By The Fantasy Trader, NFL Draft Bible
This week I will give you a little insight into my fantasy teams. I own 3 teams and they are a combined 14-1. This has been my greatest fantasy football season so far. While I was adjusting my lineups for this week, I was trying to figure out what makes these teams so good. There are two common traits in all three of them. Each team has a dominating QB. This was the first year that I planned on taking a QB early. In previous years, I was always a “wait until the dime-a-dozen quarterbacks start going” kind of drafter. If I pulled that this year, I would have Manning (not the good one!), Cutler or Leinart. Instead I took Palmer in two leagues and Brady in the other.
Another common component that all three share is the X factor guy. You know… the guy that you were on the fence about but just had to take because he was still there. Those guys for me were Randy Moss, Ronnie Brown and Adrian Peterson. All three of my teams are obviously very healthy. Now that I have jinxed the rest of my season, here is who I like and hate in week 6!
BIG WEEK 6
RB Larry Johnson- This is it, I swear! If Johnson does not rack up big numbers against the Bengals, then it is time to abort this mission. Despite his struggles, LJ is still getting a heavy dose of carries. With opportunity comes reward. The Bengals are giving up over 5 yards a carry. KC has a banged up QB in Huard, so look for an even heavier dose of Johnson. Prediction: 30 Rushes 137 Yards 1 TD
WR The Original 81- I was shocked that TO was so quiet on Monday Night Football. He must have been saving it up for this week. The human quote machine left nothing but a note for reporters this week. Owens is getting ready to put on a show against a very tough New England secondary. TO hates nothing more than being shown up by a counterpart. I’m feeling Randy Moss touchdowns so TO will have to get his as well.
Prediction: 8 Rec 115 Yards 1 TD
WR The Other 81- Is it just a coincidence that Mr. Moss had his first poor showing of the season? I think not! The man has admitted to dogging every now and then. The Cowboys secondary has a tough time defending the home run ball. I’m not sure there is a deeper threat than Moss. This one is straight cash homey!
Prediction: 8 Rec 115 Yards 1 TD
QB Kurt Warner- This might be the waiver wire claim of the year. He won’t be throwing it to Holt and Bruce anymore, but Fitzgerald and Boldin are pretty good. Boldin is banged up, but I expect Warner to post big numbers. The Panthers defense is 24th against the pass and is giving up over 230 yards per game.
Prediction: 300 Yards 3 TD
QB Philip Rivers - I hope you bought that Rivers stock on the cheap last week because he had his coming out party. The Broncos are the number 1 ranked defense against the pass and Rivers destroyed them. I understand that Champ Bailey got injured, but Rivers was 13 for 18 for 270 yards. I know what he will do to the Raiders this week.
Prediction: 300 Yards 2 TD
SMALL WEEK 6
RB Cedric Benson- This guy can’t seem to catch a break. He waits forever to get the starting gig and when he finally does, he looks like he might lose it. Benson is averaging 3 yards per carry. His longest run in over 300 carries is 16 yards. The numbers are awful and now he gets the number 1 ranked rushing defense. Good luck against the Vikings Cedric! Prediction: 20 Rushes 60 Yards 1 Fumble
RB Thomas Jones- At least the Bears can take solace in the fact that Jones stinks. The problem for Jones owners is that he actually has had several favorable match-ups. The Bills run defense make Moses’ parting of the sea look like a joke. The bigger joke was TJ couldn’t find the part. It is officially time to panic against the Eagles.
Prediction: 18 Rushes 58 Yards
QB Vince Young- The Titans offense has been struggling, but it seems to be flying under the radar because their defense has been electric. The VY will have a tough time against an underrated Bucs defense. I never thought I would write that the Tampa D was underrated. The Bucs rank 9th against the pass and have held opposing QBs to a rating of 73.9. Prediction: 180 Yards 1 TD 1 INT
WR Braylon Edwards- I’ve heard other experts predict big things for Edwards this week, but I’m not so sure. I’m not taking anything away from what he has done this season. He is averaging over 20 yards a reception, but the Dolphins pass defense is elite. The Dolphins are allowing just 171 yards per game through the air.
Prediction: 3 Rec 60 Yards
QB Tony Romo- This prediction has a chance to backfire so badly that I’m thinking about changing it right now. I won’t because he deserves to be on the stink list after throwing 5 first half INT to the worst defense in the league. This poor man’s Brady will show he is exactly that this week. That was pretty harsh. You would think he stole my girlfriend or something.
Prediction: 280 Yards 2 TD 4 INT
Friday, October 12, 2007
Thursday, October 11, 2007
WEEK 6 FANTASY PREVIEW
Houston @ Jacksonville
After allowing about a million yards (well, more like 175) to Chris Brown in Week 1, Jacksonville has completely shut down opposing runners, including Travis Henry and LJ. Whether or not Ahman Green comes back this week, the Texans’ running game is a big-time sit this week. The Jags also shut down the pass pretty well, and no Texans receivers are particularly inspiring, but if you need one, I’d go with Andre Davis over Kevin Walter. As for the Jaguars, Maurice Jones-Drew finally broke out with a big run and a TD, but he still had just 9 carries. He isn’t getting the ball as much as Fred Taylor, and relies on breaking big runs. He’ll have a few games like last week this year, but they’ll be hard to predict. Houston is solid against the run, so don’t count on him this week.
St. Louis @ Baltimore
Baltimore’s defense isn’t as silly-dominant as it was last year, and receivers are having surprising success against this unit. This makes Drew Bennett a decent play again this week after scoring last week. Brian Leonard, though, is a sit. Gus Frerotte can be played if you’re desperate for a QB in this brutal week for byes (6 teams are off this week). Demetrius Williams is a nice play again for Baltimore against the Rams’ secondary. Mark Clayton is invisible.
Washington @ Green Bay
The Redskins’ defense has been a nice surprise thus far, and is allowing less than a TD and less than 200 yards passing to opposing QBs. Sit Brett Favre. I’d also sit Packer receivers other than Driver. I’d also continue to sit all Packer runners. Not a good outlook for the Pack. Start Santana Moss for sure if he’s back, since Washington may be without Antwaan Randle El and Moss will get all the looks in the passing game.
Cincinnati @ Kansas City
Larry Johnson should enjoy this week a bit more than last week, when he had only 12 yards on 9 carries. For those of you not on the Dwayne Bowe train yet, get on it this week for sure. It looks like Damon Huard will play this week, and he has an excellent matchup. He’s another good bye week fill-in.
Miami @ Cleveland
The Dolphins’ change at quarterback could be really bad for Chris Chambers owners. He was only targeted 4 times last week, while Marty Booker got 10 looks. Chambers is a start this week, but monitor this situation. The idea of Marty Booker emerging as a consistent fantasy presence is as silly as the name “Cleo Lemon”, but Chambers owners need to keep tabs on this offense. Miami is allowing almost 150 yards per game on the ground, so consider playing Jamal Lewis this week.
Minnesota @ Chicago
Chicago has had mixed success stopping the run, and they’re banged up again this week. Minnesota’s entire offense is the run game, so Adrian Peterson is a sure play. Chester Taylor was also a factor in his first game back in Week 4. He is a weaker play than Peterson, but is usable this week. Minnesota allows good production to opposing TEs, so Desmond Clark is a solid play.
Tennessee @ Tampa Bay
Earnest Graham wasn’t able to do much of anything in last week’s blowout defeat by the Colts, and his matchup doesn’t look much better this week. But, Graham could have a nice game against a solid Titan run D. Tennessee hasn’t faced a great running game yet (Jacksonville, Indy, New Orleans, and Atlanta), and the Bucs have shown an eagerness to pound the run in close games. Graham is likely to get more than the 6 carries he got last week (the Colts scored too much for the Bucs to establish the run), and could accumulate some yards and score.
Philadelphia @ New York Jets
Whoever starts at RB for the Eagles will have a huge game, so even if it’s Buckhalter replacing an injured Westbrook again this week, get him in. I’m sure many of you have vowed never to play Reggie Brown again, but consider him this week. The Jets tend to allow lots of underneath passing, and coming off the bye, it’s possible that he and McNabb have worked out their chemistry issues.
