I missed last week's posting, so for those of you who religiously use my posts to set your lineup, I apologize - but, you're welcome because you didn't have me to confuse you.
But on a serious note, I hope that you all had a happy holiday and that you didn't allow football to ruin your family time - or, allow family time to ruin your football time.
Quarterbacks I Love in Week 13:
Cam Newton - You know who's a really good QB? Cam Newton. You know who has an awful pass defense? New Orleans. In the last four games, the Saints have given up six touchdowns from Eli, four touchdowns from Marcus Mariota, four touchdowns from Kirk Cousins, and two touchdowns from Brian Hoyer. They have given up 300+ yards in seven of 11 games this year and Cam has only scored fewer than 15 fantasy points twice this year.
Alex Smith - aka Mr. Consistency. If you're streaming QB's, then Smith is among the players to look for in free agency. Smith is not going to win you your week, but he's not going to lose it for you either. He hasn't thrown a pick since Week 3 but he has only thrown for 300+ yards once this season. Over the last four weeks, Smith has also averaged six rushes for 45 yards per game. He averages 16 fantasy points per game, and I think that's what you can expect - the big thing with Smith is that he won't put up a score that is going to totally lose you your chance at the playoffs. For example, I'm playing Alex Smith over Eli Manning this week because I don't trust Eli enough to not put up his standard three INT game yet again.
Quarterbacks I Hate in Week 13:
Drew Brees - In years past, Drew Brees would never make this list, but he's shown signs of inconsistency this season. Not only that, but he faces a Caroline Panthers defense that has just been vicious to opposing quarterbacks. On five different occasions, the Panthers defense has held quarterbacks to less than 10 fantasy points. I understand if you have to play him, but I'd steer clear if possible.
Russell Wilson - He's been phenomenal the last two weeks, but this week, he faces the 7th ranked Minnesota Vikings defense. The Vikings have yet to allow a quarterback to score more than 20 fantasy points and they have allowed one touchdown or less in six games this year. The Vikings have allowed 300+ yards twice this year and Wilson has only thrown for 300+ once. If the Seahawks are going to win this game, it's going to be because of Thomas Rawls, not Russell Wilson.
Streamers: Ryan Tannehill, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Marcus Mariota, and Jay Cutler
Running Backs I Love in Week 13:
Eddie Lacy - he said with hesitation. He's back as an RB1, he muttered to himself. Eddie Lacy has been awful this year, just awful, due in large part to injuries. The injuries seem to be disappearing and the real Eddie Lacy seems to be emerging. He has back-to-back weeks with double digit fantasy points and the Packers need to run the ball to get something, I mean anything, going in that passing game. The Lions have allowed less than 10 fantasy points to opposing running backs on three occasions this year, but they have allowed 20+ fantasy points on five occasions.
David Johnson - So much upside with David Johnson - he has seven touchdowns on 54 touches this year. Now, temper expectations because he was the third string running back for a reason, but if there was a time to prove himself, it's now. Chris Johnson is out and Andre Ellington is banged up, so if Johnson is to get playing time he'll have to earn it through the St. Louis defensive front, who, surprisingly, ranks in the middle of the pack versus opposing running backs.
Running Backs I Hate in Week 13:
Mark Ingram - The Panthers defense hasn't allowed a rushing touchdown in five straight games. Mark Ingram hasn't scored a touchdown in four straight games. He also has less than 10 carries in each of the last two games. The Panthers have held opposing running backs to under 50 yards for four straight weeks. Advantage: Panthers.
Frank Gore - The way you beat the Steelers is through the air, just ask Russell Wilson. The Steelers defense has only allowed three rushing touchdowns all season long. Frank Gore has just as many games with three fantasy points as he does fantasy games with 15+ fantasy points: three. The Colts have gone 45 straight games without a 100-yard rusher and that streak will continue to 46.
Wide Receivers I Love in Week 13:
Alshon Jeffrey - When he actually plays, he's easily a top-10 WR. In the five games he played, Jeffrey has averaged nearly 13 fantasy points, while catching almost eight balls per game. He has the luxury of playing San Francisco this week who have allowed 20+ fantasy points in all but three games this season.
Amari Cooper - Playing the 31st ranked Chiefs defense, Cooper looks to continue his impressive rookie year. The Chiefs have given up the most yards to wide receivers in the NFL and have allowed a touchdowns in every game but two. Cooper and Crabtree have been equally impressive this year and coming off a seven catch 115 yard performance, Cooper has the momentum facing a porous Chiefs secondary.
Wide Receivers I Hate in Week 13:
Sammy Watkins - Good luck determining whether Watkins will be a fantasy boom or bust on a week-to-week basis. Watkins has just as many 22+ points fantasy week as he does three points fantasy weeks: two. (I love stats like that.) Watkins also plays the 9th best passing defense, Houston. They held Drew Brees scoreless last week, breaking his touchdown streak.
Demaryius Thomas - Thomas had 12 targets last week. If you were to tell me that Thomas would have 12 targets guaranteed before Week 12 started, I would have been grinning from ear to ear with excitement. But, he caught one of those targets. One. Certainly having a down year, Thomas now faces the Chargers who have done well at keeping opposing wide receivers in check.
Tight Ends I Love in Week 13:
Scott Chandler - I don't have all of these ridiculous stats to throw at you like I do with most guys, but Tom Brady throws Chandler the football and I don't know if you've seen Tom Brady play football before but he's pretty good. He also just lost to the Denver Broncos who had a backup quarterback in place of Peyton Manning. So, Brady will be nice and mad when he plays the Eagles. Chandler is not Gronk, but the latter's absence, will boost Chandler a top-5 fantasy performance.
Travis Kelce - Who plays the Raiders this week? Travis Kelce plays the Raiders this week! You know, that Raiders defense that has given up a touchdown to the tight end in every game but two this year. Yeah, the Raiders that just gave up nine catches for 133 yards and a touchdown to Tennessee tight ends. Kelce has had a quiet year, but I'm all Kelce this week.
Tight Ends I Hate in Week 13:
Charles Clay - Houston plays well against the pass. They play even better against the tight end. They allow an average of 45 yards per game to the position, seventh fewest in the NFL. The Texans have allowed three touchdowns to opposing tight ends, two in one game and one in another. They haven't allowed a touchdown to a tight end in five straight games. If Buffalo expects to win, I think they're going to have to do it on the ground.
Jordan Cameron - Good luck guessing which Miami Dolphin is going to have a break out week. Is it Lamar Miller? Jarvis Landry? Rishard Matthews? DeVante Parker? The smart money is that it's not Jordan Cameron. He hasn't scored double-digit fantasy points yet this year, and I can't see that changing.
Good luck this week! Playoffs are approaching. SET YOUR LINEUPS.
Thursday, December 3, 2015
Thursday, November 19, 2015
Week 11 Love/Hate
Fantasy football is different world. Don't think so? Start talking fantasy football to someone who has never played before. You look a little crazy. I have to do a senior research project at Penn State for in order to complete my degree, so I chose to study and research the language and dehumanization that fantasy football creates, but that's not the point with all of this.
The point is, we live in or own little world - our jargon, our passion, our technology dependence. It's interesting to look at the broader picture and try to see us through the eyes of those who don't share our interests. My brain is filled with weird stats and rankings, while others don't even know the names of some of the teams.
These upcoming weeks will determine whether some fantasy teams make it to the playoffs or whether you are ridiculed by your friends, co-workers, or family members. I guess, what I'm trying to say is that, remember, this is a game. It's a competitive one, but one that we, ultimately, don't have much control over. Have fun. Relax. If you win, congrats, brag until next year, but if you lose, don't make excuses. Take the trash talk and draft better next year.
Now, here is my love/hate list for Week 11.
Quarterbacks:
Derek Carr, QB (OAK):
How can you not be impressed by the Raiders offense this year? Carr ranks in the top 10 in quarterback play, Michael Crabtree ranks 14th and Amari Cooper ranks 17th in wide receiver play, respectively. Raiders are ranked top 10 in overall in yards per game, total points scored, and points per game. Carr faces the 30th ranked Lions defense, who have allowed at least 17 fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks in every game this year.
Matthew Stafford, QB (DET):
How about the other side of the football? Facing Derek Carr and the Raiders is Stafford and the Lions. If there was ever a time to be confident in Detroit, it's now. They beat the Packers on the road last week for the first time since 1991. Typically, a writer would insert popular fads and pop culture influences that were popular during that time period, but, I WASN'T EVEN BORN YET. Anyway, no, Stafford hasn't looked great this year. But, he is what he is. And that's a streaky, inconsistent quarterback. His confidence should be high after lasts weeks win, and he faces the 26th ranked Raiders defense. As long as Stafford doesn't throw near Charles Woodson and his league leading five interceptions, he should be fine.
If you need to roll the dice:
Case Keenum: Faces the 31st ranked Raven defense who have allowed 11 passing touchdowns in the last five games.
Marcus Mariota: Prime time football - faces the Jaguars who have allowed 10 passing touchdowns in the last four games.
Running Backs:
Charcandrick West, RB (KC):
Chark. Chark-nado. Char-mander. Take your pick of the nicknames. You take the nicknames and I'll take the fantasy players. Three straight starts and West has put up 18, 17, 27 fantasy points, respectively. He has four touchdowns in three games, he plays for the run-heavy Andy Reid, and he plays the Chargers who rank dead last in defending the run. I can see Char-mander West evolve into Char-izard West.
Lamar Miller, RB (MIA):
Tony Romo returns for the Dallas Cowboys and I'm sure the Miami Dolphins would love nothing more than to take the wind right out of those sails. Dallas ranks 30th in defending the run and Miller has seven touchdowns in five games. Jay Ajayi has been cutting into Miller's workload, but it hasn't affected Miller's production. It's Miller Time in Week 11.
If you need to roll the dice:
Karlos Williams: Facing the third ranked Patriots defense, but Williams has a touchdown in every game that he has played in. I think New England will be ahead this week, giving Williams a little more running rooms.
Wide Receivers:
Mike Evans, WR (TB):
Evans has eight catches in three of his last four games. In those three games, he has at least 126 receiving yards. Vincent Jackson is out again in Week 11, making Evans the overwhelming primary receiver in Tampa. He also plays an Eagles defense that is 29th against wide receivers, which doesn't hurt.
Stevie Johnson, WR (SD):
Johnson is the new number one wide receiver for Phillip Rivers, who ranks second in passing yards this season. In his first game with that title, he had seven catches for 68 yards - decent numbers - but he was also tackled within the 5-yard line, preventing an extra six points, which would have made a successful fantasy week. San Diego faces the Kansas City Chiefs who rank dead last in defending receivers.
If you need to roll the dice:
Jordan Matthews: Mark Sanchez takes over at quarterback for the Eagles and last year, when Sanchez was the quarterback, Matthews had five touchdowns for nearly 600 yards in six games.
Sammy Watkins: Buffalo plays the Patriots, who are ranked 28th in defending the pass. Buffalo will presumably be behind in this game, giving Watkins even more targets.
Tight Ends:
Eric Ebron, TE (DET):
The winner of "Which Tight End plays the Raiders this week is?" Eric Ebron. The Raiders have allowed a touchdown to a Tight End in every game but one this year. Tight Ends facing the Raiders have only scored single-digit fantasy points twice this year. This is the most favorable match-up Ebron will have all year, and he averages five targets per game.
Julius Thomas, TE (JAX):
Thomas faces the Titans who have been beaten into the ground by Tight Ends in recent weeks. In Week 9, the Saints torched the Titans defense for eight catches, 82 yards, and two touchdowns and in Week 10, the Panther Tight Ends had 11 catches for 102 yards and a touchdown. Thomas hasn't been anywhere near as productive as he had been in recent years, but if there was ever a week to show his old self, it's this week.
Friday, November 13, 2015
Start/Sit
It's been a crazy fantasy season, huh? If you don't believe me, go to your waiver wire and see how many players are at the told of that list with the "IR" designation next to their name. Top-tier guys have been dropping like flies since the preseason (hopefully you drafted late and didn't suffer with choosing Jordy Nelson or Kelvin Benjamin).
Nobody's have turned into somebody's and 1st round draft picks have been a bust. But, hey, it's a season-long game for a reason, right? Strategy and waiver-wire pickups are critical. This column is dedicated to the questions I have either been asked personally or questions I have seen asked around on Twitter about people cautious about playing certain players:
Russell Wilson or Blake Bortles
Bortles currently ranks at the 10th best fantasy football QB in the NFL. Wilson sits at 16. Wilson has
one game where he has thrown for more than one touchdown. Bortles has six such games. Wilson has failed to throw for 300 yards in a game this year. Bortles has done it in three of his last four. I know what you're saying: "But Russell Wilson gets a lot of his points from running the ball." Well, Wilson has yet to score a rushing touchdown yet this year and he has only topped 50 rushing yards twice. Seattle runs the ball, plain and simple. I'm starting Bortles this week, and I'm starting him with confidence against the 31st ranked Baltimore defense.
TJ Yeldon, Jordan Matthews, or Willie Snead in the FLEX
This one is tough. Yeldon has the worst matchup, but even against tough run defenses, Yeldon has put up double-digit fantasy points.
I'm not entirely sold on Matthews because the 41-yard touchdown in overtime account for 10 of Matthews' 19 fantasy points. Without it, he would have put up nine points, which would have been his third best point total of the year.
