Tag Archives: Chad Henne

by | November 22, 2012 · 7:20 am

FantasySavvy 2012: Week 12 Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em

As seen on FP911.com. Make sure to check there for a ton of great fantasy info. Also test your daily fantasy skills at FP911challenge.com

Happy Thanksgiving to all. Everybody enjoy and be grateful for Family, Food, and of course, Fantasy Football. We have just two weeks left until the Fantasy Playoffs, so it is truly crunch time. I hope you all have done everything in your power to get your teams where they need to be. If you guys have any questions you can email me at SteveDeAngelo@gmail.com or @FantasySavvy on Twitter.

You won’t see the obvious names on here, that would be pointless. Maybe occasionally to give you a reminder, but rather we are looking to identify some guys that you may be on the fence with and encourage you to either start or sit them. Matchups will be broken down, stats will be used, some projections will be provided and some “gut” feeling will be mixed in. But when it comes down to the come down, it’s your “gut” you need to roll with.

*Players listed in order of projected effectiveness in the start ‘em category and ineffectiveness in the sit ‘em category.

Quarterbacks

Start ‘Em

Tony Romo vs Washington

Romo is starting to pick it up of late and despite the fact he only has one multi touchdown game in his last four outings he does have one 400-yard and two 300-yard performances to his credit. Romo and Dez Byrant also seem to finally be getting on the same page. At home, on Thanksgiving, against the Washington Redskins and their poor defense allowing the 6th most points to Fantasy QB’s, Romo can be trusted and should be in your lineups.

Colin Kaepernick @ New Orleans

Technically there has been no starter named for Sunday’s game against the Saints, but I think there is no doubt that the 49ers will go with Kaepernick. I highly doubt that Alex Smith would have had the type of performance Kaepernick had against the Bears throwing for 243 yards with two TD’s. Expect Harbaugh to go with Kaepernick on Sunday and once Kaepernick succeeds against the Saints, and he will, the 49ers will keep going with him. If you are in need of QB help and he is still available in your league, do not hesitate to snatch him up. Look for over 300 total yards and at least two TD’s.

Update: Kaepernick named starter.

Chad Henne vs Tennessee

Blaine Gabbert was simply not the answer for the Jacksonville Jaguars and he was killing the entire teams Fantasy value. After Gabbert went down against the Texans, Chad Henne came in and completely ignited this offense and specifically Justin Blackmon and Marcedes Lewis. All this against a very tough Houston Texans defense. Start Henne in Week 12 as the Jaguars welcome the Titans into town, who have allowed the 9th most points to Fantasy QB’s.

Sit ‘Em

Cam Newton @ Philadelphia

Just a disappointing season overall for Cam, throwing for over 300 yards just once and having just 12 TD’s overall. I have been waiting for him to break out and have a big time performance but it still hasn’t come. If you have Andy Dalton, or Kaepernick, I would start them both over Cam this weekend. At this point Cam really doesn’t offer much upside, he’s going to give you his usual 230 yard passing, 30 yards rushing, one TD game.

Eli Manning vs Green Bay

Eli Manning might very well turn it around coming off the bye week, but after three straight brutal games where he didn’t throw even one touchdown, he needs to show his owners he can be trusted again.

Matthew Stafford vs Houston

Here is another guy who has been inconsistent all season and is hard to trust on a week to week basis. Stafford put up another dud last week throwing two INT’s with just one TD, although he did throw for over 250 yards. Yes, Chad Henne did just torch the Texans secondary, but they are still ranked 10th best against Fantasy QB’s and will be much more focused than they were last week. I want two to three TD games from my starting QB, not one TD, two interception performances. I think that is most likely what we will see from Stafford this week.

Running Backs

Start ‘Em

Marcel Reece @ Cincinnati

Keep Marcel Reese going as Darren Mcfadden continues to sit out. Reece has totaled 151 rushing yards and 146 receiving yards in his last two games and the Bengals are allowing the 7th most points to Fantasy backs. Expect another 100+ total yard game and a possible score.

Ronnie Hillman @ Kansas City

With McGahee on injured reserve, Hillman steps into a great situation playing with Peyton Manning. Lance Ball will get some carries, but Hillman should get the majority and be the the Broncos goal line option. There should plenty of opportunities to score against the Chiefs who are ranked 10th worst against Fantasy RB’s so look for Hillman to approach 100 total yards and possibly find the endzone.

Jalen Parmele vs Tennessee

Rashad Jennings has lost the starting job and Parmele is next in line. He runs harder than Jennings and is the more talented back. With Chad Henne the Jaguars will be able to move the football which bodes well for Parmele. Look for him to have a nice game against the Titans who are allowing the 4th most points to Fantasy Backs.

Sit ‘Em

James Starks @ NYG

Starks, Alex Green it doesn’t matter, neither one of these guys is talented enough to get the job done. Starks is still the better runner but McCarthy was not happy with his performance last week and it looks like he will go back into more of a timeshare with Green now.

Reggie Bush vs Seattle

Bush has just not been the same since his week three injury to the Jets. Ever since then his YPC has decreased and his touches have went down. At this point, it looks like the Dolphins are intentionally not using him because they don’t want to bring him back next year. They do not give him enough carries and they use him horribly in the pass game.Daniel Thomas is playing more than Bush, it’s pathetic. This is just a rough matchup and you can not trust Bush at all right now, his playoff schedule is very light however, but at the same time he couldn’t get it done against the Bills last week. Keep Bush reserved until this coaching staff shows that they want to feature him in the offense again.

Chris Ivory vs San Francisco

Besides the horrid matchup against the best Run D in the league, Darren Sproles should also be returning this week which kills Ivory’s value.

Wide Receivers

Start ‘Em

Michael Crabtree @ New Orleans

Kaepernick provides legitimacy to this passing game again and Crabtree will get it going against the Saints and their horrible defense. Start him comfortably.

Justin Blackmon vs Tennessee

Finally! We have been waiting for this game all year, it just sucks it took 11 weeks to finally come. Chad Henne knows how to get this man the ball and Blackmon had 13 targets last week with over 200 yards receiving. He should also be able to exploit the Titans defense so stick with JB.

T.Y. Hilton vs Buffalo

T.Y. Allday long! Love this little guy. Donnie Avery could be out with a concussion which means a ton of targets for Hilton as Luck throws it up and down the field against the Bills. Hilton has two 100-yard games in his past three and needs to be in your lineups this week.

Sit ‘Em

Santana Moss @ Dallas

While Moss has four TD’s in his last four games he has just 150 yards receiving which is less than 40 yards per game. Besides all that, I do not like this matchup against the Cowboys and their secondary who have been tough against fantasy WR’s all year, ranked 9th best.

Mike Wallace @ Cleveland

Do you trust Charlie Batch tossing the rock to Wallace? Didn’t think so. Making matters worse, Joe Haden has a good shot to return for this game. No matter, Wallace is just too risky to rely upon this week.

Jeremy Maclin & DeSean Jackson vs Carolina

These two guys couldn’t get it done in a plus matchup against the Skins last week with a combined two catches for five yards, therefore I do not trust them this week against Carolina. Nick Foles looked pretty bad and until he proves he can get the ball to these guys, you need to sit em down. Two catches for five yards?

Tight Ends

Start ‘Em

Vernon Davis @ New Orleans

Vernon has been freed! Finally they throw this guy the dang football. I guess Alex Smith just was not looking his way? Just another reason for the 49ers to start Kaepernick this weekend against the Saints. Look for Vernon to go over 60 yards and potentially find the endzone once again.

Brandon Myers @ Cincinnati

Myers, aka Carson Palmer‘s older brother has been extremely steady of late with 27 targets in his last three games with three TD’s and over 150 receiving yards. The Bengals are 4th worst against defending the Tight End so look for Myers to continue his success.

Dwayne Allen vs Buffalo

Coby Fleener will be OUT once again so get Allen in your lineups as he has 20 targets in his last three games going over the 60-yard receiving mark twice.

Sit ‘Em

Dennis Pitta @ San Diego

Pitta left last weeks game early after suffering a concussion and although he did practice Wednesday and should pay Sunday, he cannot be trusted. Flacco has regressed, Pitta has regressed and you can feel pretty comfortable letting Pitta loose if you need to.

Heath Miller @ Cleveland

Same story with Mike Wallace, without Big Ben Miller can not be trusted. It’s a shame because he was one of the best producers at the position with Ben back there. Cleveland is also 2nd best at defending the Tight End, so just not a good look all around.

Kyle Rudolph @ Chicago

After being abused by the 49ers and Colin Kaepernick last week, the Bears are going to take their anger out onChristian Ponder. Ponder will struggle meaning Rudolph will likely be limited as well.

