FSH: ON THE COVER

September 28th, 2009 11:00pm PST

This Week on the Cover….

Real or Fraud!!

Are these teams leading a deception….
Through the first three weeks of the 2009 NFL season many of us may think we have seen enough, from Peyton Manning's dominance, to Brett Favre's heroics, and the Raven's look of a complete team, but have we seen enough from other teams that are trying to sell their kool-ade?

In San Francisco, the Niners came one fantastic finish of a play away from a 3-0 start. While it was a heart breaking loss on Sunday, one thing we learned Singletary has changed the culture and has this team playing like they're winners. At 2-1 and the Rams up next, the future for the Niners only looks brighter.

In Denver not many folks may be quite ready to buy what new Head Coach Josh McDaniels is selling, but at 3-0 the price may be right. McDaniels has the new look team playing very well and while the jury remains out for the moment, a week four matchup with the Cowboys could be all that is needed for the Broncos to prove their authenticity.

Sure it was only a fluke play in week one and the only thing that has prevented Cincinnati from being undefeated thus far this season, but that is why they play the games. This is also why head coach Marvin Lewis and his Bengals haven't hung their season on the one play of misfortune. With an impressive week 3 win over their division rivals (Steelers) the Bengals may not have yet climbed over that hump, but they are definitely steps closer to being where they want to go.

While the city that never sleeps continues to get excited, there’s plenty in the Big Apple these days to make Jet fans true believers. Rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez continues to make plays and dazzle the fans in New York, while Head Coach Rex Ryan has his top rated defense playing to the tune of 3-0. Are the Jets contenders, if not they are doing a great job of pretending.


Check back everyday for more football!

FSH: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

September 28th, 2009 10:37pm PST

[Evening Edition]

So What I Saw in Week 3

After watching all of the action on Sunday, I saw plenty, but a few things I could not avoid noticing were the Bronco’s new rebuilt defense, the Raiders awful offense, and the Saints can actually run the ball and play defense. There was plenty more to see and note in week 3 like the end of Terrell Owens streak of a least a single catch in a game. It looks like the black hole is not the only place were things go to die, some things can die or come to an end at the hands of quarterback Trent Edwards arm.

Denver defense looks dominant….

It's only week three, but you can only play who they put on your schedule and through their first three games the Broncos have looked strong. In particular Denver's new rebuilt defense has been impressive. What is most eye catching is not just that this team was supposed to be awful, but it's the fashion in which they have won.

Sure folks will argue they should have lost their opener, but it was the defense that kept the Bronco’s in the game and gave the team that opportunity that fell into Brandon Stokley’s hands back in week one. Two weeks later the Bronco’s defense has now thoroughly throttled two inferior foes and the team stands alone atop the AFC West.

Raider’s offense looks awful…..

Sure we can credit the Bronco’s defense for many of the reasons on Sunday, but the fact is the Raider’s offense is just plain bad. Quarterback JaMarcus Russell has only completed 41 percent of his passes and has thrown four interceptions. His 39.8 passer rating ranks amongst the worst for starters in the league. On Sunday the team totaled just 137 yards and ranks near the bottom in many offensive categories; scoring-12.0 (30th), total yards-223.0 (31st), passing yards-119.7 (32nd), firstdowns/gm-13.0 (32nd), and yards/play-4.1 (31st).

Terrell Owens needs to get out of Buffalo….

How this guy has not lost it yet, I can’t imagine. He’s one of the leagues best run-after-the-catch (RAC) in the game today and the Bill’s can’t get the ball in his hands. Granted that Edwards has taken a few shots downfield, what I can’t imagine is why the Bills are not getting the ball to T.O. in the flat or using quick bubble screens and turning him into a runner. Owens has usually been on the wrong end of many situations he has put himself in and he may well have put himself here, but if the offense doesn’t change their gameplan soon he needs to consider a change of venue.

Trent Edwards has no confidence downfield….

You can count the passes and say that Edwards is not afraid to go downfield, but in this case it would seem the numbers lie. Looking at game film, there have been ample opportunities for the bills to strike downfield, but time and time again Edwards will not pull the trigger. And when he does choose to let it fly, he often not only over throws coverage, but his receivers as well. In order to make big plays downfield, you have to give your playmakers a chance to make a play.

Saints can run the ball….

And for those not paying attention, not only can the Saints put up points on the board with their high-flying passing game, but this team can run the ball. In three weeks of action the Saints offense is ranked second in rushing with 170.7 yards per game and an impressive 5.0 yards per carry (ranks 5th). They have also punched it in on the ground five times this young season.

Worst of the worst

This season there are some pretty bad teams playing in the NFL. Without discussion this list would obviously include the winless teams like the Browns, Dolphins, and Titans, but who are the worst teams this year? After watching the Lions finally show some spark with the team’s first win since 2007, could they actually not be the worst in the league.

