1. Aaron Rodgers at MIN
2. Tony Romo vs STL
3. Drew Brees vs IND
4. Matthew Stafford vs ATL
5. Cam Newton vs WAS
6. Ben Roethlisberger at ARI
7. Philip Rivers at NYJ
8. Matt Schaub at TEN
9. Joe Flacco at JAC
10. Tim Tebow at MIA
11. Josh Freeman vs CHI (in London)
12. Jay Cutler vs TB (in London)
13. Colt McCoy vs SEA
14. Matt Ryan at DET
15. Matt Hasselbeck vs HOU
16. Matt Cassel at OAK
17. Mark Sanchez vs SD
18. Matt Moore vs DEN
19. Curtis Painter at NO
20. John Beck at CAR
21. Charlie Whitehurst at CLE
22. Kevin Kolb vs PIT
23. Christian Ponder vs GB
24. A.J. Feeley at DAL
25. Kyle Boller vs KC
Friday, October 21, 2011
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Carson Palmer, Oakland QB
Welcome back fellow corralers. Week 6 is now in the rear view mirror. If you won this week, good for you. If you lost, don't worry, still plenty of time to make a move. Either way, it's time for forget about Week 6 and set our focus on Week 7. So let's get started.
No, corralers, I did not typo. For those that are just waking up for the first time since Sunday, the big news from yesterday was that Carson Palmer was traded to the Oakland Raiders. Yes, Mike Brown actually traded him. This just shows that everyone has a price, and when someone is met with that price, they will budge.
In exchange for Palmer, the Bengals will receive a first round pick in 2012, and a conditional pick in 2013. The condition is that if the Raiders make it to the AFC Championship Game either this season or next season, the Bengals receive a first round pick in 2013. If not, the pick is a second round pick.
Pretty nice haul for someone who vowed he wasn't trading Palmer. But can you blame Brown? His Bengals are off to a 4-2 start with Andy Dalton at quarterback. He has a very young, up and coming offense, and a strong defense, which currently ranks 2nd in the NFL in yards per game allowed. Only the Steelers have allowed fewer. And now with one, possibly two, first round picks coming, this team is on the rise.
As far as Oakland is concerned, they clearly are in a win now mode. This move comes after Jason Campbell suffered a broken collarbone in Week 6 against the Browns. If they didn't land Palmer, they were possibly looking at Kyle Boller as their starter. So, I think we can see why they made the move. Say what you want about whether the Raiders overpayed for Palmer, but they usually say a franchise QB is worth two first round picks. Time will tell if Palmer holds that statement true for the Raiders.
As far as fantasy purposes go, how much value does Palmer now hold? It was originally thought that Palmer would not be the starter until Week 9, as the Raiders have their bye in Week 8. But now reports are coming out saying Palmer will start this week against the Chiefs. Obviously, Palmer may have a bit of rust he will have to shake off, having not played since Week 17 of last year, but this is a guy who finished with the sixth most passing yards last season with 3,970. He also did throw 26 touchdown passes. The only downside was that he threw 20 interceptions.
It's also very possible Palmer learns this offense fairly quickly. And if he does, all the better. He certainly now has the weapons to work with. Darrius Heyward-Bey finally looks like the receiver Oakland thought they were getting back in 2009, Jacoby Ford has the speed to break open any play, and Denarius Moore has turned into a pretty good receiver as well.
So, while Palmer may not be an absolute fantasy starter right away, he is absolutely a QB2 with upside, and certainly worth a roster spot in most leagues, if not all.
That's all for now, corralers. See you real soon.
No, corralers, I did not typo. For those that are just waking up for the first time since Sunday, the big news from yesterday was that Carson Palmer was traded to the Oakland Raiders. Yes, Mike Brown actually traded him. This just shows that everyone has a price, and when someone is met with that price, they will budge.
In exchange for Palmer, the Bengals will receive a first round pick in 2012, and a conditional pick in 2013. The condition is that if the Raiders make it to the AFC Championship Game either this season or next season, the Bengals receive a first round pick in 2013. If not, the pick is a second round pick.
Pretty nice haul for someone who vowed he wasn't trading Palmer. But can you blame Brown? His Bengals are off to a 4-2 start with Andy Dalton at quarterback. He has a very young, up and coming offense, and a strong defense, which currently ranks 2nd in the NFL in yards per game allowed. Only the Steelers have allowed fewer. And now with one, possibly two, first round picks coming, this team is on the rise.
As far as Oakland is concerned, they clearly are in a win now mode. This move comes after Jason Campbell suffered a broken collarbone in Week 6 against the Browns. If they didn't land Palmer, they were possibly looking at Kyle Boller as their starter. So, I think we can see why they made the move. Say what you want about whether the Raiders overpayed for Palmer, but they usually say a franchise QB is worth two first round picks. Time will tell if Palmer holds that statement true for the Raiders.
