FSH NOTEBOOK: FF SOMETHING WORTH NOTING (WK 8)

October 30th, 2023

David’s Daily Digest

Monday Evening Edition

Fantasy Football: Something Worth Noting 

(Week 8 Takeaways)

After spending the whole day (as I usually do) on Sunday watching all the games, I came away with a few questions and observations. These are some of the things I think are worth noting.

1. Another Offensive dud from the Packers.

A lot of fingers will point at quarterback Jordan Love and for good reason, but I am not going to pile on. Sure there have been some mistakes and bad throws, but I also believe a big contributing factor to the Packers bad play can be correlated to ultra conservative and predictable play calling to open the game and the absence and non-use of running back Aaron Jones. Described as one of the most explosive running backs in the game, he is only averaging 11 touches per game his last two games.Until Jones is featured more prominently in the offense, it could tough treading for the Pack’s offense moving forward.

2. D-Hop still has plenty of Pop.

Give him a calm, cool, collected quarterback with poise in the pocket and Hopkins will give you a big-time game in return. That’s what happened on Sunday as Hopkins was the recipient of some very good quarterback play from rookie Will Levis. Hopkins only needed 4 catches to do serious damage in Week 8; 4 receptions for 128 yards receiving and three touchdowns. As long as he remains healthy, if he gets close to this type of QB play he’s a borderline WR-1 in the 2nd half of the season.

3. The Giants offense is awful.

I actually have a couple of takeaways from the Battle for New York. First, the Giants passing game was atrocious. Some may excuse it due to bad weather, but it’s been bad all season. Through 8 games this season, the Giants have just 4 passing touchdowns. Until we see great improvement, it’s best to avoid this catastrophe. 

Along with the offense, tight end Darren Waller left the game early on Sunday with a hamstring injury. Waller has been boom or bust and dealing with injuries most of the season. This is another situation best to avoid until Waller is 100%.

4. Javonte Williams is back.

The Broncos running back is coming off an ACL injury in Week 4 of last year and while there have been a few signs here and there throughout this season, Williams finally showed he is back on Sunday. Williams didn’t break any stat records, but he did put in a lot of work. Williams carried the rock 27 times and finished the day with a career high 30 touches for 98 total yards. Williams ran hard and looked like his pre-injury self. Next up, the big game.

5. Joe Cool is heating up.

With a tough road matchup with San Francisco on Sunday, Joe Burrow and the Bengals rolled into town and then rolled the Niners. Burrow has been heating up of late, with 8 touchdowns passes over his last three, leading the Bengals to three straight wins, including 4 of 5. With his wide receiver Tee Higgins returning close to form and Ja’Marr Chase doing what he does, Burrow could just be getting started.

6. The Return of Austin Ekeler.

The Chargers running back two games removed from his return from injury, looked like the old Ekeler fantasy managers have come to expect. After averaging 54 yards and 16.5 touches with no scores his past two games, Ekeler turned up huge Sunday night against the Bears. The Chargers ball carrier totaled 23 touches (15 carries, 8 catches) for 123 yards of offense (29 run, 94 receive) with a touchdown. Ekeler was a featured part of the pass game and was more than effective, something fantasy managers hope to see continue going forward.

That’s My Take!

~David G. Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: FF SOMETHING WORTH NOTING (WK5)

October 10th, 2023

David’s Daily Digest

Tuesday Evening Edition

Fantasy Football: Something Worth Noting

Looking back, at what was Week 5, I have several takeaways that not only define the week, but also provide some fantasy football implications owners can take with them into week 6.

Patriots are awful (both sides)

Right now the Patriots are a mess and look terrible on both sides. The offense is in shambles, no production from any of the skill positions and the defense looks like a house of cards ready to fall at the first site of a strong wind. Avoid Patriots starters for now and start any team defense facing New England. If you have any running backs (ppr) matched up against the Patriots defense, they should be considered a safe play.

Broncos have worst defense, absolutely awful vs run

I don’t think I’ve seen any other team nearly as bad against the run this decade, as the Broncos have been this season. The Dolphins massacre may have been considered an outlier that slightly inflates the numbers, but after their performance in week 5 against the Jets, the numbers are true and you are what your record says; yards per carry allowed ranked last, rushing yards allowed per game ranked last, rushing yards allowed this season last, and rushing touchdowns allowed second to last.

