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March 8, 2008

3rd Year Wide Receivers

The theory in football is that for the receiver position it usually takes a player 3 seasons to catch on and break out in the league. This usually about the point were you can start to label a player as bust or not. Players last year that broke out in their 3rd season were Braylon Edwards and Roddy White. Chris Henry had some success after he returned from his suspension. Roydell Williams had a decent season and did improve on his numbers. Receivers such as Troy Williamson, Mike Williams, Matt Jones and Mark Clayton all first round picks have all been busts so far in their careers. None show much or any promise prior to their 3rd season.

The 2006 NFL Draft class for receivers have had some breakout players that most people are well aware of. Players like Santonio Holmes, Marques Colston, Greg Jennings, and Brandon Marshall have already had fantasy success early in their careers and all should go within the first few rounds. This class does have some star players, but overall doesn’t have much depth. Some like Chad Jackson, Sinorice Moss, and Devin Hester haven’t gotten much playing time due to injuries or inability to get on the field.

Jackson was much hyped coming into New England but has been plagued by knee injuries. With Donte’ Stallworth gone to Cleveland, Jackson will compete for that 3rd or 4th option for Tom Brady. If he can get healthy Jackson has huge upside and is a steal late in the draft or on the waiver wire.

Sinorice Moss doesn’t figure to be a factor this season for the Giants. They have Burress, Toomer, and second year guy Steve Smith who showed much promise as a rookie. Moss in undraftable at this point

Hester doesn’t have much experience as a receiver and is too raw to be a consistent receiver in the league. He does have the explosiveness and playmaking ability to get better and still warrants consideration as a late flyer in the final rounds.

A name to keep an eye on is Derek Hagan for Miami. Hagan has good size at 6’2 and should improve on his 29 catches for 373 yards and 2 TD’s. Most notably Hagan had a good game against Buffalo in week 14 with 8 catches for 93 yard. Hagan is not going to set the league on fire or break any records but he is a good value later in the draft and could be a #3 or #4 flex option for deep leagues if the 3rd year theory holds.


Posted by Modelo on March 8, 2008 7:56 PM | | Comments (0)

September 26, 2007

Post-Week 3 Injury Report

Week 3 Injuries for Week 4

Doubtful / Out:

Andre Johnson WR Texans – Doubtful Knee Sprain – Tough blow to the Texans and anyone who has him on there team. It looks like at least 2 weeks depending on the swelling. Week 4 does not look so good.

Eddie Kennison WR Chiefs- OUT Hamstring – Still working on the recovery from week one. He will not play week 4.

Deuce McAllister RB Saints – Out ACL – The phrase the deuce is loose will no longer be made in 2007. ACL is a season ending injury.

Steven Jackson RB Rams – Out Groin – He tore his groin against the mighty Bucs. He will sit out week 4 of the 2007 season. Stay tuned to when this Ram will return.


Questionable:

Steve McNair QB Ravens – Questionable Groin – Hopefully you have established another QB as your starter already. Steer clear of the old man.

J.P. Losman QB Bills – Questionable Knee – He went out the first drive of the game with a knee injury. As we receive more info we will update the severity of the injury.

Calvin Johnson WE Loins – Questionable Back – With a spectacular catch on Sunday he landed wrong and bruised his back. With a bad lower back bruise it will be tough for him to walk much less run and jump to catch Kitna’s lasers. Look back for more info as the week moves forward to see if he plays Sunday.

Ahman Green RB Texans – Questionable Knee – His left knee was checked out with an MRI. Everything looked good. He has a lot of swelling. He states that he is taking it day by day.

Tavaris Jackson QB Vikings- Questionable Groin – He did not play last week against the Chiefs. Coach Childress said on Monday that Jackson is “still up in the air”. If he does not play next week against the Packers he will have been out for three weeks. Look to Holcomb to play this week. After the Packers they have a bye week.

Chester Taylor RB Vikings – Questionable Hip – This will count as the third week out if he does not play. Coach Childress is optimistic to see him on the field this week.

Brian Westbrook RB Eagles – Questionable Abdomen – Initial reports stated that he had a rib injury. The official site stated that it was actually an abdomen strain. Look to sit him week 4.

Maurice Morris RB Seahawks – Questionable Hip – It looks as though he will be back on the roster for week 4. Check back for more updates.

Vernon Davis TE 49ers – Questionable Knee – It looks like he will miss at least 2 weeks.


Probable:

Kevin Jones RB Lions- Probable Foot – Mr. Jones had limited play on the field for week 3. He stated that his foot felt fine and is looking forward to a bigger load week 4.

