Fantasy Snapshot: Week 2

16. September 2011  - Published by Dan Clasgens

FANTASY 101
--Don’t Panic: One week does not make a season. There are several players that did not live up their owner’s expectations, but don’t over react it’s just one game. Patience is a vital virtue for owners to embrace early in the season. Most of us put hours of homework in before drafting our teams and after one game it’s simply too hard to gage things. Barring some major injuries or depth chart shake-ups it is wise to shake off a bad outing and move on to next week. However, if the trend reaches three of four games it may be time to reconsider.

SETTING YOUR LINEUP

START ‘EM
RB Tim Hightower (vs. ARI) – Hightower followed up a stellar preseason with a solid Redskins’ debut in Week 1. Mike Shanahan is finally starting to put his imprint on the team’s offense and Washington is going to be better than most people think.  The stats were not overwhelming (25 carries, 72 RuYd, RuTD; 3 rec, 25 ReYd), but the fact he had 28 touches is what fantasy owners should be excited about. With a matchup against his former team this weekend, I expect an even better effort in Week 2.

James Starks (at CAR) – Starks was one of my preseason sleepers and after watching  him in for 45 plays to the 16 snaps that Ryan Grant saw in Week 1’s win over the Saints, I am giving him the thumbs up in Week 2. Starks came up with 57 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries and if the Packers get up as I expect on the Panthers, Starks could get way more touches this week

SIT’ EM
QB Eli Manning (vs. STL) – The Giants’ quarterback was a nice spot play a year ago and finished with some big numbers. However, with Hakeem Nicks banged up, Steve Smith in Philly and a new tight end to deal with, New York’s passing attack looks out of out of whack to me right now. The matchup against the Rams is favorable, but I still find better options this week as my fantasy QB than Eli Manning.

WR Chad Ochocinco (vs. SD) – Despite the fact that Tom Brady threw for 511 yards, Chad only managed to catch 1 ball for 14 yards and was on the field was less than 20 snaps in his Patriots’ debut. Owners need to temper their expectations, especially early on, as he learns the offense. I am not ready to cut him yet, but sitting him on your bench until he has a good game or two makes a lot of sense.


FANTASY INFIRMARY
RB Arian Foster (hamstring) – He returned to practice on Wednesday and barring setbacks will start on Sunday against the Dolphins. I still expect to see Ben Tate to get some touches while Foster is eased back in so owners should temper their expectations a bit.

RB Steven Jackson (quad) – The news is not as good for Steven Jackson is out this week and likely longer with an injury with his right quadriceps. Cadillac Williams will fill his void out the Rams’ backfield and be given a full workload in his absence.

WR Marques Colston (collarbone) – The Saints’ top wide out is out at least for a month after suffering a broken collarbone in Week 1’s loss to Green Bay.  That should lead to an increase workload for Robert Meachem, Devery Henderon, and even Lance Moore, if he can ever get healthy himself.

Other injuries of note: Hakeem Nicks (knee/wrist), Brandon Lloyd (groin), Lance Moore (groin), Knowshon Moreno (hamstring)


SELL HIGH CANDIDATES
QB Cam Newton (CAR) – I will be the first to admit that I didn’t expect Cam Newton to be much of a factor, but after last week’s effort vs. Arizona I have done a 360 on him. However, don’t expect 425 yards passing every single week. If you have a strong QB1 and just picked up Newton late now may be the time to shop him to the owner that drafted Peyton Manning, his value this season may not get much higher than it is now.

WR Kenny Britt (TEN) – Britt has proven to be a big play guy on more than one occasion and his 136-yard, two touchdown effort in the opening loss to Jacksonville made waves in the fantasy world. Still, his inconsistency and penchant for off-field-drama can lead to big time headaches. If you can move for a more reliable option at the position I would not hesitate. There will be big days ahead, but they will be accompanied by just as many disappointments.

Fantasy Football , , , , ,

Fantasy Sleeper: Tim Hightower

11. August 2011  - Published by Dan Clasgens

Another name that has flown under the radar in the flurry of free agent moves was the Redskins’ signing of running back Tim Hightower.

ESPN.com reports that the veteran is the favorite to win the job as Washington’ s starting running back.

Ryan Torain continues to battle with durability concerns and rookie, Ray Helu, who has tremendous long-term value, will need time to acquaint himself with pro football.

Mike Shanahan has long delivered fantasy owners gold in terms of running backs and Hightower could provide a glimpse of it this season. Offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan is optimistic that the best is still ahead for Hightower.

