play this week. He filled in nicely for Larry Fitzgerald last week and will get another opportunity this week. Even if Fitzgerald plays, it looks as if Anquan Boldin, who sprained his toe last week, will not. Johnson faces an average Seahawks pass defense.
DE-Vikings- defense benefits so much from the offense’s ability to run the football. Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor eat up clock and provide the rest the defense needs. It also helps to play the 49ers this week. I expect multiple sacks and turnovers with a defensive TD.
TE Antonio Gates- will never have as bad of a game as he did last week. Gates had one catch for minus one yard. Yikes! I expect him to bounce back in a big way against the Titans. The man has pride right?
The pressure of playoff football is upon us. My audience is among the elite this week and should be proud of their accomplishment. For many, the year is over…but for our privileged readers this week, the second season has arrived. The wrong start or the right sit will determine your season. It is a time of stress, but other owners would line up to take your place. Congratulations to all the playoff teams. Let the game of survival begin.
RB Jesse Chatman – is expected to play despite an ankle injury and if so, he matches up nicely against the Bills. The Bills have the 22nd –ranked run defense and are allowing 116.4 yards per game. In week 10, Chatman ran for 124 yards against Buffalo.
RB Kolby Smith – is everything a Larry Johnson and Priest Holmes owner could ask for. I hope you all got him. He has been solid in his first two career starts and has a great opponent in the Denver Broncos this week. The Broncos rank 31st against the run and are giving up 149 yards per game.
RB Frank Gore – will not make up for what he did to you in the regular season. He managed only 58 yards against a poor Carolina defense. The 49ers are still struggling with Dilfer at QB and this week they have to face a hungry Vikings defense. Minnesota has the best run defense in the league.
RB Ron Dayne- was the playoff MVP of 2006. He was scooped off the wire and preceded to run for 334 yards and 5 TD from weeks 14-16. I would not expect the same this year. He has been solid for Ahman Green owners, but he gets a stingy Bucs defense this week. The Bucs have allowed just one rushing TD in the last four weeks.
QB Donovan McNabb- should start this week for the Eagles. If you throw out the game that he got hurt, McNabb has failed to reach double-digit fantasy points just three times. The last time he faced the Giants he was sacked 12 times, but that was also with a rookie on the offensive line and no Brian Westbrook. I expect a big game from McNabb.
QB Jay Cutler- is starting to get his weapons back for the holiday season. Travis Henry will not be suspended and Jevon Walker has returned. I expect a big game from Brandon Marshall. The Chiefs look like they may have mailed it in this season, especially when your secondary makes Duante Culpepper look like he is still wearing a Vikings uniform.
WR Roddy White- has been the steal of the season. He has put up solid numbers with one of the worst quarterback situations in the league. White clicked instantly with Chris Redman and finished with 10 catches for 146 yards and a TD. Now he gets a full week of practice with Redman.
WR Bryant Johnson- is a great sleeper play this week. He filled in nicely for Larry Fitzgerald last week and will get another opportunity this week. Even if Fitzgerald plays, it looks as if Anquan Boldin, who sprained his toe last week, will not. Johnson faces an average Seahawks pass defense.
DE-Vikings- defense benefits so much from the offense’s ability to run the football. Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor eat up clock and provide the rest the defense needs. It also helps to play the 49ers this week. I expect multiple sacks and turnovers with a defensive TD.
TE Antonio Gates- will never have as bad of a game as he did last week. Gates had one catch for minus one yard. Yikes! I expect him to bounce back in a big way against the Titans. The man has pride right?
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Week 14 Fantasy Preview
By Brad Kurtzberg, Fantasy Football Insiders Senior Writer
The playoffs start in most fantasy leagues either this week or next week. When it comes to this time of year, stick with the players that got you there. Sure, you have to keep close tabs on injuries and the like, but your best bet in the long run is to have the most talented lineup possible. If it’s a toss-up between two or more players, I’ll be able to point out matchups to take advantage of. Here is a look at this week’s matchups which will help you win your fantasy league.
Thursday 8:15 PM ET
Chicago at Washington
Both of these teams are hanging on by a thread in the NFC playoff race. The Redskins are still reeling from the tragic death of safety Sean Taylor. They had the funeral on Monday and will have only one full day of practice to prepare for this game. Meanwhile, the Bears allowed the Giants to make a late fourth quarter comeback last week in Chicago to drop to 5-7. They are a far cry from the team that represented the NFC in last year’s Super Bowl.
Stud: Clinton Portis, RB Washington. The Redskins running back aggravated an ankle injury late in the Buffalo game last week so check his status. If he plays, Portis should find plenty of room to run against a leaky Bears defense ranked 27th against the run. If Portis can’t play, go with Ladell Betts, his replacement.
Dud: Adrian Peterson, RB Chicago. So far, Peterson’s stats look an awful lot like Cedric Benson’s. Perhaps the offensive line is a large part of the problem in Chicago. The Redskins run defense is 10th in the league and the Bears have trouble rushing the football.
Sleeper: Bernard Berrian, WR Chicago. Berrian faces a Redskins secondary that has struggled since Taylor’s death. Look for Rex Grossman to exploit this matchup and for Berrian to have his first big day in three weeks.
Sunday 1:00 PM ET
San Diego at Tennessee
This game matches up two teams in the thick of the AFC playoff race. Both have 7-5 records but the Chargers benefit from being in the weaker West while the Titans are in the South, perhaps the most competitive division in the league. The Chargers defeated the Chiefs last week which solidified their hold on the division. The Titans got past the pesky Texans to end their three-game losing streak. Getting DT Albert Haynesworth back really helped. Both teams really need a win but the Titans need it a bit more.
Stud: LaDainian Tomlinson, RB San Diego. Tomlinson ran wild against KC last week and totaled 197 yards and 2 TDs. He has scored in four of the last five games and gone over the 1,000 yard rushing mark for the season. Even with Haynesworth back in the lineup, the Titans defense has not been as effective. If they do slow LT down rushing the ball, the Chargers will throw it to him.
Dud: LenDale White, RB Tennessee. White has only 141 yards rushing total in his last four games. The Chargers run defense is strongest up the middle and that’s where White is at his best.
Sleeper: Antonio Gates, TE San Diego. Gates had only 1 catch last week for –1 yards. He will be facing LB Keith Bulluck of the Titans, which gives a physical advantage to Gates. Don’t expect Gates to be a non-factor two weeks in a row.
Miami at Buffalo
The Dolphins are three-quarters of the way to a winless season. No team has gone 0-16 since the league went to a 16-game schedule in 1978 but the Dolphins look like they have a real chance to pull off that unwelcome feat. The Bills are a game behind in the AFC Wild Card race after a last second victory over a stunned Redskins team last week in DC. The cold weather will not make things easy for the battered Dolphins.
Stud: Fred Jackson, RB Buffalo. The Dolphins have the worst run defense in the league and Jackson has looked good so far when given the chance. Last week against Washington, he ran for 82 yards and caught four passes for another 69. Look for another good game from Jackson against a Miami team that has trouble staying in its gaps.
Dud: Marty Booker, WR Miami. Booker has fallen off in recent weeks although a lack of a quaterback hasn’t helped. He has also dropped too many passes. The Bills will contain the Fish’s top wide receiver who has only 1 TD on the season and 12 catches total in the last four games.
Sleeper: Lee Evans, WR Buffalo. Evans is the biggest receiving threat the Bills have and Trent Edwards played well last week. The Dolphins pass defense is nothing special and Evans should end up with a solid statistical day.
N.Y. Giants at Philadelphia
The Giants pulled out a late game comeback against the Bears that may have saved Eli Manning’s career with New York. Manning remains mistake prone but he showed some leadership by coming on late last week to eke out a victory. The Eagles loss to Seattle all but ended their playoff hopes. Donovan McNabb may be back to face the Giants tough defensive line. The first time these two teams met, McNabb was sacked 12 times.
