Nowak's Fantasy Sports Report

Fantasy Football: Late Week 7 waiver pickups

2011-10-23T11:42:00.003-04:00

Despite six weeks of the NFL season being in the books there are still many players out there on waiver wires who can make a fantasy football impact today.
With six new quarterbacks making starts today that position seems to offer the most value. The guy I like a lot today is Tim Tebow with Denver. While some fantasy experts have mixed feelings about Tebow, this is a guy who can provide Michael Vick-like numbers. Tebow is middle of the road when it comes to the passing game but he has a long history of being prolific in the running game too. If he's out there and you need a QB, expect 20-30 points from Tebow today.
Some experts are also saying stay away from San Diego tight end Antonio Gates who is making his first start since suffering a foot injury the first week of the season. The Chargers will likely limit the amount of plays he will be on the field, but a limited Gates is still better than a full production from most other tight ends in the NFL.
Start Gates if you have him and he should get you 15-20 points.
Also, don't be afraid to start Oakland receiver Jacoby Ford. He has struggled but the Raiders should fall behind early against Kansas City forcing QB Kyle Boller to throw some deep balls early and often.

FantasyFootball: Injuries making life miserable

2011-10-02T10:34:00.003-04:00

Heading into this season, team owners in the six fantasy football leagues I'm in had concerns the lengthy lockout would result in a rash of early-season injuries.
That concern has become a reality with players going down with injuries on a weekly basis.
The high-profile injury is obviously the loss of Indianapolis quarterback Peyton Manning indefinitely with a neck injury. Backup Kerry Collins hasn't been the answer and now with Collins out this week with a concussion Curtis Painter gets his first shot at an NFL start.
In my Betting the NFL column today I led off with Painter and how I believe he is going to make an impact.
The reason I'm making a big deal about this here is some fantasy experts on websites like cbssports.com and Espn are saying stay away from Painter.
This is Painter's shot. Look at what he has to work with - tight end Dallas Clark and host of solid receivers led by Reggie Wayne. I seriously think Painter can throw for 300 yards this week. I am so serious that in my Golf Digest Media League I am sitting Mike Vick in favor of Painter.
Another injury to be wary of is Green Bay back Ryan Grant who is out with a kidney injury. James Starks will take his place but thiurd stringer John Kuhn will get his touches too. I think both players will excel today.

Horse racing: Fantasy day for fans of jockey Tammi Piermarini

2011-09-29T18:43:00.004-04:00

This isn't your typical fantasy sports story.
But when it comes to fantasizing about that big winning day at the racetrack, fans of female jockey Tammi Piermarini probably came close to satisfying that fantasy at Suffolk Downs on Wednesday.
Piermarini had an unbelievable Wednesday at Suffolk Down as the jockey phenom won the first five races at Suffolk Downs. The five wins also allowed her to be the fourth winningest female jockey of all time.
She started her day by riding Riparian Right ($7.00) to victory in the opening race. She followed that with wins aboard Dr. Mulligan ($2.60), Sevenisthenumber ($13.00), Wolf Moon ($4.40) and New England champion Technically Wicked ($6.40), respectively.
She completed the day with five wins and one second from seven mounts.
According to officials at Suffolk Downs, Piermarini, who earlier in the year became the fifth woman to reach the 2,000-win milestone, has eclipsed Vicki Baze and is now the fourth winningest female rider in history with 2,024 career wins.
She is 113 wins behind third-place Patti Cooksey (2,137). Julie Krone (3,704) and Rosemary Homeister (2,438) are the top two female jockeys with the most wins.

FantasyFootball: Urgent-Gates out, Foster limited

2011-09-25T12:44:00.003-04:00

As you may know by now San Diego tight end Antonio Gates is inactive today with a foot injury that hjas nagged him since the preseason.
Don't panic if you need a quick replacement. Grab Cleveland tight end Evan Moore who is available in about 80 percent of leagues. Browns back Peyton Hillis is out today and was sent home with strep throat.
Expect Moore to get a huge amnount of targets and I see 18-25 points from him.
Houston Texans backj Arian Foster continues to be plagued by a hamstring injury and is out today. If you are looking for a last minute replacement go with Pats back Danny Woodhead. He should have 12-15 touches today and has a shot for double digit points.

Fantasy football: Temper expectations with Holmes, Foster and Jackson

2011-09-18T11:13:00.004-04:00

Several players are expected to play today despite still hurting with an injury and not being 100 percent. Be careful when you start these players beause their production will likely be limited if they play.

Santonio Holmes is recovering from knee and quadriceps injuries and is listed as questionable for today's game with Jacksonville. But the Jets' website claims Holmes, who was very iffy to play on Friday, plans to play today.
But even if he plays today, don't expect him to be 100 percent. Plaxico Burress will likely be used a lot more with Holmes used as a decoy in a lot of passing plays. I would play Pittsburgh's Emmanuel Sanders or Arizona's Early Doucet ahead of Holmes this week.
Texans running back Arian Foster, who went No. 1 in most drafts this season, is expected to see the field for the first time this season as he continues to nurse a hamstring injury. He is still listed as questionable against Miami and I wouldn't expect a lot from him this week. Backup Ben Tate is expected to get a lot of work with possibly as much as a 50-50 split in carries.
At least for this week, don't expect monster fantasy production from Foster. I would start guys like Cedric Benson, Peyton Hillis and Beanie Wells if they're available over Foster - just for this week.

This is for Monday's game, but St. Louis running back Steven Jackson is expected to be a game-time decisions as far his availibity according to the team's website. Listed as questionable with a quadriceps injury, he didn't practice Saturday. The best bet in this spot appears to be backup running back Cadillac Williams. I would bench Jackson because even if he plays he likely won't be effective when it comes to fantasy production. Go with Williams or some of the other running back options out there. I would even go with New England's Danny Woodhead who I believe will be very active in the Pats' tough matchup with San Diego today.

ATTENTION FANTASY FOOTBALL FANS: For more indepth fantasy football coverage, read my fantasy football column this week by clicking on the hyperlink.

NOTE: If you're reading this you are getting information from a guy who is the defending champion of the prestigious Fantasy Sports Writers Association Insiders Fantasy Football League, a nationally renowned fantasy football league involving 65 of the top fantasy sports experts nationwide.

Fantasy Football: Foster likely out, fill-ins out there at all positions

2011-09-11T10:56:00.006-04:00

Let the NFL games begin.
The landscape of fantasy football isn't quite the same for today's Sunday debut of games. You have an elite quarterback - Indianapolis' QB Peyton Manning - out of action, ESPN.com is reporting Houston back Arian Foster, a No. 1 draft pick in many leagues, will be inactive today due to a nagging hamstring injury, and new talent like Cincinnati receiver A.J. Green are emerging as solid players to watch.
It's days like this that can drive fantasy football team owners up a wall.
But it ain't (excuse the awkward word) all that bad.
If you're looking for a back to replace Foster, all week I've been touting Cincinnati's Cedric Benson, Arizona's Beanie Wells and even Dallas' Felix Jones as under-the-radar type guys who could produce well today.
If you don't have those guys and want to take a shot and go for a reach, then try Jonathan Stewart at Carolina. He is still available on many waiver wires and he is expected to split carries with DeAngelo Williams, almost to the point of a 50-50 split in carries.
If you need a QB, I'm still amazed at how many waiver wires still have Arizona's Kevin Kolb or Minnesota's Donovan McNabb available. These quarterbacks have solid receiving talent to work with and should produce decent fantasy numbers each week.
One suggestion when it comes to the tight end position, feel confident playing any tight end you have today. Thanks to the lockout many offensive lines will still be trying to get on the same page, there will be breakdowns and quarterbacks will likely be doing a lot of short, check-down passes to avoid trouble.
FYI: Be advised you are getting fantasy football info here from a guy who is the defending national champion of the prestigious Fantasy Sports Writers Insiders Fantasy Football League, competing against the best of the best experts nationwide.

Nowak: Defending his national fantasy football title

2011-08-31T13:30:00.004-04:00

Pressure? What pressure?
I've been hearing from a lot of fantasy football experts around the country the past few days, wishing me luck this NFL season in defending my title as the Fantasy Sports Writers Association Insiders Fantasy Football League champion.
The unique thing about the FSWA fantasy football league is instead of competing against 11 other owners, you are actually competing against 65 of the nearly 500 members of the FSWA representing all the major fantasy football media outlets nationwide.
You aren't just competing against your buddies who love fantasy football. You're competing against fantasy football experts who live, eat and sleep fantasy football for a living.
It ain't easy and you have to be on top of your game, trying to stay a step ahead of these guys.
The common question I've been asked is what was my secret last season?
While drafting is important, keeping aprised of what talent is available on the waiver wire during the season has always been key for me. Last year I picked up Michael Vick, Dwayne Bowe and Arian Foster off waivers.

Fantasy football: Who's No. 1?

2011-08-31T13:06:00.003-04:00

Who's the No. 1 pick in fantasy football drafts?
According to Mockdraftcentral.com, Houston running back Arian Foster is the No. 1 overall pick. If this guy is healthy he can surely help you at back and at receiver with his ability to catch the ball. But is he healthy? If you go by his last preseason game he looked pretty good and ready to go.
Other guys being picked No. 1 in drafts around the country - all backs - are Minnesota's Adrian Peterson, Kansas City's Jamaal Charles, Tennessee's Chris Johnson and Baltimore's Ray Rice.
Guys picked among the top three spots are Philadelphia running back LeSean McCoy and Philadelphia quarterback Michael Vick who just signed a $100 million contract.
So who do you pick if you have the No. 1 draft position?
I think Adrian Peterson is the safest guy to take at No. 1. He's healthy and has a quarterback who can make defenses polkay honest.
The wildcard here could be Vick. Most fantasy sports sites have him projected with the most fantasy points for the season with anywhere from 323 to 347.
I like Vick a lot, but if you're drafting the top four spots you need to go with a solid running back.

Fantasy Football: Week 17 tips

2011-01-02T11:09:00.002-05:00

If you're reading this you are probably competing in your championship game today.

Week 17 is always a crapshoot with teams resting players and teams out of playoff contention just going through the motions. With that said there are still players motivated to contribute.
The key backs today are Houston's Arian Foster and Kansas City's Jamaal Charles who are competing for the rushing title. Another key back is New England back Danny Woodhead who should shred the dismal Buffalo rush defense.
If you need a quarterback Denver's Tim Tebow is probably still available on your waiver wire. He should have a big game today as he continues to showcase why he is a legitimate NFL starting QB. The most motivated QB today will be Matt Ryan who laid an egg last week against New Orleans and needs a win to clinch home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
If you need a tight end a guy who might be availableis Houston's Owen Daniels who has been hurt most of the season.
Receivers to key on would be Baltimore's Derek Mason, St. Louis' Danny Amendola, Houston's Kevin Walter and Indianapolis' Pierre Garcon/Blair White.

Be advised Maurice Jones-Drew, David Garrard and Chad Ochocinco are out and guys like Mike Vick, DeSean Jackson, Tom Brady, Deion Branch and Santonio Holmes will see little or no action as they rest for the playoffs.
Good luck today!!!

Fantasy Football: Nowak wins prestigious national championship

2010-12-29T11:53:00.004-05:00

What a satisfying season for yours truly when it comes to competing in fantasy football leagues.

For the first time your fearless fantasy advisor has won one of the most prestigious fantasy football leagues in the United States - the Fantasy Sports Writers Association Industry Insiders League. The league is sponsored by the Fantasy Sports Writers Association and comprised of 60 of the most accomplished veterans at fantasy sports sites in the television, radio, print and radio media. I also won the Golf Digest Media Fantasy Football League championship as well.

The Fantasy Sports Writers Association Industry Insiders League is comprised of five 12-team divisions with individuals from various media sites that include ESPN, CBSSPORTS.com, FanBall.com, KFFL.com, Rotowire.com, SportingNews.com, Draftsharks.com, Footballguys.com, Footballdiehards.com and many others.
The competition is unique, combining both head-to-head and rotisserie formats.
The first 11 weeks of the competition is head-to-head. The division winners plus the 15 teams with the next best record advance to the championship round in Weeks 12-16 of the NFL’s regular season.

I ended up 8-3 in my division after 11 weeks, tied with Cory Bonini of KFFL for second place.
When you begin the championship round you start with the overall average weekly points from the first 11 weeks. The first 11 weeks I averaged 157 points and that was my starting point in the championship round.
In Weeks 12-16 you add the points your team accumulates each week.
Entering Week 16, I was in fourth place with 711.29 points. Team Mike Jones (footballdiehards) led with 723.08 points followed by Matt Schauf of RapidDraft.com (722.85) and Todd Lammi of FantasyBaseballTools.com (722.80).
In Week 16, New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees on Monday gave me 17.10 points for a Week 16 total of 165.50. The big finish gave me 876.79 points overall and the FSWAIIL championship. Schauf ended up second with 871.55 points followed by Lammi (867.35), Pete Smits of FantasyInsights.com (844.40), Jon Rascom of FantasyFootballTrader.com (814.04) and Jones (813.23).

I am also living proof, even against elite competition, that you can overcome a rough draft to win a title. The night of the Fantasy Sports Writers Association Industry Insiders League draft, I was available for the first four rounds but then the unthinkable happened - my computer froze and went down. I missed the final 16 rounds. I pre-ranked my players before the draft in case something happened. But as a result of missing most of the draft I ended up with no top tier receivers with maybe the exception of Nate Washington. The receivers I ended up with were Michael Jenkins, Chaz Schilens, Nate Washington, Kevin Walter and Demaryius Thomas.
Through waiver pickups (a bidding process conducted on Wednesdays and Fridays) the first four weeks of the season I was able to strengthen myself at receiver, picking up Brandon Lloyd, Steve Johnson and Danny Amendola. Those additions came up big for me.
FYI: The Fantasy Sports Writers Association (FSWA.org) is comprised of nearly 400 members of the national media who cover fantasy sports.

The complete finish of the FSWAIIL championship round:

1. New Haven Register/Northeastff.com - Dan Nowak 876.79
2. RapidDraft - Matt Schauf 871.55
3. Fantasy Baseball Tools - Todd Lammi 867.35
4. Fantasy Insights - Pete Smits 844.40
5. Fantasy Football Trader - Jon Rascom 814.04
6. Team Mike Jones 813.23
7. BFDFantasyfootball - Lou Tranquilli 807.40
8. Fans Fantasy Football - Ken Zalis 801.36
9. CBSSports - Jamey Eisenberg 788.61
10. KFFL - Tim Heaney 784.67
11. BabyBlueMonkey.com - Erik Dell 762.31
12. ESPN - Pierre Becquey 760.57
13. KFFL - Cory Bonini 749.60
14. FanBall - Mark Hooper 740.77
15. FFToolbox.com - John Benson 736.10
16. The Scores Report - Jamey Codding 724.68
17. Team Bob Harris 724.19
18. Rotowire - Derek VanRiper 700.67
19. Fantasy Sharks - Jim Bukowski 697.95
20. Footballguys - Sigmund Bloom 644.51

Fantasy Football: BREAKING NEWS-Eagles game now on Tues.

2010-12-26T12:55:00.005-05:00

For all of us in championship games this week or semifinal round games, the NFL.com Web site is reporting that the Minnesota at Philadelphia game has been moved to Tuesday at 8 p.m. due to the blizzard heading up the East Coast. This bodes well if you have players from those teams because the snow would have likely limited performances.
ALSO BREAKING NEWS - Be advised Jacksonville back Maurice Jones-Drew is out this week. Rashard Jennings will start in his place.

Fantasy football: Week 16 - 10 to start, 10 to sit

2010-12-25T13:40:00.005-05:00

Week 16-- 10 playersto start and 10 to sit

10 players to start: Quarterbacks - David Garrard, Jon Kitna (Saturday), Matt Cassel, Matt Ryan; Running backs- Tashard Choice (Saturday), Steven Jackson, Danny Woodhead, Matt Forte; Receivers - Vincent Jackson, Danny Amendola

10 players to sit: Quarterbacks - Mark Sanchez, Carson Palmer; Running backs - Ronnie Brown, Fred Jackson, LaDainian Tomlinson, Brandon Jacobs; Receivers- Chad Ochocinco, Santonio Holmes, Sidney Rice, Lance Moore

Fantasy Football: Week 16 players who will produce in your semifinal or championship game

2010-12-25T13:05:00.011-05:00

If you are reading this you are probably in your semifinal round of fantasy football playoffs or possibly in your championship game. This is not the time to activate a player who "could" give you decent points. You have competed all season to get to this point and want to give yourself the best shot possible to win, even if it means grabbing a new - but hot - player off your waiver wire.

