FSH NOTEBOOK: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (THE FOUR HORSEMEN)

December 25th, 2010 Saturday

The Four Horsemen

Let’em Ride

Last week we had a few horsemen riding high through the stomping grounds. Our quarterback Jon Kitna did not disappoint with a big passing day over 300 yards and two touchdowns. Another rider with a big game in week 15 was running back Jonathan Stewart who totaled 137 yards on the ground, but did not find the end-zone. Unlike Stewart our wide receiver Mike Williams did find the end-zone along with six catches for 96 yards; a good day. Only our tight end (Owen Daniels) was M.I.A. in week 15 with just four catches for 45 yards.

This week our horsemen will be riding for gold with many fantasy championships on the line and like “the four winds of the earth” these fantasy play-makers are looking to ride strong bring home a fantasy title for some lucky owner…..

Quarterback:
The San Diego Chargers are still hanging on to playoff hopes by a wing and a prayer and with two games left in the season, they can’t afford any let downs. With his tight end out and wide receiver Malcom Floyd probably out, quarterback Philip Rivers (29 touchdowns, 4,141 yards passing) will need to be at his best. And he just may against the Bengals 18th ranked pass defense. Even with a couple of his weapons missing Rivers and company will give the Bengals’ defense plenty of fits downfield. The Bengals have allowed 20 passing touchdowns and 10 pass plays of 40 yards or more this season. With just 22 sacks this season, if they aren’t able to get any pressure to Rivers he could have a monster day.
(My Prediction: 26 of 40 passing, 335 yards, three touchdowns)

Running Back:
With the 31st ranked run defense (Denver Broncos) next on the slate for Texan’s running back Arian Foster (13 rushing touchdowns), he looks like a shoe-in for a solid game now that he has returned to full-practice this week. Foster was dinged up pretty good a week ago against the Titans missing the last 10 minutes of the game. Foster has been a consistent fantasy point scorer in the Texans’ backfield and the Broncos defense has done nothing but surrender yards and scores this season; allow nearly 160 yards per game and have surrendered 22 rushing touchdowns. Foster is leading the NFL in rushing and figures to extend his lead on Sunday.
(My Prediction: 18 carries, 115 yards rushing, 4 receptions, 35 yards receiving, one touchdown)

Wide Receiver:
With so much on the line Monday night, it would be hard to imagine Saints quarterback Drew Brees not looking for his best weapon; wide receiver Marques Colston. The Falcons have been very good at home, but there defense has been suspect ranked 21st against the pass. In their last three home games the Faclons secondary has allowed an average of 250 yards passing and they have surrendred six passing touchdowns. Colston (82 rec, 1,002 yards, 7 Tds) has been steady all season and over his past three road games he has been targeted 24 times grabbed 15 passes for 251 yards with a score. It’s almost a certainty Brees will be looking his way often Monday night.
(My Prediction: 8 receptions, 95 yards, one touchdown)

Tight End:
Last week against the Redskins secondary tight end Jason Witten was huge catching 10 passes for 140 yards and a score. This week Jaguars tightend Marcedes Lewis will get his shot at the Redskins “iffy” defense ranked 30th in the league. Lewis has quietly become a scoring machine in the Jags passing game this season with nine receiving touchdowns. Lewis doesn’t seen many balls in his direction (averages five targets per game), but he makes the most of his opportunities. This week against the Redskins he could see plenty of chances.
(My Prediction: 5 receptions, 55 yards, one touchdown)

FSH NOTEBOOK: FANTASY WATCH

December 25th, 2010, Saturday

Fantasy Watch

Dallas Cowboys versus Arizona Cardinals

Larry Fitzgerald: Fitz Looks Ready To Fly

The Cardinal’s wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald is not having one of his typical super campaigns this season, but he is still on his way to 90 catches and well over 1,100 yards receiving this season. Even with all the changes his team has gone through at the quarterback position this season, Fitz still has 78 receptions, but only five touchdowns. Saturday’s matchup against the Cowboys 28th ranked pass defense could help change that.

Fitzgerald is still seeing plenty of balls in his directions this season (153 targets) and nothing should change this Saturday against the Cowboys secondary that has allowed 31 passing touchdowns allowed in 2010 (tied for most in league). Another concern for Dallas when trying to cover Fitz will be the yards after catch; the Cowboys have allowed 52 pass plays of 20 yards or more this season. There’s no question Fitz will have plenty of chances to make some catches, but will the Cowboys be able to keep him contained and wrapped up?

