FSH: THE ATL REPORT

November 1st, 2008 9:53pm PST


[The Saturday Night Edition]
THE ATL REPORT

Storylines this week:

• Injuries this week: The Colts WR Reggie Wayne is questionable for Sunday Night's clash with the Patriots, while RB LaMont Jordan and RB Sammy Morris have been downgraded to OUT. The Buccaneer's RB Warrick Dunn did not travel with the team after missing practice all week, running back Michael Bennett will see action in his place.
• Parker to return Monday night: The Steelers running back will make his return Monday night, but fantasy owners should still expect to see quite a bit of MeWelde Moore, who filled in for Fast Willie Parker. The Steelers are facing the leagues 5th ranked run defense.
• LJ suspended in KC: The Chiefs will be without Johnson for two more games, this Sunday and week 10 as the NFL handed down his suspension earlier in the week. While Johnson is out, the team will rely on Kolby Smith and the rookie Jamaal Charles to carry the load. While Johnson could face more punishment with a hearing scheduled in December, it is not lining up to be this season. The LJ saga continues and fantasy owners will have to wait and see.
• Witten game-time against Giants: The Cowboys tight end did not practice all week and is expected to be game-time. Although some reports are saying he will try to play, it is not likely that Witten will go this Sunday. The rookie tight end Martellus Bennett is expected to start in his place.
• Torain could make debut Sunday: With so many injuries to the Denver backfield, word is Pittman is going to start for the Broncos, but it is likely that the rookie Ryan Torain will make his NFL debut this Sunday.
• Jones No. 1 option in Jax: The Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio made official what many fantasy owners already knew when he referred to his receiver Matt Jones as the team's number one option. Jones has been one of the highest targeted receivers in the NFL with 64 this season

THIS WEEK AROUND THE LEAGUE
[Team Leaders]

NATIONAL FOOTBALL CONFERENCE

ARIZONA
The Cardinal's quarterback Kurt Warner has passed for 2,089 yards and thrown 14 touchdowns this season. While running back Edgerrin James leads the team with 108 carries and 380 yards rushing, it's the rookie Tim Hightower that leads the team with 6 rushing touchdowns. Wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald leads the team with 43 receptions and 661 yards, while receiver Anquan Boldin leads the team with 7 touchdowns.

ATLANTA
The Falcons receiver Roddy White leads the team with 43 receptions and 679 yards receiving this season. Running back Michael Turner leads the team with 145 carries for 655 yards rushing. Turner is also the team leader with 6 touchdowns for the year. On the defense Lawyer Milloy leads the team with 43 tackles (38 solo).

CAROLINA
The Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams leads the team with 120 carries and 522 yards rushing. Rookie running back Jonathan Stewart leads the team with 5 touchdowns. The team's leading receiver with 37 reception is Muhsin Muhammad, while receiver Steve Smith leads the team with 613 yards receiving.

CHICAGO
The Bears quarterback Kyle Orton leads the team's passing game with 1,669 yards passing and 10 touchdown passes. Rookie running back Matt Forte leads the team with 147 carries and 515 yards rushing. Forte also leads the team with 29 receptions and 6 touchdowns (4 rush, 2 receive). The defense is led by linebacker Brian Urlacher with 41 tackles this season.

DALLAS
The Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo leads the team with 1,689 yards passing and 14 touchdown passes. Running back Marion Barber leads the team with 153 carries for 611 yards rushing. Tight end Jason Witten leads the team with 46 receptions for 549 yards. Barber and wide receiver Terrell Owens share the team lead with 5 touchdowns. On the other side of the ball, linebacker Zach Thomas leads the team with 55 total tackles, including 41 solo.

DETROIT
The Lions rookie running back Kevin Smith leads the team with 268 yards on the ground. Wide receiver Calvin Johnson leads the team with 29 receptions, 588 yards, and 5 touchdowns. The defense is led by linebacker Ernie Sims with 56 touchdowns, including 37 solo.

GREEN BAY
The Packers have a new leader this season in the huddle. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers leads the team with 1,668 yards passing and 12 touchdown passes this season. Wide receiver Greg Jennings leads the team with 37 receptions, 685 yards receiving, and 4 touchdowns. The defense is anchored by defensive lineman Aaron Kampman with 6 sacks this season.

MINNESOTA
The Vikings running back Adrian Peterson leads the team with 151 rushing attempts and 684 yards on the ground. Wideout Bernard Berrian leads the team with 517 yards receiving. Peterson leads the team with 5 touchdowns this season. The defense is led by defensive lineman Kevin Williams with 6 sacks this season.

NEW ORLEANS
The Saints are led by the NFL's leading passer Drew Brees. This season Brees has thrown for 2,563 yards and 15 touchdowns. Running back Reggie Bush leads the team with 294 yards rushing, while wide receiver Lance Moore leads the team with 431 yards receiving. The defense is led by linebacker Jonathan Vilma with 72 tackles, including 53 solo.

NEW YORK GIANTS
The Giants ground game is led by running back Brandon Jacobs who has carried the all 114 times and rushed for 563 yards this season. The team's passing game is led by wide receiver Steve Smith with 29 receptions, while wideout Plaxico Burress leads the team with 356 yards receiving. Jacobs is the team leader with 6 touchdowns this season. The defense is led defensive linemen Fred Robbins and Justin Tuck who each have 6 sacks this season.

PHILADELPHIA
The Eagles passing game is led by quarterback Donovan McNabb who has passed for 1,829 yards and thrown 8 touchdowns this season. The running game is anchored by running back Brian Westbrook with 361 yards and 6 touchdowns, while rookie receiver DeSean Jackson leads the team with 32 receptions and 505 yards. The defense is led by defensive back Asante Samuel with 3 picks, while up front defensive linemen Darren Howard and Juqua Parker are the team leaders with 4 sacks each.

ST. LOUIS
The Rams running back Steven Jackson leads the team with 508 rushing yards this season. The team is led by Torry Holt with 26 receptions, while the rookie Donnie Avery leads the team with 337 yards receiving. The defense is led by defensive back Oshiomogho Atogwe with 4 interceptions, while defensive linemen Leonard Little and rookie Chris Long share the team lead with 4 sacks each.

SAN FRANCISCO
The Niners running back Frank Gore leads the team with 629 yards rushing and 32 receptions. Wide receiver Issac Bruce leads the team with 399 yards receiving, while he and Gore share the team lead with 4 touchdowns. Linebacker Patrick Willis leads the defense with 71 total tackles, including 57 solo.

SEATTLE
The Seahawks running back Julius Jones leads the team with 468 yards rushing this season. The team's rookie tight end John Carlson leads all receivers with 20 receptions and 214 yards. Running back TJ Duckett is the team leader with 4 touchdowns this season. The defense is led by linebacker Leroy Hill with 60 total tackles and defensive lineman Patrick Kerney with 5 sacks this season.

TAMPA BAY
The Buccaneers are lead on the ground by running back Earnest Graham with 489 yards rushing. Wide receiver Antonio Bryant leads the team with 37 receptions and 451 yards. Graham also leads the team with 4 touchdowns. The defense is led by linebacker Barrett Ruud with 58 total tackles. Defensive linemen Gaines Adams and Greg White share the team lead with 4 sacks each.

WASHINGTON
The Redskins running back Clinton Portis leads not only the team, but the league in rushing with 944 yards. The team is led by Santana Moss with 42 receptions and 658 receiving yards. Portis leads the team with 7 touchdowns this season. On the defense, linebacker London Fletcher leads the way with 67 tackles, including 45 solo.


AMERICAN FOOTBALL CONFERENCE

BALTIMORE
Despite all his injuries this season running back Willis McGahee still leads the team in rushing with 351 yards on the ground. The team's veteran leader wide receiver Derrick Mason leads the team with 34 receptions and 421 yards receiving. Running back LeRon McClain leads the team with 4 touchdowns. Linebacker Ray Lewis leads the defense with 51 total tackles this season.

BUFFALO
The Bills quarterback Trent Edwards has passed for 1,436 yards and thrown 5 touchdowns. Running back Marshawn Lynch leads the team with 123 carries and 450 rushing yards. Lynch also leads the team with 6 touchdowns. Wide receiver Lee Evans lead the Bills with 31 receptions and 637 yards receiving this season. On the defensive side, linebacker Paul Posluszny leads the team with 42 tackles.

CINCINNATI
The Bengal's running back Chris Perry leads the team with 253 yards rushing, while wide receiver TJ Houshmandzadeh leads the team with 54 receptions and 512 receiving yards. The defense is led by linebacker Dhani Jones with 66 tackles, including 44 solo.

CLEVELAND
The Brown's quarterback Derek Anderson leads the team with 1,235 yards passing and just 7 touchdowns thrown. Running back Jamal Lewis leads the team with 129 carries and 484 yards rushing. Wide receiver Braylon Edwards leads the team with 22 receptions and 371 yards receiving. Linebacker D'Qwell Jackson leads the team with 66 total tackles.

DENVER
The Broncos are led by quarterback Jay Cutler, who has passed for 1,862 yards and thrown 13 touchdowns. The Broncos running game is led by running back Michael Pittman with 69 carries and 316 yards on the ground. Wide receiver Brandon Marshall leads the team with 49 receptions and 598 yards receiving. The defense is led by linebacker DJ Williams with 69 total tackles, including 53 solo.

