FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

October 15th, 2016
Saturday Evening edition

Week 6 Fantasy Notes: Strong Plays?

Taking a look at the schedule for Sunday and reviewing some of the latest news and notes, I've come up with a couple of fantasy notes for Week 6.

There are reports already that running back James Starks is out for Sunday, making starter Eddie Lacy a posibly nice play for this week. Now the Cowboys present a tough matchup for Lacy (allow 4th fewest points to opposing running backs), but with no Starks to back him up he'll get plenty of chances and should get plenty of work. If no better options are available, Lacy should be in your lineup.

Since his return to the field, running back Chris Ivory has seen little action and only 21 touches in two games. Ivory is clearly the number two option as running back TJ Yeldon has emerged as more of the featured back in Jacksonville. Yeldon is averaging better than 16 touche in four games and is coming off his best performance in week 4; 71 yards rushing and 46 yards receiving. Yeldon has decent matchup on Sunday against the Bears and should be considering a low-end RB2.

One more note-worthy Sunday start is more of a sneaky play in tight end Vernon Davis. Starter Jordan Reed has already been ruled out and will miss action, opening the door for Davis. The former Niner tight end has not been utilized much this season, but could see considerable action this week. Davis is more of a week 6 flyer, but he has the talent and ability to make some noise for fantasy owners.

That's My Take.

~David G. Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Tuesday Edition
December 4th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

Alex Green Value on the Rise
The recent rumor circulating concerning the Packers backfield, running back James Starks could be done for the season. Starks suffered a knee injury on Sunday and the word going round is it could shut him down for the remainder of the season. This is all just speculation at this time, but if Starks is done running back Alex Green will lead the parade in the Packers backfield. It’s no secret the Packers throw the ball, so even running a solo show Green is no more than a safe flex.

Luck is a Lock for the Fantasy Post Season
The Colts quarterback Andrew Luck has scored no fewer than 15 fantasy points (standard scoring) in each of his last three starts, including 36 points last Sunday on the road against the Lions. This week Luck is at home (where he’s been consistent) and he is matching up against the Titans 25th ranked pass defense that allows the 8th most fantasy points to quarterbacks. Unless you have better options, Luck should be in your lineup this week.

Tight End Brandon Pettigrew Seeing More Action
The Lions have placed wide receiver Titus Young on injured reserve and with Ryan Broyles also on the IR, tight end Brandon Pettigrew will likely see more action going forward. Currently Pettigrew is second (by far) on the team with 99 targets this season and has been targeted 39 times in his last four games. The Lions face the Packers on Sunday night in what could likely turn out to be a shootout and another busy game for Pettigrew. The Lions tight end is a mid level TE1 this week and should be in your lineup.

Wide Receiver Dez Bryant Rising with the Cream
The Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant has emerged into a bonafide fantasy stud this season. Throughout the course of the season Bryant has had his nice games and solid outings, but in the last three weeks he’s elevated to a new platform among the elite. In his last three starts Bryant has caught 26 passes for 388 yards and five touchdowns; he’s also scored in four straight games. Bryant is a must start and top five WR right in time for the fantasy postseason.

Tight End Brandon Myers is in Play this Week
The Raiders tight end Brandon Myers is coming off a huge game in week 13 versus the Browns; 14 receptions, 130 yards receiving, and a touchdown. Myers has clearly become one of quarterback Carson Palmer’s favorite targets; 51 targets in his last five games. This week Myers will face the Broncos secondary that has proven to be susceptible to opposing tight ends. The Broncos allow the 2nd most fantasy points to tight ends and have surrendered 9 touchdowns. If you’ve been riding the Myers train recently, stay onboard, week 14 should be a good trip.

These are just a few of my takes for week 14.


By David Ortega

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: SFFL WEEK 11

Sunday Edition
November 18th, 2012  

Suicide Fantasy Football

Week 11

Week 10 was another moving day as my team posted a solid 106 points. My top scorers last week were quarterback Matthew Stafford (26.46 points), running back Frank Gore (20.50 points), and wide receiver Malcom Floyd (18.30 points). 

