FSH: WEEKLY ROUND-UP (WEEK 17)

December 27th, 2008 12:47pm PST


WEEKLY ROUND-UP...


***Gore is probable for Sunday...
.....the Niner's running back has practiced some this week and according to head coach Mike Singletary "he's looking good." Gore is listed as probable, but will still likely be a game-time decision. Owners will have to wait before deciding to play or not.

***White misses practice could sit Sunday...
.....the Titan's running back has not practiced all week due to illness. With everything wrapped up and nothing to lose for the Titans on Sunday, it is more likely that LenDale White will sit and rest this week.

***Bailey will be key on Sunday...
....the Bronco's cornerback is getting healthy. The groin he injured weeks ago is responding well and his 9 tackles last week are a good sign. This week Bailey will undoubtedly be a huge key in the defenses effort to slow down Phillip Rivers and the Chargers. IDP owners should have in their line ups on Sunday.

***Shockey ruled OUT for Sunday...
....the Saints have ruled out the injury prone Jeremy Shockey for the team's finale. Shockey's absence will likely increase the value of the Saints wide receivers Lance Moore, Marques Colston, and Devery Henderson, all of whom Drew Brees will be targeting downfield in an effort to break Dan Marino's single season passing record.

***Smith doubtful for Sunday Showdown...
.....the Eagles will likely be without the services of their tight end LJ Smith (knee). Smith was unable to practice on Friday and is likely to miss Sunday's showdown with the Cowboys. Smith's back Brent Celek is a good replacement and could be a decent play for owners lacking options.

***Curtis should be ready for Sunday tilt...
....the Eagles receiver returned to a full practice on Friday and is probable for Sunday. With a critical matchup on Sunday, owners can count on seeing Curtis on the field. But owners would be cautioned before playing the Eagles wideout, he's not been a consistent play this season and should be avoided.

***Berrian limited, questionable for Sunday...
....the Vikings receiver was limited in practice on Friday. While he is listed as questionable, Berrian is expected to play Sunday although it is uncertain how effective he will be. Berrian has been a hit and miss most of the season, owners with a lack of better options may want to consider.

***Lynch rests Friday, likely game-time...
....the Bills running back was rested on Friday according to the team's site. Lynch is more than likely going to be a game-time decision, but if he does play he could split carries with running back Fred Jackson

***Jackson full participant Friday...
....the Rams running back completed a full practice on Friday and should be ready to go. Jackson needs just 119-yards to reach 1,000-yards on the ground for the season. With a favorable matchup against the 21st ranked Falcons, Jackson could be poised to have a big day.


Looking for an edge?
Don't forget to check out the Friday practice report. You already know your player is hurt, but how will he perform or will he play? 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 NOTES
Notable players listed (included IDP)

Arizona Cardinals
Wide receiver Anquan Boldin (shoulder) missed the team's practice on Friday and likely won't play this Sunday.

Baltimore Ravens
Wide receiver Derrick Mason (shoulder, neck) did not practice on Friday, but it is being reported he is expected to play Sunday.

Buffalo Bills
Running back Marshawn Lynch (shoulder) was limited in practice Friday and is listed as questionable. He is likely to be a game-time decision, but if he plays could be limited to part-time duty.

Cincinnati Bengals
Wide receiver TJ Houshmandzadeh (back) was limited in practice Friday. He is listed as probable, but expected to play in the team's finale.

Cleveland Browns
Tight end Kellen Winslow (ankle) did not participate in Friday's practice. He is listed as doubtful and not expected to play Sunday.

Dallas Cowboys
Tight end Jason Witten (ankle) was limited in practice Friday. He is listed as probable and expected to play.

Running back Marion Barber (toe) was limited in practice Friday. He is listed as questionable and could be a game-time decision.

Detroit Lions
Running back Kevin Smith (ankle) was limited in practice, but is expected to play Sunday in the team's finale.

Green Bay Packers
Wide receiver Donald Driver (knee) fully participated in practice Friday. He is listed as probable and expected to play on Sunday.

Indianapolis Colts
Wide receiver Marvin Harrison (knee) participated in practice on Friday. He is expected to be a game-time decision.

Jacksonville Jaguars
Running back Maurice Jones-Drew (knee) fully participated in practice Friday and is expected to be in the starting line up on Sunday.


New England Patriots
Defensive lineman Ty Warren (groin) was limited in practice Friday and is listed as questionable. He is likely to play, but could be limited.

Linebacker Ted Bruschi (knee) did not participate in practice Friday and has been ruled OUT of Sunday's game.

New Orleans Saints
Running back Pierre Thomas (wrist, back) did not practice Friday. He is listed as questionable for Sunday and will likely be a game-time decision.

Philadelphia Eagles
Running back Brian Westbrook (knee, ankle) did not participate in practice Friday. He is listed as probable for Sunday and expected to be available.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Quarterback Jeff Garcia (calf) practiced Friday and is expected to start Sunday for the Bucs.


