FSH: MONDAY NIGHT MATCHUP

October 19th, 2009 3:30pm

Monday Night Matchup

Denver Broncos

Vs

San Diego Chargers

Redemption!

It’s probably much more than anyone would have thought when the 2009 regular season began, but the importance of tonight's Monday Night matchup is magnified for many reasons. This has become much more than a simple divisional rivalry game; for both teams tonight will be about "Redemption."

The defending AFC West Champions are in trouble; struggling with their ground game and their defense playing very poor of late getting punched in the mouth and surrendering 38 points to the Steelers back in week 4. With harsh criticism coming from their own front office after being called out by their GM, the Chargers will be looking to re-establish themselves as AfC contended. A win tonight will not put them back in first place, but it will give them much needed momentum and a huge step in the direction of recapturing (the AFC West Division) what they feel is rightfully theirs.

On the other side, things could not be any better for the Denver Broncos winners of their first five games this season. Following their stormy and humble beginnings, first year head coach Josh McDaniels has brought this team a long way. After his questionable moves in the offseason it appears McDaniels has had the answers all along. Part of the answer to those intriguing offseason equations, was the hiring of defensive coordinator Mike Nolan. With a lot of the pieces starting to come together and the Broncos playing well, there is still much to prove and for many of the Denver players last season's finale loss to San Diego 52-21 weighs on the mind.

With one team flying a mile high and the other trying to stay afloat this tale seems to be of two teams heading into opposite directions. Tonight they meet and we'll see if the Broncos are the real deal and in control of the West or if the Chargers can get this thing (their season) turned it around. Either way one team will find "Redemption" at the conclusion of tonight's affair.

Monday Night's Fantasy Notes:

Broncos:
Kyle Orton is starting to blossom into another Cassel, but with as many weapons as there are in Denver, his numbers could become more Brady-like. This season Orton has passed for 1,236 yards and seven touchdowns in 2009. For the Broncos the passing game will be key and wide receivers Brandon Marshall (24 receptions) and Eddie Royal (18) will play a big part. The Bronco's will have an added bonus tonight with the return of running back Correll Buckhalter (267 yards rushing). Rookie running back Knowshon Moreno (337 yards rushing) anchors the ground game.

Chargers:
For San Diego the offense starts with quarterback Philip Rivers. Since the recent decline of running back LaDanian Tomlinson (recent injuries have limited his play) over the past couple of seasons, Rivers has really blossomed into the teams most consistent playmaker. Without missing a beat, the Chargers quarterback continues to make plays with his arm passing for 1,245 yards in four games and throwing six touchdowns. He most reliable targets have been his tight end Antonio Gates (24 receptions) and wide receiver Vincent Jackson (20 receptions). With LT being limited this season, the Bolts have had to look to scat back Darren Sproles (90 yards rushing).

Prediction:
The Bolts can be an explosive offense, but facing a much improved Bronco's defense they may need more than a passing game to compete in this one.

Broncos 33, Chargers 20.

Remember to check back each week for "Monday Night Matchup"

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL NOTES

October 18th, 2009 8:57pm PST

Sunday Night Football Notes

Week Six Injury round-up

[including IDP]

(Updated Sunday Night Oct. 18th)
Offensive Player Injuries:

Anquan Boldin, WR (Ari):
The Cardinal’s wide receiver suffered an ankle injury in the second half against the Seahawks. Boldin did not finish the game, but believes he will be fine to play next weekend.

Jerious Norwood, RB (Atl):
The Falcons backup running back left early from Sunday night’s game against the Bears with a hip flexor. There’s no word of the severity, but Norwood did not return.

Fred Jackson, RB (Buf):
The Bills running back suffered a leg injury in overtime in the team’s win over the Jets. The severity of the injury is unknown at this time, but Jackson did not finish the game.

Trent Edwards, QB (Buf):
The Bills starting quarterback was knocked out of Sunday’s contest early after suffering a concussion. Edwards was taken to the locker room for evaluation, but did not return. He was 5 for 5 passing for 43 yards before leaving the game. His status for week 7 is unknown at this time.

Daunte Culpepper, QB (Det):
The Lions quarterback (Culpepper) getting the start for the injured Matthew Stafford left Sunday’s game with the Packers early in the third quarter. Culpepper suffered a right hamstring injury and was not able to return. The Lions have a bye next week.

Adrian Peterson, RB (Min):
The Vikings star running back appeared to have injured his ankle when it was caught under a Raven defender during a play. Peterson left the game briefly, but was able to return. Following the game Peterson said he was fine according to the Associated Press.

