FSH NOTEBOOK: THE FOUR HORSEMEN

Sunday Edition
December 9th, 2012

  

The Four Horsemen

My week 14 fantasy picks…

Quarterback (Eli Manning)
The Giants are at home today and quarterback Eli Manning has a prime matchup against the Saints 32nd ranked pass defense. The Saints allow the most fantasy points to quarterbacks and with wide receiver Hakeem Nicks set to play today, it’s a great chance for a big game from Eli; 300 yards passing, with multiple touchdowns.

Running Back (Alfred Morris)
The Redskins rookie running back Alfred Morris has been rolling of late tied for 3rd in the league with 1,106 yards rushing, he’s coming off consecutive 100-yard rushing efforts. Today he’s matched up against the Ravens 23rd ranked run defense and will look to make it three in a row.

Wide Receiver (Dez Bryant)
The Cowboys wide receiver has been playing at an extremely high level of late scoring in each of his last four games (six touchdowns total). He’s having a great 2012 campaign on the verge of surpassing the 1,000 yard receiving mark this week. He’s matched up against a pretty good Bengals defense, but one that was beat last week by Danario Alexander for 6 grabs and 102 yards; I expect at least those type of numbers from Dez today.

Tight End (Jermichael Finley)
Tight end Jermichael Finley has not been having a great 2012 by his standards and expectations of football prognosticators, but against the Lions 17th ranked pass defense his fortune could change. The Lions allow the 5th most fantasy points to tight ends and with Jordy Nelson sidelined, Finley could see more targets tonight. I like his chances this week.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: (SATURDAY'S) FRIDAY FOOTBALL FIXX

Saturday Edition
December 8th, 2012

  

(Saturday’s) Friday Football Fixx

Fantasy Player News

Taking a look around the National Football League at fantasy football players for Sunday with the latest news and takes;

Nicks Questionable for Sunday
The Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks is listed as questionable for Sunday against the Saints, but the explosive wide out did practice on Friday. Nicks has been battling injuries all season and has yet to get back to 100%, but despite being limited this week he is still expected to play on Sunday. Nicks play has been improving over the past couple of weeks since his return from injury, but this little setback could be cause of concern for fantasy owners. His status is still up in the air, but if he is active against the Saints shaky secondary, he needs to be in fantasy lineups.

Nelson Ruled OUT for Sunday
Wide receiver Jordy Nelson has been ruled out for Sunday night against the Lions and will not play. With Nelson on the sidelines, fantasy owners for wide receivers Greg Jennings, Randall Cobb, and James Jones can expect a bump in fantasy value this week. Jennings will be playing only in his second game since returning from injury, but he is expected to fill the role of Nelson and should do just fine. With the Lions up next, Jennings should be in your lineups this week.

Sunday is Wayne’s World
The Colts veteran wide receiver Reggie Wayne has been having a prolific 2012 campaign and his current 88 catches and 1,156 yards receiving have him on pace to set career highs in both categories. Wayne is without question rookie quarterback Andrew Luck’s security blanket and has been targeted a league high 153 times this season. On Sunday the Colts have a very favorable matchup against the Titans 25th ranked pass defense, so fantasy owners can expect Luck to look Wayne’s way quite often.

Ivory Unlikely to Play Sunday
The Saints are likely to be without the services of running back Christopher Ivory (doubtful) on Sunday against the Giants. The Giants defense is ranked 21st against the run and even without Ivory, the Saints backfield remains crowded and convoluted. With the Saints being primarily a passing team, running back Darren Sproles remains the only reliable running back with any real fantasy value (in PPR leagues only).

