tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38291284979188650852011-11-27T18:29:23.805-05:00Prepping for Game Day by sorting out the trash and treasure in Fantasy Baseball and Fantasy FootballJeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.comBlogger571100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-2362200138668927792009-08-31T14:29:00.001-04:002009-08-31T14:29:45.709-04:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7M5jGHBdX-o/SpwWkrBbjyI/AAAAAAAAABg/QQRRu-UL8Zg/s1600-h/smokey"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 179px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7M5jGHBdX-o/SpwWkrBbjyI/AAAAAAAAABg/QQRRu-UL8Zg/s320/smokey" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376196874453356322" border="0" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-236220013866892779?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-12060838359276736842009-04-15T19:00:00.004-04:002009-04-15T20:17:10.471-04:00I'm back. Sorry for the extended break. An unexpected vacation and busy start to the season has slightly derailed the blog, but no worries. I'm ready to get back into it. I thought I'd start by taking a look at a few of the early season story lines after the first two weeks. <br /><br />Injured Starting Pitchers - It started with John Lackey and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ervin</span> Santana, but more recently Dice-K, Webb and Carpenter have joined them on the injured list. Webb is the biggest name and while his injury does not sound serious, it's always worrisome when your ace has any arm trouble. Lackey and Santana should be back in a month or so along with John <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Smoltz</span> who is progressing nicely in his rehab. I'd grab any of these guys and stash them if I could. Dice-K and Carpenter just went on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">DL</span> today and both are cause for concern. Dice-K has what's called arm fatigue, most likely from pitching in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">WBC</span>, but he hasn't look sharp and it could be more serious. I'd be concerned. I'd also be slightly concerned with Carpenter. He looked really good in the spring and had a superb first outing as well. This looks like it could keep him out for a while, but hopefully he can bounce right back and continue his amazing return to dominance.<br /><br />Early Surprises - Like every season, there are guys who start off hot almost out of nowhere. Brandon Inge, Nick Swisher, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Nyjer</span> Morgan and even Marco <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Scutaro</span> have blazed out of the gate. Obviously these guys can't keep up their pace, but most of these guys do have skills. I'd grab every one of them and ride the hot streak. Just be ready to dump them when the slump comes and more than likely it will come. <br /><br />Early <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Disappointments</span> - There are too many to list, but the first 3 rounds are littered with guys that haven't gotten on track yet. From Ryan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Braun</span> to Jimmy Rollins to Jose Reyes to Mark <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Teixera</span> to Lance <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Berkman</span> to Prince Fielder. Not to mention <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Arod</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Ichiro</span> with their injuries. Please be patient with these guys. These guys will hit and you don't want to be the guy to trade them away. Now, in some leagues guys might be getting nervous already, so if there's a hint that you can steal one of these top hitters away, go for it. <br /><br />It is still early. I like to give my team until at least May 1 before making major changes. That doesn't mean you don't swap that struggling bench player or grab a SP with a good matchup. Just don't overhaul your roster just yet. It's a long season and things will even out.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-1206083835927673684?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-78799108620701726002009-03-28T15:51:00.006-04:002009-03-28T16:45:52.632-04:00With roughly one week to go before the season starts I thought it'd be a good opportunity to review some spring stand outs to see who might be for real this year. We do have to be careful looking at spring stats, but it's important to look at a few things when considering these stand outs: Are they returning from an injury? Are they fighting for a new starting job? Were these guys a highly touted prospect that might have been forgotten after a slow start to their career? Did they finish strong in the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">nd</span> half of last season? These are just a few questions to consider when looking at players in the spring.<br /><br />Adam Jones OF <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">BAL</span> - He was the prized prospect of the Eric <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Bedard</span> trade and didn't have a great start to his career in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">BAL</span>, but finished strong in the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">nd</span> half and has built on that success this spring. With a .378 BA, 1 HR and 7 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">SBs</span>, he's showing the talent that made him a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">coveted</span> piece of the trade. He showed promise last year, but never really put it all together. I think he's primed for a mini break out this year and might threaten 20+ <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">SBs</span> with solid numbers across the board. <br /><br />Kevin Gregg RP <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">CHC</span> - When he was traded to the Cubs this <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">off season</span>, it appeared that he was brought in to set up flamethrower Carlos <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Marmol</span>. The problem this spring has been <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Marmol's</span> lack of effectiveness. Gregg has been solid and appears to have done enough to possibly win the closer job. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Pinella</span> is supposed to choose this weekend, but either way Gregg should figure into the saves picture and can be had pretty late in most drafts. Don't sleep on this sleeper.<br /><br />Chris Carpenter SP <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">STL</span> - For a 4 year stretch he was one of the best pitchers in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">NL</span>. After a couple of surgeries he's on his way back this spring. He's shown great control with only 4 walks in 19 innings. He also hasn't allowed an earned run while racking up 10 K's. If he can return to form this season, he could be the steal of draft since he's being taken in the late teen rounds of most 12 team leagues. <br /><br />Jordan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Zimmermann</span> SP WAS - The "other" <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Zimmermann</span> in WAS, Jordan has burst onto the scene with 20 K's in only 14 innings. He has also wrapped up the 5<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">th</span> spot in the National rotation and looks to possibly be this year's Edison <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Volquez</span>. While I'm not ready to put him on that level, he is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">definitely</span> worth a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">flyer</span> late in most 12 team leagues, if anything for the strike out potential. <br /><br />Ryan Howard 1b PHI - This might be an obvious one, but I wanted to point out the potential steal this guy could be. People are scared off from Howard because of his BA, but if he can raise his average to .270 he'll easily give you first round value. He's leading all players with 7 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">HRs</span> and hitting a respectable .293 with 18 RBIs. I think he rebounds and is well worth a selection at the end of round 1 or beginning of round 2.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-7879910862070172600?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-41101626622444109582009-03-18T19:41:00.005-04:002009-03-18T20:00:05.184-04:00As we get closer and closer to the start of the season, you should be ready for your draft. By this time, you shouldn't need to move guys to far one way or another (except in the case of serious injury or demotion). Today I wanted to discuss a few guys that seem to be moving in recent drafts. Some are gaining value while others are sliding for various reason. Let's start with the guys moving up.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">LA's</span> offense - With Manny now in the fold once again, the entire Dodgers lineup seems to be gaining momentum. From <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Furcal</span> to Kemp to Either, everyone loves having Manny's bat back in the lineup. There's good reason for it and I agree that this offense should be one of the best in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">NL</span>...if everyone can stay healthy. <br /><br />Chris Carpenter SP <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">STL</span> and Eric <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Bedard</span> SP SEA - Two form aces seem to be returning to form this spring. There's always risk when a pitcher is coming back from injury, but these guys are well worth the risk where they are being drafted. Just be sure not to reach too high for them or the risk might out weigh the reward.<br /><br />Pablo Sandoval 1b/3b/C? SF - Depending on your league Sandoval could offer great value at C. He's still a solid sleeper at corner, but he's been rising up draft boards more recently. I still think he's worth a shot and should deliver great numbers in the heart of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">SF's</span> lineup.<br /><br />Now let's turn to the guys sliding down a bit...<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Ervin</span> Santana SP LA - After a breakout season last year, he was poised to take the next step to elite status. That's been put on hold by a sprained elbow ligament. He's going to rest and take some time off, but that's a huge red flag for me and I've dropped him down a few rounds. If he falls too far, he could be a steal, but watch this closely.<br /><br />Alex Rodriguez 3b <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">NYY</span> - This is an obvious one, but a tough one to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">gauge</span>. Where do you take him now? We don't know when he'll be back. We don't know when he'll be himself even when he's back. My guess is someone will reach for him too early. I'll be the one who lets someone else draft him and then swoop in after he returns and isn't quite himself for the first few games. He should be <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Arod</span> by the All Star break, but that might be too long to wait for some owners.<br /><br />Cole <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Hamels</span> SP PHI - After a superb season followed by an MVP World Series, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Hamels</span> recently complained of some discomfort in his elbow. He had a huge work load last year and this doesn't help the concerns. I wouldn't be too worried, but I'd <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">defiantly</span> bump him down a few spots.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-4110162662244410958?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-46021734143914128392009-03-09T20:28:00.005-04:002009-03-09T20:48:22.319-04:00Let's start with the biggest news of the last week, the bizarre saga of Alex Rodriguez. After the buzz of the steroid controversy cooled off, we were left with a seemingly normal spring training from Arod. He was playing and practicing without any issues. Then the news comes in that he's dealing with a cyst on his hip. Then a trip to see a specialist. Then he's having hip surgery and he's out at least 10 weeks. Then he's going to try rehab, no surgery, and might not miss a beat. Then finally we get news this week. He will undergo surgery, but it's a "combo" surgery on the hip that should allow him to return quicker than the original plan, but still means a recovery time from 6 - 10 weeks. So, now that we know how long he will be out, what does it mean for fantasy? Well, he's obviously going to drop, but how far should he drop? I'm guessing he returns mid-May and misses about 4-6 weeks of the regular season. I also think it'll take him some time to get back to playing shape and get his timing down. I'd still take a shot at Arod around round 3 or 4 of a standard 12 team mixed league (assuming you can throw him in your DL slot), but he'll still come with a ton of risk and even though the upside is huge, I'd probably let someone else take a chance on him. <br /><br />We had another injury scare last week when news of Johan Santana's elbow soreness popped up. He was shut down and the talk was of him missing the season opener. Well, the fear has subsided as he's had a few successful bullpen sessions. He's scheduled to make his spring debut this Thursday and he is still planning to start opening day. I wouldn't totally dismiss this news, but see how he performs the rest of spring to determine if this should bump him down your rankings at all. <br /><br />Last, but not least is the news of Manny Ramirez finally signing in LA. It's about time. We all knew Manny wasn't going to sit out. We also knew Manny wasn't stupid. The new contract allows him to opt out after 1 year and go after bigger money yet again next winter. He is a year older, but this immediately bumps up the value of the rest of the LA lineup once again. If Furcal can stay healthy, he'll be one of the best leadoff hitters in the league. I also like Kemp and Either to build on their breakout years last season. I even like Russell Martin to return to dominance at the catcher position. Manny's presence can only help the Dodgers team. Now that's assuming Manny doesn't mentally check out like he did in Boston. Only time will tell. As for drafting Manny, he's going in the late 2nd round to mid 3rd round. He will be a year older, but I still see solid enough production to make him a #1 OF.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-4602173414391412839?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-67366734531640574792009-02-28T14:22:00.005-05:002009-02-28T15:11:57.313-05:00<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ok</span>, so now that you're waiting to draft a starting pitcher, who do you target in those mid to late rounds? I thought I'd run down a few options that could provide good value and a solid core to build your staff around.<br /><br />Javier Vazquez SP <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ATL</span> - Vazquez delivered a disappointing 2008 season despite putting up quality stats in some of the categories, especially strike outs with 200. The problem was that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">those</span> good strike out numbers didn't turn into fantasy success. With only 12 wins and an era of 4.67. I like Vazquez to rebound for a number of reasons. He should find things a bit easier in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">NL</span> and if he can maintain his strike out rate, he should deliver much better numbers.<br /><br />Zach <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Grienke</span> SP KC - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Grienke</span> was a pleasant surprise for the Royals last year and gave owners who found him on the wire with 180+ K's as well as an excellent 3.47 ERA. Look for him to build on his success and make that leap into the upper tier of SP.<br /><br />Scott Baker &amp; Kevin <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Slowey</span> SP MIN - The Twins always seem to find quality pitchers and these 2 are no exception. While they won't wow you with their power, but what they will give you is quality innings and normally a chance for a win. Baker delivered a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">minuscule</span> WHIP of 1.18 while <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Slowey</span> was a little better at 1.15. These are the guys that you need to gain points in those ratio categories.<br /><br />Matt Garza SP <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">TBY</span> - Another former Twin, Garza came through for the upstart Rays last year and provided them a solid #3 starter. He didn't come through with great fantasy stats, but he should improve with another year under his belt. He'd also be a great #3 or #4 starter for you squad.<br /><br />Randy Johnson SP SF - You know that The Big Unit's best days are behind him, but he can still put up the numbers to help you this year. A move to SF could give him a boost across the board (well, maybe not in the win category). He still came close to a strike out an inning and if he can stay healthy, he should bump those numbers up slightly.<br /><br />There are many more options available in the last half of your draft like these. They are just a few examples of why it's smart to wait on starting pitching and grab a bunch of those hitters first. With a few of these guys and some smart waiver wire work early in the year, you'll be positioned to make a run for the title.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-6736673453164057479?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-67798257075238373772009-02-20T11:19:00.006-05:002009-02-20T17:08:58.964-05:00Over the past few years I've tried many different strategies when it comes to starting pitching. Today I want to talk about a few reasons why waiting to draft your starting pitching can be a good way to approach your draft. I'm going to focus on a standard 12 team <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">roto</span> league with 10 categories. Obviously this might be tweaked depending on your league's size and rules.<br /><br />I usually approach the draft with some basic objectives. I like to normally wait until at least round 7 to draft a pitcher and then at that point I usually go for my first closer. I usually target a closer who will get me K's and good ratios. Then I follow that up with either another closer or my first SP in the next 2 to 3 rounds. That gives me a good foundation for my staff. I might even wait until round 9 if there are still enough quality <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">SPs</span> left on the board. This allows me to build an offense that can dominate most leagues. I then look to add the core of my staff in rounds 11-15, when the other teams are filling out those missing holes in their offense.<br /><br />So, why does this work and why should you try it? Well, for one thing it's much easier to predict the stats for hitters than it is for pitchers. Therefore hitters tend to be more consistent and less of a risk, especially in the early rounds. Hitters also can contribute in all 5 of the hitting categories, while even the best <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">SPs</span> can only help you in 4.<br /><br />The next key to this strategy is watching the waiver wire. Just look back at least year to see what you can find off the wire. Cliff Lee, Joe Saunders, John <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Danks</span> and Edison <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Volquez</span> are just a few examples of the quality of SP that you could slip through the cracks and not get drafted. Then you can also look to the top last season's rankings to see some of the pitchers that didn't give you the value you were expecting like Erik <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Bedard</span>, Justin <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Verlander</span>, Carlos <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Zambrano</span>, and even Johan Santana to some extent. <br /><br />The last area I want to focus on is the idea of pitch or ditch. Basically it's just maximizing your <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">IP</span> by using one or two spots on your roster to grab <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">SPs</span> off the wire each week with easy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">matchups</span> or who have shown flashes of brilliance in the recent past. This is how you can find those <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">undrafted</span> gems and really put you at an advantage. If they pitch well, you can give them 1 or 2 more starts and see if it was a fluke or the real deal.<br /><br />I'd recommend giving this strategy a try this year, especially in some mock drafts. It can be tough to pass up the likes of Webb, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Haren</span> or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Hamels</span>, but if you can hold off and go for those 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">nd</span> tier guys, you'll have an advantage over your competition. Good luck.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-6779825707523837377?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-10653416707227512862009-02-13T13:06:00.014-05:002009-02-14T14:16:42.542-05:00The season is upon us as spring training has officially started. I'm sure by now you've started to schedule some drafts and maybe take your first look at some cheat sheets. Well, I'm here to help and this time I'll be discussing those guys that might not show up as high as you would think. There could be various reasons for that, but I think there's a chance these guys could give you great value in your drafts when they rebound this year. Their flying under the radar and could give you that boost late in your draft to bring home a win. We'll start in down in Tampa Bay.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Carl Crawford OF <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">TBY</span></span> - Yes, he hasn't shown the power/speed combination that we had hoped to see by now, but last year wasn't the true Crawford either. Even if he never lives up to the hype, he can still deliver great speed numbers for a vastly improved Rays' lineup. He's a former first rounder that you might be able to snag in the late third round.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Prince Fielder 1b MIL</span> - In some eyes, last year was a disappointment for Fielder after exploding to hit 50 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">HRs</span> two years ago. But I'd take 34 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">HRs</span> and over 100 RBIs from my 1b <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">any day</span>. I think he'll fall somewhere in between those numbers this year and in the 3rd round, he could offer great value.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rafael <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Furcal</span> SS LAD</span> - Plagued by injuries last year, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Furcal</span> had one of his worst seasons as a pro. I think Manny returns to LA and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Furcal</span> proves to be the true lead off hitter they were looking for last year. He might not challenge 40 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">SBs</span> ever again, but he could give you 30 plus over 100 runs scored.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Victor Martinez C/1B <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">CLE</span></span> - I can still remember waiting and waiting for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">VMart</span> to hit that first HR last year. He should bounce back and challenge <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">McCann</span>, Martin and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Mauer</span> for elite catcher status once again, although this will be his last year of catcher <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">eligibility</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Robinson <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Cano</span> 2b <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">NYY</span></span> - His disappointing season last year wasn't the result of an injury, but just a bad year. He showed signs of breaking out if it multiple times, but never really regained his 2007 form. I would be more than willing to gamble on him bouncing back big time and with all of the new weapons in NY, this could be a huge year for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Cano</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">John Lackey SP <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">LAA</span></span> - After a late preseason injury derailed the first half for Lackey last year, he struggled to get back his form all year. He's healthy now and he should bounce back to the form that had him at the top of the SP rankings just 2 years ago.<br /><br />Not all of these guys will regain the level of previous years, but I also think you should expect a major increase in production from a year ago. A lot of people look at last year's stats, but a look closer will reveal the true potential these guys till possess. Grab them a little earlier than their going now and you should get a big return on your investment.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-1065341670722751286?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-85772187770295957662009-02-08T13:32:00.007-05:002009-02-08T14:00:42.902-05:00To follow up last week's article on sleepers, I wanted to give you a few names to look at for potential busts this fantasy season. These guys will still probably have fine years, but the cause for concern comes from where you'll need to draft them in order to get them on your team. The draft is all about value and these guys won't come close to giving you as much value as others this year. Most of these guys had career years last year and history shows us to expect some kind of decline the year after. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Aubrey Huff 1b/3b BAL</span> - The first few names on this list almost came out of nowhere last year to put up huge numbers. Huff is no exception. An afterthought in most drafts, he went on to hit .304 with 32 HRs and 108 RBIs. Those are awesome numbers to find on the waiver wire, the problem is he probably won't last past the middle of the draft this year and if he drops back to his career averages, then you'll be overpaying. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Carlos Delgado 1b NYM </span>- Another veteran that was left for dead heading into 2008, Delgado came through huge for those who took a late round gamble on him last year. His age and injury concern should give you enough pause to let someone else gamble on him repeating last year's success. