Isn't it funny how fluky things sometimes completely change the landscape of a sport? Vince Young had a pass batted in the air toward the beginning of that drive yesterday and it miraculously fell right into the arms of Bo Scaife. First down, Titans go on to win.
Anyway, here are a few other tidbits I came away with after watching a full slate of games this week.
How about Eldra Buckley sniping the goal line score in Philly. That was no fluke, Buckley was given multiple opportunities from the stripe in that game.
Speaking of the goal line, Rock Cartwright was not in the backfield at the stripe for the Skins yesterday. Marcus Mason was the guy when I had the game on.
Jake Delhomme was throwing passes at the end of that game that made me feel like he was playing 500. I've never see that approach to NFL quarterbacking before. Something tells me I won’t be seeing it much longer.
Your goal line back for the Chiefs? Jamaal Charles. Could he be a top 10 guy for the rest of the year? Laugh if you want, then go check the box scores.
How about Fred Jackson?
Leave it to the Bengals to sign a washed up homophobe and then give him more work than a guy like the "Nard Dog" (Bernard Scott) who has been very effective as a rookie.
Rashard Mendenhall is better than his stats would indicate. Just trust me.
Houston rotated running backs all day and I saw both Brown and Slaton in at the goal line. Nice job once again by the Kubiak's, BTW. Take a 17-0 lead, then you find yourself trailing 35-20 in the fourth quarter. If I were Mike Shanahan, I'd be waiting for this job to open. They could be 12-4 next year with a new coach.
I know the Vikings are shredding people through the air, but why does the line never open an interior hole for AP to run through?
It is easy to see San Francisco becoming a pass happy team. Gore is very hit or miss, and Crabtree and Davis are real weapons. Plus, Alex Smith is a spread quarterback.
I know I said it a few weeks ago, but for all you in keeper leagues, Arizona is going top be a much more balanced offense when Kurt Warner decides to hang it up.
I bet Anquan Boldin ends up in Baltimore.
Did the Colts finally swing and miss on a running back? Donald Brown doesn't impress me at all.
Going back to Thanksgiving, I'm not sure if I've ever seen a defense worse than the unit the Lions put out there. The Pack could have scored 50 Thursday, and the Browns were almost shut out in Cinci after scoring 37 the week before in Detroit. For all of you looking at schedules from here on out, Detroit has Cinci, Baltimore, Arizona, and San Fran coming up on the schedule. It's looking like I could be facing Ray Rice in Week 14, and I'm terrified of that matchup against the Lions.
Cheers,
TFAM
Monday, November 30, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Sunday Hunch
So much depends on what news we get in the next two hours about who's in and who's out today. I need to know about Julius Jones, Steven Jackson, Michael Turner, Cedric Benson, Steve Smith...and for the later games, Kurt Warner. Expect Warner to play, but I added Matt Cassel in a league as a JIC (just in case) QB because he plays a late game.
I didn't do as well with the hunch last week. I knew 68 percent was too good to be true.
I have a hunch that...
Roddy White shakes off the Aqib Talib blanket and produces today in Atlanta. Produces means at least 75 and a score or over 100 yards without one.
Antonio Bryant reappears today and has a big game at Atlanta. He is worth a start today if you are searching for a guy.
Washington-Philly is the lowest scoring game on the board today.
Rashard Mendenhall will not benefit from Roethlisberger being out. He may get more touches, but I suspect we'll see more Willie Parker and Mewelde Moore as well.
No, Rock Cartwright is not a good start today. Bench all your Redskins.
Weird week for running backs. AP, CJ and Ricky look like the only three sure things. I say Ricky is a top three guy this week. Of course, you don't need me to tell you to start him, do you?
Cheers,
TFAM
I didn't do as well with the hunch last week. I knew 68 percent was too good to be true.
I have a hunch that...
Roddy White shakes off the Aqib Talib blanket and produces today in Atlanta. Produces means at least 75 and a score or over 100 yards without one.
Antonio Bryant reappears today and has a big game at Atlanta. He is worth a start today if you are searching for a guy.
Washington-Philly is the lowest scoring game on the board today.
Rashard Mendenhall will not benefit from Roethlisberger being out. He may get more touches, but I suspect we'll see more Willie Parker and Mewelde Moore as well.
No, Rock Cartwright is not a good start today. Bench all your Redskins.
Weird week for running backs. AP, CJ and Ricky look like the only three sure things. I say Ricky is a top three guy this week. Of course, you don't need me to tell you to start him, do you?
Cheers,
TFAM
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Just Thinkin' About Tomorrow
Ben Roethlisberger is out tomorrow, which takes a little of the shine out of that Sunday night matchup. Anyway, here is what else I'll be looking for this weekend.
Roddy White faces Aqib Talib of the Bucs in a nice WR-CB matchup. Talib has been very good. Can he do it again on a fast surface against White?
How are the running backs who return from injury going to fit into their offenses? I'm specifically looking at the Falcons (Norwood, Snelling, Turner?), the Bengals (Scott, Benson, Leonard), the Seahawks (Forsett, Jones), the Saints (Thomas, Bell, Bush), the Patriots (Maroney, Morris, Faulk), and the Bills (Jackson, Lynch). It will be very important to watch the inactives tomorrow.
What are we supposed to make of the Browns? Are Quinn and Massaquoi any good? We'll find out against the Bengals this week, who pack a bit more of a roar than the Lions.
Ricky Williams gets a terrible Bills run defense. Look out.
Is TO back? He had his best game as a Bill last week. Will Fitzpatrick keep it going with Owens?
Meet me in St. Louis. All the Seahawks are making their last stand in Missouri this week. If they can't produce here, forget about it.
I'm assuming Gary Kubiak will go back to Moats this week. Only because he has declared Slaton his starter and then given Brown the largest share of the workload since returning from the bye.
How will Roethlisberger's absence from the lineup affect Rashard Mendenhall's stats against Baltimore? He'll get more work, but the defense won't be worried about the pass.
Can the resurgent Titans defense slow down the Cardinals passing game? The Titans pass defense hasn't been that great, but they are back at home.
Cheers,
TFAM
Roddy White faces Aqib Talib of the Bucs in a nice WR-CB matchup. Talib has been very good. Can he do it again on a fast surface against White?
How are the running backs who return from injury going to fit into their offenses? I'm specifically looking at the Falcons (Norwood, Snelling, Turner?), the Bengals (Scott, Benson, Leonard), the Seahawks (Forsett, Jones), the Saints (Thomas, Bell, Bush), the Patriots (Maroney, Morris, Faulk), and the Bills (Jackson, Lynch). It will be very important to watch the inactives tomorrow.
What are we supposed to make of the Browns? Are Quinn and Massaquoi any good? We'll find out against the Bengals this week, who pack a bit more of a roar than the Lions.
Ricky Williams gets a terrible Bills run defense. Look out.
Is TO back? He had his best game as a Bill last week. Will Fitzpatrick keep it going with Owens?
Meet me in St. Louis. All the Seahawks are making their last stand in Missouri this week. If they can't produce here, forget about it.
I'm assuming Gary Kubiak will go back to Moats this week. Only because he has declared Slaton his starter and then given Brown the largest share of the workload since returning from the bye.
How will Roethlisberger's absence from the lineup affect Rashard Mendenhall's stats against Baltimore? He'll get more work, but the defense won't be worried about the pass.
Can the resurgent Titans defense slow down the Cardinals passing game? The Titans pass defense hasn't been that great, but they are back at home.
Cheers,
TFAM
Friday, November 27, 2009
Friday Five
Have you ever encountered a wild turkey? I have, and I can tell you, all the videos you can find that chronicle turkey attacks are 100 percent accurate. They do not leave you alone.
In honor of Thanksgiving, here are five things I'd rather do than mess with a wild turkey.
I'd rather challenge this girl to an archery competition.
Staying with the contortionist theme, I'd rather crawl into a box.
