FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Wednesday Edition
December 5th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

The Strong Arms of the Fantasy Law

Schaub Could be the Goods in Week 14
Quarterback Matt Schaub has been on and off the fantasy radar much of the season leading the Texans balanced offense. This week Schaub faces the Patriots 29th ranked pass defense on Monday night in what could be a great matchup for fantasy owners. Schaub is very capable of having a big night against the Pats who allow the 11th most fantasy points to quarterbacks and have surrendered 22 touchdowns this season. Unless you have a much better option, this is the week to play Schaub.

Eli Ready to Lead Fantasy Playoff Charge
The Giants quarterback Eli Manning has been relatively quiet the past six weeks, passing for more than 250 yards in just one of his last five starts. This Sunday could be just what the fantasy doctor ordered with the Saints marching in. Eli will face the leagues 30th ranked pass defense that allows the most fantasy points to quarterbacks, including 23 touchdowns. For those owners looking to ride Eli to a fantasy championship, this could be the great start needed with the Falcons and Ravens to follow.

Romo’s Hot Hand Could Carry into Week 14
The Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo has been on a roll the last three weeks surpassing 300-yards passing in each game. It seems Romo has caught fire just in time for the fantasy playoffs and he’s coming off back to back three passing touchdown performances. He’ll have his work cut out this week against the Bengals 11th ranked pass defense that allows the 9th fewest fantasy points to quarterbacks. Romo should be a worthy play in deeper formats this week.

Ryan Could be Risky in Week 14
Matt Ryan has been struggling of late and his slumping could not have come at a worse time. In his last three starts Ryan has only tossed two touchdowns and has seven turnovers. The Falcons are on the road this Sunday facing the Panthers 8th ranked passing defense that does a pretty good job of getting after the quarterback (28 sacks); a tough matchup for Ryan. If you are counting on a big turnaround for Ryan heading into the fantasy postseason, it could be a risky undertaking this week; consider other options if available.

Freeman Has a Top 10 Matchup this week
The Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman has been playing much of the 2012 campaign in the shadows of the fantasy big names, but with 23 passing touchdowns and 3,003 yards passing he’s worth consideration. In deeper formats Freeman is a viable option this week and facing the Eagles 16th ranked pass defense that allows the 2nd most fantasy points to quarterbacks he’s a top 10 play; start him if you got him.


Just a few of my takes for week 14.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Sunday Edition
November 4th, 2012

  

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes, Predictions, and Matchups we like

As well as the Broncos defense has played this season, they have had trouble covering opposing tight ends. With Champ Bailey sure to shadow the Bengals wide receiver AJ Green, tight end Jermaine Gresham looks to keep this stat in tack. The Bronco’s allow the 4th most fantasy points to tight ends and have surrendered 6 touchdowns. Gresham should be in line for a nice game; look for a couple of grabs for some nice yards, and a score.

The Texans have been able to run the ball well all season, but it appears their passing game has had some struggles. Quarterback Matt Schaub has yet to pass for more than 300 yards this season and has four games in which he has tossed one or fewer touchdowns. Much of this could change today when he faces the Bills defense that has allowed the 2nd most fantasy points to quarterbacks, including 14 touchdowns this season. The Texans passing game still has all the necessary weapons for a big day, so expect Schaub to make many owners happy today.

The Bears quarterback Jay Cutler has put up few big games this season, just one 300 yard game this season, but today he will face Tennessee. The Titans defense is ranked 29th against the pass this season and have only 11 sacks this season. If the Bears “O” line can protect Cutler today, he’s going to have his second 300-yard game this season. The Titans secondary allows the 3rd most fantasy points to quarterbacks and has surrendered 17 touchdowns (tied for 2nd most in the league). Cutler is a safe start today.

Even with a limited Calvin Johnson the Lions offense will go through quarterback Matt Stafford, but he could get some real help today from his ground game. Facing the Jaguars, the Lions running back Mikel Leshoure has a good chance at posting some solid numbers. The Jags allows the 4th most fantasy points to running backs and have allowed 8 touchdowns (6 rush, 2 rec). Leshoure will see the lions share of carries and should be highly productive. Leshoure may not break out into to beast mode, but he’s worth starting today as a flex or bye week fill


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Tuesday Edition

October 16th, 2012 

David's Daily Digest

The Week in Review

Breaking Down my Week 6 Picks

Well, whoever said making fantasy player picks was easy must also have some beach front property in Wyoming to sell. It’s definitely not down to a science, because if it is I need to sign up for the class. Taking a look back at my picks from week 6, ouch!