Anquan Boldin WR Cardinals – Probable Hip – Coach Whisenhunt was not sure the status of his injury. The report states that it was minor.

Jay Cutler QB Broncos – Probable Ankle – Reports states that he has a minor ankle sprain. He states that he will not miss the game against the Colts.

Shawn Alexander RB Seahawks – Probable Wrist – He has a cracked bone in his left wrist. So far this season he is tracking his second best season rushing in his career. I don’t think the wrist is holding him back too much.


Day to Day:

Jake Delhomme QB Carolina – Day to Day Elbow – David Carr finished that game for Delhomme last week against Atlanta. Delhomme states that his strained elbow is fine and that he will be ok to play against Tampa Bay.

Todd Heap TE Ravens – Day to Day head – Heap got hit by Adrian Wilson in Sunday’s game giving him a mild concussion. His production and his work ethic will not allow him to miss Sunday’s game. Make sure you keep him in this week against the browns. His head will be fine.

Marc Bulger QB Rams- Day to Day Ribs- The ribs played a factor with the small production against the Bucs. He will be out there next week in Dallas.

Kellen Winslow TE Browns – Day to Day Shoulder – On the final drive in Oakland, Winslow bruised his shoulder. In the locker room Winslow stated that he is fine and he will play next week against the Ravens.

Posted by The Goose - Fantasy Analyst on September 26, 2007 1:20 AM | | Comments (0)

September 25, 2007

Waiver Wire Post-Week 3 (9/25)

RB DeShaun Foster (CAR): For whatever reason Foster is still available in many leagues; he is only owned in 42% of yahoo leagues. Against the Falcons on Sunday he had 22 carries for 122 yards and a score. Second year back DeAngelo Williams doesn’t appear to be a threat as he is not getting as many touches. Grab him now if he is available, he could be a beast the rest of the season if he can stay healthy.

RB Sammy Morris (NE): For the second straight week Morris has found the end zone and has also had 10+ carries in every game this season. Morris has been a nightmare to Maroney owners this season and continues to have solid games in deep leagues as a flex player.

RB Earnest Graham (TB): Graham came out of nowhere on Sunday to torch the Rams for 75 yards and 2 scores on 8 carries. This does appear to be a one game wonder type performance but grab him just in case brittle Cadillac Williams goes down. Jon Gruden did say after the game that he needs to find a way to get the ball in Graham’s hands more.

RB Aaron Stecker (NO): With Deuce McAllister out for the season with a torn ACL in his left knee, Stecker will see his role increase dramatically. Stecker should get around 15 touches a games, as Reggie Bush has never carried the workload himself at the NFL or college level.

RB Brian Leonard (STL): The rookie out of Rutgers has been named the starter for Week 4 against the Cowboys. With starter Steven Jackson out for the next 2-3 weeks with a pulled groin, Leonard should get around 20-25 touches during that time. He is a big back with excellend hands catching out of the backfield.

RB Ron Dayne (HOU): With Ahman Green's status for week 4 against the Falcons unknown, Dayne will be the Texans starter by default. Grab Dayne and use him if one of your # 2 or 3 backs is on a bye. Check back for updates on the status of the Texans backfield for Sunday.

RB Kenny Watson (CIN): Rudi Johnson's status for the Monday night game against the Patriots is very uncertain. Watson would be the teams starter if Rudi can't go with his injured hamstring. Marvin Lewis said on Tuesday that Rudi is a guy who the team is unsure about. Hamstrings are a lingering injury and Watson could see plenty of action for the foreseable future.

WR Dwayne Bowe (KC): The rookie looked impressive on Sunday scoring for the second straight week. Bowe had 5 catches for 71 yards and appears to be a reliable play after holding out during most of training camp. Bowe has much more value in keeper leagues.

WR Greg Jennings (GB): After a mass dropping of Jennings over the past two weeks, Jennings is a must grab if he is available. The second year WR had 4 catches for 82 yards and a score in his first game of the year. Farve has been on fire this year and Jennings looks to be back on track to having the year everyone thought he would have.

WR Roddy White (ATL): White had what was hopefully a breakout game Sunday with 7 catches for 127 yards and a score. The former first round pick in '05 appears to have a good connection with Harrington and is getting targeted more in the passing game each week. Grab the third year wide-out and hope he can continue his progression.

