FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (THE FOUR HORSEMEN)

December 18th, 2010 Saturday

The Four Horsemen

Let’em Ride

If you have managed to survive this far in your fantasy league, there’s no question that the recent plague of injuries and changes at the quarterback position could have a major impact on your fantasy team. With the fantasy playoffs underway, this is no time to be rolling the dice and taking your chances on a long shot. With some of the biggest names (Greg Jennings, Dwayne Bowe, and Brandon Lloyd) in fantasy football affected by some of the lineup changes teams will be making on Sunday, I will be riding this weekend with these four horsemen; Jon Kitna, Jonathan Stewart, Mike Williams, and Owen Daniels

Like “the four winds of the earth” these fantasy game breakers are looking to ride high in week fifteen and bring some fantasy owners home a bid to the big dance…..

Quarterback:
The Cowboys play host to the league’s 29th ranked pass defense on Sunday. With the Redskins offense undergoing some drastic changes, the real benefactor on Sunday could be the Jon Kitna and the Cowboys offense. The Redskins don’t do a great job of bringing pressure and this season the secondary has been torched for 19 touchdowns and 44 pass plays of 20 yards or more. Kitna has been playing much better lately throwing 9 touchdowns to just four interceptions in his last five starts. With the struggling Redskins in town, he should be solid for a strong outing.
(My Prediction: 24 of 38 passing, 275 yards, two touchdowns)

Running Back:
The Cardinals will be traveling to Carolina on Sunday and bringing with them their 30th ranked run defense that allows 4.4 yards per carry and has surrendered 16 rushing touchdowns. This spells good news for the Panther’s running back Jonathan Stewart who has been running very well as of late. In his last three games Stewart is averaging 6.3 yards per carry and 108 yards rushing per game. Stewart has only two rushing touchdowns this season, but with such a favorable matchup he looks like a good bet to reach pay dirt.
(My Prediction: 20 carries, 110 yards rushing, 1 receptions, 10 yards receiving, one touchdown)

Wide Receiver:
Last week against the Redskins, wide receiver Mike Williams was held to just a single catch for 15 yards; it was his worst game this season. Last week was played in horrible and wet conditions, with the prospect of much improved weather Williams looks like a strong bet to bounce back. The Lions (ranked 13th against the pass) are in town this week and should offer Williams a better shot at producing good numbers. Thus far the Lions secondary allows 63 percent of opposing passes to be completed and has surrendered 21 touchdowns this season. Williams won’t have a break out day, but he should be productive.
(My Prediction: 6 receptions, 75 yards, one touchdown)

Tight End:
Last Monday against the Ravens, tight end Owen Daniels made his return to action catching five passes for 91 yards. Daniels 2010 season has been plagued with injury, but he’s finally looking healthy and could be ready for a big game. Against the Ravens Daniels showed some rust with a few drops, but as he gets back in the swing he’ll clean up those drops. This week he has the Titan’s, one of your friendlier tight end secondary’s this season; expect another solid outing for the Texan’s tight end.
(My Prediction: 6 receptions, 85 yards, one touchdown)

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (TARGET PRACTICE)

December 18th, 2010 Saturday

Fantasy Football

Target Practice

In These Hands We Trust

Over the past several weeks the Patriots little man in the passing game, wide receiver Wes Welker has quietly been rising up the fantasy value board. Since week 12 Welker ranks second only to the Texan’s wide receiver Andre Johnson (24 receptions) with 23 catches and his three scores are second best to his teammate, Deion Branch (4 touchdowns).

Welker hit a dry spell for a short period grabbing just 11 passes from week 7 thru 9, but since that time he has really heated up in time for the fantasy playoffs. In his last five games Welker has been targeted 49 times (ranks 6th), caught 36 passes (ranks 3rd), and scored four times (ranks tied for 5th). With fantasy playoffs underway, Welker has returned to the hands that quarterback Tom Brady trusts most.

Like the kid from Foxboro, the Cowboy’s tight end Jason Witten has begun to heat up at the right time. It has taken time for Witten and his new quarterback Jon Kitna to develop chemistry, but over the past several weeks the two are really starting to click.

Kitna replaced the injured Tony Romo back in week 7 and after a quick start for the two (25 targets in week 7 & 8), Kitna started looking away from Witten. The Cowboys tight end hit a lull in targets and receptions from weeks 9 through 11 (11 targets, 8 catches). Whatever the distraction, the two seemed to be in perfect synchronization now; Witten has been targeted 22 times in his last three games and has 22 grabs (most by any tight end during this stretch).

