FSH: WEEKLY ROUND-UP (DIVISIONAL ROUND)

January 10th, 2008 9:47am PST


WEEKLY ROUND-UP...


***Haynesworth Probable for Today...
.....the Titan's defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth (knee) was able to rest his injuries late in the regular season. After returning to practice this week, he is listed as probable for today's game. IDP owners should expect the big guy to be active and have him in their lineups.

***Sproles Likely to Start Sunday...
.....the Charger's tiny package of dynamite Darren Sproles is expected to start Sunday for the injured Tomlinson. Sproles has been instrumental in San Diego's playoff run down the stretch. Whether he starts or not, he's a must play against the tough Steeler defense.

***Boldin Expected to Play Today...
....the Cardinal's wide receiver Anquan Boldin (hamstring) is expected to be active today and play in today's divisional matchup with the Carolina Panthers. Boldin has yet to test the sore hammy and won't until warmups, so fantasy owners will have to play accordingly.

***Mawae Ruled OUT for Divisional Matchup...
....the Titan's All-Pro center Kevin Mawae has been ruled out for today's matchup with Baltimore. Mawae has not practiced since injuring his elbow on December 21st and despite the extra week of rest won't play.

***Westbrook Practices Friday...
.....the Eagle's running back Brian Westbrook returned to a limited practice on Friday and has been upgraded to probable for Sunday. There's been no question that Westbrook would play, but the upgrade is definitely a good sign the Eagles running back is as healthy and ready.

***Tomlinson Doubtful for Matchup with Steelers...
....the Charger's running back LaDanian Tomlinson (groin) confirmed earlier this week his detached tendon. LT has not practiced this week and is doubtful for Sunday's tilt against the Steelers. Sproles will likely start in place of LT.

***Jacobs Expected to Make Start Sunday...
....the Giant's running back Brandon Jacobs completed a full week of practice and is not on the injury report. Jacobs has pronounced himself "fit and ready" for Sunday's matchup with Philadelphia. Jacobs has a tough matchup this Sunday, but he should see enough carries to be a decent start for fantasy owners.

***Big Ben Practices Friday, Expected to Start...
....the Steeler's quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was able to complete a full week of practice and will start Sunday. Big Ben is coming off a severe concussion suffered in Week 17, but appears to have no lingering affects for the injury. Roethlisberger is not expected to be on a short leash, so he should be a safe play for fantasy owners.


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 Pos Injury -Practice Status

Ben Patrick TE Knee-Did Not Participate In Practice

Anquan Boldin WR Hamstring-Limited Participation in Practice

Travis LaBoy DE Ankle-Limited Participation in Practice

Leonard Pope TE Knee-Full Participation in Practice

BALTIMORE Pos Injury-Practice Status

Antwan Barnes LB Chest-Out (Definitely Will Not Play)

Justin Bannan DT Foot-Limited Participation in Practice

Todd Heap TE Back-Limited Participation in Practice

Jarret Johnson LB Calf-Limited Participation in Practice

Derrick Mason WR Shoulder-Limited Participation in Practice

Ed Reed S Knee-Limited Participation in Practice

Samari Rolle CB Thigh-Limited Participation in Practice

Matt Stover K Ankle-Limited Participation in Practice

Fabian Washington CB Neck-Limited Participation in Practice

CAROLINA Pos Injury-Practice Status

Geoff Hangartner C Ankle-Limited Participation in Practice

Ma'ake Kemoeatu DT Ankle-Full Participation in Practice

Damione Lewis DT Shoulder-Full Participation in Practice

Jeff Otah T Toe-Full Participation in Practice

NY GIANTS Pos Injury-Practice Status

Zak DeOssie LB Back-Limited Participation in Practice

Justin Tuck DE Lower Leg-Limited Participation in Practice

PITTSBRUGH Pos Injury-Practice Status

Ben Roethlisberger QB Concussion-Full Participation in Practice

PHILADELPHIA Pos Injury-Practice Status

Shawn Andrews G Back-Limited Participation in Practice

Dan Klecko RB Shoulder-Limited Participation in Practice

Jon Runyan T Knee-Did Not Participate In Practice

Victor Abiamiri DE Foot-Full Participation in Practice
Stewart Bradley LB Rib-Full Participation in Practice

Brian Dawkins S Back-Full Participation in Practice

Quintin Demps S Quadricep-Full Participation in Practice

Todd Herremans G Shoulder-Full Participation in Practice
Asante Samuel CB Hip-Full Participation in Practice

