FSH NOTEBOOK: (SATURDAY'S) FRIDAY FOOTBALL FIXX

Saturday Edition
December 8th, 2012

  

(Saturday’s) Friday Football Fixx

Fantasy Player News

Taking a look around the National Football League at fantasy football players for Sunday with the latest news and takes;

Nicks Questionable for Sunday
The Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks is listed as questionable for Sunday against the Saints, but the explosive wide out did practice on Friday. Nicks has been battling injuries all season and has yet to get back to 100%, but despite being limited this week he is still expected to play on Sunday. Nicks play has been improving over the past couple of weeks since his return from injury, but this little setback could be cause of concern for fantasy owners. His status is still up in the air, but if he is active against the Saints shaky secondary, he needs to be in fantasy lineups.

Nelson Ruled OUT for Sunday
Wide receiver Jordy Nelson has been ruled out for Sunday night against the Lions and will not play. With Nelson on the sidelines, fantasy owners for wide receivers Greg Jennings, Randall Cobb, and James Jones can expect a bump in fantasy value this week. Jennings will be playing only in his second game since returning from injury, but he is expected to fill the role of Nelson and should do just fine. With the Lions up next, Jennings should be in your lineups this week.

Sunday is Wayne’s World
The Colts veteran wide receiver Reggie Wayne has been having a prolific 2012 campaign and his current 88 catches and 1,156 yards receiving have him on pace to set career highs in both categories. Wayne is without question rookie quarterback Andrew Luck’s security blanket and has been targeted a league high 153 times this season. On Sunday the Colts have a very favorable matchup against the Titans 25th ranked pass defense, so fantasy owners can expect Luck to look Wayne’s way quite often.

Ivory Unlikely to Play Sunday
The Saints are likely to be without the services of running back Christopher Ivory (doubtful) on Sunday against the Giants. The Giants defense is ranked 21st against the run and even without Ivory, the Saints backfield remains crowded and convoluted. With the Saints being primarily a passing team, running back Darren Sproles remains the only reliable running back with any real fantasy value (in PPR leagues only).

With Harvin OUT All-Day Must Carry the Load
The Vikings have been riding the legs of running back Adrian Peterson (1,446 yard rushing in 2012) most of this season and with the loss of wide receiver Percy Harvin, it looks like he will have to carry the offensive load the rest of the way. Peterson is averaging just over 20 carries in his last six games and has rushed for more than 100 yards in each (he’s also scored in 5 of his last 6), including 210 yards last week. Fantasy owners can expect to see a heavy dose of All-Day the rest of the way and similar success on the ground, despite who Peterson faces

Turner to Play Sunday against Panthers
The Falcons will have running back Michael Turner in the lineup on Sunday against the Panthers, which is good news for fantasy owners. Turner has yet to really break out this season recording just two 100-yard rushing efforts, both at home with the last coming in week 9. This Sunday on the road against the Panthers could be his third facing the league’s 25th ranked run defense. The Panthers are allowing nearly 130 yards on the ground, 4.4 yards a pop, and have surrendered 10 rushing touchdowns. If you a looking for a big game from Turner this week, this matchup could not come at a better time; he’s a safe play this Sunday.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: THURSDAY'S TAKES

Thursday Edition
November 8th, 2012  

Thursdays Take

Notes

Tonight’s quick takes include quite a few names for a matchup lacking marquee appeal. Starting with the obvious wide receiver Reggie Wayne leads the league in targets this season with 101. You can bet he’s going to be on the radar throughout the evening and should be very productive against the Jaguars 24th ranked pass defense.

Throwing passes all night to Wayne will be rookie quarterback Andrew Luck. He’s a gamer and it will be tough to pass on starting him tonight unless you are carrying one of the top 10 fantasy quarterbacks. The Jaguars defense allows the 17th most fantasy points to quarterbacks this season, but last week the Lions Matthew Stafford torched them for over 300 yards without a touchdown pass (although there were many chances). Luck should see many opportunities, but expect him to capitalize.

On the other side, the Jaguars offense will be facing a Colts defense that has struggled to shut down folks. Running back Rashad Jennings is going to see a heavy load and facing a Colts defense that allows the 6th most fantasy points to opposing running backs, he’s going to play well. Jennings is only a flex option in most leagues, but could be considered a low end RB2 in much deeper leagues.

