Well, we’re past the halfway point of most league’s regular season schedule and now is the time to position yourself for that playoff run. We’re still 2 week’s away from being done with the byes so make sure you have all of your Saints, Chargers, Bengals, 49ers, and Panthers on your bench. Let’s dive in.
Start
Kyle Orten QB CHI – One of the biggest surprises at QB of the first half, Orten lit up the Lions in their first meeting. They might try to establish Forte more in this game which will be outdoors in CHI, but Orten should still put up top 5 QB numbers this week. With Hester and Lloyd potentially back in the lineup, he’ll have all of his weapons available. (250 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT)
Chad Pennington QB MIA – I’m thinking Jets fans might be rethinking their desire to get rid of Pennington for Favre. Pennington has been much better and far more consistent than Favre and a lot of other QBs over the last 4 weeks. He’s got a great match up vs DEN this week and they might also pound the ball, but I think he’ll still look to go up top with his new favorite toy, Ted Ginn Jr. (185 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INT)
Micheal Turner RB ATL – The one nice thing about Turner’s up and down season, is that you can pretty much predict when he’s going to have great games and when he’ll deliver a stinker. This is one of those weeks he should explode. OAK hasn’t been a stellar run defense and with the emergence of Roddy White and the maturing of Matt Ryan, the Raiders won’t be able to just stack the box. (135 yards, 2 TDs)
Earnest Graham RB TBY – KC has given up enormous games to many RBs this year. I think that streak continues this week for Graham. There is some concern that Dunn will steal half the carries, but with all his lingering injuries I don’t think he’ll get his normal workload. (85 yards, 2 TDs)
Matt Jones WR JAC – We all thought this guy wouldn’t be catching passes for at least 3 weeks. Well, I guess the NFL moves slower than most government agencies, so his appeal has yet to be heard. As of Thursday, he’s still practicing and all signs point to him starting again. He busted out last week with a whopping 16 targets. They have a great matchup vs CIN this week and if he’s starting for JAC, he’s starting for me. (75 yards, 1 TD)
Bernard Berrian WR MIN – Berrian has emerged as Frerotte’s main go to guy and this week’s opponent shouldn’t stand in his way of continuing that trend. HOU won’t be able to put much pressure on the QB and if they can establish the run, the play action pass will be wide open. (145 yards, 0 TDs)
Sit
Brett Favre QB NYJ – Like I mentioned above Favre just isn’t right. He’s throwing a lot, but many of those passes have been going to the other team. NY ‘s offense just isn’t in sync and they get to visit BUF this week. The weather might also be a factor and that doesn’t bode well for lots of deep balls. (215 yards, 1 TD, 2 OR 3 INTs)
Clinton Portis RB WAS – I’m guessing you’re surprised to see the NFL’s leading rusher on the sit list. Well, he’s dinged up for one and he’s also facing the league’s best rush defense. I think he’ll play this week on Monday night, but I wouldn’t expect the numbers he’s been putting up over the last few weeks. (65 yards, 0 TDs)
Ryan Grant RB GBY – Another RB facing an extremely tough run defense in TEN. Again, I wouldn’t expect huge numbers, but he should get a good number of carries. Look for a solid effort, but don’t expect big numbers. (55 yards, 0 TDs)
Terrell Owens WR DAL – TO has yet to put up an 100 yard game this year and has been disappointing over the last 4 or 5 weeks…and a few of those games were with Tony Romo. Going up against the Giants is a tough task and Brad Johnson just doesn’t have the arm strength to get Owens the ball deep. (45 yards, 0 TDs)
Friday, October 31, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Tuesday's Take
We're almost through with the byes, but we're all still looking for those second half studs. There may still be some impact players on the wire and I'm here to help you find them.
Marc Bulger QB STL - He was probably dropped in many leagues after his awful start, but he's got a new weapon (that we'll talk about in a minute) and the Rams are playing inspired ball under their new head coach. Take a shot on him this week vs ARI. He could be a solid #2 QB with a soft schedule the rest of the way.
Shaun Hill QB SF - Ladies and gentlemen we have the new starting QB for the 49ers. After replacing O'Sullivan last week, new coach Mike Singletary has named Hill the starter for week 10 and beyond. He won't be great, but he could be solid with some easy match ups over the new few weeks if you're still waiting for Romo to get back.
Donnie Avery WR STL - He's back on this list and exploded this week so you might have to act fast. He's clearly Bulger's #1 target over the last few weeks and could be a solid contributor down the stretch.
Tedd Ginn Jr. WR MIA - Another youngster that busted out this week. He didn't find the end zone, but 175 yards receiving will get everyone's attention. I still don't think Pennington can get the ball deep enough for Ginn, but he's started to get more and more targets. With his speed, any of those can go the distance.
Ryan Torain RB DEN - This is your last chance to take a shot on this rookie RB. He's finally healthy and should be on the field this week. I don't know what to expect, but if he takes off the job could be his. DEN has some good match ups down the stretch and Pittman hasn't been the healthiest of guys.
Buy Low
Ronnie Brown RB MIA - The Wildcat might be old news, but now's the time to buy low on this former Tiger. He's been limited the last few weeks because of some tough opponents and he's still splitting time with Ricky Williams. MIA has one of the best schedules in the 2nd half for RBs and both backs could be solid options.
Marques Colston WR NO - I know he's been up and down the last few weeks after returning from injury, but this week showed that the thumb isn't the issue. He just needs to get back in rythm with Drew Brees and the bye week couldn't have come at a better time. Buy now before the Saints get all their weapons back and Colston is back to scoring TDs.
Marc Bulger QB STL - He was probably dropped in many leagues after his awful start, but he's got a new weapon (that we'll talk about in a minute) and the Rams are playing inspired ball under their new head coach. Take a shot on him this week vs ARI. He could be a solid #2 QB with a soft schedule the rest of the way.