HOUSTON
The Texans are led by their quarterback Matt Schaub who has passed for 1,623 yards and thrown 10 touchdowns this season. The running game is anchored by rookie running back Steve Slaton with 104 carries and 476 yards on the ground. Wide receiver Andre Johnson leads the team with 56 receptions and 772 yards receiving while wideout Kevin Walter leads all receivers with 5 touchdowns. The defense is led by defensive lineman Mario Williams and his 7 sacks.

INDIANAPOLIS
The Colts are led by their quarterback Peyton Manning, who has passed for 1,754 yards this season and thrown 10 touchdowns. Running back Dominic Rhodes leads the team with 247 yards rushing. Running back Joseph Addai and wide receiver Reggie Wayne lead the team with 4 touchdowns each. On the defense, Gary Brackett leads the team with 60 total tackles and defensive linemen Robert Mathis leads the club with 5 sacks.

JACKSONVILLE
The Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew leads the team with 330 yards rushing and 5 touchdowns. Wide receiver Matt Jones leads the team with 38 receptions and 455 yards receiving this season. The defense is anchored by linebacker Mike Peterson with 43 total tackles, including 38 solo.

KANSAS CITY
The Chiefs running back Larry Johnson leads the team with 417 yards rushing, while wide receiver Dwayne Bowe leads the team with 40 receptions and 512 yards receiving. The defense is led by linebacker Derrick Johnson with 40 total tackles, including 36 solo.

MIAMI
The Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown leads the team with 406 yards rushing, while wide receiver Greg Camarillo leads the team with 32 receptions and 372 yards receiving. The defense is led by linebacker Joey Porter with 10 sacks this season.

OAKLAND
Despite his missing so much time to injury, rookie running back Darren McFadden leads the team with 341 yards on the ground. The team's tight end Zach Miller leads the team with 20 receptions and 312 yards receiving. The defense is led by defensive back Gibril Wilson with 61 total tackles, including 45 solo.

PITTSBURGH
The Steelers running back MeWelde Moore leads the team with 322 yards rushing, while wide receiver Hines Ward leads the team with 31 receptions and 406 yards receiving. Ward also leads the team with 5 touchdowns this season. On the other side of the ball, the team is led by linebacker James Farrior with 50 total tackles. Linebackers James Harrison and Lamarr Woodley share the team lead with 8 sacks each.

NEW ENGLAND
The Patriots passing game is led by wide receiver Wes Welker with 49 receptions, while receiver Randy Moss is the team leader with 471 yards receiving. The running game is lead by running back Sammy Morris with 307 yards. The defense is led by rookie linebacker Jerod Mayo with 48 total tackles, while linebacker Adalius Thomas leads the team with 5 sacks.

NEW YORK JETS
The Jets quarterback Brett Favre has passed for 1,611 yards this season, while throwing 15 touchdowns. Running back Thomas Jones leads the team with 532 yards rushing, while wide receiver Laveranues Coles leads the team with 37 receptions and 433 yards receiving. The defense is anchored by defensive back Kerry Rhodes with 41 total tackles, while defensive end Shaun Ellis leads the team with 6 sacks.

SAN DIEGO
The Chargers running back LaDanian Tomlinson leads the team with 551 yards. Wide receiver Vincent Jackson and tight end Antonio Gates are tied for the team lead with 30 receptions, while Gates and Chambers share the team lead with 5 touchdowns. The defense is led by defensive back Eric Weddle with 63 tackles, including 52 solo.

TENNESSEE
The Titan's running game is led by rookie running back Chris Johnson with 626 yards on the ground. Running back LenDale White leads the team with 10 rushing touchdowns this season. Tight end Bo Scaife leads the team with 28 receptions. On the defense side of the ball, the team is led by lineman Albert Haynesworth who has 6 sacks this season.


Check back every Saturday Night for the weekly ATL Report!

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FSH: FRIDAY'S 5X5

November 1st, 2008 7:01pm PST



[The Saturday Edition]
Friday's Five by Five (5x5)

5 players to start in Week 9....

1. The Buccaneer's RB Earnest Graham has a great fantasy matchup this week against the Chiefs. Graham has rushed for over 100 yards this season twice. This weekend facing a defense that has allowed 15 runs for more than 20 yards, and 14 rushing touchdowns (both worst in the NFL) Graham could be looking at a big day.
2. The Raiders RB Justin Fargas should have much success this weekend in the Black Hole facing the Falcons and their 23rd ranked run defense. Fargas is healthy and doesn't have to worry about McFadden challenging him for carries, so he should see the brunt of the load on Sunday. The Falcons allow 4.7 yards per carry, and Fargas should be able to find quite a few holes.
3. The Titans RB LenDale White has been rolling having scored 5 touchdowns in his last two games. Sunday he and Titans will host the Green Bay Packers who have not been successful against the run. Their 7 rushing touchdowns allowed is a good indication that White will have his chances on Sunday.
4. The Eagles are flying into Seattle this Sunday and when WR Kevin Curtis and Company land they will be bringing their 4th ranked pass offense. Curtis is coming off injury, but did play last week. This week he should see more action against a Seahawks defense that is ranked 30th against the pass allowing over 240 yards per game.
5. The Vikings passing game and WR Bernard Berrian have been showing signs of life over recent weeks. Berrian in particular has played extremely well with a touchdown reception in each of his last three games. Berrian will matchup against a Texan's secondary that has allowed 19 pass plays for 20 or more yards and 9 touchdown passes.

5 players to bench in Week 9...

1. The Lions signing of RB Rudi Johnson has not been particularly successful. Johnson is averaging 3.5 yards per carry, has just one rushing touchdown, and only 189 yards on the ground this year. This week is not a good matchup for Johnson against the Bears, and he will also likely lose carries to the rookie Kevin Smith.
2. The Cardinal's RB Edgerrin James actually has a good matchup this week against the Rams, but it is likely that the rookie Tim Hightower will get more opportunities to exploit. The writing is already on the wall, James' numbers are down and HC Ken Whisenhunt has already expressed his willingness to roll with the hotter hand "if it gives the team the best chance to win."
3. The Ravens appear to have gone in a new direction with the run game, which does not include RB LeRon McClain. The rookie has been stealing carries each week and now appears to be a regular part of the mix.
4. The Bear's WR Brandon Lloyd has been a limited participant in practice all week. There is a chance he could play, but the safe bet is to have the wideout on your bench this week until he's 100%.
5. With the addition of RB Cedric Benson (3.3 yds/carry), the Bengals have one worst rushing offenses this season. With Jacksonville next on the team's schedule, Sunday could be a long day for Benson or a short one if Bengal's fall behind quickly.

5 sleepers for Week 9...

1. Back in their Week 5 matchup, WR Rashied Davis had the chance to start and caught 6 passes for 97 yards. With Lloyd still expected to be limited, if he plays at all Davis will see many targets on Sunday and could have a productive day.
2. The Giants play host to the Cowboys this Sunday in a huge NFC East Showdown. With much of the defenses attention focused on the Giants primary offensive weapons, look for WR Steve Smith to hook up with Eli often underneath and over the middle.
3. With the likelihood of tight end Jason Witten (did not practice all week) being limited on Sunday, expect to see the rookie TE Martellus Bennett get involved in the team's passing game.
4. The Titan's have had their troubles with tight ends this season, as Dallas Clark's Monday night performance would indicate. The Packers TE Donald Lee has not been involved with the pass game much, but that could change quite a bit on Sunday.
5. While the Chiefs defense did make a few plays last week, they are still not very good and susceptible to the long ball (19 pass plays of 20 or more yards allowed). The Bucs are expected to run quite a bit, but will likely take shots with WR Joey Galloway, who could come up big.

5 players to Drop for Week 9...

1. For fantasy owners that drafted Bronco's running backs, if you picked up RB Andre Hall, he's seen his last days in the Denver backfield. It's well past time to drop Hall.
2. Another running back that has likely seen his last significant days in a backfield is Bengal's RB Chris Perry and his 2.6 yards per carry. Benson is the starter and Perry has become a distant memory with no carries in Week 7 & 8.
3. While some owners took a shot and in Week 2 it appeared it may pay-off, it's officially time to concede that RB Darren McFadden is too injury prone this season to keep on your roster. The risk is no longer worth the reward, drop him.
4. With the move made official earlier in the week with announcement of Shaun Hill as the team's starter, QB JT O'Sullivans' fate was sealed. The JTO experiment is over and it's time to let him go.
5. Fantasy owners are not likely to start QB Brad Johnson on Sunday against the Giants. With Romo set to return following the bye in Week 10, there's no reason to waste a roster spot with the aging veteran. Drop Johnson and find help you need at other positions.

5 players to watch for Week 9...

