FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL NOTES

October 25th, 2009 8:57pm PST

Sunday Night Football Notes

Week Seven Injury round-up
[including IDP injuries]

(Updated Sunday Oct 25th)
Offensive Players

Leon Washington, RB (Jets):
The Jets running back suffered a broken fibula Sunday against the Raiders. The injury will require surgery ending Washington’s season.

Bernard Berrian, WR (Vikings):
The Viking’s wide receiver strained his left hamstring in the second quarter against the Steelers. Berrian left the game and did not return. There has been no update to his injury.

Reggie Wayne, WR (Colts):
According to the Associated Press, wide receiver Reggie Wayne left Sunday’s game against the Rams with a groin injury in the second quarter. Wayne was able to return in the second half and finish the game.

Donald Brown, RB (Colts):
The Colts running back left in the first half with a shoulder injury and did not return according to the Associated Press. There has been no update on the injury.

Jermichael Finley, TE (Packers):
The Packers Tight end injured his knee during the first quarter against the Browns. Finley left the game and did not return. There is word the injury could be serious and he could miss a couple of weeks.

Andre Johnson, WR (Texans):
The Texan’s receiver left Sunday’s game against the Niner’s with a chest contusion. Texans head coach Gary Kubiak said Johnson went to a Houston hospital for further examination.

Dante Rosario, TE (Panthers):
The Panther’s tight end left Sunday’s game against the Bills with a knee injury and did not return. There’s been no update on the injury.

Defensive Players

Antoine Winfield, DB (Vikings):
The Vikings cornerback did not play today against the Steeler. ESPN reported earlier in the day that Winfield (foot) will be out 4-6 weeks.

Will Allen, DB (Dolphins):
The Dolphin’s cornerback tore his ACL in Sunday’s loss to the Saints. He will miss the remainder of the 2009 season. Rookie cornerback Vontae Davis is expected to move into the starting lineup.

Ty Warren, DL (Giants):
The Patriots defensive lineman injured his ankle against the Buccaneers and had to be driven off the field in a cart.

Kyle Williams, DL (Bills):
The Bills defensive tackle Kyle Williams left in the first quarter of Sunday’s game against the Panthers with a knee injury. He did not return.

Takeo Spikes, LB (Niners):
According to the Santa Rosa Press Democrat, linebacker Takeo Spikes suffered a shoulder strain Sunday against the Texans and did not return. There’s been no update on the injury.

Bob Sanders, DB (Colts):
The Colt’s safety Bob Sanders was seen walking to the locker room with a trainer in the fourth quarter of Sunday's game against the Rams. There’s been no update or official injury reported.

By David Ortega

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

FSH: SUNDAY FF UPDATES

October 25th, 2009 2:47pm PST

The Latest from the Games

[Late afternoon update]

What’s Going On…

The Bengals are currently hammering the Bears up huge in the first half 28-0; Palmer with FOUR touchdown passes….

The Panthers are off to a slow start, but some early defensive stops and a couple of plays could turn this one around...

The Jets (on the road) and Dolphins (at home) with the early BIG leads, but still have an entire second half to go…..

The Falcons and Cowboys locked in a tight battle with both teams turning the ball over on a few occasions….

Who’s doing What….

In Cincy it looks like the Ochocinco show with the Bengals wideout already with eight catches for 103 yards and a score…..

In Miami running back Ricky Williams is leading the cause with 70 yards on the ground and two rushing touchdowns in the first half….

Where is he?…

So far Cowboy’s running back Marion Barber has been non-existent with just two carries for minus two yards….

In the Bears-Bengals matchup, running back Matt Forte has only six combined touches for 13 yards and a fumble….

Currently….

The Saints defense is having lots of trouble slowing down the Wildcat offense, while Miami has been in Drew Brees face all afternoon…..Dolphins lead big 24-3 following a missed field goal attempt by the Saints, there is just over five minutes left in the first half…….

Check back for more “Fantasy Football” Updates!

FSH: THATS MY TAKE

October 22nd, 2009 10:37pm PST

THAT’S MY TAKE

Brett Favre: Re-Writing History

It was only six months ago that the main stream media were tweeting, posting, writing, and talking about how tired they already were with the whole Brett Favre saga; even fans unlike had had enough. It was becoming a joke; is he going to stay retired or unretire. Even a four letter network cut a promo ad poking fun at the whole offseason drama that ensued.

Looking back, was it Favre making this a bigger decision than it really was or was it the networks, media, and sports personalities just trying to reinvent the wheel by making this whole "waffling story" a bigger deal than it needed to be. After all, when Vinny Testaverde retired and came back out of retirement (20 times) was there a circus surrounding his decision and questioning his motive?

Sure Vinny's decision or announcements were hardly "stop the presses", but why was it such a big deal for Brett Favre to change his mind and comeback? Why did so many blast him for considering and reconsidering, maybe, just maybe he knew just a little better what was best for Brett Favre.

