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.

Trending This Week

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

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Thursday Edition
October 11th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

Nicks Getting Close

The Giants explosive wide out Hakeem Nicks has returned to the practice field, albeit in limited fashion, but it’s a step closer to returning to the field of action. Nicks is a big play home run hitter, in two games of action he has 14 receptions for 237 yards and a score. Nicks is so dynamic on the field, if he can get back he’s a must start. Friday’s practice is expected to tell the tale and determine if we’ll see him on Sunday.

Quinn Will Get Start On Sunday

The Chiefs will be without their regular starting quarterback Matt Cassel, who was injured last Sunday versus the Ravens and will start back-up Brady Quinn this Sunday against the Buccaneers. Despite the poor play of Cassel this season (14 turnovers), Quinn is not likely a huge upgrade. Quinn has not started a game since the 2009 season and you have to worry about his chemistry with his receivers. About the only thing that seems certain, expect a lot of Jamaal Charles on Sunday. 

Are They Whispers or Cries for TO?

Right now quarterback Mark Sanchez and the New York Jets have no weapons in the passing game and that’s a fact. When you are bringing your number corner over to the offensive side to run routes, you have problems. Free Agent Terrell Owens certainly looks like he’d be a better option, better than any the Jets currently have. Owens is still a physical specimen and would be an immediate upgrade for the Jets offense. He’s not going to be anyone’s savior, but until something changes in the Jets’ offense the entire squad remains a non-fantasy factor.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: FANTASY FIVE

Monday Edition

September 10th, 2012 

FSH Fantasy Five

Week 1 Quarterbacks

There were plenty of surprises and nice turn-ins by a few of the Fantasy regular, but these five were the performances I found most interesting on Sunday. I am not saying these were the best, but there’s no question their numbers had an impact in fantasy and on the field.

Mark Sanchez, NYJ (266 yards passing, 3 touchdowns)

The San-chise is back? Maybe it’s too early to be crowing anyone, but what a nice turn-around for the former Trojan after a dismal showing throughout the playoffs; or was that the plan?

My Fantasy Read: Sanchez had a break-out Sunday against the Bills, but it’s far too small a sample to weigh in that he’s come of age. This should be a make or break year for Sanchez and he’s off to a good start, but before you start selling his stock high we’ll need to see more return.

Robert Griffin III, WASH (320 yards passing, 2 touchdowns)

Does anyone want to give Mike Shanahan any credit for knowing what he is doing. Sure his tenure in Washington thus far has been tumultuous at best, but nice call with the selection of the kid with the dreads. RGIII looked nothing like a raw rookie dicing up the Saints defense on Sunday.

My Fantasy Read: The rookie sure didn’t play like one, taking his Redskins on the road and traveling to New Orleans to knock off last seasons’ NFC South Division winner. The feat and performance on Sunday was quite impressive, but it may be a little too early to coronate RGIII. Early as it may be, it’s not too early to say he’s worth starting in week two against the Rams.

  

Tom Brady, NE (236 yards passing, 2 touchdowns)

Tom Terrifc was every bit just that completing 23 of 31 passes as he and the Patriots sailed to an easy 34-13 road win over the Titans.

My Fantasy Read: Once he and his deep threat Brandon Lloyd get more in sync, expect Brady to start posting not just big, but huge numbers. Brady has plenty of weapons, but he’ll need the presence and effectiveness of Lloyd to retain his place near the top of the QB fantasy world.

Jay Cutler, CHI (333 yards passing, 2 touchdowns)

With his new toy in place, Cutler made wide receiver Brandon Marshall feel right at home hooking up with his former and re-united teammate nine times. Cutler also made mince meat of the Colts secondary connecting on 21 of 35 passes.

My Fantasy Read: Cutler was brilliant and quite deadly with his big arm. Now that he has a big time receiver and a couple of big targets he’s going to be a top 10 fantasy QB every week. In week two, he could have trouble facing the Packers pass rush, but when they don’t get there he’s going to make them pay. He’s a worthy start every week.

Peyton Manning, DEN (253 yards passing, 2 touchdowns)

How long was he out anyway? Peyton Manning sure didn’t show much rust Sunday night facing the Steelers defense, as a matter of fact he showed a lot of sharpness and poise. Manning was efficient and accurate as ever completing 19 of 26 passes (73% completion) and completely picking apart the Steelers secondary.

