FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST (Fantasy News)

October 23rd, 2008 9:46pm PST


FSH: David's Daily Digest
Fantasy News

EARTH-SHAKERS! PLAY-MAKERS! GAME-BREAKERS!


Galloway hopes to play Sunday...
....the Buc's receiver has been limited in practice the last two days, and while the prospects of his playing look good for Week 8, Galloway will likely have to practice in full on Friday to convince Gruden he's ready. We have already seen several receivers coming off injury take a nose dive in fantasy scoring in their returns this season. There is no reason to think Galloway will be different, especially when the wideout has already shared his thoughts that the team will likely ease him back into the offense. It also doesn't help that he has lost his starting role. Fantasy owners should wait to see how Galloway performs in his new bench role before inserting him into your lineup.

Curtis not on Injury report for Week 8...
....it looks like it's official, Curtis will be returning to action this week. The Eagles announced Kevin Curtis will start opposite DeSean Jackson this Sunday against the Falcons. While Curtis is starting, as mentioned before when looking at receivers coming back from injury, if you have other options, we'd lean that direction as the safe play, although we do like Curtis. The Eagles passing game with McNabb also seems so random from week to week. There's always someone different game to game leading the receivers. The Falcons will have lots of trouble with the Eagles receivers and with Curtis healthy, he could be a week 8 surprise!

Morgan limited, but expected to play...
....the Niner's rookie receiver was limited in practice Thursday with a groin injury. The injury is not expected to keep him out for week 8 and with the Seahawks on the table, the rookie faces a favorable matchup. Morgan is not only expected to play, but he is listed as the starter. Morgan played well in week 7, in his first start and has the talent to be a solid play as a low to mid WR3. If you need help at receiver, he could be a nice fill-in this week against the Hawks!

Parker limited Thursday...
....dealing with injuries is always a touchy situation. The Steelers running back was able to go full in practice Wednesday, but was listed as limited Thursday. Parker was added to the injury report Thursday decreasing his chances slightly of playing Sunday. While we still think he may play, fantasy owners that picked up MeWelede Moore, if you need to start him, you should be safe. Moore figures to see considerable action regardless, until Parker is 100%.

McFadden walking gingerly...
....the story out of Oakland, rookie running back Darren McFadden was limited Thursday in practice and was walking gingerly. McFadden is downplaying the injury, calling it "soreness" and insists he's fine. No one should no better than the player himself. It's very simple, McFadden is trying to win a job and will do whatever he can. Right now his workload is limited, but if he is healthy that could eventually change, if he's not that should surface soon enough. If you took a shot on the Raider's top draft choice, it's a waiting game, and right now he's not worth starting in Week 8 against the Ravens.

McGahee practices Thursday, expected to start....
....the Raven's running back isn't quite 100%, but he fully participated in practice Thursday and is expected to start Sunday against the Raiders. McGahee is getting closer to being completely healthy and each week seems to be getting his football legs back. Last Week McGahee turned in his first 100 yard rushing game this season and in Week 8 facing a 24th ranked run defense, he's got a great shot to get his second. Fantasy owners should have Willis in their lineup this week!

Addai misses practice Thursday...
....the Colts star runner did not practice on Thursday and is not expected to play in Week 8. Addai is still recovering from his injured hamstring and running back Dominique Rhodes will continue to start in the interim. Rhodes has been a solid replacement for the Colts and a strong fantasy play as a starter. In two weeks he has run for more than 140 yards and has scored 3 touchdowns. He faces a stiff test Monday night against the Titans, but his contributions in the pass game (4 catches, 41 yards) still make him an appealing low end RB2 option for week 8.

Morris expected to miss 2-3 weeks....
....according to NFL.com's Adam Schefter the Patriots running back Sammy Morris is expected to miss two-to-three weeks with his injured knee. With the backfield close to empty, it looks like running back Kevin Faulk could end up starting this week with the latest word on Morris and LaMont Jordan. Jordan is noted as having re-aggravted his calf injury Wednesday, and is doubtful to play Sunday. Faulk should start, but will likely share carries with rookie BenJarvus Green-Ellis. It could be too soon to jump on Green-Ellis bandwagon, but Faulk could be an appealing flex option this week with his role in the pass game.

