FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

September 27th, 2011 Tuesday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

Stafford Closing the Gap to the Top Ranks
The 2011 season has been great for Lion’s quarterback Matthew Stafford. Through the first three weeks he is healthy and he is playing lights out. Stafford is averaging more than 325 yards passing per game and has already thrown 9 touchdowns completing 66.9 percent of his passes. His passer rating of 110.7 ranks third, just behind Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady. As the season moves on and Stafford continues his brilliant play, the gap between he and the elite continues to shrink.

Pettigrew Breaks Out Against Vikes
The Lions third year tight end Brandon Pettigrew could be getting his coming out party just started with a strong showing in week 3 against the Vikes. Pettigrew was targeted 13 times on Sunday collecting 11 balls for 112 yards, both season and career highs. With Stafford now healthy, at 6’-5” and 265-lbs Pettigrew could continue to see more success in the coming weeks. His 22 targets this season indicate he’s a rising TE1 in fantasy leagues.

Rookie Smith Shows Explosion
In his first NFL start rookie wide receiver Torrey Smith came out with more than just a bang, he exploded on Sunday against the Rams with some prolific numbers. On eight targets Smith grabbed five balls for 152 yards, including three electrifying scores. Smith gives the Ravens their much needed deep threat and if he can continue to show great chemistry with his quarterback, don’t expect to see him sit much even when (Lee) Evans returns. It’s too early to make any bold predictions or sudden grabs off the waiver wire, but his presence and strong play could certainly open things up for (Anquan) Boldin on the other side.

Felix the Cat Opens his Bag of Tricks
Just when the Cowboys needed it most, running back Felix Jones reached deep into his bag of tricks and pulled out a big game on the ground. Jones scampered his way to 115, courtesy of a couple of nice big runs against the Redskins on Monday night. It was the first sign of a ground attack for the Cowboys this season and Jones best game by far. Jones showed great burst and breakaway speed, but also some grit not going down on the first contact. He’s a little banged up right now (shoulder), but when healthy this kid can run with the big dogs.

Sidney Rice finds a pulse against the Cardinals
The Seahawks passing game has seeming been in hibernation or on life–support so far this season, but the return of wide receiver Sidney Rice on Sunday may have just breathed a little life into it. Rice, in his first game this season was targeted 10 times catching 8 passes for 109 yards. It’s too soon to be expecting big things from Rice, but it’s a good sign for fantasy owners to see Rice and (Tarvaris) Jackson connecting often.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

March 13th, 2011 Sunday

David’s Daily Digest

2011 Fantasy Football Players

As we start looking toward the upcoming 2011 season (with fingers crossed), it’s hard to imagine any new surprises for fantasy owners at the quarterback spot. We all saw quite evident the growth and progression of Michael Vick in the pocket, the arrival of Aaron Rodgers as one of the games’ best, and the several young arms that continue to make strides with their progression.

2011 should present a host of options for owners to choose from at the quarterback spot. A couple of names that come to mind that could offer plenty of return investment on their draft selection include quarterback Matt Ryan and Ryan Fitzpatrick.

After solid fantasy showings in 2010 Ryan and Fitzpatrick are two less-than-marquee names that could surprise folks with strong follow-up performances in 2011…..

Fantasy Quarterback…..

Matt Ryan (Falcons)

The Falcons young quarterback Matt Ryan has continually improved since his arrival into the league in 2008 and for fantasy owners his progression has been a huge reward. Ryan finished the 2010 season with over 3,700 yards passing and 28 touchdowns; he was fantasy’s number eight scoring quarterback (traditional scoring).

Matty “Ice” was particularly strong at home this past season throwing 15 touchdowns and just three picks finishing with a 7-1 record. Ryan was also very consistent passing for more than 200 yards with multiple touchdowns in eight games; he also had nine total games with multiple touchdowns including four games with three touchdowns. With one of the leagues’ premiere wide receivers (Roddy White) to throw to and a talented young receiving corp Ryan should have little trouble duplicating his numbers.

After his big 2010 season, Ryan has shown the growth and maturity of a big-time clutch passer and his number eight finish in fantasy (among quarterbacks) will make him a mid-draft fantasy selection favorite. Ryan should easily be a top ten fantasy quarterback in 2011, but he’s not going to go early among the quarterbacks; the later you can grab him will offer the best value.