Sunday’s projections against the Cowboys.
(9 receptions, 115 yards passing, two touchdowns)

Jason Witten: Sure Handed Witten Keeps Rolling

The Cowboys’ tight end Jason Witten has been a hot fantasy play for owners and a big red-zone target for the Cowboys over the past several weeks. In his last four games Witten has seen 34 passes thrown his direction and has managed to snag 32 of them. Witten has also become a touchdown magnate over the past three games, scoring in all three (four touchdowns total).

The Cardinal’s pass defense is ranked 24th in the league and have allowed 18 passing touchdowns this season; including five to tight ends. With Witten being a much more utilized pass receiving option, the Cards’ secondary will have their hands full.

Sunday’s projections against the Cardinals.
(7 catches, 90 yards receiving, one touchdown)

Jon Kitna: Kitna Keeps Up Steady Play

The Cowboys’quarterback Jon Kitna has been playing very well over his past three games throwing five touchdowns against two interceptions. Kitna is also completing over 68 percent of his passes in his past three starts and has thrown for 714 yards. With the cardinals struggling against the run this season, the Cowboys are likely to spend a lot of time on the ground, but that should set up some deep shots off the play action.

Kitna executes a very good play fake and should be able to catch a few safeties flat footed on Saturday. Kitna has thrown 13 touchdowns in eight starts this season and shouldn’t need to rely much on his arm this week against Arizona, but he’ll still take his shots. The Cards’ secondary has allowed 48 pass plays of 20 yards or more and with only 26 sacks this season; expect Kitna and his receivers to be looking for the occasional big play downfield.

Sunday’s projections against the Cardinals.
(20 of 30 passing, 240 yards passing, two touchdowns, 20 yards rushing)

Tashard Choice: Cowboys Running Back Could Be Choice

The Cowboys’ running Tashard Choice could be the ball carrier of choice this coming weekend against the Cardinals. In the team’s last three matchups Choice has seen his workload increase (46 touches) and he has managed to find the end-zone in three of his last four contests. Since his touches have increased Choice is averaging 4.1 yards per carry and has totaled 217 yards from scrimmage in his last three games.

The Cardinal’s defense (ranked 30th) does not do a good job stopping the ground attacked allowing 145 yards per game and 4.4 yards per carry. This season the Cardinal’s defense has been toasted for 16 rushing touchdowns and have allowed 16 runs of 20 yards or more. In their last two games opponents have ran the ball out of the backfield 67 times and opposing runners have gain 282 yards on the ground. Expect the Cowboys to run the ball considerably Saturday night and Choice to get his share of carries.

Sunday’s projections against the Cardinals
(15 carries, 65 yards rushing, 3 catches, 20 yards receiving, one touchdown)

Just my take.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (TARGET PRACTICE)

December 23rd, 2010 Thursday

Fantasy Football

Target Practice

In These Hands We Trust

Larry Fitzgerald has been a kind of quiet fantasy receiver this season (he really misses Kurt Warner), but over his past three games he has started making noise. Fitzgerald has been getting plenty of work recently and ranks in the top five among receivers with 32 targets and 19 receptions over the past three weeks. The Cardinal’s top receiver also has 258 yards receiving over the course of three games, but has not scored a touchdown in his last four games.

All that could change this Sunday when the Cowboys come to town. Fitzgerald will be lining up against the leagues 28th ranked pass defense that was just torched by quarterback Rex Grossman. Fitzgerald has only scored five times this season, but could be in line for a couple of end-zone appearances this weekend against the Cowboys’ secondary. The Cowboys’ have allowed 31 passing touchdowns this season, including four last weekend to the Redskins.

Fitzgerald’s numbers this season don’t jump off the page, but he is averaging nearly 11 targets per game this season and is on pace to pull down 90 passes and over 1,100 yards. He has lost a little value with the changes at quarterback this season in Arizona, but Fitzgerald still has the hands we trust.

Radar Watch

In My sites

My Fantasy Notes:

The Colts took another hit on the offensive side of the ball this past week with the loss of wide receiver Austin Collie (concussion) to the injured reserve. With Collie out Peyton Manning will have to look more to some of his other weapons; and one such worth watching could be wide receiver Pierre Garcon.