Stud: Brandon Jacobs, RB N.Y. Giants. Jacobs has been limited in practice but is expected to get the start Sunday (check status). Even if Jacobs is not ready to go, feel free to play Reuben Droughns. The Giants are trusting Eli Manning less and less and their run blocking has been strong. Philly’s run defense is solid but the Giants will grind it out effectively.
Dud: Donovan McNabb, QB Philadelphia. McNabb may be back from ankle and thumb injuries but against the Giants tough pass rush, he may wish he stayed off the field for another week. If A.J. Feeley has to start, he’d be an even bigger dud.
Sleeper: Brian Westbrook, RB Philadelphia. Westbrook is a top fantasy player and if the Giants 5th ranked rush defense shuts him down, the Eagles will throw plenty of short passes to him to stall the Giants pass rush. Westbrook will put up good numbers Sunday.
Carolina at Jacksonville
The Panthers have fallen on hard times without a steady quaterback while the Jags have proven themselves true playoff contenders despite another heartbreaking loss to the Colts last week. While Carolina has been wildly inconsistent this year, they are 4-2 on the road.
Stud: Maurice Jones-Drew, RB Jacksonville. Jones-Drew has scored in each of the last four games. The Jaguars running game should wear down the Panthers defense and by the fourth quarter, big holes should be there for Jones-Drew and company.
Dud: Vinny Testaverde, QB Carolina. The veteran had a solid game last week with 2 TDs, but he just can’t get it done consistently anymore. The Jags will put enough pressure on Testaverde to keep him in check.
Sleeper: Fred Taylor, RB Jacksonville. Taylor has topped 100 yards rushing in back-to-back games. He doesn’t find the end zone as much as Jones-Drew, but he is playing very well and gets the bulk of the carries. He should find success Sunday as the game progresses.
Tampa Bay at Houston
The Bucs all but own the NFC South and at 8-4, have an easy schedule down the stretch and no real competition for the division crown. The Texans are very improved and you have to wonder what their season would have been like if WR Andre Johnson and QB Matt Schaub would have stayed healthy. They are capable of beating anybody but are also capable of playing poorly on any given week. They are learning how to win at this point.
Stud: Earnest Graham, RB Tampa Bay. Graham has 737 yards rushing and 7 TDs which is impressive considering he only saw spot duty as a backup the first three games. The Texans run defense is ranked 25th and with QB Jeff Garcia out with an injury, the Bucs should emphasize the run even more than usual.
Dud: Sage Rosenfels, QB Houston. Rosenfels is not very consistent and he faces the NFL’s 4th best pass defense in Tampa Bay. Look for average fantasy stats from Sage but nothing special.
Sleeper: Andre Johnson, WR Houston. Johnson is one of the best in the game but he flies under the radar because he plays for a Houston team that has not yet established itself as a consistent winner. He has an interesting matchup this week with CB Ronde Barber and Johnson has a five-inch height advantage. In five games played, Johnson has 5 TDs and has topped the 100-yard mark four times.
St. Louis at Cincinnati
These two teams mirror each other in that they have much stronger offenses than defenses and both have struggled this year. The Rams have won three of their last four while the Bengals are out of the AFC playoff picture but can score with anybody, especially now that third WR Chris Henry is back in the lineup.
Stud: Stephen Jackson, RB St. Louis. Jackson has scored TDs in four of the last five games and has topped 90 yards rushing in has last three contests. The Bengals have trouble stopping the run and are ranked 23rd in that category. Jackson should have a very productive day.
Dud: Kenny Watson, RB Cincinnati. Watson has not had a solid rushing total in five weeks and he and Rudi Johnson tend to split carries. Johnson is going to get a few more chances than Watson and is more likely to carry the mail near the end zone.
Sleeper: Torry Holt WR St. Louis. There are plenty of great receivers to choose from in this game and all of them are probably solid selections but Holt is the focal point of the Rams’ passing attack and the Bengals secondary is 26th in the league. Holt has a mismatch against CB Jonathan Joseph. He also has three 100-plus yard games and 3 TDs in his last five contests.
Oakland at Green Bay
The Packers look to bounce back from last Thursday’s defeat in Dallas while the Raiders hope to build on their win over the Broncos. Brett Favre is expected to get his 250th straight start but keep an eye on his effectiveness throughout the game.
Stud: Ryan Grant, RB Green Bay. The Raiders defense is 30th against the rush. Grant may not get a lot of carries, but he is averaging nearly five yards per carry and has 3 TDs in his last four games and usually approaches or tops the 100-yard mark. With Brett Favre a little banged up, don’t be surprised if Grant gets a few extra chances to run the ball Sunday.
Dud: Josh McCown, QB Oakland. McCown will be under steady pressure from DE Aaron Kampman and company. While he played very well against Denver last week (3 TDs), McCown is not known for his consistency.
Sleeper: Justin Fargas, RB Oakland. Fargas has run wild the past two games, totaling 285 yards and 2 TDs. The Raiders are a run-first team and Fargas will have his moments against the Packers’ solid run defense on Sunday.
Dallas at Detroit
It doesn’t get any easier for the reeling Lions who have now lost four straight. The 11-1 Cowboys come calling. Another loss would be very harmful to the Lions fading playoff chances. The Cowboys have an extra few days of rest after last Thursday’s big win over Green Bay. They have to avoid a letdown and they can roll to the top seed in the NFC playoffs.
Stud: Tony Romo, QB Dallas. The Lions secondary is very vulnerable and are ranked 31st in the league at pass defense. Romo must be licking his chops to face this mediocre unit. Unless the Lions find a way to put steady pressure on Romo, they are in for a long afternoon.
Dud: Kevin Jones, RB Detroit. The Lions don’t even try to run the football in some games and last week was yet another example. Jones had three carries for one yard and for the second time in four weeks, the Lions ground attack was literally almost non-existent. Dallas’ run defense ranks 4th in the league.
Sleeper: Terrell Owens, WR Dallas. T.O. vs. the Detroit secondary. You can stop laughing now. No matter which CB and/or safety the Lions try to cover Owens with, T.O. will have a huge advantage and he should have another huge day.
Sunday 4:00 PM ET
Minnesota at San Francisco
The Vikings suddenly find themselves in the thick of the NFC Wild Card race while the 49ers have been behind the eight ball most of the season. San Francisco simply has trouble moving the ball and scoring points. Minnesota has gotten better play of late from QB Tarvaris Jackson and getting Adrian Peterson back only makes the Minnesota attack more lethal.
Stud: Adrian Peterson, RB Minnesota. Peterson is facing a San Francisco defense ranked 26th in the league at stopping the run. He seemed no worse for wear playing with a knee brace last week. Peterson is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. The Niners should be plenty worried.
Dud: Arnaz Battle, WR San Francisco. Battle has TDs in two straight games but he tweaked an ankle last week and may not be at full strength for Sunday’s game. The Minnesota secondary is not good but Battle will be held in check.
Sleeper: Tarvaris Jackson, QB Minnesota. Jackson’s play has improved in recent weeks. He is reading defenses much better and has found his groove, completing more than 75 percent of his passes in each of the last three games. Don’t look for a monster game from Jackson, but he’s capable of throwing for a couple of TDs and more than 200 yards against a shaky San Francisco secondary.
Arizona at Seattle
A win all but clinches the NFC West for Seattle. A Cardinals win and they would have a sweep of the Seahawks and be one game back (with all tiebreaker advantages) with three to play. Injuries to WRs Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin may limit the Cardinals offense. The key for Arizona will be to protect QB Kurt Warner.
Stud: Matt Hasselbeck, QB Seattle. The Cards pass defense ranks 24th in the league against the pass. Hasselbeck’s steady play has carried the Seahawks of late when RB Shaun Alexander was injured. Hasselbeck has thrown for at least one TD in 11 of 12 games.
Dud: Arizona Defense. The Cards defense makes plenty of big plays when they win, but they will surrender a lot of yards and points to the Seahawks this week, especially through the air.
