FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL NOTES

September 14th, 2009 5:57pm PST

Sunday Night Football Notes

Week One Injury Notes

(Thursday Night) Steelers: The Steelers will lose safety Troy Polamalu for a few weeks to a knee injury. Though he will not need surgery he's expected to miss 3-6 weeks. The loss will sting the vaunted Steel Curtain defense a bit, but the Steelers are still loaded and should be fine. On the night Polamalu recorded six tackles and a pick and looked to be in mid-season form.
(Sunday) Colts: Wide receiver Anthony Gonzalez went down in the first quarter of Sunday's game with an apparent knee injury. According to ESPN's Chris Mortenson the Colt's 4th year wideout could miss some extended time. The team has yet to confirm the injury timetable, but either way Gonzo will miss some time and that will likely mean more looks for wide receiver Reggie Wayne.
Eagles: Quarterback Donovan McNabb suffered a rib injury in the team's win on Sunday. While there is some hope that McNabb, with rest this week could return next Sunday, his status appears in doubt with the team's signing of free agent Jeff Garcia.
Bears: The Bears defense took a huge hit Sunday night when linebacker Brian Urlacher left the game with a wrist injury. The news got worse on Monday when following surgery on the injured wrist, reports came out indicating Urlacher was done for the season.

Other Notable key injuries;

The Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo suffered an ankle injury, but it sounds like he will be fine and won't be at risk to miss week 2. The Cardinals were basically down two receivers on Sunday with Steve Breaston (knee) inactive and Anquan Boldin limited to a snap count. Boldin suffered no setbacks and if he practices all week should be a go for week 2. Breaston however remains uncertain with his absence on Sunday coming unexpected.

Sunday Night’s Fantasy Football Injury report;

Bears: TE Desmond Clark (back) status unknown.
Bucs: C Jeff Faine (triceps) expected to miss 4-6 weeks.
Falcons: DL Peria Jerry (ribs) status unknown.
Giants: RB Danny Ware (elbow) expected to miss 2-3 weeks. WR Hakeem Nicks (foot) expected to miss 2-s weeks.
Jaguars: DL Reggie Hayward (leg) will miss rest of the season.
Packers: DB Atari Bigby (knee) status uncertain.
Panthers: QB Josh McCown (knee, foot) was placed on injured reserve ending his season.
Seahawks: LB LeRoy Hill (groin) out indefinitely.
Texans: WR Andre Davis (concussion) status uncertain. DB Jacques Reeves (leg) expected to return for week 2.


By David Ortega

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

FSH: MORE FANTASY TALK

September 11th, 2009 9:37pm PST

Ready for his Time

Schaub is hoping for a healthy 2009….

When the Texans acquired quarterback Matt Schaub from the Atlanta Falcons prior to the 2007 season, there was plenty of excitement and reason to be. The team had found its’ quarterback and believed Schaub had the talent to put the franchise on the map.

The 2007 season did not pan out quite as well as fans would have hoped. Schaub missed a total of five games with injury, including the team’s final four. Schaubs first tenure as a starter in the NFL was not a flying success and there were plenty of growing pains as the team would finish 8-8.

Once the 2008 season rolled around the excitement was back and there was plenty to be excited about. In his second season as the team’s starter Schaub looked better than ever and the offense was loaded with plenty of playmakers. Schaub would again miss time with injury in 2008, but it was what he did while he was in that has folks looking at 2009 as a big season for the Texans.

Despite the injuries and missing five games Schaub managed to pass for more than 3,000-yards in 2008. He also showed he does have the big arm and can have those big games fantasy owners and head coaches love to see.

In 2008, Schaub started just 11 games, but managed to throw for over 300-yards in four of those starts. He also passed for more than 250-yards in eight of his starts. In his 11 starts the Texans starter averaged 276.6-yards passing per game. Schaub also showed great accuracy last season completing over 66 percent of his passes and his 92.7 passer rating ranked 7th among starters in 2008.

