FSH NOTEBOOK: FANTASY FIVE

Friday Edition
November 30th, 2012

  

FSH Fantasy Five

Week 13 Fantasy Picks (all positions)

For a lot of us fantasy fanatics, this is the final week of our regular season as we get ready to enter our postseason. With that said some of us may be tuning up our lineup as we prepare for our post season run, others may be jockeying for position, then there are those of us that are still looking from the outside in. Whether it’s make or break or just looking to improve your roster, week 13 can still offer some immediate help from some (not-so) hidden gems;

Week 13 fantasy help;

Jonathan Dwyer, RB
The Steelers running back Jonathan Dwyer has been on and off the radar much of the season, due to injuries and the over-crowding in the backfield. It finally sounds like head coach Mike Tomlin is going to commit to one back (Dwyer)and give him an honest shake at succeeding as the team’s lead ball carrier. When Dwyer has been featured he’s been highly successful and when’s he’s been in the mix he’s been the most effective ball carrier for the Black n Yella. The Steelers meet the Ravens (ranked 26th against the run) this Sunday in what appears to be an ideal match up for the start of the Dwyer Era in the Steel Town.

Ryan Broyles, WR
The Lions have been putting the ball up in the air at a rapid pace and with Calvin Johnson coming on like Batman, rookie wide receiver Ryan Broyles looks poised to step in as Megatron’s sidekick; “The Boy Wonder.” In his first NFL start last Thursday Broyles was targeted 12 times and turned in a solid 6-catch and 126 yards receiving performance. Broyles is quickly showing a great rapport with his quarterback and clearly Stafford has great confidence in his newest weapons. As long as he continues to start opposite Johnson, look for Broyles to continue his strong showing; he’s a solid flex going forward.

Bryce Brown, RB
The Eagles season is now over and pride is all they have left to play for; maybe spoiler too. With the season in shambles there’s no need to rush back running back LeSean McCoy who has still yet to be cleared from his concussion suffered in week 11. Back up running back Bryce Brown (178 yards rushing against the Panthers) did a more than admirable job last Monday night starting in place of the injured McCoy and will undoubtedly start again this Sunday. While McCoy is out for at least another week, Brown looks to be hot handcuff and worthy start this week facing the Cowboys 13th ranked run defense; ride him while you can.

Knowshon Moreno, RB
The Broncos tripped up most of the fantasy world last week turning to their rarely used prior to Sunday veteran running back Knowshon Moreno. While most of us thought it would rookie running back Ronnie Hillman getting the call, last Sunday against the Chiefs, it was all Moreno finishing the game with 85 yards on the ground. Moreno has the starting gig now and will most likely carry the brunt of the load going forward. This week could be a rough go of it for the Bronco’s ball carrier facing the league’s number one run defense (Buccaneers), but Moreno will be a heavy fantasy favorite with great matchups from week 14-16 against the Raiders (24th vs run), the Ravens (23rd), and the Browns (21st).

Justin Blackmon, WR
The Jaguars rookie wide receiver Justin Blackmon had not been much of a fantasy factor leading into week 11, but since quarterback Chad Henne took over for the injured Blaine Gabbert his line has been impressive; 12 receptions, 298 yards receiving, 2 touchdowns. He and Henne definitely appear to be on the same page and with favorable matchups this Sunday (against the Bills) and in the coming weeks, Blackmon is a hot grab off the waiver line (if you can get him). He looks to be a nice WR3 or flex going forward and could be just what doctor ordered this week; if you are in need of a big win to make it to the post season.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Tuesday Edition
November 27th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

Dwyer to Get the Call in Crowded Backfield
The Steelers may have too many options in the backfield with four healthy running backs; Dwyer, Mendenhall, Redman, and Rainey. Last Sunday proved to be a golden opportunity for one of them to separate himself from the pack, but with 6 fumbles between the four that was hardly the case. Nonetheless the word quickly circulating out of the Steel town is running back Jonathan Dwyer appears to be the favorite and will be the starter on Sunday. Dwyer has been the more effective when given the opportunity and if the rumors are true, look for Dwyer to start and receive the lions’ share of carries on Sunday against Ravens 26th ranked run defense. Dwyer is a safe low value RB2 this week.

