FSH NOTEBOOK: SFFL WEEK 14

Sunday Edition
December 9th, 2012

  

Suicide Fantasy Football

Week 14

With the season winding down, my team is gearing up each week to make a run. Last week we posted a score of 118.52 points led by Bryce Brown’s (34.30 fantasy points) big game on Sunday night against the Cowboys and Cecil Shorts (20.70 fantasy points) effort against the Bills. 

The climb to the top is still steep, but there is light at the end. My SSFL team has climbed inside the top 10, for the moment and there’s no time to look back now.

Here’s my week 14 picks;

My Line-up 

Quarterback:
The Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman is having a solid 2012 with 23 touchdowns and 3,003 passing yards. Freeman is a top 10 quarterback this week facing the Eagles 31st ranked pass defense. In his last two starts his numbers have been modest, but this week he faces a defense that allows the 2nd most fantasy points to quarterbacks. This is the ideal week to start Freeman is you don’t have better options.

Running Backs:
On Thursday I played Broncos running back Knowshon Moreno and 119 yards rushing with a touchdown I was not disappointed. His 26.70 points have my fantasy team on the right track for week 14.

My other ball carrier this week is the Jets running back Shonn Greene. The Jets running game has not been much to get excited about this season, but this may be one of its best matchups this season facing the Jaguars (ranked 31st against the run). Greene is not a candidate for a huge output today, but he could record his third 100 yard effort this season and find himself making a trip or two to the end zone.

Wide Receivers:
With the Giants on the slate this week for the traveling Saints, I am expecting quarterback Drew Brees to attack the secondary deep and often. There’s no question his best weapon this season has been wide receiver Marques Colston (61 receptions, 828 yards receiving). Facing the Giants 22nd ranked pass defense, Colston should be able to take advantage of a secondary that allows the 4th most fantasy points to wide receivers.

On the other side out wide I am rolling with the Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings. This is Rodgers most trusted and reliable receiver, so you know the quarterback will have plenty of confidence looking his direction. Facing the Lions in what looks to be an aerial fest, I expect Jennings to see as many if not more than the 8 targets he saw last week, especially with Jordy Nelson on the sidelines.

Tight End:
I took a shot with the Raiders tight end Brandon Myers, coming off a career game a week ago. The Raiders offense has typically been pass happy, but on Thursday night the Broncos took away one of quarterback Carson Palmer’s favorite targets limiting Myers to just one catch for 7 yards.

Place Kicker:
The Buccaneers offense has been a bit of surprise this season and with a nice matchup at home against the Eagles defense. I expect to see the Bucs set up many scoring chances today, but will not be surprised to see them lean on kicker Conner Barth to convert a handful of opportunities.

Team Defense:
With the Buccaneers at home this week facing a rookie quarterback making only the third start of his career, I like their defense to play well. The Buccaneers are number one against the run and should keep rookie quarterback Nick Foles in third and long most of the afternoon. The Eagles are prone to mistakes and give up the most fantasy points to opposing defenses; I’m starting the Buccaneers.


These are my picks for week 14.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: QUICK TAKES

Monday Edition
November 5th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

MNF Quick Notes

Tonight’s matchup between the Eagles and Saints will offer plenty of lineup options. If you get’em, start’em…

These are my takes for tonight’s Monday Night Matchup.

The Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson should be licking his chops as he prepares the meet the Saints defense on Monday night. Jackson is the team’s leading receiver this season, but he has yet to get it going; just one 100-yard game this season. Tonight’s contest is a prime matchup for Jackson to get it going. The Saints are ranked 30th versus the pass and allow the most fantasy points to wide receivers; Jackson should have a big night.

Running back LeSean McCoy is a no-brain start tonight. The Saints defense will have plenty of trouble tracking down Shady McCoy this evening. McCoy has just tow 100-yard games and two rushing touchdowns this season; expect both to improve tonight versus the Saints (ranked 31st against the run).

Like Jackson, quarterback Michael Vick has to be excited about his matchup tonight. The Saints pass defense has allowed 15 passing touchdowns this season and they are giving up well over 300 yards in the air per game. Vick has not had an easy road thus far turning the ball over at an alarming rate, but the Saints defense appears to be even more generous. Vick looks set to breakout this evening.

