FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Friday Edition
December 14th, 2012  

David’s Daily Digest

Sunday Favorites

Alexander Worth Starting
The Chargers and quarterback Philip Rivers have found themselves a new go-to receiver in Danario Alexander. With his 6’5”, 217-lb frame, Alexander is bolting his way up the fantasy receivers charts; over his last five games he’s caught 30 passes for 494 yards receiving and five touchdowns. Alexander seems to be making Charger fans quickly forget about Vincent Jackson and with his current play, he’s becoming a favorite of fantasy owners. Alexander has been targeted 47 times over his past five games and is clearly on Rivers’ radar as a go-to option; Alexander is a borderline WR1/WR2 every week.

McFadden Ready to Bounce Back
Running back Darren McFadden has not had the type of season many fantasy owners were expecting when they drafted him during their fantasy drafts back in August. Through 14 weeks McFadden has missed four games and only rushed for more than 100 yards on two occasions. Last week in the Raiders loss the Broncos Run-DMC did manage to score for only his third time this season. This Sunday against the Chiefs 27th ranked run defense McFadden will be looking to bounce back; Run-DMC certainly has the potential to break out and the Chiefs are primed to crack. The Chiefs allow 4.6 yards per carry, over 130 yards per game and 17 run plays of 20 yards or more (most in the league); this is a good week to start McFadden.

Wilson the Hot Flavor this Week
The Giants will be without running back Ahmad Bradshaw (ruled OUT) this Sunday against the Falcons, opening the door for the speedy rookie running back David Wilson. Last week Wilson impressed on special teams and with a tasty matchup this week against the Falcons 23rd ranked run defense he looks ready to impress in the starting role. The Falcons allow almost 5 yards per carry and have surrendered 14 rushing touchdowns this season; Wilson is the hot start off the waiver wire this week.

Beast-mode Returns to Buffalo
The Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch returns to Buffalo on Sunday where his career began. Lynch was drafted in the first round by the Bills in the 2007 draft. This Sunday he brings his beast-mode to Ralph Wilson Stadium where he’ll face the 28th ranked run defense. Lynch has seven 100-yard rushing games this season and looks like a good bet to make it eight on Sunday. He’s a Top-10 fantasy start.

Madden-Curse no match for Megatron
Despite being on the cover of the famous Madden Game, Calvin Johnson continues to defy the infamous curse. It’s been a lean year for touchdowns this season for Megatron, but he continues to post big numbers each week. Johnson has posted six straight 100-yard receiving games (averaging 151 yards per game) and has 9 total this season. Johnson has also scored in four of his last five contests (5 touchdowns this season). This Sunday he matches up against the Cardinals 5th ranked secondary, but these days averaging nearly 15 targets per game (over his last five starts) it makes little difference who Megatron faces; he’s a must start every Sunday.

Morris Ready to Carry the Load
The Redskins rookie running back Alfred Morris has been running well for the Redskins this season with six 100 yard rushing games under his belt, including three straight. With the Redskins set to square off versus the Browns, Morris will have a great chance to make it four straight against the 17th ranked run defense. Morris is also averaging more than 22 touches over his last four starts, so fantasy owners have to like his chances at hitting the century mark on Sunday. Morris is a top-15 fantasy start.

More takes for week 15.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SFFL WEEK 8

Saturday Edition
October 28TH, 2012  

Suicide Fantasy Football

Week 8

Before looking ahead to Sunday, here’s a quick look back at week 7. It’s been a steady year thus far, with my team averaging 116 points per week, but in week 7 we fell off the pace a bit scoring just 108 points.

The highlight of my week 7 lineup was undoubtedly the Jackson 2. Running back Fred Jackson was solid last week against the Titans totaling 26 fantasy points which was powered by his 8 receptions a touchdown and 120 yards from scrimmage. The other Jackson, Bucs receiver Vincent Jackson was even greater with 7 receptions for 216 yards and a score.

If my team is going to make any moves this week, I’ll need efforts like this from more than just two players, so let’s take a look at who I am turning to in week 8.

My Line-up

The season is long and there are still plenty of weeks to play, but after falling a couple of spots last week, it’s time to make a big jump up the board and get back into this race. Here’s a look at my lineup for week 8 and the players that will get the job done;

Quarterback:
This week under center it will be “Big Ben” Roethlisberger against the Redskins. Big Ben has faced two teams ranked 25th or higher against the pass and he’s averaged 373 yards passing with 5 touchdowns and just one pick. The Redskins rank 32 versus the pass and allow the 6th most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks.