IDP’s

Start ‘Em

Wesley Woodward vs Kansas City

 The Denver Broncos defense has been on fire of late and Wesley Woodward has been a huge reason why. Woodward leads the Broncos in tackles with 54, has three sacks and also three interceptions. The Chiefs have allowed the 2nd most points to Fantasy LB’s this year so Woodward is a must start this week.

Charles Johnson @ Philadelphia

Johnson who has 8.5 sacks this season steps into a nice matchup against the Eagles who have allowed the third most sacks this season. Look for Johnson to get to Foles at least twice.

Sit ‘Em

Tamba Hali @ Denver

Hali has been one of the bright spots on the KC defense with six sacks, but against Peyton Manning and the Broncos who have allowed the 3rd fewest sacks, Hali’s sack chances will be minimal.

Jonathan Joseph @ Detroit

Joseph’s hamstring has hindered him all season and he now has has to play on a short week against Calvin Johnson. Keep him reserved.

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by | November 30, 2010 · 10:18 pm

11/30 Player News

49ers RB Frank Gore was placed on I.R. Tuesday with a fractured hip. Brian Westbrook, who shredded the Cardinals defense for 136 yards and a touchdown will start this Sunday. Rookie Anthony Dixon(54 yards, 1 TD) will take over back up duties and is worth a flier in deeper leagues in case Westbrook’s health becomes an issue.

Raiders QB Bruce Gradkowski’s season is now over after reinjuring his throwing shoulder during Sunday’s home loss to the Dolphins. Jason Campbell will retake the starting job.

Colts QB Peyton Manning suffered a stinger during Sunday’s loss to the Chargers. The injury is considered minor however and we fully expect him to play in week 13.

Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger suffered a sprained foot during Sunday’s contest against the Bills. Big Ben played through the injury and will be placed in a walking boot this week. I’d bet he plays Sunday night against the Ravens but stay tuned for updates.

Raiders TE Zach Miller actually has been dealing with a torn plantar fascia the last few weeks and then preceded to leave Sunday’s loss to the Dolphins with a badly bruised fibula. Miller seems to be quite the mess at this point with leg injuries, and i’m not so sure he’ll get back to 100% any time this year.

Texans TE Owen Daniels(hamstring) is fully expected to return Week 14. Joel Dreessen is expected to make at least one more start and is a borderline TE1 for one more week.

Cowboys RB Marion Barber(calf) is expected to miss the next two weeks. This means Felix Jones touches will increase and this will be Tashard Choice’s chance to overtake Barber as the number two back going forward.

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson’s MRI revealed that his ankle is only sprained which is a great sign. He is currently expecting to start Sunday but we’ll monitor his status as the week goes on.

Chargers WR Vincent Jackson’s return Sunday night was ended quickly when he left the game with calf injuries. After missing the first 11 weeks, he will now be out until at least week 15 now with the double calf ailment. It’s a shame as many owners felt he would be a HUGE addition to their lineups, now will have to go back to their previous options.

Packers WR Greg Jennings(foot) is not expected to practice until Thursday at the very least after being diagnosed with a foot strain. He’s likely to suit up Sunday but we’ll see how he responds when he returns to practice.

Bills rookie running back C.J. Spiller(hamstring) is expected to return this week after missing the last three games. I don’t think he’ll eat into Fred Jackson’s touches too much, but it’s really anyones guess as to what the Bills will do at this point.

Brandon Marshall(hamstring) who missed his first game due to injury every during Week 12, is considered day-to-day for the time being. If he is unable to go this week, Davone Bess and Brian Hartline would make solid flex options especially with Chad Henne back under center against the Browns.

Lions QB Shaun Hill has a broken index finger and it is feared that his season may be over. Matthew Stafford is still trying to come back from yet another shoulder injury meaning Drew Stanton could be under center this week which would decrease the value of almost all the Lions offensive players against the Bears.

Redskins coach Mike Shanahan has declined to name a starter at running back for week 13. Keiland Williams barely received any carries and James Davis got some second half carries. This right now appears like something you’ll want to avoid going forward because Coach Shanahan can just never make up his mind and leave it to him to ruin a decent run the rookie Williams had been on.

Colts RB Joseph Addai(neck/shoulder) is unfortunately unlikely to retun in Week 13. He will be limited to non contact practices once again this week which further enforces people’s belief that he won’t return this week. Donald Brown will likely get another start and while Brown has been ineffective in the running game, he has actually been productive in the passing game so he’s a solid start in PPR league’s this week.

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by | November 27, 2010 · 8:33 pm

11/27 Player News

The Raiders have announced that Bruce Gradkowski and not Jason Campbell will start Sunday against the Dolphins. SOURCE: : Adam Schefter on Twitter

Raiders TE Zach Miller(foot) and Darrius Heyward-Bey(hamstring) are both expected to start Sunday. Miller is an average start as he still doesn’t appear to be 100% and DHB is just too inconsistent to be trusted week in and out.

Maurice Jones-Drew(abdomen) is listed as questionable for Sunday against the Giants but is fully expected to play. He will however be without LT Eugene Monroe which will make MJD’s matchup tougher, but he is a must start. Mike Sims-Walker(ankle) is listed as questionable but is believed to be in the lineup. I’d sit him either way as long as you have another option as I can’t see him being close to 100%.

Titans WR Kenny Britt(hamstring) has been officially ruled out once again. Rookie QB Rusty Smith will make his first start against the horrid Texans pass defense, making Nate Washington and Randy Moss decent options even with the rookie under center.

Texans TE Owen Daniels(hamstring) has been ruled out meaning Joel Dreessen will start once again and is a low end TE1 this week.

Redskins WR Santana Moss(hamstring) is going to be a game time decision and I recommend sitting him as these hamstring injuries can flare up at a moments notice. If you have another option, use him.

Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart(concussion) and QB Jimmy Clausen(concussion) are both expected to return this week. Stewart will likely split carries with Mike Goodson in his return against the Browns.

Browns QB Jake Delhomme(ankle) is 100% healed and will get the start with Colt McCoy and Seneca Wallace nursing ankle injuries. He is not a fantasy option.

Seahawks receiver Mike Williams(foot) is going to be a game time decision and will play sparingly even if he does play. Explore other options and keep Williams on benches for the time being.

Chiefs TE Tony Moeaki(concussion) and Dexter McCluster(ankle) are both expected to return to the lineup Sunday in Seattle. Moeaki is a low end TE1 while McCluster shouldn’t be started unless your in return yardage leagues.

Dolphins receiver Brandon Marshall(hamstring) will miss his first game due to injury in his career. QB Chad Henne(knee) apparently has some miracle healer because two weeks ago we thought his season was over, but he will now start Sunday in Oakland.

Chargers TE Antonio Gates(foot) is a game time decision but most reports i’ve read lean towards him sitting. Don’t wait until 8pm to see if he’s active, start someone else. RB Ryan Mathews(ankle) will sit again leaving Mike Tolbert to get the bulk of the carries against the Colts and their 30th ranked run defense.

Colts WR Austin Collie(concussion), RB’s Joseph Addai(neck) and Mike Hart(ankle) have all been ruled out for Sunday night. WR Blair White will play for Collie while Donald Brown will carry the load at RB. Reggie Wayne(knee) will play even though he is currently listed as questionable.

49ers TE Vernon Davis(ankle) is ready to go after a good week of practice. The ankle has been bothering him for weeks now it appears and shouldn’t be an issue going forward, start Davis.

 

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by | November 18, 2010 · 5:57 pm

Thursday Night Preview (Bears @ Dolphins)

By Alan Squatrito

 

 

The Miami Dolphins host the Chicago Bears on Thursday for what will be the second Thursday night game of the NFL season. The Dolphins will be looking to get their second home win of the season but without Chad Henne or Chad Pennington. Chad Pennington was seen in pregame warm-ups bobbing and weaving to Eminem’s Lose Yourself, getting pumped for his first start since 2009. His opportunity to start and take over for the Dolphins Qb position didn’t last too long as he lost himself to i.r. early in the first quarter of the game vs. the Titans on Sunday.  Chad Henne came in and filled and played fairly well but then was also knocked out of the game with a serious knee injury. Former Kansas City Chief Tyler Thigpen came in and finished out the game throwing for a touchdown on six passing attempts in the fourth quarter.  While he is still young and inexperienced at 26 years old, he has some ability and can make plays. He was scrambling around and played fairly well against the Titans. Chad Henne has been listed as doubtful after missing practice on Wednesday so Thigpen will get the start.