I'd rather have Braylon Edwards on my fantasy team. This is so classically funny.
I'd rather have this goalie on my soccer team.
I'd rather have tried to figure out what this "catchphrase" was.
Cheers,
TFAM
In honor of Thanksgiving, here are five things I'd rather do than mess with a wild turkey.
I'd rather challenge this girl to an archery competition.
Staying with the contortionist theme, I'd rather crawl into a box.
I'd rather have Braylon Edwards on my fantasy team. This is so classically funny.
I'd rather have this goalie on my soccer team.
I'd rather have tried to figure out what this "catchphrase" was.
Cheers,
TFAM
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Sneaky Pickups
The format is going to change in this column a bit this week. Most of us who need to acquire someone off the free agency list in our leagues are no longer afforded the luxury of stashing a "sneaky" pickup and hoping for the best down the road. We need players that will help us win now. With that said, I'm going to list a few guys who are viable plug and play options this week due to their matchups. Don't expect huge fantasy numbers from them, but they should be able to provide you with some points if you are desperate.
Felix Jones and Tashard Choice, RB, Cowboys
The Raiders have given up a ton of fantasy points to number two running backs this year. Jones would be the play over Choice.
James Jones, WR, Packers
If you watched the Browns-Lions tilt last weekend, you understand. The Pack play the Lions tomorrow.
Zach Miller, TE, Raiders
Five catches and a touchdown last week in the first game Gradkowski started.
Danny Ware, RB, Giants
Bradshaw is likely out, meaning Ware is in line for 10-12 touches, minimum.
Fred Jackson, RB, Bills
He will be the starter if Marshawn can't go with the injury.
Brain Leonard, RB, Bengals
He becomes playable if Benson is out again. He actually becomes a really nice play in that scenario.
Chris Brown, RB, Texans
I hate Gary Kubiak.
Kenny Britt, WR, Titans
I like the matchup with Arizona and Gage is out.
Chris Chambers, WR, Chiefs
Don't discount the revenge factor against the Chargers.
Devin Thomas, WR, Redskins
He is slowly beginning to emerge and has the physical tools to be a number one.
Hope one of these guys helps you win this week. I left Rock Cartwright off the list because he is the obvious guy to add this week. He would probably be the best pickup of them all, only becuase he is guaranteed the most playing time.
Cheers,
TFAM
Felix Jones and Tashard Choice, RB, Cowboys
The Raiders have given up a ton of fantasy points to number two running backs this year. Jones would be the play over Choice.
James Jones, WR, Packers
If you watched the Browns-Lions tilt last weekend, you understand. The Pack play the Lions tomorrow.
Zach Miller, TE, Raiders
Five catches and a touchdown last week in the first game Gradkowski started.
Danny Ware, RB, Giants
Bradshaw is likely out, meaning Ware is in line for 10-12 touches, minimum.
Fred Jackson, RB, Bills
He will be the starter if Marshawn can't go with the injury.
Brain Leonard, RB, Bengals
He becomes playable if Benson is out again. He actually becomes a really nice play in that scenario.
Chris Brown, RB, Texans
I hate Gary Kubiak.
Kenny Britt, WR, Titans
I like the matchup with Arizona and Gage is out.
Chris Chambers, WR, Chiefs
Don't discount the revenge factor against the Chargers.
Devin Thomas, WR, Redskins
He is slowly beginning to emerge and has the physical tools to be a number one.
Hope one of these guys helps you win this week. I left Rock Cartwright off the list because he is the obvious guy to add this week. He would probably be the best pickup of them all, only becuase he is guaranteed the most playing time.
Cheers,
TFAM
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Trade deadlines
It seems like every league has a different rule concerning some sort of trade deadline. Some leagues have already let them pass. I think this is a mistake. Why limit teams' abilities to tweak their rosters in any way possible as they get desperate to win? Don't the teams with good records deserve a chance to take advantage of a team that has to win this week? I'll say this, if my team is 4-7, I'm selling out to win this week. Why should I care about next week? I'll worry about it then. I'll trade Mendenhall for Forsett if Julius doesn't play. I think the deadline should be right before the last regular season week. You don't want trades once you are into the playoff weeks. Too much room for controversy. Just not a good idea. I love the idea of a swap shop type atmosphere late in the regular season though. If you are in the playoffs, go out and try to work over a team that is in a must win situation.
Speaking of trade deadlines, I was thinking about my dynasty league this week and wondering if I could find out who my players are going to play next year. If you think next year's schedule will help you out at this point, here is a link where 14 of the 16 games for each team are projected. This is going to be pretty reliable, although it doesn't give us what order the games will be played. Still, we all know the NFC West is as soft as a baby's bottom. It's still going to be next year. If you want to target a player in a keeper league that has a softer schedule next year, give it a look.
Cheers,
TFAM
Speaking of trade deadlines, I was thinking about my dynasty league this week and wondering if I could find out who my players are going to play next year. If you think next year's schedule will help you out at this point, here is a link where 14 of the 16 games for each team are projected. This is going to be pretty reliable, although it doesn't give us what order the games will be played. Still, we all know the NFC West is as soft as a baby's bottom. It's still going to be next year. If you want to target a player in a keeper league that has a softer schedule next year, give it a look.
Cheers,
TFAM
Monday, November 23, 2009
As Seen on TV
Here are a few tidbits I picked up from watching the games, not the box scores, this week.
To those who started Bernard Scott and are lamenting Carson Palmer's two rushing touchdowns. Save the energy. Brian Leonard was their goal line guy Sunday anyway. You'll want to know that if Benson can't go next week.
I've been high on the fantasy worthiness of the Seahawks all year (largely due to their favorable schedule), but that team wouldn't have beat Cleveland yesterday. Wow are they bad. Poor talent (especially on the offensive line), poor play calling, and a defense that plays the part of butter to the hot knife.
Maybe this isn't breaking news, but Jay Cutler is not a good quarterback right now. He missed a lot of throws last night that would have resulted in big plays for the Bears.
Kurt Warner will probably be back next week. Peter King wrote this morning that he took himself out of the game yesterday.
Rex Ryan almost blew a gasket when Brady (out of the shotgun) took a shot deep to Moss with less than a minute left in the game and the Pats up by 17. Think that had anything to do with Darrelle Revis?
Told you Matt Leinart isn't good.
Anquan Boldin looks much better than he did two weeks ago. He's back to starter worthy.
Jamaal Charles is fast, really fast.
Washington's play calling is atrocious. What a terrible sequence that led to the Cowboys having a chance to win that game. Fourth quarter, Skins up 6-0. Second and four at the Dallas 33. Halfback dive, straight into a run blitz up the middle from the Cowboys, gain of two. Third and two. Convert and the Cowboys have very little chance to win. Cowboys show the same inside run blitz, and the Skins run a fullback dive straight up the gut. Loss of two yards. Missed 50 yard field goal. Ballgame.
I have no idea what is wrong with the Cowboys offense.
I saw not on, not two, but a handful of drops by Braylon Edwards yesterday. He and Roy Williams are neck and neck in the MVP race for the Roberto Duran All-stars. Right now, it's Edwards award to lose. By the way, the rest of the team is comprised of Darrius Heyward-Bey, TO, Troy Williamson, Limas Sweed, Calvin Johnson, Brandon Marshall, and Ted Ginn Jr.
I don't know what's wrong with Donnie Avery, but there has to be some reason why Brandon Gibson was targeted 17 times by Marc Bulger Sunday. Gibson only caught five passes in the game, by the way, and he and Bulger looked totally out of sync. It was really strange that they kept throwing it to him.
Cheers,
TFAM
To those who started Bernard Scott and are lamenting Carson Palmer's two rushing touchdowns. Save the energy. Brian Leonard was their goal line guy Sunday anyway. You'll want to know that if Benson can't go next week.
I've been high on the fantasy worthiness of the Seahawks all year (largely due to their favorable schedule), but that team wouldn't have beat Cleveland yesterday. Wow are they bad. Poor talent (especially on the offensive line), poor play calling, and a defense that plays the part of butter to the hot knife.