For example, you have probably been riding hot running backs Peyton Hillis and Maurice Jones-Drew in recent weeks. But these guys could be big busts this weekend. Jones-Drew has been downgraded to doubtful with a knee injury. Hillis is facing a Ravens defense that has made it known it will focus on stopping him from having the kind of dominating performance (144 yards) he had against the Ravens earlier this season.
If you're looking for a safe back to play, see if Dallas back Tashard Choice is available on your waiver wire. He is playing tonight (Saturday) against a terrible Arizona defense and should get more carries with Marion Barber still nursing a calf injury.
Another back who is still available on many waiver wires is New England back Danny Woodhead. He led the Pats in rushing against Green Bay last week and faces a lousy Buffalo defense. Expect 80-90 yards and a TD or two from Woodhead this week.

FYI: If you have Denver back Knowshon Moreno, he is still bothered by a ribs injury. He is expected to play on Sunday but if you have a better option go for it.

When it comes to receivers, Kansas City's Dwyane Bowe has struggled in recent weeks with QB Matt Cassel recovering from an appendectomy. But Cassel is close to 100 percent this week and Bowe will be targeted early and often in a game KC needs to win to keep playoff hopes alive.
Another receiver to key on is San Diego's Vincent Jackson who should have another big game this week.
With guys like Santonio Holmes and Chad Ochocinco hurting this week, you might want to grab Indianapolis receiver Blair White who is available on many waiver wires. White should be targeted quite a bit with Austin Collie (concussion) out for the season.

Quarterbacks to key on this week outside of the obvious ones would include Matt Ryan, Jon Kitna (Saturday), David Garrard and TimTebow. Tight ends to key on would be Oakland's Zach Miller, Houston's Owen Daniels and Minnesota's Visanthe Shiancoe.

GOOD LUCK THIS WEEK!

Fantasy Football: Playoff performers-NOTE Rodgers is out

2010-12-18T14:14:00.002-05:00

While some of you are starting your playoffs this week most of you, like me in three leagues, are in the semifinal round.
The key note at this stage revolves around Green Bay. According to the Green Bay Web site quarterback Aaron Rodgers (concussion) is out for Week 15. Temper your expectations for all Packers'players this weekend with Mike Flynn starting against New England at QB.
If you need a defense, grab the Patriots "D."
Another QB to monitor heading into game time is Kansas City's Matt Cassel. If he plays, start Dwayne Bowe with confidence. If it's Brodie Croyle at QB, replace Bowe with someone who will get you points.
Two players that stick out this week are tight ends - Houston's Owen Daniels and Oakland's Zach Miller. Both came back from injuries and had decent games last week. They are healthy now and have the kind of matchups this week that can mean 5-10 receptions, 80-90 yards and a touchdown each.
Also note with Dallas QB Tony Romo expected back in Week 16 that this is likely the final week for Jon Kitna to start. He will be pumped up to make the most of this start and should be started if you have him, even with receiver Dez Bryant out for the season.

Fantasy Football: BREAKING NEWS-Tamme to play tonight

2010-12-09T19:06:00.004-05:00

Indianapolis tight end Jacob Tamme, the highest ranked tight end of Week 14 due to his matchup with the Titans, will start in tonight's game.
Listed as questionable all week with a knee injury, Colts coach Jim Caldwell told an NFL Network reporter at 7 p.m. that Tamme will be active tonight. Expect 15-25 points from Tamme tonight against a Titans' team that has been giving up an average of nearly 18 points a game to tight ends this season.
Also significant is that Titans receiver Kenny Britt will play tonight too along with Randy Moss. Expect Britt and Moss to have big games (yes, Moss will be fantasy relavent for once with the Titans).
With Britt playing, that should make the going a little easier for back Chris Johnson.
This should be a high-scoring game with mucho fantasy points up for grabs.

Fantasy football: Week 13 performances that stood out

2010-12-09T08:51:00.005-05:00

As most fantasy football leagues enter their playoffs, top performances from Week 13 should be noted because they will likely continue in Week 14.
While most NFL experts are on the "bashing Peyton Manning" bandwagon, from a fantasy persepective he's still a potent producer despite the bevy of interceptions in recent weeks. Sure, he had four interceptions in Week 13 but he was the top-producing fantasy QB with 365 yards and two touchdowns. The usual guys who rise to the top in December had lofty performances including Matt Schaub (337 yards, 2 touchdowns), Tom Brady ( 326 yards, 4 touchdowns) and Drew Brees (313 yards, 2 touchdowns). And oh yeah, there's Michael Vick (302 yards, 2 touchdowns).

Look who's been the hot running back the past four weeks. After struggling early this season Maurice Jones-Drew has been on a roll, although we would like to see more TDs from this guy. Jones-Drew had 186 yards rushing last week. Other hot backs from last week were Knowshon Moreno (161 yards), Chris Ivory (117 yards, 2 touchdowns), Jamaal Charles (116 yards) and Adrian Peterson (107 yards, 3 touchdowns). The one guy to shy away from this week is Ivory with Pierre Thomas expected back on the field for New Orleans.

When it comes to receivers, Reggie Wayne has been the go-to guy for Peyton Manning in recent weeks with the Austin Collie out with an injury. Wayne had an awesome Week 13 with 14 receptions, 200 yards and a touchdown. Other top performances included Andre Johnson (6 receptions, 149 yards), Vernon Davis (4 receptions, 126 yards, 1 touchdown), Greg Jennings (6 receptions, 122 yards, 2 touchdowns) and Anquan Boldin (5 receptions, 118 yards, 1 touchdown).

When it comesto tight ends, one guy who is still on a lot of waiver wires and who keeps producing is Ben Watson. He only had 10 receptions, 100 yards and a touchdown in Weeki 13 and that production should continue. Other top Week 13 tight end performances, from guys getting hot (or staying hot) in time for the playoffs, included Antonio Gates (6 receptions, 73 yards, 1 touchdown), Jimmy Graham (3 receptions, 72 yards), Cameron Morrah (3 receptions, 69 yards) and Joel Dreessen, 5 receptions, 63 yards.

Fantasy football: Week 13 waiver pickups

2010-12-03T02:05:00.003-05:00

Once again fantasy football experts nationwide are making me shake my head. Sometimes, instead of just looking at the hard cold stats you need to look outside the box to determine a player's fantasy worth.
The player in question is Dallas back Tashard Choice, who is still available on many waiver wires.
Other experts are telling you to avoid Choice and start Dallas back Felix Jones this week with Marion Barber sidelined for the next 3-4 weeks. Sure, Jones' production should improve a notch or two but it is Choice you should be keying on.

Choice has been champing at the bit to get on the field and contribute this season. In 11 games he only has 14 carries for 38 yards and one touchdown.
But here is where you have to think outside the box.
Twice this week Choice was dissed in Dallas- once by Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and again by interim coach Jason Garrett. Jones said the reason Choice hasn't played more is he has been terrible playing on special teams. Garrett said the reason Choice hasn't played more is he just isn't as good as Barber or Felix.
While Barber is a bruising, power back, Jones is a finesse guy with jukes and moves to make his way down the field. Choice is a combination of the two with power, speed and moves.

Ticked off, Choice plans to showcase that ability these next few weeks with the opportunity he has in place. In each game he should get 10-14 carries and a few passes thrown in and likely a touchdown against the struggling Indianapolis run defense.
Choice's motivation to show what he can do should be a plus for fantasy football owners. I added the guy on three of my teams and I am starting him in the Register Media League this week.
This reminds me of Atlanta back Michael Turner, who was in LaDainian Tomlinson's shadow in their San Diego days. Once he had a chance to start, expecially full time, Turner took off and produced.

Other players to key on who could still be on your waiver wire are backs Brian Westbrook and Maurice Morris, receiver Legedu Naanee, tight end Kevin Boss and San Diego's defense (okay, not a player but a DST that can get you many points with three home games in its next three games).

Fantasy Football: Studs to start, duds to sit

2010-11-27T21:21:00.003-05:00

Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan, San Diego receiver Vincent Jackson and Tennessee receiver Randy Moss are three guys who should be active on your roster if you have them.
Ryan is golden when he plays at home with an 18-1 record at the Georgia Dome. Jackson makes his 2010 debut and is pumped to get back on the field. Add the fact that San Diego receiver Patrick Crayton is out, receiver Malcom Floyd is battling a hamstring issue and tight end Antonio Gates is also banged up and you have a perfect storm of fantasy football production on the horizon for Jackson.
Most fantasy football experts are singing the praises of Tennessee receiver Nate Washington for this week. I'm telling you Moss is the guy to focus on for the Titans. Moss has been quiet the past two weeks but I believe he will have a great day against Houston.
Minnesota receiver Sidney Rice and Pittsburgh back Rashard Mendenhall should also have great performances this week. The Cleveland Browns defense should also have a field day with Carolina.

Guys to avoid this week include Jacksonville quarterback David Garrard and Buffalo quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick. Garrard faces a tough Giants defense this week and Fitzpatrick goes against a tough Pittsburgh defense.

Fantasy Football-Week 11 recap

2010-11-24T16:28:00.003-05:00

Familiar fantasy football "studs" rose to the top when it came to production last weekend, a good sign that the elite producers are getting in a rhythm.
Peyton Manning led all quarterbacks with 396 yards and four touchdowns and that kind of production should continue. Drew Brees was right there with Manning with 382 yards and four touchdowns.. The surprise was Ryan Fitzpatrick who also had four touchdowns with 316 yards.
Maurice Jones-Drew finally produced stud-like numbers last weekend with 133 yards and a touchdown. Michael Turner was right behind with 131 yards and a touchdown.
Greg Jennings, one ofthe top receivers a year ago, has started waking up and led all wideouts with 7 receptions,152 yards and three touchdowns. Steve Johnson reaped the benefits of Fitzpatrick'ssuccesswith 8 receptions,137 yards and three touchdowns.
Joel Dreessen, filling in for the injured Owen Daniels, was the top tight end with 4 receptions, 106 yards and a touchdown.
All of the players above should have solid weeks in Week 12 except for Dreessen. Daniels is expected to start this week, limiting Dreessen's touches.

Fantasy Football: Week 11 injury update

2010-11-19T23:30:00.002-05:00

Be advised that Kansas City tight end Tony Moeaki (consussion) is out this week as well as New Orleans back Pierre Thomas (ankle). Monitor San Diego tight end Antonio Gates who has a nagging right foot injury. He is likely out.
Jacksonville receiver Mike Sims-Walker (ankle) is listed as doubtful and unlikely to play as well.
Also note that San Diego receiver Malcolm Floyd had a setback on Friday with his hamstring injury and is iffy for his Monday night game.

The good news is it is likely Arizona back Beanie Wells, New Orleans back Reggie Bush and Minnesota receiver Sidney Rice will play in Week 11. Rice has been out all season recovering from hip surgery. He should make an immediate impact with the Vikings who have Percy Harvin and Bernard Berrian banged up.
Clinton Portis has been cleared to play this week but his backup Ryan Torain is out.

Fantasy football: Recapping Week 10

2010-11-17T12:37:00.005-05:00

While parity seems to be the buzzword in the NFL this season with everyone beating up on everyone, the one constant has been some memorable (fantasy football) individual performances from week to week.

In Week 10 you look no further than the quarterback position with the return of Michael Vick and his one-man dismantling of the Washington Redskins. Vick did it through the air and on the ground and never let up on the throttle. Depending on the scoring format used in your league, Vick had anywhere from 48 to 70 points and vaulted many fantasy football teams to victory.
Vick ended up with 333 yards passing, four passing touchdowns, 80 yards rushing and two rushing touchdowns.
QB Matt Cassel wasn't too shabby either for Kansas City with 469 yards and four touchdowns. Other top quarterback performances included Ben Rothlisberger (Pittsburgh) 387 yards, 3 touchdowns; Eli Manning (Giants) 373 yards,2 touchdowns; Troy Smith (San Francisco) 356 yards, 1 touchdown; Tom Brady (New England) 350 yards, 3 touchdowns; and David Garrard (Jacksonville) 342 yards, 2 touchdowns.

When it came to running backs Buffalo's Fred Jackson had his best day as an NFL player with 133 yards rushing and a touchdown. Chris Johnson (Tennessee) rebounded with a solid performance of 117 yards and a touchdown and Jerome Harrison (Philadelphia) stepped up with 109 yards and a touchdown. Others with solid performances were Knowshon Moreno (Denver) 106 yards; Mike Goodson (Carolina) 100 yards; Maurice Jones-Drew (Jacksonville) 100 yards, two touchdowns; and LeGarrette Blount (Tampa Bay) 91 yards, one touchdown.

One of the hottest receivers in the NFL stayed on fire as Dwayne Bowe (Kansas City) had a career day with 13 receptions, 186 yards and two touchdowns. Others with outstanding production were Mike Thomas (Jacksonville) eight receptions, 149 yards, one touchdown; Andre Johnson (Houston) nine receptions, 146 yards, one touchdown; Mike Williams (Seattle) 11 receptions, 145 yards; Roddy White (Atlanta) 12 receptions, 138 yards, two touchdowns; and Mike Wallace (Pittsburgh) eight receptions, 136 yards, two touchdowns.

Tight ends also had their day in the sun led by Anthony Fasano (Miami) with five receptions, 107 yards and a touchdown and Jermaine Gresham (Cincinnati) who had nine receptions, 85 yards and a touchdown. Kevin Boss (Giants) woke up with five receptions, 81 yards and a touchdown; Delanie Walker (San Francisco) had four receptions and 80 yards; Vernon Davis (San Francisco) had four receptions, 79 yards; and Zach Miller (Jacksonville) added four receptions, 79 yards and a touchdown.

Fantasy football: Last minute pickups-hot starts

2010-11-13T21:17:00.003-05:00

Week 10 is the last week for byes and injuries are still hurting teams. With that said, there are still some solid producing players still available on many waiver wires from what I can see.

If you need a quarterback and tight end with a shot for double-digit production, Detroit is one team to focus on. Shaun Hill returns as the starter and he was fantasy-hot filling in for Matthew Stafford from Week 2-6. And one of the guys he threw to a lot was tight end Brandon Pettigrew. Expect 15-20 points from both players in Week 10.

If you need a receiver, Tennessee's Nate Washington is a guy to go after if he's available. With injured Kenny Britt out for several more games, Washington will reap some of the benefits. Sure, new addition Randy Moss will likely be "the guy" with the Titans. But the double teams that would have been on Washington will now move over to Moss.

Another guy people seem to be shying away from is kicker Shayne Graham who is taking over for injured Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski. Graham is pumped to finally land a full time job after bouncing around this season and that Pats offense will give him plenty of field goal opportunities.

Fantasy football: BREAKING NEWS-Vikings' Rice WILL NOT PLAY in Week 10

2010-11-13T21:01:00.004-05:00

On Saturday afternoon there were several reports claiming that Minnesota receiver Sidney Rice would be activated and would play in his first game this season. But according to the Vikings' official web site, Rice has NOT been activated and WILL NOT play this week.
Rice has been out all season recovering from hip surgery. He is being targeted for a 2010 debut in Week 11 against Green Bay.

Fantasy football: Roddy White Breaking News-weekly injury update

2010-11-11T18:36:00.005-05:00

All week there has been concern whether Atlanta Falcons receiving phenom Roddy White would start tonight against the Baltimore Ravens in a rare mid-season Thursday night start.
White injured his knee last week and had to play the second half with a brace. He missed practice Monday and Tuesday, was limited on Wednesday and enters tonight's game as questionable on the injury report.

