Tag Archives: Todd Heap

by | December 5, 2010 · 11:13 am

4 O’clock Breakdowns + Sunday and Monday Night

By: Steve DeAngelo

Oakland @ San Diego  4:05 Est

Watching San Diego last week against the Colts last night I came away extremely impressed. They flat-out dominated the Colts. Coming in I was already impressed by their offense, but their defense really showed to me that they are pretty worthy of that #1 ranking. Phillip Rivers is the MVP in my mind . Without Vincent Jackson all year, Antonio Gates, Malcolm Floyd and Patrick Crayton in and out of the lineup Rivers still gets it done. Despite the Chargers trouncing the Colts last week, Rivers did not throw a TD, expect that to change this week.  The Raiders are 5th in pass defense only allowing 186 yards a game but they have let up 21 passing TD’s. Last week Chad Henne picked on corner Walter Mcfadden and he got exposed all day. Expect Rivers to do the same. Malcolm Floyd is still banged up, but should play along with Antonio Gates. Floyd is a decent flex this week. Seyi Arjirotutu could have a nice day as he is the healthiest of the wideouts, I like him much more than Legedu Naanee who returned last week after weeks of being out.

Ryan Matthews looks like he will return this week, but Mike Tolbert will still get more carries after producing back 2 back 100 yd games, Tolbert will also remain the goal-line back. Tolbert has a nice matchup vs the Oakland defense that is struggling against the run ranked 28th overall. Darren Sproles could prove to be a decent low-end flex play in this game due to the injury factor at wideout for San Diego. I would reserve him for PPR leagues only.

The Raiders have been struggling lately with back 2 back losses and it looks like their season is pretty much over. Due to another Bruce Gradkowski injury, Jason Campbell will take the reins back this week against the #1 secondary in the league. Jacoby Ford has had two monster games in the past 3 weeks but I would avoid him this week, because Campbell will probably not have too much time to throw against the Chargers who lead the league in sacks. Darren Mcfadden has been slowing down lately, he is still getting the receiving yards but his rushing numbers have been way down the past 2 weeks with only 16 yards rushing. San Diego is ranked #3 against the run so it doesn’t get much easier. Also the Raiders offensive line has been wearing down, not providing the holes they were earlier in the year. Zach Miller is playing hurt and it shows, he has 17 yards in his past 3 games. Don’t rely on him this week.

St. Louis @ Arizona 4:05 Est

The Cardinals are quite possibly the worst team in the NFL. They aren’t getting it done in any facet of the game right now. Derek Anderson blew up on the media last week after the 49ers loss last week, so it will be interesting to see how he plays this week. I wouldn’t bet on anything special. Anderson is only completing 52% of his passes and has only 7 TD’s to 9 Int’s. Larry Fitzgerald is an extremely risky start because of this, despite his talent. The Cardinals cannot get the ground game going at all either as Beanie Wells has been an absolute bust in Fantasy Football this year. Stay away from all Cardinals in this game.

Watching Sam Bradford he doesn’t look anything like a rookie QB. He is poised under center while delivering the ball with solid accuracy. He will get it done this week against Arizona. After getting his first road win of his career last week in Denver, I expect him to have similar success this week. Danario Alexander had a solid game last week finishing with 95 yards receiving despite only playing 20 snaps. You have to think the Rams would want to get him more involved with his talent. Danny Amendola is the Wes Welker of the Mid-west. He runs excellent routes and is a great ppr play in this matchup. I expect the Rams to be playing with the lead most of the game so that means plenty of Steven Jackson against this 31st ranked Arizona Run D. Expect Jackson to go over 100 yards with at least one score. Bradford is worth a look at QB this week in this matchup, I am expecting 240 yards with 2 TD’s.

Dallas @ Indianapolis 4:15 Est

I give a lot of props to the Cowboys and the comeback they almost pulled off last week against the New Orleans Saints. They came up just a bit short after Malcolm Jenkins stripped Roy Williams clean. Jon Kitna has filled in fairly nicely for Tony Romo with 6 Td’s in his last 3 games also throwing for over 300 yards twice. The Colts have been fairly good against the pass ranked 6th overall with only 13 Passing TD’s allowed. At home Dwight Freeney and Mathis could really disrupt the immobile Kitna. However Kitna should see some success but is a good bet for a couple of turnovers. Dez Bryant refused to talk to the media last week after being held catchless so you can be sure that Kitna will look to get him more involved this week. Miles Austin has been spotty with Kitna at QB and last week wouldn’t have done much without the Reverse run he had for a TD. Bryant and Austin are flex plays to me. Roy Williams got back in the mix last week and I think he is worth a flex start once again. Kitna will probably be playing catch up most of the day so there will be a lot of throwing for him. Jason Witten has been one of the most productive tight ends since Kitna arrived and despite the Colts being top 3 in least points allowed to Tight Ends, he’s a must start.

 

Peyton Manning might have been in the film room for 80 hours this week after the brutal loss to San Diego. Manning should have an easier time against the Cowboys secondary who hasn’t played well all year. Still, without a proper run game it’s hard for Manning to be as effective as we’ve seen him in the past. The Absence of Austin Collie has also hurt. Blair White is worth a flex start again this week as he will be matched up with Orlando Scandrick and that’s a matchup Manning will look to exploit. Reggie Wayne is questionable but should play and probably will be matched up with Terrance Newman who hasn’t looked himself all season. Garcon and Manning still can’t seem to connect with consistency but I think Garcon makes for a decent #2 WR this week and could find the endzone while being matched up with Mike Jenkins. Jacob Tamme has been a fantasy monster since he stepped in for Dallas Clark and that won’t stop this week, it will never stop as long as Manning is throwing him the ball.

People doubted the effectiveness of Joseph Addai but we are truly seeing it right now as Donald Brown has failed to fill his role averaging only 3.3 YPC. Donald Brown is not worth a start because he isn’t racking up yards and Javarris James is taking away the goal-line carries.