Posted by Modelo on September 25, 2007 8:15 PM | | Comments (0)

September 19, 2007

Post-Week 2 Injury Report

Week 3 Update 9/21:

LaMont Jordan RB Oak- The Sacramento Bee is reporting that Jordan has not practiced the past two days with a sore back and will most likely be a game time decision. This is a tough blow for Jordan owners as he has looked good in his first two starts. Check back on The Sunday Morning Updates for his Week 3 status.

NFL Injuries for week 3: 09/18/07

Doubtful / Out:

Andre Johnson WR Texans – Doubtful Knee Sprain – Tough blow to the Texans and anyone who has him on there team. It looks like at least 2 weeks depending on the swelling. Count him out for sure against the Colts.

Eddie Kennison WR Chiefs- OUT Hamstring – Still working on the recovery from week one. He will not play week 3

D.J. Hackett WR Seahawks- Out Ankle- The high ankle sprain will keep himout for about a month.


Questionable:

Greg Jennings WR Packers – Questionable Hamstring – he has missed the last two weeks with the hamstring injury. If he practices it won’t be till later in the week.

Steve McNair QB Ravens – Questionable Groin – Hopefully you have established another QB as your starter already. Steer clear of the old man.

Troy Williamson WR Vikings – Questionable Hamstring- Hami’s are tough to call. It may be a good idea to start another receiver for this week if you have one.

T.J. Houshmandzadeh WR Bengals – Probable Knee – HE will play especially after last weeks performance. His stats will suffer a bit, but it is worth having him in with Carson throwing to him.


Probable:

Kevin Jones RB Lions- Probable Foot – As long as he continues to recover well he should return for week 3 for at least a few series.

Jon Kitna QB Lions – Probable Head- He suffered from a concussion in sudays game. He claims it went away and was able to go back in. this lion will find the field Sunday no matter what.

T.J. Ducket RB Lions – Probable Ankle – He sprained it in week one. He was in active week two. He my see some carries in week three. Definatly a week play until we know for sure.


Day to Day:

Vernand Morency RB Packers – Day to Day knee – He is going to try to practice this week. Check back later in the week for more news.


Tavaris Jackson QB Vikings- day to day Groin – He left the game at the beginning of OT Sunday. He is certain to miss some practice. Check back later in the week to see his updated status.

Chester Taylor RB Vikings- day to day Oblique- His MRI in week 1 showed a bruise on his oblique. He did not play week two. We will update his status as the week moves forward.

Plaxico Burress WR Giants- Day to Day finger/ankle- This warrior has been banged up for the last two weeks. He states that he is going to play. Count on it.

Chad Pennington QB Jets- Day to Day Ankle- He hurt his ankle week one. Did not play week 2 but could have. He made a comment that he can play. He will most likely start week 3. Check back for more updates.

Brian Westbrook RB Eagles- Day to Day Knee- He strained his knee in the Monday game against the Redskins. Andy Reid says that he is fine and that he will play week 3.


Marc Bulger QB Rams- Day to Day Ribs/knee- With the loss of his Orlando Pace Bulger is getting beat up. His injuries are not enough to keep him out of week 3.

Patrick Crayton WR Cowboys- Day to day Finger – The dislocated finger is a painful injury to a wide out. Look at our update later in the week to asses his play time.

Posted by The Goose - Fantasy Analyst on September 19, 2007 12:09 AM |

September 15, 2007

Saturday Player Notes

Eli Manning: Questionable, ugh. Nobody will know until Sunday what's going on here.
Our Take: The smart money says look elsewhere at QB even if Manning does start.

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Drew Bennett: Drew Bennett will start Sunday for the St. Louis Rams.
Our Take: We want to see one game before we give the green light to start, but if you like rolling the dice, he's got some upside.

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Greg Jennings: Missed practice on Friday and will probably not play on Sunday.
Our Take: Keep him on your bench.

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The Housh: He is slated to start Week 2
Our Take: Get ready for a season of wondering whether his knee will keep him from the lineup.

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Chester Taylor: He is technically questionable for the game, but with an oblique injury, he is unlikely to be a meaningful contributor even if he does play.
Our Take: We hope your season wasn't riding on Chester Taylor, if so, our condolences. To make yourself feel better, we suggest finding the guy in your league who reached on Adrian Peterson and kicking him in the groin.

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Shaun Alexander: Will play, but with a brace on his sprained left wrist.
Our Take: You have to start him, so set your lineup and cross your fingers.

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Josh McCown / Daunte Culpepper: It looks like Culpepper will start this Sunday for the Raiders, as McCown has a foot injury.
Our Take: Bump up the Denver Defense about 10 notches.

