Oct 30 2009
Denver Broncos vs Baltimore Ravens
Broncos: The Ravens defense isn't what it used to be. While I don't expect Knowshon Moreno to run all over them, I do expect Kyle Orton and Brandon Marshall to hook up often.
Ravens: Sitting at 3-3 and playing the undefeated Broncos, the Ravens will hit their panic button aka Ray Rice very often. Another 200 total yard performance is doable this weekend
Fantasy Factors: Brandon Marshall (8), Ray Rice (9)
Houston Texans vs Buffalo Bills
Texans: With all the injury problems the Bills have had on defense lately, this should be easy pickens for Schaub, Slaton and Johnson. Johnson was unquestionable earlier in the week, but he'll be fine to play.
Bills: Its not a big improvement, but at least one of the WRs on the Bills now is being productive. Ryan Fitzpatrick and Lee Evans hooked up a couple times last week against the Panthers showing that the Bills passing game is still has a faint heartbeat. The Texans improved run defense will be tested again this week when they get Marshawn Lynch.
Fantasy Factors: Matt Schaub (9), Marshawn Lynch (7)
Cleveland Browns vs Chicago Bears
Browns: The Bears pass defense has been weak this season, but I don't think Derek Anderson is the kind of guy that can take advantage of something like that.
Bears: This game should be known as Matt Forte's last chance. If he can't make it work at home against the Browns, its never going to happen this season. If Forte struggles, expect a 400 yard passing game from Jay Cutler. After the pounding they got in Cincy, they'll have no mercy for the Browns.
Fantasy Factors: Derek Anderson (5), Jay Cutler (10)
Seattle Seahawks vs Dallas Cowboys
Seahawks: The good news is the Cowboys pass defense is weak. The bad news is the Seattle offensive line couldn't protect Matt Hasselbeck from a pack of 1st graders, much less the Cowboys defensive line that beat the bejesus out of him last season. If they can't protect him, TJ Houshmandzadeh should see plenty of short passes.
Cowboys: This offense is just now starting to hit its stride with WR Austin Miles exploding. Seattle's defense is vulnerable in many ways, but one thing is for sure, Romo to Miles will happen very frequently.
Fantasy Factors: Matt Hasselbeck (7), Tony Romo (9)
St. Louis Rams vs Detroit Lions
Rams: If the Rams are going to win a game this year, it'll be this weekend against the Lions. This is the game Steven Jackson owners have been waiting for and the game that it wouldn't be a bad idea to take a chance on Marc Bulger and Donnie Avery.
Lions: Matthew Stafford is expected to be back, we're still not sure about Calvin Johnson. The Rams defense isn't anything special so getting Lions players in your lineup isn't a bad thing for a change.
Fantasy Factors: Steven Jackson (9), Kevin Smith (7)
San Francisco 49ers vs Indianapolis Colts
49ers: The Niners have a new QB and its one that should have taken over years ago, Alex Smith. The golden boy made a successful return to the lineup last week, throwing 3 TDs against the Texans. It won't be that easy this week in Indy though. Frank Gore should be a solid play against a Colts defense that is still struggling against the run.
Colts: After failing to pass for 300+ yards in a game last week, the Peyton Manning should be back on track this week although Reggie Wayne is dealing with an strained groin and could possibly not be available. This could mean big things for guys like Dallas Clark, Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie. Also, Donald Brown will be out, leaving all the RB duties to Joseph Addai.
Fantasy Factors: Frank Gore (7), Peyton Manning (8)
Miami Dolphins vs New York Jets
Dolphins: Last time the Phins played the Jets, Ronnie Brown the Wildcat a ton and ran for 74 yards and 2 TDs in rout to a 31-27 win. We should see plenty more of the Wildcat this weekend and the Jets will be without run stopper Kris Jenkins.
Jets: It was only 3 weeks ago these two teams met up in Miami, but since then Mark Sanchez has thrown 5 INT and just 1 TD. The Dolphins secondary isn't great, but Sanchez isn't playing well enough to beat anyone. The running game has been carrying this team. Thomas Jones and Shonn Greene should see plenty of carries, however Miami has one of the tougher run defenses.
Fantasy Factors: Ronnie Brown (9), Thomas Jones (6)
New York Giants vs Philadelphia Eagles
Giants: The G-Men will attempt to halt their losing streak in Philly with the division on the line. Eli Manning has been awful the last couple weeks and he'll have a tough time getting back on track. With Ahmad Bradshaw injured (but still playing), Brandon Jacobs should see plenty of carries.
Eagles: The Giants are susceptible to the deep ball and DeSean Jackson is 100%, however Donovan McNabb has been in a bit of a slump lately and this will be a tough matchup to break out of it. Brian Westbrook will be out and LeSean McCoy will get all of the carries.
Fantasy Factors: Brandon Jacobs (7), DeSean Jackson (8)
Oakland Raiders vs San Diego Chargers
Raiders: Back in Week One, the Raiders pushed around the Chargers and nearly won. This week, won't be anything like that one. The Raiders o-line isn't what it was back then, but the Chargers defense isn't what it used to be either. Justin Fargas will see a lot of carries and get around 100 yards.
Chargers: LT keeps saying he wants to prove himself again, but rushing for just 71 yards on 23 carries against the Chiefs isn't the way to do it. The Raiders defense is awful against the run, but LT hasn't proven he can take advantage. The bulk of the offense this week will come on the arm of Philip Rivers.
