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: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Monday Edition

September 17th, 2012 

David’s Daily Digest

More Week 2 Takes

Hakeem Nicks: A Special Talent Breaking Loose

The second member of the Giants dynamic duo receiving corp, wide receiver Hakeem Nicks quickly came out of his early season slumber with a huge performance in week 2. After a very dismal week one outing with just four catches for 38 yards, Nicks rewarded his fantasy owners with an explosion in week two. His 199 yards receiving in week 2 lead the league and for PPR owners he added 10 catches and a score; 25 fantasy points in standard scoring. Nicks is a premier WR1 and owners can count on for more big games.

Brent Celek: Vick’s New Best Friend

The Eagles tight end Brent Celek emerged on Sunday as quarterback Michael Vicks favorite target snatching 8 passes for 157 yards receiving. Celek led the team in receiving and all receivers with 11 targets. This should come as little surprise since Celek is also tied for the team lead with 19 targets; a good indication that he’s on Vick’s radar every Sunday and should be fantasy lineups.

Donnie Avery: A Man on the Rise

The former Rams receiver has been incognito the past couple of seasons recovering from injury and the football abyss, but this season he’s landed in Indianapolis where he may be on track to resurrect what was once a promising career. In week two Avery caught nine balls for 111 yards on 10 targets. He’s easily and quickly emerged as one of quarterback Andrew Lucks favorite targets, second to Reggie Wayne. His 18 targets in two games makes him very relevant in fantasy and a strong flex play in all formats.

Percy Harvin: Footloose and Migraine Free

The Vikings explosive receiver Percy Harvin is off to a quick start in 2012 and his 12 catches for 104 yards in week two are just a small indication. In two games Harvin has been targeted 21, far and away the most on the team. His 18 catches this season make him a PPR darling and a good WR2 fantasy option week in and week out. As the season moves along and quarterback Christian Ponder progresses, Harvin could become and even greater fantasy option, but he’ll need to stay healthy.

Dwayne Bowe: The Big Hands on the Reservation

The Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe blew up for 102 yards receiving with two touchdowns in week 2 against the Bills. Bowe was targeted 15 times on Sunday, third most for any receiver and has 21 total targets in two games. Moving forward he is clearly quarterback Matt Cassel’s go-to receiver and should be in all fantasy lineups.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: THE MORNING HUDDLE

September 13TH, 2011 Tuesday

The Morning Huddle

Tuesday: Evening Edition

Week one is in the books and what a week it was; record setting to say the least. First on Sunday we see a rookie breakout like we never seen before with Panther’s quarterback Cam Newton throwing for a ridiculous 412 yards and three touchdowns against the Cardinals. And as if that weren’t enough, how about Tom Brady and his bunch on Monday night; over 500 yards in the air and four scores. If the rest of the 2011 fantasy season is going to be anything like what we have seen thus far, we are in for something quite special!

This season is quite young and only getting started, but there is a lot of watercooler topic to cover and banter about. There’s probably no better place to start breaking down the big arms of the NFL than right at the top, so let get’s started…

Breaking Down the QB’s

Tom (Brady) Terrific was his spectacular self on Monday night, but few could have imagined the game he had against Miami. Brady threw for over 500 yards and four scores, against a defense that was simply over matched (by Tom). It wasn’t just his numbers that impressed, but it also the manner in which Brady literally dissected and completely took apart the defense; he was dominant completing 67% of his passes and averaging nearly 11-yards per pass. Now that was impressive.

Like Brady rookie quarterback Cam Newton was also impressive in his NFL debut. The rookie turned in a very impressive passing day completing 24 of 37 passes (64.8%) for 422 yards and three scores (including one rushing). It may be too soon to crown Newton the next fantasy stud QB, but he’s definitely worth a roster spot on your fantasy team, especially in deep and dynasty leagues.