Schaub has endured a lot to get where he is, but its pretty apparent there is much left for him to do. There’s no question that he has the size and skill-set to be an excellent quarterback in the NFL and he’s already shown fantasy owners he can produce.

Working in a passer friendly system under head coach Gary Kubiak and having a big-time elite receiver to throw to, Schaub has the makings to be an top fantasy passer in the game, so why is this promising act falling so low on the fantasy drafts boards? 10 games missed in the last two seasons have many fantasy owners concerned about taking Schaub too early.

Sure if Schaub is healthy, he’s going to be a gamebreaker for fantasy owners, but given his history he is a big risk with an early pick. As a QB2, he’s going to give fantasy owners maximum value, but the question is will owners wait before grabbing.
(2009 Predictions: 14 starts, 320 of 484 passing, 3,840 yards passing 24 touchdowns, 12 interceptions)

By David Ortega


Check back for more “Fantasy Talk”

FSH: MORE FANTASY TALK

September 11th, 2009 9:37pm PST

A Big Arm with Big Hopes

Time to bounce back….

Following the 2008 season there were probably many folks who did not believe that David Garrard was a ready for primetime NFL quarterback despite his strong 2007 season. Well could that be any further from the truth?

Last season was not only one to forget for Garrard, but one the Jaguars would also love to forget as well. Finishing the season with a 5-11 record, one area of big concern for the Jags was the offense and it’s lack of production in the passing game (ranked 15th last season). The passing game only generated 15 touchdown passes (ranked tied for 24th) and averaged only 6.7 yards per pass (ranked tied for 19th). Upgrades are going to be a priority in 2009.

While Garrard’s ineffectiveness (13 interceptions) last season seemed to be a major cause for the offenses deficiencies, the truth of the matter is the real cause was up front. Garrard was a victim of his team’s bad luck. A decimated with injury offensive line and poor pass protection were the biggest culprits for the team’s offensive demise. Garrard was hit and hurried countless times last season and the line surrendered 42 sacks (ranked 25th).

With a new season on the horizon, the team is healthier and seems to be addressing many of these needs from last seasons’ debacle. In the offseason the team acquired veteran receiver Torry Holt, who they believe has something left. Holt will give Garrard that veteran leader and go-to receiver over the middle that he can look to in crunch time. The sudden emergence of wide receiver Troy Williamson (22-yards per catch this preseason) could give the offense that boost it needs to stretch the field. Joining the cause once again this season to help Garrard and the offense will be 6-foot six-inch tight end Marcedes Lewis who can beat the defense down the seams.

Just two years ago, Garrard ranked among the best passers with a 102.2 passer rating. This preseason he’s already shown glimpses of returning to that form with great accuracy (28 of 43 passing, 65 percent completion). Garrard also adds that extra dynamic of mobility rushing for 322 yards in 2008. In the offseason the team addressed their biggest concerns by drafting offensive lineman Eugene Monroe with the 8th overall draft pick. He’s still a work in progress, but his addition will give the line depth and plenty of size (Monroe is 6’5” and over 300-lbs).

2008 is now a distant memory for Jacksonville and quarterback David Garrard. With the 2009 season already underway, it’s time for big arms, to aim for big dreams and reach new heights. Garrard is going to be well overlooked in many fantasy drafts and will fall to the late rounds. With a late round pick he’s a great value QB2 and he’ll offer plenty of upside. (2009 Predictions: 285 of 440 passing, 3,315-yards passing, 24 touchdown passes, 9 interceptions, 205 rushing yards, 2 rushing touchdowns)

By David Ortega


Check back for more “Fantasy Talk”

FSH: THE FANTASY QWIK FIXX

September 9th, 2009 10:37pm PST

YOUR FANTASY SPORTS HOME

The Best Per Game in 2008

Sometimes it’s not the one with the most points in fantasy that matters, but what also counts is who can score more each week. That is to say which players, when they play will give you the most? While most of us will bank our theories on season long totals, something that has to be considered is the best points per game fantasy studs.