Snead didn't practice Thursday which scares me, so I'm starting Yeldon this week, even though he faces the 10th ranked defense against the run in Baltimore.
Doug Martin, Tavon Austin, or Jordan Reed in the FLEX
Tavon Austin rushed the ball eight times last week, eight! He's a wide receiver! He's certainly seeing
an increase in touches since Todd Gurley came onto the scene, so his value is boom-or-bust. With Austin, you're going to get 20+ points or seven.
Jordan Reed is back and ready to face the worst pass defense in the league, the New Orleans Saints and he has three touchdowns in the last two games.
Martin plays the 31st ranked run defense, the Dallas Cowboys. Martin hasn't been nearly as good as he was for his three week stretch of being the 'Doug'ernaut, but if there ever was a week to return to form, it's against the Cowboys. He fumbled last week and was put into the doghouse for the rest of the first half, but I look for the Buccaneers to go run-heavy this game and hopefully that spells a near 20-touch game for Martin.
CJ Anderson, Willie Snead, or Dorial Green-Beckham
CJ Anderson's names being mentioned on this blog again?! Yes, he has returned. Well, his name that is. Anderson is nowhere near the form he was in last year. He has shown sparks, but that role will never be the same with the timeshare between he and Ronnie Hillman. Anderson faces the 9th ranked rushing defense in Kansas City, so I'm steering clear of any Broncos running back this week.
Green-Beckham has huge upside the rest of the season and is certainly worth a bench spot, but going against the 6th ranked Panthers defense doesn't bode well for the Titans.
As I mentioned before, Snead didn't practice Thursday, so his health needs to be monitored, but if he plays, plug him in. Snead is the favorite wide receiver of Drew Brees and that alone means quality fantasy production. I think Washington vs. New Orleans will be a shoot out, so I think Snead had high upside to score if he plays. If he's held out, I would play Green-Beckham and hope for the big play from the six-foot-five-inch receiver.
Nobody's have turned into somebody's and 1st round draft picks have been a bust. But, hey, it's a season-long game for a reason, right? Strategy and waiver-wire pickups are critical. This column is dedicated to the questions I have either been asked personally or questions I have seen asked around on Twitter about people cautious about playing certain players:
Russell Wilson or Blake Bortles
Bortles currently ranks at the 10th best fantasy football QB in the NFL. Wilson sits at 16. Wilson has one game where he has thrown for more than one touchdown. Bortles has six such games. Wilson has failed to throw for 300 yards in a game this year. Bortles has done it in three of his last four. I know what you're saying: "But Russell Wilson gets a lot of his points from running the ball." Well, Wilson has yet to score a rushing touchdown yet this year and he has only topped 50 rushing yards twice. Seattle runs the ball, plain and simple. I'm starting Bortles this week, and I'm starting him with confidence against the 31st ranked Baltimore defense.
TJ Yeldon, Jordan Matthews, or Willie Snead in the FLEX
This one is tough. Yeldon has the worst matchup, but even against tough run defenses, Yeldon has put up double-digit fantasy points.I'm not entirely sold on Matthews because the 41-yard touchdown in overtime account for 10 of Matthews' 19 fantasy points. Without it, he would have put up nine points, which would have been his third best point total of the year.
Snead didn't practice Thursday which scares me, so I'm starting Yeldon this week, even though he faces the 10th ranked defense against the run in Baltimore.
Doug Martin, Tavon Austin, or Jordan Reed in the FLEX
Tavon Austin rushed the ball eight times last week, eight! He's a wide receiver! He's certainly seeing
an increase in touches since Todd Gurley came onto the scene, so his value is boom-or-bust. With Austin, you're going to get 20+ points or seven.
Jordan Reed is back and ready to face the worst pass defense in the league, the New Orleans Saints and he has three touchdowns in the last two games.Martin plays the 31st ranked run defense, the Dallas Cowboys. Martin hasn't been nearly as good as he was for his three week stretch of being the 'Doug'ernaut, but if there ever was a week to return to form, it's against the Cowboys. He fumbled last week and was put into the doghouse for the rest of the first half, but I look for the Buccaneers to go run-heavy this game and hopefully that spells a near 20-touch game for Martin.
CJ Anderson, Willie Snead, or Dorial Green-Beckham
CJ Anderson's names being mentioned on this blog again?! Yes, he has returned. Well, his name that is. Anderson is nowhere near the form he was in last year. He has shown sparks, but that role will never be the same with the timeshare between he and Ronnie Hillman. Anderson faces the 9th ranked rushing defense in Kansas City, so I'm steering clear of any Broncos running back this week.Green-Beckham has huge upside the rest of the season and is certainly worth a bench spot, but going against the 6th ranked Panthers defense doesn't bode well for the Titans.
As I mentioned before, Snead didn't practice Thursday, so his health needs to be monitored, but if he plays, plug him in. Snead is the favorite wide receiver of Drew Brees and that alone means quality fantasy production. I think Washington vs. New Orleans will be a shoot out, so I think Snead had high upside to score if he plays. If he's held out, I would play Green-Beckham and hope for the big play from the six-foot-five-inch receiver.
Thursday, November 5, 2015
Week 9 Fill-Ins and Pick-ups
This past weekend was an injury-riddled one. It's the unfortunate part of the game, but injuries happen and they seem to come in bunches. This past weekend we saw like likes of LeVeon Bell, Steve Smith Sr, and Keenan Allen suffer season-ending injuries. We also saw Matt Forte go down with a knee injury that will presumably sideline him for multiple weeks.
Those injuries to key players as well as the the heaviest bye week of the season (six teams are in a bye), have left holes in many fantasy teams. Waiver's are done for the week, so now you're left to choose from free agency. This is a list of players who's stock is on the rise as they look to cement a role for themselves going forward. These players make great bye-week fill-ins and deserve a spot on your bench going forward.
Jameis Winston (TB)
Currently ranked as the 18th quarterback, Winston hasn't thrown an interception or lost a fumble in his last three games. He has four touchdowns over that span as well. He has yet to score under 12 fantasy points in a match-up and going against the 28th ranked New York Giants in Week 9 makes Winston a strong QB2. If you typically start Carson Palmer or Russel Wilson, two QB's who on a bye this week, look for Winston in free agency. He is owned in 28% of leagues
Jay Cutler (CHI)
In his last four games, Cutler has finished with 17, 17, 19 and 19 fantasy points. Over that span he has six touchdowns, two interceptions, and one fumble. Since the return of Alshon Jeffery, Cutler has been in rare form and with the absence of Matt Forte in upcoming weeks, I look for Cutler to bare the load of the offense. Going against the 17th ranked San Diego Chargers, who have given up nearly 30 points per game, I look for Cutler to continue his fantasy success.
Jeremy Langford (CHI)
If you pay attention to fantasy football, there were two players who were sought after on waiver's this week: DeAngelo Williams and Jeremy Langford. Williams, now owned in over 90% of leagues, was the number one pickup of the week, but Langford is only owned in 73% of leagues. With Forte out, Langford will be the bellcow back. San Diego is ranked dead last against the run, so if there ever was an opportunity for Langford to succeed, it's this week.
Kendall Gaskins (SF)
San Francisco is a fantasy football disaster right now. Their starting running back is hurt. Their number two running back is hurt. They just traded their number one tight end. Their benching their starting quarterback. It's a mess. Gaskins is only owned in 3% of leagues, but he should see the increased workload that comes with a starting running back. I can't see the 49ers putting the offense on the shoulder of Blaine Gabbert, so I look for Head Coach Jim Tomsula to emphasize the rushing attack. The problem is, they face Atlanta, who is only 26th against the run, but if Atlanta gets up early, the run game will be abandoned. Proceed with heavy amount of caution.
Stevie Johnson, WR (SD)
Owned in 53% of leagues, Johnson is now the #1 receiver in Sand Diego. With Keenan Allen going through emergency kidney surgery, Johnson becomes the star wide out in a productive San Diego offense. Phillip Rivers is the leader in passing yards. That's how San Diego moves the ball and I don't see that changing anytime soon. Johnson faces the Chicago Bears defense, who ranks 27th against the pass. Johnson should be a low-end WR2 going forward.
Tavon Austin, WR (STL)
Austin, typically a boom-or-bust kind of player, has been much more boom lately. With the emergence of Todd Gurley, Austin has had open field to work with. Owned in 57% of leagues, Austin has produced four touchdowns in his last four games, averaging 15 points per game. He gets about five to seven touches per game, but for a player like Austin, that's enough to get him into open space and into the endzone.
Jacob Tamme, TE (ATL)
Tamme is only owned in 18% of leagues. He's currently the 16th ranked TE. He has seen more looks as of late - probably because Roddy White and Leonard Hankerson have fallen through the cracks. He has had three games of 77 yards or more and last week he posted a 10 catch, 103 yard, 1 touchdown performance. With Julio Jones and Devonta Freeman taking so many looks, the open of the field is wide open for Tamme.
Vernon Davis, TE (DEN)
He went from 2-6 to 7-0 with one phone call. He also went from being owned in 14% of leagues to being owned in 50% of leagues, all because of Peyton Manning. Davis is a risk-reward TE2. He is easily the most athletic TE the Broncos have on their roster, but don't let the hype fool you. Davis still has to learn the playbook, get his timing with Peyton, and prove his worth to the aging quarterback. Superstars are plentiful in Denver right now, but are there enough targets to go around?
Those injuries to key players as well as the the heaviest bye week of the season (six teams are in a bye), have left holes in many fantasy teams. Waiver's are done for the week, so now you're left to choose from free agency. This is a list of players who's stock is on the rise as they look to cement a role for themselves going forward. These players make great bye-week fill-ins and deserve a spot on your bench going forward.
QUARTERBACKS
Jameis Winston (TB)
Currently ranked as the 18th quarterback, Winston hasn't thrown an interception or lost a fumble in his last three games. He has four touchdowns over that span as well. He has yet to score under 12 fantasy points in a match-up and going against the 28th ranked New York Giants in Week 9 makes Winston a strong QB2. If you typically start Carson Palmer or Russel Wilson, two QB's who on a bye this week, look for Winston in free agency. He is owned in 28% of leagues
Jay Cutler (CHI)
In his last four games, Cutler has finished with 17, 17, 19 and 19 fantasy points. Over that span he has six touchdowns, two interceptions, and one fumble. Since the return of Alshon Jeffery, Cutler has been in rare form and with the absence of Matt Forte in upcoming weeks, I look for Cutler to bare the load of the offense. Going against the 17th ranked San Diego Chargers, who have given up nearly 30 points per game, I look for Cutler to continue his fantasy success.
RUNNING BACKS
Jeremy Langford (CHI)
If you pay attention to fantasy football, there were two players who were sought after on waiver's this week: DeAngelo Williams and Jeremy Langford. Williams, now owned in over 90% of leagues, was the number one pickup of the week, but Langford is only owned in 73% of leagues. With Forte out, Langford will be the bellcow back. San Diego is ranked dead last against the run, so if there ever was an opportunity for Langford to succeed, it's this week.
Kendall Gaskins (SF)
San Francisco is a fantasy football disaster right now. Their starting running back is hurt. Their number two running back is hurt. They just traded their number one tight end. Their benching their starting quarterback. It's a mess. Gaskins is only owned in 3% of leagues, but he should see the increased workload that comes with a starting running back. I can't see the 49ers putting the offense on the shoulder of Blaine Gabbert, so I look for Head Coach Jim Tomsula to emphasize the rushing attack. The problem is, they face Atlanta, who is only 26th against the run, but if Atlanta gets up early, the run game will be abandoned. Proceed with heavy amount of caution.
WIDE RECEIVERS
Stevie Johnson, WR (SD)
Owned in 53% of leagues, Johnson is now the #1 receiver in Sand Diego. With Keenan Allen going through emergency kidney surgery, Johnson becomes the star wide out in a productive San Diego offense. Phillip Rivers is the leader in passing yards. That's how San Diego moves the ball and I don't see that changing anytime soon. Johnson faces the Chicago Bears defense, who ranks 27th against the pass. Johnson should be a low-end WR2 going forward.
Tavon Austin, WR (STL)
Austin, typically a boom-or-bust kind of player, has been much more boom lately. With the emergence of Todd Gurley, Austin has had open field to work with. Owned in 57% of leagues, Austin has produced four touchdowns in his last four games, averaging 15 points per game. He gets about five to seven touches per game, but for a player like Austin, that's enough to get him into open space and into the endzone.
TIGHT ENDS
Jacob Tamme, TE (ATL)
Tamme is only owned in 18% of leagues. He's currently the 16th ranked TE. He has seen more looks as of late - probably because Roddy White and Leonard Hankerson have fallen through the cracks. He has had three games of 77 yards or more and last week he posted a 10 catch, 103 yard, 1 touchdown performance. With Julio Jones and Devonta Freeman taking so many looks, the open of the field is wide open for Tamme.
Vernon Davis, TE (DEN)
He went from 2-6 to 7-0 with one phone call. He also went from being owned in 14% of leagues to being owned in 50% of leagues, all because of Peyton Manning. Davis is a risk-reward TE2. He is easily the most athletic TE the Broncos have on their roster, but don't let the hype fool you. Davis still has to learn the playbook, get his timing with Peyton, and prove his worth to the aging quarterback. Superstars are plentiful in Denver right now, but are there enough targets to go around?
Friday, October 30, 2015
Trying to win the big bucks
You've seen them. I know you have.