Carolina @ Arizona
With Jake Delhomme out for the season, I hesitate to recommend anyone on the Panthers for a while. Even Steve Smith’s production has fallen off with David Carr at quarterback, and they couldn’t do much with the run even against the Saints’ porous defense. Arizona’s defense has been good lately, and has another solid matchup against the Panthers. Kurt Warner is also a good play, and will continue to be until he inevitably gets injured hitting his hand on an O-lineman’s helmet.
Oakland @ San Diego
San Diego’s secondary has been bad, so start Ronald Curry. Daunte Culpepper is bound to throw more than 12 times, like he did in his last game, and Curry has been the most relevant receiver for them. Having said that, keep an eye on Jerry Porter. We haven’t seen which receiver Culpepper will favor, and it might be Porter, who caught 2 TDs in his last game with Daunte. The Chargers don’t look for their receivers much, but Vincent Jackson has a good matchup this week.
New England @ Dallas
This is a dream game for fantasy. Most of the players in this game are every week starters anyway, but I’d start most fringe players on these teams as well. Laurence Maroney looks like he may be back, but Sammy Morris is still the better play here because of his goal line carries. Start both Stallworth and Welker for the Pats.
New Orleans @ Seattle
The Saints continue to flounder this season. Aaron Stecker was irrelevant last week, Reggie Bush still thinks you can return punts from scrimmage, and Drew Brees is throwing interceptions all over the field. Devery Henderson caught some passes, but had a killer drop at the end, and rumor has it that coach Payton is running out of patience. Mike Karney is an interesting touchdown-vulture type, but his potential is limited because he relies solely on TDs to score. If you’re desperate for a runner in a bye week, though, he’s not bad. Eric Johnson is also decent as a bye week fill-in. Deion Branch is out for the Seahawks, which elevates Bobby Engram to the starting lineup, and he’s a great play against this Saints defense.
New York Giants @ Atlanta
Not too much to say here. I love Brandon Jacobs, and believe that he can run over people and fall forward against almost any defense. The Atlanta receivers continue to be inconsistent and unreliable, and with the Giants’ pass rush, they don’t have a great matchup. Lame Monday Night game…
After allowing about a million yards (well, more like 175) to Chris Brown in Week 1, Jacksonville has completely shut down opposing runners, including Travis Henry and LJ. Whether or not Ahman Green comes back this week, the Texans’ running game is a big-time sit this week. The Jags also shut down the pass pretty well, and no Texans receivers are particularly inspiring, but if you need one, I’d go with Andre Davis over Kevin Walter. As for the Jaguars, Maurice Jones-Drew finally broke out with a big run and a TD, but he still had just 9 carries. He isn’t getting the ball as much as Fred Taylor, and relies on breaking big runs. He’ll have a few games like last week this year, but they’ll be hard to predict. Houston is solid against the run, so don’t count on him this week.
St. Louis @ Baltimore
Baltimore’s defense isn’t as silly-dominant as it was last year, and receivers are having surprising success against this unit. This makes Drew Bennett a decent play again this week after scoring last week. Brian Leonard, though, is a sit. Gus Frerotte can be played if you’re desperate for a QB in this brutal week for byes (6 teams are off this week). Demetrius Williams is a nice play again for Baltimore against the Rams’ secondary. Mark Clayton is invisible.
Washington @ Green Bay
The Redskins’ defense has been a nice surprise thus far, and is allowing less than a TD and less than 200 yards passing to opposing QBs. Sit Brett Favre. I’d also sit Packer receivers other than Driver. I’d also continue to sit all Packer runners. Not a good outlook for the Pack. Start Santana Moss for sure if he’s back, since Washington may be without Antwaan Randle El and Moss will get all the looks in the passing game.
Cincinnati @ Kansas City
Larry Johnson should enjoy this week a bit more than last week, when he had only 12 yards on 9 carries. For those of you not on the Dwayne Bowe train yet, get on it this week for sure. It looks like Damon Huard will play this week, and he has an excellent matchup. He’s another good bye week fill-in.
Miami @ Cleveland
The Dolphins’ change at quarterback could be really bad for Chris Chambers owners. He was only targeted 4 times last week, while Marty Booker got 10 looks. Chambers is a start this week, but monitor this situation. The idea of Marty Booker emerging as a consistent fantasy presence is as silly as the name “Cleo Lemon”, but Chambers owners need to keep tabs on this offense. Miami is allowing almost 150 yards per game on the ground, so consider playing Jamal Lewis this week.
Minnesota @ Chicago
Chicago has had mixed success stopping the run, and they’re banged up again this week. Minnesota’s entire offense is the run game, so Adrian Peterson is a sure play. Chester Taylor was also a factor in his first game back in Week 4. He is a weaker play than Peterson, but is usable this week. Minnesota allows good production to opposing TEs, so Desmond Clark is a solid play.
Tennessee @ Tampa Bay
Earnest Graham wasn’t able to do much of anything in last week’s blowout defeat by the Colts, and his matchup doesn’t look much better this week. But, Graham could have a nice game against a solid Titan run D. Tennessee hasn’t faced a great running game yet (Jacksonville, Indy, New Orleans, and Atlanta), and the Bucs have shown an eagerness to pound the run in close games. Graham is likely to get more than the 6 carries he got last week (the Colts scored too much for the Bucs to establish the run), and could accumulate some yards and score.
Philadelphia @ New York Jets
Whoever starts at RB for the Eagles will have a huge game, so even if it’s Buckhalter replacing an injured Westbrook again this week, get him in. I’m sure many of you have vowed never to play Reggie Brown again, but consider him this week. The Jets tend to allow lots of underneath passing, and coming off the bye, it’s possible that he and McNabb have worked out their chemistry issues.
Carolina @ Arizona
With Jake Delhomme out for the season, I hesitate to recommend anyone on the Panthers for a while. Even Steve Smith’s production has fallen off with David Carr at quarterback, and they couldn’t do much with the run even against the Saints’ porous defense. Arizona’s defense has been good lately, and has another solid matchup against the Panthers. Kurt Warner is also a good play, and will continue to be until he inevitably gets injured hitting his hand on an O-lineman’s helmet.
Oakland @ San Diego
San Diego’s secondary has been bad, so start Ronald Curry. Daunte Culpepper is bound to throw more than 12 times, like he did in his last game, and Curry has been the most relevant receiver for them. Having said that, keep an eye on Jerry Porter. We haven’t seen which receiver Culpepper will favor, and it might be Porter, who caught 2 TDs in his last game with Daunte. The Chargers don’t look for their receivers much, but Vincent Jackson has a good matchup this week.
New England @ Dallas
This is a dream game for fantasy. Most of the players in this game are every week starters anyway, but I’d start most fringe players on these teams as well. Laurence Maroney looks like he may be back, but Sammy Morris is still the better play here because of his goal line carries. Start both Stallworth and Welker for the Pats.
New Orleans @ Seattle
The Saints continue to flounder this season. Aaron Stecker was irrelevant last week, Reggie Bush still thinks you can return punts from scrimmage, and Drew Brees is throwing interceptions all over the field. Devery Henderson caught some passes, but had a killer drop at the end, and rumor has it that coach Payton is running out of patience. Mike Karney is an interesting touchdown-vulture type, but his potential is limited because he relies solely on TDs to score. If you’re desperate for a runner in a bye week, though, he’s not bad. Eric Johnson is also decent as a bye week fill-in. Deion Branch is out for the Seahawks, which elevates Bobby Engram to the starting lineup, and he’s a great play against this Saints defense.
New York Giants @ Atlanta
Not too much to say here. I love Brandon Jacobs, and believe that he can run over people and fall forward against almost any defense. The Atlanta receivers continue to be inconsistent and unreliable, and with the Giants’ pass rush, they don’t have a great matchup. Lame Monday Night game…
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
FANTASY FILL-INS FOR WEEK 6
-Ralph Mancini, FFI Sr. Writer
Fantasy owners of Peyton Manning, Willie Parker, Roy Williams and Marshawn Lynch, take heed and listen---the treacherous bye weeks are upon us.