Percy Harvin, WR (Min):
The Vikings return man and wide receiver aggravated an injury to his shoulder Sunday against the Ravens. Head Coach Brad Childress said Harvin “nicked” his left shoulder, but X-rays showed no further damage. His status appears to be questionable for week 7.

Sammy Morris, RB (NE):
The Patriots running back left Sunday’s game early with a knee injury. Morris had to be helped off the field and did not return. His status for week 7 is unknown.

Jason Peters, OL (Phi):
Head coach Andy Reid said Peters suffered a sprained knee in the team’s loss to the Raiders on Sunday, according to the Associated Press. There is speculation that the injury could be worse. Peters is the starting left tackle and anchors the Eagles pass protection, against the Raiders with Jason out McNabb was sacked six times.

Donnie Avery, WR (Stl):
The Rams receiver suffered a bruised hip in Sunday’s loss to the Jaguars. The injury came in the second quarter and his absence was felt when the offense stalled repeatedly. Avery did not return to the game. According to the St. Louis Dispatch X-rays taken came out negative and Avery will have an MRI on Monday.

LenDale White, RB (Ten):
The Titans running back suffered a knee injury early in the contest against the Patriots. White had to be carted off the sidelines to the locker room according to NFL.com. He did not return and his status or the severity of his injury is unknown.

Clinton Portis, RB (Was):
The Redskins starting running back suffered an ankle injury in Sunday’s loss to the Chiefs. The injury came in the third quarter and Portis did leave the game, but returned shortly after. Portis was able to finish the game, but no reports of any lingering effects. Check on his status during the week.


Defensive Player Injuries:

Antwan Odom, DE (Cin):
The Bengals defensive end ruptured his Achilles tendon in Sunday’s loss to the Texans. He will miss the rest of the season.

Domata Peko, DT (Cin):
The Bengals most effective interior lineman injured his knee during the first quarter of Sunday’s game with the Texans. Peko did not return according to NFL.com.

D’Qwell Jackson, ILB (Cle):
The Brown’s inside linebacker suffered a shoulder injury on Sunday against the Steelers. Jackson left the game when the injury occurred late in the second quarter and did not return. According to head coach Eric Mangini Jackson is expected to “see the doctors and get it checked out.”

Antoinie Winfield, DB (Min):
The Vikings cornerback was carted off Sunday with a toe injury he suffered during the team’s matchup with the Ravens. He did not return to the game and is scheduled to have an MRI on Monday.

Kris Jenkins, DT (NYJ):
According to beat writer Rod Boone, there’s a buzz over Jenkin’s knee injury. The concern is the injury could be serious and Jenkin’s season could be over. There’s been no official word, this is just speculation.

Nnamdi Asomugha, CB (Oak):
The Raiders shutdown cornerback was poked in the eye on Sunday against the Eagles and had to leave the game with eye vision problems according to the Associated Press.

Lofa Tatupu, ILB (Sea):
The Seahawks middle linebacker suffered a torn left pectoral muscle Sunday against the Cardinals. He will require surgery to repair miss the remainder of the season according to the Associated Press.

Patrick Kerney, DE (Sea):
The Seahawks pass-rushing defensive end re-aggravated a groin injury that he had suffered back on Oct. 4 against the Colts. Kerney suffered the injury on the last play of the first half and although he did not play in the second half the injury is not thought to be serious. With the bye next week he should have time to heal.

By David Ortega

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

FSH: SUNDAY MORNING GAMETIME

October 18th, 2009 8:17am PST

Sunday Morning Gametime

What’s the Latest
[ News and Notes]


Wes Welker removed from injury report will start….
It sounds like one of Brady’s favorite targets is getting healthy. Against a banged up Titan’s secondary Welker is a must play for fantasy owners….

Mike Bell expected to play today, but Thomas to start.…
The Saints will likely employ a committee today so it may not matter who starts, both backs should get plenty of work…..

Titans to be handicapped in the secondary today…..
Already without starter Nick Harper, the Titans will likely be missing cornerback Courtland Finnegan and defensive back Vincent Fuller. It could be a long afternoon for Tennessee today against Tom Brady….

Calvin Johnson to test knee this morning…
The Lions talented wideout did not practice all week and is listed as doubtful today. He is expected to test the knee this morning, but it’s a long shot that he will play…..

Culpepper could start today for the Lions….
The Lions are not expected to announce who will start today at quarterback until game-time, but it’s looking more like it will be Culpepper making his second consecutive start. He’ll have a tough matchup with the Packer’s corners; Woodson and Harris……

Bulger to start today for the Rams against Jags….
With Kyle Boller suffering a concussion last week and Bulger coming in and leading a late 4th quarter drive for a score, it makes sense that he will start. The Rams actually have a pretty good matchup today gainst the Jaguar’s 30th ranked pass defense…..