You know, those commercials that say they are giving out $2 million this year for fantasy football? Those commercials that are on during every break...of every sports show...of every channel?
Draft Kings! Yes, Draft Kings! The daily fantasy league where you can choose a new team every week! *I am not a paid spokesperson for Draft Kings, but if they ask really nicely, I'm sure I could squeeze them in.*
If you're unfamiliar with how this works, it's rather simple:
- Make an account on Draft Kings
- Pay the league fee
- Choose your team
The catch is that, when you pay the league fee, you are given a "$50,000" limit. Each player is worth a certain amount of money - the better the player, the more he is worth. You have to create a roster of players that is under the $50,000 salary cap. Rather than just picking the best players, you have to play the match-ups and find guys who might not be in the upper echelon of their respective position, but who are going to have a good week. FYI: Draft Kings is a PPR (points per reception) setting. They also don't use a kicker, sorry, Jeff Reed.
So, here is my roster this week:
Stafford faces the Kansas City Chiefs who are ranked 23rd against the pass. With six touchdowns and one interception in the last two weeks, while averaging 330 yards per game, I look for Stafford to continue his success against what has turned out to be a less-then-stellar Chiefs secondary.
RB: Todd Gurley, STL $6,300
The man can't be stopped, simple as that. And this week he plays the San Francisco 49'ers who are ranked 28th against the run. SIGN. ME. UP.
RB: Chris Johnson, ARI $4,600
Johnson faces the 30th ranked run defense of the Cleveland Browns - a team who just let Todd Gurley rush for 128 yards and two touchdowns. I'm not saying Johnson and Gurley are of the same athletic ability, at least not anymore, but Johnson has proved spry in his old age and looks to continue his dominant season.
WR: Calvin Johnson, DET $7,900
Personally, I like to double up on quarterback, wide receiver combos on Draft Kings. Calvin Johnson is the most expensive player on this list, but that match-up is just too good to pass on. Kansas City is ranked dead last against the pass and Megatron is due for a monstrous game. I see a big game on the horizon for Mr. Megatron.
WR: Keenan Allen, SD $7,700
Allen faces the Baltimore Ravens, ranked 31st against the pass. He has had his share of success, catching double digit passes in three of the seven games so far this season. He is easily the #1 target of Philip Rivers, especially with Antonio Gates injured again.
WR: Stefon Diggs, MIN $4,800
Dirt cheap! Diggs has double digit points in two straight weeks - 13 catches, 237 yards and one touchdown in both combined - and looks to be the favorite of Teddy Bridgewater. He faces the Chicago Bears who are ranked 23rd against the pass and are susceptible to the deep pass.
TE: Tyler Eifert, CIN $5,300
He faces the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers rank 29th overall against the tight end position. Eifert has six touchdowns in six games and I don't see him slowly down against the Steelers.
FLEX: Jonathan Stewart, CAR $4,100
Stewart has had 20 carries or more in each of the last two games and has had double digit fantasy points in each. Carolina is depending on his as the workhorse and he's finally starting to roll. He faces the Indianapolis Colts, who just gave up three touchdowns on the ground to the New Orleans Saints last week and rank 26th against the run.
D/ST: Rams $3,200
The Rams defense has at least one takeaway in every game so far this year and has multiple takeaways in three. They ranked 5th overall in defensive scoring and going against an inconsistent quarterback in Colin Kaepernick sounds like a successful outing for the Rams.
Total Salary used: $49,700
You know, those commercials that say they are giving out $2 million this year for fantasy football? Those commercials that are on during every break...of every sports show...of every channel?
Draft Kings! Yes, Draft Kings! The daily fantasy league where you can choose a new team every week! *I am not a paid spokesperson for Draft Kings, but if they ask really nicely, I'm sure I could squeeze them in.*
If you're unfamiliar with how this works, it's rather simple:
- Make an account on Draft Kings
- Pay the league fee
- Choose your team
The catch is that, when you pay the league fee, you are given a "$50,000" limit. Each player is worth a certain amount of money - the better the player, the more he is worth. You have to create a roster of players that is under the $50,000 salary cap. Rather than just picking the best players, you have to play the match-ups and find guys who might not be in the upper echelon of their respective position, but who are going to have a good week. FYI: Draft Kings is a PPR (points per reception) setting. They also don't use a kicker, sorry, Jeff Reed.
So, here is my roster this week:
QB: Matthew Stafford, DET $5,800
Stafford faces the Kansas City Chiefs who are ranked 23rd against the pass. With six touchdowns and one interception in the last two weeks, while averaging 330 yards per game, I look for Stafford to continue his success against what has turned out to be a less-then-stellar Chiefs secondary.
RB: Todd Gurley, STL $6,300
The man can't be stopped, simple as that. And this week he plays the San Francisco 49'ers who are ranked 28th against the run. SIGN. ME. UP.
RB: Chris Johnson, ARI $4,600
Johnson faces the 30th ranked run defense of the Cleveland Browns - a team who just let Todd Gurley rush for 128 yards and two touchdowns. I'm not saying Johnson and Gurley are of the same athletic ability, at least not anymore, but Johnson has proved spry in his old age and looks to continue his dominant season.
WR: Calvin Johnson, DET $7,900
Personally, I like to double up on quarterback, wide receiver combos on Draft Kings. Calvin Johnson is the most expensive player on this list, but that match-up is just too good to pass on. Kansas City is ranked dead last against the pass and Megatron is due for a monstrous game. I see a big game on the horizon for Mr. Megatron.
WR: Keenan Allen, SD $7,700
Allen faces the Baltimore Ravens, ranked 31st against the pass. He has had his share of success, catching double digit passes in three of the seven games so far this season. He is easily the #1 target of Philip Rivers, especially with Antonio Gates injured again.
WR: Stefon Diggs, MIN $4,800
Dirt cheap! Diggs has double digit points in two straight weeks - 13 catches, 237 yards and one touchdown in both combined - and looks to be the favorite of Teddy Bridgewater. He faces the Chicago Bears who are ranked 23rd against the pass and are susceptible to the deep pass.
TE: Tyler Eifert, CIN $5,300
He faces the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers rank 29th overall against the tight end position. Eifert has six touchdowns in six games and I don't see him slowly down against the Steelers.
FLEX: Jonathan Stewart, CAR $4,100
Stewart has had 20 carries or more in each of the last two games and has had double digit fantasy points in each. Carolina is depending on his as the workhorse and he's finally starting to roll. He faces the Indianapolis Colts, who just gave up three touchdowns on the ground to the New Orleans Saints last week and rank 26th against the run.
D/ST: Rams $3,200
The Rams defense has at least one takeaway in every game so far this year and has multiple takeaways in three. They ranked 5th overall in defensive scoring and going against an inconsistent quarterback in Colin Kaepernick sounds like a successful outing for the Rams.
Total Salary used: $49,700
Thursday, October 22, 2015
Don't Be That Guy
Week 6 is over and we are finally getting a grasp on who is worth keeping and who may be on their way out the door. With values rising and falling, trades start occurring more often and we start becoming more or less attached to players that we drafted.
The point of a trade is to make your team better, that part is obvious. But Trade Etiquette is something that many people lack. There are no set of rules for the way a trade should happen, but without a common set of grounds, do you know what happens? Chaos. Chaos happens. And there's nothing more dangerous in this world than a pissed off fantasy football player. Scratch that - it's really funny seeing pissed off fantasy football players, relax, it's a virtual game.
Yes, you want to get the better part of the trade, if there even is one, but don't be that guy who offers his entire bench for Aaron Rodgers. You know the deal won't get accepted, so quit. There are unwritten rules when it comes to trades:
1. Be clear. When I say clear, I mean be as clear as you can. I should be able to tell if we're trying to make a trade at this very moment or if we're just tossing around ideas for the future. Getting straight to the point means that you want this trade to happen faster than CJ Anderson's valued plummeted (too soon?). Saying something like "wanna trade LaGarrette Blount for Ronnie Hillman?" means that this trade can happen at this very moment. It's an open invitation for the recipient to either accept or deny. However, saying something like "I'm looking to ship away Randal Cobb" opens the conversation for discussion. Be clear what your intentions are, it's easy.
2. Respond. A lot of fantasy football talk happens away from your respective site. For instance, my league has a Facebook page where a majority of trade and smack talk occurs. Even if someone offers you a trade that you aren't the least bit interested in, respond. Nothing is more frustrating than when you offer someone a legitimate trade and you just don't get a response. Sure, most of us have jobs that don't revolve around fantasy football, or whatever (those are more like hobbies anyway), so it's understandable that you can't respond immediately, but if you see my message, let me know that you'll get back to me later. Even if your answer is no, just tell me that. It's okay, really, you won't hurt my feelings.
3. If you accept an offer on another medium (Facebook, texting, email, etc) then when I offer it on the website, you should accept it. The website part is just a technicality, you already told me you were going to accept, so now you have to. Be a man (or woman) of your word. There's no "oh sorry, I traded him to someone else." You accepted your trade to me on Facebook messenger, you better follow through.
4. Don't ever veto a trade, unless obvious collusion is involved. It is not your job to run other player's teams. If a trade is made, no matter how good or bad, unless collusion can be proven, it's not your place to choose whether it was a good trade or not. And if you veto a trade because it makes another team too good, please stop playing the game I love. The trade was made with both parties involved, so do your part as a good league member and just accept it. Trading is an art that needs perfected, don't be jealous that others have it and you don't. And if you are caught is collusion - yes, Mick, I've never actually met you, but I'm talking to you - you're no longer welcome in the league. Our league is sacred, and you have ruined the sanctity of our game...Goodbye.
5. We play this game for fun. More than likely, we play it with friends. Friends who we see and talk to on a regular basis. Don't lose a friend because of fantasy football, unless that person colludes, then you can kick he or she to the curb. But also, these friends are people we will have to trade with in the future. Don't ruin future chances at trades by ignoring Trade Etiquette.
It's a respect thing. If you wouldn't accept the trade if it were reversed, don't offer it.
Anyway, time for value - the value of players going forward. Some players have better value than others. Some draftees panned out and some didn't. You're probably using waiver wire adds and you've probably dropped players that you drafted; it's all part of the game.
Players who have great value going forward:
Antonio Brown: Experiencing extreme difficulties with Mike Vick at QB, Brown has Landry Jones at the helm this week. No, I don't see a rebound from Brown this week, but Big Ben will be back soon. Fantasy owners and Steelers fans rejoice. Brown finished last year as the number one receiver in fantasy and in three games this year with Big Ben, Brown has 100 yards in all three of those games and a touchdown in two. Breathe that sigh of relief.
Lamar Miller: If you're a Miller owner like me, you've been looking for alternatives...until this past Sunday. New head coach + new game plan = New Lamar Miller. Sunday, Miller saw his highest yardage total, his highest total of carries and a touchdown. Maybe it's too soon to tell, but if you bought low on Miller last week, congrats to you. If not, I recommend doing so before it's too late.
LeSean McCoy: He's baaaaack. Buffalo is having some issues at QB and with their stub RB back, they'll be leaning heavily on the run game - not that Rex Ryan didn't do that anyway. McCoy saw his highest yardage total last week, tied his season-high in carries and added a touchdown. There's no other RB in Buffalo that can do what McCoy can do. That was proven in the week that he was out. McCoy will be in the Top 15 of RB's going forward.
Doug Martin: 20 carries 106 yards 1 TD. 24 carries 123 yards 2 TDs. Those are Martin's numbers for his last two starts. The latter resulted in a win, the former came against the undefeated Carolina Panthers. Winston has been shaky, as a rookie typically is, so I look for the Dougernaut to be the focal point of the Buccaneers offense going forward. He has proven he can be the bell-cow back and I think Lovie Smith will feed him the ball.
Patience, not Panic: these are players that have not been producing as of late, but you can't drop them quite yet.
Randall Cobb: Aaron Rodger certainly loves throwing the football. James Jones currently leads the team in yards and touchdowns. The upside is that Cobb leads the team in targets by 18 and the Packers faced an injury to rookie Ty Montgomery. The Packers are on their bye this week, so I look for them to find ways to get the ball to Cobb. He specializes in the slot, which reduces his chances of goal line work, but Cobb does most of his damage between the redzones.
Eddie Lacy: The problem has to be injuries. We've seen a healthy Lacy the past two seasons and he's been a top 10 back each of those seasons. One year could be a fluke, two, not so much. The injured ankle has prevented Lacy from gaining momentum but with the Packers on a bye, that ankle should be plenty rested for the rest of the season.
Melvin Gordon: Danny Woodhead has proven his worth as not only the Charges pass-catching back, but also the goal line back. But here's my thought process on Gordon: he can't get any worse. He has the raw talent, he just has to put it together on the field.
Jordan Matthews: Matthews is the most targeted Eagle and has the most talent of any other wide receiver on the team. The problem has been consistency at quarterback and, for those of you that have watch Eagles games, Matthews has been non-existent inside the 20-yard line. Bradford almost ignores Matthews, his biggest receiver. Matthews is viable in PPR-formats, and that's about it.
Mike Evans: The build and talent that any receiver would want, the only thing holding Evans back is his quarterback. The Bucs will focus their game plan around Doug Martin more following their bye-week and if Martin proves he can handle the load, that should leave Evans in one-on-one situations.
These are players you should cut loose. See ya. Sayonara. Or, if someone wants them, trade away:
Joseph Randle: Seemingly in Jason Garret's doghouse for jumping over the goal line, Randle is now a part of a RBBC with Darren McFadden AND Christine Michael. Good luck figuring out who will get the majority of carries game in and game out.