Jay Cutler has been playing better of late and his quarterback rating has been on the rise as he has been moving around the pocket a lot better and even scrambling for first down runs in the Mike Martz offense. The Bears defense is starting to gel as they are only giving up 16.2 points per game and are tied for second place with 14 interceptions on the year. They are also ranked fourth in the league for most forced fumbles with 14 and I don’t think this stat is going to change for the worse comes Thursday against the Dolphins. With  Dolphins Tackle Jake Long also suffering from a shoulder injury, I can’t picture Tyler Thigpen doing enough in all four quarters to pull out a win. Devin Hester is questionable with an ankle injury but Is still expected to play. I think Greg Olsen is going to have a big fantasy day Cutler has started to look his way especially around the endzone. I also think Earl Bennett should be a solid flex start, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Devin Aromashodu was taken out of the doghouse for a few key plays. Start Matt Forte with confidence, I like him as a number two running back this week. Anthony Fasano is Tyler Thigpen’s favorite target this week as most quarterbacks coming back into playing form seem to target their tight ends a lot more. I am not sold on Davone Bess this weekend but I do think Brandon Marshall will have a good fantasy day after struggling of late. He is frustrated and he is also very due to produce. I see the Bears winning this one 27-17.

 

Editors Note: Steve D likes Miami  23-20

Sit Jay Cutler (230 1 TD 2 Int’s)

Sit Matt Forte (decent flex in ppr)

Start Johnny Knox

Start Greg Olsen

Sit Hester

 

Start Ronnie Brown (Flex)

Start Bess and Brandon Marshall

Start Fasano

Sit Ricky Williams

 

Tune into Blogtalkradio.com/FantasySavvy after the game at 12:00 am (listen anytime on demand or D/L to Itunes)

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by | October 29, 2010 · 9:42 pm

Week 8 Start Em Sit Em

By Mike Cannici

 

Starts

QB

Matthew Stafford (vs WAS)- Stafford returns this week after missing the last seven weeks with a shoulder injury to face one of the worst pass defenses in the league. He is a great bye week filler and should be owned in all 12 team leagues. There obviously is the question of how his shoulder will hold up but I’d bet that the Lions would not be getting their franchise QB back on the field if he wasn’t 100%.

Matt Cassel (vs BUF)- Don’t look now but Cassel is a good start once again in a home matchup against the Bills. Buffalo’s offense has been much better of late, so look for this to be a close game but their defense is still terrible and they put zero pressure on the QB. Cassel is another example of a great matchup play or a bye week replacement.

Chad Henne (@CIN)- Henne has been very efficient since coming out of the Dolphins bye week. The big numbers haven’t been their but to his credit the turnovers haven’t been their either. CB Jonathan Joseph may be out again for the Bengals and Henne could put up similar numbers to Matt Ryan’s last week (299 yards,3 touchdowns).
RB

Ryan Torain (@DET)- Torain has played very well since taking over for Clinton Portis, with the exception of the two fumbles last week. He draws the Lions this week who are 26th vs. the run, so look for another big day out of Torain. He is a solid flex play with low end RB2 upside.

Beanie Wells (vs. TB)- Wells has been a disappointment thus far but did pick up 54 yards and a score last week. He gets the 31st ranked rush defense Sunday at home and should have his biggest day of the year, especially with Max Hall struggling with in the passing game. Wells is a great flex start and could possibly put up top 5 numbers this week as long as the Cardinals can keep it close, and if they get a solid lead, watch out, it’ll be the Beanie Wells show.

Felix Jones (vs. JAC)- Jones struggled last week against the Giants, but really who hasn’t since week three, but with the loss of Tony Romo, may actually become more valuable going forward. Jon Kitna replaces Romo, and while I don’t think Kitna will be horrible, I do think Dallas will rely on the run a little more going forward, to limit the turnovers and mistakes. This week Jones gets the Jaguars who are 25th against the run and 27th vs. the pass. Jones is a very good flex play this week and even a low end RB2 in PPR leagues.

 

WR

Pierre Garcon (vs. HOU)- With Austin Collie, Dallas Clark and Joseph Addai out, there is going to be a lot more balls to go around and Garcon will be the #2 option behind Reggie Wayne. Garcon should at least duplicate his numbers from week six against the Redskins (4-104-1) if not surpass them. Houston ranks dead last against the pass and at home, Peyton Manning will be airing it out. Solid WR3/Flex in this matchup.

Dwayne Bowe (vs. BUF)- This should almost go without saying, but I know there are a lot of owners out their wondering, should I start Bowe again this week? The answer is simple, HELL freaking yes. He has scored two touchdowns in each of the last two weeks, and playing this week at home against the Bills, it wouldn’t shock me that he does it again. Dexter McCluster will miss the next few weeks with a high ankle sprain, so Bowe’s targets should increase even more. He’s a high end WR3 with WR2 potential. Get him in lineups.

Patrick Crayton (vs. TEN)- Crayton is averaging around 100 yards in each of his last two games, and has another solid matchup this week. He makes for a great flex play and a WR3 in PPR leagues. In this pass happy offense; look for Crayton to put up 6-8 catches, around 80-90 yards and a score this week. Start him with confidence.

 
Sits

QB

Vince Young (@SD)- Young is likely to start Sunday in San Diego after missing last week’s game with knee and ankle injuries. He isn’t a good start however as he is 0-4 in his career against the Chargers. The Chargers are also ranked 4th against the run and 1st against the pass, making Young a desperation start at best.

Donavan McNabb (@DET)- I know I know most people’s eyes light up if they have a player facing the Lions, but the Lions have defended the pass pretty well and McNabb is coming off a terrible game against the Bears last week. The Lions have allowed 10 passing TD’s in 6 games and have six interceptions to go along with that and 16 sacks. McNabb is a decent start in 2QB leagues, but if you start just one, I hope you have other options.

RB

Ryan Mathews (vs. TEN)- Mathews has two things working against him this week, one is the Titans are 10th vs. the run and second the Chargers don’t like to run the ball very often. Mathews is still recovering from his ankle injury and is near 100% but their still babying him a little bit. I was watching some tape of him last night on NFL Networks playbook and saw how he still is trying to bounce it to the outside instead of following his blockers and hitting the holes. The Chargers o-line hasn’t been great, but during those highlights, their was at least three HUGE holes he could have hit for big gains. He’s just a rookie, but a rookie who should be on your bench this week if you have better options.

Saints RB’s Chris Ivory/Ladell Betts (vs. PIT)- Ivory and Betts weren’t spectacular last week against the Browns at home and this week draw the league’s best run defense in the Steelers. Ivory had that big week six game and Betts has been decent in PPR leagues, but both are better left on fantasy benches in week eight. The Steelers have only allowed two rushing touchdowns this year, and both were from less than 3 yards out and are allowing opponents 2.8 yards per carry. The Steelers have also faced backs the likes of Chris Johnson, Michael Turner, Ronnie Brown, Ray Rice and the list goes on. Ivory and Betts are nowhere near those players so keep them on benches this week.
WR

Lee Evans (@KC)- I know Evans has been solid lately and I love the guy as much as anyone, but he draws a matchup with Brandon Flowers this week, one of the up and coming star cornerbacks, and should be held in check. I expect Stevie Johnson to have another solid day, but keep Evans on benches this week if it’s feasible. With that Kansas City crowd noise, I’d expect Ryan Fitzpatrick to have a lot of trouble moving the ball.

Mike Williams (@OAK)- Williams has been great the last two weeks, but is about to hit a wall, and that wall’s name is Nnamdi Asomugha. The Seahawks are also not nearly as good on the road as they are at home and similar to Ryan Fitzpatrick, I think Hasselback will have problems with the crowd noise and finding Mike Williams open on a regular basis. Williams will be great the rest of the way, I just don’t see this week being one of those great weeks.

Michael Crabtree (vs. Den in London)- Crabtree’s value took a big hit last week with the loss of QB Alex Smith to a separated shoulder. Crabtree was just starting to get it going and will now be relegated to a flex play at best with Troy Smith or David Carr at the helm. Troy Smith is definitely the better of the two options, but I don’t see Crabtree having the big games we saw from him during weeks four through six. It pains me to say this as I am a Crabtree owner in a keeper league and two redraft leagues but keep him on the bench this week, at least until we see what we have with Troy Smith.

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by | October 19, 2010 · 2:38 am

Week 7 Waiver Adds

By Mike Cannici

QB’s

Chad Henne (MIA)- Three straight games of over 19 fantasy points for Henne and although he has the Steelers coming up this week, they can be thrown. The Dolphins also will play at home and have some pretty good matchups coming up. He’s not the best “NFL” QB but he is proving to be a solid fantasy QB. Grab him in all 12 team leagues and if you’re hurting in a 10 teamer, take a shot on him.

Matt Hasselback (SEA) – Hasselback has had only one stinker this season so far. I know he’s not the coolest QB to own in the world, but that’s not what matters, points do and right now he’s posting up some pretty good ones averaging 16.4 points per week right now.