My Fantasy Read: Like any fantasy play it’s always good to consider the matchup, but Manning at this point looks like a safe solid play week in and week out. The Broncos O-line did a pretty good job of protection and with the next matchup in doors (at Atlanta), Manning should feel quite comfortable facing the Falcons secondary next Monday. 

One Final Thought

Not to slight any quarterbacks in week one, but one more that deserves a quick mention is Matt Ryan (ATL). Against the Chiefs Ryan shined with 299 yards passing and three touchdowns. A quick read, this was no fluke; with the weapons he now has in Atlanta, Ryan is poised to put up big numbers. 

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

December 17th, 2011, Saturday

David’s Daily Digest

FantasyNotes:

Risky Plays for Week 15…

Sanchez could face a tough test….the Jets take their show on theroad this weekend, a place where quarterback Mark Sanchez has just twotouchdowns in his last three (raod) starts. The Eagles defense is ranked just12^th against the pass this season, but they have managed 42 sacks and 12 picks this season. The road is a place that has not been too kind for Sanchezas of late, fantasy owners may want to consider other options (if available).

Bears defense could tame the Beast ….runningback Marshawn Lynch has been a wrecking ball tearing through opposing defensesaveraging 114 yards on the ground in his last five games. This week his “beastmode” could be tamed and meet its’ match when he takes the field against theBears defense. The Bears 10^th ranked run defense has not allowed asingle 100-yard rusher in their last 8 games (since week 5 against the Lions);and they have not allowed a single rushing touchdown in their last 8 quartersplayed. Lynch will get a ton of work, but could struggle to find many yards onSunday.

Jackson could get lost on Revis Island…..theEagles tumultuous receiver DeSean Jackson has been held in check most of theseason recording just two 100-yard receiving games this season. On Sunday he issure to spend quite a bit of time on Revis Island and could very well likely pulla disappearing act; not what fantasy owners need during championship week. Hehas recorded four or less catches eight times this season and only topped the74-yard receiving mark four times (in 12 games); he’s reward this season hardlyseems worth the risk.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

January 24th, 2011, Monday

Monday Morning Huddle
(Late Evening Edition)

Well the NFL is now down to its’ final two with both the Packers and Steelers coming out victorious in their respective championship matchups. Although I am not surprised to see these two teams heading to Dallas for a February 6th showdown I won’t try and be one of those people that say I had this pick all along. I did however get this matchup right in my friendly and innocent office pool; I actually had three of the four teams in the championships as well (only the Jets were the surprise attendee).

Watching both games was quite thrilling, but it seems the entertainment did not stop at the conclusion of the late game (AFC Championship) with all the media buzz and twittering tweets that took place regarding the disappearance of Jay Cutler. In all fairness to Jay, it does appear he was really hurt and from what I had read in the numerous articles and tweets, I don’t think anyone questioned that fact.

There has been so much already said and written, so I don’t want to get myself all caught up in the uproar here (you can read my lead story “On the Cover”). What needs more speaking of is the two great games that were played, watched, and have now set up what could potentially be one of the greatest Super Bowl matchups in history.

Top Stories

Packers Continue the Ride to Dallas

The Packers entered Soldier Field with two goals in mind, establish the run and beat the Bears. While the numbers don’t jump off the sports pages, running back James Starks accomplished exactly what the Packers offense needed to generate enough scores to beat the Bears. Starks only totaled 74 yards on the ground, but his 22 carries were more than enough to be effective to keep the Packers balanced and the play-action in effect. Starks also jammed a four yard run into the end-zone in the second quarter to help the Packers build a 14-0 lead. With the running game doing just enough, quarterback Aaron Rodgers was able to operate from the pocket with his arm and his legs. Rodgers completed 17 of 30 passes for 244 yards with two interceptions (one off a deflection) and he also scrambled seven times for 39 yards and a one–yard touchdown run. The Packers would need help from their defense to close out this win and would get it in the form of an interception return late in the game by (of all people) defensive lineman B.J. Raji. The score was the difference in the game and gave the cheeseheads a not so pretty win, but one they will take every time.