With Kitna calling Witten’s number more often the tight end has become a busy man with 210 yards receiving (2nd most for tight ends) and three touchdowns (ranks 1st among tight ends). It’s easy to see Witten’s hands are again amongst the most trustworthy.

Radar Watch

In My Sights

My Fantasy Notes:

With a huge matchup against the Jaguars slated for Sunday, Colts wide receiver Pierre Garcon could the man to watch. In his last two games he has been on fire and Mr. Reliable. The Colt’s receiver has been targeted 15 times and has come up with 14 catches; including three for scores. He has arguably become one of quarterback Peyton Manning’s most sure handed options this season and with the return of Austin Collie this week defenses will have a tough time focusing their attention.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are playing host to the Detroit Lions on Sunday and one receiver I will be watching closely will be the rookie Mike Williams. He’s already having a solid first year with 784 yards receiving and seven touchdowns. Last week against the Redskins in slopping conditions Williams struggled through what has been his worst game this season; just one catch for 15 yards. Williams was targeted just five times, but he still leads the team with 104 this season and should bounce back this week. The forecast for Sunday is sunny and that should produce plenty of opportunity for Williams to rebound.

The Jets offense has been struggling greatly the last two weeks and on Sunday they are going to have a difficult time generating any kind of ground attack against the league’s best run defense. Quarterback Mark Sanchez and company may be faced with having to attack the Steeler’s secondary (ranked 23rd against the pass). One player to watch will be the Jet’s wide receiver Santonio Hlolmes. The Jet’s receiver has been targeted 21 times in his last two games and could become the focal point of the Jets aerial attack. Holmes had scored a touchdown in three straight games, before being blanked in his last two; look for Sanchez and company to try and change that early.

Target Leaders from week 12 through 14
(unofficial numbers)

Top 10

1. Reggie Wayne, IND (41 targets)
2. Roddy White, ATL (37 targets)
3. Andre Johnson, HOU (34 targets)
4. Larry Fitzgerald, ARI (31 targets)
5. Wes Welker, NE (30 targets)
6. Santonio Holmes, NYJ (28 targets)
7. Chad Ochocinco, CIN (28 targets)
8. Dwayne Bowe, KC (27 targets)
9. Stevie Johnson, BUF (27 targets)
10. Brandon Lloyd, DEN (27 targets)

FSH: FRIDAY FANTASY WATCH

December 17th, 2010, Friday

Friday Fantasy Watch

Jon Kitna: Ready For Another Solid Outing

The Cowboys will play host to what can only be described as a completely dysfunctional Washington Redskin team. The Redskins come to town on the heels of a major announcement; McNabb will be benched in Sunday’ matchup in favor of quarterback Rex Grossman. That can only be good news for the Cowboy’s offense, as the defense could be in for a big fantasy scoring day as well.

The Redskins have been struggling mightily on offense in the recent weeks (averaging less than 14 points per game in their last four), but this change at quarterback would hardly seem to bode well (looking in from the outside). Grossman has only thrown 7 passes all season and does have one turnover in very limited action. If the Redskins do continue to struggle on offense, quarterback Jon Kitna and the entire Cowboy’s offense should see plenty of opportunity and good field position most of the day.

Facing the 29th ranked pass defense and a pass rush that has mustered up just 23 sacks (ranked tied for 26th) all season, the prospects of a good day for Kitna look very good. One big key to Kitna’s success could be wide receiver Miles Austin, who torched the Redskins back in week one for 146 yards on 10 catches; look for the two to find similar success.

Sunday’s projections against the Redskins
(20 of 34 passes, 280 yards passing, three touchdowns, one interception)

Owen Daniels: Finally Healthy and Ready To Go

On Monday night fantasy owners were given a nice preview of what tight end Owen Daniels is capable of when healthy. Against the Baltimore Ravens Daniels caught five passes for 91 yards and easily could have done much more damage. Daniels had a few drops in the game, clearly showing some rust from all the action he has missed.

Daniels is back and looked good running routes against the Ravens, as he continues to shake the rust his hands will get better; as will his numbers. This Sunday Daniels will square off against a Titan’s secondary (ranked 26th against the pass) that has had their share of trouble covering the tight end spot. Daniels missed the first matchup in week 12 due to injury, but he’s healthy now and should be a factor.

Last season in his only matchup with Tennessee Daniels caught six passes for 72 yards and a score; we could see very similar results on Sunday.