1. The Packers are not likely to have much success on the ground this week against Tennessee. Number three WR James Jones is now healthy and could be targeted in the red-zone this Sunday. Owners should keep their eyes on the former San Jose State Spartan.
2. The Eagles will see their complete receiving corp healthy on Sunday. Before his injuries had him on the sideline, WR Reggie Brown was becoming one of McNabb's favorite targets. Now back with a full compliment of weapons around him, Brown is worth watching.
3. The Steelers will have running back Fast Willie Parker back Monday night, but keep your eye on RB MeWelde Moore who still figures in the mix and will likely play a big role in the short passing game.
4. The Chiefs have had plenty of trouble in the backfield this season. With LJ out for the next few weeks and Kolby Smith ineffective, RB Jamaal Charles could get his shot soon. Keep your eye on the rookie this Sunday.
5. While it could be a bit premature to think you might see anything this soon, with the Bronco's backfield banged up keep your eye on rookie RB Ryan Torain who could see action this Sunday.

The Fantasy Double-Double...

Here are the not-so obvious plays for Week 9 at the Quarterback position.

Two Quarterbacks to start...

• The Packers QB Aaron Rodgers has been playing very well this season. This week he faces a tough matchup against the Titans defense, but the Pack won't run the ball, they will have to throw. I like Rodgers and his receivers against the Titans secondary. Last Monday night Manning and Co had some success, and the Packers passing unit (Jennings, Driver, etc) as a whole has been more consistent. Rodgers is the new golden boy in Lambeau, start him.
• The Rams offense has struggled, but last week QB Marc Bulger unleashed the team's newest weapon in rookie receiver Donnie Avery. With his new toy last week, the healthy Bulger passed for over 300 yards (1st time this season). When he was healthy in 2006, Bulger passed for over 300 yards in both meetings versus the Cardinals. Bulger should have another fine day of passing, start him.
  

Two Quarterbacks to sit...

• The Patriots QB Matt Cassell has a very tough matchup this week against the Colts. While Indy has not stellar against the pass, they will be at home on the turf and will be relying heavy on getting pressure from the outside speed rushers, Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis. In their last home game against the Ravens, the Colts defensive line registered 4 sacks, sit Cassell on Sunday.
• The Cowboys QB Brad Johnson has been a bad fantasy options since assuming the starting gig with Romo sidelined. This week he'll face one of the leagues fiercest pass rushes and with back up Brooks Bollinger seeing some reps this week, there is a very good chance Johnson may not even finish the game. Sit him down in Week 9.

The Weekly Trader News...

Stocks on the Rise

WR-Donnie Avery (STL)
The Rams speedy rookie receiver has seen a tremendous rise in his stock this past week. Following a big performance in Week 8, Avery will undoubtedly be grabbed up off most, if not all waiver wires. Fantasy owners, if you can make a move now for the kid, this is the time to buy as his value should continue to rise in the weak NFC West.

RB-LaDanian Tomlinson (SD)
The Chargers running back is off to one of his slowest starts this season, and many others may think he could be a bargain deal on the trading floor. Think again, last Sunday Tomlinson demanded the ball more and responded with his best game of the year (170 yards with a score). In the coming weeks LT will face the Chiefs (twice), Colts, Falcons, Raiders, and the Broncos, probably one of the easiest fantasy schedules you could hope to see. Following the bye, LT's value should continue to rise and he should have a good shot at finishing as one of the top 5 running backs in fantasy.

RB-Pierre Thomas (NO)
The Saints are on a bye week and right now is the best time to make a move for Thomas as a buy low. With the team off this week, some owners may lose sight of the fact the RB Deuce McAllister could be facing a possible suspension. Even when Reggie Bush returns, Thomas is a suitable compliment to share the backfield and could pick up the carries and goal-line chances that Deuce normally sees. It certainly looks like Deuce will eventually be suspended and when that happens Thomas' could see his value spike.

Stocks that are falling

WR-Terrell Owens (DAL)
For owners needing help at the receiver position, there may not be a better bargain right now, than the Cowboys Terrell Owens. His slow start this season and poor play has his fantasy value free-falling every week. With Johnson the starter, fantasy owners holding TO are likely to give him away. If you have the roster space and can use the help at WR, To is a bit of a risky play that can offer huge dividends. Remember Romo returns in Week 9 and TO will have Roy Williams opposite to help open things up in the passing game. Savvy owners that enjoy the high stakes shouldn't hesitate to make this move.

RB-Larry Johnson (KC)
Right now the Chiefs running back has a cloudy future at best. With his Week 10 suspension still to come, the former Nittany Lion could see his value bottom out this week. Surprisingly, Johnson could be one of those stocks that has a chance to pay off huge on the back end. Right now he is a buy low (probably as low as he will go), but eventually Johnson will be back on the field and with games left against the Raiders (wk 13), Broncos (wk 14), Chargers (wk 15), and the Dolphins (wk 16) he could be an extremely valuable commodity for your playoff run.

The Trading Floor

QB-Matt Ryan (ATL)
More than likely if you drafted the rookie QB Matt Ryan, you picked him up as one of you back up quarterbacks and he's sitting on your bench. His recent play has given the rookie substantial value on the market and if you're a savvy owner, you could parlay a nice trade move using the rookie. Ryan's value is peaking at the moment with his fine play and owner's will probably not see better offers down the road when he hits a few bumps. Make a deal now, while you can sell high.

RB-Michael Pittman (DEN)
With so much talk surrounding the anticipated debut of rookie running back Ryan Torain, owners with Michael Pittman may want to consider making a move now. Pittman has never been anything more than a journey-man running back. Although he has started in the past with other teams and is the current starter with the Broncos, he's not the long term solution in Denver. Pittman's value is as high as owners will probably see all year, with Torain healthy, Pittman could eventually lose carries and see his stock drop. Trade him now while he has value.

WR-Matt Jones (JAX)
The Jaguars receiver is one of those risky stocks that could eventually have a big pay day in the final quarter. With Jones about to face a possible suspension of multiple games, some owners may hesitate trying to acquire the former Razorback, while owners that have him may be interested in dealing. Jones has a couple of great matchups coming up (in week 9 & 10) and has a very favorable fantasy playoff schedule. If you have something to offer and have the roster space, Jones is a stock worth trading for.

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FSH: FANTASY FOOTBALL FIRE & ICE

October 31st, 2008 11:15am PST

WEEK 9 FANTASY FOOTBALL
THE FIRE & ICE REPORT
[By the Numbers]

MUCHOS EN FUEGO

Your weekly players on Fire...
So now we've hit week 9 and there's little doubt that every week fantasy owners have many options available to them when it comes to putting their winning line up together. Players like RB Clinton Portis, QB Kurt Warner or WR Andre Johnson help to make some of those decisions much easier, while others like WR Terrell Owens, RB LaDanian Tomlinson, and WR Chad Johnson are enough to drive owners mad. Always the telling tale for any decision to be made comes right down to numbers.

Like all fantasy owners that want to win, you know that your studs like Brees, Fitz, and Peterson are in, but what you don't know are which other players should play or sit. Here's the who doing what and who's was cashing in through 8 weeks of action to help you make those last minute lineup decisions.

....some of the hottest fantasy players through week 8...

Matt Ryan QB....the rookie quarterback has been spectacular of late. In his last three starts Ryan has passed for 772 yards completing 61 of 100 passes. Ryan has also thrown 5 touchdowns during that stretch.

Chad Pennington QB....very quietly the Dolphins quarterback has started making a lot of noise in fantasy this season. Over his past three starts Pennington has thrown for nearly 900 yards while completing 72% of his passes (65 of 90). Pennington has also thrown four touchdowns in the same span.

Matt Schaub QB....the Texans quarterback continues to be electric, throwing 3 more touchdowns in Week 8. In Schaub's last four games he has thrown for 1,233 yards completing 101 of 141 passes (71.6%) and tossed 9 scores.

MeWelde Moore RB.....in his last three games, Moore has been a solid fantasy play. The Steelers running back has averaged 115 yards of offense and scored 4 times.

Chris Johnson RB...in his last two starts the Titan's running back has played like a top tier back. Johnson has rushed for 245 yards, caught 6 passes for 23 yards and 2 touchdowns.

Thomas Jones RB....the Jets starting running back has totaled 51 fantasy points over his last three games. Jones has rushed for 278 yards and scored 4 touchdowns during his hot stretch.

Willis McGahee RB...the Raven's running back is starting to become more and more relevant each week. McGahee registered his first 100 yard game in Week 7, and for the second consecutive week he has found the end-zone.

Roddy White WR....the Falcon's receiver is quickly becoming an elite fantasy star this season. In Week 8 White recorded his third straight 100 yard receiving game and has scored in all three. White is among the leaders in catches, yards, and TDs.

Lee Evans WR...the Bills receiver has not been receiving quite the notoriety, that perhaps he should. Over his last four games Evans has averaged 98 yards receiving and scored in three of those matchups.

Dallas Clark TE...the Colts tight end has suddenly lit up. In his last two starts Clark has totaled 15 catches for 175 yards and on Monday night added his first two scores of the season.

Steve Smith WR...the Panthers receiving is suddenly catching fire and over his last five games he has caught no fewer than 5 passes. In the same stretch Smith has scored 4 times and is averaging 108 yards receiving.

Tony Gonzales TE....the Chiefs fans have not had much to cheer about this season, but over his last two starts Gonzo has been trying to change that. In his past two games Gonzales has 12 receptions, 176 yards receiving and one touchdown reception.