NFL OFFICIAL INJURY REPORT
WEEK 17

NATIONAL FOOTBALL CONFERENCE

Arizona Cardinals

PROBABLE WR Sean Morey (shoulder), OG Taitusi Lutui (knee), CB Ralph Brown (ribs), CB Roderick Hood (knee)QUESTIONABLE RB J.J. Arrington (knee), WR Anquan Boldin (shoulder), TE Stephen Spach (ankle), DL Kenny Iwebema (concussion), DL Gabe Watson (undisclosed), SS Aaron Francisco (ribs), SS Adrian Wilson (toe)DOUBTFUL DL Travis LaBoy (ankle), CB Matt Ware (calf)INJURED RESERVE C Al Johnson (knee)

Atlanta Falcons

QUESTIONABLE WR Harry Douglas (toe/shoulder), WR Brian Finneran (calf), WR Michael Jenkins (shoulder), OT Todd Weiner (knee), OL Sam Baker (back/hip), DL John Abraham (thigh/shoulder), DL Jamaal Anderson (ankle), DL Grady Jackson (knee), LB Coy Wire (knee), SS Lawyer Milloy (back)INJURED RESERVE RB Thomas Brown (undisclosed)

Carolina Panthers

PROBABLE WR Muhsin Muhammad (foot), TE Jeff King (knee), TE Dante Rosario (illness), LB Hilee Taylor (calf)QUESTIONABLE DL Ma'ake Kemoeatu (ankle)DOUBTFUL DL Damione Lewis (shoulder)OUT WR Kenneth Moore (hamstring)INJURED RESERVE WR Josh Davis (undisclosed), OG Keydrick Vincent (groin)

Chicago Bears

PROBABLE CB Charles Tillman (ankle)QUESTIONABLE FB Jason McKie (quadriceps)DOUBTFUL RB Kevin Jones (hamstring), LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (ankle), CB Marcus Hamilton (ankle)OUT SS Mike Brown (calf)INJURED RESERVE OT Fred Miller (shoulder), CB Nathan Vasher (hand)

Dallas Cowboys

PROBABLE QB Tony Romo (illness), WR Roy Williams (foot), TE Jason Witten (ankle), LB Bobby Carpenter (knee/calf), CB Alan Ball (ankle), SS Keith Davis (neck/knee), FS Ken Hamlin (foot)QUESTIONABLE RB Marion Barber III (toe)OUT WR Isaiah Stanback (shoulder), OG Montrae Holland (ankle)INJURED RESERVE RB Felix Jones (hamstring), WR Sam Hurd (ankle), P Mat McBriar (foot)

Detroit Lions

PROBABLE WR Calvin Johnson (knee), DL Chuck Darby (calf)QUESTIONABLE RB Kevin Smith (ankle), DL Corey Smith (hamstring), DL Dewayne White (calf), LB Ernie Sims (knee), CB Travis Fisher (concussion)DOUBTFUL QB Daunte Culpepper (shoulder)INJURED RESERVE QB Jon Kitna (back), RB Brian Calhoun (thigh), RB Aveion Cason (ankle), WR Reggie Ball (knee), WR Shaun McDonald (ankle), TE Dan Campbell (elbow), DL Cory Redding (knee), FS Gerald Alexander (neck)

Green Bay Packers

PROBABLE OT Chad Clifton (knee), C Jason Spitz (knee), LB Spencer Havner (ankle), CB Joseph Porter (concussion), CB Charles Woodson (toe)QUESTIONABLE FB Korey Hall (knee)DOUBTFUL RB Brandon Jackson (wrist)OUT OT Breno Giacomini (ankle), DL Justin Harrell (hip)INJURED RESERVE RB Kregg Lumpkin (hamstring), WR Shaun Bodiford (back), OG Junius Coston (knee), OL J.J. Jansen (knee), DL Rodney Allen (undisclosed), DL Cullen Jenkins (chest)

Minnesota Vikings

PROBABLE QB Gus Frerotte (back), RB Maurice Hicks (back), DL Jared Allen (knee), CB Cedric Griffin (illness), SS Darren Sharper (knee)QUESTIONABLE WR Bernard Berrian (ankle), WR Darius Reynaud (foot), OG Artis Hicks (elbow)OUT DL Pat Williams (shoulder)INJURED RESERVE LB E.J. Henderson (foot), SS Michael Boulware (undisclosed)

New Orleans Saints

PROBABLE OT Jammal Brown (ankle), CB Usama Young (ankle)QUESTIONABLE RB Pierre Thomas (back), DL Kendrick Clancy (hamstring)OUT TE Jeremy Shockey (ankle)INJURED RESERVE RB Reggie Bush (knee), RB Aaron Stecker (hamstring), WR Adrian Arrington (toe), TE Mark Campbell (knee), DL Charles Grant (triceps), DL Hollis Thomas (triceps), DL Brian Young (knee), LB Mark Simoneau (back), CB Greg Fassitt (knee), CB Tracy Porter (wrist)

New York Giants

PROBABLE DL Fred Robbins (shoulder), DL Justin Tuck (leg)QUESTIONABLE RB Brandon Jacobs (knee), OT Kareem McKenzie (back), DL Barry Cofield (knee)DOUBTFUL TE Kevin Boss (concussion/ankle)OUT LB Gerris Wilkinson (knee), CB Aaron Ross (concussion)INJURED RESERVE QB Anthony Wright (neck), RB Reuben Droughns (neck), OL Glenn Bujnoch (knee), OL Guy Whimper (foot), SS Sammy Knight (hip)PUP WR David Tyree (knee)NFI WR Plaxico Burress (hamstring)

Philadelphia Eagles

PROBABLE RB Brian Westbrook (knee/ankle), WR Kevin Curtis (calf), WR Greg Lewis (knee), OG Todd Herremans (shoulder/ankle), OT Jon Runyan (knee/ankle), SS Quintin Demps (quadriceps)QUESTIONABLE WR Hank Baskett (knee), LB Stewart Bradley (ribs/groin), FS Brian Dawkins (illness)DOUBTFUL TE L.J. Smith (shoulder)OUT OG Shawn Andrews (back), DL Victor Abiamiri (foot)INJURED RESERVE OT King Dunlap (ankle), OT Michael Gibson (shoulder)

San Francisco 49ers

PROBABLE RB Frank Gore (ankle), OG Eric Heitmann (abdomen), OG Adam Snyder (ankle), LB Ahmad Brooks (back), SS Michael Lewis (abdomen), FS Mark Roman (knee)INJURED RESERVE QB Alex D. Smith (shoulder), WR Arnaz Battle (foot), OT Jonas Jennings (shoulder), CB Shawntae Spencer (knee)