Mendenhall Bullies His Way Through the Jets Onto Dallas

The Steelers looked like a team of destiny early with running back Rashard Mendenhall shredding the Jets run defense for nearly 100-yards in the first half. Mendenhall would carry the ball 27 times and finish the game with 121 yards and a one-yard touchdown dive in the first quarter to lead the Steelers ground attack. With Mendenhall running the ball very well early, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was able led the Steelers to a first half 24-3 lead, and a lead they would not relinquish. Roethlisberger’s numbers were nothing to swoon over, he completed just 10 of 19 for 133 yards and had two interceptions, but he was able to use his feet to make a few plays rushing for 21 yards and scoring on a two-yard scamper. The Steel Curtain would do their part in the AFC Championship tilt sacking quarterback Mark Sanchez and forcing a fumble that would be scooped up by cornerback William Gay and returned for a touchdown. Like the NFC title game this win for the Steelers was not a pretty one, but it’s one they will keep and the one they needed to move onto their record-tying eighth Super Bowl appearance.

Notables;

With the Packers and the Steelers set to face one another in Super Bowl XVL in Dallas on February 6th, a couple of notable players that should keep the fantasy football faithfuls’ attention…

Packer’s wide receiver Jordy Nelson didn’t see a great many targets on Sunday (just five), but he was the second most targeted receiver for Green Bay and finished Sunday with four catches for 67 yards. Nelson has 12 catches and 146 yards receiving this post season (2nd on the team).

Tight end Heath Miller did not see many balls on Sunday (no Steeler receiver did), but he was targeted four times to lead the team and finished the day with two catches for 38 yards. In their last matchup against Green Bay a year ago, Miller had a career high 118 yards receiving.

Wide receiver Donald Driver was quiet on Sunday with just one catch for nine yards, but he was targeted five times and has 12 catches for 141 yards in the post season (no touchdowns). Last year against these same Steelers he caught three balls for 76 yards.

Just my thoughts.

Fantasy Spotlight

Unfortunately for the Jets Mark Sanchez, he was the only starting quarterback on Sunday to not throw an interception, but it wasn’t enough to earn him a victory. After surviving a near disastrous first half (trailing 24-3), Sanchez only in his second year in the league, regrouped and led his team to a second half comeback.

Sanchez rebounded in great fashion looking like a savvy veteran under center in the second half against the Steelers. Facing the Steelers vaunted Blitz-burgh pass rush (48 sacks in 2010) Sanchez would complete 13 of 18 passes for 170 yards and two touchdowns to lead the second half rally that would fall just short.

On the evening Sanchez finished 20 of 33 for 233 yards with the two scores and a passer rating of 102.2 (highest of the day by far).

He’s our Fantasy Spotlight Player of the Week!

Diamonds in the Rough

TE-Andrew Quarless

With the Packers set to face the Steelers on February 6th, tight end Andrew Quarles could become a more significant player in the Packers passing game. On Sunday against the Jets the Steelers defense struggled to cover the Jets tight end Dustin Keller who grabbed eight passes for 64 yards. Also. Last year against the Steelers, Packer’s tight end Jermichael Finely was big with nine passes for 74 yards and a score. Quarless is not Finley, but with 21 receptions and 238 yards receiving this season he could offer some production in the pass game on Super Sunday.

WR-Emmanuel Sanders

The Steelers passing game was anemic on Sunday against the Jets secondary, but against the Packers it could find some life. Big Ben (503 yards passing in 2009 against Packers) has been notorious for holding the ball and giving his receivers a chance, so a player like rookie receiver Emmanuel Sanders (5 catches for 74 yards in the post season) could become a factor. Sanders only caught one ball on Sunday, but he was targeted three times and has been (targeted) 10 times in the post season (second on the team).

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL NOTES

January 23rd, 2011, Sunday

Sunday Night Game Notes

Notable Injury News
(for fantasy owners)

Without question the big news on Sunday came out of the Packers-Bears matchup with quarterback Jay Cutler going down with a knee injury that ended his day prematurely. There was no immediate report suggesting that Cutler was even hurt or how serious and when he came out of the locker room to start the second half, it was puzzling to see him leave the game almost immediately.

The big question about the injury altogether was the commentators not offering much information, so for those of us at home we were left to speculate. The early diagnosis is a possible torn ligament (MCL) and he is schedule to have an MRI on Monday.