Maybe this isn't breaking news, but Jay Cutler is not a good quarterback right now. He missed a lot of throws last night that would have resulted in big plays for the Bears.
Kurt Warner will probably be back next week. Peter King wrote this morning that he took himself out of the game yesterday.
Rex Ryan almost blew a gasket when Brady (out of the shotgun) took a shot deep to Moss with less than a minute left in the game and the Pats up by 17. Think that had anything to do with Darrelle Revis?
Told you Matt Leinart isn't good.
Anquan Boldin looks much better than he did two weeks ago. He's back to starter worthy.
Jamaal Charles is fast, really fast.
Washington's play calling is atrocious. What a terrible sequence that led to the Cowboys having a chance to win that game. Fourth quarter, Skins up 6-0. Second and four at the Dallas 33. Halfback dive, straight into a run blitz up the middle from the Cowboys, gain of two. Third and two. Convert and the Cowboys have very little chance to win. Cowboys show the same inside run blitz, and the Skins run a fullback dive straight up the gut. Loss of two yards. Missed 50 yard field goal. Ballgame.
I have no idea what is wrong with the Cowboys offense.
I saw not on, not two, but a handful of drops by Braylon Edwards yesterday. He and Roy Williams are neck and neck in the MVP race for the Roberto Duran All-stars. Right now, it's Edwards award to lose. By the way, the rest of the team is comprised of Darrius Heyward-Bey, TO, Troy Williamson, Limas Sweed, Calvin Johnson, Brandon Marshall, and Ted Ginn Jr.
I don't know what's wrong with Donnie Avery, but there has to be some reason why Brandon Gibson was targeted 17 times by Marc Bulger Sunday. Gibson only caught five passes in the game, by the way, and he and Bulger looked totally out of sync. It was really strange that they kept throwing it to him.
Cheers,
TFAM
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Sunday Hunch
The Sunday hunch percentage is up to 68 %, with an 8-3 record over the last three weeks. What do I forsee happeneing today that others may not? Let's see...
I have a hunch Jay Cutler makes fantasy owners (I'm going to stop short of saying Bears fans) forget that he's been largely a headache this season. Cutler gets at least 250 and two scores tonight. He's a good start.
Be cautious with Vernon Davis today. The Pack put Woodson on Witten last week to shut him down. They could do the same with Davis today. I think he's under 50 yards without a score.
I think Ladell Betts breaks through against Dallas' tough run defense and does it again this week. I'll predict upwards of 75 yards and a score again for Betts.
I think Fred Jackson outscores Marshawn Lynch in fantasy points today.
I've got Brandon Jacobs down for two scores this week.
That's it for today....I don't have a good read on a lot of today's games. It's a tough week to predict.
However, if I end up starting Steve Slaton Monday night and Kubiak screws me again, I have a hunch I may be upset. I won't count that one in the percentages.
Cheers,
TFAM
I have a hunch Jay Cutler makes fantasy owners (I'm going to stop short of saying Bears fans) forget that he's been largely a headache this season. Cutler gets at least 250 and two scores tonight. He's a good start.
Be cautious with Vernon Davis today. The Pack put Woodson on Witten last week to shut him down. They could do the same with Davis today. I think he's under 50 yards without a score.
I think Ladell Betts breaks through against Dallas' tough run defense and does it again this week. I'll predict upwards of 75 yards and a score again for Betts.
I think Fred Jackson outscores Marshawn Lynch in fantasy points today.
I've got Brandon Jacobs down for two scores this week.
That's it for today....I don't have a good read on a lot of today's games. It's a tough week to predict.
However, if I end up starting Steve Slaton Monday night and Kubiak screws me again, I have a hunch I may be upset. I won't count that one in the percentages.
Cheers,
TFAM
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Just Thinkin' About Tomorrow
I've put myself in a position where I need to rack up some points tomorrow on all three of my teams. Here's to Pierre Thomas, Andre Johnson, Bernard Scott and Matt Schaub.
Here is what I'll be looking for in this weekend's NFL action.
How good is Justin Forsett? We get to see him face a tough Minnesota run defense. This could be the start of something, or it could be the end of something. We'll see.
Will Rashard Mendenhall deliver some fantasy goodness against the Chiefs?
How good is Chris Johnson? He has three games in a row where he has scored twice.
Can the Jets slow down Brady, Moss and Co. for the second time this season?
What will Ladell Betts do for an encore against Dallas?
Calvin Johnson needs to show me something against Cleveland. He should score here.
How will Jason Snelling look for Atlanta? Will he usurp Norwood's value over the next few weeks?
Let's see if Baltimore can slow down the Colts. They looked good against Cleveland last week. Then again, Cleveland is really a glorified Big Ten squad.
Jay Cutler faces a banged up Eagles secondary. Will it finally be his night in prime time?
How will the Texans backfield shake out now that Steve Slaton has had a bye week to practice hanging on to the ball and Gary Kubiak has has an extra week to learn how to be an NFL head coach.
I'll be here to answer questions tomorrow morning. Good luck this week.
Cheers,
TFAM
Here is what I'll be looking for in this weekend's NFL action.
How good is Justin Forsett? We get to see him face a tough Minnesota run defense. This could be the start of something, or it could be the end of something. We'll see.
Will Rashard Mendenhall deliver some fantasy goodness against the Chiefs?
How good is Chris Johnson? He has three games in a row where he has scored twice.
Can the Jets slow down Brady, Moss and Co. for the second time this season?
What will Ladell Betts do for an encore against Dallas?
Calvin Johnson needs to show me something against Cleveland. He should score here.
How will Jason Snelling look for Atlanta? Will he usurp Norwood's value over the next few weeks?
Let's see if Baltimore can slow down the Colts. They looked good against Cleveland last week. Then again, Cleveland is really a glorified Big Ten squad.
Jay Cutler faces a banged up Eagles secondary. Will it finally be his night in prime time?
How will the Texans backfield shake out now that Steve Slaton has had a bye week to practice hanging on to the ball and Gary Kubiak has has an extra week to learn how to be an NFL head coach.
I'll be here to answer questions tomorrow morning. Good luck this week.
Cheers,
TFAM
Friday, November 20, 2009
Friday Five
I love watching football. As a matter of fact, the Sunday afternoon couch has been a ritual for 28 years now. I could watch pretty much any pro football game outside of the UFL and enjoy my time. That may be tested this week when the Browns visit the Lions. I'm not sure I can handle that. So, in honor of this unwatchable matchup, here are five things I'd rather do than listen to Don Criqui and Randy Cross call this tilt in the Motor City this Sunday.
I would rather resort to this play call as an offensive coordinator.
I would rather jump onto the pitch and meet this fate.
I would rather eat a live octopus.
I would rather have JaMarcus Russell on my fantasy team. I think.
I would rather play some golf with Ricky Jones.
Cheers,
TFAM
I would rather resort to this play call as an offensive coordinator.
I would rather jump onto the pitch and meet this fate.
I would rather eat a live octopus.
I would rather have JaMarcus Russell on my fantasy team. I think.
I would rather play some golf with Ricky Jones.
Cheers,
TFAM
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Favre on the Mike
If you are a Viking fan, you owe it to yourself to check out this six minute video of Favre last Sunday as he was miked up against the Lions.
Photo courtesy of the New York Daily News.
Cheers,
TFAM
Cheers,
TFAM
Sneaky Pickups
So, the question being asked this week is how to sort out the mess in the free agent running back pool. With Forsett, Snelling and Scott available in most leagues, people are trying to decipher which guy is the one to add in their league. For the short term, I would say it's Scott. He has the Raiders this week and Benson is likely out. Scott should have a nice game, and don't worry about Larry Johnson. After Scott, it's Snelling, and then Forsett for the short term. If both Turner and Norwood are out, Snelling is the play over Forsett. If Norwood plays, I like Forsett better, even this week against the Vikes. For the long term, it's Forsett, Snelling, Scott. Forsett has a nice schedule coming up. So, the answer to the question is...if you need a win this week, Scott is the guy. If you are prepping for the playoffs, go Forsett.