It’s not likely you are going to draft fantasy players that will stay healthy and play every game. If you have played fantasy for a number of years, you also realize you don’t need to win every game. What the first key is, winning enough games to reach your leagues post season. Once you have reached that step then having the right fantasy players producing at the right time can make all the difference.

It is even to rank your players following convential methods, based on season totals but a critical stat that you can not overlook, is the points per game. Some of this seasons biggest studs missed extensive action, but if you look at season totals only, they may not show up on your radar.

To make sure you don’t miss a beat or leave any stone unturned, here are last season’s top-50 fantasy points per game;

2008 Top-50 Fantasy Points Leaders (Per-Game)

Player Per Game Avg
1. Drew Brees 22.21
2. Jay Cutler 20.83
3. Aaron Rodgers 20.66
4. Kurt Warner 20.22
5. Matt Schaub 19.63
6. Tony Romo 19.58
7. Philip Rivers 19.43
8. DeAngelo Williams 18.29
9. Donovan McNabb 18.24
10. Shaun Hill 18.22
11. Peyton Manning 18.08
12. Matt Cassel 17.92
13. Tyler Thigpen 17.78
14. David Garrard 16.87
15. Michael Turner 16.37
16. Jeff Garcia 16.05
17. Chad Pennington 15.72
18. Brett Favre 15.63
19. Sage Rosenfels 15.54
20. Brandon Jacobs 15.44
21. Kyle Orton 15.06
22. Ben Roethlisberger 14.88
23. Matt Ryan 14.82
24. Jason Campbell 14.57
25. Eli Manning 14.49
26. Thomas Jones 14.47
27. Joe Flacco 14.44
28. Adrian Peterson 14.43
29. Steven Jackson 14.27
30. Jake Delhomme 14.25
31. Brian Westbrook 14.12
32. Trent Edwards 13.83
33. Matt Forte 13.71
34. Gus Frerotte 13.69
35. J.T. O'Sullivan 13.6
36. Clinton Portis 13.35
37. LaDainian Tomlinson 12.77
38. Chris Johnson 12.54
39. Ryan Fitzpatrick 12.42
40. Maurice Jones-Drew 12.17
41. Steve Slaton 12.07
42. JaMarcus Russell 11.92
43. Matt Hasselbeck 11.81
44. Seneca Wallace 11.74
45. Frank Gore 11.69
46. Marc Bulger 11.62
47. Derek Anderson 11.33
48. Kerry Collins 10.92
49. Marion Barber 10.89
50. Marshawn Lynch 10.85

Check back every Monday for more “Fantasy Fixx”

FSH: FRIDAY FOOTBALL DIARY

September 11th, 2009 9:07pm PST

[Written Friday September 11, 2009)
Friday Football Diary


Dear Diary

Let me start by saying let us not forget our fallen heroes; those that have served and those we have lost along the way in their fight for our freedom. This is the freedom that gives each of us and all of us a platform to share our voice and opinions.

To all those that give so much you are recognized for your heroism, selflessness, and courage. Thank you to all military personnel, peace officers, teachers, doctors, and volunteers, you are what make us all proud to be Americans. Today we remember all of you, because you are what makes tomorrow possible!

And to think, if not for the so many I have never met, that fight so fearless for my freedom, I might never be able to sit here and talk football as I do.

How lucky am I!

With week one in the NFL bearing down, I just keep getting luckier as I go. We are less than 36 hours from week one really getting underway and I am excited like a small child waiting for Christmas morning. Let’s face it Thursday night was just a teaser the real gifts come Sunday morning.

I am so ready, are you?

