FSH: FOOTBALL DIARY

December 26th, 2009 10:45pm PST

Football Diary

Dear Diary

Championship Weekend

For many fantasy leagues this is the biggest weekend of the fantasy season; Championship Weekend. There is no more tomorrow and no room for error. Fantasy owners will need to check those critical matchups for this weekend as well as check the injury reports; you have to know who's in and who's out.

With one obstacle left to hurdle, this is not the weekend to get careless. A couple of quick injury notes;

Sit (injured)

DeAngelo Williams (ankle)

Devin Hester (not expected to play)

Pierre Garcon (out for Sunday)

Michael Turner (did not practice)

Justin Fargas (doubtful for Sunday)

Leonard Little (unlikely to play)

Start

Jonathan Stewart (expected to start)

Larry Fitzgerald (practiced Friday)

Austin Collie (Garcon is out)

Albert Haynesworth (will start)

Fantasy Notes:

The Niners running back Frank Gore has been the hot foot the last couple of weeks. In his last two starts Gore has ran for 274 yards on the ground and added five receptions and a touchdown. He should find plenty of holes on Sunday against the Lions 24th ranked run defense.

The Dolphins running back Ricky Williams has had a great 2009 campaign for fantasy owners with 13 total touchdowns this season. In his past two games Williams has managed to find pay-dirt while averaging over 100-yards of offense. He should be another solid start this Sunday against the Texans run defense (ranked 17th) that allows over four yards per carry and has surrendered 14 touchdowns on the ground.

The big news in Indy is the absence of Pierre Garcon this weekend. With the Jets cover corner Darrelle Revis likely to blanket Reggie Wayne, Garcon figured to be a good play on Sunday. Now all of that will fall to rookie wide receiver Austin Collie who has managed to score in three straight games; Sunday could be four.

10 Things on My

Sunday Watch-List

1. With a new quarterback under center and the 30th ranked pass defense, can wide receiver Terrell Owens have a big day?

2. Can Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles make it three straight 100-yard games; he faces the Bengals 3rd ranked run defense.

3. Who will run for more yards on Sunday, the Raiders Michael Bush or the Browns Jerome Harrison?

4. The Packers Aaron Rodgers has been hot and cold the past couples of weeks; can he get warmed up this week in Lambeau against the Seahawks 29th ranked pass defense.

5. The Texans quarterback Matt Schaub has been on fire the past couple of weeks; can he keep the torch burning against the Dolphins 23rd ranked pass defense.

6. Can the Ravens 6th ranked pass defense slow down the big arm of the Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

7. With DeAngelo Williams sidelined, can Jonathan Stewart follow up his second start this season with another 100-yard effort?

8. With the playoffs approaching, can Kurt Warner and the Cardinals passing game get back in sync; he has not passed for over 300 yards in five games.

9. Will the Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis shutdown the Colts wide receiver Reggie Wayne?

10. Can the Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo keep the Cowboys on the right track and notch a second win in December?

Check back every week for more "Football Diary"

FSH: THE FRIDAY NIGHT INFIRMARY REPORT

December 25th, 2009 - 11:17pm PST

Week 16 Fantasy Football

Infirmary Report

Week 16 Injury Updates

(Some recent player injury news; updated Friday Dec. 25th)

Notable Offensive Player Injuries

Ryan Fitzpatrick-QB (Bills)

The Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (ankle) is expected to be a game-time decision on Sunday against the Falcons. Fitzpatrick did not practice most of the week and was limited on Friday. Brian Brohm who took most of the first team reps this week is expected to make his first start if Fitzpatrick is unable to go.

Matthew Stafford-QB (Lions)

The Lions are expected to place quarterback Matthew Stafford on the injured reserve ending his 2009 season. The rookie quarterback will have surgery Tuesday on his knee to clean things up. Back up Drew Stanton is expected to get the start against the Niners.

Ahmad Bradshaw-RB (Giants)

The Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (ankles) did not practice all week as the team is obviously trying to allow the injuries to heal. Bradshaw is listed as probable for Sunday against the Panthers and could be a decent flex play in deeper leagues.

Michael Turner-RB (Falcons)

The Falcons running back Michael Turner (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday against the Bills, but is more than likely not going to play. Turner has not practiced all week and has been a quick departure the past two times he has tried to play, so it sounds like owners would be wise to avoid.

Brian Westbrook-RB (Eagles)

The Eagles running back Brian Westbrook completed a full week of practice and has been cleared to play. He is listed as probable and is expected to play, although in a limited role. He probably won't warrant any fantasy consideration being limited and a high health risk coming off the concussions.