With Harvin OUT All-Day Must Carry the Load
The Vikings have been riding the legs of running back Adrian Peterson (1,446 yard rushing in 2012) most of this season and with the loss of wide receiver Percy Harvin, it looks like he will have to carry the offensive load the rest of the way. Peterson is averaging just over 20 carries in his last six games and has rushed for more than 100 yards in each (he’s also scored in 5 of his last 6), including 210 yards last week. Fantasy owners can expect to see a heavy dose of All-Day the rest of the way and similar success on the ground, despite who Peterson faces

Turner to Play Sunday against Panthers
The Falcons will have running back Michael Turner in the lineup on Sunday against the Panthers, which is good news for fantasy owners. Turner has yet to really break out this season recording just two 100-yard rushing efforts, both at home with the last coming in week 9. This Sunday on the road against the Panthers could be his third facing the league’s 25th ranked run defense. The Panthers are allowing nearly 130 yards on the ground, 4.4 yards a pop, and have surrendered 10 rushing touchdowns. If you a looking for a big game from Turner this week, this matchup could not come at a better time; he’s a safe play this Sunday.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: THE FOUR HORSEMEN

Sunday Edition
December 2nd, 2012  

The Four Horsemen

My week 13 fantasy picks…

Quarterback (Peyton Manning)
The Sheriff (Peyton Manning) is in town or rather back home this week and he squares off against the leagues number 32nd ranked pass defense. The Buccaneers are stout against the run, but struggle versus the pass this season allowing a league high 315 yards passing per game. Manning should have a field day carving up the Bucs secondary (18 touchdowns allowed this season) for three bills (300 yards) and three dimes (touchdowns). The Bucs defense also allows the 9th most fantasy points to quarterbacks; a good reason to start Manning with great confidence.

Running Back (Michael Bush)
The Bears will have running back Matt Forte (ankle) on the field today, but with a sore wheel I would expect to see a lot of Michael Bush today; especially in short-yardage and goal-line situations. Bush is not going to find too many holes today against the Seahawks 12th ranked run defense (7 rushing touchdowns allowed this season), but his power style between the tackles could find some success around the goal line and earn him a couple of trips to pay-dirt. Bush is nothing more than a flex option, but a favorable play in touchdown heavy leagues.

Wide Receiver (Hakeem Nicks)
The Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks has slowly been healing his way back to health and now (at the right time with fantasy playoffs approaching) he’s getting closer to full health and ready to be a huge fantasy impact player. Nicks led the Giants passing attack last week with 5 catches for 77 yards and a touchdown. This week Nicks will face the Redskins 31st ranked pass defense that allows the 3rd most fantasy points to wide receivers; a great matchup and great opportunity for Nicks to have a big Monday night.

Tight End (Owen Daniels)
The Titans defense is ranked 27th against the pass this season and allow the 4th most fantasy points to tight ends. That’s all the reason to start the Texans tight end Owen Daniels today. Another reason, Daniels (six touchdowns) is one of quarterback Matt Schaubs’ primary weapons in the passing game and will look to improve on his 47 receptions and 555 yards receiving. Daniels is a top 5 start today; get him in your lineup.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: FRIDAY'S FOOTBALL FIXX

Friday Edition

October 26th, 2012 

Friday’s Football Fixx

Fantasy Watch

With injuries playing a big part of the fantasy football season, it’s always important to stay on top of things; to know who is hurting, feeling better, practicing, returning to action, not expected to play and most importantly the impact;

Player news

Graham a game-time decision

The Saints tight end Jimmy Graham has been dealing with an ankle issue that won’t go away and will be a game-time decision for Sunday. Graham is not having a great 2012 campaign as compared to last season; he missed week 7 and caught just one pass back in week 5, just before the Saints bye. Even if he plays his effectiveness is going to be questionable.

Nelson questionable for Sunday

The Packers could be without wide receiver Jordy Nelson this Sunday when the team plays host to Jacksonville. Nelson has had the hot hand with four touchdowns in his last two starts, but he is dealing with a hamstring injury that could limit him and keep him on the sideline. With Jennings already ruled out, if Nelson sits wide receivers Randall Cobb and James Jones will be the hot play for fantasy owners.

