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

Thursday Edition

November 2nd, 2012

David’s Daily Digest

Sproles Out with Hand Injury

The Saints will be without running back Darren Sproles (hand) this Monday night when they face the Philadelphia Eagles. Sproles underwent surgery for a broken hand and will be unavailable for Monday’s matchup. With Sproles out, running back Pierre Thomas will see a boost in his fantasy value and likely an increased workload against the Eagles. Thomas should make a nice flex play for week 9.

Jones to Get Another Start

The Cowboys have ruled out running back DeMarco Murray for Sunday, meaning back Felix Jones is expected to start once again. Jones (knee) is listed as probable and expected to play in the Sunday night primetime matchup against the Falcons. Jones has not done a whole lot the past couple of games, but could be more of a factor against the Falcons 26^th ranked run defense. Jones is nothing more than an iffy flex option for this week.

Nelson Will Be a Game-Time Decision

Wide receiver Jordy Nelson (hamstring) is expected to be a game-time decision, although he was able to do some work. It’s sounding more like there’s a good chance that Nelson could be on the field, but owners will have to wait until Sunday morning to find out. Even when a healthy Nelson has played wide receiver Randall Cobb has been effective. If you are looking for a strong flex play, Cobb could fit the bill this week against the Cardinals.

Robinson Probable for Sunday Versus Lions

The Jaguars could see the return of wide receiver Laurent Robinson this Sunday against the Lions. Robinson has missed the past three games due to injury and in the three games he has played he’s been a non-factor. Wide receiver Cecil Shorts has really emerged as the current go-to guy, so don’t expect much this week from Robinson if he does return.

Dwyer Doubtful for Sunday

With both Mendenhall (Achilles) and running back Jonathan Dwyer (quad) listed as doubtful for Sunday, it appears Issac Redman is in line to start for the Steelers. Redman himself is nursing an ankle injury, but is expected to play Sunday and will get the start with Dwyer sidelined. Although Redman gets a good week 9 matchup (against the Giants 19^th ranked run defense) this Sunday, he has missed the past couple of weeks and will likely split carries. Play him at your own risk.

Tannehill Uncertain for Sunday

The Dolphins could be without the services of their rookie quarterback Ryan Tannehill, whose status remains uncertain for Sunday against the Colts. Tannehill suffered a knee injury last week and has been limited in practice this week. If Tannehill can’t go back up quarterback Matt Moore would get the start. The Colts have fared well against the pass this season, so whether it’s Tannehill or Moore, any fantasy value for the Dolphins would come from the run game; the Colts rank 27^th against the run this season.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: PLAY OR PASS

September 8TH, 2011 Thurssday


PLAY OR PASS


Saints versus Packers

There’s not a whole lot of thinking required in tonight’s matchup for fantasy owners. When you have two of the league’s premier offenses taking the field; you have to start just about everyone don’t you?

That may be par for the course, but for the most part it is true. There’s not a whole lot of down side to starting any Packer or Saint in tonight’s marquee matchup. When you look at both offenses, they stock a lot of weapons and plenty of ammo.

Both quarterback Drew Brees and quarterback Aaron Rodgers are locks in fantasy lineups with expectations of big games for both. Their targets may differ slightly, but both will have plenty of options to choose from.

PLAY

It doesn’t take a genius to dissect the strong plays for tonight, so I will keep it simple.

For the Saints, rookie running back Mark Ingram should enjoy a productive night with the absence of defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins (now in Philly). Even Pierre Thomas could be effective catching a few balls out of the backfield, while taking a couple from inside the five. Wide receiver Marques Colston and tight end Jimmy Graham will see plenty of targets tonight and should post strong numbers for fantasy owners.

The Packers boast plenty of playmakers with wide receiver Greg Jennings and tight end Jermichael Finley leading the way. Rodgers will have no trouble spreading the ball around to his many weapons, so do not forget wide out Jordy Nelson who came up big last season in the playoffs.

PASS

Stay away from both defenses; both the Saints and Packers will rack up yardage and post big numbers on the scoreboard. Wide receiver Lance Moore is out, so make sure he’s on your bench. Packer’s wide receiver James Jones has been banged up and could be a little rusty, it also doesn’t help that he has slid behind Driver and Nelson on the depth chart.

The Saints don’t have a great run stopping defense, but then again the Packers are not known to run the ball very well (ranked 24th in 2010). Neither Ryan Grant nor James Starks appear to be a leading candidate, expect to see both receive an equal share of touches tonight. What that means for owners, low productivity and likely no rushing touchdowns.