This week will offer a lot of favorable matchups for my players of choice and now sitting in the 12th spot this could be the week where my team cracks the top 10.

With my team set to make it’s move, here’s my lineup for week11;

My Line-up 

Quarterback:
With the Saints coming to town, quarterback Carson Palmer will continue to sling the rock all over the sandlot. Palmer is averaging over 50 passes and 390 yards passing in his last two starts. The Saints defense is ranked 31st against the pass (19 touchdowns allowed) and allow the most fantasy points to quarterbacks, this is the week to start Palmer if you have him.

Running Backs:
I have already played running back CJ Spiller (this was the week to start him) and his performance was not great, but did not disappoint with a 16 point effort.

My other ball carrier this week is the Packers running back James Starks. Green Bay is traveling to Detroit in what looks to have the making of a track meet, but Starks has earned the starting gig and should see the majority of carries for the Pack. The Pack will undoubtedly be able to move the ball today and Starks could get a couple of red zone carries. 

Wide Receivers:
Lining up wide for my squad is the Raiders wide receiver Denarius Moore. It only makes sense if the Saints are getting torched by quarterbacks they have to be throwing the ball to someone. If Palmer has a big game today, Moore is going to be a huge benefactor, especially with Heyward-Bey on the shelf today. The Saints also allow the most fantasy points to wide receivers.

My other pass catcher today is the Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith. The speedy wideout has a very nice matchup today facing the Buccaneers 32nd ranked pass defense. Smith was held to just one catch last week against the Broncos, so he’ll be looking to rebound today and should. The Buccaneers defense allow the 2nd most fantasy points to wide receivers and have surrendered the second most completions to wide outs.

Tight End:
I consider this my risky pick going with the Eagles tight end Brent Celek. What I like about Celek today, a rookie quarterback needs a safety blanket and Celek could be just that for quarterback Nick Foles. Celek will also matchup against the Redskins 30th pass defense that allows the 2nd most fantasy points to tight ends; hard to argue these numbers.

Place Kicker:
The Broncos have been rolling and they will be at home today. There’s no place like home and with quarterback Peyton Manning leading the charge the Broncos are sure to see plenty of scoring opportunities; hence my starting place kicker Matt Prater. In a divisional matchup today I expect to see the Broncos to take points when they are available and we could see Prater hitting several kicks today.

Team Defense:
The Jaguars just don’t have any weapons, especially with Maurice Jones-Drew sidelined and with the Texans in town, this is a matchup you can’t ignore. The Texans are coming off a great road win and at home today against the Jags seems like a no-brainer. The Jags offense also allows the 3rd most fantasy points.

These are my picks for week 11.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Thursday Edition
November 15th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

Nelson Set to Return on Sunday
The Packers wide receiver Jordy Nelson has been practicing this week and sounds like he’s ready to resume his roles as the team’s leading receiver. With Nelson back on the field, opposing defenses will have a tough time choosing their poison. Nelson remains a solid WR1 fantasy receiver and his return should also bump up the value of wide out Randall Cobb; consider Cobb a safe flex in week 11.

Jackson is Lining up for a Big Sunday
The Rams running back Steven Jackson is coming off his best performance of the season last Sunday against a stout Niners defense. Jackson carried the ball a season high 29 times for 101 yards and a touchdown. With the Jets 29th ranked run defense up next Jackson is looking like a great fantasy play for Sunday. The Jets allow the 9th most fantasy points to opposing running backs and have surrendered 9 touchdowns; Jackson is a must start.

Cutler Could Start Monday Night
Although quarterback Jay Cutler (concussion) has not participated in practice this week, there appears to be a chance he could start Monday night. Cutler was knocked out of last Sunday night’s contest against the Texans with a concussion. His chances of playing don’t look good, but even if he is able to suit up and make a go of it, this is a not a good week to roll with Cutler facing the Niners defense. The Niners allow the 4th fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks.