Seattle Seahawks

PROBABLE FS Jordan Babineaux (concussion)QUESTIONABLE QB Matt Hasselbeck (back), WR Koren Robinson (knee), PK Brandon Coutu (groin)DOUBTFUL LB LeRoy Hill (neck), LB D.D. Lewis (shin)OUT DL Brandon Miller (wrist)INJURED RESERVE WR Nate Burleson (ACL), WR Ben Obomanu (shoulder), OG Rob Sims (pectoral), OT Walter Jones (knee), OT Sean Locklear (toe), OT William Robinson (undisclosed), C Chris Spencer (back), OL Tyler Schmitt (undisclosed), DL Chris Cooper (undisclosed), DL Patrick Kerney (shoulder)PUP LB Will Herring (undisclosed)

St. Louis Rams

PROBABLE RB Steven Jackson (hamstring), RB Antonio Pittman (ankle), TE Daniel Fells (knee), DL La'Roi Glover (knee), CB Eric Bassey (hamstring)QUESTIONABLE OG Jacob Bell (hamstring), OG Richie Incognito (illness)DOUBTFUL CB Fakhir Brown (ankle)INJURED RESERVE RB Brian Leonard (shoulder), WR Drew Bennett (foot), WR Dante' Hall (ankle), WR Derek Stanley (knee), TE Randy McMichael (leg), LB Gary Stills (knee)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

PROBABLE QB Jeff Garcia (calf), DL Chris Hovan (knee)QUESTIONABLE RB Clifton Smith (shoulder), DL Gaines Adams (ankle), DL Jovan Haye (knee), DL Greg White (shoulder), LB Derrick Brooks (hamstring)INJURED RESERVE RB Earnest Graham (ankle), WR Cortez Hankton (undisclosed), CB Torrie Cox (knee), SS Jermaine Phillips (forearm)

Washington Redskins

PROBABLE OG Pete Kendall (knee)QUESTIONABLE OT Jon Jansen (knee), DL Kedric Golston (ankle), LB London Fletcher (foot)INJURED RESERVE OG Kerry Brown (shoulder), DL Lorenzo Alexander (hamstring)

AMERICAN FOOTBALL CONFERENCE

Baltimore Ravens

PROBABLE WR Yamon Figurs (head), DL Trevor Pryce (illness)QUESTIONABLE RB Ray Rice (calf), WR Derrick Mason (shoulder), OT Willie Anderson (foot), OT Adam Terry (knee), LB Jarret Johnson (calf), CB Samari Rolle (ankle), CB Fabian Washington (toe), FS Ed Reed (thigh)OUT WR Marcus Maxwell (hip), LB Antwan Barnes (chest)INJURED RESERVE QB Kyle Boller (shoulder), RB Cory Ross (undisclosed), WR Demetrius Williams (ankle), TE Quinn Sypniewski (knee), OL Marshal Yanda (knee), LB Tavares Gooden (hip), CB Derrick Martin (shoulder), CB David Pittman (undisclosed)

Buffalo Bills

QUESTIONABLE RB Marshawn Lynch (shoulder), LB Kawika Mitchell (knee)DOUBTFUL WR Roscoe Parrish (knee), OT Jason Peters (knee), LB Teddy Lehman (groin)OUT WR James Hardy (knee), CB Jabari Greer (knee)INJURED RESERVE DL Chris Ellis (ankle), LB Angelo Crowell (knee), LB John DiGiorgio (knee), CB Ashton Youboty (foot)SUSPENDED DL Anthony Hargrove

Cincinnati Bengals

PROBABLE RB Cedric Benson (ankle), RB Chris Perry (ankle), RB Kenny Watson (hamstring), WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (back), DL Pat Sims (biceps), CB Jamar Fletcher (back)QUESTIONABLE WR Chad Johnson (hamstring)DOUBTFUL OT Levi Jones (hamstring)OUT QB Carson Palmer (elbow), OT Stacy Andrews (knee)INJURED RESERVE RB DeDe Dorsey (hamstring), RB Kenny Irons (knee), FB Jeremi Johnson (knee), WR Antonio Chatman (neck), TE Matt Sherry (shoulder), OG Kyle Cook (toe), C Dan Santucci (ankle), DL Robert Geathers (knee), DL Frostee Rucker (hamstring), LB Abdul Hodge (elbow), LB Keith Rivers (jaw), CB Johnathan Joseph (foot), SS Dexter Jackson (hamstring), SS Herana-Daze Jones (hamstring), SS Corey Lynch (knee)

Cleveland Browns

PROBABLE FB Lawrence Vickers (back), WR Josh Cribbs (ankle), WR Donte' Stallworth (neck), OG Eric Steinbach (back), DL Shaun Rogers (ankle)QUESTIONABLE TE Darnell Dinkins (ribs), P Dave Zastudil (knee), LB Leon Williams (knee)DOUBTFUL TE Kellen Winslow (ankle)INJURED RESERVE QB Brady Quinn (finger), TE Steve Heiden (knee), C Lennie Friedman (undisclosed), LB Antwan Peek (knee)PUP WR Joe Jurevicius (knee)

