FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

October 3rd, 2017

Tuesday Evening Edition

Week 5: On The Cover This Week

A Star on the Rise

It's quite apparent by now that Texans rookie running back Deshaun Watson is a star on the rise. Through the first 4 weeks of the young season, Watson 2-1 as a starter has already made a big statement going head to head with Tom Brady in week 3 (passed for 301 yards and threw 2 touchdowns). Then in week 4 he put on a show and dominating performance against the Jaguars accounting for 5 touchdowns.

Watson was the 12th overall pick in the 2017 draft, out of Clemson where he was a two-time Heisman Trophy finalist. While at Clemson in his sophomore season he led his team to a National Championship accounting for 47 touchdowns (35 passing, 12 rushing), so the pedigree is there.

He's only played in four NFL games, but already the kid's a star. Currently Watson is the No.7 fantasy quarterback averaging 19.31 fantasy points per game. Watson is completing 65 percent of his passes while passing for 811 yards and throwing 7 touchdowns. He also leads all quarterbacks with 148 yards rushing and has added 2 more scores there.

It may be a little premature to start comparing him to the talents of a Michael Vick, but the talent and ability likeness is scary. He's already making heading turning and back-breaking plays. He's quickly becoming a defensive coordinator's nightmare; just ask head coach Bill Belichick.

Watson is a star on the rise and should be on everyone's fantasy radar going forward. He should actually be owned in all formats, so if he's available put in your claim this week and see if you can catch this shooting star.

That's My Take

~David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Saturday Evening Edition

November 1st, 2014 

David’s Daily Digest

Week 9 Starts

My Favorites for Sunday

It’s more of the same this week, but with six teams on bye it could be slim pickings for some fantasy owners unless you have managed the waiver wire well and paid close attention to the injury reports. I can’t say I drafted too well this season, but fortunately this late heavy bye week has not impacted my teams too greatly.

With that said, if you are not so lucky and looking for some help this Sunday these are the plays I like;

QB-Colin Kaepernick

The Niners quarterback has a nice matchup at home against the Rams (4^th most fantasy points allowed to opposing quarterbacks) this week. Kaepernick faced this same defense back in week 6 recording his only 300-yard passing game of the season and his best fantasy performance of the season. He’s a very good week 9 bye-week fill.

QB-Russell Wilson

With a home game on the slate this week, quarterback Russell Wilson will square up against a Raiders secondary that has allowed better than a 70% completion percentage this season. Wilson has typically been solid at home this season, averaging more than 20 fantasy points per game in his last two starts. He should be another solid week 9 bye-week fill.

RB-Bobby Rainey

The Buccaneers are on the road this week, visiting Cleveland. With starter Doug Martin doubtful for Sunday, it’s an opportunity for running back Bobby Rainey to take the reins in the backfield. Rainey should see the bulk of the workload and has proven to be an effective pass-receiving back out of the backfield; it also helps that the Browns defense has allowed the 8^th most fantasy points to opposing running backs. He has potential for a bigger game, but I consider him a low-end RB2 or flex this week.

RB-Jeremy Hill

Like the Bucs, the Bengals are dealing with injuries in their backfield. With running back Giovanni Bernard likely shelved for Sunday, rookie Jeremy Hill will get the chance to carry the load. Hill will lead the ground attack against the Jaguars rush defense that allows the 12^th most fantasy points to opposing running backs and nearly 4-yards a carry. He should see plenty of work on Sunday to be a solid RB2.

WR-Anquan Boldin

With quarterback Colin Kaepernick facing a favorable matchup on Sunday, wide receiver Anquan Boldin is in line for a productive day. Boldin has been the favorite in the pass game averaging nearly eight targets per start this season. In his last two starts he has a total of 19 targets and with them 14 receptions, 144 yards receiving, and a score. He’s a low-end WR2 or strong flex this week.

WR-Dwayne Bowe

The Chiefs top receiver has been quiet most of the season, but over his past two games Bowe has been targeted 13 times catching 11 balls for 148 yards. On Sunday he will face the Jets secondary that has allowed the 6^th most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers. He’s a safe WR3 or flex play this week.

Week 9 Sleepers

TE-Jace Amaro

The Jets offense has been woeful this season, but there may be a few bright spots worth noting and one is tight end Jace Amaro. He’s not exactly a fantasy superstar, but this could be a week where we see more of what he’s capable of doing. In his last three starts Amaro has become more involved in the pass game with 23 targets (and 18 receptions). Last week with the change at quarterback Amaro caught five balls on five targets from Michael Vick (who will start on Sunday). With a favorable matchup against a Chiefs defense that allows the 10^th most fantasy points, including 7 touchdowns to opposing tight ends, Amaro could see a few more balls in his direction with Vick under center. He’s a risky play at best, but in a desperate situation he has promise.

That’s my take for week 9.