As far as fantasy purposes go, how much value does Palmer now hold? It was originally thought that Palmer would not be the starter until Week 9, as the Raiders have their bye in Week 8. But now reports are coming out saying Palmer will start this week against the Chiefs. Obviously, Palmer may have a bit of rust he will have to shake off, having not played since Week 17 of last year, but this is a guy who finished with the sixth most passing yards last season with 3,970. He also did throw 26 touchdown passes. The only downside was that he threw 20 interceptions.
It's also very possible Palmer learns this offense fairly quickly. And if he does, all the better. He certainly now has the weapons to work with. Darrius Heyward-Bey finally looks like the receiver Oakland thought they were getting back in 2009, Jacoby Ford has the speed to break open any play, and Denarius Moore has turned into a pretty good receiver as well.
So, while Palmer may not be an absolute fantasy starter right away, he is absolutely a QB2 with upside, and certainly worth a roster spot in most leagues, if not all.
That's all for now, corralers. See you real soon.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Winners and Losers of Week 6
Sup fellow corralers? Back again to discuss some of the top performers of Week 6, and to discuss those who disappointed in Week 6.
Winners
Earnest Graham, RB, TB
We have to start here. Graham was a fantasy sleeper a few years back, but injuries had plagued him and he hadn't been able to get back on track for some time. But with LeGarrette Blount out with an injury, Graham got his chance at redemption yesterday against the Saints, and took full advantage, rushing for 109 yards on 17 carries, while also adding two receptions for 22 yards. It was his first 100-yard game since 2008. Certainly good for him to have been able to get another chance. Unfortunately, he will most likely go back to losing carries to Blount when he comes back, but Graham has gotten time on 3rd down, so he will still be involved.
Arrelious Benn, WR, TB
Continuing with the Buccaneer theme, another player who had been plagued by injury put up a very nice game yesterday as well. Benn, who suffered an ACL tear his rookie season, is working his way back, and posted a solid effort, and a nice stat line of three catches, 84 yards and a touchdown, which actually made him the fourth highest scoring WR in ESPN standard scoring. The Bucs, as a whole, finally put together a solid offensive game, Freeman looked the best he's been all year, and Benn and Graham were a couple of the reasons the Bucs came away with a huge win over the Saints to take over first place in the NFC South.
Dallas Clark, TE, IND
Boy, it sure is nice to see this guy finally find the end zone. You can tell Clark misses Peyton. This was Clark's best effort of the season, six catches, 53 yards and a touchdown. Tough fall for Clark, easily considered one of the best TEs in the game. But without number 18 throwing, Clark will continue to have rough spots this year, as Painter clearly is favoring Pierre Garcon.
I'll also add Brent Celek. As an Eagles fan, I've known now that Celek does not get targeted a whole lot anymore. But whether it was the matchup or whatever it was, Celek put up a very nice effort, easily his best output of the season, four catches, 42 yards and a score on NINE targets. He was the most targeted receiver yesterday (Jackson and Maclin each were targeted seven times). Don't get too excited, but continue to monitor this situation. Celek, to me, is still a #2 fantasy TE.
Losers
Jermichael Finley, TE, GB
Can't say I didn't warn you. This guy was one of my duds this week, and sure enough, he posts a whopping one catch for 20 yards against the Rams. This was easily the best TE St. Louis has faced all year, so now we can take their fewest points per game vs TEs a little more seriously. Finley will continue to be a boom or bust play in that explosive Green Bay offense.
Every Washington RB
Oh, how we were all duped. Ryan Torain was back and healthy, Roy Helu was going to get some action as the number two, and they were facing one of the worst run defenses in the NFL. And what did it all add up to? 14 carries, 42 yards, one touchdown total as a team. And the rushing TD was scored by...John Beck. Yes, that John Beck. The same John Beck who hasn't started a game since 2007. Crazy how one week, one game can change everything. Then again, this is Mike Shanahan we are talking about. A guy who makes all kinds of decision at the drop of a dime. So going forward, this will continue to be a headache for fantasy owners of any Redskin. And that includes those who picked up Rex Grossman, as he may not even be the starter anymore.
Roddy White, WR, ATL
Did losing Julio Jones hurt that much? Yes, Atlanta did run the ball a ton, but Matt Ryan still threw it a good bit. And White was the most targeted Falcon, with five targets. However, he only brought in two of his five targets for just 21 yards. I think this will just be a one-week thing. Once Julio comes back, White should regain his value. And again, it seemed the Falcons plan of attack was to run more anyway, 35 rushing attempts (27 for Michael Turner) vs just 22 pass attempts.
Just about any top TE you can think of
It was quite a rough day for many top TEs. Owen Daniels was tripled team most of the day, and came away with just 13 yards on two catches (three targets). Heath Miller, my choice for stud TE, only hauled in four balls for just 27 yards, although he was targeted six times. Also guys like Kellen Winslow and Greg Olsen only gave owners four points in standard scoring. You know it's a crazy week when Alex Smith scores more than guys like Winslow, Olsen, Finley, among others. And no, that's not the 49er QB. That's Alex Smith, TE for the Browns. Like I said, crazy week.