Ryan Fitzpatrick (Bills)

The Bills quarterback had quietly what could be considered a breakout season. Before the 2010 season Fitzpatrick had hardly made a name for himself with two seasons in St. Louis and two in Cincinnati. In 2009 he did start eight games with the Bills, but his passing numbers were less than mediocre and he finished with a 69.7 passer rating.

In 2010 Fitzpatrick enjoyed his coming out party with the Bills passing for 3,000 yards, completing nearly 58% of his passes, and tossing 23 touchdowns in just 13 games. Ryan did struggle down the stretch and toss 15 picks last season which could deter some owners, but with a full camp as the starter under his belt in 2011 he should be more that capable of ironing out the bugs.

Fitzpatrick had plenty of strong numbers in 2010 that should keep him in good company as a solid back-up fantasy quarterback in 2011. He’ll also benefit greatly with his returning cast of receivers in 2011 that will include Stevie Johnson, Roscoe Parrish, and Lee Evans (if he is not released). Fitzpatrick has started 33 games over the past three seasons, so 2011 should be make-it-or-break-it time; he’s not a fantasy starter, but could give owners some relief as an insurance back with a few spots starts and bye week replacement.

That’s how I read it for 2011 under center….

By David Ortega

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

December 15th, 2010 Wednesday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

MATT SCHAUB COMES ALIVE ON MONDAY NIGHT
For a while fantasy owners had to be showing some concern for their Texan’s quarterback. After passing for nearly 4,800 yards last season, big games were something most had become accustomed to. However, before his week 14 matchup against the Ravens, Schaub was coming off stretch of passing for more than 300 yards in just two of his last six starts. That all changed Monday night when Schaub went nuts passing for 393 yards and throwing three touchdowns on his way to one of his best games this season.
My Fantasy Read:
Schaub could not pick a better time to get hot with fantasy playoffs underway in most custom league formats. The 300-yard effort Monday night was his second consecutive and his three touchdowns were only the second time this season. With the hot hand now, Schaub’s week 15 matchup against the Titan’s 26th ranked pass defense looks mouth watering for owners.

THE RYAN TORAIN TRAIN IS ON TRACK AGAIN
After rumbling his way through the Buccaneers defense for 172 yards, it’s safe to say running back Ryan Torain’s hamstring appears healthy. His 24 carries on the afternoon were also a season high for the 2nd year ball carrier.
My Fantasy Read:
Torain onlyreturned to practice last week, but his participation in practice with the first team should have been an indicator that he would be Shanahan’s choice to start. His 26 touches on Sunday should also be a strong indicator to fantasy owners that he’ll be seeing the brunt of load going forward.

DEION BRANCH IS ENJOYING HIS RETURN
Since returning to Beantown, the Patriots wide receiver Deion Branch has been a steady contributor to the passing. He has quickly become one of Tom Brady’s most reliable and consistent pass catchers. In the team’s last three games Branch has really come on strong scoring in each. Last Sunday against the Bears Branch blew up for 151 yards receiving on 8 catches.
My Fantasy Read:
This is nothing new to Patriots fans, as they have seen this before, but for fantasy owners this was something that was missing in Seattle. Now that Branch is back home in Foxboro, he’s a solid fantasy start averaging nearly 19 fantasy points in his last three starts.

JEREMY MACLIN PLAYS SECOND FIDDLE
The Eagles offense once again exploded for at least 26 points; it was their sixth straight game. Unfortunately for fantasy owners, wide receiver Jeremy Maclin was not part of the fireworks. Maclin was targeted just three times finishing the game with one catch for 11 yards.
My Fantasy Read:
The 11 yards effort was a season low for Maclin, but it was also his second consecutive non-eventful effort. It’s pretty clear the Eagles big play passing offense is catered around the blazing speed of DeSean Jackson. As long as opposing defenses continue to struggle with Jackson, Maclin is likely going to have more games like this.