Shaun Hill QB SF - Ladies and gentlemen we have the new starting QB for the 49ers. After replacing O'Sullivan last week, new coach Mike Singletary has named Hill the starter for week 10 and beyond. He won't be great, but he could be solid with some easy match ups over the new few weeks if you're still waiting for Romo to get back.
Donnie Avery WR STL - He's back on this list and exploded this week so you might have to act fast. He's clearly Bulger's #1 target over the last few weeks and could be a solid contributor down the stretch.
Tedd Ginn Jr. WR MIA - Another youngster that busted out this week. He didn't find the end zone, but 175 yards receiving will get everyone's attention. I still don't think Pennington can get the ball deep enough for Ginn, but he's started to get more and more targets. With his speed, any of those can go the distance.
Ryan Torain RB DEN - This is your last chance to take a shot on this rookie RB. He's finally healthy and should be on the field this week. I don't know what to expect, but if he takes off the job could be his. DEN has some good match ups down the stretch and Pittman hasn't been the healthiest of guys.
Buy Low
Ronnie Brown RB MIA - The Wildcat might be old news, but now's the time to buy low on this former Tiger. He's been limited the last few weeks because of some tough opponents and he's still splitting time with Ricky Williams. MIA has one of the best schedules in the 2nd half for RBs and both backs could be solid options.
Marques Colston WR NO - I know he's been up and down the last few weeks after returning from injury, but this week showed that the thumb isn't the issue. He just needs to get back in rythm with Drew Brees and the bye week couldn't have come at a better time. Buy now before the Saints get all their weapons back and Colston is back to scoring TDs.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Late Week Wisdom
Week 8 brings some big names on byes including Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall, Matt Forte, Kyle Orten (yes he’s a big name), Adrian Peterson, Aaron Rodgers, Greg Jennings, and Ryan Grant. Don’t worry we’ve got you covered with some guys to grab and plug right in this week.
Start Jeff Garcia QB TBY – He’s righted the ship after an early season mess and has run Gruden’s offense flawlessly. Look for him to pick apart a DAL D that let Marc Bulger beat them. (255 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs)
Steve Slaton RB HOU – CIN is awful vs the run. M. Moore proved that last week and look for HOU to do the same thing this week. Despite sharing carries with Ahman Green, Slaton should do enough to justify top billing this week. (115 combined yards, 1 TD)
Thomas Jones RB NYJ – Jones is the next RB in line to shred the KC defense. Lendale White and Chris Johnson ripped them apart for over 300 yards rushing. With both Jets WRs banged up, look for Favre to feed Jones as they cruise to an easy win. Even Leon Washington could be a solid #3RB/Flex option this week. (135 yards, 1 TD)
Nate Washington WR PIT – With the breaking news of Santonio Holmes getting caught with marijuana today, PIT has benched him from practice today and this week’s game vs NY. Washington was already the deep threat over the last few games, but now he’ll be starting opposite Hines Ward and the main deep threat again. Look for PIT to need to throw to keep up with NY and Washington should benefit. (85 yards, 1 TD)
Antonio Bryant WR TBY – Following up the Garcia recommendation, Bryant should be the main benefit of Garcia’s solid game. DAL is majorly banged up in the secondary and Bryant should get open early and often this week. (85 yards, 1 TD)
Sit
Matt Ryan QB ATL – Ryan’s been a huge surprise this year, as has the entire Falcons’ team. This week will be a reality check vs an aggressive PHI D. Look for them to blitz Ryan a lot and the rookie could be running for his life the entire game.
Willie Parker RB PIT – Still recovering from his knee injury, Parker missed practice today on Friday and looks very iffy for this week’s game vs NY. I think PIT will take it easy on Parker even if he’s healthy enough to start.
Dominic Rhodes RB IND – Joseph Addai is a long shot to play this week, but you don’t want part of either guy vs the tough TEN D on Monday Night.
Santonio Holmes WR PIT – As I mentioned above with Nate Washington, make sure Holmes isn’t in your lineup this week. He could be suspended for up to 4 games with his drug arrest.
Start Jeff Garcia QB TBY – He’s righted the ship after an early season mess and has run Gruden’s offense flawlessly. Look for him to pick apart a DAL D that let Marc Bulger beat them. (255 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs)
Steve Slaton RB HOU – CIN is awful vs the run. M. Moore proved that last week and look for HOU to do the same thing this week. Despite sharing carries with Ahman Green, Slaton should do enough to justify top billing this week. (115 combined yards, 1 TD)
Thomas Jones RB NYJ – Jones is the next RB in line to shred the KC defense. Lendale White and Chris Johnson ripped them apart for over 300 yards rushing. With both Jets WRs banged up, look for Favre to feed Jones as they cruise to an easy win. Even Leon Washington could be a solid #3RB/Flex option this week. (135 yards, 1 TD)
Nate Washington WR PIT – With the breaking news of Santonio Holmes getting caught with marijuana today, PIT has benched him from practice today and this week’s game vs NY. Washington was already the deep threat over the last few games, but now he’ll be starting opposite Hines Ward and the main deep threat again. Look for PIT to need to throw to keep up with NY and Washington should benefit. (85 yards, 1 TD)
Antonio Bryant WR TBY – Following up the Garcia recommendation, Bryant should be the main benefit of Garcia’s solid game. DAL is majorly banged up in the secondary and Bryant should get open early and often this week. (85 yards, 1 TD)
Sit
Matt Ryan QB ATL – Ryan’s been a huge surprise this year, as has the entire Falcons’ team. This week will be a reality check vs an aggressive PHI D. Look for them to blitz Ryan a lot and the rookie could be running for his life the entire game.
Willie Parker RB PIT – Still recovering from his knee injury, Parker missed practice today on Friday and looks very iffy for this week’s game vs NY. I think PIT will take it easy on Parker even if he’s healthy enough to start.