The former Arizona Cardinal averaged a career-high 4.8 yards per carry last season, but finished with only 736 yards as he only had 153 carries. If his rushing attempts rise, so will his fantasy value.

Owners that use a PPR-format should give him even more consideration. Hightower has averaged nearly 40 catches per season during his career, including a 63-catch season in 2009.

FINAL TAKE: Don’t get too carried away with Hightower, but he’s at the very least a RB3 option in any format with the upside the finish as a top 20 fantasy RB if the carries are there. Target him in mid-rounds of your draft.

Fantasy Football , , , ,

Game Balls - Week 1

13. September 2009  - Published by Jim Humbert

I have been writing this article for a few years now and I think it is time to change things up. Instead of trying to highlight a fantasy player from each NFL game, I'm going to give a game ball to the best performance at each of the offensive positions. And, as always, someone will earn a Dirty Sock.

QB Game Ball - Tony Romo, Dallas - 16/27, 353 yards, 3 TD
No T.O. - no problem. The Cowboys offense got off to a slow start against the Bucs but Romo eventually kicked things into gear. He ended up with three big touchdowns of 42, 66 and 80 yards - all to different receivers. Patrick Crayton caught that last one and finished with 135 yards receiving on the day. Tight end Jason Witten did not score but led the team with five catches and had 71 yards.

QB Honorable Mention - Drew Brees, New Orleans - 26/34, 358 yards, 6 TD, 1 Int (hey, it was against the Lions!)

 
RB Game Ball - Adrian Peterson, Minnesota - 25 carries, 180 yards, 3 TD
Sure, he's the top back in the game and he should do well against a team like the Browns. But 180 yards and three scores is very impressive. A lot of people will point out that Brett Favre won his first game as a Viking today, but Brett better give AP a nice pat on the rear.

RB Honorable Mention - Mike Bell, New Orleans - 28 carries, 143 yards (he's just filling in and, again, it was against the Lions!)


WR Game Ball - Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis - 10 catches, 162 yards, 1 TD
This summer it appeared that Wayne's stock had fallen amongst WRs. Sure, there are some exciting young guys out there like Larry Fitzgerald and Roddy White. But there was no reason to think Wayne was going to lose a step. And he certainly didn't against the Jags on Sunday. Peyton Manning found his favorite target early and often in a nice win for the Colts.

WR Honorable Mention - Tim Hightower, Arizona  - 12 catches, 121 yards (okay, not a WR but a heck of a performance.)


TE Game Ball - John Carlson, Seattle - 6 catches, 95 yards, 2 TD
If you are a regular at GSI then you know that Dan has been preaching depth at the TE position all summer long. Carlson is a good example of that depth. He was listed at No. 11 on our latest Cheat Sheet and if you grabbed him late in a draft he paid big dividends today. He's not going to score twice every game, but he is a great target for Matt Hasselbeck in what could be an explosive Seahawks' offense.

TE Honorable Mention - Tony Gonzalez, Atlanta - 5 catches, 73 yards, 1 TD (apparently not going to be overlooked in the talented Falcons offense.)


D/ST Game Balls - Joshua Cribbs, Cleveland - 67 yard punt return
Cribbs may be the best return man in football and started the season off with his 7th career TD. It is not advisable to pick up the Browns D/ST but if you are in a pinch, Cribbs may be able to come through for you. Opponents will score often against Cleveland so Cribbs will get plenty of returns!

D/ST Honorable Mention - Philadelphia Eagles - 5 Int, 2 Fum, 5 sacks, 1 punt ret TD (Just read the next award......)


The Game Used Sock Award - Jake Delhomme, QB, Carolina - 7/17, 73 yards, 4 int, 1 fum
The Panthers are coming off of a playoff season. They have an explosive running game. They have a couple of excellent WRs. The always have a solid Defense. And Jake Delhomme usually doesn't stink. But today he did. Really, really bad. I am not an expert on the Panthers or the Eagles for that matter. And I really didn't get to see much of that game. But something tells me that the Panthers embarassing loss was a fluke. Don't be surprised if, in December, everyone is looking back at week one wondering how Carolina lost that game. Either way, Delhomme is walking home wearing a couple of stinky socks.

Stinky Sock Honorable Mention - Steve Slaton, RB, Houston - 9 carries, 17 yards, 3 catches, 35 yards (if you spent a first round pick on this guy, be worried.) 

Fantasy Football, NFL , , , , ,

James Cut By Cards

29. April 2009  - Published by Dan Clasgens

The Arizona Cardinals made it official on Tuesday, parting ways with former Pro Bowl running back Edgerrin James.