Garcon had a quiet afternoon last weekend with five catches for 44 yards, but that was with a healthy Collie in the lineup for a half. In the two games rior to Collie’s return Garcon was the one with the hot hand; 15 targets, 14 receptions, and three touchdowns. This weekend the Colts travel to Oakland to face the Raiders 5th ranked pass defense. Garcon (4 touchdowns this season) has remained a constant in the Colts passing game and could be primed to score against a defense that has allowed 26 touchdowns this season.

In Houston the Texan’s have a beast of a receiver in Andre Johnson, but traveling to Denver he will likely matchup against cornerback Champ Bailey. This season Bailey has been a beast at the corner spot shutting down receivers like Dwayne Bowe, Anquan Boldin, Larry Fitzgerald, and Mike Sims-Walker. With Johnson always drawing attention 4th year receiver Jacoby Jones has been seeing more action his direction.

In his last two games Jones has been targeted 18 times. He has also scored in two of his last three games; the Broncos’ secondary has allowed 25 touchdowns this season. Jones has not had a big game this season, but he’s worth watching on Sunday; he could be very productive against the Broncos’ 22nd ranked pass defense.

Target Leaders from Week 13 through 15

(unofficial numbers)

1.Roddy White, ATl (43 targets)
2.Reggie Wayne, IND (36 targets)
3.Andre Johnson, HOU (35 targets)
4.Larry Fitzgeralds, ARI (32 targets)
5.Santonio Holmes, NYJ (30 targets)
6.Santana Moss, WAS (30 targets)
7.Mike Williams, TB (30 targets)
8.Davone Bess, MIA (29 targets)
9.Marques Colston, NO (28 targets)
10.Mike Wallace, PIT (26 targets)
11.Kevin Walter, HOU (26 targets)
12.Wes Welker, NE (26 targets)

FSH NOTEBOOK: MY WEEKLY SURVIVAL

December 22nd, 2010, Wednesday

My Weekly Survivors

Last week was kind of a funny week for my fantasy squad; just about everyone scored which is always good, but most of my team didn’t do much else. With the exception of the Buccaneer’s wide receiver Mike Williams (15 points) and the Cowboys quarterback Jon Kitna (21 points) there was not a lot to cheer about. Williams dialed in on my numbers with 6 catches for 96 yards and a touchdown, while Kitna was a little better passing for over 300 yards with two touchdown tosses.

My duds included Brian Westbrook (8 points) who managed to salvage his performance with a late touchdown, but his 30 total yards hurt. Ronnie Brown (9 points) was not much different scoring once and total just 42 yards. My Achilles heel this season has been and was once again the tight end spot; Owen Daniels (4 points) caught just four passes for 45 yards.

This week it’s time to get serious, with just two weeks left I must concede any shot at the top two spots (trail by more than 100 points) unless there is a colossal meltdown. My fantasy team is locked in at number six and I still have a shot at third place (just 50 points back), but I need a two big weeks. I have very few big guns left, but this week I will be shooting from the hip and swinging for the fences.

Here are my picks for week 16….

QB-Matt Schaub, Houston Texans
The Bronco’s secondary is amongst the worst in the league and have allowed 25 touchdowns this season; 7th worst in the league. One reason for the Broncos woes in coverage, they lack any kind of pass rush; just 18 sacks this season. If given time Schaub can be as good as any quarterback in the league. With a weapon like Andre Johnson to throw to, Schaub is in line for a big passing day on Sunday.
(Projected: 25 fantasy points/ 325 yards passing, three touchdowns)

RB- Tashard Choice, Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys’ running back Tashard Choice has been seeing a steady diet of work over the past couple of weeks and has totaled 169 yards in his last three games. With Barber returning to action this Sunday and Jones looking “iffy”, Choices looks like the safe bet in the lineup this week. Choice has also scored a rushing touchdown in three of his last four games.
(Projected: 14 fantasy points/ 65 yards rushing, 3 catches, 20 yards receiving, one touchdown)

RB-Mike Tolbert, San Diego Chargers
The Charger’s running back has a good matchup on the road this week in Cincinnati against the league’s 22nd ranked run defense; the Bengals are allowing 4.6 yards per carry and have yielded 13 rushing touchdowns this season. Tolbert continues to be the favorite out of the Chargers’ backfield; he’ll see plenty of touches and should be able to find pay-dirt on the road. Tolbert has 11 rushing touchdowns this season and has scored in four of his last five games.
(Projected: 15 fantasy points/ 85 yards rushing, 1 catches, 10 yards receiving, one touchdown)