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T.J. Duckett / Tatum Bell / Kevin Jones: Duckett is out for Sunday's game, as is Kevin Jones. That means Bell will carry the load for one more week at least. Jones is shooting for a week 3 return.
Our Take: Although we here at FFAll-Stars.com have Bell and Jones handcuffed in every league we're in, we'd like Jones to take it slow and not dilute the carries and catches in Detroit. At any rate, start Bell with confidence this week.

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Alge Crumpler: He missed practice this week, but reports out of Atlanta state that he will start week 2.
Our Take: If he's your guy, start him.

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Bryant Johnson: His hamstring is ailing, and so is your team if he's anything but a bench player.
Our Take: The Cardinals looked out of sync last week and Johnson is hurt. Don't start him.

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Eric Parker: He has been ruled out of Week 2.
Our Take: Um, okay.

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Kyle Boller / Steve McNair: It appears that Kyle Boller will start Sunday, although this has not been confirmed by the team.
Our Take: McNair, Boller, the Jets Defense, it's a cornucopia of mediocrity! We see no real change in the values of McGahee, Clayton and Mason this week.

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Greg Olsen: Most likely will not be in the lineup this Sunday.
Our Take: Continue to email and harass the guy in your league who picked Olsen 3 rounds too soon.

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Vernand Morency: Still banged up, he couldn't finish practice on Thursday because of his knee.
Our Take: Brandon Jackson is the starter and it doesn't appear that Morency will be giving him much trouble for a while.

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Antonio Gates: Gates is ready to go this Sunday, despite missing practice this week with a sore back.
Our Take: We're long in Gates, so as long as he's healthy we don't mind seeing the Chargers give him a day off or two. Start him with confidence.

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Cadillac Williams / Michael Pittman: Cadillac is apparently going to try playing this Sunday, despite having bruised ribs.
Our Take: We like Pittman better here, especially in PPR leagues. Even if Caddy starts, Pittman will make the catches and if Caddy can't finish the game, Pittman will shoulder the load.

Posted by The Goose - Fantasy Analyst on September 15, 2007 2:06 PM |

September 13, 2007

Injury Impact - Orlando Pace

The St. Louis Rams All-World Left Tackle Orlando Pace is done for the year with a torn labrum. So what impact does this have on the Fantasy Football world? Not much. Pace missed the last 7 games of last year due to injury, and during that time, Steven Jackson had his biggest games, especially in PPR leagues. Marc Bulger's production last year was all over the map regardless of whether Pace was in there. So, if you're a Bulger or Jackson owner getting trade offers citing the loss of Pace, unless Tomlinson is involved in the deal, confidently click "deny".

Posted by The Goose - Fantasy Analyst on September 13, 2007 3:32 PM |

September 11, 2007

Week 1 Injury Report (updated 9/12/07)

QB Eli Manning (NYG): The team is reporting that Eli suffered a bruised right shoulder in Sunday Night’s loss the Cowboys and is currently listed as day to day. However, ESPN is speculating that Eli could miss up to 4 weeks. Either way this is not good for fantasy owners of Eli, especially after his impressive performance with 4 TD’s in Week 1. If Eli is your starting QB, make plans now for an alternative.
Updated 9/12/07: Manning did some light throwing at practice and remains a question mark for Sunday. Make other plans at QB for now.

RB Brandon Jacobs (NYG): The Giants got more bad news with the injury of Jacobs on Sunday as he is expected to miss 3-5 weeks with a sprained MCL. Derrick Ward looked solid in filling in and is expected to share time with fullback Reuben Droughns for the next few weeks until Jacobs returns. If either Droughns or Ward is available on the waiver wire they are must grabs until Jacobs comes back from injury, although it seems Ward has more value in PPR leagues.

RB Cadillac Williams (TB): The injury bug seems to have struck Cadillac once again as he left Sunday’s game in the 3rd quarter against Seattle with bruised ribs. Williams is unlikely to play Sunday at home against New Orleans, therefore backups Earnest Graham and fullback Michael Pittman will be carrying the load in Williams’ place. This makes Graham and Pittman an attractive option as a #3 RB option, not only for week 2 but possibly all season long as this could be a recurring theme.
Updated 9/12/07: Reports from Tampa state that Cadillac may play in Week 2. He has bruised ribs but stated that he is feeling much better. This complicates the backfield for Fantasy purposes, as either back would make a strong play against a weak New Orleans D. Without knowing Cadillac's status, it's hard to green light either back. Check back here closer to game time for our verdict.


WR Eddie Kennison (KC): Kennison is expected to miss two weeks with a pulled right hamstring he injured on the first play of the game against Houston in week 1. It is expected rookie WR Dwayne Bowe will start in his place. However, we recommend not starting Bowe until he shows he (and the KC offense) can produce.