~David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Saturday Edition
November 24th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

Bryce Brown Slated to Start Monday Night
The Eagles have ruled out LeSean McCoy (concussion) for Monday night and back up rookie running back Bryce Brown will get the start. Brown has seem limited action this season, but filling in as the starter this week could offer some hope to struggling fantasy owners. With rookie quarterback Nick Foles making his second start, the Eagles could rely more on its’ ground game after last week’s struggles in the air. Brown should have some success against the Panther’s 19th ranked run defense that allows over four yards per carry. The Panthers also allow the 11th most fantasy points to running backs.

Spiller Looking for Big Game on Sunday
Running back Fred Jackson is expected to return to action this Sunday against the Colts, but it will be CJ Spiller getting the start. Jackson is returning from a concussion and will likely see limited action. Spiller has the hot hand and could continue his solid play this week facing the Colts 21st ranked run defense. Spiller leads the team with 723 yards on the ground and has added another 336 receiving yards with five total touchdowns (4 rush, 1 receiving). The Colts allow the 7th most fantasy points to running backs and have surrendered 11 rushing touchdowns; this is the recipe for a great Sunday.

Foles will Start, Vick Ruled OUT Monday
The Eagles will roll with rookie quarterback Nick Foles on Monday night against the Panthers with Michael Vick (concussion) being ruled OUT. Last week Foles really struggled in the pocket completing less than 50% of his passes and throwing two interceptions. Foles was harassed all afternoon by the Redskins defense that sacked him four times and forced three fumbles from the rookie. With Foles under center, starting receivers DeSean Jackson (2 catches, 5 yards last week) and Jeremy Maclin (0 catches last week) become huge risky plays this week. The Panthers will bring more pressure this Monday night and only allow the 6th fewest fantasy points to wide receivers. Jackson and Maclin should be avoided, if you have other options.

Smith or Kaepernick, Expect Niners to Ride Gore
The move to start quarterback Colin Kaepernick on Sunday against the Saints has not been made official just yet, although all signs indicate he will. Whether the Niners make the move from Alex Smith to Kaepernick this Sunday or not, facing the Saints 32nd ranked run defense the team is likely to feed its running game that features Frank Gore. Gore leads the team with 829 yards rushing this season and quietly ranks 8th in the NFL. The Saints defense this season allow the most rushing yards per game and give up the 2nd most fantasy points to running backs; Gore needs to be in all line-ups this Sunday.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Wednesday Edition
November 14th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

Spiller to Carry the Load
With running back Fred Jackson sidelined this week with a concussion, CJ Spiller will not only start but likely carry the load. Spiller has been a consistent flex option all season, but his new starter status has likely vaulted him to the top of the charts as a lead RB1 option this week. The Bills take play Thursday night and take on the Dolphins 5th ranked run defense, fortunately for owners Spiller has been effective in both the run and pass game; he’s a safe start in week 11.

Run-DMC Likely Out Again
The Raiders will not have the services of running back Darren McFadden once again this week as he nurses his injured ankle. With Run-DMC sidelined full back Marcel Reece is the preferred fantasy selection from the Raiders backfield. With the Raiders set to host the Saints defense this Sunday, Reece has a nice matchup against one of the league’s worst defenses; the Saints also surrender the 2nd most fantasy points to running backs.

The Steelers Carrying a Full-House
With Mendenhall returning to a full practice this week, the Steelers are shaping up to have all three of their bruising running backs ready for Sunday. With Mendenhall, Redman, and Dwyer all figuring in the mix; the smart money would be on running back Jonathan Dwyer to get first look. It’s a tough dilemma and a tough read for fantasy owners and one best to avoid if possible.

Sproles Looks Ready to Return 
The Saints running back Darren Sproles returned to practice this week and looks on track to play this Sunday. With the recent strong running of backs Chris Ivory and Mark Ingram, the backfield now appears to be a little overcrowded. Even with the crowded backfield, Sproles is the favorite to see plenty of action, but his best value is in PPR formats.

Vick Likley Out, Foles Expected to Start This Sunday
It’s not official, but all signs are pointing to rookie quarterback Nick Foles starting this Sunday. If Foles does in fact start, the fantasy impact could be a lot of running back LeSean McCoy. While the team will want to see what Foles can do, the rookie will need protection and his safety net could be running back McCoy. The Eagles ball carrier is a dynamic and crafty runner with blazing speed and exceptional vision, but through 9 games this season he has just two touchdowns and eclipsed 20 carries just three times. Expect McCoy to see a lot of work this week.


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: SFFL WEEK 9

Saturday Edition
November 3rd, 2012  

Suicide Fantasy Football

Week 9

My SFFL fantasy team has fallen off the pace a bit the past couple of weeks with a couple of sub-par performances, but this week I am looking to improve mightily with some big performances from some big names and a strong showing from a few lesser known. My line-up leads off with a couple of notables (Michael Vick & Brandon Marshall), but also consists for a few intriguing names where I really like their matchups….