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dustin Pedroia 2b BOS</span> - Don't get me wrong, I love almost everything about Pedroia's skills and situation. He's in a great lineup and should have a great year. Again, the problem comes in where you'll have to draft him to get that potential. His amazing MVP season was just that, amazing, but I could see some of those numbers leveling off as the rest of the league adjusts to him. If he falls a round or two, grab him, but I'll pass for now.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Josh Hamilton OF TEX</span> - Another super star in the making, Hamilton exploded last year with eye popping numbers. He slowed down in the 2nd half as some minor injuries began to take their toll. I could see another MVP type season, as well as a HR Derby crown, but with him going toward the end of the first round, he's just a little too risky for me.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Francisco Rodriguez RP NYM</span> - What can you say about KRod? Breaking the save record and then getting paid as he lands in the Big Apple. The expectations will be high and so will the risk. Injury has always been a concern for KRod, but the bigger concern this year will be living up to the hype that comes after breaking a record like that. He should rack up the saves in New York, but I'll take a few safer options before him.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">C.C. Sabathia SP NYY</span> - Another free agent that lands in NY, Sabathia couldn't do anything wrong in the 2nd half of last season. He was dominant and nearly untouchable. I see some big wins coming for him in NY, but I also see some higher ratios as well. The AL East won't be as manageable as the NL Central and even though he should win a few more, I could see the rest of his numbers suffering. Proceed with caution.<br /><br />The next group I'll cover are those guys that might be forgotten this year and hence fall in drafts. They were either hit by the injury bug, had a down year, or just don't get the respect they deserve. I'll call those guys under-the-radar and we'll look at them next time.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-8577218777029595766?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-86777381833073738412009-02-04T20:12:00.009-05:002009-02-04T20:35:54.785-05:00Toward the end of the last season I highlighted some 2nd half studs to keep an eye on for 2009 so you can make your own sleeper list. We'll here we are on the eve of the 2009 season and it's time to review the list and see who's still worthy of sleeper status. I'll go position by position and highlight one or two guys to move up your draft board.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">C - Dioner Navarro TBY, Pablo Sandavol SF</span> - Both are still sleepers in my book and I love gambling on sleepers at the catcher position. I like Sandavol's upside a bit more, plus he could have multi-position eligibility.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1b/3b/CI - Chris Davis TEX, Ian Stewart COL, Billy Butler KC</span> - Davis is probably one of the hottest names on this list, so he might cost you more than he's worth. I wouldn't hesitate to reach for him though. Just look what another young slugger (Josh Hamilton) did in TEX last year. Stewart and Butler are both solid sleepers that can be had later in the draft. I like Stewart over Butler if you're looking for a late round flyer.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2b/SS/MI - Alexei Ramirez CWS, Mike Aviles KC, Jed Lowrie BOS </span>- Ramirez is another hot name this spring who might come at a high cost. He's been compared to a young Soriano at 2b and could have SS eligibility soon. I wouldn't hesitate to make him your starting MI. Aviles and Lowrie have pretty good upside and are both worthy MIs as well.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">OF - Fred Lewis SF, Adam Lind TOR, Adam Jones BAL, Elijah Dukes WAS, Chris Dickerson CIN</span> - Quite a few options in the OF and I'm sure there are many more. These are the guys who showed me something last year and have the potential to take the next step ala Nate McLouth this season. Of these guys, I like Adam Jones the most. He's going to be the starter and have every opportunity to play. Lind and Dukes come in next on potential, while Lewis and Dickerson flashed some skills last summer, but the jury is still out on them.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SP - Manny Parra MIL, Jonathan Sanchez SF, Max Scherzer ARI</span> - Again, I'm sure there are a ton more names that could go on this list, but these guys again showed enough last year to warrant sleeper status. Scherzer has the pedigree, but may not have the opportunity or be healthy enough to produce right away. Parra could be worth a spot, but my vote goes to Sanchez. I love his strike out potential and as Tim Lincecum has shown, you can win in SF.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">RP - Jonathan Broxton LAD, Chris Perez STL, Jensen Lewis CLE</span> - It seems like this year there are more potential closers to choose from than ever. These three youngsters got their shot last year and for the most part performed well. Lewis will most likely be setting up Kerry Wood this year, but he still holds some value because of his ratios and K's. Perez is still young and it doesn't sound like LaRussa has complete confidence in him as the main man. Broxton is hands down the best option of this bunch. He's been an excellent set up man for a few years and now he gets his chance to shine. Grab him with confidence as your #2 closer.<br /><br />Not all of these guys will pan out this year, but I'm betting on more than a few to break out in a major way, just like the McLouths, Hamiltons and Kinslers of last year. Good luck.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-8677738183307373841?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-17460723385206607822009-01-28T12:49:00.004-05:002009-01-28T13:03:41.060-05:00Here are a few more tips as we get closer to the start of the season.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Keep up with the latest news</span> - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Nothing is</span> worse than drafting a guy only to realize that he's going to start the season on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">DL</span> thanks to a off the field injury in the off season. It only takes a few minutes each week to get up to speed on the latest happenings around major league baseball. I like to check out <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">rotoworld</span>.com for any hot stories or breaking news. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pay some attention to spring training action </span>- We've all heard that spring training stats are meaningless, but there are some signs to watch for during these games. How are certain guys rebounding from last season's injury? Who is the manager using after the starting pitcher? It's not usually who gets the saves in spring training, it's usually who the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">manager</span> goes to after the starter is done for the day. Is that hot rookie getting playing time? These are just a few things to watch for as the games get going. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Refine your rankings and practice drafting</span> - After you're gone through and moved a few guys around based on your gut as well as who you'd rather draft, it's time to put it to the test. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Mockdraftcentral</span>.com is an excellent place to try out your draft strategy. They offer free mock drafting almost every half hour, with serious people and quality results. Try drafting from a few different draft positions and see what happens. Try taking a SP first. Mix things up to see how your teams ends up. It'll give you a rough idea of when you can wait on guys and when you need to jump on that guy a few rounds earlier. Obviously ever league is different, so you have to know where your league might be different, but this is a good place to start.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Get to know your <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">league mates</span> </span>- This seems obvious, but unless you're in a league full of long time friends, chances are these guys you're playing with are strangers. It could be a phone call, email or an instant message, but make contact with as many <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">league mates</span> as you can. It'll build some kind of relationship that will come in handy down the road. After all, this is supposed to be fun. I've met people all over the world through fantasy baseball.<br /><br />Next time I'll run through some of my initial thoughts on some sleepers and busts and give a little clearer definition on each.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-1746072338520660782?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-38285935156121793062009-01-24T16:19:00.003-05:002009-01-24T16:36:17.367-05:00Before you know it spring training will be here. Now is the perfect time to start getting your rankings started and prepping for your draft(s). I'll go through a few things I like to do to get ready for the season. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Know your league rules</span> This seems like an obvious one, but you'd be surprised how many people don't realize that there are 12 teams instead of 10 or that your league starts 5 OFs instead of 3. It never hurts to run through the roster requirements as well as your scoring system. It could effect who you take in the draft or when you draft a certain position. If you've been in a league for a while, you can still check with your commissioner on any changes to the rules this year.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start with a deep list of players at each position</span> I like to start my draft prep by grabbing list of at least the top 30 players at each position. OF, RP and SP are obviously deeper, but it depends on what your roster requirements are. I usually just grab the list from one of the major sites (mlb.com is a good place to start). I also try and grab a list of the top prospects that have a chance to either make a roster this spring or to be called up during the year. These guys might not be draft worthy, but you'll need to familiarize yourself with the names in case you hear them later as potential call ups or if they tear up the Catcus league. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Quickly re rank players based on your gut reaction</span> This is going to change, but I like to get my initial reaction to the rankings and adjust them by which players I'd rather draft and which I'd rather pass on. This gives you a quick run down of who you'd likely to draft if you had to. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Scan a few sleeper, bust and breakout lists </span>Be careful when doing this that you don't get too swayed by one person's opinion. I like to get a broad range of opinions so I can form my own opinion when the draft comes around. This also gets you familiar with some of the hot names that might go earlier than they should. It could also provide a list of guys who might be bargains.<br /><br />Next I'll dive into the stats and how to make sense of the numbers. It can be overwhelming, I'll try to make it a little easier. I'll be pulling for the Cardinals next Sunday as the NFL season comes to a close. That should signal that opening day isn't that far off.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-3828593515612179306?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-12062560884643744532009-01-18T16:31:00.007-05:002009-01-18T17:05:28.283-05:00After a fun and wild football season, I'm back to talk fantasy baseball. With pitchers and catchers reporting in only 24 days, spring training is just around the corner. I wanted to start off the 2009 season by reviewing some of the biggest names that have changed teams and the impact that could make on their stats. New York's teams have seen most of the biggest signings, so let's start there...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">C.C. </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Sabathia</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> SP </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">NYY</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">, Mark </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Teixeira</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> 1b </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">NYY</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> &amp; A.J. Burnett SP </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">NYY</span> - We'll start with the Yankees who are back in the game with a big splash this off season. Getting arguably 2 of the best SP options, as well as one of the best free agent bats, give the Yankees a huge makeover in one fail swoop. They'll still have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Arod</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Jeter</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Cano</span> and the rest, but with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Teixeira</span> they get a legit power option to replace Jason <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Giambi</span> and solidify the 1b position. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Teixeira</span> can hit anywhere, so this move doesn't boost his value a ton, but hitting in that lineup is bound to help his numbers. The pitchers' value should get a bigger bump because of the run support they're likely to get, as well as having Mariano Rivera closing games. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Sabathia</span> will still go as one of the top 5 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">SPs</span>, while Burnett's still an injury risk, but could give you solid numbers if you're willing to take the risk.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fransisco Rodriguez RP </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">NYM</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> &amp; J.J. Putz RP </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">NYM</span> - The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Mets</span> made their own splash across town by adding 2 of the best bullpen arms available. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">KRod</span> maintains his top position in the closer rankings but coming off a career high in saves should give you a slight pause if you're planning to draft him. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Putz's</span> value takes a huge hit as he'll set up <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">KRod</span> now, but he's worth grabbing later as he could fill in nicely if <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">KRod</span> were to get injured.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matt Holiday OF OAK</span> - Another of the top bats moves from the friendly confines of COL to the spacious OF in OAK. We all know the perception that Coors Field has, but we also know that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Holliday</span> can hit anywhere. It's yet to be seen how much of a hit his value will take, but I'm betting on him still putting up 1st or 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">nd</span> round numbers. He could be a steal if he falls to far.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kerry Wood RP </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">CLE</span> - After a great comeback with the Cubs last year as a closer, he was shipped to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">CLE</span> to take over there. He's always an injury risk, but proved he could handle the role well last year. I'd be willing to gamble on him again, but make sure you grab some insurance late.<br /><br />Those are just a few of the big names that have changed teams this off season. We're still waiting for Manny Ramirez to sign, but where ever he lands he should produce, as long as he's happy.<br /><br />I'll be back soon to layout my writing plan for the year as well as touch on some draft tips as we get closer to the start of spring training. Stay tuned.<br /><br />I also wanted to take this opportunity to plug a couple of great sites to check out. <a href="www.fantasybaseballtrademarket.com">www.fantasybaseballtrademarket.com</a> as well as <a href="www.mockdraftcentral.com">www.mockdraftcentral.com</a> are a couple of great places to start your <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">preparations</span> for the 2009 season.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-1206256088464374453?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-48315062031096101022009-01-07T19:48:00.005-05:002009-01-07T20:26:31.367-05:00I'm back after a vacation break and wanted to wrap up the 2008 season by looking ahead to 2009. Let's take a quick look at what could be next year's first round. <br /><br />1) Adrian Peterson RB MIN - If leading the league in rushing is considered a down year, then I can't wait to see with AP does in a good year. He'll be 24 in 2009 and still has room for improvement. If MIN gets a professional QB, look out. You won't be disappointed with this #1 overall selection.<br /><br />2) Micheal Turner RB ATL - What else can you say about Turner and the whole ATL team? They shocked everyone and made the playoffs this year. Turner evolved into a stud in the 2nd half after a few down weeks early on and can only build on his break out year. <br /><br />3) Maurice Jones-Drew RB JAC - With Fred Taylor out of the picture, MJD is set to be a stud next year. I could see him take a huge step in production as the Jags bounce back after a disappointing season.<br /><br />4) DeAngelo Williams RB CAR - Wow. He was clearly the #1 RB this year after a huge season that saw many multiple TD games and some big yardage totals as well. It's yet to be determined how much more work Jonathan Stewart might see next year, but you can't argue with the results so far. <br /><br />5) Matt Forte RB CHI - Forte brought a new dimension to the Bears' offense this year and should continue to see his production increase next year. With the added value his pass catching ability brings, Forte is a solid #1 RB next year.<br /><br />6) Brian Westbrook RB PHI - If not for his continuing injuries he'd be right up there with AP. No one can argue with his production, but with the uncertainty of McNabb his ranking is uncertain.<br /><br />7) Frank Gore RB SF - SF is another team on the rise and if Shaun Hill can solidify the QB position, Gore's potential could still be realized. He's a great #1 option with upside.<br /><br />8) Andre Johnson WR HOU - The first WR off the board really stepped up this year and finally connected with Matt Schaub at a new level. With the emergence of Slaton, Walters and Daniels, HOU finally has the weapons to keep the pressure off of Schaub and the double coverage away from AJ. <br /><br />9) Marion Barber RB DAL - This stud RB slides down the list after an up-and-down year that brought some injuries and the emergence of 2 quality backs behind him. I wouldn't worry too much about Choice or Jones next year, but be sure to grab one of them. I could see a similar situation to the Giants' this year, but Barber is still the guy to own<br /><br />10) Drew Brees QB NO - Brees finally showed his potential this year as the Saints offense exploded despite missing its' best WR and RB for a majority of the year. The sky is the limit next year if Colston can stay healthy and their defense doesn't get any better.<br /><br />11) Steve Slaton RB HOU - Slaton had to overcome a number of obstacles this year and really showed his value for HOU. He's a dual threat that can get the tough yards inside as well. HOU is on the rise and Slaton will be a major part of it.<br /><br />12) Chris Johnson RB TEN - The 3rd rookie RB to move into the first round, Johnson would be much higher if not for Lendale White. I expect his touches to increase and White's to decrease, but White should still get the goal line work. That will keep him from moving into the top 5...yet.<br /><br />There you have it. You'll notice some big names that didn't make the list (LT, Addai and Jackson), but they could provide huge value in the 2nd round if you're lucky enough to have them fall in your lap. <br /><br />Now onto baseball, but I'll be back to talk football around draft time.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-4831506203109610102?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-31170847328915100412008-12-20T13:14:00.004-05:002008-12-20T13:41:44.167-05:00<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ok</span>, here we are, week 16. This should be the final week of the season. I know some of you might have games next week, but my preference is to move it up to week 16. It just makes things much easier. Anyway, onto my recommendations. We've got a number of injured stars again this week and that makes some interesting decisions come Sunday. There will also be a bunch of game-time decisions as well, so watch the news on Sunday morning.<br /><br />Start<br /><br />Shaun Hill QB SF - Hill had a down week last week by not throwing a TD pass since he took over as the starter. That should change this week as the 49<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ers</span> head to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">STL</span> to face a defeated Rams team. With Frank Gore looking iffy, look for Hill to get multiple <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">TDs</span> and he may even run one in. (265 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">TDs</span>, 1 INT)<br /><br />Pierre Thomas RB NO - You could be looking at the fantasy playoff MVP after taking over for Reggie Bush and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Duece</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">McAllister</span>. This week would culminate a dominating few weeks for Thomas and with the Lions' on tap, that looks very likely. Don't hesitate to start him over most of this year's first round picks. (125 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">TDs</span>)<br /><br />Sammy Morris RB NE - Another late round sleeper has emerged again as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">NE's</span> main man. There are 2 other backs in NE getting carries, but Morris is the goal line guy and the #1 RB as well. Look for NE to pound the ball to keep Warner and company off the field this week. (85 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Jerricho</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Cotchery</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">NYJ</span> - It's tough to recommend any Jets <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">receiver</span> after what's been a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">disappointed</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">stretch</span> of games, but this is the week <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Favre</span> should bounce back and I think <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Cotchery</span> should be the main beneficiary. (75 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br />Kevin Walter <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">HOU</span> - As strange as it may sound, Walter has alternated weeks of productivity this year. He had a down week last week, so look for a rebound game vs OAK. I could see <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">OAK's</span> main cover guy, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Nmandi</span> what's his face, on Andre Johnson most of the game and that would allow Walter to get open deep. (85 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br />Sit<br /><br />Tony <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Romo</span> QB DAL - I know anyone would have a hard time benching <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Romo</span> in your championship, but if I had a quality back up I might consider it. He came through last week vs NY, but <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">BAL</span> is a much tougher assignment. Look for modest numbers from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">Romo</span> at best and the potential for a down week.<br /><br />Larry Johnson RB KC - Since returning from his "suspension" <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">LJ</span> hasn't quite lit the world on fire. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">KC's</span> new offense doesn't feature the RB and really doesn't fit Johnson quite as well. They are passing first and with MIA, that's how you beat them. I could see KC playing catch up for most of the day and that would further limit <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">LJ's</span> upside.<br /><br />Willie Parker RB PIT - You might be tempted to get Parker back in your starting lineup after the news of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">TEN's</span> run stopper being out, but I'd give that a second thought. Parker has only 1 TD since week one and he is still splitting the carries with M. Moore. Even Gary Russell is a threat to steal a TD or two, so find another option for this week.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">Anquan</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">Boldin</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">WR</span> ARI - After missing practice this week, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">Boldin</span> looks very iffy for the game in NE. ARI can't really improve their position, so you might see them play it safe with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">Boldin</span> and possibly even Kurt Warner. The weather also could play a factor in limiting <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">ARI's</span> passing game. Those are all red flags for this all-pro <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_37">WR</span>.<br /><br />Santana Moss <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_38">WR</span> WAS - He finally got back in the end zone last week and his owners might feel like he's back and ready to dominate like earlier in the season. There are just a few problems with that. One, he suffered a minor concussion which limited him in the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_39">nd</span> half of last week's game (although he has practice without incident this week). Second, he's facing PHI the team that held him without a catch the last time these two teams met. Again, too many red flags for me to trust him in week 16.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-3117084732891510041?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-7243068383953067492008-12-16T13:57:00.005-05:002008-12-16T18:28:26.903-05:00This is our last installment of Tuesday's Take for the 2008 season and if you're still reading, then you must be playing for something. Whether it's the championship or just for pride, there could still be some guys on the wire that can help. Last week a few guys made a big difference in those matchups. Guys like Pierre Thomas, Dominic Rhodes and Kevin Faulk had huge weeks to carry their owners on. If you aren't lucky enough to have them, these guys could give you a solid option to plug into your lineup in week 16.