Tag Archives: Shaun Hill

by | December 24, 2010 · 10:37 pm

Christmas Eve Player News

Maurice Jones-Drew (knee) will not be active for Sunday’s game at home against the Redskins. Rashad Jennings will draw the start is is a high end flex play with RB2 upside. Mike Sims-Walker (ankle) will not start Sunday but will play. He is likely to only play about half of the snaps as his ankle is still not 100% healed.

Andre Johnson (ankle) is still listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the Broncos but some sources believe there is a “real” chance he sits. If he’s out Jacoby Jones and Kevin Walter get a sizable boost in value.

Knowshon Moreno (ribs) has been able to practice Thursday and Friday and has a good chance to play on Sunday, but is still listed as questionable.

Joseph Addai (neck/Shoulder) is listed as probable after practicing fully the last few days. It looks like he’ll finally return in Oakland after a 2 month lay off.

Adrian Peterson (knee/thigh) is likely to give it a go Sunday in Philly according to head coach Leslie Frazier.

Chad OchoCinco (ankle) who was looking like he’d play albeit only about half the snaps, now appears to be likely to sit as coach Marvin Lewis stated Friday that Ocho is “iffy” to play Week 16 against the Chargers. Get him out of your lineups if for some reason he was still there.

Peyton Hillis (knee) practiced on a limited basis for the second straight day Friday and is listed as probable. According to most reports it looks like he’ll go Sunday at home vs. the Ravens.

Mark Sanchez (shoulder) is going to start barring a major setback. Santonio Holmes (toe) is going to play Sunday in Chicago as well but if Sanchez doesn’t go, its a big hit to Holmes value.

Antonio Gates (toe) is listed as out for Sunday’s game against the Bengals, and WR Malcom Floyd (hamstrings) is listed as doubtful and is very unlikely to play.

Lions QB Shaun Hill (finger) is expected to regain the starting job Sunday in Miami. This gives a slight boost in value to the Lions offensive players even though Drew Stanton did a solid job in his absense.

Chris Ivory (hamstring) was limited in practice today but we should know his status sometime Saturday as to whether he will play or Pierre Thomas/Julius Jones will carry the load.

Anthony Dixon (ankle) has been hobbling around practice the last few days and isn’t likely to see a lot of time if he is active based on sources reports. He has a solid matchup this week but it looks like Brian Westbrook will get majority of touches this week.

Mario Manningham (heel) practiced in full Friday and will start against the Packers Sunday.

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by | December 20, 2010 · 10:29 pm

12/20 Player News

 

Adrian Peterson is surprisingly inactive tonight because of knee/ankle injuries. This is a big blow for owners who had thought he would play.Vikings QB Brett Favre (shoulder) has been upgraded to questionable for tonight’s game against the Bears. This puts a bit of a damper on owners who were hoping to use rookie Joe Webb at wide receiver in some leagues. Favre will throw before the game to see if he can go. We will keep you updated on this news. UPDATE: Brett Favre will start tonight for the Vikings against the Bears. Joe Webb will be the back up.

Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles had to be helped off the field yesterday but the good news is that it was only leg cramps, nothing more. So he’ll suit up next week against the Titans.

Fantasy’s number one player, Arian Foster missed most of the 4th quarter Sunday due to a muscle spasm in his glute aka his butt cheek. This will be interesting to follow going into most league’s finals. We’ll keep you up to date as we receive info.

Broncos QB Tim Tebow was fairly impressive in his first start yesterday, and obviously impressed his coaches and teammates enough to earn the starting gig the last two weeks of the season. RB Knowshon Moreno left Sunday’s loss to the Raiders early on with rib injury. The severity of the injury is not yet known and we’ll update you as more information becomes available.

Colts receiver Austin Collie (concussion) has likely played his final play of the 2010 season after suffering his third concussion in the last seven weeks. Before exiting Sunday’s game he did post up the second most fantasy points at receiver in standard scoring leagues. Hopefully his recovery goes well and he’ll have a big 2011 season.

Lions QB Drew Stanton suffered a Grade 3 separation of his non-throwing shoulder during Sunday’s win in Tampa. It may require surgery but since its his non throwing shoulder he may be able to play through it especially with Shaun Hill (finger) status going forward still up in the air.

Steelers TE Heath Miller who sat out Sunday’s loss to the Jets with a concussion is expected to return to the starting lineup Thursday night against the Panthers. Miller hasn’t been consistent enough to be counted on as more than a TE2 thus far in 2010.