So many of us can sit at home and play armchair quarterback or GM for that matter, weigh over the circumstances and draw our own conclusions from observation alone. But how much can we really know? How can you measure one man's heart and really know, what fuels his fire?

Maybe he knew what he was doing, just maybe he was right. In hindsight it's always easier to second guess, because let's face it even in the 12th hour it appeared Favre himself didn't even know what to do; to think if Vikings head coach Brad Childress had not made that one last reach out to the former three-time NFL MVP. If Chilly doesn't make the call, what would all of us be talking about today?

The simple fact is the call was made, Favre said yes and once again we could be looking at history being made. But the critics will tell you we have seen this all before and all too well. Last season with the Jets 8-3 start, there was talk of a post season run, and then like a fly hitting a wall; it all became just a bad dream. Could this just be another repeat or are we seeing something different?

Unlike last season, the Jets for Favre were like the next hot-girl right after a bad break-up with your longtime girlfriend. It's always nice to have someone, but it’s not always where you want to be and with whom you really want to be with; but it’ll do. For what it's worth Favre made the best of the situation, but like any turbulent relationship doomed from the start it did not end on the best of terms; but it had to end.

The Vikings weren't ever going to replace his first love (Packers), but like a long time close (girl) friend that has always been there with the shoulder to lean on, understanding, and with open arms to comfort this relationship when first conceived (last year) always made sense. In Minnesota Favre had strong ties that would make him feel welcome.

Even when Favre was teetering and unsure, rather than understand that at 39 years age the heart wants what the heart wants and that one has to consider can the body survive, the masses (analysts, bloggers, columnists) would rather crucify the guy for seeming to hold a franchise hostage and keeping the football world waiting. It may have seemed selfish to many, but when it comes right down to it, this was Brett's decision and with the support of his family there was only one person he needed to consider.

His decision to play his 19th NFL season did not come easy and it was quite apparent no one covering the story or having an opinion on the matter and every self-serving so-called football analyst and expert were not going to help make it easy.

From right out of the gate, the Favre-hating nation was quick to jump on his signs of rustiness and call out his perceived limitations. Again, pushing 40 years of age and coming off a season were the toll of 16 games had beat him down, how much longer could Favre really play. Was he even the shell of a player we had watched take a Packer team to the NFC championship in 2007?

The Vikings started strong in 2009 and needed very little help from Favre in the first couple of weeks (after two games; 265 yards passing and three touchdown passes). With Favre adding very little to the offense, why was he even in Minnesota? Was he doing anything more that the other two quarterbacks the Vikings had in reserve couldn't? And just like that there was the talk of a "schism." Is that even a word? Everyone and their mother had a take on this.

The so-called schism was being addressed on every air-wave, every talk show, and sure enough there it was on the four letter network being addressed like somekind of physical injury, Favre, Childress, and the Vikings would have to deal with and adjust to. The entire situation was being made out like the Vikings faced a divided locker room.

Why all the drama? Seriously, was Brett wrong to comeback? Was it really that hard to understand a man's love and deep passion for the game? Apparently Childress was confident of his decision and believed in Favre; so why the attention and why the uproar?

Little did anyone realize or see this coming, but the Vikings week three matchup with the 2-0 Niners would not only define Favre's reasoning for coming back, but it would mark the beginning of history being rewritten once again.
In dramatic fashion that only Favre can bring, the Viking's new team leader took his new team upon his back. Favre would not use his voice to lead the way, but the boy from Mississippi would lead with his actions.

In a battle of then unbeatens the two teams traded haymakers, back and forth throughout the game, it was one big timely play after another. First the Vikings struck late in the 3rd quarter and took the lead with a blistering 101-yard kickoff return by Percy Harvin. Then it was the Niners who struck back early in the 4th quarter with a Vernon Davis catch to lead 24-20.

As the clock continued to wind down, the moment had arrived. It was time for Favre to show the world what he was all about and how he loved the game; and loved to win. Calm, cool, and collected Favre took the field, kept plays alive with his feet, made needed throw after throw as he drove his team into position.

With just 12 seconds left to play, it was time for magic. Favre scrambled out to his right to avoid the Niner pressure, as he avoided a potential tackler he stepped up the field, and then in a last wing and a prayer throw he let go a 32-yard laser that miraculously found its’ way to the back of the end-zone, into the hands of the newly signed wide receiver Greg Lewis.

Lewis’ grab completed a sensational game winning touchdown reception that not only elevated the Vikings to 3-0, but ended the talk of any kind of schism or divided locker room. The play was everything you would have expected from a younger, gunslinger, a Favre of yesterday, but this was today and history was being written all over.

In week four Favre would add another chapter to his legacy and make more history. When the Vikings defeated the Packers on Monday night, Favre became the only quarterback in the history of the NFL to defeat all 32 teams in the NFL.

Favre is playing inspired football now. Perhaps all the negative chatter prior to his arrival has motivated him? One thing appears to be certain, not only does Favre have plenty left in the tank, but many of the nay-sayers had it wrong.