McFadden Hopeful to Return to Practice
Running back Darren McFadden has been sidelined for several weeks and has yet to return to practice, but according to head coach Dennis Allen he is hopeful his talented ball carrier can return this week. This is definitely a situation worth monitoring. If McFadden can return to practice this week, check for updates later in the week. If he’s healthy enough to play he could be a nice start this week with the Brown’s 19th ranked run defense coming to town.

Bush A Good Matchup for the Seahawks Game
The Bears running back Michael Bush is built for between the tackles. With starter Matt Forte (ankle) questionable for Sunday’s meeting against the Seahawks, Bush could be a good match up and fantasy play this week. Bush is a no non-sense runner; he’s not going to bounce it outside, but rather take it up the middle and grab what he can. The Seahawks are ranked 12th against the run, so they will likely limit the Bears chances, but Bush will undoubtedly get any red-zone and goal line carries. If you have better options go another direction, but if you are desperate Bush can offer some value (more if Forte sits).

Jackson Shut Down for the Remainder of the Season
The Eagles placed wide receiver DeSean Jackson (rib injury) on the injured reserve ending his season. Jackson started strong this season, but quickly faded into fantasy oblivion taking a nose dive in the last three weeks (just 8 total receptions for 76 yards). With Jackson OUT and questions at the quarterback spot (Foles or Vick), the receiving corp will become more of a committee with no clear cut go-to guy offering significant fantasy value. This is a situation to avoid.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SUNDAY MORNING GAMETIME

Sunday Edition
November 25th, 2012  

Sunday Morning Gametime

The Falcons will have wide receiver Julio Jones (will start) today, but playing outdoor and a bad wheel (ankle) he could be a risky play. It’s tough to sit Jones with his tremendous upside and big play potential, so proceed with caution.

The Bills running back Fred Jackson is active and expected to play, but Spiller will get the start and should see the lions’ share of the carries today. Jackson is coming off a concussion and with Spiller being as effective as he has been (all season) it’s hard to imagine Jackson getting worked in too much today; Spiller is still the play in the Bills backfield.

Quarterback Jay Cutler is going to start, that’s good news for Brandon Marshall owners. Marshall is clearly Cutler’s favorite and go to receiver, so he’ll see plenty of work today. Marshall is a WR1 with Cutler in the game.

The Niners are going to roll with quarterback Colin Kaepernick. With Kaepernick’s mobility, he adds another dimension to the offense that could help open up things in the pass game. Tight end Vernon Davis and wide receiver Michael Crabtree would appear to be upgraded options with Kaepernick in the game. 

The Steelers will be without wide receiver Antonio Brown today (ruled OUT). With quarterback Charlie Batch under center expect the Steelers to work the trenches with their ground game. No Brown, no effect, today will be all about the three-headed monster led by running backs Jonathan Dwyer and Rashard Mendenhall.

Just a few notes for today’s games…

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SFFL WEEK 12

Thursday Edition
November 22nd, 2012  

Suicide Fantasy Football

Week 12

Last week my team took a bit of a dive (less than 100 points, season low), some of the low-lights include; a surprising let down by the Texans defense (only 3 points). My two receivers (Denarius Moore and Steve Smith) totaled just 12 points. Moore was completely ineffective finishing with one catch for 9 yards and adding one carry for -5 yards. Steve Smith was not a whole lot better finishing his day with 5 grabs for 61 yards (hardly much to get excited about). 

The one high note was quarterback Carson Palmer posting 20 points with 312 yards passing and two touchdowns; it was his 5th 300-yard passing game this season and third in a row. My place kicker of choice, Matt Prater also came through with 12 points; not big, but a nice contribution. 