Cardinals receiver Early Doucet left Sunday’s game against the Panthers with an injured hip and is expected to have an MRI later today or tomorrow. At this point in the season, Doucet can’t be counted on and shouldn’t be rostered in re-draft leagues.

Bengals WR Terrell Owens is undergoing season ending surgery today to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. He is out for the season but vows he will be back for the 2011 season.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (concussion) status for Sunday’s game against the Giants won’t be updated until at least Wednesday. 3rd year QB Matt Flynn played pretty well last night in a hostile environment against the leagues best team until the end where his lack of experience took over. This week is a big game for both teams as their fighting for their playoff lives.

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by | December 19, 2010 · 4:12 pm

Week 15 Active/Inactives

Broncos rookie Tim Tebow will draw his first start with Kyle Orton sitting out with rib and arm injuries.

ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio is reporting what most expected, Desean Jackson (foot) will play today against the Giants.

Saints rookie Chris Ivory (hamstring) will not play today. Pierre Thomas is a solid flex play as well as Reggie Bush, especially in PPR leagues.

David Garrard (hamstring) and Maurice Jones-Drew (knee) are both going to play but their seems to be some legitimate concern about Garrard’s hamstring. If you have another option at QB, keep Garrard on the bench as we are uncertain how well or long he’ll play today.

Austin Collie (concussion), Jacob Tamme (knee) will play today so get both back in your lineups. Joseph Addai (neck/shoulder) is expected to sit out once again today. Javarris James and Donald Brown will get bulk of carries, with James being the one to start in fantasy leagues.

Mario Manningham (hip) is expected to play today. He’s a fine flex play today.

Matt Cassel (appendectomy) is expected to start today which is great news for Chiefs fans and Dwayne Bowe owners. It appears Cassel’s not 100% yet but he’s going to give it a go.

Jahvid Best (toe) and Maurice Morris (toe) are both expected to play and split carries 50/50 today in Tampa. Shaun Hill (finger) is still not ready to return so Drew Stanton will draw at least one more start.

Adrian Peterson (ankle,knee) is going to play Monday night so no worries their, get him in your lineup.

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by | December 15, 2010 · 4:39 pm

12/15 Early Player News

Giants wideout Steve Smith is done for the season with a knee injury. We reported yesterday that it was a hammy issue but that was obviously incorrect but those were original reports. Mario Manningham (hip) is expected to return to practice by Thursday and hopes to play Sunday against the Eagles. The Giants need him back in this huge divisional game.

Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw, who suffered a wrist injury Monday night against the Vikings says it is of no concern and he will be out their Sunday against the Eagles. I tend to believe what he says and he is a must start.

Browns QB Colt McCoy (ankle) is expected to start Sunday according to coach Mangini saying he will get a “decent amount of first team snaps today” in practice. Expect him to return this week.

Chiefs QB Matt Cassel (appendectomy) returned to practice Wednesday and looks on target to start Sunday.

Aaron Rodgers (concussion) missed Wednesday’s practice and Sunday’s status is still uncertain.  UPDATE: Head Coach Mike McCarthy said during Wednesday’s press conference that he doesn’t think Aaron Rodgers will be able to play Sunday vs. the Patriots. This is a big blow to the Packs playoff hopes if he does indeed sit. Matt Flynn would take the reigns in that scenario.

Cowboys RB Marion Barber practiced Wednesday after missing two weeks with a calf injury. His return obviously hurts Tashard Choice’s value going forward.

Colts wideout Austin Collie (concussion) is expected to practice Wednesday and should be on track to return for Sunday’s big matchup with the Jaguars.

Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) missed Wednesday’s practice and his status for week 15 is uncertain.It is now looking like he’ll sit out tomorrow night’s game vs. the 49ers since he was unable to go today. Act like he’s not going to go and make other arrangements.

Lions WR Shaun Hill (finger) has a very realistic chance to start Sunday against the Bucs. Hill is definitely an upgrade over Drew Stanton, however Stanton has proven he can hold his own out their.

Eagles receiver Desean Jackson is listed as day to day with a sprained foot according to coach Andy Reid. If Jackson is unable to go Sunday that would be a big blow to the Eagles going against the Giants in a big game that could ultimately decide the division. If he can’t go Jason Avant would step into the starting lineup and would have some flex value this week.

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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 25, 2010 · 3:22 am

Week 12 Start Em Sit Em

By Mike Cannici

 

 

Starts

QB

Shaun Hill vs. NE- Hill has been solid in every game he has started thus far and the Patriots are 30th against the pass. Hill has also played very well at home and in a game where the Lions are likely to play from behind, Hill is a solid start. I have him ranked as my 9th QB this week over guys like Big Ben and Eli.