Sleeper: Edgerrin James, RB Arizona. James topped the 100-yard mark last week. If the weather is iffy, he will be even more vital to the Cards’ offense. As it is, they need him to be effective to take some pressure off of Warner. He will get plenty of touches Sunday.
Kansas City at Denver
These two teams expected to be contenders this season but both have fallen flat. The Broncos have lost two straight and one more loss would all but end their playoff chances. The Chiefs have dropped five in-a-row and need to hold on to some dignity and finish the season on a little bit of a run. Both of these teams tend to make mistakes at crucial moments. Denver won the first meeting in Kansas City earlier this season.
Stud: Kolby Smith, RB Kansas City. Smith topped 80 yards last week and has 233 yards and 2 TDs in two starts. The Broncos run defense is allowing 149.1 yards per game so Smith should have room to run.
Dud: Damon Huard, QB Kansas City. Huard has in injured hand but is expected to play. The Broncos pass defense is strong, ranking 9th in the league. Even when Huard is healthy, the Chiefs passing attack is second rate.
Sleeper: Travis Henry, RB Denver. Henry had 2 TD runs last week and won his appeal against the league to prevent him from being suspended for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. He should get the bulk of the carries for the Broncos. The Chiefs run defense is 21st in the league.
Pittsburgh at New England
The Patriots remained perfect with another last minute win against Baltimore last week. Meanwhile, the Steelers won another game in the rain and slop of Pittsburgh, downing the Bengals on Sunday night. Pittsburgh’s defense, which features multiple formations and zone blitzes, may be just the thing to contain Tom Brady and the Patriots high powered offense. Certainly on paper, this is the toughest remaining game New England faces.
Stud: Tom Brady, QB New England. Brady’s numbers haven’t been as overwhelming the past few weeks, but keeping up that pace was nearly impossible. He’s still in charge of the most potent passing attack in the league and should post solid numbers against a tough Steelers defense.
Dud: Laurence Maroney, RB New England. Maroney has just 29 carries in the last three games. Pittsburgh is 2nd in the league against the run so don’t expect a lot of production from him on Sunday.
Sleeper: Ben Roethlisberger, QB Pittsburgh. Roethlisberger has 25 TD passes and a passer rating over 100 this season. The Steelers will try to establish the run first, but they score TDs through the air and Roethlisberger will put up good if not great numbers vs. the Pats.
Cleveland at N.Y. Jets
The Browns lost a controversial game a week ago to the Cardinals when Braylon Edwards was ruled not to have been pushed out of bounds on the final play of the game. The Browns are 7-5 and still hold the final Wild Card spot in the AFC but they have little room for error if they hope to keep it. The Jets staved off embarrassment by beating Miami handily but they still have a long way to go as a team.
Stud: Derek Anderson, QB Cleveland. Anderson has thrown 24 TD passes despite not starting in week 1. Look for him to find plenty of chances against the Jets pass defense. The Browns attack simply has too many weapons for the Jets defensive backs to handle.
Dud: Cleveland Defense. The Browns have trouble stopping anybody. Stay away from this defense every week if possible.
Sleeper: Thomas Jones, RB N.Y. Jets. Jones scored his first TD of the season last week and had 75 yards rushing. The Browns defense is 28th in the league at stopping the run and the Jets would be wise to give Jones plenty of carries in an attempt to keep the Browns powerful offense off the field.
Sunday 8:15 PM ET
Indianapolis at Baltimore
The Colts are regaining their health on offense and have the inside track to the second seed and a first round bye in the playoffs. The Ravens are out of the playoff picture but gave the Patriots all they could handle last Monday. Kyle Boller will start at QB for the rest of the season. This may be his last chance to show he can still be Baltimore’s quaterback of the future.
Stud: Peyton Manning, QB Indianapolis. Manning is still deadly accurate and one of the best fantasy QBs out there. The Ravens defense is good but no longer as intimidating as it used to be. Manning should have a solid game against the Ravens 15th ranked pass defense.
Dud: Kyle Boller, QB Baltimore. Boller had 2 TDs and 210 yards against New England last week. That is probably his fantasy upside. The Colts have a good pass defense, ranked second in the league. They will make things tougher for Boller.
Sleeper: Willie McGahee, RB Baltimore. McGahee has scored a TD in each of the last seven games. He has gone over 1,000 yards for the season and has topped the 100-yard mark in two of the last three games. The Colts run defense is good but not great. The Ravens will feature McGahee and he will come through.
Monday 8:30 PM ET
New Orleans at Atlanta
When the schedule came out, this divisional clash looked like a great game. Now the Saints have come back to earth and Michael Vick is behind bars and the game features two sub-.500 teams. The Saints have to run the table to have any chance of sneaking into the playoffs as a Wild Card. The Falcons have a chance to show a national TV audience that they aren’t as bad as their record.
Stud: Drew Brees, QB New Orleans. Brees has 5 TDs in the last two games and is capable of a big game at any time. New Orleans struggles to run the ball so they will rely heavily on Brees and the passing attack to get things done.
Dud: Michael Jenkins, WR Atlanta. Don’t expect much from Jenkins despite his TD catch last week. The former first round pick has never developed into a consistent NFL receiver.
Sleeper: Reggie Bush, RB New Orleans. The Falcons can’t stop the run and Bush is the Saints favorite target in the passing game as well. If the former Heisman winner can have a big game, this should be it.
The playoffs start in most fantasy leagues either this week or next week. When it comes to this time of year, stick with the players that got you there. Sure, you have to keep close tabs on injuries and the like, but your best bet in the long run is to have the most talented lineup possible. If it’s a toss-up between two or more players, I’ll be able to point out matchups to take advantage of. Here is a look at this week’s matchups which will help you win your fantasy league.
Thursday 8:15 PM ET
Chicago at Washington
Both of these teams are hanging on by a thread in the NFC playoff race. The Redskins are still reeling from the tragic death of safety Sean Taylor. They had the funeral on Monday and will have only one full day of practice to prepare for this game. Meanwhile, the Bears allowed the Giants to make a late fourth quarter comeback last week in Chicago to drop to 5-7. They are a far cry from the team that represented the NFC in last year’s Super Bowl.
Stud: Clinton Portis, RB Washington. The Redskins running back aggravated an ankle injury late in the Buffalo game last week so check his status. If he plays, Portis should find plenty of room to run against a leaky Bears defense ranked 27th against the run. If Portis can’t play, go with Ladell Betts, his replacement.
Dud: Adrian Peterson, RB Chicago. So far, Peterson’s stats look an awful lot like Cedric Benson’s. Perhaps the offensive line is a large part of the problem in Chicago. The Redskins run defense is 10th in the league and the Bears have trouble rushing the football.
Sleeper: Bernard Berrian, WR Chicago. Berrian faces a Redskins secondary that has struggled since Taylor’s death. Look for Rex Grossman to exploit this matchup and for Berrian to have his first big day in three weeks.
Sunday 1:00 PM ET
San Diego at Tennessee
This game matches up two teams in the thick of the AFC playoff race. Both have 7-5 records but the Chargers benefit from being in the weaker West while the Titans are in the South, perhaps the most competitive division in the league. The Chargers defeated the Chiefs last week which solidified their hold on the division. The Titans got past the pesky Texans to end their three-game losing streak. Getting DT Albert Haynesworth back really helped. Both teams really need a win but the Titans need it a bit more.
Stud: LaDainian Tomlinson, RB San Diego. Tomlinson ran wild against KC last week and totaled 197 yards and 2 TDs. He has scored in four of the last five games and gone over the 1,000 yard rushing mark for the season. Even with Haynesworth back in the lineup, the Titans defense has not been as effective. If they do slow LT down rushing the ball, the Chargers will throw it to him.
Dud: LenDale White, RB Tennessee. White has only 141 yards rushing total in his last four games. The Chargers run defense is strongest up the middle and that’s where White is at his best.
Sleeper: Antonio Gates, TE San Diego. Gates had only 1 catch last week for –1 yards. He will be facing LB Keith Bulluck of the Titans, which gives a physical advantage to Gates. Don’t expect Gates to be a non-factor two weeks in a row.