The 31-year old running back had brief moments of hope in Arizona's Super Bowl, but mostly was a shell of his formerself in 2008. James ($5 million salary) arrived in Arizona in 2006 as the highest-paid free agent signing in team history, and rushed for more than 1,000 yards his first two seasons. But his role was reduced with the presence of Tim Hightower last season, he didn't play for three games and finished with a career-low 514 yards rushing.

Once the Cardinals drafted Ohio State's Chris "Beanie" Wells in the first round, James' fate was sealed.

Look for a few teams to look at James as a potential backup to work in the mix at running back, but a starting job seems highly unlikely. With over 12,000 carries to his credit, James simply has too much mileage and no longer possesses the speed and quick-cutting ability that made him so good in his prime with the Colts.

It's going to be real interesting this summer to watch how the backfield battle shakes down in the desert between Hightower and Wells. Look for both to see plenty of action in 2009.

Fantasy Football, NFL , , , ,

Playoff Picks: Conference Championships

15. January 2009  - Published by Dan Clasgens

Three more freakin' games, that's all we have left of the NFL in 2008. This weekend's slate looks nothing like I predicted in the NFC, but I pretty much nailed it in the AFC. Either way it makes for an interesting  Sunday of football. Here's how I see the games unfolding this weekend:

PHILADELPHIA (9-7) at ARIZONA (9-6-1) - Eagles favored by 4
Outlook: For the thrird straight week it's hard to find anybody that wants to pick the Cardinals, but they just keep finding ways to win. In my mind they've already beaten two teams that are just as good as Philly.

The Eagles are riding high, but outside of drilliing an overrated and unfocused Cowboys' team to get into the playoffs, outlasting a Tavaris Jackson-led Vikings' squad, and a Giants' offense that failed to find an idenity what have the Eagles done? All that's right, they tied the freakin' Bengals, got drilled by the Ravens, and blew a must-win game late in the year to a weak Redskins' team.

Arizona looked terrible down the stretch of the regular season, but post-season surge of the defense and the committment to get a running game going has breathed life into the Cardinals at the perfect time. They looked impressive against Atlanta and shut down Michael Turner. Then they went to Carolina and did something eight other teams couldn't do this year as they beat the Panthers. And not just beat them, but drill them.

The Eagles jumped out to a 21-0 lead before rolling the Cards on Thanksgiving Night, but this time its in Arizona and believe it or not I am going to think that makes a difference.

My Pick: CARDS 24, EAGLES 20

Fantasy Clicks: PLAY - Donovan McNabb, Kurt Warner, Brian Westbrook, Edgerrin James, Tim Hightower, Anquan Boldin, Larry Fitzgerald, DeSean Jackson, Brent Celek, David Akers, Neil Rackers; DON'T PLAY - Correll Buckhalter, Kevin Curtis, Reggie Brown, L.J. Smith, Eagles DEF, Cardinals DEF


BALTIMORE (11-5) at PITTSBURGH (12-4) - Steelers favored by 6

Outlook: The Steelers have already beaten the Ravens twice this season and beating a team three times in one season is a tough task, but it's not unheard off. Just ask the 1999 Jaguars, they went 14-2 before with both losses coming to the Titans, then they lost to Tennessee in the playoffs. It happens. Baltimore has had quite a run to get this point, but they look tired. They haven't had a bye since Week 2 and the veterans on the defense have played at such a high level I think that could hurt them.

Meanwhile, Pittsburgh is enjoying fresh life in the running game as Fast Willie Parker finally gets to 100%. His speed to the outside could present problems for the Ravens, who are likely to be without linebacker Terrell Suggs. Ben Roethlisberger is going to be playing looser than Joe Flacco, but that could lead into turnovers. To me that is the key to this game. If Baltimore is going to have a chance they will need to limit Big Ben and capitalize on mistakes. I don't see the Steelers, who have the best homefield advantage in the league, making too many mistakes though.

My Pick: STEELERS 20, RAVENS 13

Fantasy Clicks: PLAY - Ben Roethlisberger, Willie Parker, LeRon McClain, Santonio Holmes, Hines Ward, Derrick Mason, Heath Miller, Jeff Reed, Matt Stover, Steelers DEF, Ravens DEF; DON'T PLAY -Willis McGahee, Mewelde Moore, Mark Clayton, Nate Washington, Todd Heap

Fantasy Football, NFL , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Lineup Locks: Championship Week

19. December 2008  - Published by Jimmy Dinsmore

Here is our Line-Up Locks for Week 16. If you're reading this, you have likely made it to the ultimate goal, your league championship. Congrats. Now, make the best moves that will bring that title. Here's a quick look at those who has favorable matchups (LOCK IN) and those who deserve a spot on your bench this week (LOCK OUT):

QUARTERBACKS
Lock In:
--Matt Cassel vs. Ari
My take: This is one of the best match ups of the week. In one of my leagues (going for the title), I benched Jay Cutler for Cassel. The Cardinals made Tavaris Jackson look great last week, Cassel should shred them all day.

