FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Tuesday Edition
November 20th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

McGahee OUT, Hillman Set to Take the Reins
The Denver Broncos running game took a huge hit on Sunday with running back Willis McGahee going down with a torn MCL. McGahee is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season and the team will turn to rookie running back Ronnie Hillman to pick up the slack. Hillman is going to share time with running back Lance Ball, but the rookie will offer the greater upside. Hillman has burst and explosion and can give the Broncos running game the big play component it may be lacking. Hillman is definitely one of week 12’s sleeper plays and waiver wire favorites.

Felix Likely A Game-Time Call for Thursday
The Cowboys running back Felix Jones is currently nursing a couple of sore knees, but will likely get the call again to start this Thursday. Jones has started the last five games for the Cowboys will get the start again if he can go. Jones is likely to be a game-time call, but early signs indicate he will likely play. Jones did score this past Sunday, but again struggled on the ground with just 43 yards rushing on 14 carries. He’s no more than a very low flex option in deeper formats.

Garcon Limited, Questionable for Thursday
The Redskins wide receiver Pierre Garcon made his return last Sunday against the Eagles, but was relatively ineffective and a fantasy non-factor finishing the game with three catches for just 5 yards. Garcon is still dealing with a foot injury and is expected to be game-time for Thursday’s matchup against the Cowboys. Even if Garcon is a go, it’s hard-pressed to think he can offer much fantasy value facing the Cowboys secondary that allow the 8th fewest fantasy points to receivers. 

Starks Falling Down the Fantasy Tree
The Packers running back James Starks has had a hard go of it on the ground as of late totaling just 135 yards on 42 carries for a 3.2 yards per average in his two recent starts. That’s not going to get it done and with head coach Mike McCarthy expressing displeasure with Starks recent lack of production, his (little) fantasy value takes a big hit. Starks will have limited value in deeper leagues and going forward it sounds like we can expect to see more of a committee approach in the backfield. With Cedric Benson possibly due back in couple of weeks Starks continues to lose any fantasy value he may have offered.

Dwyer Looks Like the Favorite for Now
After watching the Steelers ground game against Ravens this past Sunday night, it looks apparent that running back Jonathan Dwyer has to be the favorite in the teams’ backfield. Both Dwyer and Mendenhall (33 yards) saw double digit carries in the game, but Dwyer (55 yards) was the more effective runner. With Big Ben still ailing expect the Steelers to stick more with the ground game opening up plenty of opportunities for Dwyer going forward.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Saturday Edition

November 17th, 2012 

David’s Daily Digest

Turner Limited, Rodgers Could See More Action

The Falcons starting running back Michael Turner has been limited all week in practice and is listed as questionable for Sunday. Turner, who has remained relatively ineffective most of the 2012 campaign, could lose some touches this week should he even play. Back up Jacquizz Rodgers has slowly become more a part of the weekly game plan averaging 9 touches a contest over the team’s last three games. Rodgers has shown great productivity in his limited role averaging 65 yards of offense in the same span. Rodgers season high for carries is 10, something we could very well see him match against the Cardinals 23^rd ranked run defense with Turner ailing. Rodgers is a risky play in normal 10-team leagues, but in deeper formats he could be a sneaky sleeper.

Murray Doubtful for Sunday, Time for More Felix the Back

The Cowboys will likely not have the services of running back DeMarco Murray on Sunday, opening the door for back up Felix Jones. The Cowboys back up runner says he is feeling good and will have a great opportunity to show just how much agains the Browns 26^th ranked run defense. Jones is averaging less than four yards per carry this season and has scored just two rushing touchdowns in four starts this season. The Browns are allowing 4.3 yards per carry and have allowed only 7 rushing touchdowns this season, but they are giving up the 11^th most fantasy points to opposing running backs. Jones has a good matchup this week and looks to be a good flex option in deeper formats.