WR Greg Jennings (GB): After sitting out week 1 with a pulled hamstring, Jennings is expected to play this coming Sunday @ Dallas. The Packers and Jennings have high expectations for the second year wide out and could have a good day against a Dallas secondary that got torched by the Giants passing attack in week 1.

RB TJ Duckett (DET): Duckett’s status for week 2 is unclear as he is trying to recover from a high ankle sprain. Avoid starting Duckett any week regardless, his only value is in touchdown heavy leagues.

WR Terry Glenn (DAL): Glenn is still seeking opinions and deciding whether to have micro-fracture surgery on his right knee that would likely end his season. Patrick Crayton is starting in his place and shows promise as a starting receiver opposite Terrell Owens. If possible, grab Crayton as a potential break-out receiver.

QB Chad Pennington (NYJ): Pennington was having a good start to his season until he injured his right ankle against the Patriots. It looks like second year back up Kellen Clemens will get his first start Sunday @ Baltimore. Avoid both QB’s this week as neither of them will produce much against the Ravens defense, but if Pennington misses significant time, look at Clemens as he has some favorable matchups down the road.

Updated 9/13/07: Kellen Clemens will start this weekend against Baltimore. Govern yourself accordingly.

K Josh Scobee (JAC): Scobee will miss 3 to 6 weeks with a quadriceps injury. John Carney will kick in his place.

Check back here throughout the week, as we will update these and other injuries as news becomes available!

Posted by Modelo on September 11, 2007 7:24 PM |

September 7, 2007

Warrick Dunn named Starting RB

The starting running back for the Atlanta Falcons will be Warrick Dunn, as announced by head coach Bobby Petrino. It still remains to be seen how many touches Jerious Norwood will get; Norwood is consistently being drafted ahead of Dunn. Both of these backs are risky this season, as they will be splitting carries in a highly suspect offense. Draft either of these backs for depth only.

Posted by The Goose - Fantasy Analyst on September 7, 2007 3:51 PM |

September 5, 2007

“It’s Not All L.J.”

According to Chiefs Head Coach Herman Edwards, Larry Johnson will not be carrying the full load until he is ready after his 25 day holdout. Edwards was quoted on Tuesday saying, "Larry is going to be on a little bit of a leash early," and noted later, "He has to get his legs underneath him. Michael's healthy, which is good. We feel very comfortable with the runners we have now. It's not all on L.J., which is good."

This does not affect Johnson’s status as he should never be out of your starting lineup, but you should check the waiver wire and pick Bennett up if he is available. He could be a nice option early on in the season as a 3rd or 4th running back.

Posted by Modelo on September 5, 2007 9:20 PM |

Lions to employ backfield committee?

Reports out of Detroit are that the Lions are considering using both Tatum Bell and T.J. Duckett at RB while awaiting Kevin Jones to return from injury.

Fear not Bell owners, Duckett won't take any catches away from Tatum, and he likely won't take any carries away from him once Duckett establishes a 2.4 yard per carry average.

Posted by The Goose - Fantasy Analyst on September 5, 2007 8:33 PM |

Raiders' Starting QB still a mystery; Bigger mystery: Does anyone care?

Raiders' Coach Lane Kiffin has apparently informed both Daunte Culpepper and Josh McCown who will be starting at Quarterback on Sunday, but is keeping it a secret from the public. If you are worried about which one will start because it impacts your fantasy football team, you may want to check out the waiver wire.

Posted by The Goose - Fantasy Analyst on September 5, 2007 3:31 PM |

July 18, 2007

Vick Indicted

News: Michael Vick has been indicted by a grand jury for his involvement in a dog fighting operation.

Fantasy Impact: Bear in mind that an indictment is not a finding of guilt, only that there is enough evidence to proceed with a criminal case against him. Also bear in mind that Pacman Jones was suspended for the season based on ARRESTS, which are even lower on the totem pole than an indictment. We'll see now whether NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is going to continue with his Draconian rule, or whether he's going to come up with some reason around suspending the Falcon's franchise player. Either way, I'd only take Vick as a 2nd fantasy QB, as he may miss significant time this season. In keeper or dynasty leagues, if you feel like rolling the dice, you might be able to buy low right now, as any suspension Vick receives will most likely not end his career.

Visit our sister site at: http://www.fantasyfootballallstars.com

Posted by The Goose - Fantasy Analyst on July 18, 2007 3:16 PM |

July 15, 2007

Chris Chambers learns about the DUI decimal system

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Chris Chambers was arrested in North Carolina for DUI early Saturday.