Needless to say with that bump in the road my team slipped a few spots, but the top is still in sight and with another week of play it’s time to get moving back in the right direction.

Here’s my week 12 picks;

My Line-up 

Quarterback:
The Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has been on a roll over his past seven games tossing 24 touchdowns to only four interceptions. This week he will match up against the Giants 25th ranked pass defense which could be the recipe for a huge game. The Giants defense allows the 13th most fantasy points to quarterbacks and has surrendered 17 touchdowns this season. I like Rodgers to attack the Giants secondary early and often; expect big numbers this week.

Running Backs:
With injuries playing a big part of the game, this week I am rolling with the rookie in Denver running back Ronnie Hillman. Last Sunday the Broncos lost starter Willis McGahee to injury (torn MCL) and will now turn to the rookie to pick up the slack. Hillman will be part of a timeshare, but with his explosiveness and lightning speed, I like him to take the lead and be very productive in the Broncos backfield. He’ll get his first shot against the Chiefs 9th ranked run defense this Sunday. With Peyton Manning drawing a lot of attention and focus from the D, all Hillman will need is a small seam or crack in the defense and he can turn it into a big play.

My other running back is the Steelers Jonathan Dwyer who will share time as well this Sunday. Last Sunday night Dwyer proved to be the more effective runner in the Steelers backfield and whether he starts or not, he’ll get his share of carries in week 12. Dywer has emerged as the team’s leading rusher and should lead the way this Sunday. The Steelers will face the Browns 24th ranked run defense on Sunday and Dwyer will have an opportunity to take his shots at a defense that allows the 13th most fantasy points to running backs. This doesn’t have the making of a huge day, but Dwyer should be solid as a strong flex this week.

Wide Receivers:
It’s Thanksgiving and if you own Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant, you are thankful for last Sunday’s performance against the Browns. This week Bryant will be part of the Thanksgiving Thursday schedule and could give owners plenty more to be thankful for when he faces the Redskins 29th ranked pass defense. Bryant is second on the team with 86 targets this season and has emerged as quarterback Tony Romos’ primary weapon. Bryant has scored in each of his last two starts, he’s coming off a big performance, and facing the Redskins secondary that allows the 3rd most fantasy points to wide receivers he looks primed for a great Thanksgiving day performance.

My second receiver of choice is simply a “riding the hot hand” move with a good match up this Sunday; Jaguars wide receiver Justin Blackmon. The rookie receiver is coming up a huge day against the Texans in week 11 with over 200 yards receiving on 7 receptions. Blackmon’s breakout game last week came with quarterback Chad Henne under center and now with Henne the starter, I like the chances of continued success. Blackmon will also face the Titans 26 ranked pass defense that allows the 14th most fantasy points to wide receivers.

Tight End:
The Broncos passing offense has been automatic and solid this season under the direction of quarterback Peyton Manning ranked 5th in the league. In his first season with the Broncos tight end Jacob Tamme is also enjoying modest success as one of Mannings’ weapons. Manning spreads the ball around quite a bit these days, but Tamme will still see his normal 5-6 targets and could steal a red zone grab. He’s only scored once this season, while his teammate tight end Joel Dreesen has scored four times; Tamme is due to cash in.

Place Kicker:
The Bengals will host the Raiders this Sunday and kicker Mike Nugent should see plenty of opportunities to chip in a number of kicks against one of the leagues worst defenses. The Raiders have allowed the most points this season (32.2 per game) and rank 24th in total yards allowed. At home I like the Bengals to be able to move the ball with great success setting up some easy shots for Nugent.

Team Defense:
The Rams are the defense of choice this week. On the road facing the Cardinals, the defense ranked 11th in total yards allowed this season will look to get their team back on track. The Rams have a pretty good pass rush with 29 sacks this season and with the recent quarterback struggles the Cardinals have had, this could be a good match up for the Rams.