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">DeShaun Foster RB SF</span> - Frank Gore sat out last week's game vs MIA and Foster put up solid production against a tough MIA D. If Gore is out again this week, Foster could be a solid RB #2 if you're desperate at RB. SF gets to play STL who is battling DET for the top pick in next year's draft.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tashard Choice RB DAL </span>- He's probably not available, but if he is grab him immediately. We don't know Marion Barber's status this week, but we do know Choice played great this past week vs NY. He's a threat to catch a few passes as well as run up the middle.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Deion Branch WR SEA</span> - Left for dead earlier in the year, Branch as responded over the last few weeks as Seneca Wallace has emerged. He should continue to be the #1 guy in SEA and a solid #3 WR for you in the last week of the season.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dennis Northcutt WR JAC</span> - Someone had to step up when Matt Jones was finally suspended and Northcutt filled that roll this week. It would take some guts to start him this week, but he's worth the pick up if you're desperate.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dan Orlophsky QB DET</span> - DET held their own this week vs IND and this week is their best chance to get that elusive first win. Orlophsky has shown that he can run this offense and get Megatron the ball. He's been pretty good at avoiding the INT as well, so this week vs NO could be a great time to give him the ball...again only if you're desperate.<br /><br />Good luck and look for some championship starts and sits in a few days.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-724306838395306749?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-70686073856408396502008-12-13T15:12:00.007-05:002008-12-13T15:30:04.515-05:00"Playoffs!?!" This is it. All of your hard work starting back in August comes down to this weekend and the next, hopefully. It's not time to get cute with who you start, but you do need to be aware of who's hurting and who's starting. I'll touch on a few as we look at who to start and who to sit in week 15.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Matt Cassell QB NE</span> - After a stretch of unbelievable games, Cassell came back to earth recently. Look for him to rebound @ OAK this week. It appears to be a tough match up on paper, but I think NE dominates and you know Randy Moss would love to put up some big numbers against his former team. (255 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Micheal Turner RB ATL</span> - There shouldn't be any more doubt about Turner or the Falcons, especially at home. CAR exposed the Bucs defense last week and look for Ryan test the secondary early and open up some running lanes for Turner. I could see multiple TDs this week. (85 yards, 2 TDs)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dominic Rhodes RB IND</span> - Joseph Addai looks like he'll miss this week's game and if you're a Rhodes owner you couldn't be happier. IND gets my Lions at home this week and you know how well opposing RBs do vs DET (just ask TEN). If Rhodes gets the majority of the carries this week, he could produce top 5 numbers. (125 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Antonio Bryant WR TBY</span> - You might be a little leary about starting a WR that exploded last week for 200 yards and 2 TDs, but he might be TBY's only legit weapon outside of Dunn. If ATL gets up early on TBY, look for Bryant to be heavily involved once again. Don't expect a repeat of last week, but he should be solid. (105 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Davone Bess WR MIA</span> - He's taken over for Greg Camarillo in MIA and established his role as MIA's #1 WR. This week vs SF, he should find lots of room and at the very least put up some good yardage numbers. He might not score, but that shouldn't keep you from plugging him in. (95 yards)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Brett Favre QB NYJ</span> - I just wouldn't feel comfortable relying on Favre in my fantasy playoffs. He's disappointed the last few weeks and I think the Jets get back to running the ball down BUF's throat. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Willie Parker RB PIT </span>- Willie called out his team this week for not playing "Steelers' football", but it's just that he's not the only one running the ball these days. This is now a full blown committee and when you're facing a team like BAL, I'd look elsewhere.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Frank Gore RB SF</span> - After injury his ankle last week, Gore looks like at the very least a game-time decision on Sunday. He might not even make the trip to MIA, so watch the news. I'd stay clear regardless if he starts.<br /><br /><span class="label-list"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Laveranues Coles WR NYJ</span> - I'm not trying to pile on the Jets, but the whole passing game (outside of D. Keller) has taken a down turn. Following Favre has been Coles. There are 36 WRs I'd rather start this week.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Santonio Holmes WR PIT </span>- Holmes just hasn't exploded this year like many thought coming into the year. He hasn't produced solid numbers the last few weeks, but he's just not dependable especially against the Raven's secondary.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-7068607385640839650?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-2526264181253503152008-12-04T16:22:00.005-05:002008-12-04T20:21:30.780-05:00Week 14. In many leagues this is week 1 of the playoffs, so either you're still in the hunt or on the outside (and must be pretty dedicated to still be reading this blog). At this point you need to win at all costs and sometimes that means making that tough choice to bench a guy who isn't healthy or is playing awful. Here are some options for this week and also some guys you might want to consider benching.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tyler <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Thigpen</span> QB KC</span> - He's slowed down over the last few weeks, but don't let that scare you away from calling his number this week vs DEN. I'd call him a top 10 QB this week with a favorable <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">matchup</span>, despite Champ Bailey's potential return. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">KC's</span> new offense, which includes Larry Johnson, should be able to move the ball vs DEN and with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">DEN's</span> offense putting up points, might need to air it out to keep up. Add in the fact that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Thigpen</span> should get you a few points on the ground, you have a recipe for success. (235 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">TDs</span>, 1 INT, 30 rushing yards)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Peyton <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Hillis</span> RB DEN</span> - On the other side of the ball, Mike <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Shanahan</span> has found another gem. The 3rd RB at Arkansas last year (behind McFadden and Jones) has emerged into a solid options for the Broncos. He's got the power to get the tough yards, enough speed to break off some long runs and even the pass catching ability to keep him in there on 3rd downs. Last week he was the only DEN RB to get carries. When was the last time that happened? (85 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tim <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Hightower</span> RB ARI</span> - We all anointed him the next great rookie RB after he exploded onto the scene a few weeks ago. He hasn't exactly followed up on that breakout performance, but this might be the week he does it. That breakout performance came against the team he faces this week in the Rams. You know Warner would love to stick it to his team again, so I could see ARI getting up big quick and then pounding <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Hightower</span> the whole second half. (125 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Amani</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Toomer</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">NYG</span></span> - I talked about <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Hixon</span> on Tuesday as the news of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Burress</span> hit the wire, but <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Toomer</span> was the one who got the long TD last week and I think both <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">WRs</span> have value this week. I'd rather have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Toomer</span> starting, but it's close. Both should have solid weeks. (90 yards)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matt Jones <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">JAC</span></span> - I honestly don't understand how the NFL works. Jones was suspended for 3-4 games almost 6 weeks ago, yet he's still suiting up for the Jaguars...and putting up numbers once again. He topped 100 yards last week and I'm guessing he does it again. (115 yards)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Marion Barber RB DAL</span> - After going down with the injury last week, Barber appeared to be a safe start this week, but after missing practice today he could be a game-time decision. Add this to the fact that he's facing the #1 defense in the league and it adds up to a sit for me.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Willie Parker RB PIT </span>- Another injury risk as well as a full blown committee in PIT <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">steers</span> me away from this guy. At this point in the playoffs you can't take any chances.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Schaub</span> QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">HOU</span></span> - After sitting out the last 5 weeks, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Schaub</span> looks set to return this week vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">GBY</span>. I just don't trust putting my playoff life on a guy in his first week back from injury, on the road and facing a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">GBY</span> in December.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Santana Moss <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">WR</span> WAS</span> - Moss has really slowed down over the last month. This week WAS gets to face another tough D in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">BAL</span>. With Jason Campbell slowing down as well, you just can't rely on Moss delivering top <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">WR</span> numbers in this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">matchup</span>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-252626418125350315?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-90346858334719301302008-12-02T16:42:00.004-05:002008-12-02T17:01:47.356-05:00I hope everyone had a nice holiday weekend. I got to watch my Lions get "carved" up on Thanksgiving by the Titans and at the same time watch <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Lendale</span> White end my fantasy season in one league. I'm still not sure how I missed the playoffs with a team of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Brees</span>, Turner, Parker/Moore, Marshall, S. Moss and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Colston</span> and while having the 3rd highest point total, but here I am on the outside looking in. I guess that's fantasy football...mostly luck and this year the majority of mine was bad. Oh well, I'm still here to help those of you who are left. We'll start by looking at a few <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">RBs</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">WRs</span> that could come up big for you in the playoffs.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Tashard</span> Choice RB DAL</span> - The 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">nd</span> DAL rookie RB to have value this year behind Marion Barber, Choice stepped in well for Barber this week and could have more value if Barber's injury is serious. Grab him even if you aren't a Barber owner because anything can happen in the fantasy playoffs, especially on a high-octane DAL offense.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brandon Jackson RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">GBY</span></span> - Another valuable hand-cuff, Jackson stepped in for Grant this week and ran really well vs a tough CAR D. I'd be happy to grab either of these <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">RBs</span> for their upside alone. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Domenik</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Hixon</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">NYG</span></span> - This is his second appearance here, but with the new <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Plaxico</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Burress</span> news, his value is secure for the rest of the season. Eli looks like he's rounding into playoff form like last year and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Hixon</span> looks to be the heir apparent to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Burress</span> for this season and possibly next.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Davone</span> Bess <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">WR</span> MIA</span> - As soon as Greg <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Camarillo</span> was lost for the season, Bess stepped right in and showed his big play potential. Pennington has looked his way early and often in the last 2 games and that shouldn't change anytime soon. MIA has a great schedule ahead and Bess could be a solid #3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">WR</span> with upside, especially in PPR leagues.<br /><br />That's all I've got this week. I'd recommend grabbing your stud's back up, just in case something crazy happens. That means Chester Taylor, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Jerious</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Norwood</span>, Fred Jackson, and the two <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">RBs</span> I mention above shouldn't be on your wire.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-9034685833471930130?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-28672123141182173312008-11-25T12:56:00.005-05:002008-11-25T15:58:55.926-05:00We had some high scoring games this weekend, so make sure you take the numbers of those waiver wire guys with a grain of salt. I do have some guys that you should look to add to your bench. We always seems to have an out-of-nowhere guy explode during the fantasy playoff weeks.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maurice Morris RB SEA</span> - After Shaun Alexander was cut in the off season, SEA brought in Julius Jones and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">TJ</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Duckett</span>, but it appears that the only guy still around from last year could be the only one standing in the backfield. I think Morris does get the majority of the work from here on out. I'd grab him on the off chance you need a starter in week 15 when he gets to rip through the Rams.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kevin </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Faulk</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> RB NE</span> - He always seems to be available and is usually good for 7-10 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">pts</span> each week and even more in a PPR league. When he actually gets in the end zone, his potential is pretty good. I don't usually recommend any NE RB, but I think <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Faulk</span> is going to be the most <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">consistent</span> RB to own.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Jabar</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Gaffney</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">WR</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> NE</span> - Here's another Patriot that could be valuable as we come to the start of the playoffs. With Matt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Cassell</span> breaking out, the offense is coming close to last year's crew. They might come crashing back to earth this week vs PIT, but <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Gaffney</span> could be a solid #3 in the playoffs.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dominic </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Hixon</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">WR</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">NYG</span> - We all know how unreliable <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Plaxico</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Burress</span> can be, even Eli Manning, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Hixon</span> appears to be his heir apparent and is getting more playing time. I could see him starting soon if <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Plax</span> shuts it down for any amount of time.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-2867212314118217331?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-25626706892901949742008-11-21T10:19:00.003-05:002008-11-21T10:36:52.888-05:00Week 12 is here and it’s do or die for the playoffs. For the most part, you stick with your studs, but at this point you might need to start Peyton <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Hillis</span> over Chris Johnson if you need a win. Here are a few more guys to plug in and a few to sit down.<br /><br />Start<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Aaron Rogers QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">GBY</span> </span>– Last week <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">GBY</span> made a statement vs CHI and I could see them light up the scoreboard again this week vs a weak NO’s team on Monday Night. Strange things happen when you go on the road on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">MNF</span>, but I don’t think we’ll see Rogers having much trouble throwing to Jennings and Driver. (275 yards, 3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">TDs</span>, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">DeAngelo</span> Williams RB CAR</span> – He’s been on a mission over the last few weeks and this could be another big week. He’ll go on the road to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">ATL</span> and CAR will look to control the clock and keep Matt Ryan and Michael Turner off the field. With the erratic play of Jake <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Delhomme</span>, I could see another big week for both <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">RBs</span> in CAR. (125 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Derrick Ward RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">NYG</span></span> – Earth, wind and fire has arrived in NY and with Brandon Jacobs a question mark this week and with the Giants facing ARI, I could see Ward catching quite a few balls as well. Ward should see plenty of work in the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">nd</span> half if NY is winning and could be the best RB on Sunday for the Giants. (115 combined yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Santana Moss <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">WR</span> WAS </span>– He disappointed many owners last week (including me!!!), but he should rebound in a big way this week vs SEA. You know Jim Zorn would love to destroy his old team and with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Portis</span> still dealing with the knee, I think Jason Campbell will look to Chris Cooley and Santana Moss early and often on Sunday. (135 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wes <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Welker</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">WR</span> MIA</span> – He’s been the most valuable <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">WR</span> in NE this year and Matt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Cassell</span> knows that he can find <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Welker</span> when he gets in trouble. Over the last few weeks the NE offense has really started to put things together and this week he should find <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Welker</span> as well. MIA has struggled in the secondary and that should continue this week. (85 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matt Ryan QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">ATL</span></span> – When <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">ATL</span> played CAR the first time around Ryan was still trying to play the QB position. He’s come a long way since that first meeting, but I still think CAR will give him trouble. (225 yards, 1 TD, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">INTs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brian Westbrook RB PHI </span>– He’s been a huge disappointment over the last few weeks after coming out strong after his earlier injury. You just can’t risk him sitting or playing sparingly at this point. He might even be shut down for a while.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tim <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Hightower</span> RB ARI</span> – After his break out performance vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">STL</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">Hightower</span> has been extremely disappointing over the last few weeks. He’s even given up work to J. J. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">Arrington</span> and with ARI likely throwing the ball 40+ times this week, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">Arrington</span> will probably be involved more again. (45 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">Laveranues</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">Coles</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">NYJ</span></span> – Another guy battling injuries and missing practices, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">Coles</span> looks iffy again to play this week. I think he’ll gut it out, but with the emergence of Dustin Keller and Jericho <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">Cotchery</span>, his stats won’t be there. (30 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">TDs</span>)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-2562670689290194974?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-73404830462693528582008-11-18T14:31:00.006-05:002008-11-18T15:38:01.563-05:00Well, here we are heading into week 12 of the fantasy season. Most leagues have 2 weeks to go before the playoffs start, so it's almost a must win situation for most teams. The good news is that there are still guys likely available that could help you either get in or win in the playoffs. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Shaun Hill QB SF</span> - This week Hill took advantage of a weak <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">STL</span> D and put up good numbers. This won't be the case every week, but you could do worse as an emergency QB down the stretch. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">SF's</span> schedule isn't bad and with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Martz</span> running the show, Hill has value.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">J.J. </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Arington</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> RB ARI</span> - What happened to Tim <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Hightower</span>? I'm not sure, but it appears that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Arington</span> has passed Edge in the pecking order in ARI. I could see him splitting carries with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Hightower</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">diminishing</span> the value of both. I think we've seen his best week of the year, but it's never a bad thing to grab a RB in a great offense like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">ARI's</span>. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Warrick</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Dunn RB </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">TBY</span> - Earnest Graham is likely done for the year and Dunn is healthy just in time to take over. He still likely won't get all of the carries, but he's the back you want in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">TBY</span>. With a great match up this week vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">DET</span>, he should provide solid #2 RB numbers the rest of the way...if he can stay healthy. If he can't, then the job could go to the now "healthy" <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Cadillac</span> Williams. I'm skeptical. He still hasn't made an appearance yet and my super sleeper could be B.J. Askew. He'll likely be the goal line back and could catch some passes too.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Justin Gage </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">WR</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> TEN </span>- Has TEN turned into an aerial offense? Not likely, but teams are stacking the box to shut down the running game and Collins has responded. Gage is his main target as shown by his break out performance this week. I like his chances of putting up solid #3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">WR</span> numbers the rest of the way and their schedule is favorable. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Jabar</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Gaffney</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">WR</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> NE</span> - Matt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Cassell</span> appears to be finally putting things together in the passing game. He hasn't lit up the scoreboard like Brady, but he's been decent and this week had a really good week. Moss and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Welker</span> get most of the attention, but if <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Cassell</span> can go through his reads, he might be able to find <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Gaffney</span> more. I wouldn't count on him every week, but could be a sneaky start if you're hurting at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">WR</span>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-7340483046269352858?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-36347176930270440302008-11-15T13:02:00.005-05:002008-11-15T14:33:52.474-05:00Sorry for this being a day late, but better late than never. As we head into week 11 there are some returning stars and some big question marks. Make sure you check the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">inactives</span> on Sunday.