Fantasy Impact: With the NFL handing out suspensions like candy for this stuff, keep your eye on this situation. You will want to check Chambers's status immediately before your fantasy drafts. If his status is still uncertain or if he will be suspended, bump him down a few slots and bump Ted Ginn up a few.

Be sure to check out our sister site at: http://www.fantasyfootballallstars.com

Posted by The Goose - Fantasy Analyst on July 15, 2007 12:30 PM |

June 8, 2007

Culpepper Likely out of Miami

Since the acquisition of QB Trent Green this week the Dolphins have made it clear to Culpepper that he will be either traded or released by this end of this week before the start of mini-camp. According to the three time pro bowler, the Dolphins have told him that they “are going in a different direction at the QB position.” Miami has recently signed backup QB Cleo Lemon to a one year deal and chose BYU QB John Beck in the second round of this years’ draft. The Dolphins gave up a second round pick in a trade last off-season with Minnesota to acquire Culpepper who was due to make 5.5 million dollars this season. The problem with Culpepper is his knee never fully recovered when he returned to action last season after tearing three of four ligaments in his right knee in '05. There is much speculation that his knee will never fully recover and most clubs are not willing to pay him the money he wants to most likely be a backup. Teams rumored to be interested in the 30 year old Culpepper are Detroit, Jacksonville, St. Louis, and Kansas City.

Posted by Modelo on June 8, 2007 12:45 AM |

June 4, 2007

Read My Lips: No New Taxes

Or maybe this should be titled, "No New Catches." Every year we hear how one guy is gonna get more involved in the offense, or that a coach is going to change up the gameplan. It's all BS.

Coaches say all kinds of things in the offseason, like Herm Edwards saying that Larry Johnson is going to catch more balls. The problem is that once the season gets into full swing, these guys always go back to their old ways. The reason is that any drastic or even perceivable changes in the gameplan that don't work will get pinned on the coach. But if they are conservative and stay mired in their ways, they have a myriad of options to place the blame. After all, they hired him because of his style, so it can't be the gameplan. It must be that the players didn't execute, or the owner didn't give him the right players, or the fans didn't cheer loud enough, or whatever else they can come up with to divert attention from the fact that it's them that can't do a basic coach's function like manage a clock. (Ahem! Herm Edwards...)

Herm can say whatever he wants, and you can take Larry ahead of PPR machines like Westbrook or Bush, I just hope you pick in front of me.

Posted by The Goose - Fantasy Analyst on June 4, 2007 1:41 AM |

June 2, 2007

LJ to Catch 60?...Sounds Vaguely Familiar

Hey Goose, remember the LJ Debate? Check out the latest - sounds like Stracke knows what he’s talking about:

Chiefs want RB Johnson more involved in pass game
Written by: Jason King ¦ 5/31/2007
Source: www.kansascity.com
One year after setting an NFL record with 416 carries, Chiefs All-Pro Larry Johnson will likely become an ever bigger part of Kansas City's offense in 2007.

So says head coach Herm Edwards, who on Wednesday expressed his intentions to get Johnson more touches not as a tailback - but as a receiver.

"That's the next step in his development as a running back in this league: His ability to come out of the backfield running routes," Edwards said. "We need to get the ball to our backs a little more than we did last year."

Johnson caught a respectable 41 passes for 410 yards in 2006, but Edwards said that number should rise to at least 60 this season. He said Johnson's bullish running style and 6-foot-1, 230-pound frame are ideal for a back who doubles as a receiver.

"If you've got athletic players like Larry who can catch the ball out of the backfield, they can make plays," Edwards said. "If he catches 60 passes to me it's like an extended run. It's almost like a toss play.

"He's out of harm's way and he's in the secondary already when he gets the ball, so he doesn't have to run through the defensive line. When you can do that with a guy who has some speed and is hard to tackle already in the open field because he's so big and strong, it gives you another weapon."

Of course, before he begins to worry about gaining yards, Johnson has to catch the ball first. Simple as the task may seem, it's not always easy for running backs - especially those who haven't been utilized in such a fashion before.

Johnson's backup, Michael Bennett, said he caught just one pass during his collegiate career before becoming more of a receiving threat with the Minnesota Vikings, his former team.

"Hopefully they'll use it a lot here, too," Bennett said. "With the type of offense we have, everyone is looking for the run. It'd be a great thing to get the ball out of the backfield, that way we can keep the defense honest.