Flying near the Sun...
Here are some of this seasons' newest fantasy studs that are right on the verge of becoming your weekly must-starts, your fantasy team difference makers, or simply just players that are heating up and creeping back into fantasy relevance;

• Joe Flacco QB....the rookie has steadily been solid in his last two starts averaging 19 fantasy points.
• Leon Washington RB....the Jets scat back was huge in Week 8 scoring twice. In his last two starts Little Leon has scored 3 touchdowns.
• Marshawn Lynch RB....the Bills runner has scored in two straight games and is averaging
• LenDale White RB....the Titan's bull-dozer continues to be a strong play, with 5 touchdowns in his last two games.
• Donnie Avery WR....over his last three starts, the Rams rookie has totaled 14 receptions for 291 yards receiving and 2 touchdowns. Avery is averaging 20.7 yards per catch over the stretch.
• Steve Breaston WR....the Cards number three receiver has been on a roll with 33 receptions in his last four games for 392 yards.
• Dwayne Bowe WR....the Chiefs receiver continues to be a solid option despite. In his last two starts Bowe has 13 catches for 188 yards.
• Wes Welker WR....while his numbers have not been overly impressive, it should be noted that the Patriots receiver has been a solid WR3 option this season averaging

Warmin in the Oven...
Last week was more of the same with several players making noise like Drew Brees, Phillip Rivers, and Brian Westbrook. There's no question fantasy owners had these big guns in their line ups last week, but as week look at the best of the rest, one question to ask is "did you have these players in your line up?" Whether you or didn't, one thing to know, these are more "players on the watch" and this weeks' Fire-men!

• Tyler Thigpen QB....the Chiefs quarterback was solid in Week 8 with 280 yards passing and 2 TDs.
• David Garrard QB....the Jaguars quarterback was big last Sunday with 28 fantasy points.
• DeAngelo Williams RB....the Panthers running back ran for
• LaDanian Tomlinson RB....owners will be happy to see LT here. Last Sunday Tomlinson finished with 22 fantasy points.
• Jamal Lewis RB......the Browns runner totaled 88 yards with a touchdown in Week 8.
• Tedd Ginn Jr WR....the Dolphins receiver blew up for 175 yards receiving and 7 catches in Week 8.
• Matt Jones WR.....the Jag's 6'6" receiver played big in Week 8, finishing with 8 catches for 117 yards and a score.
• Antonio Gates TE....the Chargers tight end looked healthy and played well last Sunday, catching 6 balls for 96 yards and a score.
  

IN A DEEP FREEZE

The Icemen cometh...
Once again, it's that time of season, where there are things that go bump in the night, when you hear ghosts in the attics, and strange occurrences take place even in the NFL. The biggest unsolved mysteries take center stage, when for no apparent reason, players suddenly disappear and fall off fantasy football radars. Owners can run, but not hide because no matter where you go looking for fantasy help, the waiver wire, free agents, or the end of your fantasy team bench, the Icemen will still cometh...

Torry Holt WR....the Rams receiver continues to struggle this season. In 7 games this season he has just one touchdown and is averaging only 11 yards per reception.

James Hardy WR.....the Bills rookie is still waiting for a breakout game or just one worth mentioning. He has only 7 receptions this season.

Todd Heap TE.....the Ravens tight end is healthy now, but is still disappointing fantasy owners. He has just 59 yards receiving in his last three games.

Edgerrin James RB....the Cardinal's running back has been losing carries each week and his 46 yards rushing over his last two starts won't go very far to keep him on the field.

Kolby Smith RB....the Chiefs running back has been unimpressive in his two starts this season. He is averaging only 1.6 yards per carry (21 rushes for 35 yards) over his last two games.

Ben Roethlisberger QB....the Steelers quarterback struggled last week, committing 4 turnovers last Sunday in the team's loss to the Giants. Big Ben's fantasy total last week, 5 fantasy points.

Brad Johnson QB....the Cowboys quarterback has been less than spectacular as Romo's replacement. In his two starts, Johnson has passed for just 356 yards and thrown three interceptions. Johnson is also completing just 53% of his passes

Kerry Collins QB....the Titan's quarterback has been a good game manager, but has not been much of a fantasy play this season. In his last three starts Collins is averaging only 6 fantasy points.


M.I.A (Missing in Action)....
Another week of magic and yet another week of disappearing acts that were performed last Sunday. Here's a list of Fantasy Firemen whose flames were put out in week 8!

• Reggie Wayne WR....the Colts high flyer was held in check with just 3 catches for 29 yards.
• Julius Jones RB.....the Seahawks ball carrier totaled just 31 yards, including just 9 on the ground.
• Plaxico Burress WR...the Giants receiver was a late entry and finished the game with just 15 yards receiving.
• Jonathan Stewart RB....the Panthers running back finished with just 10 yards rushing last Sunday.
• Owen Daniels TE....the Texans receiver cooled off in Week 8 catching just 3 passes for only 21 yards.
• Jeremy Shockey TE...the Saints tight end was non-existent last Sunday with a single catch for 6 yards.
• Malcom Floyd WR...the Chargers deep threat finished with just one catch for 21 yards.
• Josh Morgan WR...the Niner's rookie receiver pulled a disappearing act and was held without a catch last week.
• John Carlson TE....the Seahawks leading receiver recorded only one catch for 13 yards last Sunday.
• JT O'Sullivan QB.....the Niner's quarterback added 3 more turnovers last week to his league leading total.

**all scoring averages based on traditional leagues standard scoring.

Check back again every week for more from the "Fantasy Football Fire & Ice Report."

http://www.fantasyfootballdirectory.com/

FSH: THE FANTASY E.R. (EYEBROW RAISERS)

November 1st, 2008 10:55am PST





THE FANTASY E.R.

Week Eight Surprises & "Eyebrow Raisers"

Every Week fantasy owners are desperately searching for that needed edge, something to get them over the hump and within grasp of that hard to reach "victory." With the waiver wires closing fast for the week, it's time to start looking anywhere and everywhere. With most leagues filled with free agents abound, searching for those hidden gems can be the same as looking for a needle in a haystack. For all of you fantasy gamers help is on the way as we take a look back at last week's performances from the not-so-elite. Fantasy owners take note of these gridiron gladiators that not only caught your eye, but raised a few eyebrows as well!

Strong Arms!
QB-JOE FLACCO (BAL)
The Ravens rookie quarterback was all purpose in Week 8, passing for 140 yards, rushing for 23, and adding a 43 yards reception. Flacco tossed one touchdown and also ran for another finishing off the big fantasy scoring day. (23-FPts)

QB-CHAD PENNINGTON (MIA)
If he hasn't found a home somewhere, the Dolphin's quarterback has sure made a case why he should. Over his last three starts Pennington has been a solid play and last Sunday he did not disappoint; (17-FPts)

QB-DAVID GARRARD (JAX)
The Jaguars quarterback finally started playing the like player he was a season ago. In Week 8 against the Browns, Garrard completed 25 of 42 passes, threw for 283 yards with 2 touchdown passes. Garrard also added 59 yards rushing for the day. (28-FPts)

QB-TYLER THIGPEN (KC)
Perhaps the biggest surprise last Sunday came in Jets-Chiefs game. Quarterback Tyler Thigpen nearly led the Chiefs to a huge upset over the Jets, completing 25 of 36 passes for 280 yards with two touchdowns. He also ran for 20 yards in the Week 8 loss. (25-FPts)

Crazy Legs!
RB-RAY RICE (BAL)
The Rookie running back got a chance to showcase some of his talents last weekend. His recent play has earned him more time on the field and last Sunday against the Raiders Rice ran the ball 8 times for 64 yards and also caught 3 passes for 37 yards. (9-FPts)

RB-RICKY WILLIAMS (MIA)
So far this season it has been the other back in the Dolphin's backfield making all the noise, but in Week 8 Williams got into the act. Ricky Williams only ran for 16 yards, but he found the end-zone once and added 43 receiving yards in the team's big win. (11-FPts)

RB-LEON WASHINGTON (NYJ)
The Jets versatile scat-back scored not once, but twice (one rush, one receive) last Sunday in the team's Week 8 home win. Washington was electric carrying the ball a mere 3 times, but scampering for 67 yards. He also chipped in 3 catches for another 34 yards. (21-FPts)

RB-DEUCE MCALLISTER (NO)
Deuce is being mentioned deservingly so, but it should also be noted he could be suspended very soon. Too bad for owners that rolled the Deuce in Week 8. You managed to take advantage of his 85 total yards and one touchdown performance, but likely won't see that against for a while. (14-FPts)

Good hands people!
WR-STEVE BREASTON (ARI)
The biggest surprise here, had to be with the return of Anquan Boldin, no drop in production for Steve Breaston. Owners in deeper leagues that made a dash to pick up Breatson, may want to continue to play him after his 9 catches for 91 yards in Week 8. (9-FPts)

WR-DONNIE AVERY (STL)
The rookie receiver exploded in Week 8 against the Patriots. The Rams wideout, Donnie Avery caught 6 passes for 163 yards and a 69 yard touchdown catch and run score. (22-FPts)

WR-MATT JONES (JAX)
The Jaguars wide receiver, Matt Jones finally had the breakout Sunday fantasy owners were hoping he'd have. All season Jones has been a steady play, but on Sunday in Week 8 Jones pulled in 8 passes for 117 receiving yards and added a score. (17-FPts)

WR-KEVIN WALTER (HOU)
The Texans number two receiver could be the best in the NFL with 5 receiving touchdowns this season. With his counterpart grabbing headlines each week, Walter continues to do the dirty work. Last Sunday the Texans receiver caught 5 passes for 70 yards and scored twice. (19-FPts)

TE-BILLY MILLER (NO)
With tight end Jeremy Shockey hobbling, Biller Miller emerged as a Week 8 surprise catching a number of passes. Miller raised a few eyebrows with his receiving totals; 7 receptions for 82 yards. (8-FPts)

IDP Leagues...
LB ZACH THOMAS (DAL)
The Cowboys high profile free-agent signing in the off-season, Zach Thomas led the defensive charge on Sunday with 11 tackles (including 8 solo). Fantasy owners looking for IDP help could do worse than Thomas as the LB position.