George Pickens is a stud - just give Pickett time.

He was one of my pre-draft targets this season, although I was only able to get him in two of my six drafts. Pickens has great hands, crazy athletic ability and if the Steelers O-line can just give quarterback Kenny Pickett time, good things happen. Pickens is the fantasy WR19 at the moment, but trending in the right direction. Three of his last four games have been 75 yards receiving or more with two over 125 yards. Just give it time.

The Giants may have found Waller.

I just can’t figure out what the objective is when the Giants have the ball. All preseason the tales just continued to grow about Waller and Jones, but so far this season there’s been little evidence. That is until week five, where Waller was targeted a season high 11 times and recorded 8 grabs for 86 yards. I’d like to think the Giants have found possibly their best pass catcher, but this is a tough read for fantasy owners. Jones was knocked from the contest late and the Giants were trailing by multiple scores late. Regardless I’m just hoping the Giants watch the tape and realize they have Waller.

The Joe Cool and Chase show is back

It took five weeks, but well worth the wait. I admit, I jumped the gun and believed I had to look elsewhere and move off Joe for week 5. Now I never entertained the idea of dropping Joe, just wanted to wait until he plays better and looks healthy. He definitely looked great, threw the ball incredibly well and when Chase has his buddy Joe slinging it, great things happen. It’s safe to say, keep rolling with Joe Cool and JC.

Kupp and Nacua - the new Dynamic Duo

There was little doubt in my mind that a Sean McVay offense could support both Nacua and Kupp. I’d say my only hesitation was how much workload would Kupp be ready to handle. I’d say 12 targets would indicate nothing to worry about. And his teammate Nacua saw 11 of his own. Both receivers finished fantasy WR11 (Nacua) and WR12 (Kupp). They look like the new dynamic duo.

Justin Fields forever Moore.

There’s something happening in Chicago. The past two weeks have been a big indicator and I am believing that Fields has found his go to in Moore and fantasy owners can expect to see more of this going forward. Over his past two games Moore has caught 16 passes for 361 yards and 4 touchdowns. He’s also scored a touchdown in three straight games. Fields, now the fantasy QB4 has tossed 8 touchdowns with one pick in his last two starts and his 11 total touchdowns passes ranks tied for 2nd this season. Both are must-starts going forward.

The Niners are the best team right now

I don’t think I need to announce this to anyone who watches the NFL. But after their week 5 Sunday night dismantling of the Cowboys, it’s really hard to not recognize the Niners as the best and most complete team. As impressive as they are with weapons on offense like Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, etc., they are equally impressive on the other side. IDP studs would include Fred Warner, Nick Bosa, and Dre Greenlaw. They may not run the table, 17 games is a long season, but they are going to be a tough out in the playoffs for whatever unlucky team has to face them.

That's my take!

~David G. Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: 10 THINGS FOR NFL SUNDAY

October 8th, 2023

David’s Daily Digest

Sunday Morning Edition

10 Things for Sunday

Hey, it’s Sunday, funday. We’ve got plenty of football on the docket and I am heavily invested in DFS today. With so many DFS lineups (probably somewhere in the neighborhood of 50, I may have a few questions swirling in my head. What’s the weather today, is this stud sitting today, did that guy get activated, do I have this guy in my lineups. These would be a few and while I have plenty more and little time before kickoff, it’s time to play a little game.

This little exercise I do can be considered the same “Questions Game”, Phoebe played with Joey on the show “Friends” where she asked him a series of questions and he answers them very quickly. Unfortunately for me there is no Monica and Rachel option. I will just have to stay with football criteria.

Here are the 10 quick questions or things on my mind.

1. How good is CJ Stroud?

My Take: The kid has been fabulous this season and impressive averaging over 300 passing per game with 6 passing touchdowns and no picks. The whole program in Houston looks impressive and I suspect the early success of Stroud has a lot to do with it. I can see the Texans start to shift their focus and lean more on the run game more going forward, but I don’t see Stroud necessarily slowing down. He’s got a nice compliment of weapons so I don’t believe his success is short lived.

2. Can Sammy Step up in Week 5?

My Take: The Lions are a little depleted on the offensive side of the ball with a couple of key players likely out today against the Panthers. Rookie tight end Sam LaPorta has been better than good through the team’s first four games and will likely be featured in the pass game today. LaPorta is the number two fantasy tight end (fantasy points per game) and has a great chance at improving those numbers today.