Fantasy Factors: Justin Fargas (7), Philip Rivers (9)
Jacksonville Jaguars vs Tennessee Titans
Jaguars: Maurice Jones-Drew turned in a clunker last time these two met and the Jags still won big on the arm of David Garrard. Until the Titans secondary can slow people down, even mediocre QB's like Garrard will light them up.
Titans: So Vince Young is finally the Titans QB again. It was really only a matter of time. Not having seen VY play in awhile is somewhat a cause for concern, however this is a soft pass defense and don't forget Young loves to run the ball too. It could be the rebirth of VY's career... or just another bad move by the winless Titans.
Fantasy Factors: David Garrard (8), Chris Johnson (8)
Minnesota Vikings vs Green Bay Packers
Vikings: Its the day Brett Favre has been dreaming about for months (maybe years). Its the day he goes into Lambeau field as the visitor. Favre destroyed the Pack in this first encounter. There's little reason to think he won't do it again. He's developed a strong chemistry with Sidney Rice and Percy Harvin and the running game looks as strong as ever.
Packers: Aaron Rodgers may do a lot of memorable things in his career, but in the eyes of Packers fans nothing will be bigger than having him beat Favre in Green Bay. The Vikings secondary is in shambles right now and if their tattered offensive line can keep Vikings defenders off his back, we'll have ourselves a heck of a shootout.
Fantasy Factors: Brett Favre (8), Aaron Rodgers (7)
Carolina Panthers vs Arizona Cardinals
Panthers: When turnovers are becoming a problem big enough to cause you to lose to the Bills, there's a problem. Only DeAngelo Williams should be considered when thinking about Panthers fantasy options and even that is sketchy this week as the Cards have the leagues' best run defense.
Cardinals: While the Panthers will have trouble doing what they do best, the Cards will have a similar problem as the Panthers have the NFL's best pass defense. I don't think that should cause anyone to shy away from Cardinals players this week though. The Panthers couldn't stop Larry Fitzgerald in the playoffs last year in Carolina, why would now be any different?
Fantasy Factors: DeAngelo Williams (6), Larry Fitzgerald (9)
Atlanta Falcons vs New Orleans Saints
Falcons: The Falcons have been playing great this year, but they showed some chinks in their armor last week in Dallas and this week they'll be in hostile territory on Monday Night Football. I'm not expecting a big game from Ryan or Turner, but they won't turn in clunkers either.
Saints: The unbeaten Saints, at home, on national television, its hard to imagine them losing this game. The Saints offense can crave up good defenses, just imagine what they'll do to the Falcons.
Fantasy Factors: Michael Turner (7), Drew Brees (10)
Bye Week: Cincinnati Bengals, Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots, Pittsburgh Steelers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Redskins
Oct 28 2009
- For those of you that are hoping that Larry Johnson will someday return to being an elite RB in the NFL, he's not going to do it with the Kansas City Chiefs. After blasting the coach, fans and media Johnson has been told to stay away from all team activities. If I was a betting man, I would bet that LJ has played his last game with the Chiefs, if not the entire league. He'll hit the dreaded 30 years old mark next month, he's a disruption in the locker room, he's overpaid, and he's had some absolutely brutal performances over the past couple years (7 rushes for 2 yards against the Panthers and 21 rushes for 37 yards against Dallas to just name a couple). Backup Jamaal Charles will take over and should see plenty of touches which will skyrocket his fantasy value, but remember he's still on the Chiefs.
- Jets speedster Leon Washington will be out for the remainder of the season with a compound fracture of his right leg. This injury, however, will not increase Thomas Jones' workload as 3rd round pick Shonn Greene proved last week that he's more than capable of picking up the slack left by Washington.
- Thanks to Titans' owner Bud Adams, Jeff Fisher has a QB controversy on his hands. Adams told the Tennessean that he wants Vince Young to start now. I can't blame him. He's paying VY a ton of money to sit on the bench, meanwhile the team is 0-6 behind "never was" Kerry Collins.
- Redskins TE Chris Cooley had ankle surgery and could return in 4 weeks. Not bad for a guy that was looking like he might be gone for the season.
- Joseph Addai owners, this is the break you've been looking for. Donald Brown is expected to miss the next 2-3 weeks with a shoulder contusion. The Colts have the 49ers, Texans and Patriots all at home during that time.
- Despite dealing with a concussion, Brian Westbrook has not yet been ruled out of his matchup against the Giants this Sunday. I wouldn't count on him playing however. The doctors are saying it doesn't look good and concussions are something you don't mess around with.
- Lions rookie QB Matthew Stafford looks as though he'll start Sunday against the Rams. The same cannot be said for Calvin Johnson who is still missing practice.
- Andre Johnson and his owners can briefs a sigh of relief as it appears as though he'll play this week. Johnson was suffering from a bruised lung, but he is said to be feeling much better now.
- 49ers right tackle Tony Pashos was placed on injury reserve and will be done for the season. This is bad news for Frank Gore owners. While Pashos isn't exactly a pro bowl caliber tackle, he is considerably better than what they have now.
- Anquan Boldin is expected to play this weekend against the Panthers. His injury didn't keep him off the field last Sunday and he's increasing his workload in practice now.
Oct 27 2009
Xtreme Machine acquires Ryan Getzlaf and Nikolai Khabibulin:
Before the Dany Heatley trade, I had Ryan Getzlaf ranked in my top 5 forwards. Seeing him get off to a slow start was just what I needed to make a "Buy Low" offer. Getzlaf got off to a slow start last year as well, but caught on fire the rest of the way and with the improved offense in Anaheim, I'm expecting a 100 point season. Along with Getzlaf, I get a replacement for Backstrom, Nikolai Khabibulin. Edmonton has a lousy defense and Khabby will see a lot of rubber, but that can end up being a good thing in fantasy if he stops most of them. The Oilers have a much better offense than Minnesota, so he'll get plenty of goal support and that should translate into more wins.