--Shaun Hill @ StL
My take: Here's a bold move. Hill was held without a TD last week, but this week, he'll put up numbers closer to those from his game against Jets where he threw for almost 300 and had a couple of TDs.

--Matt Schaub @ Oak
My take: For a couple weeks here, I've said to use caution with Schaub and I've always touted the Raiders pass defense. Well Schaub has been fantastic, and the Raiders pass defense has disappointed, so Schaub is a good start this week.

Lock Out:
--Phillip Rivers @ TB
My take: The Chargers have gotten lucky lately and Rivers has benefitted. I think this is a very difficult match up for Rivers and all the Chargers, and I would steer clear this week.

--Eli Manning vs. Car
My take: It will be a marquee game, for sure, but I don't look for Manning to have a big day. Despite what they say, the Giants miss Plaxico Burress' playmaking ability.

--Tony Romo vs. Bal
My take: With their running game a question mark and their offensive line still inconsistent, this match up worries me for Romo. They might squeak out a win, but scoring and fantasy points will be hard to come by.


RUNNING BACKS
Lock In:
--Pierre Thomas @ Det
My take: Reggie Bush is out for the year, Deuce is likely not to play, so the ball is Thomas' and he'll take it to the end zone, over and over this week.

--Kevin Smith vs. NO
My take: Smith has been one of the few bright spots for the Lions and they've finally realized that he needs to touch the ball a lot.

--Brian Westbrook @ Was
My take: Cedric Benson torched the Redskins for over 150 multi-purpose yards, so what do you think a back like Westbrook will do? Exactly.

Lock Out:
--Chris Johnson vs. Pit
My take: Hey rookie, THIS is the NFL. Johnson has not seen a defense like this all year, so I would stay away, if you have better options.

--Marion Barber/Tashard Choice vs. Bal
My take: Choice was the right choice last week, but neither he nor Barber are good starts this week.

--Tim Hightower @ NE
My take: The Cardinals running game has been non-existent and that won't change this week.


WIDE RECEIVERS
Lock In:
--Randy Moss vs. Ari
My take: Big day for Moss and Cassel.

--Calvin Johnson vs. NO
My take: This game could be a high scoring affair and even though the Lions are awful, Johnson is absolutely a stud.

--Antonio Bryant vs. SD
My take: Bryant has been targeted regularly and often should be considered a must start at this point.

Lock Out:
--Terrell Owens vs. Bal
My take: Ed Reed and the Ravens will give TO something to cry about.

--Desean Jackson @ Was
My take: Too inconsistent to be counted on this week.

--Santonio Holmes @ Ten
My take: He was "given" a TD last week, but he will struggle to find scoring chances this week.


TIGHT ENDS
Lock In:
--John Carlson vs. NyJ
My take:  He's about the only Seahawks worth starting this week.

--Dustin Keller @ Sea
My take: Fantastic match up and a great day for a spot start for this rookie.

--Zach Miller vs. Hou
My take: Especially good in yardage heavy and PPR leagues. May not score, but good for several catches and 60+ yards.

Lock Out:
--Antonio Gates @ TB
My take: Everyone who owns Gates is fed up, show your disgust this week as he has yet another bad match up.

--Chris Cooley vs. Phi
My take: The Redskins offense showed me nothing last week and this week the match up is actually tougher.

--Heath Miller @ Ten
My take: Just an overall tough match up this week. Not enough offense to go around for Miller.


TEAM DEFENSE/ST
Lock In:
--NYJ @ Sea
--Phi @ Was
--Cin @ Bal (yeah, that's right, it's a homer pick from me, but the Bengals defense has been good and Cleveland's offense is awful)

Lock Out:
--NO @ Det
--Ariz @ NE
--Min vs. Atl

Fantasy Football , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Fantasy: Thursday Takes

28. November 2008  - Published by Dan Clasgens

Watching football on Thanksgiving was about as fun as getting a root canal. At least you get laughing gas at most dentist offices. I don't know what made me more sleepy eating all the turkey or trying to get into the Seahawks vs. Cowboys match-up on the heels of watching the Lions. I was hoping for a better game in the night cap, but a 28-point blowout by the Eagles was the icing on the cake to a day of crappy football. There were plenty of fantasy takes to digest on this day, but here's my final take:

Titans/Lions
CHRIS JOHNSON
- Continues to prove that he's my favorite rookie running back. He was up to 84 yards and 2 TD's on his first four carries against the Lions and finished with 125 yards on 16 carries. Just think of how big of a day he could have had if he would stayed in there rather than giving way to others in a blowout.