Those three aren't the only running backs to add this week though.
Sammy Morris, RB, Patriots
He is going to be back in the next week or two. He is going to be better than Maroney when he does return. The Pats coaches just don't trust Maroney, and neither do I.
Fred Jackson, RB, Bills
His touches are creeping upward again. The coaching change may help as well.
I still like Lance Long in KC, BTW.
Cheers,
TFAM
Those three aren't the only running backs to add this week though.
Sammy Morris, RB, Patriots
He is going to be back in the next week or two. He is going to be better than Maroney when he does return. The Pats coaches just don't trust Maroney, and neither do I.
Fred Jackson, RB, Bills
His touches are creeping upward again. The coaching change may help as well.
I still like Lance Long in KC, BTW.
Cheers,
TFAM
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
A Winning Loser
In what may have been the low point for the Truffle Shuffle (my team in one of my three leagues), I lost to a team that started Kevin Faulk and Rock Cartwright at running back against me this week. It didn't help that it's a two league and I played against McNabb and Brady, but still, Faulk and Cartwright? Sheesh.
The loss dropped me to 5-5, and in any other year, I'd be nervously fighting for a playoff berth for the next three weeks. However, thanks to my friend and fellow fantasy enthusiast/writer Christian Peterson, we instituted a new rule in the TC Bombers fantasy league this season. The league now awards its sixth and final playoff spot to the team with the most total points that hasn't already claimed one of the first five berths. It's a genius idea, and it helps to institute a fail safe against horribly bad luck. Teams with the most total points should be in the playoffs, don't you think?
Anyway, the Shuffle is 5-5, but I'm second in total points and have very little chance of falling out of that last playoff spot. So, I can focus on tweaking my roster for the playoffs right now, just like my luckier counterparts (James, Jeff, and Ben), have been doing for a couple of weeks.
I strongly suggest implementing such a rule in your league. Christian actually took it one step further in another league I play in with him. He awards four playoff berths based on won-loss record, one for points, and one for all play record. All play record is the cumulative total of what your win-loss record would be had you played every other team every week. My all play record, for example, is 68-41-1 at this point, which is good enough for second place in that category despite my, once again unlucky, 4-6 record.
The main point here is that you should always look to tweak and improve your leagues, even if they have been successful for years. There are always ways to make things better. Anyone else have any out-of-the-box ideas?
Cheers,
TFAM
The loss dropped me to 5-5, and in any other year, I'd be nervously fighting for a playoff berth for the next three weeks. However, thanks to my friend and fellow fantasy enthusiast/writer Christian Peterson, we instituted a new rule in the TC Bombers fantasy league this season. The league now awards its sixth and final playoff spot to the team with the most total points that hasn't already claimed one of the first five berths. It's a genius idea, and it helps to institute a fail safe against horribly bad luck. Teams with the most total points should be in the playoffs, don't you think?
Anyway, the Shuffle is 5-5, but I'm second in total points and have very little chance of falling out of that last playoff spot. So, I can focus on tweaking my roster for the playoffs right now, just like my luckier counterparts (James, Jeff, and Ben), have been doing for a couple of weeks.
I strongly suggest implementing such a rule in your league. Christian actually took it one step further in another league I play in with him. He awards four playoff berths based on won-loss record, one for points, and one for all play record. All play record is the cumulative total of what your win-loss record would be had you played every other team every week. My all play record, for example, is 68-41-1 at this point, which is good enough for second place in that category despite my, once again unlucky, 4-6 record.
The main point here is that you should always look to tweak and improve your leagues, even if they have been successful for years. There are always ways to make things better. Anyone else have any out-of-the-box ideas?
Cheers,
TFAM
Monday, November 16, 2009
As Seen on TV
Why are the Titans wearing a Houston Oiler helmet? Why do the Chiefs have the state of Texas on their helmet? I get the retro thing, but when you move cities and the logo is a blatant tribute to another city...I don't get it.
Jason Witten is invisible to Tony Romo right now. I'm not sure Witten is a top 10 tight end going forward.
I maybe should have included Steve Breaston on my list of keeper targets. The guy can play, and Anquan isn't going to be around next year. Then again, is Kurt Warner going to be around? I'm not a Leinart fan.
Chris Johnson is the Titans goal line back...and he's gotten his owner all fired up.
Ladell Betts is the Redskins goal line back.
Justin Fargas seems to be the Raiders goal line back.
Jamaal Charles won the battle for touches in Kansas City. Dantrell Savage got the Slaton treatment, he dropped a pass in the first quarter and did not return.
Braylon Edwards and Roy Williams again dropped key passes. These guys just aren't good players. They have nothing more than size that separates them from free agency. I wonder if they are on Facebook.
Calvin Johnson looks healthy, though he doesn't have the greatest hands either. It's Moss, Fitz, Wayne, Andre and everyone else at wideout right now.
Justin Forsett looks a lot better than Julius Jones ever did.
Jason Snelling is likely to stay involved in Atlanta with Turner on the sidelines over the next couple of weeks. Who knows what's going on with with Jerious Norwood.
Cheers,
TFAM
Jason Witten is invisible to Tony Romo right now. I'm not sure Witten is a top 10 tight end going forward.
I maybe should have included Steve Breaston on my list of keeper targets. The guy can play, and Anquan isn't going to be around next year. Then again, is Kurt Warner going to be around? I'm not a Leinart fan.
Chris Johnson is the Titans goal line back...and he's gotten his owner all fired up.
Ladell Betts is the Redskins goal line back.
Justin Fargas seems to be the Raiders goal line back.
Jamaal Charles won the battle for touches in Kansas City. Dantrell Savage got the Slaton treatment, he dropped a pass in the first quarter and did not return.
Braylon Edwards and Roy Williams again dropped key passes. These guys just aren't good players. They have nothing more than size that separates them from free agency. I wonder if they are on Facebook.
Calvin Johnson looks healthy, though he doesn't have the greatest hands either. It's Moss, Fitz, Wayne, Andre and everyone else at wideout right now.
Justin Forsett looks a lot better than Julius Jones ever did.
Jason Snelling is likely to stay involved in Atlanta with Turner on the sidelines over the next couple of weeks. Who knows what's going on with with Jerious Norwood.
Cheers,
TFAM
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Sunday Hunch
I'm getting ready to settle in front of the tube and be completely unproductive today. How about you? I may even mix in a little visit to the local establishment for the Colts-Pats tonight. Anyway, if you are stopping by here between your eggs and toast. Here is what I foresee happening today.
BTW, I went either 3-for-4 or 4-for-4 last week, depending on if 300 and 1 for Schaub was a good enough substitute for 250 and 2.
Anyway, I have a hunch that....
For the third straight week, bench all your Broncos. I see one touchdown a piece for Denver and Washington today. Not a lot of offense here, and the Broncos better be on upset alert.
Tom Brady will also not have a problem with the Colts other wordly pass defense. Brady goes off today, and so do the Patriots, who will win that game on the road.
I have a hunch that Ray Rice is the top fantasy running back of the week. That includes AP, who will score multiple touchdowns today.
I have a hunch Ladell Betts gives us a starter worthy performance. I'll go 75 combo yards and a TD for Betts.
Miles Austin's strteak of fantasy goodness comes to an end today.
Anquan Boldin returns to the lineup today, but he'll be outscored by both Fitz and Breaston.
LT is worth a fantasy start today. I think he scores at least one. Man have his stats been awful.
I have a hunch the Red Zone channel will be prominently featured in my household today. Happy Sunday everyone. Make sure to hit me up on Chatroll, which I will be manning all morning.
Cheers,
TFAM
BTW, I went either 3-for-4 or 4-for-4 last week, depending on if 300 and 1 for Schaub was a good enough substitute for 250 and 2.