Dominic Rhodes RB IND – Joseph Addai is a long shot to play this week, but you don’t want part of either guy vs the tough TEN D on Monday Night.
Santonio Holmes WR PIT – As I mentioned above with Nate Washington, make sure Holmes isn’t in your lineup this week. He could be suspended for up to 4 games with his drug arrest.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
The Art of the Trade
I thought I'd take a break this week to talk about a crucial part of fantasy football. This is the perfect time to honestly evaluate your team, try to find those second half studs and make sure you get as many on your team as possible. The best way to do that at this point is through a trade. This starts way back at the draft. I try and touch base with each team and gauge their opinion of their team. Then throughout the year I'll send them an email to see how things are going. If I'm facing them on a given week I'll wish them luck or comment on the play of one of their players...just to see where they are. This builds a relationship with that person and gives you some insight on how they value their players. Now it's time to act.
The first thing you have to consider is your team's needs. Where are you struggling and where can you improve? Are you waiting for that struggling star to rebound? For the most part it's time to move on and get production.
The next thing to look at is your depth. Do you have 4 starting RBs? Do you have 3 quality QBs? Even if you have 2 QBs, can you trade one and pick up a capable back up off of the wire? It's time to move some of that depth to upgrade your starters.
The last evaluation is to see where you are in the standings. Do you need to make a drastic move to get into the playoff hunt? Are you sitting good and just need to tweak things? You know your league and know what it'll take to make a run.
Now that you're done looking at your own team, take a look at each roster in your league. I usually start with the struggling teams. They are usually the most desperate and might be more willing to shake things up. Are they starting Kevin Faulk at RB or Bryant Johnson at WR week in and week out? Have then been hurt by injuries or suspensions? Now's the time to swoop in and make an offer.
You should also make a list of those guys you think will be the second half studs. How different will the top 5 at each position look at the end of the year? Who has a soft schedule down the stretch? Who will be returning from injury soon? Who has a chance to take over as a starter? Making this list will give you players to target or at least teams to target.
The first rule of negotiations is not to start out with your best offer. You do need to consider how much you're willing to pay and what your ultimate goal of the trade is. You have to make sure any deal will help or improve your team more than hurting it in a different area. Once you do that, it's time to make first contact. I usually don't make an official offer, but contact the person to gauge interest in any kind of trade. If they're open, I let them know what I'm looking for and then some possible guys I'd be interested in. From there I see how they respond and go to an official offer.
You have to give value to get value. The trick is to buy low and sell high when you can. It's ok to lose a trade if it fills a need for your team and especially if you're dealing from depth and won't hurt yourself in the long run.
Well, that's a quick run down on how I approach trades. Every league is different and every owner approaches trading differently. Get to know your league and the owners. It'll give you an advantage when it comes to trading. Good luck.
The first thing you have to consider is your team's needs. Where are you struggling and where can you improve? Are you waiting for that struggling star to rebound? For the most part it's time to move on and get production.
The next thing to look at is your depth. Do you have 4 starting RBs? Do you have 3 quality QBs? Even if you have 2 QBs, can you trade one and pick up a capable back up off of the wire? It's time to move some of that depth to upgrade your starters.
The last evaluation is to see where you are in the standings. Do you need to make a drastic move to get into the playoff hunt? Are you sitting good and just need to tweak things? You know your league and know what it'll take to make a run.
Now that you're done looking at your own team, take a look at each roster in your league. I usually start with the struggling teams. They are usually the most desperate and might be more willing to shake things up. Are they starting Kevin Faulk at RB or Bryant Johnson at WR week in and week out? Have then been hurt by injuries or suspensions? Now's the time to swoop in and make an offer.
You should also make a list of those guys you think will be the second half studs. How different will the top 5 at each position look at the end of the year? Who has a soft schedule down the stretch? Who will be returning from injury soon? Who has a chance to take over as a starter? Making this list will give you players to target or at least teams to target.
The first rule of negotiations is not to start out with your best offer. You do need to consider how much you're willing to pay and what your ultimate goal of the trade is. You have to make sure any deal will help or improve your team more than hurting it in a different area. Once you do that, it's time to make first contact. I usually don't make an official offer, but contact the person to gauge interest in any kind of trade. If they're open, I let them know what I'm looking for and then some possible guys I'd be interested in. From there I see how they respond and go to an official offer.
You have to give value to get value. The trick is to buy low and sell high when you can. It's ok to lose a trade if it fills a need for your team and especially if you're dealing from depth and won't hurt yourself in the long run.
Well, that's a quick run down on how I approach trades. Every league is different and every owner approaches trading differently. Get to know your league and the owners. It'll give you an advantage when it comes to trading. Good luck.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Tuesday's Take
As we close the book on week 7 there were a few big developments again this week. Larry Johnson could soon be out of work for a while. The team suspended him for 1 game, but if the NFL follows suit he could be looking at a longer suspension. More on his replacements in a minute.
Drew Brees finally had all of his weapons at his disposal this week...at least for a while. Reggie Bush injured his knee and after surgery on Monday is looking at a 2-4 week break. Marques Colston and Jeremy Shockey were also back, but did little in their return.
We also lost Laurence Maroney for the season as New England put him on IR for his shoulder. He's been one of the biggest busts this year after such a strong finish to the last season. Feel free to drop him.
Lots of options this week, so let's dive right in.
Duece McAllister/Pierre Thomas/Aaron Stecker RB NO - Might as well start with the NO situation. With Bush out for a while, look for Duece to get the first crack at the job, but don't be surprised if Thomas or Stecker share the carries. I'd gamble on Duece first and either of the other guys at least until we see how things shake out this week in London.
Jamaal Charles RB KC - While Kolby Smith got the start on Sunday, Charles did more with 3 carries than Smith did with 10. He also caught a number of balls and should continue to see the majority of the work on passing downs. If LJ is suspended for a while, we could be looking at the next job share. I like the rookie Charles to emerge as the best RB. Don't go overboard with expectations because of the KC offense, but finding a starting RB at this point is worth the risk.