Running Backs:
I am saddling up with a couple of horses that should run pretty ragged this Sunday. The first is Ryan Matthews; the Chargers ball carrier is looking at the league’s 25th ranked run defense (Browns) that allows the 13th most fantasy points to opposing backs. The Chargers are coming off a horrid collapse on Monday night in week 6; they got away from the run and it hurt them. This week lots of Matthews should lead to a road win.

My other tailback for Sunday is LeSean McCoy versus the Falcons. The Eagles running back currently ranks 16th in fantasy scoring among ball carriers. Fantasy owners are waiting for the real “Slim Shady” McCoy to arrive and this week could be the week. The Falcons defense ranks 28th against the run, allowing seven rushing touchdowns this season, and giving up the 12th most fantasy points to running backs. Look for Shady to break loose this Sunday.

Wide Receivers:
Leading the good hands people in week 8 is the Packers “Mr. Excitement” wide receiver Randall Cobb. With Jennings out, quarterback Aaron Rodgers has had to call on his other weapons to step up and over the past several weeks Cobb has been one to answer that call. Since week 5 Cobb leads the team in receptions (19-tied) and receiving yards (273). This week Cobb should enjoy more success against a Jaguars defense that ranks 24th against the pass.

Also lining up out wide this week is wide receiver Antonio Brown. It only makes sense if Big Ben is going to have a big Sunday, than his targets are in line to do the same. With Wallace always a threat to go deep on the other side, Brown has been seeing lots of opportunities averaging better than 9 targets per contest. The Redskins give up the most fantasy points to receivers; Sunday should be a very good day for Brown.

Tight End:
The Browns defense is ranked 26th against the pass this season which should spell good news for Chargers tight end Antonio Gates. The Brown may only allow the 8th fewest fantasy points to tight ends this season, but Gates is no ordinary tight end. He is coming off his best performance of the season, scoring twice in week 6 against the Broncos, and should be a focal point in the Chargers passing attack.

Place Kicker:
This week I am entrusting the foot of Raiders kicker Sebastian Janikowski. On the road the Raiders offense could stall in the red zone and Janikowski has the leg to hit it from anywhere. I am expecting at least three field goals on Sunday.

Team Defense:
The Chargers defense has not been much to get too excited about this season ranked 13th overall, but facing a rookie quarterback is always a nice prospect. The Chargers defense ranks 17th in fantasy scoring with 10 sacks, 7 interceptions, and 6 fumble recoveries this season. Sunday they will look to improve upon these numbers.


These are my picks for week 8.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

Tuesday Edition

October 23rd, 2012 

David's Daily Digest

The Week in Review

Breaking Down my Week 7 Picks

It was another tough week in fantasy football to say the least with several players disappointing and not achieving expectations, but as it always is with fantasy; win some, lose some.

 My Week 7 Duds

These are my week 7 picks that lost…

Making my duds list this week is quarterback, Matthew Stafford. After his 2011 season performance fantasy owners were expecting much bigger things from him this season and such has not been the case. With just 261 yards passing and one touchdown pass to go with a pick (16 fantasy points); hardly a the QB1 performance owners were looking for.

Bad hands….

The Colts receiver Donnie Avery has hardly been much to speak of the past several weeks and in week 7 he remained quiet with just four catches for 46 yards. Avery has not been relevant since week 2, it may be time to plant him on your bench until further notice.

Another wide receiver that remained grounded in week 7 was Dez Bryant. The Cowboys receiver was targeted just three times on Sunday and finished with two catches for 14 yards. It’s tough to sit a player like Bryant because of his upside potential, but just note his inconsistency is going to hurt sometimes.

To complete the list of the poor hands on Sunday group lets add Kenny Britt. The Titans go-to receiver was hardly went to on Sunday as he finished with a paltry 4 grabs for 30 yards. The Titans offense has been inconsistent and with the possible shuffling of quarterbacks in the next coming weeks, Britt does not look like a very good option to lean upon to heavily.