Miami at Buffalo
The Dolphins are three-quarters of the way to a winless season. No team has gone 0-16 since the league went to a 16-game schedule in 1978 but the Dolphins look like they have a real chance to pull off that unwelcome feat. The Bills are a game behind in the AFC Wild Card race after a last second victory over a stunned Redskins team last week in DC. The cold weather will not make things easy for the battered Dolphins.
Stud: Fred Jackson, RB Buffalo. The Dolphins have the worst run defense in the league and Jackson has looked good so far when given the chance. Last week against Washington, he ran for 82 yards and caught four passes for another 69. Look for another good game from Jackson against a Miami team that has trouble staying in its gaps.
Dud: Marty Booker, WR Miami. Booker has fallen off in recent weeks although a lack of a quaterback hasn’t helped. He has also dropped too many passes. The Bills will contain the Fish’s top wide receiver who has only 1 TD on the season and 12 catches total in the last four games.
Sleeper: Lee Evans, WR Buffalo. Evans is the biggest receiving threat the Bills have and Trent Edwards played well last week. The Dolphins pass defense is nothing special and Evans should end up with a solid statistical day.
N.Y. Giants at Philadelphia
The Giants pulled out a late game comeback against the Bears that may have saved Eli Manning’s career with New York. Manning remains mistake prone but he showed some leadership by coming on late last week to eke out a victory. The Eagles loss to Seattle all but ended their playoff hopes. Donovan McNabb may be back to face the Giants tough defensive line. The first time these two teams met, McNabb was sacked 12 times.
Stud: Brandon Jacobs, RB N.Y. Giants. Jacobs has been limited in practice but is expected to get the start Sunday (check status). Even if Jacobs is not ready to go, feel free to play Reuben Droughns. The Giants are trusting Eli Manning less and less and their run blocking has been strong. Philly’s run defense is solid but the Giants will grind it out effectively.
Dud: Donovan McNabb, QB Philadelphia. McNabb may be back from ankle and thumb injuries but against the Giants tough pass rush, he may wish he stayed off the field for another week. If A.J. Feeley has to start, he’d be an even bigger dud.
Sleeper: Brian Westbrook, RB Philadelphia. Westbrook is a top fantasy player and if the Giants 5th ranked rush defense shuts him down, the Eagles will throw plenty of short passes to him to stall the Giants pass rush. Westbrook will put up good numbers Sunday.
Carolina at Jacksonville
The Panthers have fallen on hard times without a steady quaterback while the Jags have proven themselves true playoff contenders despite another heartbreaking loss to the Colts last week. While Carolina has been wildly inconsistent this year, they are 4-2 on the road.
Stud: Maurice Jones-Drew, RB Jacksonville. Jones-Drew has scored in each of the last four games. The Jaguars running game should wear down the Panthers defense and by the fourth quarter, big holes should be there for Jones-Drew and company.
Dud: Vinny Testaverde, QB Carolina. The veteran had a solid game last week with 2 TDs, but he just can’t get it done consistently anymore. The Jags will put enough pressure on Testaverde to keep him in check.
Sleeper: Fred Taylor, RB Jacksonville. Taylor has topped 100 yards rushing in back-to-back games. He doesn’t find the end zone as much as Jones-Drew, but he is playing very well and gets the bulk of the carries. He should find success Sunday as the game progresses.
Tampa Bay at Houston
The Bucs all but own the NFC South and at 8-4, have an easy schedule down the stretch and no real competition for the division crown. The Texans are very improved and you have to wonder what their season would have been like if WR Andre Johnson and QB Matt Schaub would have stayed healthy. They are capable of beating anybody but are also capable of playing poorly on any given week. They are learning how to win at this point.
Stud: Earnest Graham, RB Tampa Bay. Graham has 737 yards rushing and 7 TDs which is impressive considering he only saw spot duty as a backup the first three games. The Texans run defense is ranked 25th and with QB Jeff Garcia out with an injury, the Bucs should emphasize the run even more than usual.
Dud: Sage Rosenfels, QB Houston. Rosenfels is not very consistent and he faces the NFL’s 4th best pass defense in Tampa Bay. Look for average fantasy stats from Sage but nothing special.
Sleeper: Andre Johnson, WR Houston. Johnson is one of the best in the game but he flies under the radar because he plays for a Houston team that has not yet established itself as a consistent winner. He has an interesting matchup this week with CB Ronde Barber and Johnson has a five-inch height advantage. In five games played, Johnson has 5 TDs and has topped the 100-yard mark four times.
St. Louis at Cincinnati
These two teams mirror each other in that they have much stronger offenses than defenses and both have struggled this year. The Rams have won three of their last four while the Bengals are out of the AFC playoff picture but can score with anybody, especially now that third WR Chris Henry is back in the lineup.
Stud: Stephen Jackson, RB St. Louis. Jackson has scored TDs in four of the last five games and has topped 90 yards rushing in has last three contests. The Bengals have trouble stopping the run and are ranked 23rd in that category. Jackson should have a very productive day.
Dud: Kenny Watson, RB Cincinnati. Watson has not had a solid rushing total in five weeks and he and Rudi Johnson tend to split carries. Johnson is going to get a few more chances than Watson and is more likely to carry the mail near the end zone.
Sleeper: Torry Holt WR St. Louis. There are plenty of great receivers to choose from in this game and all of them are probably solid selections but Holt is the focal point of the Rams’ passing attack and the Bengals secondary is 26th in the league. Holt has a mismatch against CB Jonathan Joseph. He also has three 100-plus yard games and 3 TDs in his last five contests.
Oakland at Green Bay
The Packers look to bounce back from last Thursday’s defeat in Dallas while the Raiders hope to build on their win over the Broncos. Brett Favre is expected to get his 250th straight start but keep an eye on his effectiveness throughout the game.
Stud: Ryan Grant, RB Green Bay. The Raiders defense is 30th against the rush. Grant may not get a lot of carries, but he is averaging nearly five yards per carry and has 3 TDs in his last four games and usually approaches or tops the 100-yard mark. With Brett Favre a little banged up, don’t be surprised if Grant gets a few extra chances to run the ball Sunday.
Dud: Josh McCown, QB Oakland. McCown will be under steady pressure from DE Aaron Kampman and company. While he played very well against Denver last week (3 TDs), McCown is not known for his consistency.
Sleeper: Justin Fargas, RB Oakland. Fargas has run wild the past two games, totaling 285 yards and 2 TDs. The Raiders are a run-first team and Fargas will have his moments against the Packers’ solid run defense on Sunday.
Dallas at Detroit
It doesn’t get any easier for the reeling Lions who have now lost four straight. The 11-1 Cowboys come calling. Another loss would be very harmful to the Lions fading playoff chances. The Cowboys have an extra few days of rest after last Thursday’s big win over Green Bay. They have to avoid a letdown and they can roll to the top seed in the NFC playoffs.
Stud: Tony Romo, QB Dallas. The Lions secondary is very vulnerable and are ranked 31st in the league at pass defense. Romo must be licking his chops to face this mediocre unit. Unless the Lions find a way to put steady pressure on Romo, they are in for a long afternoon.
Dud: Kevin Jones, RB Detroit. The Lions don’t even try to run the football in some games and last week was yet another example. Jones had three carries for one yard and for the second time in four weeks, the Lions ground attack was literally almost non-existent. Dallas’ run defense ranks 4th in the league.
Sleeper: Terrell Owens, WR Dallas. T.O. vs. the Detroit secondary. You can stop laughing now. No matter which CB and/or safety the Lions try to cover Owens with, T.O. will have a huge advantage and he should have another huge day.
Sunday 4:00 PM ET
Minnesota at San Francisco
The Vikings suddenly find themselves in the thick of the NFC Wild Card race while the 49ers have been behind the eight ball most of the season. San Francisco simply has trouble moving the ball and scoring points. Minnesota has gotten better play of late from QB Tarvaris Jackson and getting Adrian Peterson back only makes the Minnesota attack more lethal.