Hope everyone had a good fantasy week, enjoy Jets-Dolphins tonight, and I will see you guys later.
Winners
Earnest Graham, RB, TB
We have to start here. Graham was a fantasy sleeper a few years back, but injuries had plagued him and he hadn't been able to get back on track for some time. But with LeGarrette Blount out with an injury, Graham got his chance at redemption yesterday against the Saints, and took full advantage, rushing for 109 yards on 17 carries, while also adding two receptions for 22 yards. It was his first 100-yard game since 2008. Certainly good for him to have been able to get another chance. Unfortunately, he will most likely go back to losing carries to Blount when he comes back, but Graham has gotten time on 3rd down, so he will still be involved.
Arrelious Benn, WR, TB
Continuing with the Buccaneer theme, another player who had been plagued by injury put up a very nice game yesterday as well. Benn, who suffered an ACL tear his rookie season, is working his way back, and posted a solid effort, and a nice stat line of three catches, 84 yards and a touchdown, which actually made him the fourth highest scoring WR in ESPN standard scoring. The Bucs, as a whole, finally put together a solid offensive game, Freeman looked the best he's been all year, and Benn and Graham were a couple of the reasons the Bucs came away with a huge win over the Saints to take over first place in the NFC South.
Dallas Clark, TE, IND
Boy, it sure is nice to see this guy finally find the end zone. You can tell Clark misses Peyton. This was Clark's best effort of the season, six catches, 53 yards and a touchdown. Tough fall for Clark, easily considered one of the best TEs in the game. But without number 18 throwing, Clark will continue to have rough spots this year, as Painter clearly is favoring Pierre Garcon.
I'll also add Brent Celek. As an Eagles fan, I've known now that Celek does not get targeted a whole lot anymore. But whether it was the matchup or whatever it was, Celek put up a very nice effort, easily his best output of the season, four catches, 42 yards and a score on NINE targets. He was the most targeted receiver yesterday (Jackson and Maclin each were targeted seven times). Don't get too excited, but continue to monitor this situation. Celek, to me, is still a #2 fantasy TE.
Losers
Jermichael Finley, TE, GB
Can't say I didn't warn you. This guy was one of my duds this week, and sure enough, he posts a whopping one catch for 20 yards against the Rams. This was easily the best TE St. Louis has faced all year, so now we can take their fewest points per game vs TEs a little more seriously. Finley will continue to be a boom or bust play in that explosive Green Bay offense.
Every Washington RB
Oh, how we were all duped. Ryan Torain was back and healthy, Roy Helu was going to get some action as the number two, and they were facing one of the worst run defenses in the NFL. And what did it all add up to? 14 carries, 42 yards, one touchdown total as a team. And the rushing TD was scored by...John Beck. Yes, that John Beck. The same John Beck who hasn't started a game since 2007. Crazy how one week, one game can change everything. Then again, this is Mike Shanahan we are talking about. A guy who makes all kinds of decision at the drop of a dime. So going forward, this will continue to be a headache for fantasy owners of any Redskin. And that includes those who picked up Rex Grossman, as he may not even be the starter anymore.
Roddy White, WR, ATL
Did losing Julio Jones hurt that much? Yes, Atlanta did run the ball a ton, but Matt Ryan still threw it a good bit. And White was the most targeted Falcon, with five targets. However, he only brought in two of his five targets for just 21 yards. I think this will just be a one-week thing. Once Julio comes back, White should regain his value. And again, it seemed the Falcons plan of attack was to run more anyway, 35 rushing attempts (27 for Michael Turner) vs just 22 pass attempts.
Just about any top TE you can think of
It was quite a rough day for many top TEs. Owen Daniels was tripled team most of the day, and came away with just 13 yards on two catches (three targets). Heath Miller, my choice for stud TE, only hauled in four balls for just 27 yards, although he was targeted six times. Also guys like Kellen Winslow and Greg Olsen only gave owners four points in standard scoring. You know it's a crazy week when Alex Smith scores more than guys like Winslow, Olsen, Finley, among others. And no, that's not the 49er QB. That's Alex Smith, TE for the Browns. Like I said, crazy week.
Hope everyone had a good fantasy week, enjoy Jets-Dolphins tonight, and I will see you guys later.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Week 6 Studs and Duds
Welcome back to another week of wonderful fantasy action, fellow corralers. I am going to take a look at some players who may not be on too many radars, but could have sleeper and even stud potential this week. We'll also look at the other side of the coin, those who are normally good starts, but who could disappoint.
STUDS
Andy Dalton, QB, CIN
This kid is starting to come around and has clearly developed a nice chemistry with both A.J. Green and Jermaine Gresham. And facing a defense that is 19h in passing yards per game allowed and giving up about 17 fantasy points per game (ppg) to opposing QBs, and you have the making of a sneaky QB start this week.