Anyway, I have a hunch that....
For the third straight week, bench all your Broncos. I see one touchdown a piece for Denver and Washington today. Not a lot of offense here, and the Broncos better be on upset alert.
Tom Brady will also not have a problem with the Colts other wordly pass defense. Brady goes off today, and so do the Patriots, who will win that game on the road.
I have a hunch that Ray Rice is the top fantasy running back of the week. That includes AP, who will score multiple touchdowns today.
I have a hunch Ladell Betts gives us a starter worthy performance. I'll go 75 combo yards and a TD for Betts.
Miles Austin's strteak of fantasy goodness comes to an end today.
Anquan Boldin returns to the lineup today, but he'll be outscored by both Fitz and Breaston.
LT is worth a fantasy start today. I think he scores at least one. Man have his stats been awful.
I have a hunch the Red Zone channel will be prominently featured in my household today. Happy Sunday everyone. Make sure to hit me up on Chatroll, which I will be manning all morning.
Cheers,
TFAM
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Just Thinkin' About Tomorrow
Finally, save the Kubiaks and the Giants, we are at the end of the bye week madness. As I mentioned this week, it's time to position yourself for next season if you are in a keeper league, and it's time to position yourself for the playoffs if you aren't.
Here is what I will be looking for tomorrow and Monday in the NFL.
Hail to which Chief?
The Cheifs play the Raiders. Which guy of Jamaal Charles, Kolby Smith and Dantrell Savage will have the biggest game?
Remember the Titans?
Has their defense regained some respectability? If they shut down Buffalo, it may signal it's the end of the automatic starts against the Tennessee pass defense.
Marching in
How many Saints will find the end zone in St. Louis tomorrow? It's name the score time for New Orleans, but a lot of people are going to be disappointed with their Saints. Problem is, we don't know which backs and receivers will score.
Lion tamed?
Is Calvin Johnson healthy? His stats better take a leap forward this week if he is to be counted on down the stretch.
O is for Orton
Can Denver's offense rebound from two terrible games in a row to perform against the Skins?
Capital gains
Who is going to be the best back to own in Washington going forward? Betts and Portis are both banged up.
Raider rubbish
With McFadden back, do we have a Ghidorah situation in Oakland similar to that in Dallas?
Scoring in Seattle
Can you tell I have Seahawks on my fantasy teams? I cheer for this offense every week. They laid an egg against Arizona last time. Can this offense be trusted on the road?
Patriot games
Can Maroney make it four games in a row with a score? What would that mean for the return of Slammin' Sammy Morris?
Cheers,
TFAM
Here is what I will be looking for tomorrow and Monday in the NFL.
Hail to which Chief?
The Cheifs play the Raiders. Which guy of Jamaal Charles, Kolby Smith and Dantrell Savage will have the biggest game?
Remember the Titans?
Has their defense regained some respectability? If they shut down Buffalo, it may signal it's the end of the automatic starts against the Tennessee pass defense.
Marching in
How many Saints will find the end zone in St. Louis tomorrow? It's name the score time for New Orleans, but a lot of people are going to be disappointed with their Saints. Problem is, we don't know which backs and receivers will score.
Lion tamed?
Is Calvin Johnson healthy? His stats better take a leap forward this week if he is to be counted on down the stretch.
O is for Orton
Can Denver's offense rebound from two terrible games in a row to perform against the Skins?
Capital gains
Who is going to be the best back to own in Washington going forward? Betts and Portis are both banged up.
Raider rubbish
With McFadden back, do we have a Ghidorah situation in Oakland similar to that in Dallas?
Scoring in Seattle
Can you tell I have Seahawks on my fantasy teams? I cheer for this offense every week. They laid an egg against Arizona last time. Can this offense be trusted on the road?
Patriot games
Can Maroney make it four games in a row with a score? What would that mean for the return of Slammin' Sammy Morris?
Cheers,
TFAM
Friday, November 13, 2009
Friday Five
I can't show it, but this week, the five is dedicated to the woman who was on the wrong end of a battle with a chimpanzee. Here are five things I'd rather do than own, or work for someone who owns, a chimpanzee.
I'd rather celebrate a touchdown like this.
I'd rather have to defend Bo Jackson in Tecmo Bowl.
I'd rather have this woman as my mother, I think.
I'd rather referee a game with this guy involved.
I'd rather go on Millionaire as a contestant from Harvard and cry when I lose.
Cheers,
TFAM
I'd rather celebrate a touchdown like this.
I'd rather have to defend Bo Jackson in Tecmo Bowl.
I'd rather have this woman as my mother, I think.
I'd rather referee a game with this guy involved.
I'd rather go on Millionaire as a contestant from Harvard and cry when I lose.
Cheers,
TFAM
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Keeper League Targets
I keep thinking I should write a basketball or hockey feature, but I'm guessing readers really want the football this time of year, so I'm going to keep at it. Let me know if you have basketball or hockey questions and I can answer them via chatrool or email.
It's the time of year where keeper leaguers have to decide if they are in or out. You have what it takes, or not? If you do, stay the course. Don't make the deal where you sacrtifice the fture for one guy this season. The NFL is too random for that. If you are out, bail ASAP. The sooner you can find a deal that helps for next year, the better. In two weeks, you'll have half your league ready to dump. You want to beat those owners to the punch.
If you are bailing, let's look at some players that make sense to target.
Shonn Greene, RB, Jets
I'm not convinced Thomas Jones or Leon Washington is back in New York next year. Washington's contract is up, and Jones has one more year. Greene is a perfect target right now, before the offseason action takes place and bumps up his value.
Chester Taylor, RB, Vikings
Taylor's contract is up after this year. Some team could sign him to be the feature back.
Jerious Norwood, RB, Falcons
Ditto for Norwood.
Darren McFadden, RB, Raiders
His value is as low as it gets. It's hard to see both Bush and Fargas back with Oakland next season, but, admittedly, it's hard to see McFadden running well and pain free too. Don't sell out for him.
Chris Wells, RB, Arizona
When Warner leaves, the running game is going to play a larger role in Arizona. Bank on that.
LeSean McCoy, RB, Philadelphia
I think he's in and Westbrook is gone in less than two years.
Matthew Stafford, QB, Lions
I like his skill set better than Sanchez or Freeman. He also gets to play in a dome, and he has Calvin Johnson.
Michael Crabtree, WR, 49ers
If they figure out the QB thing, Crabtree is going to be a beast.
Austin Collie, WR, Colts
Call it a hunch, but I think he winds up better than Garcon or Gonzalez.
Happy Thursday night football! Here's to more Vernon Davis and more of the same for Matt Forte.
Cheers,
TFAM
It's the time of year where keeper leaguers have to decide if they are in or out. You have what it takes, or not? If you do, stay the course. Don't make the deal where you sacrtifice the fture for one guy this season. The NFL is too random for that. If you are out, bail ASAP. The sooner you can find a deal that helps for next year, the better. In two weeks, you'll have half your league ready to dump. You want to beat those owners to the punch.
If you are bailing, let's look at some players that make sense to target.
Shonn Greene, RB, Jets
I'm not convinced Thomas Jones or Leon Washington is back in New York next year. Washington's contract is up, and Jones has one more year. Greene is a perfect target right now, before the offseason action takes place and bumps up his value.
Chester Taylor, RB, Vikings
Taylor's contract is up after this year. Some team could sign him to be the feature back.
Jerious Norwood, RB, Falcons
Ditto for Norwood.
Darren McFadden, RB, Raiders
His value is as low as it gets. It's hard to see both Bush and Fargas back with Oakland next season, but, admittedly, it's hard to see McFadden running well and pain free too. Don't sell out for him.
Chris Wells, RB, Arizona
When Warner leaves, the running game is going to play a larger role in Arizona. Bank on that.
LeSean McCoy, RB, Philadelphia
I think he's in and Westbrook is gone in less than two years.