3. Which Dolphin will blow up in Week 5?

My Take: All the Dolphins do is add speed and get faster. As if Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle weren’t fast enough, the team has added wide receiver Chase Claypool. Nonetheless, Waddle, Claypool, Hill or even Robbie Chosen, this team is just a warehouse of dynamite waiting to explode. This week’s matchup looks to be a great opportunity and if I’m betting, it’s Cheetah time again.

4. Will Waller finally Wake?

My Take: It’s been four weeks, has someone reminded quarterback Daniel Jones, he has tight end Darren Waller in his lineup? Waller has basically been absent in the Giants pass game, the past two games with just 6 receptions for 41 yards and a fantasy TE31 showing in this span. The Giants offense has looked horrid and even a matchup with the Dolphins offers few silver linings. In what could become a lopsided affair, maybe Jones can check it down to Waller once in a while.

5. Can Swift Stay Hot?

My Take: Today’s matchup with the Rams will be interesting. The Eagles offense is loaded with weapons in the passing game and when you add Swift to the mix, look out. Since taking over the lead back duties in Philly, Swift has been stellar with 361 yards rushing and a 6.2 yards per carry average. The Rams defense has been in the top third against the run this season, but today they face Swift, a very tall task. The Eagles O-line is one of the best in the league and Swift is just a special talent, advantage Swift.

6. Is this The Return of Cooper Kupp?

My Take: I say it’s a bit premature to say it’s the return. However, I would expect to see Kupp targeted somewhere in the neighborhood of 7 to 8 times today. He will have fair numbers, worthy of starting but his impact will be how his presence will allow things to open up for Puka Nacua and Tyler Higbee today.

7. Can Joe Cool Heat Up?

My Take: As a fantasy owner of Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase I certainly hope so. The real question is how healthy is that calf. I am sure the team is staring at their bye week (week 7), when rest will help Burrow heal. Until then, there are going to be some tough outings, however today’s matchup against the Cardinals may offer a glimpse of what might be coming. The Cardinals allow the 8th most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks, but are fantasy owners willing to chance it (not me).

8. Is it Breece Hall time?

My Take: Well it sure sounds like the Jets intend to turn Hall loose this week. The Head coach announced earlier in the week, no restrictions, just like music to fantasy owners ears. It’s a prime matchup for Hall, as the Broncos have the worst run defense this season and their tackling has been atrocious. Hall should be in all seasonal lineups today and make sure you have plenty of shares in DSF.

9. Can the Chiefs slow JJ?

My Take: So far through four weeks, no one has been able to slow Justin Jefferson. JJ is getting peppered with targets every week, averaging nearly 12 per game. All he has done with this workload is turned it into 8.2 receptions, 135 yards receiving per game with three touchdowns. He was the consensus overall number one in fantasy drafts and he is living up to expectations. Today shouldn’t be any different.

10. Can CMC steam roll the Cowboys?

My Take: This will be the classic “Clash of the Titans” NFC matchup and it will be in primetime on Sunday Night. Just like Jefferson, Christian McCaffrey was a top draft prospect in fantasy and in most drafts was the first running back selected. Through the first four weeks, CMC has been in a world of his own, leading all fantasy players in scoring with 150 yards of offense per game and seven touchdowns this season. Even if the Cowboys defense can slow him, he has such a high floor, he’s still going to get numbers.

That's my take!

~David G. Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: THURSDAY NIGHT MATCHUP

September 21st, 2023

David’s Daily Digest

Thursday Afternoon Edition

Thursday Night Matchup: DFS Faves

This one is definitely not a Clash of the Titans, with the New York Giants hobbling into the bay area to square off with the Niners. The G-men will be without their lead-running back Saquon Barkley (ankle injury), who has already been ruled out.

In my best estimation for fantasy purposes, this matchup has a strong possibility for the following, a strong performance from the Niners offense and a lot of garbage time yardage for running back Matt Breida and tight end Darren Waller. The only question could be how long will they remain in this affair before they get pulled.

Like most, I like Christian McCaffrey because he figures to be involved early and often, but I also believe the Niners will attack the Giants defense utilizing several of their other weapons. Quarterback Brock Purdy should be solid and I like him to hook up with several of his favorites tonight.

