FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

August 19th 2017

Saturday Evening Edition

Fantasy Draft Watch

My Fantasy Favorites

It’s a Saturday night and all I can do think about fantasy football; doing a mock draft and sharing more thoughts on fantasy favorites.

I’ve managed to participate in a few dozen mock drafts myself and have joined several leagues and the following players have been on my list of targets.

Depending on what my strategy has been in some of these leagues I have joined, if the tendency has been the running backs early, a favorite I have been targeting (usually) in the 4th or 5th round (depending on league size) is Lions wide receiver Golden Tate. Since his arrival to Detroit in 2014, Tate has been a machine averaging 93.3 receptions, 1,073 yards receiving, and more than 135 targets in each of the past three seasons. With the departure of Anquan Boldin and his 95 targets from last season Tate should slide into the slot position more and see his volume greatly this season. More targets this season can only elevate him above his 17th fantasy receiver position from a year ago.

Whether I am targeting running backs or wide receivers early, one player I have been eyeing in the early rounds has been the Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. There’s no question the big target is the Patriots Rob Gronkowski, but I typically don’t like taking a tight ends in the first two rounds where Gronk is going. Kelce is the 2nd tight end coming off the board which is warranted, since he finished last season as the number one TE with 85 receptions and 1,125 yards receiving on 117 targets. With wide receiver Jeremy Maclin (76 targets last season) now in Baltimore, Kelce is solidified as the Chiefs number one primary target in the passing game. At 6’5” and 255 lbs, Kelce is another Gronk and an ideal candidate in the red zone. Last season he was only targeted 15 times inside the 20, scoring three times; fantasy owners can expect head coach Andy Reid to change those numbers this season.

The Steelers have a not-so-secret weapon in wide receiver Martavis Bryant and even though he’s set to return to action this preseason, he still lingering around the 4th round, coming off the board as the 23rd fantasy receiver in PPR. That may be too rich to take as your number one or two receiver, if you go running backs early, but if you can get him as your third receiver I love his upside. Playing opposite Antonio Brown, he is going to see plenty of favorable coverage and his electrifying speed is just a big play in the making. In 2015 Bryant played in 11 games totaling 50 receptions for 765 yards receiving and 6 touchdowns on 92 targets with most of his damage coming in week 6 through week 15; good enough for the number 10 fantasy receiver (in PPR) during that stretch. He’s a fantasy monster in wait and worth the grab.

That’s My Take

~David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Saturday Evening Edition

November 1st, 2014 

David’s Daily Digest

Week 9 Starts

My Favorites for Sunday

It’s more of the same this week, but with six teams on bye it could be slim pickings for some fantasy owners unless you have managed the waiver wire well and paid close attention to the injury reports. I can’t say I drafted too well this season, but fortunately this late heavy bye week has not impacted my teams too greatly.

With that said, if you are not so lucky and looking for some help this Sunday these are the plays I like;

QB-Colin Kaepernick

The Niners quarterback has a nice matchup at home against the Rams (4^th most fantasy points allowed to opposing quarterbacks) this week. Kaepernick faced this same defense back in week 6 recording his only 300-yard passing game of the season and his best fantasy performance of the season. He’s a very good week 9 bye-week fill.

QB-Russell Wilson

With a home game on the slate this week, quarterback Russell Wilson will square up against a Raiders secondary that has allowed better than a 70% completion percentage this season. Wilson has typically been solid at home this season, averaging more than 20 fantasy points per game in his last two starts. He should be another solid week 9 bye-week fill.

RB-Bobby Rainey

The Buccaneers are on the road this week, visiting Cleveland. With starter Doug Martin doubtful for Sunday, it’s an opportunity for running back Bobby Rainey to take the reins in the backfield. Rainey should see the bulk of the workload and has proven to be an effective pass-receiving back out of the backfield; it also helps that the Browns defense has allowed the 8^th most fantasy points to opposing running backs. He has potential for a bigger game, but I consider him a low-end RB2 or flex this week.

RB-Jeremy Hill

Like the Bucs, the Bengals are dealing with injuries in their backfield. With running back Giovanni Bernard likely shelved for Sunday, rookie Jeremy Hill will get the chance to carry the load. Hill will lead the ground attack against the Jaguars rush defense that allows the 12^th most fantasy points to opposing running backs and nearly 4-yards a carry. He should see plenty of work on Sunday to be a solid RB2.