Just my take.

By David Ortega

FSH: SUNDAY MORNING GAMETIME

December 5th, 2010, Sunday

Sunday Morning Gametime

Today’s injury notes

The Charger’s have not ruled Antonio Gates out of today’s game just yet. He is expected to test his ankle during warm-ups this morning, so there’s a chance he will play.Officially Gates is listed as questionable.

The Saints running back Reggie Bush (leg) is still not quite 100 percent, but he is a full-go and will play today against the Bengals. Last week Bush showed a lot of rust returning to action fumbling the ball away once during the Saints win over the Cowboys.

The Vikings may be without one of their playmakers today; Percy Harvin. Harvin has been battling migraines all week and it is likely he could be inactive today as a result; make sure to check the inactive reports.

The Vikings running Arian Peterson is a big question mark for today, but he was out on the field during warm-ups testing the ankle. It appears he’s not 100 percent, but may try to give it a go.

The Saints will be without running back Pierre Thomas (ankle) who will be inactive. The reports all week had been indicating he would likely sit today, but Thomas does sound like a good shot to play next week.

Today’s Matchup

The Vikings secondary has had its struggles this season with covering and tackling. The Bills wide receiver Stevie Johnson is a star on the rise. I like his matchup today against the Viking’s corners and expect quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick to target him repeatedly today. Look for a big game from Johnson.

The Lions may be making a change at quarterback going with Drew Stanton, but that should not hurt Calvin Johnson fantasy owners. Back in week six earlier this season, Stanton played most of the game for the Lions and Johnson blew up for 146 yards, three of Johnson’s receptions came from Stanton for 102 yards. Stanton may be the backup, but he’ll know where to go with the ball, Johnson owners can expect a solid outing.

The Seahawks defense has struggled with the ground game this season allowing 11 rushing touchdowns this season. Today running back Jonathan Stewart will get his crack at the Seahawks. Last week Stewart returned to action and looked very good rushing 12 times for 98 yards. He should see a hefty share of carries and could have a productive day carrying the pill; start him.

By David Ortega

FSH: SUNDAY MORNING GAMETIME

November 21st, 2010 Sunday

Sunday Morning Gametime

Week 11 will mark a beginning for some teams today and an ending for others. Team’s like the Vikings and the 49ers will be playing for the post-season life; at 3-6 there’s not much life there, but another loss and stick a fork in them. While teams like the Packers and Saints are set to begin their post-season push and at 6-3 both teams look poised to make their runs.

With so much on the line for all of these teams, today could be a scoring haven for fantasy owners expecting to see a lot of the big names step up and give their best; names to watch include Favre, Rodgers, Brees, and Brady. Injuries will always play a part in the outcome, but with players like Andre Johnson, Calvin Johnson, and Terrell Owens lining up we’ll see plenty of fireworks today

With nine games in the morning the fun will get off to a fast start and conclude this evening with a great matchup between the Giants and Eagles. If you have nothing better to do (and how could you), find your local tailgate party, strap on your favorite lid and get set for week 11….

Today’s injury notes:

The Redskins will be missing running back Ryan Torain (hamstring) today, but will see the return of running back Clinton Portis. Also out today for the Skins, defensive backs Laron Landry and Carlos Rogers; that will hurt today against the Titans.

The Browns are not going to have wide receiver and special teamer Joshua Cribbs (dislocated toes).

According to Fox Sports the Saints running back Reggie Bush is likely to miss today’s matchup with the Seahawks. The team already announced earlier in the week running back Pierre Thomas would not play.

Today the Viking’s wide receiver Sidney Rice is expected to make his 2010 season debut. Rice was activated from the PUP list earlier in the week.

Earlier this week the Lions placed running back Kevin Smith on the injured reserve, meaning rooke running back Jahvid Best will likely see a more increased role going forward; no RBBC in Detroit.

In their big clash today with the Patriots, Peyton Manning and the Colts will not have the services of running back Jospeh Addai (neck), but could see wide receiver Austin Collie (concussion) return to action; against the Pats that would be very good news.

Notable Matchups;

Today with Addai out and on the road, there’s little doubt that the Colts will be relying heavily on Peyton Manning to play well. One component Manning will be leaning on heavily to find success could be his new best buddy and tight end Jacob Tamme. Tamme has been targeted 36 times in his last three games and has had great success catching 24 balls for 245 yards with two scores. The Patriots boast the 29 ranked pass defense, so Tamme looks to be a safe bet.