Ryan Torain, RB, WAS
Boy, where did this kid come from? All year it was the Tim Hightower show. But if you remember, Mike Shanahan did hint that he nearly benched Hightower for Torain during Washington's Week 3 game at Dallas. Shanahan was true to his word, and here came Torain in Week 4 against St. Louis. 19 carries for 135 yards and a touchdown. And now he faces arguable the worst run defense in the NFL through five weeks, the Philadelphia Eagles. They are giving up the most ppg to opposing RBs (28.0), so this could be a sneaky matchup if you own Torain. But just remember that Hightower is still around and Shanahan is still Shanahan. Fair warning.
James Jones, WR, GB
Yes, James Jones. You may not have liked him before, but he's here, and he's my sneaky WR this week. While the Rams are middle of the pack in passing yards per game, they are one of the worst teams as far as allowing fantasy points to WRs (approx. 25 per game, 8th most in the league). Greg Jennings is the stud, of course, but there may be enough here for Jones to factor in as well.
Heath Miller, TE, PIT
Jacksonville against the TE is not that good right now, allowing the 2nd most fantasy ppg to opposing TEs (11.8). And they've allowed the opposing TE to score a TD in four straight games. Miller may not have been looked at much so far, but the opportunity is there for Miller to find the end zone for a second straight week.
DUDs
Matt Schaub, QB, HOU
One, he has a banged up throwing shoulder. Two, he still is without his best friend, Andre Johnson. Three, he's facing the Baltimore Ravens. All this adds up to what could be a disappointing days for Schaub owners against a Ravens team allowing the fewest fantasy ppg to opposing QBs (6.3).
Jahvid Best, RB, DET
Yes, the Lions are 5-0. Who saw that coming? And it's great that they are 5-0, good story. And yes, Best did just break out last week against the Bears. But the Bears run D is a bit of a mess. The 49er run D is no joke, as they are tied for the 4th fewest rushing yards per game, and allowing the fewest fantasy ppg to opposing RBs (7.4 per game). I think Detroit may have to throw it in this one if they want to get to 6-0. Beware of Best.
Brandon Marshall, WR, MIA
From the stats side of things, we can see this isn't a great matchup for Marshall. First off, he's lost Chad Henne for the season and now has Matt Moore as his QB, so we don't know yet what kind of chemistry they will have. Number two, the Jets are among the top ten in fewest ppg allowed in fantasy to opposing WRs (15.6), and there aren't many options after Marshall as far as WRs go in Miami. Oh, and he's also said his goal is to be ejected from the game in the 2nd quarter. Don't think I want to hear one of my top WRs say he wants to be ejected and only play a quarter.
Jermichael Finley, TE, GB
Here's a surprise. I know he's a top TE, and many of you will start him anyway. But I will warn you, while the Rams are generous to opposing WRs, not so much against TEs. Only 2.5 ppgs against opposing TEs. Granted, they haven't played an "elite" TE yet, but the fact of the matter is they have defended the TE pretty well so far. Also, remember the Denver game? You know, the one where Aaron Rodgers looked like God and threw for over 400 yards and 4 TD? Yeah, Finley only has 28 of those yards and did not see the end zone. Just saying. All of his damage has been done in one game so far. Just saying.
STUDS
Andy Dalton, QB, CIN
This kid is starting to come around and has clearly developed a nice chemistry with both A.J. Green and Jermaine Gresham. And facing a defense that is 19h in passing yards per game allowed and giving up about 17 fantasy points per game (ppg) to opposing QBs, and you have the making of a sneaky QB start this week.
Ryan Torain, RB, WAS
Boy, where did this kid come from? All year it was the Tim Hightower show. But if you remember, Mike Shanahan did hint that he nearly benched Hightower for Torain during Washington's Week 3 game at Dallas. Shanahan was true to his word, and here came Torain in Week 4 against St. Louis. 19 carries for 135 yards and a touchdown. And now he faces arguable the worst run defense in the NFL through five weeks, the Philadelphia Eagles. They are giving up the most ppg to opposing RBs (28.0), so this could be a sneaky matchup if you own Torain. But just remember that Hightower is still around and Shanahan is still Shanahan. Fair warning.
James Jones, WR, GB
Yes, James Jones. You may not have liked him before, but he's here, and he's my sneaky WR this week. While the Rams are middle of the pack in passing yards per game, they are one of the worst teams as far as allowing fantasy points to WRs (approx. 25 per game, 8th most in the league). Greg Jennings is the stud, of course, but there may be enough here for Jones to factor in as well.
Heath Miller, TE, PIT
Jacksonville against the TE is not that good right now, allowing the 2nd most fantasy ppg to opposing TEs (11.8). And they've allowed the opposing TE to score a TD in four straight games. Miller may not have been looked at much so far, but the opportunity is there for Miller to find the end zone for a second straight week.