Matthew Stafford, QB, Lions
I like his skill set better than Sanchez or Freeman. He also gets to play in a dome, and he has Calvin Johnson.
Michael Crabtree, WR, 49ers
If they figure out the QB thing, Crabtree is going to be a beast.
Austin Collie, WR, Colts
Call it a hunch, but I think he winds up better than Garcon or Gonzalez.
Happy Thursday night football! Here's to more Vernon Davis and more of the same for Matt Forte.
Cheers,
TFAM
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Sneaky Pickups
As I wrote for fantasyfootballchamps.com this week, I've been wondering which was going to arrive first, Greg Olsen in Chicago or my H1N1 flu vaccination. Well, Olsen hit it big this week, and I've been battling the flu. I like Olsen as a pickup, by the way, in leagues that do not require the use of a tight end. He's obviously not available in tight end mandatory leagues right now. I'm not a really big fan of Ladell Betts. They play a tough scedule of games in the next three weeks...Denver, Dallas, Philly.
How about my man Kelley Washington? One catch last week. I still like him more than Mark Clayton.
Joshua Cribbs, QB/RB/WR/KR, Cleveland
Cribbs is the best playeron the Browns offense. I bet he scores more touchdowns on that team than anyone else from here on out. Of course, they only have seven TDs in nine games so far, so don't expect him to be Cris Carter or anything.
Lance Long, WR, Chiefs
I like this guy. I watch him play and he looks like a football player. He's quick, feisty, and he's always getting open. He's a poor man's Wes Welker or Troy Brown. He also had 8-74 last week. Remember this guy.
Leonard Weaver, RB, Eagles
I think Weaver is gaining the trust of the Philly coaches and may be a nice goal line option for them moving forward. I wouldn't expect him to break off any more 40+ yarders, but I could see 3-5 scores the rest of the way if that helps you.
Cheers,
TFAM
How about my man Kelley Washington? One catch last week. I still like him more than Mark Clayton.
Joshua Cribbs, QB/RB/WR/KR, Cleveland
Cribbs is the best playeron the Browns offense. I bet he scores more touchdowns on that team than anyone else from here on out. Of course, they only have seven TDs in nine games so far, so don't expect him to be Cris Carter or anything.
Lance Long, WR, Chiefs
I like this guy. I watch him play and he looks like a football player. He's quick, feisty, and he's always getting open. He's a poor man's Wes Welker or Troy Brown. He also had 8-74 last week. Remember this guy.
Leonard Weaver, RB, Eagles
I think Weaver is gaining the trust of the Philly coaches and may be a nice goal line option for them moving forward. I wouldn't expect him to break off any more 40+ yarders, but I could see 3-5 scores the rest of the way if that helps you.
Cheers,
TFAM
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Pic of the week
Cheers,
TFAM
Sunday, November 8, 2009
As Seen on TV
Sunday was just a bizarre day. We had bizarre coaches making bizarre decisions and we has bizarre outcomes in some games. Still, the most puzzling thing about the whole day had to be the mystical hypnotic powers of the Creamsicle. Not only did I hear the word Creamsicle over 50 times Sunday, creating a gratis marketing bonanza for the parent company, we saw that the uniforms actually turn some of the Bucs players into real NFL talent as well. Who knew?
By the way, is it just me, or did no one used to call those uniforms creamsicles until they stopped wearing them. I was shcoked by the fact that every person on TV felt the need to pile on the same joke.
Anyway, here is what else I noticed during the Week 9 football action.
The Chiefs backfield is a mess. I saw Kolby Smith and Jamaal Charles both in the game at different times inside the 10 yard line. Dontrell Savage was in the mix too. Gee, I'm so happy we have another coach who is going to try and be smarter than everyone else (except for the part that these overcoaching backfield moves are more in the box than out these days, and the fact that it doesn't work).
Can't wait for the third installment of the Kubiak experience after the Texans bye week. In addition to a brutally prepared team in the first half and a game-costing decision to not run a play before the Colts could see a replay of a Ryan Moats fumble at the two minute warning, Kubiak now has a situation on his hands. Did you catch it? Moats fumbled, and it cost them the game. That's exactly why Slaton was benched, other than the fact that Slaton's fumble last week didn't cost Houston anything. Now whatcha gonna do Gary? Can't wait.
I've got the running back rankings like this.
1. AP
2. CJ
3. MoJo
4. Ray Rice
5. Everybody else.
Chris Johnson was getting goal line carries Sunday. Stick a fork in LenDale Wh....well, at the risk of inspiring an act of self-cannibalism, let's just say LenDale has no more fantasy value.
The ol' number one wideout rule comes through again. Tony Romo was ignoring a single covered Miles Austin Sunday night to force the ball to his diva, Roy Williams.
Derrick Ward looks like he's put on 20 pounds from last year. He's slower and running nothing like the guy that was arguably the best back the Giants had in 2008.
Cheers,
TFAM
By the way, is it just me, or did no one used to call those uniforms creamsicles until they stopped wearing them. I was shcoked by the fact that every person on TV felt the need to pile on the same joke.
Anyway, here is what else I noticed during the Week 9 football action.
The Chiefs backfield is a mess. I saw Kolby Smith and Jamaal Charles both in the game at different times inside the 10 yard line. Dontrell Savage was in the mix too. Gee, I'm so happy we have another coach who is going to try and be smarter than everyone else (except for the part that these overcoaching backfield moves are more in the box than out these days, and the fact that it doesn't work).
Can't wait for the third installment of the Kubiak experience after the Texans bye week. In addition to a brutally prepared team in the first half and a game-costing decision to not run a play before the Colts could see a replay of a Ryan Moats fumble at the two minute warning, Kubiak now has a situation on his hands. Did you catch it? Moats fumbled, and it cost them the game. That's exactly why Slaton was benched, other than the fact that Slaton's fumble last week didn't cost Houston anything. Now whatcha gonna do Gary? Can't wait.
I've got the running back rankings like this.
1. AP
2. CJ
3. MoJo
4. Ray Rice
5. Everybody else.
Chris Johnson was getting goal line carries Sunday. Stick a fork in LenDale Wh....well, at the risk of inspiring an act of self-cannibalism, let's just say LenDale has no more fantasy value.
The ol' number one wideout rule comes through again. Tony Romo was ignoring a single covered Miles Austin Sunday night to force the ball to his diva, Roy Williams.
Derrick Ward looks like he's put on 20 pounds from last year. He's slower and running nothing like the guy that was arguably the best back the Giants had in 2008.
Cheers,
TFAM
Sunday Hunch
What's going to happen during this week's slate of NFL games? I have a few hunches that may not necessarily agree with other experts out there. What are they?
I have a hunch that...
Denver is going to be a disaster again this week, even at home. Orton, Moreno and Marshall should all be benched against Pittsburgh this week.
Matt Schaub has no problems with the Colts pass defense this week. I say 250 and 2, minimum.
One more time. Julius Jones will have a big week. Minimum 10 fantasy points.
Carolina will have a chance to beat New Orleans in the fourth quarter Sunday. They'll keep it close, which means they'll score a lot of points, making all your Panthers starters this week, sans Jake Delhomme. Love J-Stew and DeAngelo this week.
Unofficial hunch correct prediction percentage? 53 % on the year. Not bad for against the grain type predictions, but I'd like to get to 60 % by year's end.
That's it. Make sure and hit me up this morning for answers to your fantasy questions.
Cheers,
TFAM
I have a hunch that...
Denver is going to be a disaster again this week, even at home. Orton, Moreno and Marshall should all be benched against Pittsburgh this week.
Matt Schaub has no problems with the Colts pass defense this week. I say 250 and 2, minimum.
One more time. Julius Jones will have a big week. Minimum 10 fantasy points.
Carolina will have a chance to beat New Orleans in the fourth quarter Sunday. They'll keep it close, which means they'll score a lot of points, making all your Panthers starters this week, sans Jake Delhomme. Love J-Stew and DeAngelo this week.