With what appeared to be a prime matchup for running back Darren McFadden, 53 yards rushing and 28 yards receiving are not enough to make fantasy owners happy. This was not his worst game this season by far, but his lack of big yardage and scoring are going to make things tough for fantasy owners. With 25 catches thus far this season he does offer some appeal in PPR leagues, but he’ll need to start ripping off some big runs soon or owners may grow restless.

Running back Trent Richardson could be another falling star. His proneness to injury has kept him off the field much too often this season. Once again Richardson was an early exit on Sunday (against the Colts) totaling just 8 yards. It’s hard for fantasy owners to count on a guy who can’t finish a game. Richardson is not worthy of a starting position in any fantasy leagues until he can get healthy again.

My Week 7 Studs

Some of my week 7 wins….

Let’s start with Monday night and the Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall. He was busy and again productive in the passing game for the Bears. Marshall is now a solid WR1 fantasy this season averaging better than 11 targets per game in his last four starts and totaling 30 catches for 434 yards and three touchdowns. He has scored in three straight and has at least 5 receptions in 5 of his 6 starts this season.

The Buccaneers were on display Sunday against the Saints with quarterback Josh Freeman (420 yards passing) and wide receiver Vincent Jackson (216 yards receiving) doing their best dynamic duo impersonation. Freeman is quietly working his way into fantasy lineups as a starter (in deeper leagues) passing for 299 yards or more in his last three games with 7 touchdown throws. Vincent Jackson is emerging as a big-time receiver again and is putting up the numbers to prove it; 17 receptions, 382 yards receiving, and three touchdowns in his last three games.

Running back Fred Jackson took advantage of a nice matchup on Sunday turning in a solid performance. Jackson rushed for 71 yards and grabbed 8 passes for another 49 yards. He also added a score to complete his week 7 strong showing. Jackson is still splitting time with Spiller finishing Sunday with just 17 touches. As long as he is part-time owners can’t expect too many games like this; play with caution and look for the favorable matchups before inserting into your lineup.

One last mention (although, there is a couple more) is wide receiver Randall Cobb. He is the Packers newest playmaker in the passing game. Against the Rams in week 7 Cobb was targeted eight times and made good on all eight. Cobb finished the day with 8 receptions for 89 yards and two scores. His stock is on a mad rise with Greg Jennings sidelined, but as often as he has been  targeted and as productive as he has been the past two weeks, I can’t see the Packers straying away too far; expect Cobb to stay involved and remain at least a strong solid flex option. He may even be a mid WR3 in deeper leagues and tough to keep on anyone’s bench going forward.

It wasn’t how it was drawn up, but Andrew Luck was money in week 7 accounting for two scores in the Colts third win at home this season. Luck passed for just 186 yards, but still finished Sunday’s contest against the Browns with 18 fantasy points. His numbers this season are not great, but Luck is still good enough to fill a bye week need in fantasy or add insurance on your bench, especially in deep 14-16 team leagues.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

Monday Edition

October 22nd, 2012 

Monday Morning Huddle

Week 7 Fantasy Headlines

V-Jax Emerging Among the Elite

On Sunday against the Saints shoddy secondary wide receiver Vincent Jackson continued his hot hand, adding 7 receptions for over 200 yards receiving with a touchdown grab. In his last three starts V-Jax has tallied 17 catches for 382 yards receiving (a 22.8 yards per catch average), and four touchdowns. Jackson has scored five times this season, including a touchdown in each of his last three games and now ranks among the leaders in yards receiving (5^th) and touchdowns (T-4^th). He’s a man on fire and looks to continue this trend in week 8 when Tampa Bay visits the Vikings.

Andrew Luck Can Also Use His Legs

There has been so much made about Andrew Luck, his arm, and his head as he makes the transition from college to pro, but something some may have overlooked is his mobility and ability to use his legs. Before Sunday this season Luck had been exception at home throwing six touchdowns and passing for an average of nearly 300 yards per game. Against the Browns on Sunday, Luck showed not only can he beat you with his arm, but he can also use his legs rushing for two scores to lead the Colts to victory. Luck has accounted for 8 scores in four home games and improved his home record to 3-1 this season; nothing like home-cooking.