DUDs
Matt Schaub, QB, HOU
One, he has a banged up throwing shoulder. Two, he still is without his best friend, Andre Johnson. Three, he's facing the Baltimore Ravens. All this adds up to what could be a disappointing days for Schaub owners against a Ravens team allowing the fewest fantasy ppg to opposing QBs (6.3).
Jahvid Best, RB, DET
Yes, the Lions are 5-0. Who saw that coming? And it's great that they are 5-0, good story. And yes, Best did just break out last week against the Bears. But the Bears run D is a bit of a mess. The 49er run D is no joke, as they are tied for the 4th fewest rushing yards per game, and allowing the fewest fantasy ppg to opposing RBs (7.4 per game). I think Detroit may have to throw it in this one if they want to get to 6-0. Beware of Best.
Brandon Marshall, WR, MIA
From the stats side of things, we can see this isn't a great matchup for Marshall. First off, he's lost Chad Henne for the season and now has Matt Moore as his QB, so we don't know yet what kind of chemistry they will have. Number two, the Jets are among the top ten in fewest ppg allowed in fantasy to opposing WRs (15.6), and there aren't many options after Marshall as far as WRs go in Miami. Oh, and he's also said his goal is to be ejected from the game in the 2nd quarter. Don't think I want to hear one of my top WRs say he wants to be ejected and only play a quarter.
Jermichael Finley, TE, GB
Here's a surprise. I know he's a top TE, and many of you will start him anyway. But I will warn you, while the Rams are generous to opposing WRs, not so much against TEs. Only 2.5 ppgs against opposing TEs. Granted, they haven't played an "elite" TE yet, but the fact of the matter is they have defended the TE pretty well so far. Also, remember the Denver game? You know, the one where Aaron Rodgers looked like God and threw for over 400 yards and 4 TD? Yeah, Finley only has 28 of those yards and did not see the end zone. Just saying. All of his damage has been done in one game so far. Just saying.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Wild Bill's Eagles Preview-Week 4
What's good, cats? Your boy, Wild Bill back with another Eagles preview. It's Week 4 already, can you believe it? We're getting ready to say goodbye to September, and turn the calendar over to October. So let's wrap up September with a look at the Eagles Week 4 matchup with the San Francisco 49ers.
After what some consider to be an embarrassing loss to the Giants last week, which included some poor tackling, misreads, bites on play action, and whatever else you want to throw in there, the Eagles are angry, and Jim Harbaugh may be feeling the brunt of that frustration come Sunday.
As far as fantasy goes, Philly will certainly look to bounce back against a 49ers defense that is middle of the pack against the pass (16th), but number three in rush defense. Believe it or not, the 49ers have a pretty good rush defense.
Once again, it goes without saying, you are starting LeSean McCoy. That's as obvious as saying "The sky is blue." The main question will come with the receivers, and of course, number seven, Michael Vick.
Vick was thought to have had a broken right hand, but later results have said that he only suffered a bruise. So there is a chance he could play on Sunday. He is taking reps at practice, and said himself that his chances of playing are "100 percent." While Vick will have his top option of DeSean Jackson on hand, he may not have Jeremy Maclin. Maclin is recovering from a hamstring injury and did not practice Wednesday. Coach Andy Reid did say the Maclin is making progress, so continue to monitor this as the week goes on. If he plays, I think he could possibly get you at least five catches. If he doesn't play, look for either Steve Smith or Jason Avant to step into his role.
On the defensive side of the ball, we have yet another change of note involving the Eagles LBs. After looking totally lost on Sunday, especially on the play action that allowed Brandon Jacobs to score on the wheel route, Casey Matthews is no longer a starting LB. Rookie 6th Round pick Brian Rolle, from THE Ohio State University, will take over the starting job at weak side LB, but Matthews will continue to get his share of reps. Rolle isn't known for his size, at just 5-10, 227 pounds, but has consistently worked his way up the depth chart, and now into a starting role, and can make some tackles. And in a game against Frank Gore (or possibly Kendall Hunter), his run-stopping abilty will need to be a full force for the Eagles to have a chance.
Also stepping into a starting role for this week will be Nate Allen, who will replace Kurt Coleman at strong safety. Coleman has always been better on special teams, and hadn't been getting the job done, including a missed tackle on the first of Victor Cruz's touchdowns. At this point, the Eagles need to do something to fix their defense. We'll find out Sunday if these changes were for the best. Not as big a test as San Francisco's offense isn't the greatest, but if the Eagles can't get their run defense in check, and if he's healthy, Frank Gore could end up finding the end zone on Sunday. The real test could come in Week 5 when the Eagles head to Buffalo.
Also a player to watch will be Vernon Davis. This could be the week Davis finally breaks free, as the Eagles are not the greatest of teams against the tight end, and we all know who Alex Smith's favorite target is, and it's not the guy from Texas Tech (Michael Crabtree, for those who either don't know or forgot his last second touchdown to beat then number one Texas).