But the Atlanta Falcons' web site is reporting that White WILL START tonight. While the Ravens' defense is ranked 9th in the league and safety Ed Reed has three interceptions in his last two games since returning from injury, the Falcons are nearly unbeatable at home.
Quarterback Matt Ryan is 17-1 at the Georgia Dome and is one of the most accurate QBs the Ravens will face this season.
Start Roddy White with confidence along with Matt Ryan and tight end Tony Gonzalez.

Another injury to monitor for this weekend (Week 10) is Giants receiver Steve Smith who injured his pectoral muscle in practice today (Thursday) and was unable to stay on the field. The fear is the muscle could be torn forcing extended loss of playing time. It is unlikely he will play Sunday but monitor his status the next 24 hours.

Also, (and this is killing me since I traded for the guy) Arizona back Beanie Wells (knee injury) missed practice on Thursday and is questionable for Sunday. Wells said on the Cardinals' web site he is still a go for Sunday but he said that last week and ended up carrying the ball once in Week 9. Ouch.

Migraine headaches continue to plague Minnesota receiver Percy Harvin who sat out practice today (Thursday) and could sit out this Sunday. If that's the case, watch for the Vikings to activate Sidney Rice and put him on the field this week. Rice has been recovering from hip surgery and if you patiently have kept him on your bench, get ready to tap that activate button in Week 10.

Fantasy football: Week 9 recap

2010-11-09T20:15:00.005-05:00

Fantasy football production ran off the charts in just about every category in Week 9 led by the emergence of cagey old veteran Brett Favre.

Favre used a late fourth quarter comeback to lead Minnesota to victory and in the process threw for 446 yards and two touchdowns. Not to be outdone by the old man, young whippersnapper Mark Sanchez led the Jets to a late fourth quarter comeback and eventual win and in the process threw for 336 yards and a touchdown.

Other quarterbacks who had a solid Week 9 were Ryan Fitzpatrick (Buffalo) 299 yards, 1 touchdown; Philip Rivers (San Diego) 295 yards, 4 touchdowns; and Peyton Manning (Indianapolis) 294 yards, 1 touchdown.

When it came to running backs Cleveland's Peyton Hillis was the hot man with 184 yards and two touchdowns. Houston's Arian Foster had another impressive if not busy day with 127 yards rushing, two rushing TDs, four receptions and 70 receiving yards. Other backs who had stud performances were Michael Turner (Atlanta) 107 yards, 2 touchdowns; Rashard Mendenhall (Pittsburgh) 99 yards, 1 touchdown and LeSean McCoy (Philadelphia) 95 yards.

Receivers weren't about to be outdone by the backs as three had over 140 yards receiving - Jacoby Ford (Oakland) 6 receptions, 148 yards; Steve Johnson (Buffalo) 11 receptions, 145 yards; and Terrell Owens (Cincinnati) 10 receptions, 141 yards, 2 touchdowns. Others with solid receiving performances were Hakeem Nicks (Giants) 6 receptions, 128 yards, 1 touchdown and Percy Harvin (Minnesota) 9 receptions, 126 yards.
Dallas Clark? Who needs Dallas Clark when you have Jacob Tamme (and Peyton Manning throwing the ball). Tamme (Indianapolis) had another solid performance as Clark's replacement with 11 receptions, 108 yards and 1 touchdown. Other top tight ends were Tony Gonzalez (Atlanta) 8 receptions, 72 yards; Joel Dreessen (Houston) 5 receptions, 66 yards; Visanthe Shiancoe (Minnesota) 4 receptions, 66 yards, 1 touchdown; and Tony Moeaki (Kansas City) 6 receptions, 63 yards.

Fantasy football: Week 9 injury-waiver update/Sidney Rice update

2010-11-06T00:04:00.004-04:00

SIDNEY RICE BREAKING NEWS.....
The Minnesota Vikings web site is reporting that receiver Sidney Rice, who has not played this season due to hip surgery, practice all week and has a shot to play this weekend, albeit in a very limited role. There are reports that the Vikings will have a handful of offensive packages designed specifically for Rice to begin getting him involved in the offense.
This certainly makes sense since receiver Randy Moss has been booted off the team. But be advised.....if he does play this week it will likely be just a few plays so he can get his feet wet....

Injuries continue to linger and pile up in the NFL and with six teams on the bye this week, that is putting many fantasy football teams in a bind.
For example, if you have San Diego tight end Antonio Gates be prepared to find a replacement. He is still bothered by a toe injury and plantar fascia and didn't practice on Friday. It is unlikely that he will play this week.
The guy to pick up as a replacement if he's still on your waiver wire is new starting Indianapolis tight end Jacob Tamme. He is Dallas Clark's replacement and is a lock for double-digit points every week.
Other injuries to monitor are Indianapolis receiver Austin Collie (hand) and New England receiver Deion Branch (hamstring).

Also, Philadelphia receiver DeSean Jackson, who has been recovering from a concussion, has been practicing and is expected to start this week. He is being fitted with a special state-of-the-art helmet to give him added protection in the head area.

Fantasy football: Week 8 recap

2010-11-02T15:38:00.003-04:00

If any of you listened to me last week spouting off and praising the projections of new Dallas quarterback Jon Kitna and actually started him - you're welcome.
He was the top-rated QB in Week 8 with 379 yards and a touchdown. The four interceptions - three on tipped balls- was a bit much but we can live with it. I started Kitna in two leagues and won both games.
It baffles me how so many NFL and fantasy football "experts" were so hesitant to offer Kitna up as a solid play. To me it was a no brainer - an experienced QB champing at the bit get a start with all the offensive weapons a QB could ask for in Dallas.
Other top QB plays were Kyle Orton (Denver) 369 yards, 1 touchdown; Jason Campbell (Oakland) 310 yards, 2 touchdowns; Drew Brees (New Orleans) 305 yards, 2 touchdowns; and Philip Rivers (San Diego) 305 yards, 2 touchdowns.

It was only a matter of time before speedy and shifty running back Jamaal Charles of Kansas City found the right matchup fora solid day. He didn't score a TD but he did rush for 177 yards and had four receptions for 61 receiving yards. One of the hot running back waiver picks of the week will be LaGarrette Blount of Tampa Bay. All he did was rush or 120 yards and score two touchdowns.
Other top running back performances were Maurice Jones-Drew (Jacksonville) 135 yards; Frank Gore (San Francisco) 118 yards, 1 touchdown; and BenJarvus Green-Ellis (New England) 112 yards, 2touchdowns.

Denver's Brandon Lloyd continues to be the hottest receiver in the league with seven receptions for 169 yards and a touchdown. Thanks to starter Kenny Brit being injured, Tennessee receiver Nate Washington came up with a big day with four receptions, 117 yards and a touchdown. Other top receivers were Mike Sims-Walker (Jacksonville) 8 receptions, 153 yards, 1 touchdown; Steve Breaston (Arizona) 8 receptions, 147 yards; and Miles Austin (Dallas) 7 receptions, 117 yards.

Like Kitna, if you read how much I constantly told readers that new starting Dallas tight end Jacob Tamme was going to step in and make an immediate impact and then actually played him- you're welcome. All Tamme did was have six receptions for 64 yards and a touchdown for 18 points in most point-per-recepton leagues.
Other top tight ends were Antonio Gates (San Diego) 5 receptions, 123 yards, 1 touchdown; Jason Witten (Dallas ) 10 receptions, 97 yards, 1 touchdown; Delanie Walker (San Francisco) 5 receptions, 85 yards; and Marcedes Lewis (Jacksonville) 2 receptions, 51 yards, 2 touchdowns.

Fantasy football: Studs to start, duds to sit in Week 8

2010-10-30T23:06:00.004-04:00

When it comes to the fantasy football studs to start in Week 8, the first thing to do is look at the matchups and no matchup looks more inviting than Kansas City hosting Buffalo.
Kansas City quarterback Matt Cassel, receiver Dwayne Bowe, backs Thomas Jones and Jamaal Charles and tight end Tony Moeaki all have double-digit point potential.
Another team with a decent matchup is Dallas hosting Jacksonville and a Jaguars defense that has allowed the most points (209) in the NFL this season.
No QB Tony Romo? No problem. Cowboys backup QB Jon Kitna should have a field day with the Jags' secondary. Also play receivers Miles Austin, Roy Williams and Dez Bryant and back Felix Jones with confidence.
Coming off the bye, I would also play Jets players like QB Mark Sanchez, receiver Santonio Holmes and backs LaDainian Tomlinson and Shonn Greene. NOTE: Be aware that Jets receiver Braylon Edwards is expected to lose a good deal of targets to Holmes starting this week.

The duds to sit this week based on tough matchups are New Orleans tight end Jeremy Shockey and back Chris Ivory. They have to face the red hot Pittsburgh Steelers defense.
I would also be hesitant to start players in the Tennessee-San Diego game with the tough defesnes on both teams.
Other guys to avoid would be back Knowshon Moreno (still banged up but playing), receiver Louis Murphy (still a bit banged up and has the struggling Jason Campbell throwing to him now), and Minnesota QB Brett Favre (expect him to start but struggle with his gimpy ankle).
I predict Favre plays a quarter or two and then Tavaris Jackson finishes up.

Good luck this week!

Fantasy football: Injury update heading into Week 8

2010-10-27T23:30:00.003-04:00

The injuries keep lingering and piling up in the NFL.

One of the biggest injuries is to Dallas quarterback Tony Romo who is out at least 6-8 weeks with an injured collarbone. Some scoff at whether aging/veteran backup Jon Kitna can fill in for him.
I believe Kitna will be the spark the Cowboys need. This could very well be Kitna's last hurrah in his career and he will likely make the most of it. He has the offensive weapons, the talent and the experience to have success.

Indianapolis receiver Austin Collie had surgery on his right thumb and is expected to miss at least a game, most likely more. Joseph Addai is also hurting and will likely be out in Week 8. Receiver Anthony Gonzalez should pick up the slack for Collie and former UConn standout Donald Brown should be the starter until Addai returns.

Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams has been missing practice this week with a foot injury. Keep an eye on his situation. If he doesn't practice Thursday and Friday he will likely sit out this week. He rushed for about 1,100 yards last season but has been held to only 367 yards on 87 carries in six games this season.

Another player to monitor is Denver back Knowshon Moreno who has tweaked his right hamstring. His practice status is iffy for Thursday and Friday.

Fantasy football: Week 7 recap

2010-10-26T12:58:00.002-04:00

There were certainly some suprises across the board when it came to fantasy football producation in Week 7 of the NFL.

QUARTERBACKS

Who would have thought you would ever see Buffalo quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick throw for 374 yards and four touchdowns? But that's exactly what he did and he has emerged as a viable bye week replacement if you need a QB this week. Fitzpatrick is still available on most waiver wires in leagues at cbssports.com, espn.com, yahoosports.com and myfantasyleague.com.

Other surprises included QBs Carson Palmer (Cincinnati) and Matt Moore (Carolina). Palmer is the No. 1 ranked QB for Week 7 with 412 yards and three touchdowns. Moore was also solid with 308 yards passing and two touchdowns. Other top QBs were Drew Brees (New Orleans) with 356 yards and two touchdowns, Philip Rivers (San Diego) with 336 yards and a touchdown and Eli Manning (Giants) who had 306 yards and four touchdowns.

RUNNING BACKS

The biggest surrpsie at running back was Ryan Torrain of Washington who rushed for 125 yards (unfortunately no TDs). Oakland's Darren McFadden returned from injury as a man possessed with 165 yards and three rushing TDs and two catches for 31 yards and a receiving TD. Other top backs were Adrian Peterson (Minnesota) with 131 yards and a touchdown, Ahmad Bradshaw (Giants) with 126 yards, Thomas Jones (Kansas City) with 125 yards and a touchdown and Michael Turner (Atlanta) who had 121 yards and two touchdowns.

RECEIVERS

With Fitzpatrick having a field day at QB, it's no surprise one of the beneficiaries was Buffalo receiver Steve Johnson who has become an impact player in the fantasy world. He had eight receptions for 158 yards and a touchdown. A new fantasy player emerged on Carolina with receiver David Gettis complementing Panthers' No. 1 wideout Steve Smith (double/triple teammed all day). Gettis had eight receptions for 125 yards and two touchdowns. Kenny Britt of Tennessee led all receivers with seven receptions, 225 yards and three touchdowns. Other top receivers were Roddy White (Atlanta) with 11 receptions, 201 yards and two touchdowns; Jordan Shipley (Cincinnati) with six receptions, 131 yards and a touchdown; and Hines Ward (Pittsburgh) who had seven receptions for 131 yards and a touchdown.

TIGHT ENDS

The tight end position pretty much played according to form led by Dallas' Jason Witten who had nine receptions, 95 yards and a touchdown. Other top tight ends were Vernon Davis (San Francisco) who had four receptions, 74 yards and a touchdown; Zach Miller (Oakland) who had three receptions, 65 yards and a touchdown; Todd Heap (Baltimore) ended up with three receptions, 59 yards and two touchdowns; Aaron Hernandez (New England) had five receptions for 54 yards; and Chris Cooley (Washington) had seven receptions and 52 yards.

Of all the guys above, Fitzpatrick, Johnson and Gettis will be the most sought after players on waiver wires. Their production should continue so I would grab them now if you need help at QB or receiver.

Fantasy football: Week 7 studs and duds

2010-10-24T00:54:00.002-04:00

Studs to start in Week 7:
When it comes to starting players in Week 7 you can start with any player on the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens play the lowly Buffalo Bills this week and the Ravens will play angry coming off a bitter loss to New England in Week 6.
Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, running back Ray Rice and receiver Derek Mason should easily provide double-digit fantasy football points. In fact, even the Ravens' defense/special teams will be a solid double-digit start. The defense gets a big boost with safety Ed Reed returning from injury.
Others to start include Philadelphia receiver Jeremy Maclin who will be the No. 1 guy the next few weeks with DeSean Jackson sidelined with a concussion, Kansas City quarterback Matt Cassel,receiver Dwayne Bowe and tight end Tony Moeaki should all have a big day against the Jacksonville secondary, and Denver back Knowshon Moreno should have a big day against Oakland.
Sleeper tight end to consider is Seattle's John Carlson who has the potential for a big day against Arizona.

Duds to sit:

Among the backs I wouldn't start if I didn't have to are Arizona's Beanie Wells against the tough Seattle defense in Seattle, Miami's Ronnie Brown who faces the Pittsburgh "D" and Buffalo's Fred Jackson (avoid all Bills players actually since they play Baltimore).
As far as receivers I would stay away from San Francisco's Michael Crabtree and tight end Vernon Davis against a Carolina defense coming off the bye and Terrell Owens could have a tough day against Atlanta who always plays better at home.

Good luck this week!

Fantasy Football - BREAKING NEWS-Dallas Clark out for season

2010-10-22T16:37:00.005-04:00

The Indianapolis Colts web site has announced this afternoon (Friday) that tight end Dallas Clark has been placed on injured reserve and is out for the season.
Clark, the No. 1 rated tight end in fantasy football, suffered a hand/wrist injury last weekend and has been walking around with a cast. His replacement will be Jacob Tamme.
FYI: The Colts are on the bye in Week 7.

Fantasy football: Hot waiver wire pickups for Week 7

2010-10-22T15:38:00.005-04:00

Anyone who has Indianapolis tight end Dallas Clark is likely reeling with the news he is out for the season with a hand/wrist injury. The Colts announced this afternoon (Friday) that Clark has been put on injured reserve and is out for the season.
The Colts are on the bye this week but you better act quick if you want to get his backup.
One of the hottest waiver picks over the next few days will be Colts backup tight end Jacob Tamme. With injuries to Colts receiver Austin Collie and back Joseph Addai, Tamme will be very much in the offensive mix in two weeks. Tamme is listed as the No. 2 tight end on the Colts' depth chart on the Colts web site. Of all the backup tight ends the Colts have, Tamme has the best hands and is the best receiver.
Other tight ends to consider off waivers are Pittsburgh's Heath Miller, Kansas City's Tony Moeaki and the Patriots' Aaron Hernandez.

If you need a receiver, San Diego's Patrick Crayton is a good quick fix with Malcom Floyd out with an injury. Others to consider are St. Louis newcomer Danario Alexander (72 yards and a TD last week), Buffalo's Steve Johnson and New Orleans' Robert Meachem.
The hot running back to pick up is New Orleans back Chris Ivory who had a huge game last week (158 yards) with Pierre Thomas still injured.