My Fantasy Five for Thursday night;

1.49ers Defense (DST) - The Giants come into this matchup wounded and without their best player, running back Saquon Barkley. It could spell for a long night for quarterback Daniel Jones and offense. The Niners defense will look to get after Jones in this one and could post a number of sacks and even create a turnover or two. (DK-My Captain)

2.Brock Purdy (QB) - The Niners quarterback could be in for a big night. Even with one of his favorites (Brandon Aiyuk) possibly sidelined in this contest, he has more than enough fireworks to work with. If Aiyuk sits, expect Brock to spread the ball around to his backs and tight end.

3. Christian McCaffrey (RB) - The Niners running back figures to be a big part of the offense tonight, but if Aiyuk is out expect CMC to help pick up the slack in the passing game. This matchup looks like a good one for a score or possibly two.

4. Darren Waller (TE) - The Giants tight end looked healthy last week turning in his best game of the young season with 6 catches for 76 yards on 8 targets. With Barkley OUT for this one tonight, you have to believe Jones and company will make Waller a focal point of the pass game.  . 

5.George Kittle (TE) - The Niners tight end could see his workload in the passing game increased tonight in the possible absence of Aiyuk. Kittle has only 6 receptions for 49 yards receiving through two weeks, ranking as fantasy TE26. I like his chances for a productive night.

That's my take!

~David G. Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: 10 THINGS FOR NFL SUNDAY

September 17th, 2023

David’s Daily Digest

Sunday Morning Edition

10 Things for NFL Sunday

(Week 2)

With the Kickoff to NFL Sunday week 2 just a few hours away, I’m getting fresh batteries for my remotes, breaking out the second TV, switching on Youtube TV (with Sunday Ticket), checking my fantasy lineups, making some last minute adjustments, and tuning into the latest fantasy shows for injury updates.

There’s a lot to take in and the clock to kickoff is counting down. On top of the inventory check on cold beverages and football foods supply for the day, here are the Top-10 things on my mind as I anxiously await for NFL Sunday to kick off;

1. “James gets cooking” - I like what I saw from the Bills running back on Monday night. Although he did not put up great numbers, his snap share and his usage indicated to me, he’s the guy. It’s only a matter of time before he gets cooking and week 2 versus the Raiders is as good a time as any.

2. “Joe Cool to Chase” - The Bengals passing offense was stagnant in week one, but you had a tough Browns defense and horrible weather. It looks like the weather won’t be a factor this week

3. Henry is still King” - At least for another Sunday, Titans running back will show why he is King. The Chargers are traveling back east for an early game, so this sets up as one of those games where they could fall flat. You know the Titans will lean hard on Henry, especially with a banged up D-Hop (DeAndre Hopkins).

4. “Big Sunday for Big Mike” - The Chargers wideout was quiet in week one and as per the norm, he’ll bounce back this week with a big performance. It’s a good matchup for Big Mike and three times last season when he was targeted fewer than 5 times, he averaged nearly 22 fantasy points.

5. “ASB & Lions keep prowling” - When was the last time the Lions started out 2-0? How about 2023? The Lions will be on the prowl today squaring off with the Seahawks. This matchup looks like a great opportunity for Goff to ASB (Amon-Ra St. Brown) to be called a couple of times. The Seahawks secondary was torched in week one.

6. “Texans not out of Woods” - It’s not surprising to see Robert Woods still hanging around in the NFL, but after the past two quiet seasons I hardly expected to hear his name called again. Now he didn’t light up the scoreboard last week, but he did turn in a solid 6 catch, 57 yards receiving performance. The glaring statistics were his 10 targets and 75.3% snap count. He may not have much fantasy relevance leading into the 2023 campaign, but those numbers might say otherwise.

7. “Mooney is money” - DJ Moore who? Did everyone forget about Mooney? Mooney was a 1,000 yard receiver for the Bears in 2021 and before going down to injury in 2022 he was a primary target for quarterback Justin Fields. Fields trust him and knows he’s money. Don’t count him out.

8. “Waller is winning” - The Giants tight end doesn’t carry an injury designation leading into Sunday. Fantasy owners can grab your popcorn and get ready to see what all the hype during training camp was all about.

9. “Sunday is Deebo Time” - It’s rivalry Sunday, Rams and Niners and that means Deebo time. The Niners wideout has scored in four of their last five meetings, including 5 total touchdowns. He was relatively quiet in week one, but against the Rams I expect a lot of noise from the playmaker.