Richardson could play Sunday

The Browns rookie running back Trent Richardson has been battling nagging injuries much of the season and his sore ribs could keep him off the gridiron this Sunday. Richardson has managed to make it through three days of practice this week, but he is still a big question mark for Sunday. If Richardson sits, back Montario Hardesty is ready to fill the void against the Chargers stout run defense.

Johnson probable for Sunday

The Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson was limited in practice this week, but he is listed as probable on the injury reports and appears to be in no danger of missing time. He has a tough matchup this week facing the Seahawks corners, but he is Megatron and needs to be started every week.

Pettigrew expected to start

The Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew is listed as probable on the injury report, but figures to start this Sunday against the Seahawks. The Seahawks do a great job against opposing wide receivers, but allow the 16^th most fantasy points to tight ends, so the Lions will definitely need Pettigrew on the field.

Nicks looks ready for Sunday

The Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was able to practice in full on Friday with no issues. He is listed as probable on the injury reports and figures to start against the Cowboys this Sunday. The Giants will need a healthy Nicks to match up with the Cowboys stingy secondary that allows the 4^th fewest fantasy points to wide receivers.

Lynch puts in full practice

The Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch turned in a full week of practice and looks set for a Beast-mode Sunday against the Lions. Lynch ranks in the top 10 for fantasy running backs, but will have his work cut out this Sunday facing a Lions defense that has allows the 5^th fewest fantasy points per game to running backs.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SFFL WEEK 7

Sunday Edition
October 21st, 2012  

Suicide Fantasy Football

Week 7

My Line-up

Once again I am engaged in a handful of SFFL leagues and I can tell you, just like last year it is as tough as ever. Fortunately for me this season I enjoying a bit of good fortune with my best team averaging nearly 117 points per week.

Just to recap how it works, you submit a weekly lineup of 8 positions; QB, RB, RB, WR, WR, TE, PK,and DEF. Once you select a player, you may not use that player again for the remainder of the season. It’s an elimination selection process, so you have to really read your matchups and use your selections wisely.

This season I am doing well, currently positioned in 15th place in a league of approximately 130 active players. With that said, let’s take a look at week 7;

Quarterback:
This week I am rolling with little brother Eli Manning. The kid has been big at times, but usually steady. This week taking on the Redskins worst ranked pass defense looks too appetizing to pass on and add the improving health of wide receiver Hakeem Nicks; this could be a big Sunday.

Running Back:
Darren McFadden is coming off his busiest Sunday this season; 30 touches last week against the Falcons. While he was busy he was not as productive as fantasy owners would hope totaling just 98 yards, but adding a score and three grabs. This week Run-DMC meets the Jaguars shaky run defense making this the week owners could cash in on the high pick they used to draft McFadden.

Running Back:
I am not really looking for a huge game from running back Fred Jackson, but in an elimination game you have to find those matchups where your pick can produce. Jackson is facing a very spotty Titans defense. Even in spit-duty this is a good matchup for Jackson, so I like him to be productive totaling close to 100 yards, adding some grabs and finding the end-zone.

Wide Receiver:
The Tennessee Titans offense has a pretty good matchup this week facing the Buffalo Bills and wide receiver Kenny Britt should be ready to emerge as the team’s leading receiver. He is coming off a season high 11 targets and could see just as many today. The Bills have allowed 13 passing touchdowns this season and will likely allow a couple of more; Britt is a good candidate to be on the receiving end of one of those.

Wide Receiver:
The Buccaneers are not known as an offensive juggernaut, but when you face the New Orleans Saints, points and productive are at a premium. Quarterback Josh Freeman and wide receiver Vincent Jackson have been in a groove as of late; in their last two games Jackson has 10 receptions for 166 yards and three scores. They be hooking up early and often on Sunday if they hope to keep up with the Saints.

Tight End:
The Titans will not only be looking for Britt on Sunday, but I expect to see quarterback Matt Hasselbeck looking for his tightend Jared Cook quite a bit. Cook is an enormous and athletic target and could be a huge factor today, if this matchup with the Bills turns into a drag race.