Unofficial hunch correct prediction percentage? 53 % on the year. Not bad for against the grain type predictions, but I'd like to get to 60 % by year's end.
That's it. Make sure and hit me up this morning for answers to your fantasy questions.
Cheers,
TFAM
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Just Thinkin' About Tomorrow
Week 9 NFL/fantasy storylines worth following
Texas toast?
With the news that Ryan Moats will get the start in the backfield for the Texans tomorrow, are we safe putting a fork in Steve Slaton's season? Don't go dropping him just yet.
Charles in charge?
Jamaal Charles makes the start tomorrow for the Chiefs against a terrible Jacksonville defense. Is this the start of something big?
Colts collapse?
Is the Colts pass defense going to be able to hold up without Bob Sanders, Marlon Jackson and Kelvin Hayden?
Duel in Denver
I'm interested in seeing how both Ben Roethlisberger and Kyle Orton play against very good defenses on Monday night. If either one has a big game, my opinion of them will increase dramatically.
Prove it
Cincinnati gets to follow up their 45-10 shellacking of the Bears by playing Baltimore, who is in a different league than Chicago. Let's see if Palmer, Ocho and Benson have as much fun this week.
Cowboys time to shine
Dallas gets the Sunday nighter this week, and they are red hot. Philly will provide a much stiffer test than the likes of Seattle, Atlanta and KC, so we can see if Tony Romo and his new sidekick, Miles Austin, can keep it going in Dallas.
Feasting on Lions
I'm interested to see how the Seattle backfield shakes out now that Edge is out of the picture. Does that mean more Julius, who has been brutal as of late? Or do we get to see Forsett?
Cheers,
TFAM
Texas toast?
With the news that Ryan Moats will get the start in the backfield for the Texans tomorrow, are we safe putting a fork in Steve Slaton's season? Don't go dropping him just yet.
Charles in charge?
Jamaal Charles makes the start tomorrow for the Chiefs against a terrible Jacksonville defense. Is this the start of something big?
Colts collapse?
Is the Colts pass defense going to be able to hold up without Bob Sanders, Marlon Jackson and Kelvin Hayden?
Duel in Denver
I'm interested in seeing how both Ben Roethlisberger and Kyle Orton play against very good defenses on Monday night. If either one has a big game, my opinion of them will increase dramatically.
Prove it
Cincinnati gets to follow up their 45-10 shellacking of the Bears by playing Baltimore, who is in a different league than Chicago. Let's see if Palmer, Ocho and Benson have as much fun this week.
Cowboys time to shine
Dallas gets the Sunday nighter this week, and they are red hot. Philly will provide a much stiffer test than the likes of Seattle, Atlanta and KC, so we can see if Tony Romo and his new sidekick, Miles Austin, can keep it going in Dallas.
Feasting on Lions
I'm interested to see how the Seattle backfield shakes out now that Edge is out of the picture. Does that mean more Julius, who has been brutal as of late? Or do we get to see Forsett?
Cheers,
TFAM
Friday, November 6, 2009
Friday Five
This week, in light of my weeklong rant about Gary Kubiak, I give you five things I would rther do than have Kubiak coach my favorite NFL team.
I'd rather be the only man back on defense with Vince Carter barrling down on me.
(Still can't get over the "Dunk of Death". Weis is 7'2!
I'd rather call the police on myself.
I'd have rather had this man as my President and fearless leader.
I'd rather have been a kick returner against the Lions last week (he is not paralyzed, by the way).
I'd rather go on a game show and give this answer.
Cheers,
TFAM
I'd rather be the only man back on defense with Vince Carter barrling down on me.
(Still can't get over the "Dunk of Death". Weis is 7'2!
I'd rather call the police on myself.
I'd have rather had this man as my President and fearless leader.
I'd rather have been a kick returner against the Lions last week (he is not paralyzed, by the way).
I'd rather go on a game show and give this answer.
Cheers,
TFAM
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Examining the Market
Here are my top buy low and sell high guys as we approach the stretch regular season run in fantasy.
BUY LOW
Steven Jackson--I think last week was a sign of things to come. S-Jax has as many rushing yards as AP.
Anquan Boldin--Only for those owners who are sitting pretty in the standings. I actually like him sitting for a couple weeks.
Jason Witten--Sooner or later defenses are going to figure out that Miles Austin needs a little more attention.
Kevin Smith--Lots of tasty matchups coming up for Detroit. How many three down backs are still in the league?
TJ Houshmandzadeh--I think this one falls under the #1 WR rule. He's starting to get upset.
SELL HIGH
Matt Forte--I haven't seen anything from him all year. Take the stats from the Cleveland game and run.
DeSean Jackson--He has scored all of his six TDs from 50 or more yards out. No one can keep that up. He's a #2 WR playing like a #1.
Percy Harvin--The hype outweighs the (fantasy) production.
Pierre Thomas--Two TDs last week may give you a window. Too may RBs in play there.
Thomas Jones--Can't match recent production, Mark Sanchez isn't enough of a threat, yet.
Friday Five tomorrow.
Cheers,
TFAM
BUY LOW
Steven Jackson--I think last week was a sign of things to come. S-Jax has as many rushing yards as AP.
Anquan Boldin--Only for those owners who are sitting pretty in the standings. I actually like him sitting for a couple weeks.
Jason Witten--Sooner or later defenses are going to figure out that Miles Austin needs a little more attention.
Kevin Smith--Lots of tasty matchups coming up for Detroit. How many three down backs are still in the league?
TJ Houshmandzadeh--I think this one falls under the #1 WR rule. He's starting to get upset.
SELL HIGH
Matt Forte--I haven't seen anything from him all year. Take the stats from the Cleveland game and run.
DeSean Jackson--He has scored all of his six TDs from 50 or more yards out. No one can keep that up. He's a #2 WR playing like a #1.
Percy Harvin--The hype outweighs the (fantasy) production.
Pierre Thomas--Two TDs last week may give you a window. Too may RBs in play there.
Thomas Jones--Can't match recent production, Mark Sanchez isn't enough of a threat, yet.
Friday Five tomorrow.
Cheers,
TFAM
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Sneaky Pickups
It' had for me to even mention the name of Ryan Moats given the circumstances I endured Sunday, so I'm bypassing him as the pickup of the week to focus directly on other lesser known players. The problem this week is, there is only one person I'd like you to keep your eye on that I haven't already written about.
You already know that my philosophy about writing is that I'm not going to throw worthless info. out at you. If there is only one guy I want you to notice, I'll only write about one guy.
Kelley Washington, WR, Ravens
Washington fits my profile of a dominant WR. He's big (6'3, 217), and he's got a nice offensive supporting cast. I actually have liked Washington ever since he came out of Tennessee years ago, but he hasn't seen much NFL time while jumping from the Bengals to the Pats and now the Ravens. That is starting to change. Did you know Washington actually has more yards and catches than Mark Clayton this season? He also led the team in targets this past Sunday against Denver.
Since I only have one deep sleeper this week, I want to remind you not to snooze on guys I've written about in past weeks if you ave roster spots to burn. I'm still high on Malcom Floyd, Justin Forsett, Kolby Smith and Jamaal Charles, Brandon Tate, Justin Fargas, Andre Caldwell and others. All you have to do is check out my past Wednesday columns to get the full scoop on these guys.
Cheers,
TFAM
You already know that my philosophy about writing is that I'm not going to throw worthless info. out at you. If there is only one guy I want you to notice, I'll only write about one guy.
Kelley Washington, WR, Ravens
Washington fits my profile of a dominant WR. He's big (6'3, 217), and he's got a nice offensive supporting cast. I actually have liked Washington ever since he came out of Tennessee years ago, but he hasn't seen much NFL time while jumping from the Bengals to the Pats and now the Ravens. That is starting to change. Did you know Washington actually has more yards and catches than Mark Clayton this season? He also led the team in targets this past Sunday against Denver.