Another quarterback that raised several eyebrows on Sunday was the Bill’s Ryan Fitzpatrick. The 7th year starter for Buffalo was impressing leading the Bills to a big road win in the hostile confines of Arrowhead stadium. Fitzpatrick was sharp and efficient completing 68% of his passes for 208 yards with four scores. Now there may be something said about the deficiencies in the Chiefs secondary, but a performance like that on the road warrants acknowledgement. If you are thin at the position and Fitzpatrick is available, he definitely has the look of a solid back-up fantasy quarterback.

Now week one was filled with plenty of surprises and risers, but it also had its’ share of duds and those you would like to forget. One particular dud on Sunday was the Chief’s Matt Cassel. Surprisingly at home against the Bills, the former Trojan was ineffective and disappointing completing 22 passes for a mere 119 yards and only one score. Had this been a road game, he might be given a little more grace, but at home, not what the fans or fantasy owners expected.

Another bust that went ka-boom on Sunday was the Steelers own Big Ben. His matchup was not an easy task by any means, but this was a team that he has typically played well against; but not on Sunday. Now it’s hard to knock a guy when he has to face Ray Lewis and the Ravens, but five turnovers and a passer rating of 52.9 won’t get it done against anyone. Fortunately for fantasy owners this may not be problematic and with a home game up next, it could get corrected very quickly. Just the same, it wouldn’t hurt to take a peek at the waiver wire for players like Fitzpatrick, Kevin Kolb, Colt McCoy, or Matt Hasselbeck.

My Fantasy Rankings after week one:

Top 10 (the fantasy Penthouse)

1. Tom Brady (Patriots)
2. Aaron Rodgers (Packers)
3. Drew Brees (Saints)
4. Phillip Rivers (Chargers)
5. Matthew Stafford (Lions)
6. Michael Vick (Eagles)
7. Tony Romo (Cowboys)
8. Jay Cutler (Bears)
9. Ryan Fitzpatrick (Bills)
10. Matt Schaub (Texans)


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

September 9TH, 2011 Friday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

CRABTREE WILL BE AVAILABLE
The Niners have too many woes under center to consider any of their receivers this early in the fantasy season, add to it that wide receiver Michael Crabtree (foot) has seen little action this preseason and he becomes less of a consideration. Sit the former Red-Raider until we see more from the quarterback position and more from Crabtree himself.

CASSEL PRACTICES FULLY
The Chiefs quarterback is battling a rib injury, but after practicing in full on Friday, there’s no question that he will play on Sunday. This is a start owners will want to steer clear of, Cassel is not likely to drop back too many times; one, to protect the rib and two, because against the Bills (ranked last against the run in 2010) expect a heavy dose of Jamaal Charles.

ALL SIGNS POINTING TO FOSTER SITTING
The Texan’s running back Arian Foster (hamstring) has not been ruled for Sunday, but with his “questionable” listing and reports out of Houston suggesting he may not suit up, this looks like a situation owners may want to avoid. With those tricky hamstring injuries all bets are off, expect Foster to sit unless by some kind of grace his health improves dramatically.

MANNING OUT FOR “SOME-TIME”
Colts quarterback Peyton Manning underwent another procedure on his neck and now there are reports indicating he’s going to be out for a while (maybe the season). This is nothing new if you have been following the situation in Indianapolis, and if you took quarterback Kerry Collins as insurance it’s much too soon to try and cash that policy. This is one you’re going to have to sit on for a couple of weeks to see how Collins performs.

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

December 29th, 2010 Wednesday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

ROBERT MEACHEM BLOWS UP MONDAY NIGHT
One of the Saints big play deep threats has been on and off all season, but Monday night he came up big with his best game of the season. Meachem racked up 10 catches for 101 yards receiving off 13 targets (his most targets in a single game all season).
My Fantasy Read:
The Saints still have a lot to play for with a division title still up for grabs. Although he’s coming off a solid Monday night, Meachem is too inconsistent to be relied upon. Brees has the ability to spread the ball around to any of his receiving options making Meachem a risky play at best.