When Sunday does arrive, I can tell you there are several things that I will be paying close attention too;

10 Things I will be watching

1. Brett Favre: In the morning games I will of course be watching Favre like so many others. It will be interesting to see how far along and ready he is for the real deal in the dawg pound. I expect to see a lot of blitzes and plenty of pressure.
2. Donovan McNabb: With his most complete corp of receivers in years, I will be keeping my eye on McNabb as he and the Eagles look to take flight in Carolina on Sunday.
3. Maurice Jones-Drew: Now the lone number one back in Jacksonville, Jones-Drew is going to be featured in the offense. Going up against a Colts defense he normally abuses, he could have a big opening Sunday.
4. Matt Hasselbeck: It’s not the Bonanza Days all over again, but 2009 could be the return of Hass. Coming off a season of injury, Hass is healthy and his weapons have greatly improved with the addition of free agent TJ Houshmandzadeh and rookie wideout Deon Butler.
5. Tom Brady: After a season off the air, it’s the return of the Brady Bunch show on Sunday’s. With Tom Brady back and still having his best weapon, Sunday’s will be more than exciting to watch. The knee looks fine and Brady looks ready to pick up where he left off in 2007.
6. Terrell Owens: The T.O. show has not been cancelled for 2009, it’s just been relocated and moved to another channel. You know I will be tuned in and watching with my popcorn ready.
7. Tony Gonzalez: Last year’s best tight end is in a new uniform, but I am expecting much of the same in 2009. He might not finish with as many catches or yards this season, but he will still be a top four tight end this season and I plan to watch.
8. LaDanian Tomlinson: L.T. normally torches the Raiders for big numbers and with so many nay-sayers this offseason, I am anxious to see how the little train that could comes out of the gate.
9. Aaron Rodgers: After watching this kid quite a bit this past preseason, my eyes will be focused on Rodgers and the Pack Sunday night. With so many weapons at receiver, I expect to see Aaron light up the Lambeau night sky.
10. Matt Cassel: I find this watch to be pretty interesting. It’s hard to be a fluke for 16 games, so it’s going to be interesting to see how good Cassel really is playing for Haley and the Chiefs. His week one matchup will be brutal against the Ravens.

Check back every week for more “Friday Football Diary”

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

September 9th, 2009 11:30pm PST

David's Daily Digest
[My Take]

More football news and happenings from around the league; here’s the latest I am hearing, reading, and following with my take on things and how they will impact the coming fantasy season……

News From Across the Wire...

Kyle Orton, QB, Denver Broncos
Kyle Orton and Chris Simms both practiced very little Wednesday, according to the Sports Network.
My Fantasy read on Orton: The Bronco’s starting quarterback has been throwing, so it looks like he will start. He’s not a fantasy starter, so the safe move is to keep him on your bench…..

Kevin Walter, WR, Houston Texans
Updating an earlier report, head coach Gary Kubiak has some concern that Kevin Walter may not be available for Week 1 after missing today's practice with his hamstring injury, according to the Texans' official website.
My Fantasy read on Walter: The Texan’s number two receiver is only valued as a low WR3 at best. With his outlook for Sunday not looking so hot, keep him on the bench…..

Steve Breaston, WR, Arizona Cardinals
Steve Breaston (knee) said he is not 100 percent heading into the team's game against the 49ers this Sunday, according to CBS Sports.
My Fantasy read on Breaston: Breaston is one of the higher valued number three receiver’s in the NFL, even less than 100 percent he has a nice matchup against the Niner’s secondary. He’s a low value WR3, but depending on your roster is worth considering for week one…..

Carson Palmer, QB, Cincinnati Bengals
Carson Palmer fully practiced with the Bengals Wednesday, according to Joe Reedy's (Cincinnati Enquirer) twitter page.
My Fantasy read on Palmer: Palmer looks ready for 2009 and with a good matchup against a suspect Bronco’s secondary, he’s worth starting on Sunday…..