Vikings receiver Percy Harvin could be a game-time decision….
The Vikes explosive rookie is nursing a shoulder injury and will warm up this morning and see how it feels. He is listed as probable and more than likely will play…


Check back every week for more “Sunday Morning Gametime”

FSH: THE ATL REPORT

October 17th, 2009 11:07pm PST

THE ATL REPORT

What’s Happening
Around the League

WR-Andre Johnson could face tough challenge….
The Bengal’s secondary has been susceptible to the big play this season, but one thing they’ve managed to master along the way is shutting down the opposition’s number one receiving option. Johnson leads the Texans with 28 receptions for 437 yards.

DB-Courtand Finnegan not expected to play Sunday.…
The loss of Finnegan for Sunday only adds to the Titans problems in the secondary with cornerback Nick Harper already out with a broken arm. Finnegan is missing his thired straight game and with quarterback Tom Brady on the bill for Sunday, it could be a long afternoon.

WR-Jeremy Maclin expected to start against Raiders…..
With wide receiver Kevin Curtis battling injuries for the first part of the season, rookie wideout Jeremy Maclin has taken full advantage. His solid play and spectacular catches last week have likely elevated him into the starting lineup for the remainder of the season.

QB-Matt Stafford to be Game-time decision…
The Lion’s rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford is again expected to be a game-time decision on Sunday. With both he and wide receiver Calvin Johnson not practicing Friday the outlook for Sunday looks bleak.

TE-Dallas Clark helping carry the load this season….
When the Colts released Marvin Harrison in the offseason, the first questions out were who would fill his shoes; that daunting task fell on the shoulders of the Colts third year receiver Anthony Gonzalez. With the kid going down in week one, Clark has stepped up huge in the passing game with 35 receptions and 441 yards.

QB-Tom Brady could be in for a big passing day….
With the Titan’s secondary in shambles missing its’ top three corners due to injury, the Patriot’s quarterback Tom Brady could be ready to strike. The passing game also received a little boost with Wes Welker being removed from the injury report this week.

RB-Steven Jackson looking to bust out on Sunday….
The Rams star running back has been kept out of the endzone thus far this season, but Sunday against the Jaguars this could all change. Jackson has been the mainstay on offense for the Rams this season and he’ll be facing a defense that is ranked 18th against the run.

RB-Cedric Benson is leading the Bengal’s ground game….
Benson has been a pleasant surprise for the team since his arrival last season, but his week 5 performance against the Ravens was impressive. His 120 yards rushing not only helped elevate his team to a huge divisional win, but it also moved him into the top rushing spot in the league with 487 yards on the ground.

RB-Correll Buckhalter practices on Saturday….
The Bronco’s running back was able to complete a full practice on Saturday and is listed as probable for Monday night against the Chargers.

WR-Michael Crabtree expected to make debut in week 7….
According to team staff, the rookie is putting in the extra time and has been having good practices with the team during the bye. The Niners are in big need for help in the passing game this season.


Check back every week for more “Around the League”

FSH: SATURDAY SPORTS PAGE

October 17th, 2009 5:37pm PST

Saturday Morning Sports Page
[Evening Edition]

NFL Week 6 Matchups

What to look for;

(Sunday’s Games)
Houston @ Cincinnati
The Bengals secondary has been beat deep a great deal this season, but they have still managed to bring pressure with 14 sacks this season. Can Matt Schaub and company strike downfield or will they be forced to rely on one of the league’s worst running games?

Detroit @ Green Bay
On paper this one looks pretty simple; without wide receiver Calvin Johnson it really won't matter if it’s the rookie Stafford or Culpepper under center. If the Packers offensive line can protect quarterback Aaron Rodgers early (20 sacks allowed this seaso), all Green Bay will need to put this one away later is the legs of Ryan Grant (yards rushing).

St. Louis @ Jackonville
The Rams offense has yet to get going this season and on Sunday could be its’ best opportunity against the struggling Jags. Last week quarterback Marc Bulger returned to the field and led a late fourth quarter scoring drive capped by a 27 yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Donnie Avery. Against a shaky Jaguar secondary the Rams will need more of that.

Baltimore @ Minnesota
Will the Ravens stack the line and challenge the aging 40 year old quarterback (Brett Favre) to beat them? Favre has thrown nine touchdowns this season and the Raven's secondary has allowed 19 pass plays of 20 yards or more (2nd highest in the league).