There were definitely a few misses, but I think I might have saved a little face with some good calls. Every week I am going to start taking a look back at the just completed week and break down my picks and see how I did. So before I start handing out cigars or patting myself on the back, lets start with;

 My Week 6 Duds

It looks like the Giants tight end Martellus Bennett is still in need of a little mending. Not able to cash in on a generous 49ers secondary (4 touchdowns allowed to tight ends this season) Bennett finished Sunday with just one catch for 9 yards.

In the desert quarterback Kevin Kolb was just frustrating to watch, often holding the ball too long and taking way too many hits and sacks. Kolb made the Bills defense look perennial exiting the game early with just 128 yards passing, one touchdown and one pick, He was also sacked five times and as a result of all the punishment he took, he will now be sidelined at least six weeks.

Running back Trent Richardson was a big disappointment on Sunday facing the Bengals. An injury forced him out early with just 37 yards on the ground and it was his back-up Montario Hardesty who enjoyed success rushing for 56 yards with a score.

The 49ers wide receiver Michael Crabtree pulled a disappearing act on Sunday against the Giants for fantasy owners. The team’s leading receiver finished the game with just three catches for 26 yards.

Hardly a dud, but if not for his touchdown grab on Monday night Demaryrius Thomas fantasy owners would be very upset with his week 6 output. Clearly the Chargers were intent on not letting Thomas break loose, but he did manage to find the end zone. Expect better days and more often.

Others I missed on, the Texans were completely blitzed by Aaron Rodgers and the Packers passing game. After falling so far behind, Matt Schaub and the offense really struggled against the Packers pass rush, tight end Owen Daniels was a miserable 3 catches for 46 yards. Running back Reggie Bush finished his day with just 17 yards rushing, but he did have 5 grabs for 44 yards.

While we can’t always be right, it is nice to hit the nail on the head with some of my picks each week;

My Week 6 Studs

On Monday night the new king of comeback, quarterback Peyton Manning did not disappoint with three second half touchdowns and finishing the game with over 300 yards passing. Manning started slowly, although he was completing a high percentage of passes in the first half, but clearly he rose to another level in the 2^nd half.

Quarterback Andy Dalton is the type of fantasy success you have to take with a grain of salt, take this past Sunday for instance. He’s goping to give you big numbers from time to time, 381 yards passing and three touchdowns, but they often come at a cost (three interceptions). For the season Dalton has 12 touchdown passes, but he also has 9 picks; you take the bad with the good.

Manning was the only star on Monday night and it could have been much bigger if not for some thick yard-line paint around the 35 yard line. The Broncos wide receiver Eric Decker finished the night with 6 grabs for 98 yards and a score, but just imagine how much bigger his game could have been had he not been tackled by the 35 yard line (yes that is by, not at). As long as Thomas lines up on the other side, Decker is going to see more games like this.

The Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford appears to going through some growing pains this season as he struggles to recapture some of last years’ lightning in a bottle. He wasn’t all bad on Sunday, but he did start painfully slow. Stafford struggled early, but finished mightily passing for 311 yards, tossing one score and running for another. If he can just get out of the gate, he’s got a chance to put together some big games.

The Raiders running back Darren McFadden was a workhorse on Sunday toting the rock 27 times and grabbing three more passes. Run-DMC finished Sunday with 98 total yards and a score, although he did have a fumble. If the Raiders stick to this plan, he’s going to have some big games down the road.

Fantasy owners will be hoping for much better games than this, but running back LeSean McCoy managed to save a bad day with a touchdown grab to go with this 48 total yards (22 rushing, 26 receiving) of offense. And for those in PPR his seven receptions were a nice touch.

It was not a big Monday night for the Chargers running back Ryan Matthews, although maybe if it had been the games; outcome would have been different. Matthews finished the night with 74 yards rushing (on 22 carries) and 19 receiving. Like McCoy and Bush, Matthews four catches may make him a very attractive option in PPR leagues.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: QUICK TAKES

Sunday Edition
October 14th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

Week 6 Quick Takes

Likes

The Lions are not known for being a stellar run defense, even with Ndamukong Suh lining up. The Eagles running back LeSean McCoy has elevated himself to elite status as a runner and for fantasy owners, it’s about that time to rise again. The Lions have been respectable, but McCoy is too dynamic to be contained and should contribute in both the run and pass game today.

The Texans and Packers could be headed to an old-fashion shootout tonight when they take the field. There’s no question the Packers secondary will be focused on containing wideout Andre Johnson, but I like tight end Owen Daniels to exploit some matchups and have a big game. Daniels has emerged as one of quarterback Matt Schaub’s favorites and leads the team with 33 targets.