Peyton Manning: That's right, the Peyton Manning who was once drafted in the first round of drafts in years past. Manning is QB#28 overall. He has seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Brian Hoyer has more points than Manning and Hoyer was benched for two games. Kirk Cousins has more points than Manning this year. Jameis Winston has more points that Manning this year. Shall I go on?
CJ Anderson: If you're still starting Anderson, you must be in a 20 team league and hoping for a miracle. Clearly the number two back behind Hillman, Anderson, who was drafted in the first round of many drafts, is now un-startable. Andre Ellington has more points than CJ Anderson and he misse three of the six games played so far.
Brandin Cooks: Cooks was drafted as a low-end WR1 or high-end WR2. Cooks is currently a WR4, only producing 40 points in six games. Torrey Smith, Willie Snead, and Pierre Garcon all have more points than Cooks does on the year.
Good luck with the reason of your season and if you're 2-4 or 1-5, start making some trades! You're still in it!
The point of a trade is to make your team better, that part is obvious. But Trade Etiquette is something that many people lack. There are no set of rules for the way a trade should happen, but without a common set of grounds, do you know what happens? Chaos. Chaos happens. And there's nothing more dangerous in this world than a pissed off fantasy football player. Scratch that - it's really funny seeing pissed off fantasy football players, relax, it's a virtual game.
Yes, you want to get the better part of the trade, if there even is one, but don't be that guy who offers his entire bench for Aaron Rodgers. You know the deal won't get accepted, so quit. There are unwritten rules when it comes to trades:
1. Be clear. When I say clear, I mean be as clear as you can. I should be able to tell if we're trying to make a trade at this very moment or if we're just tossing around ideas for the future. Getting straight to the point means that you want this trade to happen faster than CJ Anderson's valued plummeted (too soon?). Saying something like "wanna trade LaGarrette Blount for Ronnie Hillman?" means that this trade can happen at this very moment. It's an open invitation for the recipient to either accept or deny. However, saying something like "I'm looking to ship away Randal Cobb" opens the conversation for discussion. Be clear what your intentions are, it's easy.
2. Respond. A lot of fantasy football talk happens away from your respective site. For instance, my league has a Facebook page where a majority of trade and smack talk occurs. Even if someone offers you a trade that you aren't the least bit interested in, respond. Nothing is more frustrating than when you offer someone a legitimate trade and you just don't get a response. Sure, most of us have jobs that don't revolve around fantasy football, or whatever (those are more like hobbies anyway), so it's understandable that you can't respond immediately, but if you see my message, let me know that you'll get back to me later. Even if your answer is no, just tell me that. It's okay, really, you won't hurt my feelings.
3. If you accept an offer on another medium (Facebook, texting, email, etc) then when I offer it on the website, you should accept it. The website part is just a technicality, you already told me you were going to accept, so now you have to. Be a man (or woman) of your word. There's no "oh sorry, I traded him to someone else." You accepted your trade to me on Facebook messenger, you better follow through.
4. Don't ever veto a trade, unless obvious collusion is involved. It is not your job to run other player's teams. If a trade is made, no matter how good or bad, unless collusion can be proven, it's not your place to choose whether it was a good trade or not. And if you veto a trade because it makes another team too good, please stop playing the game I love. The trade was made with both parties involved, so do your part as a good league member and just accept it. Trading is an art that needs perfected, don't be jealous that others have it and you don't. And if you are caught is collusion - yes, Mick, I've never actually met you, but I'm talking to you - you're no longer welcome in the league. Our league is sacred, and you have ruined the sanctity of our game...Goodbye.
5. We play this game for fun. More than likely, we play it with friends. Friends who we see and talk to on a regular basis. Don't lose a friend because of fantasy football, unless that person colludes, then you can kick he or she to the curb. But also, these friends are people we will have to trade with in the future. Don't ruin future chances at trades by ignoring Trade Etiquette.
It's a respect thing. If you wouldn't accept the trade if it were reversed, don't offer it.
Anyway, time for value - the value of players going forward. Some players have better value than others. Some draftees panned out and some didn't. You're probably using waiver wire adds and you've probably dropped players that you drafted; it's all part of the game.
Players who have great value going forward:
Antonio Brown: Experiencing extreme difficulties with Mike Vick at QB, Brown has Landry Jones at the helm this week. No, I don't see a rebound from Brown this week, but Big Ben will be back soon. Fantasy owners and Steelers fans rejoice. Brown finished last year as the number one receiver in fantasy and in three games this year with Big Ben, Brown has 100 yards in all three of those games and a touchdown in two. Breathe that sigh of relief.
Lamar Miller: If you're a Miller owner like me, you've been looking for alternatives...until this past Sunday. New head coach + new game plan = New Lamar Miller. Sunday, Miller saw his highest yardage total, his highest total of carries and a touchdown. Maybe it's too soon to tell, but if you bought low on Miller last week, congrats to you. If not, I recommend doing so before it's too late.
LeSean McCoy: He's baaaaack. Buffalo is having some issues at QB and with their stub RB back, they'll be leaning heavily on the run game - not that Rex Ryan didn't do that anyway. McCoy saw his highest yardage total last week, tied his season-high in carries and added a touchdown. There's no other RB in Buffalo that can do what McCoy can do. That was proven in the week that he was out. McCoy will be in the Top 15 of RB's going forward.
Doug Martin: 20 carries 106 yards 1 TD. 24 carries 123 yards 2 TDs. Those are Martin's numbers for his last two starts. The latter resulted in a win, the former came against the undefeated Carolina Panthers. Winston has been shaky, as a rookie typically is, so I look for the Dougernaut to be the focal point of the Buccaneers offense going forward. He has proven he can be the bell-cow back and I think Lovie Smith will feed him the ball.
Patience, not Panic: these are players that have not been producing as of late, but you can't drop them quite yet.
Randall Cobb: Aaron Rodger certainly loves throwing the football. James Jones currently leads the team in yards and touchdowns. The upside is that Cobb leads the team in targets by 18 and the Packers faced an injury to rookie Ty Montgomery. The Packers are on their bye this week, so I look for them to find ways to get the ball to Cobb. He specializes in the slot, which reduces his chances of goal line work, but Cobb does most of his damage between the redzones.
Eddie Lacy: The problem has to be injuries. We've seen a healthy Lacy the past two seasons and he's been a top 10 back each of those seasons. One year could be a fluke, two, not so much. The injured ankle has prevented Lacy from gaining momentum but with the Packers on a bye, that ankle should be plenty rested for the rest of the season.
Melvin Gordon: Danny Woodhead has proven his worth as not only the Charges pass-catching back, but also the goal line back. But here's my thought process on Gordon: he can't get any worse. He has the raw talent, he just has to put it together on the field.
Jordan Matthews: Matthews is the most targeted Eagle and has the most talent of any other wide receiver on the team. The problem has been consistency at quarterback and, for those of you that have watch Eagles games, Matthews has been non-existent inside the 20-yard line. Bradford almost ignores Matthews, his biggest receiver. Matthews is viable in PPR-formats, and that's about it.
Mike Evans: The build and talent that any receiver would want, the only thing holding Evans back is his quarterback. The Bucs will focus their game plan around Doug Martin more following their bye-week and if Martin proves he can handle the load, that should leave Evans in one-on-one situations.
These are players you should cut loose. See ya. Sayonara. Or, if someone wants them, trade away:
Joseph Randle: Seemingly in Jason Garret's doghouse for jumping over the goal line, Randle is now a part of a RBBC with Darren McFadden AND Christine Michael. Good luck figuring out who will get the majority of carries game in and game out.
Peyton Manning: That's right, the Peyton Manning who was once drafted in the first round of drafts in years past. Manning is QB#28 overall. He has seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Brian Hoyer has more points than Manning and Hoyer was benched for two games. Kirk Cousins has more points than Manning this year. Jameis Winston has more points that Manning this year. Shall I go on?
CJ Anderson: If you're still starting Anderson, you must be in a 20 team league and hoping for a miracle. Clearly the number two back behind Hillman, Anderson, who was drafted in the first round of many drafts, is now un-startable. Andre Ellington has more points than CJ Anderson and he misse three of the six games played so far.
Brandin Cooks: Cooks was drafted as a low-end WR1 or high-end WR2. Cooks is currently a WR4, only producing 40 points in six games. Torrey Smith, Willie Snead, and Pierre Garcon all have more points than Cooks does on the year.
Good luck with the reason of your season and if you're 2-4 or 1-5, start making some trades! You're still in it!
Thursday, October 15, 2015
Love/Hate Week 6
Fantasy Football is a roller coaster ride of emotions that lasts 17 weeks. When a player is doing really well, you can't get enough of him. You talk him up to your friends, maybe send a few tweets his way - you're all on board. But then there's guys you expect a lot from and get disappointed. The great football players, but maybe not-so-great fantasy football players. You know the ones I'm talking about. The tight ends that maybe have a mediocre quarterback, or the running back who was once talented behind a great offensive line, but now lingers behind a bad one.
Big weeks come and go, but what matters is consistency. Week in and week out, you want to play the players that are most consistent and that you can count on to produce points. Everyone has that one player on their bench who they rarely start, but will, on occasion, bust out four catches for 150 yards and two touchdowns. And you didn't play him for a reason - and do you know what that reason is? Because without two of the catches, that player scores I don't know, maybe 3 points?
Fantasy Football is all about predictions, but it's also all about what is most likely going to happen. Each week we go into, there are players you love and players you hate based on match-ups and previous play. This list is based off of what is most likely going to happen this week based off of the match-ups and the previous play of these players:
Love:
1. Arian Foster, RB (HOU)
I know what you're saying, "Oh, Arian Foster is a must start, why is he on this list?" "Darren, I'm obviously starting Foster if he's healthy." I know you are. You and everyone else who owns Foster is going to play him, but here's why: Last week, then man touched the ball 28 times - 19 rushed and 9 catches. This week Foster faces the 28th ranked Jacksonville Jaguars and if you're telling me that Foster is going to touch the ball 28 times against the Jags...SIGN ME UP.
2. Justin Forsett, RB (BAL)
He's finally back! Two straight 100-yard performances that included 27 and 25 touches respectively...THANK YOU FOOTBALL GODS (and that you, Little Giants, for the awesome movie quote). This week Foster faces the 27th ranked 49ers and with Steve Smith still banged up, I look for Forsett to carry the load once again for a struggling Baltimore team looking to secure their second win of the season.
3. Richard Rodgers, TE (GB)
The 25th ranked San Diego Chargers have allowed a touchdown to opposing TE's in three of the last five games and Rodgers has scored every other game so far this season. Last week he didn't score, so guess what? I think he gets into the endzone this week and continues at his "every other week" pace. And with Aaron Rodgers throwing the ball around, I'm pretty confident in the Rodgers-to-Rodgers connection.
4. TY Hilton, WR (IND)
Aside from Dez Bryant and Alshon Jeffrey (both injured for much of the first five weeks), TY Hilton is the only top-10-drafted WR to not record a 100-yard performance OR have a touchdown. The Colts face the 21st ranked New England Patriots with a possible Andrew Luck return, I expect TY Hilton to finally get his first touchdown of the season.
5. Travis Kelce, TE (KC)
The Jamaal Charles injury is devastating to the Chiefs as a team, but it's amazing to the stock of Kelce. Andy Reid loves to run the football, so that will still be a large part of the offense, but a heavy part will be Alex Smith throwing the football, which is probably scary to Chiefs fans. But KC if playing the 22nd ranked Minnesota Vikings who have given up with 90 yards or a touchdown in three of the four games they've played so far. Kelce is a top-5 TE the rest of the season.
Hate:
1. CJ Anderson, RB (DEN)
Yes, I too drafted Anderson in the 1st Round of more than one draft. Yes, I too am stuck with him on my bench. What's a guy to do with a 1st-rounder who hasn't posted more than six points in a single game or cracked the 50-yard mark in any game yet? You bench him, that's what. You bench him; you hope that he scores a goal line touchdown or two; you sell high on him. That's my plan and it should be yours as well. Last week Anderson had 31 snaps vs. Ronnie Hillman's 20. Cleveland is a good match-ups for running backs, so I assume this will be Anderson's last chance to make a mark in the fantasy world.
2. Lamar Miller, RB (MIA)
A new head coach in town should bode well for Miller, just not this week. Facing the 6th ranked Titans defense, a defense that hasn't given up 100 yards in a game yet, doesn't bode well for a running back who hasn't posted more than 60 yards yet this season. The future could be brighter for Miller, but for this week, he's a hope and a prayer away from double digit fantasy points.
3. Charles Clay, TE (BUF)
Tyrod Taylor is hurt and that spells trouble for the Buffalo Bills. Not only does it hurt the Bills' chance of winning games, but it hurts Clay's value on fantasy teams. Clay has been the only dependable receiver in Buffalo but playing the 4th ranked Bengals who haven't given up a touchdown to tight ends yet this season, and losing his starting quarterback doesn't sound like a good match-up to me. EJ Manuel could and should rely heavily upon his big target in the middle of the field, but this week just isn't the week for Clay.