Matt Ryan vs. GB- Ryan has a 19-1 career record at home and draws the leagues 11th ranked pass defense there this Sunday. He has thrown 11 of his 18 touchdowns at home and is a solid start against the Packers. I have him as my 8th QB just ahead of Shaun Hill this week and really like the matchup.

RB

BenJarvus Green Ellis @ DET-The Lions are 24th against the run and Green Ellis is coming off a very productive game against the Colts who are ranked 28th vs. the run. The Law firm, BJGE, has been a little inconsistent since taking on the starting role but has now posted double digit points in three of his last four, and Thursday against the Lions shouldn’t stray from that stat. He’s a very solid flex play with some RB2 upside this week.

Mike Tolbert @ IND- Tolbert ran for 111 and a touchdown this past Monday night against the Broncos and draws the 28th ranked Colts who BenJarvus Green-Ellis just tallied 96 yards and touchdown against last week. Tolbert is likely to get the bulk of the carries again with Ryan Mathews still nursing that ankle injury so Tolbert is a great flex start this week.

Keiland Williams vs. MIN- Williams is now the every down back it would appear with Portis being placed on IR Wednesday and Ryan Torain still nursing injuries. In his last two outings he has totaled 157 rushing yards and two touchdowns to go along with ten catches for 77 yards and a receiving score. For PPR owners, this is even more attractive with those ten catches. There isn’t any one skill about him that makes you think this guy is going to be great, but he is a great pass blocker and plays smart out there and that’s a big key into staying on the field and he’s done everything he’s been asked thus far. He’s a must start flex play with RB2 potential in PPR leagues.

WR

Mario Manningham vs. JAC-Mario has been a little hit or miss thus far in 2010 but is now going to be asked to be the “guy” for at least the next two weeks with Hakeem Nicks and Steve Smith on the shelf with injuries. He has a tremendous matchup this week at home against the 27th ranked pass defense in the Jaguars. I really like this guy for the foreseeable future and I have him as my number eight ranked receiver this week. You’re probably starting him as a WR3 or flex play but you’ll likely get WR1 numbers out of him this week. Start him with confidence.

Vincent Jackson @ IND- Jackson will make his long awaited return Sunday night against the Colts and should pick up right where he left off. There are not a lot of players in this league you could really think that about after missing 11 weeks, but this guy is one of them. Malcom Floyd and Antonio Gates are not likely to play and Patrick Crayton has a dislocated wrist so Phillip Rivers will be down to Jackson and Arijotutu as his main threats. He’s a quality WR2 start this week with WR1 upside as I have him as my 13th ranked receiver which makes him the best of the WR2’s in 12 team leagues.

Blair White vs. SD- White has been very good in Austin Collie’s absence this season and will be asked to do big things once again this week with Collie out once again. White hauled in five passes for 42 yards and two touchdowns during Sunday’s comeback attempt against the Patriots. The Chargers do have the league’s best pass defense but those type of stats you can usually throw out the window when talking about Peyton Manning playing at home especially. He’s a solid flex play and a WR3 in PPR leagues.

 

Sits

QB

Carson Palmer @ NYJ- The Bengals have been struggling and being down big in a lot of games which has made his fantasy numbers look pretty good, but against the Jets and a healthy Darrelle Revis, I can’t see Palmer getting too much going at all Thursday night. Last year in week 17 Palmer was just 1 for 11 for 0 yards ( I know the Bengals didn’t play starters for long but still 11 attempts should have yielded something) and in the first round of playoffs vs. the Jets Palmer was just 18 for 36 for 146 yards and 1 touchdown and 1 interception. I don’t see those stats improving much this week as I have Palmer as my 24th ranked QB this week so even in 2 QB league’s he barely makes the cut.

Jay Cutler vs. PHI- I don’t love Jay Cutler this week either, even though he’s at home, the Eagles pass defense has improved lately and Cutler just hasn’t quite been getting it down through the air. If possible, keep him on benches this week, look at a guy like Matt Cassel or dare I say Jon Kitna before starting Cutler.

RB

Fred Jackson vs. PIT- Jackson has been great the last two weeks since CJ Spiller went down, but this week draws the league’s best rush defense(63ypg) and is barely a flex play this week unless you’re in a PPR league.

Cedric Benson @NYJ- Benson has been struggling as of late besides last week against the Bills, but everyone runs on them and is averaging just 3.7 ypc this season. The Jets will come out and try to build a big lead early and Benson will be left in the dust since he’s not much of a pass catcher. He’s a below average flex play at best this week, so if your roster allows, sit Benson.