Sunday’s projections against the Titans.
(6 catches, 90 yards receiving, one touchdown)

Jacoby Ford: Could Be A Quiet Surprise On Sunday

The Raiders will be welcoming to the Black Hole on Sunday a Bronco’s team that looks to be in disarray. The last time these two teams met, the Raiders put a serious hurt on the Orange men 59-14, enough to turn them black and silver.

This Sunday with the Bronco’s facing the prospect of having to go into Raider Nation without their starting quarterback Kyle Orton, it can only mean good things for bad boys of football. The Raider’s quarterback Jason Campbell hasn’t become a household name yet, but over the past couple of weeks he has been solid and could be a cause for concern if you are the Denver secondary. In recent weeks Campbell has been having a lot of success throwing to wide receiver Louis Murphy. With the Broncos expected to shadow (with Champ Bailey) or at least pay close attention to Murphy, rookie receiver Jacoby Ford could see some favorable coverage on Sunday.

Ford has been quiet the past several weeks, but against one of the league’s worst defenses (ranked 19th against the pass) that has allowed 24 passing touchdowns he could be ready to make a lot of noise.

Sunday’s projections against the Broncos
(4 catches, 75 yards receiving, one touchdown)

Just my take.

By David Ortega

FSH: MY WEEKLY SURVIVAL

December 15th, 2010, Wednesday

My Weekly Survivors

It was another turnaround effort for my fantasy team in week14 (91points). While I am locked in the top 10, I am still inching my way to the top. With a strong effort from my running back Tim Hightower (148 yards rushing, 2 touchdowns) who scored 26 points and my tight end Jason Witten (69 yards receiving, 2 touchdowns) who also donned the end-zone a couple of times chipping in with 18 points my fantasy team is not situated in 6th place overall.

The balance of my team did a fair job with both receivers Reggie Wayne and Mike Wallace adding some decent numbers. The other running back Knowshon Moreno was also a workhorse posting 17 points on 112 total yards and a score. My lone disappointment last week was my signal caller Jay Cutler (8 points). He may be a Chicago-boy, but last Sunday against the Patriots was no winter wonderland in the windy city for the native.

As we push deeper into this fantasy season the picks get a just a little more tricky, but with careful selection and some good matchups I am hopeful this week’s team will not disappoint.

Here are my picks for week 15….

QB-Jon Kitna, Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys are at home and although they fell short they are coming off an impressive performance a week ago against the Eagles. Quarterback Jon Kitna had a couple of throws he would like back, but all-in-all he played well. This week should be a little easier facing the Redskins 29th ranked pass defense that struggles to bring pressure. With time Kitna will be able to make some throws downfield and put up some points on the board.
(Projected: 20 fantasy points/ 275 yards passing, 10 rushing yards, two touchdowns)

RB- Brian Westbrook, San Francisco 49ers
The Niner’s finally remembered what a valuable weapon in the passing game Brian Westbrook was in Philly. Last week against the Seahawks, the Niner’s utilized the former Eagle out of the backfield throwing him the ball on several occasions. Westbrook finished the game with six receptions for 87 yards and a score, to go with another 23 yards rushing. Westbrook should be able to must a few more yards on the ground this week against the Charers, but will likely do just as must damage out of the backfield.
(Projected: 16 fantasy points/ 65 yards rushing, 5 catches, 45 yards receiving, one touchdown)

RB-Ronnie Brown, Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown (644 yards rushing) has not been having a great season sharing duties with his counterpart Ricky Williams, but the two have to be licking their chops this week playing host the Bills (ranked 32nd against the run). Despite the committee role, Brown has been seeing his fair share of touches; averaging 19 per game in his last three games. Against the Bills he should see plenty of work and enjoy plenty of success.
(Projected: 17 fantasy points/ 70 yards rushing, 4 catches, 45 yards receiving, one touchdown)

WR-Miles Austin, Dallas Cowboys
Austin has not made a whole lot of noise over the past several weeks averaging just three catches for 31 yards over his last three games. With the Redskins 29th ranked pass defense coming to town, this may be just what the fantasy doctor ordered. Back in week one against the Redskins Austin posted 10 grads for 146 yards and a score.
(Projected: 16 fantasy points/ 6 catches, 100 yards, one touchdown)

WR-Mike Williams, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneer’s young receiver Mike Williams (52 receptions, 784 yards, 7 touchdowns) has been playing very well this season, although he is coming off his worst game of the season. We’ll just chalk that up to bad weather and difficult playing conditions. This Sunday the Bucs are home and there should be plenty of susnshine, so I am expecting this kid to bounce back with solid numbers against the league’s 13th ranked pass defense.
(Projected: 15 fantasy points/ 6 catches, 90 yards, one touchdown)