WR-Santana Moss, Washington Redskins
The Redskins will travel to Jacksonville in week 16 and should be licking their chops against the leagues’ 27th ranked pass defense. Even with the change at quarterback last week, it didn’t seem to bother the offense; 286 net yards passing, four touchdowns. Wide receiver Santana Moss also remained a hot commodity in the Redskins passing game (23 targets last two weeks) with 8 receptions for 72 yards and two scores last weekend against the Cowboys. Moss could be looking at similar results this weekend against a defense that has allowed 26 passing touchdowns this season.
(Projected: 17 fantasy points/ 7 catches, 110 yards, one touchdown)

WR-Marques Coltson, New Orleans Saints
The Saints travel to Atlanta to face the Falcons on Monday night and if you’re thinking this one is going to be a barn-burner; you’ll probably be right. The Saints wide receiver Marques Colston (7 touchdowns in 2010) leads the team with 126 targets this season and in his last two games quarterback Drew Brees has been calling his number quite often (24 targets). With such a huge matchup coming up this Monday, there’s little doubt Brees will be looking for his best receiver. Even if Colston only see’s eight to ten targets, you have to love his chances of collecting 70-90 yards and finding the end-zone.
(Projected: 15 fantasy points/ 6 catches, 95 yards, one touchdown)

TE-Ben Watson, Cleveland Browns
Ben Watson has been one of the more consistent options in the passing game for the Brown’s this season. Last week he and rookie quarterback Colt McCoy enjoyed one of their best games together; Watson caught seven passes for 92 yards. This week the two will face a Raven’s defense that has had its’ struggles against opposing tight ends.
(Projected: 14 fantasy points/ 6 catches, 80 yards, one touchdown)

PK-Neil Rackers, Houston Texans
The Texan’s offense has averaged over 23 points per game over their past seven games and this season Rackers has made 22 of 25 field goal attempts this season. This weekend they travel to Denver to face the Broncos who give up more points (29.6 pts per game) than any other team in the league; Rackers will be busy on Sunday.
(Projected: 9 fantasy points/ two field goals, three extra points)

My Previous starts

Week 1 (Total points-77)
QB Donovan McNabb (WAS)
RB Matt Forte (CHI)
RB Carnell Williams (TB)
WR Jeremy Maclin (PHI)
WR Jabar Gaffney (DEN)
TE Zach Miller (OAK)
K Joe Nedney (SF)

Week 2 (Total points-68)
QB Michael Vick (PHI)
RB Ahmad Bradshaw (NYG)
RB Rashard Mendenhall (PIT)
WR Nate Washington (TEN)
WR Greg Jennings (GB)
TE Chris Cooley (WAS)
K Nick Folk (NYJ)

Week 3 (Total points-87)
QB Tony Romo (DAL)
RB Darren McFadden
RB Ray Rice (BAL)
WR Austin Collie (IND)
WR Dez Bryant (DAL)
TE Brent Celek (PHI)
K Lawrence Tynes (NYG)

Week 4 (Total points-58)
QB Eli Manning (NYG)
RB Maurice Jones-Drew (JAX)
RB Frank Gore (SF)
WR Mark Clayton (STL)
WR Brandon Marshall (MIA)
TE John Carlson (SEA)
K Jeff Reed (PIT)

Week 5 (Total Points-72 points)
QB Drew Brees (NO)
RB Steven Jackson (STL)
RB Thomas Jones (KC)
WR Donald Driver (GB)
WR Calvin Johnson (DET)
TE Marcedes Lewis (JAX)
K Mike Nugent (CIN)

Week 6 (Total Points-83 points)
QB Peyton Manning (IND)
RB Ryan Torain (WASH)
RB LaDanian Tomlinson (NYJ)
WR Hakeem Nicks (NYG)
WR Kenny Britt (TEN)
TE Dallas Clark, (IND)
K Sebastian Janikowski (OAK)

Week 7 (Total Points-93 points)
QB Philip Rivers (SD)
RB Adrian Peterson (MIN)
RB Michael Turner (ATL)
WR Larry Fitzgerald (ARI)
WR Dwayne Bowe (KC)
TE Tony Gonzales (ATL)
K Matt Prater (DEN)

