FSH: FOOTBALL DIARY

December 12th, 2009 11:45pm PST

Football Diary

[Saturday Edition]

Dear Diary

Fantasy Playoffs start now

With the Thursday night game in the books the fantasy playoffs for many leagues are already underway. The key to any successful fantasy lineup is matchups and that's what I will be watching this weekend.

Fantasy owners looking to dip into the free agent pool for help this week may not find a lot talent available, but might have to take a deeper look at their own bench. Players like a Jamaal Charles, Robert Meachem, and Percy Harvin (check Sunday status) might be the more attractive plays this week, while favorites like Matt Schaub, Marion Barber, and Matt Forte could be risky plays.

Such is the life of a fantasy owner, having to make those tough decisions, but with the playoffs underway now is not the time to get tripped up. Follow my motto; avoid those committee situations, check injury status on players that are questionable, and don't get caught leaving points on your bench (start your starters).

These are words for fantasy owners to live by if they hope to survive!

Fantasy Notes:

With the Cowboys locked in a tight race in the NFC East, one of the biggest reasons for their success this season has been the play of quarterback Tony Romo. The Cowboys starter has thrown 16 touchdowns and only three picks in his last eight starts (team is 6-2 in that stretch).

The Lions running back Kevin Smith has been a solid number two fantasy running back over the past several weeks. In his last three starts Smith is averaging 114 yards from scrimmage with two touchdowns.

The Broncos rookie running back Knowshon Moreno continues to get better with each week. In his last four starts he has racked up 351 yards on the ground (89 yds/game) averaging more than five yards a tote and has scored three rushing touchdowns in that stretch.

10 Things on

Sunday's Watch-List

1. Steven Jackson has been dealing with a back issue and missing a ton of practice, but can he rebound with his third consecutive 100-yard rushing effort.

2. The Raven's quarterback Joe Flacco has been sub-par the past couple of weeks, can he rebound this Sunday against the Lions 32nd ranked pass defense.

3. Drew Brees has been "En Fuego" the past couple of weeks, will he continue and who will be his receiver of choice on Sunday; Meachem, Colston, or Henderson.

4. The Packers have been rolling riding the arm of Aaron Rodgers, can he conitnue his hot hand on Sunday against the Bears 9th ranked pass defense.

5. Peyton Manning and the Colts have managed to dodge a few bullets the past couple of weeks, but how will the Colts quarterback perform against the leagues 2nd ranked pass defense (Broncos).

6. Will the Vikings quarterback Brett Favre bounce back from his two interception performance last Sunday when he faces the Bengals 4th overall ranked defense this week.

7. How much will the leauges leading rusher Chris Johnson scamper for on Sunday against the Rams 28th ranked defense that allows over 140 yards per game.

8. The Eagles defense does not get enough credit, this season they rank 7th overall and are among the league leaders with 33 sacks, I'll be watching to see if they can shut down the Giants offense.

9. With Sanchez out and Clemens in, I'm expecting the Jets to run the ball all day with running back Thomas Jones, who should have a big day.

10. With DeAngelo Williams set to go; I will be looking for a big day from the Panthers ground attack against the Patriots.

Check back every week for more “Football Diary”

FSH: WATERCOOLER CHAT

October 30th, 2009 11:55pm Pst

WATERCOOLER CHAT

The Weekly Waiver Wire

Wayne “The Wire” Bosco
(Courtesy of the Fantasy Football Gang)

Even though we have reached Week 8 there’s no need to panic, as long as Wayne “the Wire” is working overtime relief is on its’ way. Last Sunday there was plenty of let down with some of last weeks waivering choices, but with a whole new slate of games this weekend Wayne’s got the scoop on a few options off the wire.

Again fantasy owners are going to have to manage the bye week with players like Chad Ochocinco, Tom Brady, and Big Ben on siesta. With the well running dry and most of the stones over-turned, owners can still find a couple of plays for Week 8 to fill their vacancies.

So once again grab a cold one (better make it two) and take note of these week 8 Waiver Wire options;


Week Eight

On Sunday the Jaguars will roll into Tennessee with the memory of a week 4 throttling over the Titans. The Jags passing fired on all cylinders and took advantage of a severely handicapped secondary. Even though Tennessee will have the services of Courtland Finnegan back, I like wide receiver Torry Holt this week. There's no doubt Finnegan is going to have hbis hands full with Sims-Walker, so expect to see Holt roaming free from time-to-time. Holt and his quarterback are developing a great rapport and over his last two games he's seen 21 balls in his direction. Holt has lost a step and he is no number one fantasy receiver, but this week he should be a good start.