4. Jimmy Graham, TE (SEA)
You saw this coming, right? Right? The trade to Seattle sealed his fate as a top fantasy star. Jimmy Graham is facing the Carolina Panthers defense. Here's a stat for you: the Panthers defense has only allowed 1 touchdown all year. Here's a better stat for you: the Panthers defense has only allowed 86 yards to tight ends ALL YEAR - 0, 26, 52, and 8 yards respectively given up in each of the 4 game they've played.
5. Isaiah Crowell, RB (CLE)
Crowell has all but lost the receiving duties to Duke Johnson. Jr. The Browns face a stout Denver defense who has surprisingly been the reason for Denver's wins this year. I expect the Broncos to pull ahead in this game, forcing the Browns to pass, pass, pass, leaving much of the snaps leaning in the favor of Duke Johnson. The Broncos defense is one of the best in the league, so I look for the Browns offense to struggle mightily in this one.
Big weeks come and go, but what matters is consistency. Week in and week out, you want to play the players that are most consistent and that you can count on to produce points. Everyone has that one player on their bench who they rarely start, but will, on occasion, bust out four catches for 150 yards and two touchdowns. And you didn't play him for a reason - and do you know what that reason is? Because without two of the catches, that player scores I don't know, maybe 3 points?
Fantasy Football is all about predictions, but it's also all about what is most likely going to happen. Each week we go into, there are players you love and players you hate based on match-ups and previous play. This list is based off of what is most likely going to happen this week based off of the match-ups and the previous play of these players:
Love:
1. Arian Foster, RB (HOU)
I know what you're saying, "Oh, Arian Foster is a must start, why is he on this list?" "Darren, I'm obviously starting Foster if he's healthy." I know you are. You and everyone else who owns Foster is going to play him, but here's why: Last week, then man touched the ball 28 times - 19 rushed and 9 catches. This week Foster faces the 28th ranked Jacksonville Jaguars and if you're telling me that Foster is going to touch the ball 28 times against the Jags...SIGN ME UP.
2. Justin Forsett, RB (BAL)
He's finally back! Two straight 100-yard performances that included 27 and 25 touches respectively...THANK YOU FOOTBALL GODS (and that you, Little Giants, for the awesome movie quote). This week Foster faces the 27th ranked 49ers and with Steve Smith still banged up, I look for Forsett to carry the load once again for a struggling Baltimore team looking to secure their second win of the season.
3. Richard Rodgers, TE (GB)
The 25th ranked San Diego Chargers have allowed a touchdown to opposing TE's in three of the last five games and Rodgers has scored every other game so far this season. Last week he didn't score, so guess what? I think he gets into the endzone this week and continues at his "every other week" pace. And with Aaron Rodgers throwing the ball around, I'm pretty confident in the Rodgers-to-Rodgers connection.
4. TY Hilton, WR (IND)
Aside from Dez Bryant and Alshon Jeffrey (both injured for much of the first five weeks), TY Hilton is the only top-10-drafted WR to not record a 100-yard performance OR have a touchdown. The Colts face the 21st ranked New England Patriots with a possible Andrew Luck return, I expect TY Hilton to finally get his first touchdown of the season.
5. Travis Kelce, TE (KC)
The Jamaal Charles injury is devastating to the Chiefs as a team, but it's amazing to the stock of Kelce. Andy Reid loves to run the football, so that will still be a large part of the offense, but a heavy part will be Alex Smith throwing the football, which is probably scary to Chiefs fans. But KC if playing the 22nd ranked Minnesota Vikings who have given up with 90 yards or a touchdown in three of the four games they've played so far. Kelce is a top-5 TE the rest of the season.
Hate:
1. CJ Anderson, RB (DEN)
Yes, I too drafted Anderson in the 1st Round of more than one draft. Yes, I too am stuck with him on my bench. What's a guy to do with a 1st-rounder who hasn't posted more than six points in a single game or cracked the 50-yard mark in any game yet? You bench him, that's what. You bench him; you hope that he scores a goal line touchdown or two; you sell high on him. That's my plan and it should be yours as well. Last week Anderson had 31 snaps vs. Ronnie Hillman's 20. Cleveland is a good match-ups for running backs, so I assume this will be Anderson's last chance to make a mark in the fantasy world.
2. Lamar Miller, RB (MIA)
A new head coach in town should bode well for Miller, just not this week. Facing the 6th ranked Titans defense, a defense that hasn't given up 100 yards in a game yet, doesn't bode well for a running back who hasn't posted more than 60 yards yet this season. The future could be brighter for Miller, but for this week, he's a hope and a prayer away from double digit fantasy points.
3. Charles Clay, TE (BUF)
Tyrod Taylor is hurt and that spells trouble for the Buffalo Bills. Not only does it hurt the Bills' chance of winning games, but it hurts Clay's value on fantasy teams. Clay has been the only dependable receiver in Buffalo but playing the 4th ranked Bengals who haven't given up a touchdown to tight ends yet this season, and losing his starting quarterback doesn't sound like a good match-up to me. EJ Manuel could and should rely heavily upon his big target in the middle of the field, but this week just isn't the week for Clay.
4. Jimmy Graham, TE (SEA)
You saw this coming, right? Right? The trade to Seattle sealed his fate as a top fantasy star. Jimmy Graham is facing the Carolina Panthers defense. Here's a stat for you: the Panthers defense has only allowed 1 touchdown all year. Here's a better stat for you: the Panthers defense has only allowed 86 yards to tight ends ALL YEAR - 0, 26, 52, and 8 yards respectively given up in each of the 4 game they've played.
5. Isaiah Crowell, RB (CLE)
Crowell has all but lost the receiving duties to Duke Johnson. Jr. The Browns face a stout Denver defense who has surprisingly been the reason for Denver's wins this year. I expect the Broncos to pull ahead in this game, forcing the Browns to pass, pass, pass, leaving much of the snaps leaning in the favor of Duke Johnson. The Broncos defense is one of the best in the league, so I look for the Browns offense to struggle mightily in this one.
Thursday, October 8, 2015
Top Free Agent Adds for Week 5
We're 25% through the season. The one-quarter mark! Some of your draft picks have panned out and some...well some have made you want to pull your hair out. With bye-weeks upon us, more waiver wire and free agency adds will be used and players will come and go from your roster. This is a list of players that are owned in 50% of leagues or less and NEED to be stashed on your roster:
1. Leonard Hankerson, WR (ATL) Owned in 38.3%
Hankerson is easily my #1 add this week. I have added him in 3 leagues, 2 of which I'm starting him in. He has surpassed Roddy White as the #2 receiver on a potent Atlanta Falcons offense and with Julio Jones attracting so much attention, it leaves Hankerson with one-on-ones and open looks in the slot. Hankerson has twice as many target as Roddy White does and is a more trusted asset to Matt Ryan at this point. Hankerson has two touchdowns this season, one of which, last week, coming along with a 100 yard performance. Hankerson will be a consistent play and should be owned in all 10-team leagues.
2. Allen Hurns, WR (JAX) Owned in 32.6%
Hurns has two straight games with a touchdown and has quietly become the most targeted receiver in Jacksonville. Robinson has a far and away better catch rate than his more popular teammate Allen Robinson (73.3% to 37.5%). He also had 11 receptions last week, which shouldn't go unnoticed in the Jaguars coaching staff. Robinson will continue to draw looks from defenses, which should open up the field for Hurns. Averaging 6 catches/game, Hurns should be a guy that is, at the very least, waiting on your bench.
3. Darren McFadden, RB (DAL) Owned in 49.2%
Lance Dunbar is out for the season. Joseph Randle is in the doghouse after being deliberately told NOT to jump over the goal line in order to score a touchdown and then doing it anyway (but he got the TD, so who cares, right? That's my opinion). McFadden will take over the pass-catching role that was Dunbar's and seems to be taking a bit of a chunk out of Randle's role. Randle didn't record a carry in the 4th quarter last week vs. New Orleans. It will still be a committee, but McFadden will have a larger role than he did before.
4. Josh McCown, QB (CLE) Owned in 2.8%
In a 2-QB league, McCown can be a starter. That's right! A starter! McCown has two straight 300-yard 2-touchdown games. In a year that most people, including myself, thought that Manziel would be the starter by now, McCown is doing his best to keep the starting role. How long will that starting role last? Who knows. McCown is 0-3 in his starts this year. The Browns lone win came with Manziel at the helm. But, fantasy football is all about stats and that's what McCown is producing.
5. Gary Barnidge, TE (CLE) Owned in 24.1%
Another player that I have added in a league, Barnidge has two straight games with six catches and a touchdown - 100 yards and 75 yards respectively. With McCown playing well, Barnidge is reaping the benefits. Or maybe it's the other way around? Maybe McCown is playing well because he has a 6'6 250 lbs Tight End who can run a 4.6 40-yard-dash. My money is on Barnidge. He's a great stash and he's a great bye-week fill in. I have Greg Olsen on a bye this week and I picked up Barnidge to fill his spot. Yes, he's playing Baltimore, the team that's ranked #1 against the position, but a guy of that frame and talent has to bust through this Terrell Suggs-less defense.
1. Leonard Hankerson, WR (ATL) Owned in 38.3%
Hankerson is easily my #1 add this week. I have added him in 3 leagues, 2 of which I'm starting him in. He has surpassed Roddy White as the #2 receiver on a potent Atlanta Falcons offense and with Julio Jones attracting so much attention, it leaves Hankerson with one-on-ones and open looks in the slot. Hankerson has twice as many target as Roddy White does and is a more trusted asset to Matt Ryan at this point. Hankerson has two touchdowns this season, one of which, last week, coming along with a 100 yard performance. Hankerson will be a consistent play and should be owned in all 10-team leagues.
2. Allen Hurns, WR (JAX) Owned in 32.6%
Hurns has two straight games with a touchdown and has quietly become the most targeted receiver in Jacksonville. Robinson has a far and away better catch rate than his more popular teammate Allen Robinson (73.3% to 37.5%). He also had 11 receptions last week, which shouldn't go unnoticed in the Jaguars coaching staff. Robinson will continue to draw looks from defenses, which should open up the field for Hurns. Averaging 6 catches/game, Hurns should be a guy that is, at the very least, waiting on your bench.
3. Darren McFadden, RB (DAL) Owned in 49.2%
Lance Dunbar is out for the season. Joseph Randle is in the doghouse after being deliberately told NOT to jump over the goal line in order to score a touchdown and then doing it anyway (but he got the TD, so who cares, right? That's my opinion). McFadden will take over the pass-catching role that was Dunbar's and seems to be taking a bit of a chunk out of Randle's role. Randle didn't record a carry in the 4th quarter last week vs. New Orleans. It will still be a committee, but McFadden will have a larger role than he did before.
4. Josh McCown, QB (CLE) Owned in 2.8%
In a 2-QB league, McCown can be a starter. That's right! A starter! McCown has two straight 300-yard 2-touchdown games. In a year that most people, including myself, thought that Manziel would be the starter by now, McCown is doing his best to keep the starting role. How long will that starting role last? Who knows. McCown is 0-3 in his starts this year. The Browns lone win came with Manziel at the helm. But, fantasy football is all about stats and that's what McCown is producing.
5. Gary Barnidge, TE (CLE) Owned in 24.1%
Another player that I have added in a league, Barnidge has two straight games with six catches and a touchdown - 100 yards and 75 yards respectively. With McCown playing well, Barnidge is reaping the benefits. Or maybe it's the other way around? Maybe McCown is playing well because he has a 6'6 250 lbs Tight End who can run a 4.6 40-yard-dash. My money is on Barnidge. He's a great stash and he's a great bye-week fill in. I have Greg Olsen on a bye this week and I picked up Barnidge to fill his spot. Yes, he's playing Baltimore, the team that's ranked #1 against the position, but a guy of that frame and talent has to bust through this Terrell Suggs-less defense.
Thursday, October 1, 2015
It's Time to Move On
It happens every year. We talk up some big names in the preseason. We predict just how perfect of a season they're going to have and then BAM! They put up a goose egg. The big ol' 0. No points! But do you know what's worse then 0 points? 1 point. Like, really, 1 point? C'mon. That means you had a chance, it was there...but then it disappeared. At least a 0 means the player wasn't given a chance, but a 1? A 1 shows absolute disappoint.
The goal is to draft a guy, a guy that was predicted to do wonderful, magical things for the fantasy world. A #1 RB. Someone who was supposed to carry the load for the entire season, but then, something tragic happens. Another RB comes is and starts to take carries from the guy you drafted. That's right....it becomes a Running Back By Committee. An RBBC, if you will - a dangerous zone.
Alright, back on track, sorry! Anyway:
It's about that time. Week 4 is rolling around and we are approaching the 25% mark on the season. We've had a small look at who is playing well and who has been lagging behind. Some players are worse off than others *cough cough CJ Anderson* and others may just be hitting stride.
Some players are everything you've ever asked for. They've produced some double-digit games, maybe a few touchdowns, and you're feeling great about where you drafted them.
Other players...man, other players just beat you down. You feel defeated. You feel like you've lost. So this is for them. Sometimes, it's time to move on. Note that "it's time to move on" doesn't always mean this player should be dropped. It does mean, however, that they need taken out of your lineup until they prove their worth.
1. CJ Anderson, RB (DEN)
He was taken in the first or second round of drafts this year. Last year he ranked RB11 overall and so far this year, he ranks RB68. His highest scoring game was 3 points and he has failed to reach more than 30 rushing yards or 12 attempts in any game. Ronnie Hillman is splitting carries with him and with how pitiful Denver's rushing offense has been, I'd rather not own either back. I know you've wasted a high draft pick on him, but if you can trade him for even a flex play, do so. I'm sorry CJ Anderson owners but...It's time to move on.