Donnie Avery WR STL - STL was criticized during the draft for taking Avery over the likes of DeSean Jackson, but Avery is finally getting his chance thanks to the Drew Bennett injury. With Bulger getting healthier and Holt drawing coverage, Avery is getting open with his speed. He could have easily had 3 TDs this week. Take a flier on this rookie WR...as well as the next guy.
Josh Morgan WR SF - After a huge preseason, Morgan fell off the map due to an infection. He's wrestled away the starting job opposite Isaac Bruce from Bryant Johnson and had his mini-break out this week vs the Giants. I don't think the coaching change will effect his value as Mike Martz is still running the offense.
Mercedes Lewis TE JAC - This year has been rough for the TE position, even for Witten now with Romo out. Lewis looks to be finally fulfilling some of his potential with back to back TDs heading into the bye. He gets CLE at home this week and with Matt Jones suspended for 3 games, look for Garrard to look Lewis' way often.
Buy Low - The time is now to find those guys that will be 2nd half studs at a discounted price.
Marques Colston WR NO - He burned me this week as I'm sure many of his owners. He did play, but after dropping a few passes early was benched for most of the 2nd half. He said after that he just didn't feel in the flow with the offense. Another week of practice should get him back into the flow. Buy now before he explodes in London and doesn't look back.
Maurice-Jones Drew RB JAC - He might be a tough buy after his week 6 explosion, but if his owner is asleep after his bye, swoop in and steal him. He's got a great schedule and with Fred Taylor hurting this could finally be his chance to shine.
Drew Brees finally had all of his weapons at his disposal this week...at least for a while. Reggie Bush injured his knee and after surgery on Monday is looking at a 2-4 week break. Marques Colston and Jeremy Shockey were also back, but did little in their return.
We also lost Laurence Maroney for the season as New England put him on IR for his shoulder. He's been one of the biggest busts this year after such a strong finish to the last season. Feel free to drop him.
Lots of options this week, so let's dive right in.
Duece McAllister/Pierre Thomas/Aaron Stecker RB NO - Might as well start with the NO situation. With Bush out for a while, look for Duece to get the first crack at the job, but don't be surprised if Thomas or Stecker share the carries. I'd gamble on Duece first and either of the other guys at least until we see how things shake out this week in London.
Jamaal Charles RB KC - While Kolby Smith got the start on Sunday, Charles did more with 3 carries than Smith did with 10. He also caught a number of balls and should continue to see the majority of the work on passing downs. If LJ is suspended for a while, we could be looking at the next job share. I like the rookie Charles to emerge as the best RB. Don't go overboard with expectations because of the KC offense, but finding a starting RB at this point is worth the risk.
Donnie Avery WR STL - STL was criticized during the draft for taking Avery over the likes of DeSean Jackson, but Avery is finally getting his chance thanks to the Drew Bennett injury. With Bulger getting healthier and Holt drawing coverage, Avery is getting open with his speed. He could have easily had 3 TDs this week. Take a flier on this rookie WR...as well as the next guy.
Josh Morgan WR SF - After a huge preseason, Morgan fell off the map due to an infection. He's wrestled away the starting job opposite Isaac Bruce from Bryant Johnson and had his mini-break out this week vs the Giants. I don't think the coaching change will effect his value as Mike Martz is still running the offense.
Mercedes Lewis TE JAC - This year has been rough for the TE position, even for Witten now with Romo out. Lewis looks to be finally fulfilling some of his potential with back to back TDs heading into the bye. He gets CLE at home this week and with Matt Jones suspended for 3 games, look for Garrard to look Lewis' way often.
Buy Low - The time is now to find those guys that will be 2nd half studs at a discounted price.
Marques Colston WR NO - He burned me this week as I'm sure many of his owners. He did play, but after dropping a few passes early was benched for most of the 2nd half. He said after that he just didn't feel in the flow with the offense. Another week of practice should get him back into the flow. Buy now before he explodes in London and doesn't look back.
Maurice-Jones Drew RB JAC - He might be a tough buy after his week 6 explosion, but if his owner is asleep after his bye, swoop in and steal him. He's got a great schedule and with Fred Taylor hurting this could finally be his chance to shine.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Late Week Wisdom
After a rough week, I'm ready for the weekend and some football. I'd call my start/sit, just average last week. Colston was looking good to play, but they kept him out at the last minute. Manning came out of nowhere to destroy BAL too. IND's offense looks like it's back on track, despite the recent injury to Joseph Addai. By the way, grab Dominic Rhodes if he's available and maybe even start him this week. Ok, let's get on with the picks for this week. Just a reminder, my picks are guys that might not be obvious choices on either side of the coin. I don't need to tell you to start Adrian Peterson or sit Larry Johnson (he's suspended by the way).