The Jets wide receiver Braylon Edwards (5 touchdowns) has had to be very patient over the past several weeks with his quarterback spreading the ball around a lot. Today his patience could see a lot of return against the league’s worst secondary, the Houston Texans. Edwards is only averaging just over six targets a game over his last three played, but that may be all he needs to do some heavy damage against today’s opponent. The Texans have been torched for over 300 yards passing per game this season and they have allowed a league high 22 passing touchdowns.

If there were ever a game to play Jermaine Gresham, today is that game. The Bengal’s rookie tight really appears to be sprouting his wings and starting to blossom into the type of playmaker that had hoped they drafted. Last week Gresham caught nine passes for 85 yards and a score. Today he’ll face one of the worst defenses at covering the tight end position; it could be a big day for Jermaine.

The Lions wide receiver Calving Johnson has really been solid this season considering the number of quarterback changes he has had to work with. Through it all he has performed brilliantly catching 49 passes for nearly 700 yards and nine touchdowns. Today against the Dallas Cowboys he’ll square off against a secondary (ranked 20th) that has allowed 20 passing touchdowns and 33 pass plays of 20 yards or more this season. Don’t be surprised to see Megatron have a huge game today.

FSH: WHAT'S THE LATEST

October 29th, 2010 Saturday (evening)

What's the Latest

Some quick news and notes for Sunday

Brett Favre Expected to start Sunday...
Despite the broken ankle and 41 years of age, it sounds like Brett Favre’s streak of consecutive starts will remain safe for at least one more week. According to some sports wires, the word is Favre expects to start after making it thru two days of practice. Even if Favre can limp his way onto the field, he’s a high risk just to make it through the Sunday.

Vernon Davis is listed as questionable...
The Niner’s tight end Vernon Davis has been nursing an ankle injury all week, but did participate in practice on a limited basis Friday. Davis did travel with the team to London, but remains a questionable play for Sunday against the Broncos. If Davis can play, he should be in most lineups facing a Bronco’s defense that has allowed 11 passing touchdowns.

Steven Jackson uncertain for Sunday...
The Rams star running back Steven Jackson (finger) returned to practice on a limited basis Friday. Jackson is nursing a broken finger, but has made it clear via twitter he expects to start Sunday. Even though head coach Steve Spagnuolo has not offered much on the subjects, it seems safe to expect to see Jackson on the field Sunday. If Jackson is good to go Sunday, he could be in line for a productive day against the Panthers 24th ranked run defense.

Pierre Thomas will not play Sunday….
The New Orleans Saints have already ruled out running back Pierre Thomas for Sunday night’s matchup with the Steelers. With Thomas and Reggie Bush likely out, Chris Ivory is expected to make his third straight start. Ivory has had some success as the team’s starter, but Sunday night against the leagues number run defense does not look inviting for owners.

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

October 28th, 2010, Thursday

David’s Daily Digest

My Fantasy Notes:

AHMAD BRADSHAW LEADS THE GIANTS GROUND GAME
The Giants small giant in the backfield Ahmad Bradshaw has emerged this season as the team’s featured runner. In his last four starts he’s averaged more than 22 touches per contest and now leads the NFL in rushing with 708 yards. For the season Bradshaw is averaging better than 116 yards from scrimmage per game.
My Fantasy Read:
The Giants have found their lightening in a bottle with Bradshaw and so far this season he has been striking opposing defenses with regularity. With the bye in week8 he remains a solid number one fantasy back going forward.

MARSHAWN LYNCH MAKING A QUICK IMPACT
It did not take long for Lynch to make an impression in Seattle and work his way into the lineup. He’s only played two games with his new team, but has two starts, 41 rushing attempts and 133 yards rushing. Last Sunday against the Cardinals Lynch collected 24 of those attempts for 89 yards (his best output this season) and looks to be the main ball carrier for Seattle going forward.
My Fantasy Read:
In two games with Seattle Lynch is averaging nine fantasy points per game (traditional scoring). Lynch looks in line to see a steady load of work every week, but owners may want to wait until production picks up to ride they try to ride his coat tail.