Against the Broncos on Sunday the Raiders looked pretty bad only able to muster three points and 137 yards of offense. Over in Tampa the Buccaneers could not even conjure up a single point and on Sunday their offense managed just 86 total net yards. While both the Raiders and Bucs could be considered worthy candidates, it looks like the Rams take the honors this week. An 0-3 start, the leagues worst scoring offense (ranked 32nd) and one of the worst defenses (ranked 29th) has the Rams and their fans feeling pretty bad in 2009. If not for the play of running back Steven Jackson, this team would have no offense or any chance to score. Move over Detroit, the Rams are bad and 0-16 is not out of the realm of possibility.

The Jury is still out

While a few teams this season have been early surprises out of the gate, the jury is still out on these teams the Broncos, Niners, and Bengals. While both the Niners and Bengals have managed a couple of impressive wins this season, we’re still reluctant to crown them as having achieved anything. Mind you both are much closer to being the real deal than the Denver Broncos, recipients of the luckiest play in 2009 and beneficiaries of an early soft schedule, it’s still too early to tell. All three teams have played well so far in this young early season, but let’s not jump the gun.

With the Niners playing in the weak NFC West their early wins have yet to prove anything. There is no question that head coach Mike Singletary has this team headed in the right direction and they certainly appear ready to compete for the division.

The Bengals will face a much stiffer test this season with the Ravens off to a hot start, but their recent win over the defending Super Bowl Champion goes a long way. The 2008 Bengal’s team without question was decimated by injury, but this year’s healthier version is loaded with more talent and greater focus. From what we saw on “Hard Knocks” this may not be a mirage we’re looking at.

In Denver what we are seeing could be classified as nothing less than a full-blown metamorphosis or one fantastic illusion. The last time we checked head coach Josh McDaniels was not wearing a cape or holding a wand, but he certainly has some kind of magic act going on a mile high. The undefeated Broncos, aside from the one lucky fluke play have looked steady on both fronts. With a top-10 offense and a number one ranked defense the jury may be out, but it not for long if they keep this up.

10 Things I remember from Sunday Week 3...

1. Joe Flacco and the Ravens look like one of the best teams in the NFL; with a dominant defense, power running game, and now a strong passing game.
2. The Jets are a team to be reckoned with and quarterback mark Sanchez is not playing like any rookie I know.
3. Peyton Manning is king and without a doubt the best quarterback in the NFL today. His dominant performance Sunday night was just a friendly reminder to all.
4. The Redskins may not be the worst team in the NFL, but on Sunday they sure looked like one of them.
5. That quarterback Brett Favre and his heroics are one of the biggest reasons I keep watching the NFL every Sunday.
6. Tom Brady may not be quite back to his 2007 form, but the Patriots are still the Patriots and always tough at home.
7. The Saints are more of a complete team than most thought; add a running game and a defense, Super Bowl talk doesn’t sound so silly now does it.
8. The Texans have a lot of talent on offense, but they still need to play defense to win in this league.
9. The Bills are not going to compete in the East if they don’t learn how to get better; they need to get T.O. more involved.
10. With Earth (Jacobs) and Fire (Bradshaw) in New York, who needs wind. The Giants running game appears to be in fine form.
    

Remember to check back for more "Monday Morning Huddle!"

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL NOTES

September 28th, 2009 9:57pm PST

Sunday Night Football Notes

Week three Injury round-up


(Monday, Sept 28th update)

Bears:
According to the Associated Press linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer should be able to play in week 4 after leaving Sunday’s game with a rib injury.
Bills:
According to head coach Dick Jauron, both defensive backs Leodis McKelvin (broken leg) and Donte Whitner (injured thumb) will be out indefinitely. McKelvin is expected to be for an extended period while Whitner is having surgery to repair the thumb. He will be evaluated on a weekly basis.
Colts:
According to the National Football Post defensive end Dwight Freeney will undergo an MRI on Monday to exam his right quadriceps. Freeney is noted as saying he “felt something pop.”
Dolphins:
Quarterback Chad Pennington will miss the remainder of the 2009 season after suffering a torn capsule in his shoulder according to ESPN. The Associated Press is reporting that Pennington will seek a second opinion.
Lions:
Running back Kevin Smith left Sunday’s game in the third quarter with a shoulder injury. According to Profootballtalk.com a league sourced says his injury will be “week to week.”
Niners:
Running back Frank Gore left Sunday’s game with an ankle injury and did not return. According to an NFL Network report he suffered a high ankle sprain and is expected to miss at least two weeks.
Patriots:
Running back Laurence Maroney suffered a thigh injury in Sunday’s win over the Falcons. He says he will be fine although he did not play in the second half. Defensive tackle Vince Wolfork also suffered an ankle injury, but his injury is not expected to be long term.
Rams:
Quarterback Marc Bulger injured his shoulder Sunday against the Packers and left the game early. The early report is a bruised rotator cuff according to the team. His availability for week 4 is questionable. Wide receiver Laurent Robinson suffered a broken leg in Sunday’s loss against the Packers. He will miss the remainder of the season.
Redskins:
According to the Associated Press the team expects defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth to be fine after being forced out of Sunday’s game with a strained glut muscle. Haynesworth will undergo an MRI on Monday according to the team.
Titans:
The Nashville Tennessean reports that defensive back Vincent Fuller suffered a fractured arm on Sunday and underwent surgery Monday. He is expected to miss 4-6 weeks. Defensive back Courtland Finnegan suffered a hamstring injury as well in the team’s week 3 loss, but the extent of his injury is unknown.