Marshawn Lynch vs. KC- Lynch is a guy I was high on when he got traded, but has yet to really get it done and is being outplayed by Justin Forsett right now. Lynch’s lackluster play can somewhat be blamed on the Seahawks O-line, but Forsett has been able to get some solid runs so that can’t be all there is to blame. The Chiefs rank 12th vs. the run so far this year and I think they’re going to really step up against the banged up Seahawks line. Keep Lynch on your benches until further notice.

WR

Steve Smith @ CLE-The Browns defense is played much better than the numbers might tell you (23rd vs. pass, 21st vs. run) especially at home. The Panthers QB play is just a mess right now and Smith doesn’t look like any more than a flex play the rest of the way. It’s a sad situation for Smith owners who were expecting a big year but he must be on benches and dare I say it, could be the time to cut ties with him.

Terrell Owens @ NYJ- Owens and Revis have been talking trash back and forth all week and when that happens, Revis is usually the one who backs it up. Revis allowed just 32 yards to Andre Johnson last week who is arguably the NFL’s best receiver so I can’t imagine the 36 year old T.O. to out produce that. If you have other options use them this week as I can’t see Owens getting more than 30-35 yards against a healthy Revis.

Donald Driver @ ATL- Driver appears to be back from his injury but also seems to be losing targets and snaps to James Jones who has been very good as of late. Jones has hauled in 11 passes for 174 yards and two touchdowns the last two weeks and Driver seems to be more of a third option for Rodgers. I’m not quite ready to tell you to cut ties with him as Jones needs to stay consistent, but keep him on your bench until further notice.

 

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by | November 13, 2010 · 9:19 am

Fantasy Previews (1 O’clock Breakdowns)

By Alan Squatrito

 

Bills vs. Lions

The Bills have their greatest chance this week to get their first win playing at home. They play the Lions with Matthew Stafford out with a shoulder separation. Shaun Hill is as good of a backup you can possibly have and it won’t be easy for the Bills to stop him. I expect this to be a very good game down the wire and I also expect Kevin Smith and Jahvid Best to be great flex fantasy plays this weekend. Calvin Johnson was shut down last weekend against the Jets but I think he will bounce back in a big way. I like Steve Johnson to have a good fantasy numbers as well for a number two wide out this week. The Lions gave up an average of 3.7 yards a carry last weekend so Fred Jackson should be contained but will have a decent day. C.J. Spiller has a lot more upside, they just need to give him the ball.

 

Bears vs. Vikings

The Vikings squeaked out a much-needed win last week but they only started to play well when their backs were against the wall against one of the worst teams in football. Luckily for the Vikings their defense finally stepped up to play getting 6 sacks in the game. They had six sacks all season prior to week 9. The Chicago Bears offensive line has major problems protecting Cutler and they barely give him time to throw the deep ball. I picture Earl Bennett, Johnny Knox, and Devin Hester having the most impact this week for the Bears. Devin Hester is due to have at least one breakout game this season. Besides Percy Harvin, Greg Camarillo seems to have the most upside as a wide receiver for the Vikings with Bernard Berrian questionable with a groin injury. Coach Childress also said that Camarillo will be on the field a lot more going forward. I like Shiancoe in this game as well because he is a clutch player and a much-needed go to guy for Favre. I am not a big fan of Forte this weekend unless they spread him out wide for a couple nice plays. All in all I like the Vikings to win this game in Soldier Field because they are still in do or die mode and are looking forward to Sidney Rice coming back on the field soon to give them better chances to win games outright going forward. There is a chance Rice plays in this game, but don’t expect a big workload if he does play.

 

Browns vs. Jets

The Jets are giving up 3.7 yards a carry on the ground and an average of 16 points a game to their opponents. With Peyton Hillis carrying their team each week I expect him to struggle this week against a solid Jets run defense. To make matters worse Colt McCoy is going to have another difficult challenge to deal with this weekend against Rex Ryan’s blitz first defense. They come from all over the place. Don’t get me wrong I can picture Peyton Hillis having a decent fantasy day, but not enough to carry over for a Browns’ win. I like Ladanian Tomlinson a little more than Shonn Greene this week despite that they are both good plays. Ryan has said it will be a 50/50 split, will see. Look for Santonio Holmes to have another good game and Jets defense to have an event better one. This really should be a blowout as long as the Jets don’t turn the ball over.