Josh Freeman (TB) – Here’s another guy who has been making some noise, a little bit more than even Hasselback averaging 16.9 points per game through five weeks. He’s got a big arm, a rookie in Mike Williams that he will continue to grow with and a solid TE in Kellen Winslow.  He’s going to still have some growing pains, but besides the Steelers game back in week three; he hasn’t scored less than 15 points in any week. I like him a lot in deeper leagues and as a speculative add in shallower leagues.

Deep Deep league possibilities

Colt McCoy (CLE)- threw for 281 yards with one TD and 2 INT in what most thought would be a massacre against the Steelers. Keep your eye on him, he played with confidence yesterday against the league’s best Defense.

RB’s

Danny Woodhead (NE) – Woodhead has filled in admirably for Kevin Faulk and is not just part of the passing game, he’s getting carries. He’s had 22 carries thus far and 7 receptions. In PPR leagues he’s averaging 12 fantasy points per game in the past three, which is very solid for a flex spot. Grab him now.

Keiland Williams (WAS) – Don’t look now folks but I did mention him a while back and said he would be the “guy” in Washington by season’s end. He hasn’t quite accomplished that as of yet with the emergence of Ryan Torain, but Torain was seen with his knee heavily wrapped and his status is not yet known. This would partially explain why we saw so much Williams during the 4th quarter Sunday night besides the fact that Torain isn’t much of a pass catcher or blocker. Torain has been injury prone and although he insists he’s just fine, the outcome remains to be seen. Williams is still worth an add, especially in PPR leagues.

Chris Ivory (NO) – A guy I just dropped last Friday in order to acquire a TE since I lost Finley, finally goes off for 158 yards. It’s just my luck, but Ivory has a lot of talent and with Pierre Thomas’ status going forward up in the air, Ivory could step right in and take over admirably. The Saints get Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Carolina the next three weeks, two of those being great matchups for him. Thomas owners, as I am go out and grab him immediately (or reacquire him in my case) as he could be potential waiver gold.

Donald Brown/Mike Hart (IND)- Joseph Addai had his best running game in god knows how long Sunday night, but reinjured himself late in the game. While the severity of injury is not yet known, these two guys, Brown and Hart would be the main recipient’s of carries. Brown however, is still hampered by a hamstring injury so his return to the field is not yet known while Hart is healthy and could have some big games if these two stay out. Week 7 is the Colts bye, so this point may be moot by next week, but these guys are solid RB depth especially for Addai owner’s who have now watched him depart from games with similar injuries.

James Starks (GB) – The rookie out of Buffalo is a guy who just came off the PUP list after suffering a hamstring injury during training camp. The Packers are very high on this kid, who missed all of his junior season at Buffalo University with a torn labrum. Yes, Starks has had some big injuries over his career, but he has the talent to become a top back in the league. He’s a guy you want to stash in deeper leagues just in case he stays healthy. He is the most talented back on Green Bay’s roster and could steal the starting job within the next few weeks. I just added him in a two of my leagues, so if you’re looking to take a chance, Starks is your guy.

WR’s

Mike Williams (SEA) – This guy absolutely went off Sunday in Chicago grabbing 10 for 123 yards on 15 targets. Hasselback seems to have developed some type of chemistry with him this week and if Williams can just stay healthy and keep his head on straight could have a huge season. Those two things obviously are big ifs but he has all the potential in the world, he’s got the size, the speed, and the hands to be a superstar. He should be owned in all leagues, and if he’s not in yours, make him that way.

Deion Branch (NE)- Branch had a breakout game in his return to New England with a 9 catch, 98 yard performance plus a TD catch. Tom Brady was looking for Branch often throughout the game, and contrary to many beliefs, including my own; he may have already supplanted Brandon Tate as the #2 WR. Grab this guy immediately, however, as with Mike Williams, he is injury prone so don’t go crazy, but he could pay huge dividends if his health holds up.

Buster Davis/Patrick Crayton (SD)- Both of these guys had big games in Legedu Naanee’s absence Sunday and at least until Vincent Jackson returns, could be solid flex plays going forward, Crayton especially in PPR leagues. Davis, a player the Chargers drafted a few years back to be their future number one receiver has been plagued by injuries but has been healthy thus far. Crayton was a lost cause in Dallas with the additions of Roy Williams two years ago and the Dez Bryant pick in this past April’s draft. Crayton has a lot of talent as well and Legedu Naanee sadly seems to be just an afterthought in San Diego. Both these guys are worth adding in 12 team and deeper leagues immediately and should be watched closely in shallower leagues.

Michael Jenkins (ATL) – Harry Douglas I wrote about last week, and didn’t expect Jenkins to come back and perform so quickly, but Jenkins had five catches for 99 yards on 12 targets. Part of his big game had to do with Roddy White being double teamed, but Jenkins has a lot of talent, but has yet to be consistent with it. He’s worth a look in 12 team leagues based purely on his potential.

Danario Alexander (STL) – Alexander is an undrafted rookie out of Missouri who injured his knee during last year’s Senior Bowl. That caused his draft stock to slip but he has great size, (6’4 216lbs) that of the prototypical big time receiver and the door is now open with Donnie Avery and Mark Clayton out for the season and Laurent Robinson unable to stay healthy for long periods of time. Dynasty and Keeper leaguers grab him ASAP and redraft leagues need to keep an eye on him. He’s worth a shot in 12 team or receiver starved teams immediately. Shallow leaguers need to see how he holds up over the next two games before jumping the gun, but this kid has a ton of potential.

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by | October 2, 2010 · 7:07 am

FantasySavvy Week 4 Previews (4 O’clock’s + Sunday and Monday Night)

By: Steve DeAngelo

Indy @ Jax

Like your Priest/Minister/Reverend, Peyton Manning shows up every Sunday and like your spiritual advisor he delivers time and time again. This guy is just so consistent. Already this year he has 9 TD’s 1,000 yards passing with 0 int’s. He will torch Jacksonville this Sunday. The Biggest benefactors of Manning will continue to be Reggie Wayne, Dallas Clark and the emerging Austin Collie. Pierre Garcon looks to be out again and has been a huge disappointment this year. Also look for the Colts to keep Joseph Addai and Donald Brown involved in the running game especially in the 2nd half after they are blowing out the Jaguars. Donald Brown could be a decent flex play this week.   The Colts will put up at least 4-5 TD’s in this game.

David Garrard is regressing. Throughout his career he has been inconsistent but after the kind of performances he’s put up the last two weeks the Jaguars really need to move on from him. Yes he will probably tease them with some decent performances this year but they need to move on asap. Of course he’s not fantasy worthy at all as of now and that makes Mike Sims-Walker pretty irrelevant also although he’s not a terrible flex play this week because the Jags probably will have some success through the air this week against the Colts.

The only person really worth talking about on the Jags is Maurice Jones-Drew at this point, even he has been bad this season. Through 3 games this year Jones-Drew has No TD’s, and isn’t his usual PPR beast self with only 6 catches for 33 yards. Garrard is definitely not helping Jones-Drew’s production but there has to be some concern with his knee as well. It kept him out all preseason and now he really hasn’t impressed at all. However we still have to remain patient. Garrard should have some better games going forward and because Jones-Drew sat out all preseason he might have needed some warm up time. If Jones-Drew doesn’t get it going this week against the Colts a team that is letting up the 26th most points to running backs then the concern grows. This has to be the week he breaks out.

Hou @ Oak

The Texans ran into a Cowboys team that needed to win last week and because of that the Texans offense was pretty much shut down. Matt Schaub had a brutal game but he’s fine. Oakland has been good against the pass this year so far as they are 11th in points given up to QB’s but those Qb’s have been Vince Young, Sam Bradford and Derek Anderson. However if Andre Johnson doesn’t play this week then Schaub isn’t going to be a good play this week.

Andre Johnson will most likely be a game-time decision this week with his high ankle sprain. Last news about Johnson was that he was receiving a treatment called platelet-rich plasma therapy which involves taking blood platelets from one part of a patient’s body and injects them into the injured area in order to expedite faster healing. In fact Hines Ward and Troy Polamalu used this procedure before the Super Bowl so they could play. His injury needs rest but this shows that Johnson really is desperate to play this weekend. Also Tom Cable stated that he wouldn’t use Nnamdi Asomugha to shadow Andre all game but who knows if he ain’t lying. Bottomline, if Johnson is playing he needs to be in your lineup no matter what. Just be prepared to wait until gametime to see if he’s playing or not. Kevin Walter was doing nothing all game last week until he had a cheapy TD in the last two minutes and I think he will have some games where he does nothing, that could be this week. Still he is a better option than Jacoby Jones and should have some nice games here and there. I’m not sure about Owen Daniels this year, at best he won’t be a worthy starter until after week 8. An ACL tear is not an easy injury to come back from especially for a Tight End who already lack real quickness.