With Daniel Thomas sidelined, this could be the week that Dolphins running back Reggie Bush makes believers out of everyone again. Bush is having a decent 2012 campaign, but today’s matchup against the Rams 18th ranked run defense could be the spring board he’s looking for. The Rams allow well over four yards per carry, nearly 120 yards per game, and in five games have surrendered six rushing touchdowns. I like Bush to have a nice game on the ground and look for him to add a couple of grabs to the stat book.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Tuesday Edition

August 21st, 2012 

David’s Daily Digest

Looking At the 2012 Fantasy Season

Previewing the Big Arms

With several of my own fantasy drafts approaching it’s time to start looking at this season’s studs and talking some serious fantasy football. And there’s no better place to start than right under center.

When we are talking about the quarterback spot, there are no better field generals than the Three Kings of the Gridiron; Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, and Tom Brady. These guys do it big and have been consistently over the past several seasons; Rodgers has averaged nearly 33 passing touchdowns per season since 2008, Brady has averaged over 34 touchdowns the past three seasons, and Brees has at least 33 passing touchdowns in each of his last four seasons, including 46 last year. Quite simply, these guys are better than good.

If these three are the Kings, than we have to anoint the Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford as one of the league’s top princes. He’s not quite at the elite level yet, but after his 5,000 yards in 2011 with 41 touchdowns he is very close. Eli Manning is another prince in the league flirty with the next level, but his touchdown-interception will need to improve a bit, before he can get real consideration.

Cam Newton and Michael Vick certainly deserve strong consideration as a starting fantasy quarterback, but with their reward and great mobility will come lots of risk. At least Cam has size, but even with his build you’d rather he use his arm more and legs less. Enough can’t be said about Vick when talking about protecting yourself. His mobility has been one of his greatest assets, but also one of his biggest nemeses; staying healthy will be his greatest task in 2012.

A couple of names that could emerge as solid fantasy starters will include Matt Schaub, who should bounce back nicely this season from his injuries of a year ago. Ben Roethlisberger is like Vick, he needs to stay healthy to pay-off for owners. If he can avoid the big hits, with studs like Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown to throw the ball deep to, Big Ben could have a solid 2012 campaign.

Peyton Manning is going to fall on most boards, but as a late QB1, he could prove to be a great value and steal in most drafts. He’s still got a little rust to shake off, but once the regular season gets going he’d going to find his old form; and the weather in Denver won’t make a difference.

Philip Rivers and Tony Romo may both fall a bit this season in fantasy drafts after the disappointing performances from their respective teams last season, but don’t be fooled. These two have plenty left in their tanks and are still surrounded with enough talent to finish as Top 10 fantasy quarterbacks.

On Your Radar 

We've heard the talk before in the past, but this could actually be the season we see the pay off with quarterback Matt Ryan. The Falcon’s starter has some new toys and reliable weapons in his arsenal and could be in line for a big 2012 season.

A couple of names that could really breakout in 2012 with big seasons and peak into the Top 10 include; Andy Dalton, Ryan Fitzpatrick, and Jay Cutler. I like Dalton, because with a great receiver like AJ Green (and we’ll get to him in due time), how can you not get better. Fitzpatrick has continually improved and he should greatly improve upon his 23 picks last season; I expect good things from Ryan this season. It’s hard not to like Cutler’s big arm and add that he has his old favorite target in Brandon Marshall back, his 2012 looks too good.

These guys are more than just after thoughts, or roster fillers, they could be a great replacement and starter because of injuries or should any of the big names struggle. Keep them on your radar.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

November 30th, 2011 Wednesday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

ANDRE JOHNSON: To Start or Not-To Start
The Texans All-Pro receiver, Andre Johnson (knee) finally made his return to the field last Sunday against the Jaguars, after missing the past six games. His return was far from triumphant (just two catches for 22 yards), but it was a good sign for fantasy owners who will be hoping to see him return to form in week 14 (during the fantasy playoffs). That’s the good news.

The bad news for fantasy owners hoping to play Johnson now and into the playoffs; who will be under center for the Texans? Following their week 10 in over the Buccaneers, the Texans lost their starter Matt Schaub for the season with a foot injury and just when it looked “all systems go” with back up quarterback Matt Lienart under center, he went down in week 12 with a broken collarbone. Now the Texans are left with an inexperienced rookie quarterback at the helm.

We know that rookie T.J Yates (North Carolina) will be taking the snaps on Sunday, but what we don’t know is how this is going to impact the offense and the passing game for fantasy owners. For those of us that have been riding all season long without one of our biggest weapons (Johnson), we could be submitting our lineups on Sunday with one of our biggest guns firing blanks or will he.