On the other side, the Saints are still the Saints and quarterback Drew Brees is not going to go down without a fight. The Eagles 14th ranked pass defense will have all it can handle with Brees in the pocket. This matchup has all the makings of a regular fireworks show in the Dome, Brees will be big tonight with all the weapons he possesses and he’ll need to put points on the board in this one.

While the Eagles defense is well aware of Brees’ most lethal weapon, wide receiver Marques Colston (a nice WR2 fantasy starter) look for one of his other targets, Lance Moore to play a big role. Moore is crafty and is second on the team with 53 targets this season. Even with all the weapons the Saints have on offense, Moore will see plenty of passes his direction; he’ll be a nice flex insert tonight.

Tight end Jimmy Graham finally appears healthy and will give the Eagles plenty of fits tonight. He’s one of Brees favorite targets in the red zone, and you can be sure the Saints are going to be frequenting that part of the field tonight. Graham is a must start and should pay-off nicely.

The Eagles have themselves a pretty good tight end (Brent Celek) that they can boast, but with so many holes in the secondary downfield, Celek may take a back seat. If there is anything the Saints secondary can do well, they have managed to play tight ends with some degree of success. The Saints defense allows the 7th fewest fantasy points to tight ends. Play Celek with caution. 


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SUNDAY GAMETIME

October 2nd, 2011 Sunday

Sunday Morning Gametime

In a very short period 2011 has become not just the year of the quarterback, but the year of fantasy football. With scoring up all over the league, that can only mean one thing; more fantasy points all around. With the numbers up does it become more confusing than ever to know who to play or who to sit, perhaps, but you have to love it!

Watch-list

The Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick has been off to a sizzling start this season and he will take his act on the road to Cincinnati today; even though he is facing the Bengals 5th ranked pass defense don’t expect him to cool down. The Saints running back Darren Sproles has been electric thus far this season, he should keep the sparks flying today against the Jaguars. The Packers may get their fourth win of the season today, but it could be a tough day on the ground for running back James Starks.

Today’s quick notes:

Saints wide receiver Marques Colston is expected to be on the field today returning from his collarbone injury; if he’s on the field he will be good to go and will likely figure in the plan. He’s not in line for a monster game, but could still fill in as a nice flex for fantasy owners.

Tom Brady and the Patriots are on the road today to face the Oakland Raiders, don’t expect this one to be low-scoring. The Patriots will be in for a slugfest with the last man standing the winner. In week one Brady tossed up a big five bills in the air, we could see that again today facing the Raiders 28th ranked pass defense. Fantasy owners should play all of the Patriots receivers and keep your eye on Ochocinco; this could be his breakout game.

The Eagles wide receiver Jeremy Maclin (hamstring) is expected to start today and could be in line for a rebound game. After his breakout week 2 performance, Maclin hit the snooze button last week against the Giants. The Niners are ranked a decent 16th against the pass, but Jackson on the other side, they don’t have the secondary to match up. As long as Vick stays upright, Maclin could get loose today.

The Texans defense has only recorded seven sacks through the team’s first three games. Houston’s secondary is going to have to worry about wide receiver Mike Wallaces’ speed, if Big Ben is give time, he could pick apart the secondary for big numbers. Wallace is sure to draw a lot of double teams downfield opening the middle for 2nd year receiver Antonio Brown, who has seen a steady share of targets through the first three weeks; he’s a safe WR3 or flex play today.


My Picks Today

My “Four Horsemen”

Last week was brutal with Philip Rivers, Michael Turner and DeSean Jackson all pulling the disappearing act. This week will be my turnaround.

Tom Brady; It’s tough to pick against the Patriots when coming off a loss, so I won’t. Brady could be in for a huge day today against the Raiders 28th ranked defense. Black Hole or not, I am looking for Tom to put the ball in the air often.

Adrian Peterson; The Vikings need to get in the win column and they won’t mess around trying to do anything but what they do best; give the rock to “All-Day.” Peterson should see plenty of work and should find the end-zone a couple of times.

Steve Johnson; The Bills offense has been high octane through the first three weeks and today against the Bengals I wouldn’t expect it to come down. Johnson has emerged as one of the leagues best receivers (Top 15) and today he will continue to showcase why.

Jimmy Graham; Brees loves his tightend and why not; Graham has been solid this season 14 receptions, including two scores. Last week the Jaguars allowed 10 receptions and nearly 100 yards receiving to the Panthers tight end; today could be a big day for Graham.