 

Carolina @ Seattle 4:15 Est

This is probably the worst game of the week with two lowly teams battling it out. Seattle actually is still in the division race in the NFC west because that division is brutal and it will be a shame if they are hosting a playoff game. Matt Hasselback is a shell of his former self and is not worth starting this week at all against an underrated Carolina secondary. Marshawn Lynch stinks he has had good matchup after good matchup and still can’t do anything. The only player worth starting for Seattle is Mike Williams as a flex, because Hasselback will probably target him 10+ times.

The Panthers finally got the ground game going last week, as Jonathan Stewart returned from his concussion and had 12 carries for 98 yards averaging 8.2 YPC. I expect him to keep it up this week against a struggling Seattle run D now ranked 21st overall after once being ranked in the top 3. That Panthers are going to be running early and often in this game, Stewart could see 20 carries, he’s a #2 back this week and should go over 100 yards with a TD. Mike Goodson will be relegated to passing downs and he’s a decent flex in PPR leagues only, he did see 10 targets last week. It’s a shame Steve Smith is being wasted in Carolina playing with an inept rookie QB, but he might be able to make some noise this week against a terrible Seattle secondary ranked 30th in the league. Still Smith hasn’t had a 100 yard game all year and hasn’t scored since week 2 so you probably want to avoid him if you can.

 

Atlanta @ Tampa Bay 4:15 Est

Huge matchup here as both teams need to win this game. Atlanta took the first matchup and now the Bucs will try to avoid the sweep while playing in their backyard. Matt Ryan didn’t have a great game last week with only 1 TD but he should improve on that a bit this week. I expect 2 TD’s and around 220 yards from Ryan against T.B’s 9th ranked Pass D. Tony Gonzalez had a nice game last time vs Tampa Bay ( 8-72) and should enjoy similar success this time around. Roddy White in all lineups of course while no other Falcons wideout is consistent enough to rely on. Michael Turner should get his 20+ carries again this week and should go over 100 with a TD. He impressed me last week going over a 100 against an underrated Packers Run D.

 

Josh Freeman hasn’t been putting up big fantasy numbers but they have been decent. I expect him to bode fairly well this week against the Falcons secondary ranked 27th. Look for 230 yards and 2 TD’s with some bonus rushing yards. Mike Williams will match up with Dunta Robinson and last time out he burnt Robinson on a slant route that went for a 50 yard TD. If Atlanta continues to play cover o (no safety help) look for Freeman to exploit that matchup again with Williams. Williams is a solid #2 WR this week. Kellen Winslow was quiet last time vs Atlanta so don’t expect much from him, although he will be targeted in the redzone. LeGarrette Blount is running with force but the Bucs need to feed him the ball more, he had 1 carry in the 2nd half last week.  This isn’t a great matchup vs an Atlanta run D ranked 6th overall and only having allowed 4 Rushing TD’s all year. He could sneak a TD but don’t expect many yards. He’s a decent flex this week.

 

Pittsburgh @ Baltimore 8:20 Sunday Night

Another huge divisional matchup as the Steelers look to avenge their early season loss where they didn’t have Big Ben. Big  Ben will play in this matchup despite a messed up ankle and you have to wonder how mobile is he gonna be in this matchup. Will he be able to extend plays like he usually does? I think the Ravens get the best of him, but Ben should still finish with over 220 yards and a couple of TD’s, but probably a couple of turnovers as well. Mike Wallace should be able to exploit CB’s Josh Wilson or Chris Carr whoever ends up matching up with him. The Steelers will be able to throw against this Ravens secondary and both Wallace and Hines Ward should see some nice success, despite Ben’s bum ankle. Heath Miller should be on benches this week as the Ravens are #1 in defending tight ends.  With Ben hurting Rashad Mendenhall will be called upon to take some pressure of the pass game. Mendenhall is running hard, but the Steelers offensive line really isn’t opening up too many holes. The Ravens should be able to contain Mendenhall and hold him under 90 yards. The Ravens have only let up 5 TD’s on the ground so odds are Mendenhall won’t see the endzone.

 

Joe Flacco has been rock solid in his 3rd year with 18 TD’s to only 8 picks while completing 63% of his passes. He threw for 256 and 1 TD last time out against Pittsburgh, but I think he will improve on that this week. Look for 2 TD’s and about 250 for Flacco. Derrick Mason started real slow, but has come on and now has 4 TD’s on the year and is a reliable flex play every week. Anquan Boldin hasn’t produced to his draft spot with only 2 100 Yd games all year and he hasn’t had one since week 3. Also he only has 6 TD’s and 3 of them came in one game. Remain patient with him, he will produce and is due for a big game, it may come this week. Fred Jackson ran for over 100 last week vs Pittsburgh so why can’t Ray Rice? Rice historically has been pretty good against Pittsburgh and even though he might not see 100 yards rushing, I think he will have over 100 total yards and will be a nice play in PPR leagues. Almost forgot to mention Todd Heap who has been hot lately with 4 TD’s in his last 6 games. Pittsburgh is middle of the pack in defending tight ends but have been exploited by Ben Watson and Rob Gronkowski. Expect Heap to have a nice day with over 50 yards and a possible score.

 

Jets @ Patriots 8:30 Monday Night

Easily the best game of the week goes down on Monday Night Football. Rex Ryan wants to kick Bill Belichick’s ass and so does Belichick and he probably has game-planned more intensely for this game than any other game this season. How will the Jets defend Tom Brady and this Patriots offense. Ben Jarvus Green-Ellis shouldn’t find many holes against the #4 run d in the league so don’t expect much from him. I am expecting Darrelle Revis to cover Deion Branch most of the day so Branch should be left out of lineups. Wes Welker could be double teamed or the Jets might roll zone coverage at him to prevent him from getting over the middle. The fact is the Jets match up well with these wideouts so I wouldn’t expect big things from either Branch or Welker. The matchup the Patriots will probably look to exploit is Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez who went over 100 yards last time against the Jets. The Jets safeties aren’t good at covering tight ends and it doesn’t help that they lost their signal caller Safety Jim Leonhard for the year. Look for Hernandez to get back in the mix this week. One of these tight ends will probably do some damage. Danny Woodhead makes for a decent flex play in PPR leagues as he will probably be sneak some catches on this Jets defense. I expect the Jets to contain this Pats offense for the most part, look for Brady to finish with around 200 yards and maybe 1 or 2 TD’s.