Week 8 (Total Points-82 points)
QB Kyle Orton (DEN)
RB Felix Jones (DAL)
RB Jamaal Charles (KC)
WR Brandon Lloyd (DEN)
WR Deion Branch (NE)
TE Tony Moeki (KC)
K Stephen Gostkowski (NE)

Week 9 (Total Points-79 points)
QB Aaron Rodgers (GB)
RB LeSean McCoy (PHI)
RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis (NE)
WR Steve Smith (NYG)
WR Patrick Crayton (SD)
TE Jacob Tamme (IND)
PK Mason Crosby

Week 10 (Total Points-78 points)
QB Joe Flacco (BAL)
RB LeGarrette Blount (TB)
RB Cedric Benson (CIN)
WR Roddy White (ATL)
WR Steve Johnson (BUF)
TE Brandon Pettigrew (DET)
PK Rob Bironas (TEN)

Week 11 (Total Points-73 points)
QB Matt Ryan (ATL)
RB Fred Jackson (BUF)
RB Peyton Hillis (CLE)
WR DeSean Jackson (PHI)
WR Percy Harvin (MIN)
TE Jermaine Gresham (CIN)
PK Dan Carpenter (MIA)

Week 12 (Total Points-55 points)
QB Matt Cassel (KC)
RB Chris Johnson (TEN)
RB Danny Woodhead (NE)
WR Santonio Holmes (NYJ)
WR Sidney Rice (MIN)
TE Heath Miller (PIT)
PK Matt Bryant (ATL)

Week 13 (Total Points-82 points)
QB Sam Bradford (STL)
RB Jonathan Stewart (CAR)
RB Arian Foster (HOU)
WR Terrell Owens (CIN)
WR Anquan Boldin (BAL)
TE Visanthe Shiancoe (MIN)
PK David Akers (PHI)

Week 14 (Total Points-91 points)
QB Jay Cutler (CHI)
RB Knowshon Moreno (DEN)
RB Tim Hightower (ARI)
WR Reggie Wayne (IND)
WR Mike Wallace (PIT)
TE Jason Witten (DAL)
PK Billy Cundiff (BAL)

Week 15 (Total Points-73 points)
QB Jon Kitna (DAL)
RB Brian Westbrook (SF)
RB Ronnie Brown (MIA)
WR Miles Austin (DAL)
WR Mike Williams (TB)
TE Owen Daniels (HOU)
PK Josh Brown (STL)

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

December 22nd, 2010 Wednesday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

AARON RODGERS RETURNS, BUT A BIG RISK
With this being championship weekend in most fantasy formats, now is not the time to be taking chances. The exception may be when you are talking about a quarterback like Aaron Rodgers; you just might have to roll the dice. This is exactly what the Packers may be facing this week as well with their playoff hopes hanging in the balance. Rodgers makes his return after missing one game because of a concussion suffered in week 14. His return is good news for Green Bay, but he will be facing one of the league’s toughest pass rushes (Giants). Rodgers has thrown 23 touchdowns this season, but he has also been sacked 27 times.
My Fantasy Read:
Rodgers when healthy is among the best quarterbacks in the league, but with two concussions already this season another hard hit could easily land him back on the bench. He’s a risky play against the Giants (42 sacks) this week, but one that is well worth it.

JACOBY FORD SEEING MORE ACTION
The Raiders speedy receiver has shown big play capability throughout the season and last Sunday against the Broncos was just another example. Ford took an end around run 71 yards to the house to help elevate the Raiders to a 39-23 win. Ford’s workload has been somewhat up and down this season but last week the rookie was targeted five times, caught three balls for 47 yards to go with his long touchdown run.
My Fantasy Read:
Ford is starting to see a steady diet of looks and touches each week. He has only 22 catches this season, but seven are for 20 yards or more. He has three total touchdowns this season and is averaging nearly 19 yards per catch. As explosive as this kid is (two pass plays over 45 yards, 71 yard touchdown run) he can only get better.

BRANDON LLOYD SHOULD BE A SAFE PLAY
The Tebow experiment is well under way and while it may not have been a complete success, it was not all that bad, especially for Brandon Lloyd fantasy owners. Tebow only threw 16 passes in the game, but the good news for owners five went to Lloyd. The Broncos’ top receiver would finish Sunday with four catches for 79 yards and a very fortunate 33 yard touchdown reception.
My Fantasy Read:
With Tebow under center Lloyd is not going to scare any opposing fantasy owners, but still he should remain a safe play this week against the Texans 32nd ranked secondary. With a game under his belt, expect Tebow to put the ball in the air a few more times this Sunday and we know where he will be looking (Lloyd).