WR-Anquan Boldin

With quarterback Colin Kaepernick facing a favorable matchup on Sunday, wide receiver Anquan Boldin is in line for a productive day. Boldin has been the favorite in the pass game averaging nearly eight targets per start this season. In his last two starts he has a total of 19 targets and with them 14 receptions, 144 yards receiving, and a score. He’s a low-end WR2 or strong flex this week.

WR-Dwayne Bowe

The Chiefs top receiver has been quiet most of the season, but over his past two games Bowe has been targeted 13 times catching 11 balls for 148 yards. On Sunday he will face the Jets secondary that has allowed the 6^th most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers. He’s a safe WR3 or flex play this week.

Week 9 Sleepers

TE-Jace Amaro

The Jets offense has been woeful this season, but there may be a few bright spots worth noting and one is tight end Jace Amaro. He’s not exactly a fantasy superstar, but this could be a week where we see more of what he’s capable of doing. In his last three starts Amaro has become more involved in the pass game with 23 targets (and 18 receptions). Last week with the change at quarterback Amaro caught five balls on five targets from Michael Vick (who will start on Sunday). With a favorable matchup against a Chiefs defense that allows the 10^th most fantasy points, including 7 touchdowns to opposing tight ends, Amaro could see a few more balls in his direction with Vick under center. He’s a risky play at best, but in a desperate situation he has promise.

That’s my take for week 9.

~David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SUNDAY MORNING GAMETIME

Sunday Edition
December 23rd, 2012

  

Sunday Morning Gametime

Randall Cobb
The Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb has been the clear go-to option for several weeks now and this Sunday little will change. He’s a solid WR2 option and should be in all line-ups against the Titans 18th ranked pass defense.

Demaryrius Thomas
Broncos wide receiver Demaryrius Thomas was held in check last week, but don’t count on him being quiet two weeks in a row. Last Sunday it was Decker, this Sunday you can expect Thomas to be more involved; he’s worth starting as a low-end WR2.

Lance Moore
The Saints wide receiver Lance Moore should be a part of the Saints passing parade today against the Cowboys. The Cowboys are ranked 19th against the pass and could mean a lot of Brees and his receivers. Moore is more  of a low end WR3 or flex and worth starting in deeper leagues.

Reggie Bush
The Dolphins running back Reggie Bush has a nice matchup today against the Bills 30th ranked run defense. Bush has played more as a utility player rather than a feature back much of this season, but today he could see a few more touches. Unless you have better options, he’s a low-end RB3 or flex in most formats

Kenny Britt
The Titans wide receiver Kenny Britt has not been much of a fantasy option this season and with so much inconsistency under center he’s a risky play this week that’s hardly worth it. The Titans wide receivers in general are tough to predict, if better options exist all should be avoided.

Josh Freeman
The Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman is coming off a very disappointing performance for fantasy owners, so it’s hard to imagine he’d lay another egg in week 16. Fantasy owners can expect a better game this week from Freeman, but temper your expectations the Rams defense is pretty good and ranked 9th against the pass.

Anquan Boldin
The Ravens wide receiver Anquan Boldin was held without a catch last week, he’s not going to blow up this week but could be a serviceable flex option in the deepest leagues. The Ravens passing game has been inconsistent, but before last week Boldin has been one of its’ more consistent options.

Danario Alexander
The Chargers number one receiver Danario Alexander was held to zero catches last week and draws another tough matchup this week. He’s not likely to post another donut, but it could be another long day with low out-put; avoid is possible.

Just a few notes and thoughts for today’s games…

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: FANTASY FIVE

Saturday Editions

November 3rd, 2012  

FSH Fantasy Five

Week 9 Fantasy Picks (all positions)

With the following teams on bye; San Francisco, New England, St. Louis, and the New York Jets, fantasy owners still face some challenges with balancing their lineups. The most notable players out this week are Tom Brady, Wes Welker, Steven Jackson, Frank Gore, and Vernon Davis.

If you are looking for some possible fills or substitutions to complete your lineup for Sunday, these are some picks that could fill some of your 9 voids;

Pierre Thomas, RB

With Darren Sproles shelved for a while, the Saints will turn to running back Pierre Thomas to carry the bulk of the running game load. Thomas is a tough between the tackle runner and can be effective out of the backfield (15 receptions this season). Facing the Eagles defense that allows the 13th fewest fantasy points to running backs, Thomas (257 rushing yards this season) can still offer value as a nice flex play.