10. “Jeudy will bring the Juice” - He may be on a pitch count, but no question when he’s on the field he’ll make it count. One element missing last Sunday from the Broncos offense was explosiveness. Jeudy has great speed and can be electric, on Sunday he will bring the juice.

That's my take!

~David G. Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

September 5th, 2023

Tuesday Evening Edition

Fantasy Stocks: On the Rise

From the desk of The (fantasy) Football Street Journal, as we head into the 2023 NFL season, these are the fantasy stocks on the rise. Get your shares.

     

Stocks on the Rise

Garrett Wilson, ADP 2.04 - The Jets 2nd year receiver continues to build off of his 1st year success and with the addition of quarterback Aaron Rodgers it seems his fantasy ceiling continues to rise. Wilson is an exceptional talent and with a great quarterback under center this season, he has the makings of an Elite WR1. His stock is on a fast rise.

George Pickens, ADP 6.10 - I’ve seen enough highlight reel of Pickens as a Steeler to believe in his talent and ability. He’s been one of my fantasy targets throughout the draft season. During the preseason he and his quarterback have already connected on several nice plays. Pickens' star is on the rise along with his fantasy stock value.

Jahan Dotson, ADP 7.01 - The Commanders have themselves quite a talent in 2nd year receiver Dotson and this camp the kid’s been ballin out. There’s a lot of talk about Dotson’s fantasy outlook and potential. And he’s displayed some of that promise this preseason with a number of impressive grabs. If that’s any indicator, the sky's the limit for this kid. His stock just keeps climbing.

Darren Waller, ADP 5.12 - The Giants tight end has been all the rave in camp this preseason. With no true number one receiving option in the offense, the opportunity is there for Waller to take the lion’s share. He’s a great talent with the ability to be a Top-3 fantasy tight end. As the NFL season nears, Waller’s stock keeps on climbing.

James Cook, ADP 7.06 - The Bills 2nd year running back looks to take a big leap forward in 2023. With the departure of Devin Singletary, the door is open for Cooks to take on a larger role in the Bills offense. The team did add Damien Harris to the backfield, but there’s been chatter surrounding Cook taking on a bigger role. Last season Cook did a lot of good things down the stretch, splitting time in the backfield and contributing in the pass game. His stock continues to move on the way up.

That's my take!

~David G. Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

September 2nd, 2023

Saturday Late-Evening Edition

2023 Draft Day Watch

As you are preparing for your imminent fantasy draft, you should  be thinking about what players will fall to your spot throughout the draft and be prepared to adjust on the fly as picks from left field occur.

The Draft is not a sprint, it’s a marathon and you should not be playing checkers, but more like chess as you make your selections and navigate your way to your perfect draft.

As the draft gets started, if you are in position with an early pick, one of the first two running backs you need to be looking at is Austin Ekeler. Ekeler was the No.1 fantasy scoring running back in 2022 and has played in 33 of the teams past 34 games. With 107 receptions last season he is the premiere fantasy ppr receiving back.

Where people are currently ranking wide receiver Davante Adams, he’s a great early to mid 2nd round or beyond pick. Adams has been prolific his past three seasons and even if his numbers take a slight hit with a new quarterback in Las Vegas, he’s still a top 5 or 6 fantasy receiver. In the 2nd round he is coming off most boards as the WR9.

A little further into your draft, you can look for the Browns Amari Cooper to be available in the 3rd round to pair up with your Adams pick. Cooper is coming off a strong 2022 season where he finished as the No.15 fantasy receiver grabbing 78 balls for 1,160 yards receiving and 9 touchdowns. In 2022 Cooper only had his quarterback DeShaun Watson for six games. With a full camp under their belts, Cooper is a strong candidate to make a jump forward.

The Packers running back Aaron Jones was last season's No.11 fantasy running back and he’s currently being drafted as the RB16 around the mid-4th round. Last season Jones totaled over 1,500 yards of offense and scored 7 total touchdowns in 2022, very reachable numbers in 2023.

In a new city and a new opportunity, the whispers coming out of the New York Giants training camp about their starting tight end Darren Waller are getting louder. Waller had a down year in 2022 playing in only 9 games, but he was still scoring as a Top-10 fantasy tight end. He’s in a new place and certainly has the talent to be a Top-5 Fantasy, just as he was in 2020, when he finished as the No.2 fantasy tight end. He’s currently coming off draft boards as an early 6th round pick, but he’s moving up.

