Friday, October 31, 2008

WEEK 9: WATCH FOR THE DREADED RUNNING BACK-BY-COMMITTEE

Heading into Week 9 there are a few running back-by committee scenarios that could alter point production for No. 1 backs.
Be wary of what is going on with the Jets. Starting back Thomas Jones has struggled lately and that has given backup Leon Washington an oportunity to get his groove on.
Last week against Kansas City he had an impressive 101 yards from scrimmage on only six touches - three carries and three receptions.
Although Jones opened the season as the unquestioned No. 1 back it is quickly becoming a running back-by-committee situation.
Other No. 1 backs expected to share carries more than usual, at least for this weekend, are Joseph Addai and Willie Parker who are both returning from injuries. Addai will share carries with Dominic Rhodes who filled in nicely as the starter in recent weeks. Parker will share carries with Mewelde Moore who has also had impressive performances starting for Parker.

If you're still looking for some help off the waiver wire, Chad Pennington could be a nice one-week replacement against the Denver mediocre pass defense. With Sammy Morris and Lamont Jordan injured, Kevin Faulk looks like a decent replacement at running back.

ALSO....keep an eye on the situation with Jacksonville receiver Matt Jones. He has appealed a four-game suspension by the NFL for abusing the league's substance abuse policy and is expected to play on Sunday. Although it is unlikely this late in the week, it is possible NFL commissioner Roger Goodell could rule on the appeal today (Friday) or Saturday and force Jones to be suspended this weekend. Monitor the situation if he's on your roster. If he plays Jones should produce decent stats against Cincinnati.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

WEEK 8 SUNDAY PRE-GAME PLANNER

If you are looking for some last-minute replacements at receiver, go with Pittesburgh's Nate Washington who is expected to take the place of suspended Santonio Holmes. With the Giants' suspect secondary in play, Washington should be good for 10-20 points.
Also, with the Rams facing a banged up New England defense, especially with Rodney Harrison out, use St. Louis' New No. 2 receiver Donnie Avery. Torry Holt should see a lot of double teams, leaving Avery open for some long gains and a touchdown or two.
RECEIVER ALERT: Also note that Tennessee's Justin Gage and Philadelphia's Kevin Curtis are expected to return from injuries and start. I found at least four leagues where these guys are still available on waiver wires and if they're available in your league, grab them and play them today.
RUNNING BACK ALERT: Word out of Oakland on several Internet reports is new coach Tom Cable is going to show off some new plays to get all his superstars more involved with the offense. Oakland isn't given much of a chance against the tough defense of Baltimore, but back Darren McFadden and receiver Javon Walker should be targeted more than usual to get something on offense going. Unlike what you're hearing from most other national fantasy football experts, I believe McFadden will have a huge day.

GOOD LUCK TODAY!