Whenever you have a player matching up with the Rams, they instantly become a consideration. In seven games this season the Rams have allowed a 100-yard rusher twice with Ryan Grant missing that plateau by one yard. This week running back Kevin Smith will get his shot. Smith has not been particularly successful this season with the Lions typically falling behind, but this Sunday they should be able to stay with the run longer than usual. Smith has also shown his versatility as a pass receiver with 20 receptions this season. The Lion's running back may not hit the century mark on the ground, but he should easily total 100 yards on Sunday and find the endzone at least once.

With the well drying up these days there doesn’t seem to be much left, but if you look at the bottom you might find the Eagles rookie receiver Jeremy Maclin available as a waiver option this week. He’ll face a tough Giant’s defense on Sunday, but one that has had its’ struggle with the pass game the past couple of weeks. With a lot of attention being focused on receiver DeSean Jackson, Maclin could see some favorable coverage and with his steady diet of seven targets per game he could be very productive. The Giants have been burned deep quite a bit in recent weeks and Maclin has already shown some big play capability. Consider the rookie a nice fill in option to get through the week 8 byes.

“Wayne’s Word”

This week’s word for the week is David Garrard. With the Jaguars playing the Titans on Sunday, it’s hard to ignore what Garrard did in week 4; 300-yards passing, three touchdowns. Tennessee is a little healthier this time around, but not much better off than their previous matchup with Jacksonville. Garrard will have his full compliment of weapons, Jones-Drew, Sims-Walker, and Holt and with the Titans making a change at quarterback that could mean better field position. Garrard is still available in quite a few leagues and should make a healthy fill-in for Tom Brady, Ben Roethlisberger, and Carson Palmer fantasy owners.

Playing Fantasy GM.

Don-Peitro “The GM” Zamboni

Cut your losses now
Sometimes you just have to know when to call it a day and cut your losses. In the case of running back Larry Johnson, not performing on the field and now in hot water off the field; it’s time to go.

The GM Game

You’re always going to have those players you drafted with a lot of question and concern surrounding their fantasy value. When the season opened, players like LaDanian Tomlinson, Larry Johnson, and Terrell Owens were going to be drafted based on their historical merit. Like Owens and Tomlinson, Johnson was not taken as high as in the past, but he was drafted much higher than he is performing. With so much value vested in this player, what’s a fantasy GM to do?

Hardly Worth the Risk….

With LJ we knew he’d be a risky play in 2009. During the offseason there was plenty of talk about trade or even release, but by the same token he was just two seasons removed from back-to-back 1,700-yard rushing seasons. From a fantasy perspective, before the 2009 campaign began, it appeared he had mended some of the fences and was ready to play. Here we are seven weeks in and our fears are realized; it just doesn’t fit. Johnson is not going to flourish in Haley’s offense and true to form, he doesn’t know how to stay out of his own way. Recent tweets and comments made to the media have the Chiefs running back in deep water, currently suspended, and the way things look likely unemployed. There are not too many teams that want to deal with this headache, fantasy owners can do themselves a favor by addressing the inevitable and clearing roster space now. Jamal Charles is no LJ, but he’s a better fit in the spread style offense head coach Todd Haley likes and as the team’s number one he should be more effective as a fantasy back.

Keep checking back for more football....

By David G. Ortega

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

October 29th, 2009 10:37pm PST

The Fantasy Sports Zone

“Diamonds in the Rough”

(Fantasy Sleepers)

Players you should watch and perhaps a few you should play this week!

It always seems when all hope appears lost, the glass is half full. The free agent pool continues to thin out and now owners have to stop looking around and just take a look at what’s in front of them. There are always some players that look attractive to start, but after their sizzle fades they can often get lost on your bench.

Week 8 presents some favorable matchups for players that are likely languishing on fantasy rosters and benches. And while it’s always darkest before the dawn, for some of these sleepers, the sun could be shinning bright come game day. With our seventh week of action in the books and more to come this Sunday, here are a few gems that could shine like diamonds in the sky.

This week’s gems…

In Chicago…..

Who says Jay Cutler doesn’t have anyone to throw to? Well there may be some truth in that Cutler lacks a true number one receiver, but coming off a big game against the Bengals last week wide receiver Devin Hester will have a great chance to do it again. With the Bears hosting the awful Browns (ranked 24th against the pass) this week Hester should see lots of beatable coverage and have a couple of chances to break free deep. He’s not a legit number one, but he’ll be a great number three receiver in fantasy this week.