LB JOEY PORTER (MIA)
If he didn't catch your eye, there's no question this IDP had to catch the attention of his former team (Pittsburgh) that let him get away. Porter had a huge day in Week 8 with 5 solo tackles, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 sacks making him a solid IDP start.

DL SHAUN ROGERS (CLE)
Last Sunday, defensive tackle Shaun Rogers was an IDP monster against the Jaguars, recording 9 solo tackles and adding a sack in the team's week 8 win over Jacksonville.

DL CHRIS LONG (STL)
The Rams rookie defensive lineman was noteworthy IDP start with 4 tackles and two sacks last week in the team's Week 8 loss to the Patriots. Long now has 4 sacks for the year.

More notable surprises from some fantasy "Hidden-Jewels"

• The Patriots running game got a lift in Week 8 from RB Kevin Faulk, who rushed 13 times for 60 yards on the ground and added 4 receptions for 47 yards and a touchdown.
• The Rams were without one of their big guns last Sunday, but RB Antonio Pittman was admirable replacement. Pittman carried the rock 19 times for 83 yards (4.3 yds/carry) and added 3 catches for 25 yards. (10-FPts)
• The Chiefs newest addition to the passing game, WR Mark Bradley raised a few eyebrows last Sunday. Bradley caught 5 passes for only 42 yards, but did have a touchdown. (10-FPts)
• The Rams QB Marc Bulger finally broke out of his slump in Week 8. Against the Patriots Bulger completed 18 of 34 passes for 304 yards passing with a touchdown and a pick. (16-FPts)
• The Giants don't miss their former tight end that plays in New Orleans these days. In week 8, TE Kevin Boss helped the team to forget the former just a little more. Last Sunday Boss caught 4 passes for 34 yards and a touchdown. (9-FPts)
• The Steelers WR Nate Washington only caught one pass, but it was enough to turn a few heads and raise a few eyebrows. Washington connected with his quarterback on a 65 yard touchdown strike in Week 8. (12-FPts)
• The Steelers also received another surprise performance from RB MeWelde Moore who carried the ball 19 times for 84 yards, caught the ball 2 times for another 10 yards, and added one touchdown. (15-FPts)
• The Jaguars WR Reggie Williams found the end-zone in Week 8 and finished the day with 3 catches for 42 yards and a touchdown (10-FPts)
• With the team's starter sitting last Sunday, TE Steve Heiden came up with a few big plays and continues to raise many eyebrows. Heiden was active in the pass game last week, pulling in 3 passes for 73 yards. (7-FPts)

Keep watching every Sunday for more "Eyebrow raising" performances from some of those guys you didn't expect to see on the highlight reel!

**noted scoring based on standard rules.

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FSH: NFL Injury Report (Week 9)

October 31st, 2008 11:47pm PST


NFL WEEK 9 KEY INJURIES...

AFC

Baltimore Ravens
WR Yamon Figurs (knee), and LB Brendon Ayanbadejo (ankle) are probable. RB Willis McGahee (ankle), OT Jared Gaither (neck), OT Adam Terry (knee), and CB Frank Walker (thigh) are listed as questionable. CB Chris McAlister (knee) and CB Samari Rolle (neck) are doubtful. TE Daniel Wilcox (thigh) and SS Dawan Landry (neck) have been ruled OUT.

Buffalo Bills
QB Trent Edwards (ankle), OG Jason Whittle (thigh), CB Ashton Youboty (foot), and SS John Wendling (ankle) are probable. WR Josh Reed (ankle), OL Brad Butler (knee), and DL Aaron Schobel (foot) have been ruled OUT.

Cincinnati Bengals
WR Glenn Holt (chest), WR Chad Johnson (foot), TE Reggie Kelly (neck), TE Ben Utecht (chest), DL Jonathan Fanene (hamstring), DL Domata Peko (ankle), CB Jamar Fletcher (hamstring), FS Chinedum Ndukwe (ribs) are probable. LB Rashad Jeanty (foot) is questionable. QB Carson Palmer (elbow), WR Andre Caldwell (foot), and WR Jerome Simpson (ankle) have been ruled OUT.

Cleveland Browns
WR Donte' Stallworth (quadriceps), DL Shaun Smith (hand), DL Corey Williams (shoulder), LB Shantee Orr (foot), SS Sean Jones (knee), and FS Mike Adams (hamstring) are questionable. FB Lawrence Vickers (ankle) is doubtful. OT Ryan Tucker (knee) has been ruled OUT.

Denver Broncos
WR Brandon Marshall (groin) and DL Dewayne Robertson (knee) are probable. RB Andre Hall (ankle), RB Michael Pittman (ribs), RB Ryan Torain (elbow), RB Selvin Young (groin), WR Brandon Stokley (concussion), and TE Tony Scheffler (groin) are questionable. CB Champ Bailey (groin) has been ruled OUT.

Houston Texans
WR Kevin Walter (knee) and SS Dominique Barber (hamstring) are probable. RB Ahman Green (thigh) and LB Zac Diles (hamstring) are questionable. WR Andre' Davis (finger) has been ruled OUT.

Indianapolis Colts
RB Joseph Addai (hamstring), RB Clifton Dawson (concussion), RB Dominic Rhodes (ankle), WR Reggie Wayne (knee), TE Tom Santi (shoulder), LB Freddie Keiaho (knee), CB Kelvin Hayden (knee), CB Dante Hughes (ankle), and FS Bob Sanders (ankle/knee) are questionable. WR Roy Hall (knee) has been ruled OUT.

Jacksonville Jaguars
WR Reggie Williams (hamstring) and CB Rashean Mathis (foot) are probable. WR Mike Walker (knee) has been ruled OUT. Kansas City Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles (ankle), CB Brandon Flowers (foot), and FS Jarrad Page (groin) are probable. P Dustin Colquitt (groin), LB Weston Dacus (groin), and CB Patrick Surtain (quadriceps) are questionable.

Miami Dolphins
FB Casey Cramer (ankle) has been ruled OUT.

New England Patriots
RB LaMont Jordan (calf), WR Matt Slater (ankle), OT Nick Kaczur (ankle), DL Jarvis Green (ankle), LB Eric Alexander (hamstring), and CB Ellis Hobbs (shoulder) are questionable. RB Sammy Morris (knee), LB Shawn Crable (shin), and CB Lewis Sanders (hamstring) are doubtful.

New York Jets
WR Laveranues Coles (thigh) and WR Jerricho Cotchery (shoulder) are probable. TE Chris Baker (hip) and LB Cody Spencer (shoulder) are questionable. TE Bubba Franks (hip) and LB David Harris (groin) are doubtful. PK Mike Nugent (thigh) and FS Eric Smith (head) have been ruled OUT.

Oakland Raiders
QB Andrew Walter (calf), CB Chris X. Johnson (back), SS Gibril Wilson (toe), and FS Michael Huff (thumb) are probable. RB Darren McFadden (toe), DL Derrick Burgess (triceps), LB Jon Alston (foot), and LB Ricky Brown (groin) are doubtful.

Pittsburgh Steelers
QB Ben Roethlisberger (shoulder), RB Willie Parker (knee), OG Chris Kemoeatu (ankle), DL Casey Hampton (toe), LB LaMarr Woodley (calf), and SS Troy Polamalu (personal) are probable. OT Marvel Smith (back), LB Keyaron Fox (hamstring), CB Bryant McFadden (forearm), and FS Ryan Clark (shoulder) have been ruled OUT.

Tennessee Titans
RB Quinton Ganther (concussion) and DL Dave Ball (concussion) are probable. DL Kyle Vanden Bosch (groin) and CB Chris Carr (back) are questionable. DL William Hayes (illness) is doubtful. LB Colin Allred (groin) has been ruled OUT.


NFC

Arizona Cardinals

PK Neil Rackers (calf), CB Eric Green (knee), and SS Aaron Francisco (ankle) are probable. WR Early Doucet (groin), WR Sean Morey (hamstring), TE Ben Patrick (knee), and DL Travis LaBoy (groin) are questionable. TE Leonard Pope (ankle) has been ruled OUT.