Bernard Berrian, WR, Minnesota Vikings
Bernard Berrian (hamstring) was limited in practice on Wednesday, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.
My Fantasy read on Berrian: Berrian is a mid-level fantasy option and has yet to practice much with his new quarterback. He may play on Sunday, but could be risky. The safe move would be to avoid if possible….

Deion Branch, WR, Seattle Seahawks
Deion Branch missed practice with a hamstring injury on Wednesday, according to the Seattle Times.
My Fantasy read on Branch: Branch is falling down the depth chart and could lose snaps to the rookie Butler. With Deion ailing he should be avoided in lineups this Sunday…..

Matt Cassel, QB, Kansas City Chiefs
Matt Cassel was limited during Wednesday's practice, according to the Chiefs' official website. He is nursing a strained MCL ailment.
My Fantasy read on Cassel: Cassel looks to risky to be in any fantasy lineups this week, especially facing the Raven’s defense…..

Brandon Marshall, WR, Denver Broncos
Brandon Marshall and the Broncos are reportedly discussing the possibility of inking him to a contract extension, according to ESPN.
My Fantasy read on Marshall: The reports are surprising to hear so soon, but word is the kid has been on his best behavior with a great attitude. It looks like he will play Sunday, limited role or not he should be in your lineup on Sunday……

Jonathan Stewart, RB, Carolina Panthers
Jonathan Stewart will play this Sunday against the Eagles, according to Panthers.com.
My Fantasy read on Stewart: The Panthers back up running back has missed a lot of time. Even if he is playing, his touches could be limited and the rookie Goodson could steal some carries. Fantasy owners would be wise to avoid……

Terrell Owens, WR, Buffalo Bills
Terrell Owens does not like the Bills' plan to use a no-huddle offense this season, according to the Associated Press.
My Fantasy read on Owens: Owens tweeted that he was kidding. Expect the T.O. show to begin Monday, he should be in your lineups…..

Kevin Curtis, WR, Philadelphia Eagles
Philadelphiaeagles.com reports that wide receiver Kevin Curtis has returned to full-participation practices after dealing with a swollen knee.
My Fantasy read on Curtis: Curtis is a decent WR3 fantasy option, but there are better options to start this week. Only if you play in leagues that start three receivers might Curtis be in your lineup…..

Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars
As expected, the Associated Press reports that running back Maurice Jones-Drew returned to practice Wednesday and was in full pads.
My Fantasy read on Jones-Drew: Jones-Drew is expected to have a great 2009 campaign as the featured back in Jacksonville. His injury this preseason was never considered serious, he’s a must start for week one……

Tony Gonzalez, TE, Atlanta Falcons
Atlantafalcons.com reports that tight end Tony Gonzalez alluded to having a lesser role in the Falcons offense. "I've caught enough balls and had my heyday. It doesn't mean I can't go out there and still perform. I'm still going out there and I feel just as good as ever. But at the same time it doesn't matter to me."
My Fantasy read on Gonzalez: Despite what you hear and read, it only matters what we see on Sunday. The future hall-of-fame tight end was not brought into Atlanta to block. He’s a must start every week…..

Hakeem Nicks, WR, New York Giants
The New York Daily News reports that Hakeem Nicks has moved up to fourth on the Giants depth chart and is seriously challenging Mario Manningham for the No. 3 spot.
My Fantasy read on Nicks: It’s too early to jump on the Nicks bandwagon, but keep your eye on the kid, it could be a matter of time before he starts making an impace. Keep him on the sideline this week…..

Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Republic reports that Anquan Boldin (hamstring) stated that he will "definitely play" on Sunday against the 49ers.
My Fantasy read on Boldin: If Boldin is playing Sunday (and it appears he will), he’s a must start, especially against the Niners where’s he had success in the past….

Ray Rice, RB, Baltimore Ravens
According to Aaron Wilson on Twitter, Ray Rice says that he will be the starting running back against the Chiefs on Sunday.
My Fantasy read on Rice: No surprise here, Rice has been the favorite all along and with a nice week one matchup against a mediocre Kansas City defense, he’s a nice play for week one…..