"It's really just a matter of getting used to it," Bennett said. "With catching, it's just got to become a habit. I think we all catch the ball pretty well out of the backfield."

That includes Johnson, who's caught 74 passes the last two years. He also snared 41 passes as a senior at Penn State.

Edwards said it's been obvious during the Chiefs' organized team activities the last two weeks that Johnson is focused on enhancing his role as a receiver.

"He's been the leader of the backs," Edwards said. "He's finishing all his plays. He's very conscientious of coming out of the backfield and being a productive pass-catcher. He's working on being more defined in his routes."

Posted by The Professor - Fantasy Analyst on June 2, 2007 5:33 AM |

May 31, 2007

Adrian Peterson or Marshawn Lynch

There is a case to be made for either rookie on who you should take first. Lynch will be getting most of the carries himself in Buffalo, while Peterson will be splitting carries with Chester Taylor in Minnesota. If you are in a regular draft league or a keeper/dynasty league I would still value Peterson higher. It’s hard to imagine how Lynch could put up much better numbers than the recently departed McGahee did with the same bad offensive line. McGahee averaged less than 4 yards a carry for the past two seasons and had only 11 touchdowns combined. Think of who Peterson will be running behind on the left side; Bryant McKinnie at Tackle, Steve Hutchinson at guard, Matt Birk anchoring at center, and Tony Richardson leading the way at fullback. I see Peterson splitting carries for the first half of the season, but eventually taking over as the #1 back by mid-season. Peterson does have the injury concerns, but I am not overly concerned with that, as Lynch has character issues from his past. I am projecting Peterson to have a solid rookie year with his numbers to be around 1,200 total yards and 8 touchdowns and Lynch having a much tougher road in Buffalo until they can get a better o-line and supporting cast.

Posted by Modelo on May 31, 2007 1:11 AM |

May 29, 2007

CALVIN JOHNSON = Fantasy Football $$$

So now we know where the rookie falls in the 2007 NFL Draft. Detroit has taken another receiver, who would have thought. As a FF owner the question becomes, Do I draft Calvin Johnson for my team and when?


Depending on the type of league you are a part of, the answer is most likely YES! This 6’5 239lbs freak of nature is going to compliment Roy Williams and new found glory Mike Furry. A keeper league will most likely prove to cost you mounds of dollars due to the hype, however in a traditional league where do you draft him? Keep an eye on how the draft is proceeding and what the other owners are targeting. At the end of the day Calvin Johnson will prove to put up some serious numbers as a rookie no matter where you take him. Even with Williams and Furry he has the potential to start as #2 or even as the #1 as the season moves on. Kitna has the experience to spread the ball around, but will maintain a favorite target. Defenses have seen the tape on the two featured wide outs with Detroit. They have not seen much on this Stud. It’s better to have him on your team as he sets records as a rookie. Hype or not, he is the real deal! Do I dare to throw out the TO comparison or is it too early?


With all that is being said, nothing is being said as a negative. If you are planning on making it to the playoffs this year in your league. You better take a hard look at Calvin Johnson. Another VEGAS PETE prediction and you have heard it hear first. Calvin Johnson will be considered for rookie of the year.

Does he have the NUTS to take the title? I believe he does! You can take that to Vegas and bet on it.

Posted by Vegas Pete on May 29, 2007 4:26 PM |

May 22, 2007

Wide Receiver Sleepers

Wide Receiver Sleepers
Here are a few wide receivers that you are going to want to keep an eye on that should be available in the later rounds. Some are rookies, others are some younger players who are a little under the radar and primed for a breakout season.

-Anthony Gonzalez, IND
-Greg Jennings, GB
-D.J. Hackett, SEA
-Devery Henderson, NO
-Brandon Jones, TEN
-Kevin Curtis, PHI
-Sydney Rice, MIN
-Maurice Stovall, TB
-Brandon Marshall, DEN
-Ashley Lelie, SF

Posted by Modelo on May 22, 2007 3:23 AM |

May 21, 2007

Running Back Rankings: The Answer

The thought of taking LJ in the third pick over Frank "The Tank" Gore is crazy. You both spew out numbers and reasons that sound real good but over look the answer. LJ is a stud no doubt about it, but look at where the Chiefs are heading. Some say up, I say down. The QB is crucial in this Biz. With speculation that Trent Green is already swimming with the fishes should turn your eyes to the 49ers. Alex Smith will be making strides and is certainly better that Damon Hooever. With suspect receivers and a freak TE, the rock will be advanced by the tank in the back field as well as in the air. Frank the Tank gets my pick due to the upside. Call Vegas and check the street, Vegas Pete is on the money $$.