Steelers wide receiver George Pickens' star is on the rise this season. He finished 2022 as the No.45 fantasy receiver, but there’s no question about his talent and ability, he just needs the opportunity. Pickens was targeted just 84 times last season, a number he will surely surpass in 2023. Currently coming off the draft boards as the WR34, he is an early 7th round pick.

As we truck along into the mid-rounds of your draft a possible steal also in the 7th round could be quarterback DeShaun Watson. Watson returned to action in 2022 after sitting out the entire 2021 season. He only played six games last season, but it was enough to shake the rust. If he regains his 2020 form (finished as the No.5 fantasy QB), he’s the 9th quarterback coming off the board in round 7th, VALUE. 

That's my take!

~David G. Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

September 1st, 2023

Friday Late-Evening Edition

My Top 10 Fantasy Football 

TE Rankings for 2023

Often considered the safety blanket for the quarterback position, today’s tight ends have morphed into much more than that. Viable weapons in the passing game, many of today’s tight ends are proving to be exceptional pass catchers with big fantasy upside.

Here’s my Top-10 at the tight end position:

The Top-10

1. Travis Kelce

2. Mark Andrews

3. TJ Hockenson

4. Darren Waller

5. George Kittle

6. Evan Engram

7. Dallas Goedert

8. David Njoku

9. Kyle Pitts

10. Dalton Schultz

The Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has separated himself into his own tier at the position. Kelce has finished as the No.1 fantasy scoring tight end four out of the last five seasons. He is King of the Hill until someone comes along and knocks him down.

With his arrival to New York in the off-season, the Giants tight end Darren Waller has a chance to return to his elite play. If Waller stays healthy, he has the tools and ability to produce at a high level. Back in 2020 Waller was the No.2 fantasy scoring tight end catching 107 passes (led all tight ends), finishing right behind Kelce.

My number 10 ranked tight end is Dalton Schultz. The former Cowboys tight end finds himself in Houston with very little competition for the leading receiver spot. Schultz finished 2022 as the No.13 fantasy scoring tight end and could easily improve his position this season with a young rookie quarterback (C.J. Stroud) under center.

That's my take!

~David G. Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

August 28th, 2023

Monday Evening Edition

On My Radar: Draft Day Targets

Now that the draft season has heated up, it’s time to talk about my Draft Day targets. These are the players that I will be looking to take at the right time during my several upcoming drafts. I want value, but I am also looking for opportunity with upside.

Diving in deep, let’s start with the early rounds.

I’ve only participated in a couple of drafts thus far this season. But as I read some of the latest news and watch all of the preseason action, the word on the Fantasy Football Street is wide receivers are going early. It’s not hard to make this argument when you consider the top two consensus receivers are the Vikings Justin Jefferson (128 receptions in 2022) and the Bengals Ja’Marr Chase (over 20 FPG in 2022).

In most of my drafts, I am slotted beyond the 6th spot, so with the receiving landscape being so rich in talent the receiver I am most interested in taking as a last first or early 2nd round pick is Davante Adams. Over the past three seasons Adams has averaged 1,481 yards receiving, 14.3 receiving touchdowns, and 112.6 receptions each season. In his first year in Las Vegas his production level was on par with these averages. In 2022 his finished as the third highest scoring fantasy wide receiver playing in all 17 games. Even with a new quarterback (Jimmy Garappolo) this season, I don’t see a big fall off for Adams. Even with a 5-8% regression he finishes as a top 5 wideout. He’s a safe pick with great value.

Still in the early rounds, two running backs that I have been seeing around the 3rd and 4th round turn are (Packers) Aaron Jones and (Cardinals) James Conner. Both backs offer RB1 value, each finishing in the top 12 last season in fantasy points per game. Jones registered over 1,500 yards from scrimmage in 2022, while Conner finished as a top 10 fantasy running back. Both are going late enough you can bypass in the first two rounds pick up Jones in the late 3rd or grab Conner a little later in the 4th.