NY Giants @ New Orleans
The big test for both teams on Sunday will be who can impose their will. The Giants will like to control the clock and run the ball with Jacobs (yds) and Bradshaw (yds). If Brees and the Saints can get their passing game going early, we may not see a whole lot of Earth or Fire.

Cleveland @ Pittsburgh
With the Browns in town expect linebacker James Harrison and the Steel Curtain to turn the dogs loose on Derek Anderson and Cleveland's anemic passing game. Last week Jamal Lewis carried the ball a hefty 31 times, but if the Browns fall behind early he could quickly disappear.

Carolina @ Tampa Bay
The Panthers will be hoping to get their ground game kick started against a Tampa defense that is allowing almost five yards a pop. If the Bucs can't slow down the tandem of Williams and Stewart, they may have to rely on their young and inexperienced quarterback (Josh Johnson) to lead the way, instead of riding their recovered Caddy; running back Carnell Williams (199 yards rushing).

Kansas City @ Washington
The Chiefs passing game is starting to show a little life this season and quarterback Matt Cassel is starting to come into his own. He'll need some help from the running game if he' going to protect the league’s worst defense (Chiefs defense ranks dead last overall).

Philadelphia @ Oakland
Last week quarterback Donovan McNabb returned to the lineup and looked pretty sharp tossing three scores. This week he'll face a stiffer test against one of the leagues' best corners, but that shouldn't slow him too much. With Jackson, Westbrook, Celek, and Maclin the Eagles simply have too many weapons.

Arizona @ Seattle
For both the Cardinals and the Seahawks pass protection is going to be critical for either offense to enjoy success. The run game will not figure too prominent in this one, as the Cards struggle on the ground and Seattle is facing a stiff match this week; Cardinal's defense is tops against run.

Tennessee @ New England
The Titans will roll into Foxboro on Sunday and may be just what the doctor ordered for Patriot's quarterback Tom Brady. With Tennessee's secondary (ranked 31st against the pass) in shambles due to injury, like a shark with blood in the water the time is now for the Brady Bunch to strike. The Patriots quarterback has yet to get on track this season, but Sunday could be the start of something big.

Buffalo @ NY Jets
The Bills offense and in particular Trent Edwards have looked awful this season. With the Jets coming off a tough Monday night loss, don't expect Head coach Rex Ryan or the Jets defense to show any leniency; Edwards is sure to see a lot of pressure on Sunday.

Chicago @ Atlanta
Ever since his shaky start (four interceptions) in week one the Bears quarterback Jay Cutler has settled into the big-armed playmaker the team thought it had acquired. The Bears will need plenty of big plays from Cutler and its’ running game anchored by second year running back Matt Forte to keep pace with the Falcons. Last week quarterback Matt Ryan and the offense were firing on all pistons on their way to a 45-10 blowout win over the Niners.

Fantasy Leaders through five Weeks

Passing (touchdowns)
Peyton Manning, Ind...........12-touchdown, 1,645-yards
Matt Schaub, Hou..............10-touchdowns, 1,418-yards
Eli Manning, NYG...............10-touchdowns, 1,212-yards
Joe Flacco, Bal..................9-touchdowns, 1,289-yards
Brett Favre, Min................9-touchdowns, 1,069-yards
Drew Brees, NO.................9-touchdowns, 1,031-yards
Jay Cutler, Chi..................8-touchdowns, 901-yards

Rushing (yards per game)
Mike Bell, NO..................114.5-yards/game, 1-touchdown
Cedric Benson, Cin............97.4-yards/game, 3-touchdowns
Adrian Peterson, Min..........96.2-yards/game, 7-touchdowns
Chris Johnson, Ten............93.6-yards/game, 2 touchdowns
Steven Jackson, Stl...........90.2-yards/game, 0-touchdowns
Ronnie Brown, Mia............88.6-yards/game, 6-touchdowns

Receiving (Receptions)
Steve Smith,NYG................37-receptions, 481-yards
Dallas Clark, Ind.................35-receptions, 441-yards
Hines Ward, Pit.................33-receptions, 440-yards
Reggie Wayne, Ind..............32-receptions, 459-yards
Randy Moss, NE..................30-receptions, 367-yards
Nate Burleson, Sea..............30-receptions, 358-yards

By David Ortega

Check back every Saturday for more of the “Sports Page”

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (FIRE AND ICE)

October 15th, 2009 11:37pm PST

Fantasy Football
Fire & Ice

(Your weekly Stock Exchange)

The Hottest Stock this week

Last Sunday we saw some old stock rebound off the market floor and regain new life when quarterback Matt Hasselbeck took the field. Against the Jaguars, the Seahawks quarterback passed for 241 yards and tossed four touchdowns to lead his team to a much needed win.