Since week three Favre has played like a 30 year old. His numbers are rivaling the best in the league and over his past four starts he’s averaged 270 yards passing and thrown nine touchdowns with only two interceptions. While many try to explain Favre’s sudden resurrection an interesting comment made during the Vikings-Packers matchup in week four by commentator and football analyst Ron Jaworski.

Favre was a late arrival to camp this year, but by week four against the Packers he had put in the same length of time of a full training camp. At this point it would be a fair assessment to gauge his progress and level of play; needless to say Favre’s performance on Monday night was flawless (24 of 31 passing, 271 yards passing, and three touchdowns). Against his former team Favre was accurate; his passes had plenty of zip and velocity, while his spirals were tight and on the mark.

So what makes 2009 different from a year ago when Favre seemed to have collapsed in the second half of the season? At no point in 2008 was he this efficient and effective. His strong start last year could not disguise his gunslinging tendencies with eight interceptions in his first six starts. This season Favre has been much better throwing 12 touchdowns with only two interceptions and completing nearly 70 percent of his passes.

There’s no guarantee that Favre will hold up this season, but then again there seems to be no reason to believe that he will break down. The bicep injury that seemed to undermine his 2008 comeback hardly seems to be an issue in 2009. He’s throwing the ball as well as he ever has and if history repeats as it has often does, this season is sure reminiscent of 2007.

With all the negative criticism surrounding his return, there are still many just waiting for the moment that Favre will tank or resort to his normal tendencies. For those that still don’t believe, holding your breath is not recommended.

At 40 years of age now, Favre is defying the odds and every game he plays and every snap he takes he is rewriting the record books. On Sunday Favre will make his 276th consecutive start (an NFL record). His week seven matchup with the Steelers will present a huge test for Favre as he goes for his 176 career win (another NFL record).

When camp opened up back in the summer, many folks like the Vikings chances heading into the 2009 season. With Favre under center and slinging the rock this well the Viking have to like their chances. We may not have imagined it before, but how you have to think we could be watching something very special; you might even say we’re watching (Favre’s) history be re-written.

That’s my take.

By David Ortega

[Please Note: All photos by Getty Images]


Check back every week for more of “That’s My Take”

FSH: THE FRIDAY NIGHT INFIRMARY REPORT

October 23rd, 2009 9:07pm PST

Friday Night Fantasy Football
Infirmary Report

Week Seven Injury report
[Including IDP]


(Friday updates)
Offensive Player injuries


Chris Wells, RB (Cardinals):
The Cardinal’s rookie running back has been limited all week in practice and was limited again on Friday with a hip injury. He is questionable for Sunday night, but could see a reduced role.


Clinton Portis, RB (Redskins):
The Redskins running back was limited in practice as of Saturday with an ankle injury. He is listed as questionable, but expected to play Monday night against the Eagles.


Sammy Morris, RB (Patriots):
The Patriot’s dinged up running back has been formally ruled OUT for Sunday with a knee injury. Morris suffered the injury last week in the first quarter against the Titans.

Trent Edwards, QB (Bills):
According to BuffaloBills.com, quarterback Trent Edwards (concussion) has been ruled OUT for Sunday against the Panthers, backup Ryan Fitzpatrick will get the start.

Felix Jones, RB (Cowboys):
The Cowboy’s backup running back is listed as probable coming back from a knee injury that has sidelined him for several weeks. He’s expected to play, but it’s hard to gauge how much work he’ll get.

Marion Barber, RB (Cowboys):
The Cowboy’s starting running back says the quad injury is a non-issue, but he does have a broken thumb on his left hand. Barber is expected to start Sunday against the Falcons, but the injured thumb could limit his snaps in the passing game.

Michael Turner, RB (Falcons):
The Falcon’s running back Michael Turner (chest) sounds good to go for Sunday against the Cowboys. There’s been no word that there’s any chance he won’t start and he is listed as probable on the injury report.

Greg Jennings, WR (Packers):
The Milwaukee Sentinel Journal is reporting that wide receiver Greg Jennings (hip) returned to practice Friday and is listed as probable for Sunday. Expect Jennings to start in a good matchup against the Browns.

Mario Manningham, WR (Giants):
According toe Ralph Vacchiano on Twitter, Giant’s wide receiver Mario Manningham practice in full Friday and is listed as probable for Sunday.

Adrian Peterson, RB (Vikings):
The Viking’s superstar running back completed a full practice Friday and is listed as probable for Sunday. He is expected to start against the Steelers.

LaDanian Tomlinson, RB (Chargers):
The Charger’s running back returned to a full practice on Friday and is expected to start Sunday against the Chiefs. Tomlinson has been battling an ankle injury, but looks healthy now. He is listed as probable.

Eli Manning, QB (Giants):
According toe Ralph Vacchiano on Twitter, Giant’s quarterback Eli Manning practiced in full Friday without any limitations. He is listed as probable and expected to start Sunday night against the Cardinals.