As we skate along into the mid-rounds, this about the time to start looking for my tight end and this season my sights are set on the Giants Darren Waller. Listening to a lot of Training camp talk on the radio and TV, there’s a buzz around Waller in New York. Looking back at his 2019 and 2020 seasons with the Raiders, Waller stormed onto the fantasy scene posting TE1 numbers, finishing as the No.5 fantasy tight end in 2019 and No.2 in 2020. Last season was a bust playing in the shadow of (Davante) Adams, but now that he’s in New York, Waller absolutely has the talent to be the number one option for quarterback Daniel Jones.

Finally, this Draft Day target is not a late round flyer, but in my opinion possibly a steal in the 7th round or later, Steelers wide receiver George Pickens. In my opinion, Pickens is dynamic and showed a lot of flash last season when given the opportunity. Last season compared to other receivers with at least 80 targets, Pickens finished 6th in yards per reception with 15.4 yards per catch. His quarterback has been looking good this preseason and figures to take a few steps forward, so I am expecting good things from Pickens. Last season he finished as the No.52 fantasy wideout, this season I believe he could make a leap to a borderline WR2/WR3 (12 team leagues). 

That's my take!

~David G. Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Saturday Night Edition

November 2nd 2019

Week 9 Fantasy Notes

By the Numbers

The Vikings Quarterback, Kirk Cousins is currently the Fantasy QB13, through 8 weeks, but over the past several weeks he’s been a little bit better. Over the past 4 weeks, Cousins has completed 78.4 percent of his passes (1st in the NFL), passed for 1,262 yards (3rd in the NFL), averaged 10.9 yards per pass (leads the NFL), all the while throwing 10 touchdowns (tied for most) with only one pick. In this span, Cousins is the Fantasy QB5, heading into a week 9 matchup against the Chiefs.

Quietly, through 8 weeks, the Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette is the Fantasy RB5. Fournette is averaging 98.9 rushing and another 32.9 yards receiving per game. In 8 weeks, Fournette has toted the rock 163 times (leads NFL) and caught 35 passes (ranks 4th in the league). With just one rushing touchdown in 8 games, Fournette is still the Fantasy RB5; a big second half of the season sounds likely.

It has been a down season, in a huge way for the Broncos offense, but one bright spot has been, second year wide receiver Courtland Sutton. Through 8 weeks, the Broncos pass catcher is the Fantasy WR13, with 39 receptions (ranks 13th among receivers), 636 yards receiving (ranks 8th among receivers), and 3 receiving touchdowns. His 10.6 yards per target ranks 10th among receivers with a minimum of 24 target. Sutton has been solid and consistent in the first half of the season, but with the pending quarterback change coming, it will be interesting to see how he performs.

Two surprises this season, but no longer secrets are tight end Darren Waller (Raiders) and Mark Andrews (Ravens). Out of the gate these two have made their names this season and by this time, we’ve all heard of them, so here’s what they are doing. In 7 games this season Waller is the fantasy TE3 and Andrews is the Fantasy TE6. Waller’s 46 receptions ranks 2nd among tight ends, while Andrews is 7th with 36 receptions. Andrews ranks 5th in the league among tight ends with 449 yards receiving, with Waller coming in at 4th with 496 receiving yards. These two are clearly top tight ends and should be strong going forward in the second half of the season.

That’s My Take

~David G. Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Saturday Evening Edition
October 5th 2019

DFS Saturday

For those of us that can’t get enough of fantasy football in the season long format, there is DFS. Here are a couple of fantasy lineups I am playing in DFS this week. 

Here’s my lineups and my breakdown;

QB-Andy Dalton, CIN: The Bengals offense ranks last in rushing this season and Dalton is averaging over 40 passes per game. This Sunday the Bengals square off with the Cardinals and a defense that has allowed the 3rd most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. Bengals offense seems almost exclusively passing dependent; I like Dalton’s prospect for a busy day and he should be a shoe-in for over 40 passes this week.

RB-David Johnson, ARI: I like Johnson’s usage in the passing game this season. Through 4 games DJ .has 28 targets (2nd most for running backs) and he’s involved in the run game with 173 yards rushing. He has a great matchup this week against the Bengals defense that has allowed the most fantasy points to opposing running backs, including the most receiving yards and 2nd most receptions.

RB-Leonard Fournette, JAX: The Jaguars are led by Fournette and their running game. Through four weeks, Fournette’s 72 carries ranked 6th in the NFL and his 404 yards rushing is third. He should be the focal point on Sunday and add his 23 targets leading to 16 receptions, he should be very busy on Sunday. I like his matchup against a Panthers defense that is allowing nearly 5.0 yards per carry this season.