Tom Terrific Set to Shine on Sunday Once Again

With the emergence of a couple of youngsters and the return of an old foe, quarterback Tom Brady has seemingly become lost in the shuffle by normal standards. Despite the less press he’s been receiving in fantasy circles and the regular media, Brady has been terrific in 2012; 18 touchdowns, 3 interceptions, 293 yards passing per game. With the Colts up next, Brady looks set to shine once again. The Colts rank 15^th against the pass and allow the 13^th most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks, numbers that figure to rise after Sunday’s tilt. Brady has also been on fire as of late averaging 24 completions, 265 yards-plus passing per game over his last three starts; he’s also tossed 8 touchdowns without an interception. He’s a must start and facing a strong Colts passing game, Brady could post some big numbers this week to set the pace.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Sunday Edition
November 11th, 2012  








David’s Daily Digest

Sunday notes

NFL sources have already ruled out Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin today, so you can expect to see a ton of Adrian Peterson. All-Day may have trouble finding a lot of holes today against the Lions run defense, but he’s going to get plenty of touches and is always a good bet to break one. AP is good for a 20+ carry game today and 100 yards on the ground seems likely.

The Patriots are going to be without tight end Aaron Hernandez. Going up against the Bills today, we should see lots of running back Stevan Ridley and you can count of some Gronk in the red zone. Tight end Visanthe Shancoe is expected to start in place of Hernandez, but he’s not expected to make any kind of fantasy impact today.

The Lions Calvin Johnson is expected to play according to ESPN’s Chris Mortensen. There’s was little chance of Megatron sitting this week as is the case with most weeks; takes more than a little Madden curse to keep Megatron out. Calvin has just one touchdown this season, but he has responded with four 100-yard receiving games; he’s on pace for 96 receptions and 1,534 yards (not bad for a curse).

Running back DeMarco Murray is still sidelined opening the door for back up Felix Jones to make his fourth straight start. Since his week six 92 yard rushing effort Jones has hardly been a factor in the run game, but he did post 109 total yards last week; although a great number came late in the game against a prevent defense. Jones is only worth a look in the deepest leagues as a possible flex play.

The Texans are calling tight end Owen Daniels a game-time decision and won’t make any decisions on whether he’ll play until we are closer to kickoff; the Texans play in the Sunday night contest. Daniels is one of the leagues’ leading tight ends, but does have a tough matchup against a physical Bears defense. With a late game today, if you have a capable backup and can avoid this situation it’s probably best.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SFFL WEEK 9

Saturday Edition
November 3rd, 2012  

Suicide Fantasy Football

Week 9

My SFFL fantasy team has fallen off the pace a bit the past couple of weeks with a couple of sub-par performances, but this week I am looking to improve mightily with some big performances from some big names and a strong showing from a few lesser known. My line-up leads off with a couple of notables (Michael Vick & Brandon Marshall), but also consists for a few intriguing names where I really like their matchups….


My Line-up 

Quarterback:
Despite the ups and downs and the turmoil that exists within the Eagles organization, I still believe Michael Vick is an exceptional athlete with plenty of playmaking ability and on Monday night he’ll have a great opportunity to exhibit plenty. The Saints defense has been awful this season and they have allowed the most fantasy points to quarterbacks this season. Vick and the Eagles need a big game and this Monday night is lining up to be their best opportunity.

Running Backs:
In the backfield I am starting the Lions running back Mikel Leshoure this week. The Lions are on the road to face Jacksonville and the Jaguars run defense has not been good against the run this season. The Jags are ranked 25th versus the run and have allowed 8 rushing touchdowns this season; they also allow the 4th most fantasy points to running backs.

My other ball carrier for week 9 is Felix Jones. The Cowboys running back has been running on empty it seems and with DeMarco Murray likely to return to the lineup sooner rather than later, this may be one of his last starts this season. I am not looking for a big output from Felix Sunday night, but the Cowboys need to make a big statement here and will need a solid effort from the ground game. The Falcons defense has not been great against the run this season ranked 26th, so I like for Jones to carry the load and be productive. 

Wide Receivers:
It’s time to call on one of the big dawgs this season, the Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall. the Bears are on the road this week, but for Marshall and company they meet the Tennessee Titans; ranked 29th against the pass. Marshall is off to a great start this season and has a great chance to improve his numbers on Sunday, the Titans are giving up the 15th most fantasy points to wide receiver this season, including 17 touchdowns.

My other wide out for week 9 is going to be DeSean Jackson. It what looks to be a shoot-out on Monday night, Jackson will be lining up against the Saints defense that is allowing the most fantasy points to wide receivers this season. The game will be fast on turf and could be filled with lots of big plays.