Steeler’s quarterback Big Ben (Roethlisberger) also suffered a leg/hip injury in his championship matchup, but unlike Cutler he remained in the fight and led his team to victory. Big Ben was hit in the thigh early by Jets linebacker Calvin Pace in the first quarter and was limping noticeably. The injury appeared to be a similar to a Charlie-horse and the limp seemed to dissipate as he played on. There have been no reports of his injury since the game concluded, so his Charlie-horse must be fine.

The only other significant injury of the day came when the Steelers pro bowl center Maurkice Pouncey left the game with an ankle injury. Pouncey was on the sideline in crutches, but no information was offered regarding the severity of his injury. We will have to wait to hear more later in the week as the Steelers now prepare to face the Packers in Super Bowl XLV on February 6.

“Sunday’s Heroes”

This Weekend’s Heroes

There were plenty of warriors on the field of battle on Sunday as the final four teams in the NFL’s post season tournament took to the gridiron.

In the early contest between the Packers and Bears rookie running back James Starks was effective early helping the Packers build a lead that they would hold on to defeating the Bears to advance to Super Bowl XLV. Starks carried the ball 22 times on the afternoon and maneuvered his way through the Bears defense for 74 yards rushing. Starks would also score one of the Packers two rushing touchdowns.

On the other side, it was running back Matt Forte who helped pace the Bears offense throughout the game to keep this one within reach most of the afternoon. Forte would run hard and grind his way through the Packers defense for 70 yards rushing on 17 carries, but the versatile back was also very productive in the passing game. Forte hauled in 10 balls for 90 yards to help the Bears stay competitive in a game that was for the most part dominated by an aggressive Packers defense.

In the later contest running back Rashard Mendenhall was the big difference for the Steelers on offense running very well through the Jets third ranked run defense. Mendenhall would fight his way for 121 yards rushing on 27 carries to lead all rushers for the day. The Steelers ball carrier also scored his third rushing touchdown of the post season and added a couple of catches for another 32 yards.

Even in defeat 2nd year quarterback Mark Sanchez played like a Sunday Hero. The former Trojan played as well as anyone could have expected completing 20 of 33 passes for 233 yards. In the face of tremendous pressure most of the evening, Sanchez stood as tall as he can and tossed two touchdowns without any interceptions. He did have a fumble in the first half that led to a score, but that was his only mistake.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: THE SATURDAY FANTASY REPORT

January 22nd, 2011 Saturday

The Saturday Fantasy Report

Championship Weekend

Aaron Rodgers Set For A Huge Sunday
…no other quarterback has been playing near as well as the Packers’ Aaron Rodgers. He has been simply brilliant on the gridiron over the past month. The Bears have a very fast and swarming defense and will make yards on the ground difficult. The Packers and Bears are no strangers to one another (old rivalry in the league), so it will be no surprise to see the Packers stay with what works.

With one of the leagues’ elite passers, offensive coordinator Joe Philbin likes to use a lot of multiple receiver sets, including four and five receiver formations. The Bears ranked 20th against the pass this season and will face a daunting task of trying to slowdown Rodgers and his Cheeseheads (receivers). The Bears have managed to play Rodgers well this season in two previous meetings, but the third time could be the charm.

Rodgers has six touchdowns this postseason and is completing nearly 80 percent of his throws (49 of 63). He is averaging almost 300 yards passing per game over the past month and has only thrown one interception in his last four starts (128 passes). Even with a little breeze on Sunday, Rodgers has plenty arm to be more than effective against the Bears.
(My thoughts; 25 of 35 passing, 285 yards passing, two touchdown)

James Starks Could Find Paydirt Against the Bears
The Bears boast a formidable run defense ranked 2nd in the league and on Sunday figure to create a lot of problems for rookie running back James Starks to find any space. In their last meeting Starks carried the ball just five times for 20 yards. He’ll get a few more chances this Sunday in the NFC Championsip, but could really struggle to find much more yards.