By David Ortega

Check out more “Sunday Night Football Notes” every week!

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FANTASY FOOTBALL HEADLINES

September 27th, 2009 7:37pm PST

Sunday Night FF Headlines

Who is now making Fantasy News?

WR-Santana Moss has big day in week 3 loss……
The Redskin’s receiver finally broke loose for a big game this season. On Sunday against the Lions, Moss caught 10 passes for 178 yards and scored a touchdown in his team’s loss.

QB-Joe Flacco continues to show off big arm….
The second year quarterback has brought his “A” game this season and a knack for the big play. In week 3 Flacco completed 25 of 35 passes (71%) and threw for 342 yards with one touchdown for the win.

WR-DeSean Jackson makes the big grab.....
The Eagle’s playmaking machine scored on another big pass play against the Chiefs in week 3. Jackson hauled in a 64-yard catch and run for a score on his way to a six catch 149 yards receiving day.

QB-Brett Favre still has some magic left…
The Viking’s quarterback threw the game winning touchdown with just four seconds left on the clock to lift his team to victory. On the afternoon Favre finished with 24 of 46 passing for 301 yards and two touchdown passes, including the game winner.

RB-Maurice Jones-Drew finds the end-zone three times..…
The Jaguar’s running back MJD played like a human pin-ball bouncing off defenders and breaking tackles on his way to a huge game. By the conclusion of Sunday’s contest MJD had finished the day with 119 yards rushing and three rushing touchdowns.

QB-Peyton Manning proves he’s still King…
The Colt’s quarterback and team leader Peyton Manning was simply unstoppable on Sunday night shredding the Arizona defense before its’ home crowd. Manning completed 24 of 35 passes for 379 yards and threw four touchdowns in the big win.

RB-Pierre Thomas needs only one half to score twice…
The Saints running back in his first action this season needed only one half of play to make a fantasy impact. Thomas rushed for a career high 126 yards, all in the second half and scored twice to help lift the Saints to 3-0.

LB-London Fletcher continues to make tackles…
The Redskin’s middle-linebacker continues to gobble up opposing ball carriers. On Sunday in his team’s loss at the hands of the Detroit Lions, Fletcher tallied 16 more total tackles, including 11 solo. His season total is now up to 43.

LB-Elvis Dummerville continues his success on the edge…
The Bronco’s new outside linebacker and pass rush specialist is having himself quite a season. On Sunday Dummerville added another two sacks to go along with five tackles. Elvis now has 14 total tackles and six sacks this season.


By David Ortega

Check back every Sunday for more “Sunday Night FF Headlines!”

FSH: FRIDAY FOOTBALL DIARY

September 25th, 2009 11:07pm PST

Friday Football Diary

Dear Diary

So what did I see last weekend that has me concerned about the upcoming slate of games; wide receiver Chris Henry has only two catches, running back Matt Forte has yet to find the endzone, wide receiver Eddie Royal has 38 receiving yards, running back Willie Parker has only 66 yards rushing, and quarterback Tom Brady has only thrown two touchdowns.

These are just a few of the players that are not quite up to par in this young season. While it’s still early week 3 could easily see both Forte and Royal get back on track with favorable matchups. The same could be said for Henry facing a vulnerable Steeler secondary (ranked 19th), but some owners could see be a little shaky about Brady and Parker. With these two high profile players still not looking quite right, you have to wonder how long owners can wait to make a move.

More players making the “worry” watch list:

QB-Aaron Rodgers……..just two touchdown passes.
RB-Steven Jackson………....no touchdowns in 2009.
RB-LaDanian Tomlinson…..….…………....hurt again.
RB-Steve Slaton……….….….no touchdowns in 2009.
WR-Lance Moore…..….only two catches this season.
WR-Santana Moss...just 41 receiving yards in 2009.
WR-Antonio Bryant……..…just two catches in 2009.
WR-Brandon Marshall………61 receiving yards only.
TE-Donald Lee………..7 catches and no touchdowns.
TE-Bo Scaife……....48 receiving yards and no scores.