Start
Trent Edwards QB BUF - Before the concussion, he was playing really well. He's practiced all week and all signs point to him starting vs SD this week. SD can be beaten through the air and if BUF's O-Line can give Edwards time, he should be able to hook up deep for Lee Evans a few times. I'm also thinking they might need to throw to keep up with SD. ( 275 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT)
Mewelde Moore RB PIT - This was supposed to be Willie Parker's return to the field after sitting out a few weeks with a bad knee. Well, after stepping in a hole on Wednesday at practice (don't they have a grounds keeper?) it's looking like Parker will be out on Sunday. Look for Moore to get the majority of the work and put up decent stats vs an awful CIN D. (115 combined yards, 1 TD)
Chris Johnson RB TEN - Another guy coming off of a bye (notice a trend here) that has a good match up. TEN gets KC and you know they want to pound the ball with Johnson and White. I still like White to get the goal line carries, but I think Johnson will bust off a few big runs. (135 combined yards, 1 TD)
Marques Colston WR NO - Let's try this again. I'm very confident Colston will suit up for NO this week in a must win game in CAR. They held him out last week in a game they easily won. I think Drew Brees goes to him early and often to get him back into a rhythm. With any of these injured guys, make sure you check the wire on Sunday, but if he's in their lineup make sure he's in your lineup. (75 yards, 1 TD)
Santonio Holmes WR PIT - Holmes has only found the end zone once this year, but that should change on Sunday. With Parker likely out, I look for PIT to establish the run with Moore and then run some play action to free up Holmes deep. I think this is his break out game ala Braylon Edwards or Andre Johnson. (125 yards, 2 TDs)
Sit
Jason Campbell QB WAS - Campbell has played really well this year. He's shown the ability to run the Jim Zorn offense to perfection. This week could be a challenge though. CLE has an underrated secondary and I think WAS runs Clinton Portis all day. He's not a bad start, but I don't see big numbers. (145 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT)
Ronnie Brown RB MIA - Another guy that has really exceeded expectations this year. Thanks to a healthy Ricky Williams and the new Wildcat formation, MIA has really tried to get Ronnie the ball in many different ways. Most of those have worked well, but this week vs BAL could be a different story. Again, look for modest totals from the Dolphin RB. (65 yards, 0 TDs)
Reggie Bush RB NO - It sounds like he'll be fine for Sunday after missing a few practices this week, but going up against CAR's D might be more worrisome. He should catch a few passes, but he won't get 20 plus carries on the ground. With bye weeks and all the injuries, you probably can't sit him, but again temper your expectations. (80 combined yards, 0 TDs)
Dwayne Bowe WR KC - Here's a recipe for disaster: No Larry Johnson, a bad QB, an unhappy TE that doesn't want to be in KC and you're facing the best defense in the league. That's what's facing Bowe this week. I don't see KC scoring more than 3 pts this week and for sure not lighting up the score board through the air. (35 yards, 0 TDs)
Start
Trent Edwards QB BUF - Before the concussion, he was playing really well. He's practiced all week and all signs point to him starting vs SD this week. SD can be beaten through the air and if BUF's O-Line can give Edwards time, he should be able to hook up deep for Lee Evans a few times. I'm also thinking they might need to throw to keep up with SD. ( 275 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT)
Mewelde Moore RB PIT - This was supposed to be Willie Parker's return to the field after sitting out a few weeks with a bad knee. Well, after stepping in a hole on Wednesday at practice (don't they have a grounds keeper?) it's looking like Parker will be out on Sunday. Look for Moore to get the majority of the work and put up decent stats vs an awful CIN D. (115 combined yards, 1 TD)
Chris Johnson RB TEN - Another guy coming off of a bye (notice a trend here) that has a good match up. TEN gets KC and you know they want to pound the ball with Johnson and White. I still like White to get the goal line carries, but I think Johnson will bust off a few big runs. (135 combined yards, 1 TD)
Marques Colston WR NO - Let's try this again. I'm very confident Colston will suit up for NO this week in a must win game in CAR. They held him out last week in a game they easily won. I think Drew Brees goes to him early and often to get him back into a rhythm. With any of these injured guys, make sure you check the wire on Sunday, but if he's in their lineup make sure he's in your lineup. (75 yards, 1 TD)
Santonio Holmes WR PIT - Holmes has only found the end zone once this year, but that should change on Sunday. With Parker likely out, I look for PIT to establish the run with Moore and then run some play action to free up Holmes deep. I think this is his break out game ala Braylon Edwards or Andre Johnson. (125 yards, 2 TDs)
Sit
Jason Campbell QB WAS - Campbell has played really well this year. He's shown the ability to run the Jim Zorn offense to perfection. This week could be a challenge though. CLE has an underrated secondary and I think WAS runs Clinton Portis all day. He's not a bad start, but I don't see big numbers. (145 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT)
Ronnie Brown RB MIA - Another guy that has really exceeded expectations this year. Thanks to a healthy Ricky Williams and the new Wildcat formation, MIA has really tried to get Ronnie the ball in many different ways. Most of those have worked well, but this week vs BAL could be a different story. Again, look for modest totals from the Dolphin RB. (65 yards, 0 TDs)
Reggie Bush RB NO - It sounds like he'll be fine for Sunday after missing a few practices this week, but going up against CAR's D might be more worrisome. He should catch a few passes, but he won't get 20 plus carries on the ground. With bye weeks and all the injuries, you probably can't sit him, but again temper your expectations. (80 combined yards, 0 TDs)
Dwayne Bowe WR KC - Here's a recipe for disaster: No Larry Johnson, a bad QB, an unhappy TE that doesn't want to be in KC and you're facing the best defense in the league. That's what's facing Bowe this week. I don't see KC scoring more than 3 pts this week and for sure not lighting up the score board through the air. (35 yards, 0 TDs)
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Tuesday's Take
A wild week 6 and lots of injuries to key players. I'll discuss a few this week with some guys to grab and some guys to buy and sell.
Brad Johnson QB DAL - It sounds like Tony Romo will be sidelined at least 4 weeks with a broken finger. I don't see Johnson setting the world on fire, but he's got a lot of weapons and could be a solid fill in if you're desperate.
Kenny Watson RB CIN - Chris Perry was the man early on, but his lack of production and his fumbling issues have caused CIN to rethink it's RB situation. They brought in Cedric Benson, but he hasn't done much. Watson was battling Perry in training camp and the Bengals have brought him back to take another look at him. You might want to as well.
Dominic Rhodes RB IND - Joseph Addai left the game this week with hamstring issues. Mike Hart was also slowed by an injury. Rhodes might be the only guy left to run the ball on a suddenly rejuvenated Colts' offense. Snap him up before the Addai owner.