Fantasy football: Injury update heading into Week 7

2010-10-21T17:51:00.008-04:00

FANTASY FOOTBALL BLOG SCHEDULE
Monday - recap of Sunday games, Wednesday/Thursday - injury report, Thursday-waiver wire report, Saturday-who to start, who to sit
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Injuries are killing me!!!!

Like me, many of you are probably saying the same thing to yourself. What a week for injuries across the board.

I had two big killers. I traded Miami receiver Brandon Marshall for San Diego receiver Malcolm Floyd last week (for reasons I won't get into) and Floyd ends up with a strained hamstring and is out a week or two. My tight end of all tight ends, Indianapolis' Dallas Clark, is out indefintely after sustaining a hand/wrist injury. He's in a cast now and according to the Colts' web site there is no timetable for his return. Some reports claim he will be out for the season.
As you likely know by now there were nearly 10 head related injuries in Week 6 with several of those concussion related.
One of the biggest lossses due to a concussion is DeSean Jackson (Philadelphia receiver). He is out at least a week and most likely 2-3 weeks minimum.
Other top injured players are Antonio Gates (San Diego tight end, toe injury), David Garrard (Jacksonville quarterback, concussion), Mohamed Massaquoi (Cleveland receiver, head injury),
Todd Heap (Baltimore tight end, neck stinger), Joshua Cribbs (Cleveland receiver, head injury).

Tennessee quarterback Vince Young suffered a sprained knee injury and Denver receiver Eddie Royal has a hamstring injury.

Monitor all these injuries the rest of the week.

Fantasy football: Week 6 recap

2010-10-19T00:32:00.003-04:00

One of the biggest surprises in Week 6 was Philadelphia quarterback Kevin Kolb returning to the 300-yard passing form that he showed in 2009. After struggling in Week one and losing his job to Michael Vick, with Vick injured Kolb had another shot to start on Sunday. He ended up throwing for 326 yards and three touchdowns to be the No. 1 rated QB in Week 6. Of course he does this the week I drop him in one of my leagues.
Other top quarterback performances were Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay) 313 yards, 1 touchdown; Peyton Manning (Indianapolis) 307 yards, 2 touchdowns; Matt Schaub (Houston) 305 yards, 2 touchdowns; Tom Brady (New England) 292 yards, 1 touchdown.

Another performance that came out of nowhere was the production of New Orleans backup Chris Ivory who contunes to sub with Ladell Betts for the injured Pierre Thomas. Ivory didn't have a touchdown but he led all backs in Week 6 with 158 yards rushing.
Other backs with solid performances were Frank Gore (San Francisco) 149 yards; Ahmad Bradshaw (Giants) 133 yards; Joseph Addai (Indianapolis) 128 yards, 1 touchdown; Chris Johnson (Tennessee) 111 yards, 1 touchdown

Philadelphia receiver DeSean Jackson got injured on Sunday and the lucky player reaping the benefits of more targets was Jeremey Maclin who ended up with 7 receptions, 159 yards and two touchdowns. Injured Detroit receiver Calvin Johnson was a game-time decision, he plays against the Giants and ended up with an impressive 5 receptions,146 yards and 1 touchdown. Other top receivers were Andre Johnson (Houston) 8 receptions, 138 yards, 1 touchdown; Greg Jennings (Green Bay) 6 receptions, 133 yards, 1 touchdown; Brandon Marshall (Miami) 10 receptions, 127 yards.

A blast from the past had the top rated tight end production as Cleveland's Benjamin Watson had 88 yards on 6 receptions and a touchdown. Other tight ends were Owen Daniels (Houston) 5 receptions, 79 yards; Dustin Keller (Jets) 3 receptions, 75 yards; Aaron Hernandez (New England) 4 receptions, 61 yards; Brandon Pettigrew (Detroit) 7 receptions, 61 yards.

Fantasy football: Week 6 studs and duds

2010-10-16T20:15:00.002-04:00

Stud players who should give you double-digit points in Week 6:

Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's return from suspension should boost the fantast football production for everyone on the Steelers. One guy who has really missed Roethlisberger is tight end Heath Miller. He has been average at best and still can be found on many leagues' waiver wires. Grab him if you need tight end help. I see him getting 50-60 yards this week and at least one touchdown.
If you need receiver help St. Louis wideout Danny Amendola gets a huge fantasy boost with St. Louis receiver Mark Clayton out for the season. Amendola is a slot receiver who should get a huge bump in receptions, yards and TD productions.
Reports indicate the Jets are planning to open up their passing game andthat means a lot of production for receiver Santonio Holmes. His production will rise while Braylon Edwards and Jericho Cotchery numbers should take a hit

Duds to avoid in Week 6:

I usually like to take a shot with quarterbacks getting their first NFL start because they are pumped up to perform well to keep that starting gig. However....when it comes to Colt McCoy starting for Cleveland in Week 6, avoid him. He has the unenviable task of making his debut against the Steelers. It won't be pretty.
Stay away from Seattle players this week, including QB Matt Hasselbeck and newly acquired back Marshawn Lynch. Seattle is facing Chicago and that No. 1 ranked Bears defense is nasty.
I would also stay away from Dallas backs Marion Barber and Felix Jones. They face Minnesota and the Vikings defense is tough against the run. I see the Vikings scoring early and often in that game and that means Dallas will be throwing more in an effort to play catchup.

GOOD LUCK THIS WEEK!

Fantasy football: Hot waiver wire pickups

2010-10-14T23:50:00.006-04:00

FANTASY FOOTBALL BLOG SCHEDULE

Monday - recap of Sunday games, Wednesday - injury report, Thursday-waiver wire report, Saturday-who to start, who to sit

.......................................................................................................................................

Receiver Deion Branch has been one of the top pickups off fantasy football waiver wires all across the Internet this week since he went to New England. With Randy Moss shipped out to Minnesota, Branch should be a great addition to any fantasy team.
But the guy flying under the radar is Seattle receiver Mike Williams. This guy is still available on many waiver wires and you're missing the boat if you need a receiver and don't pick him up. I added him in three leagues where he was available. Although the Seahawks added Brandon Stokely it will be Williams given the No. 1 WR status. Coach Pete Carroll has gone on the record to say so.

Be advised that Seattle will be an interesting team fantasy-wise from here on out. Pieces are falling into place to make Seattle fantasy relevant again. The addition of back Marshawn Lynch takes some pressure off QB Matt Hasselbeck and the receivers, including tight end John Carlson.
If you're in a points-per-reception league, grab Williams if he's out there.

Other tight ends to add if you need a productive one are Pittsburgh's Heath Miller and Kansas City's Tony Moeaki. Miller has been quiet this season. But the return of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger makes Miller extremely valuable. I see at least 50-60 yards and a touchdown for him in Week 6. As far as Moeaki, he is leading the Chiefs in receptions and has produced well.

Call me crazy, but keep an eye on Colt McCoy starting for Cleveland in Week 6. All this guy did in college was win games and he will be pumped for this despite going up against the tough Pittsburgh D. The Steelers will likely win but the Browns will be competitive with McCoy under center.

Fantasy football: Injury update

2010-10-13T22:36:00.004-04:00

FANTASY FOOTBALL BLOG SCHEDULE
Monday - recap of Sunday games, Wednesday - injury report, Thursday-waiver wire report, Saturday-who to start, who to sit

Injuries continue to be a problem in the NFL with the Green Bay Packers hit the hardest lately. QB Aaron Rodgers suffered a concussion in Week 5 and is likely out for Week 6. Tight end Jermichael Finley is in worse shape after suffering a knee injury. He needed surgery and is out at least eight weeks, possibly the rest of the season.
San Diego back Ryan Mathews has an ankle injury and missed practice on Wednesday. Monitor his situation.
New Orleans back Pierre Thomas continues to be in pain with an ankle injury and hasn't practiced. Don't hold your breath if you need him this weekend.
Oakland back Darren McFadden (hamstring) and Houston receiver Andre Johnson (ankle) have been improving and practicing on a limited basis. Both are expected to return in Week 6 but their effectiveness will be in question.

Fantasy Football: Week 5 Sunday recap

2010-10-11T20:53:00.004-04:00

ALEX SMITH, SAN FRANCISCO QB

FANTASY FOOTBALL BLOG SCHEDULE

Mondays - recap of Sunday games, Wednesday - injury report, Thursday-waiver wire report, Saturday-who to start, who to sit
..............................................................................

It was kind of a wild Week 5 on Sunday in the NFL with some surprising top-five performances.
If you have San Francisco quarterback Alex Smith on your roster you're probably asking yourself where the heck did that performance come from - 309 yards passing and three touchdowns. Wow.
Other top quarterback performances were Philip Rivers (San Diego)431 yards, 2 touchdowns; Tony Romo (Dallas) 406 yards, 3 touchdowns; Donovan McNabb (Washington) 357 yards, 1 touchdown; and Kyle Orton (Denver) 314 yards, 2 touchdowns.

When it comes to running backs, Cincinnati's Cedric Benson woke up with performance that reminded you of his 2009 success - 144 yards. Chicago's Matt Forte also finally went over 100 yards rushing with 166 and two touchdowns
Other top backs were Michael Turner (Atlanta) 140 yards; Ray Rice (Baltimore) 133 yards, 2 touchdowns; and Chris Johnson (Tennessee) 131 yards, 2 touchdowns

McNabb's success at QB resulted in a succesful day for Washington receiver Santana Moss who ended up with 118 yards. The Giants' Hakeem Nicks, who killed me in two leagues, had 13 yards and two touchdowns.Other top receivers were Malcolm Floyd (San Diego) 213 yards, 1 touchdown; Miles Austin (Dallas) 166 yards, 1 touchdown; and Brandon Lloyd (Denver) 135 yards, 2 touchdowns.

Vernon Davis had a huge day at tight end with 104 yards and one touchdown. Other top tight ends were Antonio Gates (San Diego) 92 yards, 1 touchdown; Jason Witten (Dallas) 84 yards 1 touchdown; Kellen Winslow (Tampa Bay) 75 yards; and Chris Cooley (Washington) 69 yards

http://www.espn.com

http://www.yahoosports.com

http://www.cbssports.com

Fantasy Football: Week 5 players studs and duds

2010-10-09T21:44:00.003-04:00

The studs who are likely to give you double-digit points.....

St.Louis back Steven Jackson is healthy again and he's facing the Detroit Lions. A great combo for fantasy football team owners who have him.
Despite Kansas City being the last 3-0 team in the NFL, most fantasy football "experts" are not giving them any respect and telling you to stay away from their players this week against Indianapolis. Offensive coordinator Charlie Weis has the Chiefs rolling and I urge everyone to play quarterback Matt Cassel, back JamaalCharles, receiver Dwayne Bowe and tight end Tony Moeaki. While the Chiefs might not beat the Colts, at the very least they will be playing catch up and Cassel will be throwing early and often, including to Charles coming out of the backfield.
Jacksonville back Maurice Jones-Drew should also have a field day at Buffalo. And speaking of Buffalo, with back Marshawn Lynch traded to Seattle, Bills back Fred Jackson gets his first shot to start this season and should also be motivated to have a great day against the mediocre Jaguars defense.
Others to key on are Atlanta QB Matt Ryan, Baltimore receiver Anquan Boldin, Jets receiver Santonio Holmes and Washington tight end Chris Cooley.

The duds to stay away from this week...

Denver back Laurence Maroney will play in place of injured Knowshon Moreno. Unfortunately for Maroney he has to face Ray Lewis and the Ravens bad-boy defense.
If you're thinking about playing Carolina QB Jimmy Clausen be advised he will face one of the hottest defenses in the NFL - Chicago.
Philadelphia back LeSean McCoy, hampered by a rib injury, is expected to start at San Francisco. But the 49ers defense has been tough on backs this season and will be especially be tough since they will be looking for a win at home.

http://www.cbssports.com/
http://www.espn.com/

Fantasy football: Hot Week 5 waiver pickups

2010-10-08T12:35:00.005-04:00

Washington back Ryan Torain

HOT
WAIVER WIRE PICKUPS

This is an unusual week where a long list of usable players are available on most waiver wires. With a slew of injuries and bye weeks in full force, this is the time to grab who you can off waivers.

A key pickup would be Washington back Ryan Torain with Clinton Portis out 4-6 weeks. Torain is quick and can also catch the ball out of the backfield...

The Patriots are on the bye this week but you might want to add receivers Brandon Tate and Julian Edelman now. They will get the most upgrade with Randy Moss traded to the Vikings.

Shaun Hill, QB, Lions, Kevin Kolb, QB, Eagles, Sam Bradford, QB, Rams, and even Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB, Bills are viable additions to your team if you need a quarterback.

Michael Bush, RB, Raiders is a guy to grab with starter Darren McFadden expected to miss this week and Eagles back Mike Bell, RB, is another key pickup with starter LeSean McCoy out indefinitely with an injury.

Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants hasn't done much but should see more action this weekend with Ahmad Bradshaw banged up with an ankle injury. Bradshaw will likely start but will lose carries to Jacobs.

Chris Ivory and Ladell Betts, Saints backs, are both viable pickups with Pierre Thomas still injured. Even if Thomas plays it will be sparingly.

Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Lions has done well this season and is a decent pickup if your tight end is on the bye.

I would also give Cowboys WR Roy Williams a shot if you need a receiver. He's still available on a lot of waivers in ESPN and cbssports.com leagues. Miles Austin and Dez Bryant are still the No. 1 and 2 guys, but Williams bailed out the Cowboys in their Week 3 win and will be given another chance to contribute this weekend coming off the bye.

FANTASY FOOTBALL BLOG SCHEDULE
Mondays - recap of Sunday games, Wednesday - injury report, Thursday/Friday-waiver wire report, Saturday-who to start, who to sit

http://www.espn.com/

http://www.cbssports.com/

Fantasy Football: Injuries to monitor heading into Week 5

2010-10-06T22:42:00.005-04:00

FANTASY FOOTBALL BLOG SCHEDULE
Mondays - recap of Sunday games, Wednesday - injury report, Thursday-waiver wire report, Saturday-who to start, who to sit
.........................................................................................................................................................

There are a bevy of injuries to monitor and one to react to the next few days.

The one to react to now.....
Be advised Washington back Clinton Portis is out 4-6 weeks with a groin separation injury. This means that Ryan Torrain likely takes over the starting duties. If he's available on your waiver wire, grab him ASAP.

Hamstring injuries are still nagging several players. Oakland back Darren McFadden missed practice on Wednesday and could miss another game with a hamstring injury. Indianapolis receiver Austin Collie, the top rated receiver in the NFL, missed practice on Wednesday with a hamstring injury.

Chicago quarterback Jay Cutler, who suffered a concussion against the Giants, returned to practice on Wednesday. He will likely start on Sunday.

New Orleans back Pierre Thomas continues to be hampered by an ankle injury and is iffy for Week 5. Keep an eye on him the next two days.

http://www.espn.com/
http://www.cbssports.com/

Fantasy Football: Week 4 recap

2010-10-04T14:14:00.010-04:00

DENVER QUARTERBACK KYLE ORTON

FANTASY FOOTBALL BLOG SCHEDULE

Mondays - recap of Sunday games, Wednesday - injury report, Thursday-waiver wire report, Saturday-who to start, who to sit
...........................................................................................................................................................