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

September 7TH, 2011 Wednesday

David’s Daily Digest

Peyton Manning to miss opener
According to several news outlets and football sources, Peyton Manning (neck) is out for week one. What we are not hearing is for how long. As long as Manning is sidelined, the Colts receivers should be devalued; stay away from the Colts WRs in week one with the exception of Reggie Wayne. Going forward we’ll have to see how back-up quarterback Kerry Collins handles the reigns, before rolling with any of the Colts.

Lance Moore ruled out in week one
With one of Brees favorites on the sideline, step in Marques Colston. The Saints leading receiver should see a few more targets on Thursday with Lance Moore out; fantasy owners should start Colston with confidence.

Antonio Gates close to form?
The Chargers tight end practiced on Wednesday suggesting he is closer to being healthy and ready to return to his Pro Bowl form. Gates was slowed last season by injury, but his recovery has been going well and he is slowly working his way back to form. He should be a safe fantasy start on Sunday.

Arian Foster unsure for Sunday?
That’s a big red flag when the player tells you he doesn’t know if he will go on Sunday. Foster was likely drafted high in most fantasy formats, owners will likely have to wait until game-time before pulling the trigger. If he goes, he should in your lineups, but that is looking like a big “if.”

These are just my takes

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: FANTASY WATCH

January 7th, 2011, Friday

Friday Fantasy Watch

Marques Colston: Practices and Will Be Ready To Go

The Saints will have their best receiver in action on Saturday against the Seahawks in the NFC’s first Wild-Card Weekend matchup. Colston (knee) has been practicing this week and is fully expected to start against the Seahawks 27th ranked passing defense.

Colston is the Saints big threat in the passing game leading the team this season with 131 targets, 84 receptions and over 1,000 yards receiving. With tight end Jimmy Graham looking doubtful, the Saints big play receiver (Colston) will likely become more of the focal point in the passing game in the red-zone. Colston scored seven times during the 2010 regular season and with his size and ability he's a good threat to score Saturday.

Saturday’s projections against the Seahawks.
(6 catches, 85 yards receiving, two touchdowns)

Peyton Manning: The Sheriff Will Have His Guns Blazing

The Jets will be in town on Saturday to face the Colts and even with Revis Island open for business, don’t expect the Sheriff to stay grounded. Quarterback Peyton Manning has had his struggles this season, but that appears to be in the past. In his last four starts Manning has played very well committing only two turnovers.

With the post season set to start, the only way the Colts are going deep this year will be riding the arm of Peyton Manning. Manning will be looking for a repeat performance of a year ago against these same Jets; Peyton completed 26 of 39 passes for more than 370 yards with three scores. He may not have all of his weapons, but he will still have plenty of bullets to fire Saturday night.

Saturday’s projections against the Jets.
(27 of 42 passing, 325 yards passing, two touchdowns, one interception)

Ray Rice: The Ravens runner Will Lead The Charge

The Ravens will rely on their defense to slow down the Chiefs ground charge while running back Ray Rice will be expected to lead theirs. The Ravens will need a big game from Rice early to keep the Chiefs off balanced and allow the passing game to open up.

The Ravens will rely on Rice for their ground game, but even when quarterback Joe Flacco drops back in the pocket, Rice still figures to play a big part of the offense. Rice was second on the club with 63 receptions and finished the season with 556 yards receiving; he totaled nearly 1,800 yards of offense this season. If the Ravens are going to get past the Wild-Card round and defeat the Chiefs, it will take a whole lot of Rice.

Sunday’s projections against the Chiefs.
(20 carries, 95 yards, 6 catches, 40 yards receiving, one touchdown)

Green Bay Defense: The Return of the Sack Pack

After their dismantling of the Bears’ offense in week 17, it looks very clear for Green Bay; if they are to stop Vick the defense must play well. The Packers defense looked smothering bringing a ton of pressure a week ago against Jay Cutler and the Bears on their way to six sacks and two turnovers.

The defense will more than have its’ hands full on Sunday with Mike Vick running around. In order for the defense to have any kind of success against Vick they will have to bring constant pressure; back in week one the Packers sacked Vick three times. Pressure on the edge will be huge Sunday; players like Clay Matthews Jr and Charles Woodson will be the key to the Packers success.