Mark Bell's Sponsor acquires Andy McDonald and Niklas Backstrom:
Andy McDonald is a first line center for the St Louis Blues. He has a nice shot, great play making skills and a pretty good linemates. He won't rack up a ton of PIM and playing for the Blues, his plus/minus will be down, but he really excels on the powerplay and takes a lot of shots. Last year, Backstrom was one of the best goalies in fantasy hockey. However, this year the Wild have changed their system and have moved away from a defensive style to more of an up-tempo one. As a result, the Wild are giving up more scoring chances than Backstrom is used to seeing, but so far he's been up to the task.
Trade Analysis:
On my team's goaltending depth chart, Craig Anderson moved ahead of Niklas Backstrom with his strong play, so I didn't really see a reason to keep him around and I knew I could get a nice return for a goalie like Backstrom. So originally I offered Backstrom for Ryan Getzlaf straight up. MBS countered with this trade. I really didn't like trading away Andy McDonald, but I figured, I would rather have Getzlaf than McDonald and I was already set on trading Backstrom. In some ways I feel like I overpaid for Getzalf, but in other ways, I feel like I upgraded my team by trading away depth for a guy I would've drafted in the first round had I picked late in the draft. Right now, I have Crosby, Heatley and Getzlaf and in my opinion, all three are first rounders. The addition of Nikolai Khabibulin was just a bonus. If Khabibulin has a solid season, that may tip the scales of this trade in my favor.
For MBS, this gives him two solid options at goaltending and a forward that when at his best, posts number very similar to Getzlaf's. If the Wild can start scoring some goals for Backstrom, he will once again be one of the top fantasy goalies in the game. As for McDonald, I think as long as he stays healthy, he'll have a 25-30 goal season with 50-60 assists easily.
Now I'll turn it over to the Fantasy Factor jury. I know the Moe Masher's (my brother) thinks it was a "rip off" in my favor as he's stated in the league forum. What do you guys think?
Oct 26 2009
Stars
Carson Palmer - Its been well documented that I don't like Carson Palmer. I've dubbed his as "Captain Overrated" and I think everything he does gets overblown to make people think the Bengals are good. However, this week I must say he was the top star in fantasy football. He was nearly perfect passing completing 20 of 24 passes, for 233 yards and a whopping 5 TD passes against the Bears.
(Photo by Getty Images)
Ricky Williams - Of all the RBs in football, who do you think would have the best fantasy week? I bet it would be awhile before you said Ricky Williams, but that was the case yesterday. The former Saints first rounder ran the ball 9 times for 80 yards and scored 3 TDs.
Miles Austin - The "Romo"-ance between QB Tony Romo and receiver Miles Austin continued to flourish. Romo connected with Austin 6 times for 171 yards and 2 TDs. Next week, they take on Seattle.
Vernon Davis - Yesterday morning, I watched ESPN's Fantasy Football NOW show and they experts on the show must have said at least a half dozen times, "Do not play Vernon Davis against the Texas!" Davis caught 7 passes for 93 yards and 3 TDs. Whooops!
Steelers D/ST - Pittsburgh's defense has been catching a lot of flack this year for softening up at the end of games. This week, was not the case. The Steelers defense scored two TDs in the final 6 minutes of the game to give the Steelers the thrilling 27-17 win over the unbeaten Vikings. This is a defense that should NEVER be benched no matter who they play. Every week, they come up with big plays and earn you plenty of fantasy points.
Stumblers
Frank Gore - Gore's return to the Niners lineup was less than memorable. Against a soft Texans run defense, Gore only ran for 32 yards on 13 carries and failed to score a TD.
Eli Manning - Another week, another QB that fails to take advantage of one of the league's worst pass defenses. While the Yankees were clinching a spot in the World Series, the football team in NY was watching their franchise QB get picked off 3 times in a 24-17 loss to the Cardinals.
Lance Moore - After breaking out against the Giants last week, Moore barely factored in the Saints 46-34 win over the Dolphins. Moore caught just two passes for 18 yards.
Matt Forte - I think at this point, its official... Matt Forte is in a sophomore slump. For the third time this year he's failed to rush for more than 30 yards and has just one TD. Next week, the Bears play the Browns. If he's in the Stumblers section again, its time to do the unthinkable and drop him because its not going to get any easier than Cleveland.
Oakland Raiders offense - Shut out, franchise QB benched, couldn't even get close enough to ATTEMPT a field goal... the only way they could be worse would be if they started doing quick kicks on 1st down..
Oct 23 2009
Green Bay Packers vs Cleveland Browns
Packers: Last week, it was the Lions. This week, it'll be the Brownies. Aaron Rodgers, Ryan Grant, Greg Jennings and even the Packers D/ST are ready to roll in Cleveland.
Browns: At least the Browns are getting creative on offense, using Josh Cribbs in the Wildcat offense is interesting and may give Cribbs some fantasy value down the line, but not this week.
Fantasy Factors: Aaron Rodgers (9), Josh Cribbs (6)
San Francisco 49ers vs Houston Texans
49ers: The Niners get their battering ram back with Frank Gore. The Texans have been bad against the run this year and their small front four could get manhandled by San Fran's big o-line.
Texans: The Niners defense was gashed two weeks ago by the Falcons. The Texans offense shouldn't be any different. Andre Johnson will have a tough matchup with Nate Clements, but he'll still get plenty of passes his way and if not, Slaton, Walter and Daniels will go wild.