JONATHAN STEWART COULD STRUGGLE THURSDAY
The Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart has been running ragged over the past several weeks averaging 115 yards rushing per game over his last four. Stewart has also been seeing plenty of work with 78 carries in his last four games. Last Sunday against the Cardinals was his best game of the season with 137 yards on 27 carries.
My Fantasy Read:
Stewart has been hot of late, but he has also been facing some of the bottom half ranked run defenses; Cards-30th, Browns-25th, Seahawks-21st. Thursday night he’ll face the league’s best run defense (Steelers) that has not allowed a single 100-yard rusher this season. The Patriots BenJarvus Green-Ellis’ 87 yards in week 10 is the best any runner has done this season against the Steel-Curtain.

FSH NOTEBOOK: ON THE COVER

December 21ST, 2010, Tuesday

On the Cover

Superman Has Returned!!

Mike Vick leads an improbable Comeback

If you were glued to your set on Sunday watching the battle in the Meadowlands between the Giants and Eagles, you may have left premature thinking this one was well in hand with the G-Men up 31-10 and less than nine minutes to play in the game. Well if you were unlucky enough to change that channel, you missed an incredible finish that will likely go down as one of the most improbable.

With 8:17 left on the clock, Michael Vick took over the game and brought the Eagles back from a 21-point deficit. Vick used his arm hitting his tight end Brent Celek on a deep middle pass that he took to the house for six to bring the Eagles closer, 31-17. On the ensuing kick-off credit head coach Andy Reid with a great call, a surprise onside kick with 7:28 on the clock.

With the momentum in full swing Vick next used his legs with a 35 yard scramble and a 4 yard scamper for a touchdown. The comeback was on and the Giants were literally helpless to stop it. The defense tried blitzes and coverage to contain and confuse Vick, but the playmaker would not be stopped.

With 5:28 left in the game, the Giants had a chance to run out the clock and close this one out, but when the drive stalled at the Eagles 40 yard line they were forced to punt. A nice kick from the Giants’ punter Matt Dodge pinned the Eagles at their own 12 yard line with only 3:01 left on the clock. As they had done throughout the game, the Giants defense continued to bring pressure and mixed things up.

With two incompletes from Vick caused by pressure from the Giants pass rush, the Eagles were faced with a 3rd and 10 at their own 12. The Giants would once again bring pressure in the face of Vick, but a critical error of not containing the elusive quarterback allowed him to get outside the pressure and ramble his way for 33 yards. As the Eagles drive continued Vick would again evade pressure and scramble for another 22 yards setting up the game tying score; a 13 yard pass to Jeremy Maclin with 1:16 on the clock..

The incredible comeback would be complete when the Giants unable to move the ball or run out the clock would have to punt away to the Eagles punt returner DeSean Jackson. And like a Hollywood script and finish, Jackson would return the punt back 65 yards for the game winning score as time ran out.

It was an improbable finish and an incredible meltdown. Vick would contribute to the success of both by completing 21 of 35 passes for 242 yards. He would also throw three touchdowns to go with his one rushing score. Vick finished the afternoon with 130 yards rushing to lead all ball carriers.

If you thought Superman wore a red cape and blue suit, think again. He wears number seven and plays for the Philadelphia Eagles.

By David Ortega

Video found on Youtube by hotnowsports

"Michael Vick throws for over 240 yards with 3 Tds, he also rushes for 130 yards.

FSH NOTEBOOK: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

December 20th, 2010, Monday

Monday Morning Huddle
(Late Evening Edition)

The week 15 experiment didn’t go so well for most teams that were forced to making a quarterback change; Matt Flynn, Rex Grossman, and Tim Tebow all lost their first starts of the 2010 season. Such is the way of the NFL as injuries will always play a big part, but in Denver through defeat comes hope and maybe a glimpse of the future. While Tebow did not win in his debut as a starter, he may have won enough faith in his staff to give him another look; a look at what could possibly be the promise of what is to come?

Maybe, maybe not…

Top Stories

Are the Broncos Ushering in the Future?
It was a little bit of the good, the bad, and the ugly on Sunday when rookie quarterback Tim Tebow made his first start of his NFL career. Although it wasn’t a victory, it’s safe to say it was not a total loss either.