L.J. Smith TE Shoulder-Full Participation in Practice
Brian Westbrook RB Knee-Limited Participation in Practice

SAN DIEGO Pos Injury-Practice Status

LaDainian Tomlinson RB Groin-Did Not Participate In Practice
Antonio Gates TE Ankle-Did Not Participate In Practice

Nate Kaeding K Rt.Groin-Did Not Participate In Practice

Brandon Siler LB Foot-Full Participation in Practice

TENNESSEE Pos Injury-Practice Status

Dave Ball DE Back-Did Not Participate In Practice

Kevin Mawae C Elbow-Did Not Participate In Practice

Tuff Harris S Calf-Limited Participation in Practice

Nicholas Harper CB Groin-Full Participation in Practice

Albert Haynesworth DT Knee-Full Participation in Practice

David Thornton LB Hip-Full Participation in Practice

Kyle Vanden Bosch DE Groin-Full Participation in Practice

Bo Scaife TE Illness-Limited Participation in Practice




NFL OFFICIAL INJURY REPORT
DIVISIONAL ROUND
[Playoff Teams Only]

NATIONAL FOOTBALL CONFERENCE

Arizona Cardinals

PROBABLE TE Leonard Pope (knee)QUESTIONABLE WR Anquan Boldin (hamstring), TE Ben Patrick (knee), DL Travis LaBoy (ankle)INJURED RESERVE C Al Johnson (knee)

Carolina Panthers

PROBABLE OT Jeff Otah (toe), DL Ma'ake Kemoeatu (ankle), DL Damione Lewis (shoulder)QUESTIONABLE C Geoff Hangartner (ankle)INJURED RESERVE WR Josh Davis (undisclosed), OG Keydrick Vincent (groin)

New York Giants

PROBABLE DL Justin Tuck (knee), LB Zak DeOssie (back)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), TE L.J. Smith (shoulder), OG Todd Herremans (shoulder), DL Victor Abiamiri (foot), LB Stewart Bradley (ribs), CB Asante Samuel (hip), SS Quintin Demps (quadriceps), FS Brian Dawkins (back)QUESTIONABLE OT Jon Runyan (knee)DOUBTFUL FB Dan Klecko (shoulder)OUT OG Shawn Andrews (back)INJURED RESERVE OT King Dunlap (ankle), OT Michael Gibson (shoulder)

AMERICAN FOOTBALL CONFERENCE

Baltimore Ravens

QUESTIONABLE WR Derrick Mason (shoulder), TE Todd Heap (back), PK Matt Stover (ankle), DL Justin Bannan (foot), LB Jarret Johnson (calf), CB Samari Rolle (thigh), CB Fabian Washington (neck), FS Ed Reed (knee)OUT 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)

Pittsburgh Steelers

PROBABLE QB Ben Roethlisberger (concussion)INJURED RESERVE QB Charlie Batch (collarbone), RB Rashard Mendenhall (shoulder), OG Kendall Simmons (Achilles')

San Diego Chargers

PROBABLE PK Nate Kaeding (groin), LB Brandon Siler (foot)QUESTIONABLE TE Antonio Gates (ankle)DOUBTFUL RB LaDainian Tomlinson (groin)INJURED RESERVE WR Craig Davis (groin), TE Scott Chandler (toe), DL Keith Grennan (fibula), LB Shawne Merriman (knee)

Tennessee Titans

PROBABLE TE Bo Scaife (illness), DL Albert Haynesworth (knee), DL Kyle Vanden Bosch (groin), LB David Thornton (hip), CB Nick Harper (groin)QUESTIONABLE CB Tuff Harris (calf)OUT C Kevin Mawae (elbow), DL Dave Ball (back)INJURED RESERVE CB Reynaldo Hill (hip), CB Eric King (foot)

FSH: MORE FOOTBALL DIGEST

January 9th, 2009 11:15pm PST



Titans-Panthers: Mirror Images?


Two Teams will similar Looks...

By now everyone in the football world should be familiar with the moniker, "Smash N' Dash." For those fans that are not, this is the nickname of both the Panther's running backs, DeAngelo Williams and rookie Jonathan Stewart, as well as the Titan's backfield of LenDale White and rookie Chris Johnson.

It is not often that you see a two backfield-tandems sharing the same nickname. The question here is not where it all started, but who will continue to carry on the name?

For the Carolina Panthers (12-4) and the Tennessee Titans (13-3), this weekend will see these two teams continue their quest toward the promise land in Tampa, Florida. Leading the way for both clubs will be their pair of running backs that are similar in more ways than just name.