Stud: Adrian Peterson, RB Minnesota. Peterson is facing a San Francisco defense ranked 26th in the league at stopping the run. He seemed no worse for wear playing with a knee brace last week. Peterson is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. The Niners should be plenty worried.
Dud: Arnaz Battle, WR San Francisco. Battle has TDs in two straight games but he tweaked an ankle last week and may not be at full strength for Sunday’s game. The Minnesota secondary is not good but Battle will be held in check.
Sleeper: Tarvaris Jackson, QB Minnesota. Jackson’s play has improved in recent weeks. He is reading defenses much better and has found his groove, completing more than 75 percent of his passes in each of the last three games. Don’t look for a monster game from Jackson, but he’s capable of throwing for a couple of TDs and more than 200 yards against a shaky San Francisco secondary.
Arizona at Seattle
A win all but clinches the NFC West for Seattle. A Cardinals win and they would have a sweep of the Seahawks and be one game back (with all tiebreaker advantages) with three to play. Injuries to WRs Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin may limit the Cardinals offense. The key for Arizona will be to protect QB Kurt Warner.
Stud: Matt Hasselbeck, QB Seattle. The Cards pass defense ranks 24th in the league against the pass. Hasselbeck’s steady play has carried the Seahawks of late when RB Shaun Alexander was injured. Hasselbeck has thrown for at least one TD in 11 of 12 games.
Dud: Arizona Defense. The Cards defense makes plenty of big plays when they win, but they will surrender a lot of yards and points to the Seahawks this week, especially through the air.
Sleeper: Edgerrin James, RB Arizona. James topped the 100-yard mark last week. If the weather is iffy, he will be even more vital to the Cards’ offense. As it is, they need him to be effective to take some pressure off of Warner. He will get plenty of touches Sunday.
Kansas City at Denver
These two teams expected to be contenders this season but both have fallen flat. The Broncos have lost two straight and one more loss would all but end their playoff chances. The Chiefs have dropped five in-a-row and need to hold on to some dignity and finish the season on a little bit of a run. Both of these teams tend to make mistakes at crucial moments. Denver won the first meeting in Kansas City earlier this season.
Stud: Kolby Smith, RB Kansas City. Smith topped 80 yards last week and has 233 yards and 2 TDs in two starts. The Broncos run defense is allowing 149.1 yards per game so Smith should have room to run.
Dud: Damon Huard, QB Kansas City. Huard has in injured hand but is expected to play. The Broncos pass defense is strong, ranking 9th in the league. Even when Huard is healthy, the Chiefs passing attack is second rate.
Sleeper: Travis Henry, RB Denver. Henry had 2 TD runs last week and won his appeal against the league to prevent him from being suspended for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. He should get the bulk of the carries for the Broncos. The Chiefs run defense is 21st in the league.
Pittsburgh at New England
The Patriots remained perfect with another last minute win against Baltimore last week. Meanwhile, the Steelers won another game in the rain and slop of Pittsburgh, downing the Bengals on Sunday night. Pittsburgh’s defense, which features multiple formations and zone blitzes, may be just the thing to contain Tom Brady and the Patriots high powered offense. Certainly on paper, this is the toughest remaining game New England faces.
Stud: Tom Brady, QB New England. Brady’s numbers haven’t been as overwhelming the past few weeks, but keeping up that pace was nearly impossible. He’s still in charge of the most potent passing attack in the league and should post solid numbers against a tough Steelers defense.
Dud: Laurence Maroney, RB New England. Maroney has just 29 carries in the last three games. Pittsburgh is 2nd in the league against the run so don’t expect a lot of production from him on Sunday.
Sleeper: Ben Roethlisberger, QB Pittsburgh. Roethlisberger has 25 TD passes and a passer rating over 100 this season. The Steelers will try to establish the run first, but they score TDs through the air and Roethlisberger will put up good if not great numbers vs. the Pats.
Cleveland at N.Y. Jets
The Browns lost a controversial game a week ago to the Cardinals when Braylon Edwards was ruled not to have been pushed out of bounds on the final play of the game. The Browns are 7-5 and still hold the final Wild Card spot in the AFC but they have little room for error if they hope to keep it. The Jets staved off embarrassment by beating Miami handily but they still have a long way to go as a team.
Stud: Derek Anderson, QB Cleveland. Anderson has thrown 24 TD passes despite not starting in week 1. Look for him to find plenty of chances against the Jets pass defense. The Browns attack simply has too many weapons for the Jets defensive backs to handle.
Dud: Cleveland Defense. The Browns have trouble stopping anybody. Stay away from this defense every week if possible.
Sleeper: Thomas Jones, RB N.Y. Jets. Jones scored his first TD of the season last week and had 75 yards rushing. The Browns defense is 28th in the league at stopping the run and the Jets would be wise to give Jones plenty of carries in an attempt to keep the Browns powerful offense off the field.
Sunday 8:15 PM ET
Indianapolis at Baltimore
The Colts are regaining their health on offense and have the inside track to the second seed and a first round bye in the playoffs. The Ravens are out of the playoff picture but gave the Patriots all they could handle last Monday. Kyle Boller will start at QB for the rest of the season. This may be his last chance to show he can still be Baltimore’s quaterback of the future.
Stud: Peyton Manning, QB Indianapolis. Manning is still deadly accurate and one of the best fantasy QBs out there. The Ravens defense is good but no longer as intimidating as it used to be. Manning should have a solid game against the Ravens 15th ranked pass defense.
Dud: Kyle Boller, QB Baltimore. Boller had 2 TDs and 210 yards against New England last week. That is probably his fantasy upside. The Colts have a good pass defense, ranked second in the league. They will make things tougher for Boller.
Sleeper: Willie McGahee, RB Baltimore. McGahee has scored a TD in each of the last seven games. He has gone over 1,000 yards for the season and has topped the 100-yard mark in two of the last three games. The Colts run defense is good but not great. The Ravens will feature McGahee and he will come through.
Monday 8:30 PM ET
New Orleans at Atlanta
When the schedule came out, this divisional clash looked like a great game. Now the Saints have come back to earth and Michael Vick is behind bars and the game features two sub-.500 teams. The Saints have to run the table to have any chance of sneaking into the playoffs as a Wild Card. The Falcons have a chance to show a national TV audience that they aren’t as bad as their record.
Stud: Drew Brees, QB New Orleans. Brees has 5 TDs in the last two games and is capable of a big game at any time. New Orleans struggles to run the ball so they will rely heavily on Brees and the passing attack to get things done.
Dud: Michael Jenkins, WR Atlanta. Don’t expect much from Jenkins despite his TD catch last week. The former first round pick has never developed into a consistent NFL receiver.
Sleeper: Reggie Bush, RB New Orleans. The Falcons can’t stop the run and Bush is the Saints favorite target in the passing game as well. If the former Heisman winner can have a big game, this should be it.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
The Buzz, Week 14
By Fantasy Phil Eletto, Fantasy Football Insiders Senior Writer
Depending on your record, this is either the last week of your fantasy season or the first round of your playoffs. Regardless of which, we at Fantasy Football Insiders hope you are still playing for all the marbles and appreciate your taking us along. We’d like to think we earned our keep and welcome feedback on how we can be more helpful to you in the future.
The dust has finally settled in the position battles—some teams are locked in with their reliable veterans, and some are trying to get a look at the youth they may have on their bench as they plan for the upcoming draft (please check out nfldraftbible.com for more on that). Regardless of the reason, there is less position sharing now than at any time this season. Who has become their team’s lead dog and who simply has fleas? Who will be the sled dog to get you to your league’s championship? Now before we have to use Mike Vick (remember him), enough of the canine references and on to the Buzz…
Travis Henry has won his appeal of a year-long suspension for a positive drug test. The running back tested positive for marijuana in early October, and the NFL announced their decision on the appeal Tuesday, more than two weeks after Henry had his appeal heard, according to Sports Network. Henry scored a pair of touchdowns this past week in his first game since Week 9. He had been inactive because of a knee injury. For the rest of the Broncos backfield, the news is mixed. Andre Hall could be back in action this week after missing last Sunday's game due to a high ankle sprain, but the club could be without Selvin Young, who suffered a right arm injury, the Rocky Mountain News reports.