Johnson could have good outing in Week 8...
....we're not too sure about Johnson's level of success this week against a tough Buccaneer's defense. Historically Johnson has played well when facing his former teams and this week he has a team that on paper is loaded with talent, but he is facing a tough Bucs defense that could pose some problems. Last week Johnson appeared a bit rusty and out of sync with his offense. My take with B.J., if you have more appealing options stay away, but if you're in a league that is not heavliy penalized for turnovers, who could have some value.


Check back soon for more fantasy news...

By David G. Ortega

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST (Fantasy News)

October 22nd, 2008 10:30pm PST


FSH: David's Daily Digest
Fantasy News

EARTH-SHAKERS! PLAY-MAKERS! GAME-BREAKERS!


Romo not expected to play Sunday against the Bucs...
....the word is Romo will not play this week and according to Tony who talked to the AP on Wednesday "I don't know when I'll be back...." With the Team's bye scheduled for week 10, it's sound more likely that Romo could be held out through the bye and not return until week 11. Fantasy owners should make other arrangements in the interim, but based on last week's performance back up quarterback Brad Johnson does not look like an appealing solution. This week won't be any easier facing the Buccaneers.

Boldin cleared, still questionable...
....the Cardinal's receiver was medically cleared on Tuesday and had the wires removed from his lower jaw. He could play this Sunday although the official word right now is questionable. Boldin was limited in practice Wednesday, but all signs are pointing to the Cardinal's All-pro wideout to returning to action on Sunday. Fantasy owners will still have to follow this situation and see how he responds in practice this week!

Hasselbeck will sit in Week 8...
....according the NFL Network, the Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck will not play. Seneca Wallace will start Sunday against the Niners. Hasselbeck has been plagued with injuries this season that have limited his playing time significantly. While he is out for Week 8, prospects of playing in week 9 would seem a stretch with the Eagles due up. If you have the space on the roster, he may be worth hanging on to for the later weeks and playoffs of your fantasy season, but if strapped for space it could be time to shelve the 10 year veteran. This back injury appears chronic and it could stay with him the rest of the season, limiting his production.

Heiden held out, but expected to play...
....the Brown's back up tight end, who has been elevated to the starting role in Week 8 thanks to Winslow's suspension, was held out of practice on Wednesday with a right pectoral injury according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Heiden was noted as saying "I'll be fine." Despite the not practicing, it does sound like Heiden will play Sunday against the Jaguars. Heiden was effective in has last start for the Browns catching 5 balls for 59 yards and could be a good plug in fill this week.

Steven Jackson looking good to start....
....the Rams running back has not practiced this week, trying to rest the injured quad. The move appears to be precautionary and according to Jackson himself, he's resting the leg and "it's definitely going in the right direction." While we would like to remain optimistic ourselves, this is one of those wait and see situations. If Jackson plays, he's a must start, but fantasy owners will need to wait to see if he practices on Friday to be safe.

Parker practices Wednesday...
....the Steelers running back was back at practice Wednesday and is not listed on the injury report this week. It appears "Fast" Willie is ready to go for Week 8. When healthy Parker is a must play and with the knee apparently all better, barring any setbacks fantasy owners should have him in their line-ups this Sunday against the Giants.

Jordan practices Wednesday, could see action this Sunday....
....the Patriots running back LaMont Jordan put in a full practice on Wednesday. Jordan has been banged up all season and has seen little action. With Maroney on the IR and Morris looking less likely to play Sunday, Jordan could end up sharing the load with Kevin Faulk. Jordan is capable of having big games, but his biggest nemesis this season has been his health. Facing the Rams at home, Jordan could be a nice flex this week, but we'll have to see if Sammy sits first.

Chiefs place two quarterbacks on IR...
....the Kansas City Chiefs have placed both quarterbacks Damon Huard and Brodie Croyle on the Injured Reserve, ending both their seasons. Tyler Thigpen will assume the starting duties for now, but the team has gone out and signed free agent Quinn Gray. Gray will come in as the experienced veteran, but it will be several weeks before we expect he'll make any kind of impact. With the quarterback position in shambles, Bowe and Gonzo remain the only possible fantasy starts, but it is recommended that you look for better options if available.