Hasselbeck was savvy and smooth last Sunday completing 60 percent of his passes averaging and his 35 fantasy points were tops among quarterbacks last week.

Week Five’s “Mr. En Fuego”

(Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)

QB-Matt Hasselbeck (Sea)
30 pass attempts, 18 pass completions,
241 yards passing, four touchdowns!!
3 runs, 23 rushing yards.

Aside from your normal weekly studs, when playing with the fantasy football stock market, the key is always finding great value and knowing when to drop dead weight. After five weeks now of gridiron action there are plenty of stocks on the move;

Week Six Stock Exchange Notes:

How your fantasy stocks are doing as of last Week…

The Quarterbacks...
Fire (Rising stock): The Texan’s quarterback Matt Schaub is on the move again with his stock on the rise. Last week Schaub complete 70 percent of his passes for 371 yards and tossed two touchdowns.
Fire (Rising stock): The Beagle’s quarterback Donovan McNabb has only played one game in the past several weeks, but his 264-yards passing and three touchdown passes performance last weekend has his stock on the rise.
Ice (falling stock): The Titan’s quarterback Kerry Collins has been off target this season completing just 54 percent of his passes. Collins also has five turnovers in his last three games and passed for only 164 yards and no touchdowns last week.

The Running Backs...
Fire (Rising stock): Last Sunday against a very tough Raven defense, Cedric Benson did where 40 others had failed. He rushed for more than 100 yards, totaling 136 yards on the day.
Fire (Rising stock): The Bronco’s rookie runner Knowshon Moreno had a solid day as the starter last week totaling 124 yards of offense against the Patriots.
Fire (Rising stock): The Giants shifty small running back Ahmad Bradshaw was dynamite a week ago against the Raiders, doing most of his damage in the first half. Last week Bradshaw scampered his way to 110 yards on 11 carries with two touchdowns.
Ice (falling stock): Against the Browns last week, running back Fred Jackson was just a shell of himself. The Bill’s back gained only 30 yards on the ground and added a just a mere 17 yards receiving.

The Wide Receivers...
Fire (Rising stock): Last week no receiver was as hot as the Cowboys Miles Austin. The speedster blew past the Chief’s secondary for 250 receiving yards with two touchdowns.
Fire (Rising stock): Owners were waiting and he finally arrived. Last Sunday Falcons wideout Roddy White exploded for 210 receiving yards and tow scores catapulting his way up our stock charts.
Fire (Rising stock): The Cardinal’s receiver has been up and down a bit this season, but no question last week Larry Fitzgerald was hot. The wideout grabbed five passes for 79 yards, including two touchdowns.
Ice (falling stock): The Bengals receiver Laveranues Coles was held without a catch last week against a shaky Baltiomore secondary ranked 26th against the pass.
Ice (falling stock): The Patriots receiver Julian Edelman had only 15 yards receiving last week; something he’s likely to see reoccur more with the return of Welker.


The Tight Ends...
Fire (Rising stock): The Buccaneer’s tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. blew up for big numbers last Sunday as did his stock. Winslow had a huge game catching nine passes for over 100 yards and scored twice.
Fire (Rising stock): The Texan’s tight end Owen Daniels, after a slight stumble is climbing up the charts again coming off his eight receptions for 94 yards last week.
Ice (falling stock): The Jet’s second year tight end Dustin Keller is not having quite the season most thought. Through five games this season he has just 12 catches, including the infamous donut on Monday night.

STOCK WATCH

Pure Speculation

With Fred Taylor out indefinitely, it appears the running duties will belong to Sammy Morris. Last Sunday against the Broncos Morris toted the rock 17 times (2nd highest total of carries in a game this season for a New England running back) for 68 yards. Morris also adds the dimension of a pass receiver with 134 receiving yards this season. With no other runner in the Patriot’s backfield having quite the same success, this could be the Morris show looking ahead.

The Ram’s offense has yet to get anything going this season other than running back Steven Jackson. Last Sunday quarterback Marc Bulger made his return to the field and seemed to click with his number one wideout Donnie Avery. Bulger could be playing for a job as the season goes and Avery could benefit. These two made a few highlights last season for the reel and with a favorable matchup this Sunday, both could be looking to repeat. Avery has big play potential, but we have yet to see it; Sunday could be a good day to be looking.

It doesn’t take a genius to see a big arm with a talented wideout equals great things. In Miami this appears to be the potential with wide receiver Ted Ginn Jr. and the team’s newly discovered passer. Quarterback Chad Henne and Ginn Jr. connected on one big play for a 53 yard scoring strike against the Jets. If Henne is as good as he looked Monday night, with still 11 games left on the schedule Ginn Jr. could be hooking up with his field general for several more strikes along the way.