The one to watch this evening is going to be the Colts number two receiver Donnie Avery. The speedy wide out has shown flashes this season and last week was starting to come on with a big effort before injury shut him down. Avery finishes last week with 5 grabs for 108 yards. Tonight against the Jaguars, who will also have to worry about Wayne and wide receiver T.Y. Hilton, Avery could be poised for a big evening. Expect Luck to take a few shots and Avery to cash at least one in. I am really high on this guy and believe a big game is coming; could it be tonight?


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Sunday Edition
October 21st, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes

It’s a bit of a stretch, wide receiver Donnie Avery could be a huge factor today against the Browns. Andrew Luck has played extremely well at home this season and play opposite wide receiver Reggie Wayne has to open some good looks for Avery. The speedy wideout is second on the team with 47 targets and is coming off a season high 12 targets.

The Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant is the hot hand in big D with 21 receptions for 200 yards with two touchdowns in the team’s past two games. Bryant has been targeted 28 times and figures to remain the focal point of the passing attack, as long as he is on the field. A groin injury could make him a risky play, but he is expected in the lineup today.

The Texans playmaking wide receiver Andre Johnson has been relatively quiet this season, but today could offer a big change to that. The Ravens 22nd ranked pass defense rolls into town minus their heart and soul, lineback Ray Lewis. Even with the addition of Terrell Suggs, the Ravens defense is still in trouble without one of their best corners Lardarius Webb; Johnson could be looking at his 2012 breakout game.

The Packers offense flourished a week ago against a very tough Texans defense and not saying the Rams will fold like a house of cards, but they will have their hands more than full trying to slow Aaron Rodgers and company. A less than household name wide receiver Randall Cobb could come up as one of the catalyst to lead the Packers charge. With Jennings sidelined the past three weeks Cobb has tallied 18 receptions and 250 yards receiving on 22 targets.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: FANTASY FIVE

Saturday Edition
October 20th, 2012  

FSH Fantasy Five

Week 7 Fantasy Picks (all positions)

This week presents significant challenges for fantasy owners with six teams on the sidelines, but even with so many studs taking the day off there will plenty of stars shinning on Sunday. As I am looking over this week’s matchups I am seeing quite a few names jump out at me that I think are solid plays for week 7. Here are just five of my favorites for Sunday;

Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB
The Bills offense has sputtered at times this season, but even with some rough outings this season quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick has managed to outperform (in the fantasy world) some names like Stafford, Rivers, and Schaub. With a very favorable matchup this Sunday facing the leagues 29th ranked pass defense (Tennessee), Fitzpatrick should be able to take advantage of a defense allowing nearly 72% passes completed and 292 yards passing per game. The Titans secondary has also given up 13 passing touchdowns this season; Fitz and the Bills should have little trouble cashing in. I like Fitzpatrick as a high end QB2 and worthy of a start in deeper leagues.

Kenny Britt, WR
In the same game the Titans offense is looking at similar possibilities for success. Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck will be making his third start this Sunday and facing the Bills 20th ranked pass defense (13 passing touchdowns allowed and 255 yards passing per game), I like his go-to receiver Kenny Britt to finally step up in 2012. Last week versus the Steelers Britt finally found the end-zone and he was heavily targeted; 11 targets last week. I expect to see Hasselbeck continue to look his often was this week leading to some nice fantasy numbers. We could see a lot of grabs, not necessarily big yardage, but he could make a trip to the end zone making him a strong flex of low end WR2 this Sunday.

Josh Freeman, QB
The Buccaneers passing offense has been breathing a little life the past couple of weeks with quarterback Josh Freeman averaging 313 yards in the air with three scores in the team’s past two games. This Sunday the Bucs play host to the New Orleans Saints and the offense may once again have to lean on Freeman and his arm. The Saints offense puts up a lot of points per game and fortunately for Freeman and the Bucs offense the Saints defense gives up a lot of yards (283 yards passing/game) and points (30.8 points allowed per game). This matchup is shaping up to be a big day of passing for Freeman and with his new found toy (Vincent Jackson; three touchdowns in last two games) he could also score a couple of TDs. Freeman looks to be a nice bye-week fill.