Did you see?....

In week two there was plenty to watch and much to keep up with, but did you happen to see;

• Fred Jackson run for 163-yards on the ground. In two games he has totaled 328 yards of offense, caught 11 passes, and scored once.·
• The Eagles tight Brent Celek catch eight passes for 104 yards. In two games he has 14 receptions which ties him for the NFL lead for tight ends.·
• Panthers receiver Steve Smith broke out for a nice game catching eight passes. This season Smith has been targeted 29 times to lead all receivers.·
• Chargers running back Darren Sproles playing in place of the injured Tomlinson led the team with seven catches last week. Sproles finished the game with 124-yards receving and scored on an 81 yard catch and run.

10 Things to Watch for in Week 3


Week 2 brought as much promise and flash as did week one, but there are still some interesting developments thus far this season that will be catching my eye as I look toward week 3;

1. Are the Saints really a 3-0 team? Is Drew Brees and his high-octane offense unstoppable or will mother nature have something to say about that?
2. Will Jeff Fischer and his Titans start the 2009 0-3 or will the defense come ready to take on the rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez?
3. In two games this season Willie Parker has yet to run for more than 50-yards, does he do it Sunday against the Bengals?
4. Can Steven Jackson have great success against a Packer’s defense that allowed 151 yards on the ground last Sunday.
5. Will this be the big passing week fantasy owners have been waiting for from quarterback Kurt Warner?
6. Can running back Frank Gore have success on the ground against the tough Vikings run defense?
7. Is this the week that Bengal’s get wide receiver Chris Henry more involved with the offense?
8. Are the Broncos and their number two ranked defense real and will they shut down the Raider’s running game on Sunday.
9. How will the leagues number one pass defense (Colts) matchup against Warner and company Sunday night?
10. Will Aaron Rodgers and company air it out and get healthy against the Rams 25th ranked pass defense?

Check back every week for more “Friday Football Diary”

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (FIRE AND ICE)

September 25th, 2009 8:37pm PST

Fantasy Football
Fire & Ice

(Your weekly Stock Exchange)

The Hottest Stocks this week

In week two, there was not just one stock that shook the fantasy market, but we had two. The Titan’s running back Chris Johnson and the Niner’s running Frank Gore.

In week two both studs we simply “en fuego” starting with the Mr. Johnson. The Titan’s rusher had not one or two, but three long touchdown runs last week with one coming courtesy of the pass. In the game Chris finished with 197-yards on the ground and added nine receptions for another 87-yards.

Out West the Niner’s running back was lighting it up in his own right. Last Sunday Gore tore through the Seahawks defense for 207-yards on the ground that also included touchdown runs of 79 and 80-yards. Gore also added five catches for another 39-yards on the afternoon.

Week Two’s “Mr. En Fuego”

RB-Frank Gore (SF)
16 carries, 207 rushing yards, 5 receptions, 39 receiving yards
2 rushing touchdowns

RB-Chris Johnson (Ten)
16 carries, 197 rushing yards, 9 receptions, 87 receiving yards
3 touchdowns (two rushing, one receiving)

Aside from your typical weekly stud performers, when playing the fantasy football stock market, the key is finding those gems that are valued low and rising fast. After two weeks of action there are plenty more stocks to buy low, sell high, and more importantly we have a few that you might want to consider unloading.

Week Two Stock Exchange Notes:

The Quarterbacks...
Fire (Rising stock): It should really be no surprise with the name Manning on the back of his jersey, but little brother Eli after a strong week 2 performance is storming up the charts. Eli finished 2008 as a middle tier quarterback, but with already 586-yards passing and three touchdowns he’s looking more like a top tier. The Giants are not a finesse team, so the run game is where they’ll make their bread and butter making Manning a hot trade commodity. (sell high)
Fire (Rising stock): The Raven’s offense has never been known to be high flying, but with second year quarterback Joe Flacco under center this could be quickly changing. In the team’s first two games Flacco has thrown five touchdowns and put the ball in the air 69 times this young season. His 497-yards passing has him ranked 12th in the league. He’s a low buy with lots of promise to only get better. (hot buy)
Ice (falling stock): After two games this season, there’s no question the quarterback Aaron Rodgers has been somewhat of a fantasy disappointment with just 445-yards passing and two touchdowns. With his stock falling, now is the time to grab Rodgers. He has too many passing weapons in Green Bay to stay down for long. (buy low)