JOSH FREEMAN HAS A FANTASY SUNDAY
The Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman saved his best for last (or at least week 16). Last Sunday against the Seahawks Freeman was brilliant completing 21 of 26 passes, throwing five touchdown, and passing for 237 yards in the team’s week 16 win.
My Fantasy Read:
The Buccaneers are still battling for a post-season berth, so Freeman could be a preferred option under center with names like Brady, Vick, and Cutler expected to see limited action on Sunday.

MATT CASSEL IS COOL ON SUNDAY
With a division title hanging in the balance the Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel was cool in the clutch leading his team to their 10th win of the season and their first division title since 2003. Cassel completed 24 of 34 passes for over 300 yards (only the second time this season) an tossed three touchdowns (27 this season).
My Fantasy Read:
Even with the division wrapped up, the Chiefs are not expected to rest their starters this weekend. Although there is not a lot to gain with a win, Cassel will start and should be one of the more reliable starters this weekend.

DANNY WOODHEAD FINDS PAY-DIRT
The Patriots running back Danny Woodhead took advantage of some extra work last Sunday rushing for 93 yards with a touchdown on 13 carries. Woodhead was also effective in the pass game snagging three balls on four targets for 32 yards. His 125 total yards of offense was his most productive game of the season.
My Fantasy Read:
The Patriots’ small package of dynamite continues to be a valuable asset to the offense, but with Woodhead only averaging 10-12 touches per game he typically has limited fantasy value as a flex option. With the Patriots wrapping up the division and home field this past week Woodhead could see some extended action this coming Sunday.

DOMINIC RHODES GETS SOME WORK ON SUNDAY
The Colts running game received a much needed boost last Sunday from running back Dominic Rhodes. It was only his second game back with the Colts, but Rhodes took advantage of the opportunity rushing for 98 yards on 17 carries.
My Fantasy Read:
It was a nice afternoon for the returning Colt, but with Joseph Addai (12 carries for 45 yards) returning to action Rhodes is only going to see fewer touches going forward. His fantasy stardom looks short lived.

FSH NOTEBOOK: ON THE COVER

December 27th, 2010, Monday

On the Cover

Gateway to the West

The Chiefs win the AFC West

With all the talk about the San Diego Chargers in December someone forgot to mention to the Chiefs that they were not supposed to win the West. After defeating the defending West champions on the first Monday night of the season the Chiefs have not looked back.

After 16 weeks of sitting in first place of the AFC West with their decisive win over the Titans this past weekend the Kansas City Chiefs have locked down their first division title since the 2003 season. It really should come as no surprise seeing the Chiefs win the division when you look at how they got it done.

The Chiefs were not expected to contend for the division title this season, but rather the Chargers were the preseason pick. And when the Bolts started to play and look better in December a lot of folks, including myself expected them to take the division as they have time and again. One thing I did overlook was Todd Haley and the Chiefs.

From week one the Chiefs have clearly been the best team in the AFC West with a balanced offense that features the league’s number one ground attack. The Chiefs have proven this season to be a ball control offense with a run first mentality, but their 28th ranked passing offense led by quarterback Matt Cassel should not be overlooked.

Cassel is having a fantastic (3,001 yards passing, 60.2 completion pct) season under center in only his second season with the Chiefs; his 27 passing touchdowns this season ranks 6th in the league, while his five interceptions rank 2nd fewest. The Chiefs signal caller is also the 5th highest rated passer in the league behind names like; Brady, Rivers, Vick, and Rogers.

While some may be surprised by what the Chiefs have managed in only Todd Haley’s second year at the helm, they should not be. What Haley has done is constructed a well balanced club that in many ways mirrors a team from the northeast (that has enjoyed similar success).

The Chiefs play ball control (ranked 8th in the league in TOP) with the league’s best ground attack lead by running back Jamaal Charles (1,380 yards rushing) and Thomas Jones (6 touchdowns), but they also have weapons with players like wide receiver Dwayne Bowe (15 touchdowns) to stretch the field. The secret to their success is playing mistake free ball and their 11th ranked opportunistic defense (three defensive touchdowns this season); their +10 turnover ratio ranks 5th in the league.