Hakeem Nicks, WR
It seems the Giant’s playmaking wide receiver Hakeem Nicks is getting healthier managing a full week of practice. This is good news for the Giants offense and even better for fantasy owners. There’s no question that wideout Victor Cruz has blossomed into one of Eli Manning’s main go-to receivers, so defenses will have to be sure to account for him. This should open some opportunities for Nicks on Sunday facing the Redskins 32 ranked pass defense. When Nicks is healthy he is more than just dangerous, but add a suspect secondary that allows over 325 yards passing per game and has surrendered 15 passing touchdowns this season and he is a must-start (twice on Sunday).

Donnie Avery, WR
In Indianapolis Reggie Wayne is quarterback Andrew Luck’s main go-to guy tied for the NFL lead with 70 targets this season, but wide receiver Donnie Avery is no forgotten man on the other side. Avery is far and away second on the team with 47 (9.4 targets per game). On Sunday the Colts play host to the Browns and it’s highly likely that Wayne will draw a lot of attention from the Browns top corner Joe Haden. Avery should see plenty of favorable matchups and with Luck not shy about looking his way; this could be a breakout Sunday for the Colts number two receiver. Avery should be played as a strong flex or a WR2 bye week filler.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

December 16th, 2011, Friday

David’s Daily Digest

Fantasy Notes:

Trends for your Championship run…

Ryan Grant’s stock on the rise…With running back James Starks currently slowed down with a bad wheel (ankle), even if he plays Grant figures to see the bulk of the work load on Sunday against the Chiefs 26th ranked run defense. Grant is coming off his best game of the season and looks to be strong bet to find pay-dirt for his second consecutive game and a nice chunk of yardage.

McGahee should be on your radar….depsite coming off a tough 34-yard rushing effort against the Bears in week 14, the Broncos running back Willis McGahee has eclipsed the century mark in two of his last three starts. On Sunday he’ll face the league’s 13th ranked run defense that was pummeled a week ago for 170 yards by the Redskins running game. Fantasy owners should look for McGahee to gash the Pats for some good numbers on the ground and at least one trip to the end-zone.

AJ Green ready to come alive…..after a quiet week 14 with just five catches for 59 yards, the Bengals rookie receiver looks primed to have a big game on Sunday against the Rams. Even with the leagues 8th ranked pass defense the Rams secondary was lit up a week ago by the Seahawks Tarvaris Jackson; 21 of 32 for 224 yards. Green is a much greater talent that what the Rams faced a week ago and seems to be the hot target for quarterback Andy Dalton; 18 targets in the last two weeks with many more on Sunday.

Garcon could be the man on Sunday…..while the Colts will be searching for their first win of the season at home on Sunday against the Titans, I am expect to see Dan Orlovsky to continue to heavily seek out Colts receiver Pierre Garcon. In the last two games that Orlovsky has started Garcon has caught 14 passes for 196 yards with two touchdowns on 24 targets. With Reggie Wayne on the other side, Garcon should once again be the man in the Colts passing attack.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SUNDAY NIGHT GAME NOTES

February 20th, 2011, Sunday

Sunday Night Game Notes

Scouting the Combine

The annual football combine is less than a week away and the importance of the annual event for fantasy owners is getting to know their rookie class. With more than 300 participants expected to part take in the five day event, it’s going to be tough to sort through the 2010 class, but here are some of the notable collegiate arms that will be at the Combine and their numbers from 2010;

Passing yards

Ryan Mallet-Arkansas, 3,869 yards passing, 32 touchdowns (ranked 5th)
Taylor Yates-North Carolina, 3,418 yards passing, 19 touchdowns (ranked 14th)
Blaine Gabbert-Missouri, 3,186 yards passing, 16 touchdowns (ranked 21st)
Colin Kaepernick-Nevada, 3,022 yards passing, 21 touchdowns (ranked 27th)
Greg McElroy-Alabama, 2,987 yards passing, 20 touchdowns (ranked 29th)
Andrew Dalton-TCU, 2,857 yards passing, 27 touchdowns (ranked 35th)
Cameron Newton-Auburn, 2,854 yards passing, 30 touchdowns (ranked 36th)
Ryan Colburn-Fresno St, 2,817 yards passing, 23 touchdowns (ranked 38th)
Tyrod Taylor-Virginia Tech, 2,743 yards passing, 24 touchdowns (ranked 46th)
Jake Locker-Washington, 2,265 yards passing, 17 touchdowns (ranked 67th)