Check back soon for more fantasy news...

By David G. Ortega

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST (Fantasy News)

October 21st, 2008 8:30pm PST

FSH: David's Daily Digest
Fantasy News

NOISE-SHAKERS! PLAY-MAKERS! GAME-BREAKERS!


Winslow gets suspended by team...
....this was not a surprise move with the team's outspoken tight end being so vocal and not so private about his illness that had him laid up in the hospital for several days. Winslow has often been the center of attention, as well as controversy, and this latest incident disclosing details of his illness now has him in the team's doghouse and suspended for one game. With Winslow out, back up tight end Steve Heiden should be fine. He's not the big athletic type of playmaker Winslow is, but he's a serviceable option that should get a few catches this week against the Jags. Heiden is not a must start, but could be used as a flex or fill-in this week.

Harrison done for the year...
....the Patriots have lost their heart and soul of the secondary for the season. Safety Rodney Harrison re-injured his right thigh muscle, and it is being reported as season-ending. With the loss of Harrison the already banged up Patriots defense takes a huge hit. The hard-hitting safety has been one of the defenses most vocal leaders and his leadership by example will definitely hurt the teams' production. The Pat's safety Brandon Meriweather will likely step into the starting role, but doesn't figure to be as effective against the run. While Harrison will be missed, fantasy owner shouldn't consider the Patriots defense a weekly pass. They still have their "genius" head coach Bill Belichick, stalking the headlines and orchestrating the defense (currently ranked 13th overall).

LJ could be out this Sunday and longer...
....when it rains, it pours and when he drinks, he spits, is the apparent story of LJ's latest charades. The Chiefs high priced running back is looking more and more like a nickel man with a two cent head, about to find himself deep in turmoil of his own. Last season the Kansas City running back held out for more money and had one of his least productive seasons. This year hasn't been much better highlighted with inconsistency, off the field trouble and a career low 2 yards rushing in week 5. Word is LJ could either be suspended by the league or deactivated by the team, either way he is a good prospect not to play in week 8. Fantasy owners hoping for this mess to go away, it's time to move on, the light at the end of the tunnel is no where near.

Bucs pull the Caddy out of garage...
....word out of the Buc's camp, running back Carnell Williams will return to practice on Wednesday. Williams is currently on the PUP list and his participation in practice doesn't guarantee he'll be activated right away, although Gruden sounds very optimistic about his return, "I think this guy has a chance to be ready to go quickly." Even if Williams is activated, he may not be quite 100% and more than likely would be used in a very limited role. As for right now fantasy owners should note, Williams' return poses no threat to Graham or Dunn's playing time.

Could Broncos season already be in turmoil?...
....following the disappointing and embarrassing loss to the Patriots Monday night, it's not too hard to identify many of the issues facing the Broncos tumultuous season thus far. The offense is turning the ball over at a higher rate than it was scoring when they opened the season 3-0. The defense is not stopping the run, missing assignments, and not making any big plays. Injuries to both Baileys' will not help the defense get any better. Over the past four games, the Broncos have turned the ball over 13 times and have only 4 takeaways. This deficiency constantly puts the defense in a bad spot and makes the offense one dimensional. Even when you consider all of this, their biggest problem is lack of leadership. Until someone on either side of the ball steps up and holds the players accountable, you will continue to see an inconsistent offense and a defense that is every fantasy owners dream matchup come true.

Hasselbeck remains uncertain...
....during his weekly Monday press conference head coach Mike Holmgren said the status for quarterback Matt Hasselbeck for the team's Week 8 game with the forty-niners is uncertain. Hasselbeck continues to battle with back injuries this season and the prospects of his playing Sunday, does not sound very promising. Fantasy owners will have to continue to monitor this situation, but be advised to find other available options going forward with Hasselbeck's injury apparently not going away anytime soon.

Eagles getting healthy for Week 8....
....both receivers Kevin Curtis and Reggie Brown participated in practice on Monday and look like good bets to play this Sunday. According to running back Brian Westbrook who told ESPN Radio, he's on track to play in week 8. Even with the extra time off with the bye, it is likely Westbrook's status won't be determined until later in the week. With the Eagles top skill players getting healthy and looking more like they will play, quarterback Donovan McNabb could be looking at a big Week against the Falcons this Sunday. For fantasy owners of McNabb, this would be the first week he'd have all of his best weapons available. He's a must-start and could have a huge Sunday!