Atlanta Falcons

RB Jerious Norwood (concussion), WR Laurent Robinson (knee), OT Todd Weiner (knee), DL Jamaal Anderson (concussion), DL Grady Jackson (knee), LB Michael Boley (quadriceps), LB Stephen Nicholas (quadriceps), and CB Brent Grimes (knee) are questionable. OL Sam Baker (back/hip) has been ruled OUT.

Chicago Bears

WR Marty Booker (knee), DL Tommie Harris (knee), CB Charles Tillman (shoulder), and CB Nathan Vasher (wrist) are probable. WR Brandon Lloyd (knee), LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (thumb), and FS Danieal Manning (hamstring) are listed as questionable.

Dallas Cowboys

LB Anthony Spencer (hamstring), CB Anthony Henry (thigh), and FS Pat Watkins (neck) are probable. TE Jason Witten (ribs) is questionable. QB Tony Romo (finger), RB Felix Jones (hamstring), OG Kyle Kosier (foot), and CB Terence Newman (abdomen) have been ruled OUT.

Detroit Lions

OG Damion Cook (knee) and C Andy McCollum (finger) are questionable. TE Casey FitzSimmons (ribs) is doubtful. FB Jerome Felton (ankle), DL Chuck Darby (calf), DL Cory Redding (groin), LB Jordon Dizon (hamstring), and FS Dwight Smith (foot) have been ruled OUT.

Green Bay Packers

QB Aaron Rodgers (shoulder), OT Chad Clifton (knee), DL Jason Hunter (hamstring), LB Danny Lansanah (hamstring), CB Charles Woodson (toe) are probable. WR Jordy Nelson (ankle) is questionable. LB Desmond Bishop (hamstring) is doubtful.

Minnesota Vikings

WR Sidney Rice (knee), DL Ray Edwards (knee), and FS Madieu Williams (neck) are probable. TE Garrett Mills (ankle) is questionable. LB Dave Herron (hip) has been ruled OUT.

New York Giants

DL Fred Robbins (hand) and LB Bryan Kehl (toe) are both probable. LB Gerris Wilkinson (knee) and CB Kevin Dockery (back) have been ruled OUT.

Philadelphia Eagles

RB Brian Westbrook (ribs), WR Reggie Brown (groin), WR DeSean Jackson (shoulder), and DL Juqua Parker (knee) are probable. WR Jason Avant (trapezius) is questionable. TE L.J. Smith (concussion) and OG Shawn Andrews (back) have been ruled OUT.

Seattle Seahawks

WR Koren Robinson (knee) is probable. FB Leonard Weaver (foot) and LB Lofa Tatupu (groin) are questionable. QB Matt Hasselbeck (back), WR Deion Branch (heel), TE Will Heller (knee), and DL Patrick Kerney (shoulder) have been ruled OUT.

St. Louis Rams

RB Steven Jackson (thigh), DL Adam Carriker (ankle), DL Leonard Little (hamstring), and CB Tye Hill (knee) are questionable. WR Drew Bennett (foot) and FS Todd Johnson (kidney) have been ruled OUT.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

QB Brian Griese (elbow), RB Warrick Dunn (back), FB B.J. Askew (hamstring), WR Michael Clayton (knee), WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder), WR Maurice Stovall (hamstring), OL Arron Sears (back), and DL Jovan Haye (foot) are questionable. SS Jermaine Phillips (forearm) has been ruled OUT.

Washington Redskins

RB Rock Cartwright (knee), RB Clinton Portis (ankle), OG Pete Kendall (knee), DL Lorenzo Alexander (toe), LB Marcus Washington (hip), CB Fred Smoot (groin), and SS Chris Horton (ankle) are probable. WR Santana Moss (hamstring), OT Chris Samuels (knee), DL Cornelius Griffin (shoulder), CB Carlos Rogers (calf), and SS LaRon Landry (hamstring) are listed as questionable. RB Ladell Betts (knee), WR Malcolm Kelly (knee), DL Jason Taylor (calf), and CB Shawn Springs (calf) have been ruled OUT.

http://www.fantasyfootballdirectory.com/

FSH: NFL WEEKLY ROUND-UP (WEEK 9)

October 31st, 2008 10:47pm PST


NFL NEWS...
FRIDAY'S HEADLINES


**LJ to be suspended for Week 10...
....the Chiefs superstar running back has been suspended and will miss weeks 9 & 10. RB Kolby Smith is slated to start, but watch for Jamaal Charles, who is expected to play Sunday. The rookie will backup Smith, but will see plenty of action. Neither are worth a fantasy spot at this time.

**Action Jackson practices Friday...
....the news is good that Jackson practices, although HC Haslett indicated that Jackson will likely be game-time. For Jackson owners, RB Antonio Pittman could be a valuable pick up this week.

**Torain expected to play Sunday...
....while HC Shanahan expresses his desire to hold the rookie out at least another week, it's starting to look like he'll see some time this week, but not enough to gamble a fantasy start with.

**Moss does not practice, to be game-time...
....the Redskins explosive receiver was slowed up late in last Sunday's game with a hamstring injury. With the extra day of rest Moss should be available Monday night, but owners will have to gamble on Sunday and make that call.

**Parker will play Monday night...
....while Parker looks ready to go, owners holding Moore may want to go ahead and start him Monday night. The Redskins have a tough run defense and Moore will likely be heavily involved with the Steeler's passing game.

**New faces at the tight end position for Week 9...
....it looks like tight end Jason Witten will be a game-time decision, meaning rookie tight end Martellus Bennett could start this Sunday. In Philly, tight end LJ Smith is still woozy from the shot he took from Falcons DB Lawyer Milloy last Sunday. Back up tight end Brent Celek will start in LJ's place. Both Celek and Bennett could be safe flex plays this week as starters.


Looking for an edge?
Don't forget to check out the Friday practice report. You already know your player is hurt, but will he play, how will he perform? Check the Friday practice report for all of the latest and telling information you need to make those last minute line-up decisions!

FRIDAY'S PRACTICE REPORT
Notable players listed (included IDP)

AFC

Baltimore Ravens

RB Willis McGahee (knee) was limited in practice, FB Le'Ron McClain (ankle) practiced in full, WR Yamon Figurs (knee) practiced in full, TE Daniel Wilcox (thigh) missed the team's practice, TE Todd Heap (neck) practiced in full, LB Brendon Ayanbadejo (ankle) practiced in full, CB Chris McAlister (knee) missed the team's practice, CB Samari Rolle (neck) was limited in practice, and FS Ed Reed (shoulder, neck) practiced in full Friday.

Buffalo Bills

QB Trent Edwards (ankle) practiced in full, WR Josh Reed (Achilles') missed the team's practice, OG Jason Whittle (quadriceps) practiced in full, and CB Terrence McGee (knee) practiced in full Friday.

Cincinnati Bengals

WR Glenn Holt (chest) practiced, WR Chad Johnson (foot) was limited in practice, TE Ben Utecht (chest) practiced, TE Reggie Kelly (neck) practiced, LB Rashad Jeanty (foot) practiced, CB Jamar Fletcher (hamstring) practiced, and FS Chinedum Ndukwe (ribs) practiced Friday.

Cleveland Browns

FB Lawrence Vickers (ankle) did not participate in practice, WR Donte' Stallworth (quadriceps) was limited during practice, OT Ryan Tucker (knee) did not participate in practice, DL Corey Williams (shoulder) was limited during practice, DL Shaun Smith (hand) was limited during practice, LB Shantee Orr (foot) was limited during practice, FS Mike Adams (hamstring) was limited during practice, and SS Sean Jones (knee) was limited during practice Friday.

Denver Broncos

RB Andre Hall (ankle) participated in practice, RB Michael Pittman (ribs) fully participated in practice, RB Ryan Torain (elbow) fully participated in practice, RB Selvin Young (groin) was limited during practice, WR Brandon Stokley (concussion) participated in practice, and TE Tony Scheffler (groin) was limited during practice Friday.

Houston Texans

RB Ahman Green (groin, hamstring) was limited in practice, WR Kevin Walter (knee) practiced, WR Andre' Davis (finger) missed the team's practice, and SS Dominique Barber (hamstring) practiced Friday.

Indianapolis Colts

RB Dominic Rhodes (ankle) participated in practice, RB Joseph Addai (hamstring) participated in practice, RB Clifton Dawson (concussion) did not participate in practice, WR Reggie Wayne (knee) was limited during practice, TE Tom Santi (shoulder) did not participate in practice, LB Freddie Keiaho (knee) did not participate in practice, CB Dante Hughes (ankle) did not participate in practice, and CB Kelvin Hayden (knee, hamstring) did not participate in practice Friday.

Jacksonville Jaguars

WR Mike Walker (knee) did not participate in practice,WR Reggie Williams (hamstring) was limited during practice, CB Rashean Mathis (foot) did not participate in practice, and PK Josh Scobee (thumb) participated in practice Friday.

Kansas City Chiefs

RB Jamaal Charles (ankle) was limited during practice, CB Brandon Flowers (foot) did not participate in practice, CB Patrick Surtain (quadriceps) did not participate in practice, FS Jarrad Page (groin) was limited during practice, and P Dustin Colquitt (groin) did not participate in practice Friday.