The Running Backs...
Fire (Rising stock): The Raven’s backup running back Willis McGahee has made the most of his chances this season. In week one with only 14 touches he managed to score twice. Last Sunday, McGahee saw 17 more touches and found the endzone twice again. With such great productivity, expect the Ravens to continue to keep Willis a big part of the gameplan. (buy now)
Ice (falling stock): The Bears running Matt Forte has been the victim of a couple of tough early matchups and a new quarterback this season. He has yet to find the endzone and his 2.2-yards per carry average has fantasy owners frowning. With his stock sliding, now is a great time to buy the Bears back, especially with a great week 3 match-up against a shaky Seahawk run defense. (buy now)
Ice (falling stock): Like his divisional counterpart, the Packers running back Ryan Grant is off to a slow start this season as well with just 107-yards on the ground. While he does have two touchdowns, owners might be able to steal this stock for relatively cheap. With two games still to play against the Lions and a matchup in week 3 with the Rams, Grant looks like a great value purchase. (hot buy)

The Wide Receivers...
Fire (Rising stock): In the big apple there’s a lot happening, including another giant stocks that is moving fast. Wide receiver Steve “no the other one” Smith has emerged as one of the Giant’s go-to receivers. In two games he has been targeted 23 times and leads the NFL with 16 receptions. (hot buy)
Fire (Rising stock): The Dolphins have a hot stock of their own in wideout Ted Ginn Jr. Last Monday night Ginn Jr. finished the evening with 11 receptions for 108-yards. While his numbers are not off the charts (yet), he’s been targeted 23 times and looks to be a consistent play that will get better. (buy low)
Ice (falling stock): Injuries have plagued his early 2009 season and coming off shoulder surgery during the offseason, wide receive Lance Moore is spiraling down most charts. The Saints spread the ball around a lot and with some of the other available options looking very good this season, Moore could be one of those out-dated stocks that is time to move. (sell now)
Ice (falling stock): Through the first two weeks of the season, the Bengal’s wide receiver Chris Henry with the exception of a 5-yard touchdown reception last week has been quiet. With just two catches this season, Henry’s stock is tumbling down the charts. It’s not likely he’ll stay this quiet all season, so now is a good time to pick him up very cheap. (buy low)

The Tight Ends...
Fire (Rising stock): With 14 catches in his first two games this season, tight end Brent Celek has emerged as one of the leagues top pass receivers at his position. It’s not likely he was drafted as your number one tight end, so it’s likely you have a great bargaining chip to play with. (sell high)
Ice (falling stock): When he arrived from New England, everyone knew that Josh McDaniel’s offense was one that did not feature the tight end. Many analysts believed that as well skilled as tight end Tony Scheffler is it would be difficult for the team not to utilize. In two games this season, Scheffler has seen just four balls his direction and has just two catches, including one touchdown reception. (sell)

Coming soon “Stock Trends”…….

Remember to check back every week for more "Fire & Ice!”

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH)

September 25th, 2009 11:37pm PST

“Diamonds in the Rough”

(Fantasy Sleepers)

Players you should watch and few to grab!
Continuing with our weekly watch of potential breakout candidates, those that can stop the bleeding, and the gems needed to get you over the hump in your drive for a fantasy football championship, let’s take a look at what week three in the NFL may bring.

Now that we've entered the third week of the NFL some of this season's bumps and bruises are starting to take their toll. In places like Dallas and Philadelphia new faces are getting a chance to shine in the spotlight.

In Dallas….
Perhaps the biggest spotlight will shine in Texas in the house that Jerry built under his mammoth size suspended video screen. With normal starting running back Marion Barber likely to be sidelined, it's not back up Felix Jones folks should watch (we know what he can do), but rather the number three running back Tashard Choice. The Cowboys other choice in the backfield has shown ability in the past and with his good size, speed, and versatility fantasy owners can expect to see him featured in the team's gameplan as much as (Felix) Jones.

In Philadelpia…
With an ailing Brian Westbrook and the hapless Chiefs in town, we could see a couple of sleepers emerge from the Eagles offense alone. In week two quarterback Kevin Kolb put the ball in the air 51 times, while he won't follow that game plan this week he could still have equal success. Against a suspect defense and plenty of playmakers Kolb figures to be at least a decent fantasy insert.

Looking at the same matchup, a key factor to watch will be the health of running back Brian Westbrook (questionable). If Westy is limited or doesn't play, this could be a great opportunity for the rookie LeSean McCoy. The rookie runner has seen only limited carries, but facing a soft interior Chief's defense (ranked 21st against the run) he could find some running room. The versatile back should also see plenty of chances in the short passing game as the Eagles will try to get McCoy into open space. If this one goes one way in favor of the Eagles early, expect the team to feature more McCoy late.

Lastly the third spotlight on an Eagles offense that posted over 460-yards of offense in week 2 is wide receiver Jason Avant. Against the Saints last Sunday the Eagle's receiver was targeted 8 times catching seven of those for 79-yards. Avant also found the endzone last week and will have ample chances this week against the Chiefs defense to score.