This Week’s “Stock Trends”

Need to know what stocks to play?
Here’s how they are doing;


Peyton Manning, QB-Colts
The best of the best, Manning’s stock has been riding a whirlwind; this season he’s thrown 12 touchdowns and passed for over 1,600 yards (329 yards per game) in his five starts this season.
Kyle Orton, QB-Broncos
Over the past several weeks, Orton’s numbers have gradually getting better. In his last two starts Orton has completed 55 passes for 573 yards (286.5 yards per game) and thrown four touchdowns.
Ben Roethlisberger, QB-Steelers
Not normally a big stats guy, the Steeler’s big armed quarterback has been pretty warm over the past several weeks. In his last three starts Big Ben has 886 yards passing, six touchdown throws, and just two picks.
Steven Jackson, RB-Rams
His stock is not great yet, but the Ram’s running back seems to be one of the safest. Despite an inept offense, he’s averaging 108 yards per game of offense (rushing and receiving).
Michael Turner, RB-Falcons
With his three touchdowns last week, Turner is one of the hottest stocks on the market. Turner has now scored in his last three starts and is averaging 86 yards on the ground over the same span.
Hines Ward, WR-Steelers
The All-Pro Receiver has been locked-in and steady the last two weeks with 15 receptions, 198 receiving yards, and a touchdown.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR-Seahawks
The Hawks high priced free agent has been doing his best the past two weeks to earn his keep with 13 receptions for 180 yards, including two touchdowns last week.
Brandon Marshall, WR-Broncos
The 4th year wideout from Central Florida has been on the move up the charts over the past couple of weeks. Marshall has 17 receptions for 222 yards and four touchdowns in his last three games.
Vernon Davis, TE-Niners
The 4th year tight end has re-emerged as a playmaker this season, 15 receptions for 190 yards receiving and three touchdowns in his last three games.
Brent Celek, TE-Eagles
This season the Eagle’s tight end has been a steady play and in his last three games he’s caught a total of 20 passes for 266 yards and a score.
Dallas Clark, TE-Colts
Perhaps one of the best stocks on the market today, Clark is averaging eight catches for 73 yards per game in his last three starts.


Trent Edwards, QB-Bills
The Bills quarterback is just back stock this season. Even with two talented wideouts like Owens and Evans, Edwards can only muster five touchdowns to six picks. In his last three starts he thrown five picks to just one touchdown and averaged a meager 166 yards per game passing.
Jason Campbell, QB-Redskins
Campbell has really regressed his last two starts completing just 27 passes for a total of 315 yards with three touchdowns and four turnovers.
Larry Johnson, RB-Chiefs
The running back has been receiving a steady diet of carries, but just can find any holes. In his last three games he’s averaging more than 19 carries per game, but just 42 yards on the ground.
Brandon Stokley, WR-Broncos
The Bronco’s slot receiver has been missing in action in his team’s last three games. Stokley has only six catches this season and has gone without a grab in his last three games.
Michael Clayton, WR-Buccaneers
The sixth year receiver has been anything, but reliable this season. Clayton has just 10 grabs and has gone without a catch in two of his five starts this season.
Zach Miller, TE-Raiders
Clearly the team’s best pass receiving option, Miller has just 15 receptions this season stuck on a struggling offense. His 69 yards last week was his best production thus far this season and through the team’s first five games, he has yet to score.
Brandon Pettigrew, TE-Lions
The rookie tight end has yet to record more than four catches in any one game and is averaging a paltry 31 yards receiving per game.

Remember to check back every week for more "Fire & Ice!”

FSH: FRIDAY FOOTBALL DIARY

October 16th, 2009 11:07pm PST

Friday Football Diary

Dear Diary

Better late than Never…
With the 2009 fantasy football season moving right along, it certainly becomes a concern for owners when some of their studs decide to take an early siesta. Such has been the case for players like Eddie Royal, Chris Henry, and Dwayne Bowe, but recent history has shown that patience can and will pay dividends.

Last week all three receivers turned in very respectable outings to lead the turnaround surge. Royal’s 10 catch day was a great sign for fantasy owners that his sophomore jinx could be ending soon and Bowe’s five catches with his third touchdown of the season could be just the beginning of the end of his growing pains (new QB and new offense) in KC. Henry is quietly seeing his targets increase and last week it paid some dividends with 92 yards receiving.