The Packers offense may not need a whole lot of production out of their backfield on Sunday; they like to throw the ball and will win or lose through the air. Even with the focus on an aerial assault Starks could see some production in short-yardage in the red-zone. The Packers will move the ball against the Bears 9th ranked (overall) defense on Sunday and could set up a few goal-line carries for Starks; he should be able to hit paydirt once.
(My thoughts; 12 carries, 45 yards, one touchdown)

Braylon Edwards Could Be Very Effective On Sunday
The Steelers have an awesome pass rush and will likely be in the face of Jets’ quarterback Mark Sanchez much of the afternoon on Sunday, but when they aren’t Sanchez could have some success finding wide receiver Braylon Edwards.

The Jets receiver is a large target and could give the Steelers undersized secondary lots of problems; in their first meeting Edwards snagged 8 balls for 100 yards. If the Steelers run defense is able to shut down the Jets ground game, Edwards could become even more of a factor in the pass game.
(My thoughts; 5 catches, 85 yards, one touchdown)

Steelers Defense is Primed to Stall Jets
This game will feature two of the league’s best defenses, but it may be just one that dominates on Sunday. In their earlier meeting this season the Steelers pass rush was held in check (just one sack), but I would expect head Coach Mike Tomlin to turn his dogs loose on Sunday.

With 13 sacks and 8 takeways in their last three games the Steel Curtain looks every bit ready to take the field and dominate. This could be the final episode for Head Coach Rex Ryan and his Jets and on filled with many hardknocks.
(My thoughts; four sacks, two interceptions, two forced fumbles)

Just my take

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: FRIDAY FANTASY WATCH

January 21st, 2011, Friday

Friday Fantasy Watch

Matt Forte: Running For Tough Yards

The Packers don’t boast a formidable run defense (ranked 18th in the league) and in their last meeting with the Bears running back Matt Forte was able shuttle his way through the defense for 91 yards. Even if this matchup turns into a shootout Forte still figures prominent in the Bears attack.

In his last three games Forte is averaging over 150 yards of offense, including 15 receptions and 56 yards receiving per game. Forte caught 8 passes in their last meeting and could be a key element in the pass game for Cutler as he will likely be facing some tremendous pressure from the Packers pass rush and 5th ranked pass defense.

Sunday’s projections against the Packers.
(15 carries, 60 yards rushing, 5 catches, 50 yards receiving, one touchdowns)

Jordy Nelson: Could Be A Big Weapon on Sunday

The Packers are deep at the wide out position and one of their young stars is Jordy Nelson. He played a significant number of snaps last week for the Packers and started the game as the number three receiver.

The Packers ran a lot of their “Bone” formation with Nelson on the field; he’s listed as the number four receiver, but see’s almost as much time on the field any of the other receivers. In the pass-friendly offense of Green Bay Nelson is among the favorites to produce.

Sunday’s projections against the Bears.
(6 catches, 65 yards receiving, one touchdown)

Heath Miller: Could Be Big Ben’s Safety Net

The Steeler’s wide receivers are going to have their hands full trying to shake off the Jets corners, but tight Heath Miller could have an easy time of it matching up with safeties and linebackers. Last week Big Ben did not hesitate to go to his big target over the middle connecting on five throws, including a touchdown.

In their first meeting with the Jets Miller did not play, but his back-up Matt Spaeth did and he was effective catching three passes for 27 yards and a score. Miller has a much better rapport with Roethlisberger and could be much more effective on Sunday.

Sunday’s projections against the Jets.
(4 catches, 55 yards receiving, one touchdown)

Mark Sanchez: No Snow, but Cold Steel in the Forecast

The stars don’t seem to be aligning quite all in place for Sanchez to enjoy a Cinderella ending on Sunday with the league’s best pass rush up next. There’s no question that he and the Jets have managed to clear some very tough hurdles, but Sunday’s could be the size of a steel mountain.

Sanchez played well in their first meeting and he may play well on Sunday, but he’s going to be in a pressure cooker like no other. In their last three games the Steelers defense has registered 13 sacks and 8 takeaways. The Steel Curtain defense is as hot as the Packers offense right now and figures to present a lot of problems for Sanchez.

