FSH: TUESDAY (FOOTBALL) TALK

December 29th, 2009 9:37pm PST

FOOTBALL TALK

Looking under the hood of

Week 16

Ego's aside, the Vikings need to let Favre lead...

The proof is definitely in the pudding and if you cared to take a taste last night watching Monday night football, you would come to the same conclusion. The Vikings need to cater the offense around what Favre can do. In a methodical run first offensive approach the Vikings mounted no offensive threat; 82 total yards (53 rushing, 36 passing) and four first downs. In the second half the Vikings were a different team with more purpose led by Brett Favre. In the second half he led the team to 30 points, completing 21 of 31 passes for 285 yards and two touchdowns. Another big stat; first half rushing, 14 carries for 53 yards and second half rushing, 19 carries for 70 yards and two scores.

So much for poor play in December....

The Cowboys entered the month of December being highly criticized for their so-called past failures during the holiday season. And the one player being most scrutinized for these shortcomings was their quarterback Tony Romo. After dropping their first two games in December the critics were relentless, and Romo was caught in the middle, but he could hardly be faulted for poor play. Since the two losses the Cowboys rebounded with impressive wins over the Saints and Redskins. When you look over Romo's play the past month, seven touchdowns, 300 yards passing per game, and no turnovers he's been as good as good gets. He's been as big a reason for the Cowboys success this season and being in their current position. In their Week 17 season finale they'll face the Eagles for all the marbles; NFC East Division title and a shot at the second seed in the NFC (a first round bye). So much for Romo's poor play.

Riding Warner into the post season.....

The Cardinal's head coach Ken Whisenhunt may be conservative by nature coming from his early coaching roots in Pittsburgh, but he's no gambler. It appears he likes the sure thing like the rest of us. Against the Rams he let his veteran quarterback Kurt Warner sling the rock early and often to build the early lead. In the first half Warner tossed the pigskin 23 times for 216 yards and connected on two scores to put the Cards out front 17-0 at the half. With the big lead Warner only needed 15 passes in the second half, conversely the ground game was quiet with 13 runs in the first half and got most of its work in the second half (16 run plays). We'd expect to see more of this formula going into the post season.

More fantasy Notes

"Late Season Heroes"

With the chance to play more, the Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart has the most of his opportunity. With starter DeAngelo Williams (ankle) sidelined, Stewart has started the last two weeks and totaled 315 yards on the ground with two rushing touchdowns. He's also added four receptions for another 30 yards and a score. With a meaningless season finale it's hard to imagine Williams suiting up if his ankle is less than 100 percent, against the Saints (who may rest some starters) Stewart could have another field day.

The Cowboys may have found that missing piece that will help their passing game stay off the ground in the post season. Over the past five weeks Austin has returned to that form that burst onto the scene in weeks 5 & 7. In his last five games the Cowboys big play threat is averaging over seven catches and 110 yards per game with a total of four touchdowns. He's easily Romo's favorite downfield threat.

Jerome Harrison has emerged as a late season hero with his big performances over the past two weeks. The Browns running back has rushed for over 430 yards in his last two games as the team’s starter and added four touchdowns. While his big numbers have come against poor run defenses, the totals are still staggering and enough to move him (if he's the starter in Cleveland) up the rankings some for next season.

Continuing his bounce back season the Ravens tight end Todd Heap has really come on the last couple of weeks as a big-time red-zone target. In his last two games Heap has been targeted four times in the red-zone and has scored on all four plays. For the season Heap has 51 receptions, 551 yards receiving, and six touchdowns; all big improvements from last season. Expect to see his number called again on Sunday against the Raiders.

There's no question that one of this season's biggest late season hero has been the Chief's running back Jamaal Charles. For those owners that were lucky to nab him just before the fantasy playoffs, they were able to ride his hot foot right through their league post season. In weeks 14-16 (most fantasy leagues playoffs); Charles averaged 19 fantasy points (399 yards rushing, 76 yards receiving, & two rushing touchdowns). Not a bad late run for a backup running back when the season started.

By David Ortega

Check back every Tuesday for more “Tuesday (Football) Talk”

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FANTASY FOOTBALL HEADLINES

December 27th, 2009 9:37pm PST

Sunday Night FF Headlines

Who is now making Fantasy News?