RGIII Playing Beyond His Years

It was a tough loss for the Redskins on Sunday falling to the Giants, but one thing learned (if you didn’t already know) this Griffin kid is something special. It was not one of his more prolific statistical game, but RGIII did an outstanding job managing the offense and making plays with his leg when he had to; his Sunday line 258 yards pass, 89 yards rush, two touchdowns (pass) and two turnovers. In spite of some of his rookie tendencies, he still gave his team a chance handling the pressure of late game heroics and making the necessary plays to win. He did just that and it was his defense let him down on Sunday.

Aaron Rodger Returning To Form

In the Packers first five games this season quarterback Aaron Rodgers tossed a total of 10 touchdowns, in his past two starts he has nine. Rodgers and the Packers aerial attack at starting to resemble more and more like the 2011 team that went 15-1. They still have a few issues in the backfield to sort out, but as long as Rodgers continues to play at his elite level, the Packers will always have a chance and will figure into the scheme of things come January.

Fantasy Stock Notes

On the Rise

The Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman has had the hot hand of late passing for 299 yards or more in his last three starts, including 420 yards on Sunday against the Saints. Freeman has also collected 7 passing touchdowns in his last three starts while scoring 15, 29, and 34 fantasy (standard scoring) points respectively.

The Steelers backfield is currently ailing and banged up, emerge running back Jonathan Dwyer. With Mendenhall and Redman sidelined, Dwyer took the reins and rambled for 122 yards on the ground Sunday night against the Bengals. With the Steelers running game grounded much for the season, Dwyer gave it signs of life and could figure more prominently moving forward. His 100 yards were a first for the team this season.

The Packers may have found themselves a new weapon in wide receiver Randall Cobb, making them even more dangerous when Greg Jennings returns. In his last four starts Cobb has averaged 6.5 receptions, 84.7 yards receiving, and has scored three times, including twice last Sunday. Cobb has shown he is a true playmaker and you can bet the Packers will continue to keep him involved in the game plan moving forward.

Falling

The Browns rookie running back Trent Richardson is quickly falling out of favor from fantasy owners as his stock continues to plummet. Richardson again exited from a game early on Sunday, finishing the day with just 8 yards rushing (nothing a fantasy owner wants to see). Richardson has been hampered with nagging injuries thus far this season and has hardly played enough to showcase anything to get excited about. In his seven starts he finished with less than 60 yards of offense four times scoring just once in those games.

The Colts speedy receiver Donnie Avery continues to see looks every week, averaging nearly 9 targets per game, but the numbers are just not there. He has just one 100-yard receiving game this season in six tries and has only broke 60 or more yards just one other time. His lack of production in recent weeks has sent his stock plunging to the bottom of the barrel. He’s no longer lineup worthy (even as a flex) until he breaks from his current slump.

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SFFL WEEK 7

Sunday Edition
October 21st, 2012  

Suicide Fantasy Football

Week 7

My Line-up

Once again I am engaged in a handful of SFFL leagues and I can tell you, just like last year it is as tough as ever. Fortunately for me this season I enjoying a bit of good fortune with my best team averaging nearly 117 points per week.

Just to recap how it works, you submit a weekly lineup of 8 positions; QB, RB, RB, WR, WR, TE, PK,and DEF. Once you select a player, you may not use that player again for the remainder of the season. It’s an elimination selection process, so you have to really read your matchups and use your selections wisely.

This season I am doing well, currently positioned in 15th place in a league of approximately 130 active players. With that said, let’s take a look at week 7;

Quarterback:
This week I am rolling with little brother Eli Manning. The kid has been big at times, but usually steady. This week taking on the Redskins worst ranked pass defense looks too appetizing to pass on and add the improving health of wide receiver Hakeem Nicks; this could be a big Sunday.

Running Back:
Darren McFadden is coming off his busiest Sunday this season; 30 touches last week against the Falcons. While he was busy he was not as productive as fantasy owners would hope totaling just 98 yards, but adding a score and three grabs. This week Run-DMC meets the Jaguars shaky run defense making this the week owners could cash in on the high pick they used to draft McFadden.

Running Back:
I am not really looking for a huge game from running back Fred Jackson, but in an elimination game you have to find those matchups where your pick can produce. Jackson is facing a very spotty Titans defense. Even in spit-duty this is a good matchup for Jackson, so I like him to be productive totaling close to 100 yards, adding some grabs and finding the end-zone.