Worth keeping your eye on for now…

Although this week is not a favorable matchup for the kid, with running back Jamal Lewis likely to be shelved this Sunday, rookie running back James Davis could see his first extensive action this week against the Ravens. We aren’t expecting a big game, but we think he’ll do some nice things and definitely be worth eying down the road.

After playing well in the Raven’s first two contests, former starting running back Willis McGahee has turned into a touchdown machine this season with four in his first two games. It’s Ray Rice who will be starting, but this could be a very good week to get McGahee into your lineup with the Ravens facing a questionable Brown’s run defense (ranked 31st).

Two more potential diamonds waiting to shine in Minnesota are wide receivers Percy Harvin and Sydney Rice. Harvin has already emerged as one of quarterback Brett Favre’s favorite receivers. Both Harvin (2 touchdowns) and Rice (leads team with 10 targers) appear to be main staples in the VIkes passing game and with the Niners (ranked 3rd against the run) in town, Favre may have to rely more on both this week.


Remember to check back for more "Diamonds in the Rough!"

FSH: IDP NOTES

September 24th, 2009 10:30pm PST

IDP Notes:

The strong never sleep, so for those that can keep up with the “what is happening” around the league, here’s more football just for all of the IDP Nation….

IDP News From Across the Wire…

Pisa Tinoisamoa, LB, Chicago Bears
Pisa Tinoisamoa (knee) was again held out of practice on Friday, and is doubtful for the team's Week 3 tilt with the Seahawks, according to the Chicago Tribune.
My Fantasy Read on Tinoisamoa: The Bears defense is definitely looking it’s age with so many injuries this season. With Tinoisamoa likely sidelined backup linebacker Nick Roach is expected to start. Roach has yet to show much in three seasons and with a poor injury track record he has little value in IDP leagues…..

Lawyer Milloy, S, Seattle Seahawks
With the Seahawks' secondary decimated by injury, veteran safety Lawyer Milloy could see a great deal of playing time this weekend against the Bears, according to the Tacoma News Tribune.
My Fantasy Read on Milloy: The Bears are coming to town (Seattle) this week. After a disastrous week two against the Niners, expect to see a lot of Forte roaming the Seahawks secondary for big yards. With more time on the field Milloy is likely to spend most of his Sunday chasing down the Bear’s running back and could be a serviceable IDP start this week…..

Shawne Merriman, LB, San Diego Chargers
According to ESPN.com, Chargers' linebacker Shawne Merriman missed practice again on Thursday due to his groin injury.
My Fantasy Read on Merriman: After a full practice on Friday, Merriman does not look to be in any danger of sitting on Sunday. IDP owners should have the pass rush specialist in their lineups in week 3…..

Justin Tuck, DE, New York Giants
Justin Tuck (shoulder) is officially questionable for the Giants' showdown with the Bucs this weekend, according to the New York Daily News.
My Fantasy Read on Tuck: The Giant’s defensive lineman is still laboring from the shoulder injury he suffered Sunday night at Dallas. The Giants have plenty of depth up front, so it’s not likely they would rush Tuck back if he’s not healthy. Feel free to start him, if he plays…..

Alex Brown, DE, Chicago Bears
The Bears are planning on Alex Brown (sprained ankle) playing this weekend against the Seahawks, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
My Fantasy Read on Brown: Sounds like the injury isn’t much if the team is expecting him to play. Brown is off to a fast start this season with two sacks and nine tackles and should be in your line up this week against the Seahawks….

Kelvin Hayden, CB, Indianapolis Colts
Kelvin Hayden has not practiced this week due to a hamstring injury suffered in the fourth quarter of Monday night's game, according to the team's official website. Hayden is expected to play in the team's Week 3 game.
My Fantasy Read on Hayden: The Cotl’s secondary struggled Monday night and if Hayden goes down, they could have a lot of trouble with Arizona Sunday night. Right now it’s not looking good, fantasy owners will want to avoid the Colt’s team defense and Hayden is not a good prospect this week either…..

Dwight Freeney, DE, Indianapolis Colts
According to the team's official website, Colts' defensive end Dwight Freeney did not participate in practice for the second straight day on Thursday. Freeney is dealing with a back injury.
My Fantasy Read on Freeney: The Col’ts defense is pretty dinged up and can ill-afford the lose Freeney’s services. While it’s not likely he would miss, you’ll have to worry about his effectiveness dealing with a back injury…..


Check back with "Your Fantasy Sports Home" for more Football 411….

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (QWIK FIXX)

September 25th, 2009 3:37pm PST

THE FANTASY FIXX

Target Practice: Week Three in the NFL

The weekly trick in fantasy football is having knowledge, but more importantly information. Everyone knows you have to start your studs every Sunday. The difference between winning and losing from week to week, is knowing where to find those hidden gems. If you are looking for much needed help heading into week 3, you’ve targeted the right place and we’ve got your fix..