Fantasy Factors: Frank Gore (9), Matt Schaub (8)
San Diego Chargers vs Kansas City Chiefs
Chargers: San Diego is in trouble and they need to win. LT is mad that he's not getting the ball. None of this is good news for the Chiefs who eeked out their first win of the season last week. LT should see plenty of carries and have around 100 yards this week, but Philip Rivers will be their most deadly weapon.
Chiefs: Larry Johnson showed some signs of life last week against the Redskins and could have another fine day against a Chargers defense that's allowing an average of 141 yards on the ground. I wouldn't get too excited though, every time he looks like he's making a comeback, he disappoints.
Fantasy Factors: Philip Rivers (9), Larry Johnson (7)
Minnesota Vikings vs Pittsburgh Steelers
Vikings: This will be a big test for the Vikes. They proved that they could run against the Ravens last week, but I don't see them repeating that success against the Steelers in Pittsburgh. Once again, Minnesota will have to rely on Favre for the offense. The Steelers have been having trouble getting pressure on the QB this year and against this offensive line, it'll be even tougher. 40 years old or not, if Favre gets time he'll have a big day.
Steelers: The Vikings defense hasn't been as tough this year as it was last and the Steelers should have some success on the ground, but Pittsburgh should just keep going with what works, passing. Ben Roethlisberger is looking at another 300+ yard game. That is as long as he can avoid the Vikings relentless pass rush.
Fantasy Factors: Brett Favre (8), Ben Roethlisberger (9)
Indianapolis Colts vs St. Louis Rams
Colts: Coming out of the bye week fresh and ready for the second half, the Colts should have no problem steamrolling the Rams. Peyton Manning will have no problem passing for over 300 yards for his 6th straight game.
Rams: The team is hoping that Donnie Avery's injury isn't too serious and that he'll play this Sunday. If not, Steven Jackson should have another big day both rushing and receiving. Jackson led the team in receptions last week in their loss to Jacksonville.
Fantasy Factors: Peyton Manning (10), Steven Jackson (7)
New England Patriots vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Patriots: If you thought what the Patriots did to the Titans last week was bad, wait till you see what they have in store for the Bucs this week. Brady, Moss and Welker will all have huge days while decimating the Bucs secondary. How is it that the Patriots get two winless teams in a row?
Buccaneers: They're 0-6 and showing no signs of hope. Their goal for this Sunday should be to keep the Patriots under 60 points. If they do that, it'll be the only victory of the year... a moral one.
Fantasy Factors: Tom Brady (10)
Buffalo Bills vs Carolina Panthers
Bills: Their may actually be some hope for Terrell Owens this week as the Bills have switched quarterbacks. Now granted Ryan Fitzpatrick probably isn't what TO had in mind, but anyone has to be better than Trent Edwards. Unfortunately, the Panthers are really good against the pass and really good in general at home.
Panthers: DeAngelo Williams returned to his '08 form last week against the Bucs and should keep it rolling against a Bills team that gave up 318 yards on the ground last week to the Jets. Williams and Jonathan Stewart are both strong plays.
Fantasy Factors: Marshawn Lynch (7), DeAngelo Williams (10)
New York Jets vs Oakland Raiders
Jets: Last week they ran for over 300 yards and lost because Mark Sanchez didn't understand he's not supposed to give the ball to the guys in the other jerseys. This week, he'll be handing off to Thomas Jones and Leon Washington and seeing similar results. Now if he just stops himself from "sharing" with the other team...
Raiders: Coming off what will probably be their biggest win of the year, the Raiders will get the first crack at playing a full game against a Jets defense that is significantly weaker against the run than it was at this time last week with the injury to Kris Jenkins. Justin Fargas, you're up!
Fantasy Factors: Thomas Jones (9), Justin Fargas (7)
Chicago Bears vs Cincinnati Bengals
Bears: During the bye week, the Bears said they wanted to throw to the TE more often. Last week, they threw 8 passes to their TEs. The Bengals were killed last week by Owen Daniels and the week before by Todd Heap. Cmon guys, do I have to draw you a diagram? The Bengals have also lost their top pass rusher, so Jay Cutler will have all day to pick this defense apart.
Bengals: Its funny how everything changes in one week. The Bengals were in first place and an "up and coming" team. They lose to the Texans and they're the Bungles again. Cedric Benson will be running extra hard for this one and is probably their best option this week.
Fantasy Factors: Jay Cutler (8), Cedric Benson (7)
Atlanta Falcons vs Dallas Cowboys
Falcons: They're proving that last year wasn't a fluke, but now they have a tough couple of games coming up. This week they'll get a rested Cowboys team that has been preparing for them for two weeks. Next week they have a first place showdown with the Saints. Dallas hasn't been good against the run or the pass this season so it'll be interesting to see what they do.
Cowboys: Injured receiver Roy Williams is back to 100% percent, but Tony Romo may have found a new favorite WR in Miles Austin. As I mentioned in my notes earlier this week, Marion Barber is still the starter, but Tashard Choice should see an increase in touches as the coaching staff has been impressed with his explosiveness.
Fantasy Factors: Matt Ryan (7), Tony Romo (8)
New Orleans Saints vs Miami Dolphins
Saints: Sitting at 5-0, they head to the city with the only undefeated team in league history. The Phins have been a little soft against the pass this year and after this Sunday, they'll look really vulnerable against the pass. Brees and company will have another all out aerial assault as long as they don't get caught looking back or ahead.