STEVIE JOHNSON COULD BE READY TO REBOUND
It was another listless afternoon for wide receiver Stevie Johnson who caught just five passes for 42 yards on eight targets in the cold at Orchard Park. Johnson has easily been one of quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick’s favorite targets, but over the past couple of weeks the two have not been in sync. That all could change with the loss of wide receiver Lee Evan (placed on Injured Reserve)
My Fantasy Read:
Before Sunday Evans was becoming a hot target for Fitzpatrick. Prior to Sunday Evans had averaged seven targets in his last three games. With Evans placed on IR, Johnson is expected to be the-guy in Buffalo. He won’t have a walk through the park this Sunday against the Dolphins (ranked 6th against the pass), but he should plenty of opportunities to do some damage for fantasy owners.

FSH: SUNDAY MORNING GAMETIME

November 14th, 2010 Sunday

Sunday Morning Gametime

Quick Injury notes:

With week 10 set to kickoff in just a few hours a couple of notable injury updates to keep in mind today; wide receiver Sidney Rice was not activated off the PUP list yesterday by the 3pm deadline he will not be activated today for the Vikings-Bears game. On the other hand after missing some practice time this week due to migraine headaches, Adam Schefter of ESPN is already reporting Harvin will be active for today’s game.

Quarterback Vince Young took some snaps during Friday’s practice, but his availability is still questionable for today’s game. Head coach Jeff Fischer has been noted as saying Young will be a game-time decision, but some early reports are indicating it will likely be Kerry Collins starting. Even if Young feels good during warm-ups and gets the nod to start, fantasy owners should be concerned about his health getting through the game.

According to some reports the Redskins will likely have running back Ryan Torain in the backfield on Monday night against the Eagles. Torain looks on track to start according to Schefter, while Clinton Portis appears to be doubtful for the contest.

Player Watch

With fantasy leagues entering the stretch run before their playoffs season, one player of note that I like today and should be on most radars is tight end Marcedes Lewis. The Jaguars tight end has really emerged as a viable scoring threat this season with 7 touchdowns through the team’s first eight games. Today against the Texans he should have a great matchup against the leagues 32nd ranked pass defense. Tight ends have scored three times against the Texan’s defense in the last two games; look for Lewis to add to those numbers.

Sunday Games

Acouple of games today that I like to draw a lot of fantasy interest are the Bill-Lions matchup and the Colts-Bengals tilt. Both games should be filled with lots of fireworks and fantasy scoring.

The Lions have the leagues 22nd ranked pass defense and the Bills passing game led by quarterback Ryna Fitzpatrick has been finding new life over the past several weeks. Wide receiver’s Steve Johnson and Roscoe Parrish should be on most owner’s watch list with a heavy dose of targets the last few weeks, while Lee Evans always remains a threat to take one deep. Matching up against the Lions 27th ranked run defense running back Fred Jackson should be in line for some steady work as well.

The Lions have a few weapons of their own and even with quarterback Shaun Hill inserted in place of the injured Matt Stafford, wide receiver Calvin Johnson should remain a strong play. The Bills are the league’s worst run defense, so today should be a great day to start rookie running Jahvid Best.

If you own any Colts players, today should offer plenty of good matchups especially for Manning the passing game. Wide receiver Blair White could be a great sleeper pick here with Gonzales and Collie absent. Let’s not forget tight end Jacob Tamme, who has done a credible job replacing the injured Dallas Clark. Wide receiver Reggie Wayne will find his, but one receiver that should not be over looked is Pierre Garcon. Indy has plenty of options to go around.

The Bengals passing game has been up and down all season, but one constant I like is wide receiver Terrell Owens. He’s one of the league’s most targeted receivers and he’s having a solid season with solid numbers. In today’s matchup with the Colt’s 29th ranked run defense, Cedric Benson looks like a solid start; just hope the Bengals can stay with the run long enough to take advantage.

Either way, these are two mathcups by my estimation that should provide plenty of fantasy scoring and highlights.