DeAngelo Williams-RB (Panthers)

The Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams (ankle) traveled with the team, but it's not likely he will play. While he has not been ruled out, he is listed as dobutful. Jonathan Stewart is expected to start against the Giants.

Percy Harvin-WR (Vikings)

According to the Minneapolios Star-Tribune, the Vikings wide receiver and return specialist Percy Harvin practiced in full on Thursday and is not listed on the team's injury report. Unless he suffers any setbacks Harvin is expected to play and should have a favorable matchup against a weak Bears secondary.

Eddie Royal-WR (Broncos)

The Broncos wide receiver Eddie Royal (head/neck) has been ruled out for Sunday against the Eagles. Royal sustained the injury last week against the Raiders and will be replaced by Jabar Gaffney in the lineup. A little more familiar with McDaniels system Gaffney could be a bit more productive, but Marshall is the only fantasy worthy receiver in Denver.

Calvin Johnson-WR (Lions)

The Lions outstanding receiver Calvin Johnson (knee) was a full participant in practice on Friday and is listed as probable for Sunday against the Niners according to NFL.com. Without reliable quarterback play this season Johnson has not had a great campaign with just four touchdowns, but against the Niners 28th ranked pass defense that could change.

Jeremy Shockey-TE (Saints)

The Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey (turf toe) is listed as questionable for Sunday against the Buccaneers. Shockey was limited in practice all week and is likely a game-time decision. Fantasy owners would be wise to consider other options.

Notable Defensive Player Injuries

DeMarcus Ware-LB (Cowboys)

The Cowboys playmaking linebacker DeMarcus Ware (wrist/neck) was a full participant in Friday's practice and is listed as probable for Sunday. Ware is a difference maker and a must play with 11 sacks and five forced fumbles this season.

James Harrison-LB (Steelers)

The Steelers linebacker James Harrison suffered an injury to his biceps during Friday's practice. According to ESPN's John Clayton Harrison took a helmet to his bicep that caused some damage. Harrison is a big question mark for Sunday and will likely be a game-time decision.

Leonard Little-DL (Rams)

The Rams defensive end Leonard Little (knee infection) has an open wound from an infection cleared out of his knee. Until the wound heals and closes he won't play. There is no timetable for his return, although he is not expected to play Sunday.

DeAngleo Hall-CB (Redskins)

The Redskins cornerback DeAngelo Hall (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday night against the Cowboys. Hall is enjoying a good 2009 campaign and leads a very good Redskins pass defense with four picks this season. The Cowboys passing game will benefit from his absence.

Louis Delmas-DB (Lions)

The Lions rookie defensive back Louis Delmas (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday against the Niners according to NFL.com. The rookie has been solid this season with 82 tackles, two picks, including a 100-yard interception return for a touchdown.

Darren Sharper-DB (Saints)

The Saints defensive back Darren Sharper (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday against the Buccaneers. Sharper has 64 tackles this season including 47 solo and leads the club with eight interceptions. He's been a huge reason for the Saints success on defense in the secondary.

Don't forget to check every Sunday morning for "Game-time" updates....

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

December 24th, 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 week……

Player Notes From Across My Wire...

Big Ben and Steelers have a new identity...

After watching the Steelers pull out a miracle win over the Packers last Sunday, it's quite evident with their 37 points and over 500 yards in the air the team has a new identity. The Steelers offense is anchored and led by the arm of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. This season he's having his most productive season under center with career numbers in completions (302) and passing yards (3,849). The offense has also been more productive in the air with 24 passing touchdowns to just nine on the ground.

Frank Gore finishing strong....

The Niners are quickly learning the hard way their success comes hand in hand with running back Frank Gore's production. In the team's last six games when Gore has had more than 20 touches the team has won (three times), when he hasn't they have lost. Gore is coming off consecutive 100-yard rushing games. With very winnable games over the next two weeks, expect Gore to see plenty of work against the Lions and Rams.

Finley becoming a difference maker....

The Packers tight end Jermichael Finley is quickly becoming a household name in team's offense, especially in the red zone. Over the past month Finley has really come on strong as a reliable receiver in the Packer's passing attack. In his last three starts Finley has 21 receptions for 223 yards receiving with three touchdowns. He also has 31 receptions over his last five games and his high number of targets (41) over this stretch make him a strong play down the stretch for fantasy owners.

Vernon Davis: The difference a year makes.....

With the Niners eliminated from any chance for the post season, one of the things this team can look back on in 2009 is the resurrection of tight end Vernon Davis. After a dismal and disappointing 2008 campaign, Davis has rebounded to become the player many experts felt he always had the potential to be. With 69 receptions, a shot at 1,000 yards receiving for 2009 and tied for the league lead with 11 receiving touchdowns, Davis has come full circle in the short time of one season.