Arian Foster has a juicy matchup this weekend. Whether Andre Johnson plays or not he will be fine. I think Foster goes over 100 yards easy this week with at least one TD with a great chance for Two and maybe 3. If you have him then be confident that you are going to win this week.

The Jason Campbell experiment ended pretty quickly but don’t think that the Raiders won’t go back to him at some point. It just won’t be this week as Bruce Gradkowski has a nice matchup against the Texans soft secondary. He makes for a fairly decent bye week replacement. Louis Murphy and Darius Heyward-BeyZach Miller were both limited in practice Friday but Tom Cable says they should both be Ok. I think Heyward-Bey has a better chance of playing than Murphy who has a bruised clavicle and didn’t lift his arm on a pass thrown his way in Thursday’s practice. Both are questionable for Sunday and you’re gonna have to wait on both. Obviously if these two are out Gradkowski takes somewhat of a hit but he should still be able to move the ball. Heath Miller and Darren Mcfadden’s value goes up if even one of these guys are out. Mcfadden has been solid this year averaging 4.7 yards per carry but I still have doubts. I still would sell high on him because I believe he’s an injury risk and will face some tougher matchups going forward. No more swiss cheese Rams and Cardinals defenses.

Wash @ Philly

Donovan Mcnabb returns to Philadelphia in what is one of the best games this weekend. Mcnabb has 833 yards passing so far but only Two TD’s. The Eagles pass defense has been somewhat stingy so Mcnabb isn’t a great option this week but he should put up around 200-250 yards with a TD or two. I think Mcnabb plays well overall. Santana Moss has to remain in lineups as Mcnabb will continue to target him. Like I have been saying Moss has been talented (one of the better route runners in the league) but now he has a QB to get him the ball. They two have enjoyed a nice chemistry and I expect it to stay like that for the rest of the year. Also Mcnabb rose Chris Cooley from the dead so he should be in lineups as well. Cooley might be in for an especially nice game this week with Philly bringing a lot of pressure and Mcnabb having to rid the ball early.

The weakness of the Philly defense has been their Run D as they are giving up the 3rd most points to RB’s thus far. Clinton Portis has scored in 8 of his last 9 games against Philly so expect him to have some success on the ground and put the ball in the endzone even with Mike Shanahan stating that Ryan Torain would see a bigger role. The Skins are going to see success through the ground this week so get Torain and Portis in your lineups, they both make for fairly solid flex plays. Pay close attention to see how Shanahan uses Torain and Portis this week as well as Keiland Williams. Shanhan is so unpredictable with his rotation and you can never really trust anything he says. Of course if you miss out check back Tuesday Morning and read my Departure from Fantasy Island column where I recap all the games from the previous week.

Dononvan Mcnabb is one of the big reasons why Michael Vick is playing in this game on Sunday as he was a key contributor in bringing Vick to Philly last year. Now Vick is making Eagle fans forget about Mcnabb as he has played stupendous with 7 Total TD’s and zero Int’s thus far. Vick should enjoy more continued success against a Redskins pass D that is giving up the 3rd most points to QB’s. As we stated on our radio show last night if you have a solid QB already and own Vick then you should be testing the trade waters to see what kind of interest is out there. Vick’s value is probably going to get none higher than it is now. It should remain high after this week but still you don’t want to risk it. Again, only trade Vick if you have a better option. If you keep Vick he should be fine for the rest of the year just don’t expect the production he is giving you now, rougher days are ahead for him.

I am mad because I knew how talented Desean Jackson was as a receiver but stayed away from him coming into this year because I didn’t believe in Kevin Kolb. Now with Vick Desean’s value was saved. He is going to be one of the best wideouts in Fantasy Football with Vick.

Jeremy Maclin (147 Yards 4 TDS) has been a nice surprise this year. Both he and Jackson are such nice fits for Vick because they can catch his lead passes and catch up to Vick’s bombs. Maclin should be stable as well going forward. Brent Celek has gotten off to a slow start so far ( 9 catches 101 yards) but is a nice buy-low candidate right now. When Vick’s schedule gets tougher and teams start getting more heat on him he will be looking to Celek more often. Remember Vick historically likes to throw to his tight ends Ala Alge Crumpler.

Lesean Mcoy had a slow game last week but still has been great this year so far averaging 6.7 ypc with 4 TDS. He should find nice success against the Skins Run D who haven’t been impressive thus far.

Arizona @ SD

Derek Anderson stinks (extremely inaccurate just watch him play) so expect the Cardinals to focus on the run this week with a healthy Beanie Wells. Beanie Wells will make for a nice RB #2 this week while Tim Hightower makes for nice flex with an extra boost in PPR leagues. I really think the Cardinals may try to run the ball 35+ times this week. Steve Breaston remains out after his knee surgery but should return by week 7. I don’t think Larry Fitzgerald has a big game yardage wise and will be held under 100 but I think he sees the endzone at least once. Then look for Fitz look to the sky and honor his mother and all the women who have died from Breast Cancer as this is Breast Cancer awareness month.Fitz’s Twitter.

Phillip Rivers ( 1087 yards 7 TD’s) doesn’t need Vincent Jackson. It would certainly help but he’s shown he can get it done with the likes of Malcolm Floyd and Legedu Naanee. Floyd looks likes he’s emerging as Floyd’s go to receiver over Naanee. Floyd also leads the NFL in redzone targets at 7 as he is a nice big wideout at 6’5. Naanee still remains serviceable and is a decent flex play going forward especially this week against Arizona. Both should be in your lineups. Antonio Gates should remain Rivers go to guy and Gates could be in for one of his best years with the absence of Jackson.

Ryan Matthews has practiced all week and will return on Sunday. Norv Turner stated a couple of weeks ago that he couldn’t wait to give Matthews 25 carries in a game because he was excited to see the type of production he could provide. He won’t see 25 this week coming back from an injury but close to 20 is likely. Matthews should enjoy a nice game against porous Arizona Run D (29th most points to RB’s). Mike Tolbert didn’t play that great last week at Seattle (17-76) and lost a fumble but he did get better as the game went on. He has to be on your bench this week although he could vulture a TD. Darren Sproles also belongs on benches as he only has 17 touches through 3 weeks even with the Matthews injury. BTW our Cowboy Expert Mike D who lives in San Diego predicts Patrick Crayton will go for over 100 yards this week with a TD. I highly doubt that but will see what happens.

Sunday Night- Chicago @ NYG

For the last two weeks now I have picked the Giants to win and both games they have lost. Fellow FantasySavvy writer Mike Cannici is losing patience with me now and thinks I am cursing his team. However I am picking them yet again this week and I feel better about them this week than ever. All the Giants fans are in panic mode already but I disagree they are just overly negative. Now Tiki Barber has come out and said that Coughlin’s job is on the line and he is losing the team. All this and he’s getting honored on Sunday Night, expect a lot of boos being thrown his way. Expect the Giants to back their coach Sunday, shut Tiki up and play inspired football Sunday Night at the Meadowlands.

With all that Said get all Giants in your lineup this week! Well except Brandon Jacobs. Eli Manning I am expecting to enjoy a nice game this week hitting Steve Smith, Hakeem Nicks and Mario Manningham. The Giants may be without starting Center Shaun O’Hara on Sunday but it won’t matter because the Giants are going to play inspired football on Sunday. Ahmad Bradshaw probably won’t be overly successful on the ground against the tough Bears run D but he should punch in a TD and catch some passes.

On the other hand sit all your Bears this week! Sit down Jay Cutler, yes I said it. This guy is still prone to bad games because of his back foot throws and poor decisions. I still believe the Mike Martz factor is over rated. Sit Matt Forte he won’t do anything of significance. Greg Olsen may score again for the 3rd week in a row as he returns to his Native NJ but won’t do much yardage wise. Johnny Knox will probably go for about 50-70 yards receiving so if you want to start him it’s on you. I expect the Giants to win this game and contain Jay Cutler, Mike Martz and this Bears offense.

MNF- Pats @ Phins

Big AFC East game on Sunday as both teams will look to get to 3-1 on the year. There should be a good amount of points put up in this game. Look for the Patriots to come out throwing and expect Brady to have a nice game even though he hasn’t seen success against the Dolphins of late. Aaron Hernandez continues to remain one of Brady’s favorite targets and Rob Gronkowski is also worthy of a start at TE because Brady likes him in the Redzone. Don’t get crazy about BenJarvus Green-Ellis and his 98 yard 1 TD game last week. This week it could be Danny Woodhead or Sammy Morris or Ellis could get 7 carries. You just never know with this Pats running game next week it could be my Uncle Loops running out there. Fred Taylor has missed practice all week so keep him on your bench.