While these three fantasy receivers enjoy what could be seen as a brighter outlook, there are still those stuck in cement;

Still late…

• The Titan’s receiver Justin Gage has seen 37 passes in his direction, yet he’s only averaging about three catches per game and 33 yards receiving…..
• The Raven’s 5th year receiver Mark Clayton has also seen 37 balls thrown his way, but his 17 receptions for 213 yards is very pedestrian…..
• The Bronco’s talented pass receiving tight end Tony Scheffler has been relatively quiet this season with just 10 catches, but it’s his 13 targets that is more concerning…..
• The Bill’s wide receiver Terrell Owens continues to struggle in the offense with just 12 receptions this season, but he has had 27 targets this season…..
• Injuries have played some part in his slow beginnings this season, but the Buccaneer’s receiver Antonio Bryant is still stuck in the mud with only 12 catches this season…..

Ready to Breakout

While some owners will tough it out and wait on those that continue to struggle to get out of first gear this season, here are a few names that appear to be on the cusp of a breakout performance.

Slowly but surely the Bronco’s big-time playmaking receiver Brandon Marshall has been coming on. He has scored in each of his three games and turned in his best performance of the season last week. With the Denver offense starting to show real signs of clicking, Marshall’s day could be coming soon!

The Rams running back Steven Jackson, despite being stuck on a bad team and poor offense he’s been mister steady. In his first five games Jackson has totaled 543 yards from scrimmage, but has yet to score. With a poor Jaguar’s defense next on the slate, could this week be his coming out party?

The Dolphin’s discovered last Monday night along with a national audience that not only are they a pretty good team, but it appears they have a pretty good young quarterback. What they also discovered, with this young quarterback’s big arm, they have a pretty good playmaking receiver in Ted Ginn Jr. Against the Jets, Ginn Jr. was able to get behind the defense for a spectacular 53 yard touchdown stike; perhaps a preview of more to come.

We have already seen the flashes and the catches, now that wide receiver Braylon Edwards is playing somewhere he is happy, owners can expect to see greater things. It’s just a matter of time.

10 Things to Watch for in Week 6

As I always do, I will be watching the games this Sunday and taking notes as I watch for some of the key matchups. Always a great attraction is a clash of unbeatens (Giants-Saints), some heated divisional rivalries (Cardinals-Seahawks, Broncos-Chargers), and a game of the week (Ravens-Vikings). With so much to cover, what will I really be watching;

1. Against one of the leagues stingiest run defenses, can Favre and the Vikings pass their way past Ray Lewis and the Ravens?
2. Will the Ram’s running back Steven Jackson finally blow up this season facing the Jaguar’s 18th ranked run defense.
3. Can quarterback Drew Brees and the Saints find success in the air against the Giants number one ranked pass defense.
4. Can the old man Kurt Warner continue to defy father time with another big Sunday against the Seahawks.
5. After his successful return last week with four touchdowns, can Matt Hasselbeck follow it up with an encore performance.
6. Last week Cedric Benson was the first running back in 40 games to rush for more than 100 yards against the Ravens, can Adrian Peterson be the second?
7. With the Texan’s 26th ranked run defense up next, can Cedric Benson turn in another stud-like performance?
8. The Titan’s secondary is decimated with injury, is this the week that Patriot’s quarterback Tom Brady finally breaks out?
9. Who will run for more yards against the Brown’s 32nd ranked run defense, Willie Parker or Rashard Mendenhall?1
10. The Bronco’s offense has been steady at home the last two weeks, can Marshall and company take their show on the road Monday night?

Check back every week for more “Friday Football Diary”

FSH: THE FRIDAY NIGHT INFIRMARY REPORT

October 16th, 2009 9:07pm PST

Friday Night Fantasy Football Infirmary Report

Week Six Injury report

(Friday updates)