Tebow had an ugly looking 40 yard quarterback keeper, aided by some poor tackling for a touchdown in the first half of Sunday’s matchup against the Raiders. Later in the half he also had an bad looking balloon pass that fell right into the arms of Brandon Lloyd in the back right corner of the end-zone for another score.

Now for some of the good, Tebow did not commit a single turnover on Sunday while completing 8 of 16 passes for 138 yards. The former Florida Gator (Tebow) also took fans back to his college days showing off his running skills while he scampered his way to 78 yards on the ground.

It was not the most prolific performance by a quarterback, but clearly Tebow did add a much needed spark to the offense (23 points). It was enough to impress the coaches and earn a second start, but if the Broncos are hopeful of different results they must open up the playbook and let Tebow play.

With running back Knowshon Moreno questionable for week 16, unless the coaching staff is willing to take off the handcuffs (from Tebow), aside from there quarterback wide receiver Brandon Lloyd (4 catches, 79 yards in week 15) appears to be the only safe fantasy play next Sunday against the Texans.

Just my thoughts.

Fantasy Spotlight

After all the flack this guy took in the media, in the pre-game shows, criticism all week long, and from all of the guys at the NFL Network, this week’s fantasy shout out has to go to Redskin’s quarterback Rex Grossman. On Sunday against the Cowboys, he did a whole lot more than anyone would have given him credit for before the start of the game.

It didn’t all start out pretty for Grossman on Sunday. On the Redskins second possession already trailing in the game 3-0, Grossman was intercepted on an ill-advised throw. That would not be the only bad throw he would make the rest of the game, but the Redskins quarterback would finish the game completing 25 of 43 passes for 322 yards and four touchdowns before he was threw.

The Redskins would fall behind by as much as 27-7, before Grossman would rally the troops and throw three second half scores to tie the game up at 30. While it was a nice statistical game in the box score and for fantasy owners, it should also be noted it was a typical Grossman game; he led his team to four touchdowns and 30 points, but also had three turnovers and they lost.

He’s our Fantasy Spotlight Player of the Week!

Diamonds in the Rough

RB-LeGarrette Blount

Clearly it’s safe to say that rookie running back LeGarrett Blount is no longer a secret. After five straight starts, three 100-yard games this season, 164 carries, and 777 yards rushing he’s working his way up the fantasy boards for 2011. Blount wasn’t even a consideration when the season started and didn’t see his first action until the third week of the season. After seven weeks of play, he had only toted the pill 21 times in three appearances. Since that time he has caught the fantasy world by storm averaging nearly 85 yards rushing per game and 4.7 yards per carry. Blount was a relative unknown buried on the Bucs depth chart when the 2010 fantasy season, but looks to be their starting tailback for 2011 fantasy season (if there is no lockout).

WR-Mike Williams

Like his teammate (Blount), rookie wide receiver Mike Williams has made the most of opportunity this season. Williams didn’t waste any time turning heads as early as the Bucs training this season, and though he has had some ups and downs, he has remained a relatively consistent option in the passing game. Williams has started all 14 games for the Bucs this season while collecting 58 balls and scoring eight touchdowns. As he and 2nd year quarterback Josh Freeman continue to develop their rapport and improve their chemistry, Williams has a chance to become a star in the league. Looking ahead to next season’s fantasy draft, Williams is going to be a much earlier pick for owners as he continues to improve and impress.

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL NOTES

December 19th, 2010, Sunday

Sunday Night Game Notes

Notable Injury News

(for fantasy owners)

The Broncos lost their running back Knowshon Moreno to injury during their week 15 battle with the Oakland Raiders. Moreno left the game in the first half with a side injury and did not return to action. The injury suffered appeared to be to the rib/abdominal area although no update to the severity has been given. Aside from quarterback Tim Tebow (78 yards rushing), with Moreno out the Bronco’s running suffered greatly totaling just 28 yards on 25 carries.

The Colts wide receiver Austin Collie (8 receptions, two touchdowns Sunday) returned to action on Sunday after having missed some time due to injury (concussion). In Sunday’s meeting with the Jaguars, Collie suffered his third concussion of the season when he was knocked out just before the end of the first half. The injury looked pretty severe as Collie appeared to be unconscious and motionless for a moment. His status has not been updated by the team, but some are speculating his season could be done.