Denver Broncos

PROBABLE FB Spencer Larsen (groin), WR Brandon Marshall (hip), WR Eddie Royal (thumb), WR Brandon Stokley (foot), TE Daniel Graham (ankle), TE Chad Mustard (knee), OL Ryan Clady (ankle), OL Ryan Harris (back), OL Chris Kuper (hand), LB Niko Koutouvides (back), LB D.J. Williams (knee/shoulder), CB Champ Bailey (groin), CB Josh Bell (knee), CB Karl Paymah (groin), SS Marquand Manuel (ankle), FS Marlon McCree (ankle)INJURED RESERVE QB Patrick Ramsey (elbow), RB Anthony Aldridge (foot), RB Andre Hall (hand), RB Michael Pittman (neck), RB P.J. Pope (hamstring), RB Ryan Torain (ACL), RB Selvin Young (neck), FB Peyton Hillis (hamstring), FB Cecil Sapp (quadriceps), WR Cliff Russell (neck), WR Edell Shepherd (knee), TE Nate Jackson (hamstring), LB Boss Bailey (knee)NFI OG Erik Pears (appendix)

Houston Texans

PROBABLE DL Anthony Weaver (knee)QUESTIONABLE LB Xavier Adibi (groin), SS Nick Ferguson (knee)INJURED RESERVE RB Chris Brown (back), RB Ahman Green (knee), FB Chris Taylor (quadriceps), WR Harry Williams (neck), DL Earl Cochran (toe), DL Stanley McClover (knee), FS C.C. Brown (forearm)

Indianapolis Colts

QUESTIONABLE RB Chad Simpson (ankle), DL Keyunta Dawson (hip), LB Freddie Keiaho (hamstring), SS Melvin Bullitt (shoulder), SS Bob Sanders (knee)OUT RB Dominic Rhodes (chest), LB Gary Brackett (fibula)INJURED RESERVE RB Mike Hart (ACL), TE Tom Santi (shoulder), CB Nick Graham (ankle), CB Marlin Jackson (knee)PUP OG Ryan Lilja (knee)

Jacksonville Jaguars

PROBABLE RB Maurice Jones-Drew (knee)INJURED RESERVE RB Fred Taylor (thumb), FB Greg Jones (ankle), WR Jerry Porter (groin), OG Vincent Manuwai (knee), OT Maurice Williams (biceps), DL Jonathan Lewis (knee), DL Tony McDaniel (toe), LB Daryl Smith (groin), CB Rashean Mathis (knee), SS Chad Nkang (shoulder)PUP DL Jeremy Mincey (wrist)SUSPENDED WR Matt Jones

Kansas City Chiefs

PROBABLE DL Alfonso Boone (thigh)INJURED RESERVE RB Kolby Smith (knee), DL Brian Johnston (calf), DL Turk McBride (forearm)

Miami Dolphins

QUESTIONABLE LB Channing Crowder (knee), CB Will D. Allen (groin)INJURED RESERVE WR Greg Camarillo (ACL), OG Donald Thomas (foot), OL Matt McChesney (knee)

New England Patriots

PROBABLE OT Matt Light (shoulder), DL Vince Wilfork (shoulder), CB Ellis Hobbs (shoulder)QUESTIONABLE OL Mark LeVoir (ankle), DL Richard Seymour (back), DL Ty Warren (groin), LB Gary Guyton (ankle), LB Vince Redd (ankle), CB Deltha O'Neal (ankle), CB Lewis Sanders (shoulder), SS James Sanders (abdomen)OUT OG Billy Yates (hand), LB Tedy Bruschi (knee), SS Ray Ventrone (jaw)INJURED RESERVE QB Tom Brady (knee), RB Laurence Maroney (shoulder), DL Kenny Smith (arm), LB Eric Alexander (hamstring), LB Bo Ruud (ankle), LB Pierre Woods (jaw), CB Terrence Wheatley (wrist), SS Rodney Harrison (quadriceps)NFI OT Oliver Ross (shoulder)

New York Jets

PROBABLE WR Jerricho Cotchery (shoulder), DL Kris Jenkins (hip), LB Eric Barton (knee), LB David Harris (groin)QUESTIONABLE WR Laveranues Coles (thigh), OT Wayne Hunter (shoulder), LB Bryan Thomas (shoulder)INJURED RESERVE RB Jesse Chatman (knee), RB Danny Woodhead (knee), SS Cameron Worrell (undisclosed)

Oakland Raiders

PROBABLE RB Justin Fargas (neck)QUESTIONABLE RB Darren McFadden (ankle), CB Nnamdi Asomugha (neck), CB Stanford Routt (groin)DOUBTFUL WR Ronald Curry (toe)OUT DL Kalimba Edwards (wrist), LB Ricky Brown (groin)INJURED RESERVE FB Justin Griffith (ACL), WR Ashley Lelie (calf), WR Arman Shields (knee), WR Javon Walker (ankle), TE Ben Troupe (foot), OL Paul McQuistan (knee), LB Robert Thomas (hamstring), SS Tyvon Branch (shoulder)

Pittsburgh Steelers

PROBABLE QB Ben Roethlisberger (ankle)QUESTIONABLE LB James Harrison (hip)OUT FS Ryan Clark (shoulder)INJURED RESERVE QB Charlie Batch (collarbone), RB Rashard Mendenhall (shoulder), OG Kendall Simmons (Achilles')

San Diego Chargers

PROBABLE DL Jamal Williams (foot), LB Anthony Waters (hamstring)DOUBTFUL WR Malcom Floyd (lungs), LB Brandon Siler (foot)INJURED RESERVE WR Craig Davis (groin), TE Scott Chandler (toe), DL Keith Grennan (fibula), LB Shawne Merriman (knee)

Tennessee Titans

QUESTIONABLE RB LenDale White (illness), DL Tony Brown (ankle)DOUBTFUL DL Dave Ball (back), LB David Thornton (hip), CB Nick Harper (groin)OUT C Kevin Mawae (elbow), DL Albert Haynesworth (knee), DL Kyle Vanden Bosch (groin)INJURED RESERVE CB Reynaldo Hill (hip), CB Eric King (foot)

***WEEK 17 FANTASY TID-BITS***

Just a little more information for the football diehard.