Tight End:
The Buccaneers offense, in particular their passing game has shown lots of life over the past couple of weeks, and tight end Dallas Clark has become fantasy relevant again. Clark has quietly become more involved as he and his quarterback Josh Freeman continue to develop a good rapport. In his first five games Clark was targeted 15 times, he has been targeted 9 times in the past two. Although Clark has yet to put up big numbers this season, he is facing the Raiders 21st ranked pass defense that allows the 11th most fantasy points to tight ends.

Place Kicker:
The Ravens have a very favorable matchup this week on the road against the Browns. Their offense should have plenty of success moving the ball, but could stall a few times in the red zone. I like Ravens kicker Justin Tucker to score big points with several kicks and several extra points.

Team Defense:
With my choices becoming more limited each week, one matchup I like is the Lions defense on the road against the Jaguars. The Jags offense is ranked last in the league, and with no MJD this looks too good to pass. The Jags have really struggled with the pass this season, ranked 32nd and 20 sacks allowed this season and have allowed the 6th most fantasy points versus opposing defenses.

These are my picks for week 9.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Thursday Edition

November 2nd, 2012

David’s Daily Digest

Sproles Out with Hand Injury

The Saints will be without running back Darren Sproles (hand) this Monday night when they face the Philadelphia Eagles. Sproles underwent surgery for a broken hand and will be unavailable for Monday’s matchup. With Sproles out, running back Pierre Thomas will see a boost in his fantasy value and likely an increased workload against the Eagles. Thomas should make a nice flex play for week 9.

Jones to Get Another Start

The Cowboys have ruled out running back DeMarco Murray for Sunday, meaning back Felix Jones is expected to start once again. Jones (knee) is listed as probable and expected to play in the Sunday night primetime matchup against the Falcons. Jones has not done a whole lot the past couple of games, but could be more of a factor against the Falcons 26^th ranked run defense. Jones is nothing more than an iffy flex option for this week.

Nelson Will Be a Game-Time Decision

Wide receiver Jordy Nelson (hamstring) is expected to be a game-time decision, although he was able to do some work. It’s sounding more like there’s a good chance that Nelson could be on the field, but owners will have to wait until Sunday morning to find out. Even when a healthy Nelson has played wide receiver Randall Cobb has been effective. If you are looking for a strong flex play, Cobb could fit the bill this week against the Cardinals.

Robinson Probable for Sunday Versus Lions

The Jaguars could see the return of wide receiver Laurent Robinson this Sunday against the Lions. Robinson has missed the past three games due to injury and in the three games he has played he’s been a non-factor. Wide receiver Cecil Shorts has really emerged as the current go-to guy, so don’t expect much this week from Robinson if he does return.

Dwyer Doubtful for Sunday

With both Mendenhall (Achilles) and running back Jonathan Dwyer (quad) listed as doubtful for Sunday, it appears Issac Redman is in line to start for the Steelers. Redman himself is nursing an ankle injury, but is expected to play Sunday and will get the start with Dwyer sidelined. Although Redman gets a good week 9 matchup (against the Giants 19^th ranked run defense) this Sunday, he has missed the past couple of weeks and will likely split carries. Play him at your own risk.

Tannehill Uncertain for Sunday

The Dolphins could be without the services of their rookie quarterback Ryan Tannehill, whose status remains uncertain for Sunday against the Colts. Tannehill suffered a knee injury last week and has been limited in practice this week. If Tannehill can’t go back up quarterback Matt Moore would get the start. The Colts have fared well against the pass this season, so whether it’s Tannehill or Moore, any fantasy value for the Dolphins would come from the run game; the Colts rank 27^th against the run this season.

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: MY WEEKLY SURVIVAL

October 28th, 2010, Thursday

My Weekly Survivors

Last week was one of my best weeks with solid fantasy performances from my running backs. With Adrian Peterson (131 yards rushing) and Michael Turner (121 yards rushing) anchoring my backfield the two combined to score 49 fantasy points. The Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe continued his hot ways adding a pair of touchdowns for the second consecutive weekend.

Despite a few duds like wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (30 yards rushing) and tight end Tony Gonzales (27 yards receiving), all in all it was a nice day from my fantasy squad moving my team into the top ten.

Week eight does not provide any relief with too many favorable matchups, but with a little luck, this could be another moving week for my fantasy team. Here are the picks I like for week 8….