TE-Owen Daniels, Houston Texans
The Texan’s tight end made his return on Monday night and flashed a little of what fantasy owners became used to seeing a year ago. He’s not quite back to old form, but should be good enough to do some damage on Sunday against the Titan’s 26th ranked pass defense.
(Projected: 14 fantasy points/ 6 catches, 85 yards, one touchdown)

PK-Josh Brown, St. Louis Rams
The Rams offense should be able to move the ball on the ground with some ease against the Chiefs 15th ranked run defense, but with just seven rushing touchdowns all season they may have a rough go at punching it in. I expect to see them settling for a few more kicks.
(Projected: 10 fantasy points/ three field goals, one extra points)

My Previous starts

Week 1 (Total points-77)
QB Donovan McNabb (WAS)
RB Matt Forte (CHI)
RB Carnell Williams (TB)
WR Jeremy Maclin (PHI)
WR Jabar Gaffney (DEN)
TE Zach Miller (OAK)
K Joe Nedney (SF)

Week 2 (Total points-68)
QB Michael Vick (PHI)
RB Ahmad Bradshaw (NYG)
RB Rashard Mendenhall (PIT)
WR Nate Washington (TEN)
WR Greg Jennings (GB)
TE Chris Cooley (WAS)
K Nick Folk (NYJ)

Week 3 (Total points-87)
QB Tony Romo (DAL)
RB Darren McFadden
RB Ray Rice (BAL)
WR Austin Collie (IND)
WR Dez Bryant (DAL)
TE Brent Celek (PHI)
K Lawrence Tynes (NYG)

Week 4 (Total points-58)
QB Eli Manning (NYG)
RB Maurice Jones-Drew (JAX)
RB Frank Gore (SF)
WR Mark Clayton (STL)
WR Brandon Marshall (MIA)
TE John Carlson (SEA)
K Jeff Reed (PIT)

Week 5 (Total Points-72 points)
QB Drew Brees (NO)
RB Steven Jackson (STL)
RB Thomas Jones (KC)
WR Donald Driver (GB)
WR Calvin Johnson (DET)
TE Marcedes Lewis (JAX)
K Mike Nugent (CIN)

Week 6 (Total Points-83 points)
QB Peyton Manning (IND)
RB Ryan Torain (WASH)
RB LaDanian Tomlinson (NYJ)
WR Hakeem Nicks (NYG)
WR Kenny Britt (TEN)
TE Dallas Clark, (IND)
K Sebastian Janikowski (OAK)

Week 7 (Total Points-93 points)
QB Philip Rivers (SD)
RB Adrian Peterson (MIN)
RB Michael Turner (ATL)
WR Larry Fitzgerald (ARI)
WR Dwayne Bowe (KC)
TE Tony Gonzales (ATL)
K Matt Prater (DEN)

Week 8 (Total Points-82 points)
QB Kyle Orton (DEN)
RB Felix Jones (DAL)
RB Jamaal Charles (KC)
WR Brandon Lloyd (DEN)
WR Deion Branch (NE)
TE Tony Moeki (KC)
K Stephen Gostkowski (NE)

Week 9 (Total Points-79 points)
QB Aaron Rodgers (GB)
RB LeSean McCoy (PHI)
RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis (NE)
WR Steve Smith (NYG)
WR Patrick Crayton (SD)
TE Jacob Tamme (IND)
PK Mason Crosby

Week 10 (Total Points-78 points)
QB Joe Flacco (BAL)
RB LeGarrette Blount (TB)
RB Cedric Benson (CIN)
WR Roddy White (ATL)
WR Steve Johnson (BUF)
TE Brandon Pettigrew (DET)
PK Rob Bironas (TEN)

Week 11 (Total Points-73 points)
QB Matt Ryan (ATL)
RB Fred Jackson (BUF)
RB Peyton Hillis (CLE)
WR DeSean Jackson (PHI)
WR Percy Harvin (MIN)
TE Jermaine Gresham (CIN)
PK Dan Carpenter (MIA)

Week 12 (Total Points-55 points)
QB Matt Cassel (KC)
RB Chris Johnson (TEN)
RB Danny Woodhead (NE)
WR Santonio Holmes (NYJ)
WR Sidney Rice (MIN)
TE Heath Miller (PIT)
PK Matt Bryant (ATL)

Week 13 (Total Points-82 points)
QB Sam Bradford (STL)
RB Jonathan Stewart (CAR)
RB Arian Foster (HOU)
WR Terrell Owens (CIN)
WR Anquan Boldin (BAL)
TE Visanthe Shiancoe (MIN)
PK David Akers (PHI)