The 25 Days of Football:
[Random NFL numbers & stats]

1. The Packer's quarterback Aaron Rodgers has thrown 25 touchdowns passes this season.
2. The Bronco's quarterback Jay Cutler has thrown 24 touchdown passes this season.
3. The Texan's quarterback Matt Schaub has been sacked this season, 23 times.
4. The Titan's cornerback Courtland finnegan has 22 passes defensed this season.
5. The Patriot's quarterback Matt Cassel has thrown 21 touchdowns this season.
6. The Cowboy's linebacker DeMarcus Ware has 20 total sacks for the season.
7. The Viking's running back Adrian Peterson has 19 runs of 20 yards or more this season.
8. The Bronco's wide receiver Brandon Marshall had 18 receptions back in Week 2 against the Chargers.
9. The Falcon's wide receiver Roddy White has 17 receptions of 20 yards or more this season.
10. The Saint's quarterback Drew Brees has thrown 16 pass plays for 40 or more yards this season.
11. The Giant's running back Brandon Jacobs has 15 rushing touchdowns this season.
12. The Panther's linebacker Jon Beason had 14 total tackles in Week 16 against the Giants.
13. The Jet's running back Thomas Jones has 13 rushing touchdowns this season.
14. The Giant's defensive lineman Justin Tuch has 12 sacks on the season.
15. The Patriot's wide receiver Randy Moss has 11 touchdown receptions this season.
16. The Lion's wide receiver Calvin "Megatron" Johnson has 10 touchdown receptions this season.
17. The Panther's running back Jonathan Stewart has nine rushing touchdowns this season.
18. The Charger's tight end Antonio Gates has caught 8 touchdown passes this season.
19. The Charger's quarterback Phillip Rivers has three or more touchdown passes in seven games this season.
20. The Texan's wide receiver Andre Johnson has caught at least ten passes in six games this season.
21. The Cardinal's wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald has five games with at least 100-yards receiving this season.
22. The Texan's rookie running back Steve Slaton has four run plays of 40 or more yards this season.
23. The Chief's tight end Tony Gonzalez has scored a touchdown in three straight games.
24. The Bengal's wide receiver TJ Houshmandzadeh has caught 12 passes in a single game twice this season.

......and 25. The Panther's running back DeAngelo Williams is the one player to score as many as four touchdowns in a game on more than one occassion this season.

FSH: MORE FOOTBALL DIGEST

December 26th, 2008 10:15pm PST

Cowboys: Still in it!
Them Boys from Texas just won't go away!

The Playoffs start Sunday...

With the regular season winding down and games running out, the importance of each contest has literally become magnified by ten-fold, but don't tell the Cowboys. Lets’ face it they must be part cat with nine lives. Then again, the Cowboys are like a never ending soap-opera with twists and turns designed to captivate and hold the interest of its audience.

Besides, just imagine how less exciting the world of the NFL would be without America's Team stuck right in the middle of things.

Distractions, controversy, and a divided locker room are what seem to make up one of the leagues most recognizable teams. Despite all of this, the Cowboys just won't go away, at least not without a little drama. Okay, let's be honest, a lot of drama.

America's Team went into last Saturday night not just in the middle of a playoff race, but in complete control of their destiny, needing just a win to reach the post-season. They entered their matchup with Baltimore knowing it was a must-win situation, only to lay a big goose-egg at the hands of the Ravens. The Cowboys did not prevail, they lost 33-24. As a matter of fact, surprisingly the defense folded their tents up late in the 4th quarter when the game was on line.

All evening Dallas was engaged in a tough fight with the Ravens, but just could not get a whole lot going on offense. It wasn't until late in the game that quarterback Tony Romo sparked the offense and with 3:10 left on the clock, took them into the end zone to cut the deficit to 19-17.

Since botching the hold against the Seahawks two seasons ago in a wild-card matchup, Romo has been the target of much criticism for not being able to win the big games. Here he was in the midst of a must-win situation against a tough Raven defense, not folding, but leading his team back from certain defeat. Romo had driven the team 70-yards in 8 plays, capped by a 7-yard toss to Terrell Owens for six, to close the gap with just over 3 minutes remaining in the contest.

The stage was set for the comeback, but Romo would need some help.

What had been feeding the Cowboys run for the past several weeks was not their high profile and at times volatile offense, but their relentless defense, which had actually played a solid game to this point. Now they would have the opportunity to stop the Ravens once more and give Tony Romo and the "O" a chance to win the game.

What ensued next broke nearly every heart in Texas, not once, but twice?

The first heart-breaker; needing a stop from the defense, the Cowboys gave up a 77-yard touchdown run to Ravens' running back Willis McGahee which put the Ravens out front by nine points and forced the Cowboys back in a hole once again. Once again Romo would have another chance to deliver and he did. Following his answer to the call with an 11-play two minute drive that culminated with a 21-yard touchdown pass to Jason Witten, the Cowboys were again back were they were just minutes before, needing a stop.

The second heart-breaker; needing their defense to step up and make a stop, the Cowboys allowed the Ravens running game to bust off another big run. Running back LeRon McClain barreled over the right side breaking tackles then scampered his way 82-yards to paydirt to end all hope for the Cowboys.

With such a heart wrenching loss, you'd think that the Cowboys would be yesterday's news making plans for the off-season, but this has been one crazy season and nothing is quite what it seems. The Boys did not go quiet into the night as fate would have, instead their saga continues.

Following several collapses by teams (the Eagles, Buccaneers, and Vikings) vying for the post season, the Cowboys find themselves still sitting in the thick of things. Its one week later and just like last Saturday, the Cowboys just need a win. The playoff picture is too much to explain, but plain and simple the Cowboys will enter Lincoln field on Sunday just needing a Victory over McNabb and company.