 

On the other side, I expect Mark Sanchez and Co. to find some success throwing the football. Jerricho Cotchery returns this week which should help the offense but not your fantasy lineups. Look for Santonio Holmes to get open against Rookie Devin McCourty. Holmes should finish with around 6 catches for 80 yards and a possible score. Braylon Edwards has been inconsistent so it’s hard to guess what he will do. He’s still worth a flex play. Dustin Keller abused this Patriots secondary in week 2, so expect Belichick to try to take that away from Sanchez, but I still think Keller will have a big game as the Jets know they need to get Keller involved more.

Shonn Greene and Ladainian Tomlinson are kind of canceling each other out right now as neither has seen a 100 yard game in weeks. Both are low-end flex plays this week as I think the Jets will really try to pass the ball on this 32nd ranked Patriots Secondary.

 

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by | November 30, 2010 · 6:49 pm

Week 13 Waiver Adds

By Mike Cannici

QB’s

Sam Bradford- Bradford became the first rookie QB in NFL history to throw for 300 + yards, 3 touchdowns and no turnovers in a win. He has been so impressive during his rookie campaign and has this Rams team in a tie for first place in the NFC West. This division and very winnable and with Bradford under center, I’m not so sure they won’t win it. If he is available in your league and you have shaky quarterback play right now you need to grab him ASAP.

Matt Cassel- Cassel’s stats are now up to 2,307 passing yards, and a 22-4 TD to interception ratio which is just mind boggling. It obviously helps to have Dwayne Bowe at your disposal but Cassel has been very impressive in his second year in Kansas City. Over the last three weeks, only Michael Vick has accumulated more fantasy points at quarterback, and if it wasn’t for that unreal game against the Redskins, Cassel would likely be the highest scoring QB over that time span. He should be owned in all leagues at this point.

RB’s

Brian Westbrook- Westbrook should be the #1 waiver add in all league’s this week with Frank Gore going down for the rest of the season with a hip injury. Westbrook ran all over a terrible Cardinals defense Monday night running for 136 yards and a touchdown. He was a non factor in the passing game but figures to improve on that going forward. The best part about Westbrook taking over now is that he is fresh as he only had 5 carries on the season coming into this game. The 49ers go to Green Bay this week and home for Seattle in week 14 so it’s shaping up for a few good matchups out of him going into your playoff runs. Rookie Anthony Dixon is also worth a look as he contributed Monday with 54 yards and a touchdown himself. He will be Westbrook’s backup but with his injury history who knows if he can take on a full load week in and week out anymore.

Toby Gerhart- Adrian Peterson’s MRI Monday revealed only a sprain to his right ankle but it is cause for some concern. Gerhart ran for 76 yards and a touchdown in relief of AP and is a must pick up at this point especially for Peterson owners. AP will probably try and give it a go this weekend, but if he can’t Gerhart has a dream matchup against the Bills who just allowed the Steelers Rashard Mendenhall to rush for 151 yards.

Jonathan Stewart- If Stewart was dropped in your leagues, you need to go out and grab him immediately because even though Mike Goodson has been better than imagined, it looks like J. Stew will regain the starting job this week after finishing with 98 yards on just 12 carries. The Panthers get the Seahawks, Falcons and Cardinals coming up and if he can run the way he did last week against a pretty good Browns run defense I think he can do the same with more carries against these teams. He MUST be owned in all leagues at this point.

Ricky Williams- Williams had arguably his best game of the season Sunday in Oakland including a big 45 yard touchdown run to seal the deal for the Dolphins. They have a very favorable schedule going forward and Williams could be a big benefactor of that. Williams needs to be owned in all 12 team or deeper leagues and is worth a look in shallower leagues as well that use flex positions.

Maurice Morris- Morris was discussed in last week’s waiver adds so I won’t go too much in depth but he looked really good against the Patriots Thursday totaling 75 yards and two scores. Jahvid Best’s turf toe could sideline him again this week so Morris is a must own at this point.

WR’s

Ben Obomanu- Seahawks “big ben” had a big game Sunday against the Chiefs including an 87 yard touchdown catch. Obomanu finished with 5 catches for 159 yards and a touchdown and figures to be the #1 guy as long as Mike Wiliams is out and maybe beyond that as he seems to be developing a good chemistry with QB Matt Hasselback. Obomanu is a must own in all 12 team and deeper leagues and worth a add in shallower leagues as well if you’re hurting at receiver or just want some depth for the playoffs.

Davone Bess- Bess a few weeks ago was almost an afterthought in fantasy until Brandon Marshall’s injury and Bess stepped up big Sunday in Oakland grabbing six balls for 111 yards. It’s the first time since week 7 he finished with more than 55 yards. He’s a must add in PPR league’s as long as Marshall is out and a borderline add in 12 team standard leagues.

Danario Alexander- The rookie returned Sunday in Denver after knee surgery and picked up where he left off back in week 6 when he hauled in 4 passes for 72 yards and a touchdown. Danario caught 4 passes for 95 yards and was stopped just short of the goal line or he would have had his second touchdown catch of the season. Bradford seems to really like this rookie out of his former conference the Big 12(Missouri) and if he can just stay healthy(which is a big IF) can come up big for your team going into the playoffs.

Jacoby Ford- This kid just can’t seem to be stopped anymore. Ford returned a kickoff for 102 yards and then made a few more unbelievable catches to finish with four catches for 108 yards on 10 targets. He’s a hit or miss type of guy at this point but his big play potential is enough to be worthy of rostering at this point. He’s totaled over 100 yards in two of his last three games and in 14 team leagues is a must own at this point. Shallower league’s there’s likely someone more consistent available, but I wouldn’t hate you if you took a flier on him as his play should continue to keep him on the field.