Sunday’s projections against the Eagles.
(5 sacks, three turnovers)

Just my take.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (THE FOUR HORSEMEN)

January 1st, 2011 Saturday

The Four Horsemen

Let’em Ride

Week 16 was not kind to our horsemen as our riders struggled mightily to find pay-dirt. Only quarterback Philip Rivers (256 yards passing, one touchdown) was able to record a touchdown for last week’s horsemen. Both wide receiver Marques Colston (21 receiving yards) and tight end Marcedes Lewis (37 yards) were quiet last week with just a few grabs each and no trips to the end-zone. Only running back Arian Foster had a game worth noting totaling 135 yards of offense, but even he playing against the league’s 31st ranked run defense could not squeeze in a score.

This week our riders will look to change our scoreless trend from a week ago. With the final weekend featuring several absentees the search for our fearless foursome was not easy. When looking over the week 17 schedule, these are our gridiron cowboys that look poised to saddle up and ride on…..

Quarterback:
The Steelers will be leaving it all on the line this weekend with a division title and the number two seed at risk. In their first meeting against the Browns this season quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was solid throwing for 257 yards on 16 of 27 passing. Big Ben made plays with his arm throwing three touchdowns against the Browns and had five pass plays of 20 yards or more. The Browns 13th ranked secondary has not been all bad this season, but they have allowed 23 passing touchdowns and 44 pass plays of 20 yards or more. With so much at stake for the Steelers expect Big Ben to again make plays on Sunday with his arm
(My Prediction: 20 of 32 passing, 275 yards, three touchdowns, 15 yards rushing)

Running Back:
The Eagles may not have a lot at stake on Sunday, but it will still be business as usual for running back LeSean McCoy. The Eagles second year running back has really emerged as a versatile featured back in the offense. McCoy leads the team with 78 receptions and has rushed for more than 1,000 yards. He has quietly elevated his fantasy value to amongst the elite and this weekend against the Cowboys 14th ranked defense he figures to pad his stats; in week 14 he torched the Boys for 149 yards on the ground.
(My Prediction: 18 carries, 105 yards rushing, 3 receptions, 15 yards receiving, one touchdown)

Wide Receiver:
The Jaguars will be without two of their best players on Sunday when they meet the Houston Texans, but they will still have their most productive wide receiver Mike Thomas (65 receptions, 808 yards receiving). The Texans secondary ranked last in the league has struggled terribly all season long allowing 32 touchdowns and 55 pass plays of 20 yards or more. When Thomas takes the field on Sunday, he should still see plenty of balls in his direction even with back-up quarterback Trent Edwards under center. Edwards started the team’s first two games this season and had a nice rapport with Thomas (caught 10 passes in first two games this season).
(My Prediction: 7 receptions, 90 yards, one touchdown)

Tight End:
The Eagles are expected to start quarterback Kevin Kolb on Sunday, giving Michael Vick time to rest. Kolb is no stranger to the offense having started four times this season. Last week tight Brent Celek had the hot hand catching 10 balls for 97 yards in the team’s week 16 loss to the Vikings.The change under center should not hurt Celek this weekend. Last year in back to back starts (week 2 & 3) with Kolb starting the Eagles tight end caught 8 passes for 104 yards in each game. Kolb has shown great chemistry with his other receivers this season, but he is quite familiar with Celek and figures to look his way often this Sunday.
(My Prediction: 6 receptions, 65 yards, one touchdown)

FSH NOTEBOOK: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (THE FOUR HORSEMEN)

December 25th, 2010 Saturday

The Four Horsemen

Let’em Ride

Last week we had a few horsemen riding high through the stomping grounds. Our quarterback Jon Kitna did not disappoint with a big passing day over 300 yards and two touchdowns. Another rider with a big game in week 15 was running back Jonathan Stewart who totaled 137 yards on the ground, but did not find the end-zone. Unlike Stewart our wide receiver Mike Williams did find the end-zone along with six catches for 96 yards; a good day. Only our tight end (Owen Daniels) was M.I.A. in week 15 with just four catches for 45 yards.

This week our horsemen will be riding for gold with many fantasy championships on the line and like “the four winds of the earth” these fantasy play-makers are looking to ride strong bring home a fantasy title for some lucky owner…..