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tony </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Romo</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> QB DAL</span> - He's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">baaaack</span> and not a moment too late. The whole DAL offense should rebound this week in a must win game vs WAS. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Romo</span> has practiced all week and looks like a safe play in his first game back. I see this game as a potential shoot out as well. (275 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">TDs</span>, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matt Forte RB CHI </span>- Forte should be a major factor in the CHI plans this week vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">GBY</span>. Kyle <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Orten</span> appears to be healthy and should start. Look for them to pound <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">GBY</span> with the run and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Orten</span> to utilize Forte in the passing game as he eases his way back into the flow. I wouldn't expect big numbers, but he should be a solid starter on Sunday. (100 total yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ronnie Brown RB MIA</span> - Over the last few weeks Brown's yards and carries have decreased, but he's still be able to the some scores. This week MIA gets OAK at home and both Brown and Williams should get enough carries to justify starting them both as your RB #2. (85 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mark Bradley </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">WR</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> KC</span> - One of my pick ups of the week has a perfect match up this week and could be a sneaky play as your #3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">WR</span>. KC gets NO at home and with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Thigpen</span> running the spread offense well, Bradley figures to get plenty of targets. With this game also a potential shootout, grab as many KC and NO players as you can. (110 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Antonio Bryant </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">WR</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">TBY</span> - MIN should shut down the running game of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">TBY</span>, forcing Garcia to put it up for most of the game. I can see Bryant getting loose for at least one deep ball if not two. (90 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br />Sit<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Larry Johnson RB KC</span> - Here's another guy returning from...whatever was holding him out, but I would stay away at least for this week. NO is a good match up, but we're not sure how much <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">LJ will</span> play or if he'll be productive. Take a wait and see approach and if he's back at full speed don't hesitate to play him down the stretch. (45 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">LaDainian</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Tomlinson</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> RB SD</span> - After his break out performance across the pond, he disappointed last week in a great match up vs KC. This week should be another tough go for LT vs the stout PIT D. Unless he gets plenty of catches, don't look for a great day on Sunday. (65 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ted </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Ginn</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Jr. </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">WR</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> MIA</span> - If we know one thing about the OAK D, it's that they have the best cover corner in the game. I won't try and type it, but we do know that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Ginn</span> will be matched up against him. Some much better <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">WRs</span> have been shut down this year, so don't look for Pennington to press his luck in what should be a MIA win. (35 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">TDs</span>)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-3634717693027044030?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-32186294433477197082008-11-11T15:20:00.003-05:002008-11-11T15:29:24.962-05:00This week we've got some guys who have been putting up the numbers, but it's time to take them seriously and a few guys that are back on our radar. Let's jump right in.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tyler </span>Thigpen<span style="font-weight: bold;"> QB KC</span> - Coming off my start recommendation last week, he's been a top 5 QB over the lasts 5 weeks and with their new spread offense has really starting clicking with his WRs and TE. KC has a very nice schedule down the stretch and I can see Thigpen giving you solid #2 and low end #1 QB numbers. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ricky Williams RB MIA</span> - He was the starter coming into the season, but after Ronnie Brown took the job over he might have been dropped in your league. These backs are still splitting carries and both could be viable starting options down the stretch. If one gets hurt, the other could be a top 10 back come playoff time as well. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mark Bradley WR KC</span> - Another product of the resurgent KC offense, this Bears' cast off has new found life in KC. With Bowe and Gonzalez keeping defenses busy, Bradley has emerged as a consistent weapon for Thigpen. He's not just getting yards either. Look for him to continue as a solid #3 WR option.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Josh Morgan WR SF </span>- My sleeper WR of the preseason is finally back, healthy and starting. He's scored 2 TDs in his last 3 games and might have, new starter, Shaun Hill's eye. We've seen what he can do and now is his chance to prove it. New coach Mike Singletary is going to want to see what his young players can do, so I don't think you'll see him sitting anytime soon.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dustin Keller TE NYJ</span> - Another preseason sleeper had his coming out party this week vs STL. 6 catches, 106 yards and a TD are certainly the numbers we expected from him with Favre at the helm. He's lining up at WR positions and could continue to see more balls, especially in the red zone.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-3218629443347719708?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-70144967847603142952008-11-07T15:10:00.003-05:002008-11-07T16:55:59.930-05:00<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ok</span>, now it’s crunch time. You’re either sitting good at 7-2 or 6-3 and well positioned to make the playoff, you’re at 1-8 or 2-7 and pretty much sure you’re done for this year, or you’re somewhere in the middle and need to start winning in order to secure your spot in the playoffs. With the last group of you, it’s time to take a few chances and go for broke. Here are some options that should help you do that.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tyler <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Thigpen</span> QB KC</span> – I’m not sure I could have envisioned a moment before the season when I would be recommending a KC QB, but here we are. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Thigpen</span> has weapons (Gonzo and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Bowe</span>), almost no running game and will be up against a soft secondary in SD. They will likely be playing catch up as well. All of these bode well for a surprisingly solid effort on Sunday. (235 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">TDs</span>, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">DeAngelo</span> Williams RB CAR</span> – OAK is falling apart and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">ATL</span> ran all over this team last week. With Jonathan Stewart ailing, look for Williams to run really well this week. I could see <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Delhomme</span> putting up good numbers too, but with CAR up big in the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">nd</span> half look for them to run all day. (135 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tim <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Hightower</span> RB ARI </span>– Here’s yet another rookie RB getting his shot this year. He looked really good last week vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">STL</span> and with Edge not getting any carries, looks like it’s his job for good. They get SF this week at home on Monday Night Football. Look for a breakout performance on prime time. (115 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matt Jones <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">JAC</span> </span>– He’s still hanging around and not getting suspended…yet. Watch the wire, but he looks safe for one more week and it’s a good week to use him. He gets the Lions who are awful vs the pass and is still getting most of the looks from Garrard. (90 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Derrick Mason <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">BAL</span></span> – Yes, he’s still playing and playing really well. The whole <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">BAL</span> team has been a surprise this year and Mason has been Joe <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Flacco</span>’s main target. They get <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">HOU</span> this week and is yet another team vulnerable to the pass. I could see a high scoring game and Mason will be involved for sure. (125 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Trent Edwards QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">BUF</span></span> – Edwards has been solid this year, but this could be a tough week. They get the Patriots on the road this week and we all know how well <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Belichick</span> and scheme for an opposing QB. I think he’ll post solid, but not top 12 QB numbers.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Steven Jackson RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">STL</span> and Willie Parker RB PIT </span>– 2 stud <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">RBs</span> who are still dealing with issues. Jackson <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">hasn</span>’t practiced and looks really doubtful for Sunday. Parker has already been ruled out, so get <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Mewelde</span> Moore in there. I don’t have as much faith in Jackson’s back ups as they could be Kenneth Darby or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">Samkon</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">Gado</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Joseph <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">Addai</span> RB IND </span>– Another stud RB who is slowly rounding into form, but it’s going to take one more week. If you can still buy low after this week, it might be a good idea. They have a good schedule and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">Addai</span>, and the whole IND offense is getting back on track.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">Plaxico</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">Burress</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">NYG</span></span> – Here’s yet another disappointing stud. I’m not sure what’s going on with him, but there are other guys on the Giants that are stepping up. Steve Smith has been the most targeted <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">WR</span> over the last few weeks and even though <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">Burress</span> is still the man, that title might be slipping a bit. This week vs PHI will be a good test for him and Eli. (65 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">TDs</span>)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-7014496784760314295?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-5960585764473370742008-11-06T11:26:00.004-05:002008-11-06T12:32:55.892-05:00Here's a quick update for tonight's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">CLE</span> vs DEN game.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Jamal Lewis RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">CLE</span></span> - How bad is the DEN D? With a rookie QB, look for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">CLE</span> to pound the ball and Lewis to find the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">endzone</span>. ( 75 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ryan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Torain</span> RB DEN</span> - Well, tonight's the night we get to see what this kid can do. If <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Selvin</span> Young is out, look for at least 20 carries. The DEN run game hasn't been good, so don't expect a lot, but if Shaun Rogers is out <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">that'll</span> help. (90 yards, 0 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brady Quinn QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">CLE</span> </span>- Another unproven rookie gets his first start tonight. He couldn't have asked for a better team to start against. DEN gives up over 250 yards to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">QBs</span>, so look for Quinn to use his weapons. (225 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9"><br /><br />Selvin</span> Young RB DEN &amp; Tony <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Scheffler</span> TE DEN</span> - Both of these guys are coming off injuries and are questionable tonight. I think you can afford to wait until <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">game time</span> to see if their playing, but either way I'd look elsewhere.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-596058576447337074?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-74383334780237439252008-11-04T18:48:00.007-05:002008-11-06T12:32:12.127-05:00Wow, lots of QB injuries this week and a few <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">RBs</span> that might be losing their jobs. That gives us plenty of hot picks ups this week. I'll skip some of the obvious names that are probably on rosters (Tim <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Hightower</span> for one). Let's dive right in.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ray Rice RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">BAL</span></span> - Rice was one of my sleeper rookie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">RBs</span> coming into the season. In fact I took him in my money league and was very excited that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">McGahee</span> wasn't 100% to start the season. He got his shot right off the bat. One problem. He didn't do much and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">McLain</span> stole the show. With <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">McGahee</span> coming back, I thought he had missed his chance at least for this year and dropped him. Well, he's back and he showed this week that he does belong and could be the future in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">BAL</span>. I don't think he takes over completely this year, but he could start again this week.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jamaal Charles RB KC</span> - I've mentioned him before, but the rookie out of Texas might be the only RB standing in KC at least for this week. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Kolby</span> Smith is out for the year and Larry Johnson is out at least one more week. If he plays like he did this week, he could have the job for the rest of the year. I don't see <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">LJ</span> playing many more snaps in KC.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Anthony Gonzalez <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">WR</span> IND</span> - He came into the season primed to take over for Marvin Harrison. Well, that didn't happen, but that doesn't mean he hasn't produced. With Harrison slowing down and Wayne nursing an injury, Gonzo broke out this week with his first 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">TDs</span>. Look for Manning to find him many more times, especially in the red zone.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sage <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Rosenfels</span> QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">HOU</span></span> - In my opinion, he's the best option of the new starting <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">QBs</span>...at least for the short term. He's throwing to arguably the best <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">WR</span> right now, has a solid RB and a top 5 TE. He is prone to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">INTs</span>, but his upside is higher than the rest of the guys. Matt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Schaub</span> is supposedly out for 4 weeks, but it could be longer. Grab Sage now even if you don't need a QB.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brady Quinn QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">BAL</span>, Rex <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Grossman</span> QB CHI, Dante <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Culpepper</span> QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">DET</span>, Byron <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Leftwich</span> QB PIT -</span> I've grouped the rest of these new starting <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">QBs</span> together. I think they're all worth watching with Quinn at the top of the list. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">CLE</span> has a potent offense and if he clicks right away he could surprise like Matt Ryan. Some of these guys might only have the job for a few weeks as well.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-7438333478023743925?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-47777672521674247012008-10-31T10:22:00.003-04:002008-10-31T13:44:08.218-04:00Well, 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, 49<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ers</span>, and Panthers on your bench. Let’s dive in.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Kyle <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Orten</span> QB CH</span>I – One of the biggest surprises at QB of the first half, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Orten</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Orten</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">TDs</span>, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chad Pennington QB MIA </span>– I’m thinking Jets fans might be rethinking their desire to get rid of Pennington for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Favre</span>. Pennington has been much better and far more consistent than <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Favre</span> and a lot of other <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">QBs</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Ginn</span> Jr. (185 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">TDs</span>, 0 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Micheal Turner RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">ATL</span></span> – 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">hasn</span>’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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Earnest Graham RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">TBY</span></span> – KC has given up enormous games to many <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">RBs</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matt Jones <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">JAC</span></span> – We all thought this guy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">wouldn</span>’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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">matchup</span> vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">CIN</span> this week and if he’s starting for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">JAC</span>, he’s starting for me. (75 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bernard <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Berrian</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">WR</span> MIN</span> – <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Berrian</span> has emerged as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Frerotte</span>’s main go to guy and this week’s opponent <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">shouldn</span>’t stand in his way of continuing that trend. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">HOU</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Brett <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">Favre</span> QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">NYJ</span> –</span> Like I mentioned above <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">Favre</span> just <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">isn</span>’t right. He’s throwing a lot, but many of those passes have been going to the other team. NY ‘s offense just <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">isn</span>’t in sync and they get to visit <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">BUF</span> this week. The weather might also be a factor and that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">doesn</span>’t bode well for lots of deep balls. (215 yards, 1 TD, 2 OR 3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">INTs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Clinton <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_37">Portis</span> RB WAS</span> – 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_38">wouldn</span>’t expect the numbers he’s been putting up over the last few weeks. (65 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_39">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ryan Grant RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_40">GBY</span></span> – Another RB facing an extremely tough run defense in TEN. Again, I <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_41">wouldn</span>’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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_42">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Terrell Owens <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_43">WR</span> DAL</span> – 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_44">Romo</span>. Going up against the Giants is a tough task and Brad Johnson just <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_45">doesn</span>’t have the arm strength to get Owens the ball deep. (45 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_46">TDs</span>)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-4777767252167424701?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-59252704671298550402008-10-28T14:25:00.006-04:002008-10-28T16:17:55.567-04:00We'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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Marc </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bulger</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> QB </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">STL</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>- 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Shaun Hill QB SF</span> - 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Donnie Avery WR STL</span> - 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tedd Ginn Jr. WR MIA</span> - 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ryan Torain RB DEN</span> - 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Buy Low</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ronnie Brown RB MIA</span> - 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Marques Colston WR NO</span> - 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.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-5925270467129855040?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-37155947532224500452008-10-24T15:38:00.003-04:002008-10-24T17:44:40.505-04:00Week 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start </span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jeff Garcia QB TBY</span> – 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)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Steve Slaton RB HOU –</span> 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)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thomas Jones RB NYJ </span>– 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)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Nate Washington WR PIT </span>– 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)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Antonio Bryant WR TBY</span> – 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)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matt Ryan QB ATL</span> – 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Willie Parker RB PIT</span> – 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dominic Rhodes RB IND</span> – 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Santonio Holmes WR PIT </span>– 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.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-3715594753222450045?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-1610832208183778612008-10-22T19:51:00.005-04:002008-10-22T20:24:28.246-04:00I 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">insight</span> on how they value their players. Now it's time to act.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />The next thing to look at is your depth. Do you have 4 starting <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">RBs</span>? Do you have 3 quality <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">QBs</span>? Even if you have 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">QBs</span>, 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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Faulk</span> at RB or Bryant Johnson at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">WR</span> week in and week out? Have then been hurt by injuries or suspensions? <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Now's</span> the time to swoop in and make an offer.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">gauge</span> 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.<br /><br />You have to give value to get value. The trick is to buy low and sell high when you can. It's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">ok</span> 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.<br /><br />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.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-161083220818377861?