WR-Chris Godwin, TB: After his big week against the Rams last Sunday, Godwin is off the injury report and geared up for another potential big day against the Saints. Through 4 weeks the Saints defense has allowed the 6th most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers. Godwin is currently ranked 3rd in fantasy scoring for receivers, he looks primed to continue his strong play.

WR-Allen Robinson, CHI: Through 4 weeks, A-Rob has yet to find the end-zone, but he has seen no fewer than 7 targets in each of his four games and scored in double-digits (PPR format, full-point). This Sunday, Robinson matches up against a Raiders secondary that has allowed the 9th most fantasy points to opposing wide-outs. He should be a safe play and see plenty of targets.

WR-Courtland Sutton, DEN: The Broncos second year receiver appears to be on the verge of a breakout season, ranking 15th in fantasy scoring among receivers through 4 weeks. His numbers have been solid and his usage has been consistent averaging nearly 8 targets per game; even with less than favorable matchup I like Sutton.

TE-Darren Waller, OAK: The Raiders tight end is seeing a regular diet of targets every Sunday; 37 targets in 2019, ranks 2nd among tight ends. With his 33 receptions (leads all tight ends) he’s a favorite of mine this week against a stout Bears defense. Even with the bad matchup, Waller is such a featured piece in the passing game, he’s a safe play.

Flex-James White, NE: The Patriots running back has been a featured part of the passing game averaging 7 targets per game. He’s also been productive in PPR format, scoring in double digits in all three games he has played this season. I would expect much of the same against the Redskins this week, less about what Washington allows, but more about how he’s used in the offense.

DST-Eagles: The Eagles defense has a great matchup against a Jets offense that allows the 2nd most fantasy points to opposing defenses. With Sam Darnold already ruled OUT for Sunday, this matchup looks pretty good for the hometown team (Eagles).

That’s My Take
~David G. Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Sunday morning Edition
September 15th, 2019

Sunday Morning Gametime

Week 2 Matchups

The Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, threw 5 touchdowns in week 1. This week he is facing a Giants pass defense that allowed 4 passing touchdowns and 7 plays of 20+ yards (tied for most in the league) with zero sacks and ranks last in the NFL. I’m starting Lamar, especially in DFS.

The Seahawks signal caller, Russell Wilson is on the road this week against a Steelers pass defense that allowed 366 net yards of passing, recording just one sack while giving up three passing touchdowns and 7 plays of 20+ yards (tied for most allowed in the NFL). Start Wilson.

Kerryon Johnson played 50 snaps in Week one and recorded 18 touches totaling 62 yards of offense. In week 2 the Lions running back will get plenty of run against a Chargers run defense that currently ranks 31st in the league, allowing over 200 yards on the ground in week 1. Kerryon should be in lineups today.

A week 2 matchup against a Colts defense that allowed 100 yards receiving and two touchdowns to opposing running backs, could be good news for the Titans Dion Lewis. He could be in the flex conversation today, but proceed with caution. I am probably sitting Lewis; need to see more production.

The Bills receiver John Brown could be looking at another solid fantasy week facing a Giants secondary that allows the most fantasy points to opposing receivers. In week one, the Giants allowed 18 receptions off 22 targets for 341 yards. I have Brown in my lineups as a flex.

Week 2 could be a bounce back week for the Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster. This Sunday he gets a Seahawks secondary that surrendered 6 pass plays of 20+ yards and 276 yards to opposing receivers in week 1. Start Juju, he gets back on track in Week 2.

The Redskins tight end Vernon Davis, could follow up his strong week 1 performance with another solid outing in week 2 against the Cowboys. The Cowboys defense allowed the 2nd most fantasy points to opposing tight ends in week 1, including 12 receptions for 124 yards receiving. Davis is a streaming option for me this week.

A sleeper play that the fantasy world is quickly waking up to, is the Raiders tight end Darren Waller. Playing on Monday, Waller was able to showcase some of his upside and in week 2, a showdown with the Chiefs could continue the trend. The Chiefs defense held the Jaguars tight ends in check in week 1, but did allow 8 receptions on 9 targets. Waller is a great DFS play and viable option in Season-long leagues.

That’s My Take
~David G. Ortega