Pierre Thomas, RB, New Orleans Saints
Saints beat writer Jeff Duncan reports via Twitter that he would rule running back Pierre Thomas "out" for Sunday's game against the Lions.
My Fantasy read on Thomas: The Saint’s starter has missed too much time recently to consider for action this Sunday. The best bet for fantasy owners is too sit in week one……


Check back with "Your Fantasy Sports Home" for more Football to digest....

FSH: THURSDAY NIGHT PREVIEW

September 10th, 2009 5:37am PST

THURSDAY NIGHT SPECIAL PREVIEW

Tennessee Titans

vs

Pittsburgh Steelers

It’s taken fans over seven months to wait, but it’s finally here “The NFL season” kickoffs Thursday night when the defending Super Bowl Champion Steelers host the Tennessee Titans. And how appropriate is that, the Steelers participated in last season’s final game and now they will participate in this year’s opener.

Deservedly so, the Steelers will be in the spotlight Thursday night when the 2009 season kicks off. With one of the leagues premiere elite quarterbacks in Ben Roethlisberger (2 Super Bowl rings), there’s no question that the house will be rocking as the Steelers will look to repeat their impressive run of a year ago.

The Titan’s on the other side of the field will be filled with emotion, but they will also enter the 2009 schedule with a heavy heart. The team will be mourning the loss of former Titan quarterback Steve McNair, who passed away during the offseason, by wearing the number 9 on the back of their helmets in his memory. Nonetheless head coach Jeff Fischer will undoubtedly have his team prepared for what should be an epic battle.

The Match-up….

With an offseason of preparation the Steelers did not do much to change last season’s winning formula, except get healthy. Big Ben has looked in form this preseason in limited action. Although some may worry about his off-the-field distractions, it doesn’t seem to be affecting Big Ben.

At the ripe age of 27 and entering his 6th season, Big Ben already has two rings on his resume and has proved time and time again that he is clutch. The healthy return of Fast Willie Parker will be a huge upgrade to the Steelers offense that likes to control the clock and move the ground on the ball. If FWP can stay healthy, expect to see the Steelers offense to get back to doing what it does best, run the ball and stretch the field with Big Ben’s arm in the vertical game.

The Titans are coming off a season that was filled with great high hopes following their impressive start, but one that came crashing down when all the air was let out in their only post season appearance against Ravens last season. The most notable changes the team made this offseason came on the offense. The team signed former Steeler receiver Nate Washington (questionable) and free agent tight end Algee Crumpler (named starter).

The additions should help boost a lethargic passing game (ranked 27th last season), but there is no questions like the Steelers, the Titans prefer the ground game. Last season the Titans punched it in 24 times with the run and Thursday night they will face a Steeler defense that allowed a meager seven touchdowns (tied for second fewest). Still the Titans will try to establish ground superiority, but at some point expect to see Collins test drive his new aerial attack.

My Take….

Thursday night should be a classic matchup of two teams that like to get dirty in the trenches and pound the ball inside. With two throw back quarterbacks that have big-arms, the season opener promises to be a good one. Expect to see both quarterbacks take plenty of shots downfield as each offense will try to loosen up the defense.

The Titans will try to run early to set up some play action, but Steelers have a lot of playmakers on defense and plenty of speed up front. Expect the Steel Curtain to put a lot of pressure on Collins early and get the crowd going. With designed pressure and a suffocating run defense, turnovers will come into play here. I like the Steelers to take the early lead, apply the pressure and put this one to bed by the early part of the fourth quarter.

Prediction: Steelers 28, Titans 17

Fantasy Notes:

The Gamers:
Willie Parker won’t see too many holes, but without big Albert Haynesworth in the middle, he’ll be able to squeeze through a few times. Expect 20+ carries and at least one big run (possibly to the house)!