Since I only have one deep sleeper this week, I want to remind you not to snooze on guys I've written about in past weeks if you ave roster spots to burn. I'm still high on Malcom Floyd, Justin Forsett, Kolby Smith and Jamaal Charles, Brandon Tate, Justin Fargas, Andre Caldwell and others. All you have to do is check out my past Wednesday columns to get the full scoop on these guys.
Cheers,
TFAM
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Houston, You have a Problem
I've played fantasy football for 20 years. I used to play in six team leagues as a 13-year-old when I was in Junior High. I used to use the Monday paper to calculate our league's stats. I have used a first round pick on the Nigerian Nightmare, Christain Okoye. I've been at thins thing for a while.
I have never been more frustrated on a Sunday night as I was this past Sunday. All three of my teams were thumped handily, and if it wasn't for a Vikings win in Lambeau, it would have been much worse.
In fact, it was bad enough that I was pondering how much a six dozen eggs and a round trip airfare to Houston was going to cost me. The steam coming out of my ears actually spelled out something, like those planes who write messages in the sky. As you know by now, Steve Slaton fumbled in his firts carry and did not re-enter the game, allowing Ryan Moats to come in, run for three scores and tip over the apple cart in the Houston backfield.
It actually got so bad for me that I was shut out of Texans touchdowns (they scored four) with Matt Schaub, Slaton, and Andre Johnson each on two of my teams.
By the way, Gary Kubiak fumbled nine times in just five career starts, good enough for 1.8 fumbles per game. Slaton's seven fumbles in eight games this year can't even top that mark. And yes, that seven fumbles in eight games is for real...and when you combine that with the fact that Moats looked like an early 90s Barry Word Sunday, Slaton's fantasy value is in complete free fall.
I can't trade him, all I can hope is that Kubiak reads the email I sent him about his own fumbleitis and gives Steve another chance.
Cheers,
TFAM
I have never been more frustrated on a Sunday night as I was this past Sunday. All three of my teams were thumped handily, and if it wasn't for a Vikings win in Lambeau, it would have been much worse.
In fact, it was bad enough that I was pondering how much a six dozen eggs and a round trip airfare to Houston was going to cost me. The steam coming out of my ears actually spelled out something, like those planes who write messages in the sky. As you know by now, Steve Slaton fumbled in his firts carry and did not re-enter the game, allowing Ryan Moats to come in, run for three scores and tip over the apple cart in the Houston backfield.
It actually got so bad for me that I was shut out of Texans touchdowns (they scored four) with Matt Schaub, Slaton, and Andre Johnson each on two of my teams.
By the way, Gary Kubiak fumbled nine times in just five career starts, good enough for 1.8 fumbles per game. Slaton's seven fumbles in eight games this year can't even top that mark. And yes, that seven fumbles in eight games is for real...and when you combine that with the fact that Moats looked like an early 90s Barry Word Sunday, Slaton's fantasy value is in complete free fall.
I can't trade him, all I can hope is that Kubiak reads the email I sent him about his own fumbleitis and gives Steve another chance.
Cheers,
TFAM
Monday, November 2, 2009
Sweetness
This link is worth checking out if you missed the Bears tribute to Walter Payton Sunday. He passed away ten years ago this week. Check it out.
http://www.chicagobears.com/walterpayton.asp
Cheers,
TFAM
http://www.chicagobears.com/walterpayton.asp
Cheers,
TFAM
As Seen on TV
A few Monday morning tidbits that you won't be able to learn just from looking at the box scores.
Jamal Lewis should (and will after 2009, apparently) retire. He is so slow trying to cut upfield. I've never seen a back take so long just to get to the line of scrimmage.
It's time to sell Matt Forte. The stat line looked good yesterday, but he isn't a player. I watched him turn a 10 yard touchdown into a 3 yard gain on one play. He just doesn't have it, whatever it is.
Justin Fargas runs hard. It they are going to give him the goal line work (he scored a three yarder Sunday), he is very much rosterable, if not startable.
Malcom Floyd got the start over Chris Chambers in San Diego.
Knowshon Moreno is officially the Broncos red zone back. He scored at the goal line Sunday.
I guess there are no concerns about Reggie Wayne's groin. He was flying all over the field Sunday.
Not so for Bernard Berrian, he cannot get deep down the field with his hammy. I'll be keeping an eye on hm after the bye week.
Matt Hasselbeck is a shell of the player he used to be, and T.J. Houshmandzadeh lets him know it on just about every passing play. Interesting dynamic there, and it could go either way as the season progresses.
Steve Slaton did ot get hurt Sunday. He fumbled on his first carry and did not return. There will be more about this during the week right here in this blog. I can't even type Gary Kubiak without steam coming out of my ears.
Cheers,
TFAM
Jamal Lewis should (and will after 2009, apparently) retire. He is so slow trying to cut upfield. I've never seen a back take so long just to get to the line of scrimmage.
It's time to sell Matt Forte. The stat line looked good yesterday, but he isn't a player. I watched him turn a 10 yard touchdown into a 3 yard gain on one play. He just doesn't have it, whatever it is.
Justin Fargas runs hard. It they are going to give him the goal line work (he scored a three yarder Sunday), he is very much rosterable, if not startable.
Malcom Floyd got the start over Chris Chambers in San Diego.
Knowshon Moreno is officially the Broncos red zone back. He scored at the goal line Sunday.
I guess there are no concerns about Reggie Wayne's groin. He was flying all over the field Sunday.
Not so for Bernard Berrian, he cannot get deep down the field with his hammy. I'll be keeping an eye on hm after the bye week.
Matt Hasselbeck is a shell of the player he used to be, and T.J. Houshmandzadeh lets him know it on just about every passing play. Interesting dynamic there, and it could go either way as the season progresses.
Steve Slaton did ot get hurt Sunday. He fumbled on his first carry and did not return. There will be more about this during the week right here in this blog. I can't even type Gary Kubiak without steam coming out of my ears.
Cheers,
TFAM
Sunday, November 1, 2009
More ESPN Madness
ESPN is currently scrolling along the bottom of the screen in their braking news section that Brian Westbrook and Mario Manningham are active today. That is incorrect information. Both are inactive, and both need to be on your bench.
Cheers,
TFAM
Cheers,
TFAM
Sunday Hunch
Here are my against the grain thoughts about what is going to happen today in the NFL. Forget that I ever said Miami could stop the Saints last week. I was only talking about the first half anyway.
I have a hunch that...
Kyle Orton will struggle mightily in Baltimore today. I know the Ravens pass defense has been really shaky, but I see a low scoring game today.
Green Bay will not have as much of an issue protecting Rodgers as they did when they visited the dome, and Greg Jennings will be the benefactor.
Julius Jones will rise up off the scrap heap today and play well agianst his former team in Dallas. Ten fantasy points out of Jones today.
Despite what Miami's wildcat did to the Jets a couple weeks ago, they are all bench guys today. I wouldn't want to start any Dolphin in New York today, including Ronnie Brown.
Vince Young will be a top 12 fantasy quarterback this week.
Reggie Bush will have his biggest fantasy day of the year Monday night against the Falcons. He loves the bright lights.
Cheers,
TFAM
I have a hunch that...
Kyle Orton will struggle mightily in Baltimore today. I know the Ravens pass defense has been really shaky, but I see a low scoring game today.
Green Bay will not have as much of an issue protecting Rodgers as they did when they visited the dome, and Greg Jennings will be the benefactor.
Julius Jones will rise up off the scrap heap today and play well agianst his former team in Dallas. Ten fantasy points out of Jones today.
Despite what Miami's wildcat did to the Jets a couple weeks ago, they are all bench guys today. I wouldn't want to start any Dolphin in New York today, including Ronnie Brown.
Vince Young will be a top 12 fantasy quarterback this week.
Reggie Bush will have his biggest fantasy day of the year Monday night against the Falcons. He loves the bright lights.
Cheers,
TFAM
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