Devin Hester WR CHI - After an early season injury, Hester has returned to the starting lineup. Another injury to Brandon Lloyd, he's develop some chemistry to Kyle Orten. He won't be consistent, but if your league awards pts for return yards and TDs, he could be a solid #2 WR.
Joey Galloway WR TBY - I know he was dropped in my league (by me), but he could be back in the TBY lineup soon and his favorite QB is back as well. It appears Jeff Garcia has wrestled the job away from Brian Griese and we all know how well Garcia and Galloway work together.
Buy Low
Ryan Grant, Jay Cutler, Peyton Manning
Sell High
Larry Johnson, Matt Forte, Brett Favre
Brad Johnson QB DAL - It sounds like Tony Romo will be sidelined at least 4 weeks with a broken finger. I don't see Johnson setting the world on fire, but he's got a lot of weapons and could be a solid fill in if you're desperate.
Kenny Watson RB CIN - Chris Perry was the man early on, but his lack of production and his fumbling issues have caused CIN to rethink it's RB situation. They brought in Cedric Benson, but he hasn't done much. Watson was battling Perry in training camp and the Bengals have brought him back to take another look at him. You might want to as well.
Dominic Rhodes RB IND - Joseph Addai left the game this week with hamstring issues. Mike Hart was also slowed by an injury. Rhodes might be the only guy left to run the ball on a suddenly rejuvenated Colts' offense. Snap him up before the Addai owner.
Devin Hester WR CHI - After an early season injury, Hester has returned to the starting lineup. Another injury to Brandon Lloyd, he's develop some chemistry to Kyle Orten. He won't be consistent, but if your league awards pts for return yards and TDs, he could be a solid #2 WR.
Joey Galloway WR TBY - I know he was dropped in my league (by me), but he could be back in the TBY lineup soon and his favorite QB is back as well. It appears Jeff Garcia has wrestled the job away from Brian Griese and we all know how well Garcia and Galloway work together.
Buy Low
Ryan Grant, Jay Cutler, Peyton Manning
Sell High
Larry Johnson, Matt Forte, Brett Favre
Friday, October 10, 2008
Late Week Wisdom
This week will be short and sweet this week. Start most of your studs, but here are some guys you could plug in as well.
Start
Gus Frerotte QB MIN - If we've learned anything this year it's that whomever is playing the Lions is a good play. Start Frerotte, Peterson, Taylor, Berrian, Shiancoe, MIN D and maybe even Bobby Wade (that's how bad it is in DET). (225 yards, 2 TDs)
Ronnie Brown RB MIA - I was way wrong on him. I was fooled by Ricky Williams' great preseason and didn't see the Wildcat formation coming at all. Ronnie is working his way back into must start status and this week vs HOU he should be started everywhere.
Julius Jones RB SEA - With Hasselbeck looking unlikely to go, look for SEA to ride Jones hard. He may lose a few carries to Maurice Morris, but he should be good for 100 yards and a TD. (103 yards, 1 TD)
Marques Colston WR NO - Heeeeee's back. It looked like we wouldn't see Colston until week 8 or even after their bye week, but he was a surprise participant at practice this week and now looks likely to return this week vs OAK. If he is in the line up, he should be in yours. (65 yards, 1 TD)
Santana Moss WR WAS - I know he was shut out last week, but he should bounce back big this week. Start him with confidence. (125 yards, 1 TD)
Sit
Peyton Manning QB IND - Manning just doesn't look like himself this year. Maybe it's the preseason injury or the missing OL, but something is off. Don't look for him to get back on track vs BAL this week. Even Addai might be a sit this week. (245 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs)
Earnest Graham RB TBY - With Warrick Dunn back in TBY this year, we've seen yet another job share in the backfield. Graham has saved most of the weeks by breaking off a long run. That's a risky trend to put your hopes in and this week I don't think he breaks one off. (55 yards, 0 TDs)
Isaac Bruce WR SF - Bruce has been a pleasant surprise this year and has really clicked with his new QB and his old coach. This week might be a bump in the road vs PHI's attacking defense. O'Sullivan might not have much time to look down field. Look for lots of dump offs to Gore, but not many deep balls to Bruce. (77 yards, 0 TDs)
Good luck this week and it's about that time to honestly evaluating your team. Next week I'll talk about making that trade to put you over the top.
Start
Gus Frerotte QB MIN - If we've learned anything this year it's that whomever is playing the Lions is a good play. Start Frerotte, Peterson, Taylor, Berrian, Shiancoe, MIN D and maybe even Bobby Wade (that's how bad it is in DET). (225 yards, 2 TDs)
Ronnie Brown RB MIA - I was way wrong on him. I was fooled by Ricky Williams' great preseason and didn't see the Wildcat formation coming at all. Ronnie is working his way back into must start status and this week vs HOU he should be started everywhere.
Julius Jones RB SEA - With Hasselbeck looking unlikely to go, look for SEA to ride Jones hard. He may lose a few carries to Maurice Morris, but he should be good for 100 yards and a TD. (103 yards, 1 TD)
Marques Colston WR NO - Heeeeee's back. It looked like we wouldn't see Colston until week 8 or even after their bye week, but he was a surprise participant at practice this week and now looks likely to return this week vs OAK. If he is in the line up, he should be in yours. (65 yards, 1 TD)
Santana Moss WR WAS - I know he was shut out last week, but he should bounce back big this week. Start him with confidence. (125 yards, 1 TD)
Sit
Peyton Manning QB IND - Manning just doesn't look like himself this year. Maybe it's the preseason injury or the missing OL, but something is off. Don't look for him to get back on track vs BAL this week. Even Addai might be a sit this week. (245 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs)
Earnest Graham RB TBY - With Warrick Dunn back in TBY this year, we've seen yet another job share in the backfield. Graham has saved most of the weeks by breaking off a long run. That's a risky trend to put your hopes in and this week I don't think he breaks one off. (55 yards, 0 TDs)
Isaac Bruce WR SF - Bruce has been a pleasant surprise this year and has really clicked with his new QB and his old coach. This week might be a bump in the road vs PHI's attacking defense. O'Sullivan might not have much time to look down field. Look for lots of dump offs to Gore, but not many deep balls to Bruce. (77 yards, 0 TDs)
Good luck this week and it's about that time to honestly evaluating your team. Next week I'll talk about making that trade to put you over the top.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Tuesday's Take
Can you believe it's already week 6? We're almost halfway through the regular fantasy season. The pickings are getting slim on the wire, but I've found a few guys that might give you a boost or at least fill in for those bye week starters.