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-9763589493093334222008-10-21T15:56:00.005-04:002008-10-21T16:29:09.183-04:00As 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.<br /><br />Drew <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Brees</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Colston</span> and Jeremy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Shockey</span> were also back, but did little in their return.<br /><br />We also lost Laurence <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Maroney</span> 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.<br /><br />Lots of options this week, so let's dive right in.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Duece</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">McAllister</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">/Pierre Thomas/Aaron </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Stecker</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> RB NO</span> - Might as well start with the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">NO</span> situation. With Bush out for a while, look for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Duece</span> to get the first crack at the job, but don't be surprised if Thomas or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Stecker</span> share the carries. I'd gamble on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Duece</span> first and either of the other guys at least until we see how things shake out this week in London.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jamaal Charles RB KC</span> - While <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Kolby</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">LJ</span> 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Donnie Avery </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">WR</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">STL</span> - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">STL</span> was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">criticized</span> during the draft for taking Avery over the likes of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">DeSean</span> Jackson, but Avery is finally getting his chance thanks to the Drew Bennett injury. With <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Bulger</span> getting healthier and Holt drawing coverage, Avery is getting open with his speed. He could have easily had 3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">TDs</span> this week. Take a flier on this rookie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">WR</span>...as well as the next guy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Josh Morgan </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">WR</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> SF</span> - 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Martz</span> is still running the offense.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mercedes Lewis TE </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">JAC</span> - This year has been rough for the TE position, even for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Witten</span> now with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Romo</span> out. Lewis looks to be finally fulfilling some of his potential with back to back <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">TDs</span> heading into the bye. He gets <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">CLE</span> at home this week and with Matt Jones suspended for 3 games, look for Garrard to look Lewis' way often.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Buy Low</span> - The time is now to find those guys that will be 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">nd</span> half studs at a discounted price.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Marques </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">Colston</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">WR</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> NO</span> - 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 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">nd</span> 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maurice-Jones Drew RB </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">JAC</span> - 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.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-976358949309333422?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-27054552917768158292008-10-17T15:14:00.003-04:002008-10-17T15:37:37.994-04:00After a rough week, I'm ready for the weekend and some football. I'd call my start/sit, just average last week. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Colston</span> was looking good to play, but they kept him out at the last minute. Manning came out of nowhere to destroy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">BAL</span> too. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">IND's</span> offense looks like it's back on track, despite the recent injury to Joseph <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Addai</span>. By the way, grab Dominic Rhodes if he's available and maybe even start him this week. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Ok</span>, 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).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Trent Edwards QB </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">BUF</span> - 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">BUF's</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">TDs</span>, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Mewelde</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Moore RB PIT</span> - 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">CIN</span> D. (115 combined yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chris Johnson RB TEN</span> - 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)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Marques </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Colston</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">WR</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> NO</span> - Let's try this again. I'm very confident <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Colston</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Brees</span> goes to him early and often to get him back into a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">rhythm</span>. 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)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Santonio</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Holmes </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">WR</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> PIT</span> - 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">ala</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Braylon</span> Edwards or Andre Johnson. (125 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jason Campbell QB WAS </span>- 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. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">CLE</span> has an underrated secondary and I think WAS runs Clinton <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Portis</span> all day. He's not a bad start, but I don't see big numbers. (145 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ronnie Brown RB MIA</span> - Another guy that has really exceeded <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">expectations</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">BAL</span> could be a different story. Again, look for modest totals from the Dolphin RB. (65 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Reggie Bush RB NO</span> - It sounds like he'll be fine for Sunday after missing a few practices this week, but going up against <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">CAR's</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dwayne </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">Bowe</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">WR</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> KC</span> - 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">Bowe</span> this week. I don't see KC scoring more than 3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">pts</span> this week and for sure not lighting up the score board through the air. (35 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">TDs</span>)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-2705455291776815829?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-6627422028525400332008-10-14T15:48:00.005-04:002008-10-14T16:00:04.582-04:00A 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brad Johnson QB DAL</span> - It sounds like Tony <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Romo</span> 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kenny Watson RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">CIN</span></span> - Chris Perry was the man early on, but his lack of production and his fumbling issues have caused <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">CIN</span> 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dominic Rhodes RB IND</span> - Joseph <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Addai</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">rejuvenated</span> Colts' offense. Snap him up before the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Addai</span> owner.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Devin Hester <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">WR</span> CHI</span> - After an early season injury, Hester has returned to the starting lineup. Another injury to Brandon Lloyd, he's develop some chemistry to Kyle <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Orten</span>. He won't be <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">consistent</span>, but if your league awards <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">pts</span> for return yards and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">TDs</span>, he could be a solid #2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">WR</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Joey Galloway <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">TBY</span></span> - I know he was dropped in my league (by me), but he could be back in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">TBY</span> lineup soon and his favorite QB is back as well. It appears Jeff Garcia has wrestled the job away from Brian <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Griese</span> and we all know how well Garcia and Galloway work together.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Buy Low</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ryan Grant, Jay Cutler, Peyton Manning</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sell High</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Larry Johnson, Matt Forte, Brett <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Favre</span></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-662742202852540033?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-47645872649273834252008-10-10T14:53:00.005-04:002008-10-10T18:38:04.594-04:00This week will be short and sweet this week. Start most of your studs, but here are some guys you could plug in as well.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Gus <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Frerotte</span> QB MIN</span> - If we've learned anything this year it's that whomever is playing the Lions is a good play. Start <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Frerotte</span>, Peterson, Taylor, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Berrian</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Shiancoe</span>, MIN D and maybe even Bobby Wade (that's how bad it is in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">DET</span>). (225 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ronnie Brown RB MIA</span> - 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">status</span> and this week vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">HOU</span> he should be started everywhere.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Julius Jones RB SEA</span> - With <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Hasselbeck</span> 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)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Marques <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Colston</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">WR</span> NO</span> - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Heeeeee's</span> back. It looked like we wouldn't see <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Colston</span> 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)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Santana Moss <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">WR</span> WAS </span>- I know he was shut out last week, but he should bounce back big this week. Start him with confidence. (125 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Peyton Manning QB IND </span>- Manning just doesn't look like himself this year. Maybe it's the preseason injury or the missing <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">OL</span>, but <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">something</span> is off. Don't look for him to get back on track vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">BAL</span> this week. Even <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Addai</span> might be a sit this week. (245 yards, 1 TD, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">INTs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Earnest Graham RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">TBY</span></span> - With <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Warrick</span> Dunn back in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">TBY</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Isaac Bruce <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">WR</span> SF</span> - 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">PHI's</span> attacking defense. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">O'Sullivan</span> might not have much time to look <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">down field</span>. Look for lots of dump offs to Gore, but not many deep balls to Bruce. (77 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">TDs</span>)<br /><br />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.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-4764587264927383425?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-13791785509067223892008-10-07T20:15:00.002-04:002008-10-07T20:36:27.794-04:00Can 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kevin <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Faulk</span> RB NE </span>- I have no idea what's going on in the NE backfield, but <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Faulk</span> is the pass-catcher and this weekend he delivered 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">TDs</span> vs SF. I still think Sammy Morris and Laurence <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Maroney</span> will get the bulk of the snaps, but if <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Faulk</span> is available he might be worth speculative pick up.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ryan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Torain</span> RB DEN</span> - 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. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Torain</span> 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Greg <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Camarillo</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">WR</span> MIA</span> - This spot was supposed to be Tedd <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Ginn</span> Jr.'s, but <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Camarillo</span> has really stepped up as the #1 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">WR</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">WR</span> going forward.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brandon <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Stockley</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">WR</span> DEN</span> - 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. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Stockley</span> made his mark as a #3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">WR</span> in IND, but now as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">DEN's</span> #2 he could see his numbers go up. This week he could be a real good start if Royal and TE Tony <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Scheffler</span> is out.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Greg Olson TE CHI</span> - Kyle <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Orten</span> has really delivered in his last 4 games and has opened up the Bear's offense. With his #1 target, Brandon Lloyd injured, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Orten</span> 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. <br /><br />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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Buy low</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Braylon</span> Edwards <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">CLE</span></span> - He's coming off the bye week and his lack of production could be weighing on his owner's mind. Swoop in now before <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">CLE</span> gets going on offense, whether that's with Derek Anderson or Brady Quinn.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maurice Jones-Drew RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">JAC</span></span> - 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">MJD</span> will be the biggest beneficiary. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sell high</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">DeAngelo</span> Williams RB CAR</span> - He exploded this weekend for 3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">TDs</span>, 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. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Randy Moss <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">WR</span> NE</span> - Another guy that's been here before, but this is your best chance to get value from the former #1 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">WR</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">Cassell</span> just doesn't have the arm strength or <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">accuracy</span> to find Randy <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">consistently</span>. I see him as a low end #2 or high end #3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">WR</span> the rest of the way.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-1379178550906722389?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-29811307912033552472008-10-03T10:22:00.011-04:002008-10-03T16:38:59.343-04:00Let's jump right in. We've got some big names on a bye this week (S. Jackson, B. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Favre</span>, J. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Cotchery</span>, L. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Coles</span>, D. McFadden, etc) as well as a suspended <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">WR</span> in P. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Burress</span>. Make sure these guys aren't in your lineup. Let's take a look at some others to start or sit in week 5.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brian <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Griese</span> QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">TBY</span> </span>- After his explosion of 67 pass attempts 2 weeks ago, he came back to earth last week. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">DEN's</span> D has been one of the worst vs the pass this year and have given up some big plays and big numbers. Look for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Griese</span> to show up big this week vs his former team. (275 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">TDs</span>, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Micheal Turner RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">ATL</span> </span>- 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. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">GBY</span> is banged up and if Aaron Rodgers doesn't play <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">ATL</span> 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)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Earnest Graham RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">TBY</span> </span>- 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lance Moore <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">WR</span> NO</span> - We could be looking at this year's Wes <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Welker</span>. Drew <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Brees</span> is passing at an incredible pace and Moore is being the most targeted option. It appears that Moore has locked up the #2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">WR</span> position even when <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Colston</span> returns. Look for NO to pass a lot this week on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">MNF</span> with MIN shutting down the running game. Moore should benefit the most. (85 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Anthony <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Fasano</span> TE MIA</span> - After busting out of the gate in week 1, he's almost been non <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">existent</span> since. SD his given up many big games to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">TEs</span> (Rosario, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Scheffler</span>, Miller) and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Fasano</span> is next in line. If you've lost <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">Shockey</span> are are stuck with Heath Miller or Todd Heap, grab <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">Fasano</span> at least for this week. (75 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">J. T. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">O'Sullivan</span> QB SF</span> - After 3 solid weeks, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">O'Sullivan</span> came crashing back to earth in what appeared to be an easy match up vs NO last week. When Bill <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">Belichick</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">aggressive</span> defense. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">O'Sullivan</span> could be in trouble. (185 yards, 1 TD, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">INTs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maurice Jones-Drew RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">JAC</span></span> - It's been all or nothing for this stud RB. He's still splitting carries with Fred Taylor and when <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">JAC</span> goes away from the run, both guys suffer. This week they get PIT and I could see another disappointing performance. (55 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Roy Williams <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_37">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_38">DET</span></span> - It sounds like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_39">DET</span> 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 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_40">DET</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_41">WRs</span> will benefit the most. I also don't see it happening this week vs CHI. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_42">Kitna</span> 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)<br /><br />I had a few rough calls last week and I apologize if you sat Greg Jennings or started <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_43">Selvin</span> Young. Hopefully I can get back on track this week and you'll do likewise. Good luck.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-2981130791203355247?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-52645547762294988462008-09-30T14:53:00.009-04:002008-09-30T16:29:14.160-04:00Week 5. I can't believe the season is a quarter over already. Now we have a very good idea of what to expect from teams, although this past week proved that we can't be 100% sure. No one was predicting <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">KC's</span> upset of DEN or WAS knocking off the unbeatable Cowboys. There were also a number of injuries and 2 coaching changes this weekend. These things will always produce some new opportunities and I'm here to point you in the right direction.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Marc <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Bulger</span> QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">STL</span></span> - Almost immediately after Jim Haslett took over in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">STL</span>, he praised the skills of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Bulger</span> and has now reinserted him into the starting lineup. If he was dropped in your league, go ahead and grab him. The Rams can't be this bad and there won't be a better QB on the wire that will offer as much upside as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Bulger</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Duece</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">McAllister</span> RB NO</span> - I have to admit that I was really surprised to see <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">McAllister</span> get 20 carries this weekend and beyond that produce good numbers with those carries. I really thought Pierre Thomas had passed him on the depth chart. I guess most of us were wrong. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Duece</span> is loose and back in the game in NO. This is the best offense in the league and you want any part of it you can.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Mewelde</span> Moore RB PIT</span> - Sometimes the best option is the only option and that could be the case in PIT where Willie Parker has already been ruled out for week 5 and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Rashard</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Mendenhall</span> broke his shoulder (ouch!!!) and is out for the year. Moore has flashed potential in the past and doesn't figure to get all of the carries, but he's the only healthy RB in PIT now and worth a grab. It sounds like PIT might bring back <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Najeh</span> Davenport, but I think it's Moore and possibly Carey Davis or Gary Russell splitting carries this week.