Mikel Leshoure, RB

The Lions have not had much of a running game this season, but Sunday against the Jaguars may be their best chance to get it out of the gate. Running back Mikel Leshoure has shown the toughness to take it inside and Sunday against the Jaguars 25th ranked run defense he could get a chance to break it outside. The Jaguars allow the 4th most fantasy points this season, so Leshoure looks like a good flex option this week.

Michael Vick, QB

There’s not a lot of evidence to support starting Michael Vick as he has been a turnover machine through the first half of the season, but if there was ever a game to start him Monday night could be the night. Vick is certainly still capable of playing big and he has an ideal matchup Monday against the Saints. The Saints defense Is a mess right now and ranks 30th in the league, they are also allowing the most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. Another note, Vick spent many seasons playing in the Georgia Dome, so the artificial surface should only help his cause.

Anquan Boldin, WR

The Ravens wide receiver Anquan Boldin has been steady this season leading the team in receptions (31) and receiving yards (453), but he has only posted one 100-yard receiving game this season. This week he will see the Browns 25th ranked pass defense that has allowed 15 touchdowns this season and allows the 4th most fantasy points to wide receivers. Boldin averages more than 7 targets a game, so expect to see as many if not more and a very productive output from the 10-year receiver. He’s a low WR2 or strong flex play this week.

Reggie Bush, RB

The Dolphins running back Reggie Bush has been held in check as of late scoring in double digit fantasy points just once in his last five games. This Sunday Bush will see the Colts 27th ranked run defense that allows the 7th most fantasy points per game to running backs. Bush will likely share carries with Daniel Thomas, but with his abilities out of the backfield he will have more value as a low-end RB2 in PPR leagues.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

September 27th, 2011 Tuesday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

Stafford Closing the Gap to the Top Ranks
The 2011 season has been great for Lion’s quarterback Matthew Stafford. Through the first three weeks he is healthy and he is playing lights out. Stafford is averaging more than 325 yards passing per game and has already thrown 9 touchdowns completing 66.9 percent of his passes. His passer rating of 110.7 ranks third, just behind Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady. As the season moves on and Stafford continues his brilliant play, the gap between he and the elite continues to shrink.

Pettigrew Breaks Out Against Vikes
The Lions third year tight end Brandon Pettigrew could be getting his coming out party just started with a strong showing in week 3 against the Vikes. Pettigrew was targeted 13 times on Sunday collecting 11 balls for 112 yards, both season and career highs. With Stafford now healthy, at 6’-5” and 265-lbs Pettigrew could continue to see more success in the coming weeks. His 22 targets this season indicate he’s a rising TE1 in fantasy leagues.

Rookie Smith Shows Explosion
In his first NFL start rookie wide receiver Torrey Smith came out with more than just a bang, he exploded on Sunday against the Rams with some prolific numbers. On eight targets Smith grabbed five balls for 152 yards, including three electrifying scores. Smith gives the Ravens their much needed deep threat and if he can continue to show great chemistry with his quarterback, don’t expect to see him sit much even when (Lee) Evans returns. It’s too early to make any bold predictions or sudden grabs off the waiver wire, but his presence and strong play could certainly open things up for (Anquan) Boldin on the other side.

Felix the Cat Opens his Bag of Tricks
Just when the Cowboys needed it most, running back Felix Jones reached deep into his bag of tricks and pulled out a big game on the ground. Jones scampered his way to 115, courtesy of a couple of nice big runs against the Redskins on Monday night. It was the first sign of a ground attack for the Cowboys this season and Jones best game by far. Jones showed great burst and breakaway speed, but also some grit not going down on the first contact. He’s a little banged up right now (shoulder), but when healthy this kid can run with the big dogs.

Sidney Rice finds a pulse against the Cardinals
The Seahawks passing game has seeming been in hibernation or on life–support so far this season, but the return of wide receiver Sidney Rice on Sunday may have just breathed a little life into it. Rice, in his first game this season was targeted 10 times catching 8 passes for 109 yards. It’s too soon to be expecting big things from Rice, but it’s a good sign for fantasy owners to see Rice and (Tarvaris) Jackson connecting often.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

January 10th, 2011, Monday

Monday Morning Huddle
(Late Evening Edition)

If you happen to be as big a fan of football as I am then you had to enjoy this past weekend’s slate of games. I did not have a side in the Saints-Seahawks matchup, but I never expected to see the defending champs do down so soon. Even the night cap on Saturday caught me off guard, it was not much of an upset if any, but it was a surprise seeing the Jets roll into Indy and shut down Manning and the Colts. After one day of action last year’s two Super Bowl participants were gone.