In San Diego……

When the Chargers play host to the Raiders this Sunday, there’s little doubt that their key will be there passing attack and no one has to remind cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha. And while Asomugha will have much of his focus on Sunday directed toward the Chargers Vincent Jackson, owners that don’t have a lot of great options at their number three slot should consider receiver Malcom Floyd. The Chargers receiver could be seeing some extended time on the field this Sunday and his 6’5’ frame should look very inviting to Philip Rivers, especially downfield. Floyd does not have big numbers this season with just nine catches and one touchdown, but he is averaging almost 21 yards per grab and his eight targets in his last two games could be a sign of better things to come.

In Detroit……

It’s not often that the Lions offense sees a good matchup on it’s schedule, but this Sunday they’ll host the Rams and running back Kevin Smith should benefit greatly. The Rams defense is ranked 27th against the run and opposing running backs are averaging nearly six yards per carry. Smith has been pretty much bottled up on the ground this season with a rookie quarterback, but could be looking at a big game on Sunday. With 20 receptions, Smith is the team’s second leading receiver so expect to see him grab a couple out of the backfield and improve upon his 149 receiving yards. This week Smith should be a solid RB2 and might have a little more value in PPR leagues.

In Cleveland……

Like the Lions, the Browns don’t see many matchups they like, but if you are a Jamal Lewis owner you had to love what you saw last week. In week 7 against the Bengals, the Bears run defense was completely shredded for over 200-yards on the ground allowing nearly five yards a pop. Lewis has yet to get out of the gate this season with only 280 yards rushing in five games this season. As long as the Browns don’t fall behind big early Lewis should have a shot at 20-plus carries on Sunday, despite his paltry yards-per-carry average. Against a thin Bears defense that is battered by injuries the Brown’s runner should be a low RB2 this week and is worth a starting.

Worth keeping your eye on for now….

By this time of the season and coming off one of his worst games this season, it may seem like a stretch, but on Sunday keep your eye on Terrell Owens. There’s no doubt these days the only place you will find him is on fantasy roster benches. Over the past several weeks, T.O. has just not had good numbers and his three catches for 13 yards were as bad as the week he didn’t have a catch. We know he looks about as good as a train wreck, but keep your eye on Owens this Sunday against the Texans. Over the past two weeks Fitzpatrick has been trying to get the ball to his big not-so-sure handed receiver with 18 total targets. The Texans have a soft middle and it could be just a matter of time for T.O. and his quarterback to get in sync.


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

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: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

October 2nd, 2009 11:30pm PST

David's Daily Digest
[My Take]

More football news and happenings from around the league; here’s the latest I am hearing, reading, and following with my take on things and how they will impact the coming fantasy season……

Player News From Across the Wire...

Bo Scaife, TE, Tennessee Titans
Bo Scaife (knee) is probable for Sunday's game at Jacksonville, according to the Tennessean. He fully practiced Friday.
My Fantasy read on Scaife: Scaife’s return should bolster the passing game over the middle. He’s been out the past couple of games, but now that he’s back he’ll be involved in the passing game almost immediately……

Brandon Stokley, WR, Denver Broncos
Brandon Stokley fully practiced Friday, according to NFL.com.
My Fantasy read on Stokely: The Bronco’s slot receiver has not been consistent in the pass game this season, other than the week one miracle catch he’s been relatively quiet. He looks like he’ll play, but don’t look for much….

Matt Forte, RB, Chicago Bears
Matt Forte fully practiced Friday and is probable for Week 4, according to Brad Biggs' (National Football Post) twitter page.
My Fantasy read on Forte: Forte sounds like a go and is a good start this week against the Lions 16th ranked run defense…..

Marion Barber, RB, Dallas Cowboys
Marion Barber fully practiced for the second straight day Friday, according to NFL.com.
My Fantasy read on Barber: The Cowboys running back practiced and looks ready for Sunday. With a healthy Tashard Choice expect the two backs to share the load against a revamped Bronco defense…..

Todd Heap, TE, Baltimore Ravens
Todd Heap fully practiced for the second straight day Friday, according to the Boston Herald.
My Fantasy read on Heap: The Raven’s tight end has stepped it up this season and could be utilized quite a bit on Sunday. With two early touchdowns this season, he could be a primary option in the redzone this week…..