I am always the optimist and when I consider how high I drafted Johnson back in August, I can’t imagine sitting him on Sunday and seeing my fantasy team go down without all of my best players. For some it may look like fantasy-suicide, but is it really. On Sunday when Yates entered the game Johnson had only been targeted just once, a play in the first half that was nullified because of a penalty. In the second half Yates would look for #80 three times connecting twice for 22 yards.

While these numbers are nowhere near staggering it should be mentioned also that the Texans where well in control leading 20-10 and did not have to lean much on the pass. So if you project these numbers some, if Yates had started the game and the Jaguars offense been a little more effective in the early going, Johnson may have had a chance to see as many as six to seven targets (maybe a couple more in the early going) throughout the game.

My Analysis: This Sunday’s matchup with the Falcons would appear to pit the Texans up against an offense that could force them to be a little less conservative and have to keep pace. I would not expect a shoot-out of any sort, but the Falcons will certainly be more capable of putting up more than 13 points. Yates is going to have to stand in the pocket and make some throws and from we saw in week 12, he is more than capable of finding AJ. I would not expect a big game necessarily from Johnson, but I would not be surprised to see as many as 7-9 targets would come mean a very decent fantasy out-put; especially with this fantasy beast. Start him!


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: FRIDAY'S FAST FIVE

October 14th, 2011 Friday

Friday’s Fast Five

My Five Calls for Week 6

1. White’s Week to Wreck Havoc
Fantasy owners have been waiting for Atlanta Falcon’s receiver Roddy White to breakout this season. He has 32 receptions (on 54 targets), but just 352 yards receiving and two scores. These are significantly sub-par numbers for our guy, Roddy. With their rookie stud Julio Jones sidelined this week, Matt Ryan and the Falcons passing offense should turn to old-reliable number 84. The Panthers secondary is ranked 15th this season against the pass and they have already been bit for the long ball (40 yards or more) four times this season. Roddy’s numbers are down and this could be the week he picks them up.

2. It’s Back to Basics for the Eagles
The Eagles offense has been riding the arms and legs of quarterback far too much this season and it has not paid off, 10 turnovers and a 1-4 record. With so many weapons, Jackson, McCoy, Maclin, and Celek, I am expecting Reid to reel in Vick some this week and ask his to share the rock more with some of his other playmakers. The Redskins are playing well defensively this season, so the Eagles will need to attack from all angles. McCoy is averaging almost six yards a tote this season and in two games last season he totaled 268 yards of offense; look for a productive Sunday from the league’s 5th leading rusher.

3. Tony Romo Should Breathe Easy on Sunday
This matchup Sunday has all the ingredients of a big passing day for Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo. The Patriots defense is dead last in the league and has given up a ton of yards in the air this season, but the good news doesn’t stop there. In five games this season the Patriots secondary has been victimized for nine touchdowns and 32 pass plays of 20 yards or more. With his best receiving weapon returning this week and tight end Jason Witten underneath, Romo should be a huge fantasy play on Sunday; even in Foxboro.

4. Life Without Andre Could be Hard
The Texans quarterback Matt Schaub could be someone fantasy owners may want to avoid this week. On Sunday the Texans travel to Baltimore to meet Mr. Ray Lewis and the Ravens 8th ranked pass defense. Schaub will take the field without his best weapon and favorite target; expect the Ravens to crowd the line, stuff the run, and turn the Texans into a one dimension offense. Once that happens the dawgs will be turned loose and Schaub could be looking at a long afternoon.

5. Newton Rolling and Could Pick up Speed
The Panthers dynamic and electrifying rookie quarterback Cam Newton has been taking the league by storm and turning his team into a tough matchup week in and week out. Week six should be no different and if you are the Falcons you should be worried. The Falcons 29th ranked pass defense is coming off a beating from week 5 surrendering 396 yards and two touchdowns to Aaron Rodgers and Packers. Now Newton is no Rodgers, and he doesn’t have quite the same compliment of skill players, but he does have plenty of help and enough weapons to do a lot of damage. This matchup could easily turn into a shoot out with Newton providing plenty of fireworks of his own.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SUNDAY'S HEROES

September 27th, 2011, Tuesday

Sunday’s Heroes (Week 3)

Who is Making Fantasy Headlines in 2011
[Points based on standard scoring]