Week 4 recap

Two names stick out this season when it comes to the top-rated fantasy football quarterbacks this season and they are names who were more of an afterthought when most of us drafted our teams in the preseason. Denver quarterback Kyle Orton and Detroit quarterback Shaun Hill have been among the top five rated quarterbacks in two of the last three weeks.
Orton had 341 yards passing and two touchdowns on Sunday and Hill had 331 yards and two touchdowns. The thing is, these guys look like solid plays again in Week 5 with solid matchups.
Other top quarterbacks in Week 4 were Carson Palmer (Cincinnati) 371 yards, 2 touchdowns;
Peyton Manning (Indianapolis) 352 yards, 2 touchdowns; Sam Bradford (St. Louis) 289 yards, 2 touchdowns; and Bruce Gradkowski (Oakland) 278 yards, 2 touchdowns

After a slow start Jacksonville running back Maurice Jones-Drew has been getting back on track and in Week 4 he had 105 yards and a touchdown. LeSean McCoy was one of the bright spots for Philadelphia with 64 yards rushing, 12 receptions and 110 yards receiving. Other top backs were LaDainian Tomlinson (Jets) 133 yards rushing, 2 touchdowns; Arian Foster (Houston) 131 yards rushing, 1 touchdown, 3 receptions, 56 receiving yards, 1 receiving TD; Ahmad Bradshaw (Giants) 129 yards rushing, 1 touchdown; Shonn Greene (Jets) 117 yards rushing; Peyton Hillis (Cleveland) 102 yards, 1 touchdown; and Mike Tolbert (San Diego) 100 yards, 1 touchdown.

When it comes to Cincinnati receiver Terrell Owens, you never kinow what you're going to get from week to week. In Week 4 he blew away all receivers with 10 receptions for 222 yards and a touchdown.
Go figure.
Other top receivers were Reggie Wayne (Indianapolis) 15 receptions, 196 yards; Brandon Lloyd (Denver) 11 receptions, 115 yards; Eddie Royal (Denver) 8 receptions, 113 yards, 1 touchdown; Hakeem Nicks (Giants) 8 receptions, 110 yards; and Roddy White (Atlanta) 7 receptions, 104 yards.

There were Joel Dreessen and Tony Scheffler sightings this week but don't expect it to happen every week. Houston tight end Dreessen had five receptions for 73 yards and a touchdown and Detroit's Scheffler had six receptions and 63 yards. Other top tight ends were Antonio Gates (San Diego) 7 receptions, 144 yards, 2 touchdowns; Zach Miller (Oakland) 11 receptions, 122 yards, 1 touchdown; Brandon Pettigrew (Detroit) 8 receptions, 91 yards; and Dallas Clark (Indianapolis) 7 receptions, 68 yards, 1 touchdown.

http://www.espn.com/

http://www.cbssports.com/

http://www.nfl.com/

Fantasy football: Week 4 studs and dud

2010-10-02T12:54:00.006-04:00

If you are looking for a large number of double-digit fantasy football performances in one place this weekend, the hot game to focus on is Houston at Oakland. This game has the kind of bend-but-don't break defenses by both teams that should produce the most prolific fantasy football studs of any game.
Quarterback Matt Schaub,running back Arian Foster and all Texans' receivers should have a great day. Note that you should monitor Houston receiver Andre Johnson's injury status because he will be a game-time decision.

Oakland should also produce great stats with QB Bruce Gradkowski, back Darren McFadden, recievers Louis Murphy and Darius Heyward-Bey and tight end Zach Miller having a very busy day keeping up with the Texans.
The hot guy on the Jets these days is tight end Dustin Keller who has been quarterback Mark Sanchez's go-to guy in the red zone.

Jacksonville back Maurice Jones-Drew and Seattle back Justin Forsett are guys who have been mediocre at best to this point. But watch for both to have huge performances this weekend. Seattle coach Pete Carroll stated several times this past week that he wants to get Forsett more involved with the offense.
The Pittsburgh-Baltimore game is one to stay away from with two of the toughest defenses going against each other. But one guy to play is Steelers back Rashard Mendenhall who has performed well against the Ravens in the past.
Guys I would stay away from this weekend are Washington back Clinton Portis (been struggling), Arizona back Tim Hightower (Beanie Wells will take many touches away), New Orleans receiver Lance Moore (one week wonder?) and Lee Evans (facing tough defense).

My overall list of players to start-sit:
10 Players to start: Quarterbacks – Matt Schaub, Mark Sanchez, Matt Ryan; Running backs – Arian Foster, Matt Forte, Darren McFadden, Maurice Jones-Drew; Receivers – Mark Clayton, Wes Welker; Tight end – Dustin Keller.
10 Players to sit: Quarterbacks – Alex Smith, Derek Anderson; Running backs – Clinton Portis, Tim Hightower, ; Receivers – Lance Moore, Davone Bess, Lee Evans; Tight Ends-Brent Celek, Kevin Boss, Vernon Davis.

http://www.espn.com/

http://www.cbssports.com/

Fantasy football - bye weeks are a-comin'

2010-09-30T19:08:00.005-04:00

One of the most feared and dreaded times of the fantasy football season is between week 4 and 10 when bye weeks take away fantasy players...

In Week 4, Dallas, Minnesota, Kansas City and Tampa Bay are on the bye.

The result is top tier players like Vikings back Adrian Peterson, Cowboys receiver Miles Austin, Cowboys QB Tony Romo and Chiefs receiver Dwayne Bowe are headed to the bench.

But not to fear fellow fantasy football fanatics. There are bye-week replacements out there and they should be productive.

Miami quarterback Chad Henne and Jets QB Mark Sanchez are on most waiver wires and should be solid one-week replacements if you need them. Both quarterbacks have been throwing the ball all over the place and producing double-digit points.

If you need a back, New England back BenJarvus Green-Ellis or Baltimore back Willis McGahee might still be available on your waiver wire.

If you need a receiver, Denver receiver Brandon Lloyd, New Orleans receiver Lance Moore and to a lesser extent (and I mean less production) San Francico receiver Josh Morgan are still on waiver wires.
The exception could be Moore who is the waiver-wire flavor of the week with his 149-yard, 2 TD performance last week.

http://www.espn.com/

http://www.cbssports.com/

http://www.northeastff.com/

Fantasy football: Injuries to monitor in Week 4

2010-09-30T18:44:00.008-04:00

Oh, those nagging injuries that take a bite out of our fantasy football production....

Among the top injured players to monitor between today and Sunday are Houston receiver Andre Johnson, Baltimore back Ray Rice and New Orleans back Pierre Thomas.
Johnson is nursing an ankle injury and will be a game-time decision as far as playing time.
Rice has a bruised right knee and has had limited practice according to the Ravens' web site. Willis McGahee could start in his place.
Thomas has an ankle injury and has seen limited practice time. If he can't go Chris Ivory (who?) could start in his place.
San Diego back Ryan Mathews has been plagued by an ankle injury but has been upgraded to probable and should start this week.
Monitor the progress of Cincinnati back Cedric Benson who has been bothered by a knee injury. He was listed as questionable today (Thursday).
Minnesota tight end Visanthe Shiancoe has a leg injury but fortunately he is on the bye this week.
St. Louis back Steven Jackson is still bothered by a groin injury. He is questionable. Even if he plays backup Ken Darby will likely see additional carries.
Denver back Knowshon Moreno is questionable with a hamstring injury opening the door for a likely start by former Patriots back Laurence Maroney.
Oakland receiver Louis Murphy has a clavical injury ad has been listed as questionable. He is expected to play but monitor his sitution as well.
Dallas tight end Jason Witten has a knee injuy and is listed as questionable. But like Shiancoe he is on the bye this week.
New England back Fred Taylor is still nursing a toe injury and is questionable. That could open the door for BenJarvus Green-Ellis to get a bigger workload and possibly a bigger role in the offense from here on out.

http://www.espn.com/

http://www.cbssports.com/

Fantasy football: Northeast Fantasy Football Video Show airs tonight

2010-09-23T14:48:00.003-04:00

The Northeast Fantasy football Video Show, the only one-hour fantasy football Internet video show based in the Northeast, will be broadcast tonight (Thursday) at 8 p.m. and can be seen at www.northeastff.com or www.SportingNewsCt.com. The show enters its sixth season, is filmed and produced at the www.SportingNewsCt.com headquarters in Woodbridge, Conn. and is hosted by yours truly.
This week's guest is NFL player agent Joe Linta of Branford. Among the topics he will discuss are the various quarterback changes this week. His take on the Oakland and Buffalo QB changes will shock you.
http://www.northeastff.com

Fantasy football: Hot waiver wire pickups

2010-09-23T14:20:00.004-04:00

A week ago, it was Green Bay running back Brandon Jackson who was the hot guy off the waiver wire with starter Ryan Grant out for the season.

This week it's Denver receiver Demaryius Thomas, No. 88. The rookie has been hampered by foot injuries andmissed the first week of the season because of it. On Sunday against Seattle he had an impressive eight catches for 97 yards and a touchdown.

While some fantasy football sites are urging you to be cautious with Thomas since it was only one game, I'm telling you to grab this guy if he's on your waiver wire. He is supposed to be the next coming of Brandon Marshall in BroncosLand. The key item is the Broncos' schedule, which is quite favorable as the season progesses.

Other waiver wire guys to pick up are Houston receiver Kevin Walter, Jets tight end Dustin Keller if he's out there, Oakland receiver Louis Murphy, New England receiver Aaron Hernandez and Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew.

If you're looking for a kicker: if Houston's Neil Rackers is still available he's a double-digit fantasy production threat every week.

http://www.cbssports.com/
http://www.northeastff.com/
http://www.espn.com/

Fantasy football recap: Texans the hot team in Week 2

2010-09-20T12:12:00.005-04:00

The Houston Texans certainly were the No. 1 team of the week when it comes to fantasy football production on Sunday with quarterback Matt Schaub, receivers Andre Johnson and Kevin Walter and running back Arian Foster all producing double-digit points.
Schaub had 497 yards passing and three touchdowns, Johnson had 12 receptions, 158 yards and one touchdown, Walter had 11 receptions, 144 yards and one touchdown and Foster had 69 yards rushing and three receptions for 69 yards.
Donovan McNabb was another quarterback with a solid week despite a losing effort for the Washington Redskins with 426 yards passing and a touchdown. Detroit rookie Jahvid Best of Detroit was a monster running back this weekend with 78 yards rushing, two rushing TDs, nine receptions, 154 yards receiving and one receiving TD.
Dustin Keller was the stud at tight end for the Jets with seven receptions for 115 yards and a touchdown.
The scary thing is all of these players have the potential to match these performances with their matchups/opponents in Week 3.

http://www.espn.com/

http://www.cbssports.com/

http://www.nfl.com/

Fantasy Football: Nowak's Week 2 studs and duds

2010-09-18T11:48:00.010-04:00

After a wild and wacky week 1 in fantasy football things get really interesting in Week 2.

This week perhaps the biggest stud, or potential top fantasy football producer, will be Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick. Starter Kevin Kolb is out with a concussion, giving Vick a shot as a starter.

Vick is looking at this as a chance to show he can still be a strong starter and should provide huge numbers, including rushing yardage. He rushed for over 100 yards as Kolb's replacement in week 1.

Another player who should excel is Oakland back Darren McFadden. After being a dud the past couple of seasons he had a solid performance last weekend with 95 yards rushing and 55 yards receiving. He should produce even better numbers going up against the St. Louis Rams this week.

If you can get Minnesota receiver Greg Camarillo off your waiver wire, grab him. After last week's lackluster aerial performance by the Vikings, QB Brett Favre has been working as a unit and individually this week with his receivers to try and get some rhythm. One guy he seems to be on the same page with is Camarillo. Camarillo could be this year's version of Sidney Rice, at least until Rice returns in Week 7 or 8 from injury. I see at least 10 catches and 90 yards for Camarillo this week and a touchdown.

If you have receiver Nate Washington, don't hesitate to start him despite facing the tough Pittsburgh defense. Washington is obviously Tennessee's No. 1 guy at receiver. The Steelers will have to pay extra attention to back Chris Johnson and that could open up several opportunities for Washington.

Other guys to key on for some productive numbers are quarterbacks Joe Flacco and Matt Ryan, backs Shonn Greene, Matt Forte and Brandon Jackson and receivers Andre Johnson, Dwayne Bowe and Mike Williams (Tampa Bay).

One potential dud to avoid this week is Cincinnati quarterback Carson Palmer. After the Bengals swept the Baltimore Ravens in 2009, watch Ray Lewis & Co. tear apart the Bengals' offense unit. The Ravens are on a mission this year to get to the Super Bowl and will take no prisoners in that effort.

Except for maybe receiver Larry Fitzgerald, I would stay away from all Arizona players this week. The Cardinals travel cross country to Atlanta and have a history of struggling big time when taking those long trips.

I would also avoid Jacksonville QB David Garrard who travels cross country to face a tough San Diego defense.

Other potentials duds to avoid this week are backs Fred Taylor and C.J. Spiller and receivers Lee Evans, Braylon Edwards and Bernard Berrian.

http://www.cbssports.com/

http://www.espn.com/

http://www.yahoosports.com/

Fantasy Football: Week 1 duds, duds and more duds

2010-09-14T15:05:00.005-04:00

Like the person above, you study hard and do your research and sometimes fantasy football players that stink up the joint just take a lot out of you.......

http://www.espn.com/, http://cbssports.com/, http://www.yahoosports.com

Each Tuesday during the fantasy football season we'll recap the previous weekend's fantasy football production and this week's theme - studs that were duds.

When we draft our fantasy football teams we expect the players selected in the first, second and third rounds to be the players that consistently produce huge fantasy points. Week one was a huge downer for anyone who owned the following players who were all drafted quite high in most drafts.

Sure, these players will likely produce bigtime this coming weekend and beyond. But what a way start.....

The biggest disappointment had to be Houston wide receiver Andre Johnson, the first receiver taken in every draft I've seen.

While the Texans put up some decent fantasy numbers, Andre Johnson only had three receptions for 33 yards.

OTHER DISAPPOINTMENTS:

RB Michael Turner: 42 yards rushing/1 reception for 7 yards

RB Ryan Grant: 45 yards rushing (injured)

RB Ryan Mathews: 75 yards rushing, 1 fumble

RB Ray Rice: 43 yards rushing, 2 receptions for 19 yards

RB Shonn Greene: 18 yards rushing, 1 fumble/1 reception for 9 yards

RB C.J. Spiller: 6 yards rushing/4 receptions for 8 yards

WR DeSean Jackson: 4 receptions for 30 yards

WR Dwayne Bowe: 1 reception for 13 yards

TE Jason Witten: 3 receptions for 27 yards

QB Kevin Kolb: 24 yards passing (concussion, likely out indefinitely)

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WHAT TO MONITOR IN WEEK ONE

2010-09-12T10:54:00.005-04:00

On Saturday in the New Haven Register we listed my top 10 players to start and sit. That list is below.
The fantasy key today on NFL's opening day Sunday is to monitor certain teams and players.
I've been singing the praises of the Oakland Raiders the past two months and I believe they start surprising people today. Keep an eye on new QB Jason Campbell who is the catalyst for my optimistic sentiment. He should have a solid day but also watch back Darren McFadden and receivers Louis Murphy and Darius Heyward-Bey. These guys should have a great day today.
Most people are gushing about the Green Bay Packers and many handicappers have the Pack winning easily over the Philadelphia Eagles. Ain't gonna happen in my opinion.
Sure, the Packers will get their fantasy stats. But Eagles new QB Kevin Kolb, tight end Brent Celek and receivers DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin want to prove there is life after Donovan McNabb. These Eagles should get double-digit production today.
Lastly, keep an eye on the Chicago Bears. I am convinced new offensive coordinator Mike Martz will have this team on fire with his aggressive passing schemes. QB Jay Cutler, back Matt Forte and receiver Johnny Knox will have a huge day today as well.

10 PLAYERS TO START, 10 TO SIT
10 Players to start: Quarterbacks – Matt Schaub, Kevin Kolb; Running backs – Ronnie Brown, Matt Forte, Cedric Benson, Darren McFadden, Ryan Matthews; Receivers – Roddy White, Johnny Knox; Tight end – Brent Celek.
10 Players to sit: Quarterbacks – Josh Freeman, Dennis Dixon, Trent Edwards; Running backs – Clinton Portis, Knowshon Moreno, Justin Forsett; Receivers – Hines Ward, Lee Evans, Donald Driver, Nate Washington.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: Oakland Raiders will produce for owners

2010-08-19T12:21:00.005-04:00

Will the Oakland Raiders be an upgrade for fantasy football owners this season with new quarterback Jason Campbell?
I think....definitely.

Quarterback Jamarcus Russell, a highly touted QB from Louisiana State University, took the fantasy football world by storm when he was drafted No. 1 overall by the Oakland Raiders in 2007. There were certainly high expectations from management, RaiderNation fans and fantasy football team owners that Russell would some day lead RaiderNation to the NFL promised land.