QB-Kyle Orton, Denver Broncos
The Broncos travel to London this Sunday and fortunately for them the bay area team they face won’t be the Raiders. The Niners who will also be making the Trans-Atlantic trip to London, will be bringing with them their 15th ranked pass defense and a chance for Kyle Orton and Broncos passing game to rebound. Orton has been off of late, but Sunday should be able to take advantage of a secondary that has allowed 11 passing touchdowns this season.
(Projected: 23 points/ 275 yards passing, two touchdowns)

RB-Felix Jones, Dallas Cowboys
There’s no doubt that the Cowboys will be looking to rebound this week and try and secure their first home win this season. One of the keys for Dallas this Sunday will be their ground game led by running back Felix Jones. Jones will be matching up with Jacksonville, the leagues 25th ranked run defense. The Jaguars allow 4.6 yards per rush and nearly 130 yards rushing per game.
(Projected: 19 points / 105 yards rushing, 35 yards receiving, one touchdowns)

RB-Jamaal Charles, Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs offense has been on a roll scoring 73 points in its’ last two games and a big reason for the success has been the running game. Along with Thomas Jones, running back Jamaal Charles has been a huge contributor to the ground game success. In his last two starts Charles has totaled 188 yards of offense averaging over 5-yards each time he touches the ball. This week the Chiefs face the worst run defense in the league and one that has allowed eight rushing touchdowns this season.
(Projected: 17 points/ 85 yards rushing, 30 yards receiving, one touchdown)

WR-Brandon Lloyd, Denver Broncos
The Broncos passing game has been held in check the past couple of weeks, but on Sunday they may catch a break facing a Niners secondary that could have some matchup problems. The Broncos will try to spread the field and I expect to see Orton and Lloyd connect a few times downfield against a defense that has allowed 22 pass plays of 20 yards or more this season. Lloyd has cooled off some the past couples of weeks, but this could be a good week to heat up a bit.
(Projected: 17 points/ 110 yards receiving, one touchdown)

WR-Deion Branch, New England Patriots
Last week the Vikings secondary was torched all evening against the Packers and this week they won’t find any relief facing Tom Brady and company. I like wide receiver Deion Branch’s matchup on Sunday. Not the big hitter he once was, I expect to see Brady target his nimble wideout all afternoon chewing up small chunks of yardage. Branch has quickly become Brady’s favorite with 20 targets in the past two weeks.
(Projected: 18 points/ 125 yards receiving, one touchdown)

TE-Tony Moeki, Kansas City Chiefs
Quietly the Chiefs are claiming their stake on the AFC West title with solid play on both sides of the ball. One of the keys to the team’s passing game has been the balance between the run and the pass. While wide receiver Dwayne Bowe has been making all the noise, tight end Tony Moeaki has been business as usual leading the team with 21 receptions. It’s no longer any secret that the Bills defense has struggled mightily this season trying cover the tight end position; 7 touchdowns allowed this season.
(Projected: 10 points/ 45 yards receiving, one touchdown)

K –Stephen Gostkowski, New England Patriots
The Patriots will play host to the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday and while they are expected to be able to attack the secondary and move the ball, once in the red-zone they could struggle. The Patriots ground game is middle of the road and the Vikes always play tough against the run. If the Pats struggle and become one dimensional they could have to settle for a few more extra kicks on Sunday.
(Projected: 11 points/ three field goals, two 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)

FSH: MORE FANTASY TALK

January 12th, 2009 11:37pm PST

MORE FOOTBALL TALK

Better than the Wild Wild West

While most of the matchups may have lacked some drama, for the fantasy football enthusiast there were plenty of fireworks the entire weekend, espcially during Sunday's Wildcard Weekend finale. The NFL definitely saved its best for last.

On Saturday it was a pair of mismatches with the both the Jets and Cowboys running games kicking into high gear. The Jets rookie running back Shonn Greene set the stage in the early game shredding the Bengals defense for 135 yards and a score. Not being outdone the Bengals running back Cedric Benson churned out 169 yards of his own including a 47-yard scoot for six.

In the night cap, it was the Felix Jones show. The Cowboys second year running back broke the game open in the 4th quarterback with a 73 yard touchdown run. He would finish the night with 148 yards on the ground, but would not be the only fantasy stud for the evening. To the surprise of many, DeSean Jackson (14 yards receiving, one touchdown) was not the Eagle's receiver with the big night. Rookie receiver Jeremy Maclin had a huge night catching seven balls for 146 yards and a touchdown.