There a couple of different ways to battle this predicament in order to assemble a competent lineup for the upcoming week. One can either make a desperate trade and get fleeced---especially if you’re 1-4---or you can scour the waiver wire for solutions.
Granted, at this point of the season, you’re probably not going to stumble upon any week- in and week-out starters, but remember you’re playing for Week Six and once your regulars come back, you might not have to use these fill-ins ever again.
Here are a few names that might still be available. Some of these players happen to be quite talented, while the others just have good matchups.
GUS FREROTTE (STL-QB)- At first glance, the well traveled journeyman has a less-than-favorable matchup versus the traditionally stingy Baltimore Ravens defense. A closer look ,however, reveals that this defensive unit has absorbed it’s fair share of injuries which have caused starting cornerback Samari Rolle (medical illness) and defensive end Trevor Pryce (wrist) to miss games and it doesn’t look as though they’ll be returning this week. In addition, the Ravens defense has allowed 20 or more points in three of their five games and, with the exception of a special teams touchdown, have failed to score. While still formidable versus the run, this unit has allowed receivers Jerricho Cotchery (7 receptions, 165 yards) and Anquan Boldin (14 receptions, 181 yards, two touchdowns) to achieve memorable performances.
DeSHAWN WYNN (GB-RB)- If you know anything about Packer running back Vernand Morency, it’s that he doesn’t stay healthy for a long time and while many aren’t certain who’s top dog in Green Bay’s backfield---make no mistake that man is DeShawn Wynn. Along with showing good power in short yardage and goal-line situations, Wynn also has the ability to bounce runs outside for long gainers. The rookie looked good against Chicago and can certainly do the same versus Washington this week.
LEON WASHINGTON (NYJ-RB)- This may very well be the week that the Jets decide to hand the ball off to Thomas Jones 20 times to finally establish a running attack, but that doesn’t mean that Gang Green will stop going to elusive runner Leon Washington. New York’s opposing defense, the Philadelphia Eagles, are tied for second in the league in sacks with 16, so you better believe they’ll be coming hard after quarterback Chad Pennington, who may be throwing quite a few dump-off passes to Washington this week. The second-year runner already recorded eight catches in week three’s loss at Buffalo. Definitely start him in point-per-reception leagues.
JERRY PORTER (OAK-WR)- Porter has made the most out of his seven receptions this season by scoring on three of them. The enigmatic receiver showed very positive signs with Daunte Culpepper at quarterback two weeks ago versus the Dolphins and should be called upon quite often against a rather pourous San Diego secondary that gave up 369 yards and 284 yards to quarterbacks Brett Favre and Damon Huard in weeks three and four before shutting down the Broncos. With rookie JaMarcus Russell waiting in the wings, you can be certain that Culpepper will be taking some downfield shots to his newfound favorite wide out.
DENNIS NORTHCUTT (JAX-WR)- Very quietly, Dennis Northcutt has been cementing his status as Jacksonville’s most dependable receiver. As such, the former Brown was targeted seven times in the Jaguars’ win over Kansas City last Sunday. On one of those occasions, he was sought for in the end zone which led to a touchdown. Northcutt should have several opportunities to score against a Houston defense that has surrendered an average of twenty five points a game in their last three contests.
NY GIANTS DEFENSE- Need big-time fantasy points? Take a gander at the Big Blue Wrecking Crew’s league leading 17 sacks. Want another reason to start the Giants this week versus the Falcons? Atlanta’s starting left tackle Wayne Gandy is out for the year with a knee injury. Even Big Blue’s much-maligned secondary has been slowly crawling out of an early season funk with rookie Aaron Ross leading the way last week with two interceptions versus the Jets.
Fantasy owners of Peyton Manning, Willie Parker, Roy Williams and Marshawn Lynch, take heed and listen---the treacherous bye weeks are upon us.
There a couple of different ways to battle this predicament in order to assemble a competent lineup for the upcoming week. One can either make a desperate trade and get fleeced---especially if you’re 1-4---or you can scour the waiver wire for solutions.
Granted, at this point of the season, you’re probably not going to stumble upon any week- in and week-out starters, but remember you’re playing for Week Six and once your regulars come back, you might not have to use these fill-ins ever again.
Here are a few names that might still be available. Some of these players happen to be quite talented, while the others just have good matchups.
GUS FREROTTE (STL-QB)- At first glance, the well traveled journeyman has a less-than-favorable matchup versus the traditionally stingy Baltimore Ravens defense. A closer look ,however, reveals that this defensive unit has absorbed it’s fair share of injuries which have caused starting cornerback Samari Rolle (medical illness) and defensive end Trevor Pryce (wrist) to miss games and it doesn’t look as though they’ll be returning this week. In addition, the Ravens defense has allowed 20 or more points in three of their five games and, with the exception of a special teams touchdown, have failed to score. While still formidable versus the run, this unit has allowed receivers Jerricho Cotchery (7 receptions, 165 yards) and Anquan Boldin (14 receptions, 181 yards, two touchdowns) to achieve memorable performances.
DeSHAWN WYNN (GB-RB)- If you know anything about Packer running back Vernand Morency, it’s that he doesn’t stay healthy for a long time and while many aren’t certain who’s top dog in Green Bay’s backfield---make no mistake that man is DeShawn Wynn. Along with showing good power in short yardage and goal-line situations, Wynn also has the ability to bounce runs outside for long gainers. The rookie looked good against Chicago and can certainly do the same versus Washington this week.
LEON WASHINGTON (NYJ-RB)- This may very well be the week that the Jets decide to hand the ball off to Thomas Jones 20 times to finally establish a running attack, but that doesn’t mean that Gang Green will stop going to elusive runner Leon Washington. New York’s opposing defense, the Philadelphia Eagles, are tied for second in the league in sacks with 16, so you better believe they’ll be coming hard after quarterback Chad Pennington, who may be throwing quite a few dump-off passes to Washington this week. The second-year runner already recorded eight catches in week three’s loss at Buffalo. Definitely start him in point-per-reception leagues.
JERRY PORTER (OAK-WR)- Porter has made the most out of his seven receptions this season by scoring on three of them. The enigmatic receiver showed very positive signs with Daunte Culpepper at quarterback two weeks ago versus the Dolphins and should be called upon quite often against a rather pourous San Diego secondary that gave up 369 yards and 284 yards to quarterbacks Brett Favre and Damon Huard in weeks three and four before shutting down the Broncos. With rookie JaMarcus Russell waiting in the wings, you can be certain that Culpepper will be taking some downfield shots to his newfound favorite wide out.
DENNIS NORTHCUTT (JAX-WR)- Very quietly, Dennis Northcutt has been cementing his status as Jacksonville’s most dependable receiver. As such, the former Brown was targeted seven times in the Jaguars’ win over Kansas City last Sunday. On one of those occasions, he was sought for in the end zone which led to a touchdown. Northcutt should have several opportunities to score against a Houston defense that has surrendered an average of twenty five points a game in their last three contests.
NY GIANTS DEFENSE- Need big-time fantasy points? Take a gander at the Big Blue Wrecking Crew’s league leading 17 sacks. Want another reason to start the Giants this week versus the Falcons? Atlanta’s starting left tackle Wayne Gandy is out for the year with a knee injury. Even Big Blue’s much-maligned secondary has been slowly crawling out of an early season funk with rookie Aaron Ross leading the way last week with two interceptions versus the Jets.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
BUSTED, BRUISED & BROKEN
By David Kaye,Fantasy Football Insiders
AFC Injury Report
Buffalo Bills wide receiver Peerless Price (neck) will be out for the remainder of the season after it was discovered that the disc problem he has in his neck will require surgery. As Price is placed on the injured reserve, he becomes the ninth Bills player who
will miss the rest of the season. In his absence, look for Roscoe Parrish and Josh Reed to see increased playing time as the number two receivers.
Laurence Maroney (ankle) did not play for the second consecutive week and his status for Sunday’s showdown at Dallas is still unknown. Sammy Morris has served as the quintessential backup for Maroney as he has had back-to-back 100-yard performances against the Bengals and Browns. He is a must have in all fantasy leagues.