Starks set to Start Sunday for Packers
Running back James Starks was the team’s leading ball carrier back in week 9 toting the rock 17 times for 61 yards. Quietly he also started the game and will get the start again this Sunday. Starks is a bruiser and can pound the ball inside. He’s not likely to tear off any long scampers, but should see plenty of early down carries and could get a couple of red zone opportunities.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

December 16th, 2011, Friday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

Trends for your Championship run…

Ryan Grant’s stock on the rise…With running back James Starks currently slowed down with a bad wheel (ankle), even if he plays Grant figures to see the bulk of the work load on Sunday against the Chiefs 26th ranked run defense. Grant is coming off his best game of the season and looks to be strong bet to find pay-dirt for his second consecutive game and a nice chunk of yardage.

McGahee should be on your radar….depsite coming off a tough 34-yard rushing effort against the Bears in week 14, the Broncos running back Willis McGahee has eclipsed the century mark in two of his last three starts. On Sunday he’ll face the league’s 13th ranked run defense that was pummeled a week ago for 170 yards by the Redskins running game. Fantasy owners should look for McGahee to gash the Pats for some good numbers on the ground and at least one trip to the end-zone.

AJ Green ready to come alive…..after a quiet week 14 with just five catches for 59 yards, the Bengals rookie receiver looks primed to have a big game on Sunday against the Rams. Even with the leagues 8th ranked pass defense the Rams secondary was lit up a week ago by the Seahawks Tarvaris Jackson; 21 of 32 for 224 yards. Green is a much greater talent that what the Rams faced a week ago and seems to be the hot target for quarterback Andy Dalton; 18 targets in the last two weeks with many more on Sunday.

Garcon could be the man on Sunday…..while the Colts will be searching for their first win of the season at home on Sunday against the Titans, I am expect to see Dan Orlovsky to continue to heavily seek out Colts receiver Pierre Garcon. In the last two games that Orlovsky has started Garcon has caught 14 passes for 196 yards with two touchdowns on 24 targets. With Reggie Wayne on the other side, Garcon should once again be the man in the Colts passing attack.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

October 16th, 2011 Sunday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

Hightower Expected to Play?
The Redskins may have running back Tim Hightower available today and he could see some work, but the smart money will be on Ryan Torain to see the brunt. Coming off an impressive performance in week 4 by Torain, Hightower may have to take a backseat today. Likely with limited duty today, Hightower will have limited fantasy value in standard league; you may want to avoid.

Cowboys Offense at Full-strength
With their biggest matchup this season to date, the Cowboys will be traveling to Foxboro fully equipped with their best weapons. Both wide receivers Dez Bryant and Miles Austin will join tight end Jason Witten on the field today. This will be the first time the three have been healthy and on the field together since week one. Whether or not that will be enough firepower to match the explosive offense of the Patriots, we’ll have to wait and see, but it certainly upgrades quarterback Tony Romo to a “must-start” fantasy play this week.

Addai OUT, Carter and Brown to handle duties
With running back Joseph Addai sidelined today, back-ups (rookie) Delone Carter and Donald Brown will share the workload in the backfield. This could be a coin-flip for desperate fantasy owners looking for help at the running back position. The Bengals boast one of the league’s toughest run defenses and could make it tough for both backs all day. Only Carter could offer some hope in PPR leagues with his

Starks in line for a Good Day
The Packers will host the Rams today and running back James Starks could be in line for a big day. With the Rams allowing the third most fantasy points to running backs, expect Starks to benefit with a good day on the ground and a trip to paydirt.