TE’s

Todd Heap- All Todd Heap did Sunday was haul in the longest play from scrimmage all year for the Ravens, a 65 yard touchdown catch just before half time to give them a 10-3 lead going into the locker room. Heap’s inconsistency over the years has always been attributed to his health, but this season he has been able to stay healthy and is producing. Heap finished with just 2 catches but had 79 yards and a touchdown which is solid production out of your tight end. Those in need a TE help take a look at this guy right now.

Other TE’s to look at, Kevin Boss(3-74-1), Tony Moeaki(1-6-1), Brent Celek(3-50-1) in Week 12 and are all worth a look especially Boss who should continue to get looks with Hakeem Nicks and Steve Smith out again.

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by | October 25, 2010 · 9:51 pm

Waiver Wire Adds Week 8

By Mike Cannici

QB’s

Ryan Fitzpatrick- The Bills QB put up some great numbers yet again during Sunday’s loss to the Ravens. He finished with 374 yards and 4 touchdown passes as well as 20 yards rushing. He has started four games now for the Bills and has scored over 20 pts in each. If you’re in need of QB help, Fitzpatrick might just be your guy. He has brought value back to Bills receivers even Lee Evans who has been non-existent for the past few seasons.

Matt Moore- Moore regained the starting job this week and had a great game in a victory over the 49ers. He did lose pro bowler Steve Smith to injury after returning from an ankle injury and his diagnosis is not yet known. Moore compiled 308 yards and 2 touchdowns Sunday and may be a decent start in 2QB leagues or even a bye week filler with the Rams, Saints and Bucs coming up on the schedule.

Josh Freeman-Josh put up another solid fantasy game this week with 212 yards, a touchdown and 40 yards rushing. The consistent touchdown numbers aren’t quite there yet but he has now scored at least 15 fantasy points in 5 of the Bucs six games. The Bucs have just three remaining games vs top 10 pass defenses and Freeman could help out plenty of fantasy owners.

 

RB’s

LaGarette Blount- Blount is another guy who has made this list previously but might actually become the starter for the Bucs going forward. He had a 72 yard effort during Sunday’s comeback win over the Rams while current starter Cadillac Williams had just 4 carries for 12 yards but did contribute in the passing game, something Blount isn’t quite adept to yet. Blount should be the top waivers add at RB with a starting job in his very near future maybe even by this week. He draws the Cardinals, Falcons, Panthers, 49ers and Ravens the next five weeks so Blount could begin a breakout campaign.

Willis McGahee- Fantasy owners who do not yet own this guy need to go grab him now as it seems pretty obvious he’s going to be involved in this offense especially around the goal line. He finished with 64 yards on 11 carries and a TD Sunday against the Bills. It looks like him and Rice will share carries going forward likely to keep Rice fresh and that shouldn’t decrease Rice’s value too much. Grab McGahee if he’s available because the Ravens love to run the ball.

Darren Sproles –Sproles had his best game of the season Sunday and has now posted two consecutive double digit weeks in a row in PPR formats. He caught 9 balls for 70 yards to go along with 10 yards on the ground. Sproles complained last week about not getting involved more in the offense and Coach Norv Turner certainly obliged his request to do so. Sproles is a good add especially in PPR leagues going forward. If Ryan Mathews were to go down with an injury again Mike Tolbert would likely take majority of the carries but Sproles should have decent value rest of the season regardless of who the main back is.

WR’s

David Gettis – The return of Matt Moore under center plus the fact that Steve Smith was injured lead to the rookie Gettis to have a big week against the 49ers. Gettis did drop a late TD that would have won the game earlier, but on the next possession made up for it and caught the eventual game winning TD. He finished with 8 catches for 125 yards and 2 touchdowns on the day. Gettis was a sixth round pick out of Baylor and has probably solidified himself as the Panthers number two receiver. If Matt Moore can build on Sunday’s effort, Gettis could be a solid flex or low end WR3 going forward especially if Steve Smith were to miss any significant time.

Patrick Crayton/Buster Davis- The current Chargers starting receivers both had solid games Sunday and with Malcom Floyd at least another week from returning and VJAX a month away, these guys could provide solid numbers for you going forward. Crayton is a talented receiver who was set free by the Cowboys with the addition of rookie Dez Bryant while Davis is a former first round pick who has struggled to remain healthy. I like them both as WR4 going forward and shouldn’t lose a ton of value after Floyd returns with pass happy Phillip Rivers under center. When VJAX returns however that may be a different story but take a shot and ride the wave with these two guys.

Brandon LaFell- LaFell was the second of the Carolina rookie receivers to post a career day grabbing 6 balls for 91 yards including a great catch down the sideline during the comeback drive. LaFell has a lot of talent and if he can build off this game it could pay off huge dividends. Right now he’s more of a speculative add, rather than a must own but he has the size and hands to be a quality receiver in this league.

James Jones- Jones had his best game of the 2010 season Sunday night during the Packers win over the Vikings. Jones tallied four catches for 107 yards on eight targets. Veteran Donald Driver was held without a catch and it’s likely that his quad injury may have been an issue. If Driver continues to struggle with this injury that could open the door for Jones to have a great second half. He needs to continue to be consistent but definitely has all the tools you look for in a number two receiver.

Jordan Shipley- Shipley, who was Browns QB Colt McCoy’s roommate and best friend at the University of Texas, had his biggest game of his young career Sunday. Shipley recorded six catches for 131 yards and a touchdown. His numbers may be slightly skewed as the Bengals were down 24-3 at the half but he has a ton of potential as a slot receiver and if you’re in need of some WR depth, Shipley can definitely add that and be a decent bye week filler.

TE’s

Todd Heap- Heap was able to play Sunday against the Bills after suffering a concussion during week six. Heap hauled in three passes for 59 yards and two touchdowns. The question with Heap has never been talent it’s been his inability to stay healthy and thus far he has been. Heap is a high end TE2 with low end TE1 upside and makes for a great bye week filler at the very worst going forward.