While trying to tackle Houston Texans defensive lineman Travis Johnson, quarterback Trent Green was inadvertently kneed in the head and appeared motionless on the field for several seconds. Green (grade-three concussion) will most likely be out of action for
Sunday’s game at Cleveland and backup Cleo Lemon will make the start.
Jamal Lewis (foot) is experiencing considerable pain in his right foot and it has not been determined whether or not he’ll suit up for Sunday’s game against the woeful Dolphins.
Tight end Todd Heap (thigh) did not play in Sunday’s loss at San Francisco and is currently questionable for Sunday’s game against the 0-5 Rams.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh (knee) is listed as probable for this week’s game at Kansas City.
Hines Ward (knee) missed his second straight game, but will likely be able to start week seven following the Steelers bye week. Ward has been ineffective when healthy and should not be relied upon at all by fantasy owners this season.
Pro Bowl kick returner Jerome Mathis (leg) has been placed on injured reserve after it was discovered that he had a stress fracture in his left leg. Mathis has played an integral part in the Texans special teams over the past two seasons and it will be very difficult for them to provide any sort of stability to that position in the final eleven weeks of the season.
Running Back Ahman Green (knee) has missed the past two weeks and remains questionable for Sunday’s game at Jacksonville.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Damon Huard (shoulder) is probable for Sunday’s game with the Bengals after sustaining a right shoulder contusion in last week’s loss to the Jaguars.
Wide receiver Vincent Jackson (shoulder) is probable for Sunday’s game against the Raiders.
Denver Broncos center Tom Nalen (torn right biceps) will undergo surgery this week and be out for the remainder of the season.
NFC Injury Report
Washington Redskins wide receiver Antwaan Randle El (hamstring) left Sunday’s 34-3 victory over the Lions early with an apparent injury to his hamstring and is listed as questionable for this week’s matchup at Green Bay.
Brandon Jacobs (knee) returned to action for the first time after missing the last three weeks and rushed for 100 yards and a score. Look for his production to continue to rise and for Derrick Ward to receive less carries.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme (elbow) will have season-ending surgery next week to repair his badly sprained right elbow. Once thought to be a week-to week injury, Delhomme was unable to show any considerable improvement while throwing on the side. The Panthers offensive leader is expected to face seven to nine months of recovery time.
Quarterback David Carr (back) left Sunday’s win over the Saints early and his status for this week at Arizona is unknown. Undrafted rookie Matt Moore out of Oregon State is the only remaining signalcaller on the roster.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Michael Pittman (broken fibula) will miss the next six-to-eight weeks after sustaining the injury in Sunday’s loss to the Colts. With Pittman and Carnell Williams out indefinitely, Earnest Graham will be thrusted into the starting role.
Matt Leinart (broken left collarbone) will be out for an indefinite period of time after being sacked in the first quarter of Sunday’s win by Will Witherspoon. Kurt Warner, who combined for two touchdowns in Leinart’s absence, becomes an attractive fantasy option.
Running back Steven Jackson (partially torn groin) has been ruled out for Sunday’s game at Baltimore by head coach Scott Linehan.
2005 Super Bowl MVP Deion Branch (foot) will be out of action for the next two weeks after sustaining a mid-foot sprain. With an already depleted wide receiver core, Bobby Engram is expected to receive the bulk of throwing opportunities.
Fifteen-year veteran Mack Strong (neck) played the last game of his football career Sunday after it was revealed that he has a pinched nerve in his neck.
AFC Injury Report
Buffalo Bills wide receiver Peerless Price (neck) will be out for the remainder of the season after it was discovered that the disc problem he has in his neck will require surgery. As Price is placed on the injured reserve, he becomes the ninth Bills player who
will miss the rest of the season. In his absence, look for Roscoe Parrish and Josh Reed to see increased playing time as the number two receivers.
Laurence Maroney (ankle) did not play for the second consecutive week and his status for Sunday’s showdown at Dallas is still unknown. Sammy Morris has served as the quintessential backup for Maroney as he has had back-to-back 100-yard performances against the Bengals and Browns. He is a must have in all fantasy leagues.
While trying to tackle Houston Texans defensive lineman Travis Johnson, quarterback Trent Green was inadvertently kneed in the head and appeared motionless on the field for several seconds. Green (grade-three concussion) will most likely be out of action for
Sunday’s game at Cleveland and backup Cleo Lemon will make the start.
Jamal Lewis (foot) is experiencing considerable pain in his right foot and it has not been determined whether or not he’ll suit up for Sunday’s game against the woeful Dolphins.
Tight end Todd Heap (thigh) did not play in Sunday’s loss at San Francisco and is currently questionable for Sunday’s game against the 0-5 Rams.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh (knee) is listed as probable for this week’s game at Kansas City.
Hines Ward (knee) missed his second straight game, but will likely be able to start week seven following the Steelers bye week. Ward has been ineffective when healthy and should not be relied upon at all by fantasy owners this season.
Pro Bowl kick returner Jerome Mathis (leg) has been placed on injured reserve after it was discovered that he had a stress fracture in his left leg. Mathis has played an integral part in the Texans special teams over the past two seasons and it will be very difficult for them to provide any sort of stability to that position in the final eleven weeks of the season.
Running Back Ahman Green (knee) has missed the past two weeks and remains questionable for Sunday’s game at Jacksonville.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Damon Huard (shoulder) is probable for Sunday’s game with the Bengals after sustaining a right shoulder contusion in last week’s loss to the Jaguars.
Wide receiver Vincent Jackson (shoulder) is probable for Sunday’s game against the Raiders.
Denver Broncos center Tom Nalen (torn right biceps) will undergo surgery this week and be out for the remainder of the season.
NFC Injury Report
Washington Redskins wide receiver Antwaan Randle El (hamstring) left Sunday’s 34-3 victory over the Lions early with an apparent injury to his hamstring and is listed as questionable for this week’s matchup at Green Bay.
Brandon Jacobs (knee) returned to action for the first time after missing the last three weeks and rushed for 100 yards and a score. Look for his production to continue to rise and for Derrick Ward to receive less carries.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme (elbow) will have season-ending surgery next week to repair his badly sprained right elbow. Once thought to be a week-to week injury, Delhomme was unable to show any considerable improvement while throwing on the side. The Panthers offensive leader is expected to face seven to nine months of recovery time.
Quarterback David Carr (back) left Sunday’s win over the Saints early and his status for this week at Arizona is unknown. Undrafted rookie Matt Moore out of Oregon State is the only remaining signalcaller on the roster.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Michael Pittman (broken fibula) will miss the next six-to-eight weeks after sustaining the injury in Sunday’s loss to the Colts. With Pittman and Carnell Williams out indefinitely, Earnest Graham will be thrusted into the starting role.
Matt Leinart (broken left collarbone) will be out for an indefinite period of time after being sacked in the first quarter of Sunday’s win by Will Witherspoon. Kurt Warner, who combined for two touchdowns in Leinart’s absence, becomes an attractive fantasy option.
Running back Steven Jackson (partially torn groin) has been ruled out for Sunday’s game at Baltimore by head coach Scott Linehan.
2005 Super Bowl MVP Deion Branch (foot) will be out of action for the next two weeks after sustaining a mid-foot sprain. With an already depleted wide receiver core, Bobby Engram is expected to receive the bulk of throwing opportunities.
Fifteen-year veteran Mack Strong (neck) played the last game of his football career Sunday after it was revealed that he has a pinched nerve in his neck.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
SUNDAY MORNING QUARTERBACK
Word out of Buffalo is- should Trent Edwards continue to impress, J.P. Losman will be in serious jeopardy of losing his starting job. After a solid showing during the preseason, Edwards played like ten-year pro last week against the Jets. An impressive showing against Dallas on Monday Night Football would certainly enhance his chance.
With Eddie Kennison returning from injury, this will be the first week that first-round pick Dwayne Bowe and Kennison start alongside each other. Look for a direct impact on Chiefs quarterback Damon Huard. The hasty veteran faces a stingy Jaguars defense this week, but could be a viable fantasy option against some of the weaker matchups throughout the year.
The Panthers will turn to David Carr for another start Sunday while they wait for Jake Delhomme (elbow) to return. Carr faces a Saints defense that is allowing 239 passing yards per game (25th).