A Quiet Harvin Could Make Noise Today
The Vikings playmaking wide receiver Percy Harvin has been relatively quiet this season with just 18 receptions and no touchdowns. With the Bears 27th ranked pass defense on the slate next, this could be Harvin’s coming out party. The Vikings will likely try to get the ball into Harvin’s hands many different ways. With the game plan likely focused around running back Adrian Peterson, expect some deception and play-action use to isolate Harvin into favorable matchups; if you have him, play him.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

October 7th, 2011 Friday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

Ryan Grant Cleared to Play
The James Starks (210 yards rushing) ERA could be put on hold for a bit with running back Ryan Grant cleared to play Sunday against the Falcons. For the better part of this young season Starks has looked like the dominant runner, until the old Grant showed up in week 3 (92 yards on 17 carries). Last week Grant was held out of action with a bruised kidney injury, but this Sunday he makes his return. His return and presence will affect Starks playing time, so fantasy owners should be advised if rolling with Starks.

Hernandez on track to Play Sunday
The Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez has been practicing and appears to be ready to return to action this week; it was noted that Hernandez has been moving around the team facility without a limp. With the Patriots offense ranked number one in passing if Hernandez (14 receptions, 2 touchdowns) is active on Sunday, he is a must play against the Jets.

Manning’s Fire Keeps Growing
While big brother is sidelined this season with injury, the Giants quarterback Eli Manning is doing his best to carry the family name. In the past three weeks Manning has thrown eight touchdowns with just one pick. With the league’s 14th ranked pass defense (Cardinals) coming to town, Manning is looking to keep his fire burning.

Bradshaw Could see a big load on Sunday
The Giants are likely to be without running back Brandon Jacobs on Sunday when they face the Cardinals, with Jacobs out Ahmad Bradshaw is expected to see a larger work-load. Bradshaw is averaging better than five yards per carry, but has not carried the ball more than 15 times in any game this season; this Sunday that could change.

Daniels Figures to see More Action
With the Texans missing Andre Johnson this week against the Raiders, someone will have to step up in the passing game; tight end Owen Daniels. Daniels has been relatively quiet this season, although he does have 10 receptions over the past two weeks and has scored three times this season. On Sunday Daniels will face the Raiders 22nd ranked pass defense.

Garcon Could Be a Nice Play in Week 5
The Colts offense is beginning to show some signs of life and one of its most lively components is wide receiver Pierre Garcon. In the past two weeks Garcon has seen a total of 18 targets and has benefitted greatly; 218 yards receiving with two touchdowns. This week the Colts will face the Chiefs 15th ranked pass defense and Garcon figures to see plenty of chances in the pass game; he could be a nice flex in week 5.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SUNDAY GAMETIME

October 2nd, 2011 Sunday

Sunday Morning Gametime

In a very short period 2011 has become not just the year of the quarterback, but the year of fantasy football. With scoring up all over the league, that can only mean one thing; more fantasy points all around. With the numbers up does it become more confusing than ever to know who to play or who to sit, perhaps, but you have to love it!

Watch-list

The Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick has been off to a sizzling start this season and he will take his act on the road to Cincinnati today; even though he is facing the Bengals 5th ranked pass defense don’t expect him to cool down. The Saints running back Darren Sproles has been electric thus far this season, he should keep the sparks flying today against the Jaguars. The Packers may get their fourth win of the season today, but it could be a tough day on the ground for running back James Starks.

Today’s quick notes:

Saints wide receiver Marques Colston is expected to be on the field today returning from his collarbone injury; if he’s on the field he will be good to go and will likely figure in the plan. He’s not in line for a monster game, but could still fill in as a nice flex for fantasy owners.

Tom Brady and the Patriots are on the road today to face the Oakland Raiders, don’t expect this one to be low-scoring. The Patriots will be in for a slugfest with the last man standing the winner. In week one Brady tossed up a big five bills in the air, we could see that again today facing the Raiders 28th ranked pass defense. Fantasy owners should play all of the Patriots receivers and keep your eye on Ochocinco; this could be his breakout game.

The Eagles wide receiver Jeremy Maclin (hamstring) is expected to start today and could be in line for a rebound game. After his breakout week 2 performance, Maclin hit the snooze button last week against the Giants. The Niners are ranked a decent 16th against the pass, but Jackson on the other side, they don’t have the secondary to match up. As long as Vick stays upright, Maclin could get loose today.