The similarities; both teams feature a rookie runner and a 3rd year running back. Both teams boasted a 1,000-yard rusher for 2008. Both teams feature a Pac-10 running back and a Conference USA running back.

Stewart the Panther's rookie running back was a first round selection, picked 13th overall in the 2008 NFL Draft. While Johnson, the Titan's rookie ground gainer was the 24th pick in the first round. White was drafted out of Southern California, while Stewart was drafted out of Oregon, both Pac-10 schools. Williams hails from Memphis and Johnson is out of East Carolina, both Conference USA schools.

Taking it a step further for spits and squiggles, both White and Williams share the same last initial.

From the outset of the 2008 regular season, both teams were expected to employ a time-share in the backfield, which they did. Williams (Car) and Johnson (Ten) were donned the starters with White and Stewart playing the best supporting actor role. Fortunately for fantasy football gamers and football fans alike, neither team was a disappointment providing ample production from all four backs.



How the Titan's Roll...

During this past season, the Titan's pair of ball carriers earned their nickname. On October 19th they would rush for 332-yards and set a franchise record against the Kansas City Chiefs, giving the name "Smash N' Dash" new life.

Johnson (Dash) would go on to average almost five yards per carry in 251 attempts and lead the team with 1,228-yards rushing for the season. White (Smash) would add another 773-yards on the ground and punch through the goal line 15 times in 2008. The two game-breakers would combine for 451 attempts, 2,001-yards rushing, average 4.4-yards per carry and score a total of 24 rushing touchdowns.

Whether the name was born of Titan descent or not, these two Tennesseans proved their worthiness by season's end. With a titanic matchup this Saturday against one of the league's best run stuffing defenses, Smash N' Dash (White and Johnson) will once again be called upon to render its' opponent helpless and elevate the team to the next level.


The Panther's Style...

While the moniker is skewed somewhat in controversy, no matter how it all started or where it began once it caught on, it stuck.

One of the Panthers running backs may be a little at fault for dubbing he and his teammate with the nickname. After the Williams and Stewart completely dismantled the Lions run defense for 250-yards and three touchdowns, Williams spoke out saying he felt the two backs needed a tag. Williams offered a couple of names, but it was "Smash and Dash" that took.

The Panther's prowling pair would better their Week 11 performance against Detroit, with a 301-yard, four touchdown showing against Tampa Bay in Week 14. By the conclusion of the 2008 season, Williams would finish with 1,515-yards and 18 touchdowns, while Stewart would wind up with 836-yards on the ground and 10 scores. For the season, Carolina's dynamic duo would combine for 457 attempts, 2,351-yards, average 5.1-yards per carry and score a total of 28 rushing touchdowns.

The two Panthers will make their case this Saturday night against Arizona, a team that they have already faced once this season, but did not have quite the success of a "Smash and Dash" attack. There's little doubt that both Williams and Stewart will get plenty of chances to keep the team's crusade alive.

This weekend's divisional matchups may not bring an answer to when or where the nickname started, but for the sake of argument, it is another chance for these four gridiron gladiators to prove their worthiness.

So when the dust settles Saturday night, which two will Smash and Dash their way to the Championship round and continue their quest?


Keep checking back for more football....

By David G. Ortega

FSH: MORE FOOTBALL DIGEST

January 9th, 2009 1:45am PST



Broncos: Looking Ahead to 2009

What the Backfield Could Look Like...

When the Bronco's disastrous 2008 campaign came to an abrupt halt in the team's season finale against the Chargers, this may have marked the end of the Bronco's regular season, but this was just the beginning of a new season to look to and one they would hope to soon forget.

2008 was filled with many ups and downs and lots of misfortune for the Bronco's backfield. This past season saw not just a couple of backs go down to injury, but seven running backs in the Denver lineup wound up on the team's injured reserve by seasons' end.

When the season began 19 weeks ago, the Broncos would open the new campaign featuring their own version of the three-headed Running-Back-By-Committee monster with Selvin Young, Andre Hall, and Michael Pittman. The three would work in tandem and rotation that not only frustrated the fantasy football world, but often at times confused and frustrated Bronco fans.

It was a work in progress that had some success but not a whole lot of luck. The problem became apparent right away when both Young (groin) and Hall (wrist) displayed durability issues going down with injuries in Week 5 forcing the team to scramble for needed help. For a short duration Pittman had his short at center stage, but like his predecessors, he too showed his vulnerability falling victim to a neck injury in Week 7.