“Sunday’s Heroes”

2010 Fantasy Heroes

NFL Leading Passers (touchdowns)
Tom Brady (Patriots), 36 touchdowns
Drew Brees (Saints), 33 touchdowns
Peyton Manning (Colts), 33 touchdowns
Eli Manning (Giants), 31 touchdowns
Philip Rivers (Chargers), 30 touchdowns
Aaron Rodgers (Packers), 28 touchdowns
Matt Ryan (Falcons), 28 touchdowns
Matt Cassel (Chiefs), 27 touchdowns
Carson Palmer (Benglas), 26 touchdowns
Joe Flacco (Ravens), 25 touchdowns
Josh Freeman (Buccaneers), 25 touchdowns

NFL Leading Rushers (touchdowns)
Arian Foster (Texans), 16 touchdowns
BenJarvus Green-Ellis (Patriots), 13 touchdowns
Rashard Mendenhall (Steelers), 13 touchdowns
Adrian Peterson (Vikings), 12 touchdowns
Michael Turner (Falcons), 12 touchdowns
Peyton Hillis (Browns), 11 touchdowns
Chris Johnson (Titans), 11 touchdowns
Mike Tolbert (Chargers), 11 touchdowns
Brandon Jacobs (Giants), 9 touchdowns
Michael Vick (Eagles), 9 touchdowns

NFL Leading Receivers (touchdowns)
Dwayne Bowe (Chiefs), 15 touchdowns
Greg Jennings (Packers), 12 touchdowns
Calvin Johnson (Lions), 12 touchdowns
Brandon Lloyd (Broncos), 11 touchdowns
Hakeem Nicks (Giants), 11 touchdowns
Mike Williams (Buccaneers), 11 touchdowns
Antonio Gates (Chargers) 10 touchdowns
Rob Gronkowski (Patriots), 10 touchdowns
Stevie Johnson (Bills), 10 touchdowns
Marcedes Lewis (Jaguars), 10 touchdowns
Jeremy Maclin (Eagles), 10 touchdowns
Mike Wallace (Steelers), 10 touchdowns
Roddy White (Falcons), 10 touchdowns

NFL Leading Receivers (Receptions)
Roddy White (Falcons), 115 receptions
Reggie Wayne (Colts), 111 receptions
Jason Witten (Cowboys), 94 receptions
Santana Moss (Redskins), 93 receptions
Larry Fitzgerald (Cardinals) 90 receptions
Andre Johnson (Texans), 86 receptions
Brandon Marshall (Dolphins) 86 receptions
Wes Welker (Patriots), 86 receptions
Danny Amendola (Rams), 85 receptions
Marques Colston (Saints), 84 receptions

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: THE SATURDAY FANTASY REPORT

February 19th, 2011 Saturday

The Saturday Fantasy Report

Continuing my look back at the 2010 season, here is my list of the best hands in the NFL from a year ago and over the past couple of season. These are your fantasy wide receivers that will continue to dominate the conversation during the offseason and are expected to be at the top of all fantasy drafts in 2011…..

The Elite Class of the Fantasy Wide Receivers

Roddy White (Falcons)
Without question the Falcons leading receiver over the past several seasons, Roddy White has emerged as one of the leagues very best. Over the past four seasons White’s number have been consistent and very good. Since 2007 he has averaged 92 receptions, 1,280 yards receiving per season while scoring 34 touchdowns. In 2010 White set a career high with yards (1,389 yard receiving) and touchdowns (11); he’ll be at the top of many fantasy drafts this summer.

Andre Johnson (Texans)
Like the Falcon’s leading receiver, the Texan’s wide receiver Andre Johnson has been just as consistent and just as good. Johnson has averaged more than 100 receptions, 1,450 yards receiving, and eight touchdowns over the past three seasons. His yards and catches were down due to injury, but this guys has been a monster over the past couple of season and figures to be huge again in 2011; he’s a top three wide receiver in 2011.