Thigpen could start Sunday against Jets...
....more wonderful news for Chiefs fans. With quarterback Damon Huard uncertain for Sunday with a hand injury, Thigpen could get the call this week. With the continued rotation of average personnel at the quarterback position fantasy owners shouldn't expect to see much production on the offensive side of the ball this week, particularly in the running game. This Sunday the Chiefs draw the Jets and one of the leagues better run defenses. This would not be a good week to insert any of the Chiefs running backs or quarterbacks for that matter. Gonzo and Bowe remain the only steady plays although their performances can have a tendency to peak and valley at times.


Check back soon for more fantasy news...

By The Prodigy

FSH: TUESDAY (FOOTBALL) TALK

October 21st, 2008 11:07am PST



Tuesday (Football) Talk

Monday Night recap...

Patriots bust the Broncos..
....did anyone see this coming? Perhaps the writing was on the wall for several weeks, with the Bronco's defense playing with fire; giving up big plays, lots of yards, and no takeaways. This was due to happen sooner or later for the Broncos porous defense (ranked 30th in the NFL), but few would expect to see the 2007 Patriot's show up on Monday night. Maybe it wasn't Brady leading the charge, but the Pats were inspired as if their field general was back on the field, while their offense rang up 450 yards of offense and posted 41 points. It was disappointing for Denver fans to see a lack of effort from the visitors, as quarterback Matt Cassell and running back Sammy Morris seemed to have their way most of the night. Morris carried the ball only 16 times, but plowed his way through the Broncos defense gaining 138 yards rushing and scored a touchdown. The Patriots wide receiver Randy Moss also got involved catching six passes and scoring twice. Matt Cassell, when he wasn't on his back (sacked six times in the game) was effectively efficient and precise completing 18 of 24 passes for 185 yards and throwing three touchdowns! His passer rating for the night was 136.3.

For the Broncos, it had to be a pleasant surprise to see the resurrection of some kind of a pass rush, led by Elvis Dummerville and his two sacks. But for most of the night it had to be a disappointment getting pummeled by a team that looked like it was backed into a corner and on their heels all night just a week ago against the Chargers. The Broncos defense had the usual troubles stopping the run, giving up the big plays, allowing a ton of yardage (404 yards allowed Monday night) and not recording a single takeaway (negative 9 turnover ratio this season). Denver started fast this season with three straight wins, but have now lost three of their last four and appear to be spiraling backward in the division. The only bright spot on the offense was the effort of running back Michael Pittman who carried the ball 20 times in the loss and gained 88 yards. On a down note, it won't be hard to figure out who the odd man out will be once running back's Selvin Young and Ryan Torain are activated. The Broncos running back and kick returner Andre Hall committed two turnovers that ended Bronco drives and resulted in Patriot scores!

Fantasy notes: The Bronco's have many issues on the defensive side of the ball and with injuries to DB Champ Bailey and little brother LB Boss Bailey, the holes in the defense get bigger. Fantasy owners who have the Broncos as a team defense, if you haven't already drop them and run away.......considering the Bronco's defensive track record, let's not start any coronation ceremonies for the Patriots offense just yet. The big win will play as a confidence booster and lay down the road map for what the Pats must and will try to do going forward; get the ball in the hands of your playmakers. Fantasy owners in PPR leagues should consider Welker a must play and consider running back Sammy Morris a viable flex or RB3 option.

This week's "Dark-horses".....

*Looking ahead to week 8 in the NFL, we have a few interesting situations developing in Philadelphia and in Oakland. On Sunday the Raiders passing offense was not particularly impressive, but compared to what we have seen thus far this season, there were signs of life. A forgotten name resurfaced in the Black Hole in wide receiver Javon Walker. With talks floating around about his possible demotion to the bench, could the former Packer and Bronco find his re-focus and get back on track? Jamarcus Russell will continue to be a work in progress, but I like Javon Walker to emerge as his go-to receiver to show him the ropes and help the kid develop. Based on nothing but his talent, Walker is certainly capable of playing big, the only question will be is he motivated.