Wide Receiver:
The Tennessee Titans offense has a pretty good matchup this week facing the Buffalo Bills and wide receiver Kenny Britt should be ready to emerge as the team’s leading receiver. He is coming off a season high 11 targets and could see just as many today. The Bills have allowed 13 passing touchdowns this season and will likely allow a couple of more; Britt is a good candidate to be on the receiving end of one of those.

Wide Receiver:
The Buccaneers are not known as an offensive juggernaut, but when you face the New Orleans Saints, points and productive are at a premium. Quarterback Josh Freeman and wide receiver Vincent Jackson have been in a groove as of late; in their last two games Jackson has 10 receptions for 166 yards and three scores. They be hooking up early and often on Sunday if they hope to keep up with the Saints.

Tight End:
The Titans will not only be looking for Britt on Sunday, but I expect to see quarterback Matt Hasselbeck looking for his tightend Jared Cook quite a bit. Cook is an enormous and athletic target and could be a huge factor today, if this matchup with the Bills turns into a drag race.

Place Kicker:
It’s usually a coin toss when I am picking a kicker; it’s always tough to guess what teams will struggle in the red-zone and kick field goals. I like the Colts today at home today and one of the reasons is I believe the Browns could struggle at times to punch it into the end-zone. My pick here is kicker Phil Dawson.

Team Defense:
The Packers offense was firing on all cylinders a week ago and I believe they will come out in week 7 and do the same. When the Packers are up, their defense thrives; this could be along day for quarterback Sam Bradford and company.

These are my picks for week 7.


By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: WATERCOOLER CHAT

Wednesday Edition

October 17th, 2012  

Watercooler Chat

“Just Talking Fantasy”

This Weeks Trend-setters

These fantasy contenders or pretenders are just a few names of those that seem to be catching on at the moment, or could be on the verge of breaking out very soon. With week 7 heavily filled with bye teams, these are some of the names that are currently trending on the gridiron; 

Donnie Avery, IND: the Colts wideout has not been much of an impact through the first six weeks, but he is steadily in quarterback Andrew Lucks sight every week. Avery is second on the team with 47 targets this season, including 20 in the teams past two games; it’s just a matter of time before he and Luck start to hook-up.

Dez Bryant, DAL: the Cowboys playmaker has been coming up big of late with 21 catches for 200 yards and two touchdowns in his past two starts. He leads the team with 28 targets over the past two games and figures to continue to be the team’s main go-to receiver. With the Panthers 19th ranked pass defense on the slate for Sunday, Bryant looks positioned to continue to be a fantasy trend-setter.

Kenny Britt, TEN: the Titan’s playmaker is gradually working his way back into the picture. Last week against the Steelers Britt found the end-zone for the first time this season. His 11 targets were also a team high. With the veteran quarterback Matt Hasselbeck under center once again this Sunday, expect these two to continue to work out the kinks and get back on the same page.

Vincent Jackson, TB: the Buccaneers passing game has slowly been coming out of its’ slumber and last Sunday Vincent Jackson was a major contributor grabbing four passes for 66 yards, including two for scores. V-Jax led the team with 8 targets in their blowout win over KC and he also leads the team this season with 46. He’s been on a roll with 10 grabs for over 160 yards and three scores in his last two starts and with the Saints 26th ranked pass defense up next for the Bucs, Jackson looks primed to continue this trend. 

By David Ortega

FSH NOTEBOOK: SUNDAY'S HEROES (WEEK 2)

September 21ST, 2011, Wednesday

Sunday’s Heroes (Week 2)

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

NEWTON TOPS CHARTS AGAIN
The Panthers have found themselves a gem of a quarterback in Cam Newton. In his first two starts this season he has simply been magical, posting some incredible numbers. Sure there have been a few growing pains (four turnovers), but fantasy owners can’t complain about his production. In week two Newton passed for another 432 yards added 53 more yards on the ground and scored twice (one passing, one rushing). His season total is now at five touchdowns and you can expect a lot more going forward. (28 fantasy points)

STAFFORD CONTINUES TO SIZZLE
The Lions are on a roll and 3rd year quarterback Matthew Stafford is roaring loudest with his arm. After a strong performance back in week one Stafford backed up his play with another stellar game in week 2. The young Lion threw four touchdown passes and 294 yards passing on Sunday and looks poised to have many more afternoons like this one. (33 fantasy points)