At 10-5 the Chiefs will have a chance this weekend to earn their 11th win of the season with a victory over their divisional rival Oakland Raiders. This is quite a turnaround following a season where they won just four games. With a perfect 7-0 record at home this season and their first playoff game since 2003 to be played at Arrowhead Stadium, the under-rated Chiefs might not be done just yet.

FSH: SUNDAY MORNING GAMETIME

December 19th, 2010, Sunday

Sunday Morning Gametime

Today’s injury notes

The Saints look like they will be without running back Chris Ivory (hamstring) today against the Ravens. Ivory was on the field earlier, but only run a bit and not all-out according to ESPN’s Rachel Nichols.

According to the Daily News beat writer Ralph Vacchiano, the Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (questionable) was on the field earlier catching passes from quarterback Eli Manning. It sounds like Manningham will be available today against the Eagles.

Adam Schefter is tweeting that wide receiver DeSean Jackson and defensive back Assante Samuel, both will be active and starting today against the Giants.

In the Chiefs-Rams matchup, quarterback Matt Cassel is active, but according to Schefter there’s been no confirmation that he starts. This could just be a formality; if he can play why wouldn’t he start? Chris Mortensen is also noting a KC source saying “if I were a betting may; I’d say he starts.”

Other notable injury updates include; wide receiver Terrell Owens, wide receiver Austin Collie, tight end Jacob Tamme, quarterback David Garrard, and running back Maurice Jones-Drew are all active today and expected to start/play.

Today’s Matchup

If you have Peyton Manning in your lineup today, expect a huge outing from the Colt’s passer. He faces the leagues 28th ranked passing defense and will undoubtedly be putting the ball in the air a lot. This season Manning is averaging nearly 44 passes per game; don’t expect much less than that today.

The Texan’s quarterback Matt Schaub is coming off a monster game last Monday night against the Ravens. Today he draws the Titan’s 26th ranked pass defense that has allowed 16 touchdowns this season. Schaub will be definitely looking for his favorite target today, Andre Johnson. The last time they faced the Titans, neither produced big games, but both were solid which should be the same result today.

The Falcons are rolling along in the NFC and today they will try to continue their success against the leagues 20th ranked run defense. Michael Turner (1,174 yards rushing in 2010) has 11 rushing touchdowns this season and has ran for over 100 yards in a game seven times this season. He’ll see his fair share of work today and could post his eighth 100-yard game today in Seattle.

By David Ortega

FSH: SUNDAY MORNING GAMETIME

December 12th, 2010, Sunday

Sunday Morning Gametime

Today’s injury notes

The Chief’s will be without their starting quarterback Matt Cassel today against the San Diego Chargers. Cassel suffered an appendectomy earlier in the week and did not make the flight with the team to the west coast.

The Raiders could be without their top cover corner Nnamdi Asomugha today when the team faces the Jacksonville Jaguars. Asomugha is listed as questionable as he is dealing with a lingering ankle injury.

The Bronco’s are set to meet the Arizona Cardinals later today, but they will be missing a couple of key players. Rookie wide receiver Demaryius Thomas has been ruled out with an ankly injury, while Bronco’s safety Brian Dawkins will also be sidelined today with a knee injury. Fullback Spencer Larson has also been ruled out of today’s contest with a hamstring injury.

The AP is reporting that the Eagles will be without cornerback Assante Samuel tonight when the Eagles meet the Dallas Cowboys. Samuel is nursing an knee injury and was not expected to make the trip with the team.

Today’s Matchup

The Bills are facing the Cleveland Brown’s today and their 20th ranked pass defense. Last week Fitzpatrick and company had a rough day throwing the pill against an aggressive Vikings defense. This week won’t be a whole lot easier, but look for the Bills to attack the Browns defense through the air with wide receivers Stevie Johnson and Lee Evans. The Brown’s have allowed 20 passing touchdowns this season and are allowing opposing quarterbacks to complete better than 60 percent of their passes.