Dolphins: If the Dolphins are going to be successful, they'll need to keep Drew Brees off the field. To do that, they'll need to run the football. With Chad Pennington gone for the season, they're relying on Ronnie Brown a lot and will have him running the Wildcat a lot more than usual.
Fantasy Factors: Drew Brees (9), Ronnie Brown (8)
Arizona Cardinals vs New York Giants
Cardinals: Kurt Warner will need to get some tips from Drew Brees on how he sliced and diced the NY secondary last week and he'll most likely have to do it without Anquan Boldin, who is a game time decision, but if he's that bad, how effective will he be. This will be a Larry Fitzgerald game.
Giants: With the exception of last week, the Cards have been awful against the pass. Eli Manning with his young group rising star receivers should be salivating with this matchup.
Fantasy Factors: Larry Fitzgerald (8), Eli Manning (9)
Philadelphia Eagles vs Washington Redskins
Eagles: The media is on Donovan McNabb's back again after his loss to the Raiders last week. How many times have we seen this before? McNabb has a bad game, media says McNabb stinks, he comes out the next week and lights the world on fire. As long as Michael Vick doesn't steal red zone plays from him, he'll be an "MVP candidate" again after this one.
Redskins: The Redskins have been very sketchy this year having lost games to the Lions and Chiefs. I don't see things getting much easier or any better. The offense is a disaster right now. Portis is playing like he's hurt, Campbell isn't playing like a starter and the receivers simply are not making many plays.
Fantasy Factors: Donovan McNabb (8), Clinton Portis (6)
Bye Week: Denver Broncos, Detroit Lions, Tennessee Titans, Seattle Seahawks, Jacksonville Jaguars, Baltimore Ravens
Oct 22 2009
- The Jets D/ST were dealt a heavy blow this weekend when they heard that DT Kris Jenkins will miss the remainder of the season. The Jets now have a huge hole in the middle of their defensive line and that doesn't bode well for them with Miami, Jacksonville and Carolina on the schedule soon.
(Photo by AP)
- Cardinals receiver Anquan Boldin is questionable for the Sunday night showdown against the Giants. Boldin is dealing with a sprained right ankle and its unclear just how quickly it will heal. Q is a tough guy and all, but he really shouldn't jeopardize his season playing on it.
- Donnie Avery of the Rams had an MRI on his hip done this week and the results came back negative. They're not sure if he'll be back this week, but his owners should only care about his availability for next week when they play the Lions.
- The Patriots are not saying much about Sammy Morris and his injured knee, but considering his missed the entire game on Sunday and he's missing practice can only lead me to believe he's out for this week against the Bucs. This gives Laurence Maroney a big opportunity to win the starting role again.
- Despite Marion Barber being back up to speed now, Tashard Choice is expected to get a bigger workload.
- Raiders RB Darren McFadden is expected to be back by Week 9.
- Eddie Royal didn't catch a single pass on MNF, yet came away with 12 fantasy points after returning a kickoff and punt for TDs. As neat as it is to have a receiver that can do that kind of thing for you, you really would like to see him catch a few passes.
- New England has seen enough of Joey Galloway. I kind of expected him to be somewhat of a sleeper this year, but he never really learned the offense and never got in sync with his teammates. While a lot of teams could use his services, up to this point, no one has contacted him.
Oct 20 2009
- You know the hockey world is upside down when the Phoenix Coyotes are not only tough to beat, but almost impossible to score against. Ilya Bryzgalov leads the league with a 1.14 GAA, a .953% and is 5-1. He was recently named the NHL's first star of the week. This won't last forever, but if you own Bryzgalov ride it out as long as you can, maybe even do a little bit of selling high.
(Photo by AP)
- Another surprise (sort of) in early part of the season is the play of Craig Anderson of the Avs. I've been a Craig Anderson fan for a couple years now and to me its not really that surprising. He posted a .935% two years ago and a .924% last year, both with the Panthers. This guy has proven he can handle a lot of rubber and is proving it again so far this year with a 6-1 record to go along with his 2.09 GAA and .935%.
- Staying with goalies, Ty Conklin posted his first shutout of the year against Anaheim on Saturday. How long can this guy split time or be a backup before someone finally gives him the reigns? As good as Chris Mason played for the Blues at the end of last year, Conklin should be their man.
- Probably the hottest line in hockey right now is the Anze Kopitar, Ryan Smyth, Justin Williams line. People that have followed me through from the chat to this blog know that I'm a big fan of Kopitar and have been singing his high praises for years. He's finally on a line that he has some chemistry with and is putting all that raw talent to good use.
- TB Lightning forward Alex Tanguay has been dropped to the third line after getting just one assist in seven games on Vincent Lecavalier's line. I doubt this move will last and they'll try to get him back on the top line again, but ultimately I see him being traded at the deadline at which his value could really rise.
- Speaking of Vinny, he has zero goals in 7 games thus far. Buy low, he'll turn it around at some point.
- Young blueliner Erik Johnson has been moved off the top power play unit for the Blues. Its still pretty early in the season so this move could be just to see how well the others do in that spot.
- We have a possible goaltending controversy in Chicago right now. Cristobal Huet is playing about as good (or bad) as we thought he would opening the door for rookie Antti Niemi. Niemi has drastically outperformed Huet to this point and if it continues, the Hawks will once again have their $5 mil goalie riding the pine.
- Its still really early to tell, but Scott Clemmensen looked good in his first game with the Panthers and Tomas Vokoun is looking at a timeshare already. If Clemmensen plays as well as he did last year with NJ, he'll get the majority of the starts.