Posted by Vegas Pete on May 21, 2007 7:14 PM |

May 20, 2007

Pre-Season Rankings (Wide Receivers)

After the NFL draft and some off-season signings here is a list of the top 50 most coveted wide receivers for the 2007 season. May 21st

1) Chad Johnson,CIN- Led the league in receiving yards last year, look for him to improve on his touchdowns to double digits.
2) Steve Smith,CAR- Absolute beast who is a threat to take it for six on any play. Should regain his' 05 form and have a monster year.
3) Torry Holt, STL- Solid week in and week out. No reason to believe his production will drop off.
4) Reggie Wayne, IND- Is this the year he takes over as the #1 in Indy? Look for him to continue his progression as an elite wide out.
5) Marvin Harrison, IND- Will be turning 35 in August and seems inevitable his numbers will fade, but don't expect it to be this season.
6) Larry Fitzgerald, ARI- Look for him to rebound from after a somewhat disappointing '06 season.
7) Terrell Owens, DAL- Could be higher but you never know what can happen with this drama queen, just too much risk with him to be rated any higher.
8) Javon Walker, DEN- Love the promise QB Jay Cutler showed last season and Walker will be his go-to-guy.
9) Andre Johnson, HOU- Not sold on the overrated Matt Schaub, but Johnson is the only option and will continue to put up solid numbers.
10) Anquan Boldin, ARI- Tough player who will flourish under creative new coach Ken Whisenhunt’s offense.
11) T.J. Houshmandzadeh, CIN- The only thing slowing him down from another great season is that rat tail he’s got coming out his helmet. Excellent #2 WR
12) Roy Williams, DET- Should be enough touches for everyone to go around, but needs to be more consistent on a weekly basis.
13) Marques Colston, NO- Not as high on him as others are, don’t be surprised if he hits the sophomore slump as team’s key on him more.
14) Randy Moss, NE- Stock immediately soared after the trade to get him out of Oakland. But can this 5 year old brat play well with others?
15) Lee Evans, BUF- Explosive playmaker and only threat in the Bill’s passing game. Needs better QB play out of J.P. Losman to maximize his potential.
16) Donald Driver, GB- Farve’s favorite target and has great speed and quickness.
17) Darrell Jackson, SF- Will be the #1 target for the progressing Alex Smith.
18) Plaxico Buress, NYG- Should get more looks while the running game takes a hit with Tiki retiring. Needs Eli to be more consistent.
19) Laveraneus Coles, NYJ- Look for him to have another solid season with the promising Jets.
20) Reggie Brown, PHI- Will have good season if brittle McNabb can stay healthy.
21) Santana Moss, WAS- Quarterback play should be more stable in Washington with Jason Campbell handling the duties.
22) Bernard Berrian, CHI- Hopefully Rex can shake the haters for Berrian to build on his success from last season.
23) Braylon Edwards, CLE- Showed what he was capable of in ’06 if he can stay healthy, look for him to improve on those stats.
24) Deion Branch, SEA- Will have much better numbers with the departure of Jackson to SF.
25) Jerricho Cotchery, NYJ- Had a breakout season last year, no reason to believe he will slow down.
26) Joey Galloway, TB- Garcia or Simms? Either way he will be the main target in Tampa and will get plenty of looks downfield.
27) Hines Ward, PIT- Big Ben’s health should not be in question this season, resulting in better year for Steelers and Ward.
28) Calvin Johnson, DET- Hard to rank him higher with Detroit’s recent draft history. However, will start from day 1 and get plenty of looks.
29) Santonio Holmes, PIT- Started to come along towards the end of his rookie season. Could have a breakout season in ’07.
30) Terry Glenn, DAL- The smaller headache in Dallas is still putting up solid numbers late in his career.
31) Mark Clayton, BAL
32) Greg Jennings, GB
33) Chris Chambers, MIA
34) Joe Horn, ATL
35) Donte’ Stallworth, NE
36) Isaac Bruce, STL
37) Vincent Jackson, SD
38) Anthony Gonzalez, IND
39) Robert Meachem, NO
40) Drew Bennett, STL
41) Derrick Mason, BAL
42) Dwayne Bowe, KC
43) Matt Jones, JAC
44) Mushin Muhammad, CHI
45) Dwayne Jarrett, CAR
46) Jerry Porter, OAK
47) Joe Jurevicius, CLE
48) Nate Burleson, SEA
49) Michael Clayton, TB
50) Brandon Jones, TEN


Posted by Modelo on May 20, 2007 5:00 AM |