Jermaine Gresham- Gresham didn’t have a great game this week but in PPR leagues he had decent production with four receptions for 26 yards. 6.6 points isn’t an amazing number but he is averaging over six targets per game and now has 26 receptions and two touchdowns. He’s an amazing talent and should eventually turn into a top TE. If you’re in a bind and want to take a chance on the “next big thing” this is your guy. The Bengals have found themselves down in games lately and have been forced to air it out. Gresham is a big target who Palmer does like to look for in the red zone as well so keep your eye on this kid.

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by | October 23, 2010 · 9:11 pm

Fantasy Savvy Player Rankings Week 7

QB’s
1.    Drew Brees (vs CLE)
2.    Phillip Rivers (vs NE)
3.    Aaron Rodgers (vs MIN)
4.    Kyle Orton (vs OAK)
5.    Tony Romo (vs NYG)
6.    Joe Flacco (vs BUF)- Playing the Bills, they are pretty good against the pass(10th) but Flacco is a beast at home and the Bills have zero pass rush.
7.    Tom Brady (@SD)
8.    Jay Cutler (vs WAS)-Going up against the 31st ranked pass defense, is in for a big game at home.
9.    Ben Roethlisberger (@MIA)
10.    Eli Manning (@DAL)- Has had big games in the past against the Cowboys, things won’t change this week.
11.    Matt Cassel (vs JAC)-Second straight week he gets a BAD defense, and could put up big numbers once again, difference is the Chiefs will win this one.
12.    Kevin Kolb (@TEN)
13.    Donavan McNabb (@CHI)
14.    Matt Ryan (vs CIN)
15.    Brett Favre (@GB)-The Packers will have Al Harris back this week, but won’t be 100% quite yet, so Favre could have a good day.
16.    Carson Palmer (@ ATL)
17.    Vince Young (vs PHI)-Assuming he plays, if not Kerry Collins will start and would only be a starter in 2QB leagues.
18.    Matt Hasselback (vs ARI)
19.    Josh Freeman (vs STL)-Posted 15+ fantasy points in 4 out of 5 games, this will be the 5th.
20.    Chad Henne (vs PIT)-Pit has a great run defense but a suspect pass defense, and Henne puts up big numbers at home.
21.    Max Hall (@SEA)-The rookie makes his second start, and Seattle is a tough place to play, but they can be passed on.
22.    Alex Smith (@CAR)
23.    Sam Bradford (@TB)
24.    Colt McCoy (@NO)-Posted solid numbers on the road last week in Pittsburgh, could do the same again this week.
25.    Matt Moore (vs SF)
26.    Ryan Fitzpatrick (@BAL)
27.    Raiders QB (@DEN)- Could be Campbell, Gradkowski or Boller, Gradkowski would be the only viable starter out of this group.
28.    Jaguars QB (@KC)-Most likely will be Todd Bouman and he has no value, and the receiving corps has little to no value as well.

 

 

RB’s

 

1) Ray Rice Vs Buffalo

2) Adrian Peterson @ GB

3) Chris Johnson vs Philly

4) Steven Jackson at TB

5) Frank Gore @ Carolina

6) Rashad Mendenhall at Miami

7) Marshawn Lynch vs Arizona

8) Michael Turner vs Cincy

9) Chris Ivory vs Cle

10) Cedric Benson @ Atlanta

11) Lesean Mcoy @ Ten

12) Jamal Charles vs Jacksonville

13) Peyton Hillis @ NO

14) Ahmad Bradshaw @ Dallas

15) DeAngelo Williams vs SF

16) Thomas Jones vs Jac

17) Knowshon Moreno vs Oak

18) Ryan Matthews vs NE

19) Maurice Jones-Drew @ KC

20) Matt Forte vs Wash

21) Felix Jones vs NYG

22) Beanie Wells @ Sea

23) Ryan Torain @ Chicago

24) Danny Woodhead @ SD

25) C.J. Spiller @ Baltimore – Could breakout at any moment.

26) Michael Bush @ Denver

27) Ronnie Brown vs Pitt

28) Justin Forsett vs Arizona

29) Brandon Jackson vs Minnesota

30) Brandon Jacobs @ Dallas

31) Jonathan Stewart vs SF

32) Ben Jarvus Green-Ellis @ SD

33) Darren Mcfadden @ Denver

34) Fred Jackson @ Baltimore

35) Marion Barber vs NYG

36) Ricky Williams @ Pitt

37) Cadillac Williams vs STL

38) Mike Tolbert vs NE

39) Ladell Betts vs Cle

40) Tim Hightower @ Sea

 

 

WR’s

 