Keep track of which players are making noise

[fantasy points based on traditional scoring]

HENNE THROW FOR 300 YARDS.....

The Dolphins pretty much abandoned the run game and turned to the air with quarterback Chad Henne. The second year quarterback passed the ball 55 times completing 35 for 322 yards and a touchdown. (16 fantasy points)

STEWART HAS BIG DAY ON THE GROUND....

The Panthers second year running back Jonathan Stewart making his second consecutive start turned in another big effort. Stewart carried the ball 28 times for 206 yards rushing, including a 29-yard scamper for six. (27 fantasy points)

HARRISON RUNS THROUGH THE DEFENSE....

The Browns running back Jerome Harrison followed up his big Week 15 effort with another solid day on the ground on Sunday. Harrison rushed 39 times for 148 yards with a touchdown to lead the Browns. (20 fantasy points)

WILLIAMS HAS BIG DAY FOR BUCS....

The Buccaneers running back Carnell Williams ran well against the Saints run defense on Sunday gaining over 100 yards on the ground. Williams carried the ball a season high 24 times for his first 100-yard game since November of 2006. Cadillac also added a 23 yard scoring run. (19 fantasy points)

HEAP SCORES TWICE IN LOSS....

The Ravens tight end Todd Heap continues to be a big red-zone threat this season adding a couple of more scores in Week 16. Heap caught just two passes for 37 yards, but both were for touchdowns. Heap now has six touchdowns this season, including four in his last two games. (15 fantasy points)

Some IDP Fantasy Newsmakers…

SCHOBEL GOING OUT WITH BANG....

After announcing that he is probably going to retire after this season the Bills defensive end turned in one heck of a day on Sunday. Schobel finished with three sacks and two forced fumbles. Now this is the way to exit the game, in dominant fashion. The Bills host the Colts next Sunday in their season finale.

WOODLEY IS A DIFFERENCE MAKER....

The Steelers linebacker was instrumental making plays on Sunday in the defending champions big home win over the Ravens. Woodley recorded seven tackles with two sacks and a forced fumble to lead the defense.

By David Ortega

Check back every Sunday for more “Sunday Night FF Headlines!”

FSH: WATERCOOLER CHAT

December 24th, 2009 - 11:05pm PST

Watercooler Chat

A Wireless Week

For most computer geeks wireless is usually a very good thing, but for fantasy owners it means you have to roll with what you got; sometimes that's not so good. If you're stuck with few choices, but have a chance to tap into the free market here's what our good buddy Wayne "The Wire" Bosco has to offer...

Wayne says...

It's always better to play the hot hand, rather than a cold one which could be the case this week. With Jerome Harrison coming off a career day 286 yards on the ground and set to face a questionable Raiders run defense (ranked 28th against the run), those are plenty of reasons to jump on the Brown's running back's milk-truck. Harrison has not done a whole lot in 2009, but he made a loud statement last week and it's a good bet that the Brown's coaching staff was listening. He should be featured quite a bit on Sunday and could be very good play against Oakland. This game is going to lack a lot of great defense, so there should be plenty of big plays on offense from both sides; including Mr. Harrison.

The Titan's will have a difficult matchup on Friday night against the San Diego Chargers, but there's no question two of the biggest keys for Tennessee will be Chris Johnson and Vince Young. What some folks may not be aware of, rookie wide receiver Kenny Britt will also be a huge key for the Titans. While Britt has cooled off some the past couple of weeks, he'll be an important instrument in the Titans success. With the Charger's starting corners preoccupied with Tennessee's other receivers (Gage, Washington), Britt is going to see some favorable coverages and should be targeted quite a bit in this one. When Young has looked for Britt, the kid has been big with three touchdowns in his last five games and facing the explosive Chargers the Titans will have to throw the ball.

The Colts are not going to head into this Week 16 matchup lightly and if Peyton Mannng has any say, they will play to win. This week's matchup with the Jets will present many challenges, but with New York’s shutdown corner Darrelle Revis pretty much locking up with Reggie Wayne the Colts second year wideout Pierre Garcon could be big. Garcon starting opposite Wayne has played well when called on this season has been quiet the past couple of weeks, but could become a primary weapon against the Jets. Last week Garcon saw only two throws in his direction, but in his six games prior he saw no fewer than eight (averaging more than nine). This should be a matchup for the Colts second year wideout that gets him back on track.