Quarterback:
The San Diego Chargers are still hanging on to playoff hopes by a wing and a prayer and with two games left in the season, they can’t afford any let downs. With his tight end out and wide receiver Malcom Floyd probably out, quarterback Philip Rivers (29 touchdowns, 4,141 yards passing) will need to be at his best. And he just may against the Bengals 18th ranked pass defense. Even with a couple of his weapons missing Rivers and company will give the Bengals’ defense plenty of fits downfield. The Bengals have allowed 20 passing touchdowns and 10 pass plays of 40 yards or more this season. With just 22 sacks this season, if they aren’t able to get any pressure to Rivers he could have a monster day.
(My Prediction: 26 of 40 passing, 335 yards, three touchdowns)

Running Back:
With the 31st ranked run defense (Denver Broncos) next on the slate for Texan’s running back Arian Foster (13 rushing touchdowns), he looks like a shoe-in for a solid game now that he has returned to full-practice this week. Foster was dinged up pretty good a week ago against the Titans missing the last 10 minutes of the game. Foster has been a consistent fantasy point scorer in the Texans’ backfield and the Broncos defense has done nothing but surrender yards and scores this season; allow nearly 160 yards per game and have surrendered 22 rushing touchdowns. Foster is leading the NFL in rushing and figures to extend his lead on Sunday.
(My Prediction: 18 carries, 115 yards rushing, 4 receptions, 35 yards receiving, one touchdown)

Wide Receiver:
With so much on the line Monday night, it would be hard to imagine Saints quarterback Drew Brees not looking for his best weapon; wide receiver Marques Colston. The Falcons have been very good at home, but there defense has been suspect ranked 21st against the pass. In their last three home games the Faclons secondary has allowed an average of 250 yards passing and they have surrendred six passing touchdowns. Colston (82 rec, 1,002 yards, 7 Tds) has been steady all season and over his past three road games he has been targeted 24 times grabbed 15 passes for 251 yards with a score. It’s almost a certainty Brees will be looking his way often Monday night.
(My Prediction: 8 receptions, 95 yards, one touchdown)

Tight End:
Last week against the Redskins secondary tight end Jason Witten was huge catching 10 passes for 140 yards and a score. This week Jaguars tightend Marcedes Lewis will get his shot at the Redskins “iffy” defense ranked 30th in the league. Lewis has quietly become a scoring machine in the Jags passing game this season with nine receiving touchdowns. Lewis doesn’t seen many balls in his direction (averages five targets per game), but he makes the most of his opportunities. This week against the Redskins he could see plenty of chances.
(My Prediction: 5 receptions, 55 yards, one touchdown)

FSH NOTEBOOK: MY WEEKLY SURVIVAL

December 22nd, 2010, Wednesday

My Weekly Survivors

Last week was kind of a funny week for my fantasy squad; just about everyone scored which is always good, but most of my team didn’t do much else. With the exception of the Buccaneer’s wide receiver Mike Williams (15 points) and the Cowboys quarterback Jon Kitna (21 points) there was not a lot to cheer about. Williams dialed in on my numbers with 6 catches for 96 yards and a touchdown, while Kitna was a little better passing for over 300 yards with two touchdown tosses.

My duds included Brian Westbrook (8 points) who managed to salvage his performance with a late touchdown, but his 30 total yards hurt. Ronnie Brown (9 points) was not much different scoring once and total just 42 yards. My Achilles heel this season has been and was once again the tight end spot; Owen Daniels (4 points) caught just four passes for 45 yards.

This week it’s time to get serious, with just two weeks left I must concede any shot at the top two spots (trail by more than 100 points) unless there is a colossal meltdown. My fantasy team is locked in at number six and I still have a shot at third place (just 50 points back), but I need a two big weeks. I have very few big guns left, but this week I will be shooting from the hip and swinging for the fences.

Here are my picks for week 16….

QB-Matt Schaub, Houston Texans
The Bronco’s secondary is amongst the worst in the league and have allowed 25 touchdowns this season; 7th worst in the league. One reason for the Broncos woes in coverage, they lack any kind of pass rush; just 18 sacks this season. If given time Schaub can be as good as any quarterback in the league. With a weapon like Andre Johnson to throw to, Schaub is in line for a big passing day on Sunday.
(Projected: 25 fantasy points/ 325 yards passing, three touchdowns)

RB- Tashard Choice, Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys’ running back Tashard Choice has been seeing a steady diet of work over the past couple of weeks and has totaled 169 yards in his last three games. With Barber returning to action this Sunday and Jones looking “iffy”, Choices looks like the safe bet in the lineup this week. Choice has also scored a rushing touchdown in three of his last four games.
(Projected: 14 fantasy points/ 65 yards rushing, 3 catches, 20 yards receiving, one touchdown)