Place Kicker:
It’s usually a coin toss when I am picking a kicker; it’s always tough to guess what teams will struggle in the red-zone and kick field goals. I like the Colts today at home today and one of the reasons is I believe the Browns could struggle at times to punch it into the end-zone. My pick here is kicker Phil Dawson.

Team Defense:
The Packers offense was firing on all cylinders a week ago and I believe they will come out in week 7 and do the same. When the Packers are up, their defense thrives; this could be along day for quarterback Sam Bradford and company.

These are my picks for week 7.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: FANTASY FIVE

Saturday Edition
October 20th, 2012  

FSH Fantasy Five

Week 7 Fantasy Picks (all positions)

This week presents significant challenges for fantasy owners with six teams on the sidelines, but even with so many studs taking the day off there will plenty of stars shinning on Sunday. As I am looking over this week’s matchups I am seeing quite a few names jump out at me that I think are solid plays for week 7. Here are just five of my favorites for Sunday;

Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB
The Bills offense has sputtered at times this season, but even with some rough outings this season quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick has managed to outperform (in the fantasy world) some names like Stafford, Rivers, and Schaub. With a very favorable matchup this Sunday facing the leagues 29th ranked pass defense (Tennessee), Fitzpatrick should be able to take advantage of a defense allowing nearly 72% passes completed and 292 yards passing per game. The Titans secondary has also given up 13 passing touchdowns this season; Fitz and the Bills should have little trouble cashing in. I like Fitzpatrick as a high end QB2 and worthy of a start in deeper leagues.

Kenny Britt, WR
In the same game the Titans offense is looking at similar possibilities for success. Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck will be making his third start this Sunday and facing the Bills 20th ranked pass defense (13 passing touchdowns allowed and 255 yards passing per game), I like his go-to receiver Kenny Britt to finally step up in 2012. Last week versus the Steelers Britt finally found the end-zone and he was heavily targeted; 11 targets last week. I expect to see Hasselbeck continue to look his often was this week leading to some nice fantasy numbers. We could see a lot of grabs, not necessarily big yardage, but he could make a trip to the end zone making him a strong flex of low end WR2 this Sunday.

Josh Freeman, QB
The Buccaneers passing offense has been breathing a little life the past couple of weeks with quarterback Josh Freeman averaging 313 yards in the air with three scores in the team’s past two games. This Sunday the Bucs play host to the New Orleans Saints and the offense may once again have to lean on Freeman and his arm. The Saints offense puts up a lot of points per game and fortunately for Freeman and the Bucs offense the Saints defense gives up a lot of yards (283 yards passing/game) and points (30.8 points allowed per game). This matchup is shaping up to be a big day of passing for Freeman and with his new found toy (Vincent Jackson; three touchdowns in last two games) he could also score a couple of TDs. Freeman looks to be a nice bye-week fill.

Hakeem Nicks, WR
It seems the Giant’s playmaking wide receiver Hakeem Nicks is getting healthier managing a full week of practice. This is good news for the Giants offense and even better for fantasy owners. There’s no question that wideout Victor Cruz has blossomed into one of Eli Manning’s main go-to receivers, so defenses will have to be sure to account for him. This should open some opportunities for Nicks on Sunday facing the Redskins 32 ranked pass defense. When Nicks is healthy he is more than just dangerous, but add a suspect secondary that allows over 325 yards passing per game and has surrendered 15 passing touchdowns this season and he is a must-start (twice on Sunday).