2. Andre Johnson, WR (IND)
If you're like most of the fantasy football world, Andre Johnson going to Indianapolis excited you. Sure, Johnson didn't play well last year, but he had to deal with three different QB's throughout the year. Yes, he's an aging WR, but Andrew Luck will bring the youth out in him. He'll be the #2 WR in
a high potent offense. Andrew Luck has thrown more INT's than TD's (7 to 5), and the Colts offense has been questionable at best. Johnson is the #4 WR on the team and rarely sees the field. He put up the dreaded ZERO score last week and Andre Johnson owners...It's time to move on.
3. Alfred Morris, RB (WASH)
Morris was drafted at a Round 3 or 4 price tag, expected to be the RB2 he's been for the past three years. He finished at RB#12 last year and currently sits as RB#29. But Darren, we're only 3 games in, RB#29 isn't that bad for 3 games, right? Well, yes little blog reader, you would normally be correct, but Matt Jones has been taking more and more carries from Morris and has showed to be the more elusive pass catcher. In a Washington offense that is less than potent, Morris is on a slow ship out. While he maintains the goal line duties, Morris has progressively
lost touches as the games go on. I personally, am playing Karlos Williams in place of Morris this week. Shady McCoy isn't projected to play and Williams has looked awesome with the touches he has had. Alfred Morris owners...It's time to move on.
4. DeMarco Murray, RB (PHI)
Finished at the #1 RB in fantasy last year, there was speculation if Murray could withstand a heavy workload and a new team. After gaining just 11 yard in 2 games, Murray has proved to me that he will not be worth the 2nd Round price tag he was drafted as. He is currently RB#34 and the future
doesn't look too promising with an emerging Ryan Mathews and Darren Sproles taking the lead in receptions from the backfield. DeMarco Murray owners, I'm sorry, but...It's time to move on.
5. Brandin Cooks, WR (NO)
Unable to produce a TD or a 100 yard performance yet, Cooks has not lived up to his 3rd Round price tag. He finished 2014 as WR#57, but that's due to missing the last 6 games of the season due to injury. He is currently positioned as WR#48, but as long as Brees is out, so should Cooks. Brandin
Cooks owners...It's time to move on...until Drew Brees returns.
The goal is to draft a guy, a guy that was predicted to do wonderful, magical things for the fantasy world. A #1 RB. Someone who was supposed to carry the load for the entire season, but then, something tragic happens. Another RB comes is and starts to take carries from the guy you drafted. That's right....it becomes a Running Back By Committee. An RBBC, if you will - a dangerous zone.
Alright, back on track, sorry! Anyway:
It's about that time. Week 4 is rolling around and we are approaching the 25% mark on the season. We've had a small look at who is playing well and who has been lagging behind. Some players are worse off than others *cough cough CJ Anderson* and others may just be hitting stride.
Some players are everything you've ever asked for. They've produced some double-digit games, maybe a few touchdowns, and you're feeling great about where you drafted them.
Other players...man, other players just beat you down. You feel defeated. You feel like you've lost. So this is for them. Sometimes, it's time to move on. Note that "it's time to move on" doesn't always mean this player should be dropped. It does mean, however, that they need taken out of your lineup until they prove their worth.
1. CJ Anderson, RB (DEN)
He was taken in the first or second round of drafts this year. Last year he ranked RB11 overall and so far this year, he ranks RB68. His highest scoring game was 3 points and he has failed to reach more than 30 rushing yards or 12 attempts in any game. Ronnie Hillman is splitting carries with him and with how pitiful Denver's rushing offense has been, I'd rather not own either back. I know you've wasted a high draft pick on him, but if you can trade him for even a flex play, do so. I'm sorry CJ Anderson owners but...It's time to move on.2. Andre Johnson, WR (IND)
If you're like most of the fantasy football world, Andre Johnson going to Indianapolis excited you. Sure, Johnson didn't play well last year, but he had to deal with three different QB's throughout the year. Yes, he's an aging WR, but Andrew Luck will bring the youth out in him. He'll be the #2 WR in a high potent offense. Andrew Luck has thrown more INT's than TD's (7 to 5), and the Colts offense has been questionable at best. Johnson is the #4 WR on the team and rarely sees the field. He put up the dreaded ZERO score last week and Andre Johnson owners...It's time to move on.
3. Alfred Morris, RB (WASH)
Morris was drafted at a Round 3 or 4 price tag, expected to be the RB2 he's been for the past three years. He finished at RB#12 last year and currently sits as RB#29. But Darren, we're only 3 games in, RB#29 isn't that bad for 3 games, right? Well, yes little blog reader, you would normally be correct, but Matt Jones has been taking more and more carries from Morris and has showed to be the more elusive pass catcher. In a Washington offense that is less than potent, Morris is on a slow ship out. While he maintains the goal line duties, Morris has progressivelylost touches as the games go on. I personally, am playing Karlos Williams in place of Morris this week. Shady McCoy isn't projected to play and Williams has looked awesome with the touches he has had. Alfred Morris owners...It's time to move on.
4. DeMarco Murray, RB (PHI)Finished at the #1 RB in fantasy last year, there was speculation if Murray could withstand a heavy workload and a new team. After gaining just 11 yard in 2 games, Murray has proved to me that he will not be worth the 2nd Round price tag he was drafted as. He is currently RB#34 and the future
doesn't look too promising with an emerging Ryan Mathews and Darren Sproles taking the lead in receptions from the backfield. DeMarco Murray owners, I'm sorry, but...It's time to move on.
5. Brandin Cooks, WR (NO)
Unable to produce a TD or a 100 yard performance yet, Cooks has not lived up to his 3rd Round price tag. He finished 2014 as WR#57, but that's due to missing the last 6 games of the season due to injury. He is currently positioned as WR#48, but as long as Brees is out, so should Cooks. BrandinCooks owners...It's time to move on...until Drew Brees returns.
Friday, September 25, 2015
Don't Fret Just Yet
This is a blog about players who you may have drafted in an early round, but just aren't producing the way you may have expected two weeks into the season. These are players that are currently ranked in the bottom third of their respected positions, but were drafted to produce like top 15 starters, BUT Don't Fret Just Yet, because I expect these players to turn around their early-season woes and produce numbers closer to their true potential.
1. Lamar Miller, RB (MIA)
If you drafted Miller, you probably did so at a 3rd or 4th round price, expecting him to finish as a top 15 back. In 2014, Miller finished as the #9 RB in standard scoring leagues. Currently, two weeks into the season, Miller is the 40th ranked RB. 40th. Do you know who finished 40th in 2014? Alfred Blue. Don't fret just yet: I expect Miller to turn around and hit his stride before it's too little too late.
2. Andrew Luck, QB (IND) and Drew Brees, QB (NO)
I combined Brees and Luck because they have both been equally disappointing, especially considering where they finished last year. Luck finished as QB #2 and Brees finished as QB # 6, respectively. Currently, Luck ranks as QB #27 and Brees as QB #17. Mark Sanchez finished as QB #27 in 2014. If you drafted Luck or Brees, you probably wasted a 2nd or 3rd round pick on Luck, while Brees dropped to the 5th round in most drafts. Don't fret just yet: Luck and Brees are both elite quarterbacks in the NFL and, despite injury, I expect both to return to form sooner rather than later.
3. Greg Olsen, TE (CAR)
With TE's, there is a top 5-ish and then there is a significant drop off in talent. Olsen in in that top 5. Last year, finishing at TE #4, Olsen enjoyed the best statistical year of his career. Currently, Olsen ranks as TE #24. In 2014, TE #24 was Luke Wilson of Seattle. Olsen is considered a top talent at the TE position, drawing a 5th round price tag. Don't fret just yet: He has a touchdown called back in week 1 due to a penalty on the offensive line, so he is still a redzone favorite. Olsen is still the most talented receivers in Carolina and Newton will find him in the endzone.
4. Frank Gore, RB (IND)
The ageless wonder, Frank Gore. The 32 year old running back finished his 2014 campaign with the 49ers ranked as RB #17. After proving age is nothing but a number and mutually parting ways with San Francisco, Indianapolis signed Gore without hesitation. Being the bell cow back in a potent offense has its perks, like being a 3rd round commodity in fantasy football. Gore has not lived up to the hype, currently clocking in at RB #54. In 2014, RB #54 was Ryan Mathews - who only played in six games. Don't fret just yet: The Colts offense has been horrendous to start, so the only place to go is up. And i promise you, Frank Gore is better and more efficient than a six-game Ryan Mathews.
5. Justin Forsett, RB (BAL)
What a huge year in 2014 for Forsett, right? Taking over the Baltimore backfield after Ray Rice was kicked off of the team and finishing as RB #8. After a career-season and the addition of OC Marc Trestmen, the OC with Matt Forte when he broke the record for receptions by a running back, the buzz over Forsett was absurd, producing a 3rd round price tag. Currently Forsett ranks at the 35th ranked RB. Guess who finished as RB #35 in 2014, just guess. Chris Johnson...CJ2K! Don't fret just yet: Forsett will still be the #1 guy in Baltimore and Trestman will send some balls his way. Baltimore can't ignore the production he had in 2014.
1. Lamar Miller, RB (MIA)
If you drafted Miller, you probably did so at a 3rd or 4th round price, expecting him to finish as a top 15 back. In 2014, Miller finished as the #9 RB in standard scoring leagues. Currently, two weeks into the season, Miller is the 40th ranked RB. 40th. Do you know who finished 40th in 2014? Alfred Blue. Don't fret just yet: I expect Miller to turn around and hit his stride before it's too little too late.
2. Andrew Luck, QB (IND) and Drew Brees, QB (NO)
I combined Brees and Luck because they have both been equally disappointing, especially considering where they finished last year. Luck finished as QB #2 and Brees finished as QB # 6, respectively. Currently, Luck ranks as QB #27 and Brees as QB #17. Mark Sanchez finished as QB #27 in 2014. If you drafted Luck or Brees, you probably wasted a 2nd or 3rd round pick on Luck, while Brees dropped to the 5th round in most drafts. Don't fret just yet: Luck and Brees are both elite quarterbacks in the NFL and, despite injury, I expect both to return to form sooner rather than later.
3. Greg Olsen, TE (CAR)
With TE's, there is a top 5-ish and then there is a significant drop off in talent. Olsen in in that top 5. Last year, finishing at TE #4, Olsen enjoyed the best statistical year of his career. Currently, Olsen ranks as TE #24. In 2014, TE #24 was Luke Wilson of Seattle. Olsen is considered a top talent at the TE position, drawing a 5th round price tag. Don't fret just yet: He has a touchdown called back in week 1 due to a penalty on the offensive line, so he is still a redzone favorite. Olsen is still the most talented receivers in Carolina and Newton will find him in the endzone.
4. Frank Gore, RB (IND)
The ageless wonder, Frank Gore. The 32 year old running back finished his 2014 campaign with the 49ers ranked as RB #17. After proving age is nothing but a number and mutually parting ways with San Francisco, Indianapolis signed Gore without hesitation. Being the bell cow back in a potent offense has its perks, like being a 3rd round commodity in fantasy football. Gore has not lived up to the hype, currently clocking in at RB #54. In 2014, RB #54 was Ryan Mathews - who only played in six games. Don't fret just yet: The Colts offense has been horrendous to start, so the only place to go is up. And i promise you, Frank Gore is better and more efficient than a six-game Ryan Mathews.
5. Justin Forsett, RB (BAL)
What a huge year in 2014 for Forsett, right? Taking over the Baltimore backfield after Ray Rice was kicked off of the team and finishing as RB #8. After a career-season and the addition of OC Marc Trestmen, the OC with Matt Forte when he broke the record for receptions by a running back, the buzz over Forsett was absurd, producing a 3rd round price tag. Currently Forsett ranks at the 35th ranked RB. Guess who finished as RB #35 in 2014, just guess. Chris Johnson...CJ2K! Don't fret just yet: Forsett will still be the #1 guy in Baltimore and Trestman will send some balls his way. Baltimore can't ignore the production he had in 2014.
Saturday, September 19, 2015
"Dont be surprsied if..."
*a spinoff of Matthew Berry's Bold Predictions*
Well, Week 1 is in the books and it may have left some of you scratching your head in disbelief, or, if you're one of the lucky ones, you're jumping for joy over how well you drafted. If you're the latter, congrats on the 1-0 start!
If your team turned in a not-so-stellar week, "don't fret just yet" (a plug for a column I will be running next week). But if you're someone that likes to jump-the-gun and take some risks, then I have the list for you. This is a list of things that aren't necessarily expected to happen, but very well COULD happen. This column is a list of one player from every team and how they could be a "boom or bust" candidate on your team:
Arizona Cardinals: Don't be surprised if...John Brown finishes the season with 1,000 yards and 10 TD's. Carson Palmer says he feels better than ever and he wants to prove that with his help, the Cardinals can be a threat in the NFC. Brown was a player that went undrafted in almost every league, but has proven is worth throughout the pre-season and Week 1 of the regular season. I mean, someone has to catch passes from Palmer, right?