RB-Mike Tolbert, San Diego Chargers
The Charger’s running back has a good matchup on the road this week in Cincinnati against the league’s 22nd ranked run defense; the Bengals are allowing 4.6 yards per carry and have yielded 13 rushing touchdowns this season. Tolbert continues to be the favorite out of the Chargers’ backfield; he’ll see plenty of touches and should be able to find pay-dirt on the road. Tolbert has 11 rushing touchdowns this season and has scored in four of his last five games.
(Projected: 15 fantasy points/ 85 yards rushing, 1 catches, 10 yards receiving, one touchdown)

WR-Santana Moss, Washington Redskins
The Redskins will travel to Jacksonville in week 16 and should be licking their chops against the leagues’ 27th ranked pass defense. Even with the change at quarterback last week, it didn’t seem to bother the offense; 286 net yards passing, four touchdowns. Wide receiver Santana Moss also remained a hot commodity in the Redskins passing game (23 targets last two weeks) with 8 receptions for 72 yards and two scores last weekend against the Cowboys. Moss could be looking at similar results this weekend against a defense that has allowed 26 passing touchdowns this season.
(Projected: 17 fantasy points/ 7 catches, 110 yards, one touchdown)

WR-Marques Coltson, New Orleans Saints
The Saints travel to Atlanta to face the Falcons on Monday night and if you’re thinking this one is going to be a barn-burner; you’ll probably be right. The Saints wide receiver Marques Colston (7 touchdowns in 2010) leads the team with 126 targets this season and in his last two games quarterback Drew Brees has been calling his number quite often (24 targets). With such a huge matchup coming up this Monday, there’s little doubt Brees will be looking for his best receiver. Even if Colston only see’s eight to ten targets, you have to love his chances of collecting 70-90 yards and finding the end-zone.
(Projected: 15 fantasy points/ 6 catches, 95 yards, one touchdown)

TE-Ben Watson, Cleveland Browns
Ben Watson has been one of the more consistent options in the passing game for the Brown’s this season. Last week he and rookie quarterback Colt McCoy enjoyed one of their best games together; Watson caught seven passes for 92 yards. This week the two will face a Raven’s defense that has had its’ struggles against opposing tight ends.
(Projected: 14 fantasy points/ 6 catches, 80 yards, one touchdown)

PK-Neil Rackers, Houston Texans
The Texan’s offense has averaged over 23 points per game over their past seven games and this season Rackers has made 22 of 25 field goal attempts this season. This weekend they travel to Denver to face the Broncos who give up more points (29.6 pts per game) than any other team in the league; Rackers will be busy on Sunday.
(Projected: 9 fantasy points/ two field goals, three extra points)

My Previous starts

Week 1 (Total points-77)
QB Donovan McNabb (WAS)
RB Matt Forte (CHI)
RB Carnell Williams (TB)
WR Jeremy Maclin (PHI)
WR Jabar Gaffney (DEN)
TE Zach Miller (OAK)
K Joe Nedney (SF)

Week 2 (Total points-68)
QB Michael Vick (PHI)
RB Ahmad Bradshaw (NYG)
RB Rashard Mendenhall (PIT)
WR Nate Washington (TEN)
WR Greg Jennings (GB)
TE Chris Cooley (WAS)
K Nick Folk (NYJ)

Week 3 (Total points-87)
QB Tony Romo (DAL)
RB Darren McFadden
RB Ray Rice (BAL)
WR Austin Collie (IND)
WR Dez Bryant (DAL)
TE Brent Celek (PHI)
K Lawrence Tynes (NYG)

Week 4 (Total points-58)
QB Eli Manning (NYG)
RB Maurice Jones-Drew (JAX)
RB Frank Gore (SF)
WR Mark Clayton (STL)
WR Brandon Marshall (MIA)
TE John Carlson (SEA)
K Jeff Reed (PIT)

Week 5 (Total Points-72 points)
QB Drew Brees (NO)
RB Steven Jackson (STL)
RB Thomas Jones (KC)
WR Donald Driver (GB)
WR Calvin Johnson (DET)
TE Marcedes Lewis (JAX)
K Mike Nugent (CIN)

Week 6 (Total Points-83 points)
QB Peyton Manning (IND)
RB Ryan Torain (WASH)
RB LaDanian Tomlinson (NYJ)
WR Hakeem Nicks (NYG)
WR Kenny Britt (TEN)
TE Dallas Clark, (IND)
K Sebastian Janikowski (OAK)