These are my picks for week 12.


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: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Wednesday Edition
November 14th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

Spiller to Carry the Load
With running back Fred Jackson sidelined this week with a concussion, CJ Spiller will not only start but likely carry the load. Spiller has been a consistent flex option all season, but his new starter status has likely vaulted him to the top of the charts as a lead RB1 option this week. The Bills take play Thursday night and take on the Dolphins 5th ranked run defense, fortunately for owners Spiller has been effective in both the run and pass game; he’s a safe start in week 11.

Run-DMC Likely Out Again
The Raiders will not have the services of running back Darren McFadden once again this week as he nurses his injured ankle. With Run-DMC sidelined full back Marcel Reece is the preferred fantasy selection from the Raiders backfield. With the Raiders set to host the Saints defense this Sunday, Reece has a nice matchup against one of the league’s worst defenses; the Saints also surrender the 2nd most fantasy points to running backs.

The Steelers Carrying a Full-House
With Mendenhall returning to a full practice this week, the Steelers are shaping up to have all three of their bruising running backs ready for Sunday. With Mendenhall, Redman, and Dwyer all figuring in the mix; the smart money would be on running back Jonathan Dwyer to get first look. It’s a tough dilemma and a tough read for fantasy owners and one best to avoid if possible.

Sproles Looks Ready to Return 
The Saints running back Darren Sproles returned to practice this week and looks on track to play this Sunday. With the recent strong running of backs Chris Ivory and Mark Ingram, the backfield now appears to be a little overcrowded. Even with the crowded backfield, Sproles is the favorite to see plenty of action, but his best value is in PPR formats.

Vick Likley Out, Foles Expected to Start This Sunday
It’s not official, but all signs are pointing to rookie quarterback Nick Foles starting this Sunday. If Foles does in fact start, the fantasy impact could be a lot of running back LeSean McCoy. While the team will want to see what Foles can do, the rookie will need protection and his safety net could be running back McCoy. The Eagles ball carrier is a dynamic and crafty runner with blazing speed and exceptional vision, but through 9 games this season he has just two touchdowns and eclipsed 20 carries just three times. Expect McCoy to see a lot of work this week.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: FANTASY FIVE

Friday Editions
November 9th, 2012  

FSH Fantasy Five

Week 10 Fantasy Picks (all positions)

This week’s picks digs a little deeper for some fantasy players that can offer help to those owners affected by the Byes this Sunday. There are certainly no-brainers and must plays up and down the boards this week, but if your lineup is lacking a few of those options these are some players worth consideration in week 10.

Week 10 fantasy help;

Jonathan Dwyer, RB
The Steelers running back Jonathan Dwyer returned to a full practice on Friday and looks set to return to action on Monday night. Dwyer would seem to be the favorite to start coming off his two 100-yard game performances, but even if he ends up just splitting expect him to be very effective against the Chiefs 23rd ranked run defense. The Chiefs also allow the 6th most fantasy points to running backs.

Kenny Britt, WR
The Titans big receiver Kenny Britt has been getting healthier each week and after completing a couple of days of full participation in practice he looks ready for Sunday. Britt has been mostly quiet this season and a non-factor, but facing the Dolphins 30th ranked pass defense this Sunday could be his coming out party. The Dolphins surrender the 4th most fantasy points to receivers this season and it looks like Britt will have quarterback Jake Locker under center this week; could the stars be aligning?

Jacquizz Rodgers, RB
It seems anytime you face the Saints defense, your skill players have an opportunity to play big. When the Falcons meet the Saints on Sunday running back Jacquizz Rodgers will have a chance to test that theory. The Saints defense ranks dead last in the league and allow the most fantasy points to running backs. Rodgers has gradually become more a part of the offense this season and could see plenty of extra work on Sunday; the more work, the bigger the points.