The defense has been given a reprieve, Romo and company will have another opportunity to prove their worth as one of the leagues elite. It wasn't planned this way, but the Cowboys understand they have been handed a gift. After losing a game that they desperately needed, they will be given a second chance, but rather than having the comforts of home, they must enter hostile territory.

With a few bumps and bruises to some key players (Barber, Witten) heading into the Sunday the 9-6 Cowboys are just one game from making the playoffs and it's anyone ball-game (just ask the Giants). Only one hurdle remains in front of America's Team and like the boys from Texas, they too have a date with destiny on Sunday. The Eagles don't have a lot of control over things guiding their playoff future, but for them everything will start with a win as well.

Tony Romo and the offense did their part down the stretch last weekend, but this week against their bitter rival, the team can not afford to have any breakdowns on either side of the ball. While Romo has yet to win that big game, but what he did show last Saturday night is the will. Romo has played well this season, but if the Cowboys are going to continue, they'll need a big effort not just from him but the entire offense; T.O., Witten, Tashard Choice and secondary players included.

The defense is not to be forgotten here, they too need a big effort. In last week's disappointing loss, the team's defensive MVP, DeMarcus Ware (20 sacks this season) has been called out by several in the media as having disappeared in the second half. Ware needs just three sacks to eclipse Michael Strahan's single season record, but more than that he and the defense will need to dominate this Sunday if the Boys are to advance.

Without a win on Sunday, Ware's 20-plus sacks are meaningless and Tony Romo's 3,200-yards passing with 26 touchdowns don't mean a thing. Having one of the leagues best pass receiving tight end Jason Witten (74-receptions) to go with one of the leagues most talented wide receiver Terrell Owens will add up to very little, if the Cowboys come up short.

When the season started, this team was considered one of the favorites to win the Superbowl. They had all the talent in the world and when they started out 4-1, no one could argue their chances of fulfilling those proclamations. With one game left, everything this team was supposed to be now hangs in the balance.

Could the unthinkable actually happen this week? Could the Cowboys actually fall victim to their own arrogance and can the NFL survive a post season without the most talked about team this year? At least for the moment we have to only consider, because the Cowboys are still in it.

For Ware could personal immortality stand above a team victory? Does Romo need to be concerned with getting the ball to T.O.? Will he even have his buddy Jason Witten available? Can the rookie (Choice) handle the load and the pressure if Barber is unavailable? For those fans following the storyline, there are many questions to ask, but one thing is certain all will be answered in Week 17.

As you can see this is not just any weekend for America's Team, for all of Texas and much of the NFL the playoffs start Sunday. Everyone get your popcorn ready!


Keep checking back for more football and more fantasy....

By David G. Ortega

FSH: MORE DAILY DIGEST 12-26

December 26th, 2008 11:45am PST


MORE DAILY DIGEST

Player News

Young could see some action Sunday...
....with the top seed all wrapped up in the AFC, don't be surprised to see Titan's head coach Jeff Fischer sit down many of his starters early on Sunday. Quarterback Vince Young is expected to see action against the Colts, likely to play most of the game. Since Young has not seen much action this season, it would be a stretch for owners to hope for a big game from the former Longhorn.

Gradkowski expected to start Sunday...
....the Brown's have confirmed that quarterback Bruce Gradkowski will start Sunday against the Steelers. Considering that Gradkowski has only been with the team for about a month, it may be the time of season for miracles, but now is not the time to wish for the impossible.

Johnson looking forward to facing Bengals...
....the Chief's running back Larry Johnson should be excited about seeing the Bengals this Sunday. In his last three games against Cincinnati, Johnson has totaled 514-yards (rushing and receiving) and scored 4 touchdowns. Facing the leagues 24th ranked run defense (allowing 126-yards per game), Johnson could be looking at a big day this Sunday.

Megatron expected to play in Week 17...
....the Lion's receiver has been limited this week in practice, but he is expected to go on Sunday. Johnson was big in the team's first matchup with Green Bay scoring twice, so he should be a decent low WR2 play this week on the road.

Roethlisberger could be limited...
.....the Steelers have little to play for on Sunday other than pride, fantasy owners should not expect to see much of Big Ben against the Browns. Roethlisberger is expected to start, but likely won't last very long. The Steelers quarterback has been dropped 46 times this season and banged up most of the year, so don't expect to see a lot of him on Sunday.

Thigpen leading the way on the ground...
.....the Chief's quarterback in only 10 starts this season has rushed for 382-yards and scored 3 rushing touchdowns. Thigpen leads all quarterbacks this season in rushing and has been a solid fantasy play over the past month. With 12 touchdown passes over the team's last six games and his mobility, Thigpen should be considered a decent QB2 play against the Bengals.

Thomas misses practices again...
....the Saint's running back has missed the last couple of days of practice and there is growing concern about his availability for Sunday. Thomas was also limited to 16 carries last week, implicating that maybe his injury could limit his workload this week. Owners should check Friday’s status to determine Thomas' outlook.

Wallace will make start Sunday...
....the Seahawks will roll with quarterback Seneca Wallace this Sunday against the Cardinals. This will be his fourth consecutive start for Seattle. In his last three starts, Wallace has completed 68% of his passes and thrown for 613-yards with 4 touchdowns and no picks. This Sunday Wallace should be a decent QB2 against the Cardinals 20th ranked pass defense.

Manning not expected to finish game...
....the Giants have everything wrapped up for the playoffs heading into the season finale. While Coughlin is expected to start the game with many of his starters, according to the New York Post they won't stay in. Fantasy owners still vying for a win on Sunday should avoid all the Giant's skill position players.

Romo returns to practice...
....the Cowboys quarterback returned to practice after missing Wednesday due to illness. His return should come as great relief to fantasy owners and a good sign he'll be under center on Sunday. With everything riding on a win against Philly, fantasy owners can expect the Cowboys offense to go through Romo and his arm.