LENDALE WHITE - Coming off a huge disappointing effort in Week 12 in which he lashed out against head coach Jeff Fischer to reporters, White gave fantasy owners that gave him a chance in a favorable match-up plenty to be thankful for. The veteran amssed 125 yards and a pair of TD's on 25 carries.

JUSTIN GAGE - Gage is a bit overhyped right now and Thursday only provided more evidence of this. The Titans are a run-first team and with a big lead Gage disappeared. He had a blow-up game in Week 11, but now has managed just 3 catches for 77 yards over his past two games. He's simply to risky to count on for your line-up.

KEVIN SMITH - Smith has finally emerged as the Lions' primary option out of the backfield and finally appears to be at 100%. The problem is that he still plays for the Lions. He struggled mightily against the Titans, generating just 22 yards on 12 carries. Smith is only worth considering as a RB3 and only in prime match-ups.

CALVIN JOHNSON - Despite playing for the lowly Lions the gifted receiver remains a must-start option. He only managed 5 receptions for 66 yards, but Johnson did get 11 targets and remains one of the most dangerous receivers in the league. He's a must-start option down the stretch.


Cowboys/Seahawks

TONY ROMO - He completed 22-of-34 passes for 331 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. Romo got great protection and showed that he's capable of producing big numbers despite the splint on his throwing hand. Start him with confidence as you enter the playoff drive.

MARION BARBER - His day was cut short after suffering a dislocated pinkie toe. X-rays came back negative though, so he should be a go next week against Pittsburgh. He finised the day with only 32 yards on 10 carries, but he did manage to score a touchdown.

TERRELL OWENS - T.O. made a couple of great catches and posted solid numbers as he pulled in five balls for 98 yards and a TD. After five straight games in which he failed to eclipsed 40 yards receving, Owens has now tallied 311 yards receiving over his past two games. How can you think about sitting him in the playoffs?

MATT HASSELBECK - The veteran had no time behind Seattle's makeshift offensive line, but he did show that he's nearing 100%. He completed 22-of-38 yards for 287 yards with 0 TD's and 1 INT. He does have some favorable match-ups ahead (NE, @StL, NYJ) so he's worth keeping on your roster as a backup.

MAURICE MORRIS - I am still trying to figure out why a guy coming off a game in which he had 113 total yards and a TD the week before takes a seat the following game. He didn't get much action until the second half, but I have to think that the starting job is going to be his heading down the stretch. Either way he's backup material at best.


Eagles/Cardinals
DONOVAN MCNABB - Left for dead, McNabb lived up to my tabbing him No. 8 on the Cheat Sheet coming into the week. After being benched just four days earlier, McNabb posted stellar numbers vs. the Cards. He completed 27-of-39 passes for 260 yards and four touchdowns.

BRIAN WESTBROOK - Patient owners were finally rewarded on Thanksgiving night as Westbrook busted out with a four-touchdown performance. He finished with 25 touches for 130 total yards, but did sit out some of the game with an ankle injury. He should be good to go in Week 15, but he's still struggling to finish a game heatlhy.

DESEAN JACKSON - The rookie wideout pulled in five balls for 76 yards and a touchdown. After a mid-season slump Jackson now has four straight games with at least four catches and has a good chance to finish the season with over 1000 yards receiving. He's a nice WR3 option to finish out the year.

KURT WARNER - He looked flustered and his team got drilled, but Warner continue to produce for fantasy owners in the loss. He did throw three costly interceptions, but still finished with 235 yards and three TD passes. He did have his 300-yard game streak snapped at five, but did throw for multiple TD's in 9 of his 12 games this year.

TIM HIGHTOWER - It was another disappointing effort by the Cards' rookie runner as he mustered just 7 yards on 7 carries and now has gained just 85 yards on 42 carries over his past four contests. He's nothing more than a flex option at this point and only in favorable match-ups.

, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Lineup Locks: Week 12

20. November 2008  - Published by Jimmy Dinsmore

Here is our Line-Up Locks for Week 12. Thursday's night match up will not be included. Here's a quick look at those who has favorable matchups (LOCK IN) and those who deserve a spot on your bench this week (LOCK OUT):

QUARTERBACKS
Lock In:
--Matt Cassel @ Mia
My take: 400+ yards last week. You probably had him on your bench. Don't make that mistake this week in a great match up.

--Aaron Rodgers @ NO
My take: This is a very sexy match up for the Packers QB who has been very consistent of late.

--Tony Romo vs. SF
My take: He looked a little rusty last week, but the Cowboys were playing a much better opponent last week. This week Romo and the Boys get healthy quickly versus a vulnerable 49ers defense.

Lock Out:
--Jake Delhomme @ Atl
My take: For two weeks I've hyped the Panthers QB and he's disappointed anyone who started him. So, if for no other reason than spite, don't start Delhomme this week on the road against the Falcons.

--Brett Favre @ Ten
My take: This will be a very difficult match up for Favre against one of the NFL's best defenses.

--Chad Pennington vs. NE
My take: You can bet the Patriots will be looking for some revenge versus the Dolphins and Pennington's numbers will not be good.


RUNNING BACKS
Lock In:
--Steve Slaton @ Cle
My take: Last week I predicted more touches and a great week for Slaton and he didn't disappoint. This week, he will continue his resurgence versus the Brownies.

--Warrick Dunn @ Det
My take: Earnest Graham is done for the year, Cadillac Williams is not yet ready to return to a real load and Dunn will get a weak Lions defense. That sounds like the making of a nice match up to me.

--Marshawn Lynch @ KC
My take: Much like Slaton, I predicted a break out for Lynch last week and he came through. This week, I predict more of the same. Another 100 yard game and a TD.

Lock Out:
--Thomas Jones @ Ten
My take: Jones has been a hot commodity, but he cools off this week.

--Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Min
My take: MJD did have two TDs last week versus a tough Tennessee defense, but this week, he faces the #1 rush defense in the NFL.

--Tim Hightower vs. NyG
My take: Hightower has been a nice steady fantasy option, but the Cardinals have a tough match up and there's just too much passing by that offense for Hightower to make a good start this week.


WIDE RECEIVERS
Lock In:
--Dwayne Bowe vs. Buf
My take: Bowe found the end zone last week. The emergence of Mark Bradley has helped loosen the coverage on Bowe.

--Bernard Berrian @ Jax
My take: The Jags have struggled with coverage all year and Berrian should find some seams in the Jags secondary for a couple big plays and a score.

--Donald Driver @ NO
My take: In this Monday night match up, I think Driver and Jennings will find the end zone.

Lock Out:
--DeSean Jackson @ Bal
My take: The Eagles offense is a mess and Jackson should move back to your bench this week.

--Donnie Avery vs. Chi
My take: The Rams offense is a mess and face the Bears this week. Avery belongs on the bench for now.

--Laveranues Coles @ Ten
My take: This will be a low scoring effort and Coles' numbers should be less than his normal production.


TIGHT ENDS
Lock In:
--Owen Daniels @ Cle
My take:  He disappointed last week and certainly misses Matt Schaub, but I still think Daniels bounces back with a solid performance this week.

-- Chris Cooley @ Sea
My take: The Redskins offense will look to Cooley often in a soft match up for them.

--Greg Olsen @ StL
My take: The Bears should roll over the Rams and Olsen should get a couple of red zone chances.

Lock Out:
--LJ Smith @ Bal
My take: Do not start any of the Eagles receivers or tight ends this week.

--Todd Heap vs. Phi
My take: Heap still does not warrant a fantasy start and this game should be very low scoring.

--Anthony Fasano vs. NE
My take: Fasano is a favorite red zone option for CHad Pennington, but I think the Patriots will be ready for him this time.


TEAM DEFENSE/ST
Lock In:
--Tampa Bay @ Det
--Philadelphia @ Bal
--Dallas vs. SF

Lock Out:
--New Orleans vs. GB
--Oakland @ Den
--San Diego vs. Ind

Fantasy Football , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Lineup Locks: Week 11

14. November 2008  - Published by Jimmy Dinsmore

Here is our Line-Up Locks for Week 11. Bye weeks are finally over and this week's games have a lot of great match ups. I only list three, but there are plenty of good options this week. Here's a quick look at those who have favorable matchups (LOCK IN) and those who deserve a spot on your bench this week (LOCK OUT):

QUARTERBACKS
Lock In:
--Matt Ryan vs. Den
My take: Ryan has performed like a veteran for the very underrated Atlanta Falcons. This week his match up is so good, you have to consider Ryan a top 10 QB this week. Expect a couple of scores and at least 200 yards from him.