Greg Olsen, TE
The Broncos defense simply struggles with opposing tight ends. Last week the Bengals tight end Jermaine Gresham post season highs in catches (6) and yards receiving (108) against the Broncos defense. This week the Panthers tight end Greg Olsen will get his shot at the Denver defense. Olsen is second on the team with 53 targets this season, but has yet to post a 100-yard receiving game. The Broncos defense allows the 4th most points to tight ends, so Olsen chances of a big game look good.

Danario Alexander, WR
The Chargers newest addition to their passing attack is wide receiver Danario Alexander. The former Ram receiver made his debut last week and wasted little time getting involved recording three catches for 61 yards. Alexander is already on a few radars this week with the team planning on getting him more involved. And with the Bucs next up on the schedule Alexander looks poised to make some noise. The big 6’5” receiver will face the Bucs secondary that has allowed the 3rd most fantasy points to wide receiver and he should have lots of success.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: MONDAY'S FANTASY HEADLINES

Monday Edition

November 5th, 2012 

David's Daily Digest

Monday’s Fantasy Headlines

Dougie Keeps Getting Down

The Buccaneers running back Doug Martin was at it again, breaking tackles and busting off long runs for scores. On Sunday against the Raiders Martin broke loose for 251 yards rushing and four touchdowns; just an awesome performance. Martin is quickly turning into a fantasy owner’s dream come true with big Sundays becoming a regular occurrence. Martin is a must play every week from here on.

The Steelers Ground Game Keeps Rolling

It looks as those it doesn’t matter who the Steelers line up in their backfield, their line offensive line just gets the job done. With the backfield ailing the Steelers turned to running back Issac Redman against the Giant and the offensive line registered their third consecutive game with a 100-yard rusher. Fantasy owners are going to have to pay attention to who starts and who is healthy when choosing one of the three-headed monster (Redman, Dwyer, & Mendenhall).

Luck Keeps Playing Chuck Strong

The Colts rookie quarterback Andrew Luck is having an amazing run this season and on Sunday he continued his magic with a 433 yard passing effort and a win. The Colts are playing inspired ball this season and Luck is leading the way with his great play; 2,404 yards passing and a team record of 5-3. If Luck continues at this rate, fantasy owners in deeper leagues will find it difficult to keep him on their bench. With favorable matchups he definitely warrants consideration from week-to-week.

McFadden is a McBust

Fantasy owners must be gnawing at the bit filled with frustration with the inconsistent play of Raiders running back Darren McFadden. Run-DMC has hardly been the fantasy factor owners were counting on this season with just one 100-yard rushing game in his last five starts. His injury and early exit this past Sunday just adds to the frustration for owners. McFadden has not been ruled out for week 10, but given his recent poor play he hardly looks like an attractive option for Sunday.

All Day is All World

Even coming off a major injury, the Vikings running back Adrian Peterson is still All-World. Peterson broke free for 182 yards rushing on 17 carries; an impressive 10.7 yards per carry. Peterson just gashed the Seahawks defense for big run after big run. He’s certainly shown fantasy owners there’s no reason for concern regarding his injury from last season. Peterson is a monster and must start regardless of who he faces.

Cobb Stays Hot, Scores Twice

The Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb continued his hot hand with a pair of scores on Sunday against the Cardinals. Cobb now leads the team with 45 receptions and 6 touchdowns. He’s an every week start (as a solid flex or low end WR2 in deeper leagues) when the Packers return from their bye in week 11.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Thursday Edition

November 2nd, 2012

David’s Daily Digest

Sproles Out with Hand Injury

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

Jones to Get Another Start

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

Nelson Will Be a Game-Time Decision

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

Robinson Probable for Sunday Versus Lions

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

Dwyer Doubtful for Sunday

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

Tannehill Uncertain for Sunday

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

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: WATERCOOLER CHAT

Wednesday Edition
October 31st, 2012  

Watercooler Chat

“Just Talking Fantasy”

Waiver Wire Wanderers

We are moving deeper into the fantasy season and there’s no time to waste or let up. The free agent pool is thinning more and more every week, but even when it is there are still a few gems to be found.