Donnie Avery, WR
In Indianapolis Reggie Wayne is quarterback Andrew Luck’s main go-to guy tied for the NFL lead with 70 targets this season, but wide receiver Donnie Avery is no forgotten man on the other side. Avery is far and away second on the team with 47 (9.4 targets per game). On Sunday the Colts play host to the Browns and it’s highly likely that Wayne will draw a lot of attention from the Browns top corner Joe Haden. Avery should see plenty of favorable matchups and with Luck not shy about looking his way; this could be a breakout Sunday for the Colts number two receiver. Avery should be played as a strong flex or a WR2 bye week filler.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Thursday Edition
October 11th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

Nicks Getting Close

The Giants explosive wide out Hakeem Nicks has returned to the practice field, albeit in limited fashion, but it’s a step closer to returning to the field of action. Nicks is a big play home run hitter, in two games of action he has 14 receptions for 237 yards and a score. Nicks is so dynamic on the field, if he can get back he’s a must start. Friday’s practice is expected to tell the tale and determine if we’ll see him on Sunday.

Quinn Will Get Start On Sunday

The Chiefs will be without their regular starting quarterback Matt Cassel, who was injured last Sunday versus the Ravens and will start back-up Brady Quinn this Sunday against the Buccaneers. Despite the poor play of Cassel this season (14 turnovers), Quinn is not likely a huge upgrade. Quinn has not started a game since the 2009 season and you have to worry about his chemistry with his receivers. About the only thing that seems certain, expect a lot of Jamaal Charles on Sunday. 

Are They Whispers or Cries for TO?

Right now quarterback Mark Sanchez and the New York Jets have no weapons in the passing game and that’s a fact. When you are bringing your number corner over to the offensive side to run routes, you have problems. Free Agent Terrell Owens certainly looks like he’d be a better option, better than any the Jets currently have. Owens is still a physical specimen and would be an immediate upgrade for the Jets offense. He’s not going to be anyone’s savior, but until something changes in the Jets’ offense the entire squad remains a non-fantasy factor.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SUNDAY GAMETIME

Sunday Edition
October 7th, 2012
  

Sunday Morning Gametime

Some quick fantasy notes for Sunday week 5, who to play and who should stay (on your bench);

The Browns are down a couple of receivers today, including Mohamed Massaquoi, so expect to see rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden riding the legs of rookie running back Trent Richardson. The Giants allow more than 4 yards per carry and nearly 120 yards on the ground, start Richardson today.

The Packers will travel to Indy today, but will be without the services of wide receiver Greg Jennings. Facing the Colts secondary that has only one pick this season and struggles to get pressure on the quarterback, Rodgers will still have plenty of weapons including wide receiver James Jones. Jones should be considered a safe flex play today.

While the Falcons defense has been improved this season, there have been some leaks in their ground defense. With a full endorsement from his head coach Mike Shanahan, running back Alfred Morris should find a few holes today against the leagues 29th ranked run defense.

The Packers may rely more on their ground game today and with a banger like Cedric Benson, the team has plenty of confidence to get him the rock. Running back James Starks is inactive once again, so lining up against the leagues 25th ranked run defense it will be the Benson show. He’s a nice RB2 start today.

Just as expected with Nicks and Barden on the shelf today, Hixon looks to be the hot play in Jersey against the Browns. Expect to see Eli look for Hixon often today against the Browns suspect secondary. Hixon is a great flex or low-end WR2 in deeper leagues today.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Sunday Edition
October 7th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

The Hot Plays for Week 5

The Bengals tandem of quarterback Andy Dalton and wide receiver AJ Green could be licking their chops today as they prepare to face the league’s 30th ranked pass defense (Miami). Green is off to a great start this season with 428 receiving yards and three touchdowns and Dalton is leading the league’s 8th ranked pass offense. Put this equation together and if the Bengals “O” line can protect Dalton today, these two should have a big day.

The Vikings play host to the Titan’s today and wide receiver Percy Harvin should benefit greatly facing the league’s 27th ranked pass defense. Harvin has been a big part of the Vikings offense this season with 30 receptions for 299 yards, but in four games he’s yet to find the end zone. That could all change today, the Titans secondary have allowed 10 touchdowns this season, second most in the NFL.

The Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon is coming off a nice six-catch 114 yard performance last week against the Eagles. With Hakeem Nicks and Ramses Barden sidelined, Hixon will figure big in the Giants passing game plan today and facing the Browns 28th ranked pass defense he could be looking at another nice outing. The Browns have also surrendered 9 passing touchdowns this season, so Hixon has a good chance of finding the end zone today.

The Bronco’s quarterback Peyton Manning is coming off his best effort year-to-date (31 fantasy points) and this week he’ll see the league’s 25th ranked pass defense. The Broncos line does a pretty good job of keeping their quarterback upright and Manning does a great job of getting the ball out quick. He has the look of a hot play this week.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Monday Edition

October 1st, 2012

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

Nicks Looking Shaky This Season

No question Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was a high value draft pick in most fantasy drafts, but his injury woes are making fantasy owners pay dearly. With the prospect of possibly missing week 5, Nicks has only one strong showing this season in four games (maybe five now). He’s a solid fantasy play when healthy, so owners will just have to ride out the storm and hope he gets right soon.

Hartline has the Numbers

The Dolphins wide receiver Brian Hartline may not have the flash or the name to draw much attention to fantasy owners, but he certainly has more than enough numbers to make his argument. He’s relatively unknown and unproven, so consistency and reliability will have to be a wait and see, but with 48 targets this season (ranked 3^rd in the league) make his chances look promising. With all those targets, Hartline still only has 25 catches and just one score; he’s not ready for primetime, but he appears to be a strong flex option or low-end WR2 in deeper leagues.

Roddy Still the Big Man on Campus

With all the hype surrounding the beastly phenom wide receiver Julio Jones, this preseason Roddy White was taking a back seat in most fantasy football watercooler conversations. It’s safe to say this elite receiver will not be taking a back seat to anyone this season. As good as Jones is and will be, does not mean Roddy will stop being elite; as he has shown through four games this season (27 receptions, 413 yards receiving, 3 touchdowns). White is still a solid WR1 and should be considered such the rest of the way.

The Marshall Plan is Working

If you drafted wide receiver Brandon Marshall high this fantasy season, you were hoping to see what you just saw on Monday night against the Cowboys. Teamed with his old quarterback (Jay Cutler) it’s go for broke time with Marshall, and if this was your plan it could be working. With 23 receptions, over 350 yards, and 2 touchdowns, Marshall could be well on his way to his best season yet.

Dez Bryant Still Up and Down

The Cowboys big receiver Dez Bryant is capable of playing big and he did have a nice night statistically in Monday night’s loss (8 receptions, 105 yards receiving), but too many drops kept a good night from being great. That’s been Bryant’s problem and something that appears he’ll need to continue to work at growing out of. Bryant remains a very low WR2 option in fantasy, but has the potential of being much more.

Witten Finally Wakes Up

It came much too late in the Cowboys blowout loss to the Bears Monday night, but for fantasy owners it was a nice sight to see tight end Jason Witten involved in the passing game. This one was well out of hand before Witten did his biggest damage, but quarterback Tony Romo was targeting his old favorite early and often. With all the drops the Cowboys receivers had Monday night, Witten probably remains Romo most reliable and steady option; look for this involvement trend to continue going forward.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: QUICK TAKE

Monday Edition

September 24th, 2012 

David’s Daily Digest

QUICK TAKES

A Star is Born

The Giants may have found themselves a rising star in wide receiver Ramses Barden after his breakout performance (9 catches, 138 yards receiving) in week 3 against the Carolina Panthers; fantasy owners may have just found themselves a diamond in the rough. Barden has the ideal size and build to be a huge weapon for Eli and the Giants offense going forward, but fantasy owners should exercise some patience and caution until he has proven he has the skill to perform at a high level consistently. 

The good news, with the return of wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (at some point soon: week 4 or 5) to the lineup Barden should get plenty of opportunity in the future to continue to showcase his talents.  He's definitely worthy of a grab and stash off the waiver wires this week, but we'd wait a bit before riding his coat-tails. 