The dismal result:
In 31 career games, Russell completed 52.1 percent of his passes with 18 touchdowns, 23
interceptions, 15 lost fumbles and a 65.2 passer rating. His well-documented shoddy work ethic certainly didn’t help.

The Raiders were a fantasy football afterthought the past two years and the sentuiment began and ended with the quarterback.
Enter newly acquired quarterback Jason Campbell in a trade with Washington.
Fantasy football experts are reserving judgement with the move. But the Raiders’ offensive players truly become more than just bye-week fill-ins or late-round roster additions with Campbell on board.
Really.
Instead of thinking outside the box, many fantasy football experts simply make predictions and projections based on the black and white evidence of past statistics. While talent ultimate determines a player’s on-field performance, many times performance is affected, even enhanced, by motivational factors.
And the much-maligned Campbell is certainly motivated to succeed early and often with the Raiders.
Is he the team’s savior? I think so, almost to the point where the Raiders might even make the playoffs this season.
Ignore Raiders' offensive players at your own risk.

Fantasy baseball: Two pitchers to pick off waivers

2010-05-07T13:04:00.002-04:00

At this stage of the season, the key to success in fantasy baseball's long six-month season is to find those diamond-in-the-rough stars to give you depth and increased production.

Good pitching is obviously a key to success and one guy who has been available in leagues on just about every fantasy Web site is Colorado's Jhoulys Chacin.
One of the top pitching prospects for the Rockies, because of injuries he got the call to the big dance earlier than expected.
On Sunday, he made his first start and got his first win with a dominating performance. He allowed one hit in seven scoreless innings. He also struck out seven and walked only three. If he follows that impressive outing in his next start on Saturday, he could find himself a fulltime member of the pitching rotation, expecially with Aaron Cook struggling these days.

Another hot pitcher available on most waiver wires is Scott Olsen of the Washington Nationals.
The guy has been dominating in his last three starts with 20 strikeouts in 20-plus innings.
On Thursday against the Braves, he allowed one earned run in 7 1/3 innings. He didn't get the decision, but he struck out eight and allowed only one walk. If he's available on your waiver wire, pick him up. His next start is scheduled for Tuesday against the Mets.

FANTASY BASEBALL: Hot and cold pitchers

2010-03-26T11:53:00.003-04:00

When it comes to drafting pitchers for your fantasy baseball team, there are some Major League Baseball spring performances that can't be ignored.
The key is spring training can reaffirm your confidence in a pitcher but it can also send up some red flags. There are three pitchers who you need to be wary of and three who should continue to be fantasy studs.
The obvious No. 1 red flag is the struggle of starting pitcher Ben Sheets. After being solid with the Milwaukee Brewers the guy has moved on to the Oakland A’s and it hasn’t been pretty.
In his first three spring training starts he posted a 31.15 earned-run average and had only one strikeout. In a game against Cincinnati he faced 10 batters and allowed 10 to score.
Against the Chicago Cubs he went a little better, allowing a run in four innings on three hits and three walks.
Sheets is certainly a sleeper. But at this point do you really want to use a high draft pick on this guy? Probably not.
Next, be wary of Tim Lincecum. He’s the hottest commodity in fantasy baseball drafts these days and typically the first pitcher being drafted. Sure, he’s been a fantasy stud the past two years and he’ll likely be a fantasy stud in years to come. But I have a bad feeling about this guy in 2010.
Sometimes you have to play your hunches and this season I’m rating Roy Halladay, C.C. Sabathia and a few others ahead of Lincecum in my draft cheat sheets.
For the second straight spring training Lincecum has been struggling.
At one point he had a spring training ERA of 18.00. In a 59-pitch performance against Seattle, he went 2 2/3 innings and gave up two runs on six hits and two walks and struck out four.
Recently against the Cleveland Indians he gave up four runs and four hits in four innings and has an ERA of 9.39.
There are always a lot of highs and lows in sports and I think this could be an off year for Lincecum. I never wish anything bad for any athlete. But throwing as hard as he has the past two seasons I wouldn’t be surprised if he’ll need time off to rest for something injury related.
Another pitcher to worry about is New York Yankee project Joba Chamberlain.
The question these days isn’t whether this guy is a starter or closer. The Yankees answered that question by placing him in the bullpen. The question is can he still pitch?
In two starts Chamberlain has a 27.00 ERA. But we shouldn’t be surprised by this because he struggled the last two months of the regular season in 2009. He had a 6.85 ERA for the month of September and 8.22 ERA in August.
Recently against Cleveland he lowered his ERA to 16.20, allowing one run, two hits and a walk and struck out three in three innings of relief work.
Who knows where Joba will ultimately end up?
Pitchers to key on who are having a decent spring training are actually two fantasy studs and a 2009 dud who could emerge as a huge, huge fantasy baseball come-back player in 2010.
Felix Hernandez and Johan Santana have been solid and Ervin Santana has pitched well enough to indicate a return to form is in the offering.
Hernandez, the No. 1 starter for Seattle and American League Cy Young runner-up in 2009, was spectacular recently against Arizona. He threw five shutout innings, allowed only two hits and struck out two. On March 14 against Colorado, he went 2 2/3 innings and allowed no runs on four hits and two walks and struck out three.
He has the potential to even improve on last season’s 19-win, 217-strikeout performance.
In 2009, Johan Santana had his season cut short in August after needing surgery to clean out bone chips in his left elbow. He ended up 13-9 with only 146 strikeouts.
Despite rough outings his first and third starts this spring training, there is some indication that he could return to the fantasy stud form he produced from 2004-2008 with Minnesota.
What I’m keying on is his second spring training start against Florida. He pitched four scoreless innings and allowed only three hits. He had great control and his slider was working perfectly. He even picked off Bryan Peterson at second base.
This is the Johan Santana we’ve come to know and love in the fantasy baseball world and I think that is the guy we’ll see in the regular season.
The final pitcher is the wild card.
Whether you love Ervin Santana or hate him, and you had to hate his performance in 2009, you can’t take away the solid effort he is giving this spring.
He missed the first five weeks in 2009 with a sprained right elbow and it contributed to Ervin Santana’s dismal 8-8, 107-strikeout performance last season. He ended up with a 5.03 ERA.
A healthy Ervin Santana in 2010 and a great spring indicates he should return to his 2008 form where he went 16-7 with 214 strikeouts.
He has been throwing consistently in the mid 90 mile per hour range as opposed to the high 80s last season.
In three scoreless innings against Kansas City he allowed one hit and struck out five. His curve, changeup and fastball were all working to perfection.
Prior to that start he allowed one hit in two scoreless innings against Texas.
Ervin Santana could be a great steal in the middle rounds of your draft.

Fantasy baseball draft: Five guys to key on, avoid; A-Rod the fantasy stud of all studs

2010-03-14T10:31:00.003-04:00

At no time is it more important to secure that edge in fantasy sports than during the draft phase of a league. Your drafted roster lays the foundation of whatever competitive edge you will have during the season.
I’ve been playing fantasy sports, including baseball, for 25-plus years. One of the first things I do is put together my own personal list of top players to key on early and list of players to avoid who have the potential to be fantasy busts. You want that first pick to be a killer pick, a player likely to be among the leaders in fantasy point production.
My top five stud players to draft are certainly among your typical top-five Web site projections. But the order in which I would draft them is what usually separates me from your typical “expert.”

My top studs to draft in the following order are 1. Alex Rodriguez (Yankees, third base), 2. Albert Pujols (St. Louis Cardinals, first base), 3. Hanley Ramirez (Florida Marlins, shortstop), 4. Chase Utley (Philadelphia Phillies, second base), 5. Roy Halladay (Philadelphia Phillies, starting pitcher).

Pujols should be the No. 1 pick of any baseball draft according to most fantasy sports Web sites. As an offensive standout he is likely going to put up some good numbers. But will he play a full season? For the second straight year he enters a season coming off surgery to clean out his right elbow. I just don’t believe the typical numbers will be there.
The guy I will key on if I have the top pick in any of my drafts is Rodriguez.
I’m not saying this because I’m a huge Yankees fan. I grew up in Massachusetts and in the early 1980s I was a correspondent for the Associated Press, helping cover every Boston Red Sox home game for then-AP New England Sports Editor Dave O’Hara. Yes, I’m a bit biased toward the Red Sox, although the bottom line is I just love watching sports no matter who is playing.
This is what separates fantasy winners from losers – selecting players by focusing on facts, trends and potential instead of just going with your heart and fan loyalty.

I think Rodriguez is going to have a monster season.
Missing the first month of the 2009 season, Rodriguez had to deal with hip surgery and an admission of sterioid use and still ended up with 30 homers and 100 RBIs.
Despite his age (will turn 34), with a full season ahead of him in the home-run launching pad known as Yankee Stadium II, I see Rodriguez blowing away other fantasy players. I see him getting around 50 homers, 140-plus RBIs, 20-plus steals and a .300 batting average.

I’m a bit hesitant with Pujols because I think injuries could haunt him. I would still keep him in the top five of your draft with the potential for solid numbers - 30 homers and 100 RBIs. But be wise - draft a decent backup at first base to cover yourself.

The fantasy stud at shortstop this season will be Ramirez. He’s coming off a career season with 106 RBIs and the NL batting title with a .342 average. The potential for 30 homers, 100-plus RBIs and .300-plus batting average make him a top-three selection.

Utley always has the potential to hit around 30 homers and post a .300-plus average.

You will likely find San Francisco’s Tim Lincecum ranked higher than Halladay in some projections. But Halladay will be a fantasy stud with the benefit of being on a World Series contender with a great offense to give him early and often run support. And he has the benefit of being in the National League where there is no designated hitter and he’ll be pitching to pitchers. Expect 20-plus wins and less than a .300 ERA.

My top five players to avoid, at least in the early rounds of your draft, are 1. Curtis Granderson (Yankees, outfield), 2. Carlos Beltran (Mets, outfield), 3. Javier Vazquez (Yankees, starting pitcher), 4. A.J. Burnett (Yankees, starting pitcher), 5. Joel Pineiro (Anaheim Angels, starting pitcher).

While Yankees fans are pumped up with the addition of Granderson on their team, it might take a while for him to get used to the New York atmosphere and pressure. Outside of a career-high 30 home runs last season, most of production has been on an incline the last four years. He has trouble with left-handed pitchers and he could put added pressure on himself trying to hit homers with that short fence in right field staring at him. A .260 batting average, 20-25 homers and 70-80 RBIs might be to generous to project for him.

Beltran is going to miss the first month of the season with an injury and will likely struggle trying to get back into rhythm when he returns.

Vasquez had a career-year last season and was a fantasy stud for the Atlanta Braves. But the move to New York could hurt his stat line. Sure, he’ll get the run support, but his ERA will likely rise as will the homers allowed.

When it comes to Burnett, I don’t think it’s wise to risk a high pick on him because you don’t always know what you’re going to get with him – a guy who wins 18 games with Toronto in 2008 or 13 games with the World Series-winning Yankees in 2009.
And he has a history – a history of being wild and a history of being injured. He’s been healthy the last two seasons and could be due for a stint or two on the DL.

There are some mixed emotions for me naming Pineiro a player to avoid. In the 1999/2000 seasons when he played for the now-defunct Minor League New Haven Ravens, I covered some of his games as a backup to the beat reporter at the New Haven Register those years. When my son was 5 years old I took him to a Ravens game and Pineiro made his day by giving him his first pro baseball autograph.
He’s my fifth-ranked player to avoid because he has a tendancy to be inconsistent. He won 15 games last year with the Cardinals, the first time he had double-digit wins since he won 16 with Seattle in 2003.
Last season, there was a stretch of 10 weeks where he averaged about 18-20 fantasy points a week. But there were back-to-back weeks where he would get you 40 fantasy points and the next week get you only 4-8 points.
He should do okay with Anaheim but don’t expect another 15-win season and a low ERA. Wait on this guy for the later rounds when drafting your team.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 17 PRE-GAME PLANNER-RICKY WILLIAMS ACTIVE

2010-01-03T12:38:00.002-05:00

ABOVE: Miami back Ricky Williams ready and rarin' to go.....

If you have Ricky Williams on your roster, play him.
He left last week's game with a shoulder injury and hardly practiced this week. But he is listed as active and reports indicate he should be healthy enough to have a very decent game.
The Miami Dolphins have a slim chance to make the playoffs and need Williams to play the entire game to have a shot. He will be fed the ball on the ground and through the air. If he doesn't reinjure the shoulder, expect at least 18-28 fantasy points from him today.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 17 PRE-GAME PLANNER-MARSHALL, BREES OUT

2010-01-03T11:58:00.004-05:00

ABOVE: BEARS RECEIVER DEVIN AROMASHODU

As expected, Week 17 is shaping up as a stressful day for anyone with their fantasy football championship being held today.
The biggest news that has been reported the past few days is that Denver receiver Brandon Marshall is benched for today's game against Kansas City, a team he has dominated in the past. Marshall has sat out of practice this week with a hamstring injury and Denver coach Josh McDaniels doesn't believe it is as severe as Marshall claims.
If you have Marshall active, SIT HIM DOWN. Jabar Gaffner is expected to step into his spot and that is a risky play. If you need a receiver, Chicago's Devin Aromashodu might still be on your waiver wire and should have a big day today.
As expected, New Orleans starters are sitting, most notably Drew Brees who will be the backup today to Mark Brunnell.
Saints back Pierre Thomas is inactive and will be replaced by Lynell Hamilton.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: FINAL NORTHEAST FANTASY FOOTBALL SHOW TONIGHT, DEC. 28, 7:30 P.M., at www.SportingNewsCt.com

2009-12-28T15:20:00.006-05:00

The final Northeast Fantasy Football Show of the season will be held tonight, Dec. 28, at 7:30 p.m. at www.SportingNewsCt.com.
Special call-in guests include Bob Harris of FootballDiehards.com and Dr. Brian Harwood, dubbed the "Guru of Fantasy Sports Commissioners" by the media. He operates 50-70 fantasy leagues each season nationwide.
Another special feature tonight will be fantasy football projections for 2010 and who you should be scouting for next season.
Watch the show live at www.SportingNewsCt.com or www.northeastff.com.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 16 PRE-GAME PLANNER-PART II

2009-12-27T12:43:00.002-05:00

This will be the last entry for the day.
Last minute guys to play if you're stressing to get points:
BACKS - Jason Snelling, Jerious Norwood (point-per-reception leagues), Fred Taylor (active and playing today), Brandon Jacobs.
RECEIVERS - Louis Murphy (I see 15-25 points from him), Antonio Bryant (active and starting today), Chris Chambers.
TIGHT ENDS - David Thomas, New Orleans (Jeremy Shockey is out, making Thomas very fantasy relevent today).
If you want a defense with double-digit potential, play the Cowboys who should take no prisoners against Washington.
Good luck and we'll be back next week for those of you with championships in Week 17.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 16 PRE-GAME PLANNER-DWilliams, Turner OUT

2009-12-27T11:57:00.003-05:00

This is not what you want to hear if you're in a fantasy football league championship game today. Carolina back DeAngelo Williams and Atlanta back Michael Turner, two guys you likely selected high in your preseason draft, are inactive with ankle injuries.
Based on their recent history, this probably doesn't surprise you. But it still hurts....
If you are still looking for replacements this late in the day try Oakland back Michael Bush and Cincinnati back Larry Johnson.
Bush had a huge game last week and should be the featured back today for the Raiders. I see 80-100 yards and at least a TD for the guy against a weak Cleveland defense.
I am in two championship games and one semifinal game today and Johnson is a guy I am starting in one league with both Turner and DWilliams on my roster. Johnson faces a Chiefs team that released him in November and he will be motivated to do well. Cedric Benson will obviously start, but Johnson will get 10-15 touches and I see him getting 80-100 yards with a TD.
I believe Johnson is a must start today over many backs because of the above scenario.