PETERSON IS A MAN AMONG BOYS
The Vikings running back Adrian Peterson plowed his way through the Buccaneers defense on Sunday for 120 yards on the ground averaging nearly five yards per carry. Peterson also added two more rushing touchdowns to his totals to lead the ground assault. Right now Peterson is a beast on the field with no equal; the number one fantasy running back in most formats. (26 fantasy points)

VINCENT FLYS HIGH ON SUNDAY
The Chargers explosive receiver was pure TNT on Sunday, scorching the Patriots secondary for big play after big play. Jackson caught 10 balls for 172 yards in the air and scored twice to lead the Bolts. Jackson looked unstoppable on Sunday and should be viewed as one of the league’s elite pass-catchers going forward; expect more big games. (29 fantasy points)

FITZPATRICK KEEPS THE HOT HAND
The Bills have found their Jim Kelly replacement in quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick. The signal caller is off to a fast start this season and last week’s stat line is a good indication of how hot he is; three touchdowns and 264 yards passing. Fitzpatrick’s seven passing touchdowns tops the list in the NFL (tied with Stafford and Brady), but it remains to be seen if he can continue this torrid pace. (28 fantasy points)

MACLIN SHINES AGAINST THE FALCONS
It may have been all the attention the defense paid to shutting down wide receiver DeSean Jackson, but nonetheless you can hardly argue the effort turned in by Eagles wide out Jeremy Maclin. The stud receiver was just that Sunday night grabbing 13 balls for 171 yards receiving with two touchdowns to lead the Eagles passing attack. (29 fantasy points)


The IDP Fantasy Newsmakers

HARPER PLAYS BIG IN SAINTS WIN
The Saints safety recorded two sacks to go with seven tackles to lead the team in its’ big win over the visiting Bears. Harper also added a forced fumble for good measure. The Saints defensive back is off to a fast start with 16 total tackles and 2-1/2 sacks in two games and looks like a fantasy IDP gem in the early part of this season.

BISHOP IS QUIETLY BECOMING A STAR
The Packers linebacker Desmond Bishop is churning out solid performances with regularity. After a strong week one showing, Bishop came back with another nine tackles and one sack in a week two victory over the Panthers. Bishop appears to be a staple in the Packers defense unit and should continue to be a strong IDP option throughout the season.


By David Ortega

FSH: FOOTBALL TALK

December 22nd, 2009 9:37pm PST

FOOTBALL TALK

Looking under the hood of

Week 15

Do what you do best!....

Even though they may not have anything left to play for in the regular season, it may make great sense for Philip Rivers and the Chargers to keep doing what they do best. Over the past two and a half months only the Colts have been as good and no one's been better than Rivers. The Chargers have rattled off nine straight wins and look like a formidable opponent for everyone heading into the post season. Why? It's very simple, Rivers has masterd the art of the vertical game. In his last nine starts Rivers has thrown 18 touchdowns and passed for 263-yards per game. He has been unbeatable as a starter (17-0) in December and appears poised to lead San Diego deep in the playoffs. Fantasy owners would agree Rivers should keep doing what he does best.

If it ain't Broke don't fix-it....

The Colts have been in this precarious position once before and to put it simply, "don't fix things if they ain't broke." The Colts offense led by Peyton Manning has been not only outstanding, but at times this season it has been dominant. Manning is the epitome of consistency and every week he seems to be in a class of his own, finding ways to keep winning. While the Colts remain unbeaten they have not been perfect, but when Manning (33 touchdowns in 2009) passes for 300 yards every game (nine times this season) they are awful tough to beat. With two games left and a chance for an unbeaten season, the Colts really want to keep riding that winning feeling right into the post season. Rest may seem like a good idea, but when you have an offense and a Peyton Manning firing on all pistons while tamper with that formula. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.; let your players play.

Expect the Eagles to keep soaring.....

The Eagles and Donovan McNabb may be one of the few favorite fantasy offenses left this season with great incentive to go out this weekend and keep doing what they do best. McNabb was banged up a bit early in the season, but since has begun to take flight with his explosive Eagles offense (28.5 points per game/ranked 2nd). One of the keys has been the explosive DeSean Jackson (8 touchdowns) and McNabbs favorite red-zone target tight end Brent Celek (7 touchdowns). The Eagles are now using a full rotation of receiving opitons; last Sunday against the Niners McNabb completed passes to eight different receivers. With Brian Westbrook expected to return to action this week, there's really no reason to expect anything different from Andy Reid's offense. It should be all about passing and scoring once again as McNabb will look to soar on Sunday against the Broncos.