 

 

Colts vs. Bengals

Ochocinco was a full participant in practice on Thursday and Friday despite an ankle injury he sustained during week 9 vs. the Steelers. If the Bengals don’t win this game, they will definitely keep it close. Can the Bengals lose 6 times in a row? Cedric Benson and Ochocinco will have great games this week, as well as Carson Palmer. This game will probably go back and forth and there will probably be one huge turnover in the game to differentiate the difference of which team wins and loses. I don’t picture Donald Brown having the best fantasy day even if Bengals do let up 4.2 yards a carry. He is a low fantasy flex. I like Jacob Tamme and Pierre Garcon. Would I be surprised if Reggie Wayne had the best game of the wide receivers for the Colts? No, I would not be that surprised, but I think the Bengals defense is going to step up and I believe they are going to win this one on the road.

Jaguars vs. Texans

The Jags always give the Texans a tough time, but Schaub hasn’t been playing his best as a quarterback in the last couple of games. I don’t think he can be brought down for too long and I believe he will explode this game along with Joel Dreessen, Andre Johnson, and of course Arian Foster. I like Garrard as a number one quarterback as well and I expect Mike Sims-Walker to have a big day. This game can and should very likely go back and forth with two potent offenses and not so potent defenses facing off. I like the Texans to start competing again and beat the Jaguars this Sunday.

Dolphins vs. Titans

What a battle this game is going to be. Coach Sparano is sitting Chad Henne who has a 62 quarterback rating and is starting his old buddy Chad Pennington. This seems to be the smarter move with Henne playing poorly lately despite the great caliber teams they have beaten thus far. I don’t know if Davone Bess will keep up his consistent 6-9 catches a game but I can assure you that Chad Pennington will be very accurate with all his throws. I think that Ronnie Brown will have a good game and is a solid number two running back. Brandon Marshall needs to step up his play and stop dropping so many balls. I think he will turn it around and help the Dolphins get a much-needed win at home; this will be their first home win this season. Randy Moss usually owns the Dolphins and I expect him to have a big day with Kerry Collins (a.k.a. The Statue) throwing deep to him a few times this game. This is going to be a great game.

 

Buccaneers vs. Panthers

This game isn’t last on my list for a reason, but now that it is, sure why not. This is the worst game of the week with Mike Goodson starting at running back and rookie quarterback Jimmy Clausen running the show. Yuck. The Buccaneers defense plays well at home and I expect them to play exceptionally well this weekend. Goodson is known to have fumbling problems and Clausen is known to have throwing interception problems. LeGarrette Blount will be a solid number one start this weekend and he will chew off the clock in the fourth to close the game out. I expect Mike Williams to keep his great play continuing but I also like Kellen Winslow to emerge this weekend as the coaching staff was talking earlier in the week how they want to devise a game plan to get him more involved. This should be a blowout.

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by | November 9, 2010 · 9:21 pm

Week 10 Waiver Adds

By Mike Cannici

 

QB’s

David Garrard- Garrard has been on fire the last few weeks and coming off a week 9 bye they get the league’s worst pass defense in the Houston Texans. If you’re in need, you can do a lot worse than Garrard.

Shaun Hill- With Matthew Stafford reinjuring his shoulder and placed on IR, Hill will step right back in under center this week. Hill posted tremendous numbers during Stafford’s absence in the early going, and if he is able to return from his broken forearm this week, which is very likely, he gets the Bills in a solid matchup.

Josh Freeman- I don’t know how many more times I can put this guy on here but he is an absolute must own at this point. Freeman has posted just one game where he failed to get double digit fantasy points(against the Steelers) and has posted at least 15 pts in his other 7 contests. He draws the woeful Panthers this week and makes for a great bye week filler for Rodgers/Brees owners as well as a viable backup going forward.

RB’s

Javarris James- If you’re an Addai/Donald Brown owner, or in a TD heavy league, James is a guy you want to take a look at. James vultured two touchdowns during Sunday’s loss to the Eagles away from starter Donald Brown. James didn’t get a lot of touches otherwise, but if Addai and Mike Hart are out once again this week, it’ll be James, not Brown who will get the goal line carries.

Willis McGahee- McGahee is another guy who has been covered here before, but has now scored a touchdown in four straight and is becoming a valuable flex play going forward. If he’s available grab him immediately especially in touchdown heavy leagues.

Chester Taylor- Taylor was mentioned last week after the Bears announced he would be the goal line back.  Taylor had 10 carries for just 13 yards but did get into the end zone as advertised. Taylor is a solid handcuff for Forte owners as well as teams in need of RB help and touchdown leagues.