Waynes Weekly "Friendly Word for the wise"...

The Niners are basically playing for pride now, but their quarteback could be playing for a whole lot more; a strong finish. Quarterback Alex Smith has not quite sold the idea he's the team's future, but a strong finish could go a long way. With the rookie Michael Crabtree one of his favorite and best targets, it safe to say he (Crabtree) will likely play a big part in the success of the passing game down the stretch. A late arrival this season Crabtree has been a very positive addition to the team's passing attack and with his quarterback looking to make a statement, expect Crabtree to be a huge beneficiary. Despite playing in just nine games Crabtree is amongst the team leaders in receptions, yards, and touchdowns for wide receivers. With Smith continuing to call his number, expect the rookie to see his numbers greatly improve.

Player Watch for Week 15

Once again here a few players of note that fantasy owners should consider riding or hiding for the coming weekend of games. Keep these players on your watchlist, you just may want to give them a hard look come Sunday;

(Start) Jermichael Finley

The Packer's tight end has been better than consistent with 21 receptions and three touchdowns in his last three games. He's a huge target in the red-zone and quarterback Aaron Rodgers is looking his direction more and more.

(Start) Vince Young

The Titans quarterback Vince Young has been a fantasy keeper over the past several weeks averaging more than 20 fantasy points in his last three starts, including three touchdown passes last week. There's no reason to believe he shouldn't do more of the same against the Chargers 15th ranked defense on Christmas night.

(Sit) Thomas Jones

As reliable and solid as running back Thomas Jones has been all season, this game could simple be a case where he just won't get any opportunity. The Colts offense is just so impressive they could easily turn the Jets offense to one dimensional by jumping out big real quick. Thomas is likely a long shot to see more than 15 carries in this one.

(Start) Michael Bush

The Raiders running back Michael Bush has to love his chances this Sunday against the Browns defense after watching highlights of Jamaal Charles shredding it for 150 yards on the ground. Bush is coming off a season high effort of 133 yards of his own and should do well in Cleveland.

(Sit) Knowshon Moreno

The Broncos backfield will likely be a little crowded on Sunday with the return of running back Correll Buckhalter. With the Eagles 10th ranked run defense on the slate fantasy owners shouldn't expect a great effort from rookie running back Knowshon Moreno.

(Start) Pierre Thomas

The Saints lost their bid on perfection, but they won't just lay down the rest of the way. They need to get back to winning with their balanced attack and with Buccaneers (ranked 30th against the run) in town Pierre Thomas should be featured even more on the ground this Sunday.

Check back every week for more "Watercooler Chat"

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FANTASY FOOTBALL HEADLINES

December 21st, 2009 8:37pm PST

Sunday Night FF Headlines

Who is now making Fantasy News?

Keep track of which players are making noise

[fantasy points based on traditional scoring]

QB-Ben Roethlisberger goes nuts on Sunday....

The Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has a fantasy game like very few have ever seen passing for more than 500 yards, completing 29 passes, and throwing three touchdowns to lead the Steelers and undoubtedly earn a few fantasy owners a win. (38 fantasy points)

QB-Aaron Rodgers has a huge Sunday.....

The Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers had himself a very nice Sunday outing passing for over 380 yards against the Steelers and throwing three touchdowns, unfortunately he was matched up against Big Ben. (33 fantasy points)

RB-Jerome Harrison has nearly a record day.....

The Browns running back Jerome Harriosn nearly had one for the record books, although his performance will rank among the very best all-time. Harrison carried the ball a game-high (and season high) 34 times for 286 yards on the ground (8.4 yards per carry). Harrison also added three scores to lead the Browns to a rare win. (47-fantasy points)

RB-Jamaal Charles continues to run wild....

The Chiefs running back is quickly cementing himself as a 2010 preseason fantasy favorite with one strong performance after another. Charles carried the ball 25 times on Sunday against the Browns and rushed for 154 yards including a score. It was his fourth straight game with a rushing touchdown. (21-fantasy points)

WR-Steve Smith: Dynamite in small package....

The Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith turned in a dominant performance Sunday night against the Vikings secondary. Smith caught nine passes for 157 yards and a touchdown to lead the Sunday night upset. (21-fantasy points)

WR-Andre Johnson; simply a beast....