CHRISTOPHER IVORY COOLS OFF IN WEEK 7
After his breakout performance in Week 6 against the Buccaneers where he ran for over 150 yards, the Saints running back Chris Ivory cooled down considerably last Sunday against the Browns. Facing Rob Ryan’s tough Brown’s defense Ivory was held in check gaining just 48 yards on the ground on 15 attempts.
My Fantasy Read:
The Saints face the Steeler’s number one ranked run defense (allowing 2.8 yards per carry) this Sunday night and even though both Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush look like scratches, Ivory could be a tough play. The Steelers have yet to allow a single runner to eclipse 50 yards rushing this season, owners may want to consider other options.

RYAN TORAIN CONTINUES TO SEE A STEADY LOAD
The Redskins current featured running back Ryan Torain has been making the most of his opportunity and the team has not been shy with feeding him the ball. In his last two starts Torain has reached at least 20 carries and responded with two consecutive 100 yard rushing performances. On the season Torain has tallied 381 yards on the ground and averaged better than 4.5 yards per carry.
My Fantasy Read:
With Portis still sidelined, Torain is getting all the work in the backfield and flourishing. He’s averaged 112 yards rushing with two touchdowns his last two starts. On Sunday he faces the Lions 27th ranked run defense that is allowing 4.9 yards per carry and nearly 140 yards on the ground per game. He should be a very good start this week.

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

October 20th, 2010, Wednesday

David’s Daily Digest

My Fantasy Notes:

KEVIN KOLB IS SHARP AGAINST FALCONS
Against the Falcons last Sunday, Kolb played one of his best games completing 23 of 29 passes for 326 yards. The Eagle’s quarterback also threw three touchdowns with just one pick and finished the game with a rating of 133.6.
My Fantasy Read:
Kolb has looked sharp, but as good as he has played it’s still probably Vick’s job to lose (unless Reid suddenly changes his tune). As long as Vick figures to be the man, Kolb is a great hand-cuff. If you have one, go get the other.

JOE FLACCO HAS SOLID GAME AGAINST THE PATS
The Ravens passing offense has been starting to show real life over recent weeks and one big reason has been the play of Flacco. On Sunday Flacco passed for 285 yards against the Patriots on 27 of 35 passing (77%). It was his third game this season with at least 250 yards passing. He also added two touchdown throws.
My Fantasy Read:
Flacco has yet to reach the elite passing conversation, but he is slowly making progress toward the upper tier of passers in the fantasy world. For now he is a solid back fantasy quarterback, but give him time.

CHRIS IVORY SHINES AGAINST THE BUCS
If Ivory continues to improve as he has, Saints fans may soon forget they are missing both Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas. The rookie running back broke loose on Sunday against the Buccaneers for 158 yards rushing on 10 carries. Ivory also caught a pass for 17 more yards.
My Fantasy Read:
For now Ivory looks like a safe play this week with both Bush and Thomas unlikely to go Sunday, but once the regulars get healthy, Ivory is going to see less work; use him now while you can.

RYAN TORAIN SCORES TWICE ON SUNDAY
The Redskins feature back had a big day last Sunday against the Colts defense, finishing the evening with 20 carries and 100 yards on the ground. Torain also saw short-yardage work in the red-zone and punch two runs in for scores.
My Fantasy Read:
With Clinton Portis sidelined, this Shanahan favorite is a lock to remain the focal point of the ground game. Remember the Shanahan camp has produced more 1,000 yard rushers than any, so it’s a safe bet to expect Torain to be productive in the backfield. As long as he’s the starter he remains a safe weekly play.

DWAYNE BOWE RISES ON THE SEVENTH DAY
After spending the first several weeks of the season missing in action (just nine catches, one touchdown) Bowe finally came to life last Sunday against the Texan’s defense. The Chiefs go-to receiver broke out with his best game of the season, catching six passes for 108 yards and two touchdowns.
My Fantasy Read:
If Bowe can raise his level of play every Sunday to this height, he will quickly rise to the top of conversations when discussing some of the best hands in the league. He did have the favorable matchup of facing the Texans secondary (worst in the league) last week so don’t rush to sell the farm just yet, but Bowe is clearly making strides back in the right direction. He’s only a number three fantasy receiving option at the moment, but he’s got great potential to improve quickly.

FSH: SUNDAY SPORTS SECTION

October 3rd, 2010, Sunday

The Sunday Sports Section

What’s the Latest

The Rams will start Steven Jackson today although the word is his play could be limited, but if there were any doubt about his effectiveness he would probably sit.

The Saints will be without running back Pierre Thomas who will be inactive. With Thomas out veteran running back Ladell Betts is expect to get the start today for the Saints.