My Line-up 

Quarterback:
Despite the ups and downs and the turmoil that exists within the Eagles organization, I still believe Michael Vick is an exceptional athlete with plenty of playmaking ability and on Monday night he’ll have a great opportunity to exhibit plenty. The Saints defense has been awful this season and they have allowed the most fantasy points to quarterbacks this season. Vick and the Eagles need a big game and this Monday night is lining up to be their best opportunity.

Running Backs:
In the backfield I am starting the Lions running back Mikel Leshoure this week. The Lions are on the road to face Jacksonville and the Jaguars run defense has not been good against the run this season. The Jags are ranked 25th versus the run and have allowed 8 rushing touchdowns this season; they also allow the 4th most fantasy points to running backs.

My other ball carrier for week 9 is Felix Jones. The Cowboys running back has been running on empty it seems and with DeMarco Murray likely to return to the lineup sooner rather than later, this may be one of his last starts this season. I am not looking for a big output from Felix Sunday night, but the Cowboys need to make a big statement here and will need a solid effort from the ground game. The Falcons defense has not been great against the run this season ranked 26th, so I like for Jones to carry the load and be productive. 

Wide Receivers:
It’s time to call on one of the big dawgs this season, the Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall. the Bears are on the road this week, but for Marshall and company they meet the Tennessee Titans; ranked 29th against the pass. Marshall is off to a great start this season and has a great chance to improve his numbers on Sunday, the Titans are giving up the 15th most fantasy points to wide receiver this season, including 17 touchdowns.

My other wide out for week 9 is going to be DeSean Jackson. It what looks to be a shoot-out on Monday night, Jackson will be lining up against the Saints defense that is allowing the most fantasy points to wide receivers this season. The game will be fast on turf and could be filled with lots of big plays.

Tight End:
The Buccaneers offense, in particular their passing game has shown lots of life over the past couple of weeks, and tight end Dallas Clark has become fantasy relevant again. Clark has quietly become more involved as he and his quarterback Josh Freeman continue to develop a good rapport. In his first five games Clark was targeted 15 times, he has been targeted 9 times in the past two. Although Clark has yet to put up big numbers this season, he is facing the Raiders 21st ranked pass defense that allows the 11th most fantasy points to tight ends.

Place Kicker:
The Ravens have a very favorable matchup this week on the road against the Browns. Their offense should have plenty of success moving the ball, but could stall a few times in the red zone. I like Ravens kicker Justin Tucker to score big points with several kicks and several extra points.

Team Defense:
With my choices becoming more limited each week, one matchup I like is the Lions defense on the road against the Jaguars. The Jags offense is ranked last in the league, and with no MJD this looks too good to pass. The Jags have really struggled with the pass this season, ranked 32nd and 20 sacks allowed this season and have allowed the 6th most fantasy points versus opposing defenses.

These are my picks for week 9.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: FANTASY FIVE

Saturday Editions

November 3rd, 2012  

FSH Fantasy Five

Week 9 Fantasy Picks (all positions)

With the following teams on bye; San Francisco, New England, St. Louis, and the New York Jets, fantasy owners still face some challenges with balancing their lineups. The most notable players out this week are Tom Brady, Wes Welker, Steven Jackson, Frank Gore, and Vernon Davis.

If you are looking for some possible fills or substitutions to complete your lineup for Sunday, these are some picks that could fill some of your 9 voids;

Pierre Thomas, RB

With Darren Sproles shelved for a while, the Saints will turn to running back Pierre Thomas to carry the bulk of the running game load. Thomas is a tough between the tackle runner and can be effective out of the backfield (15 receptions this season). Facing the Eagles defense that allows the 13th fewest fantasy points to running backs, Thomas (257 rushing yards this season) can still offer value as a nice flex play.

Mikel Leshoure, RB

The Lions have not had much of a running game this season, but Sunday against the Jaguars may be their best chance to get it out of the gate. Running back Mikel Leshoure has shown the toughness to take it inside and Sunday against the Jaguars 25th ranked run defense he could get a chance to break it outside. The Jaguars allow the 4th most fantasy points this season, so Leshoure looks like a good flex option this week.

Michael Vick, QB

There’s not a lot of evidence to support starting Michael Vick as he has been a turnover machine through the first half of the season, but if there was ever a game to start him Monday night could be the night. Vick is certainly still capable of playing big and he has an ideal matchup Monday against the Saints. The Saints defense Is a mess right now and ranks 30th in the league, they are also allowing the most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. Another note, Vick spent many seasons playing in the Georgia Dome, so the artificial surface should only help his cause.