All in all, the Eagles really need this game. They absolutely cannot afford to fall to 1-3 with a date in Buffalo against the 4-0 Bills looming on the horizon. That's right, I'm calling right now the Bills will be 4-0 when the Eagles play them, I mean come on, they play the Bengals this week. I think the Eagles come out firing on all cylinders, but San Fran will get some stops every now and then and could make this a close one. But I think Philly finds a way to take this one.
Prediction: Eagles 17, 49ers 13
That's all from me for this week. See you guys next week when we talk about the Eagles big games against the Buffalo Bills. Wild Bill out.
After what some consider to be an embarrassing loss to the Giants last week, which included some poor tackling, misreads, bites on play action, and whatever else you want to throw in there, the Eagles are angry, and Jim Harbaugh may be feeling the brunt of that frustration come Sunday.
As far as fantasy goes, Philly will certainly look to bounce back against a 49ers defense that is middle of the pack against the pass (16th), but number three in rush defense. Believe it or not, the 49ers have a pretty good rush defense.
Once again, it goes without saying, you are starting LeSean McCoy. That's as obvious as saying "The sky is blue." The main question will come with the receivers, and of course, number seven, Michael Vick.
Vick was thought to have had a broken right hand, but later results have said that he only suffered a bruise. So there is a chance he could play on Sunday. He is taking reps at practice, and said himself that his chances of playing are "100 percent." While Vick will have his top option of DeSean Jackson on hand, he may not have Jeremy Maclin. Maclin is recovering from a hamstring injury and did not practice Wednesday. Coach Andy Reid did say the Maclin is making progress, so continue to monitor this as the week goes on. If he plays, I think he could possibly get you at least five catches. If he doesn't play, look for either Steve Smith or Jason Avant to step into his role.
On the defensive side of the ball, we have yet another change of note involving the Eagles LBs. After looking totally lost on Sunday, especially on the play action that allowed Brandon Jacobs to score on the wheel route, Casey Matthews is no longer a starting LB. Rookie 6th Round pick Brian Rolle, from THE Ohio State University, will take over the starting job at weak side LB, but Matthews will continue to get his share of reps. Rolle isn't known for his size, at just 5-10, 227 pounds, but has consistently worked his way up the depth chart, and now into a starting role, and can make some tackles. And in a game against Frank Gore (or possibly Kendall Hunter), his run-stopping abilty will need to be a full force for the Eagles to have a chance.
Also stepping into a starting role for this week will be Nate Allen, who will replace Kurt Coleman at strong safety. Coleman has always been better on special teams, and hadn't been getting the job done, including a missed tackle on the first of Victor Cruz's touchdowns. At this point, the Eagles need to do something to fix their defense. We'll find out Sunday if these changes were for the best. Not as big a test as San Francisco's offense isn't the greatest, but if the Eagles can't get their run defense in check, and if he's healthy, Frank Gore could end up finding the end zone on Sunday. The real test could come in Week 5 when the Eagles head to Buffalo.
Also a player to watch will be Vernon Davis. This could be the week Davis finally breaks free, as the Eagles are not the greatest of teams against the tight end, and we all know who Alex Smith's favorite target is, and it's not the guy from Texas Tech (Michael Crabtree, for those who either don't know or forgot his last second touchdown to beat then number one Texas).
All in all, the Eagles really need this game. They absolutely cannot afford to fall to 1-3 with a date in Buffalo against the 4-0 Bills looming on the horizon. That's right, I'm calling right now the Bills will be 4-0 when the Eagles play them, I mean come on, they play the Bengals this week. I think the Eagles come out firing on all cylinders, but San Fran will get some stops every now and then and could make this a close one. But I think Philly finds a way to take this one.
Prediction: Eagles 17, 49ers 13
That's all from me for this week. See you guys next week when we talk about the Eagles big games against the Buffalo Bills. Wild Bill out.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Review of my first start 2 QB league
They say you usually learn things the first way the hard way.
That's exactly what just happened to me tonight, as I took part in my first ever league which requires you to start 2 QBs.
I did start the draft taking my number one QB in Aaron Rodgers with the 10th pick, but then I fell trap to all the talent that was falling to me in each round that I put off taking my second QB until Round 11, which turned out to be Matt Hasselbeck. I fell trap to players like Jonathon Stewart lasting until the 9th round and felt he was too good to pass up, even though a guy like Ryan Fitpatrick was sitting there, and I banked on the fact that Fitzpatrick would fall to me in the 10th. He was snagged two picks before my pick at 10.1.
And then Colt McCoy was nabbed at 10.2, another guy I would've taken at 10.3 as my number 2 QB.
So, where do I go at 10.3? Rashad Jennings. Yup, went with the handcuff to Maurice Jones-Drew instead of QBs like Garrard, Sanchez, and Campbell, who also went in the 10th.