Reggie Wayne (Colts)
The Colts leading receiver has been doing it as well and for as long as anyone in this league. 2010 saw no slow down for Reggie Wayne as he set a career high with 111 receptions; his 1,355 yards receiving was his second best effort of his career. Over the past four seasons Wayne has averaged nearly 100 receptions and better than 1,300 yards receiving while scoring 32 touchdowns. Wayne has been a top 10 fantasy favorite for several seasons and should be again in 2011.

Greg Jennings (Packers)
The Packers number one receiver for the past several seasons was very good once again in 2010, with more than 1,200 yards receiving and 12 touchdowns. He’s been consistent over the past four seasons averaging 69 grabs, over 1,100 yards receiving while scoring 35 touchdowns. His numbers are solid and entering his sixth season, he’s a top five fantasy receiver grab in 2011.

Just a step below….

Calvin Johnson (Lions)
Megatron has been a talent in this league since his arrival; in just four short seasons Johnson has already scored 33 times. With just a little more time to marinate and more consistency at the quarterback position he’ll achieve the elite fantasy stud he is destined to achieve; for now Megatron is still a top 10 wide receiver pick in most fantasy drafts.

Dwayne Bowe (Chiefs)
The Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe had a big 2010 season setting a career high with 1,162 yards receiving and 15 touchdowns. Bowe rebounded with his strong 2010 campaign after a disappointing 2009 season. He has shown strong play in the past and looked very good last season; he’ll figure into a top 20 fantasy wide receiver slot in 2011.

On The Rise

Hakeem Nicks (Giants)
The Giants second year wide out had a big coming out season finishing with 79 grabs, over 1,000 yards receiving and 11 touchdowns. Nicks was good in his rookie season and a whole lot better his second time around. His third season could be a charm; after a strong 2010 campaign, Nicks looks like a top 10 fantasy wide receiver candidate in 2011.

Stevie Johnson (Bills)
The Bills young receiver had a breakout 3rd season finishing 2010 with 82 receptions, over 1,000 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns. If the Bills can sustain some stability at the quarterback position with Ryan Fitzpatrick, Johnson could be in for another good season. He looks to be a top 20 fantasy receiver in 2011.

Mike Wallace (Steelers)
The Steelers big play threat catapulted his fantasy stock a big step closer to the top tier. His 1,200 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns make him an easy fantasy favorite to go early in 2011. Look for Wallace to be a top 10 fantasy receiver this summer.


Just my take

By David Ortega

FSH: MY WEEKLY SURVIVAL

December 8th, 2010, Wednesday

My Weekly Survivors

Week 13 was not my best, but a definite turnaround for the disappointment that was week 12. I still can’t figure out the tight end spot; maybe that’s because I have been riding the Bill’s defense all season long and they have finally figured it out. Last week the Bills defense limited the Viking’s tight Visanthe Shiancoe to just 17 yards receiving (one fantasy point). What a dud. My Sam Bradford pick at quarterback did not pan out to well either; 187 yards passing, no touchdowns, and just 7 fantasy points.

Now my backfield and receivers however did show up in week 13 totaling 64 points. This group was led by my Arian Foster pick who started things off last Thursday with 22 points (83 rushing yards, 26 receiving yards, two total touchdowns). The Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart with the help of his 92 yards rushing and one touchdown effort chipped in 15 points. Both Raven’s receiver Anquan Boldin (17 points) and Bengal’s wide out Terrell Owens (10 points) were solid as well.

Looking at the overall standings I currently have a firm lock at a top 10 spot, but if I am going to make a run at the big boys at the top I still have a lot of work left trailing by over 100 ponts. This week presents even more challenges for me needless to say, but with nothing to lose and a title to chase I am rolling the dice!

Here are my picks for week 14….

QB-Jay Cutler, Chicago Bears
The Bears quarterback has been on a roll lately. In his past two starts he has completed nearly 75 peercent of his passes and thrown five touchdowns with zero picks. The Patriots look dominant Monday night especially on offense, but their secondary still looks like it can be had. Cutler is a gambler and no doubt will take his shots downfield against a secondary (ranked 31st) that has allowed 43 pass plays of 20 yards or more this season.
(Projected: 23 fantasy points/ 225 yards passing, 20 rushing yards, three touchdowns)