IDP Notes....

James Anderson making plays in Carolina….

Since the injuries to linebackers Landon Johnson (knee sprain) and Thomas Davis (torn ACL) that ended their 2009 season, replacement James Anderson has been solid in the lineup for the Panthers. In his four starts Anderson has totaled 33 tackles, including 24 solo with one sack. With a Week 16 matchup with the Giants, Anderson is going to getting plenty of opportunity to improve his numbers.

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

FSH: WATERCOOLER CHAT

December 24th, 2009 - 11:05pm PST

Watercooler Chat

A Wireless Week

For most computer geeks wireless is usually a very good thing, but for fantasy owners it means you have to roll with what you got; sometimes that's not so good. If you're stuck with few choices, but have a chance to tap into the free market here's what our good buddy Wayne "The Wire" Bosco has to offer...

Wayne says...

It's always better to play the hot hand, rather than a cold one which could be the case this week. With Jerome Harrison coming off a career day 286 yards on the ground and set to face a questionable Raiders run defense (ranked 28th against the run), those are plenty of reasons to jump on the Brown's running back's milk-truck. Harrison has not done a whole lot in 2009, but he made a loud statement last week and it's a good bet that the Brown's coaching staff was listening. He should be featured quite a bit on Sunday and could be very good play against Oakland. This game is going to lack a lot of great defense, so there should be plenty of big plays on offense from both sides; including Mr. Harrison.

The Titan's will have a difficult matchup on Friday night against the San Diego Chargers, but there's no question two of the biggest keys for Tennessee will be Chris Johnson and Vince Young. What some folks may not be aware of, rookie wide receiver Kenny Britt will also be a huge key for the Titans. While Britt has cooled off some the past couple of weeks, he'll be an important instrument in the Titans success. With the Charger's starting corners preoccupied with Tennessee's other receivers (Gage, Washington), Britt is going to see some favorable coverages and should be targeted quite a bit in this one. When Young has looked for Britt, the kid has been big with three touchdowns in his last five games and facing the explosive Chargers the Titans will have to throw the ball.

The Colts are not going to head into this Week 16 matchup lightly and if Peyton Mannng has any say, they will play to win. This week's matchup with the Jets will present many challenges, but with New York’s shutdown corner Darrelle Revis pretty much locking up with Reggie Wayne the Colts second year wideout Pierre Garcon could be big. Garcon starting opposite Wayne has played well when called on this season has been quiet the past couple of weeks, but could become a primary weapon against the Jets. Last week Garcon saw only two throws in his direction, but in his six games prior he saw no fewer than eight (averaging more than nine). This should be a matchup for the Colts second year wideout that gets him back on track.

Waynes Weekly "Friendly Word for the wise"...

The Niners are basically playing for pride now, but their quarteback could be playing for a whole lot more; a strong finish. Quarterback Alex Smith has not quite sold the idea he's the team's future, but a strong finish could go a long way. With the rookie Michael Crabtree one of his favorite and best targets, it safe to say he (Crabtree) will likely play a big part in the success of the passing game down the stretch. A late arrival this season Crabtree has been a very positive addition to the team's passing attack and with his quarterback looking to make a statement, expect Crabtree to be a huge beneficiary. Despite playing in just nine games Crabtree is amongst the team leaders in receptions, yards, and touchdowns for wide receivers. With Smith continuing to call his number, expect the rookie to see his numbers greatly improve.

Player Watch for Week 15

Once again here a few players of note that fantasy owners should consider riding or hiding for the coming weekend of games. Keep these players on your watchlist, you just may want to give them a hard look come Sunday;

(Start) Jermichael Finley

The Packer's tight end has been better than consistent with 21 receptions and three touchdowns in his last three games. He's a huge target in the red-zone and quarterback Aaron Rodgers is looking his direction more and more.

(Start) Vince Young

The Titans quarterback Vince Young has been a fantasy keeper over the past several weeks averaging more than 20 fantasy points in his last three starts, including three touchdown passes last week. There's no reason to believe he shouldn't do more of the same against the Chargers 15th ranked defense on Christmas night.

(Sit) Thomas Jones

As reliable and solid as running back Thomas Jones has been all season, this game could simple be a case where he just won't get any opportunity. The Colts offense is just so impressive they could easily turn the Jets offense to one dimensional by jumping out big real quick. Thomas is likely a long shot to see more than 15 carries in this one.