Coming off a solid game against the Jets last week Chad Henne is starting to emerge as a reliable option at QB. He should find continued success against a Patriots secondary that is letting up the 29th most points to QB’s. Ryan Fitzpatrick passed on them last week, enough said. I am personally starting Henne in two leagues this week as I think he will put up some nice numbers. It was good to see Henne and Brandon Marshall finally connect last week as Marshall went off with 10 catches for 166 yards and a TD. Expect Marshall to play with some extra motivation this week after Sterling Sharpe and the guys from the NFL Network’s Playbook got on Marshall for letting up at the end of the Jets Game last Sunday. Marshall fired back after hearing about it. He should have showed more respect to Sterling Sharpe however who was a very a very talented wideout with Green Bay.

That’s it for this week’s edition. If you have any lineup questions in the meantime please send them to SteveDeAngelo@gmail.com and make sure to check into our radio show every Tuesday and Thursday night at 11est. If you can’t listen live you can download the show or listen on demand at anytime. Good luck this weekend!

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by | September 28, 2010 · 6:09 pm

Week 4 Waiver Adds (CBS, My Fantasy League(MFL), Yahoo! And ESPN percentage owned)

By Mike Cannici

QB’s

Chad Henne(63%CBS, 69%MFL, 44%Y!, 66.2%ESPN)-  Henne finally had the type of game that most of us expected coming into the 2010 season. He threw for 363 yards and 2 TD’s. I know the Jets didn’t have Darrelle Revis but the last two weeks he didn’t face the best CB’s either and played subpar at best. He’s a decent option going forward and draws the hated Patriots at home in week 4. I like him as a quality backup or starter in 2QB leagues, especially with Brandon Marshall as his #1 option.

Sam Bradford(44%CBS, 52.4%MFL,26%Y!,20.5%ESPN)- The Rams rookie recorded his first win as a pro against a pretty good Redskin team. Bradford has been much better than expected through his first 3 games and has made for some viable WR options in St. Louis, which hasn’t existed for years.  They are tied for 3rd in the NFL in pass plays of 30 yards or more after having just six all of last year. Grab him in keeper leagues and as a backup in regular leagues as he draws the Seahawks, Lions, Chargers, Bucs and Panthers the next five weeks, all teams who struggle against the pass.

Bruce Gradkowski (9%CBS, 10.5%MFL, 5%Y!,2.1%ESPN)- Had it not been for gigantic kicker Sebastian Janikowski’s last second missed field goal, Gradkowski would have lead this team to a 2-1 start. Bruce has made this Raider receiving corp. very own able in all leagues. TE Zach Miller caught Gradkowski’s lone TD pass, while Louis Murphy (5-119) and Darrius Heyward-Bey finished with 3 catches for 49 yards, who lead the team in targets with 11. The Raiders draw two very good matchups the next two weeks with the Texans and Chargers, so Gradkowski is a terrific matchup play if your suffering from bye week or injuries.

RB’s

Willis McGahee (63%CBS, 61.1%MFL, 32%Y!, 67.3 %ESPN) McGahee is a guy that is widely owned in most leagues because he is a TD vulture as well as the handcuff to one of the best backs in the league Ray Rice. Rice is currently suffering from a knee contusion and it isn’t known yet whether he will play this week against the Steelers. This is not a great matchup by any means but McGahee would be the guy If Rice couldn’t suit up. If he’s available in your league, take a shot on him as it could pay huge dividends if Rice were to miss any time.

BenJarvus Green-Ellis (32%CBS, 20.3%MFL, 12% Y!, 2.1%ESPN)-BJE, as I like to call him for short, came on in relief of Fred Taylor last week and compiled 16 carries for 98 yds and a TD. Taylor’s status for this week is not yet known, but right now Green-Ellis looks the best out of their current trio of backs. He’s a solid gamble if for nothing else to add some depth to your roster. Grab him in all 12 team leagues now.

Dexter McCluster (32%CBS, 47.9%MFL, 37% Y!, 12%ESPN)- I just dropped this guy in one of my leagues last week for Louis Murphy, and yes it did work out to my advantage but this is a guy I really liked coming into the season. He posted 3-69-1TD numbers against the niners at home. He’s an explosive player who can make big plays in the run, pass and return game and is absolutely worth a add if he’s available for his upside. I’m trying to grab him back in that same league, but won’t be dropping Murphy for him, I’ll find someone else. McCluster is also WR eligible so that can really help having that roster flexibility.

Kenneth Darby (3%CBS, 4%MFL, 7% Y!, 0.2%ESPN)- Darby is the handcuff to Steven Jackson in St. Louis and ran pretty well finishing with 49 yards and a TD in relief of the injured Jackson. Jackson is questionable for week 4 as he tweaked his groin so Darby is a decent handcuff, especially against the Seahawks and Lions up next for the Rams. He’s worth a speculative pickup in most leagues and a must add for Jackson owners.

Ryan Torain (1%CBS, 2.9%MFL, 1%Y!, 0.3%ESPN)-In last week’s article , I said Keiland Williams was the backup to Clinton Portis and was a great pickup. I wake up Sunday morning and see the Redskins signed Ryan Torain from the practice squad and then notice he’s getting some carries (7 for 46yds) and Williams is sitting on the bench. Oh how Coach Shanahan loves to screw with us fantasy owners, I still believe Williams will get the job at some point based on talent and the fact that Portis and Torain haven’t been able to stay on the field for a whole season in quite some time, and in Torain’s case, never. Torain though right now is the #2 in Washington and is worth a roster spot at least for the time being.

LaGarette Blount (1%CBS, 4.7%MFL, 2% Y!, 0.6%ESPN)- The often troubled Blount, now has a legit chance in Tampa Bay to revitalize himself into a solid player in this league. We all know he can throw a punch, but last week he was able to punch the ball into the end zone during garbage time against the Steelers. The Buccaneers have now stated that Blount, not Kareem Huggins, everyone’s favorite preseason darling, will start to eat in to Cadillac Williams touches. Blount was a highly touted back until his antics his last year at Oregon and has a lot of potential. With Caddy’s injury history and Blount’s ability, he’s a very good speculative add in all leagues, especially for Williams owners. He’s a guy I’m targeting in all my leagues.

WR’s

Davone Bess(9%CBS, 21.9%MFL, 8% Y!, 1.8%ESPN)- I’m guessing Bess is barely owned in ESPN “standard” leagues because apparently nobody on ESPN does PPR otherwise I don’t understand how he could be less than 2% owned. He’s a very good PPR play as a flex or WR3 on most weeks and had his best game of the season against the Jets (6 for 86yds). I like this guy a lot as a slot receiver, and if Henne can continue to grow so will this receiving corp. Bess can add very good depth to your roster and can put up some big games in PPR leagues.

Brandon Lloyd (36%CBS, 23%MFL, 34%Y!, 13.2%ESPN)-One of the biggest surprises thus far in 2010. Week 1  5 catches 117 yards, week 2 3 catches for 53yards and last week 5 catches for 162 and a TD. Oddly enough, Lloyd has been fairly consistent this year and it just might be his time. He has a lot of talent, just has never put it together or been consistent enough to stick on a team (fantasy or NFL) for too long. I think its time to jump on the bandwagon and see where it takes you. Kyle Orton has some weapons in Denver, and Lloyd looks like a good one. Pick him up in all 12 team and deeper leagues.

Danny Amendola (13%CBS, 15.4%MFL, 12%Y! , 2.1%ESPN)-Until this year, Amendola’s only value to fantasy footballers was his beautiful wife, but with Donnie Avery being lost for the season, and Laurent Robinson’s injury issues, he’s now a decent flex play in PPR leagues. In PPR leagues this year, he’s averaging  10.7 ppg, which is not mind blowing numbers, but pretty steady. I like him as a decent add right now in all 12 team leagues. Mark Clayton is obviously Sam Bradford’s go to guy at the moment, but after that it’s really only Amendola. He’s available in over 84% of leagues so go out and take a chance.

Lance Moore (16%CBS, 21.2%MFL, 14%Y!, 2.3%ESPN)- Do you guys notice a theme developing here? The ESPN percentage owned is drastically lower than any of the other sites, but my belief is that many of the ESPN leagues after drafts, teams are just left for dead, which is why the numbers seem to be so skewed. Lance Moore is now the #3 target for passes with the injury to Reggie Bush, and If you look back to 2008, when Bush last missed significant time, is when Moore had his best pro season to date. He finished Sunday’s loss to the Falcons with 6 catches for 149 yards and 2 TD. Moore is a must own in all formats no matter how shallow or deep at this point. Ride the wave, it’s going to be a great ride from this point forward if Lance can stay healthy.