These were the few bright stars on Saturday, but Sunday was filled with comets, quasars, and multiple explosions. In the morning game on Sunday, Ray Rice helped ignite the Ravens ground attack with 22 carries for 159 yards, including an 83 yard touchdown run on the first play from scrimmage. While that was a small explosion of a sort, it was nothing more than "the calm before the storm."

"nothing like a Sunday afternoon shootout"

As if we had thought we seen everything, enter Kurt "Wyatt Earp" Warner and Aaron "Doc Holiday" Rodgers. These two gunslingers put on a show for the ages and filled enough highlight reels to cover the entire 2009 post season. After more than 1,000 yards of offense, over 60 first downs, and 10 touchdowns, you would have expected after four quarters we would have a winner, right? Not in this classic, it would require OT.

From out of the gate "Wyatt" (Warner) came blazing, firing his six shooter and extending the Cardinals out to a 17-point first half advantage. Is "Doc Holiday" your Huckleberry, maybe so, but Aaron Rodgers was the answer to the Cardinals early fireworks. After a slow start in the first quarter (4 of 7 passing, 33 yards, 1-Int) the Packers signal caller got hot and just kept heating up especially in the second half; 19 of 28 passing, 318 yards, four touchdowns.

On the other side Wyatt just keep his guns blazing all afternoon. The Cardinals 38 year old quarterback was better than good, he was nearly perfect completing 29 of 33 passes. To make better sense of what he did, think about the fact he threw more touchdowns than balls that hit the turf (incompletions). Warner finished the evening with 379 yards passing, five touchdowns, and a passer rating of 154.1; These numbers are staggering against one of the leagues better secondaries.

When the dust settled, there was only one man left standing, the new sheriff in town and his name is Kurt Warner.

Check back every week for "More Football) Talk”

FSH: MORE FROM THE HUDDLE

January 11th, 2010 11:07pm PST

More From the Huddle

Last weekend was filled with a lot of excitement and surprise with the Jets and Ravens advancing, but it was also a fantasy frenzy for those that follow the other game. Looking ahead remember these players who will continue to make huge impacts....

What I remember from the Wild Weekend

1. It looks like Kurt Warner, the old man in the desert is just starting to heat up in time to make a post season run; 379 yards passing and five touchdowns.

2. The Cowboys have a three-headed attack with Barber, Jones, and Choice, but Felix is the Cat with the biggest bag of tricks; 16 carries for 148 yards, one reception for 30 yards and a 73 yard touchdown run.

3. Red means stop, but the Jets rookie running back only sees green. Shonn Greene broke the ground game open on Saturday with 135 yards and a score and could be looking to do the same in the Divisional Round.

4. No Boldin means more Steve Breaston. The Cardinals third year receiver was targeted nine times, caught the ball seven times for 125 yards with a score and had one carry for another 28 yards.

5. With Warner firing haymakers, expect Whisenhunt to go to the well often. Rookie running back Chris "Beanie" Wells carried the ball 14 times for 91 yards on the ground; one of his best efforts on the ground this season.

6. Despite the lack of a passing attack the Ravens second year runner Ray Rice was dominant on the ground. Rice carried the ball 22 times and rumbled his way to 159 yards with two scores, including an 83 yard touchdown run on the first play from scrimmage.

7. The Cowboys are quietly one of the hottest teams in the post season and quarterback Tony Romo may be the hottest; in his last seven starts, four 300-yard passing games, 13 touchdowns, only two interceptions, a 5-2 record, including a 244 yard effort with two touchdown passes to defeat the Eagles last Saturday night.

8. He doesn't play like a rookie. The Jets quarterback was poised, precise, and very good on Saturday against a pretty good Bengals defense. Sanchez completed 12 of 15 passes for 182 yards and a score, and led an offense that racked up 353 yards of total offense; not bad for a rookie.

9. The Jets shutdown corner Darrelle Revis could very well be the team's MVP this season (if he's not already). All he does is shut down receivers; Chad Ochocinco caught just two passes for 28 yards. That's just one more catch than Revis who picked off his 7th pass this season (reg and post).

10. The Cowboys wide receiver Miles Austin continues to prove he is big-time; on Saturday against the Eagles he caught seven passes for 82 yards, including a six yard touchdown reception.

Remember to check back for more "From the Huddle!"