MORE FANTASY

WHO IS THE BETTER PLAY?

Looking for more fantasy football for the NFL's final weekend of regular season action? Here’s a look at some player matchups for Week 17 with recent trends to consider.

This is my look at preferred fantasy plays for this weekend’s slate of games.


Running backs

Ryan Grant over Chris Johnson:
The Packers have nothing to play for other than a sense of pride and wanting to avoid being the only team to lose to the Lions. Grant has not had the same type of season he enjoyed in the second half of last season, but he has over 1,000-yards on the year and a chance to better his numbers considerably against a woeful defense that ranks dead last against the run. In the cold December Lambeau winds, owners can expect the Pack to run a bit more this week. The Titans rookie running back Chris Johnson will likely see action on Sunday, but like many players on teams that have already clinched the post season, he'll fall victim to an early exit. Owners who need production on Sunday should not bank on the rookie putting up big numbers in a meaningless game for Tennessee.

Larry Johnson over Willie Parker:
There's little doubt that the Chiefs running back has fallen from Fantasy Football Grace with his suspensions this season. But Johnson will have more than reputation or pride to play for this Sunday. With the team likely to face many changes in the off season, Johnson's likelihood of returning next year with his high price tag look 50-50 at best. Johnson may be playing for more than just a win on Sunday, but for his own marketability. Owners should look for a big game from LJ going up against a team that he had historically had great success against. The Steeler's running back "Fast Willie Parker" (FWP) has battled injuries much of the season, explaining his drop in productivity for 2008. With the number 2 seed locked up, the Steelers are more likely to try and rest many of there starters, in particular those that may be dinged up a bit. With Parker's recent fragile history, don't expect to see him in for very long on Sunday.

Cedric Benson over Brandon Jacobs:
In keeping with the current theme this weekend, Benson is one of those backs that has a favorable matchup on Sunday against a very poor run defense (Chiefs are ranked 30th). Last week the Bengal's running set a career high with 171-yards rushing against the Browns. This week the team will likely feature a lot of Benson, so owners could see another big day. The Giants 6'4" 260-pound runner has not practiced all week, although he has participated in some individual drills. It is not likely that Coughlin will play Jacobs at all this week. Owners should expect the Earth to rest this week in preparation for the Giant's run at a second consecutive championship.

Ahmad Bradshaw over Derrick Ward:
This is simply the last man on the totem pole will see the heavier load this week. Derrick Ward has been the primary back up for running back Brandon Jacobs all season, so he is expected to start this Sunday. But like his predecessor, Ward will likely see a limited work load, while owners should expect to see "Fire" (Bradshaw) much of the second half. Ward needs just 52-yards to reach 1,000-yards for the season, so it's hard to imagine that he'll play much more after reaching that plateau. Bradshaw should be the play of choice and while the Vikings are tough against the run, Fire has a way of burning the defense.


Wide Receivers

Derrick Mason over Lee Evans:
The Ravens receiver has just proven he is a reliable option week in and week out. Over his last four starts, Mason has totaled more than 12 fantasy points in three of those games. He is averaging over 5 catches for 60-yards with three touchdowns in the team's last four games. These are not great numbers, but they are reliable. The Bills receiver started this season as one of the leagues top wideouts averaging 91-yards receiving per game with 3 touchdowns and a 20.5-yard per catch in his first six games. In his last three starts Evans has just 64 receiving yards and will face a team that he has yet to post over 40-yards in a single matchup in his last five meetings. Owners would probably be wise to avoid Evans against the Patriots this Sunday.

Lance Moore over Vincent Jackson:
While the Saints don't have much to play for on Sunday, their opponents do. The Panthers need to win and will likely focus on trying to slow down the Saints potential record setting quarterback. Over the past several weeks, Brees and Colston have started to groove while Lance Moore has played second fiddle. Fantasy owners should expect to see the Panthers key on Colston and Brees to reconnect with his other wideout. Moore had just 3 catches in the teams last home game (in Week 14), but just one week earlier against the Packers he was huge with 115-yards and a two scores. Look for this Moore on Sunday. The Broncos-Chargers matchup was the recipient of NFL's flex schedule and with so much on the line for both teams, why not. One of the keys for the Chargers has been the play of quarterback Phillip Rivers and his receiver Vincent Jackson. The two have hooked up 18 times for 348-yards and two scores in the last three weeks. There's little doubt with a healthy Champ Bailey back on the field, Jackson is going to see a lot of him all evening and could have a quiet night.


Quarterbacks

Aaron Rodgers over Brett Favre:
The Packers quarterback has been a pleasant fantasy surprise this season with 25 touchdowns and nearly 250-yards passing per game. This week owners will be licking their chops with a matchup against the Lions and their 26th ranked pass defense. Rodgers was huge in the first meeting with 328-yards passing and three touchdowns. While weather could play a small factor in the outcome, owners should not be concerned with Rodgers, who has 820-yards and 7 touchdowns in his last three home starts. Favre, on the other hand has been the epitome of Mr.Inconsistent, with 21 touchdowns and 19 interceptions. With the Jets back to the corner and needing a win (and help) to keep post season hopes alive, Favre will likely be pressed into making plays, something he's not had recent success with. In his last three starts he has just one touchdown and five picks. In their first meeting way back in week 1, Favre did play well, but he'll see a much better prepared Joey Porter (18 sacks) led Dolphin defense.