Sunday brought about some eyebrow-raising as well, with both the Ravens and Packers handling their business in decisive fashion. Sure the Eagles playing at home made it close, but it was a game quarterback Michael Vick and company were pretty much scrambling all afternoon. The Aaron Rodgers led Packers came into Lincoln Field, grab control and took the lead never to look back. In Kansas City the Ravens defense needed a few plays, but once they awoke it was lights out for the Chiefs.

With the Seahawks winners over the Saints and the Packers coming out of Philly with the win, check your brackets folks, cause there will be some changes.

Top Stories

The Saturday Night Special At The Georgia Dome

For those of us still entertained with fantasy fever, this Saturday’s divisional round matchup between the Packers and Falcons promises to deliver plenty to cheer about. Remember these two teams squared off about a month and a half ago and gave fans plenty of fireworks to get excited about. This time around looks to be a lot of the same, but with the Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (28 touchdowns, 3,922 yards passing in 2010) playing so well, it’s hard to imagine the Falcons being able to limit the Green Bay offense to just 17 points. Back in week 12 against the Falcons Rodgers passed for 344 yards, but only threw one touchdown pass. In his last three starts, Rodgers is averaging 270 yards passing and has eight touchdown passes. Rodgers will still have plenty of weapons on the field, even with a dinged up Donald Driver (knee) and could be in for another big outing against the Falcons 22nd ranked pass defense.

While Rodgers figures to provide plenty of fanfare on Saturday, across the field on the other side the Falcons will be leaning heavily on their ground attack and running back Michael Turner (1,371 yards rushing in 2010). The more Turner carries the ball, the clock he eats, the less the Falcons’ secondary has to deal with Rodgers. In their first matchup the Falcons and Turner had a lot of success with 110 yards on the ground. Turner toted the rock 23 times and helped the Falcons not only win the time-of-possession battle, but the game. Turner (12 rushing touchdowns in 2010) also added a scoring run in the game and will be a strong bet to find pay-dirt once again.

Notables

There were several performances over the weekend worth noting for fantasy owners. In Baltimore wide receiver Anquan Boldin did not have a breakout game, but his five receptions were the most among the Raven’s wide receivers and one of his grabs came in the red-zone for a score. Boldin has had his up and downs this season, but could re-emerge as Flacco’s go-to receiver, especially in the red-zone.

The Packers rediscovered a ground game led by rookie running back James Starks, who set a Packer’s rookie post season record with 123 yards on the ground. Starks led all running backs over the weekend with 23 carries and looks in line to be the Packer’s featured ground gainer when the team travels to Atlanta. The Falcons (ranked 10th against the run) did a pretty good job against the run this season, but they will have their hands full with this kid on Saturday. Starks did not play in their first matchup this season.

Joe “Cool” (Flacco) was steady Freddy on Sunday once his offensive line made the necessary adjustments and allowed him time to throw. On the afternoon Flacco was dumped four times, but when he was not being hurried or hit he was completing passes (25 of 34) and throwing touchdowns (two on Sunday). Flacco passed for 265 yards on the day, often connecting with his tight end and when he didn’t have much downfield he was able to use his legs scrambling for another 26 yards on the ground. Flacco face his old nemesis the Pittsburgh Steelers in the matinee matchup on Saturday. The two teams split their two meetings this season and Flacco is 2-4 in his career against the Steelers; including 1-2 at Heinz Field

Just my thoughts.

Fantasy Spotlight

Although the Ravens offense struggled to put points on the board early they had little trouble moving the ball well against the Chiefs on Sunday. One of the biggest reasons the offense had so much success was quarterback Joe Flacco’s rediscovering his tight end Todd Heap.

The Raven’s tight end led all receivers over the weekend with 10 receptions for 108 yards receiving; both were season highs for Heap. Flacco targeted Heap early and found him often. On the day Heap was targeted 13 times and his 10 catches set a Raven’s post season record.