The Jaguars quarterback David Garrard (294 yards passing, two touchdowns on Sunday) suffered a hand injury during his week 15 contest against the Colts, but did not have to miss any action. Garrard was able to stay in the game and played well. He was able to finish the game with the injury and did undergo x-rays on his right hand following the week 15 loss to the Colts. The results were negative and Garrard should be ready to go next Sunday’s meeting against the Redskins.

The Jaguars wide receiver Mike Sims-Walker (4 catches, two touchdowns Sunday) left Sunday’s game against the Colts briefly with an ankle injury. Sims-Walker aggravated ankle injury, but was able to return to action and finish the game. He’ll likely be slowed down some this week during practice, but is expected to be available next week when the Jags meet the Redskins.

The Bengal’s lost their wide receiver Terrell Owens for the remainder of the season earlier today. According to a previous report by Pro Football Talk Owens was diagnosed with a meniscus tear in his knee. The Bengal’s receiver suffered the injury in the team’s week 15 matchup with the Browns. Owens left the game without notching a single catch; it was likely his last game as a Bengal.

FSH: WHAT'S THE SKINNY

December 19th, 2010 Sunday

What’s the Fantasy Football Skinny

My Fantasy Notes:

WR MILES AUSTIN LOOKS LIKE A FAVORITE
With the 29th ranked pass defense in town and wide receiver Roy Williams expected to sit today, look for Miles Austin to have a big game today. Austin torched the Redskins back in week one for 146 yards and 10 catches. He’s a strong play in standard and PPR leagues.

RB KNOWSHON MORENO COULD SEE HEAVY LOAD
The Broncos are going to roll out the rookie, quarterback Tim Tebow in week 15 to face the Raiders in the Black Hole. Expect Denver to ease Tebow in and keep things conservative; look for a lot of hand-offs and short screens to running back Knowshon Moreno. The 2nd year back is enjoying a strong second half of the season; he could be in for a big day.

TE JASON WITTEN SHOULD BE PRODUCTIVE
The Cowboys tight end Jason Witten has been a heavily targeted option for quarterback Jon Kitna over the past several weeks. He’ll be a busy target today against the Redskins sub-par secondary and could find the end-zone. He’s a TE1 option today in most formats.

RB STEVEN JACKSON SHOULD BE BUSY
The Rams are playing a very meaningful and important game here in December; not commonplace for the organization since the “Greatest Show on Turf” days. It’s safe to assume they will not try to get to sophisticated today, but rather stick with their bread and butter; Steven Jackson. The Rams’ running back is averaging nearly 25 carries per game in his last three, that sounds about right for today.

WR GREG JENNINGS COULD BE SAFE
Last week with quarterback Aaron Rodgers down, Jennings was still able to remain a busy receiver in the Packers passing attack. Jennings was targeted 8 times and caught four passes for 52 yards. His numbers were down, but he remained involved in the passing game. With Rodgers ruled out, Jennings figures to still see plenty of balls in his direction from back up Matt Flynn. Jennings is likely the only safe play of all the Packers receivers today.

WR STEVIE JOHNSON WILL HAVE PLENTY OF CHANCES
With the prospect of ideal playing conditions today in Miami, expect the Bills to put the ball in the air a little more. With Roscoe Parrish and now Lee Evans on IR, wide receiver Stevie Johnson is elevated to the team’s clear-cut number one and go-to receiver. Although the Dolphins’ defense does a good job against the pass, Johnson should still see plenty of chances today.

WR BRANDON LLYOD COULD BE RISKY
With Kyle Orton sidelined and the rookie Tim Tebow getting the start at quarterback, this is not a good week to ride all your hopes on wide receiver Brandon Lloyd. The Broncos big play receiver will likely be shadowed by the Raiders cover corner Nnamdi Asomugha (if healthy), making him a huge risk play for fantasy owners.

RB ADRIAN PETERSON COULD STRUGGLE
The Vikings will be turning to their rookie quarterback Joe Webb on Monday night against the Bears. This does not come as good news for Adrian Peterson fantasy owners. With a rookie under center, the Bears will more than likely stack the line to shut down the run and force the rook to throw the pill. Peterson has historically ran well against the Bears, but with a rookie quarterback making his first start and a bum knee and ankle; this mix does not spell relief. It could be a long day for “All-Day.”