JOE FLACCO CATCHES FIRE IN WEEK 3
The Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco blew up in week 3 against the Rams passing for nearly 400 yards, while completing 27 passes and throwing three touchdowns. All three of his scores went to rookie wide receiver Torrey Smith, who Flacco showed great chemistry with. Flacco has been up and down so far this season, but with Smith emerging, we could see Joe playing more like he did on Sunday. He’s still a QB2 for now, but looks to be a great bye week filler.
(31 fantasy points)

SCHAUB COMES ALIVE IN LOSS
It took three weeks, but finally the Texans quarterback Matt Schaub comes alive and tallies a big number on Sunday. For fantasy owners, it’s been what we have been waiting for as Schaub passes for 373 yards and throws three touchdowns in a loss to the Saints. The Texans appear to be a more balance team this season, but will still need the occasional big game from Schaub; it’s nice to see he has it. His line on Sunday included 22 of 39 passing and a passer rating of 103.9. Going forward fantasy owners can expect similar Sundays, although there may be a few when he is more efficient with less yardage. He’s a low end QB1, but a good start week to week.
(30 fantasy points)

LESEAN IS THE REAL MCCOY
The Eagles running back LeSean McCoy is making his bid to be considered one of the top fantasy running backs in the 2011 season. On Sunday against the Giants McCoy added another 128 yards rushing (345 on the season ranks second in the NFL) and his 4th rushing touchdown this season. McCoy also has 9 receptions this season, including one for a touchdown giving him five total scores for 2011. With a hefty 6.1 yards per carry average McCoy is as good as any top fantasy back in the league right now; he’s a must-start and a keeper.
(19 fantasy points)

RUN DMC BUSTS A MOVE IN WEEK 3
The Raiders are playing well right now and no one can argue that Raider running back Darren McFadden is playing best of all. After his outstanding week 3 performance rushing for 171 yards and scoring twice, Run DMC leads the NFL with 393 yards on the ground and already has three trips to pay-dirt. DMC is averaging 24 touches per game, as long as this kid can hold up, he’s money baby!
(29 fantasy points)

WELKER SHOWS HIS HOT HAND
Is anyone surprised by how good this guy is? We shouldn’t be, since we have seen him doing it for a couple of seasons, but what is surprising is how defenses just can’t find a way to slow down Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker. Last Sunday against the Bills Welker nabbed 16 balls for 217 yards and two scores. He now leads the NFL with 31 receptions and has scored four times this season. Did anyone forget that he caught a league high 123 passes in 2009 and has three consecutive seasons with more than 100 catches. He’s healthy now and is an every-week start, period!
(33 fantasy points)

JULIO JONES IGNITES AGAINST THE BUCS
The Falcons rookie wide out Julio Jones finally ruffled his feathers some last Sunday against the Buccaneers and caught flight for 115 yards in the air off of six grabs. It was Jones first big productive game this season, coming off of seven targets. With his blazing speed Jones will remain the deep threat and likely be a hit and miss from week to week. With his big play potential he’s an attractive WR3 or flex play for now.
(11 fantasy points)

The IDP Fantasy Newsmakers…

OLD DAWG STILL HAS PLENTY OF TRICKS
The Ravens 3-year old linebacker Ray Lewis shows no slowing down with another stellar effort on Sunday against the Rams. Lewis recorded another 10 tackles, his fist sack of the season, and a forced fumble. He continues to defy the odds and play like an LB1 fantasy IDP.

SEAN LEE IS PLAYING LIKE A FREAK
The Cowboys middle linebacker Sean Lee has been electrifying this season on the defensive side of the ball. On Monday night, Lee was all over the field recording 8 total tackles, intercepting a pass, and recovering the game winning fumble. Lee has a nose for the ball and great instinct; he’s an outstanding IDP play and must-start every week.

JARED ALLEN GOES QB HUNTING
The Vikings defensive lineman is on a tear this season and last Sunday against the Lions, he was a beast recording three sacks. Allen also added a forced fumble for good measure in the week 3 matchup against the Lions. Allen is among the leaders this season with 4.5 sacks and figures to be in the market to add to his total every Sunday.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SUNDAY GAMETIME

September 18TH, 2011 Sunday

Sunday Morning Gametime

There’s no doubt that the NFL got off to a high flying start in week one and if you are thinking that the offenses might become a little grounded in week 2, don’t hold your breath. With the Bolts of San Diego and Philip Rivers (335 yards passing) traveling to Foxboro to face Tom Brady (517 yards passing) this matchup promises to be filled with plenty of fireworks. It’s not just the high profile contests that will generate lots of fantasy scoring, but there are quite a few enticing matchups today that will garner plenty of attention.