The Broncos are not going to have the services of running back Knowshon Moreno who will continue to nurse a hamstring injury. With Moreno on the sidelines it looks like Laurence Maroney could get the start, but he will likely be splitting the load with Correll Buckhalter.

These are just a few notes leading up to week for of the NFL…

Today’s In & Out

Actives/inactives and notes from Twitter for today’s games ….

@Adam_Schefter Texans WR Andre Johnson told people in his organization Saturday that he planned to play today against Oakland despite his ankle injury.

@SI_PeterKing RT @jeffduncantp: Quick updates from the Dome: As expected, John Carney will be the kicker for the #Saints today ... Goodbye, Mr. Hartley.

@FantasyDaddy Pierre (huh huh) Thomas is out today. Betts starting #Saints

@mortreport Active/Inactives overview: Inactive-LB Sean Weatherspoon (Ankle), Michael Jenkins (Shoulder), Calvin Pace (Foot), Pierre Thomas (Ankle), Roman Harper (Hamstring)Robiskie (Hamstring), & Delhomme is #3...Actives-Ray Rice (Knee), Steven Jackson (Groin), Jahvid Best (Toe) and Nick Mangold (Shoulder)

@Adam_Schefter Broncos RB Knownshon Moreno officially inactive, as is CB Andre Goodman.

@espn_nfcwest Julius Jones inactive for Seattle as team keeps Brandon Stokley up for this game. Marcus Trufant active.

@Adam_Schefter A note for @tunasweasel: Jets RB Joe McKnight active for the first time.

@Jay_Glazer Steve jackson coach spags told me he's going to be cautious w him but he starts, as does j best and ray rice. Pierre thomas out.

@Rachel__Nichols Ravens starting DE Cory Redding out with a concussion

@SigmundBloom John Carney is kicking for the Saints today. Craig Dahl starting at safety for the Rams for IDP leaguers. Sean Weatherspoon out.

@mortreport Seneca Wallace starting...Delhomme #3...Robiskie inactive

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

September 21st, 2010, Tuesday


David’s Daily Digest

My Fantasy Notes:

FAVRE AND COMPANY GROUNDED AGAIN
Through the first two weeks of the season quarterback Brett Favre and the Vikings passing game have barely left the ground. The Vikings passing game ranks 24th overall and Favre has already committed five turnovers. The absence of wide receiver Sidney Rice, injuries to wideout Percy Harvin, and the lack of any sort of playmaker at the wideout spot has left the passing game something to be greatly desired. On Sunday the Dolphins did a number on Minnesota at home limiting the Vikings to just 10 points and just 73 receiving yards to their receivers.
My Fantasy Read:
Until the Vikings make some big changes and adjustments, or add a big time receiver, or get healthy in a hurry, this offense and Brett Favre could struggle greatly in the coming weeks. It was about this time last year that Favre started to play like a three-time NFL MVP, but he just doesn’t have the horses this time around to recapture quite the same magic.

BUSH SUFFERS LEG INJURY MONDAY NIGHT
The Saints pulled off a nail-biter Monday night with a late game-winning field goal, but the victory came at a great expense. The Saint’s running back Reggie Bush who double-duties as the team’s primary punt returner, suffered a leg injury that will have him sidelined for a significant amount of time. The injury is a fracture of his upper fibula and could have the Saints tailback on the sidelines for as long as six weeks.
My Fantasy Read:
With Reggie on the shelf for a while expect to see more Pierre Thomas who hasn’t exactly shone, but has been dependable averaging nearly 60 yards on the ground and about five catches per game. He’ll become more of a featured back in the Saints attack, especially in the red-zone.

KOLB WAS EXPECTED TO START SUNDAY
So hold that thought, because it has already been announced earlier today Mike Vick will get the start this Sunday. Against the Lions Vick was vintage passing for 284 yards, rushing for another 37 yards on the ground, and tossing two scores.
My Fantasy Read:
Vick look very sharp, throwing some very tight spirals and long balls leading to scores. He seems to have his quickness and throwing arm back and a more mature Vick seems poised to succeed. He’s not quite elite, but in deep leagues right now he appears to be a viable option especially in Andy Reid’s west coast offense. Kolb is downgraded to a nice hand-cuff for Vick.