1.   Roddy White (vs CIN)
2.    Larry Fitzgerald (@SEA)-Seattle ranks 30th against the pass, Fitz will be Max Hall’s top target.
3.    Miles Austin (vs NYG)
4.    Anquan Boldin (vs BUF)
5.    Marques Colston (vs CLE)-Will score his first TD this week, I guarantee it. He’s in for a big day.
6.    Brandon Marshall (vs PIT)
7.    Greg Jennings (vs MIN)-Packers said going into last week he would get more involved, and boy did he (6 catches 133 yards and a TD). Look for more of the same this week.
8.    Randy Moss (@ GB)
9.    Hakeem Nicks (@DAL)
10.    Jeremy Maclin (@TEN)-No Desean Jackson this week, he’ll be Kolb’s main target.
11.    Santana Moss (@CHI)
12.    Terrell Owens (@ATL)
13.    Mike Wallace (@MIA)-Big play threat, has Big Ben back. He’ll have at least one long TD catch, with a few more long receptions a swell. High end WR2 this week.
14.    Michael Crabtree (@CAR)- Has scored in two straight, and is starting to become the go to guy.
15.    Dwayne Bowe (@JAC)-Top WR scorer last week, will have another big game this week against another bad pass defense.
16.    Percy Harvin (@GB)
17.    Brandon Lloyd (vs OAK)-Tough matchup with Nnamdi Asomugha, but has produced against other worthy opponents so won’t drop him too far but not a #1 option this week.
18.    Steve Smith(CAR)-(vs SF)-Back already from ankle injury, Matt Moore back under center.
19.    Wes Welker (@SD)
20.    Mike Williams(TB)-(vs STL)
21.    Johnny Knox (vs WAS)- The Redskins are 31st against the pass, is in for a pretty solid day.
22.    Chad OchoCinco (@ATL)
23.    Steve Smith(NYG)-(@DAL)
24.    Hines Ward (@MIA)
25.    Donald Driver (vs MIN)
26.    Mike Williams(SEA)-(vs ARI)-10 catches for 123 yards, has no competition for #1 spot and is Hasselbacks favorite target, health and mentality is the only thing that can hold this kid back
27.    Kenny Britt (vs PHI)-Scored in 4 straight games, if Kerry Collins gets the start, bump him down 10 spots.
28.    Deion Branch (@SD)
29.    Patrick Crayton (vs NE)-Possibly no Floyd, Naanee or Gates so could see a boatload of targets.
30.    Roy Williams (vs NYG)
31.    Jabar Gaffney (vs OAK)
32.    Derrick Mason (vs BUF)
33.    Davone Bess (vs PIT)
34.    Danario Alexander (@TB)- Had a big game in his debut, could be in for another one as he develops a solid relationship with QB Sam Bradford.
35.    Buster Davis (vs NE)-Patriots rank 29th vs the pass and with Floyd and Naanee banged up, could put up solid numbers.
36.    Lance Moore (vs CLE)
37.    Steve Breaston (@SEA)-Expected back from injury which kept him out last two weeks, solid flex play against terrible Seahawks pass defense.
38.    Lee Evans (@ BAL)
39.    Dez Bryant (vs NYG)
40.    Danny Amendola (@TB)
41.    Anthony Armstrong (@CHI)
42.    Mike Thomas (@KC)-This ranking is based on Todd Bouman starting, obviously if Garrard plays, Thomas moves up about 7-8 spots.
43.    Robert Meachem (vs CLE)-Plays much better on the road than at home, but has put up double-digit points last two weeks.
44.    Devin Aromashadu (vs WAS)-Slowly working back into the Bears good graces, could have a big time game against terrible Redskin pass defense.
45.    DeMaryius Thomas (vs OAK)
46.    Stevie Johnson (@BAL)
47.    Mario Manningham (@DAL)
48.    Nate Washington (vs PHI)
49.    Deon Butler (vs ARI)
50.    Jason Avant (@ TEN)-The number two with Desean Jackson out, talented receiver who has some upside this week.
51.    James Jones (vs MIN)
52.    Legedu Naanee (vs NE)-If he plays, move him up about 10 spots.
53.    Louis Murphy (@ DEN)
54.    Golden Tate (vs ARI)
55.    Mike Sims-Walker (@KC)-Has little value without Garrard
56.    Michael Jenkins (vs BUF)
57.    Devin Hester (vs WAS)
58.    Devery Henderson (vs CLE)
59.    Brian Hartline (vs PIT)
60.    Chansi Stuckey (@ NO)-With Massaquoi and Cribbs likely out with concussions, Stuckey could be the benefactor.

 

 

TE’s

 

1) Vernon Davis @ Carolina

2) Antonio Gates vs NE (Gametime decision, but should play)

3) Aaron Hernandez @ SD

4) Jason Witten vs NYG

5) Brent Celek @ Ten

6) Tony Moeaki vs Jacksonville

7) Heath Miller @ Miami

8) Chris Cooley @ Chicago

9) Tony Gonzalez vs Cincy

10) Ben Watson @ NO

11) Visanthe Shiancoe @ GB

12) John Carlson vs AZ

13) Kellen Winslow vs STL

14) Zach Miller @ Denver

15) Jermaine Gresham @ Atlanta

15 A) Andrew Quarless vs Minnesota

16) Jeremy Shockey vs Cle

17) Todd Heap vs Buffalo

18) Greg Olsen vs Washington

19) Bo Scaife vs Philly

20) Mercedes Lewis @ KC

 

 

 

 

 

 

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by | · 7:25 pm

Player News 10/23

First things first, i’m not sure if you know but Rutgers football player Eric LeGrand was paralyzed after a hit against Army last weekend. There is a facebook page call “wristbands for LeGrand please go to it and show your support for this strong young man. http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=105563409510255

49ers News

WR Josh Morgan(thigh) was a full participant in Friday’s practice and is expected to play Sunday in Carolina. CB Nate Clements(ankle) is likely to miss Sunday’s game which could mean a big day for Steve Smith who himself is returning from an ankle injury. TE Vernon Davis(knee) practiced with no issues this week and will start Sunday.

Bears News

LB Lance Briggs(ankle) was able to practice Friday and is expected to start Sunday. IDP leaguers get him back into your lineups against the Redskins.

Bengals News

CB Jonathan Joseph(ankle) is questionable for Sunday’s game in Atlanta. Joseph is likely to play, however may not be 100% meaning Roddy White could have a big day.

Bills News

No Major injuries effecting your fantasy squad.

Broncos News

CB Champ Bailey(ribs) has the best chance at playing this week over the rest of the Broncos on the injury report. WR Eddie Royal(groin) participated in a limited fashion during Friday’s practice and will be a game time decision. If you have another option, use him over Royal who even if he does play won’t be 100%.

Browns News

RB Peyton Hillis(quadricep) is probable this week and should play in a pretty good matchup against the Saints. WR/KR Josh Cribbs (concussion) is expected to play Sunday. WR Mohammed Massaquoi(concussion) is listed as doubtful and likely won’t suit up against the Saints. Rookie QB Colt McCoy will get the start once again this week while QB’s Jake Delhomme(ankle) and Seneca Wallace (ankle) sit out.

Buccaneers News

RB Earnest Graham (hamstring) is questionable this week and isn’t likely to play Sunday. Cadillac Williams and LaGarette Blount are expected to shoulder the load in a good matchup against the Rams. TE Kellen Winslow(knee) practiced in full late this week and will play Sunday.