- Bruins forward Milan Lucic has been placed on long term IR with a broken finger.
- I don't know what's going on with Wojtek Wolski, but its not good for him or his owners. For the second time this year he was benched by coach Joe Sacco. No reason has been given, but considering he has 7 points in his first 8 games, something has to be very wrong to be getting benched.
- After missing the last two games for Detroit, Pavel Datsyuk should be back in the lineup Thursday against the Coyotes.
- When your star goalie is struggling, you'll look for anything positive. Roberto Luongo gave up just one goal in a 2-1 win on Saturday. Okay, so he only faced 18 shots and it was the Wild. His owners should take whatever they can get out of him right now.
Oct 19 2009
Stars
Tom Brady - Everyone on the Stars list this week scored 30+ on a day that was a points fest in fantasy football. In a snow blizzard, Tom Brady racked up 380 passing yards and threw 6 TD passes. Five of those TD passes were in the 2nd quarter. The '07 Brady is back and next week they'll play the Buccaneers.
(Photo by AP)
Maurice Jones-Drew - For awhile it looked as though MJD was going to have another clunker, then he exploded. Jones-Drew finished with 133 yards rushing, 45 yards receiving and 3 TDs. Its a real simple equation for Jacksonville's OC, Jones-Drew + more touches = big points.
Ray Rice - Speaking of more touches leading to big points, Ray Rice had yet another big game yet only touched the ball 20 times (10 rushes, 10 receptions). He made the most of his chances though, rushing for 77 yards and 2 TDs while tacking on 117 receiving yards. He's currently on pace to break 2000 total yards.
Drew Brees - Going up against the vaunted undefeated Giants defense, I don't think anyone was expecting a big game. However at one point I thought to myself, "Geeez, is he going to get 600 yards?" Brees only ended up with 369 yards passing and only 4 TDs. Next week, the Saints head to Miami who has one of the poorer pass defenses in the league.
Randy Moss - With Brady having a big day, you know that Moss did as well. Moss caught 8 passes for 129 yards and 3 TDs in the Patriots rout of the Titans.
Stumblers
Matt Hasselbeck - Going up against the worst pass defense in football, Hasselbeck completed less than half of his passes, barely threw for over 100 yards, got picked off and fumbled. Now granted, his offensive line didn't do him any favors, but its the Cardinals. They were giving up an average of 300 passing yards.
Donnie Avery - After reappearing last week against Minnesota, Avery disappeared this week against Jacksonville. The erratic WR caught just one pass for 17 yards. Fortunately for his owners, it was for a TD.
Mark Sanchez - There's losing a game, giving away a game and then there's what Mark Sanchez did on Sunday. He was 10 for 29 for 119 yards and 5 INTs. He now has 1 TD and 8 INT in his last three games. Yikes
Eagles offense - Last week, they looked like Super Bowl contenders. This week, well... they lost to the Raiders. They're barely a football team. They failed to score a TD and David Akers missed two field goals that was the difference. Its the Raiders guys. Really?
Titans D/ST - 59 points allowed... need I say more?
Oct 16 2009
Houston Texans vs Cincinnati Bengals
Texans: After coming back from a 3 TD deficit against the Cardinals, they did something that their opponent this week knows all about... meltdown. Cincy may be 4-1, but they still have big holes in their defense and Steve Slaton will exploit them this weekend.
Bengals: You can't argue with results. They beat the Packers, Steelers and Ravens. If it wasn't for a fluke play against the Broncos in Week 1, they would be undefeated. Maybe the Bengals are starting to come around *waiting for the laughing to stop*. No seriously, the Bengals have done better than expected, but they're still the Bengals. Having said that, Cedric Benson should have a monster game against a Texans team that simply can't stop the run.
Fantasy Factors: Steve Slaton (10), Cedric Benson (9)
Detroit Lions vs Green Bay Packers
Lions: Once again we're going to play the guessing game for QB. Matt Stafford missed practice, as did Calvin Johnson. So it appears right now that it'll be Daunte Culpepper and Dennis Northcutt leading the team. And you thought the Lions couldn't be any worse.
Packers: Usually when you have a bye week, you like to face someone tough. Someone that requires an extra week of preparation. The Packers got the Detroit Lions a team that requires virtually no preparation. Aaron Rodgers and Greg Jennings are great plays this week and Ryan Grant shouldn't have a problem bulldozing through this defense.
Fantasy Factors: Kevin Smith (7), Aaron Rodgers (9)
St. Louis Rams vs Jacksonville Jaguars
Rams: They've been hurting for most of this season, but this week things could turn around, even if its just for a week. Marc Bulger is expected to start this week and Donnie Avery looks to be 100% now. Jacksonville has had a rough time against the pass this year, so Bulger and Avery are great one week pickups (or two week pickups since they play the Lions in a couple weeks). Steven Jackson, who has yet to score a TD this season, should finally hit pay dirt this week.
Jaguars: After getting thumped by the Seahawks 41-0, MJD started publicly criticizing the play calling. That's to be expected when you get blown out. Rest assured, they won't get blown out this week. MJD should get the rock at least 20 times and score twice this week.
Fantasy Factors: Donnie Avery (8), Maurice Jones-Drew (9)
Baltimore Ravens vs Minnesota Vikings
Ravens: After a loss to the Patriots and Bengals, the Ravens are suddenly struggling to find wins and won't have a easy task this Sunday when they play in Minnesota. With Flacco fading and Willis McGahee getting less carries, the Ravens will be hitting their panic button aka Ray Rice. Rice should see plenty of carries and passes coming his way this Sunday and hopefully that'll translate into points.