Golden Tate (19%CBS, 43.8%MFL, 15% Y!, 3.8ESPN)-Tate, a highly touted rookie out of Notre Dame, finally got involved in the offense this week, with 4 catches for 33 yards. Now by no means is that considered a break out game, but it does show that the Seahawks want to get him more involved in the offense and this might be the last chance to grab him, if available without a hefty price tag. The kid has a lot of talent and very good hands. He caught all 4 of his targets from Matt Hasselback, and is probably a year away from being an every week starter, but definitely has enough value and upside to be worthy of a roster spot now. Grab him in all 12 team and deeper leagues, and in 10 team leagues you can probably take more of a wait and see approach.

Roscoe Parrish (3%CBS, 2.8%MFL, 2% Y!, 0.3%ESPN)- Roscoe Parrish, up until this point in his career, has only been fantasy relevant in return yardage leagues. However, in 2010, Parrish has been targeted 13 times, while making good on 9 of them while getting into the end zone once. Last week was his most productive thus far catching 5 passes for 83 yards. Ryan Fitzpatrick seemed to look his way often, and with Trent Edwards now gone, this offense may provide a few assets to your fantasy bench. Lee Evans is obviously the most talented of this group, but Parrish, as of now is the QB’s favorite. Grab him in 12 team leagues, there may be a light at the end of the tunnel for the Bills.

TE’s

Jeremy Shockey (45%CBS, 54.3%MFL, 33% Y!, 34.9% ESPN) Shockey has been somewhat of an enigma the last few seasons. The talent and skill set is obviously there but his inability to stay healthy to go along with the plethora of weapons Drew Brees has seriously hurt his value.  Shockey’s targets and yardage numbers have increased with each passing week, including his best week Sunday against the Falcons finishing with 8 catches for 78 yards and a score. I wouldn’t say he’s an every week starter just yet, but to have on your bench as a backup and bye week filler, isn’t the worst thing you can do. If you’re in a league that starts 2TE’s then he’s a must add.

Martellus Bennett (1%CBS, 4%MFL, 1%Y!, 0.7%ESPN)- Bennett has struggled on the field and off the field since coming into the league, but with Pro Bowler Jason Witten having some injury concerns, he makes for a solid handcuff. Bennett during week 2 when Jason Witten left the game put up good numbers from the TE position and posted a 7 catch, 45 yard effort in relief. He’s more of a speculative add right now as Witten is a tough player and with the bye week this week should be a go for week 5. However, if you’re a Witten owner or looking to find that “potential” breakout TE, I think its either him or….

Tony Moeaki (15%CBS, 15.3%MFL, 9%Y!, 1.8% ESPN)- Tony Moeaki is the other potential breakout, who is higher in my mind than Bennett right now based on him being the starter in Kansas City. He has provided double digit fantasy points each week thus far while finding the end zone twice as well. QB Matt Cassel obviously likes this kid as he has 19 targets thus far, 5 more than receiver Dwayne Bowe. Moeaki is a big physical rookie out of Iowa who has a lot of potential and someone who I have covered in this article back in week 1. He should be owned in all leagues regardless of size at this point, he could finish as a top 8 TE in 2010.

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by | September 24, 2010 · 12:38 am

Start Them Guys-Sit These Guys

By Steve DeAngelo

Week 3 is almost here and as we go along we are getting a better feel more and more of which guys should be in our lineups and which guys should not. However there are always tough decisions to be made each week and that is the purpose of this column. The point is to show you that FantasySavvy has the confidence to go with a particular player and you should to. Also it works the other way around as we won’t be so confident in particular guys in an upcoming matchup. In this weekly article we try to leave most of the players out that should be in or out of your lineup without question, but sometimes you need to be reminded just in case. We advise you trust FantasySavvy on our recommendations but at the end of the day it’s your team and your responsibility. Good Luck this weekend and make sure to check our radio show tonight at 11est at Blogtalkradio.com/FantasySavvy

Start Them

QB

Carson Palmer

He has the weapons, T.O, Ocho Cinco, Gresham, Shipley and this week he has a favorable matchup against the Carolina Panthers. Eli Manning put up a solid week 1 game against them and 2nd year QB Josh Freeman even had a fairly good game against last them last week. Palmer should enjoy a nice week and should be able to connect with his plethora of wideouts. Start him with confidence this week. I expect at least 250 yards and 2-3  TD’s.

Mike Vick

Yes, Andy Reid did a 360 on us earlier this week when he announced Vick to be the starter going forward instead of Kevin Kolb. It’s great news for Owners who picked up Vick and showed faith in him to retain the job. FantasySavvy thought he would eventually take the job just not this week. Well it’s good because if Vick hadn’t taken it this week it would have been harder to get it back the job because the Eagles play the weak Jacksonville secondary on Sunday and Kolb most likely would have had a fairly good game. Instead, Reid changed his mind maybe fearing that Kolb would have had a good game and then possibly thinking it would have been harder for him to replace Kolb so he went with Vick.

Vick enjoys a nice matchup this week and should be in your lineups unless you have Drew Brees or any other of those elite QB’s.

Donovan Mcnabb

This one is easy Mcnabb vs the St. Louis defense. Mcnabb enjoyed a breakout game last week throwing for 426 yards although just one TD. However this week, while he may not throw for 400 I think he gets at least 2-3 TD’s and about 300 yards passing. Get him in your lineups and get ready for a nice game from him as he continues to hook up with Santana Moss and Chris Cooley.

Brett Favre

Favre has been miserable threw two weeks thus far with 1 TD and 4 picks. Also to make matters worse the Vikings tried to pursue Vincent Jackson but Chargers GM blocked the deal as he wanted more from the Vikes. However, things improve for Farve and the 0-2 Vikings as they take on the Detroit Lions at home. Yes Favre has looked out of sync with his wideouts and his wideouts aren’t playing that well either but Detroit should solve these problems. After being questionable earlier in the Week Percy Harvin looks to be Ok for Sunday as well as Benard Berrian. I think Favre goes for about 250 through the air this week with 2-3 TD’s.

Sit These

Chad Henne

Darrelle Revis is out for the Jets but Henne still faces a tough matchup vs the Jets. They will still be blitzing him and this should still be a low scoring game. Henne might put up 200 yards but won’t throw more than 1 TD. Jets still have some talent in the secondary and Henne is still a young inexperienced QB.

Derek Anderson

The Raiders stink but Derek Anderson is worse. He shouldn’t sniff lineups, this guy is so inaccurate it makes me question Ken Whisenhunt’s judgement by just making him the starter this year and cutting Matt Leinart so easily.

Matt Hasselback

Good Week 1 terrible Week 2. Matt Hasselback is a shell of his former self. He really looks like Grandpa out there. His wideouts aren’t that good either and he has no running game to support him. Please don’t start him, you should just cut him.

RB’s

Start Them

Marion Barber

Barber has been disappointing dating back to last year. This year he has 19 carries for just 70 yards and 0 TDS. However this week against Houston I believe Dallas tries to get the run game going a little bit more. Houston’s secondary has been pretty bad (last week 426 yards to Mcnabb) so Dallas will attack through the air with success as well but that only works in Barber’s favor. He remains Dallas’ goaline back and he should have a lot of opportunities to punch it into the endzone this week. While Barber probably won’t get 100 yards rushing I think he gets into the endzone at least once and he could have a multiple TD game. Dallas will be moving the ball all game against Houston and Barber will get the looks inside the 10 yard line.

Jamal Charles

Charles was a high pick for many in drafts this year and to this point he has been disappointing. Well he hasn’t disappointed personally it’s just his coaches have yet to give him his deserving touches. Thomas Jones saw 22 carries last week but most of those carries came late when the Chiefs were trying to run the clock out. To date Charles YPC is 6.7 while Jones is only 3.7. Charles has as many rushing yards and more TD’s than Jones on 11 less carries. So it’s obvious by watching and statistically that Charles is the more talented back but for now Jones continues to see more time because he is the ol’ reliable veteran.

So what am I getting to? Charles does have a tough matchup vs a pretty good 49ers Defense this week led by Patrick Willis but Todd Haley recently stated that he will use Jones or Charles more based on how they match up against defenses. So for this week that Bodes well for Charles. He has the speed to get around the perimeter and the moves to make guys miss, Thomas Jones does not possess those skills. Look for Charles to be a factor in the receiving department and to get more looks on the ground this week. He is simply too lethal to be placed on your bench. Before it’s too late go and trade for Jamal Charles as well because before long he will be getting more and more carries and making a bigger impact as he is the best offensive player on his team.

Shonn Greene and L.T.

Look for the Jets to try to pound the rock more than ever this week against Miami on Sunday Night. Braylon Edwards won’t start and he probably won’t play that much this week against Miami. I expect Rex to make somewhat of an example out of him. With that said I believe Rex’s gameplan will be to run the rock. Look for Greene to have his best game as a Jet and for L.T. to also have a good game. I can see both of them getting into the endzone this week. Look for Greene to put up more yards on the ground it could very well be 80-100 with a couple of TD’s. L.T is a good play in PPR leagues especially and I believe he will have around 70-80 total yards with a TD as well. Both are solid Low End #2 backs this week and Great flex plays.