Bears:
Linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer (rib) did not practice Friday and is listed as doubtful. Hillenmeyer is not expected to play, but linebacker Pisa Tinoisamoa (knee) did practice without restrictions and is expected to return to the field Sunday night against the Falcons.
Bengals
Running back Brian Leonard (groin) is listed as doubtful for Sunday’s tilt with the Texans and is not expected to play. Quarterback Carson Palmer who suffered a thumb injury last week was a full participant in practice Friday and will start on Sunday.
Bills:
The Bills starting linebacker Keith Ellison did not practice Friday due to a sore knee and is listed as questionable. Linebacker Paul Posluszny, who has missed the past four weeks with an arm injury, is listed as probable and expected to make his much needed return on Sunday. Defensive backs Donte Whitner (thumb) and Terrence McGee were full participants Friday and listed as probable; both are expected to play.
Browns:
Running back Jamal Lewis fully practiced Friday and is listed as probable; he’s expected to start. Defensive lineman Shaun Rogers participated in practice on Friday according to the team’s website; he’s expected to play Sunday. Linebacker D’Qwell Jackson was limited according to the team’s website, but is likely to play on Sunday.
Cardinals:
Wide receiver Steve Breaston (knee) was limited in Friday’s practice and is listed as questionable, but this sounds familiar so expect to see him play against the Seahawks.
Chiefs:
The Chiefs free safety Jarrad Page (shoulder) did not participate in Thursday’s practice and was limited Friday. He is questionable for Sunday against the Redskins.
Eagles:
Wide receiver Kevin Curtis (knee) was a full participant in Friday’s practice, but is listed as questionable according to the team’s website. Both quarterback Donovan McNabb (ribs) and running back Brian Westbrook (ankle) are listed as probable, but will start Sunday.
Giants:
Linebacker Michael Boley (knee), defensive lineman Chris Canty (calf), and cornerback Aaron Ross (hamstring) are out of Sunday’s game. Tight end Kevin Boss (ankle) and safety C.C. Brown (shoulder), both practiced in full Friday and are probable for Sunday’s matchup with the Saints. Both, quarterback Eli Manning (foot) and running back Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle) were limited in practice Friday, but are listed as probable and expected to play.
Jets:
Wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery (hamstring) did not practice Friday and is listed as doubtful for Sunday. According to head coach Rex Ryan Cotchery has not been ruled OUT. Both defensive backs Kerry Rhodes (knee) and Lito Sheppard (quadriceps) who are listed as probable practiced in full Friday and are expected to play
Lions:
It sounds like both rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford (knee) and stud receiver Calvin Johnson (knee) could miss this week after not participating in practice on Friday. Both players are officially listed as questionable.
Packers:
Backup running back Brandon Jackson (ankle) practiced in full on Friday and appears set to return Sunday against the Lions.
Panthers:
The Panther’s wide receiver Steve Smith (knee) and running back Jonathan Stewart (Achilles) are both listed as probable for Sunday and expected to play against Buccaneers. Linebacker Jon Beason (knee) also made the injury report this week, but he was a full go on Friday and is expected to start Sunday.
Patriots:
The Patriots left tackle Matt Light is listed as doubtful on the team's injury report for Sunday's matchup. Both defensive linemen Ty Warren (calf) and Vince Wilfork (ankle) are listed as questionable. Wide receiver Randy Moss (shoulder) was limited in practice Friday, but is expected to play. Both Wide receiver Wes Welker and linebacker Jerod Mayo no longer appear on the injury report.
Saints:
Rooke cornerback Malcom Jenkins (ankle) was limited Friday and is questionable for Sunday. Running back Pierre Thomas (hamstring) was limited all week and is officially listed as probable for Sunday and expected to start. Running back Mike Bell (knee) is also listed as probable and expected to play.
Seahawks:
Wide receiver Nate Burleson (back) was able to complete a full practice Friday and is officially listed as probable for Sunday; he is expected to play. Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (back) practiced all week without any setbacks or restrictions and looks ready to start this Sunday. Defensive lineman Patrick Kearny (groin) is expected to return from injury this week.
Steelers:
The Steeler’s safety Troy Polamalu is listed as probable and expected to return to the lineup Sunday according to Associated Press. Running back Willie Parker is also probable and expected to make his return, but the AP is reporting Rashard Mendenhall is still scheduled to start.
Raiders:
Wide receiver Chaz Schilens (foot) was limited in practice Friday and is listed as questionable; he will be a game-time decision. Both linebacker Kirk Morrison (knee) and cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha (wrist) are listed as probable and expected to play Sunday against the Eagles.
Ravens:
There were some questions surrounding a few of the Ravens defensive players, but it appears linebacker Jarret Johnson (shoulder) and defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (back) are listed as probable and expected to play. The team’s new wide receiver David Tyree (hamstring) is also listed as probable according to the Baltimore Sun.
Redskins:
The Washington Redskins listed both running back Clinton Portis (calf) and defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (ankle) as probable on Friday. Both will be expected to start Sunday against the Panthers.
Texans:
The defense has a few concerns with a couple of players dinged up, but most notable is linebacker Brian Cushing (foot) who was limited Friday. Cushing has been listed as questionable for Sunday, while linebacker DeMeco Ryans (shoulder) and defensive lineman Mario Williams (shoulder) are both expected to play.
Titans:
The defense will be without Nick Harper who is OUT with a broken forearm and could be without both defensive lineman Jevon Kearse who is still nursing a foot injury and cornerback Courtland Finnegan (hamstring).
Vikings:
Wide receiver Percy Harvin (shoulder) has been limited all week in practice and is listed as questionable for Sunday’s tilt with the Ravens; however he is expected to play.

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