Vikings: This will be the first real test for this offense this year. Cedric Benson ran for over 100 yards last week against the Ravens, I don't see them allowing that to happen again even if it is Adrian Peterson carrying the ball. They'll need to rely on the arm of Brett Favre this weekend and I wouldn't be surprised if Chester Taylor gets bigger numbers than AP as he'll be relied on to slow down the Ravens pass rush.
Fantasy Factors: Ray Rice (8), Brett Favre (7)
New York Giants vs New Orleans Saints
Giants: Its the battle of the unbeatens, but its the Giants the look unbeatable. I'm not sold on the New Orleans defense just yet and they'll have a big test (no pun intended) this Sunday. Eli Manning is still hobbled a bit, but should be fine for Sunday. Ahmad Bradshaw is, surprisingly, the Giants leading rusher and should see more snaps this week.
Saints: They had two weeks to prepare for this matchup, so they should be fresh and ready to go. Pierre Thomas has been limited in practice, so we could see more of Mike Bell who's 100% again. The Saints will look to Jeremy Shockey a lot as the Giants are weak against TEs this year, plus, he'll want to show up his old team. He's predicting this will be his biggest game of the year. Nothing like putting a target on your back.
Fantasy Factors: Ahmad Bradshaw (8), Jeremy Shockey (7)
Cleveland Browns vs Pittsburgh Steelers
Browns: After beating the Buffalo Bills with just two complete passes from Derek Anderson, the Browns head to Pittsburgh to play the defending champs. I can guarantee you that if Anderson completes just two passes this week, it won't be pretty. Jamal Lewis found second life last week, but don't expect that to last this week.
Steelers: This week the Steelers will dominate the Browns for 3 quarters, stop playing, watch the Browns make a huge comeback leading to a dramatic ending that shouldn't be happening. Its the Steeler way in 2009. Seriously though, all Steelers are good fantasy options this week. Rashard Mendenhall was sick on Thursday and may not be healthy by Sunday. With Fast Willie back in the lineup, we could see him get the lionshare of the carries or at least half. Keep your eye on this one, Mewelde Moore might be a good option this weekend.
Fantasy Factors: Jamal Lewis (4), Ben Roethlisberger (9)
Carolina Panthers vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Panthers: The passing game and the running game have both struggled this year. Here come the Bucs to save the day! TB hasn't been able to stop anyone this year and even though the Panthers have been great at stopping themselves this year, the Bucs simply don't have the players to take advantage of Carolina's mistakes. Big day for DeAngelo Williams and possibly Mushin Muhammad. Last week, the Bucs double covered DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin had a big day.
Buccaneers: This could be the game Derrick Ward makes his presence felt for his new team. Ward looked good last week against the Eagles in their blowout loss and the Panthers are not very good against the run. However, if the Panthers are smart they'll load up the box and make first year starter Josh Johnson beat them.
Fantasy Factors: DeAngelo Williams (8), Derrick Ward (6)
Kansas City Chiefs vs Washington Redskins
Chiefs: The good news for the Chiefs is that at least they're tough to beat. They're not rolling over and dying like some teams *cough* Lions *cough*. With the Redskins underachieving and the Chiefs giving good teams a scare most weeks, I expect this to be a close one. However, I don't know of anyone on the KC o-line that can block Albert Haynesworth, so I don't see anyone being a big fantasy factor this week.
Redskins: It seems like every week the Chiefs turn someone into a fantasy star. Who will it be this week? Santana Moss? Antwaan Randle El? Malcolm Kelly? I'm going to play it safe this week and say Clinton Portis.
Fantasy Factors: Matt Cassel (7), Clinton Portis (8)
Philadelphia Eagles vs Oakland Raiders
Eagles: Donovan McNabb is back and the Eagles looks like SB contenders again. While McNabb went bonkers on the Bucs last week, Brian Westbrook should be the Eagles go to guy this weekend against the Raiders. Don't rule out big numbers for McNabb though, I expect him to have another solid outing.
Raiders: Last week's loss was embarrassing, but at least it wasn't at home. This week, they'll be at home and I don't see they're outlook being any better. Michael Bush was the lone bright spot for the Raiders last week and he should be the only one again this week.
Fantasy Factors: Brian Westbrook (8), Michael Bush (5)
Arizona Cardinals vs Seattle Seahawks
Cardinals: The Cardinals appeared to look like their old selves last week with Warner going for over 300 yards and Fitzgerald getting more involved in the offense. This week they'll head to Seattle that plays much better at home with Hasselbeck in the lineup, than without. I don't think their offense will have a tough time, but they'll need to keep scoring because their defense is last against the pass.
Seahawks: As I mentioned above, this has the makings of a shootout. Neither defense is good and both QB's can shred secondaries very easily. I expect another big game out of Matt Hasselbeck and TJ Houshmandzadeh as they try to out score Arizona's Red Storm.
Fantasy Factors: Anquan Boldin (9), TJ Houshmandzadeh (8)
Houston Oilers vs Boston Patriots
Titans: Remember the Titans? I remember them being a 13-3 football team, not an 0-5 beat down toy. I think Kerry Collins has shown that while he was great in relief last year, its time to go back to Vince Young and I'm not exactly VY's biggest fan either. The Patriots are not great against the run and Chris Johnson should see plenty of touches, but they don't have a passing game at all so I don't see much room for him to run.
Patriots: New England has to be licking their chops. They lost a tough one in Denver last week, but now have a chance to basically eliminate last year's top seed from playoff contention. The Titans have been bad against big plays this year and nobody excels at the big play better than Randy Moss. Moss has had two clunkers in a row, don't expect a third.