Heap enjoyed a very good Wild-Card weekend, but faces a stiff test next against the Steelers. In two games Heap only totaled three catches for 35 yards, including a donut in week 13 when he suffered a hamstring injury and left early. Now that he’s healthy, Heap figures to play a much bigger role in the passing game.

He’s our Fantasy Spotlight Player of the Week!

Diamonds in the Rough

WR-James Jones

Jones has explosive speed on the outside, but had an issue with focus and drops. The Falcons figure to roll their attention toward wide receiver Greg Jennings and with wide receiver Donald Driver ailing a bit and Jones could play a much bigger role Saturday night. This past weekend against the Eagles, Jones caught just one pass for nine yards, but it was good enough for a score. He also just missed on a big pass play for a long score when he dropped a sure pass that fell through his hands. Jones has too much talent and big play potential to overlook and he could be primed for a breakout game on Saturday against Atlanta.

WR-John Carlson

Did anyone remember who John Carlson was before Saturday’s breakout game against the Saints? Carlson didn’t post big yardage on Saturday in the Seahawks Wild-card round matchup with the Saints, but he pretty much made every catch count. Carlson nabbed just three passes for 17 yards, but two of those grabs were for touchdowns. The Seahawks tightend has become somewhat of a forgotten name in the fantasy world this season. He has only managed more than three catches in a game twice this season, but coming off an effort like this it could all change. Carlson was not heavily targeted, but his two scores were more than he had all season. On Sunday he’ll face a Bears defense that has struggled this season with opposing tightends; Carlson could be in for another surprising performance this weekend.

FSH NOTEBOOK: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (TARGET PRACTICE)

December 23rd, 2010 Thursday

Fantasy Football

Target Practice

In These Hands We Trust

Larry Fitzgerald has been a kind of quiet fantasy receiver this season (he really misses Kurt Warner), but over his past three games he has started making noise. Fitzgerald has been getting plenty of work recently and ranks in the top five among receivers with 32 targets and 19 receptions over the past three weeks. The Cardinal’s top receiver also has 258 yards receiving over the course of three games, but has not scored a touchdown in his last four games.

All that could change this Sunday when the Cowboys come to town. Fitzgerald will be lining up against the leagues 28th ranked pass defense that was just torched by quarterback Rex Grossman. Fitzgerald has only scored five times this season, but could be in line for a couple of end-zone appearances this weekend against the Cowboys’ secondary. The Cowboys’ have allowed 31 passing touchdowns this season, including four last weekend to the Redskins.

Fitzgerald’s numbers this season don’t jump off the page, but he is averaging nearly 11 targets per game this season and is on pace to pull down 90 passes and over 1,100 yards. He has lost a little value with the changes at quarterback this season in Arizona, but Fitzgerald still has the hands we trust.

Radar Watch

In My sites

My Fantasy Notes:

The Colts took another hit on the offensive side of the ball this past week with the loss of wide receiver Austin Collie (concussion) to the injured reserve. With Collie out Peyton Manning will have to look more to some of his other weapons; and one such worth watching could be wide receiver Pierre Garcon.

Garcon had a quiet afternoon last weekend with five catches for 44 yards, but that was with a healthy Collie in the lineup for a half. In the two games rior to Collie’s return Garcon was the one with the hot hand; 15 targets, 14 receptions, and three touchdowns. This weekend the Colts travel to Oakland to face the Raiders 5th ranked pass defense. Garcon (4 touchdowns this season) has remained a constant in the Colts passing game and could be primed to score against a defense that has allowed 26 touchdowns this season.

In Houston the Texan’s have a beast of a receiver in Andre Johnson, but traveling to Denver he will likely matchup against cornerback Champ Bailey. This season Bailey has been a beast at the corner spot shutting down receivers like Dwayne Bowe, Anquan Boldin, Larry Fitzgerald, and Mike Sims-Walker. With Johnson always drawing attention 4th year receiver Jacoby Jones has been seeing more action his direction.

In his last two games Jones has been targeted 18 times. He has also scored in two of his last three games; the Broncos’ secondary has allowed 25 touchdowns this season. Jones has not had a big game this season, but he’s worth watching on Sunday; he could be very productive against the Broncos’ 22nd ranked pass defense.