Miami Dolphins

FB Casey Cramer (ankle) fully participated in practice, DL Jason Ferguson (oblique) fully participated in practice, and CB Will D. Allen (knee) fully participated in practice Friday.

New England Patriots

RB Sammy Morris (knee) did not participate in practice, RB LaMont Jordan (calf) was limited during practice, WR Randy Moss (foot) fully participated in practice, OT Nick Kaczur (ankle) was limited during practice, DL Jarvis Green (ankle) was limited during practice, LB Eric Alexander (hamstring) was limited during practice, CB Ellis Hobbs (shoulder) was limited during practice Friday.

New York Jets

WR Jerricho Cotchery (shoulder) participated in practice, WR Laveranues Coles (hamstring) participated in practice, TE Chris Baker (back, hip) was limited during practice, TE Bubba Franks (groin) did not participate in practice, OT Damien Woody (calf) fully participated in practice, LB David Harris (groin) did not participate in practice, LB Cody Spencer (shoulder) was limited during practice, FS Eric Smith (head) did not participate in practice, and PK Mike Nugent (hamstring) did not participate in practice Friday.

Oakland Raiders

QB Andrew Walter (calf) practiced, RB Darren McFadden (toe) missed the team's practice, DE Derrick Burgess (triceps) missed the team's practice, SS Michael Huff (thumb) practiced, and S Gibril Wilson (toe) practiced Friday.

Pittsburgh Steelers

QB Ben Roethlisberger (shoulder) fully participated in practice, RB Willie Parker (knee) fully participated in practice, DL Casey Hampton (toe) participated in practice, LB Keyaron Fox (calf) did not participate in practice, LB LaMarr Woodley (calf) participated in practice, CB Bryant McFadden (arm) did not participate in practice, CB Deshea Townsend (heel) participated in practice, and FS Ryan Clark (shoulder) did not participate in practice Friday.

San Diego Chargers

No report.

Tennessee Titans

QB Vince Young (illness) participated in practice, DL William Hayes (illness) did not participated in practice, DL Kyle Vanden Bosch (groin) participated in practice, DL Dave Ball (concussion) participated in practice, and CB Chris Carr (back) participated in practice Friday.


NFC

Arizona Cardinals

WR Early Doucet (groin) was limited during practice, TE Ben Patrick (knee) was limited during practice, TE Leonard Pope (ankle) did not participate in practice, DL Travis LaBoy (groin) was limited during practice, CB Eric Green (knee) was limited during practice, and PK Neil Rackers (calf) participated in practice Friday.

Atlanta Falcons

RB Jerious Norwood (concussion) was limited during practice, WR Laurent Robinson (knee) fully participated in practice, OT Todd Weiner (knee) was limited during practice, OT Sam Baker (hip, back) did not participate in practice, DL Jamaal Anderson (concussion) was limited during practice, DL Grady Jackson (knee) was limited during practice, LB Michael Boley (quadriceps) was limited during practice, and CB Brent Grimes (knee) was limited during practice Friday.

Chicago Bears

WR Marty Booker (undisclosed) fully participated in practice, WR Brandon Lloyd (knee) was limited during practice, DL Tommie Harris (knee) fully participated in practice, LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (thumb) was limited during practice, CB Charles Tillman (shoulder) participated in practice, CB Nathan Vasher (hand, wrist) participated in practice, and CB Danieal Manning (hamstring) was limited during practice Friday,

Dallas Cowboys

QB Tony Romo (finger) did not participate in practice,RB Felix Jones (hamstring) did not participate in practice, TE Jason Witten (ribs) did not participate in practice, LB Anthony Spencer (hamstring) fully participated in practice, CB Terence Newman (groin, abdomen) did not participate in practice, CB Anthony Henry (quadriceps) fully participated in practice, and FS Pat Watkins (stinger) fully participated in practice Friday.

Detroit Lions

FB Jerome Felton (ankle) did not participate in practice, TE Casey FitzSimmons (ribs) did not participate in practice, OG Andy McCollum (finger) was limited during practice, OG Damion Cook (knee) was limited during practice, DL Cory Redding (groin) was limited during practice, and FS Dwight Smith (foot) has been ruled out of the team's Week 9 game.

Green Bay Packers

QB Aaron Rodgers (shoulder) was limited during practice, WR James Jones (knee) fully participated in practice, WR Jordy Nelson (ankle) did not participate in practice, DL Ryan Pickett (knee, triceps) fully participated in practice, LB Desmond Bishop (hamstring) did not participate in practice, CB Charles Woodson (toe) was limited during practice, and SS Atari Bigby (hamstring) fully participated in practice Friday.

Minnesota Vikings

WR Sidney Rice (knee) fully participated in practice, TE Garrett Mills (ankle) was limited during practice, DL Ray Edwards (knee) fully participated in practice, LB Dave Herron (hip) did not participate in practice, and FS Madieu Williams (neck) fully participated in practice Friday.

Philadelphia Eagles

RB Brian Westbrook (ankle, ribs) fully participated in practice, WR DeSean Jackson (shoulder) fully participated in practice, WR Reggie Brown (groin) fully participated in practice, TE L.J. Smith (concussion) will not play in the team's Week 9 game, OG Shawn Andrews (back) did not participate in practice, Philadelphia Eagles DL Juqua Parker (knee) did not practice, and CB Asante Samuel (hip) participated in practice Friday.

New York Giants

DL Fred Robbins (hand) fully participated in practice, LB Bryan Kehl (toe) fully participated in practice, and CB Kevin Dockery (back) did not participate in practice Friday.

Seattle Seahawks

QB Matt Hasselbeck (back) did not participate in practice, FB Leonard Weaver (foot) did not participate in practice, WR Koren Robinson (knee) participated in practice, WR Deion Branch (heel) did not participate in practice, DL Patrick Kerney (shoulder) did not participate in practice, and LB Lofa Tatupu (groin) did not participate in practice Friday

St. Louis Rams

RB Steven Jackson (quadriceps) did limited work during practice, WR Drew Bennett (foot) did not participate in practice, DL Adam Carriker (ankle) did some team drills during practice, DL Leonard Little (hamstring) did about a third of the team reps during practice, and CB Tye Hill (knee) fully participated in practice Friday.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

QB Brian Griese (elbow) was limited during practice, RB Warrick Dunn (back) did not participate in practice, FB B.J. Askew (hamstring) was limited during practice, WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder) was limited during practice, WR Michael Clayton (knee) participated in practice, WR Maurice Stovall (hamstring) was limited during practice, OG Arron Sears (head, back) did not participate in practice, and DL Jovan Haye (foot) was limited during practice Friday.

Washington Redskins

RB Ladell Betts (knee) did not participate in practice, RB Clinton Portis (hip, foot) was limited during practice, RB Rock Cartwright (knee) fully participated in practice, WR Santana Moss (hamstring) did not participate in practice, OG Pete Kendall (knees) fully participated in practice, OT Chris Samuels (knee) fully participated in practice, DL Jason Taylor (calf) did not participate in practice, DL Cornelius Griffin (shoulder) fully participated in practice, LB Marcus Washington (hip) fully participated in practice, CB Carlos Rogers (heel) fully participated in practice, CB Fred Smoot (groin) fully participated in practice, CB Shawn Springs (calf) did not participate in practice, and SS LaRon Landry (hamstring) was limited during practice Friday.

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST (Fantasy News)

October 30th, 2008 10:30pm PST





David's Daily Digest
Fantasy News

EARTH-SHAKERS! PLAY-MAKERS! GAME-BREAKERS!


**Quarterbacks**

Gray likely to be elevated to number two behind Thigpen...
....although Gray has only been with the team about a week, this move was not too surprising. Thigpen was good in Week 8, but unless he sustains that level of play, it would appear the plan will be for Gray to eventually takeover the reigns.

Rodgers not expected to do much throwing Friday...
....the Packers quarterback warmed up the heater (his arm) quite a bit on Wednesday and Thursday. It sounds like Rodgers is getting healthy and should be ready for the Titans on Sunday. The no-throw on Friday is just to rest the shoulder.

Cowboys will likely stay with Johnson as starter against Giants...
....the Washington Times is reporting that Brad Johnson will make his third straight start for the Cowboys on Sunday. With back-up Brooks Bollinger seeing some time with the first team this week, Johnson could be on a short leash. He's not worth a starting spot this week on any rosters.


**Running backs**

Hall likely to be limited to special teams...
....following a disastrous Week 7, the Broncos running back Andre Hall has been practicing, although it is not expected that he will see much time in the backfield. Turnovers in Week 7 will likely relegate Hall's playing time to only special teams, where he's been effective in coverage.

Charles limited Wednesday in practice by ankle injury...
....the Chiefs running back is looking more like a sit for Week 9, with the ankle injury. Owners should not count on running back Kolby Smith to offer any value this week against the Buccaneers defense.

Parker practices in full, but still not certain for Sunday...
....with a Monday night game this week, Parker will be afforded the extra day of rest. As long as he suffers no setbacks this week during practice, he's a good bet to start Monday night. Even if Parker does start MeWelde Moore should see some significant playing time.