(Start) Michael Bush

The Raiders running back Michael Bush has to love his chances this Sunday against the Browns defense after watching highlights of Jamaal Charles shredding it for 150 yards on the ground. Bush is coming off a season high effort of 133 yards of his own and should do well in Cleveland.

(Sit) Knowshon Moreno

The Broncos backfield will likely be a little crowded on Sunday with the return of running back Correll Buckhalter. With the Eagles 10th ranked run defense on the slate fantasy owners shouldn't expect a great effort from rookie running back Knowshon Moreno.

(Start) Pierre Thomas

The Saints lost their bid on perfection, but they won't just lay down the rest of the way. They need to get back to winning with their balanced attack and with Buccaneers (ranked 30th against the run) in town Pierre Thomas should be featured even more on the ground this Sunday.

Check back every week for more "Watercooler Chat"

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (TARGET PRACTICE)

December 23rd, 2009 10:45pm PST

Fantasy Football

Target Practice

"Fantasy Football is like nuclear warfare, there are no winners, only survivors." ~Frank Gifford meant pro football, but that was before he played fantasy.

"Its not the size of the dog in the fight, but size of the fight in the dog and a good draft position always helps." ~okay, not quite what he said, but it's applicable here.

"When it comes to winning fantasy football, a lot of good luck can help too"~some lucky fantasy owner who will win a fantasy league he had no business winning.

In these hands we trust

When you are setting your line-up, your survival this weekend won't have to rely on any luck if you know in whose hands to trust. Over the course of the season there are the constant, those that are regularly targeted and then there are the "hot hands."

Players like Wes Welker and Andre Johnson continue to top the board with the most targets this season, but fantasy owners need to take note of players like Deion Branch, Dwayne Bowe, Devin Aromashodu, and Greg Camarillo who each had 10 targets last Sunday. A couple of other players that could play into bigger roles this week would include the wide receiver Malcom Floyd (17 targets), tight end Jermichael Finley (17 targets), and tight end Heath Miller, who have seen more action the past two Sundays.

Before you make your decisions make sure you know what you have and what is what;

"The Hot Hands"

(last two games)

Brandon Marshall (Broncos)-

37 targets/ 28 receptions, 273 yards, 3-Tds.

Andre Johnson (Texans)-

26 targets/ 20 receptions, 389 yards, 2-Tds.

Miles Austin (Cowboys)-

21 targets/ 13 receptions, 210 yards, 2-Tds.

Santonio Holmes (Steelers)-

21 targets/ 9 receptions, 170 yards, 0-Tds.

Heath Miller (Steelers)-

19 targets/ 12 receptions, 177 yards, 0-Td.

Jermichael Finley (Packers)-

17 targets/ 14 receptions, 144 yards, 1-Td.

Chris Chambers (Chiefs)-

14 targets/ 9 receptions, 164 yards, 1-Td.

It is worth mentioning that if you are looking for the hot hands, fantasy owners should also note those that have cooled a bit. Last Sunday Pierre Garcon (Colts), Kenny Britt (Titans), and Terrell Owens (Bills) who each were targeted just twice.

Don't forget to keep these player names and numbers in mind when putting the final touches on your Week 16 lineups.

What have you done for me lately

Over the past four Weeks...

(unoffical numbers)

A few names you'll want to remember!

Brandon Marshall (Den).......57 targets

Miles Austin (Dal)..............44 targets

Calvin Johnson (Det)..........43 targets

Tony Gonzalez (Atl)...........43 targets

Steve E. Smith (NYG)..........41 targets

Santonio Holmes (Pit).........41 targets

Sidney Rice (Min)...............40 targets

Michael Crabtree (SF).........40 targets

Anquan Boldin (Ari)............37 targets

Derrick Mason (Bal)............37 targets

Santana Moss (Was)............35 targets

Hines Ward (Pit)................34 targets

Donnie Avery (Stl)..............33 targets

Chad Ochocinco (Cin)..........33 targets

Davone Bess (Mia)..............33 targets

Season Target leaders Top 10

1. Andre Johnson (Hou)............156 targets

2.Wes Welker (NE)..................147 targets

3. Roddy White (Atl)...............143 targets

4. Brandon Marshall (Den).........141 targets

5. Steve E. Smith (NYG)...........138 targets

6. Larry Fitzgerald (Ari)............136 targets

7. Reggie Wayne (Ind)..............135 targets

8. Randy Moss (NE).................126 targets

9. Tony Gonzalez (Atl).............126 targets

10. Santonio Holmes (Pit).........123 targets

11. Steve Smith (Car)..............123 targets

Remember to always check back for more fantasy.