By Week 10, rookie running back Ryan Torain would get his turn, but as luck would play its' nasty hand, Torain would suffer a season ending torn ACL in his brief and only start of the season.

Through all the turmoil and turbulence that comes from playing a 16-game schedule in the NFL, the Broncos turned to two unlikely candidates to carry the load and continue the fight in 2008, rookie full-back Peyton Hillis and an outcast from Detroit (Tatum Bell).

In fairness to Bell, I was never fully disclosed of all the details relating to his incident involving his release and Rudi Johnson's arrival in Detroit, but it's safe to say his making the news was a bit of a dubious honor.

Hillis was a seventh round draft pick out of Arkansas and signed to the team to play full-back. He spent the first half of the season laying blocks for the other running backs, but in Week 11 He got his twirl at the head of the class and quickly made his impact. Something the team will hope to see more of in 2009. His light would only shine a few short weeks as a torn hamstring in Week 14 would send him to the showers early.

Bell was sort of an enigma. Cast aside by the Lions before the start of the season, Bell was selling cell phones when the Broncos came calling. He rejoined the team following Week 10, a desperate move by a desperate team, but one that made some sense.

This was Bell's second stint with the team, so he was completely familiar with system and understood its' terminology. In 2005 and 2006 combined Bell has rushed for nearly 2,000-yards, so he seemed like a good prospect that the Broncos hoped could prove to be productive once again.

Bell didn't see a lot of action early in his return with the team and down the stretch (in Week 14) he would only top 10 carries in a single game just once. Bell had his best game of his short season with Denver in the team's finale, rushing for 86-yards and catching four passes for 31-yards.

While the 2008 season finished in disappointing fashion, there were signs of hope for the Bronco's rushing offense in 2009. Through the laundry list of injuries to the team's running back position, it seems next year will offer a wide open competition with a wide range of options to consider.

Hillis and Bell did not get long looks at the featured position this season, but out of the mess that was the Bronco's backfield in 2008, these two were perhaps the most productive during their short stints. Hillis finished as the team's leading rusher with 343-yards (the lowest total in team history) and Bell finished the season with a strong two touchdown performance against the Chargers.

When camp opens in 2009 it would not surprise to see the team bring back many of the same faces that frequented the backfield this past season. The two leading front-runners would appear to be Hillis and Bell. Both were productive and if the current system remains in tact, each would seem to have a well defined role.

Hillis, with his 5.0-yards per carry average, was impressive during his run as a hard-nose, between-the-tackles ball carrier who could find the extra yards. The former Razorback had a real nose for the end-zone scoring six times in his last six games. He's an obvious choice to assume the short-yardage and goal-line duties once he's healthy.

Much like he did in 2005 and 2006 when he shared the backfield, Bell has the capability of the being that change of pace runner, who can take to the house. During his first tenure with Denver (from 2004-2006), Bell had 19 runs for 20-yards or more in 481 carries (one every 25 carries). In just 44 totes this season, he's managed three runs of 20-yards or more.

Selvin Young suffered a ruptured disk in his neck toward the end of the season and is waiting to see if surgery is required to repair. He was considered a durability liability when the season began, but when healthy could be a consideration for the same role as Bell with his speed. There's no question Young's injury proned 2008 season makes him a big question mark for 2009.

With both Bell (if he is resigned) and Hillis likely to return in 2009 and the possibility of Young figuring into the mix, it's hard to imagine the Broncos would bring back Pittman (UFA) at age 33 or Andre Hall. Although Pittman did rush for over 100-yards in his only start this past season, he did little else to make much of a case for his return. Hall's contributions were even less and his two fumbles in just 35 carries may have sealed his fate as a Bronco.

Ryan Torain is likely the most intriguing option of all Denver's backs. The Bronco's rookie did not have much of a stint in the team's backfield. He missed the first eight games of the season with an elbow injury and in the two games he did play in he only had 15 touches.

Torain was highly heralded leading up to his debut in Week 9, but he was also considered a (former head coach) Mike Shanahan favorite. Now that Shanny is no longer, coming off a torn ACL, Torain will be another big question in the team's 2009 training camp.

There were other backs the donned a Bronco jersey that could return next season, P.J. Pope and Anthony Aldridge. Unfortunately for these two, neither saw any significant time and the only shot they have at making an impact in 2009 is likely as a back-up or on the practice squad.