FANTASY BASKETBALL-KEY ON CURRY, DAMPIER AND ILYASOVA

2009-12-23T10:30:00.003-05:00

The past few weeks I’ve received a few phone calls from fantasy basketball enthusiasts, wondering why this fantasy blog centers its attention on football and baseball.
Okay, okay, the fantasy sports world doesn’t totally revolve around football, or even baseball for that matter, so here’s some fantasy basketball advice you can sink your teeth into.
Guys at the guard, forward and center positions you should consider starting these days who are not superstars called LeBron James, Kobe Bryant or Kevin Garnett are guard Stephen Curry, forward Ersan Ilyasova and center Erick Dampier.
Curry has been playing 30-plus minutes and has averaged almost 14 points and four rebounds a game the last four games. This includes 27 points against the Wizards. The added bonus here with Curry is steals – he has 15 in the last four games combined. Curry also has some great matchups coming up against teams that struggle on defense.
Ilyasova has been a bit inconsistent but he seems to be back on a good track averaging nearly 17 points and eight rebounds in his last five games. This is a forward who I have seen available on the waiver wires of various fantasy sports sites and I would grab him if you can.
I know some people who refuse to put Dampier on their team because he can disappear for a stretch of games. But he’s been on a roll the last five games averaging around 12 points, 12 rebounds and over two blocks a game.
I will do my best to post a basketball update at least every Wednesday. I’ll even post some fantasy hockey advice.
Fantasy fishing anyone?

START FAVRE IN WEEK 16

2009-12-22T15:58:00.006-05:00

Don't buy into it.
Don't.
Because of the Minnesota Vikings' recent struggles and the controversy between QB Brett Favre and coach Brad Childress in last Sunday's game, fantasy football sites are telling you to stay away from Favre this weekend.
Again, don't do it.
If anything, this is likely your championship week if you're still alive in your playoffs and if Favre is on your roster, start him. Favre was taking a beating in the game on Sunday against Carolina and Childress wanted to take Favre out in the third quarter. Favre vehemently made his case to Childress about wanting to stay in the game, and did, as the Vikes lost 26-7.
Favre will surely be bombarded by questions from the media throughout the week about this outburst with Childress. Sports sites are already comparing the Vikes recent tailspin to the Favre-led Jets tailspin of a season ago.
I believe Favre is going to respond with a huge game against Chicago in Week 16.
Four weeks ago, Favre had one of his best games of the season against the Bears' weak defense, throwing for 292 yards and three touchdowns.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 15 PRE-GAME PLANNER III-MOSS WILL PRODUCE BIG NUMBERS

2009-12-20T12:41:00.003-05:00

The fantasy football experts this morning at ESPN, CBS and Fox are telling you to stay away from Tom Brady and Randy Moss. Don't buy it. New England needs this win and with Moss getting fried by the media last week for his lackluster play in Week 14, he will have a big day against the Bills where the weather will be fine.
I see Moss getting 8-10 receptions for 120 yards and one or two TDs.
And if Matthew Berry keeps complaining on ESPN2 about how hard he had it coming to work today because of the snow, I'm going to throw up. Fantasy football owners don't care, they just want info.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 15 PLANNER PART II-JOSEPH A. BANK PLAYER OF THE DAY

2009-12-20T12:31:00.002-05:00

You have likely seen those repetitious Joseph A. Bank TV commercials, where you can buy one suit and get 10 free or buy one shirt and get 12 free (okay, a little exaggerated but you get the idea).
There is one player who resembles those commercials a bit.
With Kansas City back Jamaal Charles, you get a solid back. But get Charles as a back and you earn rushing yardage and you get three additional stats - rushing TDs, receptions for point-per-reception leagues, receiving yards and receiving TDs.
KC plays host to Cleveland and Charles should have a huge day here - 80-100 yards, a rushing TD, 5-8 receptions, 40-50 receivng yards and a receiving TD.
Note that receiver Dwayne Bowe returns from a team suspension and will take touches away from Charles and receiver Chris Chambers.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 15 (15 ALREADY?) PRE-GAME PLANNER-MIKE TURNER WILL PLAY

2009-12-20T12:10:00.005-05:00

I just finished shoveling 12-inch high snow in my driveway, and with the out-of-shape heavy breathing becoming more normal, I am now plugged into the world of fantasy football.....
Be advised that Atlanta back Mike Turner and Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan are expected to start today. While the big boys at ESPN and CBSSPORTS.com this morning are telling everyone to start Turner at your own risk, I say start the guy. Turner has been champing at the bit to get on the field and the snow that fell has been cleared for better traction.
Speaking of the Falcons, play all the Jets who play host to the Falcons today. QB Mark Sanchez is playing and will be motivated to have a big game, especially with the Jets still in the playoff picture. Thomas Jones, Braylon Edwards and Jericho Cotchery will all have big games. Add tight end Dustin Keller to that mix. He has been strugglingthe past month but I see him being used a lot today - 6-8 receptions for 70-80 yards and a touchdown.
ALSO, play all Baltimore Ravens offensive producers. With Jacksonville losing on Thursday the Ravens are in great shape for the playoffs - if they win out. Quarterback Joe Flacco, whose NFL player agent is Joe Linta of Branford, will have a huge day - 250-300 yards and 2-3 touchdowns.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 14 PRE-GAME PICKUPS

2009-12-13T12:09:00.004-05:00

If your tight end has a lousy matchup today, one guy to consider is the Giants' Kevin Boss. He is the type of player who is hit or miss and nothing in between. This week looks like it could be a hit going against NFC East rival Philadelphia.
In Week 8, Boss had three receptions for 70 yards and a touchdown against the Eagles. The Eagles defense should put a clamp on Giants receivers Steve Smith and Mario Manningham. Watch Eli Manning make more use of Boss than usual with quick dump-off passes to him throughout the game. I see Boss getting 5-10 receptions, 50-80 yards and two touchdowns.
In one playoff game I'm in, I'm sitting Kellen Winslow in favor of Boss.
And by the way, if you're looking for a productive QB today, consider San Francisco's Alex Smith and Oakland's Bruce Gradkowski. Both should put up double-digit results.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 14 PRE-GAME PLANNER-HARVIN OUT, SIMS-WALKER IN, TURNER OUT, BELL OUT

2009-12-13T11:45:00.006-05:00

Some key updates as of 11:45 a.m. Sunday.
Minnesota receiver Percy Harvin (migraines) is out, Atlanta back Michael Turner (ankle) is out, New Orleans back Mike Bell (knee) is out, Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan is out.
The big surprise is Jacksonville receiver Mike Sims-Walker (calf injury) being active. Several fantasy football sites and television broadcasts were reporting Sims-Walker was out. But he is in fact active. The question is, how long will he be able to play, especially if he aggravates the injury.
If you need a back, consider New Orleans' Reggie Bush and Kansas City's Jamaal Charles. Bush has had success against Atlanta and should excel in the passing game. Charles has been on fire and very active the last four games, averaging 17 carries and combining for 10 receptions.
Receivers to pick up who could still be on your waiver wire are Oakland's Louis Murphy, Tennessee's Kenny Britt and now, with Harvin out, Minnesota's Bernard Berrian.

FANTASY FOOTBALL-MORE WEEK 13 PRE-GAME-TIGHT END HELP

2009-12-06T12:32:00.005-05:00

Minnesota Vikings tight end Visanthe Shiancoe is questionable for tonight's game against Arizona with a lingering rib injury. He is expected to play and I am leaving him active in the two leagues I am in.
But if you don't want to risk Shiancoe being a last-minute inactive, one player to consider is Tennessee tight end Bo Scaife who plays at 1 p.m. today against Indianapolis.
Scaife has struggled but in recent weeks with Vince Young at quarterback his stats have improved.
Wide receiver Justin Gage is still limited with a back injury and that will continue to help Scaife get more balls thrown to him.
With Tennessee needing to keep pace with the Colts' offense today, I see Scaife scoring his first touchdown of the season. He should catch 5-8 balls for 60-80 yards or more.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 13 PRE-GAME PLANNER-DWILLIAMS/TURNER OUT

2009-12-06T12:18:00.002-05:00

By now you have probably heard that Carolina back DeAngelo Williams and Atlanta back Michael Turner are out. If you don't have their backups - Carolina's Jonathan Stewart or Atlanta's Jerious Norwood - there is last minute hope.
Cleveland's offense has been horrendous, but with back Jamal Lewis on IR now Jerome Harrison is the starter. This is a guy who can run but he can also catch balls too. In his only start this season in Week 4 against a tough Cincinnati defense, Harrison had 121 yards rushing and made five catches for 31 yards. Not bad and Harrison is still available in most waiver wires.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: Week 12 pre-game planner-BENSON OUT, JACKSON IN!

2009-11-29T11:45:00.004-05:00

The Cincinnati Web site has running back Cedric Benson inactive today while the St. Louis Web site has back Steven Jackson starting.
Bernard Scott will start for the Bengals. If he isn't available, other viable alternatives would be Washington's Rock Cartright and Kansas City's Jamaal Charles. If both are available, take Cartwright over Charles. The Redskins will, run, run, run all day today.
Yes, Jackson is starting for the St. Louis Rams. But with QB Marc Bulger out and Kyle Boller starting, Seattle will be keying on the Rams' only offensive standout and that is Jackson. It's very tough to sit Jackson any time. But be advised his production will likely be down today.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 11 PRE-GAME PLANNER-BRYANT STARTING

2009-11-22T12:43:00.002-05:00

You have probably heard by now that receiver Antonio Bryant will start today for the Buccaneers after struggling in past weeks with a knee injury. While many fantasy football sites are saying start Bryant at your own risk, I believe he is going to have a big day today.
According to Internet reports, Bryant had his best practices of the season on Thursday and Friday and has had great chemistry with new QB Josh Freeman. The Bucs will be playing catch up throughout the game with New Orlenas today and Freeman will be using that strong arm to try and keep his team in the game.
If the Bucs are going to have any shot at pulling a huge upset over the Saints, Bryant will certainly have to be a factor.

FANTASY FOOTBALL-WEEK 11 PRE-GAME PLANNER-KEY ON KC

2009-11-22T11:13:00.007-05:00

Just about every big name fantasy football Web site is telling owners to avoid playing Kansas City players due to the Pittsburgh Steelers defense and the weak KC offensive line.
However, Pittsburgh defensive catalyst safety Troy Polamalu is out with an injury today and the Steelers defense is a different animal without Polamalu. The Steelers seem to miss his high intensity emotion when he's not in, resulting in less pressure on opposing QBs and more plays allowed in the secondary.
With Kansas City No. 1 receiver Dwayne Bowe suspended for four weeks, Chris Chambers becomes the No. 1 guy and this guy should excel. Receiver Mark Bradley also moves up the chain and becomes a solid No. 2 guy. Back Jamaal Charles might have some tough going, but where he should excel is catching the ball out of the backfield.
I have Chambers and Charles is various leagues and I am starting them with confidence. Bradley is not a must-start, but if you're desperate he could get you 10-12 points in point-per-reception leagues.

Fantasy Football: Week 10 Pre-Game Planner Update-Betts and Boldin to start

2009-11-15T12:20:00.002-05:00

Washington back Ladell Betts (ankle) and Arizona receiver Anquan Boldin (ankle) will both start and should produce big numbers.
Betts is starting for injured starter Clinton Portis and has a shot to prove he can be a consistent runner. The word is Portis could now miss 3-plus games because of his concussion.
Boldin is always a must start, but he will be playing with more of a chip on his shoulder today. He was extremely ticked that he didn't play last week and has been champing at the bit to get back on the playing field.
Every time he touches the ball today he will be making the most of it.
I see a TD and 80 yards rushing and 8 catches for 50 yards receiving for Betts.
I see 9 catches for 120 yards receiving and a TD for Boldin.

Fantasy Football: Week 10 Pre-Game Update-WILLIAMS IS A GO!

2009-11-15T11:45:00.004-05:00

KFFL. com, ESPN.com and the Carolina Web site indicate that DeAngelo Williams (knee)will definitely start today against Atlanta.
I get the feeling that Carolina coach John Fox was trying to pull an Eric Mangini and try to psyche out the media and their opponent by making Williams' injury a mystery.
Reporters indicated throughout the week that Williams walked brisk and without a limp through the lockerroom.
Start Williams with confidence. Other experts are telling you that backup Jonathan Stewart will take touches away from Williams. Don't bet on it. Stewart has been questionable with an achilles injury and won't be 100 percent either.

Fantasy Football: Week 10 Pre-Game Planner-Williams looking good

2009-11-15T11:37:00.002-05:00

The big question before the 1 p.m. kickoffs is whether or not DeAngelo Williams (knee) will play for Carolina. Reports indicate he has been solid in warmups and seems likely to start. A decision will be made by noon.
Buffalo receiver Terrell Owens and Philadelphia back Brian Westbrook will both start.
If you're looking for some last-minute replacements, try Tampa Bay QB Josh Freeman, KC back Jamaal Charles and Oakland receiver Chaz Schilens.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 10 DECISIONS

2009-11-14T13:29:00.006-05:00

Sometimes, it's never easy when it comes to your fantasy football lineup.
This week, if you have Philadelphia back Brian Westbrook or Carolina back DeAngelo Williams, you're probably frustrated and looking for any sign that these guys won't burn you if you start them.

Westbrook is finally getting back on the field this week after missing a couple weeks with a concussion and other ailments. Most experts are saying be wary of the fact he will likely share the action with backup LeSean McCoy.
Sure, that will likely happen. But the Eagles are a different team with Westbrook in the lineup, even if it's a Westbrook who is only 80-90 percent healthy.
At the very least he will get 15-20 touches and he can do a lot with that kind of action. I plan to play him in all four leagues that I have him.

I have Williams in three leagues and he's been killing me. Right now, as of Saturday afternoon, I have him benched in those leagues because it seemed his sore knee became more of a problem as this past week went by.
The killer is this guy can single-handedly win you a game. The key is to make sure he's going to get on the field. Reading between the lines of several Internet reports, it looks like Williams will play. After talking to a couple of friends who cover NFL teams, they are convinced he will play. We should know around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday when inactive lists are released. If he is active, he will certainly be active in my lineups.

Also, if you are desperate for a receiver this week, be advised that Oakland receiver Chaz Schilens is finally expected to make his 2009 debut after recovering from a foot injury.
I know, I know, he plays for awful Oakland but this guy is a playmaker. He's huge, bigger than big (actually 6-foot-4) and with speed.
Similar to how Miles Austin has turned around the fortunes of Tony Romo, Schilens could have a similar affect (don't laugh) with Raiders QB Jamarcus Russell. I'm serious.
I always put up or shut up when it comes to my fantasy predictions and I am actually starting Schilens in two leagues. He's available in just about every waiver wire that's out there.
My colleagues at the New Haven Register laugh at me when I say this, but the day Schilens gets back on the field is the day Oakland starts playing better.

Lastly, if Patriots back Sammy Morris is on your waiver wire and you need a back, grab him now. It might be another week before he's back in action, but he will likely go back to starting for the Pats when he returns.

FANTASY FOOTBALL-WEEK 9 PLANNER UPDATE-COLTS BROWN OUT

2009-11-08T12:36:00.002-05:00

Former UConn standout running back Donald Brown (shoulder injury) has been declared inactive by the Indianapolis Colts. This bodes well for starter Joseph Addai who should see more touches today.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 9 PLANNER-WESTBROOK EXPECTED NOT TO PLAY!

2009-11-08T11:52:00.002-05:00

As we wind down to Week 9 kickoff once again Eagles back Brian Westbrook is a late scratch. If you're scrambling for a replacement you might want to see if Chiefs back Jamaal Charles (starter for Larry Johnson today) is available on your waiver wire. Bottom line, get Westbrook out of your active lineup...
Other big names not playing today are Cardinals receiver Anquan Boldin and Buccaneers receiver Antonio Bryant, both have been declared inactive.
Potential replacements could be Texans wideout Kevin Walter and if you're willing to take a gamble, new Chiefs receiver Chris Chambers. Walter is expected to see more throws with tight end Owen Daniels out and Chambers was grabbed off waivers by the Chiefs. He will play today.
Also, the Texans' Web site has declared Ryan Moats as the starter today at running back. But be advised Steve Slaton and Chris Brown will also be in the mix. The best bets for big stats from Houston today will be from receivers Andre Johnson and Kevin Walter.