The Texans Pro Bowl receiver Andre Johnson had another big Sunday catching nine balls for 196 yards receiving in the Texans Week 16 victory over the Rams. (19-fantasy points)

Notable IDP Fantasy Newsmakers…

The Patriots outside linebacker Tully Banta-Cain had a huge impact Sunday recording three sacks in the teams win over the Bills. Banta-Cain finished the afternoon with six total tackles in the winning effort.

The Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware returned to action on Saturday night against the Saints after being knocked out of a Week 14 matchup with the Giants with a neck sprain. For the Cowboys his return was huge and for the Saints unfortunate. Ware led a huge defensive effort recording two sacks and two forced fumbles in the Cowboys win that ended the Saints perfect season.

By David Ortega

Check back every Sunday for more “Sunday Night FF Headlines!”

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (CARRYING THE LOAD)

October 9th, 2009 10:37pm PST

THE FANTASY FIXX

Carrying the Load: Week Five

With so many teams employing the dreaded running back by committee, it becomes difficult to determine if there are any featured backs left and even trickier to decide is if either committee-back is truly worth a weekly start. These are never easy questions to answers, but with a little research, the proof is always in the numbers.

While his numbers have not been solid this season, make no mistake at least for the time being Kevin Smith is the featured running back in Detroit. His 93 touches ranks fourth this season and his three rushing touchdowns have kept him a decent fantasy start this season.

Running out of option in your backfield, consider a back like Ricky Williams. Over in Miami, while Ronnie Brown takes the brunt of the load running the ball, Williams is still seeing his fair share of work with 61 touches this season.

Thus far is this early season, we haven’t seen the production you would expect from an elite runner, but there’s no question Steven Jackson is getting all the chances to breakout. Through the first four weeks this season he leads all running backs with 103 plays. He’s had some good production this season, but faces a stiff test against the Vikings on Sunday. One important thing to note; if he stays healthy and keeps getting the rock, he’s eventually going to get numbers and better later than sooner.

The Busy man….

Last Sunday in his first start as a rookie running back Glenn Coffee saw plenty of opportunity with 31 touches. In his past two games Coffee has been the primary option in 57 plays and this week could see him featured as much against the Falcons 25th ranked run defense. Coffee has only averaged 64 yards on the ground the past two weeks, but Sunday he’ll see a defense that is allowing 4.7 yards per rushing attempt.

It’s still unknown if running back Jamal Lewis will be available on Sunday, but backup Jerome Harrison is seeing plenty of action in his absence. In Harrison’s past two starts for the Brown’s he’s had a total of 59 plays and totaled 237 yards of offense. With Lewis a big question mark, Harrison is in line to see plenty of work against the Bills 27th ranked run defense.

Despite the recent success of Raven’s running back Willis McGahee (7 total touchdowns) coming off the bench, normal starter Ray Rice continues to carry most of the load and be a safe option. This season Rice has seen 73 plays in four games and is averaging 107 yards of offense per game. With his six yards per carry average ranking him near the top in the league and 16 receptions this season, Rice’s great versatility makes it easier for the Ravens to put the ball in his hands.

Their time could be coming…

With his first career start expected this Sunday against the Patriots, rookie running back Knowshon Moreno looks primed for his time to come now. Normally splitting carries in the Denver backfield, Moreno has been limited to 64 plays in four games. With starter Correll Buckhalter sidelined, it appears the rookie is in line to see an increase in his workload this week.

It’s no secret that the Chiefs running back Larry Johnson has fallen for favor with fantasy owners, but despite his unimpressive start this season, something should be noted. Johnson ranks in the top 10 this season with 82 plays and in his last three starts he’s averaged 23 plays. If L.J. has anything left, he’s getting plenty of opportunity to show it and Sunday he’ll face the Cowboy’s 18th ranked run defense.

It hasn’t been a great start this season for running back Ryan Grant with only 257 yards rushing and a 3.8 yards per carry average. For the moment nothing has been attributed to his slow start, other than just not finding the holes. He may not be seeing the creases just yet, but Grant is getting plenty of opportunity to look with 78 plays this season. So long as the Packers keep feeding Grant the ball, he should eventually produce.