Sunday’s projections against the Steelers.
(16 of 35 passing, 190 yards, one touchdown, two interceptions, sacked four times)

Just my take.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

January 19th, 2011 Wednesday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

GREG JENNINGS HAS BUSY SUNDAY AGAINST FALCONS
The Falcons had all they could handle and much more from the Packers passing attack on Saturday night; wide receiver Greg Jennings had little trouble finding space and getting open. Jennings finished the evening with a game high eight receptions and 101 yards to lead the Packers offense. In two meetings against the Bears this season Jennings has 6 catches for 115 yards with a touchdown; in the first meeting at Soldier Field he caught just two balls for 18 yards, but one was for a score.
My Fantasy Read:
The Packer’s playmaking receiver may not have it that easy on Sunday against the Bears at Soldier Field. Charles Tillman, who did a pretty good job on Mike Williams of Seattle on Sunday, will likely draw the assignment of covering Jennings. With all of the weapons Rodgers has at his disposal, if the Bears run help over the top of Jennings, he won’t be shy about looking elsewhere. Jennings could have a quiet afternoon. Tough to sit him, but may not have a productive day.

MARK SANCHEZ HAS HIS BIGGEST GAME AGAINST PATRIOTS
The Jets 2nd year quarterback stepped up his game on Sunday against the Patriots and played anything but like a young quarterback playing in the biggest game of his career (as Head Coach Rex Ryan described it). Sanchez was near flawless completing 16 of 25 passes for 194 yards in the air with three touchdowns. He would also finish with a 127.3 passer rating; the best of his career.
My Fantasy Read:
Sanchez played a great game on Sunday against the Patriots, and from one big game to the next (against the Steelers) his matchup this coming Sunday against the Steel Curtain could come down to how well one player performs; Sanchez. The Patriots don’t have a defense built anything like what the Steelers will be throwing at Sanchez on Sunday; welcome to Blitz-burgh and what will likely be a long day in the cold. Sit him.

JAY CUTLER LOOKS READY FOR PRIMETIME
The Bears will be hosting the NFC Championship for the first time since the 2006 season when they defeated the New Orleans Saints. The reason they have made it this far has been by no accident. Without question their improved defense has played a big part, but no less has been the play of quarterback Jay Cutler (23 touchdowns, 3,274 yards passing). The Bears strong-armed thrower was a big part of their win on Sunday as well with two touchdown throws and two touchdowns runs. The win was his first post season win of his career and surely won’t be his last.
My Fantasy Read:
One of the attractive qualities of having Cutler under center in the windy city is his big arm. He had no problem with the elements completing 15 of 28 passes for 274 yards against the Seahawks, but this Sunday he could have all kinds of problems with the Packers pass rush. The Cheeseheads will be in town this weekend and Cutler can expect a lot of pressure to follow. The last time these two teams met Cutler was dropped six times and threw two picks; something he will more than likely face and have to deal with again. Hard to sit him, but could be a rough day.

AARON RODGERS LOOKS DAM GOOD
The Packers are riding a colossal wave of confidence and why shouldn’t they, they have quarterback Aaron Rodgers. On Saturday against his latest victim Rodgers tossed three more touchdowns and passed for 366 yards completing 31 of 36 throws. It was Rodgers second straight road win and fourth straight overall. His wins have come against the Giants, Bears, Eagles, and now Falcons. Rodgers and company look dam good and pretty unstoppable at the moment.
My Fantasy Read:
Rodgers has been on fire his last four starts throwing 11 touchdowns with just one pick and passing for 294 yards per game. The Bears are an 11-5 team with a pretty good defense, but as well as Rodgers is playing there may be no answer to stop him. Play him.

Don’t fall asleep with this Sunday Sleeper….

Nelson is a Major Player in Big Win
The Packers have a complete host of weapons that quarterback Aaron Rodgers can go to anytime and on Saturday night the Falcons met one they might not have been much familiar with; wide receiver Jordy Nelson. It’s tough to become relevant playing behind starters Greg Jennings, 12-year veteran Donald Driver, and the speedy James Jones, but after Saturday’s performance (8 catches, 79 yards, and a touchdown) Nelson may have just stepped out from everyone’s shadow.

For folks in Green Bay, Nelson is no surprise; this season he caught 45 passes for 582 yards (best of any 4th receiver spot and most thirds in the league). On Saturday against Atlanta he also saw a great deal of snaps as the lone receiver (probably because he is a very good blocker-Ed McCaffrey style). Jennings and Driver will draw plenty of attention in the passing game on Sunday (as will Jones), but the Bears secondary better forget about Nelson. Play him.