Cardinals News

WR’s Steve Breaston(knee) and Early Doucet (groin) are both being considered game time decisions. If you have other options or cannot wait until the 4pm game to make a roster decision, look elsewhere. Rookie WR Stephen Williams (back) is not likely to play Sunday and could miss some more time as he is dealing with a small fracture in his back.

Chargers News

WR’s Malcom Floyd and Legedu Naanee(hamstring) are both unlikely to play Sunday in what would be great matchup against the Patriots. TE Antonio Gates(toe) will be a game time decision, but many close to the Chargers believe Gates will play. RB Ryan Mathews (ankle) practiced in full Friday and will start. Mathews is a high end RB2 against the weak Pats defense.

Chiefs News

No significant Fantasy news.

Colts News

The Colts are on a bye this week, however they are just riddled with injuries. TE Dallas Clark(hand/wrist) was placed on IR ending his season. WR Austin Collie(foot) had surgery this week and will be sidelined at least two weeks. RB Joseph Addai (shoulder) is seeking a second opinion on his shoulder but sources say he will probably miss the next 4-5 weeks.There is nothing torn just some nerve damage. Donald Brown(hamstring ) would be first in line to start with Addai out but he just can’t seem to get healed up. Mike Hart would get the starting nod in Week 8 if Brown is unable to go.

Cowboys News

Dez Bryant (ribs/ankle) is fully healthy according to sources and will play Monday night against the Giants.

Dolphins News

No significant Fantasy News

Eagles News

Michael Vick(ribs) will not start Sunday but will dress and will be emergency QB. Vick is expected to return to a starting role in week 9 after next weeks bye. RB LeSean McCoy(broken rib) says his rib is not yet fully healed but has been playing through it and will continue to do so. WR Desean Jackson(concussion) will not play Sunday but will likely return week 9 after next weeks bye, as long as he passes all his tests.

Falcons News

CB Dunta Robinson(concussion) will not play Sunday. Robinson suffered to concussion on a devastating hit on Eagle receiver Desean Jackson who will not play this week either.

NY Giants News

WR Hakeem Nicks(hamstring fatigue) will play Monday against the Cowboys. Nicks said its just some fatigue and will be fine.

NY Jets News

The Jets are on a bye this week and have no significant injuries.

Jaguars News

QB David Garrard(concussion) will not play Sunday. Coach Jack Del Rio will not announce a starter until Sunday. It will be between Trent Edwards and Todd Bouman, neither of which is a viable option.

Lions News

The Lions are on a bye this week. QB Matthew Stafford(shoulder) is expected to return and start week 8. LB Zach Follett(stinger) was released from the hospital and thankfully will be ok. He layed motionless on the field during Sunday’s loss to the Giants after getting hit by DE Jason Pierre-Paul. It looked a lot worse and luckily he was not severely injured.

Packers News

WR Donald Driver(quadricep) returned to limited practice Friday and is listed as probable. Driver is very likely to play so keep him in your lineups. LB Clay Matthews(hamstring) is going to play Sunday but more than likely will only play on passing downs. If you don’t have other options, you have to start him, but if possible, bench him for this week as his total snaps will be limited.

Panthers News

WR Steve Smith(ankle) practiced in full and will start Sunday in a good matchup against the 49ers. Smith also gets Matt Moore back at QB and is a solid WR3 with WR2 upside this week.

Patriots News

RB Fred Taylor(turf toe) will be out once again this week. BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead will split the carries and both are decent flex plays this week, especially Woodhead in PPR leagues. WR Julian Edelman(concussion) was limited at practice Friday and will be a game time decision.

Raiders News

QB Jason Campbell(knee) is likely to start Sunday unless he has a setback. He was able to practice on a limited basis the last few days so he should be good to go. This brings some value back to the Raiders receivers, who would have had little to none with Kyle Boller at the helm. Bruce Gradkowski(shoulder) is still unable to go. RB Darren McFadden is listed as questionable still but Coach Tom Cable believes he will play Sunday against the Broncos. Run DMC will likely split carries with Michael Bush and both are good flex plays.

Rams News

No significant fantasy news

Ravens News

TE Todd Heap, who suffered a shoulder injury after a big hit by Patriots Safety Brandon Meriweather, is expected to play Sunday against the Bills.

Redskins News

TE Chris Cooley, who suffered a concussion Sunday night is expected to play in Chicago Sunday. Check back in tomorrow with us to make sure but he looks like a go. RB Ryan Torain(ankle) is fine and will start in a tough matchup against the Bears.

Saints News

RB Pierre Thomas(ankle) has been once again ruled out for week 7. RB Reggie Bush(leg) will not play either but is expected back for week 8.

Seahawks News

No significant fantasy news

Steelers News

RB Rashard Mendenhall(shoulder contusion) is not listed on the injury report and will start Sunday against the Dolphins. He is a low end RB1 this week.

Texans News

LB DeMeco Ryans(achilles) was placed on IR thus ending his 2010 season. LB Zac Diles is expected to fill in at MLB and could be a sleeper for tackles in IDP leagues.

Titans News

RB Chris Johnson(thigh) practiced in full Friday, and as we expected is going to start Sunday. QB Vince Young(knee/ankle) is not expected to play Sunday, meaning Kerry Collins will start. WR Kenny Britt(bar fight) is a game time decision as to whether or not coach Jeff Fischer will sit him for disciplinary reasons. Check back in tomorrow morning for an update. TE Bo Scaife(groin) is listed as questionable but expects to play Sunday against the Eagles.

Vikings News

WR Percy Harvin(hamstring) was limited in practice Friday but is expected to play Sunday against the rival Packers. He’s a solid WR3 this week.

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by | October 20, 2010 · 12:23 am

Player Updates 10/19

Sorry guys we fell behind yesterday, I just started working and been a little off getting back into working mode. Here is some info and updates from around the league.