Week 7 (Total Points-93 points)
QB Philip Rivers (SD)
RB Adrian Peterson (MIN)
RB Michael Turner (ATL)
WR Larry Fitzgerald (ARI)
WR Dwayne Bowe (KC)
TE Tony Gonzales (ATL)
K Matt Prater (DEN)

Week 8 (Total Points-82 points)
QB Kyle Orton (DEN)
RB Felix Jones (DAL)
RB Jamaal Charles (KC)
WR Brandon Lloyd (DEN)
WR Deion Branch (NE)
TE Tony Moeki (KC)
K Stephen Gostkowski (NE)

Week 9 (Total Points-79 points)
QB Aaron Rodgers (GB)
RB LeSean McCoy (PHI)
RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis (NE)
WR Steve Smith (NYG)
WR Patrick Crayton (SD)
TE Jacob Tamme (IND)
PK Mason Crosby

Week 10 (Total Points-78 points)
QB Joe Flacco (BAL)
RB LeGarrette Blount (TB)
RB Cedric Benson (CIN)
WR Roddy White (ATL)
WR Steve Johnson (BUF)
TE Brandon Pettigrew (DET)
PK Rob Bironas (TEN)

Week 11 (Total Points-73 points)
QB Matt Ryan (ATL)
RB Fred Jackson (BUF)
RB Peyton Hillis (CLE)
WR DeSean Jackson (PHI)
WR Percy Harvin (MIN)
TE Jermaine Gresham (CIN)
PK Dan Carpenter (MIA)

Week 12 (Total Points-55 points)
QB Matt Cassel (KC)
RB Chris Johnson (TEN)
RB Danny Woodhead (NE)
WR Santonio Holmes (NYJ)
WR Sidney Rice (MIN)
TE Heath Miller (PIT)
PK Matt Bryant (ATL)

Week 13 (Total Points-82 points)
QB Sam Bradford (STL)
RB Jonathan Stewart (CAR)
RB Arian Foster (HOU)
WR Terrell Owens (CIN)
WR Anquan Boldin (BAL)
TE Visanthe Shiancoe (MIN)
PK David Akers (PHI)

Week 14 (Total Points-91 points)
QB Jay Cutler (CHI)
RB Knowshon Moreno (DEN)
RB Tim Hightower (ARI)
WR Reggie Wayne (IND)
WR Mike Wallace (PIT)
TE Jason Witten (DAL)
PK Billy Cundiff (BAL)

Week 15 (Total Points-73 points)
QB Jon Kitna (DAL)
RB Brian Westbrook (SF)
RB Ronnie Brown (MIA)
WR Miles Austin (DAL)
WR Mike Williams (TB)
TE Owen Daniels (HOU)
PK Josh Brown (STL)

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (TARGET PRACTICE)

December 11th, 2010 Saturday

Fantasy Football

Target Practice

In These Hands We Trust

While the Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe had been the latest talk of fantasy at the wide out spot a not so old fantasy favorite has been quietly putting up equally impressive numbers. In Green Bay wide receiver Greg Jennings has been as hot as any receiver over the past four weeks.

With a lot of this weekend’s game subject to unfavorable weather, Jennings and his quarterback Aaron Rodgers will be playing in the comfort of an enclosed dome stadium when they face the Detroit Lions. This will be a rematch of a week four matchup, one in which Jennings was held to just two catches for 25 yards. Jennings was held to a season low 5 targets, but did manage to find the end zone once.

The prospects of that happening again are a long shot when you consider that Jennings has been targeted 31 times over his past four games. Since week nine Jennings has 473 receiving yards (ranks 2nd), six touchdowns (ranks 2nd), and 25 catches (tied for 14th). Fantasy owners should feel confident and trust in these hands on Sunday.

Another receiver that should be drawing a lot of attention this weekend from fantasy owners is the Saints Marques Colston. With quarterback Drew Brees able to make any throw and having the acute awareness to get the ball to any open receiver, it has sometimes been frustrating for fantasy owners to know which Saint receiver has the hot hand.

Over the past three weeks that Saint is Colston. He has been targeted just 24 times, but has done a lot of damage. Colston has 17 receptions for 283 yards receiving and three scores in his last three games. Last week he was held to just four targets (his season low), but with 102 targets this season there is no threat of Brees not looking his way on Sunday. Colston should have a nice matchup this Sunday against the Rams 19th ranked secondary.