Missing the last three days of practice due to a chest injury, Colts stud running back Joseph Addai remains a game-time decision. We’re hearing that Addai will give it a go, but that the short yardage/goal line carries would go to Kenton Keith, to avoid Addai from being involved in any physical pileups.
Running back Travis Henry expects to play on Sunday vs. San Diego despite a knee injury that's held him back in practice and despite a looming suspension that could cost him a year in the NFL. Look for backups Selvin Young and Andre Hall to be in the mix should Henry miss any action. Head coach Mike Shanahan has always been fond of fullback Cecil Sapp as well.
Patriots running back Laurence Maroney is considered a game-time decision but is not expected to play. Sammy Morris will get the starting nod once again in his place.
Brandon Jacobs returns to the Giants this week and assumes his starting role. Backup Derrick Ward did well in his absence and should continue to see a fair a mount of carries. One thing to keep an eye on is whether the team continues to use fullback Reuben Droughns or do they turn to Jacobs down near the goal line.
Buccaneers running back Cadillac Williams (knee) may have suffered a career-ending injury. Michael Pittman and Earnest Graham will split the workload for the remainder of the season, but you can be sure that the team will look to address the situation during the off-season either via the draft or in free agency. Pittman and Graham are considered to be worthy Flex players, but aren’t worth starting as one of your top two backs for your fantasy team.
The Packers will be without Brandon Jackson (shin) for the second straight game. Vernand Morency gets the start but DeShawn Wynn is actually the better fantasy play.
Atlanta has worked on getting Jerious Norwood more involved in the offense each week. Look for an increase of carries to continue on Sunday verses the Titans.
Aaron Stecker makes his season debut as the starter for the Saints on Sunday. With Deuce McAllister (ACL) out for the year, expect Reggie Bush to receive more touches with Stecker getting double-digit carries and fullback Mike Karney stealing some touchdowns.
We may have been a week premature with our bust-out prediction of Brian Leonard. Don’t be surprised to see Leonard have a big day against the Cardinals.
The Texans Ron Dayne will start in place of Ahman Green (knee). Look for Dayne to exploit a Miami defense that is ranked dead last against the run, allowing 199 rushing yards per game. You may also see Samkon Gado in this one as well.
Be on the lookout for Garrett Wolfe to be involved in the Bears offense this week.
Fantasy owners can exhale now, as it was announced that Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith is fine after leaving practice early on Friday due to leg cramps. He did not appear on the injury report.
The Colts have listed wide receiver Marvin Harrison (knee) as questionable for week five verses the Buccaneers. He did not practice all week and is not expected to play Sunday. Rookie Anthony Gonzalez will be called upon to make the start.
Other wide receivers out this weekend due to injury include the Steelers Hines Ward (knee), Redskins Santana Moss (groin), Isaac Bruce (hamstring) of the Rams and the Seahawks D.J. Hackett (ankle).
The Cardinals have listed Anquan Boldin as questionable with a groin injury, but he is not expected to play. Bryant Johnson steps into his spot against the winless Rams.
Saints first round pick Robert Meachem is officially in the doghouse. Despite being healthy enough to play, head coach Sean Payton stated that Meachem will be inactive on Sunday due to the other five receivers outperforming him.
Cowboys wide out Terry Glenn (knee) is a couple weeks away from returning, while Rod Smith (hip) appears nowhere close to returning for the Broncos.
The shoulder injury sustained by Browns tight end Kellen Winslow will reportedly be an injury that hinders him all season, but this is nothing new for Winslow who played the majority of last season thru injuries and remained one of the top fantasy producing tight ends in the league.
With Eddie Kennison returning from injury, this will be the first week that first-round pick Dwayne Bowe and Kennison start alongside each other. Look for a direct impact on Chiefs quarterback Damon Huard. The hasty veteran faces a stingy Jaguars defense this week, but could be a viable fantasy option against some of the weaker matchups throughout the year.
The Panthers will turn to David Carr for another start Sunday while they wait for Jake Delhomme (elbow) to return. Carr faces a Saints defense that is allowing 239 passing yards per game (25th).
Missing the last three days of practice due to a chest injury, Colts stud running back Joseph Addai remains a game-time decision. We’re hearing that Addai will give it a go, but that the short yardage/goal line carries would go to Kenton Keith, to avoid Addai from being involved in any physical pileups.
Running back Travis Henry expects to play on Sunday vs. San Diego despite a knee injury that's held him back in practice and despite a looming suspension that could cost him a year in the NFL. Look for backups Selvin Young and Andre Hall to be in the mix should Henry miss any action. Head coach Mike Shanahan has always been fond of fullback Cecil Sapp as well.
Patriots running back Laurence Maroney is considered a game-time decision but is not expected to play. Sammy Morris will get the starting nod once again in his place.
Brandon Jacobs returns to the Giants this week and assumes his starting role. Backup Derrick Ward did well in his absence and should continue to see a fair a mount of carries. One thing to keep an eye on is whether the team continues to use fullback Reuben Droughns or do they turn to Jacobs down near the goal line.
Buccaneers running back Cadillac Williams (knee) may have suffered a career-ending injury. Michael Pittman and Earnest Graham will split the workload for the remainder of the season, but you can be sure that the team will look to address the situation during the off-season either via the draft or in free agency. Pittman and Graham are considered to be worthy Flex players, but aren’t worth starting as one of your top two backs for your fantasy team.
The Packers will be without Brandon Jackson (shin) for the second straight game. Vernand Morency gets the start but DeShawn Wynn is actually the better fantasy play.
Atlanta has worked on getting Jerious Norwood more involved in the offense each week. Look for an increase of carries to continue on Sunday verses the Titans.
Aaron Stecker makes his season debut as the starter for the Saints on Sunday. With Deuce McAllister (ACL) out for the year, expect Reggie Bush to receive more touches with Stecker getting double-digit carries and fullback Mike Karney stealing some touchdowns.
We may have been a week premature with our bust-out prediction of Brian Leonard. Don’t be surprised to see Leonard have a big day against the Cardinals.
The Texans Ron Dayne will start in place of Ahman Green (knee). Look for Dayne to exploit a Miami defense that is ranked dead last against the run, allowing 199 rushing yards per game. You may also see Samkon Gado in this one as well.
Be on the lookout for Garrett Wolfe to be involved in the Bears offense this week.
Fantasy owners can exhale now, as it was announced that Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith is fine after leaving practice early on Friday due to leg cramps. He did not appear on the injury report.
The Colts have listed wide receiver Marvin Harrison (knee) as questionable for week five verses the Buccaneers. He did not practice all week and is not expected to play Sunday. Rookie Anthony Gonzalez will be called upon to make the start.
Other wide receivers out this weekend due to injury include the Steelers Hines Ward (knee), Redskins Santana Moss (groin), Isaac Bruce (hamstring) of the Rams and the Seahawks D.J. Hackett (ankle).
The Cardinals have listed Anquan Boldin as questionable with a groin injury, but he is not expected to play. Bryant Johnson steps into his spot against the winless Rams.
Saints first round pick Robert Meachem is officially in the doghouse. Despite being healthy enough to play, head coach Sean Payton stated that Meachem will be inactive on Sunday due to the other five receivers outperforming him.
Cowboys wide out Terry Glenn (knee) is a couple weeks away from returning, while Rod Smith (hip) appears nowhere close to returning for the Broncos.
The shoulder injury sustained by Browns tight end Kellen Winslow will reportedly be an injury that hinders him all season, but this is nothing new for Winslow who played the majority of last season thru injuries and remained one of the top fantasy producing tight ends in the league.
Friday, October 5, 2007
THE STOCK EXCHANGE
By The Fantasy Trader, NFL Draft Bible
We have reached the quarter mark here on the trading floor. The first four weeks have produced some surprises in Sammy Morris and Derek Anderson. The market has also seen some fatal crashes in Cadillac Williams and Deuce McAllister. What is important about this time of year is that owners need to realize that it is only the quarter mark. No championships have been won and no season has been lost. Now is the time where you either buy low or sell high. The market has dictated the value on these players and set a price accordingly. I’m sure the price is drastically different then it was on draft day.