Value: a low flex option at the moment until we see more.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Monday Edition

September 17th, 2012 

David’s Daily Digest

More Week 2 Takes

Hakeem Nicks: A Special Talent Breaking Loose

The second member of the Giants dynamic duo receiving corp, wide receiver Hakeem Nicks quickly came out of his early season slumber with a huge performance in week 2. After a very dismal week one outing with just four catches for 38 yards, Nicks rewarded his fantasy owners with an explosion in week two. His 199 yards receiving in week 2 lead the league and for PPR owners he added 10 catches and a score; 25 fantasy points in standard scoring. Nicks is a premier WR1 and owners can count on for more big games.

Brent Celek: Vick’s New Best Friend

The Eagles tight end Brent Celek emerged on Sunday as quarterback Michael Vicks favorite target snatching 8 passes for 157 yards receiving. Celek led the team in receiving and all receivers with 11 targets. This should come as little surprise since Celek is also tied for the team lead with 19 targets; a good indication that he’s on Vick’s radar every Sunday and should be fantasy lineups.

Donnie Avery: A Man on the Rise

The former Rams receiver has been incognito the past couple of seasons recovering from injury and the football abyss, but this season he’s landed in Indianapolis where he may be on track to resurrect what was once a promising career. In week two Avery caught nine balls for 111 yards on 10 targets. He’s easily and quickly emerged as one of quarterback Andrew Lucks favorite targets, second to Reggie Wayne. His 18 targets in two games makes him very relevant in fantasy and a strong flex play in all formats.

Percy Harvin: Footloose and Migraine Free

The Vikings explosive receiver Percy Harvin is off to a quick start in 2012 and his 12 catches for 104 yards in week two are just a small indication. In two games Harvin has been targeted 21, far and away the most on the team. His 18 catches this season make him a PPR darling and a good WR2 fantasy option week in and week out. As the season moves along and quarterback Christian Ponder progresses, Harvin could become and even greater fantasy option, but he’ll need to stay healthy.

Dwayne Bowe: The Big Hands on the Reservation

The Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe blew up for 102 yards receiving with two touchdowns in week 2 against the Bills. Bowe was targeted 15 times on Sunday, third most for any receiver and has 21 total targets in two games. Moving forward he is clearly quarterback Matt Cassel’s go-to receiver and should be in all fantasy lineups.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

September 13th, 2011 Tuesday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

TE Fred Davis on the Rise
With normal starter Chris Cooley admitting he’s not completely 100% and receiving props from his head coach for a nice effort on Sunday, it certainly sounds like tight Fred Davis could see his playing time increase. Davis saw plenty of action on Sunday and took advantage of his six targets, catching five balls for over 100 yards. Expect Davis’ stock to continue to rise along with his playing time.

Ochocinco gets lost in the Shuffle
It may be a little concerning for fantasy owners with Ochocinco only seeing three targets on a night whenBrady passes for over 500 yards. What you have to keep in mind, the Patriots like to run a lot of double tight-end sets and Hernanez is quickly becoming a very dangerous weapon in the slot. It’s too early to panic though, Ochocinco is still plenty talented and Brady is still plenty capable of getting the ball to all of his weapons. Remember number 85 is the new guy and it may take a little time for him to find his place; but rest assured the Patriot are working on it.

Fantasy Owners safe with Orton?
It appears to be the case for the moment as Broncos head coach John Fox reassures there is no quarterback controversy in Denver. Orton may be safe, but if the Broncos are going to succeed fantasy owners better not count on more games like Monday night; 50 pass plays and 13 run calls. Whether Orton keeps his job or not, fantasy owners are going to need a better effort if they are going to stick with the Broncos’ quarterback; two costly turnovers and just one score.

Hakeem Nicks could miss Monday Night
Nicks suffered a knee injury in the team’s loss on Sunday to the Redskins. If Nicks is unable to play against a depleted Rams secondary on Monday, wide receiver Domenik Hixon could be a nice fantasy fill-in. Hixon has great speed and explosion and could be a nice fix for fantasy rosters a little thin at the wideout spot.