WR’s

Nate Burleson- Burleson was previously discussed here as well, but it’s now time to jump on the bandwagon already and grab this guy. He posted a 7-113-1 stat line against the Jets last week and his production will not slide with Shaun Hill coming back under center. He has scored double digit fantasy points in his last four games in PPR leagues and scored three touchdowns in those four games as well. His value is across all leagues at this time and in my opinion is the #1 waiver add at the receiver position this week unless your league has Sidney Rice and Vincent Jackson still available.

James Jones- Jones would be my by number one pickup this week if week 10 wasn’t the Packers bye and I knew he would post up solid numbers consistently like Burleson has done. Jones had a career day Sunday night (albeit against the Cowboys) going off for 8 catches 123 yards and a score. He’s definitely own able at this point on talent and potential alone, but I’d still grab Burleson before him at this point. Jone’s is definitely the next guy to grab in this list especially if Driver were to miss any time after the bye.

Jacoby Ford- Ford was relegated to return duties for most of the season for the Raiders coming into Sunday’s contest, but with injuries to Chaz Schilens and Louis Murphy, he had to step into that starting lineup. This kid not only returned a kickoff for a score but also made a few amazing catches late in the game to help tie and eventually win in OT. Once Murphy returns were not sure what will become of Ford, but we now know he has the talent and the hands to be productive. Along with his kickoff return, he chipped in with 6 catches for 148 yards as well. He’s a good speculative add going forward with a lot of potential and obviously should be if not already owned in all return yardage leagues.

Blair White- No, this is not the blond from the 80’s hit The Facts of Life, he’s a rookie receiver out of Michigan State whose role in the Colts offense will increase with the Austin Collie concussion. Collie’s status is yet to be defined but White has some potential out of that slot position to put up some solid numbers. He’s at worst good receiver depth for your team going forward with WR3 upside especially in PPR leagues.

Bernard Berrian- Here’s a guy who was recommended weeks ago and then just completely pooped the bed but has now reemerged as a legit option after his 9 catch 89 yard performance in Sunday’s comeback victory over the Cardinals. Berrian’s time may be limited with Rice due to come back, but with Harvin’s health and up and down thing as well as his relationship with Coach Childress, Berrian could make a fine WR4/5 down the stretch.

TE’s

Jacob Tamme- If for some reason after last week’s performance he is still available in your league, first you need to go and grab him an hour ago and then take down my email(mtcannici@gmail.com) and send me a league invite next year. Other than that there’s not much to say besides he’s going to be a TOP 5-6 TE the rest of the year and is a must start in all league’s.

Joel Dreessen- This is a guy I put up in this column back in week 5 and was somewhat laughed at by my esteemed colleague Steve. Dreessen posted 5 catches for 66 yards in week 9’s loss to the Chargers. Owen Daniels was inactive with this lingering hammy issue and is going to be out for an undisclosed amount of time. If you’re struggling at the TE position like I know I am, Dreessen could be a decent fill in as Matt Schaub seems to like his TE. Dreessen is a must own in all 14 team and bigger leagues and worth a look in 12 team and shallower league’s if you’re in need of TE help.

 

 

 

 

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by | October 17, 2010 · 4:01 pm

Last Minute Injury Updates

Previously ruled out for Week 6.

QB’s-Seneca Wallace(ankle)

RB’s- Clinton Portis(groin), Pierre Thomas (ankle), Reggie Bush(fibula), Fred Taylor (toe)

TE’s-Jermichael Finley(knee)

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (concussion) is active today and is a good play against the Dolphins today.

Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (ankle) will start Sunday in Minnesota. He’s a risky play because of the emergence of Roy Williams and the fact that he’s been unable to finish games. He’s a average flex play at best.

Ravens RB Ray Rice (knee) was limited in practice Thursday and Friday say’s he’s 100% healthy and will start in a great matchup against the Patriots today according to NFL Network.

Eagles QB Mike Vick (ribs) will serve as the team’s #3 QB today against the Falcons, but in my opinion, if Kevin Kolb gets hurt, Vick will likely go under center not rookie Mike Kafka.

Colts RB Donald Brown(hamstring) is inactive today along with WR Anthony Gonzalez. Joseph Addai (shoulder) will start tonight in Washington. WR’s Austin Collie(foot) and Pierre Garcon(hamstring) will play.

Packers LB Clay Matthews(hamstring) will sit today, get him out of your lineups in IDP leagues.

In other IDP news, Falcons LB Sean Weatherspoon(knee) and Bears LB Lance Briggs (ankle) are both inactive today so look for other options as well.