If the season were to start tomorrow and all current options to be considered were healthy, Hillis would be the leading candidate to assume the task as the team's featured back. Bell would appear to have a good shot at the number one back-up looking for the 8-10 carry role. Following the tradition of the team's current system, Young could possibly fit in as a third down pass-receiving option.

A draft pick and Torain (if he's able to come back strong) would fill in as the needed depth. Torain, who appeared to have so much promise, would be kept under close watch. Shanahan has a proven record, so you have to give him the benefit of the doubt on this one.

Certainly there won't be any shortage of options available in Denver in 2009. The good thing too for Mile High fans, the Broncos are loaded with a lot of young talent. Minus an aging Pittman, Bell with five years of experience could be considered the team's new senior citizen at running back.

With all of these backs returning from injury though, it will only be prudent for the team to consider outside options as well. Names to look for in the off season are unrestricted free agents; Steven Jackson, Brandon Jacobs, Derrick Ward, and Fred Jackson.

While the free agent market could be a costly stretch for a team in dire need of help on the defensive side of the ball, fortunately it is not the only place to go searching. The Bronco's will likely expend their first couple of draft picks on defensive talent, but could look to the later rounds to fill the offensive backfield cupboard with more depth and possible long-term options.

With the prospect of a new head coach and possibly a new offensive system next season there will be many questions to answer. Until team owner Pat Bowlen finds a suitable replacement for Shanahan, the Bronco's backfield will remain a puzzle-ment for sports geeks and fans alike to ponder.

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

By David G. Ortega

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST (Fantasy News)

January 7th, 2008 10:50pm PST

David's Daily Digest
Fantasy Playoff News

Fantasy Football
Playoffs Continue!!

Tomlinson has torn tendon.....
.....the Charger's running back LaDanian Tomlinson (groin) confirmed that he has a torn tendon in his groin area. It does not look good for the LT to be on the field Sunday. Sproles is expected to carry the load against the Steelers.

Mawae expects to sit Saturday.....
.....the Titan's All-Pro center Kevin Mawae admitted in a radio interview he does not expect to play Saturday against the Ravens. If he's out, the loss could be key going up against a stout Raven defense that completely stymied the Dolphins running game a week ago.

Boldin expected to be Game-time...
.....the Cardinals Pro-bowl receiver Anquan Boldin (hamstring) is not expected to practice this week, while he rests his strained hamstring. Boldin is expected to be a game-time call Saturday night. Fantasy owners may want to avoid playing Boldin with the touchy hamstring issue.

Flacco is Raven's Road Warrior...
....the Raven's rookie quarterback Joe Flacco may be in his first season of the NFL, but he's playing well beyond his years in particularly on the road. This season Flacco has been one of the leagues better road warriors with a 91.7-passer rating (third highest in the NFL) in the opponents house.

Parker is healthy and ready...
....the Steeler's running back Fast-Willie Parker is as healthy as he's ever been this season. In week 17 Parker carried the ball 23 times and with the extra week of rest he'll be ready for Sunday against the Chargers. Although San Diego has improved defensively down the stretch, Parker looks like a good play this week for owners.

Westbrook not likely to miss Sunday...
....the Eagle's running back sat out a Wednesday practice once again and after he revealed his plans to not practice much this week, was anyone surprised? This seems to be the norm and coming off 23 touches last week, fantasy owners can bet Westbrook will start Sunday against the Giants.

Mason rests Wednesday...
....the Raven's veteran leader, wide receiver Derrick Mason (shoulder) was held out of practice Wednesday. Mason is still banged up and nursing a shoulder injury, but he will start Saturday for the Ravens. Mason had 71-yards against the Dolphins running deeper routes, but he'll probably find more success this week on the shorter tours. Owners may want to avoid Mason this week.

Gates misses practice Wednesday...
....the Charger's tight end Antonio Gates sat out of practice Wednesday. Coming off an eight reception performance last week, Gates is still dealing with ankle injuries and is likely being rested up for Sunday's divisional matchup.

Jacobs expected to start...
....the Giant's running back Brandon Jacobs is expected to start Sunday against the Eagles, but running back Derrick Ward will also see a fair share of the load. The Eagles did a great job in Week 14 limiting both Giant's runners, if you must play one Jacobs will likely see more goal-line carries.

Roethlisberger ready for Sunday...
....the Steeler's quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (head) does not appear on the team's injury report for the Divisional Round. Big Ben suffered a concussion in Week 17 and needed to be carted off the field. With the extra week of rest he now appears ready to start Sunday against the Chargers.