Just my Tuesday takes.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: THE SATURDAY FANTASY REPORT

February 19th, 2011 Saturday

The Saturday Fantasy Report

Continuing my look back at the 2010 season, here is my list of the best hands in the NFL from a year ago and over the past couple of season. These are your fantasy wide receivers that will continue to dominate the conversation during the offseason and are expected to be at the top of all fantasy drafts in 2011…..

The Elite Class of the Fantasy Wide Receivers

Roddy White (Falcons)
Without question the Falcons leading receiver over the past several seasons, Roddy White has emerged as one of the leagues very best. Over the past four seasons White’s number have been consistent and very good. Since 2007 he has averaged 92 receptions, 1,280 yards receiving per season while scoring 34 touchdowns. In 2010 White set a career high with yards (1,389 yard receiving) and touchdowns (11); he’ll be at the top of many fantasy drafts this summer.

Andre Johnson (Texans)
Like the Falcon’s leading receiver, the Texan’s wide receiver Andre Johnson has been just as consistent and just as good. Johnson has averaged more than 100 receptions, 1,450 yards receiving, and eight touchdowns over the past three seasons. His yards and catches were down due to injury, but this guys has been a monster over the past couple of season and figures to be huge again in 2011; he’s a top three wide receiver in 2011.

Reggie Wayne (Colts)
The Colts leading receiver has been doing it as well and for as long as anyone in this league. 2010 saw no slow down for Reggie Wayne as he set a career high with 111 receptions; his 1,355 yards receiving was his second best effort of his career. Over the past four seasons Wayne has averaged nearly 100 receptions and better than 1,300 yards receiving while scoring 32 touchdowns. Wayne has been a top 10 fantasy favorite for several seasons and should be again in 2011.

Greg Jennings (Packers)
The Packers number one receiver for the past several seasons was very good once again in 2010, with more than 1,200 yards receiving and 12 touchdowns. He’s been consistent over the past four seasons averaging 69 grabs, over 1,100 yards receiving while scoring 35 touchdowns. His numbers are solid and entering his sixth season, he’s a top five fantasy receiver grab in 2011.

Just a step below….

Calvin Johnson (Lions)
Megatron has been a talent in this league since his arrival; in just four short seasons Johnson has already scored 33 times. With just a little more time to marinate and more consistency at the quarterback position he’ll achieve the elite fantasy stud he is destined to achieve; for now Megatron is still a top 10 wide receiver pick in most fantasy drafts.

Dwayne Bowe (Chiefs)
The Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe had a big 2010 season setting a career high with 1,162 yards receiving and 15 touchdowns. Bowe rebounded with his strong 2010 campaign after a disappointing 2009 season. He has shown strong play in the past and looked very good last season; he’ll figure into a top 20 fantasy wide receiver slot in 2011.

On The Rise

Hakeem Nicks (Giants)
The Giants second year wide out had a big coming out season finishing with 79 grabs, over 1,000 yards receiving and 11 touchdowns. Nicks was good in his rookie season and a whole lot better his second time around. His third season could be a charm; after a strong 2010 campaign, Nicks looks like a top 10 fantasy wide receiver candidate in 2011.

Stevie Johnson (Bills)
The Bills young receiver had a breakout 3rd season finishing 2010 with 82 receptions, over 1,000 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns. If the Bills can sustain some stability at the quarterback position with Ryan Fitzpatrick, Johnson could be in for another good season. He looks to be a top 20 fantasy receiver in 2011.

Mike Wallace (Steelers)
The Steelers big play threat catapulted his fantasy stock a big step closer to the top tier. His 1,200 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns make him an easy fantasy favorite to go early in 2011. Look for Wallace to be a top 10 fantasy receiver this summer.


Just my take

By David Ortega