Rashard Mendenhall, RB (Steelers):
The Steeler’s running back was able to practice in full Friday and is expected to start Sunday against the Vikings. Despite a bruised knee and the Vikings defense this week, Mendenhall should be a safe play for Sunday.

Roy E Williams, WR (Cowboys):
According to the Dallas Morning News, wide receiver Roy Williams (ribs) practiced Friday and is listed as probable for Sunday. Williams is expected to start against the Faclons, but Miles and Witten look like the favorites in the passing game.

Braylon Edwards, WR (Jets):
The Daily News is reporting that wide receiver Braylon Edwards (quadriceps) was a full participant in Friday’s practice. He is listed as probable and expected to start Sunday at the Raiders.

Chad Ochocinco, WR (Bengals):
Wide receiver Chad Ochocinco was a late add to the injury report on Friday missing practice due to a hip injury. He is listed as probable and expected to play Sunday.

Jerricho Cotchery, WR (Jets):
According to the Daily News, wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery has been ruled OUT for week 7 against the Raiders. David Clowney is expected to start for Cotchery.

Steve Breaston, WR (Cardinals):
According to Azcardinals.com, Wide receiver Steve Breaston (knee) was limited in practice Friday, but he is listed as probable. Chances look good for Breaston to play and his role could increase if Boldin is limited or misses.

Percy Harvin, WR (Vikings):
The Viking’s explosive receiver Percy Harvin (shoulder) was limited in Friday’s practice and is listed as questionable for Sunday. It sounds like there is a chance he could play, but the word “limited” sounds appropriate as well.

Jeremy Shockey, TE (Saints):
The Saints tight end was limited in practice Friday and is listed as probable for week 7. Shockey is nursing a shoulder injury, but is not expected to miss Sunday against the Dolphins.

Anquan Boldin, WR (Cardinals):
Wide receiver Anquan Boldin (ankle) returned to limited practice on Friday and is listed as questionable for Sunday. It looks like Boldin has a good chance to play on Sunday, but will likely be a game-time decision.

Donnie Avery, WR (Rams):
Wide receiver Donnie Avery returned to full practice on Friday and is now listed as probable for Sunday according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Expect to see the speedy wideout in the lineup against the Colts.

Defensive Player Injuries

Antoine Winfield, DB (Vikings):
According to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, cornerback Antoine Winfield (foot sprain) missed his third straight practice and is doubtful for Sunday. Winfield who is sporting a protective boot is not expected to play against the Steelers.

Troy Polamalu, DB (Steelers):
According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, safety Troy Polamalu (knee) returned to practice Friday after missing the previous two days. He is listed as probable and expected to start against the Vikings.

Thomas Davis, LB (Panthers):
According to Darin Grant on Twitter, linebacker Thomas Davis (hamstring) missed his second day of practice on Friday and is questionable for Sunday against the Bills.

Michael Lewis, DB (Niners):
According to Matt Maiocco on Twitter, the Niner’s defensive back Michael Lewis (concussion) has been ruled OUT for Sunday.

D'Qwell Jackson, LB (Browns):
According to ProFootballTalk.com, is was reported earlier in the week linebacker D’Qwell Jackson suffered a torn pectorals muscle. He has been placed on the Injured Reserve ending his season.

Roy Williams, DB (Bengals):
According to Bengals.com, strong safety Roy Williams (arm) is listed as doubtful for Sunday against the Bears and will likely not play. This will be the third game Williams has missed this season.

Bob Sanders, DB (Colts):
According to the NFL Network, safety Bob Sanders returned to practice this week and will play Sunday against the Rams.

Donte Whitner, DB (Bills):
According to the Associated Press, free safety Donte Whitner (ankle) has been ruled Out for Sunday against the Panthers. Strong safety Bryan Scott (ankle) has also been ruled OUT.

Bernard Pollard, DB (Texans):
The Texan’s safety returned to practice Friday and is expected to play Sunday against the Niners. Pollard has missed practice this week due to illness.

Kris Jenkins, DL (Jets):
According to the Daily News, an MRI earlier this week revealed that Jenkins had torn his ACL. He has been placed on the Injured Reserve ending his season.

Tommy Harris, DL (Bears):
According to the Associated Press, defensive tackle Tommie Harris (knee) is listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game against the Bengals. Harris has been slowed with a nagging left knee injury and did not practice this week.

Lito Sheppard, DB (Jets):
The Jets starting cornerback Lito Sheppard (quadriceps) suffered a set-back in week six and will miss Sunday’s matchup with the Raiders according to the Daily News.


Don’t forget to check out the Fantasy Football Insiders every Sunday morning on….

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (QWIK FIXX)

October 22nd, 2009 10:37pm PST

THE FANTASY FIXX

Target Practice: Week Seven in the NFL

As we get deeper into the fantasy season, mistakes are magnified and each loss becomes monumental. There’s no room for error and every owner hoping to extend the fantasy season needs to be on top of the numbers as well as the injuries.