Laurence Maroney, RB, New England Patriots
Laurence Maroney (thigh) fully practiced on Friday, according to the Boston Herald. He is probable for Week 4.
My Fantasy read on Maroney: Maroney has been non-existent in the Patriot’s running game this season, don’t expect him to suddenly appears against a tough Raven’s defense….

Tom Brady, QB, New England Patriots
Tom Brady fully practiced Friday, according to the Boston Herald.
My Fantasy read on Brady: Expect to see a healthy Brady on Sunday, but going up against a tough Raven’s defense points could be hard to find. The Pat’s offense will throw a lot of wrinkle and move the ball in the air, but reaching paydirt may be at a premium Sunday…..

Derrick Mason, WR, Baltimore Ravens
Derrick Mason has been added to the Week 4 injury report, according to the Boston Herald. He is listed as questionable with an illness.
My Fantasy read on Mason: Mason is under the weather, but we would expect him to be on the field Sunday. Check his status at game-time, if he plays he is still steady-Freddy in the Raven’s passing attack….

Wes Welker, WR, New England Patriots
Wes Welker is questionable for Week 4 while still recovering from his knee injury, according to the Boston Herald.
My Fantasy read on Welker: The news coming out of Boston has not been good; Welker sounds like a risky play not only for this week, but going forward. He’s likely a game-time on Sunday, but if he sits monitor his status going forward, this could become problematic….

Lance Moore, WR, New Orleans Saints
Lance Moore (hamstring) is probable for Week 4 against the Jets, according to NFL.com.
My Fantasy read on Moore: With so many weapons in the arsenal, Moore may have lost his place in the rotation. He’s been banged up and has missed time, so if he plays it’s unlikely to expect anything great right away…..

Matt Hasselbeck, QB, Seattle Seahawks
Seahawks' beat writer Danny O'Neil is reporting on Twitter that quarterback Matt Hasselbeck will travel with the team to Indianapolis this weekend. Hasselbeck is not expected to play, however.
My Fantasy read on Hasselbeck: It looks like it will be Wallace again this week as Hasselbeck inches his way back to health. As long as Hasselbeck has his injury history and a shaky offensive line, he’ll remain a risky play once he returns…..

Randy Moss, WR, New England Patriots
Ravens' insider Jamison Hensley is reporting on Twitter that Patriots' wide receiver Randy Moss has been removed from the team's injury report. Moss will play in the game against the Ravens this weekend.
My Fantasy read on Moss: Moss is always a must-start and in particular this season with he and Brady clicking. With Welker banged up Moss is also being heavily used in the short passing attack…

LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, San Diego Chargers
LaDainian Tomlinson is being listed as probable for Sunday, according to the Twitter page of beat writer Casey Pearce. LT hasn't played since Week 1 with his ankle injury.
My Fantasy read on Tomlinson: When healthy LT is normally a good start, but coming off an ankle injury and facing a tough Steeler’s ground attack, fantasy owners would be wise to look to better options…..

Clinton Portis, RB, Washington Redskins
The Washington Post is reporting that Redskins' running back Clinton Portis is being listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bucs. Coach Jim Zorn said that there is a fifty-fifty chance that Portis will play.
My Fantasy read on Portis: The Redskins running back is a must start if he plays against a weak Buccaneer defense, but owners will have to wait until Sunday….

Kevin Smith, RB, Detroit Lions
Updating a previous report, Lions' running back Kevin Smith told the Detroit Free Press that he will play on Sunday. "It's football, so I'm sure I'll have to endure some pain, but it's good enough to go. I feel healthy enough to play at a high level," Smith said.
My Fantasy read on Smith: It sounds like Smith is confident to go, but we’ll still have to wait for the coaches decision on Sunday. There’s no doubt this will be a game-time call…..

Domenik Hixon, WR, New York Giants
Domenik Hixon has been ruled out of Sunday's game, according to the Twitter page of Giants' beat writer Ralph Vacchiano. Hixon is still dealing with a knee injury.
My Fantasy read on Hixon: The Giant’s receiver has fallen down the depth charts, even when he returns he'll offer very little fantasy value.....

Jamal Lewis, RB, Cleveland Browns
According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Browns' running back Jamal Lewis was idle again on Friday. Lewis is unlikely to play in the team's Week 4 game this weekend.
My Fantasy read on Lewis: With the Browns running back definitely looking like he’ll miss Jerome Harrison is the favorite to start. The Bengals have a decent run defense this season, so Harrison is only a consideration in the deepest of leagues….