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lance Moore &amp; Robert <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Meachem</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">WR</span> NO</span> - I'm amazed by Drew <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Brees</span>. He loses his #1 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">WR</span> and TE and he's still the #1 QB in the league. Moore and Robert <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Meachem</span> were the main beneficiaries this week. Moore is the possession guy and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Meachem</span> is developing into the main deep threat. I want Moore in PPR leagues and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Meachem</span> in standard leagues. They'll both have value until <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Colston</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Shockey</span> returns, but even after one or both could keep their value the way <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Brees</span> is throwing the ball.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Zach Miller TE OAK</span> - The much hyped sleeper from the preseason finally had his break out game this week. Too bad it probably happened on many waiver wires. That won't be the case much longer. He's developing a chemistry with Russell and as he matures this year, he's going to look often to his best <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">receiver</span>. If you lost <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Shockey</span> or got <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">duped</span> by Vernon Davis, take a shot on this TE.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Buy low</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Andre Johnson <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">HOU</span></span> - We were waiting for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">HOU</span> offense to break out this year and it happened this weekend...well it happened for most of the offense. Someone forgot to tell Andre Johnson. His disappointing season continued, but I'm holding out hope that it ends soon. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">Schaub</span> has gone back to spreading the ball around, but that only means that it won't be long before teams will have to honor <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">Slaton</span> and the rest of the weapons, allowing <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">AJ</span> to get his catches and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">TDs</span>. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maurice Jones-Drew RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">JAC</span></span> - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">MJD</span> owners have been on a roller coaster ride. 3 down weeks and 1 huge week (probably on their bench). I'm not sure I fully understand the reasoning behind giving Jones-Drew only 8 carries this week, but you can use it to try and pry him away from his owner. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">JAC</span> has a great schedule after his bye and now is the time to trade for him.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_37">Santonio</span> Holmes <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_38">WR</span> PIT</span> - He finally found the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_39">endzone</span> this week, but he still hasn't topped 100 yards yet. The window is closing quickly to obtain this stud <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_40">WR</span>. With the running game in shambles, you know Big Ben will be airing it out more than ever. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sell high</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Larry Johnson RB KC</span> - Coming off of 2 great weeks, why would you get rid of this former #1 overall fantasy stud RB? Well, there are many reasons. Did you see weeks 1 and 2? That's more the norm than the exception. He's faced 2 very week defenses in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_41">ATL</span> and DEN and the schedule gets much tougher going forward. There is still the issue of a questionable passing game and holes on the offensive line. I'd float his name out there this week and see if anyone bites. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brett <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_42">Favre</span> QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_43">NYJ</span></span> - You can't get much higher than 6 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_44">TDs</span> in one game. That's what Brett <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_45">Favre</span> owners are looking at. Much like Ronnie Brown a few weeks ago, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_46">Favre's</span> value will never be higher. I do think he has a solid season, but not a top 5 season and if you can get that value in a trade, you should take it. <br /><br />Good luck bargain shopping and I'll be back this week with more wisdom on who to start and who to sit. Also look for a bonus post on how to pull off the buy low/sell high trade soon.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-5264554776229498846?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-19423944056677905962008-09-26T10:15:00.006-04:002008-09-26T13:51:47.266-04:00Lots of things going on in the league this week, from Marc <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Bulger's</span> benching to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Plaxico</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Burress</span> getting suspended by his own team. We'll get to some of that next week, but for now let's look at those guys you might consider starting and sitting for the week.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Jake <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Delhomme</span> QB CAR</span> - He's got a juicy match up vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">ATL</span> this week and their young corners. Steve Smith returned last week to the tune of 70 yards on 4 catches, but expect him to get deep a few times this week for at least 1 TD. Don't hesitate to plug him into your lineup. (285 yards, 3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Selvin</span> Young RB DEN</span> - I don't usually recommend a DEN RB because of the uncertainty of how Mike <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Shanahan</span> will split the carries, but this week's match up vs KC is too good to pass up. You might even consider starting Young's teammate Michael Pittman, who's getting the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">TDs</span>. (125 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jonathan Stewart RB CAR</span> - Here's another guy that should have a big day in the CAR/<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">ATL</span> game. I expect CAR to get up early with big throws to Smith, but Stewart should get the ball a ton in the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">nd</span> half to seal up the win. Look for a split with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">DeAngelo</span> Williams still, but Stewart is the one you want to start. (75 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chad "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Ocho</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Cinco</span>" Johnson <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">CIN</span></span> - Well, this is his last chance. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">CIN</span> showed signs of life last week vs NY and this is the week they have to break out on offense. Chad didn't get the catches last week, but he came out and said that he's going to do it this week. He took off the harness for his shoulder and I'm expecting him to get in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">endzone</span> for the first time. (75 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Josh Reed <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">BUF</span></span> - When Roscoe Parrish went down with an injury, many expected rookie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">WR</span> James Hardy to step in behind Lee Evans. Well, it's been Reed who has stepped up. He's been solid so far, but this could be the week he explodes. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">BUF</span> faces one of the worst secondaries in the league in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">STL</span> and I could see Edwards go to the air early to get the lead. (110 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jason Campbell QB WAS</span> - Campbell had a tough opening week, but since has really performed well. He lit up the tough Arizona defense last week for almost 200 yards and 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">TDs</span>, but this week he faces a much tougher challenge. He heads to DAL for a NFC East show down. DAL cemented their position as the team to beat in the NFC last week and they'll look again to prove their position. WAS will have to throw to win, but that means some <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">INTs</span> for Campbell. (225 yards, 1 TD, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">INTs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matt Forte RB CHI</span> - How can I sit one of the surprise rookie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">RBs</span> of the year? Well, I don't think he'll get totally shut out, but the PHI defense has been the best in the league vs the run. CHI will also probably be down early and PHI will force Kyle <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">Orten</span> to beat them. That will lead to less carries for Forte. (65 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Greg Jennings <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">GBY</span></span> - This is yet another surprise sit. Again, I don't think Jennings will get shut out, but don't look for the big numbers on the road vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">TBY</span>. CHI did well against them last week, but with Ryan Grant hurting, I think the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">Bucs</span> will take away the deep ball and force Aaron Rodgers to work underneath. This would limit Jennings' chances as Donald Driver is the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">possession</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">receiver</span>. (70 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">TDs</span>)<br /><br />I'm going out on the limb with a few guys this week, but what fun it is to play it safe? Hopefully I can continue my string of solid picks. I'll be back next Tuesday to see how I did and give you a few more guys to go after.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-1942394405667790596?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-62754192824986638702008-09-22T13:28:00.010-04:002008-09-24T08:39:02.561-04:00Sorry I'm late with this, but let's dive in.<br /><br />Before I get into those waiver guys and trade targets, I wanted to share this with everyone. One of my favorite players this year is Michael Turner. Here are a just a few highlights from this week's games. He can't be <a href="http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d80afc487">stopped.</a><br /><br />Now let's move onto the wire and see who to grab.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brady Quinn QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">CLE</span></span> - I think Derek Anderson has one week to hold onto his starting job in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">CLE</span>. He does has a nice <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">match up</span> vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">CIN</span> this week, but if he can't get it done, look for Quinn to get his shot. There are plenty of weapons in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">CLE</span>, so Quinn could develop quickly and give you a sleeper QB off the wire.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pierre Thomas RB NO</span> - He shouldn't be available, but he is in some leagues. With 2 more <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">TDs</span> this week, it's clear that the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Duece</span> is not loose in NO. Reggie Bush gets most of the work, but Thomas is in there when it counts. With NO losing yet another target for Drew <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Brees</span> this week with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Shockey</span> getting hurt, look for them to pound it a little more this week vs SF. We also know how easily Bush could go down with an injury and Thomas showed at the end of last year what he could do with a full work load.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Le'Ron</span> McClain RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">BAL</span></span> - This was supposed to be Ray Rice coming out of the preseason and stealing <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">McGahee's</span> carries, but something happened and his name is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Le'Ron</span>. This looks like a full blown committee now in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">BAL</span> and McClain looks to be the goal line back. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">McGahee</span> still isn't 100%, so grab McClain and plug him in if <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">McGahee</span> misses time or even if he doesn't. He could be a solid flex option, especially in TD heavy leagues.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Antonio Bryant <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">TBY</span></span> - I'm a little sceptical after this week's break out by Bryant. Brian <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Griese</span> was throwing all over the field to the tune of 67 attempts. Bryant caught 10 of those and did show an ability to get first downs, but you know <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Gruden</span> wants to run the ball and I don't see <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Griese</span> matching those passing numbers over the next 3 weeks combined. He still as value as long as Joey Galloway is out, but I wouldn't expect this production week in and week out.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brandon Lloyd <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">WR</span> CHI</span> - We thought this would be Devin Hester coming into the season, but with Kyle Orton behind center, Lloyd has emerged as the #1 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">WR</span> in CHI. Now, the #1 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">WR</span> in CHI isn't a great option, but I could see solid #3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">WR</span> numbers the rest of the way. He's always had the potential to be a star and maybe, just maybe he's finally fulfilling that potential.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Anthony <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Fasano</span> TE MIA</span> - After taking week 2 off, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">Fasano</span> was back in the spot light in week 3. Ronnie Brown was the stud of the week and one of his <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">TDs</span> was a pass to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">Fasano</span>. I'm not sure how many more of those will happen this year, but you can bet that Chad Pennington will be looking his way in the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">end zone</span> when Ronnie isn't running them in.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Buy low</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">Hasselbeck</span> QB SEA</span> - What do you expect out of your QB when all of your <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">WRs</span> are hurt? Not much and that's what we've gotten from Matt. Bobby Engram and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">Deion</span> Branch are expected back after the bye week. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">Now's</span> the time to trade for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">Hasselbeck</span> and have a stud for the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">nd</span> half.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">Braylon</span> Edwards <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_37">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_38">CLE</span></span> - It can't be this bad, right? If <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_39">CLE</span> doesn't break out of their funk this week vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_40">CIN</span>, we could see major changes in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_41">CLE</span>, including at QB. I still think Edwards is top 5 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_42">WR</span> and if he can hang onto the ball, he'll deliver those numbers this week. See if you can acquire this star before this week's game.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_43">Santonio</span> Holmes <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_44">WR</span> PIT</span> - Another top <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_45">WR</span> who has yet to put it together, it might be another week before Holmes puts up the numbers you'd expect. PIT faces <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_46">BAL</span> this week and without Willie Parker, you know the Ravens will be licking their chops, especially after what PHI did to PIT this week. I'd still target Holmes, but his price might be even lower next week.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Steve <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_47">Slaton</span> RB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_48">HOU</span></span> - He busted out big time this week as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_49">HOU</span> finally gave him the starting job. Some might view him as a one-week wonder, but his numbers came against a very tough TEN D. With <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_50">Ahman</span> Green out of the picture the job is his for the taking. He should deliver solid #2 RB production with upside.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sell high</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Randy Moss <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_51">WR</span> NE</span> - Here he is again. I'm just really worried that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_52">Cassel</span> isn't going to get him the ball and when they start losing Moss might start fading into the shadows, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_53">ala</span> his time in OAK. I don't think it'll be that bad, but I don't see him as a top 5 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_54">WR</span> anymore. If you can get equal value from one of my buy low guys, I'd considering it.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-6275419282498663870?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-50087159908374303202008-09-19T11:17:00.008-04:002008-09-19T14:31:06.636-04:00Week 3. This is when things get a littler clearer. It's still hard to predict how offenses and defenses will react, but as we get further into the season it gets a little easier. Here are a few more names that you might not have thought about plugging into your lineup. Good luck.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Philip Rivers QB SD vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">NYJ</span></span> - Rivers has really shot out of the gate this season with 2 great games. I think most of that has to do with LT being injured and them focusing on getting their <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">WRs</span> involved more than usual. Antonio Gates has also been slowed by injury and their defense isn't what it used to be without <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Merriman</span>. All of these factors have led to more shoot outs and more passing from Rivers. This Monday night's game will not be an exception. LT is still hurting and even though Darren <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Sproles</span> looks like a solid replacement, I could see Rivers having to carry the team on his shoulders again, especially against <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Favre</span> on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">MNF</span>. ( 275, 3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">TDs</span>, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">J.T. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">O'Sullivan</span> QB SF vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">DET</span></span> - Mike <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Martz</span> has recently anointed J.T. "the best QB he's ever coached". I'm not sure I'm buying that, but I am sure I would start him this week vs the Lions. We all know what Aaron Rogers did to the Lions' secondary last week and how bad the Lions play on the road. Move <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">O'Sullivan</span> up your rankings this week. (325 yards 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">TDs</span>, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sammy Morris RB NE vs MIA</span> - I almost put Matt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Cassell</span> in my Start recommendations this week, but Morris is a more likely Start candidate. Laurence <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Maroney</span> is dinged up, but did return to practice today. I think NE gets up big on MIA and grinds the ball in the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">nd</span> half to kill the clock. (75 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Julius Jones RB SEA vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">STL</span></span> <span>- </span><span>I know I put Jones in my sell high post earlier this week, but if you haven't been able to sell high on him, you might as well play him for one more week. The Rams are bad...really bad. I think the SEA D gives the 'Hawks a short field many times on Sunday and Jones should slice throw the defense. When your starting <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">WRs</span> are Koren Robinson and Billy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">McMullen</span>, you bet Mike <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Holmgren</span> will feed Jones as much as he can. (125 yards, 1 TD)<span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Bryant Johnson <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">WR</span> SF vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">DET</span></span> <span>- Like I mentioned earlier, the SF offense broke out last week and the passing game was at the center of that. You know Mike <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Martz</span> wants to stick it to the Lions who fired him after last season. I could see them running up the score if they get the chance. I also think <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Kitna</span> and company will keep it close, forcing <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">O'Sullivan</span> to the air more than you'd think. Isaac Bruce got a few long passes, but Johnson is still the #1 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">WR</span> on this team. (135 yards, 1 TD)<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Robert <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">Meachem</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">WR</span> NO vs DEN</span> - This is a long shot call, but after getting his first chance last week vs WAS and delivering a 19 yard TD I think <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">Meachem</span> busts out this week vs DEN. David Patten is still <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">Brees</span>' number one in the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">absence</span> of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">Colston</span>, but he's still looking for that deep threat as well as a red zone target. Jeremy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">Shockey</span> should be that guy at the goal line, but hasn't delivered yet. It's going to be a shoot out in DEN and I look for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">Meachem</span> to be involved. I might not start him yet, but it wouldn't be outrageous to start him as a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">WR</span> #3 in deep leagues. This is more of a reminder to grab him if you've got the room before he breaks out. (55 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Carson Palmer QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">CIN</span> vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">NYG</span></span> <span>- The Bengals' offense is just bad right now. You have to think they'll get it together eventually, but I don't see it this week. The Giants will attack Palmer with the running game not working either. He won't have time to find his talented <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_37">WRs</span> down field. (165 yards, 1 TD, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_38">INTs</span>)</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Darren McFadden RB OAK vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_39">BUF</span></span> <span>- After last week's break out I'm sure, as a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_40">DMC</span> owner, you can't wait to plug him into your lineup for good. Well, not so fast. He's dealing with turf toe and has been limited in practice this week. That doesn't sound good. Factor in that, Micheal Bush's emergence and the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_41">BUF</span> defense and you have a recipe for a bench. (65 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_42">TDs</span>) </span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_43">Braylon</span> Edwards <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_44">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_45">CLE</span> vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_46">BAL</span> </span><span>- He lead the league last year in drop balls, but it was overshadowed by all of the ones he caught. Well, the Browns' offense hasn't done anything yet and until they do, Edwards will be limited. He's hard to bench, but I see one more week of mediocre play vs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_47">BAL</span>. (80 yards, 0 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_48">TDs</span>)</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-5008715990837430320?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-81831390501464762422008-09-17T20:12:00.006-04:002008-09-18T07:41:11.151-04:00As we get close to the end of the baseball season you can't lose focus. I know it's tough with football season kicking into high gear, but you've come this far so what's another few weeks? Don't worry, I'm here to give you some more suggestions to bring home the victory this year in your roto league.