With week seven next on the slate, it’s too late into the season to be counting on luck, it’s time to start doing your homework. If you are hoping to set that winning lineup, then you have once again targeted the right place, because we have your weekly fix right here!

Who’s worried….

The signs are there and it appears his time could be coming now. The Bears tight end Greg Olsen still has yet to put up number one tight end numbers, but his time could be nearing closer than you think. Last Sunday Olsen caught five passes for 57 yards and a touchdown, ranking 5th in fantasy scoring for tight ends. The bigger number to pay attention looking ahead is the 11 passes thrown in his direction (ranked tops for TE’s in week six).

The Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe has yet to set any fantasy scoring sheets on fire this season, but his dormant beginnings could be changing soon. In his last two starts Bowe has managed to snag 11 passes for 183 yards and a touchdown. The hidden value here is the 24 passes that have gone in his direction as well. Expect Bowe to only get better.

Despite the past two relatively quiet weeks for Giant’s receiver Steve Smith, fantasy owners should take comfort in knowing he’s still on Eli’s radar every Sunday. In his last two starts Smith has only seven receptions, but he was targeted 11 times; a slight drop from what he had seen. With Hixon a healthy return and the rookie Nicks emerging, Smith is still Eli’s go-to and should find an easier time this weekend to get open. Smith leads the NFL with 41 receptions and ranks in the top five in passing targets; don’t worry.

The Vikings and quarterback Brett Favre’s newest weapon this season appears to be their 3rd year receiver Sidney Rice. Over the past four weeks Rice has been seeing a steady diet of seven targets per game and when he’s been on the radar, he’s been productive. Over the same span he’s averaged 4.5 catches, 91-yards, and a half touchdown per game (that’s 12 fantasy points per game).

It’s a gradual and steady growth for the Bronco’s wide receiver Brandon Marshall. Week six was hardly a big week after going three straight with a touchdown. Marshall only caught five passes for 49 yards last Sunday, but over his last four starts he has had no fewer than six targets in each game while averaging eight over that stretch. The biggest key for the Bronco’s receiver is his level of efficiency; catching nearly 70 percent of the passes thrown his direction and averaging over nine fantasy points per game.

Keep your Eye on these gems…

On Monday night against the San Diego Chargers, the Bronco’s tight end Tony Scheffler had his 2009 coming out party. Scheffler caught six passes for over 100 yards and scored an important touchdown in the Monday night matchup. It was the tight end’s first big game this season and more importantly over the past two weeks, he has seen an increased activity in the Bronco’s passing game. In his last two starts Scheffler has seen 12 balls thrown his way and in that stretch he’s grabbed 10 of those throws. Keep your eye on Scheffler, it’s starting to look more and more like the Broncos will be getting him more involved in the vertical game.

Since his glory days as part of the “Greatest Show on Turf” the Jaguar’s wide receiver Torry Holt has not been as productive. Last season was his lowest totals for yards and receptions since his rookie season, but 2009 looks to be a different story. Holt is not lighting any fires at the moment, but he’s been very steady over the past couple of weeks. Holt has 12 receptions for 196 yards and has been targeted 21 times. He may not be considered a weekly must start or reliable fantasy starter, but ranking in the top 25 in both yards and receptions he’s worth watching.

Here is the breakdown for fantasy pass catchers (targets) this season;

Through Six weeks:

Top-30 Targeted Pass-catchers

Player.....................................Targt Recpt FPTS
Johnson, Andre WR HOU............66 36 78
Moss, Randy WR NE....................58 38 71
Smith, Steve WR NYG..................55 41 75
Burleson, Nate WR SEA...............54 32 53
Houshmandzadeh, T.J. WR SEA.....53 31 43
Ochocinco, Chad WR CIN............53 29 59
Ward, Hines WR PIT....................52 41 67
Welker, Wes WR NE....................52 36 54
Fitzgerald, Larry WR ARI..............50 35 64
Holmes, Santonio WR PIT............49 28 48
Wayne, Reggie WR IND................48 32 68
Daniels, Owen TE HOU...............47 32 58
Holt, Torry WR JAC...................47 27 38
Smith, Steve WR CAR.................47 21 26
Mason, Derrick WR BAL.............46 26 53
Winslow, Kellen TE TB...............46 29 51
Boldin, Anquan WR ARI..............44 29 32
Clayton, Mark WR BAL...............44 20 37
Gates, Antonio TE SD................44 29 52
Manningham, Mario WR NYG......44 24 61
Marshall, Brandon WR DEN.........43 29 55
Rice, Ray RB BAL......................43 33 93
Clark, Dallas TE IND...................42 35 54
Sims-Walker, Mike WR JAC.........42 28 55
White, Roddy WR ATL...............42 27 61
Carlson, John TE SEA................41 24 38

Cooley, Chris TE WAS................41 27 40
Jackson, DeSean WR PHI...........41 19 49
Johnson, Calvin WR DET............41 22 39
Royal, Eddie WR DEN................41 18 13

[points based on traditional scoring]

Check back every Monday for more “Fantasy Fixx”

FSH: IDP NOTES

October 22nd, 2009 11:00pm 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…

David Harris, LB, New York Jets
David Harris fully practiced for the second straight day Thursday, according to NFL.com. He has been dealing with a wrist ailment.
My Fantasy Read on Harris: Harris is a solid IDP start with 57 tackles this season. There’s no indication that he’ll miss Sunday, better have him in the lineup….