The Most Utilized

Plays included running or catching the ball, as well as being the intended receiver of a pass. Here is the breakdown for fantasy running backs logging the most work (plays) and staying busy this season;

Through four weeks:

Top-30 Running backs (Plays)

Rk Player Team………………….Plays
1 Steven Jackson, RB, STL..……103
2 Fred Jackson, RB, BUF ……….…95
3 Cedric Benson, RB, CIN…….…..94
4 Kevin Smith, RB, DET………..….93
5 Adrian Peterson, RB, MIN….….92
6 Chris Johnson, RB, TEN………..90
7 Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, JAX.89
8 Matt Forte, RB, CHI……………...87
9 Brandon Jacobs, RB, NYG……..86
10 Larry Johnson, RB, KC..…….….82
11 Ronnie Brown, RB, MIA………..80
12 Ryan Grant, RB, GB..………….…78
13 Clinton Portis, RB, WAS………..78
14 Steve Slaton, RB, HOU………….75
15 Ray Rice, RB, BAL..………………73
16 Glen Coffee, RB, SF…….……….69
17 Julius Jones, RB, SEA………….69
18 Michael Turner, RB, ATL………67
19 Joseph Addai, RB, IND.…………66
20 Jerome Harrison, RB, CLE……66
21 Knowshon Moreno, RB, DEN...64
22 Thomas Jones, RB, NYJ………..64
23 Darren McFadden, RB, OAK.….61
24 Leon Washington, RB, NYJ…...61
25 Ricky Williams, RB, MIA.……….61
26 Reggie Bush, RB, NO…………….59
27 Darren Sproles, RB, SD………….59
28 Tim Hightower, RB, ARI………..57
29 Willie Parker, RB, PIT……………56
30 DeAngelo Williams, RB, CAR…54

Check back every week for more “Fantasy Fixx”

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (STUDS AND DUDS)

October 7th, 2009 11:37pm PST

Earners and Bums
(Studs & Duds)

Don ‘Shula’ Lombardi
“The Collector”
(courtesy of the Fantasy Football Gang)

Now that we’ve entered the 5th week of the 2009 fantasy football season, it’s time for “The Collector” to make his weekly rounds and let everyone on Fantasy Football Boulevard know who is earning their keep and who’s not carrying their weight.

After once again reviewing the books and checking the balance sheets, here were the week four money earners (studs) bring home the cash and the dead-beat bums (duds) short changing fantasy owners;

The Earners (Studs)
(Note: Not your normal stars/check the wire)


The Jaguar’s quarterback David Garrard was bank this past Sunday completing 27 of 37 passes for 323 yards with three touchdowns in the team’s win.

The Lion’s running back Kevin Smith didn’t find too many holes on Sunday against a tough Bears run defense. He rushed for only 30 yards, but when he did find a crease he made it count scoring twice.

The Bronco’s quarterback Kyle Orton was money on Sunday against the Cowboys, completing 20 of 29 passes for 243 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions.

The Titan’s rookie wide receiver Kenny Britt brought home some bacon last Sunday in the team’s loss catching seven passes for 105 yards.

The Raven’s second year running back Ray Rice earned his keep last week against the Patriots rushing the ball 11 times for 103 yards and catching five passes for another 49 yards.

The Giant’s third year receiver Steve Smith was cash-money this past Sunday against the an over-whelmed Chiefs defense hauling in 11 passes for 134 yards and two touchdowns.

The Niner’s quarterback Shaun Hill scored some pocket coin on Sunday against the Rams completing only 14 of 24 passes for 152 yards, but also tossing two touchdowns.

Sidney RiceThe Viking’s third year receiver Sidney Rice is earning his keep with a solid Monday night showing of five catches for 70 yards and a touchdown.

The Jaguar’s wide receiver Mike Sims-Walker was money last Sunday against the Titans catching seven passes on the afternoon for 91 yards and two big scores.

The Browns running back Jerome Harrison getting a chance to start brought in some big coin last week against the Bengal’s defense rushing for 121 yards and adding five catches for another 31 yards.

The Bums (Duds)
(Note: We expect more from these guys/be careful starting)

The Cowboys TMZ star quarterback Tony Romo was less than impressive last week passing for 255 yards with no touchdowns and one interception.

The Jet’s rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez was less than sensational last Sunday against a Saint’s defense that had him completely throttled to the tune of four turnovers.

The Bronco’s second year receiver Eddie Royal has been playing a disappearing act this season and last week he could hardly be found finishing the day with only two catches for 16 yards.