BUY LOWQB Philip Rivers - Owners look to be jumping off the Norv Turner ship and are selling Rivers for IOU’s. Once LT becomes LT again, Rivers will be able to flourish. Turner needs time to work with Rivers. The Chargers faced top notch defenses in the Bears, Patriots and Packers. The schedule will get easier and the offense will get rolling.
RB Larry Johnson- LJ was the consensus third pick overall on draft day, but is currently ranked 21st among running backs in fantasy points. Owners have to still like his 75 carries and 90 touches. His schedule will get better as he faces Jacksonville, Cincinnati and Oakland the next three weeks. Johnson is currently getting traded for guys like Ronnie Brown and Marion Barber. I would suggest dealing an over-producing back like Marion Barber and a middle of the road WR like Laveranues Coles or Ronald Curry.
RB Maurice Jones-Drew- Is anyone enjoying a bye week more than this guy? He is playing more like Maurice Clarett at this point. In some leagues he is actually on the waiver wire. Are you kidding me? I realize he has two fumbles and no touchdowns, but he will turn it around. Look for MJD to start turning it around this week against KC. Offer Ron Dayne or Ladell Betts for him and see what happens.
WR Torry Holt- If you drafted Holt expecting the Holt of years past then I told you so. He admitted that he would not be 100% early on. Owners are frustrated and will be looking to sell. The switch from an injured Marc Bulger to a healthy Guy Frerotte will only help Holt. Steven Jackson should return in a week or two and also provide relief.
WR Brandon Marshall- Does this rookie look good or what? Marshall has been solid and could easily be considered a sell high guy, but I think his numbers will only get better as Jay Cutler gains more experience. Javon Walker has gotten off to a slow start and has been bothered by injury. I’m not sure Marshall is ready to be a number 1 WR so it is very important that Walker stay healthy. Marshall will continue to feast on teams’ second corners.
SELL HIGHQB Brett Favre - I think I’m like the anti John Madden when it comes to this guy. Predicting the downfall of Favre has become a mainstay in this column and has failed to this point. Most owners of Favre have another elite quarterback. The golden Bret was drafted as a fantasy back up and now being shopped with Romo and Brady like value. Don’t take the bait and if you have him sell, sell, sell like orange juice in Trading Places.
RB LaMont Jordan- He has done everything his owners hoped for when they took him between rounds 8 and 10. Now it is time to part ways if you still can. Jordan let the cat out of the bag when he hurt his back last week. The return of Dominic Rhodes and the emergence of Justin Fargas spell doom for the good LJ. (Sorry Larry) The Raiders signed Rhodes as a free agent and are not about to let their money go to waste. Dangle Jordan from your line and see if anyone bites.
RB Ronnie Brown- Brown is currently the number 1 ranked RB in fantasy. I got stuck with him in one league in the back of the first round. He has out played the other guys available at that point like Thomas Jones, Travis Henry and Cedric Benson. Now I’m selling and looking to land an elite WR like Steve Smith and a decent back. The Dolphins passing game will likely be the demise of Brown. Teams will eventually take him away and make Miami go to someone else. He might’ve single handily won weeks for his owners. You really can’t ask for more, but this is a business. Sell him like the elite stock he isn’t.
WR Randy Moss- Here is the best case of fantasy mimicking real life. The Patriots stole him from the Raiders and owners stole him on draft day. He is by far, and I mean real far, the number 1 ranked receiver. You can get crazy Viking day value for him. He will continue to produce, but he can’t do this every week. You can trade him for any receiver and a decent running back.
WR Braylon Edwards- I actually hung out with Edwards the night before he was picked by the Browns. This guy is a smooth cat, but not a top 5 fantasy receiver. He is also a Cleveland Brown. Bernie Kosar is not walking through that door so Derek Anderson will have to keep it up all season. Edwards has 375 yards and 4 TD already. Owners should use him as a great second player to get a trade over the top. He is a nice throw in to get an elite back or WR.
We have reached the quarter mark here on the trading floor. The first four weeks have produced some surprises in Sammy Morris and Derek Anderson. The market has also seen some fatal crashes in Cadillac Williams and Deuce McAllister. What is important about this time of year is that owners need to realize that it is only the quarter mark. No championships have been won and no season has been lost. Now is the time where you either buy low or sell high. The market has dictated the value on these players and set a price accordingly. I’m sure the price is drastically different then it was on draft day.
BUY LOWQB Philip Rivers - Owners look to be jumping off the Norv Turner ship and are selling Rivers for IOU’s. Once LT becomes LT again, Rivers will be able to flourish. Turner needs time to work with Rivers. The Chargers faced top notch defenses in the Bears, Patriots and Packers. The schedule will get easier and the offense will get rolling.
RB Larry Johnson- LJ was the consensus third pick overall on draft day, but is currently ranked 21st among running backs in fantasy points. Owners have to still like his 75 carries and 90 touches. His schedule will get better as he faces Jacksonville, Cincinnati and Oakland the next three weeks. Johnson is currently getting traded for guys like Ronnie Brown and Marion Barber. I would suggest dealing an over-producing back like Marion Barber and a middle of the road WR like Laveranues Coles or Ronald Curry.
RB Maurice Jones-Drew- Is anyone enjoying a bye week more than this guy? He is playing more like Maurice Clarett at this point. In some leagues he is actually on the waiver wire. Are you kidding me? I realize he has two fumbles and no touchdowns, but he will turn it around. Look for MJD to start turning it around this week against KC. Offer Ron Dayne or Ladell Betts for him and see what happens.
WR Torry Holt- If you drafted Holt expecting the Holt of years past then I told you so. He admitted that he would not be 100% early on. Owners are frustrated and will be looking to sell. The switch from an injured Marc Bulger to a healthy Guy Frerotte will only help Holt. Steven Jackson should return in a week or two and also provide relief.
WR Brandon Marshall- Does this rookie look good or what? Marshall has been solid and could easily be considered a sell high guy, but I think his numbers will only get better as Jay Cutler gains more experience. Javon Walker has gotten off to a slow start and has been bothered by injury. I’m not sure Marshall is ready to be a number 1 WR so it is very important that Walker stay healthy. Marshall will continue to feast on teams’ second corners.
SELL HIGHQB Brett Favre - I think I’m like the anti John Madden when it comes to this guy. Predicting the downfall of Favre has become a mainstay in this column and has failed to this point. Most owners of Favre have another elite quarterback. The golden Bret was drafted as a fantasy back up and now being shopped with Romo and Brady like value. Don’t take the bait and if you have him sell, sell, sell like orange juice in Trading Places.
RB LaMont Jordan- He has done everything his owners hoped for when they took him between rounds 8 and 10. Now it is time to part ways if you still can. Jordan let the cat out of the bag when he hurt his back last week. The return of Dominic Rhodes and the emergence of Justin Fargas spell doom for the good LJ. (Sorry Larry) The Raiders signed Rhodes as a free agent and are not about to let their money go to waste. Dangle Jordan from your line and see if anyone bites.
RB Ronnie Brown- Brown is currently the number 1 ranked RB in fantasy. I got stuck with him in one league in the back of the first round. He has out played the other guys available at that point like Thomas Jones, Travis Henry and Cedric Benson. Now I’m selling and looking to land an elite WR like Steve Smith and a decent back. The Dolphins passing game will likely be the demise of Brown. Teams will eventually take him away and make Miami go to someone else. He might’ve single handily won weeks for his owners. You really can’t ask for more, but this is a business. Sell him like the elite stock he isn’t.
WR Randy Moss- Here is the best case of fantasy mimicking real life. The Patriots stole him from the Raiders and owners stole him on draft day. He is by far, and I mean real far, the number 1 ranked receiver. You can get crazy Viking day value for him. He will continue to produce, but he can’t do this every week. You can trade him for any receiver and a decent running back.