The Arizona Cardinals offense has been awful over the past several weeks averaging just over 8 points in their last three games. Today the Cards will matchup with the Broncos 31st run defense and should be planning a lot of Tim Hightower on the ground. Last week against the Rams Hightower toted the rock 15 times for 81 yards. It’s a safe bet to expect similar and even better numbers for the Cards runner today.

The Packers offense is on a roll having scored at least 31 points in three of its’ last four games. Today quarterback Aaron Rodgers will face the Lions 16th ranked pass defense that has surrendered 21 passing touchdowns and allows over a 63 pass completion percentage. Wide receiver Greg Jennings (11 touchdowns) and Donald Driver (4 touchdowns) could be in line for a couple of big games.

With snow and wind in affect in the windy city (Chicago) today, an aerial shootout is highly unlikely for quarterbacks Jay Cutler and Tom Brady. The Bears have been running the ball and will be expected to stick with what works, so expect to see a lot of Matt Forte (748 yards rushing, 5 touchdowns) today against the Patriots.

Tonight’s matchup between the Cowboys and Eagles being played in the comforts of the new Cowboy’s stadium could end up being every bit of a shootout. The Eagles are scoring at a frantic pace, while under the new Garrett regime, the Cowboys offense is starting to click. With all the talk about Mike Vick and the passing game, today’s matchup could be a battle of the ground games between Tashard Choice and LeSean McCoy. Both versatile backs should see plenty of carries and both will get their fair share in the pass game as well.


By David Ortega

FSH: MY WEEKLY SURVIVAL

December 2nd, 2010, Thursday

My Weekly Survivors

Well last week turned out to be a disaster. Taking Sidney Rice in only his second game back was a stretch, even though he saw extended action the week prior; just one catch for 20 yards last week. I can only imagine how many fantasy owners lost their matchup last week because Titan’s running back Chris Johnson totaled just seven yards; can you say disappointment.

Thankfully I had Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel under center to anchor my lineup. His 27 points (233 yards passing and four touchdowns) saved what would have been a horrific fantasy catastrophe.

With this being the 13th week to submit a lineup and I really have to look for a lot of the lesser known and lower caliber players with ideal matchups. This week no more stretches, I am going to stick with the better odds.

Here are my picks for week 13….

QB-Sam Bradford, St. Louis Rams
The Rams rookie quarterback has been steady and solid over recent weeks. He’s coming off his best performance this season passing for over 300 yards and tossing three touchdowns last week against the Broncos. This week Bradford will be throwing against the Cardinal’s 25th ranked pass defense that has only sacked the quarterback 21 times; with time in the pocket Bradford could have another big Sunday.
(Projected: 19 fantasy points/ 255 yards passing, 15 rushing yards, two touchdowns)

RB- Jonathan Stewart, Carolina Panthers
The Panther’s running back is back and has returned to the starting role. Last week Stewart rambled 98 yards on 12 carries and this week he could be just as effective running against the Seahawks 22nd ranked run defense that has allowed 11 rushing touchdowns. I look for Stewart to see at least 18-20 carries and that could be enough to get him to the century mark.
(Projected: 17 fantasy points/ 105 yards rushing, 1 catche, 10 yards receiving, one touchdown)

RB-Arian Foster, Houston Texans
The Texans running back has just been Mr. Everything to the offense this season. Foster leads the NFL with over 1,100 yards rushing, but he also leads the Texans with 75 receptions. He is a dual threat that is difficult to contain whether it’s rushing or receiving. The Eagles will have not only have trouble containing Foster in the run game, but covering him in the pass game as well. Foster will get his.
(Projected: 19 fantasy points/ 80 yards rushing, 6 catches, 55 yards receiving, one touchdown)