Week 14 (Total Points-91 points)
QB Jay Cutler (CHI)
RB Knowshon Moreno (DEN)
RB Tim Hightower (ARI)
WR Reggie Wayne (IND)
WR Mike Wallace (PIT)
TE Jason Witten (DAL)
PK Billy Cundiff (BAL)

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

December 15th, 2010 Wednesday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

MATT SCHAUB COMES ALIVE ON MONDAY NIGHT
For a while fantasy owners had to be showing some concern for their Texan’s quarterback. After passing for nearly 4,800 yards last season, big games were something most had become accustomed to. However, before his week 14 matchup against the Ravens, Schaub was coming off stretch of passing for more than 300 yards in just two of his last six starts. That all changed Monday night when Schaub went nuts passing for 393 yards and throwing three touchdowns on his way to one of his best games this season.
My Fantasy Read:
Schaub could not pick a better time to get hot with fantasy playoffs underway in most custom league formats. The 300-yard effort Monday night was his second consecutive and his three touchdowns were only the second time this season. With the hot hand now, Schaub’s week 15 matchup against the Titan’s 26th ranked pass defense looks mouth watering for owners.

THE RYAN TORAIN TRAIN IS ON TRACK AGAIN
After rumbling his way through the Buccaneers defense for 172 yards, it’s safe to say running back Ryan Torain’s hamstring appears healthy. His 24 carries on the afternoon were also a season high for the 2nd year ball carrier.
My Fantasy Read:
Torain onlyreturned to practice last week, but his participation in practice with the first team should have been an indicator that he would be Shanahan’s choice to start. His 26 touches on Sunday should also be a strong indicator to fantasy owners that he’ll be seeing the brunt of load going forward.

DEION BRANCH IS ENJOYING HIS RETURN
Since returning to Beantown, the Patriots wide receiver Deion Branch has been a steady contributor to the passing. He has quickly become one of Tom Brady’s most reliable and consistent pass catchers. In the team’s last three games Branch has really come on strong scoring in each. Last Sunday against the Bears Branch blew up for 151 yards receiving on 8 catches.
My Fantasy Read:
This is nothing new to Patriots fans, as they have seen this before, but for fantasy owners this was something that was missing in Seattle. Now that Branch is back home in Foxboro, he’s a solid fantasy start averaging nearly 19 fantasy points in his last three starts.

JEREMY MACLIN PLAYS SECOND FIDDLE
The Eagles offense once again exploded for at least 26 points; it was their sixth straight game. Unfortunately for fantasy owners, wide receiver Jeremy Maclin was not part of the fireworks. Maclin was targeted just three times finishing the game with one catch for 11 yards.
My Fantasy Read:
The 11 yards effort was a season low for Maclin, but it was also his second consecutive non-eventful effort. It’s pretty clear the Eagles big play passing offense is catered around the blazing speed of DeSean Jackson. As long as opposing defenses continue to struggle with Jackson, Maclin is likely going to have more games like this.

STEVIE JOHNSON COULD BE READY TO REBOUND
It was another listless afternoon for wide receiver Stevie Johnson who caught just five passes for 42 yards on eight targets in the cold at Orchard Park. Johnson has easily been one of quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick’s favorite targets, but over the past couple of weeks the two have not been in sync. That all could change with the loss of wide receiver Lee Evan (placed on Injured Reserve)
My Fantasy Read:
Before Sunday Evans was becoming a hot target for Fitzpatrick. Prior to Sunday Evans had averaged seven targets in his last three games. With Evans placed on IR, Johnson is expected to be the-guy in Buffalo. He won’t have a walk through the park this Sunday against the Dolphins (ranked 6th against the pass), but he should plenty of opportunities to do some damage for fantasy owners.

FSH: ON THE COVER

December 14th, 2010, Tuesday

On the Cover

The Streak is Over

All Good Things Must Come To an End

For some football fans it may have seemed all they knew was Brett Favre. And for nearly 20 years, if you lived in the Midwest or the South it was all Favre.

For almost two full decades, three things most folks could count on were; taxes, death, and Favre on Sunday. Since September of 1992 fans have become quite accustomed to seeing that famous number four jersey on the gridiron giving the avid football fan undying memories that will surely out live even the great one himself.

On Monday December 13th, 2010, the unimaginable an unthinkable happened, quarterback Brett Favre did not play. It had to be one of the strangest occurrences to take place this season and certainly one that will leave a lasting impression on many; as it should since Favre’s career has been completely littered with such.