Adrian Peterson made this fantasy prognosticator look silly, but not as silly as the Detroit defense which also allowed 70 yards on 14 carries to Chester Taylor. Expect this story for the remainder of Peterson’s career, yes CAREER, the only thing that can keep Peterson from greatness is his own body and its propensity for injury.
Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (hamstring) is expected to return to action this week, the New York Daily News reports. He has missed the last two games, but Jacobs is returning just in time to beat up on an Eagles club that has allowed four rushing touchdowns over the last two games. If he looks healthy in practice this week, he should jump right back into your starting lineup. He is also just in time to replace Derrick Ward, who was placed on Injured Reserve Tuesday after suffering a broken leg on Sunday. The Giants signed rookie Danny Ware off the Jets' practice squad to replace Ward on the roster. Just think, Ryan Grant WAS on their practice squad.
Marc Bulger passed a neuropsychological exam Tuesday and will be back on the practice field Wednesday. Unless he experiences some complications later in the week, he will start against Cincinnati this weekend, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Bulger has been out since suffering a concussion in the first quarter in Week 12. This is great news not only for Bulger owners, but for anyone who has Steven Jackson, Torry Holt and company. The game this weekend in Cincinnati should be a shootout. Gus Ferrotte, who had been replacing Bulger, suffered a sprained throwing shoulder and a partially torn labrum last Sunday and is expected to miss at least one week.
Kurt Warner has probably been more valuable than anyone imagined when the season began. As mentioned here last week, his value and that of the Arizona receivers can turn on a dime based on injury. At this time last week, Warner’s health was the main concern. However, this week, it’s injuries to Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin that are causing the QB’s value to plummet. On the positive side, the team has decided to scrap its plans to use Tim Rattay as their goal-line quarterback. Bryant Johnson has emerged and should continue to have high value the rest of the way as the only healthy body catching passes for Arizona.
Roy Williams may miss the remainder of the season with a knee injury. Williams sprained his right posterior cruciate ligament during Sunday's game. "I don't know how many weeks it is," coach Rod Marinelli said. It's going to be several. So he could be gone for the year." Expect Mike Furrey to start in his place. Shaun McDonlald will also benefit from Williams’ absence. Jon Kitna should only experience a minor downturn in numbers.
Another week of waiting is in store for Larry Johnson owners. The Chiefs running back has been ruled out of Week 14 due to a right foot injury, the Kansas City Star reports. Kolby Smith will start in his place. Johnson has not played since Week 9. The Chiefs travel to Denver this week, so cash in (you may soon be cashing out) on Smith if you have him. After feasting on Oakland’s porous defense Thanksgiving week, Smith proved to be no fluke, amassing 83 yards against a strong San Diego defense.
The Palm Beach Post reports that Jesse Chatman is expected to play in Week 14 against the Bills and if needed, should be considered against a mediocre Bills defense. However, Chatman has been unable to finish the last three games because of ankle and neck injuries, so be wary. We'll find out more about his status when the Dolphins return to practice on Wednesday.
Earnest Graham continues to be one of the most valuable waiver wire additions of the year. His insertion into the Buccaneers starting lineup when Cadillac Williams went down at the end of September has given his savvy owners much to boast about. He is a must play this week against the Texans.
Marion Barber III has once again proven to be the crème of the Dallas backfield, having completed his annual rise over Julius Jones. Maybe they can just trade Julius to the Jets and have an all-Jones backfield? In all seriousness, Leon Washington usually produces for the Jets, which raises the question of why coach Eric Mangini doesn’t use him in the offense more. Washington is clearly a special talent. He carried the ball a season-high 10 times for 68 yards last week against Miami, adding two receptions for 35 yards.
Shame on you if you were caught doing anything more than thanking your fantasy stars for ANY points out of Ron Dayne. He is no more than an emergency play. Dayne will not have to look over his shoulder however as Ahman Green has met the fork and is done for the year.
Fred Jackson proved to be a useful spot player and will continue to be for as long as Marshawn Lynch is MIA. For this week, MIA will be a good thing for the Bills as that is their opponent. The Bills continue to report that Lynch is ahead of schedule as he rehabs his injured ankle, but his status for Week 14 remains up in the air. "Marshawn has made a lot of progress and faster than we anticipated," head coach Dick Jauron told the Bills' official website. "We're hopeful (he can play on Sunday), but I don't want to overstep it right now." Stay with us for updates as you will want whoever is starting this game in the Bills backfield.
Quick Hits
Both the Eagles Donovan McNabb and the Packers Brett Favre are set to return to practice and expect to start this week.
The Jaguars lost two tight ends to season-ending injuries before last week’s game. Starter Marcedes Lewis responded with his best game of the season against the Colts with five receptions for 42 yards and a touchdown. The expanded role in the offense should give Lewis increased fantasy value going forward.
Desmond Clark appears to be Rex Grossman’s safety valve and red-zone target du jour, not last year's first round pick, Greg Olsen.
The Falcons, who really have nothing to lose at -this point, could turn the reins over to Chris Redman. Coach Petrino may think his former Louisville pupil can follow up his strong fourth quarter performance in last week's loss to the Rams with an encore, against a weak Saints secondary. Jerious Norwood got his first start last week and carried the ball eight times for 94 yards. He is averaging 6.4 yards per carry on the season.
49ers receiver Arnaz Battle suffered a sprained ankle in Week 13's game with the Panthers and head coach Mike Nolan classified him to the San Francisco Chronicle as questionable for this Sunday.
Washington running back Clinton Portis is expected to be re-evaluated early this week after sustaining an ankle injury during Sunday's loss to the Bills. He is listed as day-to-day.
Tennessee Titans running back LenDale White dislocated a finger on his right hand during Sunday's game and was forced to leave early. His status for this week's game vs. San Diego is not yet known. The injury combined with the return of backfield mate Chris Brown mean White's most valuable days this season are behind him.
Houston Texans signal caller Matt Schaub could be out for the remainder of the season after suffering a dislocated left shoulder during Sunday's game. Sage Rosenfelds would handle the snaps the rest of the way if Schaub is done.
Steve McNair was placed on injured reserve. McNair will undergo shoulder surgery Tuesday to repair a partially-torn rotator cuff. Kyle Boller will continue to start, with Troy Smith backing him up.
While it was fun to watch JaMarcus Russell’s first action of the year, don’t expect his first start to come against the Packers this week, even with Daunte Culpepper (quad- reportedly from a post-game race with a teammate) and Josh McCown (finger) dinged up.
Injured starter Jeff Garcia will play Sunday at Houston if his sore back shows enough improvement during the week. Filling in for Garcia, Luke McCown threw for 313 yards and two touchdowns in the 27-23 win over the New Orleans Saints.
Denver Broncos wideout Javon Walker (knee) recorded just one reception for seven yards during Sunday's game, his second back after missing most of the season.
“Throw Me The Damn Ball”
Players who saw ten or more passes thrown their way this past week
Roddy White 19
Chad Johnson 16
Hines Ward 16
T.J. Houshmandzedeh 14
Braylon Edwards 14
Andre Johnson 14
Tony Gonzalez (TE) 13
Alge Crumpler 13
Kevin Curtis 13
Terrell Owens 12
Dwayne Bowe 12
Chris Cooley 12
Steve Smith 11
Bryant Johnson 11
Dallas Clark 10
Deion Branch 10
Santana Moss 10
Bernard Berrian 10
Donald Driver 10
Please note our new feature and feel free to offer your comments by clicking the COMMENT link. If this doesn’t get you “buzzed” enough, feel free to fire questions to me at phil@nfldraftbible.com or tune in Sundays at 10:30 AM to www.scrubradio.com for the fantasy spot hosted by Jib Records www.jibmachinerecords.com. CEO John Templeman and I will be happy to discuss all things fantasy football. You can also check out our weekly podcast, posted every Saturday covering all the upcoming NFL games. It can be found on the “audio” tab at the top of the NFLDraftBible.com media player.