In Philly it is beginning to sound like wide receiver Kevin Curtis is about ready to make his 2008 NFL debut. He has been practicing and reports are he looks close to returning and it is expected he could be re-inserted into the starting lineup. Based on what we have seen with recent receivers returning from injury (Colston, Branch) fantasy owners may worry about Curtis' immediate impact. In the Eagles system there is no apparent number one receiver, although DeSean Jackson has emerged as a more reliable option, Curtis's return and immediate insertion make him one of my dark-horses for Week 8. If he does start, Curtis will have a favorable matchup this week going up against the Falcons 26th ranked pass defense.

A couple of "light-ponies" this week that I would watch as possible plays in the coming weeks (including week 8) are the Niner's WR Josh Morgan and the Rams WR Donnie Avery. Morgan was just promoted to the starting lineup this past week and played well catching 5 passes for 86 yards and a score. The Niner's heralded receiver entered the regular season expecting to be a starter, but was slowed up with a staph infection. Now healthy he looks ready to make an impact.

The Rams speedy rookie receiver is a big play threat every week now that he is starting opposite Torry Holt. Avery showed off his running skills two weeks ago with a 37 yard touchdown run and this past Sunday hooked up with Marc Bulger on a 42 yard touchdown score. The Rams receiver finished Sunday as the team's leading pass catcher with 5 receptions for 65 yards. Both Morgan and Avery have favorable matchups in Week 8 and could be nice pickups as flex options or WR3!

Heading for the Sideline......

For fantasy owners in deep leagues playing running back roulette with the Denver backfield, following Monday night's blowout loss to the Patriots, fantasy owners can remove Broncos RB Andre Hall from the equation. His two fumbles have undoubtedly sealed his fate with the prospects of running backs Selvin Young and Ryan Torain on the verge of returning. Just another note for fantasy owners with Michael Pittman running well as the current starter, Selvin Young it may not be long before he heads for the (fantasy) sidelines!

In Oakland, the writing is definitely on the wall in the bay area. Following his demotion to the proverbial and literal bench, WR Ronald Curry has seemingly lost his fantasy relevance. Not only did Curry not start on Sunday, but the Raider's receiver did not even record a single catch. Curry has been a disappointment this season and appears the new head coach is going to look to other talent for production in the offense. For now Curry is heading for the sideline and for fantasy owners that thought the combination of Curry's speed and Russell's arm would play big, it's time for him to find his way to your bench and perhaps off your roster.

There's no question that injuries play a big part in the NFL and fantasy football. If you took a shot on the Packers second year receiver James Jones to follow up his strong freshman campaign, it may be time to terminate his scholarship. Jones has been battling a knee injury that has kept him out most of this season. There's been no official word, but we've seen this before and it could be not long before this injury gets to the point where Jones has to shut it down for the year. Fantasy owners in deeper leagues holding onto this prayer shouldn't wait for the announcement, it's time to send Jones to the sideline and find another option.

Power Rankings

How they rank...
1. Tennessee Titans (6-0-0)....the Titans kept the wheels rolling on Sunday gaining over 300 yards on the ground. With the NFL's 4th ranked rushing offense and the leagues overall 3rd ranked defense, there's not too much sounding wrong in the Music City. The Titans seem to have all cylinders firing although the teams they have defeated this season have a combined record of 12-23.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-1-0)....the Steel Curtain appears to be alive and well in the Steel town. The Steelers easily dispatched their division rivals, the Bengals on Sunday 38-10. The league's number one overall defense recorded 8 sacks and one turnover in Week 7. The Steelers continue to win in impressive fashion led by quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who found better protection against the Bengals passing his way to 216 yards and two touchdowns. The team also received a huge lift from the play of running MeWelde Moore who ran well gaining 120 yards on the day!

3. Buffalo Bills (5-1-0)....coming off their bye week, the Bills appeared to have rested well and got healthier against a visiting Charger's team. The Bills play a well balanced game rushing for over 100 yards and passing for 261 yards. The return of Trent Edwards was a successful one, with the Bills quarterback completing 25 of 30 passes (83.3% completion) and throwing a nice touch pass score to Lee Evans in the corner of the end-zone. The Bills look strong and are in complete of the AFC East. The Bills opponents this season have a combined record of 15-22.

