FSH: MORE FANTASY TALK

September 6th, 2009 9:37pm PST

MORE FANTASY TALK

Peyton’s Newest Weapon

Gonzalez to fill some Big Shoes….

Now that the Colts have ushered into the post-Harrison era, fantasy owners will be asking "who will replace Marvin?" Well many feel that it will be more of a committee situation replacing Harrison’s production, but their slot man Anthony Gonzalez will take his starting job.

.

The fourth year receiver moves to the flanker position, starting opposite receiver Reggie Wayne. Familiar with the system and his quarterback Gonzalez has a great chance to be a very productive number two receiver this season. Any skill player in a Peyton Manning offense always has a chance to produce, but many feel this could be a breakout season for Gonzalez.

.

Last season Gonzo finished in the top 50 among fantasy receivers with 57 receptions, 664-yards receiving, and four touchdowns; barely a safe WR4 in most fantasy leagues. With so many weapons at the Colt’s disposal, Gonzalez enjoyed modest success by fantasy standards last season, but as the number three receiver he did show signs of blossoming. Despite a slow finish in 2008, Gonzalez did show some consistency by catching at least four passes in nine games, including five straight (from week 6 thru 10).

.

Gonzo is not particularly big at only six foot, but the former Ohio State Buckeye has earned the trust of his quarterback Peyton Manning who said "I can throw anything to Anthony Gonzalez with my eyes closed." Playing opposite Wayne, he’s likely to see a lot of single coverage and fantasy owners have to like the fact that Manning has confidence in his new starter.

.

While there is some hype surrounding Gonzo this season, lets’ keep things in perspective. It shouldn’t be too difficult for Gonzalez to improve on his 2008 numbers, but with so many playmakers lining up for the Colts this season Manning is likely to be more inclined to spread the wealth. Gonzalez will be fantasy stock on the rise throughout 2009, but look for him around the middle rounds as a late number two receiver or early number three. (2009 Predictions: 72 receptions, 830-yards, 7-touchdowns)

By David Ortega


Check back for more “Fantasy Talk”