The Texans defense has only recorded seven sacks through the team’s first three games. Houston’s secondary is going to have to worry about wide receiver Mike Wallaces’ speed, if Big Ben is give time, he could pick apart the secondary for big numbers. Wallace is sure to draw a lot of double teams downfield opening the middle for 2nd year receiver Antonio Brown, who has seen a steady share of targets through the first three weeks; he’s a safe WR3 or flex play today.


My Picks Today

My “Four Horsemen”

Last week was brutal with Philip Rivers, Michael Turner and DeSean Jackson all pulling the disappearing act. This week will be my turnaround.

Tom Brady; It’s tough to pick against the Patriots when coming off a loss, so I won’t. Brady could be in for a huge day today against the Raiders 28th ranked defense. Black Hole or not, I am looking for Tom to put the ball in the air often.

Adrian Peterson; The Vikings need to get in the win column and they won’t mess around trying to do anything but what they do best; give the rock to “All-Day.” Peterson should see plenty of work and should find the end-zone a couple of times.

Steve Johnson; The Bills offense has been high octane through the first three weeks and today against the Bengals I wouldn’t expect it to come down. Johnson has emerged as one of the leagues best receivers (Top 15) and today he will continue to showcase why.

Jimmy Graham; Brees loves his tightend and why not; Graham has been solid this season 14 receptions, including two scores. Last week the Jaguars allowed 10 receptions and nearly 100 yards receiving to the Panthers tight end; today could be a big day for Graham.

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

October 1st, 2011 Saturday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

Austin close, but will miss Sunday
We already knew that Austin would be sitting this Sunday against the Lions, but its good news for fantasy owners to hear that he is getting close. Austin said he could play in week 5, if the Cowboys had a game. The bad news with him sitting, the boys will be short-handed again and could see a lot of the same (as we saw on Monday night) from their make-shift receiving corp; not good for quarterback Tony Romo fantasy owners.

Vick expecting to Play on Sunday
The Eagles dynamic quarterback announced earlier this week he will be on the playing field this Sunday despite all of his recent injuries; should fantasy owners be worried? The Niners are stingy against the run this season, so the Eagles will have to throw, but fortunately for Vick fantasy owners they do not do a great job at getting after the quarterback (they are OK). Also, an anemic 49er offense will allow the Vick and the Eagles to be patient with the run and pass.

Newton coming down to Earth?
It’s funny, after his astronomical start this season, the prospects of Cam Newton continuing his electrifying play look more and more difficult with each week. After his struggles last week (even though the Panthers won) against the Jaguars last Sunday, he will be facing a tough Bears defense (8 sacks this season) that could present a lot of problems for him in the pocket. With players like Urlacher and Briggs bringing the heat, Newton could be looking at a long day; owners may want to reconsider their options.

McNabb looking to get out of the Gate
The Vikings are 0-3 and quarterback Donovan McNabb has only thrown two touchdown passes in his three starts. If things don’t turn around soon for McNabb, he will soon find himself holding a clip-board on the sideline. Fortunately for McNabb and the Vikings they will get the Chiefs (ranked 30th against the pass) defense on Sunday, that have allowed 13 pass plays of 20 yards or more. This won’t guarantee a huge fantasy day for McNabb (look for other options), but success in the air could compliment a big day from the Vikings ground game.

Starks gearing up to start against the Broncos.
The Packers will be without running back Ryan Grant on Sunday when they host Denver, but they will have James Starks who will likely be the featured back in their ground game. Before fantasy owners jump on board the Starks bandwagon, they had better take a look at last Sunday’s matchup between the Broncos and Titans; CJ2K was limited to only 21 yards on 13 carries. Johnson may be feeling the hangover from his hold-out, but then Starks is no CJ2K. Starks should still produce decent numbers (65-75 yards on the ground), but if you are looking for a big game, you might want to look elsewhere.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: WATERCOOLER CHAT

September 28th, 2011, Wednesday

Watercooler Chat

Waiver Wire

The wide receiver position in fantasy leagues does not appear to be exceptionally deep this season, so if you are in search of help you may have to look high and low. Normally when looking high you might find depth with teams like the Saints and Patriots, but with both turning to their tight ends more in 2011, searching low may be the way to go.