Stephen Cooper, LB, San Diego Chargers
Stephen Cooper fully practiced Thursday, according to NFL.com. He has been dealing with a knee injury.
My Fantasy Read on Cooper: The Charger’s linebacker leads the team with 43 total tackles. He’s not expected to miss this Sunday and should be a solid play…..

Brian Cushing, LB, Houston Texans
Brian Cushing did not practice for the second straight day Thursday while dealing with a sore foot, according to NFL.com.
My Fantasy Read on Cushing: The Texan’s rookie linebacker has been a terror on the defense leading the team with 48 tackles. Cushing also has a half sack and a pick this season…..

Mario Williams, DE, Houston Texans
Mario Williams was limited during Thursday's practice while nursing a shoulder ailment, according to NFL.com.
My Fantasy Read on Williams: The Texan’s defensive lineman is off to a slow start this season with only two sacks. He’s not playing like an every week starter, so consider better options if available…..

Antonio Cromartie, CB, San Diego Chargers
Antonio Cromartie injured his knee during practice, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
My Fantasy Read on Cromartie: It sounds like the injury is not as serious as feared and Cromartie should play Sunday. Be careful considering this option, the Charger’s cornerback has not been the same playmaker of late…..

Kamerion Wimbley, LB, Cleveland Browns
Kamerion Wimbley was limited during Thursday's practice while dealing with an illness, according to the Browns' official website. He did not practice yesterday.
My Fantasy Read on Wimbley: The Browns outside linebacker is having a strong start to the 2009 season with four sacks this season. With 32 tackles he’s a strong play week in and week out….

Bernard Pollard, S, Houston Texans
Bernard Pollard is dealing with flu-like symptoms and was sent home before today's practice, according to the Houston Chronicle.
My Fantasy Read on Pollard: The Texans safety has been good since joining the lineup, but you’ll want to check his status for Sunday….


Check back with "Your Fantasy Sports Home" for more Football 411…..

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

October 22nd, 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……

Player News From Across the Wire...

Braylon Edwards, WR, New York Jets
Braylon Edwards was limited in practice for the second straight day Thursday, according to NFL.com. He is dealing with a quadriceps ailment.
My Fantasy read on Edwards: If the Jets receiver is less than 100 percent, he could be more than a tough start this week matching up with the Raider’s shutdown corner Nnamdi Asomugha……

Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Rashard Mendenhall fully practiced Thursday, according to NFL.com. He was limited yesterday while dealing with a knee ailment.
My Fantasy read on Mendenhall: There appears to be a changing of the guard in Pittsburgh, even with Parker returning Mendenhall remains the starter. This week against the Vikes will be tough, but he’s still a worthy start….

Brian Westbrook, RB, Philadelphia Eagles
Eagles' beat writer Brian Seltzer is reporting that running back Brian Westbrook wants to carry the load for the team going forward. Westbrook feels like he will be more effective if the team gets rid of his rotation with LeSean McCoy.
My Fantasy read on Westbrook: Against the Raiders in week six Westbrook ran well, but was limited to only six carries. Now that he’s healthy, he could be in line for more work and bigger production….

Wes Welker, WR, New England Patriots
Wes Welker fully practiced for the second straight day Thursday, according to the Boston Globe.
My Fantasy read on Welker: The Patriot’s receiver appears to be over his knee problems and is a solid start every week. This Sunday against the Buccaneers could be another highly productive day….

Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona Cardinals
According to the East Valley Tribune, Cardinals' wide receiver Anquan Boldin did some side work with a trainer on Thursday. Boldin might be able to practice on Friday, as his ankle looked much improved today.
My Fantasy read on Boldin: The Cards have a tough matchup on Sunday with the Giants, but after watching the Saints shred the G-men’s secondary, expect Arizona to follow the same blueprint. If healthy Boldin will play a big role, check Friday’s status…..

LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, San Diego Chargers
Updating an earlier report, LaDainian Tomlinson missed today's practice due to an illness, according to Kevin Acee's (San Diego Union-Tribune) twitter page.
My Fantasy read on Tomlinson: The Charger’s running back ran the ball well on Monday night, was just victim to playing from behind. Expect to see his workload increase in both the ground and air attack…..

Randy Moss, WR, New England Patriots
Randy Moss fully practiced for the second straight day Thursday, according to the Boston Globe.
My Fantasy read on Moss: The Patriots playmaking receiver is coming off a huge Sunday last week against the Titans. This week he’ll face a secondary that has surrendered 13 passing touchdowns this week; expect a big day….