After eight weeks of action and still a number of weeks left to manage through the byes, fantasy owners can’t afford to let any hidden jewels slip through the cracks. Last Sunday there were quite a few notable diamonds in the rough worth a take this week, at least as a flex option.

Leading the short list is the Lions wide receiver Titus Young. Injuries have moved Young up the depth chart and with Matt Stafford steadily finding his groove Young is going to see more action going forward. Young has 17 targets in his last two games and he’s made the most of it with 15 receptions.

Like Young, Jaguars wide receivers Cecil Shorts is getting more time in a prominent role due to injuries and he is cashing in. Shorts has seen 22 targets in the last two weeks and he’s been golden with 12 receptions, 195 yards receiving and a score. As a flex his numbers are solid, but he’s getting better every week, so there’s upside.

The Seahawks passing game has been relatively non-existent this season, but one of the bright spots has been the recent emergence of Sidney Rice; a forgotten man. Rice has been quiet much of the season, but last Sunday he had his best game with 6 grabs for 55 yards and touchdown. These numbers won’t burn down the house, but Rice has great ability and offers tremendous upside as the quarterback play in Seattle gets better. He’s nothing more than a consideration as a flex option, but if you can hold him for a while he could pay off in the long run.

One ground gainers that could be still hanging around this week is the Steelers running back Jonathan Dwyer. Dwyer has been the best runner for the Steelers this season and now that he’s had his chance he is shinning. Dwyer has rushed for over 100 yards the past two weeks as the starter. He could see his carries drop some with the backfield getting healthy, but he’s too good and playing too well to take a back seat. Grab him if you can.


Don’t Go Sleeping

If you have the room on your roster or if you play in a deeper league a couple of backs that are definitely worth stashing are the Falcons running back Jacquizz Rodgers and the Broncos rookie running back Ronnie Hillman.

Rodgers is likely to payoff sooner rather than later. With as well as the Falcons are playing now, they will want to keep running back Michael Turner fresh as possible for their playoff run. Head Coach Mike Smith has plenty of confidence in Rodgers, so it is expected to see Rodgers’ role grow more and more as the season progresses. Rodgers is coming off his biggest performance last Sunday; 80 total yards and 13 touches.

The Broncos seem to be bringing Hillman along slowly and his progress has been showing. Last Sunday night he had his best game with 15 touches and 86 rushing yards. With the 31-year old McGahee leading the Broncos ground attack, it’s not a big stretch to think that Hillman will get worked in more and more to keep the Veteran fresh for the season stretch run. Hillman is improving and more Sundays like the last could be in store.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Thursday Edition
October 25th, 2012

David’s Daily Digest

Week 8 Fantasy Notes:

With the Packers losing wide receiver Greg Jennings (sports hernia surgery) for an extended period, wideout Randall Cobb gets a big boost to his fantasy value. The exciting playmaking receiver has blossomed over the past several weeks in Jennings absence. Cobb has averaged 6 receptions and 90 yards receiving in his last three games and he has added three touchdowns in the same stretch. Going forward fantasy owners can play him with confidence.

With Rashard Mendenhall not practicing and Issac Redmen limited on Thursday, it looks like the Steelers will once again be turning to running back Jonathan Dwyer. Coming off a strong 122-yard performance a week ago Dwyer looks fixed to carry the brunt of the load on Sunday against the Redskins. Facing the leagues 7th ranked run defense that allows the 11th fewest fantasy points to running backs this season, Dwyer appears to be nothing more than a week 8 flex option at best.

Quarterback Philip Rivers struggled in the second half of the Chargers Monday night matchup against the Broncos back in Week 6, but with the Browns next on the slate the road to recovery looks well on its’ way. The Browns defense is ranked 26th against the pass and they have surrendered the 3rd most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. After his four interception performance in week 6, this matchup may be just what Rivers needs.