Watch-list

Last week the quarterback Matt Stafford (three touchdown passes) started off with a hot hand on the road against the Buccaneers. This week the young Lion will be at home and have a very tasty matchup against a Chiefs secondary that yielded four touchdowns a week ago.

Like Stafford, I like quarterback Rex Grossman to back up his week one success with another strong outing against a very shaky Cardinals’ secondary that allowed over 400 yards passing in week one. Grossman might not have a ton of yards, but he’ll connect in the end-zone a number of times.

After their dismal start a week ago against the Ravens, I am expecting a big day from Steelers’ running back Rashard Mendenhall. A week ago Mendenhall only gained 45 yards on 12 carries, fantasy owners can look forward to both of those numbers increasing significantly today when the Steelers host the Seahawks.

On Monday the great play of Dolphins wide receiver Brandon Marshall was overshadowed by huge games turned in by the Patriots offense. Marshall was solid out of the gate with seven catches for over 100 yards. He could see similar results today against a Texans secondary that allowed over 100 yards receiving to Colts wide out Reggie Wayne.

One more player to watch today is Browns’ running back Peyton Hillis. Last week against the Bengals Hillis was held in check limited to just 57 yards on the ground. Today he faces the Colts run defense that surrendered 167 yards on the ground last week, so look for Hillis to get things rolling today.

Today’s Fantasy notes:

Today’s 20 Fantasy Quarterbacks (Week 2)

1. Matt Stafford (Lions)
2. Aaron Rodgers (Packers)
3. Tom Brady (Patriots)
4. Drew Brees (Saints)
5. Michael Vick (Eagles)
6. Philip Rivers (Chargers)
7. Matt Schaub (Texans)
8. Tony Romo (Cowboys)
9. Joe Flacco (Ravens)
10. Jay Cutler (Bears)
11. Ben Roethlisberger (Steelers)
12. Kyle Orton (Broncos)
13. Rex Grossman (Redskins)
14. Matt Ryan (Falcons)
15. Josh Freeman (Buccaneers)
16. Eli Manning (Giants)
17. Kevin Kolb (Cardinals)
18. Mark Sanchez (Jets)
19. Cam Newton (Panthers)
20. Donovan McNabb (Vikings)

My Picks Today

My “Four Horsemen”

Matt Schaub; It’s hard not to like a quarterback that gets to face a defense that just allowed over 500 yards passing a week ago.

Rashard Mendenhall; The Steelers were embarrassed a week ago, I expect them to really try to imp0se their will and pound the ball. I am looking for a lot of Mendenhall today.

Stevie Johnson; The Bills are hot at the moment coming off an impressive win last week; they will try to build off this momentum today by attacking the Raiders questionable secondary. I expect Stevie Johnson to see plenty of chances today to find the end-zone.

Dustin Keller; I missed my pick here last week, but today against the Jaguars I like Keller to pick up the slack in the passing game with an ailing Santonio Holmes.

FSH NOTEBOOK: SUNDAY MORNING GAMETIME

September 11TH, 2011 Sunday

Sunday Morning Gametime

It’s week one of the NFL and plenty to get excited about with some key matchups, many personnel changes and a new season at hand. For fantasy owners there are a lot of questions to pose heading into week one and many answers to be found; is this the year of Stafford, how good is Stafford, what about the Colts’ receivers without Manning, and how much action with Chris Johnson see? These are just a few of many we hope to have answered today.

Watch-list

Today’s fantasy watch-list should also include quarterback Donovan McNabb’s impact in Minnesota, does he have anything left in the tank. There should also be plenty of interest in wide receiver Lee Evan’s arrival in Baltimore; will he be able to stretch the field? Let’s not forget about another subtle change that has fantasy interest, quarterback Matt Hasselbeck in Tennessee; can he bring stability to the position and help revive the Titans offense in a division that now looks up for grabs.

Today’s quick notes:

The Eagles will take their 2011show on the road today visiting the St. Louis Rams and they will have the services of recently acquired wide receiver Steve Smith. It remains to be seen how involved Smith will be coming off of injury, for fantasy owners this is a wait-and-see situation.

The Texans will likely be preparing for a running-back-by-committee game plan as it is being reported that Arian Foster is not expected to play today. With their number one sidelined running backs Derrick Ward and Ben Tate will split carries and the Texans passing game could receive a boost.

The Colts will roll into the 2011 football season with a new field general under center, quarterback Kerry Collins. There’s no question Collins is a capable leader and quarterback, but can he command these troops in Indianapolis to near the same level as Peyton? That’s a tall order for any quarterback and with the change, for fantasy owners you will have to devalue all Colts receiver some until we can see what Collins can bring to the table.