Mike Tolbert

Look for the Jerome Bettis clone to do some bruising against that Seahawks front seven this weekend. The Chargers will move the ball on this defense and Tolbert will get all the goal line carries. He isn’t an easy man to bring down. Ryan Matthews has a high ankle sprain so while he continues to be out Tolbert is a solid option. Get him in your lineups as Tolbert is going to see the endzone at least once this week and possibly twice.

Ahmad Bradshaw

Bradshaw, as we’ve known has been the most talented back in the Giants backfield for sometime but Jacobs was still eating into Bradshaw’s full potential. While Jacobs remains there, it’s obvious that Jacobs is disgruntled evidenced by his helmet throwing incident last Sunday Night. With this, Bradshaw should take on a slightly bigger role now and I like his matchup this week against Tennessee. The Titans did a fairly good job last week against Pittsburgh and Rashad Mendenhall but that is because they crowded the box and dared Charlie Batch to beat them. This week it will be different as they will have to account for Eli Manning and his talented wide receiver core. Bradshaw should see some success on the ground as well as a receiver out of the backfield. I expect him to have a Similar game to what Darren Mcfadden did in week 1 to the Titans when he had over 140 total yards rushing and receiving with a TD. Get Bradshaw in your lineups this week and start with confidence.

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Brandon Jackson

It was announced earlier this week by Packers head coach Mike Mcarthy that Brandon Jackson would not be a 3 down back going forward. We all expected him to take over Ryan Grant’s role and get the lion’s share of carries but in week 2 he only got 9 although he did get a TD. Still Jackson really hasn’t impressed throughout his career and didn’t impress last week so Mcarthy looks like he wants to give John Kuhn even reps with Jackson. To make matters worse Jackson goes up against a tough Bears Run defense and this is simply a terrible matchup for him. He should be on your benches and he doesn’t really look like an impressive option in the future as well.

Thomas Jones

As stated earlier this is not a good matchup for Thomas Jones against a tough 49ers defense. Running inside won’t come easy against Patrick Willis and Co. The Chiefs most likely will look to use Jamal Charles more to get to the outside and use his speed to create offense. Jones is not a safe option this week even as a flex play.

Ronnie Brown

Another tough matchup for Brown as last week he went against the stingy Minnesota run defense. It doesn’t get easier this week vs the Jets. Yes they are without Kris Jenkins but Mike Devito has filled in fairly nicely and the Jets still are geared to stop the run. This will most likely be a low scoring game and remember Brown is still splitting time with Ricky Williams. Keep Brown on the Bench unless you have no other options.

WR’s

Start Them

Terrell Owens

He was supposed to be Batman and Ocho was supposed to be Robin but so far T.O has been Catgirl. However this week he has a nice matchup against Carolina and I expect T.O. to finally see the endzone this week. I like T.O this year and think as he gets more on par with Palmer he will get better. Cedric Benson recently expressed his frustration with the Bengals supposedly being geared more towards the pass now but he should just be quiet. He still got 23 carries last week and T.O and Ocho have to get theirs. After all how in the world you gon stop Ocho Cinco? How in the world you gon Stop T.O? Getcha Popcorn Ready! Click the underlined!

Santana Moss

Santana is still talented even at the age of 31. He really just hasn’t had a QB to get him the ball. Now with Mcnabb that has changed. Moss’ talents aren’t being wasted any longer. He is one of the better route runners in the league and one of the quicker and speedier wideouts in the league. Him and Mcnabb have already shown solid chemistry through the first two weeks and it won’t stop this week against St. Louis. Moss could be in for a juicy game. Go and trade for Moss as well he will remain solid all season.

Mark Clayton

The Skins have been torched through the air through the first two weeks and even though they are facing the Rams and rookie Sam Bradford, the Rams should still be able to move it through the clouds. Mark Clayton has always been talented he just has never been able to put it all together. Now with Sam Bradford constantly targeting him he has 3 TD’s already this year and is starting to show that talent. He should be heavily targeted again this week and his a nice play. Put him in there this week.

Jeremy Maclin

Maclin possess good speed and has a nice matchup this week against Jacksonville. Vick will hit him on drags and deep crossing routes. Maclin will be open and he could even go for a TD this week. He serves as a fairly decent flex play this week because of the matchup. Go with Maclin while Vick remains hot.

Dez Bryant

Bryant is a bit banged up this week but he is on target to play Sunday and insists he will play as well. As you saw last week Donovan Mcnabb passed for 426 yards last week against Houston so there is no reason to expect Tony Romo and Co not to have similar success. Dez Bryant should have a nice game this week because of the matchup. Monitor the injury but he should be Ok. His matchup is just too good to leave him on the bench. Plus it helps that the guy is extremely talented.

Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon

While the Colts look to want to the run the ball more (43 times last week against the NYG) it makes sense this week to return back to the passing game. The reason being is Champ Bailey is most likely going to miss this matchup. Also the Broncos other corner Andre Goodman is also questionble.

Austin Collie is a must start but owners should also consider Pierre Garcon even though he has disappointed and Manning seems to have lost some faith in him. However, Pierre is still a very talented wideout and this is a good week with the Broncos secondary heavily depleted to get him back in your lineups. Again if you have safer options go with that but if Garcon makes sense this week for your lineup then go with him.

Legedu Naanee and Malcom Floyd

Simply put if Kyle Orton can throw all over Seattle then Phillip Rivers should have no problem. Malcolm Floyd was limited in practice on Wednesday ,but looked Ok Thursday and should be fine for Sunday. He had only 3 catches last week but they went for 95 yards and a score. He will remain Rivers big play threat through the air.

After a nice Week 1 Legedue Naanee disappointed with only 1 catch for 14 yards last week. However this week he should rebound as the Chargers will look to throw the ball early and often with the absence of Ryan Matthews. Naanee is a better play in PPR leagues but he should be Ok for standard leagues as well. Get both of these guys in your lineups this week as the Chargers should be very successful through the air.

Sit These

Mike Williams-TB

Mike Williams has enjoyed a fairly solid rookie season thus far with only 84 yards but with touchdowns in back to back weeks. This is the week to avoid him however as he and Josh Freeman face the extremely tough Pittsburgh Defense. Freeman will be under duress all game and he won’t have much time to hit Williams let alone think. You saw what Pittsburgh did to Matt Ryan in Week 1 and Vince Young in Week 2, steer clear of Williams.

Jabaar Gaffney

Now with Demaryius Thomas emerging and Orton constantly looking Eddie Royal’s way Jabar Gaffney is slowly being phased out.  Gaffney finished with only 2 catches for 15 yards last week. Gaffney was being overrated as a solid sleeper coming into this year. When you’ve been in the league as long as he has and have never had over 60 catches I don’t see how you can be considered a sleeper. Nonetheless don’t start him this week and avoid this guy going forward. You can feel Ok just releasing him.

Steve Smith- Carolina

It’s not only the fact that Smith faces a tough Bengals Defense in week 3 but it’s also the fact that this will be his first start with Rookie Jimmy Claussen at the helm. Claussen takes over for Matt Moore and will take full reigns for now. It remains to be seen how the two will connect. Given Smith’s talent some good games should be expected upcoming but for this week you may want to explore other options as he tries to find a groove with the rookie as well as going against a solid defense in Cincy with two solid corners in Jonathan Joseph and Leon Hall.

TE

Start Them

Aaron Hernandez

The highly talented Florida Gator product exploded onto the scene last week against the Jets for 100 yards receiving. If you picked him up this week than props to you. Or if you drafted this guy more props go to you. Hernandez runs like a wideout similar to the Jets Dustin Keller. Brady will look to him often this season so get him in your lineups.

Dustin Keller

Keller broke out last week with 100+ yards receiving and a TD. Sanchez will look to him even more this week against Miami with Braylon Edwards seeing a limited role this week after his DWI. Keller is talented and the young Sanchez will look Keller’s way often especially this week against Miami.

Tony Moeaki

Moeaki is another talented Tight End. Matt Cassell loves to throw short little dinky routes because of his lack of arm strength so look for Moeaki to be Cassell’s safety blanket. If you don’t have better options go with Tony this week.

Sit These

Kellen Winslow

As I stated earlier with Mike Williams, Tampa Bay’s QB has a tough matchup this week in Pittsburgh. They will be blitzing the hell out of the young Freeman and who knows what he will be able to do this week. Sit Winslow this week as his QB won’t be able to find him amongst the many Pittsburgh Blitzers.


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