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

October 27th, 2010, Wednesday

David’s Daily Digest

My Fantasy Notes:

DARREN MCFADDEN: THE REAL RUN DMC ON SUNDAY
The Raider’s 3rd year running back was Mr. Fantasy on Sunday, having his way with the Denver defense and scoring four times. McFadden touched the ball18 times on the day and averaged well over 10 yards from scrimmage each time he did. The Raiders number one ball carrier finished the day with 165 yards on the ground and added another 31 yards receiving.
My Fantasy Read:
Michael Bush who? If you weren’t a true believer before Sunday, you better believe Run-DMC is the number one running back in Oakland and looks to be a solid fantasy start every week. Keep him in your line-up

THOMAS JONES SHOWING HIS LEGS STILL HAVE LIFE
In the last four season, both the Jets and the Bears have traded away running back Thomas Jones believing his best days running are behind him. Since he left Chicago he’s had three straight 1,000 yard rushing season and in his first post-Jet season he is well on his way (on pace to eclipse 1,200 yards). This week Jones topped 100 yards rushing for the second straight week and added his third rushing touchdown for the season.
My Fantasy Read:
This was the second straight week that Jones has topped 20 touches for the game and the fourth time this season. The Chiefs have a committee backfield, but like the Jets a year ago, there seems to be enough to go around for Jones to be a safe weekly play in deeper leagues.

HAKEEM NICKS TOYS WITH THE BOYS MONDAY NIGHT
The Giants wide receiver was simple electric Monday night helping to lead the G-men to an impressive and at one point dominant comeback on offense. Nicks hauled in nine passes for over 100 yards receiving and two touchdowns (he has 8 this season, tied for the NFL lead).
My Fantasy Read:
It has not taken long for this second year receiver to blossom into something special. Nicks is on pace for 15 plus touchdowns, 90 plus catches, and 1,200 yards receiving; he’s a number one receiver in any league.

ELI MANNING CAPTAIN’S JET BLUE IN BIG D
The Giant’s signal caller has had his ups and downs this season, but on Monday night he had the passing game flying amongst the clouds. Manning completed better than 70% of his passes, passed for over 300 yards and threw four touchdowns to do-in the Cowboys.
My Fantasy Read:
Manning is not going to post big numbers week in and week out, but he’s got sure handed receivers and a solid ground game to support him. The Giants are on a roll (winners of five straight) and Manning has been solid. In deeper leagues he’s a safe start.

RYAN FITZPATRICK LOOKS SOLID ON SUNDAY
Some football analyst speculated early in the season that the Ravens secondary was the weak spot on the defense. Through the first several weeks of the season that had not looked like the case, but on Sunday the Bill’s quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick had many reconsidering. The Bill’s quarterback torched the Raven’s secondary for 382 yards passing and four touchdowns.
My Fantasy Read:
It may be a little too early to start drinking this cool-aid. The Bills have some talented receivers with Evans, Johnson, and Parrish, but heading into Sunday’s contest they had one of the leagues least effective passing games. Fitzpatrick’s game on Sunday is a nice preview of what may come, but better wait until it gets here before you start betting the farm.

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FANTASY FOOTBALL HEADLINES

November 15th, 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]

RB-Chris Wells scores twice in big division win …

The Cardinal’s rookie running back had his best game as a pro finishing week 10 with 85 yards rushing, 32 yards receiving and two touchdowns in the team’s big divisional win over the Seahawks. (23 fantasy points)

QB-Philip Rivers is solid on Sunday.....

The Charger’s quarterback Philip Rivers passed for 231 yards on 20 of 25 passing (80 percent completion) and tossed two touchdowns to lead his team to a big win. (21 fantasy points)

QB- Marc Bulger has big passing day in loss..…

The Ram’s quarterback Marc Bulger had his best passing day of the season completing 26 of 40 passes for 298 yards with two touchdowns in the team’s week 10 loss to the Saints. (21 fantasy points)

RB-LaDanian Tomlinson is in good form on Sunday….

The Charger’s running back had his best day running in 2009 with 24 carries for 96 yards and two touchdowns to lead his team. (21 fantasy points)

RB-Jonathan Stewart hits paydirt twice……

The Panthers running back saw his normal workload on Sunday, but made the most with 82 yards rushing and two scores to help lead his team to a home win over the Falcons. (20 fantasy points)

WR-Donnie Avery has big day with two scores..…

The Rams second year receiver had his best game this season finishing the afternoon with four catches for 67 yards including two touchdowns in the team’s week 10 loss to the Saints. (18 fantasy points)

WR-Lee Evans reaches paydirt twice in loss..…

The Bills wide receiver Lee Evans made the most of his grabs on Sunday against the Titans finishing the day with four receptions for 50 yards and two touchdowns. (17 fantasy points)

Some IDP Fantasy Newsmakers…

LB-Nick Barnett has busy day in big win…

The Packers linebacker was busy making tackles and harassing quarterbacks in his team’s week 10 victory. Barnett finished the day with eight tackles and two sacks.