WR Braylon Edwards- I actually hung out with Edwards the night before he was picked by the Browns. This guy is a smooth cat, but not a top 5 fantasy receiver. He is also a Cleveland Brown. Bernie Kosar is not walking through that door so Derek Anderson will have to keep it up all season. Edwards has 375 yards and 4 TD already. Owners should use him as a great second player to get a trade over the top. He is a nice throw in to get an elite back or WR.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
WEEK FIVE FANTASY PREVIEW
Jacksonville @ Kansas City
My bold call to sit LJ last week may have been a bit too bold, as he had his best game of the season with 123 yards. Dwayne Bowe continues to impress, catching a touchdown in his third straight game, but has a tough matchup this week. Jacksonville is great against opposing WR and has not allowed a TD to a wideout yet this year. Bowe may struggle this week, but is still the Chiefs’ only viable receiver. He’s becoming an every week start. KC’s defense has played well, and is a solid play against a Jaguar team that has difficulty scoring. Stay away from all Jacksonville receivers, as none seems to be reliable yet.
Atlanta @ Tennessee
I don’t quite believe in Joey Harrington just yet, but keep watching him and receivers Roddy White and Michael Jenkins. They are getting almost all of the targets from Harrington, and Jenkins scored twice last week. Tennessee is a decent matchup this week, and you should consider these two WR for your lineup. RB LenDale White has looked better than Chris Brown since Brown’s 175 yard game in Week 1, and is definitely getting goal line carries. He is the better play right now, and has a solid matchup if you need him.
Arizona @ St. Louis
St. Louis’ offense is a disaster right now. The O-line is in shambles, Steven Jackson is out, Isaac Bruce hurt his hammy, and now Marc Bulger is out. RB Brian Leonard wasn’t too impressive in place of Jackson last week, and faces a solid Arizona run D. He’ll probably catch a few passes, and could see more action than in last week’s blowout, but temper expectations. This could be the week for Drew Bennett to finally wake up. With Bruce out, he will probably start, and Arizona has trouble against opposing WR.
Cleveland @ New England
In yet another bonanza matchup for the Patriots, look for a solid game from Sammy Morris again. Definitely monitor Laurence Maroney’s status this week, but if Maroney is still too hurt to play, Morris will be able to run wild again this week. Also notable from last week was a hint of a Donte Stallworth sighting. Stallworth will continue to suffer from Brady’s past tendency to spread the ball, and from Brady’s uncanny connection with Randy Moss (34 targets, 31 catches!), but Cleveland is as good a matchup as any for Stallworth to get open. He’s worth a gamble if you need him. Wes Welker also remains a good start. Braylon Edwards caught another deep touchdown last week, and should still be started even against this defense. Joe Jurevicius had only 2 catches last week, but did catch a touchdown. If New England focuses on Edwards, as it did in shutting down Chad Johnson last week, then Jurevicius could benefit. He’s a long shot, but startable if you’re desperate.
Detroit @ Washington
Detroit’s receivers continue to benefit from Mike Martz’s socialist tendencies. Kitna targets everyone there, so Furrey and McDonald don’t suffer from their position on the depth chart. Keep using them if you have been. The Detroit running back situation isn’t pretty, but I’d lean toward Kevin Jones over Tatum Bell. He’s run for a TD in the past 2 games, and his goal line carries are the tie-breaker for me. Washington has also been making news this week, signing WR Keenan McCardell. Don’t get excited over McCardell yet, but this could mean they are worried about Santana Moss’ health. If Moss is out, Antwaan Randle-El’s value gets a boost, especially against Detroit’s defense. Clinton Portis’ knee is acting up, so keep an eye on his status this week. This could finally be Ladell Betts’ week to step up, especially if Portis is limited or out.
Carolina @ New Orleans
We’ll see if New Orleans figured anything out during its bye. The big story with them will be whether Aaron Stecker or Pierre Thomas can be of any value in fantasy trying to replace Deuce McAllister’s production. Carolina has been pretty tough against the run, so don’t count on big days from those two. Carolina TE Jeff King’s production slowed last week with only one catch, probably due to QB David Carr’s general lameness, so he could continue to struggle this week. DeAngelo Williams seems to have taken a backseat to DeShaun Foster after only 2 carries in the loss to Tampa. Foster did fumble twice, so keep watching this situation, but for now, Foster has an excellent matchup this week.
New York Jets @ New York Giants
The Jets can’t seem to stop anyone these days, with Buffalo’s Trent Edwards being the most recent beneficiary last week. Amani Toomer has a nice matchup this week. Both RBs Brandon Jacobs (returning from his Week 1 knee injury) and Derrick Ward are starts against the Jets. The Jets have trouble protecting the quarterback, and the Giants defense is coming off of a 12 sack game against the Eagles, so give the Giants’ D a look this week. Jets’ RB Leon Washington was very involved against the Bills, and should be again this week, both on offense and special teams. I’d also give RB Thomas Jones another chance this week. TE Chris Baker also has an excellent matchup, and should be played.
Seattle @ Pittsburgh
Seattle’s Bobby Engram caught another TD last week, and he seems to be emerging as the number two. Pittsburgh is tough, though, so he isn’t great this week. Pittsburgh’s Nate Washington was a hot play last week, but managed only 2 catches. This doesn’t look like a great week for Washington, either, especially if Hines Ward comes back.
Miami @ Houston
Ronnie Brown is having a great year so far, but has been known for peaks and valleys in production. Houston could bring him back to Earth a little. Houston’s Andre Davis had a great game last week, and is a start this week. Kevin Walter was also targeted last week, but he had done little before, and could have been a one-week flash. Miami is terrible vs. the run, so either Ahman Green or Ron Dayne will be a great play this week as well.
Tampa Bay @ Indianapolis
Tampa took some hits in last week’s win, losing Carnell Williams and LT Luke Petitgout for the season. There have been rumors of Tampa bringing in a runner in a trade, but for now Earnest Graham and Michael Pittman will share the load. Graham is a bruiser, while Pittman is good in space and will be better at catching passes. Since Graham will get goal line carries, he is the better option here. Interestingly, Indy’s Bob Sanders may not play this week. He was the catalyst for that defense last season, and without him they were embarrassing against the run. This makes Graham’s and Pittman’s matchup all the better. Tampa WR Ike Hilliard is also worth a look here, coming off a huge game last week. For the Colts, Marvin Harrison’s injury would bring Anthony Gonzalez into the starting lineup, making him a play this week. The injury will also help Dallas Clark, likely giving him an even larger role in the offense.
Baltimore @ San Francisco
Baltimore looked awful last week in its loss to Cleveland. Demetrius Williams is likely to start this week at receiver. He has shown some talent, and has the reach to catch Steve McNair’s errant throws. He’s worth a play if you’re desperate. I’d stay away from all 49ers other than Frank Gore this week. Alex Smith is banged up, and wasn’t playing well to begin with. Plus, look for Baltimore’s defense to come out even angrier and scarier than usual after last week’s embarrassment.
San Diego @ Denver
This is a tough matchup for San Diego receivers against Champ Bailey and Dre’ Bly this week, so sit them all. The Chargers will look to pound LT anyway, as they should always be doing. Keep tabs on the Broncos’ RB spot this week. If Travis Henry can’t go, the logical choice is Selvin Young, but Shanahan is crazy and could surprise us with Cecil Sapp or Mike Brown.
Chicago @ Green Bay
Consider sitting Cedric Benson, who looks uninspired on the field, against this Green Bay defense. WR Muhsin Muhammad apparently still exists, and caught a touchdown from Brian Griese. Griese could target Muhammad more in the future, and his large frame is always a threat in the red zone. Desmond Clark is worth a look also. Green Bay still looks disinterested in running, so don’t even bother with that RB mess. Greg Jennings caught another touchdown last week, and he, Donald Driver and James Jones are all getting looks from Favre. Chicago is tough vs. the pass, but the Packers will pass no matter what, so these guys are solid plays. TE Donald Lee is also a great play against a Bear defense that is surprisingly bad at stopping opposing tight ends.
Dallas @ Buffalo
Dallas’ offense is looking pretty unstoppable, and Patrick Crayton was the beneficiary last week with 2 TDs. Start him again. Also start both RBs Marion Barber III and Julius Jones against this defense. Jason Witten also. Start all Cowboys. Buffalo’s Trent Edwards looked good against the Jets last week, completing 22 of 28 passes and making Lee Evans relevant again. Dallas will be a far greater challenge for this week, though, but keep an eye on him as he may beat out J.P. Losman in the long run.