From his fantastic Monday night miracles, to his boyish enthusiasm running around on the biggest stage (Super Bowl XXXI), to some of the most unforgettable finishes this league has ever seen, Monday night not only marked the end of fantastic accomplishment, it may very well have defined the man that achieved this great record.

Only the very few that have ever played the position or the great game of American football can truly understand and appreciate just what Favre has done; 297 straight starts. You may even want to ask back up quarterback Tarvaris Jackson, who he himself was briefly knocked out of Monday night’s game with the Giants.

Some of the highlights of Favre’s achievements during this incredible streak include; the most wins by a starting quarterback, the most passing touchdowns in NFL history (507), the most passing yards in NFL history (71,775 yards), and he is the only quarterback in NFL history to defeat all 32 teams. Favre won his first and only Super Bowl in 1996 with the Green Bay Packers and his is a three-time AP NFL MVP. These are just a few of his notable achievements.

The greatness of what Favre has achieved can only be measured by the statistics and records he will leave behind. For those of us that understand this game is more than just about numbers and records we will be left with the great many fond memories Favre has left us with.

Which is your favorite?

Video found at YouTube (philly501)

"The Top Ten plays of all time from a legend of the game."

FSH: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

December 13th, 2010, Monday

Monday Morning Huddle
(Evening Edition)

Monday mornings at the watercooler always offer a football fan time to reflect and discuss with their colleagues and other fellow fans the events of the past weekend and an indepth look back at the full slate of NFL games just played. No one can dissect and evaluate NFL Sunday, better than the fan. Their loyalty, undying devotion, and willingness to always support their team helps the avid football fan to maintain an less than objective and unbiased opinion about any football related subject that concerns their team.

….And if you think they are bad, try listening to a fantasy football owner, it’s easy to see where their loyalty lies. There is only one “I” on my fantasy football team; me.

Top Stories

The Loss of Aaron Rogers Could Be Huge.
On Sunday the Packer’s not only lost their game to the Detroit Lions, but during the contest they lost their starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The Packer’s signal caller was took a hard hit on a scramble and then suffered another jolting hit on a sack the following play, Rodgers left the game with an apparent concussion, his second of the season.

While the injury itself did not look too severe, this being the second time Rodgers was knocked out of a game this season has to raise some concerns for the organization which now must wait for Rodgers to undergo some standard protocol testing and evaluation before he can be medically cleared to return to action.

If you are the Packers, there has to be much to be concerned about with the potential loss of Rodgers. On Sunday the team was unable to muster any real scoring threats and managed just one field goal for the day without Rodgers. This is not good news for a Packer’s team that still trails the Chicago Bears in the NFC North division race. It does not get any better for fantasy owners counting on Rodgers or any one of his receiving threats (Greg Jennings, Donald Driver, and James Jones) to help them move deeper into the fantasy playoffs.

In the absence of Rodgers on Sunday, none of the Packers’ receivers were very productive and now look to be high risk plays without their starter. It also goes without saying if you own Rodgers, Matt Flynn may not exactly look like the best answer as a possible replacement; better check the wire and look elsewhere.

Just my take.

Even Tim Tebow Can’t Help Studesville and The Broncos.
The good news for fantasy owners, it sounds like the Bronco’s interim head coach Eric Studesvilles has no intention of making a quarterback change; he’ll stick with Orton. After watching the Broncos starter Kyle Orton play the last couple of weeks that may not necessarily be the best news, but it may be the only alternative for now.

Orton and the Broncos offense have slumped the past couple of weeks scoring just 19 points in their past two games. Orton has only completed 28 of his last 69 passes and this past Sunday he added three picks. As a result of his poor play, not only have the Broncos been losing, but fantasy favorite wide receiver Brandon Lloyd has struggled with fewer chances and a few drops.

Fantasy owners can hope the two will very soon snap out of this slump, but any thoughts connected to ushering in the so-called second coming from Florida as the answer is nothing less than reaching for the stars. A change now would likely be more detrimental to the offense and it would likely have an unfavorable affect on some of the Bronco’s key offensive skill players; Lloyd, Eddie Royal, and Knowshon Moreno.

Tim Tebow may have been the Bronco’s 1st round pick, but he has not seen much action this season playing back-up behind Orton. Inserting him at this point of the season might be more like serving him to the wolves. There’s a huge learning curve going from the collegiate level to the NFL, so to expect anyone (including Tebow) to step on the field and have instant success is far-fetched.