More fantasy Notes

The Texans quarterback Matt Schaub appears to be just warming up. With consecutive 360-yard passing games and three touchdowns to just one pick, Schaub looks like a lock to have a big passing day against a Dolphins secondary (ranked 23rd against the pass) that surrendered three touchdown passes to the Titans last Sunday.

The Niner's offense in recent weeks has managed to get back to the basics and hand the ball to running back Frank Gore. With 41 carries in his last two starts Gore has ran for 274 yards on the ground and scored once. With the Lions (ranked 24th against the run) and Rams (ranked 27th against the run) next on the schedule Gore looks to finish strong in 2009.

The Dolphins running back Ricky Williams has been making the most of his oppoprtunity as the team's featured running back with Ronnie Brown on IR. Williams is averaging nearly 100 yards per game over his last six games and has scored six times. With the Texans (ranked 17th against the run) up next Williams looks to be a very good start in Week 16 for fantasy owners.

Quietly and before anyone could forget about him the Chargers superstar receiver Vincent Jackson is back at it doing what he does so well. The playmaking wideout has put together back to back 100 yard receiving games while snagging 12 balls along the way. This past Sunday against the Bengals he was a one man wrecking creew catching two passes for scores. Although the Titans are healthy and playing well, because of his 6'5" frame, Jackson is always a tough matchup and a must play.

Very much under the fantasy radar, the Packers tight end Jermichael Finley has been a solid go to receiver for the past several weeks. In his last three games Finley is averaging a cool 74 yard receiving with a total of 21 receptions. The tight end also has three touchdowns over the same span and looks to continue to be the Packers go-to target over the middle. Next week he'll have a very good matchup against the Seahawks 29th ranked pass defense.

By David Ortega

Check back every Tuesday for more “Tuesday (Football) Talk”

FSH: FOOTBALL TALK

December 2nd, 2009 9:37pm PST

FOOTBALL TALK

What to make of Week 12

Packers are looking like Post Season bound….

After losing to the Buccaneers in week eight and falling to .500 in the standings, the Packers have reeled off three straight wins to move back into the playoff picture. One of the biggest reasons for the turnaround has been the play of quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers has been efficient completing over 70 percent of his passes and even more effective throwing six touchdowns during the winning streak and passing for over 300-yards in each of the last two. The Packers have a big matchup on Monday night against the Ravens and there's no question Rodgers and the passing game are going to be key.

Should we be talking about the Chargers?…

The Chargers have now rattled off six straight wins and sit atop the AFC West at 8-3 and no one is talking about them; but they should. This season Philip Rivers has been the quiet leader in San Diego and one of this year's best fantsay quarterbacks. His 19 touchdowns and 2,900-yards passing rank him among the elite, but he is not alone. The Chargers also boast a pair of the league's premiere pass receivers and fantasy studs with wideout Vincent Jackson (49 receptions, 7-touchdowns) and tight end Antonio Gates (59 receptions, 827 yards). With a formidable lineup the Chargers offense has become explosive this season ranking 3rd in scoring and 9th in passing this season. We may not be hearing much about the Bolts at the moment, but you can bet come playoff time this fantasy squad will be making plenty of noise to be heard.

More fantasy Notes

With so much attention being paid to a former Packer's quarterback (Favre), maybe fantasy owners should be directing more of their attention on the current one. Aaron Rodgers has been one of the hottest arms over the past several weeks. In his last three starts Rodgers has thrown six touchdowns with no interceptions and passed for 881 yards (293.6-yards per game). In the same stretch he has averaged 25 fantasy points per game.

For those not keeping up with current events apparently the Seahawks have found themselves a pretty good ball carrier with 2nd year running back Justin Forsett. The former Cal Bear has quickly stormed onto the fantasy scene with two 100-yard rushing games in his last last three. He is averaging 122-yards per contest and also has four touchdowns to his credit during the span. Forsett has become a fantasy stud, but with Julius Jones set to return fantasy owners will have to be cautious before buying what Forsett is selling.