WR-Terrell Owens, Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals big physical receiver Terrell Owens is enjoying a very highly productive season with 65 catches, over 900 yards receiving, and 8 touchdowns. He faces the Saints in what will likely be an up-tempo style game and one that could see him get plenty of chances. This year Owens is tied for the lead with 124 targets.
(Projected: 16 fantasy points/ 7 catches, 105 yards, one touchdown)

WR-Anquan Boldin, Baltimore Ravens
The Raven’s wide out has been unusually quiet on the field lately, but this could be the week he makes a lot of noise. With the Steelers in town, Boldin could present some matchup problems for a very questionable 22nd ranked pass defense. In their first matchup this season Boldin caught 7 passes; expect to see him targeted often this Sunday.
(Projected: 14 fantasy points/ 8 catches, 85 yards, one touchdown)

TE-Visanthe Shiancoe, Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings offense has been a tough one to read, but one thing that has been much easier to read this season is the Buffalo Bills matching up with opposing tight ends. The Vikings and Shiancoe will have the comfort of home and while the Bills have improved over recent weeks I expect to see Favre and his tight end to enjoy some success. Shiancoe led the Vikes last week with only three catches for 54 yards, but he was targerted six times; look for this trend to continue with greater success.
(Projected: 11 fantasy points/ 5 catches, 55 yards, one touchdown)

PK-David Akers, Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles had some struggles last week with the Bears stout defense, but this week against the Texan’s 28th ranked defense they should have great success moving the ball up and down the field. I would expect to see plenty of scoring opportunities for the Eagles and their kicking game.
(Projected: 12 fantasy points/ three 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)

FSH: MY WEEKLY SURVIVAL

November 25th, 2010, Thursday

My Weekly Survivors

Last week was not our best week, although our fantasy team did not suffer too much damage. With players like DeSean Jackson (5 points) and Percy Harvin (2 points) not living up to the hype, my fantasy team struggled it’s way to 73 total points. It was enough to keep the team locked inside the top ten, but we’ll need big improvement in the coming weeks to reach the leaders.

A few notables and highlights from last weeks picks include a great performance from running back Fred Jackson (24 points) who finished with 116 yards rushing with two touchdowns. Matt Ryan was also a solid start under center adding 20 point s by passing for 253 yards and tossing two scores. We’ll need of this type of production in week 12 if we hope to make another push to the top in the standings.

The well continues to dry, so again we’ll be scrapping the bottom and the sides to see what we can find in the coming weeks, but for the week 12 slate of games here’s what we got;

Here are my picks for week 12….

QB-Matt Cassel, Kansas City Chiefs
Since week six, no other quarterback in the NFL has more passing touchdowns than Matt Cassel; he has 14 and just one interception. Cassel is also averaging 19 fantasy points during this stretch. Sunday he’ll face the league’s 30th ranked pass defense and if given the time (has only been sacked 15 times this season) Cassel could have another nice afternoon.
(Projected: 20 fantasy points/ 285 yards passing, 11 rushing yards, two touchdowns)

RB- Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans
There’s only one thing to say here, it’s Chris Johnson. The NFL’s leading rusher a year ago is not having quite a 2,000 yard season, but this Sunday will help him to try and get back on track. In his last two games against the Texans Johnson is averaging 174 yards rushing and has scored three times. I am looking for another big game this week.
(Projected: 22 fantasy points/ 115 yards rushing, 5 catches, 55 yards receiving, one touchdown)

RB-Danny Woodhead, New England Patriots
Quietly this kid is becoming a fantasy football underground favorite. After “Hardknocks” then being picked up by the Patriots after the Jets let him go, the 5’6” package of dynamite has been a welcomed addition to the New England offense. Woodhead is coming off two solid performances scoring 15 and 19 fantasy points. Against the Lions this week he could make it three in a row.
(Projected: 14 fantasy points/ 55 yards rushing, 5 catches, 35 yards receiving, one touchdown)