While the regular and fantasy season is coming to an end, NFL Draft Bible’s draft research is just heating up. Stay with NFLDRAFTBIBLE.COM to see who your team is going to pick or who from your favorite conference or school will be moving on.
Rock on!
Depending on your record, this is either the last week of your fantasy season or the first round of your playoffs. Regardless of which, we at Fantasy Football Insiders hope you are still playing for all the marbles and appreciate your taking us along. We’d like to think we earned our keep and welcome feedback on how we can be more helpful to you in the future.
The dust has finally settled in the position battles—some teams are locked in with their reliable veterans, and some are trying to get a look at the youth they may have on their bench as they plan for the upcoming draft (please check out nfldraftbible.com for more on that). Regardless of the reason, there is less position sharing now than at any time this season. Who has become their team’s lead dog and who simply has fleas? Who will be the sled dog to get you to your league’s championship? Now before we have to use Mike Vick (remember him), enough of the canine references and on to the Buzz…
Travis Henry has won his appeal of a year-long suspension for a positive drug test. The running back tested positive for marijuana in early October, and the NFL announced their decision on the appeal Tuesday, more than two weeks after Henry had his appeal heard, according to Sports Network. Henry scored a pair of touchdowns this past week in his first game since Week 9. He had been inactive because of a knee injury. For the rest of the Broncos backfield, the news is mixed. Andre Hall could be back in action this week after missing last Sunday's game due to a high ankle sprain, but the club could be without Selvin Young, who suffered a right arm injury, the Rocky Mountain News reports.
Adrian Peterson made this fantasy prognosticator look silly, but not as silly as the Detroit defense which also allowed 70 yards on 14 carries to Chester Taylor. Expect this story for the remainder of Peterson’s career, yes CAREER, the only thing that can keep Peterson from greatness is his own body and its propensity for injury.
Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (hamstring) is expected to return to action this week, the New York Daily News reports. He has missed the last two games, but Jacobs is returning just in time to beat up on an Eagles club that has allowed four rushing touchdowns over the last two games. If he looks healthy in practice this week, he should jump right back into your starting lineup. He is also just in time to replace Derrick Ward, who was placed on Injured Reserve Tuesday after suffering a broken leg on Sunday. The Giants signed rookie Danny Ware off the Jets' practice squad to replace Ward on the roster. Just think, Ryan Grant WAS on their practice squad.
Marc Bulger passed a neuropsychological exam Tuesday and will be back on the practice field Wednesday. Unless he experiences some complications later in the week, he will start against Cincinnati this weekend, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Bulger has been out since suffering a concussion in the first quarter in Week 12. This is great news not only for Bulger owners, but for anyone who has Steven Jackson, Torry Holt and company. The game this weekend in Cincinnati should be a shootout. Gus Ferrotte, who had been replacing Bulger, suffered a sprained throwing shoulder and a partially torn labrum last Sunday and is expected to miss at least one week.
Kurt Warner has probably been more valuable than anyone imagined when the season began. As mentioned here last week, his value and that of the Arizona receivers can turn on a dime based on injury. At this time last week, Warner’s health was the main concern. However, this week, it’s injuries to Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin that are causing the QB’s value to plummet. On the positive side, the team has decided to scrap its plans to use Tim Rattay as their goal-line quarterback. Bryant Johnson has emerged and should continue to have high value the rest of the way as the only healthy body catching passes for Arizona.
Roy Williams may miss the remainder of the season with a knee injury. Williams sprained his right posterior cruciate ligament during Sunday's game. "I don't know how many weeks it is," coach Rod Marinelli said. It's going to be several. So he could be gone for the year." Expect Mike Furrey to start in his place. Shaun McDonlald will also benefit from Williams’ absence. Jon Kitna should only experience a minor downturn in numbers.
Another week of waiting is in store for Larry Johnson owners. The Chiefs running back has been ruled out of Week 14 due to a right foot injury, the Kansas City Star reports. Kolby Smith will start in his place. Johnson has not played since Week 9. The Chiefs travel to Denver this week, so cash in (you may soon be cashing out) on Smith if you have him. After feasting on Oakland’s porous defense Thanksgiving week, Smith proved to be no fluke, amassing 83 yards against a strong San Diego defense.
The Palm Beach Post reports that Jesse Chatman is expected to play in Week 14 against the Bills and if needed, should be considered against a mediocre Bills defense. However, Chatman has been unable to finish the last three games because of ankle and neck injuries, so be wary. We'll find out more about his status when the Dolphins return to practice on Wednesday.
Earnest Graham continues to be one of the most valuable waiver wire additions of the year. His insertion into the Buccaneers starting lineup when Cadillac Williams went down at the end of September has given his savvy owners much to boast about. He is a must play this week against the Texans.
Marion Barber III has once again proven to be the crème of the Dallas backfield, having completed his annual rise over Julius Jones. Maybe they can just trade Julius to the Jets and have an all-Jones backfield? In all seriousness, Leon Washington usually produces for the Jets, which raises the question of why coach Eric Mangini doesn’t use him in the offense more. Washington is clearly a special talent. He carried the ball a season-high 10 times for 68 yards last week against Miami, adding two receptions for 35 yards.
Shame on you if you were caught doing anything more than thanking your fantasy stars for ANY points out of Ron Dayne. He is no more than an emergency play. Dayne will not have to look over his shoulder however as Ahman Green has met the fork and is done for the year.
Fred Jackson proved to be a useful spot player and will continue to be for as long as Marshawn Lynch is MIA. For this week, MIA will be a good thing for the Bills as that is their opponent. The Bills continue to report that Lynch is ahead of schedule as he rehabs his injured ankle, but his status for Week 14 remains up in the air. "Marshawn has made a lot of progress and faster than we anticipated," head coach Dick Jauron told the Bills' official website. "We're hopeful (he can play on Sunday), but I don't want to overstep it right now." Stay with us for updates as you will want whoever is starting this game in the Bills backfield.
Quick Hits
Both the Eagles Donovan McNabb and the Packers Brett Favre are set to return to practice and expect to start this week.
The Jaguars lost two tight ends to season-ending injuries before last week’s game. Starter Marcedes Lewis responded with his best game of the season against the Colts with five receptions for 42 yards and a touchdown. The expanded role in the offense should give Lewis increased fantasy value going forward.
Desmond Clark appears to be Rex Grossman’s safety valve and red-zone target du jour, not last year's first round pick, Greg Olsen.
The Falcons, who really have nothing to lose at -this point, could turn the reins over to Chris Redman. Coach Petrino may think his former Louisville pupil can follow up his strong fourth quarter performance in last week's loss to the Rams with an encore, against a weak Saints secondary. Jerious Norwood got his first start last week and carried the ball eight times for 94 yards. He is averaging 6.4 yards per carry on the season.
49ers receiver Arnaz Battle suffered a sprained ankle in Week 13's game with the Panthers and head coach Mike Nolan classified him to the San Francisco Chronicle as questionable for this Sunday.
Washington running back Clinton Portis is expected to be re-evaluated early this week after sustaining an ankle injury during Sunday's loss to the Bills. He is listed as day-to-day.
Tennessee Titans running back LenDale White dislocated a finger on his right hand during Sunday's game and was forced to leave early. His status for this week's game vs. San Diego is not yet known. The injury combined with the return of backfield mate Chris Brown mean White's most valuable days this season are behind him.
Houston Texans signal caller Matt Schaub could be out for the remainder of the season after suffering a dislocated left shoulder during Sunday's game. Sage Rosenfelds would handle the snaps the rest of the way if Schaub is done.
Steve McNair was placed on injured reserve. McNair will undergo shoulder surgery Tuesday to repair a partially-torn rotator cuff. Kyle Boller will continue to start, with Troy Smith backing him up.