So while my number 2 QB isnt the greatest, I certainly have the depth at RB and WR to possibly swing a trade for one. After drafting Darren McFadden in round 2 after also considering Steven Jackson, S-Jax fell to me at 3.10. Then at the turn, at 4.3, I grabbed my top WR, Mike Williams of Tampa Bay. I grabbed my number 2 WR at 5.10 with Buffalo's Steve Johnson, and then went Jahvid Best, Cedric Benson, and Percy Harvin in rounds 6, 7, and 8 respectively. And also taking Mike Thomas and Jacoby Ford in rounds 12 and 13 adds to my WR depth.
And also an effect of waiting on Tight End, I was left with Tony Moeaki as my number 1 TE. Now while I do like Moeaki, I'm just not sure if he's ready to jump into TE1 territory just yet, and for the simple fact of Kansas City has so many receivers, especially now with the addition of Steve Breaston, and the Chiefs run a heck of a lot more than they pass, and they have a much tougher schedule this year than they did last year.
So, the goal at this point is to use my RB and WR depth to improve at QB and TE.
I should just be glad for now that I have Aaron Rodgers leading my troops.
That's exactly what just happened to me tonight, as I took part in my first ever league which requires you to start 2 QBs.
I did start the draft taking my number one QB in Aaron Rodgers with the 10th pick, but then I fell trap to all the talent that was falling to me in each round that I put off taking my second QB until Round 11, which turned out to be Matt Hasselbeck. I fell trap to players like Jonathon Stewart lasting until the 9th round and felt he was too good to pass up, even though a guy like Ryan Fitpatrick was sitting there, and I banked on the fact that Fitzpatrick would fall to me in the 10th. He was snagged two picks before my pick at 10.1.
And then Colt McCoy was nabbed at 10.2, another guy I would've taken at 10.3 as my number 2 QB.
So, where do I go at 10.3? Rashad Jennings. Yup, went with the handcuff to Maurice Jones-Drew instead of QBs like Garrard, Sanchez, and Campbell, who also went in the 10th.
So while my number 2 QB isnt the greatest, I certainly have the depth at RB and WR to possibly swing a trade for one. After drafting Darren McFadden in round 2 after also considering Steven Jackson, S-Jax fell to me at 3.10. Then at the turn, at 4.3, I grabbed my top WR, Mike Williams of Tampa Bay. I grabbed my number 2 WR at 5.10 with Buffalo's Steve Johnson, and then went Jahvid Best, Cedric Benson, and Percy Harvin in rounds 6, 7, and 8 respectively. And also taking Mike Thomas and Jacoby Ford in rounds 12 and 13 adds to my WR depth.
And also an effect of waiting on Tight End, I was left with Tony Moeaki as my number 1 TE. Now while I do like Moeaki, I'm just not sure if he's ready to jump into TE1 territory just yet, and for the simple fact of Kansas City has so many receivers, especially now with the addition of Steve Breaston, and the Chiefs run a heck of a lot more than they pass, and they have a much tougher schedule this year than they did last year.
So, the goal at this point is to use my RB and WR depth to improve at QB and TE.
I should just be glad for now that I have Aaron Rodgers leading my troops.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Five Locks and Five Crocks.
While the NFL is still in the midst of a Lockout that has now, just about, eaten up the entire offseason, Fantasy Football preparations are still going strong, as if this lockout never even existed and football has been going as usual. While there are some players whose situations remain unsettled, there are some players who we know what their situation is and what they bring to the table.
1. Adrian Peterson, RB, MIN
Let's be honest here, is there any other Running Back who has been more consistent than All Day AP? He has been top 5 in fantasy points among Running Backs each of the last five seasons. Peterson has not had a season of less than 10 touchdowns since he broke into the league in 2007. Despite suffering an injury last season, Peterson still amassed 1,298 rushing yards, 12 rushing touchdowns, 341 receiving yards, and a receiving touchdown, despite missing two games. Even with the possibility of playing with a rookie Quarterback in Christian Ponder, AP still has the ability to break through a defense who decides to stack eight in the box. Peterson never has had much at the QB position, outside of Mr. Favre himself. This season should not be any different.
1. Adrian Peterson, RB, MIN
Let's be honest here, is there any other Running Back who has been more consistent than All Day AP? He has been top 5 in fantasy points among Running Backs each of the last five seasons. Peterson has not had a season of less than 10 touchdowns since he broke into the league in 2007. Despite suffering an injury last season, Peterson still amassed 1,298 rushing yards, 12 rushing touchdowns, 341 receiving yards, and a receiving touchdown, despite missing two games. Even with the possibility of playing with a rookie Quarterback in Christian Ponder, AP still has the ability to break through a defense who decides to stack eight in the box. Peterson never has had much at the QB position, outside of Mr. Favre himself. This season should not be any different.
2. Roddy White, WR, ATL
What Peterson is to Running Backs, Roddy White of the Falcons is to Wide Receivers. In the last four seasons, White has not had a season of less than 83 catches, 1,153 yards, and 6 touchdowns. And he has had double digits TDs each of the past two seasons, (11 in 2009, and 10 in 2010). Coming off a 115-catch season, and being the most targeted Wide Receiver of 2010, White returns to an Atlanta offensive that promises to be just as explosive as last season, with Matt Ryan leading the crew. The presence of rookie Julio Jones may take some targets away from White, but when push comes to shove, Ryan will be looking for #84.