For some folks it may makes sense to make the switch to Tebow thinking he is the future, but that is probably something best figured out this coming off season. At this point for an interim coach trying to make an impression to either keep this job or be considered for one in the future, the safe move may be sticking with Orton for the time being; for fantasy owners hopeful of something more from the Denver offense it’s probably the only move.

Just my thoughts.

Fantasy Spotlight

There were a lot of fantastic performances over this past weekend; Tom Brady passing for 369 yards in a blizzard, Jason Witten’s two touchdowns catches on Sunday night, and DeSean Jackson’s 210 yards receiving on four grabs, but the one that stands out above the rest was the performance of the Raiders running back Darren McFadden.

Entering Sunday’s matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars McFadden star was beginning to shine bright again after seeming to have dimmed a bit in recent weeks. In weeks 11 and 12 McFadden hit a dry spell not scoring once or totaling more than 71yards of offense in each of the two games, but in week 13 the spark returned.

The timing could not be better with most fantasy leagues heading into their post season action starting in week 14. Even if fantasy owners were starting to get discouraged with McFadden, his effort of 127 yards of offense against the Chargers had to be enough to turn the light green and roll with him into your league playoffs.

For the fantasy owner the payoff could not have been any bigger regardless what format you play. McFadden was a one man wrecking crew and his performance undoubtedly won several fantasy league matchups. McFadden carried the ball just 15 times, but managed to ramble his way to 115 yards on the ground, scoring twice on runs of 51 yards and 36 yards. McFadden also contributed to the Raiders passing attack, grabbing three balls for a total of 86 receiving yards, including a 68 yard grab and score. For the afternoon “Run DMC” totaled 209 yards of offense and scored three times.

He’s our Fantasy Spotlight Player of the Week!

Diamonds in the Rough

RB-Ryan Torain

The Redskins saw the return of running back Ryan Torian to their starting lineup on Sunday and while his return was successful on a personal level, it was not enough to return Washington to the victory column. Torain had been sidelined for the past five weeks with a hamstring injury and while it had been speculated he could start, no one was expecting a return quite like this.

Not only did Torain play, but he started the game and rushed for 121 yards in the first quarter of Sunday’s contest with the Bucs. Torain would finish the day with 24 carries and 172 yards on the ground. He also added a pair of grabs for 10 yards. Torain has been the Redskins most effective runner this season. His 100-yard effort was his third of the season and his 24 carries were his season high. Before the start of the 2010 campaign, very few even knew who he was; a carry-over from the Denver camp.

Redskin’s head coach Mike Shanahan had drafted Torain when both were in Denver. In 2008 Torain was projected to be the Bronco’s starter at some point during the season; that opportunity came in week 10, but a knee injury would end his season and his career in Denver. Torain would miss the entire 2009 season, but in 2010 with the arrival of Shanahan to Washington the former 5th round pick out of Arizona State would get a second chance.

This season the unpolished diamond (Torain) was likely a popular waiver wire acquisition for most, but looking at the 2011 fantasy season he’s going to be ranked much higher. His 172 yards has certainly got the attention of fantasy owners, so with three games left against the Cowboys (ranked 17th against the run), Jaguars (18th), and the Giants (7th). How this diamond in the rough finishes this season will certainly determine how great his value is going into fantasy drafts next season.

WR-Deon Butler

The Seahawks not only lost to the Niners on Sunday, but they also lost a gem of a young receiver in 2nd year wide out Deon Butler. The former Penn State Nittany Lion suffered a broken leg Sunday ending his season. On Monday Butler was placed on the Injured Reserve.

Butler is one of the team’s up and coming young receivers and part of their youth movement; earlier in this season the team released wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh and traded wide receiver Deion Branch. Butler had not been flashing any big numbers this season, but he did enjoy his best outing of the season against the Niners on Sunday. His five catches and 68 yards receiving were both season highs and his touchdown was his fourth of the season.

This diamond was starting to show a little shine before the abrupt halt to his 2010 season. Before the injury Butler had started 8 games for the Seahawks this season and his 36 receptions were second on the team. His four touchdowns are also tied for most on the club.

Butler is not going to crack any top 20 rankings lists for the 2011 fantasy season, but with a lot of promise going into next season this diamond in the rough will be a fantasy sleeper to watch.

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT GAME NOTES

December 12th, 2010, Sunday

Sunday Night Game Notes

Notable Injury News

(for fantasy owners)

The Packers starting signal caller Aaron Rodgers, one of this season’s highest scoring fantasy quarterbacks left Sunday’s game with the Lions early with what has been diagnosed as a concussion. Due to the leagues more strict and proactive stance toward safety, by rule Rodgers was not able to return. He left the game in the second quarter. There’s been no additional reports regarding the level of his concussion, but owners should be aware this was his second this season; check his status later in the week.