While it was fun to watch JaMarcus Russell’s first action of the year, don’t expect his first start to come against the Packers this week, even with Daunte Culpepper (quad- reportedly from a post-game race with a teammate) and Josh McCown (finger) dinged up.
Injured starter Jeff Garcia will play Sunday at Houston if his sore back shows enough improvement during the week. Filling in for Garcia, Luke McCown threw for 313 yards and two touchdowns in the 27-23 win over the New Orleans Saints.
Denver Broncos wideout Javon Walker (knee) recorded just one reception for seven yards during Sunday's game, his second back after missing most of the season.
“Throw Me The Damn Ball”
Players who saw ten or more passes thrown their way this past week
Roddy White 19
Chad Johnson 16
Hines Ward 16
T.J. Houshmandzedeh 14
Braylon Edwards 14
Andre Johnson 14
Tony Gonzalez (TE) 13
Alge Crumpler 13
Kevin Curtis 13
Terrell Owens 12
Dwayne Bowe 12
Chris Cooley 12
Steve Smith 11
Bryant Johnson 11
Dallas Clark 10
Deion Branch 10
Santana Moss 10
Bernard Berrian 10
Donald Driver 10
Please note our new feature and feel free to offer your comments by clicking the COMMENT link. If this doesn’t get you “buzzed” enough, feel free to fire questions to me at phil@nfldraftbible.com or tune in Sundays at 10:30 AM to www.scrubradio.com for the fantasy spot hosted by Jib Records www.jibmachinerecords.com. CEO John Templeman and I will be happy to discuss all things fantasy football. You can also check out our weekly podcast, posted every Saturday covering all the upcoming NFL games. It can be found on the “audio” tab at the top of the NFLDraftBible.com media player.
While the regular and fantasy season is coming to an end, NFL Draft Bible’s draft research is just heating up. Stay with NFLDRAFTBIBLE.COM to see who your team is going to pick or who from your favorite conference or school will be moving on.
Rock on!
Rookie Report - Sidney Rice (MIN-WR)
By Ralph Mancini, NFL Draft Bible Senior Writer
With all the excitement and fanfare created by all-world back Adrian Peterson this season, many overlook the contribution made by fellow rookie Sidney Rice in Minnesota’s electrifying late-season run for the playoffs.
Chosen 44th overall in the 2007 NFL Draft, not much was expected of the 6’ 4” 200-pound wide out. He was generally viewed as an unpolished athlete, very rough around the edges, especially in the area of route-running.
After two seasons at the University of South Carolina (not including his first year as a redshirt freshman), Rice decided to market his size and one-of-a-kind leaping ability to the NFL.
Despite Minnesota’s gaffe in selecting fellow receiver Troy Williamson (also from USC) as the seventh-overall pick only two years prior, Rice had a lot more to offer than his teammate who has done next to nothing to warrant his lofty first-round status, even with his sprinter’s speed.
Following a rather non-descript start to his rookie season, the former first and second team All-SEC honoree began making waves in week four versus Green Bay with six receptions for 75 yards and a 15-yard score.
In the ensuing weeks, it became increasingly clear that Rice’s deceptive speed was a weapon that Minnesota’s inferior passing attack needed to make better use of--and that they did in week nine when backup passer Brooks Bollinger uncorked a 40-yard touchdown to his newfound playmaker.
In Minnesota’s 29-22 victory over Oakland, Rice unveiled his rocket arm by heaving a 40-yard pass to tight end Vishanthe Shiancoe, who turned it into a 79-yard completion.
This multifaceted phenom is fast becoming a handful for defensive backs with his ability to avoid the jam and quickly release off the line.In addition, Rice possesses great hands and uncanny body control allowing him to effortlessly extend when catching the ball away from his frame even on poorly thrown passes.
What worked against him prior to becoming a Viking was his lack of bulk along with his humdrum 4.51 speed in the 40.
While the 21-year-old has silenced those doubting his talents as a downfield threat, questions do persist regarding his durability as Rice has already fallen prey to hamstring woes.
But ever since sitting out the week 10 contest with Green Bay, Rice has been a man on a mission, setting the tone with a 60-yard touchdown grab from Tavaris Jackson on the second play of the game in week 12 in the 41-17 victory over the Giants.
Jackson and Rice continued to make noise the following week by combining on a two-yard score as the Vikings dropped the hammer on the toothless Lions, 42-10. In executing his touchdown catch, Rice made a sensational leap while adjusting to the errant throw before hauling it in. On the day, the former Gamecock recorded five receptions for 53 yards.
Although the rookie isn’t the polished route runner he will eventually be, his game-breaking skills are already evoking comparisons to star wide out Plaxico Burress.
The continued emergence of his fledging quarterback combined with a monstrous offensive line and running game can only bode well for the future prospects of this exciting performer who broke Sterling Sharpe’s team record for receiving yards in a season with 1,143 while at South Carolina in 2005.
Look for Rice to be an ominous force for opposing secondaries as the 6-6 Vikings are more than capable of making a clean sweep of their remaining games versus the 49ers, Bears, Redskins and Broncos.
With all the excitement and fanfare created by all-world back Adrian Peterson this season, many overlook the contribution made by fellow rookie Sidney Rice in Minnesota’s electrifying late-season run for the playoffs.
Chosen 44th overall in the 2007 NFL Draft, not much was expected of the 6’ 4” 200-pound wide out. He was generally viewed as an unpolished athlete, very rough around the edges, especially in the area of route-running.
After two seasons at the University of South Carolina (not including his first year as a redshirt freshman), Rice decided to market his size and one-of-a-kind leaping ability to the NFL.
Despite Minnesota’s gaffe in selecting fellow receiver Troy Williamson (also from USC) as the seventh-overall pick only two years prior, Rice had a lot more to offer than his teammate who has done next to nothing to warrant his lofty first-round status, even with his sprinter’s speed.
Following a rather non-descript start to his rookie season, the former first and second team All-SEC honoree began making waves in week four versus Green Bay with six receptions for 75 yards and a 15-yard score.
In the ensuing weeks, it became increasingly clear that Rice’s deceptive speed was a weapon that Minnesota’s inferior passing attack needed to make better use of--and that they did in week nine when backup passer Brooks Bollinger uncorked a 40-yard touchdown to his newfound playmaker.
In Minnesota’s 29-22 victory over Oakland, Rice unveiled his rocket arm by heaving a 40-yard pass to tight end Vishanthe Shiancoe, who turned it into a 79-yard completion.
This multifaceted phenom is fast becoming a handful for defensive backs with his ability to avoid the jam and quickly release off the line.In addition, Rice possesses great hands and uncanny body control allowing him to effortlessly extend when catching the ball away from his frame even on poorly thrown passes.
What worked against him prior to becoming a Viking was his lack of bulk along with his humdrum 4.51 speed in the 40.
While the 21-year-old has silenced those doubting his talents as a downfield threat, questions do persist regarding his durability as Rice has already fallen prey to hamstring woes.
But ever since sitting out the week 10 contest with Green Bay, Rice has been a man on a mission, setting the tone with a 60-yard touchdown grab from Tavaris Jackson on the second play of the game in week 12 in the 41-17 victory over the Giants.
Jackson and Rice continued to make noise the following week by combining on a two-yard score as the Vikings dropped the hammer on the toothless Lions, 42-10. In executing his touchdown catch, Rice made a sensational leap while adjusting to the errant throw before hauling it in. On the day, the former Gamecock recorded five receptions for 53 yards.
Although the rookie isn’t the polished route runner he will eventually be, his game-breaking skills are already evoking comparisons to star wide out Plaxico Burress.
The continued emergence of his fledging quarterback combined with a monstrous offensive line and running game can only bode well for the future prospects of this exciting performer who broke Sterling Sharpe’s team record for receiving yards in a season with 1,143 while at South Carolina in 2005.
Look for Rice to be an ominous force for opposing secondaries as the 6-6 Vikings are more than capable of making a clean sweep of their remaining games versus the 49ers, Bears, Redskins and Broncos.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)