3. Philip Rivers, QB, SD
Having played all 16 games each of the past five seasons, and posting 4,000 plus yards the past three, and leading the NFL in passing yards with 4,710 yards last season, Philip Rivers of the Chargers has become the prototypical steady Quarterback. And he did all this last season with not many weapons at his disposal. Vincent Jackson held out the first ten games of last season, and the man himself, Antonio Gates, missed the second half of the season. With Gates back and healthy, and V-Jax (hopefully) returning to San Diego, Rivers is primed for yet another season of 4,000 yards and 30 touchdowns.
4. Chris Johnson, RB, TEN
Three seasons, 5.0 yards per carry for his career, and no less than nine touchdowns in any single season, CJ2K has to be the second lock at Running Back behind Peterson. We all remember his 2,006-yard mega season of 2009, then he “regressed” to “only” 1,364 yards and 11 touchdowns. Johnson is facing the same situation as Peterson, but with Johnson’s speed, he can easily elude any tackler, making him very tough to defend as well. 1,500 yards and 10 touchdowns is always a possibility with this guy.
5. Peyton Manning, QB, IND
Really, is anyone worried about Manning missing games this season? The guy can miss all of Training Camp, and we all know he’ll be right there taking snaps from Jeff Saturday when the Colts take on Houston Week 1. Manning wound up with 4,700 yards and 33 touchdowns despite losing two of his favorite targets, Austin Collie and Dallas Clark. Having Collie and Clark back and healthy, along with Reggie Wayne and Pierre Garcon, as well as an improved, younger Offensive Line, and having never missed a regular season in his entire career, there’s no doubting the older Manning brother.
So, there are five locks for this season, but of course, where there are locks, there is the opposite end of the spectrum, the Crocks.
1.
Beanie Wells, RB, ARI
A surprising rookie season made Wells a pretty popular sleeper pick for many fantasy players in 2010. Unfortunately for those owners, Wells never woke up. Instead, he was hobbled by a nagging knee injury from the preseason and an allergic reaction. Now with Tim Hightower still in the mix, and more importantly, rookie Ryan Williams in the mix, who the Cardinals drafted in the second round, Wells could very well have yet another unpopular season in Arizona. Williams was a guy who Arizona had in their top 15 on their draft board, so the value was tremendous in Arizona’s eyes. And with the Cards’ O-Line not the greatest, things could add up to be another miserable year in the Desert for the Ohio State product.
2. Knowshon Moreno, RB, DEN
This is mostly based on Denver being able to sign DeAngelo Williams. If they do, I have a hard time believing Moreno will be able to succeed from a fantasy perspective. He disappointed a lot of owners last season with his injury, and just had a tough time finding the end zone. This year could be even worse for Moreno. Even if D-Willy isn’t there, Tim Tebow could very well be the starter at Quarterback, and he could easily take away some Red Zone scores. Tough road ahead for Knowshon.
3. Michael Crabtree, WR, SF
Ah, the old story of the man who has all the talent in the world, but just doesn’t want to put the work in to keep up and improve. Reports have come out saying Crabtree did not want to participate in 49ers’ Player-Organized Workouts, especially with Alex Smith at Quarterback. Well, it’s looking like Smith will return to San Francisco as the starting Quarterback. At best, this guy is a WR3 in fantasy, but he could very well be the third receiving option on his own team, behind RB Frank Gore and TE Vernon Davis.
4. Benjarvus Green-Ellis, RB, NE
This is really just a matter of how messy the Running Back situation is now in New England. The Patriots already had Danny Woodhead along with Green-Ellis, and in April, the Pats drafted two Running Backs in the second (Shane Vereen) and third (Stevan Ridley) rounds. So, yards-wise, the Law Firm may still be the top guy, but 13 touchdowns may be out of reach for this season.
5.
Dwayne Bowe, WR, KC
Bowe was a tale of three seasons in 2010. From Weeks 1-5 (with a bye in Week 4), Bowe amassed only 9 catches for 152 yards and one touchdown. Bowe’s next seven games went like this: 49 catches, 733 yards, 13 touchdowns, including five games of at least two touchdowns. After that, Bowe came crashing down to Earth; 14 catches, 277 yards, one touchdown, including a complete shutout in Week 13 against Denver and just one catch for three yards against San Diego in Week 14. His total ended up being very good, 72 catches, 1,162 yards and 15 touchdowns, ranking him second among receivers in standard scoring. But this season, he does not have the NFC West to feast on, as he did last year. Matt Cassel struggled against tougher defenses, and the Chiefs run the ball much more than they pass. So while Bowe may not have a terrible season, do not expect 15 touchdowns again.
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