The Seahawks lost their 2nd year wide receiver Deon Butler for the remainder of the season after he suffered a broken leg in Sunday’s matchup with the Niners. Butler finished the contest with five catches for 68 yards and a touchdown. He will likely be placed on IR and miss the rest of the season. For the Butler the season ending injury is devastating, but for the Seahawks passing game recovery is likely only a week away with the likely return of receivers Mike Williams and possibly Ben Obomanu.

The Jets running back Shonn Greene saw his duties end early Sunday when his left the Jet’s week 14 contest with the Dolphins with an undisclosed injury. Greene was down for an extended period before making his way off the field under his own power. There hasn’t been any updated word on the injury, but his meager contribution of 17 yards rushing on Sunday makes him a very unappealing fantasy option for week 15 anyway. Check back later in the week for a status update on his injury.

The Saints lost the services of running back Chris Ivory on Sunday in their 31-13 win over the Rams in the Superdome. Ivory suffered a hamstring injury that appears to not be serious, but since the Saints were up big and have Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas back there was no need to risk further aggravation. Ivory is expected to be fine for the Saints week 15 matchup with the Ravens. While Ivory is likely to be the primary ball carrier for the team going forward with Bush and Thomas healthy he’s likely to lose some touches lowering his fantasy value.

FSH: SUNDAY MORNING GAMETIME

December 12th, 2010, Sunday

Sunday Morning Gametime

Today’s injury notes

The Chief’s will be without their starting quarterback Matt Cassel today against the San Diego Chargers. Cassel suffered an appendectomy earlier in the week and did not make the flight with the team to the west coast.

The Raiders could be without their top cover corner Nnamdi Asomugha today when the team faces the Jacksonville Jaguars. Asomugha is listed as questionable as he is dealing with a lingering ankle injury.

The Bronco’s are set to meet the Arizona Cardinals later today, but they will be missing a couple of key players. Rookie wide receiver Demaryius Thomas has been ruled out with an ankly injury, while Bronco’s safety Brian Dawkins will also be sidelined today with a knee injury. Fullback Spencer Larson has also been ruled out of today’s contest with a hamstring injury.

The AP is reporting that the Eagles will be without cornerback Assante Samuel tonight when the Eagles meet the Dallas Cowboys. Samuel is nursing an knee injury and was not expected to make the trip with the team.

Today’s Matchup

The Bills are facing the Cleveland Brown’s today and their 20th ranked pass defense. Last week Fitzpatrick and company had a rough day throwing the pill against an aggressive Vikings defense. This week won’t be a whole lot easier, but look for the Bills to attack the Browns defense through the air with wide receivers Stevie Johnson and Lee Evans. The Brown’s have allowed 20 passing touchdowns this season and are allowing opposing quarterbacks to complete better than 60 percent of their passes.

The Arizona Cardinals offense has been awful over the past several weeks averaging just over 8 points in their last three games. Today the Cards will matchup with the Broncos 31st run defense and should be planning a lot of Tim Hightower on the ground. Last week against the Rams Hightower toted the rock 15 times for 81 yards. It’s a safe bet to expect similar and even better numbers for the Cards runner today.

The Packers offense is on a roll having scored at least 31 points in three of its’ last four games. Today quarterback Aaron Rodgers will face the Lions 16th ranked pass defense that has surrendered 21 passing touchdowns and allows over a 63 pass completion percentage. Wide receiver Greg Jennings (11 touchdowns) and Donald Driver (4 touchdowns) could be in line for a couple of big games.

With snow and wind in affect in the windy city (Chicago) today, an aerial shootout is highly unlikely for quarterbacks Jay Cutler and Tom Brady. The Bears have been running the ball and will be expected to stick with what works, so expect to see a lot of Matt Forte (748 yards rushing, 5 touchdowns) today against the Patriots.

Tonight’s matchup between the Cowboys and Eagles being played in the comforts of the new Cowboy’s stadium could end up being every bit of a shootout. The Eagles are scoring at a frantic pace, while under the new Garrett regime, the Cowboys offense is starting to click. With all the talk about Mike Vick and the passing game, today’s matchup could be a battle of the ground games between Tashard Choice and LeSean McCoy. Both versatile backs should see plenty of carries and both will get their fair share in the pass game as well.


By David Ortega