JACOBS ASKS TO BE TRADED?
There’s not a lot more you can say about what took place Sunday night on the Giant’s sideline other than ridiculous. In a heated tantrum, Giant’s running back Brandon Jacobs flung his helmet in frustration. That’s nothing too shocking or surprising as some player will from time to time display such emotion, the difference here is Jacob’s helmet ended up 10 rows into the stands filled with hostile Indy fans. Nevertheless the incident was quite the spectacle and as a result it now appears Jacobs could find himself heading out of town or at least in head coach Tom Coughlin’s doghouse for the time being.
My Fantasy Read:
It certainly doesn’t look good for Jacobs in New York if he is looking for a trade (which he denies). With his recent antics, he won’t be earning any more consideration for playing time and will remain the back up behind Ahmad Bradshaw. Until the Jacob’s ship gets righted, Bradshaw looks like a dependable RB2 option averaging 4.5 yards per carry and over 90 yards of offense per game.

FSH: WATERCOOLER CHAT

February 3rd, 2010 - 11:05pm PST

Watercooler Chat

"Lost in the Shuffle"

Falling short of your ultimate goal could hardly be called a success, but when we look back at the 2009 season for the Minnesota Vikings and their quarterback Brett Favre, it was hardly a failure either.

While many will only remember his last offensive play in the playoffs (an interception) everyone should consider his body of work throughout the season. The one play did not define his season, nor did it tarnish his decision to return.

If you take away all the foolish banter about "will he stay retired or return" it just comes down to one thing, can Favre still play. After tossing 33 touchdowns and passing for over 4,000 yards that would be an emphatic "Yes!". Favre not only showed he had something left in the tank, but he put up numbers that rivaled some of his MVP seasons.

Favre completed a career high 68.4 percent of his passes, passed for 4,202 yards (third highest of his career), threw 33 touchdowns, and posted a career high 107.2 passer rating. His seven interceptions were also a career low for a full season.

A lot of people are going to argue that Favre cost the Vikings a trip to the big dance, but as good as the talent was around number four in 2009 he was a big reason why they made it as far as they did. Favre finished third in the MVP voting and if would be difficult to argue that he wasn't deserving of such consideration.

Favre's fastball had lost little zip and his gun slinging prowess was just as prevalent as ever in 2009. When the dust settled after the NFC title game concluded, the Vikings season with Favre had been as successful as most may have thought (unless you are a Viking fan). The team and Favre had gone as far as they could and only came up short against the league's number one offense.

Once again many in the NFL circles will kick up the debate as to whether Favre will come back for another season, but the real question is should he even consider retiring. After his impressive run in Minnesota this past season and very real possibility of returning the same team in 2010, there's no question that it’s very realistic to think Favre and company could make a return trip to the NFC title game.

One of the best seasons of his career, there wouldn't appear to be any reason for Favre to hang'em just yet. In 2009 he turned the clock back another ten or so years with his great play and again gave football fans much to cheer about. More than that he showed the football world his love for the game and why he is one of the greatest to ever play.

Coming off arguably one of his best seasons, part of a championship caliber team, and clearly plenty left in his tank, it sure seems that now is NOT the time to leave the game.

Player Watch for the Big Dance...

Once again here a few players of note that fantasy owners should consider riding or hiding for the big dance on Sunday. Keep these players under close watch, you just may want to give them a hard look come Sunday;

(Start) Drew Brees

There really only two possibilities for Sunday, either Drew Brees will start fast and get the Saints offense rolling early, or he could play catch-up all afternoon. Either way expect the Saints quarterback to.

(Start) Peyton Manning

The Colts quarterback has been solid in the playoffs coming off 377 yards passing and three touchdowns against a very good Jets defense. With the Saints ranked 24th against the pass, he should continue to sizzle.

(Start) Pierre Thomas

The Colts defense struggles against the run, although they have played better in the playoffs. Thomas is coming off a strong performance against a very sound Vikings run defense, the Colts will have a tough time slowing down Thomas and the Saints ground assault.

(Start) Reggie Wayne

The Saints do not have a Darrelle Revis caliber cornerback and although they will likely throw some double and over the top coverage, expect Wayne to find the those soft spots. You can bet Manning will find Wayne.

(Start) Dallas Clark

The Saints just don't have enough to cover everyone. Against the Vikings, they struggled to cover the tight end position, look for Clark and Manning to exploit early.

(Sit) Colts and Saints defense

With two of the league’s best offenses, these defenses will have little chance of slowing down their opposition. They will give up yardage and some scores, but it's very likely the one squad that can come up with the big play could prove to be the difference maker in this classic matchup.

Check back every week for more "Watercooler Chat"