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Analyze the categories</span> - By this time you should know what categories you're "slotted" in. This just means that you're either too far behind the team ahead of you or well ahead of the team behind you in a certain category. What you need to pay attention to is those categories where you can gain or lose a few points. It could make all the difference. Most people tend to worry about the areas they can gain points it, but almost as important is protecting your lead in categories too. This will give you the information you need for the next suggestion...who to grab and who to drop.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Look at the numbers, not the names</span> - Now that you know what categories to target, it's time to go after guys to get those stats. This is where you have to ignore the names and focus on the numbers. It's way past the point in the season to hope that struggling star rebounds. I recently dropped Robinson Cano. Sounds crazy, but he just wasn't getting it done. I needed to protect my batting average and get some power. Now if you're in a keeper league you might have to think twice about this strategy, but it could pay off. Look at the stats over the last week and grab that hot unknown hitter.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pick on the weak lineups</span> - We're also at the point in the season where the teams that are out of it are giving some young guys a chance to play. This gives you an opportunity to get an edge when selecting those last few starting pitcher pick ups. You can pick on the likes of the Seattle Mariners or the Atlanta Braves and usually have a shot at some good numbers, along with a chance at a win.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maximize your innings</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>If your league has an innings pitched limit, then you need to be aware of where you are (actually you should have been watching this for a while). As the season winds down, there's one last trick you can employ. Most sites will count all of the pitching stats on the day you go over your innings limit, regardless of how far over you go. Say your limit is 1500 innings and on the last day you're at 1499. Well, I'd recommend loading up on pitchers that day and maximize your counting stats. Now one warning, if you're really close in ERA or WHIP, this could be dangerous and I'd probably recommend taking it easy.<br /><br />So, hopefully these will help you in the next couple weeks as we wind down the season. Remember, flags fly forever, so do everything possible to raise yours this year. Good luck.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-8183139050146476242?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-40629667233479516832008-09-16T13:09:00.017-04:002008-09-16T14:41:57.440-04:00I don't usually like to brag, but I think I did pretty well in my start and sit options last week. Rogers, Manning, Chris and Calvin Johnson and even John Carlson all came through with pretty big numbers. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Addai</span> salvaged his day with a TD, but he still struggled to get going. I do like him as a buy low, but more on that later. Now on to the top adds off the wire this week...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Trent Edwards QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">BUF</span></span> - He's not going to put up spectacular numbers week in and week out, but he's a great #2 to have and could be a solid starting option when the match up is right. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">BUF</span> has an improved defense and great running game. This allows Edwards time to find Evans and Hardy down field. He's a solid and safe back up option with upside.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Michael Bush RB OAK</span> - When Justin <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Fargas</span> went down with what looked like a serious injury, Darren McFadden took over. That is until the end of the game, when he himself left with a toe injury. We all know how long those toe injuries can linger (LT owners?). OAK is committed to running the ball and not having <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">JaMarcus</span> Russell need to throw, so grab Bush and see what happens this week with McFadden. Regardless he could be a guy to have in the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">nd</span> half.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Darren <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Sproles</span> RB SD</span> - Meet the new Michael Turner. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">LT's</span> toe is still an issue and even though it probably won't keep him from starting, he won't be getting 30 carries any time soon. Even if you're not an LT owner, it might be smart to grab <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Sproles</span>. He proved this weekend what he can do.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matt Jones <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">JAC</span></span> - If I asked you who would be leading the Jags in receptions and yards at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">WR</span> after 2 weeks, I doubt Jones would have been your guess coming into the season. He's long been on people's sleeper lists, but has always failed to deliver. This may finally be his year. With Porter still hurting and the running game sputtering, it's Jones who's been the man. Look for him to score this weekend vs IND and be a solid #3 with upside the rest of the year.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bryant Johnson/Isaac Bruce <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">WR</span> SF</span> - I group these two WRs together because they both might be available and either of them might be solid pick ups. SF proved this week that they can run the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Martz</span> offense and run it pretty well vs a good D in SEA. J.T. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">O'Sullivan</span> has shown that he can get the ball to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">WRs</span> and with Gore in the backfield, I could see this team putting up some points, especially this week at home vs my Lions.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">BUF</span> D</span> - I don't usually worry about defenses on this blog, but I've been high on the Bills all summer and they have delivered after the first 2 weeks. I grabbed them in both of my leagues really late. With an improved defensive line, great linebackers, a solid run game and awesome special teams, this team is looking like a top 10 D the rest of the way. I also like their schedule much more now with no Tom Brady in NE.<br /><br />There are a few names to look for this week. Now let's talk about some guys to try and buy low or sell high. It might still be a little early, but it never hurts to send out feelers, especially to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">those</span> teams that are 0-2 and already hurting from injuries.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Buy Low </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Joseph <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Addai</span> RB IND</span> - I know I said last week he was a sell high, but I think he's gone to the other side now. He did get a TD last week to help, but IND isn't running the ball well. That could change with the return of Jeff Saturday and with Manning getting more comfortable. They still have a tough match up vs Jacksonville, so Addai's price might be even lower next week.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Jerrico</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Cotchery</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">NYJ</span></span> - He had a great first week, then came back to earth with only 1 catch this week. I still see huge upside with B. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Favre</span> as his QB and his owner could be wavering on him. It might be time to swoop in. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Santonio</span> Holmes <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">WR</span> PIT</span> - He did deliver a good game Sunday night, but has yet to score and with Hines Ward getting the TD looks, his owners might start to wonder if he's still the break out <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">WR</span> they thought. I think he is and you might want to act quick before PIT faces PHI this week.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sell High</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Julius Jones RB SEA </span>- He took advantage of Maurice Morris' <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">absence</span> this week vs SF and delivered a great game, but he's still Julius Jones. He's shown in the past that he can have the big game, but just as easily <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">disappear</span> for the next 3 weeks. I don't think he does that, but I do think Leonard Weaver gets more work and cuts into his production. See what you can get for him before he does disappear again.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Randy Moss <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">WR</span> NE</span> - I know, I know. Am I crazy? Maybe it's just the first week after Brady's injury, but he doesn't look like himself. I'm sure he's still going to put up top 10 numbers for the year, but if you can get another top <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">WR</span> or RB for him, I might consider it.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-4062966723347951683?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-64003845038355023282008-09-12T13:52:00.011-04:002008-09-13T12:11:18.883-04:00<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ok</span>, week 2. There will a lot of interesting story lines this week. Are the break out players for real or will they fall back to earth? Is it just one week or a trend for the whole season? Don't fret. I'm here to sort out through what's the trash and treasure for week 2 and give you some starting and sitting options. These won't be the obvious choices, but maybe guys you weren't thinking about starting.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Aaron Rogers QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">GBY</span></span> - It was painful to watch my Lions get destroyed by the inexperienced Falcons last week. Rogers showed that he can run this offense on Monday night and I fully expect him to light up the Lions' secondary. With Grant a game-time decision, I could see the Packers going to the air early to take the pressure off of the running game. (275 yards 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">TDs</span>, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Eli Manning QB <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">NYG</span></span> - I'm not the biggest Eli fan, but you can't argue with the recent results for Manning as well as the disappointment that is the Rams' secondary. I do see the Rams' offense showing signs of life this week and that should force Eli to throw for the whole game and not just the first half and put up big numbers. (325 3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">TDs</span>, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chris Johnson RB TEN</span> - Wow. Outside of the opening act by Turner and Forte, Johnson's debut was spectacular. He had more carries than <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Lendale</span> White and if it weren't for some cramps, he would have out carried him by a larger margin. I could see another big game this week vs a weak <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">CIN</span> D. ( 125 yards rush, 25 yards rec, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sammy Morris RB NE</span> - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Maroney</span> may get the press, but Morris just puts up points. You have to think NE will stay on the ground to keep <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Farve</span> off the field this week and I think Morris gets most of the work around the goal line. (75 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Calvin Johnson <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">WR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">DET</span> </span>- He had a good game last week, but it could have been great. He had 10 catches to Roy Williams 3. Williams had the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">spectacular</span> TD catch, but Johnson was the one targeted many times in the red zone as well as drawing a pass interference penalty in the end zone. I think he's the one that scores this week and could have two as Detroit plays catch up in the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">nd</span> half. (150 yards, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">TDs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">John Carlson TE SEA</span> - Who's left in SEA to catch the ball? No much. Matt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Hasselbeck</span> looked his way quite a bit last week and you could see a repeat performance this week with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Burleson</span> out and Branch and Engram not ready. I think he gets the score this week. (65 yards, TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jake <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Delhomme</span> QB CAR</span> - Despite being without S. Smith last week, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Delhomme</span> put up good numbers vs a tough SD secondary. He'll face another tough D this week in CHI. They frustrated Manning last week and I think the Bears come up big again this week. (225 yards, 1 TD, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">INTs</span>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Joseph <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Addai</span> RB IND</span> - Like I said last earlier, I'm worried about him. I think IND is going to struggle to run the ball until Jeff Saturday returns. He won't be back this week vs MIN and that could spell trouble again for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Addai</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">MIN's</span> front four will dominate and unless he can catch a few more passes, he'll struggle to put up respectable numbers. (75 yards rush, 25 yards rec)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Eddie Royal <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">WR</span> DEN</span> - I know what you're thinking. How can I sit a guy that just broke out last week in his debut on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">MNF</span>? Well, for one thing, Brandon Marshall returns from suspension this week. He just happens to be Cutler's favorite target. Another thing is DEN faces a much stiffer test this week in SD. They won't be happy after last week's <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">heart breaker</span> and might take it out on the Broncos. I also think Tony <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">Scheffler</span> will be more involved this week. All of those factors will limit Royal's potential. I think he'll be solid, but no where near what you might expect. (45 yards)<br /><br />Watch some of the injured guys this weekend. There may be a few surprises on the field. Good luck and I'll back back next week to review the games.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-6400384503835502328?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-83874222939145041222008-09-09T16:43:00.010-04:002008-09-09T21:25:44.617-04:00Throughout the year I hope to provide you some insight every week. First, like I did last week, I'll give you some start/sit options each week based on injuries, match ups, etc. Secondly, I want to give you my take on some of the action from the week's past games so you can jump on those waiver wire gems or buy low or sell high on guys for the week.<br /><br />So let's get is started with some of the not-so obvious names to grab off of the wire (we all know about Matt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Cassell</span> by now, right?)...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">DeSean</span> Jackson <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">WR</span> PHI</span> - Rookie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">WRs</span> rarely make a big impact, but Jackson could be an exception. He's got the opportunity with Curtis and Brown banged up. He's got a QB who likes to throw a lot. And he's got speed to get deep. I think he emerges as the best <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">WR</span> option in PHI for the year, even when Curtis gets back. Pass on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Baskett</span> and Lewis and grab Jackson.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Anthony <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Fasano</span> TE MIA</span> - Unless you have a top 4 or 5 TE, you're always looking for that sleeper. This week there were a few that came out of nowhere. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Fasano</span> is the best of the bunch, in my opinion. He had 84 yards and a TD and I look for similar numbers week in and week out. He could lead the Dolphins in receptions this year. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sammy Morris RB NE</span> - NE has been here before. Tom Brady was the unknown QB to take over for Drew <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Bledsoe</span> when he went down and lead the Patriots to a SB a few years ago. They did it by running the ball and tough defense. I think <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Cassell</span> will be a solid back up QB option, but the focus of their offense will be the running game. While <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Maroney</span> gets the press, Morris delivers the numbers. I think he outproduces <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Maroney</span> this year and could still be on the wire in your league. <br /><br />It's tough to buy low or sell high after one week, but I'll just quickly run down a few names on either side, just in case they come up in trade talks. Some are obvious, but some you might not be. I'll also throw out some guys you just want to hold onto because the jury is still out on them.<br /><br />Buy low - Stephen Jackson, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Santonio</span> Holmes, Matt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Schaub</span>, Marques <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Coltson</span><br /><br />Sell high - Joseph <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Addai</span> (he scares me), Larry Johnson, Reggie Bush, Eddie Royal<br /><br />Hold - Michael Turner, Maurice Jones-Drew, Torry Holt, Derek Anderson<br /><br />I'll be back at the end of the week to run down next week's options for your lineup.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-8387422293914504122?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-40186763215518498742008-09-05T16:44:00.015-04:002008-09-06T15:29:01.486-04:00We've got one game under our belt, but I wanted to give everyone some starts and sits for week 1 of the NFL season.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start</span><span style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Buttons"><span class="on down" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Bold" title="Bold" onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 3);ButtonMouseDown(this);"></span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kurt Warner QB ARI</span> - He was officially named the starter and he loves playing SF. I could easily see 300 yards and 2 TDs. You might get 2 INTs too, but with Boldin and Fitz Kurt is good to go in week 1 (315 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jeff Garcia QB TBY </span>- This has more to do with the match up, than the player, but I like Jeff's chances of scoring double digit points this week. NO still has a porous secondary (despite the benching of Jason David) and I could see a couple of bombs to Joey Galloway (hint, hint). (225 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Michael Turner RB ATL</span> - The long wait is over. Turner is ready to explode this year and I think he starts well this week vs DET. The Lions' D is on the rise, but I still don't think they can stop the run. With Shaun Rogers gone, the middle of the line is the best place to attack this undersized defense built on speed and Turner should bust a few long runs and possibly a TD. (125 yards rush, 35 yards rec, 1 rush TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ray Rice RB BAL</span> - Willis McGahee is a game time decision and with all the questions surrounding his preseason, Rice could be a sneaky start this week. Watch the Sunday reports on McGahee, but if he's out Rice is a low end #2 RB vs the Bengals' this week. (85 yards rush, 25 yards rec., 1 TD - if McGahee is out)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jerrico Cotchery WR NYJ</span> - Brett Farve is ready to prove he can still play. MIA is the perfect opponent to show off his new weapons. I think Cotchery is the main beneficiary this week. He'll be on the end of a few of those long bombs. (125 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Joey Galloway WR TBY</span> - Like I mentioned above, the TBY/NO game looks to be a shoot out and you want to start most of your Saints and Bucs. Galloway has lit up the Saints over the last few years. He's been slowed this preseason by a groin injury, but word is he's 100% and you don't want him on your bench this week. (100 yards, 2 TDs)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Zach Miller TE OAK</span> - A sleeper coming into the season, Miller looks to have a good match up on Monday night vs DEN. The Broncos' defense isn't as tough as it used to be and with the run game the focus, look for JaMarcus Russell to work some play action passes to Miller, especially in the red zone. (65 yards, 1 TD)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sit</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jay Cutler QB DEN</span> - Here's a recipe for a down week: On the road to start the season for a Monday night game, going up against a tough pass defense, and without your #1 WR. I still like Cutler to break out this year, but week one might be a good week to look at someone else. (175 yards 1 TD, 2 INTs)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jamal Lewis RB BAL</span> - He's battled a lingering injury all preseason, so it's no surprise that he's listed as a game time decision for Sunday. He was already looking at a tough match up vs DAL, so when you put those two things together it adds up to a RB that's very risky. (55 yards, 0 TDs - if he gets the start)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Javon Walker WR OAK</span> - Denver might not be able to stop the run, but they still have one of the best secondaries in the league. Walker's had a tumultuous off season and a rough training camp. I think he's struggle in his first game in the black and silver. (65 yards, 0 TDs)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Antonio Gates TE SD</span> - He's already said that he's not going to start this week. He should play, but I don't want him in my lineup. You probably spent a high draft pick on him, so you might not have a choice, but if you have another option I'd highly recommend switching your lineup. (25 yards, 0 TDs)<br /><br />There are just a few start and sit options for this week. If you have more lineup questions, feel free to post a comment or email me directly. I'd be happy to help with any of those tough decisions. Watch some of the crucial game time decisions and be ready to pounce on those hot waiver wire guys. I'll be back to recap some of the action next week. Good luck.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-4018676321551849874?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-83656406454371751122008-09-02T14:13:00.005-04:002008-09-02T16:26:47.370-04:00Last week I participated in my main money league keeper draft. It's a league I run at work and have won twice in the 6 years we've done it, including last year. It's a 2 player keeper league where you lose the draft pick in the round the player was selected. I had the 12<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> pick in the first round and was keeping Michael Turner in the 9<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> round and Brandon Marshall in the 6<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">th</span> round. I thought I'd outline my draft strategy, let you know how I did in the draft, as well as asking for suggestions for my team name.<br /><br />Going into the draft with an unproven RB and a potential <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">WR</span> stud who, at the time, wasn't going to play in weeks 1-3, I knew I had to get some stability early and not take too many chances right away. Some of the potential 1st rounders that were being kept were, Adrian Peterson, Marion Barber, Tom Brady, Tony <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Romo</span>, Randy Moss, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Marshawn</span> Lynch, and Clinton <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Portis</span>. I knew <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">RBs</span> would fly off the board, so I had a couple of choices.<br /><br />I knew that I would be able to get a top 6 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">WR</span> with one of my two picks. So, the choice came down to what to do with my other pick. I could take the best RB available and have a Thomas Jones, Reggie Bush or even a Brandon Jacobs as my #1 RB. With the glut of similarly ranked <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">RBs</span> this year that would be available later, I decided to go in a different direction.<br /><br />I picked Drew <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Brees</span> (ahead of Peyton Manning) and Marques <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Colston</span> for my 1st and 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">nd</span> picks. Risky? Yes. Huge upside? Yes. I then was able to land <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Edgerrin</span> James in round 3 along with Calvin Johnson in round 4. I then took Ricky Williams (ahead of Ronnie Brown) in round 5. Here's how the rest of my team looks and you can weigh in on what you think. Feel free to comment, good or bad. I'm also looking for some team name options too. Keep them clean please. <br /><br />QB (start 1) - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Brees</span>, Anderson<br />RB (start 2) - Turner, James, Williams, Rice, Hall, Thomas<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">WR</span> (start 3) - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Colston</span>, Calvin Johnson, Marshall, Galloway, Morgan<br />TE (start 1) - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Scheffler</span><br />K (start 1) - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Biranos</span><br />D (start 1) - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">BUF</span><br /><br />Thanks and feel free to comment.