Kyle Boller, QB, St. Louis Rams
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch is reporting that Kyle Boller will start at quarterback for the Rams on Sunday against the 49ers. Boller has practiced with the first-team all week while Marc Bulger deals with his shoulder injury.
My Fantasy read on Boller: Bulger is out and Boller is in this week. With a shaky O-line the move could actually be a blessing in disguise with a more mobile Boller. The Rams backup will have a tough matchup on Sunday against a Niner’s defense that can bring pressure on the edges. He’s bettor off staying on your bench this week….

Brandon Jacobs, RB, New York Giants
According to the New York Daily News, Giants running back Brandon Jacobs told ESPN Radio in New York on Friday that he would retire after this season if his numbers don't improve this season he will retire. Jacobs is averaging only 3.4 yards per carry after three games.
My Fantasy read on Jacobs: The Giant’s starter is in line for a big day on Sunday against a week Chiefs run defense. With Bradshaw ailing, Jacobs could see a heavier load…..

Ahmad Bradshaw, RB, New York Giants
Ahmad Bradshaw returned to the practice field on Friday, according to the Twitter page of the Newark Star-Ledger's Mike Garafolo. Bradshaw is expected to play Sunday after missing practice early in the week with an ankle injury.
My Fantasy read on Bradshaw: Coming off an ankle injury and missing practice, he’s likely to be limited on Sunday. In week 3 Bradshaw carried the ball 14 times, but he probably won’t see the same workload this week…..

Dwayne Bowe, WR, Kansas City Chiefs
Kent Babb of the Kansas City Star is reporting that Chiefs' receiver Dwayne Bowe took some reps with the first team on Friday. Bowe is expected to play after missing the team's Week 3 game with a hamstring injury.
My Fantasy read on Bowe: It sounds like Bowe will give it a go, but you have wonder if he’ll be limited or how effective he will be. There’s no question he’s the Chiefs best pass receiving target, so if he plays he’ll definitely see some looks…..

Willie Parker, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers
According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, running back Willie Parker sat out Friday's practice with his toe injury. Parker has missed all three team practices this week, and it doesn't appear he will play this weekend.
My Fantasy read on Parker: With Parker likely to miss MeWelde Moore looks like the favorite to see the brunt of the work Sunday night against the Chargers….

Check back with "Your Fantasy Sports Home" for more Football to digest....

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL NOTES

September 28th, 2009 9:57pm PST

Sunday Night Football Notes

Week three Injury round-up


(Monday, Sept 28th update)

Bears:
According to the Associated Press linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer should be able to play in week 4 after leaving Sunday’s game with a rib injury.
Bills:
According to head coach Dick Jauron, both defensive backs Leodis McKelvin (broken leg) and Donte Whitner (injured thumb) will be out indefinitely. McKelvin is expected to be for an extended period while Whitner is having surgery to repair the thumb. He will be evaluated on a weekly basis.
Colts:
According to the National Football Post defensive end Dwight Freeney will undergo an MRI on Monday to exam his right quadriceps. Freeney is noted as saying he “felt something pop.”
Dolphins:
Quarterback Chad Pennington will miss the remainder of the 2009 season after suffering a torn capsule in his shoulder according to ESPN. The Associated Press is reporting that Pennington will seek a second opinion.
Lions:
Running back Kevin Smith left Sunday’s game in the third quarter with a shoulder injury. According to Profootballtalk.com a league sourced says his injury will be “week to week.”
Niners:
Running back Frank Gore left Sunday’s game with an ankle injury and did not return. According to an NFL Network report he suffered a high ankle sprain and is expected to miss at least two weeks.
Patriots:
Running back Laurence Maroney suffered a thigh injury in Sunday’s win over the Falcons. He says he will be fine although he did not play in the second half. Defensive tackle Vince Wolfork also suffered an ankle injury, but his injury is not expected to be long term.
Rams:
Quarterback Marc Bulger injured his shoulder Sunday against the Packers and left the game early. The early report is a bruised rotator cuff according to the team. His availability for week 4 is questionable. Wide receiver Laurent Robinson suffered a broken leg in Sunday’s loss against the Packers. He will miss the remainder of the season.
Redskins:
According to the Associated Press the team expects defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth to be fine after being forced out of Sunday’s game with a strained glut muscle. Haynesworth will undergo an MRI on Monday according to the team.
Titans:
The Nashville Tennessean reports that defensive back Vincent Fuller suffered a fractured arm on Sunday and underwent surgery Monday. He is expected to miss 4-6 weeks. Defensive back Courtland Finnegan suffered a hamstring injury as well in the team’s week 3 loss, but the extent of his injury is unknown.