One of the low places to look could be in Seattle where the Seahawks saw the return of their premiere wide out Sidney Rice. There is some concern at the quarterback position for fantasy owners with (Tarvaris) Jackson under center, but in Rice’s first game back he was targeted 10 times and caught eight passes for over 100 yards. Remember Jackson and Rice have some familiarity playing together in Minnesota and tat already appears to be apparent with two connecting often on Sunday. Rice may struggle to turn in those big games from week to week, but he looks to be a safe WR3 or flex with plenty of upside.

Another struggling passing game where owners may find some light could be in Minnesota with wide receiver Michael Jenkins. The former Falcon was never the go-to receiver, but he is showing lots of potential with the Vikings and is quickly becoming (Donovan) McNabb’s favorite target (17 targets this season ties for team lead). Surprisingly Jenkins is showing sure hands this season nabbing 15 of those targets and with his great speed he has big play capability. He’s a fantasy diamond in the rough, but if you are desperate for help he’s a low risk, high reward as a WR3 or flex play.

“Take of the Week”

There’s no question that if he’s available on the waiver wire, one of this weeks’ best take (out) is Packers running back James Starks. After a disappointing performance last Sunday against the Bears, Starks could be in line for a prime start against the Bronco’s shaky defense. The latest news reports are indicating running back Ryan Grant (bruised kidney) could miss week 4, if he misses that could open the door to a big game for Starks.


Watch List

With the loss of stud receiver Kenny Britt, the Titans have a big void to fill in their passing attack. This week the time inked a deal with former Rams receiver Donnie Avery. Now I am not saying Avery is the answer and will fill that void, but if Avery is healed from his past knee injuries, once he returns to football shape he could give the Titan’s their big-playmaker and deep threat they lost with Britt’s injury. And with a savvy veteran like (Matt) Hasselbeck under center, Avery’s fantasy status could also benefit.

Time for the ”dump”

The Raiders are playing good football at the moment, showing lots of balance with a strong ground game and steady passing attack. With all that is going well in Oakland, there seems to be a missing component or contributor to the success; wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey. DHB has hardly been in the mix and even with all the great speed he possesses, he just can’t seem to get out of the starting gate. In three weeks DHB has only caught five passes and was only targeted three times last Sunday (finished with one catch). As the Raiders continue to roll and get better, the more likely it appears DHB will be left behind. If you invested any confidence in Heyward-Bey this summer, now may be the time to part ways and look elsewhere for help at receiver.

Just My take.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: PLAY OR PASS

September 8TH, 2011 Thurssday


PLAY OR PASS


Saints versus Packers

There’s not a whole lot of thinking required in tonight’s matchup for fantasy owners. When you have two of the league’s premier offenses taking the field; you have to start just about everyone don’t you?

That may be par for the course, but for the most part it is true. There’s not a whole lot of down side to starting any Packer or Saint in tonight’s marquee matchup. When you look at both offenses, they stock a lot of weapons and plenty of ammo.

Both quarterback Drew Brees and quarterback Aaron Rodgers are locks in fantasy lineups with expectations of big games for both. Their targets may differ slightly, but both will have plenty of options to choose from.

PLAY

It doesn’t take a genius to dissect the strong plays for tonight, so I will keep it simple.

For the Saints, rookie running back Mark Ingram should enjoy a productive night with the absence of defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins (now in Philly). Even Pierre Thomas could be effective catching a few balls out of the backfield, while taking a couple from inside the five. Wide receiver Marques Colston and tight end Jimmy Graham will see plenty of targets tonight and should post strong numbers for fantasy owners.

The Packers boast plenty of playmakers with wide receiver Greg Jennings and tight end Jermichael Finley leading the way. Rodgers will have no trouble spreading the ball around to his many weapons, so do not forget wide out Jordy Nelson who came up big last season in the playoffs.