Lions WR Calvin Johnson (shoulder) is active against the Giants today.

Giants K Lawrence Tynes (ankle) is out Sunday. Former Bengal Kicker Shayne Graham will handle the kicking duties.

Browns RB Peyton Hillis(thigh) will start today in a very tough match up in Pittsburgh.

Lions QB Shaun Hill will get the start against the Giants today. Matthew Stafford will serve as the emergency QB today behind Drew Stanton.

Newly acquired Eagles RB Jerome Harrison is inactive today. There is no known injury here, they just seem to want him to learn the playbook before giving him game action.

Bucs WR Mike Williams (foot) is active and will start in a solid match up with the Saints. RB LaGarrette Blount is inactive but the reasoning is unkown. Earnest Graham will assume backup duties and most likely goal line carries as well.

Texans WR Jacoby Jones(calf) is active today but is a borderline flex play at best. Andre Johnson will play as we expected so make sure he’s in your lineups.

Patriots WR Deion Branch is active today against the Ravens. Keep him on benches until he can carve out a role in that offense.

Chargers WR Legedu Naanee (hamstring) is inactive today.

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by | October 14, 2010 · 8:11 pm

Week 6 Start Em Sit Em Report

By Mike Cannici

 

STARTS

QB

Ben Roethlisberger vs. CLE – Big Ben makes his season debut Sunday at home against the Browns. He’ll want to remind the league of what the Steelers do best—make big plays. His return will open up the run even more for RB Rashard Mendenhall and make WRs Hines Ward and especially Mike Wallace more valuable. If you’re in need of a receiver try and make a deal for Wallace ASAP because his value will skyrocket with Roethlisberger’s return. TE Heath Miller also stands to gain a lot of value. Cleveland ranks 18th against the pass so Big Ben should be in for a big day.

Eli Manning vs. DET – Eli has committed his fair share of turnovers this season, with an 8:8 TD:INT ratio, but that should start to slow down this week. The Lions currently rank 24th against the pass, meaning Manning is in for a big day, along with WRs Steve Smith and his new favorite target Hakeem Nicks.

Vince Young @ JAC – Young has not put up huge fantasy numbers this year, or even hit the 200 yard passing mark. However, if there’s a game for him to do it, it’s this Monday night against the Jags. The Jags rank 29th against the pass and WR Kenny Britt seems to be slowly developing as Young’s favorite target, specifically in the red zone. Look for Young to throw for 220 yards, 2TD and chip in with about 30 yards on the ground and maybe even a rushing score. He’s a fine matchup play this week and a must start in 2QB leagues.

Matt Cassel @ HOU – Matt Cassel has been less than spectacular this season, but draws his most favorable matchup of the 2010 season as the Chiefs travel to Houston to face the league’s worst pass defense. Cassel should finally put up some big numbers and is a decent matchup play if your guy is on a bye or injured.

RB

Ryan Mathews/Mike Tolbert @ STL – The Rams are coming off a terrible defeat at the hands of the Lions last Sunday and haven’t been too solid against the run. The Chargers just lost for the first time in the last 14 meetings to the Raiders and are going to want to ram it down St. Louis’ throats this week. Mathews is slowly being worked back into the starting role, but is at least one week away from fully regaining the job. Mike Tolbert has been solid as well and I expect the two to share carries once again. They both make for fine flex starters this week.

Marshawn Lynch @ CHI – Lynch was finally traded away from Buffalo to Seattle and Coach Pete Carroll stated that Lynch will take on a significant role Sunday. The Bears currently rank 3rd against the run, but I have a feeling Lynch will show flashes of what many thought he would be a few years back. He’s a very good flex play this week with RB2 upside.

Ryan Torain vs. IND – Torain is now the guy in Washington after the Clinton Portis injury, and if he can stay healthy, he’s in for a very productive season. He has a great matchup Sunday night against the 29th ranked run defense and is a must start in all leagues. The Colts are giving up an average of 142 yards per game on the ground and Torain could very easily top 100 yards with a TD or two.

WR

Johnny Knox vs. SEA – Knox has been nonexistent the last two weeks, albeit in tough matchups. Two weeks ago the Giants were instantly on top of Jay Cutler and last week he had journeyman Todd Collins throwing him the ball. The Seahawks rank second to last in the NFL against the pass and Jay Cutler is going to want to make a statement this week. Knox is in for a big day.

Kenny Britt @ JAC – As I mentioned in the Vince Young blurb, Britt is becoming Young’s go to guy in the red zone and that should continue as the season goes on. The Jags are terrible against the pass and Britt is a superior athlete who finally seems to have his head on straight. Britt will only get better as the season goes on and is a solid WR3 this week, with tremendous upside going forward.