Michael Vick(ribs) is expected to return week 9 following their week 8 bye. Kevin Kolb has been playing well so Andy Reid’s decision to go back to Vick may not be as cut and dry as it was two weeks ago. Stay Tuned.

Sidney Rice (hip surgery) may return in three weeks according to Coach Brad Childress. He has been out since before the start of the season.

Antonio Gates injured his toe Sunday and left the game and didn’t return. The injury is not considered serious. Gates is a very tough player and will likely go Sunday and keep his 85 consecutive game streak alive.

Desean Jackson suffered a concussion Sunday after taking a SHOT from Falcon CB Dunta Robinson. Jackson’s status for this week is up in the air while Robinson should be alright to play this week but both left the game after the vicious yet legal hit. Jackson did do plenty of damage before leaving including a 31 yard TD run and catching a 34 yard TD pass. Robinson was also fined $50,000 for the hit.  UPDATE: Jackson will not be cleared to practice Wednesday and several reports are saying that he won’t return to practice until after the week 8 bye. Explore other options for the next two weeks at the receiver position.

Reggie Bush (fibula) is expected to return in week 8 while Pierre Thomas (ankle) has a good shot at returning Sunday against the Browns in a very good matchup.

Joseph Addai(shoulder) left Sunday nights game after injuring his shoulder once again and it was seen heavily wrapped. He had his best rushing performance in a long time, so it was sad to see this happen to him. Luckily the Colts have a bye this week and more than likely no more information will be given out until later in the week at best.

Ravens RB Willis McGahee was not traded at today’s trade deadline either. The Ravens are planning on getting Willis more touches in the first half of games. McGahee didn’t play this past week as many believed they didn’t want to risk him getting hurt before trying to trade him before today’s deadline. Now that hasn’t happened, and there going to try and work him in a little bit more, basically i feel to keep Ray Rice fresher for the 4th quarter. Rice is in no danger of losing his job and McGahee is merely a handcuff going forward, with some value as a flex play in TD heavy leagues.

Redskins WR Anthony Armstrong has been named the starter opposite Santana Moss going forward. Armstrong has much more value and potential at this point than Joey Galloway and should be owned in all leagues with McNabb throwing the ball a lot.

Todd Heap, who was hit with a helmet to helmet shot by Patriot Safety Brandon Meriweather reportedly has no concussion or neck injuries after an MRI Monday. Heap should be alright this week while Meriweather’s pockets took a hit in the sum of $50,000 for the illegal hit.

Rashard Mendenhall suffered a shoulder contusion Sunday after yet another big time hit by Browns rookie safety T.J. Ward. Initially many thought Mendenhall suffered a concussion but this is good news. Mendenhall will probably take a few days off from practice but looks like he is in no danger of missing Sunday’s game in Miami.

Vince Young is being considered day to day after an MRI revealed he has a mild knee strain and an ankle sprain. He may or may not be able to practice Wednesday. If he can’t go veteran Kerry Collins will start this week, hurting the value of RB Chris Johnson as well as emerging WR Kenny Britt.

Vernon Davis had an MRI Monday which revealed a knee contusion, much better than some people expected. He will be fine and start against the Panthers.

Lions QB Matthew Stafford reportedly will return and start after the week 7 bye. He has been out since week one with a shoulder injury will come back to face a terrible Redskin pass defense in week 8.

Darren McFadden (hamstring) will test the hammy out Wednesday to see if he can “burst” in his words and then determine how much more he’ll do over the course of the week. His status won’t be known until later in the week.

Jason Campbell suffered what is thought to be a torn meniscus in his knee, which could cause him to miss most of if not all of the season. Bruce Gradkowski still isn’t recovered from his shoulder injury and veteran Kyle Boller could make the start in Denver Sunday.

Texans MLB DeMeco Ryans tore his achilles Sunday against the Chiefs and will miss the rest of the season. It is being speculated that Zac Diles will move to the inside and take over for Ryans, opening up an outside spot for Xaiver Adibi. Diles could be a nice sleeper pickup in IDP leagues.

Josh Cribbs and Mohammed Massaquoi both suffered game ending concussions at the helmet of Steeler LB James Harrison, who today was fined $75,000 for those hits. Coach Eric Mangini believes Cribbs still has a shot to play this week while he wasn’t as confident in Massaquoi’s status. Another idea floating around is that both will sit until after the week 8 bye, which might be a great move on the Browns part and in the best interest of these two players.

Tampa RB Kareem Huggins will miss the remainder of the season after suffering a torn ACL Sunday. Earnest Graham and rookie LaGarette Blount will see more touches going forward.

Chris Cooley suffered a concussion Sunday night and it actually happened in the 2nd quarter and didn’t leave the game until the 2nd half when he removed himself. Cooley suffered three in college and his week 7 status remains unclear.

Packers DB’s Atari Bigby(ankle), Al Harris (knee) and rookie RB James Starks (hamstring) are all expected to return to practice Wednesday after starting the season on the PUP list. Bigby and Harris should reclaim starting jobs within a week or so if they show there healthy while Starks has a possibility to take over the running duties if he can stay healthy and beat out the likes of Brandon Jackson and John Kuhn.

Steve Breaston(knee) has missed the last two games but is expected to practice Wednesday and has stated their is no doubt he will play this week against the Seahawks.

David Garrard also suffered a concussion Monday night against the Titans and his status for this week is still up in the air. I can’t remember seeing so many concussions on one injury report ever in my life, its almost sickening. Garrard was coming off two solid games. Trent Edwards will get the start if Garrard can’t go. Edwards who played poorly as has always been his M.O. isn’t a good fantasy option if he were to start.

Felix Jones apparently was vomiting and had to recieve and IV during halftime of Sunday’s loss to the Vikings. Jones was being leaned on early and often to carry the load but was almost completely out of gas by the half. He is not nor never will be the workhorse the Cowboys want him to be, but still can do a lot of damage even in a time share.

The Chargers had no phone calls from any teams inquiring about making a deal for Vincent Jackson before today’s 4pm trade deadline. He will report to San Diego on Oct 31 and be eligible to play his first game in week 12.


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