Kevin Faulk RB NE - I have no idea what's going on in the NE backfield, but Faulk is the pass-catcher and this weekend he delivered 2 TDs vs SF. I still think Sammy Morris and Laurence Maroney will get the bulk of the snaps, but if Faulk is available he might be worth speculative pick up.
Ryan Torain RB DEN - DEN is another messy backfield with 3 guys sharing carries, but there could be a fourth soon...and he could be the best of them all. Torain wowed coaches this summer and if not for a late injury, he could have been the starter. He's expected to start practicing next week and won't be back until week 9, but stash him now before the hype begins.
Greg Camarillo WR MIA - This spot was supposed to be Tedd Ginn Jr.'s, but Camarillo has really stepped up as the #1 WR in MIA. He's getting most of Pennington's targets and making the most of them. He's not going to light up the scoreboard, but he could be a solid #3 WR going forward.
Brandon Stockley WR DEN - Rookie Eddie Royal really burst onto the scene in week 1. He's fallen back to earth with the return of Brandon Marshall and is now sidelined with an injury. Stockley made his mark as a #3 WR in IND, but now as DEN's #2 he could see his numbers go up. This week he could be a real good start if Royal and TE Tony Scheffler is out.
Greg Olson TE CHI - Kyle Orten has really delivered in his last 4 games and has opened up the Bear's offense. With his #1 target, Brandon Lloyd injured, Orten has looked Olson's way and it's showing. He found the end zone two weeks ago and went over 85 yards this week. This could finally be his breakout season.
It's not too late to buy low on some slow starting stars. Now might be the time to act before they bust out. Look at what Andre Johnson did this week. I don't think you're buying low on him anymore. We also had some big performances this weekend and a few guys are prime for selling.
Buy low
Braylon Edwards WR CLE - He's coming off the bye week and his lack of production could be weighing on his owner's mind. Swoop in now before CLE gets going on offense, whether that's with Derek Anderson or Brady Quinn.
Maurice Jones-Drew RB JAC - This is the last time he's going to be on this list. The Jags' schedule gets much easier after their bye and by then they'll hopefully remember how to run the ball and MJD will be the biggest beneficiary.
Sell high
DeAngelo Williams RB CAR - He exploded this weekend for 3 TDs, but he's still splitting carries with rookie Jonathan Stewart. I still think he'll have value the rest of the year, but if you can get a solid #2 RB in return I'd do it.
Randy Moss WR NE - Another guy that's been here before, but this is your best chance to get value from the former #1 WR overall. He caught a deep bomb this weekend for a TD and you might think it's the start of a turn around. I don't see it. Matt Cassell just doesn't have the arm strength or accuracy to find Randy consistently. I see him as a low end #2 or high end #3 WR the rest of the way.
Kevin Faulk RB NE - I have no idea what's going on in the NE backfield, but Faulk is the pass-catcher and this weekend he delivered 2 TDs vs SF. I still think Sammy Morris and Laurence Maroney will get the bulk of the snaps, but if Faulk is available he might be worth speculative pick up.
Ryan Torain RB DEN - DEN is another messy backfield with 3 guys sharing carries, but there could be a fourth soon...and he could be the best of them all. Torain wowed coaches this summer and if not for a late injury, he could have been the starter. He's expected to start practicing next week and won't be back until week 9, but stash him now before the hype begins.
Greg Camarillo WR MIA - This spot was supposed to be Tedd Ginn Jr.'s, but Camarillo has really stepped up as the #1 WR in MIA. He's getting most of Pennington's targets and making the most of them. He's not going to light up the scoreboard, but he could be a solid #3 WR going forward.
Brandon Stockley WR DEN - Rookie Eddie Royal really burst onto the scene in week 1. He's fallen back to earth with the return of Brandon Marshall and is now sidelined with an injury. Stockley made his mark as a #3 WR in IND, but now as DEN's #2 he could see his numbers go up. This week he could be a real good start if Royal and TE Tony Scheffler is out.
Greg Olson TE CHI - Kyle Orten has really delivered in his last 4 games and has opened up the Bear's offense. With his #1 target, Brandon Lloyd injured, Orten has looked Olson's way and it's showing. He found the end zone two weeks ago and went over 85 yards this week. This could finally be his breakout season.
It's not too late to buy low on some slow starting stars. Now might be the time to act before they bust out. Look at what Andre Johnson did this week. I don't think you're buying low on him anymore. We also had some big performances this weekend and a few guys are prime for selling.
Buy low
Braylon Edwards WR CLE - He's coming off the bye week and his lack of production could be weighing on his owner's mind. Swoop in now before CLE gets going on offense, whether that's with Derek Anderson or Brady Quinn.
Maurice Jones-Drew RB JAC - This is the last time he's going to be on this list. The Jags' schedule gets much easier after their bye and by then they'll hopefully remember how to run the ball and MJD will be the biggest beneficiary.
Sell high
DeAngelo Williams RB CAR - He exploded this weekend for 3 TDs, but he's still splitting carries with rookie Jonathan Stewart. I still think he'll have value the rest of the year, but if you can get a solid #2 RB in return I'd do it.