RB- Knowshon Moreno, Denver Broncos
The Bronco’s running back has been a real workhorse over the past three weeks averaging nearly 21 touches per game and 137 yards. His numbers include 14 receptions and a pair of touchdowns. The Broncos are coming off a poor offensive showing from a week ago and will to get healthy against a defense (ranked 28th overall) that allows over 28 points per game.
(Projected: 25 fantasy points/ 110 yards rushing, 3 catches, 20 yards receiving, two touchdown)

RB-Tim Hightower, Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals running back enjoyed one of his best efforts of the season a week ago with 81 yards rushing against the Rams. This week he draws the league’s 31st ranked run defense that has surrendered 16 rushing touchdowns in 2010. It sounds like it could be another good week for Hightower.
(Projected: 15 fantasy points/ 85 yards rushing, 1 catches, 10 yards receiving, one touchdown)

WR-Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis Colts
The Colts receiver had a huge game a week ago against the Cowboys. This Thursday there’s no doubt the defense will be focused on stopping him, but in this must game for Indy you can bet Manning will find a way to get him the ball.
(Projected: 13 fantasy points/ 6 catches, 70 yards, one touchdown)

WR-Mike Wallace, Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers big play receiver has cooled off a bit as of late, but since week nine he remains the team’s most targeted receiver with 36. Over that span Wallace has snagged 24 balls and scored four times. On Sunday he’ll lineup against the Bengal’s 15th ranked pass defense that struggles with pressure (just 14 sacks this season). If Big Ben has time to throw, expect to see him hook up with Wallace a couple of times downfield.
(Projected: 16 fantasy points/ 5 catches, 105 yards, one touchdown)

TE-Jason Witten, Dallas Cowboys
Since week 10 the Cowboys tight end has been the most targeted receiver on the team with 22. This Sunday he will square off with the leagues 17th ranked pass defense that has allowed 24 passing touchdowns this season. This is the first matchup this season between these two clubs and last season in two games Witten grabbed 13 passes for 119 yards and a touchdown. With no Dez Bryant available, Witten looks to be a hot prospect in the red zone.
(Projected: 13 fantasy points/ 7 catches, 75 yards, one touchdown)

PK-Billy Cundiff, Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens meet the Texans on Monday night in Houston which takes any possibility of wind out of the equation. With the Texans allowing almost 27 points per game Cundiff should be pretty busy on National TV.
(Projected: 9 fantasy points/ two field goals, three extra points)

My Previous starts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (TARGET PRACTICE)

November 24th, 2010, Wednesday

Fantasy Football

Target Practice

In These Hands We Trust

After 11 weeks of play, there are several players getting a lot of action this season, but topping the boards with 116 targets this season are the Falcons wide receiver Roddy White and the Bengals wide receiver Terrell Owens. Both are having great seasons thus far, but there is a significant difference between the two. While they share the same number of chances, White has nearly 20 more catches with 79 receptions with over 1,000 yards this season; that’s 68 percent success. Owens’ 62 receptions (with 897 yards) leave him at 53 percent success.

There’s no question both receivers are scoring well for fantasy owner’s this season, but it makes a huge difference to have a receiver that is actually making the most of the opportunities thrown his way. In Owens’ case, owners are fortunate he gets as much attention as he does.

Another wide out that has been very efficient this season is the Colts Reggie Wayne (71 receptions, 865 yards, 4 touchdowns). With 110 targets this season his 71 snags are an effective 65 percent success.

Here are more notables with their success level;

Steve Johnson (52 catches, 728-yds, 9-Tds) 71 targets/73.2% success
Marques Colston (62 catches, 705-yds, 4-Tds) 89 targets/69.6% success
White (79 catches, 1,017-yds, 7-Tds) 116 targets/68.1% success
Wayne (71 catches, 865-yds, 4-Tds) 110 targets/64.5% success
Greg Jennings (46 catches, 703-yds, 9-Tds) 76 targets/60.5% success
Terrell Owens (62 catches, 897 yards, 8-Tds) 116 targets/53.4% success
Brandon Lloyd (54 catches, 1,046-yds, 7-Tds) 98 targets/55.0% success

More Fantasy Notes:

Not to be ever overlooked, fantasy owners have to keep a close eye on those ball carriers sneaking out of the backfield. This season perhaps the most effective weapon in the Eagles passing game (for fantasy owners in PPR leagues) may not be DeSean Jackson, but could be running back LeSean McCoy. The Eagles tailback not only ranks 6th in the NFC with 726 yards rushing, but he has also snagged 51 balls this season out of 59 targets. His 86.4 percent success rate in the passing game means whatever is thrown his way he usually grabs. With 10 catches for 80 yards in his last two games not only is he a great play in traditional scoring leagues, but he is better than a solid start in PPR leagues every week. The kid is really starting to crank it up at the right time with fantasy playoffs right around the corner.