Matt Schaub over Jake Delhomme:
The Texans has little to lose on Sunday and will feature a full line up. With weapons like Andre Johnson (1,427-yards), Owen Daniels (67 receptions), and Kevin Walter (8 touchdowns) to throw to, Matt Schaub will have a great shot at a big day against the Bears 28th ranked pass defense. The Panthers are coming off a heart-breaking loss to the Giants, in a game that they could have won, if not for the foot of kicker John Kasay. Jake Delhomme played well nonetheless, but his numbers were not spectacular. Delhomme is on the road this week where he has not been particularly great. In his last four road starts Delhomme is averaging just 13 completions per game and has just two touchdown passes with four interceptions (although all 4 came in week 10). He'll face a Saints team that is much different at home with 4 straight wins and 6 interceptions in those games.


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

By David G. Ortega

FSH: MORE FOOTBALL DIGEST

December 25th, 2008 10:15am PST


Broncos-Chargers:
Does Cutler have the Moxy?

A chance at redemption or condemnation...

This has been one heck-of-a topsy-turvy season for the Denver Broncos and quarterback Jay Cutler. When the season began, Cutler and company came out of the gate like gang busters posting 80 points and ringing up 927-yards of offense in the teams first two games. The Broncos 3rd year quarterback had passed for 650-yards and thrown 6 touchdowns in the two wins. With three wins to start the season, the Broncos looked to be on a roll and Cutler appeared to be that player the team selected as their number one draft pick in 2006.

Now that we are approaching the final Sunday of the 2008 regular season, the Broncos find themselves in dire straits needing a win against their division nemesis, the San Diego Chargers. It was only three weeks ago that the Broncos were sitting at 8-5 and needed just one more win to seal the deal, but after two embarrassing losses to Carolina and Buffalo, here they are. With one game left the Broncos are just one game up on the Chargers and a loss this Sunday would send them home and cap off a disappointing 2008 campaign, one that had started with so much promise.

When Cutler arrived in Denver back in 2006, he was brought in to be the teams future, but no one expected that his arrival to center stage would come so quickly. Not only did his time come soon, but it came with debate. The team had just ushered in Jake Plummer (three years earlier), who many thought would be the heir apparent to John Elway. Plummer was brought in to lead this franchise to another championship, when Shanahan made the move to go with the future (Cutler). At the time the Broncos were sitting at 7-4, in the midst of a battle for the AFC West division and poised to reach the post season for the 4th straight time. The change came as a surprise, but going with a rookie quarterback, the results of finishing 2-3 and missing the playoffs, were not so much a surprise. Now that the Plummer ERA was over the team and the city were ready for a new face to lead the way.

Since Cutler's auspicious beginning in 2006, this marriage has not quite lived up to what everyone in Denver had hoped or expected. Following 2006 when the team finished 9-7, losing 3 of 5 down the stretch (under Cutler) missing the playoffs for the first time in four seasons, things have not exactly looked up since. Last season the team finished under 500 and missed the post season for a second consecutive season, bringing into question the decision to go with the rookie QB. No one could question Cutler's talents or ability with 29 touchdowns (in 21 games) and over 3,400-yards passing in his first full season, but could he lead this team and get them back into post season contention. His 14 interceptions and 11 fumbles (4 lost) last season might suggest otherwise.

When the 2008 season opened, following an impressive training camp Cutler looked strong and ready to turn things around and take this team far. After three games into season Cutler had passed for 914-yards, threw 8 touchdowns and taken the Broncos to a 3-0 start quieting all of his doubters and bringing a great sense of hope to the Mile High City. That was 13 weeks ago and during the time since, everything that could go wrong seems to have done just that. A week 4 debacle in Kansas City with costly turnovers, including two critical interceptions by Cutler dropped the team to 3-1. The team would continue a downward spiral over the next four games losing three. In weeks 7 and 9, Cutler was the fall guy capping this slide, throwing 5 interceptions in the two losses.

In a season that started with so much promise and had this team floating amongst the clouds, it has now painfully plummeted to earth. Unforced errors, bad decisions, and the inability to take care of the ball have overshadowed Cutler's 24 passing touchdowns this season and defined his play. With over 4,000-yards passing this season, the only thing fans are going to look at are the costly errors and near misses that have left this team short and sitting in quite a pickle trying to hang onto its' playoff life.

Sure, fans could argue the defenses' role in this whole mess, they have not lived up to snuff either, but then they weren't a number one pick. Cutler does not deserve all the blame for the teams current strife, but when you are a number one pick and make bold statements about your arm strength, or even dare to draw comparison to a football Icon, you had better be ready to walk the talk. We have all seen his talents which can not be denied, but this team needs more than a strong arm, they need a leader.

Cutler has not been one to shy away from controversy, cameras, or comparisons, but what he may be shying away from is the ability to lead. Over the past two weeks, while his play has spoken loudly, what we have yet to see from him is a fire on the field to lead this team. There seems to be a lack of emotion or sense of urgency in his eyes. Maybe he's not a rah-rah guy, but something needs to change. After two losses Cutler and the Broncos will be heading into hostile territory this weekend where it will feel like them against the world. There are no magic antidotes, but Cutler will need to some how spark some magic and fire into an offense that has scored just 33 points the last two weeks after averaging 38 in its' first three games.

A victory for the Broncos would be a great sign for a change in direction; a winning record, a return trip back to the post season, a young team getting close to turning the corner. A win on Sunday can bring redemption to a season that has suddenly faltered when it had so much possibility. After making the playoffs for three straight seasons under Plummer, falling to defeat at the hands of the Chargers would condemn the Broncos to an off season of second guessing, turmoil, and many tough decisions to be considered.

This brings us up to this moment, Christmas morning, with children laughing, playing, and smiling without a care in the world. Santa has brought to them all the dreams and happiness a child could ask for, but as a Bronco fan myself, will Santa deliver to one city, one franchise, and one player the moxy Cutler will need to win on Sunday against the Chargers?

Keep checking back for more football....

By David G. Ortega

http://www.footballandchicks.com/