Who’s worried….
It took just the second week of action for players like Marques Colston and Terrell Owens to get untracked. Both wideouts have yet to be heavily targeted this season, but they still produce when they touch the ball. Owens registered a nice 43-yard catch and run for a score, while Colston posted two trips to the endzone.

Looking at others like Steve Smith of Carolina (30 touches this season leads NFL WRs) and Andre Johnson, after their slow starts each also broke out in week two with a big games. Smith tallied eight catches for 131-yards, while Andre hauled in 10 passes for 149-yards and two scores. Being patient with these studs paid handsomely for fantasy owners in week two.

Another stud that got back on track in week two and undoubtedly served all of his fantasy owners well was Dolphin’s running back Ronnie Brown. After totaling just 53-yards in week one, Brown broke loose for 136-yards on the ground and two touchdowns leading the ‘wildcat’ attack.

Another fantasy thorough bred that is drawing a lot of attention from the fantasy community is Bill’s running back Fred Jackson. While many folks were thinking this kid could be put back on the shelf once Marshawn Lynch returns to the line-up from suspension, that’s not looking like the case these days.

In the first two weeks of the season, Jackson leads (tied with Cedric Benson) all running backs with 54 touches this season and has been highly productive. With 220-yards rushing, 11 receptions, and one receiving touchdown it would be hard to imagine Jackson losing the starting job even when Lynch is back.

Keep your Eye on these gems…
While running backs Matt Forte (43 touches) and Darren McFadden (33 touches) continue to labor in first gear, the high number of chances is a great indicator it’s just a matter of time sooner or later. With Seahawks (allowed 256-rushing yards in week 2) on the slate for the Bear’s running back sooner could come this weekend.

The Raiders running back could have a little more trouble this Sunday with the improved Bronco’s defense (allowing opponents 2.9-yards per carry) up next, but in week 4 he’ll see the Texans (allowing 215-yards/game).

If both receivers Steve “no the other one” Smith and Ted Ginn Jr. have yet to make it on your fantasy radar this season, put them on it now. After two weeks both receivers have emerged as more than relevant options and rank among the top 10 passing targets this season with 23 each. At that many chances, expect to hear their names called often each week.

Very quietly in a crowded Denver backfield it looks like the rookie (Knowshon Moreno) is slowly gaining some momentum as the team’s featured runner. After two games Moreno leads the team’s backfield with 27 touches, but more importantly he picked up 19 of those last week in what was his most productive day as a Bronco. Fantasy owners can and should expect to see more of the same in coming weeks, with his production only getting better from week to week.

Here is the breakdown for fantasy receivers (targets) and fantasy running backs (touches) this season;

Through two weeks:

Top-20 Receiver (Targets)

Player/Team……………………..No of Targets
Steve Smith, CAR…………………30
Santonio Holmes, PIT…………..25
Andre Johnson, HOU……………24
Randy Moss, NEP…………………24
Steven Smith, NYG……………….23
Ted Ginn Jr., MIA………………..23
Calvin Johnson, DET……………22
DeSean Jackson, PHI……………21
Nate Burleson, SEA………………21
Roddy White, ATL………………..20
Reggie Wayne, IND………………20
Laurent Robinson, STL…………19
T.J. Houshmandzadeh, SEA….19
Donald Driver, GBP………………18
Earl Bennett, CHI…………………17
Mario Manningham, NYG……..17
Isaac Bruce, SFO…………………..17
Hines Ward, PIT…………………..17
Julian Edelman, NEP……………16
Wes Welker, NEP…………………16
Larry Fitzgerald, ARI……………16
Torry Holt, WR JAC…………...16
Antwaan Randle El, WAS………16
Chad Ochocinco, CIN……………16
Muhsin Muhammad, CAR…….16
Louis Murphy, OAK……………..16


Top-20 Tight Ends (Targets)

Player/Team……………………..No of Targets
Kellen Winslow, TBB…………20
Brent Celek, PHI……………….18
Chris Cooley, WAS…………….17
Tony Gonzalez, ATL…………..17
John Carlson, SEA…………….16
Owen Daniels, HOU…………..16
Antonio Gates, SDC……………16
Jerramy Stevens, TBB………..14
Dallas Clark, IND………………14
Jason Witten, DAL…………….14
Vernon Davis, SFO…………….13
Todd Heap, BAL………………..13
Dustin Keller, NYJ……………..12
Greg Olsen, CHI…………………12
Robert Royal, CLE………………12
Heath Miller, PIT……………….12
Randy McMichael, STL……….12
Derek Schouman, BUF………..11
Marcedes Lewis, JAC…………..11
Benjamin Watson, NEP……….11
Jeremy Shockey,NOS…………..11