WR-Santonio Holmes, New York Jets
Since becoming active with the team in week five, Holmes has gradually evolved into Mark Sanchez’s favorite target; leads the team with 49 targets over that stretch. Last week Holmes brokeout with a big game catching 7 balls for over 100-yards receiving with a couple of scores. He may not be looking at the same production Thursday night, but against the Bengals he’ll do just fine.
(Projected: 15 fantasy points/ 6 catches, 95 yards, one touchdown)

WR-Sidney Rice, Minnesota Vikings
We tried one Viking last week why not try another this week? What I liked about Rice’s performance last week; 48 snaps and 56 receiving yards with three catches. With another full week of practice to get the timing down, I would expect more improvement this Sunday.
(Projected: 14 fantasy points/ 5 catches, 85 yards, one touchdown)

TE-Heath Miller, Pittsburgh Steelers
If you have been following the Bills defense this season you know the tight end position has scored very well more often than not. Last week the Bengals did not take advantage, but with Pittsburgh Big Ben likes his tight end Heath Miller a lot and should take advantage. Miller won’t make many grabs, but he is facing a defense that has allowed 8 touchdowns to the tight end.
(Projected: 10 fantasy points/ 4 catches, 40 yards, one touchdown)

PK-Matt Bryant, Atlanta Falcons
Picking kickers this season has not been one of my strengths, but in a game (Packers-Falcon) that has the feel of a lot of scoring, I am counting on the Falcon’s kicker Matt Bryant to have plenty of opportunities to add a few points to the board.
(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)

FSH: MY WEEKLY FANTASY

October 31st, 2010, Sunday

My Weekly Fantasy

Sunday’s Fantasy Lineup

Some quick notes for today’s lineups….

My Quarterbacks:

With sloppy (rain) conditions expected in London today, I am not expecting this to have much effect on Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton who will be in a few of my lineups today. Lacking a big arm most of his throws will be short routes and underneath shots…..the Packers travel to New York to take on the 22nd ranked pass defense. I will have Aaron Rodgers going in all leagues today as he takes on a Jets secondary that is allowing more than 250 yards passing per game at home with five touchdowns……I don’t have Matt Cassel today, but he is one quarterback I would be inserting with his favorable matchup against the Bills at home. Cassel will be throwing against a secondary that doesn’t allow a lot of yards, but has surrendered 14 touchdowns this season.

My Runningbacks:

With Steven Jackson available, I will definitely be riding “Action-Jackson” today against the Panthers’ 24th ranked run defense. Jackson has rushed for over 600 yards this season, including three straight 100 yards games. Today he faces a defense that is allowing nearly 130 yards rushing per game…..with the Bills coming to town, I will be inserting running back Thomas Jones today. In his last two games Jones is averaging 20 touches and over 100 yards rushing. Today he’ll get the leagues 32nd ranked run defense…..another play today that I like very much is running back Ryan Torain. Today the Redskins are in Detroit and Torain will be seeing the leagues 27th ranked run defense that is allowing nearly 5.0 yards per carry.

My Wide Receivers:

Last week the Bills offense erupted for big yards, big plays, and over 30 points against the Ravens. Today they don’t have the Ravens, but what wide receiver Steve Johnson will see is the league’s 25th ranked passing offense that has allowed 20 pass plays of 20 yards or more. Johnson has been consistently getting better each week and today’s matchup should allow his progress to continue……another wide out that has a favorable matchup today is the Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe. In his last two games Bowe has scored twice in each and with a Bills secondary that is handing out scores like hotcakes (14 allowed), he looks like a sure bet to find paydirt……a couple of regulars that I will be inserting today include Brandon Lloyd against the Niners. I like Lloyd to snag a few downfield against a secondary that has allowed 22 pass plays of 20 yards or more.

My Tight Ends:

With the Redskins in town, I am rolling with tight end Brandon Pettigrew in one of my lineups. The Lions second year tight end has been targeted often over the last several weeks and faces a defense that has 15 receptions to the tight end position over the past three weeks…..I also have the Bengals rookie tight end Jermaine Gresham in one of my lineups today. He doesn’t figure to catch a lot of throws deep downfield, but with all the weapons the Bengals have Gresham could emerge as a red-zone favorite today….lastly I will be starting the Jets tight end Dustin Keller. Keller leads the team with 24 receptions and five touchdown this season and faces a Packer’s secondary that could have some matchup problems today and has surrendered 21 pass plays of 20 yards or more.