Target Leaders from Week 13 through 15

(unofficial numbers)

1.Roddy White, ATl (43 targets)
2.Reggie Wayne, IND (36 targets)
3.Andre Johnson, HOU (35 targets)
4.Larry Fitzgeralds, ARI (32 targets)
5.Santonio Holmes, NYJ (30 targets)
6.Santana Moss, WAS (30 targets)
7.Mike Williams, TB (30 targets)
8.Davone Bess, MIA (29 targets)
9.Marques Colston, NO (28 targets)
10.Mike Wallace, PIT (26 targets)
11.Kevin Walter, HOU (26 targets)
12.Wes Welker, NE (26 targets)

FSH: MY WEEKLY SURVIVAL

December 8th, 2010, Wednesday

My Weekly Survivors

Week 13 was not my best, but a definite turnaround for the disappointment that was week 12. I still can’t figure out the tight end spot; maybe that’s because I have been riding the Bill’s defense all season long and they have finally figured it out. Last week the Bills defense limited the Viking’s tight Visanthe Shiancoe to just 17 yards receiving (one fantasy point). What a dud. My Sam Bradford pick at quarterback did not pan out to well either; 187 yards passing, no touchdowns, and just 7 fantasy points.

Now my backfield and receivers however did show up in week 13 totaling 64 points. This group was led by my Arian Foster pick who started things off last Thursday with 22 points (83 rushing yards, 26 receiving yards, two total touchdowns). The Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart with the help of his 92 yards rushing and one touchdown effort chipped in 15 points. Both Raven’s receiver Anquan Boldin (17 points) and Bengal’s wide out Terrell Owens (10 points) were solid as well.

Looking at the overall standings I currently have a firm lock at a top 10 spot, but if I am going to make a run at the big boys at the top I still have a lot of work left trailing by over 100 ponts. This week presents even more challenges for me needless to say, but with nothing to lose and a title to chase I am rolling the dice!

Here are my picks for week 14….

QB-Jay Cutler, Chicago Bears
The Bears quarterback has been on a roll lately. In his past two starts he has completed nearly 75 peercent of his passes and thrown five touchdowns with zero picks. The Patriots look dominant Monday night especially on offense, but their secondary still looks like it can be had. Cutler is a gambler and no doubt will take his shots downfield against a secondary (ranked 31st) that has allowed 43 pass plays of 20 yards or more this season.
(Projected: 23 fantasy points/ 225 yards passing, 20 rushing yards, three touchdowns)

RB- Knowshon Moreno, Denver Broncos
The Bronco’s running back has been a real workhorse over the past three weeks averaging nearly 21 touches per game and 137 yards. His numbers include 14 receptions and a pair of touchdowns. The Broncos are coming off a poor offensive showing from a week ago and will to get healthy against a defense (ranked 28th overall) that allows over 28 points per game.
(Projected: 25 fantasy points/ 110 yards rushing, 3 catches, 20 yards receiving, two touchdown)

RB-Tim Hightower, Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals running back enjoyed one of his best efforts of the season a week ago with 81 yards rushing against the Rams. This week he draws the league’s 31st ranked run defense that has surrendered 16 rushing touchdowns in 2010. It sounds like it could be another good week for Hightower.
(Projected: 15 fantasy points/ 85 yards rushing, 1 catches, 10 yards receiving, one touchdown)

WR-Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis Colts
The Colts receiver had a huge game a week ago against the Cowboys. This Thursday there’s no doubt the defense will be focused on stopping him, but in this must game for Indy you can bet Manning will find a way to get him the ball.
(Projected: 13 fantasy points/ 6 catches, 70 yards, one touchdown)

WR-Mike Wallace, Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers big play receiver has cooled off a bit as of late, but since week nine he remains the team’s most targeted receiver with 36. Over that span Wallace has snagged 24 balls and scored four times. On Sunday he’ll lineup against the Bengal’s 15th ranked pass defense that struggles with pressure (just 14 sacks this season). If Big Ben has time to throw, expect to see him hook up with Wallace a couple of times downfield.
(Projected: 16 fantasy points/ 5 catches, 105 yards, one touchdown)

TE-Jason Witten, Dallas Cowboys
Since week 10 the Cowboys tight end has been the most targeted receiver on the team with 22. This Sunday he will square off with the leagues 17th ranked pass defense that has allowed 24 passing touchdowns this season. This is the first matchup this season between these two clubs and last season in two games Witten grabbed 13 passes for 119 yards and a touchdown. With no Dez Bryant available, Witten looks to be a hot prospect in the red zone.
(Projected: 13 fantasy points/ 7 catches, 75 yards, one touchdown)