DB-Charles Woodson is an IDP monster on Sunday…

The Packers stud corner was all over the field, finishing Sunday’s contest with nine tackles, two forced fumbles, an interception, and a sack.

DL-Andre Carter is a beast on Sunday…

The Redskins defensive end led the charge on Sunday against the Broncos finishing the afternoon with seven tackles and one and a half sacks.

LB-Andra Davis gets busy in week 10 loss…

The Broncos linebacker was a busy man in the team’s week 10 loss to the Redskins. Davis finished the game with 12 tackles and a sack.

By David Ortega

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

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL NOTES

September 6th, 2009 10:57pm PST

Sunday Night Football Notes

Fantasy’s Forgotten Names

Players that may slip in drafts….
It seems this year we have gotten so caught up in some of the early fantasy hype surrounding the new kids on the block and the return of some of the older kids (Favre, Brady, & Vick), that some of last season’s early favorites have gone relatively unnoticed; such as; Matt Hasselbeck, Carson Palmer, Lee Evans, and Braylon Edwards.

These would be our “Fantasy’s Forgotten names” which are those players whose current value is being based on their previouse production. While these players have not been completely forgotten, they are falling down this year charts, because of last season’s lackluster performances. Fantasy owners need to keep a sharp eye and recognize these boys still have plenty of value and play.

Not only might some of these players slip, but they could also be sitting on your bench in Week one. While it is conceivable to think you may have drafted a higher ranked option ahead of these FFN’s, be sure not to overlook their potential and more important their matchups.

Coming off shortened seasons due to injury, both Palmer and Hasslebeck appear ready to return to form. If owners remember, Palmer is a regular 4,000-passing yards club member submitting membership twice (2006 & 2007). He has also thrown as many as 32 touchdowns in a single season. Hasselbeck is in a similar case, not finishing last season with injury and being overlooked early in drafts.

The Seahawks quarterback has great size in the pocket and when healthy is a solid QB1. In 2007 Hasselbeck passed for nearly 4,000-yards and threw 28 touchdowns. Like Palmer, the Seahawks quarterback has looked very good in the preseason and lloks primed to return to form.

A couple of other names that could be losing interest, but could very well outperform expectations this season would include a pair of receivers; Lee Evans and Braylon Edwards. With the arrival of Terrell Owens to Buffalo, there’s not been a lot of talk about Evans. The Bill’s new number two receiver has been a consistent 1,000-yard pass catcher and with T.O. lining up on the other side, he should have little trouble reaching his third 1,000-yard plateau in four seasons.

Edwards is playing on a very bad Brown’s offense, but one that will trail a lot in 2009 and have to put the ball in the air. The team does not have any other reliable receivers to go too and even without consistency at the quarterback position Edwards is in line to see a lot of work this season. He’s a bit of a risky play, but coming off just 55 catches and three touchdowns last season he will improve. He’s fallen down the boards as is being viewed as a low-value pick, but he is too talented to overlook.

More of the same could include the likes of quarterback Matt Schaub. The Texan’s quarterback seems to be health risk and without a full season of stats to consider, his real value is missed. Any quarterback comes with risk, but with Schaub when he is on the field there is plenty of reward. He is your classic high-risk and great-reward pick.

Schaub is being drafted as a fantasy back-up, but looking at his numbers he produces with the best fantasy quarterbacks when he plays. Injuries play a part and have to be watched, but don’t forget any of these names. As long as they are on the field, they will be players in 2009.


By David Ortega

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

FSH: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

July 27th, 2009 10:37pm PST

The Second Best of the Bunch

Number two receivers that will rise….
With a complete crop of receivers to choose from every year, come draft time it can sometimes feels like a free for all with so many to choose; 32 number one and 32 number two wideouts. The hard lesson for some fantasy owners is, not all are cracked up to be what you thought, what you hoped, or what you were told.

Owners should not let the 2009 season be any different and should once again proceed with caution when drafting your wideouts for the upcoming jaunt. There will of course be your perennial favorites; Moss, Fitzgerald, and Johnson, and others that will be draw early attention in fantasy drafts.