Michael Turner, RB, Atlanta Falcons
Falcons' running back Michael Turner was limited in practice again on Thursday, according to the team's official website. Turner is dealing with a chest injury.
My Fantasy read on Turner: It doesn’t sound like Turner will miss this weekend, this Sunday he should be a solid start against the Cowboys 17th ranked run defense….

Tom Brady, QB, New England Patriots
Tom Brady fully practiced for the second straight day Thursday, according to the Boston Globe.
My Fantasy read on Brady: After watching Brady last weekend in the snow, this weekend should be a cruise in the warm Florida weather. He’s a must start every week…


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

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (STUDS AND DUDS)

October 21st, 2009 10:37pm PST

Earners and Bums
(Studs & Duds)

Don ‘Shula’ Lombardi
“The Collector”
(courtesy of the Fantasy Football Gang)

With six weeks of the 2009 fantasy football season complete, it’s time again for “The Collector” to take his weekly stroll along Fantasy Football Boulevard to see who is earning their keep and who needs a swift kick in the behind.

The Collector knows who your every week cash-cows (Brees, Brady, Peterson) are; they’re going to have their great weeks and those not so great weeks, but after checking the books and tallying the weekly balance sheets it’s time to once again see who this weeks Earners (Studs) are and who are the Bums (Duds)


The Earners (Studs)
(Note: Not your normal stars/check the wire. Min 16 fantasy points)


The Viking’s quarterback Brett Favre is quickly becoming a huge cash cow with 278 passing yards and three touchdowns (12 touchdowns in 2009) in week six. (29 fantasy points)

The Bronco’s quarterback Kyle Orton keeps the money coming in with 229 yards passing and two touchdowns in week six. (22 fantasy points)

The Panther’s second running back Jonathan Stewart brought home the bacon last Sunday with 17 carries for 110 yards rushing and a touchdown. (15 fantasy points)

The Patriot;s running back Laurence Maroney scored some big green on Sunday with 123 yards rushing and a 45-yard touchdown scamper. (19 fantasy points)

The Vikings wide receiver Sidney Rice was the big man on campus last Sunday with a jail-break performance catching six passes for 176 yards receiving. (17 fantasy points)

The Giant’s rookie wide receiver Hakeem Nicks cashed in big last Sunday catching five passes for 114 yards with a touchdown. (17 fantasy points)

The Bronco’s tight end Tony Scheffler racked in big green this past Monday night catching six passes for 101 yards receiving and a touchdown. (16 fantasy points)

The Bums (Duds)
(Note: We expect more from these guys/be careful starting. Less than 5 fantasy points)

The Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck coming off a great week five was not-so-great last weekend completing only 10 passes and not throwing a touchdown. (zero fantasy points)

It’s not that so much is expected of the rookie Mark Sanchez, but no one should ever be this bad, 10 of 29 passing and five interceptions. (minus six fantasy points)

The Giant’s running back Brandon Jacobs disappears in Sunday’s ambush and brings home empty pockets with just 33 yards rushing. (3 fantasy points)

The Steeler’s former starting running back Willie Parker struggles in week six with just seven carries for 26 yards with a fumble. (zero fantasy points)

The Seahawk’s wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh was almost M.I.A. on Sunday finishing with just four catches for 34 yards receiving. (3 fantasy points)

The Bill’s wide receiver Terrell Owens was a non-factor and disappointment on Sunday finishing the day with only three catches for 13 yards. (one fantasy point)

The Jet’s tight end Dustin Keller could not connect with his quarterback much on a Windy Sunday in the Meadowlands; he finished with two catches and 16 yards. (one fantasy point)

[based on traditional fantasy scoring]

By David Ortega


Check back for more weekly “Earners and Bums"

FSH: WATERCOOLER CHAT

October 21st, 2009 9:15pm PST

WATERCOOLER CHAT

The Weekly Waiver Wire


Wayne “The Wire” Bosco

(Courtesy of the Fantasy Football Gang)

The Bye weeks continue in the NFL and the Waiver Wire just keeps getting busy. As the fantasy football season progresses, you weekly moves take on more importance; your studs are on the bye, your lineup is depleted and you need some serious help. Never fear because Wayne is always here to lend a helping hand, offer some good advice or just take up 10-15 minutes of your day with some senseless rants about a few guys he believes may have something to say this week!

So once again grab a cold one (better make it two) and tae a lot of notes, and just remember Wayne is working hard, so you don’t have to and because he’s got nothing better to do!

Week Seven

After spending the first five weeks of the season dormant, the Saints wide receiver Lance Moore has awaken from his slumber. Slowed by injuries, Moore has played very little in 2009 missing a few games and being limited, but on Sunday it was a different story. Finally looking healthy Moore resembled more of his 2008 self catching six passes for 78 yards, including a 12-yard score. With the Saints flying high and Brees getting the ball to everyone, Moore looked very good on Sunday and could be one of those options down the road with a big game here and there. He’s definitely going to figure into the Saints passing attack and if available needs to be on someone’s roster.