PK-Billy Cundiff, Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens meet the Texans on Monday night in Houston which takes any possibility of wind out of the equation. With the Texans allowing almost 27 points per game Cundiff should be pretty busy on National TV.
(Projected: 9 fantasy points/ two field goals, three 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)

FSH: MY WEEKLY SURVIVAL

December 2nd, 2010, Thursday

My Weekly Survivors

Well last week turned out to be a disaster. Taking Sidney Rice in only his second game back was a stretch, even though he saw extended action the week prior; just one catch for 20 yards last week. I can only imagine how many fantasy owners lost their matchup last week because Titan’s running back Chris Johnson totaled just seven yards; can you say disappointment.

Thankfully I had Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel under center to anchor my lineup. His 27 points (233 yards passing and four touchdowns) saved what would have been a horrific fantasy catastrophe.

With this being the 13th week to submit a lineup and I really have to look for a lot of the lesser known and lower caliber players with ideal matchups. This week no more stretches, I am going to stick with the better odds.

Here are my picks for week 13….

QB-Sam Bradford, St. Louis Rams
The Rams rookie quarterback has been steady and solid over recent weeks. He’s coming off his best performance this season passing for over 300 yards and tossing three touchdowns last week against the Broncos. This week Bradford will be throwing against the Cardinal’s 25th ranked pass defense that has only sacked the quarterback 21 times; with time in the pocket Bradford could have another big Sunday.
(Projected: 19 fantasy points/ 255 yards passing, 15 rushing yards, two touchdowns)

RB- Jonathan Stewart, Carolina Panthers
The Panther’s running back is back and has returned to the starting role. Last week Stewart rambled 98 yards on 12 carries and this week he could be just as effective running against the Seahawks 22nd ranked run defense that has allowed 11 rushing touchdowns. I look for Stewart to see at least 18-20 carries and that could be enough to get him to the century mark.
(Projected: 17 fantasy points/ 105 yards rushing, 1 catche, 10 yards receiving, one touchdown)

RB-Arian Foster, Houston Texans
The Texans running back has just been Mr. Everything to the offense this season. Foster leads the NFL with over 1,100 yards rushing, but he also leads the Texans with 75 receptions. He is a dual threat that is difficult to contain whether it’s rushing or receiving. The Eagles will have not only have trouble containing Foster in the run game, but covering him in the pass game as well. Foster will get his.
(Projected: 19 fantasy points/ 80 yards rushing, 6 catches, 55 yards receiving, one touchdown)

WR-Terrell Owens, Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals big physical receiver Terrell Owens is enjoying a very highly productive season with 65 catches, over 900 yards receiving, and 8 touchdowns. He faces the Saints in what will likely be an up-tempo style game and one that could see him get plenty of chances. This year Owens is tied for the lead with 124 targets.
(Projected: 16 fantasy points/ 7 catches, 105 yards, one touchdown)

WR-Anquan Boldin, Baltimore Ravens
The Raven’s wide out has been unusually quiet on the field lately, but this could be the week he makes a lot of noise. With the Steelers in town, Boldin could present some matchup problems for a very questionable 22nd ranked pass defense. In their first matchup this season Boldin caught 7 passes; expect to see him targeted often this Sunday.
(Projected: 14 fantasy points/ 8 catches, 85 yards, one touchdown)

TE-Visanthe Shiancoe, Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings offense has been a tough one to read, but one thing that has been much easier to read this season is the Buffalo Bills matching up with opposing tight ends. The Vikings and Shiancoe will have the comfort of home and while the Bills have improved over recent weeks I expect to see Favre and his tight end to enjoy some success. Shiancoe led the Vikes last week with only three catches for 54 yards, but he was targerted six times; look for this trend to continue with greater success.
(Projected: 11 fantasy points/ 5 catches, 55 yards, one touchdown)

PK-David Akers, Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles had some struggles last week with the Bears stout defense, but this week against the Texan’s 28th ranked defense they should have great success moving the ball up and down the field. I would expect to see plenty of scoring opportunities for the Eagles and their kicking game.
(Projected: 12 fantasy points/ three field goals, three 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)