But what is a fantasy owner to do once the well starts to dry? Not to fear, there will be plenty of depth at the wideout position across from the number one receiving option. One of the receivers that will be leading this campaign for the bunch of Second Bests, is Buffalo’s Lee Evans. He is likely to be overshadowed by the arrival T.O., but he’ll be a strong candidate to produce big in 2009. With so much attention going to Marshall in Denver, many should not forget Eddie Royal who caught 91 passes a year ago.

This class of receivers could be considered your Wes Welker of their respective team, not flashy, overshadowed, but most effective. As I mentioned Evans will head the class, below is how I would rank the top 10 number two receivers of the NFL;

2009 Class of “Wes Welkers’

1. Wes Welker (NE)…you can’t have a list named after you and not top it.
2. Anquan Boldin (Ari)…he’s really more of a 1b and could easily top this list.
3. Eddie Royal (Den)….91 receptions last seasons says it all.
4. Lance Moore (NO)…had a big 2008, but will step down behind Colston.
5. Donald Driver (GB)…still steady and consistent, but a clear no. 2 option.
6. Hines Ward (Pit)….still a safe play and favorite of Big Ben.
7. Kevin Curtis (Phi)…if 100%, could sneak up on everyone and return to 2007 form.
8. Laveranues Coles (Cin)…a healthy Palmer could mean a big season.
9. Anthony Gonzalez (Ind)…could surprise in 1st year as teams number two.
10. Deion Branch (Sea)…a healthy Hass could elevate his stock in 2009.
    
    Note Worthy:
    Steve Breaston (Ari)…could be a stretch, but has the talent.

Remember to check back for more "Monday Morning Huddle!"

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL NOTES

May 17th, 2009 11:37pm PST

Sunday Night Football Notes

Changes around the League

Is it really that funny to see how teams can suddenly change in just one offseason. Ever since the arrival of modern day free agency, change has become a big part of the game, one that teams must adapt to if they are to be successful. While it's really difficult to determine if any teams have really mastered the art of free agency, one thing that is certain change has become pretty common.

With this year's lot of free agents and the salary cap to orchestrate, once again many NFL teams experience the exercise of offseason changes that some must make to improve and compete. This offseason was no different with a host teams making significant changes that could have huge impacts on how many of these offenses will perform in 2009.

The Cowboys were one of the first teams to make a major move by releasing wide receiver Terrell Owens. There's no question his absence is going to have a huge impact on how this offense will move forward. Already garnered as one of the best receiving tight ends in the game, Jason Witten should emerge as the top pass catching option in Texas and could be very big in 2009. With T.O. gone, Roy Williams may have a chance to flourish in Dallas, but he isn't likely to put up similar T.O. numbers with Witten as the go-to.

Speaking of T.O., now that he's in Buffalo many may speculate that Trent Edwards and Lee Evans will suddenly be elevated among the elite in 2009; not quite. Edwards is still developing, but the presence of Owens coupled with the talent of Evans should help him progress quickly. Evans has the explosive speed for the deep threat; add T.O.'s size, strength and exceptional athletic ability and the Buffalo passing could once again thrive like in the Kelly days. Edwards may not be a top five QB this season, but he should top 3,200-yards and toss 18-20 touchdowns. T.O. is usually been in great shape and there appears to be no decline. If Owens can adjust to the new system, he'll likely be a featured threat and should post better numbers than his 2008 campaign. Evans is likely to enjoy the biggest change. With T.O. drawing some attention, Evans could finally breakout and return to his 80-catch and 1,000-yard form.

There were some moves made this offseason that shook a few heads and will obviously create a lot of change. The Broncos loss of quarterback Jay Cutler is the Bear's gain, but just what did Denver lose. With a new system in place the employs a spread-the-field and attack underneath mentality, were the Broncos really set back by much. Kyle Orton has never been a fantasy type producer, but then he's never played in a wide open system such as McDaniel’s.

In Denver, Orton could emerge as a reliable fantasy option with both receivers Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal not having to see their own fantasy value suffer much. The big question in this move will be how Cutler maintains his top five status in fantasy drafts. The Bears don't have much of a receiving core and lack that big well-skilled go to option that Cutler enjoyed in Denver. Last season the former Bronco was impressive with over 4,500-yards passing and 25 touchdowns. He's not likely to come close to those numbers in the Windy City, although he'll remain a solid fantasy option.