Hines Ward is the steady play in the pass game. Roethlisberger is going to look downfield to Holmes quite often, but he’ll find Ward underneath more. Ward won’t rack up big yards, but he’ll get some catches (6-7 recepts) and could find the end-zone.

The Steelers defense will play big in front of the home crowd. Expect a couple of turnovers, a few sacks, and possibly a score!

White and Johnson are going to split carries (10-12 each), but against a stingy defense playing at home, neither is going to find much luck.

The Titan’s will likely see Collins throw more than he likes and with lots of pressure and no time, the short routes will be most popular. Expect Crumpler and Johnson to see their numbers called quite often, in a take what the defense gives you (not much) result.

IDP Watch:

Notable must plays
Steelers: Harrison and Woodley have a nose for the ball and Polamalu is always a playmaker.
Titans: Bulloch will be tracking FWP all night, while Finnegan is going to be busy with Ward. Expect Vanden Bosch to say hello to Big Ben.


Check back this Monday for our “Monday Night Preview”

FSH: (TUESDAY) FOOTBALL TALK

September 9th, 2009 9:37pm PST

Who Needs a Kicker?

If you have to have one….
If you play fantasy football then you understand my meaning. If not for the rules, why would you draft a kicker? Maybe we pick them just to pronounce their funny names or is it because we could bear have even one play in the game having no bearing on the outcome. What about punters? Let’s not go there.

If you play in traditional leagues and most likely even custom leagues, kickers are typically part of the format, but really does it make a difference who you take? Most of the time, there’s not much of a difference and no secret science. About the only thing you need to be concerned with when drafting a kicker, is that you got the right guy. Quite a few teams are adopting the two kicker strategy, one for the kick-offs and long field goal tries, and your regular guy from the 40-yard line and in.

So how do you know who to take, the best measuring sticks I believe are; the offenses that score the most and the ones that move the ball a lot (rack up the yardage).

It’s very simple from here. Teams that appear twice below likely have a more than serviceable kicker;

Top 15 Scoring Teams in 2008

1. New Orleans Saints
2. San Diego Chargers
3. Arizona Cardinals
4. New York Giants
5. Green Bay Packers
6. Philadelphia Eagles
7. Carolina Panthers
8. New England Patriots
9. New York Jets
10. Atlanta Falcons
11. Baltimore Ravens
12. Minnesota Vikings
13. Indianapolis Colts
14. Chicago Bears
15. Tennessee Titans


Top 15 Teams (Total yards) in 2008

1. New Orleans Saints
2. Denver Broncos
3. Houston Texans
4. Arizona Cardinals
5. New England Patriots
6. Atlanta Falcons
7. New York Giants
8. Green Bay Packers
9. Philadelphia Eagles
10. Carolina Panthers
11. San Diego Chargers
12. Miami Dolphins
13. Dallas Cowboys
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
15. Indianapolis Colts

Last seasons top kickers w/last year’s team

1. Stephen Gostkowski (NE)
2. David Akers (Phi)
3. John Carney (NYG)
4. Matt Bryant (TB)
5. John Kasay (Car)
6. Jason Elam (Atl)
7. Rob Bironas (Ten)
8. Mason Crosby (GB)
9. Nate Kaeding (SD)
10. Ryan Longwell (Min)
11. Kris Brown (Hou)
12. Rian Lindell (Buf)
13. Matt Stover (Bal)
14. Joe Nedney (SF)
15. Robbie Gould (Chi)


By David Ortega


Check back every Tuesday for more “Tuesday (Football) Talk”

FSH: IDP NOTES

September 9th, 2009 10:30pm PST

IDP Notes:

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

IDP News From Across the Wire…

Aaron Schobel, DE, Buffalo Bills
Aaron Schobel is excited to get the 2009 campaign underway, according to the Buffalo News. He said, "I am in decent shape. I am ready for what I have got to do. After all these practices and all the time leading up to that first game, you forget that you were even hurt. But I am glad to be healthy again."
My Fantasy Read on Schobel: The Bills defensive end just turned 32 and is coming off an injury shortened 2008. He’s a long shot to have much left in the tank for fantasy consideration, best bet is to look elsewhere…..