Dwayne Bowe @ HOU – Bowe has been held in check so far this season for two reasons:  one, he’s had Matt Cassel as his QB and two, he has dropped his fair share of balls including what would have been a TD pass last week in Indianapolis. He has been targeted 23 times through four weeks though so the balls are coming his way. He gets the worst pass defense in the NFL this week and could be in for his biggest day of the year. He’s a great flex play with WR3 upside this week.

Pierre Garcon @ WAS – Garcon finally returned last week after missing the previous three with a hamstring injury. In Week 5, he had 6 catches for 57 yards on 14 targets, meaning Manning was looking for him right away in his first game back. This week he draws the Redskins 30th ranked pass defense and should see the same amount of targets. Add in a TD reception and maybe a few more catches with another week of practice for him and Peyton to get back on the same page. Garcon is a good flex play going forward with huge upside.

SITS

QB

Shaun Hill @ NYG –Yes Hill has been great recently against subpar defenses, but this Sunday he gets the Giant’s number one ranked pass defense at the New Meadowlands Stadium. I’m not saying Hill will have a total stinker, but there are better options out there in a tough road matchup for him and the Lions.  Calvin Johnson may not be able to go with a shoulder injury, making Hill a starter in 2QB leagues at best this week.

David Garrard vs. TEN – Those of you who bought into the hype after the last two weeks, are going to see Garrard come crashing back down to earth at home against the Titans. He’s another QB, like Hill, who won’t have a total meltdown but you should have better options this week. If for some reason he is your best option then take the plunge, but I don’t see him surpassing more than 10-12 fantasy points.

RB

Peyton Hillis @ PIT –Hillis has arguably been the fantasy MVP thus far in 2010 but he draws the leagues number one rush defense this week, allowing a miniscule 62 yards per game rushing. With rookie Colt McCoy making his first career start, Hillis is safe only in PPR leagues because of the probability of check-down catches. It doesn’t help that he still seems to be suffering from a thigh injury that may be slowing him down. Hillis does have a very easy run schedule going forward. He only faces two more defenses ranked in the top 10 against the run:  the Jets in week 9 and the Steelers again in week 17, when your fantasy playoffs will most likely be decided.

Knowshon Moreno/Laurence Maroney/Correll Buckhalter vs. NYJ– Moreno is still nursing that hamstring injury and his status for Sunday against the Jets is still unknown. Maroney and Buckhalter have basically been non-factors as QB Kyle Orton has been airing it out play after play. These two might get some more chances to run if they could ever get positive yards on their carries.  Combined the last two weeks against Tennessee and Baltimore they have 28 carries for 48 yards, or less than 2 yards per carry.

BenJarvus Green-Ellis vs. BAL – B-G, as I like to call him, has been solid in his last two games, but has a tough matchup at home vs. the 10th ranked run defense in the Baltimore Ravens. The last two weeks the Ravens seem to have tightened up their run defense, allowing only 123 yards on the ground combined. B-G is no stud back, so if you have another option this week, keep him on your bench.

WR

Mario Manningham vs. DET – By no means does this have anything to do with the Lions defense, but more about the inability of Eli Manning to target Manningham lately. After being targeted 19 times with 14 receptions the first three weeks, he’s only been targeted 3 times and held without a catch in the previous two. He was a guy I liked a lot coming into the season, but until he shows a little more consistency he can’t be trusted on a week to week basis. I wouldn’t drop him just yet but he needs to be on benches until further notice.

Mike Sims-Walker vs. TEN – The Titans early in the season were ranked number one against the pass and are now ranked in the bottom third in the league. However, if you look closely at the stats, Sims-Walker has been completely nonexistent at home. In three homes games this year against fairly mediocre pass defenses, he has been shut out twice and the other game had 2 catches for 34 yards. He is one of the most talented receivers in the league, but is also one of the least consistent and his QB certainly doesn’t help. In good road matchups, he’s a solid start, but until he shows more consistency, leave him on your bench if your receiver depth allows for it.

Nate Burleson @NYG- Burleson is a guy I mentioned in this week’s waiver wire adds, but he’s not a good play this week unless Calvin Johnson sits. The Giants rank first in the league against the pass and if Megatron plays there’s only going to be room for one guy. Burleson is a good receiver but without Johnson, the Giants will just double team Burleson all day and he’s not the type of player to beat double coverage. If Johnson sits, then Nate becomes an average flex play this week.

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