A good question to ask here is how much better will Cutler be, than Orton. If both were back with their former teams, that distance would be great, but considering the current situation the gap has closed and it's a much tighter race.

Who will you draft and when?

There's plenty more to discuss when it comes to changes around the league and I'm sure this won't be the last time I bring it up....


By David Ortega

Check out more "Sunday Night Football Notes" every week!

FSH: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

April 20th, 2009 10:47pm PST

[The Evening Edition]
Monday Morning Huddle

Talkin Sum (fantasy) Football

2009: The Wide Receivers

Sure there is a lot of time to debate any of this, but I thought I would get all the chatter started by throwing out some early banter about the wide receivers for 2009. Last season was a solid season for the wideout position, especially for fantasy owners. With 22 receivers eclipsing the 1,000-yard barrier and 27 reaching at least 70 receptions in 2008, there seems to be no lack of production at the position (18 players accomplished both).

When you look at last season's lineup and you consider some of the offseason changes and how they will effect, we could easily see more than 18 players top these numbers this coming season. With Kurt Warner back in Arizona and if the team should move Anquan Boldin to another destination, number three wideout Steve Breaston (77 receptions, 1,006-yards) figures to continue his brotherhood to this fraternity along with Mr. Fitzgerald.

Over in Philly, Donovan McNabb has managed to do it without great talent on the outside. With another season with his 2nd year receiver DeSean Jackson (62 receptions, 912-yards), and Eagles fans and fantasy football owners could be saying welcome to the club (70-receptions/1,000-yards).

In Buffalo, the Bills could be initiating a couple of entries of their own into the club with the addition of some new fire power. Last season, both Terrell Owens (69-receptions, 1,052-yards) and Lee Evans (63-receptions, 1,017-yards) just miss the club, but now playing side-by-side both could benefit greatly and be granted entry in 2009.

The Saints are no strangers to putting up big numbers, especially in the passing game, but both Lance Moore (79-receptions, 928-yards) and Marques Colston (47-receptions, 760-Yards) missed out in 2008. Both receivers will be back together healthy in 2009 and figure to be solid locks to join this fraternity.

With T.O. out in Dallas, wide receiver Roy E. Williams (36-receptions, 430-yards) and tight end Jason Witten (952-yards) will have excellent chances at reaching the fantasy measuring stick. Another receiver benefitting from a departure is 2nd year receiver Donnie Avery, who inherits the number one position with release of Torry Holt. Players like Bernard Berrian and Anthony Gonzalez could also benefit greatly in 2009 with the recent personnel changes on their respective clubs.

There are also wideouts like Boldin and Braylon Edwards, who could land somewhere new and still remain active members of the club, then there are those like T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Laveranues Coles that have found new homes that could easily post big numbers in 2009.

With some many changes around the league this offseason, fantasy owners could easily see as many as 25 or more receivers reach the plateau of 70 catches and 1,000-yards. The impact of this increased production could have a tremendous effect on fantasy drafts, turning the early focus away from the receivers to the other positions.

…something for fantasy owners to keep in mind for this summer.


Check back every Monday for more Monday Morning Huddle!

FSH: FANTASY FIXX

March 24th, 2009 11:47pm PST

Fantasy Fixx

FF Radar

With the 2009 fantasy football still about four and a half months away before the diehards start heating up, continuing with my Fantasy Football Radar watch I'd like to highlight a couple of the receivers that should be on your scopes this coming draft.


The Good Hands People...

The Vikings shook things up a bit in Minneapolis when they traded for the services of quarterback Sage Rosenfels, indicating that the team did not have full confidence in either Gus Frerotte or Tarvaris Jackson to be the starter in 2009. Despite all the chatter that Jackson will have the shot at the starting position, the smart bet is Rosenfels. His presence in the pocket and under center should legitimize the Vikings passing game, enough to elevate wideout Bernard Berrian. Last season Berrian caught 48 passes for 964-yards and seven touchdowns with pedestrian play at the QB position at best. Rosenfels is no Brady, but he'll upgrade the position and should elevate the Berian's productive to a solid WR2 level. The Vike's receiver is a shoe-in to catch 60-70 balls next season and with his big play ability (20-yards/catch), he'll easily top 1,000-yards and figures at worst to duplicate his seven scores from a year ago. Owners will need to eye Berrian as a solid mid-round selection.