Atlanta Falcons: Don't be surprised if...Tevin Coleman finishes as a Top 20 RB. Offensive Coordinator Kyle Shanhan, Heach Coach Dan Quinn, and the front office in Atlanta drafted Coleman in this year's draft and have invested their time in him. Devonta Freeman was drafted by a previous Head Coach, Mike Smith. Coleman was given the first shot as the lead back and didn't disappoint. He ran the ball 20 times for 80 yards, averaging 4.0 yards per carry. He's the #1 guy in Atlanta and I don't look for that to change.
Baltimore Ravens: Don't be surprised if... Justin Forsett catches 70 balls in Marc Trestman's offense. Forsett proved his worth last year and was rewarded with a new contract. We all know what Trestman can do, after all, we say Matt Forte break the record for number of passes caught be a running back in one seasons (102). Now, I don't think Forsett breaks that mark, but I do think he sets career highs in both catches and receiving yards.
Buffalo Bills: Don't be surprised if...Tyrod Taylor finishes as a Top 15 QB. Week 1 Taylor showed bursts of excitement. Is Taylor going to be a guy who throws for 300 yards and 3 TD's? No. But QB's get points for running the ball too, and I think that's where Taylor's value lies. Taylor is also protective of the ball - no erratic INT's or costly sacks. The game plan in Buffalo is to run, run, run, and run some more, so that takes the pressure off of Taylor's arm and puts it more in his legs. I look for him to have a good year throwing to the likes of Sammy Watkins, Percy Harvin, Robert Woods, Charles Clay, and Shady McCoy.
Carolina Panthers: Dont' be surprised if...Jerricho Cotchery has 10 TD's. He quietly did it in Pittsburgh in 2013 and there is nothing stopping him from being a redzone monster again in Carolina. Cam Newton doesn't have many other threats opposite of Greg Olsen, so I look for Cotchery to have a quiet, touchdown dependent year.
Chicago Bears: Don't be surprised if...Matt Forte finished the year as the #1 RB in fantasy. Forte is in a contract-year and new OC Adam Gase will ride him into the ground. Forte is the bellcow back in Chicago and when you incorporate his ability to catch the ball and Cutler's overall reliance on him, that gives Forte a very good chance to finish as the best back in fantasy.
Cincinnati Bengals: Don't be surprised if...Jeremy Hill leads all RB's in touchdowns. He is the top back on a team that is looking to take some pressure off of Andy Dalton and if Week 1 proved anything, it's that he can handle the workload. This isn't for Dalton's lack of redzone threats - Tyler Eifert and AJ Green - but more for Cincinnati utilizing one of the best big backs in the league.
Cleveland Browns: Don't be surprised if...Johnny Manziel keeps the starting job in Cleveland. I don't believe in McCown's ability - he's a "journeyman" for a reason, because no one wanted to keep him. Cleveland used a 1st Round pick on Manziel in 2014 and they will do anything they can to get what they can out of him. Looking more mature and more comfortable in the offense, I look for Manziel to keep the job.
Dallas Cowboys: Don't be surprised if...Joseph Randle finishes as a Top 10 RB this season. Last year, behind that offensive line, DeMarco Murray was the #1 overall rusher. While I don't think Randle finishes with a season quite like Murray, I do believe that he takes the job over Darren McFadden and tops off as a Top 10 back.
Denver Broncos: Don't be surprised if...Ronnie Hillman takes over the Broncos backfield. If you're anything like me, you drafted Montee Ball last year, got disappointed, then drafted CJ Anderson this year and was, again, disappointed. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. You won't fool me a third time because I will NOT draft a Broncos RB next year.
Detroit Lions: Don't be surprised if...Calvin Johnson finishes outside of the Top 10. Last year's injury riddled season, Megatron finished 14th, one spot below his teammate, Golden Tate. Megatron claims to be back and better than ever, but with a team that now has more weapons - Abdullah, Tate, Ebron, and Joique Bell - We may have seen the best of Megatron.
Green Bay Packers: Don't be surprised if...James Jones leads the team in TD's. A reunion that no one predicted: Jones joins the Packers 7 days before Week 1 and scored 2 redzone touchdowns. That's a win for both Jones and Aaron Rodgers.
Houston Texans: Don't be surprised if...DeAndre Hopkins posts 15 TD's. If a ball is going through the air, it's going to Hopkins. He's the only viable target for either Brian Hoyer or Ryan Mallett. Nate Washington posted a fluke-y 100 yard game in Week 1 and I don't expect that trend to continue.
Indianapolis Colts: Don't be surprised if...Andre Johnson sees the field on possession downs alone. After his Week 1 performance and the poor rapport with Andrew Luck, it seems like he has been surpassed on the depth chart by Donte Moncrief. The injury to T.Y. Hilton could have something to do with it, but I'm willing to bet that Andre Johnson is there to teach the young WR's and have the chance to get a ring.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Don't be surprised if...TJ Yeldon finishes both in the Top 15 and as the best rookie RB this year. Yeldon seemed to hold his own in Week 1 against a stout Caroline Defense. The only things holding Yeldon back will be redzone work. Do the Jaguars have what it takes to get that close to the endzone?
Kansas City Chiefs: Don't be surprised if...Travis Kelce finishes at the #2 TE in football. Oh, but Darren, #2, that's not so bold! Why not just say #1? Because fans, let's be real...no one, and I mean no one, can out-Gronk the Gronk.
Miami Dolphins: Don't be surprised if...Jarvis Landry finishes the season will 100+ catches. With 84 balls caught last year, Landry has done nothing but improve alongside of Ryan Tannehill. The offense as a whole has garnered more attention - Lamar Miller, DeVante Parker, Jordan Cameron. Landry will be the #1 target in Miami.
Minnesota Vikings: Don't be surprised if...Kyle Rudolph becomes a Top 10 TE, maybe even squeezing into the Top 5. Teddy Bridgewater has deep threats, and lots of them - Mike Wallace, Charles Johnson, Cordarrelle Patterson - but not many possession threats. *In walks Kyle Rudolph fresh off of an injury.*
New England Patriots: Don't be surprised if...Edelman leads the league in catches. He's always at the top, hovering around 90 catches, but I think this is the year that Edelman eclipses 110 catches and leads the league - barring another Antonio Brown 130 catch season. Brady will be in complete "eff you" mode to the league and that will be to Edelman and the entire Patriots' team advantage.
New Orleans Saints: Don't be surprised if...Brandon Coleman leads the Saints in receptions. Brandin Cooks will get his. He's the deep threat. His spot is secured. Marques Colston, however, is aging quickly and Coleman looked to understand the offense well and showed off some hands with that diving endzone grab.
New York Giants: Don't be surprised if...Eli Manning finishes with more points than his brother. OC Ben McAdoo along with Manning, Odell Beckham Jr, Shane Vereen, and a healthy Victor Cruz, should be a flawless offense. Last year, Eli finished 6 spots behind his brother Peyton, but I look for Eli to take a leap this year.
New York Jets: Don't be surprised if...Chris Ivory finishes as a Top 15 back. Really guys, the Jets offense isn't that bad....Brandon Marshall, Eric Decker, and Chris Ivory. With receivers like Marshall and Decker, defenses will need to be more conservative. He's currently being drafted as RB26 and you could do much, much worse in the 9th round of your drafts than drafting Ivory.
Oakland Raiders: Don't be surprised if...Latavius Murray finishes outside of the Top 20 RB's. There's a lot of hype there with very little proven. In a Raiders offense that just isn't that great, I can't see Murray doing a whole lot.
Philadelphia Eagles: Don't be surprised if...Sam Bradford plays all 16 games. But really though: The Eagles game plan is fast. Very fast. Faster than Jimmy Johns fast. With Bradford not holding onto the ball for long periods of time, he should be safe in the pocket, which means he should be hit as often.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Don't be surprised if...The Steelers D/ST finishes dead last in fantasy points. The inability to take the ball away has been a problem with the Steelers for the past 5 years, since Troy Polamalu has been out of his prime.
San Diego Chargers: Don't be surprised if...Stevie Johnson posts another 1,000 yard season. Philip Rivers is the best QB he's been with during his career, easy. He posted three 1,000 yard seasons while in Buffalo with Ryan Fitzpatrick at QB. Keenan Allen and Stevie Johnson make for a good one-two punch and I look for Rivers to enjoy his time this year throwing to productive targets.
San Francisco 49ers: Don't be surprised if...Carlos Hyde finishes as a Top 5 RB this season. That's a little steep, I know, but that's what this is supposed to be about. It's supposed to be BOLD. Hyde has all of the physical capabilities any runner would ever want - 6'0, 235 lbs, 4.6 40 yard dash speed. He's got it all. And now with Frank Gore in Indianapolis, the backfield is all Hyde's. Big, fast, physical, and the focal point of the offense? Sign me up.
Seattle Seahawks: Don't be surprised if...Marshawn Lynch doesn't score double digit TD's. Each of the last four seasons Lynch has scored double digit TD's, but that was before Jimmy Graham came into town. Graham will eat a few of the redzone score that were one Lynch's, thus dwindling Lynch value slightly.
St. Louis Rams: Don't be surprised if...Brian Quick finishes at a Top 30 WR this season. Nick Foles is in town and he loves the deep ball. Who else loves the deep ball? Brian Quick. I look for the Foles/Quick connection to develop sooner rather than later.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Don't be surprised if...Doug Martin finishes with 1,000 yards and 8 TD's, placing him in the Top 15 of RB's. Tampa Bay has a *better* offense this year. Austin Sefarian-Jenkins proved his worthiness in Week 1 by posting 2 TD's, and you have two giants for wide receivers on the outside in Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson. To me, that spells that the defense has to play more conservative, giving Martin running lanes.
Tennessee Titans: Don't be surprised if...Marcus Mariota finishes as a Top 20 QB. He obviously won't repeat the success he had in Week 1, but he did prove that taking snaps under center was no problem for the Oregon-alum. He'll be a viable plug-and-play when it comes time for bye weeks, but not a consistent starter.
Washington Redskins: Don't be surprised if...Jordan Reed stays healthy and finished as a Top 5 TE. We all know that after the Top 5 TE's, there is a significant drop off in talent. Reed has the talent, but not the longevity. If he stays healthy, Cousins will need to rely on his TE to get him out of the trouble that has essentially haulted RGIII's career.
**Information regarding players was found on ESPN**
Well, Week 1 is in the books and it may have left some of you scratching your head in disbelief, or, if you're one of the lucky ones, you're jumping for joy over how well you drafted. If you're the latter, congrats on the 1-0 start!
If your team turned in a not-so-stellar week, "don't fret just yet" (a plug for a column I will be running next week). But if you're someone that likes to jump-the-gun and take some risks, then I have the list for you. This is a list of things that aren't necessarily expected to happen, but very well COULD happen. This column is a list of one player from every team and how they could be a "boom or bust" candidate on your team:
Arizona Cardinals: Don't be surprised if...John Brown finishes the season with 1,000 yards and 10 TD's. Carson Palmer says he feels better than ever and he wants to prove that with his help, the Cardinals can be a threat in the NFC. Brown was a player that went undrafted in almost every league, but has proven is worth throughout the pre-season and Week 1 of the regular season. I mean, someone has to catch passes from Palmer, right?
Atlanta Falcons: Don't be surprised if...Tevin Coleman finishes as a Top 20 RB. Offensive Coordinator Kyle Shanhan, Heach Coach Dan Quinn, and the front office in Atlanta drafted Coleman in this year's draft and have invested their time in him. Devonta Freeman was drafted by a previous Head Coach, Mike Smith. Coleman was given the first shot as the lead back and didn't disappoint. He ran the ball 20 times for 80 yards, averaging 4.0 yards per carry. He's the #1 guy in Atlanta and I don't look for that to change.
Baltimore Ravens: Don't be surprised if... Justin Forsett catches 70 balls in Marc Trestman's offense. Forsett proved his worth last year and was rewarded with a new contract. We all know what Trestman can do, after all, we say Matt Forte break the record for number of passes caught be a running back in one seasons (102). Now, I don't think Forsett breaks that mark, but I do think he sets career highs in both catches and receiving yards.
Buffalo Bills: Don't be surprised if...Tyrod Taylor finishes as a Top 15 QB. Week 1 Taylor showed bursts of excitement. Is Taylor going to be a guy who throws for 300 yards and 3 TD's? No. But QB's get points for running the ball too, and I think that's where Taylor's value lies. Taylor is also protective of the ball - no erratic INT's or costly sacks. The game plan in Buffalo is to run, run, run, and run some more, so that takes the pressure off of Taylor's arm and puts it more in his legs. I look for him to have a good year throwing to the likes of Sammy Watkins, Percy Harvin, Robert Woods, Charles Clay, and Shady McCoy.
Carolina Panthers: Dont' be surprised if...Jerricho Cotchery has 10 TD's. He quietly did it in Pittsburgh in 2013 and there is nothing stopping him from being a redzone monster again in Carolina. Cam Newton doesn't have many other threats opposite of Greg Olsen, so I look for Cotchery to have a quiet, touchdown dependent year.
Chicago Bears: Don't be surprised if...Matt Forte finished the year as the #1 RB in fantasy. Forte is in a contract-year and new OC Adam Gase will ride him into the ground. Forte is the bellcow back in Chicago and when you incorporate his ability to catch the ball and Cutler's overall reliance on him, that gives Forte a very good chance to finish as the best back in fantasy.
Cincinnati Bengals: Don't be surprised if...Jeremy Hill leads all RB's in touchdowns. He is the top back on a team that is looking to take some pressure off of Andy Dalton and if Week 1 proved anything, it's that he can handle the workload. This isn't for Dalton's lack of redzone threats - Tyler Eifert and AJ Green - but more for Cincinnati utilizing one of the best big backs in the league.