Fantasy Factors: Chris Johnson (7), Randy Moss (10)
Buffalo Bills vs New York Jets
Bills: Things wouldn't be so bad for Buffalo this year if they had a guy that could actually throw the football. They have good receivers, good RBs, but the QB play has been awful and the offensive line isn't helping much either. They had the Browns at home last week and only put up 3 points. This week they play on the road against one of the better defenses in the league this season. I'm not too optimistic for any Bills players this week.
Jets: After losing a tight one in Miami, the Jets get to take out their frustrations on the Buffalo Bills. Poor Bills. With two starting LBs out for the Bills, the Jets should have no problem pounding the football all day long, but that doesn't mean newly acquired Braylon Edwards won't make an impact. The Jets defense is a good play this week as well.
Fantasy Factors: Marshawn Lynch (6), Thomas Jones (8)
Chicago Bears vs Atlanta Falcons
Bears: The week off hopefully did the Bears good because they'll face an Atlanta offense that is smokin right now. Fortunately, Atlanta's defense isn't that great, so Jay Cutler should be able to exploit their secondary. Expect Greg Olsen to get more involved in the offense as the Bears OC has been quoted saying that he wants to get back to this being Greg Olsen's "breakout year".
Falcons: As mentioned, this offense is red hot and the hurt that they put on SF's defense last week proves it. This offense is very complete with Matt Ryan using all of his weapons really well and Michael Turner, just being Michael Turner. The Bears are not great against the pass, so Ryan will attack through the air and that could lead to another big week for Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez.
Fantasy Factors: Jay Cutler (8), Matt Ryan (8)
Denver Broncos vs San Diego Chargers
Broncos: Without Jay Cutler this rivalry isn't as good as it once was. However, without Jay Cutler, the Broncos are 5-0 with a chance to take a strangle hold of the division if they can beat San Diego. Kyle Orton is managing the offense well, Brandon Marshall is motivated again, the running game is thriving behind Knownshon Moreno and the defense looks as good as ever.
Chargers: With the running game in shambles, Philip Rivers will need to take the air if the Chargers have any chance this week. However, he'll need to rely on more people than just Vincent Jackson who will be covered all day long by Champ Bailey. Antonio Gates anyone?
Fantasy Factors: Knowshon Moreno (8), Philip Rivers (7)
Bye Week: Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers
Oct 14 2009
- The Dolphins made a statement when they ran all over the Jets on Monday night. Ronnie Brown and the Wildcat Offense plowed through the Jets tough defense with Chad Henne making just his second career start. They ran the Wildcat offense 18 times on Monday night and it worked well against a good defense, proving that Brown does still have fantasy value even without a top notch QB under center.
- Its only Wednesday, but its looking unlikely that Calvin Johnson will suit up for the Lions against Green Bay this Sunday. This could be a small boost for Dennis Northcutt who had a nice game against the Steelers last week.
- The Rams should have starting QB Marc Bulger back in the lineup barring any setbacks in practice this week. St. Louis will head to Jacksonville who has one of the worst pass defenses in the league.
- Well it didn't take long for Braylon Edwards to get adjusted to the team and play up to his potential. He caught 5 passes for 64 yards and a TD (almost 2 TDs) and was targeted nine times. He's finally a big player in the fantasy world.
- Matt Stover used to kick for Baltimore, but now he'll kick for the Colts. Adam Vinatieri will be out for the next 6 weeks after undergoing surgery on his right knee. NASA was very pleased to hear about this.
- The Steelers D/ST took a shot when they found out Aaron Smith will be out for the remainder of the year with a shoulder injury. The defense won't be what it used to be, but it will still be very good in comparison to the rest of the league.
- Miles Austin of the Cowboys, who had a huge game in KC, will be worked into offense more and is a hot pick up in fantasy leagues everywhere.
- Good news for the Saints is bad news for fantasy owners. With Pierre Thomas and Mike Bell both healthy, New Orleans plans on rotating the two and split carries. Factor in Reggie Bush as well and this really hurts the individual players values.
- Speaking of timeshares, Brian Westbrook and LeSean McCoy are expected to split time in the Philly backfield. This should give Westbrook a break, McCoy more touches and fantasy owners of both players gray hair.
- As if their season could be any worse, the Bills D/ST will no longer have Marcus Buggs or Kawika Mitchell. They're already thin at LB so this may open the flood gates and make them a very easy team to run on for the remainder of the season.
- Eddie Royal decided to show up this season. He caught 10 passes against the Patriots last Sunday and it could be a precursor of things to come... or a fluke. With Brandon Marshall playing like an elite receiver again and the Broncos not passing nearly as much as they did last year, Royal will have a tough time matching his '08 numbers.
- For you disgruntled Terrell Owens owners, don't get your hopes up for a trade. The Bills are said not to be interested in trading their prize free agent acquisition. He's currently on pace for just 647 yards and 4 TDs and the schedule gets tougher now. His owners better hope the Bills reconsider trading him.
- The Browns announced that Derek Anderson will keep his starting job while its being rumored that Brady Quinn is on the trading block. I guess completing just two passes against the Bills is good enough for Cleveland.
- The Cardinals are planning on getting Beanie Wells more involved on passing downs. He's coming around slowly, but there's a long way to go in this season and it wouldn't surprise me to see him start by the end of the year.
- Last and definitely least, Junior Seau has returned to the Patriots D/ST. Apparently, Dick Butkus wanted too much money.
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