Radar Watch

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My Fantasy Notes:

Surprisingly this Sunday night, even with his great speed DeSean Jackson (762 yards receiving, 5 touchdowns) may not be the Eagle’s receiver that the Dallas Cowboys will have to most worry about. When both teams take the field on Sunday, Jeremy Maclin could be the biggest cause for concern for the Cowboy’s 28th ranked secondary.

Over the past four weeks Maclin has been the most targeted Eagle receiver with 34 targets. During that span Maclin has caught 22 passes for 314 yards (14.2 yards per catch) and two scores. There’s no question that Michael Vick like to throw to Maclin, especially close to the end-zone. Six of Maclin’s eight touchdowns this season have come from throws by Vick.

The Cowboys have allowed 43 pass plays of 20 yards or more and 25 passing touchdowns this season. They are also allowing nearly 68 percent of passes thrown by the opposition to be completed. Maclin looks like a strong play this weekend against the Cowboys and could be in for a few big plays. He’s not only a must watch, but should be started in most fantasy leagues.

Target leaders in week 13
(unofficial numbers)

1. Reggie Wayne, IND (20 targets)
2. Roddy White, ATL (16 targets)
3. Mike Williams, TB (14 targets)
4. Chris Cooley, WAS (12 targets)
5. Santonio Holmes, NYJ (12 targets)
6. Larry Fitzgerald, ARI (11 targets)
7. Malcom Floyd, SD (11 targets)
8. Brandon Lloyd, DEN (11 targets)
9. Ben Watson, CLE (11 targets)
10. Anthony Armstrong, WAS (10 targets)
11. Chad Ochocinco, CIN (10 targets)
12. Steve Smith, CAR (10 targets)

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

November 30th, 2010 Tuesday

David’s Daily Digest

My Fantasy Notes:

MAQUES COLSTON REMAINS TOP RECEIVING THREAT
The Saints all-pro receiver has been looking strong especially as of late, during the teams four game winning streak. Colston caught six passes for 105 yards last Thursday in the Saints win over the Cowboys. It was another solid performance for Colston over the past month and a half. My Fantasy Read:
Since week five Colston has been the one consistent Saints receiver that fantasy owners can trust. In his last five games he has surpassed 100-yards receiving in three of those games while scoring four times. With fantasy playoffs near, he might be the only safe Saints receiver to start every week.

BRIAN WESTBROOK GETS HIS SHOT
The former Eagle’s running back got his first shot at extended action Monday night when Niner’s starter Frank Gore went out with a hip injury. In relief Westbrook carried the ball 23 times and scampered his way to 136 yards rushing and a touchdown.
My Fantasy Read:
Now that the news has broke running back Frank Gore is done for the season, Westbrook will be the hot “pick up of the week.” The Niners are predominately a running team and will likely give Westbrook enough ground work and with his pass receiving skills it’s hard to imagine him spending too much time on the sideline. After his showing Monday night fantasy owners should feel confident about Westbrook’s upside.

PEYTON MANNING ON A HUGE SLIDE
The Colts have dropped their last two games and one of the biggest reasons has been the play of quarterback. Last Sunday against the Chargers, Manning tossed four picks in the teams’ week 12 loss. The last time he threw as many was in 2007 against the same Chargers when he tossed six. Manning finished the night with 285 yards passing and two touchdowns.
My Fantasy Read:
Manning appears to be in one of his worst slumps of his career and there’s no question his seven turnovers have played pivotal in the team’s consecutive losses. He’s still a number one fantasy quarterback and eventually he’ll snap out of his funk. This week looks like good timing too with the Cowboy’s 23rd ranked pass defense coming to town.

DANARIO ALEXANDER RETURNS TO ACTION
After being sidelined for several weeks with a knee injury, the Rams wide receiver Danario Alexander returned to action on Sunday. The Rams wide out was targeted six times and grabbed four balls for 95 yards to lead the club in their big road win over Denver. Sunday was only the third game Alexander has played in this season, but in his short stint he’s already turning heads.
My Fantasy Read:
Alexander has real big play ability and should continue to see more action on the field, if he can stay healthy. With the young rookie quarterback making strides every week, Alexander looks like a great sleeper pick for the nearing fantasy playoffs.