FSH: MY 2010 FANTASY QB'S

September 7th, 2010, Tuesday

Changing of the Guard

2010 Top Fantasy quarterbacks:

2010 could mark a changing in the guard when you talk about fantasy quarterbacks. For the past several season’s names like Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, and Tom Brady have been the main staple of fantasy quarterbacks in the league, but 2010 could mark the year where this elite group expands.

On the rise to Elite status

Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers…

Since inheriting the mantle in Green Bay just over two years ago, quarterback Aaron Rodgers has steadily shown why number four in Lambeau is no longer. After consecutive seasons with over 4,000 yards passing and 28 or more touchdowns this will be Rodgers third full season as the starter under center for Green Bay. Rodgers will also have one of the league’s best receiving corps (Greg Jennings, Donald Driver, James Jones) returning for its’ third consecutive season. At only 6’2” the former Cal Bear stands tall in the pocket and delivers rocket passes on the money. Last season the Packer’s starting quarterback completed nearly 65%of his passes and threw 30 touchdowns. 2010 should be an even bigger year for Rodgers who now has a little veteran savvy and a solid foundation of experience to command one of the league’s top ranked offenses.

Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers…

With the LT Era over in San Diego, it’s time for the Bolts to fly. It really should come as no surprise since quarterback Philip Rivers has been steadily putting up fantasy numbers since he took the reins in 2006. Rivers has joined the 4,000 yard club in each of the past two seasons and his 62 touchdowns in that span rank him near the top. At 6’5” the Charger’s starting quarterback is the prototypical signal caller with a strong arm and with an all-pro tight end he’ll continue his rise to stardom. Perhaps River’s best fantasy value is his toughness and durability; Rivers has started in 64 straight regular season games.

Strong arms worth watching…

The Texan’s quarterback Matt Schaub and the Cowboy’s quarterback Tony Romo are a pair of Texas gunslingers fantasy owners will be keeping a close eye in 2010. Last season Schaub blossomed into a fantasy favorite passing for nearly 4,800 yards with 29 passing touchdowns while starting all 16 games. Romo passed for over 4,000 yards for the second time in three seasons and threw at least 26 touchdowns for his third straight season. Both return with their respective offenses pretty much intact from last season and fantasy owners are safe to expect similar numbers from each.

2010 Sleepers…

A couple of arms fantasy owners should be taking a closer look at this season are the Raven’s Joe Flacco, the Chiefs Matt Cassel, and the Bronco’s Kyle Orton.

Just by the numbers and added personnel it would be hard to argue that Flacco is due to have a good season. The Ravens are still ball control, but with his new weapons Flacco will easily improve his numbers from a year ago.

In Denver, the Broncos appear to be a team in the works and could have some struggles this season. Orton limits his mistakes and could find himself throwing the ball a lot more in the second half.

Matt Cassell had his struggles in 2009, but with a full year under his belt and a soft schedule down the stretch (week 15 & 16 against St. Louis and Tennessee) he could be a second half wonder.

A noteworthy mention is the Lion’s quarterback Matthew Stafford. The kid has looked sharp this preseason and with wide receiver Nate Burleson and tight end Tony Scheffler joining (Calvin Johnson) Megatron the passing game has received a huge off-season upgrade. Stafford is not a fantasy starter, but could be strong second half player in 2010.

My 2010 top 10 Quarterbacks

1. Aaron Rodgers, GB

2. Drew Brees, NO

3. Peyton Manning, IND

4. Tom Brady, NE

5. Matt Schaub, HOU

6. Philip Rivers, SD

7. Tony Romo, DAL

8. Donovan McNabb, PHI

9. Brett Favre, Min

10.Ben Roethlisberger, PIT