--Donovan McNabb @ Cin
My take: McNabb should have time to shred the Bengals defense, and can still scramble away from any pressure the defense might put on him.

--Trent Edwards vs. Cle
My take: Edwards has been hot and cold but is poised for a very nice week in what could be an offensive shootout.

Lock Out:
--Chad Pennington vs. Oak
My take: Last week I hyped up Jake Delhomme to exploit the Deangelo Hall-less Raider secondary and that didn't happen. The Raiders are a mess on offense, but have actually overperformed on defense all year. I think the Dolphins will use a lot of Ronnie Brown this week in order to win the game.

--Eli Manning vs. Bal
My take: I think the Giants will win this game, but I don't think Eli does much to warrant a start this week.

--David Garrard vs. Ten
My take: The Jags have been a huge disappointment and with their season slipping away face one of the toughest defenses in the NFL. Until I see improvement from Jacksonville's o-line, I am leaving Garrard on the bench.


RUNNING BACKS
Lock In:
--DeAngelo Williams vs. Det
My take: I say start every Panther you can in this game, if possible as Detroit can't stop anything. It might be a shootout, but I think Williams could be the best of the scorers for Carolina this week.

--Tim Hightower @ Sea
My take: This year's rookie running backs has been a fruitful crop. Hightower is no different. While the Cardinals are a pass-first team, I think Hightower gets 100 yards and a score this week in what could be a closer game than some think.

--Marshawn Lynch vs. Cle
My take: Lynch has been a disappointment, but I think he comes back in a big way this week. As long as he gets 20 touches, he'll be good for 100 yards and a score.

Lock Out:
--Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Ten
My take: The Titans are the second best team in the NFL in rush defense. Factor in how bad the Jags o-line has been and I don't like MJD's chances this week.

--Earnest Graham vs. Min
My take: Several factors should keep Graham on the bench. Warrick Dunn is back from an injury, as is Cadillac Williams. Plus, Graham is gimpy and questionable with a bum knee and the Vikings are the #1 rush defense in the NFL.

--Justin Fargas @ Mia
My take: The match up isn't particular ominous for Fargas, but Darren McFadden is allegedly going to play this week and, in case you haven't been paying attention, the Raiders offense is atrocious. I would not start any Raiders at this point.


WIDE RECEIVERS
Lock In:
--Santana Moss vs. Dal
My take: Clinton Portis is likely not going to play, which means the Skins are going to have to air it out in order to beat the Cowboys and I think Moss will benefit from increased touches, especially in PPR leagues.

--Steve Smith vs. Det
My take: I realize that Smith and Delhomme had a great match up last week and were fairly disappointing, but this week, at home, versus a lousy Lions team, you can count on a great game from Smith.

--Roddy White vs. Den
My take: The Broncos can't stop anyone from scoring and moving down the field. The Falcons' offense is very good at home. And White has been one of the most consistent WRs in terms of production that no way you don't start him this week.

Lock Out:
--Vincent Jackson @ Pit
My take: This is a tough match up for the Chargers in general, and as a result, I think you can expect very little from Jackson this week.

--Bernard Berrian @ TB
My take: I have said several times in this column how underrated the Tampa defense is and for this reason, I think it will be a low-scoring affair. Berrian is a borderline starter every week, but not this week.

--Marvin Harrison vs. Hou
My take: He's a Hall of Famer, for sure, but he isn't that Hall of Fame talent any more. I don't think Harrison warrants a start in anyone's lineups now that bye weeks are over.


TIGHT ENDS
Lock In:
--Chris Cooley vs. Dal
My take:  As mentioned, without Portis, Jason Campbell will look to Cooley often as a safety valve.

--Owen Daniels @ Ind
My take: Daniels is a fantasy stud and gets a great match up this week.

--Kellen Winslow @ Buf
My take: He was targeted 11 times last week by new QB Brady Quinn and put up over 100 yards and a score. Expect nice numbers again this week from Winslow.

Lock Out:
--Greg Olsen @ GB
My take: The Packer secondary is very good and so are their linebackers. I'm not confident in anyone on the Bears defense this week.

--Todd Heap @ NYG
My take: Yes that was Todd Heap in the end zone last week, but don't get too excited and do something foolish like start him.

--Kevin Boss vs. Bal
My take: And yes that was Kevin Boss in the end zone last week, but again, don't do anything foolish like start him.