Another receiver that should benefit greatly from off-season changes is the Chief's wideout Dwayne Bowe. With the recent acquistion of quarterback Matt Cassel to the lineup, Bowe should only improve his 86-catch and 1,000-yards in 2008. New head coach Todd Haley has been noted as saying he believes Bowe is "a work in progress" and it sounds like the new head chief believes Bowe can only get better. Cassel had a breakthrough season in 2008 and is expected to elevate the Chiefs passing attack in 2009 which will be be good news for fantasy owners looking to snag the Chiefs top receiver. Bowe will also benefit from the addition of Bobby Engram, who will likely see a lot of work in the slot position. If Tony Gonzalez remains a Chief in 2009, with the new head coach implementing a heavy passing oriented offense, fantasy owners can expect a big season from Bowe. His numbers in 2009 should fall somewhere in the neighborhood of 90-95 receptions and over 1,200-yards receiving. Gonzalez has been the primary weapon of choice in the red-zone the last couple of seasons, but at 6'2" and 220 pounds Bowe could change all of that this coming season.

(Photo by Jarrett Baker/Getty Images)

The Bills made some big changes in the offseason or at least big noise by signing the modest and quiet wide receiver Terrell Owens. The soft-spoken wideout has never been shy about letting the world know just how good he is and may not waste that much time sharing this with his new team. With T.O. attracting so much attention off the field, he may even draw some extra coverage on it. This could very well help the Bills new "other receiver" Lee Evans. In recent seasons, Evans has been the go-to receiver basically flying with only one wing. Now that he'll have Owens lining up on the other side, the Bills leading receiver in 2008 that has averaged over 1,000-yards receiving the past three seasons could see a spike in his receiving totals from a year ago. Even with little help Evans averaged over 16-yards/catch and finished with over 1,000-yards receiving. He saw his touchdown numbers drop to a career-low total of three in 2008. Owens presence should lend some big help to the Bills big-play receiver who will undoubtedly see more single coverage deep and easily improve on his scoring totals from last season. A lot of folks are going to buy into the T.O. hype and believe he's going to be the man in Rochester, but fantasy owners will need to keep abreast Evans who could be a possible steal, as he will surely fall considerably in many fantasy drafts.

(Photo by Dilip Wanat/Getty Images)

As we continue to stroll out wide, we have to redirect our attention to St.Louis where one of the league’s worst teams will going small on the outside. With the departure of longtime receiver Torry Holt and free agent bust Drew Bennett the Rams young and unproven receiving corp has gotten very small. Inheriting the mantle of go-to-receiver will likely be 5'11" wideout Dennis Avery. The speedy receiver out of the University of Houston had moments of brilliance in first half of the 2008 season, exploding onto the scene in Weeks six through eight catching 14 passes for 291-yards and scoring twice. The rookie receiver then ran into a wall and disappeared at time in the second half struggling to get open and running sloppy routes. The kid is a work in progress, but with Holt gone he'll get a lot of offseason work and could be poised to spring board in 2009. Because of his late struggles, some fantasy owners may overlook the talented speedster and he could be available as a nice late round sleeper with greater reward in the latter half of the 2009 season. Mark your draft boards, Avery could be another steal in the upcoming drafts.

(Photo By Jiim Rogash/Getty Images)

And lastly...Larry Fitzgerald is number one


The last receiver I will mention in the segment happens to be the undisputed and unanimous number one receiver in all fantasy drafts. If he's not, someone is drinking the wrong kool-aid. The Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald blew up last year down the stretch and well into the post-season. In four playoff games Fitz set a new NFL playoff record catching 30 passes for 546-yards and seven touchdowns in one of the most dominant receiving performances that we have seen in the modern day era. Fitzgerald's impressive run not only elevated to the top spot, but demonstrated just how good this incredible talent really is. With Warner signed and indications that the team could be on its way to resigning Anquan Boldin, expect nothing less than the best from Fitz in 2009!

(Photo By Kevin Terrell/NFL.com)

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