The Cowboy’s wide receiver Roy E. Williams was not only a non-factor last Sunday with only three catches, but he was non-existent in the critical moments down the stretch.

Sunday night against a tough Steeler defense running back LaDanian Tomlinson was rusty and completely ineffective rushing for only 15 yards on seven carries.

The Chiefs former superstar running back Larry Johnson has not been a reliable money-man in sometime, but 18 carries for only 53 yards last week will not get it done.

The Saint’s big playmaking wide receiver Marques Colston made few plays last Sunday finishing the game with only two catches for 33 yards.

The Packer’s wide receiver Greg Jennings was a disappoint this past Monday night finishing the game with just three catches for 31 yards.

The Buccaneer’s tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. was a non-factor this past weekend finishing this past Sunday’s action with only two receptions for 21 yards.

By David Ortega

Check back for more weekly “Earners and Bums”

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH)

October 7th, 2009 11:37pm PST

The Fantasy Sports Zone

“Diamonds in the Rough”

(Fantasy Sleepers)

Players you should watch and few to grab!
With our continued watch from week to week, the search continues for those select gems that look primed and ready to breakout at a moments notice. With four weeks now history, we’ve had a good look at plenty of possibilities, but only a handful this week show the real promise some owners may have to bank on to keep their season heading in the right direction.

Whether you are riding high on a four week winning streak or just hoping to stop the bleeding you need to know which players will offer your team the best chances at securing a win in week five. With notable offenses like the Saints and Packers on bye this week, many owners are going to be searching long and hard for some temporary relief;

This week’s gems…

In Green Bay….
No longer in the rough, this diamond appears ready to shine now. Monday night was just a glimpse of what some believe the Packer’s tight end Jermichael Finley can do. Now that his coming out party has passed, count on seeing more of this kid in weeks ahead. At 6’6” and athletic, there’s no question Rodgers will be looking his way more and count on this 2nd year tight end to see plenty of looks in the Redzone.

In Cleveland….
With the Browns finally showing up to play in week four one of the brighter spots on Sunday was the play of running back Jerome Harrison. Now Harrison may not be a favorable long term option, but for the moment his shine is brilliant. Coming off a career day, 29 carries and 121 yards rushing Harrison is looking at a good matchup for week 5 against the Bills 27th ranked run defense that is allowing 4.8 yards per carry. Harrison might not have another career day, but the prospects of having a good one look bright. He’ll be a hit and miss from week to week with matchups being a consideration, but he’s shown much ability and great promise.

In Denver….
He’s hardly put up the numbers of a starting fantasy running back, but already we’ve seen the signs of rookie Knowshon Moreno’s greatness. In his first four games he’s yet to bust the century mark, but consistently he’s been getting the touches. With starter Correll Buckhalter sideline, this could be Moreno’s time to shine. In his last three games he’s averaged 19 touches and leads the team with 60 carries. This unpolished gem has tremendous talent and ability and is poised to become a star; something many figured would come later, but it appears his time is now.

In New York….
The team’s newest acquisition wide receiver Braylon Edwards could be a featured component in the Jets aerial attack Monday night against a suspect Miami pass defense. Edwards leaves a ton of baggage behind, but arrives in the big Apple with a clean slate. Already slotted to start, Edwards is a dark horse just waiting to run wild. We’ve seen Edwards perform at a high level in the past and with a new team and a new start, we could see him return again. This week against a secondary that has been burned five times for 40 yards or more, Edwards could flourish. Look for this trade and first game to kick start Edwards going forward.

Worth keeping your eye on for now

So far in this young 2009 season rookie wide receiver Kenny Britt has been a bright star in the titans passing game. Overshadowed by the veteran talent at the receiver spot, Britt has managed to hold his own, leading the team with 17 catches and 271 yards receiving. With a potential shootout looming this Sunday night, keep your eye on this kid as he continues to get better.

The Texan’s receiver Andre Davis is off to a very slow start this season with just three catches. Davis has missed the last three weeks due to injury, but will make his return this Sunday on the road against Arizona. Davis is coming off a poor production season in 2008, but with stability under center and his deep threat ability, the Texans could work him more into the gameplan. The Cards do allow 8 yards per pass (ranks 29th) and have been burned 10 times for 20 yards or more this season. Keep your eye on Davis.

Remember to check back for more "Diamonds in the Rough!"