**Wide Receivers**

Williams slowly climbing the ladder in Dallas...
....the Cowboys have gradually been working Roy Williams into the offense. This week against a big pass rush like the Giants, a big target could be a commodity on Sunday. Expect to see William's role and involvement increase this Week.

Brown practicing and expected to play this week...
....the Eagles receiver appears to be over his groin injury and should play Sunday against the Seahawks. With Curtis and Jackson the current starters, Brown's production could be limited. Consider the Eagles third receiver, nothing more than an average flex play this week.

Jones back to practicing without incident this week....
....the Packers will need all the good news they can get this week against the Titans. Jones' return should help open up coverage for Jennings and Driver who are normal plays. Coming off the knee injury, don't count on much from Jones who should be


**Tight Ends**

Bennett to start for Cowboys if Witten can't go...
....the writing has been on the wall with this one. TE Martellus Bennett has shown a lot of athletic ability and could be a nice fill-in for the injured Witten. Owners, if you have the chance should handcuff the rookie tight end.

With LJ sidelined, TE Celek will likely start Sunday...
....the Eagles back up tight end is actually a good receiving tight end. Like the Witten-Bennett situation in Dallas, Celek could be a nice replacement fill for the week. Smith usually plays a big role in the red-zone, which could spell scoring chances for Celek, keep watch.


***IDP: Individual Defense***

Freeney sits Wednesday, but expected to start...
.......it appears the Colts are merely trying to heal old wounds. Freeney's absence from Wednesday's practice was just a move to allow the defensive end to heal. He will start Sunday against New England and is an IDP must start.

Harris now listed atop depth chart in Minnesota...
........it appears Harris is now the Vikings starter at middle linebacker. Harris has tallied as many as 116 tackles in a season and although recorded only 5 tackles in his first game with the Vikings, he can now be considered an every week start in IDP leagues.

With Bailey sidelined Paymah will be tested Sunday...
........with Champ out, there's no question the Dolphins will go at Paymah with WR Tedd Ginn Jr. In IDP leagues there are no penalties for catches and yards allowed, but there's big pay-offs for picks. Owners trying to pick up points can expect Paymah to get many chances.


Check back soon for more "David's Daily Digest" and fantasy news...

By The Prodigy


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WEEK 9 PLAYERS ON THE MOVE

October 29th, 2008 11:49pm PST

Players On The Move
(WEEK 9 WAIVER WIRE)

Eight weeks are down and it's time for the back stretch run. If you've drafted well and have made all the right moves to this point, you are sitting pretty. When you are looking back at the competition, while they try to catch up, now is not the time for complacency. You may have some weekly studs you are leaning on, but be sure to check your schedules, analyze those matchups, and if you want to win, find your Golden Ticket.

Willy Wants Ya (Weekly)"Golden Ticket"

This week's Tickets...

No matter how deep we get into the season, every week it seems we are finding new names or resurrecting old ones that have found relevance and could be one of those missing pieces your team needs to win its’ league Championship. Entering week 9 of the schedule, things are no different especially for those fantasy owners still "searching the scrap heaps" to plug a few holes in their fantasy armor!

QB-Chad Pennington (Mia)....the Dolphins quarterback has been playing very well of late and has put together a nice string of starts. Over his last three games, Pennington has passed for an average of nearly 300 yards and thrown 4 touchdowns. Pennington remains a solid QB2 option and could be a nice bye week fill in (against the Broncos) for those owners that will have to sit the likes of Brees, Rivers, and Delhomme.

WR-Matt Jones (Jax)....the Jaguars receiver has been steady all season, but not explosive. That all changed last Sunday when Jones, targeted 16 times exploded for 8 catches, 117 yards receiving and a score. Jones is the clear number receiver in Jacksonville. With his possible suspension looming some owners may hesitate to make this move, but grab him. Jones has appealed the suspension and may play the next couple of games against the Bengals and Lions. If and when he is suspended, Jones could return in time for the fantasy playoffs, where he again has favorable matchups (Chicago, Green Bay, and Indianapolis).

WR-Kevin Walter (Hou)....while the Texans All-Pro receiver Andre Johnson is grabbing all of the headlines, their number two receiver has been stealing some of the glory. Last Sunday Walter scored his 4th & 5th touchdowns for the season, while posting 5 catches for 70 yards against the Bengals. Walter has been hot and cold this season making him a bit of a risky play, but he could be a nice WR3 that offers a huge upside. In four of his starts this season, Walter has scored 10, 19, 9, and 19 fantasy points (standard scoring).

More “Big Boys on the Move"...

If you are checking the "Waiver wires" and testing the deep waters hoping to find something that floats this week, here are a few names of some players that could be making more fantasy noise very soon in a neighborhood near you;

Shaun Hill QB (SF)-....there's no question after the benching of JTO and the insertion of quarterback Shaun Hill, a lot of fantasy owners will be joining this band wagon. While it's really too early to tell what to make of Hill, his one half of action (15 of 23 for 173 yards and a TD) was a good sign for the hopeful. If you are in desperate need, Hill could be worth taking a look playing in the weak NFC West division, but we'd recommend a little caution with this play.

Kevin Faulk RB (NE)-....with the backfield still banged up in New England (Morris-OUT and Jordan-Questionable), Kevin Faulk looks like the right play for Week 9. Faulk was the featured back last Sunday with 17 touches. He gained a total of 107 yards and had one touchdown against the Rams. Faulk saw plenty of carries last week and since he is the premiere third down back in Foxboro, fantasy owners looking for options can consider him a nice flex play in week 9 against the Colts.

Pierre Thomas RB (NO)-....the Saints are on a bye week this coming Sunday and with Reggie Bush (knee) sidelined the consensus has been to grab RB Deuce McAllister. With the team off this week, some fantasy owners may overlook the fact that McAllister faces the possibility of suspension. Now would be the time to make a move for RB Pierre Thomas. Playing behind Deuce and Bush, Thomas has not seen much action on the field, but with the two due to miss time, that all could change.

"Diamonds in the Rough"

Just when you think you are out of options and need to take chances, that's when it's time to start shopping for players that could come into play sooner or later down the line. These are the "hidden jewels' whose shine has yet to break through, but just need a foot in the door.

Your Week 9 Deep Sleepers...

Martellus Bennett TE (Dal).....the word out of Dallas is mixed concerning tight Jason Witten. Initial reports indicate that Witten would be better served sitting this Sunday and healing, but we are hearing he intends to play. Either way, with the bye week ahead in week 10, the team could look elsewhere for production like rookie tight end Martellus Bennett, hoping to get Witten to the bye in one piece. Expect to see Bennett fit into the mix this week a little more than the norm.

Kevin Smith (Det)....last week Smith was mentioned in our "Players on the Move" feature as a player to watch. Each week the rookie continues to out perform Lions RB Rudi Johnson; last Sunday Smith ran for 12 yards on 4 carries and caught 7 balls for 50 yards. It very well could be just a matter of time before Smith is the featured back in the Motor City.

Ryan Torain (Den)....the Broncos running back could be the only "man of the moment", that has yet to see action this season. With the entire backfield dinged up, Torain could not only see extensive action, but possibly start this Sunday. Keep your eye on this one, in Shanahan's system, this kid is expected to do well and could have the opportunity to show the world this Sunday.

Billy Miller TE (NO)....with tight end Jeremy Shockey apparently still not healthy (one catch last Sunday), Miller was the go to man in the middle finishing the day with 7 catches for 82 yards. Fantasy owners holding Shockey had to be disappointed with Sundays' no show, grabbing Miller could be a good hand-cuff, until the former Hurricane is 100%. Miller can also offer value as a bye week fill or even flex, but only until Shockey returns, then it's back the bench.

"Lying in wait" under watchful eyes...

Here are the week 9 "ones to watch"; those players that are not making a whole lot of noise for the moment, but keep your eyes open as only time will tell if these players have what it takes to be Studs on your fantasy team.

Running Backs

Fred Jackson-RB (BUF).....in deeper leagues, the Bills running back Fred Jackson is definitely worth a look. Jackson is a durable and versatile runner that can offer better value in PPR leagues. One thing to keep an eye for fantasy owners, the Bills are running more sets that feature both Jackson and Lynch on the field together. Last Sunday Jackson had 11 touches (including 10 carries), expect this trend to continue.

LaMont Jordan-RB (NE).....right now, running back Kevin Faulk is expected to start this Sunday for the Patriots. With RB Sammy Morris expected to miss a few more weeks, Jordan has an opportunity to get back on the field sooner and earn some playing time. Jordan is hard-nose runner between the tackles that can come out of the backfield and contribute in the passing game. Keep an eye on him in New England, if healthy he could see considerable work along side with Faulk.

Wide Receivers

Donte Stallworth (CLE)....so far this season Stallworth has been a big bust and disappointment due to the amount of time missed this season to injury. Now that Stallworth's healthy and back on the field, if his quarterback (Derek Anderson) and the offense can get out of first gear, Stallworth could be a late surprise in the second half of the season. He offers little value, if any at all for the moment, but he's definitely worth keeping your eye on down the road.

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