4. New York Giants (5-1-0)....the G-men rebound Sunday from their Monday night meltdown. Hosting the San Francisco 49ers, the Giants used their power running game behind the legs of Brandon Jacobs. The Giants 260 pound runner carried the ball 17 times for just 69 yards on 17 carries, but did score twice in the team's home win. It was the Giants 4th win at home this season to improve their home record to 4-0. The Giants are out scoring opponents at home 115-53.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-2-0)....the quiet surprise of the season has to be the Buccaneers who crack the top five. With Garcia healthy and unselfish team (Graham) focused on the prize, this team is doing what they need to do each week to win. Garcia looked sharp and played well Sunday night completing 27 of 36 passes (75% completion) for 310 yards. The Buccaneers defense has raised their play as of late, ranked 9th overall in yards allowed and 4th in scoring.

Rounding out the top 10...
6. Washington Redskins (5-2-0)....the team jumped back on the Portis train and rode to victory on Sunday.
7. Carolina Panthers (5-2-0)....it was Smith to Delhomme, a preview of things to come.
8. Arizona Cardinals (4-2-0)....lookout NFC, the Cards are playing defense and have a talented offense.
9. Dallas Cowboys (4-3-0)....America's team is quickly becoming a circus of dysfunction.
10. Chicago Bears (4-3-0)....Kyle Ortons' arm is carrying the Bears with the defense banged up.

FSH: (NFL WEEK 8) THIS WEEK'S HEADLINES

October 20th, 2008 9:57pm PST

Week 8...
NFL Weekly Storylines

AFC

Patriots place Maroney on Injured reserve.
It had been speculated something was wrong with running back Laurence Maroney and finally today the Patriots annouced that Maroney had been placed on the injured reserve. Maroney has been hobbled most of the season with a shoulder injury, an injury that had limited his playing time. Maroney finishes the season with just 28 carries and 93 yards rushing.
fantasy impact: The move comes as no surprise. Maroney has not played much this season and when he's been in there he's been ineffective. It was apparent something was very wrong and that Maroney was not able to play with the shoulder injury that had slowed him thus far. With Maroney out, the Patriots running back Sammy Morris looks like a good flex insert and serviceable RB3 option going forward.

Titan Combo to go.
The Titans 1-2 punch or 2008 version of Thunder and Lightning with running backs LenDale White and rookie Chris Johnson has been spectacular through seven weeks this season. The "TItanic Two-some" have combined to average 154.5 yards per game on the ground. Johnson is leading the way with 549 yards rushing with a 5.3 yds/carry average, while White has scored 8 touchdowns this season. The Titans offense boasts the number four ranked rushing offense in the NFL.
fantasy impact: Perhaps the biggest secret in Tennessee is the team's offensive line, which has to be one of the most under-rated and could very well be the very best. For the season, this unit has allowed only 2 sacks and the team's 11 rushing touchdowns leads the NFL. Behind this line, White and Johnson figure to be safe plays week in and week out!

Addai could return soon.
It was originally reported that Addai had a partially torn hamstring and could miss up to 4 weeks, but it is now being reported according to the Associated Press that head coach Tony Dungy says Addai wanted to play in week 7. When asked about Addai's availability for Week 8, Dungy was vague during discussion.
fantasy impact: While it sounds promising for Addai to return soon, hamstring injuries can typically be a bit tricky. Reading into it, Dungy's vagueness could be an indicator that Addai is not quite ready and the team's unwillingness to risk injury. It could be a safer bet to sit him in week 8.

Broncos woes on defense continues.
Following Monday night's dismantle, the Bronco's defense is in need of a serious overhaul. Poor tackling, blown assignments, and a 41-7 trouncing resemble more of a 2-4 team than a first place team that is 4-2. It was just another night of the same debacle for the defense, watching the New England Patriots run wild up the middle to the tune of 257 yards on the ground. Despite the numerous breakdowns on the Patriots offensive line (allowed 6 sacks), the Broncos defense could not come up with any big plays or critical stops, instead they committed bonehead plays and infractions.
fantasy impact: While some fans could claim that the Chiefs, Rams, or Lions are the worst teams in the league (which may be true), it is highly unlikely they have a defense that is worst. If you are hoping for your player to rebound and he has the Bronco's on the schedule, right now he'd be ranked a must play against this defense.