Heap misses practice...
....the Raven's tight end Todd Heap (back) did not practice Wednesday. Last Week going into the first round of the playoffs, some analysts felt Heap could be a difference maker in the game. His early 31-yard reception sure gave fantasy owners high hopes, but Heap in typical fashion quickly disappeared not catching another pass. He's expected to start, but shouldn't be counted on for any production.

IDP NEWS...

Haynesworth expected to play Saturday.....
....the Titan's defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth (knee) returned to practice this week. He is expected to play Saturday and will wear brace to support and protect his injured knee. His presence will be felt, but he's a questionable IDP play this week.

Harrison returns to practice....
....the Steeler's linebacker and league's AP Defensive Player of the Year James Harrison (hip) returned to practice this week and appears healthy and ready for Sunday's rematch with the Chargers. A healthy Harrison is a must start for IDP owners.

Vanden Bosch returns to practice...
.....the Titan's defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch (groin) returned to practice this week. Barring any setbacks this week, Vanden Bosch is expected to start against the Ravens. KVB will demand attention on the end, but he could be limited with the groin injury and may not be one of the better IDP options this week.

Samuel misses practice....
.....the Eagle's defensive star from Sunday, Asante Samuel (hip) did not practice on Wednesday. Samuel was questionable leading up to Sunday's tilt with the Vikings and was able to play, so he's likely following the same pattern. IDP owners should expect him to play, but should consider him a questionable start this Sunday.


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

By David G. Ortega

FSH: WEEKEND FANTASY DIGEST (Fantasy News)

January 6th, 2008 10:50pm PST

WEEKEND FANTASY DIGEST
Fantasy News


WEEKEND STARS...


Sproles is Smallest Big Man in San Diego...
....the Charger's running back played like a giant among boys, rushing for over 100-yards and scoring two rushing touchdowns. Sproles also added five receptions for another 45-yards.

McNabb Keeps the Eagles Flying...
....the Eagle's quarterback was solid in the team's win on Sunday. McNabb tossed one touchdown, while passing for 300-yards. McNabb completed 23 of 34 passes while finding eight different receivers on Sunday.

All-Day Breaks Loose.....
.....the Vikings running back Adrian Peterson, broke loose for a 40-yard touchdown run in the 2nd quarter and would later score a 2nd time in the quarter. Peterson finished the afternoon with 83-yards on the ground.

Gates Leads the Air Attack...
.....the Charger's tight end led the team with eight receptions Saturday night. Gates was questionable entering the contest, but proved to be effective with 87-yards receiving.

Fitzgerald Just Makes Plays...
....the Cardinal's big play receiver was nothing less than spectacular with a solid performance in the team's win. Fitzgerald grabbed six passes for 101-yards and scored on a fantastic 42-yard touchdown reception.

Warner Play's Like Two-time MVP...
....the Cardinal's quarterback showed his old MVP form on Saturday completing 19 of 32 passes. Warner also tossed two touchdowns while passing for 271-yards in the team's win against the Falcons.

McClain Stumbles, then Rumbles...
....the Raven's running back had his post season career start in ominous fashion with a first quarter fumble against the Dolphins. McClain would quickly rebound and ramble his way to 75-yards on the ground and touchdown.

Westbrook Totals over 100-yards...
....the Eagles running back touched the ball 23 times on Sunday and totaled over 100-yards in the team's win. Westbrook carried the ball 20 times for 38-yards and caught three passes for 83-yards and a touchdown.

IDP NOTES...

Samuel Makes the Big Play.....
....the Eagle's defense came up big on Sunday and no one was bigger than defensive back Asante Samuel. Samuel came up with a 44-yard interception return for a touchdown.

Reed Leads the Ravens on Sunday....
.....the Raven's big play safety was a difference maker once again. Ed Reed wasted little time making an impact on Sunday. Reed picked off Pennington in the 2nd quarter (his first of two) and returned the pass 64-yards for a touchdown.

DRC Plays Big and Leads Way...
.....the Cardinal's rookie defensive back saved his best for the post season. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie limited the Falcons receiver Roddy White to 7.6-yards per catch while recording a 10-total tackles and an interception.

Dobbins Comes up with Big Play...
.....the Charger's linebacker Tim Dobbins recorded just one tackle Saturday night, but no tackle was ever more important than his sack late in the 4th quarter giving San Diego the ball back and the opportunity to tie the game.

Lewis Leads Charge in the Middle...
.....the Raven's veteran linebacker Ray Lewis brought his "A" game to the post season. He was solid in the team's win on Sunday registering nine solo tackles.


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

By David G. Ortega