TEAM DEFENSE/ST
Lock In:
--Carolina vs.Det
--NYG vs. Bal
--Phi @ Cin

Lock Out:
--Buf vs. Cle
--Atlanta vs. Den
--Was vs. Dal

Fantasy Football , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Game Balls: Week 9

2. November 2008  - Published by Jim Humbert
Donovan McNabb, QB, Philadelphia - 28/43, 349 yards, 2 TD, 1 Int
The Eagles began the day in last place in the tough NFC East but finish it right in the thick of it. Philly took care of business against a poor Seattle team thanks to a big game from McNabb. The ground game never really got going as Brian Westbrook finished with just 61 rushing yards. But it didn't matter as McNabb hooked up with 10 different receivers on the day. The best performance was by tight end Brent Celek who finished with 131 yards from six catches.

Ray Rice, RB, Baltimore - 21 carries, 154 yards, 3 catches, 22 yards
For many years, including the current one, the Ravens have been known for having a really good defense. Well on Sunday they decided to flex their offensive muscles as well. Along with the big game from Rice, Le'Ron McClain added 34 rushing yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Joe Flacco threw for 248 yards and two touchdowns. And veteran Derrick Mason caught nine balls for 136 yards and a score. And the defense? Well, they sealed the game with a late interception for a touchdown by Terrel Suggs.

Rod Bironas, K, Tennessee - 4 FG, 1 XP
Sometimes even the best teams don't play well and can use a little luck. That was the case for the Titans on Sunday. At home against the Packers their defense was not at it's best as they gave up over 400 yards. The offense sputtered as well with just 180 passing yards and a struggling ground game. And then Bironas missed a field goal that could have won the game late in the fourth quarter. But they got their second chance in overtime and Bironas kept the Titans undefeated.

Tim Hightower, RB, Arizona - 22 carries, 109 yards, 1 TD
The passing of the torch at the running back position for the Cardinals took place on Sunday. Hightower got the start in place of an ineffective Edgerrin James and made the most of it. James did not even get into the game and J.J. Arrington was second on the team in rushing with 62 yards. Kurt Warner had another 300+ yard game with 2 TDs and no interceptions. Both Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald had six catches for 85 and 81 yards respectively.

Adrian Peterson, RB, Minnesota - 25 carries, 139 yards, 1 TD
Once again on Sunday Peterson showed why he is among the elite backs in the NFL. Sure, the Texans aren't exactly a brick wall versus the run, but 'stud' running backs are supposed to put up big numbers against the weaker defenses and carry their team to victory. And that's just what Peterson did. It was the third game in a row he finished with triple digits in rushing and the fifth time this season.

Chad Johnson, WR, Cincinnati - 5 catches, 37 yards, 2 TD
The Bengals won a game. Just pause and think about that for a while. The Bengals won a game. If a year ago someone would have told you that the Bengals wouldn't win a game in the 2008 season until November, you would have told them they were nuts. And there is no way anyone would believe that Cedric Benson would have run for 100 yards and scored his first touchdown of the year. Cedric Benson? And forget about Ryan Fitzpatrick leading the team to victory. CRAZY! As for Ocho-Cinco, he doubled his touchdown total for the season in one game. And he actually did it with some class, particularly his second one. He handed the ball to the ref and headed to the sideline for some kind words (and maybe a kiss?) for the coach. Yeah, this is nuts.

Rex Grossman, QB, Chicago - 9/19, 58 yards, 1 TD, 1 Int, 1 rush TD
What would be a season be like for the Bears without a change at quarterback? On Sunday the issue was forced thank to an injury to Kyle Orton. And Grossman really didn't look all that great. But he led his team to a comeback victory running for the game winning touchdown. And for that he deserves credit. Maybe not the starting job, but at least some credit.

The Game Used Sock Award
Terrell Owens, WR, Dallas - 5 catches, 36 yards, 1 TD
Any time I get a chance to rip on an NFC East team I'll take it, especially the Cowboys. And there is no bigger Cowboy than T.O. Sure he led the team with five catches and 36 yards and a score which is not horrible even in fantasy football standards. But it is the fourth game in a row that Owens finished with under 40 yards and his season high this year is just 89. Sure, Brad Johnson is no Tony Romo or Drew Bledsoe or Donovan McNabb or Jeff Garcia. But Hall of Famers are supposed to step up their game when their teammates are down. So for now T.O. can forget about wearing that yellow jacket in Canton and firgure out how to get the stink out of his socks.

Fantasy Football, NFL , , , , , , ,