PASS

Stay away from both defenses; both the Saints and Packers will rack up yardage and post big numbers on the scoreboard. Wide receiver Lance Moore is out, so make sure he’s on your bench. Packer’s wide receiver James Jones has been banged up and could be a little rusty, it also doesn’t help that he has slid behind Driver and Nelson on the depth chart.

The Saints don’t have a great run stopping defense, but then again the Packers are not known to run the ball very well (ranked 24th in 2010). Neither Ryan Grant nor James Starks appear to be a leading candidate, expect to see both receive an equal share of touches tonight. What that means for owners, low productivity and likely no rushing touchdowns.

Just my take.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: FANTASY FOOTBALL NOTES

September 7TH, 2011 Wednesday

FANTASY FOOTBALL NOTES

We are less than one day away from the official start of the 2011 NFL season. Even though most fantasy drafts should be complete by this point, it’s still worth taking a look and quick peek into most backfields to see what ball carriers will rise, fall, and emerge this season. Here’s my run on this year’s running backs.

Let’s just put the argument to rest, when you start at the top, you have to start with Adrian Peterson. He seems to be the consensus number one is most every league I have seen. He’s a feature back, has no serious injury concerns heading into the season, and has scored 54 touchdowns in four seasons. AP will lead the pack, but running backs Chris Johnson, Jamaal Charles, Arian Foster, and Ray Rice are not far behind.

From there you will get into the MJD’s, LeSean McCoy’s and Peyton Hillis’ who will round out the top 20 to 25. Once we get into the third and fourth tier of running backs , the talent pool will shallow out, and that’s when you have to start doing some digging.

DEEP IN THE BACKFIELD

It’s been what seems like a very short and very quick preseason, but in the four weeks of action one running back in a crowded backfield in Washington has really caught my eye; Tim Hightower. He’s certainly not the cream of the crop, but he has been impressive thus far and in a Shanahan “run-system” he could really fare well. Hightower averaged nearly seven yards per carry facing mostly first string defenses and his versatility as a pass catcher (63 receptions in 2009) could find him spending quite of bit of time on the field. He’s not going to be a feature back, but he looks like a good call to see the lion’s share of work; at least early in the season.

Another ball carrier that has turned my head is the Bronco’s third year running back Knowshon Moreno. Now most folks figure with the arrival of John Fox, the Bronco’s offense is going to become more of a ground attack, but the addition of Willis McGahee does not necessarily mean a time-share. In Carolina Fox had two relative young backs to feed the rock, but in Denver McGahee enters his 9th season and does not figure to step into an expanded role. Moreno has been impressive this preseason and has a well balanced skill-set in the run and pass game. He may lose a few short-yardage and goal line carries to McGahee, but he still figures to see plenty of work. If he can stay healthy, he’s easily a top 15 back this season.

The Packers have the luxury of healing in the offseason, but for running back Ryan Grant that may not be enough. Last season 2nd year back James Starks stepped up and played well for the Pack in the post season and could very well figure into the team’s plans this season. From what I have read, heard, and seen I would not be surprised to see Starks starting at some point this season and more likely sooner than later.

Along with these potential diamonds in the rough, a couple of kids I would watch heavily leading into week one, Bernard Scott of the Bengals and rookie Stevan Ridley of the Patriots. Both teams don’t have a clear cut dominant runner that they will lean on heavily and both these kids could just be hungry enough to work their way into the spotlight.

If Benson can’t keep his name out of the paper in non-related football news, Scott’s time could come much sooner than expected. The team sounds like they are very high on Ridley; the power back just needs to keep “doing the right things” and his time will come.

There aren’t too many names that I am necessarily down on this year, but as good as Saints running back Mark Ingram is, I am not buying all that cool-aid that is being sold. Ingram is going to be productive this season, but I am just not so sure that Pierre Thomas is done. As long as Thomas is healthy, he’ll remain an integral part of the offense as well. That’s just my thoughts on that subject and these are my takes in the backfield.

By David Ortega