Omar Gaither, LB, Philadelphia Eagles
Omar Gaither has recovered from his sprained ankle, and will still be the Eagles' starting middle linebacker this weekend against the Panthers, according to Geoff Mosher of the Wilmington News Journal.
My Fantasy Read on Gaither: Gaither was not particularly impressive last season, but facing a Panther team that will likely run a lot he could be a worthy week one start…….

Charles Grant, DE, New Orleans Saints
Saints defensive ends Charles Grant and Will Smith will both be allowed to play against the Detroit Lions this weekend while a federal appeals court in Minnesota determines whether or not the NFL's four-game suspension of the pair violates labor laws or not, according to the New Orleans Times-Picayune.
My Fantasy Read on Grant: Grant is no longer the player he once was, not that he was ever great. With just 5.5 sacks over the past two seasons, he’s a low value option that is probably not worth drafting…….

Kevin Williams, DT, Minnesota Vikings
Defensive linemen Kevin Williams and Pat Williams will both play in Week 1 despite their legal limbo with the NFL, according to ESPN.
My Fantasy Read on Williams: If the commish is going to let Williams play, then he needs to be in your fantasy lineup on Sunday. Kevin is the preferred IDP option for fantasy…..

Brandon Flowers, CB, Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Star is reporting that Chiefs cornerback Brandon Flowers is ready to go for Week 1. Flowers practiced on Monday after missing the team's final preseason game with a shoulder injury.
My Fantasy Read on Flowers: Flowers is a player finishing with two picks and 69 tackles last season. He should be a decent IDP start for week one against a likely conservative Raven’s offense…..

Shawne Merriman, LB, San Diego Chargers
Newsday is reporting that Chargers' GM A.J. Smith made some interesting comments about the future of linebacker Shawne Merriman on Tuesday. "As far as his future with the Chargers, which appears to be an ongoing debate, we will let you know right away if his status should change," Smith commented when asked about Merriman's legal issues and immediate future with the organization.
My Fantasy Read on Merriman: Right now Merriman sounds like he’s on the fence. It’s just a matter of time before we hear what the DA will decide. If Shawne is charged, he instantly becomes a huge risk. For now he looks like he’s good for Sunday, but you never know…..

B.J. Raji, DT, Green Bay Packers
The Green bay Press-Gazette is reporting that Packers' rookie defensive lineman B.J. Raji is "making progress" in his recovery from an ankle injury. Raji didn't practice on Mondayy, but he still may be able to play in Week 1.
My Fantasy Read on Raji: The Packer’s rookie nose tackle looks like a risky play for week one. Unproven and questionable, owners are advised to avoid if possible….

Dunta Robinson, CB, Houston Texans
The Houston Chronicle is reporting that the Texans' received a two-week roster exemption for disgruntled defensive back Dunta Robinson. Robinson reported to camp on Sunday, so the team will have to cut someone from their current roster if Robinson plays this weekend.
My Fantasy Read on Robinson: It certainly appears there’s a chance Robinson plays, but missing so much camp you have to wonder how much he plays and how rusty he will be. The Texans franchise player has struggled the last couple of seasons with injury and with little practice time this preseason, he’s safer on your bench this week…..

Richard Seymour, DE, Oakland Raiders
According to a report in the Boston Herald, new Raider Richard Seymour still has not reported to the team. A league source has informed the Herald that there is a financial hangup between Seymour and the Patriots that is preventing him from reporting to Oakland.
My Fantasy Read on Seymour: The former Patriot is a sit for week one. No chance he plays with Oakland on Monday, since he has yet to report to report with the team…..


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