By David Ortega

Check back every Tuesday for more “Tuesday (Football) Talk”

FSH: FRIDAY FOOTBALL DIARY

November 21st, 2009 7:45pm PST

Friday Football Diary

[Saturday Edition]

Dear Diary

Every week there is always a matchup on the slate that is going to draw a little more interest and this Sunday won't be any different.

A tale of two teams

With the San Diego Chargers in town, the reeling Denver Broncos losers of three straight hope to right their ship fast with some good old fashion home-cookin. And Sunday they will need to as the same Chargers come into Invesco Field as winners of four straight and tied for the AFC West lead with a record of 6-3.

The biggest keys for both teams sudden change of direction has to be their passing games. With the Broncos suddenly grounded the last couple of weeks, the offense has struggled badly to generate any kind of scoring. In their last three games Denver has been outscored 34-85.

Conversely it has been the arm of Philip Rivers that has powered the Chargers offense during their winning stretch. Rivers (2,476 yards, 16 touchdowns) has emerged as one of the leagues elite passers over the past couple of seasons and this year he has been the team's biggest difference maker. During the streak Rivers has thrown nine touchdown passes.

Fantasy Notes:

In his last start quarterback Kyle Orton looked sharp and played well passing for 193 first half yards with a couple of scores against the Redskins. Unfortunately for Denver, Orton was injured in the close of the first half last week and may not be available on Sunday. If back up quarterback Chris Simms has to start or play any, it could be a long day for (WR) Brandon Marshall, (TE) Tony Scheffler, (WR) Eddie Royal, and (RB) Knowshon Moreno fantasy owners.

The Chargers are shinning their crystal balls because their future is looking up. With the recent resurgence of LaDainian Tomlinson (two touchdowns last week) in the mix, (QB) Philip Rivers, (WR) Vincent Jackson, and (tight end) Antonio Gates become even more dangerous playmakers and preferred starts for fantasy owners.

10 Things

On my Sunday's Watch-List

1. Peyton Manning (has eight 300-yard passing games in 2009) has been torching opposing secondaries all season, can he toast the Ravens or will Ray Lewis and the bad boys from Baltimore (defense ranked 7th overall) ride the Colts into the ground.
2. Last week the Redskins fed the rock 26 times to running back Ladell Betts, who finished with over 100-yards on the ground, can he punish the Cowboys 9th rated run defense this Sunday?
3. The Browns have been struggling all season with the leagues worst ranked offense and this week they will face the Lions (ranked 31st on defense), one of the leagues very worst defenses (ironically only Cleveland is worse). Something has to give, but likely nothing worth any interest to any fantasy owners.
4. The only chance the Niners have of beating Green Bay is getting to quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and the only chance Green Bay of winning is how well they protect Rodgers. So far this season Rodgers has been sacked 41 times; it doesn't look promising for the Pack, but that's why they play the games.
5. Last week Jamaal Charles recorded his first 100-yard rushing game as a starter this season for Kansas City, but this Sunday he is a long shot to nad his second facing the Steelers number ranked run defense that allows a mediocre 3.4 yards per tote.
6. The Bills passing offense has been non-existent this season ranked 30th in the league, but Sunday they will face Jacksonville's 25th ranked pass defense minus one of its' best corners Rashean Mathis.
7. The Giant's offense has been stuggling as of late managing 20 or fewer points in its' last three straight losses, but behind Brandon Jacobs (617 yards) and Ahmad Bradshaw (515 yards) they hope to right the ship against the Falcons soft run defense ranked 25th in the league.
8. On Sunday the Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner (18 touchdowns) returns to his old stomping grounds of St. Louis, with a new set of aerial weapons (Fitzgerald, Boldin, and Breaston) could this be an encore performance against the leagues 26th ranked pass defense?
9. In week six head coach Josh McDaniels took his new look Broncos (in some funky looking throwbacks) into San Diego for a surprising and convincing road win, on Sunday his team (three straight losses) will need a new look if they are to hope for a repeat at Invesco Field.
10. In their first meeting this season the Jets held Tom Brady to 216 yards passing and no touchdowns, a feat they will likley not repeat. Brady has passed for over 300 yards in four straight and thrown 13 touchdowns along the way.

Check back here every Friday for more "Football Diary"