Radar Watch

In My sites

With names like Roddy White, Dwayne Bowe, and Steve Johnson stealing a lot of the headlines, some folks may have missed the memo on wide receiver Mike Wallace. Not so quietly he has emerged into an elite deep passing threat. In his last three games he has been targeted 24 times (8.0 targets/game) which ranks 18th anong receivers during this stretch. During this span Wallace has managed to do a lot of damage to opposing defenses with three consecutive games with over 100-yards receiving. His 16 receptions rank him 18th again amongst receivers, but his 362 yards (ranks 1st) and four touchdowns (ranks tied for 2nd) are among the best.

For the season, Wallace has 33 grabs on 57 targets; only 57.8% success. With a 23.0 yards per catch average (leads NFL) and 9 touchdowns, Wallace doesn’t need many catches to get the job done

Looking ahead to the coming weeks, Wallace is a top-flight receiver and even matched up against a 9th ranked Bill’s defense he’ll have no trouble making plays for the Steelers. In Weeks 13-15 his matchups will be more favorable, including a week 14 rematch against the Bengals. Back in week nine Wallace collected five balls (on 7 targets) for 110 yards and a score.

FSH: MY WEEKLY SURVIVAL

October 17th, 2010, Sunday

My Weekly Survivors

Week five was not a week to remember. There were several disappointments with Thomas Jones disappearing against the Colts, Donald Driver and the Packers passing game taking a bit of a siesta against the Redskins. Even the Saints Drew Brees was relatively quiet comparatively speaking. Needless to say, it was not a good week last Sunday although our tight end scored big and got a nice effort from Steven Jackson.

This week again, I am looking at the best matchups with some big guns. We did not drop overall in the standings, but we did lose some points so this week it’s time to make up some ground. Week six is set to kick off in just a few hours, so let’s see what we have this Sunday to get this ship turned around in the right direction.....

QB-Kyle Orton, Denver Broncos
We’ve actually go Kyle going in several leagues today. Rex Ryan usually puts out a formadible defense each week, but with a weak link at the corner spot his passing defense has been leaking. Orton and the Broncos throw the ball, so I’ll expect more of the same. (Project points-25 points/330 yards passing, 2-touchdowns)

RB-Ryan Torain, Washington Redskins
The Colts continue to struggle against the run, so we’ll keep looking for big games from the opposing backs. Torain is moving more towards a featured role with Portis out, so he should see a lot of work today. (Projected points-18points/105-yards rushing, 20 yards receiving, one touchdown)

RB-Michael Turner, Atlanta Falcons
The Eagles ground defense struggles with the running game (125/yds allowed per game), so we’re expecting a heavy dose of Turner today. (Project points-21 points/90-yards rushing, two touchdowns)

WR-Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis Colts
The Redskins are ranked near the bottom against the pass and they won’t catch any breaks today against Manning and company; look for Wayne a lot. (Project points-15 points/90-yards receiving, one touchdown)

WR-Andre Johnson, Houston Texans
The Texan’s passing game is clearly getting healthy with Owen Daniels improving and Johnson’s ankle healing. This is not good news for the leagues 25th ranked pass defense. Expect a big day from “Big Andre.” (Projected points-16 points/100 yards receiving, one touchdown)

TE-Greg Olsen, Chicago Bears
The Bears will have Cutler back today and the Seahawks struggle with the pass, what this means is lots of opportunities for Olsen. He won’t have huge numbers, but he will find the end-zone. (Project points-11 points/55 yards receiving, one touchdown)

K –Nick Folk, New York Jets
The Jets offense should be able to move the ball well today against the Broncos, but they could stall a few times in the red-zone, look for another big day from Folk. (Projected points-11 points/3-FGs, 2-XPs)

My Previous starts

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

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

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

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

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

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"