Notable Matchups;

The Rams second year quarterback Sam Bradford is looking to have a very good sophomore season and by all counts he should, but today against the Eagles he will face a stiff test. With the additions of Cullen Jenkins (DL), Nnamdi Asomugha (DB), and Dominique Rogers-Cromartie(DB), this could be one exam he could struggle to find the answers today.

Listening to some of the early reports, it sounds like the Texans will be making plans without running back Arian Foster, but they may not need him. Quarterback Matt Schaub and the Texans will face a depleted Colts offense without Peyton Manning and could be primed to strike; add wide receivers Andre Johnson, Kevin Walter, and tight end Owen Daniels and the prospects look good.

The Chargers will look to start fast in 2011 and will have tight end Antonio Gates on the field today against the Vikings. Gates has been one of the league’s best tight ends and will present a lot of matchup problems for the Vikings; he could have a big game today.

The Giant’s defense is battered leading into week one and will be tested today by Mike Shanahan’s and his Redskins’ running game. Tim Hightower the team’s new starter should see a heavy dose today and could be very effective. Hightower could also make an impact in the short passing game, remember he caught 63 balls back in 2009.

My Picks Today

My “Four Horsemen”

QB-Matt Stafford; I have him in several leagues and believe he will stay upright this season. He starts in Tampa today and with some nice complimentary weapons and “Megatron” on the perimeter, he should kick start things in high fashion today.

RB-LeSean McCoy; One of the league’s top running backs, but receiving very little fanfare in the early part of the season. I like McCoy out of the backfield a lot today against the Rams.

WR-Roddy White; The talk this preseason has been Julio Jones, but you can bet quarterback Matt Ryan remembers his favorite target (White). With Jones receiving a lot of notoriety, White could remind folks why they had not better forget about him; he could be big today against the Bears.

TE-Owen Daniels; there’s little chance that the colts will be able to stop Andre Johnson, but you know they will have to throw a safety over the top and roll coverage his direction; and when they do tight end Owen Daniels will step up. Lets’ not forget just three seasons ago Daniels caught 70 balls for over 800 yards.

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

March 12th, 2011 Saturday

David’s Daily Digest

2011 Fantasy Football Players

With future of the 2011 season currently in limbo as the two sides decide how to split our (the fans) money, we’ll continue with prepping for the coming season which still has every possibility of starting on time. Even if this dispute drags well into the summer, there is every indication from many of the prognosticators following the situation that the 2011 season can still be salvaged with just a few games less.

On that note we continue our tour of the 2011 fantasy players looking through the class of quarterback talent that will be available in fantasy drafts this summer….

Fantasy Quarterback…..

Josh Freeman (Buccaneers)

In just his second year, the Buccaneers’ starting quarterback Josh Freeman helped lead his team to a 10-6 record, just missing the playoffs. Last season Freeman passed for nearly 3,500 yards and tossed 25 touchdowns with just six picks finishing with a passer rating of 95.9 (ranked 6th in the league). Freeman was particularly efficient and effective down the stretch in his last four starts completing nearly 73% of his passes while throwing nine touchdowns and no interceptions.

At 6’6” Freeman has the ideal size to be your traditional pocket passer, but with 364 yards rushing he has great escape-ability and athleticism to be even more dangerous out of the pocket. Following a very sub-par and non-spectacular rookie season Freeman flew well under the fantasy radar in 2010, but after his sophomore success he’s going to be on many owners draft lists this summer.

The Buccaneers are a fastly improving program and with young talent like LeGarrette Blount, Mike Williams, and Kellen Winslow Jr. surrounding their young quarterback, Freeman will only get better. He’s not reached the upper echelon of quarterbacks in the NFL just yet, but Freeman is well on his way.

Freeman is not likely to throw for a big chunk of yardage at any particular time with the Bucs being more of a balanced team that likes to run, but he’s still a close second tier level fantasy quarterback (amongst the Flaccos and Schaubs). His talent and skill level would suggest big game possibility as evident in his five touchdown performance against the Seahawks in week 16 last season, but the young gunslinger should still be considered a bit of a risky fantasy starter.

Last season Freeman had nine games in 2010 where he threw one or fewer touchdowns; in three of those games he also passed for less than 200 yards. He would probably serve much better as your number two quarterback; his accuracy offers the upside of an occasional big game (look for the matchups); he did have three games last season where he passed for more than 200 yards with multiple touchdowns.

In dynasty and keeper leagues, he’s definitely one worth stashing on the back of the grill while he seasons a bit longer (but not for too much longer).