My bold call to sit LJ last week may have been a bit too bold, as he had his best game of the season with 123 yards. Dwayne Bowe continues to impress, catching a touchdown in his third straight game, but has a tough matchup this week. Jacksonville is great against opposing WR and has not allowed a TD to a wideout yet this year. Bowe may struggle this week, but is still the Chiefs’ only viable receiver. He’s becoming an every week start. KC’s defense has played well, and is a solid play against a Jaguar team that has difficulty scoring. Stay away from all Jacksonville receivers, as none seems to be reliable yet.
Atlanta @ Tennessee
I don’t quite believe in Joey Harrington just yet, but keep watching him and receivers Roddy White and Michael Jenkins. They are getting almost all of the targets from Harrington, and Jenkins scored twice last week. Tennessee is a decent matchup this week, and you should consider these two WR for your lineup. RB LenDale White has looked better than Chris Brown since Brown’s 175 yard game in Week 1, and is definitely getting goal line carries. He is the better play right now, and has a solid matchup if you need him.
Arizona @ St. Louis
St. Louis’ offense is a disaster right now. The O-line is in shambles, Steven Jackson is out, Isaac Bruce hurt his hammy, and now Marc Bulger is out. RB Brian Leonard wasn’t too impressive in place of Jackson last week, and faces a solid Arizona run D. He’ll probably catch a few passes, and could see more action than in last week’s blowout, but temper expectations. This could be the week for Drew Bennett to finally wake up. With Bruce out, he will probably start, and Arizona has trouble against opposing WR.
Cleveland @ New England
In yet another bonanza matchup for the Patriots, look for a solid game from Sammy Morris again. Definitely monitor Laurence Maroney’s status this week, but if Maroney is still too hurt to play, Morris will be able to run wild again this week. Also notable from last week was a hint of a Donte Stallworth sighting. Stallworth will continue to suffer from Brady’s past tendency to spread the ball, and from Brady’s uncanny connection with Randy Moss (34 targets, 31 catches!), but Cleveland is as good a matchup as any for Stallworth to get open. He’s worth a gamble if you need him. Wes Welker also remains a good start. Braylon Edwards caught another deep touchdown last week, and should still be started even against this defense. Joe Jurevicius had only 2 catches last week, but did catch a touchdown. If New England focuses on Edwards, as it did in shutting down Chad Johnson last week, then Jurevicius could benefit. He’s a long shot, but startable if you’re desperate.
Detroit @ Washington
Detroit’s receivers continue to benefit from Mike Martz’s socialist tendencies. Kitna targets everyone there, so Furrey and McDonald don’t suffer from their position on the depth chart. Keep using them if you have been. The Detroit running back situation isn’t pretty, but I’d lean toward Kevin Jones over Tatum Bell. He’s run for a TD in the past 2 games, and his goal line carries are the tie-breaker for me. Washington has also been making news this week, signing WR Keenan McCardell. Don’t get excited over McCardell yet, but this could mean they are worried about Santana Moss’ health. If Moss is out, Antwaan Randle-El’s value gets a boost, especially against Detroit’s defense. Clinton Portis’ knee is acting up, so keep an eye on his status this week. This could finally be Ladell Betts’ week to step up, especially if Portis is limited or out.
Carolina @ New Orleans
We’ll see if New Orleans figured anything out during its bye. The big story with them will be whether Aaron Stecker or Pierre Thomas can be of any value in fantasy trying to replace Deuce McAllister’s production. Carolina has been pretty tough against the run, so don’t count on big days from those two. Carolina TE Jeff King’s production slowed last week with only one catch, probably due to QB David Carr’s general lameness, so he could continue to struggle this week. DeAngelo Williams seems to have taken a backseat to DeShaun Foster after only 2 carries in the loss to Tampa. Foster did fumble twice, so keep watching this situation, but for now, Foster has an excellent matchup this week.
New York Jets @ New York Giants
The Jets can’t seem to stop anyone these days, with Buffalo’s Trent Edwards being the most recent beneficiary last week. Amani Toomer has a nice matchup this week. Both RBs Brandon Jacobs (returning from his Week 1 knee injury) and Derrick Ward are starts against the Jets. The Jets have trouble protecting the quarterback, and the Giants defense is coming off of a 12 sack game against the Eagles, so give the Giants’ D a look this week. Jets’ RB Leon Washington was very involved against the Bills, and should be again this week, both on offense and special teams. I’d also give RB Thomas Jones another chance this week. TE Chris Baker also has an excellent matchup, and should be played.
Seattle @ Pittsburgh
Seattle’s Bobby Engram caught another TD last week, and he seems to be emerging as the number two. Pittsburgh is tough, though, so he isn’t great this week. Pittsburgh’s Nate Washington was a hot play last week, but managed only 2 catches. This doesn’t look like a great week for Washington, either, especially if Hines Ward comes back.
Miami @ Houston
Ronnie Brown is having a great year so far, but has been known for peaks and valleys in production. Houston could bring him back to Earth a little. Houston’s Andre Davis had a great game last week, and is a start this week. Kevin Walter was also targeted last week, but he had done little before, and could have been a one-week flash. Miami is terrible vs. the run, so either Ahman Green or Ron Dayne will be a great play this week as well.
Tampa Bay @ Indianapolis
Tampa took some hits in last week’s win, losing Carnell Williams and LT Luke Petitgout for the season. There have been rumors of Tampa bringing in a runner in a trade, but for now Earnest Graham and Michael Pittman will share the load. Graham is a bruiser, while Pittman is good in space and will be better at catching passes. Since Graham will get goal line carries, he is the better option here. Interestingly, Indy’s Bob Sanders may not play this week. He was the catalyst for that defense last season, and without him they were embarrassing against the run. This makes Graham’s and Pittman’s matchup all the better. Tampa WR Ike Hilliard is also worth a look here, coming off a huge game last week. For the Colts, Marvin Harrison’s injury would bring Anthony Gonzalez into the starting lineup, making him a play this week. The injury will also help Dallas Clark, likely giving him an even larger role in the offense.
Baltimore @ San Francisco
Baltimore looked awful last week in its loss to Cleveland. Demetrius Williams is likely to start this week at receiver. He has shown some talent, and has the reach to catch Steve McNair’s errant throws. He’s worth a play if you’re desperate. I’d stay away from all 49ers other than Frank Gore this week. Alex Smith is banged up, and wasn’t playing well to begin with. Plus, look for Baltimore’s defense to come out even angrier and scarier than usual after last week’s embarrassment.
San Diego @ Denver
This is a tough matchup for San Diego receivers against Champ Bailey and Dre’ Bly this week, so sit them all. The Chargers will look to pound LT anyway, as they should always be doing. Keep tabs on the Broncos’ RB spot this week. If Travis Henry can’t go, the logical choice is Selvin Young, but Shanahan is crazy and could surprise us with Cecil Sapp or Mike Brown.
Chicago @ Green Bay
Consider sitting Cedric Benson, who looks uninspired on the field, against this Green Bay defense. WR Muhsin Muhammad apparently still exists, and caught a touchdown from Brian Griese. Griese could target Muhammad more in the future, and his large frame is always a threat in the red zone. Desmond Clark is worth a look also. Green Bay still looks disinterested in running, so don’t even bother with that RB mess. Greg Jennings caught another touchdown last week, and he, Donald Driver and James Jones are all getting looks from Favre. Chicago is tough vs. the pass, but the Packers will pass no matter what, so these guys are solid plays. TE Donald Lee is also a great play against a Bear defense that is surprisingly bad at stopping opposing tight ends.
Dallas @ Buffalo
Dallas’ offense is looking pretty unstoppable, and Patrick Crayton was the beneficiary last week with 2 TDs. Start him again. Also start both RBs Marion Barber III and Julius Jones against this defense. Jason Witten also. Start all Cowboys. Buffalo’s Trent Edwards looked good against the Jets last week, completing 22 of 28 passes and making Lee Evans relevant again. Dallas will be a far greater challenge for this week, though, but keep an eye on him as he may beat out J.P. Losman in the long run.
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