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-8365640645437175112?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-84698381792808190002008-08-30T15:14:00.008-04:002008-08-30T15:56:05.203-04:00Last time we talked about some RBs that could take a step forward this year. As we get closer to the start of the season, we have a pretty good idea of who's going to be starting and who is not. Now I want to focus on the QBs, WRs and TEs to target in your drafts or even off the wire if you've already drafted.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">QBs</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kurt Warner ARI</span> (sleeper) - We're still waiting to get official word that he's the starter, but after the way he's outplayed Leinart during the preseason, even if he's not the starter I think he puts up better numbers and has the potential to be a top 10 QB if he starts the whole year.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">David Garrard JAC</span> (creeper) - Jacksonville is known for their running game, but Garrard proved to be an extremely consistent QB for most the year (a highly underrated stat in fantasy football). He doesn't have the weapons that Warner or Schaub have, but the same line that opens the holes for Taylor and Jones-Drew will give Garrard time to find the weapons he does have. I see him as a low end #1 and great #2 QB.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Matt Schaub HOU</span> (leaper) - When healthy, Matt can hang with any other QB in the league. With the combination of one of the best WRs in the league (Andre Johnson - when healthy), a solid #2 (Kevin Walter), a pass catching TE (Owen Daniels) and a suspect defense, Schaub could be this year's Tony Romo and make the leap into the top 5. Of course health is a concern with him and his weapons, but if they can stay healthy for 12 - 14 games, the sky is the limit.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">WRs</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Josh Morgan SF</span> - At 6'1" and 22o lbs, Morgan has the size to compete at this level. He's still fighting Bryant Johnson for the #2 WR in Mike Martz's new offense, but either way I see him stepping up and being SF's most productive WR. Martz has a way of unearthing WR gems (M. Furrey, S. McDonald, A. Hakim) and despite being a rookie, Morgan has the potential to be this year's M. Colston. Take a flyer on him as your #5 WR and watch him soar.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jerrico Cotchery NYJ</span> - We all know what Brett Favre can do for a WR. Greg Jennings is just the last in a long line that he's made a star. I think both L. Coles and Cotchery both will benefit from Favre's arrival, but I think Cotchery is the one he'll look for on those long deep throws he is known for. With an improved OL, the Jets appear ready to break out on offense.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Calvin Johnson DET</span> - Probably the most hyped WR from the preseason, Johnson flashed his potential last year before injuring his back early in the year. He's admitted that it slowed him down all year. I think the hype is for real and he'll truly establish himself as a superstar in the NFL. Roy Williams is the veteran, but "Megatron" is ready to transform.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TEs</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Zach Miller OAK</span> (creeper) - After catching 44 balls last year, he's poised to catch over 80 this year as JaMarcus Russell matures as a QB. He'll be his security blanket and could be a red zone threat as McFadden attracts the defense. Target him late and he should provide top 10 production.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dustin Keller NYJ</span> (sleeper) - Another of Favre's new targets, this rookie TE has shown his potential this preseason. We all know Brett's love of the TE and if he can beat out the other TEs, he could develop into a solid starter and potential for more.<br /><br />UPDATE - With Rudi Johnson being cut by CIN, Chris Perry's value takes a huge jump. Kenny Watson is still in the mix, but bump Perry up your draft lists.<br /><br />Keep watching for those last minute cuts that could effect player's value or who is really named the starter. Good luck drafting. The countdown to kick off is on...<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-8469838179280819000?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-36941576811126076082008-08-30T14:47:00.007-04:002008-08-30T15:13:29.087-04:00This a the time in the fantasy year where every hit, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">rbi</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">sb</span> or save can make a difference. If you're in a head to head league, you're either prepping for the playoffs or fighting for that last spot. If you're in a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">roto</span> league, it's probably pretty clear what teams are still in it and who's out. If you're reading this, you're hopefully still in it and are still looking for that difference maker off the wire. For most leagues the trade deadline has past, so the wire is your only option. Fortunately there are some guys who can help and I'm here to point them out. This isn't about names, but about stats. It might be time to drop that struggling vet for the unknown guy off the wire who just got called up or returned from an injury. Anyone can help, so make the move and bring home the victory.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Call-ups</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Nelson Cruz OF TEX</span> - He's been here before, but after a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">disappointing</span> stint last year with the Rangers, he killed AAA with 37 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">HRs</span>, .342 BA and 99 RBIs. He's up now and playing regularly. He's got the skills, but let's see if he can deliver when it counts. I'd take a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">flyer</span> on him if you need power, but be prepared for a low BA at first. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pablo <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Sanoval</span> C/CI SF</span> - A highly touted prospect getting his first action in the majors hasn't <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">disappointed</span>. SF wants to see what he can do, so he's playing almost everyday. In leagues that he's C eligible (5 games so far), he's an immediate pick up, but he could be 1b or 3b eligible soon. Watch his games played and be ready to pounce. He could deliver solid production down the stretch.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Max <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Scherzer</span> SP/RP ARI</span> - He's just returned from the minors and appears headed to the pen. He's shown he can pitch in the majors, so now it's just a matter of opportunity. Y. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Petit</span> is still locked in at the 5<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">th</span> spot, so he'll probably end up in the pen, but he has the potential to be a spot starter or even the closer if things fall apart in the Diamondback's pen. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Returning from the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">DL</span> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ryan Church OF <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">NYM</span></span> - He appears to be back to full health and is now starting almost everyday for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Mets</span>. If he can hit like he did the first 3 months, he'd be a steal off the wire. He's started off slow, but he should be watched closely and even worth a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">flyer</span> now before he heats up. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Adam Jones OF <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">BAL</span></span> - I've talked about him before, but he's close to returning to the Oriole's lineup and you should grab him now and stash him on your <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">DL</span>. His power/speed combination would be a welcome addition to any fantasy roster for the final month.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ryan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Spilborghs</span> OF COL</span> - He's been out a while, but it appears that he'll be back by Sept. 1 if things go smoothly on his rehab assignment. COL is playing well and he should get plenty of playing time if he proves healthy. He's a solid option if you miss out on Church or Jones.<br /><br />There you go. Some late seasons options for those still in the hunt. Don't let the start of football derail the work you've put in during the summer. You can still make a run or hold off that 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">nd</span> place team.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-3694157681112607608?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-88737942187613383192008-08-24T21:04:00.007-04:002008-08-25T07:13:45.404-04:008) Mock your draft - Mock drafting allows you test out a few of your strategies as well as give you an idea of where players are going and what their ADP is doing. The site I use the most is www.mockdraftcentral.com. They have drafts happening every 15 minutes and with almost every scoring system or league configuration you can think of. If you don't know what your draft position will be, you can try a few different spots so you have a plan no matter what slot you get. Or if you know your spot, you can see how taking that QB first will effect you later in the draft or if going RB/RB will position you for success. As starters are named, injuries happen or rookies display their potential, players ADP will rise or fall as we get closer to the start of the season. Make sure you know which way they're going so you'll be ahead of the curve on draft night.<br /><br />9) Have fun - The draft is one of the best parts of fantasy football, so don't get too stressed out. If your gut says take the unproven rookie over the boring vet, go for it. It's your team. Don't let anyone tell you who to take or when to take them.<br /><br />Now, let's talk about a few RBs I'm targeting in my drafts this year.<br /><br />Chris Johnson TEN (sleeper) - The rookie has exploded onto the scene in TEN and everything we hear out of Titan's camp is that he's going to get the ball. I could see a 50/50 split with Lendale White to start, but he could take over half way through the year and has the potential to be this year's Adrian Peterson.<br /><br />Ricky Williams MIA (creeper) - Ronnie Brown is still being drafted ahead of him, but he's looked great so far and should dominate the carries in Miami. I think it takes Ronnie a while before he's back up to full speed. Take Ricky as your #3 or #4 RB with upside.<br /><br />Michael Turner ATL (creeper) - Finally out of LT's shadow, "Burner" Turner is the man in ATL. There won't be much talent around him, but he's got the skills to succeed. I think he has great upside for a #2 RB and could crack the top 10. If Matt Ryan can keep the defenses honest, the holes should be there for him to show what he can do.<br /><br />Maurice Jones Drew, JAX (leaper) - We all know what MJD can do, now it's time for him to take it to the next level. That might take an injury to Fred Taylor (yes, I know he's not "Fragile Fred" anymore), but with Jacksonville's commitment to the run along with their stellar defense, this could be the year it all comes together. He's currently going as a upside #2 and I think that's right where I'd grab him and be ready for take off.<br /><br />Next time I'll talk about some QBs, WRs and TEs to target as well. Good luck and have fun drafting.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-8873794218761338319?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-36263156996786790922008-08-20T14:09:00.004-04:002008-08-20T21:38:16.174-04:00<span style="font-weight: bold;">5) Develop your own draft strategy</span> – There are many options on how to approach a draft. One of the most common has been to take 2 RBs in the first 2 rounds of your draft. With the decline of true #1 RBs in the league, this strategy has lost some momentum. You need to pay close attention to your starting lineup requirements as well as your scoring system. If you start 2 QBs, then QBs might go sooner than in those leagues that start 1. Or if you get 1 pt per reception, then those players who might not score as much, but get receptions get a bump. I also don’t like to target certain players or positions in the top 6-7 rounds. I like to be flexible in those early rounds and just take the player who offers the best value where I’m picking. Later in the draft you can target certain position to fill out your roster. Whatever you do, come up with a rough game plan and you’ll more than likely be ahead of your league.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">6) What to bring to the draft?</span> – This is where keeping it simple is the best way to go. You don’t want to have to shuffle through multiple sheets or rankings to keep up during the draft. Condensing your rankings to one sheet is ideal. I like to rank more players than I’ll need, just in case I need a late round sleeper. I also like to bring a blank roster to fill out as I go and on the same sheet a list of the other teams and positions. This way you can check off positions as they are filled by your leaguemates. This allows you track what other teams need. This comes in handy when you’re still needing a QB and you know the teams drafting behind you have filled their QB quota, then you can wait a round or two longer and still know you should be able to get that QB you want.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">7) What’s a sleeper and what’s a bust?</span> - These are buzz words in the fantasy world and they mean many different things to many different people. I define a sleeper as any player that has the potential to outperform his draft position. Or on the other hand, under perform his draft position. Make sure you understand this before doing your research.<br /><br />Next time I’ll talk about the last few items to do before the draft as well as give you some sleepers (see above), creepers (who is ready to take the next step) and leapers (who is ready to break out and become elite). Try and catch some of this week’s preseason’s games as they are closest thing we’ll have to real action until the season starts. Starters should play 2 or 3 quarters and give us a feel for how guys will perform.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-3626315699678679092?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-88615822840406772082008-08-16T18:46:00.018-04:002008-08-19T07:55:38.989-04:00As we near the stretch run, I thought I'd give you a few names to keep in the back of your mind for next year's draft. These guys probably are not quite sleepers, but almost pre-sleepers. They are guys who have somewhat surprised us this year and have provided a glimpse of what they could be in the next year or two. I'll run down the names position by position and give a quick word on each.<br /><br />C - Dioner Navarro TBY - He came close to breaking out this year, but with Tampa's resurgence he's poised to be a top 10 catcher next year.<br /><br />1b - Chris Davis TEX - Meet the next Adam Dunn. He'll strike out his share, but he has 30-35 HR and 125 RBI potential, especially protecting Josh Hamilton in Texas.<br /><br />2b - Alexei Ramirez CHI - He should have OF and SS eligibility next year and should be CHI's starting SS. With power and speed, he's ready to break out.<br /><br />3b - Ian Stewart COL - We all love young COL hitters and Ian fits the bill. He'll be their starting 3b for years to come.<br /><br />SS - Mike Aviles KC - Not a highly touted prospect, but showed this year that he can hit. KC has the potential to be next year's Tampa Bay.<br /><br />MI - Jed Lowrie BOS - Eligible at all the infield positions, he should be ready to move into your starting lineup.<br /><br />CI - Billy Butler KC - Almost a post-hype sleeper, Butler finally displayed the keen batting eye that had him labeled as the next Mike Sweeney.<br /><br />OF - Fred Lewis SF - One of the first Giant youngsters to get a job this year, he gave his owners great value for a waiver wire find. He should be a solid #3 OF with potential to go higher next year.<br /><br />OF - Adam Lind TOR - A highly touted prospect who finally got a shot this year and has really delivered. He's ready to explode next year, ala Ryan Ludwick. I'll be targeting him, and the next guy, in next year's draft.<br /><br />OF - Adam Jones BAL - The prize of the Bedard trade, he finally lived up to the hype he had received in the past. With a great average and a power/speed combo, he could be the next stud OF.<br /><br />SP - Manny Parra MIL - After fighting for a job this spring, he showed how good he could be once Gallardo went down. I think he has a great shot at taking the next step next year.<br /><br />SP - Jonathan Sanchez SF - I think Sanchez could be the next Cole Hamels if he can work on his control. He's got the stuff, 133 K's in 135 innings. Now he just has to show he knows how to pitch.<br /><br />RP - Jonathan Broxton LAD - We've waited for Broxton for a while and he's finally getting his shot now. If he can deliver down the stretch for the Dodgers, I think the closer role is his for the next 5 years.<br /><br />RP - Chris Perez STL - Last, but not least, Perez is another young flame thrower who is getting his shot in the midst of a pennant race. LaRussa has finally made up his mind on a closer (at least for this week) and Perez has come through.<br /><br />There you go. These guys probably won't be kept on many teams, but they could turn into the McLouths, Hamiltons or Kinslers of next year.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-8861582284040677208?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-47841770551428786152008-08-13T16:24:00.002-04:002008-08-14T11:31:48.276-04:00I wanted to put together a quick, easy-to-grasp draft article that should help you prepare for your football draft. I won’t get into too many details, but if you have more questions, feel free to drop me an email at betweengames@gmail.com.<br /><br />Most of these tips will be assuming a 12-team standard non-keeper league (4 pts for passing TD, 6 pts for other TDs, 1 pt per 10 yards, etc). I’ll also be working with a 1 QB, 2 RB, 3 WR, 1 TE, 1 D and 1 K lineup. Don’t worry keeper league players, I’ll touch on those leagues soon.<br /><br />Today I’ll outline 4 easy steps to do right now that will get you ready for your draft. I emphasize right now because you need to start soon, so you can get up to speed on all of the preseason news.<br /><br />1) Watch some football — One way to get excited about football is to watch some live action. You get to see some of these guys in live action (or on replay on nfl.com, if you can’t see the games live). Who’s playing with the first stringer or in the first 2 quarters? Who’s hurting? Is that 1st round pick going to start? How will any coaching changes effect an offense? (Mike Martz in SF or Cam Cameron in BAL) You don’t need to worry about specifics until around week 3, but it’s good to get some initial reactions so later if you need to make a decision between to players, you’ve seen them with your own eyes.<br /><br />2) Analyze depth charts — This can be good and bad. Sometimes coaches drop players down on the list to motivate them (yes, I’m talking to you, Mike Shanahan), but for the most part this can give you a clue to a few things. It might give you the true backup to your stud RB. It can also give you a hint at which WR is going to #2 or #3.<br /><br />3) Do your own research — I love it when people I’m in leagues with tell me they just bought their fantasy magazine to get ready for the draft. It just makes it so much easier to beat them to the punch. The problem with those magazines is that most of them are written in April right after the NFL draft. Even the mock drafts are conducted well before training camps even start. You need to search out a few different sites (if you want some suggestions, drop me an email) and make your own rankings based on a variety of opinions. This will give you a wide range of rankings and you can make up your own mind on whom you like and whom you don’t. One word of caution though. You can easily digest too much information and think everyone’s a sleeper or a bust.<br /><br />4) Learn what ADP means — ADP stands for Average Draft Position. The draft is all about finding the best value at the position you’re drafting. You can find value at any draft spot and it becomes more important the later in the draft. ADP gives you a general idea of where players are being drafted. This will help you when you’re sitting there deciding if you need to draft that #4 WR or that #1 TE. Many sites have ADP listed with their rankings, but make sure they align with your league’s specifics (# of teams, # of starting RBs, etc).<br /><br />There you have it. Just some simple steps to take now that will get you ready for your draft. The draft is one of the most important parts of the season and there’s no excuse not to be prepared. Watch for part 2 soon.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-4784177055142878615?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-67557520728630516882008-08-13T10:02:00.003-04:002008-08-13T10:06:23.453-04:00Check out my some of my other articles about fantasy baseball <a href="http://www.fantasybaseballmafia.com/fbm/2008/08/07/you-play-to-win-the-game-4/">here.</a> More on my keeper league there and the site itself soon.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-6755752072863051688?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-88091482266211802872008-08-11T21:37:00.003-04:002008-08-11T21:42:44.714-04:00<span style="font-family: arial;">I just wanted to give a quick update on the WR situation in SEA. #1 WR Bobby Engram broke a bone in his shoulder and is expected to miss at least 6 - 8 weeks. This is huge blow to the SEA passing game and knocks Matt Hasselbeck down a few notches on your draft board. This was a pass first team. With the RB situation still up in the air, the identity of their offense is yet to be seen. I would bump up Nate Burleson a few spots, but we don't yet know who will fill the #2 WR role. Look for Courtney Taylor to get first crack at the spot, but Ben Obomanu to factor into the mix as well. I'll be back later this week to start a series on gearing up for your draft. Stay tuned for any upates throughout the week as well. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-8809148226621180287?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-40750304117609387392008-08-10T16:59:00.002-04:002008-08-10T17:41:54.980-04:00Now let’s talk football. This is where it gets exciting. I love fall and the promise of football season. We just had our first set of preseason games and now that we’re done with the Brett Favre saga, let’s take a look at a few training camp stories that could lead to some great value in your drafts.<br /><br />Before we start I want to acknowledge those of you who might be new to fantasy sports. Feel free to comment with questions or take a look this site that could <a href="http://games-ak.espn.go.com/s/ff101/ff101.htm">help</a>.<br /><br />Seattle’s starting RB – After cutting Shaun Alexander, the Seahawks brought in Julius Jones and TJ Duckett to take over the job. Well, after the first preseason game it appears that Maurice Morris, yes that Maurice Morris, has the inside track on the starting job. Duckett had an awful first game and Jones didn’t fair much better, while Morris ran for 62 yards on just 6 carries. Morris could be a great guy to grab as your 4th or 5th RB and provide solid #2 RB production if he gets the job. Stay tuned and see if Morris can hold off the other guys and keep the job when the season opens.<br /><br />Eddie Royal overtakes Darrell Jackson in DEN at WR — With Brandon Marshall suspended for at least the first 2 games, most people see the newly acquired Darrell Jackson stepping in to replace him. Well, not so fast. Eddie Royal appears to be the starter in DEN for now. We all know how much we can trust Mike Shanahan, but I think Royal is a big sleeper this year. Just as Jay Cutler appears to be on the brink of a breakout season, I think the DEN passing game takes the next step this year as well. Look for Cutler, TE Tony Scheffler, Royal and even Marshall to lead the way in draft day value. I see all of them providing higher value than where they are being drafted right now. Jackson and the veteran Brandon Stokley will be drafted higher than Royal, but I see the speedster out-producing them this year.<br /><br />I'm out for now, but feel free to comment and let me know what you think. Keep watching those preseason games and get those cheat sheets ready for draft day. I’ll be back at least a couple times a week to keep you prepped and ready for Game Day.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-4075030411760938739?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3829128497918865085.post-1896627882912937682008-08-10T15:58:00.000-04:002008-08-10T16:57:29.207-04:00Okay, why should you read another blog about fantasy sports? Well, you shouldn’t…unless you want a fresh perspective on fantasy baseball and football. I’ll provide my take on teams, players and stats in the fantasy world. Hopefully in the process, I’ll keep you entertained and one step ahead of your fellow competitors.<br /><br />Let’s start with baseball. As the season winds down, let’s take a look at some recent events that could have an impact on your league’s outcome.<br /><br />Carlos Lee breaks finger and is out for 6 – 8 weeks — As a Lee owner, this one hurts. It looks like he’ll miss the rest of the season. You can’t replace his stats, so the best you can do is look for some options off of the wire or if you still have time, try and trade for some help. Don’t act too quickly though as you could hurt yourself in another area when trying to replace Lee. A few outfielders that could be available are Jody Gerut SD, Jason Kubel MIN or even Brian Giles SD.<br /><br />Huston Street to share job as Oakland’s closer — There has been a lot of turnover recently on a number of team’s bullpens. Oakland has a lot of quality arms in theirs and so this isn’t a huge surprise. I think they want to see what they have in case they’re able to deal Street. It appears Brad Zeigler is the next in line. He still hasn’t given up an earned run and this rookie doesn’t appear to be ready to do that any time soon. Joey Devine and Santiago Casilla are also options, but both have battled the injury bug this year. I still think Street gets some chances, but I’d grab Zeigler as well.<br /><br />That’s all for now. Feel free to comment and let me know what you think. I’ll be back at least a couple times a week to keep you prepped and ready for Game Day.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3829128497918865085-189662788291293768?l=betweengames.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Jeff Caminitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16535820226457357368noreply@blogger.com0