Anquan Boldin, WR

The Ravens wide receiver Anquan Boldin has been steady this season leading the team in receptions (31) and receiving yards (453), but he has only posted one 100-yard receiving game this season. This week he will see the Browns 25th ranked pass defense that has allowed 15 touchdowns this season and allows the 4th most fantasy points to wide receivers. Boldin averages more than 7 targets a game, so expect to see as many if not more and a very productive output from the 10-year receiver. He’s a low WR2 or strong flex play this week.

Reggie Bush, RB

The Dolphins running back Reggie Bush has been held in check as of late scoring in double digit fantasy points just once in his last five games. This Sunday Bush will see the Colts 27th ranked run defense that allows the 7th most fantasy points per game to running backs. Bush will likely share carries with Daniel Thomas, but with his abilities out of the backfield he will have more value as a low-end RB2 in PPR leagues.

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: 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

Friday Edition

August 17th, 2012 

David’s Daily Digest

2011 in Rewind

The Busts, Duds, and Disappointments

Staying with the “looking back at 2011” theme, let’s talk about a few names from last year that drove us nuts, because of under-performing, pulling the disappearing act, or just not showing up; and let me say having played in quite a few leagues last season the list is long.

With the 2012 season just about to start, a new fantasy season upon us, and so much to be excited about, we won’t delve too deeply into this touchy subject. As is the case every year, there are going to be players that will break your heart and each year fantasy owners learn that tough lesson the hard way.

These are just a few of those players.

The Heartbreakers

Last season there were several, just ask all of the (RB) Darren McFadden, (RB) Jamaal Charles, and (WR) Andre Johnson owners. These were some of the biggest fantasy studs in the game last year and with their seasons cut short because of injury fantasy owners were left with nothing but heartache. There is tremendous talent with this list, but plenty of risk if you choose to go for broke and draft them early. Johnson and Charles might be safer picks, but McFadden is likely the trickier play. He has a history, albeit short history of being a homerun hitter on the field or swing and a miss play in fantasy. If you put all your eggs in his basket, be prepared with plenty of Kleenex (just in case).

The Chargers have a running back that might also fit this profile; Ryan Mathews. This kid has shown plenty of flash, enough to get fantasy homers and geeks all fired up, but his lack of health has made him a questionable early fantasy draft selection. He’s another stud that could leave you in tears if you put too much value here.

The Disappointments

For all the talk about “it’s their time” and “too much talent” fantasy owners of (QB) Michael Vick, (WR) DeSean Jackson, and (RB) Shonn Greene paid another heavy price if they bought into the early season hype last year. With Vick, you are just treading troubled water with a fantasy quarterback that exposes himself to so much risk when he runs the ball. As long as he can avoid taking hits, he’ll pay off big, but when he doesn’t fantasy owners are left to pick up the tab.

And so goes Vick, goes DeSean Jackson, so long as his head is on straight and he’s in the game. Jackson has become one of today’s Diva receivers, so you just don’t know what you will get. If he’s on, he can bring great reward, but when he’s has six games with 3 or fewer receptions and all less than 50 yards receiving with NO touchdowns, for a number one receiver that spells disappointment Big-Time.

Quietly another disappointing play in 2011 was the Ravens physical wideout, Anquan Boldin who finished outside the top 30 in both yards receiving and receptions. His three touchdowns last season were also his worst showing since his second year (2004) in the league when he registered just one in 10 games. The Ravens play a more conservative run-first style offense and with the emergence of deep threat receiver Torrey Smith, Boldin could continue to see his production diminish.

For all the flare he showed jumping over a defender to score a touchdown in his rookie campaign and looking like the incumbent in the Buccaneers backfield, running back LeGarrette Blount fell far from expectation in his sophomore season. The Tampa Bay runner finished with fewer carries, fewer yards, and one less touchdown in 2011 after starting in 14 games, 7 more than his rookie season. Unfortunately there wasn’t enough hype to carry this back into the top twenty in 2011, as he finished 24^th in rushing and just five scores; not what owners had in mind.

The Busts

It’s never fun kicking a man when he’s down, so rather than kicking many, we’ll just point out the obvious; Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb. Before the 2011 season the Cards inked Kolb to a hefty contract with plenty of green, but saw little return in their investment. Fantasy owners were equally (emotionally) hurt with the former Houston Cougar’s lackluster play in 2011 (ranked 28^th in passing yards. Kolb finished last season just playing in nine games (started 8), throwing just nine touchdowns with eight picks and 1,955 yards. I think owners were looking for a little more from someone who gets to throw to (WR) Larry Fitzgerald every week.

Let this be a warning for the fantasy owners eye-balling quarterback Matt Flynn in Seattle.

There were probably more names that were a whole lot closer to many fantasy owners hearts from a year ago, but I think we have covered the point sufficiently; caveat your emptor. If you are buying into the hype, beware; because every year we are going to have plenty of Busts, Duds, and Disappointments.

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