FSH: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

January 11th, 2010

[Late Edition]

Monday Morning Huddle

A Wild Fantasy Weekend of Football

If you are still engaged in fantasy football or just following the stats, this past weekend was filled with more than its share of game-breakers and money makers. It was a day of back-ups coming to the forefront on Saturday and some good old fashion gun slinging on Sunday during the Wildcard frenzy.

In both of Saturday's matchups a couple of backup running backs made huge statements and were major fantasy impact players. In the earlier tilt between the Jets and Bengals, rookie running back Shonn Greene burst onto the scene with his first carry going for 12 yards. From then on it was off to the races for Greene. The rookie averaged 6.4 yards per carry and broke more runs for 9, 9, 8, 15, 14, and a 39 yard score.

In the night cap, it was running back Felix Jones' turn. On 16 carries, the Cowboys number two running back powered his way to 148 yards on the ground for a hefty 9.3 yards per carry average. Jones highlighted the Cowboys evening by breaking free for a 73 yard touchdown run that put the final nails in the coffin ending the Eagles hopes.

Unlike the ground game that was prevalent on Saturday, it was the vertical game that filled the highlight reel on Sunday. In the showdown at the Cardinal coral, both quarterbacks Kurt Warner and Aaron Rodgers light up the scoreboard like a Christmas tree. Aaron Rodgers was relentless throwing the pigskin 42 times, completing 28 passes for 422 yards and four scores. Rodgers also added a one yard touchdown keeper to his stats.

On the other side Kurt Warner was equally impressive completing 29 of 33 passes for 379 yards and tossing five touchdowns. The two quarterbacks combined for 801 yards in the air, 10 touchdowns, and 90 points; now that's a Wildcard weekend at its best.

More Injury notes from Sunday...

QB-Joe Flacco (finger)....banged up, questionable for Saturday.

RB-Marion Barber (knee).....expected to start vs Vikings.

WR-Anquan Boldin (ankle, knee)....hopeful to play Saturday.

TE-Todd Heap (back)....x-rays negative, expects to play.

LB-Shawne Merriman (foot)...healthiest he's been all season.

LB-David Harris (ankle)....should be healthier for Sunday.

What I saw this past weekend

The old man has plenty of fire....

Just when many figured the Cardinals run would not even get out of the gate against the Packers, Kurt Warner shows up and turns it up. Maybe someone should have told him he was 38 years of age, because on Sunday he did not play like it. The Cardinals signal caller was nearly flawless throwing five touchdowns and only four incompletions on the day. Warner passed for 379 yards, led the Cards to 51 points on the board and a trip to New Orleans in the Divisional Round of the playoffs. Who says the old man is finished, it looks like he is just getting started.

The Jets go Gang Greene on Cincy...

The Jets have one of the leagues very best rushing attacks in the game today and they are often led by their veteran runner Thomas Jones, but on Saturday it was all Shonn Greene that did in the Bengals. The rookie running back from the University of Iowa blew up for 135 yards on the ground Saturday, including a 39 yard scamper to pay dirt. With Thomas Jones (knee) ailing some, the rookie was able to pick up the slack and punch out the opposition.

Romo proving the critics wrong....

Not only was the third time a charm for the Cowboys over the Eagles this season, but it was also a charm for Cowboy's quarterback Tony Romo. In his third post season appearance, Romo finally led his team to a post season victory. The Cowboys quarterback completed 23 of 35 passes for 244 yards and threw two touchdowns in the win over the Eagles. Romo has been one of the hottest quarterbacks in the second half of the season with 13 touchdown passes and only two interceptions in his last seven starts. After leading the Cowboys to their fourth straight win this season and first playoff win since 1996, Romo could have critics changing their minds about his play on the big stage.

Quick Notes:

The Cowboys running back Felix Jones is becoming more prominent in the team's offensive game plan. In his last two games he has averaged over 17 touches and totaled 272 yards from scrimmage with two rushing touchdowns.

The Raven's running back Ray Rice has been on a roll the last five weeks totaling more than 100-yards from scrimmage in four of his past five starts. Rice is averaging nearly 125 yards rushing with three touchdowns over that span.

The Jets ground game keeps turning green. Over the past three games, rookie running back Shonn Greene has averaged nearly 17 carries per game and totaled 292 yards on the ground with one score that came on Saturday against the Bengals.

Remember to check back for more "Monday Morning Huddle!"