Johnson's troubles continue.
The Kansas City Chiefs have had a rough start this season with injuries, poor play, and a very poor start this season. As if the team could use more negative news, their high paid star running back Larry Johnson appears to have more troubles than just missing meetings. New reports out indicate Johnson's latest ventures off the field could land him a suspension. The league is expected to investigate the matter.
fantasy impact: The good news, LJ has been relatively ineffective and a non-factor since week 4, so this latest information should not affect fantasy owners teams too greatly. Where to go from here, with the Chiefs reduced to Tyler Thigpen as their starter, both Charles and Smith are hardly servicable options. Only in deeper leagues would either offer any kind of help as a flex.


NFC

Niners fire head coach.
According to ESPN the Niners organization apparently trying to shake things up in the bay area have fired head coach Mike Nolan. The team has suffered a couple of disappointing losses the past few weeks and at 2-5 appears to be heading the wrong direction. The team has named Mike Singletary the team's new head coach.
fantasy impact: Unfortunately, with Singletary or Nolan as the head coach, you won't see a change in the offense. The offense is run by OC Mike Martz and what you see is what you get. The only change to note for fantasy owners, is the promotion of Josh Morgan to the starting lineup. Morgan was productive in Week 7 and will likely get better moving forward. Owners holding Bryant Johnson may want to let go now.

Saints lose Bush for up to 4 weeks.
The have been several injuries this season, but the loss of Reggie Bush to this Saints offense could be huge. The Saints all-purpose running back underwent knee surgery today to repair a torn medial meniscus according to ProFootballTalk.com. The expected time missed is 2-4 weeks, but rumors are flying that Bush could sit longer.
fantasy impact: The Saints are likely to play it safe here with their big homerun hitter, who has scored 8 times this season. Fantasy owners can expect Bush to sit no less than 4 weeks and it could be longer. In the interim, many experts are leaning toward Pierre Thomas to pick up much of the load in the absence of Bush. In traditional leagues the obvious pick up may be Thomas, but PPR leagues might lean more towards Stecker who could pick up Bush's role in the passing game (Stecker had 36 receptions last season).

Jackson injured but expected to play.
The Rams explosive running back Steven Jackson exited Sunday's game late in the 4th quarter with an apparent thigh injury. Initial reports were speculating that Jackson could miss time, but more recent reports are now saying he is good to go and expected to play against New England in Week 8. The injury appears to be a slight strain.
fantasy impact: The Rams running back has been Ram-tastic the past several weeks and the recent news is very good for fantasy owners. Jackson is playing like one of the elite backs in the game and when healthy is considered a must start every week!

Boldin could return Sunday.
The Cardinal's receiver participated in a light practice on Monday and was looking "quick" according to the Arizona Republic. His return to practice is a good indicator that he could play Sunday in Week 8. Word is that Boldin could be medically cleared to play as early as Tuesday. Boldin disclosed that he suffered more injuries from the Week 4 brutal hit that's had him sidelined since. His lower jaw had to be corrected and he also suffered a concussion.
fantasy impact: While Anquan is as tough as they come, even if cleared to play, fantasy owners might be wise to sit the Cardinal stud receiver before jumping back on the band wagon. Just ask Bobby Engram, Deion Branch, and Marques Colston fantasy owners. Owners that grabbed Steve Breaston, even as a number three receiver in Arizona, should be safe playing him in Week 8.

Other headlines...
*Bucs receiver Bryant expected to remain starter in Tampa.
*Jaguars receiver Matt Jones suspended for 3 games.
*Edwards, Bills continue strong play with win over Chargers.
*The Eagles WR Curtis returns to practice this week.
*Niners rookie Morgan will replace Bryant Johnson as starter.
*Bengal's quarterback Carson Palmer will not play in Week 8.
*Colston ineffective in Week 7, sits down late in the game.
*Bronco's play no defense in Monday night blowout!
*Randy Moss scores twice in big win over Bronco on MNF.