Two weeks ago on Monday night the Broncos wide receiver Demaryrius Thomas was relatively quiet against the Chargers defense finishing the night with just two catches. He did manage a score, but his output was far less than what owners were looking for. This Sunday the Broncos will host the Saints and Thomas could be looking at a much more productivity. The Saints are ranked 30th versus the pass and allow the 3rd most fantasy points to wide receivers this season.

The Browns rookie running back Trent Richardson has looked better this week in practice according to head coach Pat Shurmur, but given his recent history of inconsistency and prone to injury he remains a high risk this week for fantasy owners. The Browns will host the Chargers this Sunday and should Richardson make it on the field he’ll face the leagues’ 3rd ranked run defense that only allows 3.5 yards per carry and has surrendered just two rushing touchdowns this season; not a good matchup.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: WATERCOOLER CHAT

Wednesday Edition

October 24th, 2012 

Watercooler Chat

“Just Talking Fantasy”

This Weeks Waiver Wire Wonders

With the injury to Maurice Jones-Drew, running back Rashad Jennings is one of the hot pickups this week off the waiver wire. Jennings will take over the starting duties while MJD is sidelined and could see quite the workload, but if you are not an MJD owner don’t expect him to be a permanent fix to fill any big holes in your lineup. Jennings is averaging just 2.6 yards per carry this season and the Jaguars don’t exactly have the easiest schedule with the Packers (17th against the run) and Lions (16th against the run) up next on the schedule.

The Steelers backfield is a jumbled mess with running back Rashard Mendenhall and Issac Redman still sidelined after missing practice on Wednesday. After his strong 122-yard showing in week 7 running back, Jonathan Dwyer looks like the hot commodity off the wire this week, if both Mendenhall and Redman miss action in week 8, but at the moment that still remains an sticky situation.

The Rams seem to have found themselves a new deep threat and playmaker in wide receiver Chris Givens. If the bye weeks are playing havoc with your lineup and you’re looking for help, the speedy receiver could offer some temporary relief this week when the Rams play host to the Patriots (ranked 29^th against the pass) in London. Givens has posted better than 50 yards receiving in four straight games and has gradually become more and more a part of the team’s passing attack. He’s nothing more than a flex option at best, but through the bye weeks he could be a nice fill and big surprise.

The Jets offense has been in a quagmire all season, but one bright spot for quarterback Mark Sanchez has been the emergence of wide receiver Jeremy Kerley. The second year wideout has hardly lit the world on fire, but he’s slowly making his way up the fantasy ranks; at least some of us know who he is. Better than that, Kerley has turned in some nice efforts on Sunday and Sanchez appears to be looking his way more often; 26 targets over the past three weeks. Kerley won’t offer any big prizes just yet, but he could work his way in as a flex option for some owners.

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The Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown has not scored a touchdown in his past three starts, but he’s still a favorite in the passing game with 28 targets over the same span. The Steelers host the Redskins (ranked 32nd against the pass) on Sunday and Brown could finally breakout of his scoring slump.

The Cardinals passing game has not had much to speak about this season other than Larry Fitzgerald, but with opposing teams really focusing on taking Fitz out third year receiving Andre Roberts is starting to make noise. This past Sunday Roberts turned in his second 100-yard receiving game this season. His numbers have not been consistent this season, but in his past three games he has been targeted 25 times. With the quarterbacks continuing to look his direction, better numbers seem likely in the future.

With Mohamed Massaquoi sidelined, rookie wide receiver Josh Gordon is suddenly emerging as the Browns leading scoring threat in the pass game. Gordon has scored at least one touchdown in his last three games and has been targeted 22 times. Gordon’s quickly showing his ability to produce and if rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden continues to look in his direction, he looks like a promising candidate to sustain his level of fantasy production.

By David Ortega