By David Ortega

Check out more “Sunday Night Football Notes” every week!

FSH: THE FANTASY ZONE (FIRE & ICE)

September 3rd, 2009 10:37pm PST

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Fantasy Football: Fire & Ice

When you are engaged in the masterful competition of fantasy football, stats, numbers, insight, and information are your tools for success. And even when you have already made your fantasy draft choices, before you assume anything it can be just as helpful to know exactly just what you got.

Playing fantasy football is not just knowing when to start your players, but you also knowing when to consider the right time to bench your fizzling starlets. Join me here every week as I will once again be sharing with you the insight and analysis you’ll need to know who’s on “Fire” and who is as cold as “Ice.”

Your 2009 Preseason Notes:

The Quarterbacks...
Fire: Last season down the stretch the Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers finished off the 2008 season as one of the hottest arms throwing 11 touchdowns (to only four-INT’s) and averaging 287.6-yards passing in his final five starts. Rodgers has looked very good this preseason and is a favorite to pick things up just where he left off.
Fire: In his last four starts of the 2008 season, the Texans quarterback Matt Schaub only tossed five touchdowns, but he completed 63-percent of his passes (97 of 153) and averaged more than 320-yards. If he can stay healthy, Schaub is a great prospect to have a great start this season.
Ice: Last season was not a golden year for the former Golden Boy in Green Bay. Brett Favre was one of the poorest performing fantasy quarterbacks down the stretch in 2008. In his last five starts, Favre tossed just two touchdowns, but threw nine interceptions to sink the Jets postseason hopes. Fantasy owners are hoping a change of scenery will help turn his luck around.

The Running Backs...
Fire: Last season rookie running back Kevin Smith quietly solidified the starting job with the Lions for 2009, with a strong finish in 2008. Smith averaged more than 90-yards rushing in his last three starts and scored a touchdown in each of those affairs. Not a great PPR option, but Smith did fair well with nine catches down the stretch.
Fire: The Panthers starting running back DeAngelo Williams is not getting much credit this preseason heading toward fantasy drafts, but that could change once you consider how he finished last season. In his last four starts he averaged 140-yards on the ground and scored seven times. Williams also eclipsed the century mark in seven of his last nine starts.
Fire: Injury risk or not, winning fantasy football is about what you do in the playoffs. In Ram’s running back Steven Jackson’s last three starts, he rushed for 360-yards, scored three touchdowns, and added 10 receptions for 101-yards from scrimmage.
Ice: In three of his last four starts in 2008, running back Larry Johnson rushed for less than 60-yards. Johnson also had just one rushing touchdown down the stretch (final four games) and averaged only 13 touches per game.

The Wide Receivers...
Fire: From out of nowhere coming off an injury, the Saints receiver Marques Colston reminded everyone very quickly down the stretch in 2008, that he still is the 1,200-yard receiver from 2007. In his final three starts last season Colston hauled in 22 passes, scored four touchdowns, and totaled 306-receiving yards.
Fire: Last season remembering that wide receiver Reggie Wayne did not play but a series in the team’s final contest, in his two games prior he caught 14 passes for 212-yards, and a touchdown. His name is not drawing a lot of praise, but with Marvin gone Wayne will be the only go-to in Indy.
Ice: Surprisingly the Falcons wideout Roddy White was not one of the hotter fantasy options down the stretch in 2008. In his final three starts, White averaged just 3.3-receptions with 44.3-receiving yards per game, and scored just once. We expect him to be very good this season, but remember he was a late arrival in camp and now Ryan has a new target to consider.

The Tight Ends...
Fire: Despite the loss of Harrison, the Colts offense will not be short on playmakers that will include tight end Dallas Clark. Last year in his last three starts Clark caught a total of 26 passes and averaged 102-yards receiving. Clark also scored in three of his last four starts.
Ice: After a strong start in 2008, the Titan’s tight end Bo Scaife really struggled in fantasy down the stretch. Scaife caught just 11 passes in his last five starts and averaged only 14.2-yards receiving per game. Whoa, now that’s chilly!

Remember to check back every week for more "Fire & Ice!”