Randy Moss WR NE - Another guy that's been here before, but this is your best chance to get value from the former #1 WR overall. He caught a deep bomb this weekend for a TD and you might think it's the start of a turn around. I don't see it. Matt Cassell just doesn't have the arm strength or accuracy to find Randy consistently. I see him as a low end #2 or high end #3 WR the rest of the way.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Late Week Wisdom
Let's jump right in. We've got some big names on a bye this week (S. Jackson, B. Favre, J. Cotchery, L. Coles, D. McFadden, etc) as well as a suspended WR in P. Burress. Make sure these guys aren't in your lineup. Let's take a look at some others to start or sit in week 5.
Start
Brian Griese QB TBY - After his explosion of 67 pass attempts 2 weeks ago, he came back to earth last week. DEN's D has been one of the worst vs the pass this year and have given up some big plays and big numbers. Look for Griese to show up big this week vs his former team. (275 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT)
Micheal Turner RB ATL - His season has been a roller coaster. He's amazing at home vs weak defenses, but has struggled on the road vs solid defenses. This is the week he breaks that trend. GBY is banged up and if Aaron Rodgers doesn't play ATL will be in the game and should be able to give Turner 20+ carries. Look for above average production from Turner. (125 yards, 1 TD)
Earnest Graham RB TBY - Let's pick on DEN once again. Graham is splitting carries with W. Dunn, but he's been able to bust off a few good runs to give his owners solid production. I think he runs over DEN and puts up #1 RB numbers this week. Start him with confidence. (105 yards, 2 TDs)
Lance Moore WR NO - We could be looking at this year's Wes Welker. Drew Brees is passing at an incredible pace and Moore is being the most targeted option. It appears that Moore has locked up the #2 WR position even when Colston returns. Look for NO to pass a lot this week on MNF with MIN shutting down the running game. Moore should benefit the most. (85 yards, 1 TD)
Anthony Fasano TE MIA - After busting out of the gate in week 1, he's almost been non existent since. SD his given up many big games to TEs (Rosario, Scheffler, Miller) and Fasano is next in line. If you've lost Shockey are are stuck with Heath Miller or Todd Heap, grab Fasano at least for this week. (75 yards, 1 TD)
Sit
J. T. O'Sullivan QB SF - After 3 solid weeks, O'Sullivan came crashing back to earth in what appeared to be an easy match up vs NO last week. When Bill Belichick has 2 weeks to prepare for you...watch out. NE is coming off their bye and off of an embarrassing performance vs MIA. Look for lots of blitzing and an aggressive defense. O'Sullivan could be in trouble. (185 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs)
Maurice Jones-Drew RB JAC - It's been all or nothing for this stud RB. He's still splitting carries with Fred Taylor and when JAC goes away from the run, both guys suffer. This week they get PIT and I could see another disappointing performance. (55 yards, 0 TDs)
Roy Williams WR DET - It sounds like DET is going to open up the playbook and get back to the air show we saw last year. That could happen, but I think the other DET WRs will benefit the most. I also don't see it happening this week vs CHI. Kitna will be running for his life and he won't have time to find Roy deep. Look for him to catch some underneath stuff, but not have a huge game. (35 yards, 1 TD)
I had a few rough calls last week and I apologize if you sat Greg Jennings or started Selvin Young. Hopefully I can get back on track this week and you'll do likewise. Good luck.
Start
Brian Griese QB TBY - After his explosion of 67 pass attempts 2 weeks ago, he came back to earth last week. DEN's D has been one of the worst vs the pass this year and have given up some big plays and big numbers. Look for Griese to show up big this week vs his former team. (275 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT)
Micheal Turner RB ATL - His season has been a roller coaster. He's amazing at home vs weak defenses, but has struggled on the road vs solid defenses. This is the week he breaks that trend. GBY is banged up and if Aaron Rodgers doesn't play ATL will be in the game and should be able to give Turner 20+ carries. Look for above average production from Turner. (125 yards, 1 TD)
Earnest Graham RB TBY - Let's pick on DEN once again. Graham is splitting carries with W. Dunn, but he's been able to bust off a few good runs to give his owners solid production. I think he runs over DEN and puts up #1 RB numbers this week. Start him with confidence. (105 yards, 2 TDs)
Lance Moore WR NO - We could be looking at this year's Wes Welker. Drew Brees is passing at an incredible pace and Moore is being the most targeted option. It appears that Moore has locked up the #2 WR position even when Colston returns. Look for NO to pass a lot this week on MNF with MIN shutting down the running game. Moore should benefit the most. (85 yards, 1 TD)
Anthony Fasano TE MIA - After busting out of the gate in week 1, he's almost been non existent since. SD his given up many big games to TEs (Rosario, Scheffler, Miller) and Fasano is next in line. If you've lost Shockey are are stuck with Heath Miller or Todd Heap, grab Fasano at least for this week. (75 yards, 1 TD)
Sit
J. T. O'Sullivan QB SF - After 3 solid weeks, O'Sullivan came crashing back to earth in what appeared to be an easy match up vs NO last week. When Bill Belichick has 2 weeks to prepare for you...watch out. NE is coming off their bye and off of an embarrassing performance vs MIA. Look for lots of blitzing and an aggressive defense. O'Sullivan could be in trouble. (185 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs)
Maurice Jones-Drew RB JAC - It's been all or nothing for this stud RB. He's still splitting carries with Fred Taylor and when JAC goes away from the run, both guys suffer. This week they get PIT and I could see another disappointing performance. (55 yards, 0 TDs)
Roy Williams WR DET - It sounds like DET is going to open up the playbook and get back to the air show we saw last year. That could happen, but I think the other DET WRs will benefit the most. I also don't see it happening this week vs CHI. Kitna will be running for his life and he won't have time to find Roy deep. Look for him to catch some underneath stuff, but not have a huge game. (35 yards, 1 TD)
I had a few rough calls last week and I apologize if you sat Greg Jennings or started Selvin Young. Hopefully I can get back on track this week and you'll do likewise. Good luck.
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