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: MY WEEKLY SURVIVAL

December 30th, 2010, Thursday

My Weekly Survivors

It looks like we picked the worst time to have a bad week in our season long chase for a Suicide fantasy football championship. With the season winding down and fewer chances to make a move to the top last week was one to forget.

Week 16 did not go so well with a few of our picks tanking big time. With Marion Barber returning to the field last week, Tashard Choice saw very few touches and totaled only two points. On Monday night Marques Colston turned in one of his quietest games with just two catches for 21 yards (two points). Ben Watson kept our hard luck with the tight ends going another week with a poor fantasy outing last Sunday against the Ravens (2 points). The only highlights of our week 16 team picks were quarterback Matt Schaub (16 points) and place kicker Neil Rackers (11 points).

This week we enter the season finale with all hopes of a run at the top now a distant memory. With one lineup left to submit a lineup and currently residing in the 8th spot, a top five finish still looks possible. This week will offer some unique challenges with the possibility of some players sitting (resting), but like every week we’ll just have to dig a little deeper to find this week’s stars on Sunday.

Here are my picks for week 17….

QB-Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers still have a lot left to play for, so Big Ben should be a busy man on Sunday making plays. In their first meeting versus the Browns back in week 6, Roethlisberger passed for 257 yards and tossed three touchdowns. The Steelers have won five of their last six and a win on Sunday will deliver a division title; expect Big Ben to play a big part.
(Projected: 20 fantasy points/ 250 yards passing, two touchdowns, 25 rushing yards)

RB- Shonn Greene, New York Jets
The Jets have clinched a playoff berth, but have no shot at the division. With Sunday’s meeting with the Bills having very little impact on their playoff seeding it sounds like several Jets could be rested; including LaDanian Tomlinson. With LT likely to see the bench on Sunday it could be a very productive day for running back Shonn Greene (766 yards rushing in 2010).
(Projected: 17 fantasy points/ 105 yards rushing, 2 catches, 10 yards receiving, one touchdown)

RB-Ryan Matthews, San Diego Chargers
The Chargers’ running back is healthy again, running well, and has seen his most extensive action of this season over the past three weeks. Mathews is averaging 16 touches per game in his last three games and 3.9 yards per carry. With Mike Tolbert ruled out is should be all Mathews against the Broncos’ 31st ranked run defense.
(Projected: 17 fantasy points/ 85 yards rushing, 3 catches, 30 yards receiving, one touchdown)

WR-Mario Manningham, New York Giants
The Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham has been on fire over the past couple of weeks and could be even bigger with Hakeem Nicks not expected to play this Sunday. Manningham has posted consecutive 100 yard receiving games and this week he’ll face the Redskins 31st ranked pass defense in week 17; he looks like a good bet to make it three straight.
(Projected: 17 fantasy points/ 7 catches, 110 yards, one touchdown)

WR-Jacoby Jones, Houston Texans
The Texans have the sixth ranked passing offense in the league making their receivers look very attractive in week 17 against the Jaguars 26th ranked pass defense. With Andre Johnson inactive last week, wide receiver Jacoby Jones got the nod to start and turned in strong performance with five catches for 115 yards. If Johnson sits, Jones looks to be a good play against a weak secondary. If Johnson decides to go, he would be the preferred play here.
(Projected: 14 fantasy points/ 4 catches, 85 yards, one touchdown)

TE-Kellen Winslow Jr., Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Winslow leads the team in catches this season with 63 and is coming off a big Sunday with seven grabs and two scores. With the Bucs still in the post season hunt, quarterback Josh Freeman will be sure to look his way often. In their first matchup this season against the Saints, Winslow did not total a lot of yards, but was targeted 10 times and caught 7 passes. He figures to be busy in the rematch.
(Projected: 14 fantasy points/ 6 catches, 80 yards, one touchdown)

PK-Adam Vinatieri, Indianapolis Colts
The Colts rank 3rd in the league in scoring this season averaging just over 27points per contest, but at home in their last two games have totaled 69 points. With the Titans in town this Sunday, the Colts look like a good bet to post another 30 point effort. Vinatieri has been gold this season making 23 of 25 field goals and he is perfect at home on 13 tries.
(Projected: 12 fantasy points/ three field goals, three extra points)

Last week’s results

(Week 16 Points=41, Total Season Points=1,192, 8th place)
QB-Matt Schaub, Houston Texans
RB- Tashard Choice, Dallas Cowboys
RB-Mike Tolbert, San Diego Chargers
WR-Santana Moss, Washington Redskins
WR-Marques Coltson, New Orleans Saints
TE-Ben Watson, Cleveland Browns
PK-Neil Rackers, Houston Texans