Top-20 Running Backs (Touches)

Player/Team……………..No of Plays (includes intended receiver)
Fred Jackson, BUF…………….58
Cedric Benson, CIN……………54
Michael Turner, ATL………….52
Kevin Smith, DET………………51
Maurice Jones-Drew, JAC…..50
Frank Gore, SFO………………..48
Mike Bell, NOS…………………..46
Matt Forte, CHI………………….45
Adrian Peterson, MIN…………45
Chris Johnson, TEN……………44
DeAngelo Williams, CAR……..41
Steven Jackson, STL……………41
Tim Hightower, ARI……………40
Larry Johnson, KCC…………….40
Clinton Portis, WAS…………….40
Darren McFadden, OAK………39
Ronnie Brown, MIA…………….39
Leon Washington, NYJ………..38
Steve Slaton, HOU……………….37
Ray Rice, BAL……………………..37

Check back every Monday for more “Fantasy Fixx”

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (STUDS & DUDS)

September 23rd, 2009 11:15pm PST

EARNER'S AND BUMS

(STUDS & DUDS)

DON 'SHULA' LOMBARDI

(Courtesy of the Fantasy Football Gang)

Today's economy not only affects the regular hard working folk, but even the great peeps over at the Fantasy Football Gang are keeping a tight budget. That's why they have Don 'Shula' Lombardi to collect and keep the cash flowing. Each week he travels to the 32 cities of the NFL making his rounds of collections.

After checking out the action of week 2 in the NFL, here is his weekly collections and assessments of some of fantasy footballs Earners (Studs) and Bums (duds);

The Earners (Studs)

In week two Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers led all quarterbacks with 436-passing yards. He completed 25 of 45 passes and added two touchdown-throws to bring home to fantasy owners the big bucks.

The Sunday night game was highlighted by little brother Eli Manning who passed for 330-yards and threw two touchdowns. Eli also completed 25 of 38 passes, good for nearly 66 percent to lead the G-men to a big win over the Cowboys.

Leading all the fantasy ground gainers with some big yardage deposits, the Niner’s running back Frank Gore racked up 207-yards against the Seahawks defense. He also added some bonus long runs for scores; a 79 and 80-yarder.

Bouncing back from a slow week one to earn some major kudos was the Texans quarterback Matt Schaub who passed for 357-yards against a tough Titan's defense. Schaub completed 25 of 39 passes and tossed four touchdowns on his way to earning fantasy green.

The Bills running back Fred Jackson earned him some warranted weekly fantasy accolades. After a solid showing in week one, Jackson is quickly becoming a solid moneymaker. Against the Buc's defense in week two Jackson totaled 188-yards on 34 touches.

Despite his team's losing effort on Monday night, the Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown was a real fantasy football cash cow, scoring two touchdowns and rushing for 136-yards.

More of week two's money-men....

The Giants had a pair of receivers that played extremely well Sunday night; Mario Manningham caught 10 passes for 150-yards with a score and Steve Smith reeled in 10 balls of his own for 134-yards and a score of his own. The Buc's quarterback Byron Leftwich passed for 296-yards on Sunday and added three touchdowns with two interceptions in a losing cause. Jaguar quarterback David Garrard passed for 282-yards and threw two scores in his team's loss. Vikings running back Adrian Peterson scampered his way to 92-yards on the ground with a score and added four receptions for another 24-yards. The Saints wide receiver Marques Colston hauled in eight passes for 98-yards and two touchdowns. The Eagles wide receiver Jason Avant caught seven balls for 79-yards and a touchdown.

The Bums (duds)

The Raiders quarterback Jamarcus Russell was inaccurate for most of the game completing only seven passes for 109-yards. Fortunately this bum did not get thrown out; instead he played well enough down the stretch to help win the game.

The Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo may want to forget about his Sunday night performance. Romo only completed 13 of 29 passes (44%) and threw three interceptions in a losing cause.

For the second consecutive week, running back Earnest Graham was unproductive hardly earning even half his fantasy value. In week two Graham touched the ball just three times and total only 19-yards.

Despite his team winning on Monday night running back Joseph Addai hardly pulled his weight gaining just 39-yards from scrimmage on seven touches.

Considering he was a top selected fantasy draft pick, running back Matt Forte has yet to live up to his end of the bargain. In week 2 Forte netted just 62-yards and no touchdowns.

More Bums from week 2….

Wide receivers Donnie Avery (STL), Chris Henry (Cin), Patrick Crayton (Dal), and Robert Meachum (NO) each caught just a single pass, none for more than 11-yards. Running back Carnell Williams (TB) and running back Julius Jones (Sea) each averaged less than 2-yards per carry in week 2.

Check back every week as Don ‘Shula’ Lombardi breaks it down and gives it to you straight!