FANTASY FOOTBALL-WEEK 8 UPDATE-URGENT!!!! WESTBROOK OUT

2009-11-01T12:56:00.002-05:00

Be advised Brtian Westbrook is inactive. STart LeSean McCoy in his place if you were planning to give Westbrook a shot.

FANTSASY FOOTBALL-WEEK 8 UPDATE-URGENT!!!! WESTBROOK OUT

2009-11-01T12:56:00.000-05:00

Be advised Brtian Westbrook is inactive. STart LeSean McCoy in his place if you were planning to give Westbrook a shot.

FANTASY FB: WEEK 8 UPDATE-Berrian, Manningham out, Ginn demoted

2009-11-01T12:48:00.003-05:00

Late news has Vikings receiver Bernard Berrian and Giants receiver Mario Manningham inactive today.
Also, the Miami Dolphins have demoted the struggling Tedd Ginn Jr. in favor of Brian Hartline who will start in his place today. If you need receiver help, you could do a lot worse than Hartline. Pick him up.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 8 PLANNER-URGENT-CALVIN JOHNSON OUT!!!

2009-11-01T11:45:00.002-05:00

Breaking news off the Detroit Lions Web site....
Wide receiver Calvin Johnson was expected to start today despite his knee injury but has been placed on the inactive list. Instead, key on wide receiver Bryant Johnson who will be the No. 1 wideout for the Lions.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 8 PRE-GAME PLANNER-START CRABTREE, MCCOY, GREENE

2009-11-01T11:01:00.003-05:00

Good morning everyone.
As usual I'm going a bit against the grain here...
Most fantasy football experts are telling you to hesitate starting San Francisco 49ers receiver Michael Crabtree today against the Indianapolis Colts.
Don't sit him because you will be sorry.
If you haven't noticed, the 49ers' power-run philosophy is changing since the running game has been struggling. The QB switch to Alex Smith allows for more downfield passing and Crabtree will be the focus point of those passes.
Also, the 49ers will likely have to play catch up today against the Colts and that means more action for Crabtree. Last week Crabtree had a decent day - five catches for just over 50 yards. This week, I see him making at least 8-12 catches for 80-100 yards and his first NFL touchdown.

Another player to start with confidence is Philadelphia backup running back LeSean McCoy. According to the Eagles Web site he should get the bulk of the carries today whether injured back Brian Westbrook starts or not.

Do not hesitate to start Jets backup back Shonn Greene who is taking the place of Leon Washington who is out of the season. Jets starting back Thomas Jones has a history of struggling against the Miami Dolphins. While the Dolphins defense won't make life easy for Greene, he is on a mission to showcase his talent and will be motivated to have another productive week.

FANTASY FOOTBALL-MORE WEEK 7 PLANNER-RECEIVERS UP

2009-10-25T12:16:00.003-04:00

Minnesota Vikings receiver Percy Harvin (shoulder) is expected to start today. With the Pittsburgh Steelers expected to smother Sidney Rice and Bernard Berrian, Harvin could find himself in a lot of one-on-one coverage for some long bombs from Brett Favre.
It's official. The 49ers Web site has officially stated that receiver Michael Crabtree, who is making his NFL debut today, will start. Crabtree should have a big day. What this does is lower the value of receiver Josh Morgan who now takes a back seat to Crabtree.
Another receiver to play today is the Rams' Donnie Avery. He and Marc Bulger have been finding some chemistry lately and the Rams will likely be playing catch up all day against the Indianapolis Colts.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 7 PRE-GAME PLANNER-BE WARY OF PORTIS, BARBER AND MARONEY

2009-10-25T10:40:00.003-04:00

As we head toward Week 7 games, Clinton Portis, Marion Barber and Laurence Maroney are shaping up as disappointments in the backfield.
First, this week's waiver-wire flavor of the week, New England back Maroney, won't likely produce the surprising numbers of last week - 123 yards and a TD. Yes, Sammy Morris is out this week but Maroney will be sharing carries with BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Kevin Faulk is expected to get most goal-line carries.
Be advised that Dallas Cowboys back Marion Barber, although listed as probable today, won't be a dominating factor with Felix Jones and Tashard Choice sharing the work. In fact, Internet reports, including the Dallas Cowboys' Web site, state that Jones will be the starter today, not Barber. And even if Barber started he would likely only get you something in the range of 70 yards and maybe a TD.
On Monday night, Washington Redskins back Portis is expected to start. But his right ankle isn't 100 percent and there is no telling when backup Ladell Betts will take over. If you have another option, go for it.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: RAIDERS RECEIVER SCHILENS LIKELY OUT

2009-10-24T19:08:00.006-04:00

In my fantasy football column in today's (Saturday) New Haven Register I urged everyone to consider using Oakland receiver Chaz Schilens if a receiver was needed in their lineup.
However, according to the Raiders' Web site Schilens had a setback in practice and went from probable to questionable. Coach Tom Cable said he will be a game-time decision.
Schilens suffered a foot injury in August and has been out 10 weeks. The 6-foot-4 receiver was supposed to make his 2009 NFL debut this weekend. Now, it is likely Schilens won't make his 2009 debut until Week 8.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 6 PLANNER-IN AND OUT

2009-10-18T12:13:00.002-04:00

As of 12:45 p.m. (Sunday), the biggest news regarding who is starting and sitting today involves Vikings receiver Percy Harvin and Lions receiver Calvin Johnson.
As expected, Calvin Johnson (knee injury) is inactive today and will not play.
Percy Harvin (shoulder injury) is active and is expected to play. However, because he is still not 100 percent, Sydney Rice will likely get more looks from Brett Favre today.

FANTASY FOOTBALL-WEEK 6 PRE-GAME PLANNER-WEATHER WORRIES

2009-10-18T11:34:00.003-04:00

Be advised that heavy rain is expected in the Northeast all day today, making life interesting in the Buffalo at Jets and Tennessee at New England games.
Thanks to state-of-the art equipment, like the specially treated receivers gloves that are available these days, balls are a lot more catchable when inclement weather descends on a game. But the slick rain can still cause fumbles and interceptions.
Because of that, expect Pats back Sammy Morris and Titans back Chris Johnson, Jets backs Thomas Jones and Leon Washington, and Buffalo backs Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson to get a little more involved than usual because of the foul weather.
The tight ends in these games should also be more involved with short passes a higher percentage play than deep bombs in the rain. I see Dustin Keller and Ben Watson, if he's healthy, to be huge fantasy point producers today.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 6 PRE-GAME PLANNER-WEEK OF THE TIGHT END

2009-10-18T11:19:00.003-04:00

Matchups mean everything in fantasy football and they are looking good for many tight ends around the NFL today.
Baltimore's Todd Heap, Pittsburgh's Heath Miller, Tampa Bay's Kellen Winslow, Houston's Owen Daniels, Seattle's John Carlson, Jacksonville's Marcedes Lewis, New Orleans' Jeremy Shockey, Green Bay's Jermichael Finley, Kansas City's Sean Ryan, the Jets' Dustin Keller, the Giants' Kevin Boss, Atlanta's Tony Gonzalez, Philadelphia's Brent Celek and San Diego's Antonio Gates should all post at least 10-20 fantasy points today and Monday.
Some of these guys are obvious plays, like Gonzalez and Gates. But if you need a bye-week replacement at tight end, grab Finley, Ryan or Lewis who should all be available on your waiver wire.
I would normally add Washington's Chris Cooley to the above list, but since Redskins coach Jim Zorn has been using Cooley mostly as a blocking tight end in recent weeks, play Cooley at your own risk. Cooley could get 20 points or 2 points today.

FANTASY FB: WEEK 5 PLANNER-WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

2009-10-11T12:12:00.004-04:00

It's a bit after noon and here are where some of the fantasy FB studs stand as far starting or sitting.

As I mentioned in a previous blog, Eli Manning will start today. Also active are Browns back Jamal Lewis and Carolina backup back Jonathan Stewart.

Lewis is an interesting play. He could be the typical dud he has shown in 2009, especially since he is not 100 percent with hamstring and ankle injuries. But RotoWorld is reporting that Lewis realizes his starting status is in jeopardy and he plans to have a career day today to show he isn't washed up just yet.
This scenario bears watching....especially with ace receiver Braylon Edwards gone and the Browns expected to rely on the running game.

Inactives include backs Felix Jones, Willie Parker (as expected) and Earnest Graham; tight end Kevin Boss; receivers Roy Williams and Kevin Curtis.
Detroit QB Matthew Stafford will take a back seat to Daunte Culpepper who will start.

FANTASY FB: MORE WEEK 5 PLANNER-ELI MANNING LOOKING GOOD

2009-10-11T11:51:00.003-04:00

If you have Eli Manning as your No. 1 quarterback, start him with confidence today.

A friend at the Giants game told me minutes ago by phone Manning came out for warmups and had no problem throwing or moving around. He also did not show a limp when we walked.

Manning should have a field day against the Raiders with huge production numbers. I'd be surprised if he didn't throw for 300-plus yards and 2-3 TDs.

FANTASY FB: WEEK 5 PRE-GAME PLANNER-GRAB CRIBBS?

2009-10-11T11:13:00.007-04:00

Just about every national fantasy football expert is telling you to stay away from Cleveland Browns receiver Joshua Cribbs despite the fact that Braylon Edwards was traded to the Jets.

HOW-EVER......there is an exception to this sentiment.

Grab this guy off your waiver wire if you are in a rare league that counts return yards/return TDs for individual players.

Among the 11 leagues that I'm in is the extremely competitive Golf Digest Media League. This is one leaque where the production stats include return yards and kickoff/punt return TDs. For every 10 return yards a player gets you get .5 points.

Cribbs may not be the No. 1 or even No. 2 receiver for the Browns. But he is a monster when it comes to return yardage and in the last four years he has scored six TDs on returns. Last week he had 212 combined return yards!

The way I see it, the speedy and tough Cribbs will see a bit more action as a receiver. Today, I see him getting 5-7 receptions, maybe 50 yards receiving and if the planets align just right, maybe a receiving TD. But return yardage is where you can make a killing here, if your league rules allow points for return yards.

Receiving and returns combined, I see Cribbs getting 20-25 points today.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: HASSELBECK RETURNS

2009-10-10T18:22:00.003-04:00

About five days ago, media reports stated that Seattle quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, who has missed two games with a rib injury, was bent over in pain during practice.
What a difference five days can make?
Apparently.
Hasselbeck has been upgraded from questionable to probable and is expected to start against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday.
The question is, how effective will he be? How long will it take for his timing plays to be in synch with receivers T.J.l Houshmandzadeh and Deion Branch?

Hasselbeck has apparently thrown away his old flak jacket with a new, state-of-the-art flak jacket to protecdt him better. My advice is to start him if you you don't have better options because the Seahawks will certainly be playing catch up during the game.

The Seahawks' defensive line is still decimated with injuries and last week it allowed Peyton Manning to throw for 353 yards. This should be a shootout and Hasselbeck will likely be chucking the ball more than handing off as the game wears on.

LOCAL FANTASY FOOTBALL SHOW MOVES TO 1-HOUR FORMAT

2009-10-05T09:38:00.001-04:00

The Winners Sports Haven Northeast Fantasy Football Show, the only live fantasy football video show based in the Northeast, moves from a two-hour format to a one-hour show from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. starting tonight (Oct. 5).
The Winners Sports Haven Northeast Fantasy Football Show, formerly on the radio the past four years, is a live interactive video fantasy football show that airs on Mondays during the NFL season. The show can be found on www.SportingNewsCt.com, based in Connecticut, with the video format effectively making the show a national entity since anyone can get the free show on the Internet.

FANTASY FB WEEK 4: FINAL PRE-GAME PLANNER

2009-10-04T12:44:00.002-04:00

Some last minute updates.....
Tampa Bay's Derrick Ward is inactive making Cadilac Williams "the man" when it comes to running the ball for the Bucs today.

Kansas City receiver Dwayne Bowe is active and will have a busy, if not long, day against the Giants today. Watch back Larry Johnson struggle while backup Jamaal Charles should have a decent day for point-per-reception leagues as a receiver out of the backfield. The Chiefs will be playing catchup today and QB Matt Cassel could throw 50-55 times.

Just a hunch, but I see tight end Jeremy Shockey and receiver Devery Henderson having a huge day today against the Jets. The Jets should put theclamps on Marques Colston, allowing others to reap the benefits.
Good luck today and check this blog throughout the week for updates and insights...

FANTASY FB WEEK 4: PRE-GAME PLANNER

2009-10-04T11:54:00.002-04:00

You have likely heard that Pittsburgh's Willie Parker is out with a turf toe injury.
All fantasy football experts are advising that you start backup Rashard Mendenhall in his place. Yes, Mendenhall will start.
But if you're hurting at RB and Mewelde Moore is aavailable on your waiver wire, grab him. Moore and Mendenhall wilol likely have a 50-50 split today and if Mendenhall struggles,Moore will reap the benefits. It's a slightly risky play, but one I am taking in one of the 11 leagues I'm in.

FANTASY FOOTBALL WEEK 4: PRE-GAME PLANNER-URGENT-WELKER PLAYING!

2009-10-04T11:44:00.004-04:00

ESPN is reporting that New England receiver Wes Welker is active and will start for the Patriots today. Get him in your lineup because he will be used early and often as Tom Brady's security blanket against the tough Ravens defense.
ALSO...be advised Clinton Portis is active and will start. But he is not 100 percent and may not last the whole game. If you're hurting at running back and Portis' backup Ladell Betts is available, grab him. He should be goodfor10-20 points today.
Again, echoing my sentiments of Saturday's blog, expect big things from new Miami QB Chad Henne. Start receivers Ted Ginn Jr. and Davone Bess and tight end Anthony Fasano with confidence.

WEEK 4: LATE WAIVER WIRE PICKUPS

2009-10-03T11:23:00.010-04:00

ABOVE: DOLPHINS RECEIVER DAVONE BESS IS A SOLID PICKUP

If you're a little late getting to your waiver wire this week to fill in some bye-week holes or simply improve your roster, here are some players that are probably still under the radar on your waiver wire:
Miami Dolphins receiver Davone Bess and tight end Anthony Fasano; Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Mike Wallace; and Cleveland Browns back Jerome Harrison

Many national fantasy football experts are giving new Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Henne little respect, expecting the Dolphins' season and their fantasy football players to head south with Chad Pennington out for the season.

DON'T BELIEVE IT.

A friend of mine who covers the Dolphins said this coming Monday morning NFL fans nationwide will know Chad Henne. Last week he struggled a bit, thrown into the game after Pennington went down. But he is prepared to start this week and will showcase his rifle arm, ala Joe Flacco of the Baltimore Ravens.
As a result tight end Anthony Fasano, nothing to write home about this season, will have his offensive numbers rise. Receiver Ted Ginn Jr. will also become fantasy football relevant. But the biggest turnaround will be with Bess.
Bess is expected to become the second coming of Wes Welker, a big and quick receiver operating out of the slot. As a result of Henne taking the snaps now, Bess will become a huge factor in point-per-reception leagues with an increase in his receptions and yardage. I am told 10 receptions for 80-90 yards and a TD are possible this weekend.

The Steelers' Mike Wallace has taken a back seat as a No. 3 receiver behind Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes. But expect one or both of those players to get double teamed against San Diego, leaving Wallace with one-on-one coverage and the potential for some big gains.

With Browns back Jamal Lewis expected to be out this week, many experts believe backup James Davis, starting in his place, will reap the benefits. But Jerome Harrison, who will split duties with Davis, is actually the better play because he can catch as well as run.

FANTASY FOOTBALL: WEEK 3 PLANNER UPDATE-PATS ADVICE

2009-09-27T12:14:00.004-04:00

Be advised A., its raining in Foxboro and B., receiver Wes Welker is inactive for the second straight week. Viable alternatives for Welker if they are still available in your waiver wire are Jacksonville's Mike Sims-Walker and Chicago's Johnny Knox.

My hunch this week is that the Patriots will run the ball more than they have this season. The player to reap the benefits of this is back Laurence Maroney. I activated Maroney in two of the leagues that I have and expect 15-25 points from him.