With the Panther’s return to doing what they do best, run the ball running back Jonathan Stewart will figure into this equation. Last week against the Buccaneers Stewart saw his fair share of carries with 17. He gained 110 yards on the ground and scored a rushing touchdown. With the inconsistent play from the passing game it's safe to expect the Panthers to run the ball. As long as Carolina is committed to the run, expect Stewart to have good value always with plenty of chances to score. Coming off the injury bug Stewart should be available and would be a good bye week fill-in.

The Raiders have had more than their share of offensive woes in this young season, but just last Sunday there was a ray of some hope. With injuries sidelining Darren McFadden, running back Justin Fargas has had opportunity this season. This past week Fargas earned 23 carries and totaled 98 yards. In one game Fargas doubled his carries for the season and with the Raiders in search of any kind of offense, expect head coach Tom Cable to start with Fargas. The former SC Trojan running back is not going to blow up, but he's a solid runner and a decent fill-in to cover a bye or injury.

When Fred Taylor went down, the Patriots turned to Sammy Morris, now that Morris is down they'll look to running back Laurence Maroney. In his first extended action of the season or the past decade (injured in 2008) or so Maroney jumped all over the chance and made the most of his time in the spotlight. As the team’s featured snowplowing machine this past Sunday Maroney touched the ball 19 times and totaled 133 yards of offense. With numbers like this the Patriots will more than likely stay with the hot hand and keep feeding the horse. With the schedule sitting right in the middle of the byes, Maroney becomes an appealing fill-in option with the Bucs up next.

“Wayne’s Word”

Enough with the running back theme, looking for a hot tip or just some helpful advice, either way Wayne has the latest insight for this week. Another worthy spot where you can find some good help is the tight end position and with this week’s hottest pickup Wayne offers you these words;

Over the past several weeks the Vikings tight end Visanthe Shiancoe has quickly become quarterback Brett Favre’s most reliable target. Shiancoe is not being heavily targeted, but he’s not dropping many of Favre’s rockets. In the past three weeks the tight end has seen 11 passes thrown his direction and he’s managed to snag everyone; more importantly he’s making the most of his opportunities. Shiancoe has four touchdown receptions in his last three games and has five for the season. With Favre spreading the ball so well, expect him to keep looking for Shiancoe in the critical moments and in scoring position. As long as Shiancoe remains a favorite of Favre’s his numbers figure to improve. His fantasy scoring for the past three games is 7-points, 10-points, and 16-points.

Playing the Fantasy GM

Don-Pietro "The GM" Zamboni

Trade’em away or cut your ties
With the season one third of the way in, it’s time to start shaping your team for it’s championship run; and that means time to trim the fat. After six weeks of football we’ve seen plenty to know what needs to be done. You have a few studs that still have some appeal, but it looks like they could be heading for a cooling trend. Before their plate cools off, it’s time to make a move and trade away your stud for some potential upside that could come into play when the stretch run starts.

The GM Game
When the 2009 season opened up running backs Fred Jackson, Willie Parker, and LaDanian Tomlinson had the look of promise, but six weeks later a lot of that has changed. With injuries piling up and bye weeks coming into play a fantasy GM has to get creative to make his team better. These players may offer more value in a trade than in your lineup;

Trimming the fat….

Out of the gate running back Fred Jackson looked like he was going to be a beast in Buffalo, but since the return of Marshawn Lynch to the lineup in week four Jackson has seen his number dip significantly. He’s averaging only 14 touches and 56 yards per game in his last three starts. With the memories of what Jackson did in the first three weeks (291 rushing yards) still somewhat fresh, now is the time to part ways and get good value for him.

Like Jackson, the Steelers running back Willie Parker may offer some value for what he has done (in the past) and not what he is doing. Parker is an explosive runner that has the potential for big games, but playing behind Mendenhall, it may be a while before we see a big game. Your better off dealing him away to an owner that can afford to wait for Fast-Willie to come around. Parker is still not healthy and likely drafted as a mid RB2, you can’t afford to have him just riding your bench and taking a roster spot. He’s not going to give much value injured, but you may still be able to deal him away as insurance for Mendenhall or if the market is dry just cut your losses.

Now Tomlinson is a different story. With L.T. being injured and off to a slow start this season, you have already addressed your needs at running back. His Monday night performance (100 total yards) was not brilliant, but there were a few runs we saw that made you think, if the Chargers had stayed with the ground attack more perhaps he could have had a big night. Signs or not, Tomlinson is still a name and still has a market and will also be worth more to you in a trade, than in your lineup. The Chargers defense is not going to hold many leads and this is River’s team now. The offense will flow through the pass and while L.T. will contribute his value will be limited. Right now would be a great time to make a deal to trade L.T. with a strong game under his belt. Someone will be willing to acquire the former NFL MVP and you should be able to get good value. Make the deal now and fill the holes at other positions in your lineup.

Keep checking back for more football....

By David G. Ortega