Cleveland Browns: Don't be surprised if...Johnny Manziel keeps the starting job in Cleveland. I don't believe in McCown's ability - he's a "journeyman" for a reason, because no one wanted to keep him. Cleveland used a 1st Round pick on Manziel in 2014 and they will do anything they can to get what they can out of him. Looking more mature and more comfortable in the offense, I look for Manziel to keep the job.
Dallas Cowboys: Don't be surprised if...Joseph Randle finishes as a Top 10 RB this season. Last year, behind that offensive line, DeMarco Murray was the #1 overall rusher. While I don't think Randle finishes with a season quite like Murray, I do believe that he takes the job over Darren McFadden and tops off as a Top 10 back.
Denver Broncos: Don't be surprised if...Ronnie Hillman takes over the Broncos backfield. If you're anything like me, you drafted Montee Ball last year, got disappointed, then drafted CJ Anderson this year and was, again, disappointed. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. You won't fool me a third time because I will NOT draft a Broncos RB next year.
Detroit Lions: Don't be surprised if...Calvin Johnson finishes outside of the Top 10. Last year's injury riddled season, Megatron finished 14th, one spot below his teammate, Golden Tate. Megatron claims to be back and better than ever, but with a team that now has more weapons - Abdullah, Tate, Ebron, and Joique Bell - We may have seen the best of Megatron.
Green Bay Packers: Don't be surprised if...James Jones leads the team in TD's. A reunion that no one predicted: Jones joins the Packers 7 days before Week 1 and scored 2 redzone touchdowns. That's a win for both Jones and Aaron Rodgers.
Houston Texans: Don't be surprised if...DeAndre Hopkins posts 15 TD's. If a ball is going through the air, it's going to Hopkins. He's the only viable target for either Brian Hoyer or Ryan Mallett. Nate Washington posted a fluke-y 100 yard game in Week 1 and I don't expect that trend to continue.
Indianapolis Colts: Don't be surprised if...Andre Johnson sees the field on possession downs alone. After his Week 1 performance and the poor rapport with Andrew Luck, it seems like he has been surpassed on the depth chart by Donte Moncrief. The injury to T.Y. Hilton could have something to do with it, but I'm willing to bet that Andre Johnson is there to teach the young WR's and have the chance to get a ring.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Don't be surprised if...TJ Yeldon finishes both in the Top 15 and as the best rookie RB this year. Yeldon seemed to hold his own in Week 1 against a stout Caroline Defense. The only things holding Yeldon back will be redzone work. Do the Jaguars have what it takes to get that close to the endzone?
Kansas City Chiefs: Don't be surprised if...Travis Kelce finishes at the #2 TE in football. Oh, but Darren, #2, that's not so bold! Why not just say #1? Because fans, let's be real...no one, and I mean no one, can out-Gronk the Gronk.
Miami Dolphins: Don't be surprised if...Jarvis Landry finishes the season will 100+ catches. With 84 balls caught last year, Landry has done nothing but improve alongside of Ryan Tannehill. The offense as a whole has garnered more attention - Lamar Miller, DeVante Parker, Jordan Cameron. Landry will be the #1 target in Miami.
Minnesota Vikings: Don't be surprised if...Kyle Rudolph becomes a Top 10 TE, maybe even squeezing into the Top 5. Teddy Bridgewater has deep threats, and lots of them - Mike Wallace, Charles Johnson, Cordarrelle Patterson - but not many possession threats. *In walks Kyle Rudolph fresh off of an injury.*
New England Patriots: Don't be surprised if...Edelman leads the league in catches. He's always at the top, hovering around 90 catches, but I think this is the year that Edelman eclipses 110 catches and leads the league - barring another Antonio Brown 130 catch season. Brady will be in complete "eff you" mode to the league and that will be to Edelman and the entire Patriots' team advantage.
New Orleans Saints: Don't be surprised if...Brandon Coleman leads the Saints in receptions. Brandin Cooks will get his. He's the deep threat. His spot is secured. Marques Colston, however, is aging quickly and Coleman looked to understand the offense well and showed off some hands with that diving endzone grab.
New York Giants: Don't be surprised if...Eli Manning finishes with more points than his brother. OC Ben McAdoo along with Manning, Odell Beckham Jr, Shane Vereen, and a healthy Victor Cruz, should be a flawless offense. Last year, Eli finished 6 spots behind his brother Peyton, but I look for Eli to take a leap this year.
New York Jets: Don't be surprised if...Chris Ivory finishes as a Top 15 back. Really guys, the Jets offense isn't that bad....Brandon Marshall, Eric Decker, and Chris Ivory. With receivers like Marshall and Decker, defenses will need to be more conservative. He's currently being drafted as RB26 and you could do much, much worse in the 9th round of your drafts than drafting Ivory.
Oakland Raiders: Don't be surprised if...Latavius Murray finishes outside of the Top 20 RB's. There's a lot of hype there with very little proven. In a Raiders offense that just isn't that great, I can't see Murray doing a whole lot.
Philadelphia Eagles: Don't be surprised if...Sam Bradford plays all 16 games. But really though: The Eagles game plan is fast. Very fast. Faster than Jimmy Johns fast. With Bradford not holding onto the ball for long periods of time, he should be safe in the pocket, which means he should be hit as often.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Don't be surprised if...The Steelers D/ST finishes dead last in fantasy points. The inability to take the ball away has been a problem with the Steelers for the past 5 years, since Troy Polamalu has been out of his prime.
San Diego Chargers: Don't be surprised if...Stevie Johnson posts another 1,000 yard season. Philip Rivers is the best QB he's been with during his career, easy. He posted three 1,000 yard seasons while in Buffalo with Ryan Fitzpatrick at QB. Keenan Allen and Stevie Johnson make for a good one-two punch and I look for Rivers to enjoy his time this year throwing to productive targets.
San Francisco 49ers: Don't be surprised if...Carlos Hyde finishes as a Top 5 RB this season. That's a little steep, I know, but that's what this is supposed to be about. It's supposed to be BOLD. Hyde has all of the physical capabilities any runner would ever want - 6'0, 235 lbs, 4.6 40 yard dash speed. He's got it all. And now with Frank Gore in Indianapolis, the backfield is all Hyde's. Big, fast, physical, and the focal point of the offense? Sign me up.
Seattle Seahawks: Don't be surprised if...Marshawn Lynch doesn't score double digit TD's. Each of the last four seasons Lynch has scored double digit TD's, but that was before Jimmy Graham came into town. Graham will eat a few of the redzone score that were one Lynch's, thus dwindling Lynch value slightly.
St. Louis Rams: Don't be surprised if...Brian Quick finishes at a Top 30 WR this season. Nick Foles is in town and he loves the deep ball. Who else loves the deep ball? Brian Quick. I look for the Foles/Quick connection to develop sooner rather than later.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Don't be surprised if...Doug Martin finishes with 1,000 yards and 8 TD's, placing him in the Top 15 of RB's. Tampa Bay has a *better* offense this year. Austin Sefarian-Jenkins proved his worthiness in Week 1 by posting 2 TD's, and you have two giants for wide receivers on the outside in Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson. To me, that spells that the defense has to play more conservative, giving Martin running lanes.
Tennessee Titans: Don't be surprised if...Marcus Mariota finishes as a Top 20 QB. He obviously won't repeat the success he had in Week 1, but he did prove that taking snaps under center was no problem for the Oregon-alum. He'll be a viable plug-and-play when it comes time for bye weeks, but not a consistent starter.
Washington Redskins: Don't be surprised if...Jordan Reed stays healthy and finished as a Top 5 TE. We all know that after the Top 5 TE's, there is a significant drop off in talent. Reed has the talent, but not the longevity. If he stays healthy, Cousins will need to rely on his TE to get him out of the trouble that has essentially haulted RGIII's career.
**Information regarding players was found on ESPN**
Saturday, September 12, 2015
Undrafted players you need on your bench
If this preseason has taught us anything, it should be that FANTASY FOOTBALL DRAFTS SHOULD TAKE PLACE CLOSER TO THE START OF THE SEASON.
For most of us, fantasy football drafts have come and gone, so I hope you love the teams you drafted; if not, it's time to make some trades and watch that waiver wire!
This years' preseason was riddled with injuries and suspensions of the like, so if you drafted early this year, you could have gotten snake-bitten. If you drafted early, you may be breathing a breath of fresh air knowing that Arian Foster, who's groin could have sideline him for up to the first 8 games of the season, is expected back by Week 4. Those of you that drafted Jordy Nelson or Kelvin Benjamin may not feel as lucky, as they are out for the remainder of the season with torn ACL's, respectively. So, if you're one of the unlucky ones to waste a high draft pick on a player that is sidelined for the season, here is a list of the most notable undrafted players to look out for on the waiver wire:
UNDRAFTED PLAYERS YOU NEED ON YOUR BENCH:
For most of us, fantasy football drafts have come and gone, so I hope you love the teams you drafted; if not, it's time to make some trades and watch that waiver wire!
This years' preseason was riddled with injuries and suspensions of the like, so if you drafted early this year, you could have gotten snake-bitten. If you drafted early, you may be breathing a breath of fresh air knowing that Arian Foster, who's groin could have sideline him for up to the first 8 games of the season, is expected back by Week 4. Those of you that drafted Jordy Nelson or Kelvin Benjamin may not feel as lucky, as they are out for the remainder of the season with torn ACL's, respectively. So, if you're one of the unlucky ones to waste a high draft pick on a player that is sidelined for the season, here is a list of the most notable undrafted players to look out for on the waiver wire:
UNDRAFTED PLAYERS YOU NEED ON YOUR BENCH:
- David Cobb, RB (TEN): Listen, someone has to run the ball in Tennessee and let's be honest, it's probably NOT going to be Bishop Sankey. Sankey was given the opportunity last year and he dropped the ball (pun intended). Cobb is a first-year back looking to make his mark on the league. With a mediocre offense all-around, someone has to shine through alongside of Marcus Mariota.
- John Brown, WR (ARIZ): Carson Palmer is healthy...for now. Larry Fitzgerald will attract attention, as always, but other than Fitz, no one has stepped up to the plate. Michael Floyd had the opportunity last year and proved to us that when the spotlight shines on him, he...gets injured. Brown is the most explosive player on the Cardinals roster and I look for them to use him in anyway possible.
- Marvin Jones, WR (CIN): This seems to be a name people are forgetting about. Jones has secured his #2 spot on the Bengals roster behind AJ Green. People forget that this is a guy that had 10 touchdowns in 2013 and was poised to be a solid one-two-punch with Green in 2014 before getting injured during the preseason and not making it back to game-form before the season's end. No, Andy Dalton isn't the best QB in the world. Yes, the Bengals will be more run-heavy with Jeremy Hill and Giovani Bernard, but Dalton will still throw the ball 25-30 times a game. To me, that's enough to make Marvin Jones FLEX material.
- Cameron Artis-Payne, RB (CAR): This one is a no-brainer to me. CAP needs stashed on your bench, and that's fact. Jonathon Stewart has proved that when healthy that he is a very capable lead back that can bust open defenses for large gains - but he hasn't played a full 16-game season since 2011! Enter Artis-Payne, the thick-downhill runner who I believe could take some carries away from Stewart just so they can preserve Stewart's health.
- Steve Johnson, WR (SD): San Diego lost it's top two contributors from last season, Eddie Royal (traded) and Antonio Gates (suspended until Week 4). Those two combined contributed 19 TD's through the air. Enter Johnson, a speedy, slot WR who has proven he is a 1,000 yard receiver when given the opportunity (he posted 3 straight 1,000 yard campaigns while in Buffalo). I'll give Keenan Allen the benefit of the doubt and blame his sophomore slump for the bad season, and I'll ignore the fact that he showed up to training camp over weight. He is going to be Philip Rivers #1 target, and Rivers is going to throw ball around just as he does year after year. But that #2 position seems to be a fight between Malcolm Floyd and Johnson. Definitely a situation to keep your eye on.
Thursday, September 3, 2015
First Blog
This blog will be dedicated to the world of Fantasy Football. No, I'm not Matthew Berry. I don't have a podcast. I don't have a big-time gig at ESPN. What I do have though, is a full head of hair and an ever-growing love for the analysis of the NFL.
Fantasy Football now goes hand-in-hand with the NFL. This blog will not be centered around the NFL teams as a whole, but more so geared towards the NFL players and how their fantasy season is coming along as well as projections for them in the weeks to come.
This is a passion of mine, and one I would like to explore post-graduation. This blog gives me the opportunity to share my ideas and my insight on the fantasy football world and prove to future employers that my insight, knowledge, and predictions are thorough and critical.
What to Expect When Reading This Blog:
Fantasy Football now goes hand-in-hand with the NFL. This blog will not be centered around the NFL teams as a whole, but more so geared towards the NFL players and how their fantasy season is coming along as well as projections for them in the weeks to come.
This is a passion of mine, and one I would like to explore post-graduation. This blog gives me the opportunity to share my ideas and my insight on the fantasy football world and prove to future employers that my insight, knowledge, and predictions are thorough and critical.
What to Expect When Reading This Blog:
- Statistics
- Predictions
- Answers to some questions that were brought to my attention throughout the week
- And more importantly...ENTERTAINMENT. This is a contemporary topic, so it will be light-hearted and easy to read!
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